by Nia K. Foxx
“Can you not just accept things as they are, even now you could be breeding my brother’s child and still you protest over something that cannot be undone.”
Dallas couldn’t ignore the comment.
“And are you quite certain I might be breeding. Have you thought that perhaps I didn’t allow Remar to join with me last night?”
“Impossible.” The expression on her face spoke volumes and confirmed what Dallas suspected. The only Chezarian she believed to possibly become friends with had betrayed her.
“Really and why is that? Was there any plausible reason for me to permit him to touch me when I don’t even like him?”
“Do not say such things,” Rabika said barely above a whisper as she eyed any staff members who might be within earshot. “He is your mate now, and as the new Leila you have obligations to him.”
“Only one problem, I never signed up, volunteered or even hinted that I wanted the obligations. This joining and my obligations, as you so politely put it, are not of my doing. I didn’t ask to become your brother’s bond mate. All of this has been forced on me.”
Yes, it was force even if she remembered doing her fair share of pleading with him the night before to have sex with her.
A horrified looked crossed Rabika’s face and she leaned forward. “I will not believe he took you against your will.” Her instant anger was evident.
Of all the nerve, Dallas thought abandoning her seat in one swift movement. “Of course you would know he didn’t have to force me since you took care of any protests I had by drugging me. I won’t be so trusting next time,” she threw over her shoulder in parting, resisting the urge to knock some sense into the taller woman.
Not sure where she was going but wanting to get as far away from Rabika as possible before she caused an interstellar incident Dallas was not disappointed to find herself in the garden. She half expected to be followed by guards but was happy to see she was in fact alone and free to stroll amongst the exotic flowers. The surrounding beauty did wonders to stifle her seething emotions and allow for some reflection. Rabika obviously thought she was helping to assimilate her into the Chezarian way of life. Dallas wondered again at the paradox of a world seemingly so advanced technologically but so primitive for a member of its society to think drugging someone acceptable behaviour. She flashed to Remar’s response at realizing the reason behind Dallas’ “randy” state. His reaction showed he didn’t condone the method, in fact she was certain had she given up his sister as the culprit he might not have been too lenient on the young woman. This new world was one jumble of confusion and contradictions.
She weighed all she’d learned about Chezarians in her short stay and tried to reconcile how she could live among the alien inhabitants without completely losing herself to their cultural norms. Even with their numerous drawback humans had made significant advancements in gender roles while it seemed like her new home world was stuck in the middle ages. Her mind a buzz with all the recent changes in her life she walked until she came upon an unscalable wall that stood higher than four adult Chezarian males. It was no wonder guards hadn’t followed her outside, there was nowhere for her to go.
Of course.
Not ready to return she walked along the wall, until the sound of rushing water called to her like an invitation. Dallas’s pace quickened but came to an abrupt halt as the wall ended inches away from a drop that would surely kill anyone fool hearted enough to attempt a dive. At the end of the drop water crashed beneath jagged rocks below forcing water clouds upward in a thick billowy mist that stretched above a rushing stream. Feeling dejected and very much alone Dallas turned back for her trek to the manor.
The garden with its lush orange grass and multi-colored foliage lay several feet away and her steps became heavier at the thought of returning. She was not ready to face Remar or anyone else for that matter.
The sound of a snapped twig stopped her.
“Who’s there?” she called, studying her surroundings with careful eyes. All the while wondering if Rabika had followed her.
Silence.
She listened and waited.
Still nothing.
“Dallas!” Remar’s booming voice broke through the quiet.
Dallas looked up to see him stalking across the wide expanse towards her. She wasn’t sure if it was his sheer presence or bellowing that set her heart thumping wildly in her chest.
“Neanderthal,” she muttered walking towards the frowning Chezarian.
He looked angry.
She rolled her eyes. So what else was new?
“Where have you been?” he demanded. Dallas didn’t miss the way his gaze slid over her body as he stopped a few inches in front of her. She hated the excited sensation his look generated.
“Here. If you couldn’t tell I was just out for a walk,” she explained. “I assumed I would be allowed to explore your home without an escort?”
“Our home Dal’las and you are free to move about our property but I will not permit unreported, extended absences from you.”
“Thank you for the clarification. I’ll file that between could care less and not my concern.” she mumbled sarcastically. As she made to move around him.
“Who were you talking with a moment ago?” He stopped her with his words even as his gaze scanned the surrounding area.
“No one.”
“That’s odd, I thought I observed you talking.”
“Just to myself apparently. You have the most peculiar flowers on this planet and I couldn’t help but comment on it.”
His brow ridges furrowed at her explanation but he chose not to pursue the conversation.
“I have arranged for the medic to see you.”
“Why? I’m fine.” It was her turn to frown.
“Although you appear not to be experiencing any side effects from last night’s ordeal, I do not wish to take any chances.”
“And if I decline?”
He cocked his head at her defiance letting her know he wouldn’t be refused.
She clinched her hands at her sides in frustration, “Well in that case, lead the way.”
“Have you remembered who gave you the drink?” he asked waiting for her to fall into step besides him.
“Sorry, my memory is a bit foggy on that issue commander and chief, but I’ll be sure to report it the moment it comes to me.”
“Why does it sound like you are mocking me Dal’las?”
“Beats me.” She shrugged in feign ignorance.
***
Dallas endured the medics poking and prodding for several moments before her exam was considered complete.
“So, am I in good health?” she turned to her examiner ignoring Remar’s hulking frame. He’d stood quietly back during the procedure and she tried to pretend he wasn’t there at all. Not a feat easily done.
The medic cast a quick glance over her shoulder before answering.
“Excellent.” Was all he provided.
“And what of the test?”
“I will review them carefully and provide the High Commander with any additional findings.
“Of course you will. Unfortunately, it wasn’t the High Commander who was drugged. It was me.” She crossed arms over her chest defiantly.
“Once he has had a chance to complete his report I will provide the information to you.” Remar offered from behind her.
“I reiterate the injustice was done to me so I should be the first to know about any results,” she stated firmly without turning in his direction.
“Tell me Dal’las, have you a grasp of the Chezarian written language? Your translator will not aid you in this regard.”
Dallas considered his response with growing irritation.
“If I were permitted to go home there wouldn’t be a need for me to learn your barbaric language,” she threw over her shoulder before hopping off the exam table. Neither male attempted to stop her as she headed for the entrance.
“Thank you Qer,” she heard Remar say
and knew he wouldn’t be too far behind her.
“Dal’las,” he called as she retraced their steps through the cavern of the manor.
Dallas’ first instinct was to ignore him, but preferring to avoid another confrontation she thought better of it.
“Yes,” she managed to sound normal. All the while inside she raged over the helplessness of her situation.
“Perhaps you’ve had enough outdoors today, maybe you should stay inside and rest.”
“Your medic seemed to think I was in great health,” she reminded not breaking her stride in route to the peace of the garden.
“Fine. Then I will join you.”
“What,” she stopped short to glare up at him. “If you’re concerned that I’ll wander off than I promise not to be gone too long.”
“You can accompany me outside or back to our rooms, the choice is yours,” he offered.
In her opinion both options sucked the big one. But in response she turned to take long strides into the warm air. He could follow her all he wanted it didn’t mean she had to talk to him.
***
Remar smirked at her retreating form. He lagged behind to allow her to put a slight distance between them and possibly cool her temper. It really wasn’t his intent to anger her further but no matter what he said or did seemed to gain her ire. His brother’s warning of the previous evening echoed in his mind until he forced it out.
She was his soul companion. Destined by the gods just for him. He would penetrate her icy exterior without the aid of enhancements. Remar’s jaw clinched at the reminder of the drugging. He believed his bond mate to know far more than she was telling.
Reluctantly, he admitted owing a thread of gratitude to the person who drugged her. The Q’ema root was used as a truth revealer in interrogation. Its properties tapped into the users emotions and with the right stimulus could get them to reveal anything. Although it was a method he would have never considered using with Dal’las the end result showed her natural desire and attraction for him. Had she truly harbored the distaste she pretended to possess, the Q’ema would have exposed it.
He regarded her frame not certain whether to admire his bond mate’s determination or be annoyed with her behavior. A Chezarian woman would not dare say a quarter of the things she had to their mate. But, as she reminded him on more than one occasion she was no Chezarian female.
With ease he fell into stride beside her, tempted to pull her into his arms and prove, once again, she enjoyed being there without the enhancing properties of the drug. Instead he tried a different method.
“If you refuse to speak to me I am uncertain how we will discuss your new position,” he started.
Dallas stopped suddenly, turning narrowed eyes up at him as if he were saying something she didn’t quite believe. “So you’re saying you were serious last night?”
“Why would you think me to be untruthful? I do wish for your transition here to be as easy as possible.”
She made a sound of disbelief before continuing. “And what exactly did you have in mind?”
“Some of our top technicians are eager to meet with you. I have indicated that you will be ready to speak with them at your earliest convenience.”
She arched a brow at him, her doubt easily reflected in her expression.
“And what about the tours?”
“It was my other reason for searching you out today.” That, and he found himself unable to stay away from her for too long.
A hint of a smile flashed across her lips before being quickly masked. But he was sure of what he saw. It made his hearts soar to make her happy, even if only briefly.
“So why are we standing out here?” she questioned with shielded enthusiasm.
He shrugged. “It’s where you wanted to be.”
Dallas rolled her eyes. “And now you’re suddenly agreeable to my wants?”
“You’re not a prisoner Dal’las, of course I want you happy.”
“Hmm, are you sure this isn’t opposite day on your planet?”
He didn’t get a chance to query the meaning of her odd question before his ear com vibrated.
“Yes,” he barked into the device watching his mate turn to make a steady retreat into the garden.
“The other sector leaders are ready for your holo meeting,” his assistant advised.
Remar shot a lingering look in Dal’las’ direction before resigning himself to the inevitable. “I’m on my way.”
He would not delay the meeting with the other leaders but would see to its quick conclusion. After, he would able to focus on getting Dal’las acclimated.
There would be plenty of time for him and his bond mate.
***
The walk she’d attempted was short lived and it was all due to one thing. She was actually excited about getting started with the technicians. But when she circled back to see if Remar was done with the conversation that interrupted their discussion he’d disappeared. In his place were two guards ready to escort her to the engineering facility. The wave of disappointment washing over her was unexpected. She mentally blanched at her response. His olive branch was no call for her to go all soft.
Remember, he basically kidnapped you and forced you into marriage, she reminded herself. The thought still wasn’t enough to squelch the pleasure coursing through her.
It’s okay to be happy, why live in constant misery. It still doesn’t mean you have to like him, the little voice inside her encouraged.
The mental reassurance was enough to push any negative thoughts to the back of her mind.
***
Dallas was beyond impressed with the center. She knew the Chezarian’s possessed advanced technology but some of the projects were absolutely astounding. Water recycling and filtration which allowed for minimum impact on the planet’s resources explained the continuous water fall in the bathing rooms. Safe and sustainable agricultural developments enabled them to raise livestock free of chemical enhancements but with enough availability to prevent hunger in their sector. They’d also perfected nano technology in so many areas but it was the application in healthcare and bioengineering which really amazed her. She learned the nanos were responsible for the translation device on her wrist. Their scientists managed to extract enough human DNA samples from probes acquired over the years to come up with genetic sequencing to make the device a viable use on humans. Apparently, more samples taken from Dallas during her initial examination had only confirmed their findings. Of course she was their first real test specimen, that part she didn’t want to focus on too much.
Still, the interconnection between science and engineering was so vast just one tour wouldn’t be enough for her to determine exactly where she could fit in. The alien planet might not be earth but Dallas was beginning to see maybe, just maybe, there was a place for her after all.
***
At that moment Remar sat in a holo-conference with the High Commanders of the other three sectors and their advisors listening to the various accusations of injustice being hurled about Sector One’s claim challenge involving his bond mate.
“What right did you have to exclude our sectors from participation?” Keltar demanded using his signature pack attack method. In truth Remar knew he cared little if the other two sectors had been granted access to the claim challenge, only that neither he nor members of his sector were permitted entry. And like the coward Remar knew Keltar to be the petty leader needed others in his corner to give credence to his argument.
“When has one sector involved another in their competitions? You boast having the largest female population in generations and yet have refused to allow outside sectors entrance into your challenge arenas,” Remar reminded.
“That is entirely different,” he sputtered. “In the spirit of mutual assurance the alien woman should have been made accessible to us all-”
“It has been done and the matter is not one for discussion,” Remar answered with deadly finality effectively cutting off the other leader’s
protests.
“Surely, you cannot completely begrudge Keltar his curiosity. An E’rthr on Chezar is a sight everyone one would like to behold,” Nelo added.
As much as Remar would prefer to let the topic drop all together he could not ignore the legitimacy of Nelo’s statement.
“Understood, but there will be no more talk over the legitimacy of my sector’s claim challenge with my bond mate.”
“But-”
“Of course,” Voren, leader of sector four interrupted Keltar. As usual his gravely calm tone masked any emotions. “I hear told the event was unprecedented and you demonstrated the strength of ten warriors.”
Remar silently grunted, not allowing himself to be taken in by the placating compliment. “Arrangements have been made to give each of your teams access to technology recovered from the craft.”
Keltar made a loud huffing sound but kept any other form of protest to himself.
“And while our teams are conducting their studies would you be opposed to a meeting with your bond mate?” Voren continued. “Obviously your mating represents a historical marker for us all.”
There was a resounding murmur of agreement amongst the other three leaders.
Remar stamped down his initial desire to refuse the request. As much as his preference was to keep Dal’las to himself it would only create further discord with the other leaders.
“I will take it under consideration.”
“We do not want your consideration. The E’rth woman must be made available to us,” Keltar insisted.
“You are in no position to make demands Keltar,” Remar interjected “I will speak no more on this until my decision is made.”
“Of course.” Nelo added quickly. “Emotions are obviously high over the unprecedented events. Tell us Remar has your mate revealed if more E’rthers will arrive?”
“It is unlikely. Her vessel became lost and she was caught by the apparition. Her arrival on Chezar was purely accidental.”
“Perhaps the apparition will bring more females from E’rth.” Nelo continued, the hopeful tone in his voice evident.
“It does not seem likely. Dal’las managed to send a distress message to her home world before her vessel reached Chezar. She requested no other vessels follow as there is no means of return.”