Tracy St. John's Blog, page 10

Now on Sale - Dark Empire Book Three: Secret War - Chapter Five, Scene One

 

Oh dear! Did I leave you hanging yesterday? Never fear...this last excerpt from Secret War delivers all the naughty goodies between Clan Rihep and Stacy Nichols.

Make sure to check the blog tomorrow for an update on what's coming up in 2024...I have some surprises!

* * * * 

Her mouthwatering…she’d never met a Kalquorian who wasn’t delicious, and this clan wasparticularly so…Stacy leaned forward as Rihep stepped close. She maintained herpose of spread thighs and arms as was expected while she tilted her head to bestowan open-mouth kiss to Rihep’s secondary.

His spicy-sweet flavordanced over her tongue as she slid it over the tip of his twitching shaft. Shekissed him slowly, lingeringly, to show she was indeed grateful for theopportunity to adore him. Then she did the same to his larger primary,delighting in the bead of pearlescent pre-cum that had appeared. Its slightsaltiness added to the delectable taste of him.

She moved betweenthe two lengths, taking more of him in each time, until a tickle at her throat’sthreshold made her gag. Rihep’s breath caught at the sound and feeling.

“Deeper.”

Stacy fought tocomply, swallowing the choking thicknesses as best she could. She did well forthe most part, sometimes coughing when she messed up…and sometimes when she didn’t.It excited the men when she struggled to deepthroat them. They loved the ideaof having such control over her, though they’d have stopped off immediately ifshe told them she couldn’t handle it.

No, don’t thinkabout it. They’re in control. I have no choice but to do as they wish. The fantasy was everything.

Rihep’s cocks had begunto jerk when he stepped away. Black trousers took his place, clinging lovinglyto slimmer legs.

Etnil played with herbreasts for several minutes, as Rihep had. He swatted them a few times to watchthem quiver, to make Stacy whimper at the enthralling heat filling them. Thenhe reached between her legs to find her soaking wet.

“Hello, pussy.Missed me? It sure feels like you have.”

His fingers stabbedin her, finding her sweet spot and rubbing until she squirmed. He spanked herintimate flesh to rebuke her for not staying still, then tugged her clit so shewrithed harder. Another few stinging swats followed, which thrilled better thanthey hurt.

“Naughty girl. Go onand put those gorgeous lips where they belong.”

She heard him slurpher juices from his fingers as she eagerly obeyed. She gave him the sametreatment she’d given Rihep, sucking him as greedily as he did his fingers.Etnil’s flavor was slightly milder than his Dramok’s, a little sweeter. Just asluscious.

When his hand cuppedthe back of her head, she quieted, her mouth full of his primary. Sighing, herocked his hips, feeding her the entirety of his length and holding her inplace until she choked. He reversed slowly, allowing her to catch her breathbefore doing it again.

He groaned as shegagged on his twitching cock. “That’s my girl.”

She imagined hisexpression as he fucked her mouth. She wasn’t allowed to glance up. She had tokeep her gaze lowered in submission unless ordered to do otherwise. She’d seenEtnil at the height of arousal, however, his impish smirk vanishing as intenseneed rode him. It was a darker look than he typically wore, an aura as demandingas his clanmates’.

After several strokes,he stepped aside so Kuran could have his turn at the beloved ritual of Stacyproving her intention to surrender.

“Open,” the Nobekordered in a gruff voice. Stacy did so, as wide as she could. Holding his primaryup and out of the way, he slid his smaller cock over her slightly extendedtongue. As Etnil had, he moved back and forth. Stacy’s lips weren’t closed overhis shaft, however, allowing Kuran to watch as he moved over the pillow of hertongue, as he traveled deep and her throat convulsed around him, as she held stilland accepted his use of her.

He repeated the actwith his primary, his smaller cock sliding wetly under her chin as he enjoyedher. When pre-cum spat on her tongue, he pulled free and told her to swallowit. She did so. She kept her mouth open, because he had to watch it happen.

“Suck.”

Her lips closed overhim. His groin swayed to meet her lips as she bobbed against him, matching hisrhythm even when she coughed. Kuran was exacting, and gagging was no excuse tofalter. Whatever discipline he planned to deliver for later fun wouldn’t be adeterrent to actual punishment for failing to satisfy his demands.

Another spurt ofpassion, and the Nobek also stepped away. Stacy maintained her spread positionand kept her eyes down as they stood silently, looking her over.

Rihep spoke afterseveral seconds. “You mentioned reminding her of what happens when shedisobeys.”

“Yes, my Dramok.”

“I agree it would bebest. But she performed well just now, so perhaps a reward as well.”

Stacy forced herselfto not wiggle in delight. Discipline coupled with pleasure was her favoriteactivity.

The men retreated tothe wall where drawers slid out at a touch. The clan had three such drawersfull of implements of pain and ecstasy. Stacy tried to remember to breathe asshe wondered what they’d choose tonight. Cuffs? The flogger? Sensitizing gel orsome other cream to delight or torment?

They returned but heldwhatever they’d fetched from her gaze. Stacy grew keyed up as they continued toconsider her, silently weighing their next move. She almost whimpered whenRihep grasped her breast and fondled. She managed to remain silent,subservient, meek.

His strong-jawedface came in view when he bent to mouth and suck her breast. Her tremblinggrew. She panted as his warm mouth devoured the sensitive mound. His roughtongue lashed her nipple, making it tight and pointed. He suckled the tip, andshe shivered uncontrollably from the delightful sensation. When he drew back,releasing her, she almost committed the sin of crying out and thrusting her chesttoward him to dispute the loss.

He showed her thenipple clamp. Its hard silver circle and chain on which dangled the large,glittering garnet weighted it. Stacy swallowed. Her breasts were extremelysensitive. The clamp would hurt. Her cunt clenched in reaction.

She held perfectlyimmobile as Rihep slid the clamp onto her nipple. Her lower lip trembled andtears stung her eyes as he tightened it and pain speared her breast. The shardof anguish traveled, zeroing on her clit and twisting into excitement along theway. Craving and agony doubled when Rihep tugged on the garnet. Stacy’s pussyspasmed again.

He smiled, as if he’dsensed the tug of war between anguish and lust. Then he mouthed her otherbreast, readying it for its share.

When he’d imprisonedthe second nipple, leaving Stacy shaking and tears streaking down her cheeksfrom the battling sensations, he set the garnets swinging. A whimper escapedher.

“Yes, you may yelland cry while we give you your reminders. You will also come for us while we reinforcewhy you should be a good girl. Refusing to come as we wish means not comingwhen you wish for a week.”

Stacy moaned. No,she couldn’t face orgasm denial for an entire week. She’d go insane.

Rihep gave her hisserene smile and turned to Kuran and Etnil. “What else do we have for her?”

Stacy snuck a peek.Etnil’s hands were hidden behind him. He beamed at his clan leader and revealedhe held a buttplug. It was sizable, half the girth of their secondaries.

Stacy looked downbefore they could catch her watching. The plug would stretch her tighter opening,but not enough to keep her from aching when the first of them fucked her.

“Turn and put yourass in the air.”

She did so, whimperingas she bent forward onto her elbows and the weighted nipple clamps shifted,bringing fresh pain. She found some relief when the gems rested on the bed,easing the pull.

Pressure poked at herrear hole. The plug, slickened by lubricant or perhaps her lovers’ naturaljuices, shoved in her. Used to having Kalquorian cocks fucking her there, itwasn’t uncomfortable. Stacy relaxed into the momentary reprieve from beingtested, knowing how temporary the break was.

Since it had beenEtnil who’d selected the plug, she guessed it was he used it to slowly fuckher. The men were quiet, probably watching her take it. The scent of theirarousal was heavy, but she imagined it grew more so as they anticipated themoment each would feel her taut passage yield to them.

“Hands and knees.”

Shuddering in anticipation,Stacy rose from her folded arms. The garnets lifted from the bed’s surface,pulling her nipples and bringing a hiss as the weight sent jabs through herflesh. Rihep joined her on the bed. He lay on his side, his head propped on hispalm as he studied her face. He brushed the clamp weights, setting themswinging. Stacy moaned at the hurt and the growing thrill of anticipation asthey readied to push her to her limits.

Etnil adopted hisclan leader’s pose on the other side of Stacy. He grinned with his usualmischief, but his gaze was still dark and demanding.

She wasn’t given muchopportunity to worry over the Imdiko. “Look over your shoulder.” The order camefrom Kuran behind her.

She obeyed to seehim looming over her, standing by the bed. He showed her the thick black rubberpaddle he held. It was as long as his forearm. Experience had taught Stacy theraised nubs on its surface would deliver intense punishment. No wonder Rihephad given her permission to yell. Foreseeing the coming few minutes, tearsspilled down her cheeks.

“Do you agree to ourdecision to set this reminder?”

It was her chance toput a stop to the demanding scene they played. It was a reminder she wasultimately in control of what happened next. She was eager to shove the responsibilityaside and return to pretending not one damned thing was up to her for a change.

“I agree, Nobek.”

“Turn away andprepare yourself.”

He didn’t paddle herimmediately. Instead, he rubbed her ass vigorously, increasing the circulation.It shifted the butt plug, asserting its presence and adding excitement.Meanwhile, Rihep and Etnil tugged the chains of the nipple clamps and kept themswinging so she could appreciate their exquisite hurt before the paddle claimedthe greater part of her attention.

Stacy crouched on allfours, enduring their attention, remembering how good it would ultimately feel.Doing her best to convince herself, as she often did, that surrendering to themen wasn’t a mistake.

Kuran ended the admittedlyenjoyable massage. Stacy tensed, then remembered what a bad idea it was. She forcedher muscles to relax as much as she could. They immediately tightened again,and she kept having to ease off.

The seconds tickedby, lengthening the expectation of what was coming. Kuran drew out Stacy’sanxiety, allowing Rihep and Etnil to keep her on edge by bestowing insistent attentionon her stinging, heat-filled breasts. Stacy’s fingertips gripped the bed’scover. She dreaded and wished Kuran would do it. Oh no, she was tense. Relax—

The three-inch-thickpaddle whacked her ass. An inferno of blazing agony woke, and she yelped as herbackside throbbed blistering heat. Her knees dug in the bed as instinct triedto make her spring from her tormentors, but she managed to remain in place.

“Naughty girl, he’lladd to it if you attempt to get away.” Etnil’s teasing singsong rose above herbreathless sobs. “Better stay put, or you’ll learn what real punishment is.”

The paddle struck,and agony resounded. Stacy’s next cry was louder. A flood of tears blurred hersight and smeared the figures of Rihep and Etnil in her peripheral vision. Therapture she was so certain of seemed very far from her grasp, maybe impossible.What if it didn’t come tonight? What if there was only hurt?

Smack. Scorching distress seared her ass. No, itwasn’t happening this time. She should yell sholt, the Kalquorian wordfor stop, which would end the spanking. And probably the rest of the night’ssexy fun. They’d be so disappointed…

Smack. More heat. At last, its tendrils reached deep.They found and teased her core, but she thought it was too late. The firstwisps of carnal excitement from giving in to brutal cravings were too faint.

Stacy heard a lowhumming. There was another wallop, and she stopped wondering what the familiarsound was to grasp at the too-slowly changing sensations. She had to stop.Craving wasn’t happening the way it should.

Pressure settled onher mound. A violent quivering found her clit, which had engorged as if thepaddling were a sensual delight. Stacy forgot to breathe as deep thrummingfilled her intimate flesh, waking primitive hunger.

“Naughty girl likesher spankings. They get her so excited. Her Nobek’s correction makes her comeevery time.”

She felt the paddlestrike and felt the heat more than pain. The vibrator Etnil rubbed on her clittwisted what agony there’d been into a nameless intensity, which shuddered hervery soul. She couldn’t stop herself from grinding against it.

“Ride it, naughtygirl.”

She did. Her hipsmoved in quickening rhythm as ecstasy beckoned, as the paddle matched herthrusts and urged her on, as the sizzling tugs on her nipples increased.

“Come for us. Showus you belong to us.”

Yes. She was theirs.She had to show them she could behave, she’d give them whatever they desired, wheneverand however they wanted.

“Are you going to comefor us?”

“Yes.” She was nearlythere, the sweetly violent feeling of craving growing too big to be stopped,the proof she’d give them everything. The paddle tattooed her ass, her titsclamored under the constant tugs, and she rode the insistent pressure at herclit. Roiling bliss filled her and pushed to escape.

She shattered.

Blinding whiteeclipsed all but the heaving elation billowing through her, pouring from her.Waves pounded, breaking her to bits in a thrilling deluge. She was tossedhelpless in the seething tide of rapture, and it seemed an eternity passedbefore it released her.

She was first awareof somebody moaning, and it took a few seconds before she realized it came fromher. She became aware she was trembling from head to toe, still somehow on allfours. The vibrator was gone, and the paddling was over. The ache from thenipple clamps was pleasant, the hanging weights no longer a torment.

“Have you returnedto us?” Rihep’s smiling face appeared.

“Think so.”

“Then lie on yourback.”

She did so, managingto not collapse despite how her body quaked. She whimpered when her aching assmet the bed’s surface, but it was the good ache that made her feel strangelysecure. As soon as she settled, Kuran crawled onto the mat and settled his wideshoulders between her legs. Without preamble, his long, rough tongue lapped hersopping pussy.

Stacy was spent, butthere was no fighting the pleasure his attention kept awake. They were nowherenear done, and she’d soon be fully aroused and eager for more.

“It’s wonderful whenwe can take you out of your mind,” Rihep chuckled as he slid closer. He lickedher exposed nipple tips. His smile broadened as a tremor seized her at thedarts of sensation.

“You say it as ifwe’ve ever failed to.” Etnil used two fingers to spread her pussy folds to allowKuran better access. The Nobek growled, his way of saying thanks.

“You haven’t.”Stacy’s voice was whispery, and ended in a moan as Kuran’s tongue stabbed deep.

“I’m glad to hearit.” Rihep’s kiss punctuated his statement. It stole Stacy’s mind again.

To a degree. She wasaware of Etnil saying something in Kalquorian, which she was only beginning tolearn. Kuran paused his assault on her womanhood to answer.

After thoroughlyplundering her mouth, Rihep regarded her breasts. “Yes, these do need to come off.”

“Oh no.” Removingnipple clamps was the worst. The paddling was nothing compared to the agony ofblood rushing in.

“Afraid so. Don’tworry, Etnil and Kuran have a plan.” Rihep nodded to them.

Etnil switched onthe vibrator he’d used on her during the paddling. Stacy recognized it: a longwand topped by a wide, cylindrical foamlike head. It buzzed enthusiastically ona higher setting than what he’d set it for earlier.

Kuran shoved twofingers in her. He sought and found her inner sweet spot with effortlessaccuracy. He rubbed as Etnil pressed the vibrator to her swollen clit.

Stacy arched andscreamed at the blast of sheer elation. As climax consumed her, Rihep releasedthe first of the nipple clamps.

The sear of agony toher breast somehow added to the delicious spasms convulsing her core. Stacywrithed, and they held her down as they forced her to ride the vicious orgasmto its end.

“Too much…too much,”she gasped when they relented and her breast ceased throbbing. It was only thenshe realized Rihep, who was happily sucking her abused tit, hadn’t taken offthe second clamp.

“No. Don’t!” shecried as Kuran applied friction within and Etnil brought the loudly droningvibrator to her clit and rubbed. Rihep released her nipple from its trap, andonce more, she came on a burst of rapture and torment.

“You’ll be the deathof me,” she moaned several minutes later. “Literally, I will die because youmake me come so damned hard.”

“I’ll note it in yourobituary,” Etnil said. “Governor Stacy Nichols perished screaming in sheer ecstasyfrom the incredible lovemaking skills of her Imdiko god. His clanmates offeredslight assistance when their awe at his abilities allowed them to.”

Kuran used a pillowto wallop him hard enough to nearly knock him from the mat. Etnil rolled off toavoid another swing.

“While I’m up, wouldyou like me to fetch some pain inhibitor?” he asked Stacy.

She considered. Herass was clamoring as endorphins wore off, but the men hadn’t yet fucked her,which would offer another heady rush at some point. She decided it was betterto be soothed than sorry.

“Yeah, thanks. Andwater?”

“I live to serve.”He bowed with a flourish. Because Etnil was perfectly delighted to look asfoolish as possible to make her laugh, he joyously skipped from the room, hisstiff cocks brazenly leading the way.

“Are you reallygoing to introduce him to your mother and sister?” Kuran appeared mortified atthe prospect.

Stacy answered onceher giggles ceased. “It isn’t as if he’ll be running around naked and arousedin front of them.”

“Are you sure? Theman truly has no shame.”

“I trust Etnil tostop before he horrifies them. In the event he doesn’t, my mother is perfectlycapable of putting him in his place.”

Kuran shook his head,clearly disbelieving, but Rihep chuckled. “If she can, I’d like lessons.”

* * * * 

On sale now! Amazon, Amazon UK, Nook, Smashwords, Kobo, Apple, print

Timeis running out to halt the Darks’ march to the Kalquorian Empire’sannihilation.

Finallyhome on Kalquor, Dramok Ilid is haunted by his encounter with the Darks, whichhe barely survived. His struggle far from over, Ilid’s sanity and the empire’sexistence hang on a quickly unraveling thread. When he learns the Darks havearrived on Kalquor, even his family’s love may not be able to keep him from anunthinkable end.

OnEarth II, head of planetary security Nobek Kuran’s hands are full: meeting hispotential in-laws, training his replacement, and keeping tabs on a roguelieutenant governor with a secret agenda. His troubles are only beginning whena deadly attack on those he loves drives him to the brink of murder. Meanwhile,spy Nobek Selt finds himself growing far too close to his subject, reporterBlythe Nelson. Does his clan dare to romance a woman devoted to uncovering thetruth, including their secret activities on her world?

Havingwiped out the entire Bi’is civilization, the Darks have seized control of theGalactic Council of Planets and attempt to bring the Kalquorian Empire to itsknees. Clans Tranis and Piras are desperate to stop the enemy from destroyingKalquor and its allies. Can Hope Nath and Chief Engineer Lokmi capture a lethalenemy capable of passing through all known barriers?

Now on Sale! Dark Empire Book Three: Secret War - Chapter Four, Scene Three

 

 Secret War hit bestseller status in Amazon's Polyamory Romance category! Thank you so much to all my readers. You keep me going when the going gets tough.

Today, enjoy a sexy challenge from Clan Rihep for Stacy:

* * * *

It was nearly anhour later when the group finished dinner and cleanup. Stacy was pleasantlymellow, having imbibed in as much leshella as Rihep had allowed. He’d been veryprecise when it came to the amount she could drink, giving her hopes he hadexciting plans for her later in the evening.

Stacy had come toterms with the intense sexual activities she and her men preferred. Quietresearch had informed her she was far from the only woman, including those whoheld positions of leadership, who indulged in surrendering to men in the bedroom.

Or in the office. Her thoughts strayed to Kuran bending her overher desk to spank her bottom and fuck her senseless.

Submitting to herlovers was the tip of the iceberg for Stacy. She also found a moderate amountof pain enthralling as proof of the power she handed to them. She loved it whenthey were gentle, but she came hardest when they were demanding. It was a quirkin her personality she’d decided to embrace instead of fight. The fact her Kalquorianlovers tended to be alpha beasts in bed, even easygoing Rihep and silly Etnil, coincidednicely with her tendencies.

Her wishes showedevery indication of coming true when Rihep, setting dishes in the washer, spokein his typical quiet tone without looking at her. “Stacy, go to the sleepingroom, undress, and wait for us on the bed. Kneel in the pose I prefer.”

“Yes, my Dramok.” Inan instant, a switch was thrown. Stacy Nichols, who could shout down and shutdown half a dozen political opponents at once, bowed her head in subservience.She turned and headed for the door. A smack to the ass from Kuran’s palm toldher to hurry, so she did after yipping at the blaze of heat.

As soon as she gotin the bedroom, she flung her clothes off in haste. Unless she wanted a roundof discipline to start, she should be in place and ready to serve when the mencame in the room.

She paused. Did shewant punishment right off the bat? No, it would be more exciting once they’dwarmed her up in other ways. She kicked her jacket, blouse, and trousersagainst the wall, uncaring of how they’d wrinkle.

Her butt cheek stillbaked from what had been a casual swat from Kuran. Though she could hear thehum of conversation coming from the kitchen, Stacy climbed on the mile-wide bedand knelt at its edge. She couldn’t be sure Kuran’s voice was among thosespeaking, and he was adept at showing up unexpectedly. The Nobek was uncannilysilent when he approached. His love tap as she’d left the kitchen might havebeen an indication he was in the mood to chastise.

Her pussy throbbedat the notion of a spanking or flogging. Maybe she should invite disciplineafter all.

Except she couldn’tguarantee it would be the type she preferred. She remembered misbehaving andorgasming before she’d been given permission one night. The next day, she’d beenmade to wear a vibrating pad on her clit during work. Kuran had been phased asusual, turning the silent vibe on to keep her aroused, especially duringmeetings. When she was alone, she’d begged him to let her come, her pussyaching in need. He hadn’t allowed it, nor had Rihep when she’d joined the clanin their quarters that night. They’d put her through her paces for hours,making sure of her obedience to their commands. Only then had they finally allowedher to come. Climax, fended off for so long, had been more agony than relief.When they noted it, Rihep, Kuran, and Etnil had forced her to orgasm until shebegged them to stop.

Stacy shuddered atthe memory and assumed the expected position, a good little girl obeying herDramok master. She knelt, spreading her knees as far apart as possible to displayher shaved pussy. She laced her fingers at the back of her head, her elbowsspread wide. The posture lifted her breasts like an offering.

She stayed in place,listening to the sounds of at least two of the men cleaning up. In the room,silence was a held breath. She imagined Kuran in the doorway, which herposition didn’t allow her to view. She imagined him standing there and watchingher, waiting for the least sign of disobedience to Rihep’s command so he couldmake her pay.

Her pussy flexed,and wetness slid from it. She hated orgasm denial, but the mere idea of beingunder the clan’s control to the extent she’d face it should they be displeasedby her in some fashion excited her anyway.

Twisted, lady.Very twisted.

Fuck it. Being dominatedby the trio got her literal juices flowing, and she refused to deny herself thethrill.

Talking fromelsewhere in the home had ceased. She listened hard for footsteps, her breathquickening in anticipation. Soon. They’d join her soon and see she’d been adutiful girl. They’d reward her in the ways she enjoyed best…or test herfurther, as their whims might dictate. It didn’t matter either way; she wastheirs to do with as they wished.

There. The slightesthint of footfalls heading down the hall her way. Stacy trembled in anticipation.

Kuran strode intoview before the sounds reached the door. He had been watching her. Hissmirk, which she saw as she lowered her eyes as was expected, told her he wasin the mood to make her pay for failing to give him a reason to punish her.Excitement made her pussy throb.

“Did she behave?”Rihep’s voice, though as calm as ever, was edged by steel.

“Impeccably. Isuggest a reminder of what happens when she doesn’t anyway. Besides, she’s beensitting too comfortably lately.”

Corporeal punishment.A spanking of some kind. Stacy tried not to quiver and betray her eagerness andgratitude.

“In a little while.First, she should offer us proper salutation to start our night of pleasure.”

Rihep’s gray trouserlegs appeared in Stacy’s downcast view. He cupped her breasts, as if testingtheir weight, and bounced them a little in his palms. She bit her lips togetheras he roughly massaged the fleshy orbs. She remained as still as possible as heenjoyed himself. She offered no refusal when his calloused fingers and thumbspinched her dark nipples and pulled them to taut points, though splinters ofhurt dug into them and a jolt of purest yearning shot through her soaked cunt.

He at last released herbreasts and opened the resealable seam of his tented crotch. Thick, veinedcocks sprang out, gleaming in the low light filtering in from the hall. The deliciouscinnamon-y scent of Rihep’s arousal surrounded Stacy.

“You may show yourgratitude to serve.”

* * * * 

On sale now! Amazon, Amazon UK, Nook, Smashwords, Kobo, Apple, print

Timeis running out to halt the Darks’ march to the Kalquorian Empire’sannihilation.

Finallyhome on Kalquor, Dramok Ilid is haunted by his encounter with the Darks, whichhe barely survived. His struggle far from over, Ilid’s sanity and the empire’sexistence hang on a quickly unraveling thread. When he learns the Darks havearrived on Kalquor, even his family’s love may not be able to keep him from anunthinkable end.

OnEarth II, head of planetary security Nobek Kuran’s hands are full: meeting hispotential in-laws, training his replacement, and keeping tabs on a roguelieutenant governor with a secret agenda. His troubles are only beginning whena deadly attack on those he loves drives him to the brink of murder. Meanwhile,spy Nobek Selt finds himself growing far too close to his subject, reporterBlythe Nelson. Does his clan dare to romance a woman devoted to uncovering thetruth, including their secret activities on her world?

Havingwiped out the entire Bi’is civilization, the Darks have seized control of theGalactic Council of Planets and attempt to bring the Kalquorian Empire to itsknees. Clans Tranis and Piras are desperate to stop the enemy from destroyingKalquor and its allies. Can Hope Nath and Chief Engineer Lokmi capture a lethalenemy capable of passing through all known barriers?

 

 

Out Today! Dark Empire Book Three: Secret War - Chapter Four, Scene Two

 

It's here! The latest in the Dark Empire saga is on sale now. Need another "taste"? Imdiko Etnil gets cheesy.

* * * *

Alpha SpaceStation

Stacy wondered atKuran’s mood as they traveled the corridors toward Clan Rihep’s home. He’d beena bit grim lately, no doubt because he worried in the wake of some jackasssending her an explosive a couple months prior. Since the campaign rally,however, he’d been in the best mood she’d seen him in for weeks.

“Mr. Adams is doinga decent job, I gather?”

“I can’t fault himin the least,” Kuran said. “Of course, Earth’s population is still rathersmall, not to mention concentrated in a single area…”

“You’re allowed tocompliment him.” She chuckled.

He grinned. “My onlyreservation thus far is Ken Bryant hired him. If they have somethingunderhanded going on behind the scenes, I have yet to discover it.”

“Good.” They reachedthe door of the quarters, which recognized them and opened obligingly. Stacystepped in and grimaced. She called, “Oh Etnil, sweetie, what is happening inthe kitchen?”

“What?” The distantvoice indeed came from the direction where Stacy was certain the horrific odororiginated. She could barely breathe for the stench.

“It would seem oneof his cooking experiments got out of hand.” Kuran sighed as his clan leader,Dramok Rihep, stepped in the room.

“Yeah, I just turnedthe blowers on, so the smell should disappear soon.” Rihep, as calm andunflappable as ever, his handsome face serene, kissed Stacy hello. “I alsoordered delivery, so dinner will show up in a few minutes.”

“Funny how theventing is called a blower, when it’s actually sucking out the stinky air.”Etnil came in, his boyish and eternally mischievous smile bright despitewhatever awful thing had happened in the kitchen. “Maybe since blowjobs arealso referred to as sucking, housing engineers went with it. It should becalled a blow-me unit, right?”

He interrupted hishectic chatter to pucker his lips in anticipation of a welcome-home kiss forStacy. She held him off. “What were you making?”

“Burritos. Justnice, ordinary rice and bean burritos, plus a few other ingredients.”

“Such as dogcorpses?” she guessed. The odor was incredibly foul, though thankfullydissipating.

“It could have beenthe cheese. I’m pretty sure it was the cheese. Quite disappointing, given howmuch it cost. It doesn’t melt very well either. I thought it would be extraspecial, so I had Rihep import it from Haven, just to celebrate your campaignkickoff.”

Only an Earthphilesuch as Etnil would have decided burritos made the perfect celebration meal. Hewas enamored with human cuisine, especially the kind requiring no utensils toeat.

“What kind of cheesewas it?” Stacy asked. The urge to gag had departed, thank heavens.

“Limburger.”

“Etnil.” She shookher head. “Seriously? It would have stunk the second you unwrapped it, but youstill tried to melt it on burritos?”

“It’s expensive.It’s gourmet.” He looked at her as if she were the clueless one. “Howcould it not be delicious?”

A grin threatened tobreak over Kuran’s rugged features. “The smell didn’t tell you otherwise?”

“I held my nose andtried it. It wasn’t horrible. Kind of mushroom-y and a tang to finish.”

“No, the garbagechute to finish, which is where I tossed the works,” Rihep said.

“So mean. Hewouldn’t look at it, much less give it a try.” Etnil sighed.

“Anything that makesmy eyes water and my breath stop isn’t on the menu.”

“Classless thug.”Etnil showed no sign of upset, however. He smiled at Stacy and extended hisarms toward her. “Where’s my kiss hello?”

“When you just atelimburger cheese? I love you, but no. Hell no.”

“How about you,Kuran? Being a stinky thing, you’ve always appreciated stinky things, so youwon’t mind a kiss.” He reached toward his muscled Nobek.

“Maybe not on thelips, but you’re welcome to blow me. Or suck me, whichever terminology makesyou happy.”

Etnil grabbed thelaughing Rihep, acting as if he were on the verge of falling to the floor in afaint. “He joked. Kuran the Eternally Cheerless cracked a joke!”

“This is an event,”Rihep said, pushing Etnil away. “I assume from your good moods the campaignrally went well?”

The door’s buzzinterrupted them. Dinner, which featured steaks and wine-like leshella, hadarrived.

Minutes later, theywere seated on billowy floor cushions around the low table in the dining area.Glowing in success and grateful she wasn’t eating limburger burritos, Stacytold them of the exuberant reception she’d received.

“I told you it wasan excellent speech.” Rihep’s smile warmed her to her toes.

“You did, but I wasnervous anyway. I guess the Earthtiques stayed home.” She glanced at Kuran toconfirm he’d seen nothing suspicious.

“The crowd was onyour side. The new guy did a great job too, given no one tested us.” Kuransimply couldn’t give poor Mike Adams unconditional credit. It had to be a Nobektrait, Stacy thought.

She had a swallow ofleshella, then sprang the latest personal news on them. “I heard from my mothertoday.”

“Uh oh,” Etnilsing-songed, his eyes rounding. He gripped the edge of the table in pretendedfear. “Are we in trouble for not breaking away to visit her on Haven before youstarted your election bid? Will she—” he gulped “—ground us?”

There was no way hebehaved like such a goofball in front of his patients. Dr. Etnil’s clients weremostly Dramoks and Nobeks assigned to the space station, and they probablydidn’t wish to be in therapy in the first place. His handsome face would have beencratered by a fist by now if he’d carried on around them as he did at home.Stacy believed the ridiculous, and admittedly amusing, behavior was how Etnilblew off steam after hearing hours of other people’s problems.

“She isn’t groundingus, though she’ll probably send you out an airlock after the first hour oflistening to you in person. She and my sister are coming to visit Earth.”

The three menblinked at her. Etnil’s pretended anxiety shifted to the real deal for aninstant. He made a joke of it by imitating having a heart attack and collapsingto the floor, where she couldn’t see him.

Rihep’s momentarysurprise disappeared, replaced by his usual calm. He seemed pleased. “This is abig step for our relationship. On Kalquor, we don’t meet parents unlessclanship is essentially a given.”

“Which is wherewe’re heading.” Whether it was sooner or later was up to if Stacy was voted tocontinue as Earth’s governor. It was one thing to date a Kalquorian clan andremain in charge of the world struggling to find its identity and footing; itwas quite another to be in a formal relationship when so many humans continuedto regard their former enemies with suspicion.

“I look forward toit,” Kuran said. “They’ll be staying at Government Hall in your livingquarters? You’ll spend your nights there during their visit as well.”

“Yes. They’ll behere for a couple of weeks.” During which Stacy would sleep alone, because herfellow Earthers might also disapprove of her sweethearts bunking in theleadership’s official residence.

It was difficultnavigating between her love life and professional career as Earth II’s mostpublic servant. Stacy was resolute to be as open about her relationship withClan Rihep as Kuran felt was safe, but she was equally resolved to shepherd thenew planet in the right direction so humans could prosper. It was a minoritywhich wished to take Earth II down the dark path that had led to its firstincarnation’s destruction, but they were determined. Stacy couldn’t let ithappen.

Fortunately, herintended clan understood and were willing to wait the eight years she waseligible to be governor, should her people elect her to do so.

Kuran tapped hishandheld busily. “When will they be here?”

“In a couple ofweeks. Is that okay as far as readying safety measures?”

“I don’t know why itwouldn’t be since we already have established protocols and the manpower tocarry them out. I’ll be interested to find out how Adams assigns security foryour mother and sister.”

“I’m sure he’ll dofine. Will you be assigning any of your, uh, operatives to them? If so, will mymother and sister be advised?”

Kuran considered.“Maybe only when they’re in public spaces. I understand the preference forprivacy, and Government Hall will be guarded by the security assigned to it.You can tell them undercover agents will be watching them when they’re inpublic, but the phasing has to be kept secret.”

“Understood.” Itspoke well of Kuran’s trust in her that Stacy knew anything about the devices.Phasing was a closely guarded secret, according to her lover and bodyguard. Ifsuch technology fell into the wrong hands, the consequences could be disastrous.

She imagined phasedTragooms running around on Earth, grabbing humans at will. Or Bi’isils escapingtheir planet and exacting revenge on Kalquor. A chill ran the length of herspine.

Stacy trusted hermother and sister implicitly, but they wouldn’t learn of the existence ofphasing from her. It was easy to imagine them captured and tortured forinformation, if it somehow leaked out.

“Does Mom or Sislike limburger cheese?” Etnil’s hopeful voice roused her from her thoughts.

She threw a napkinat him. “Don’t even think about it.”

* * * * 

On sale now! Amazon, Amazon UK, Nook, Smashwords, Kobo, Apple, print

Timeis running out to halt the Darks’ march to the Kalquorian Empire’sannihilation.

Finallyhome on Kalquor, Dramok Ilid is haunted by his encounter with the Darks, whichhe barely survived. His struggle far from over, Ilid’s sanity and the empire’sexistence hang on a quickly unraveling thread. When he learns the Darks havearrived on Kalquor, even his family’s love may not be able to keep him from anunthinkable end.

OnEarth II, head of planetary security Nobek Kuran’s hands are full: meeting hispotential in-laws, training his replacement, and keeping tabs on a roguelieutenant governor with a secret agenda. His troubles are only beginning whena deadly attack on those he loves drives him to the brink of murder. Meanwhile,spy Nobek Selt finds himself growing far too close to his subject, reporterBlythe Nelson. Does his clan dare to romance a woman devoted to uncovering thetruth, including their secret activities on her world?

Havingwiped out the entire Bi’is civilization, the Darks have seized control of theGalactic Council of Planets and attempt to bring the Kalquorian Empire to itsknees. Clans Tranis and Piras are desperate to stop the enemy from destroyingKalquor and its allies. Can Hope Nath and Chief Engineer Lokmi capture a lethalenemy capable of passing through all known barriers?

 

Dark Empire Book Three: Secret War Releases Tomorrow! Chapter Four, Scene One

 

Kuran replaced...by a human

* * * *

Earth II

“…and I think it’ssafe to say, Earthers are back, baby!”

Kuran’s ears rang asthe crowd roared its approval, interrupting Stacy’s speech yet again. The rallyto open her campaign to switch from Earth’s appointed leader to its firstelected governor had kicked off, and it was crowded by supporters.

She and the otherleaders of Earth II, chosen by the Galactic Council of Planets, had gotten theplanet off to a great start. They’d had the help of many other speciesbelonging to the council, but Stacy had done everything possible to make surehumans had picked up the torch when possible. Her approval ratings were good,but they didn’t guarantee she’d continue to shepherd Earth II through itsinfancy. The months of campaigning would be long and no doubt difficult asother candidates threw their hats in the ring.

Win or lose, it wasall the same to Kuran. His greatest goal was to keep Stacy safe as shenavigated the election. It was the only win he truly cared about, though hesupported her hope to continue as Earth’s leader for the next two years. Oreight, if she continued to win elections until she was no longer eligible toserve.

For once, Kuran wasunphased in public as he conducted operations. Or, more accurately, as hesupervised someone else conducting operations. It wasn’t the case for the otherKalquorians who made up his spy contingent. A dozen of his phased operativeswandered the crowd. They watched for trouble as reinforcements for the humanelement of the event’s security.

Kuran glanced atMichael Adams, the man who was to take over his official position as head ofEarth security…if he proved up to the task.

When the two men hadfirst met, Kuran hadn’t been impressed. Despite his notable credentials, Adamsappeared young to the seasoned Nobek to have the experience he claimed.Dark-haired, handsome, and possessing an easy smile, the would-be heir’spresence seemed far too benign for the job’s demands.

He became adifferent sort of man on the job, however. Drawn brows drove a crease aboveAdams’ slightly crooked nose. His blue eyes were intense as he surveyed thescene from his post on an elevated platform at the side of the stage whereStacy spoke. The friendly smile was nowhere in evidence, replaced by a frownfierce enough to elicit Kuran’s appreciation. Wearing a dark outfit over bodyarmor, a blaster holstered at his hips, muttering commands into his headset,Adams boasted a distinctive don’t-fuck-with-me presence. He was imposing.

For a human.

Kuran noted acluster of Earthers packed tight at one side of the stage. No doubt his menwere there, keeping an eye on them, but it would be wise to point the groupingout to Adams. He did so.

Adams offered nosecond-guessing or resistance to Kuran’s direction. “Charlie Group, watch thesardines on the stage edge in your section. They don’t look like trouble, butthey’re good cover for someone who’d want to be. Alpha, cover any open spotsCharlie leaves behind while they shift location.” Adams noticed another clusteron his own. “Delta, watch the rear corner. Make sure you have a clear view oneveryone.”

“Nice pickup onDelta’s section.” Kuran had missed it.

“Next time, I’llassign another set of eyes up high from the opposite side of the stage. Twoguys to a post. If the governor continues to draw crowds this size, we’ll needit. Since more Earthers are arriving every day, we may have to increase ourpresence.”

“Agreed.”

The audience cheeredas Stacy finished her speech. Adams was barking orders in an instant. “Readyfor the greet, you know your positions, in place now.”

Kuran watched hisbeloved as she headed for the steps that would allow her to descend from thestage. The plan was for her to go to the barricade holding the throng back,shake hands, and speak to her would-be voters. No less than half a dozen guardswould be at her side, accompanied by two phased Kalquorian sentries.Nonetheless, tension sang through him and Adams as they watched her.

At last, it wasover, Stacy smiling and waving as she was escorted to the shuttle waitingbehind the stage’s vid backdrop. On it was depicted Earth II’s emblem of theplanet wrapped in a banner emblazoned with the motto Vita Nova, Spes Nova:New Life, New Hope.

And a new head ofsecurity, ready to take up the challenge Kuran was to leave behind in a fewshort weeks. Kuran was beginning to feel pretty confident about hisreplacement…especially since the Nobek would be sticking close to Stacy in anycase.

* * * *

Out tomorrow! Pre-order now: Amazon, Amazon UK, Nook, Smashwords, Kobo, Apple, print

Timeis running out to halt the Darks’ march to the Kalquorian Empire’sannihilation.

Finallyhome on Kalquor, Dramok Ilid is haunted by his encounter with the Darks, whichhe barely survived. His struggle far from over, Ilid’s sanity and the empire’sexistence hang on a quickly unraveling thread. When he learns the Darks havearrived on Kalquor, even his family’s love may not be able to keep him from anunthinkable end.

OnEarth II, head of planetary security Nobek Kuran’s hands are full: meeting hispotential in-laws, training his replacement, and keeping tabs on a roguelieutenant governor with a secret agenda. His troubles are only beginning whena deadly attack on those he loves drives him to the brink of murder. Meanwhile,spy Nobek Selt finds himself growing far too close to his subject, reporterBlythe Nelson. Does his clan dare to romance a woman devoted to uncovering thetruth, including their secret activities on her world?

Havingwiped out the entire Bi’is civilization, the Darks have seized control of theGalactic Council of Planets and attempt to bring the Kalquorian Empire to itsknees. Clans Tranis and Piras are desperate to stop the enemy from destroyingKalquor and its allies. Can Hope Nath and Chief Engineer Lokmi capture a lethalenemy capable of passing through all known barriers?

Releasing January 26

Dark Empire Book Three: Secret War Chapter Three, Scene Five

 

Kila's not-so-happy homecoming

* * * *

* * * *

 

Alpha SpaceStation

 

Kila stepped in hisquarters and immediately felt a weight lift at the sight of Hope and Pirasstanding in the greeting room, safe and sound.

Because he was aNobek and a warrior, he hung back as Hope flew into their demonstrativeImdiko’s arms. Lokmi’s kisses covered Hope’s face, and she returned the favor.The weeks apart had been as difficult on their Matara as it had been on them.Kila wouldn’t have allowed her to be on his spyship during the trip to Bi’isfor anything, but he’d mourned their separation just the same.

As Imdiko and Mataracarried on, Kila’s gaze met Piras’. They stepped close and hugged.

“I’m glad you’re allright,” his clan leader sighed.

“I’m doubly so overyou and Hope. I heard there have been protests on Kalquor since you’ve beenouted as commanding the station’s defenses.” Kila stepped back and looked atthe smaller man.

It was easy to worryabout Piras, almost as much as he did for Hope. It barely mattered the Dramokhad been known as the “Terror of the Fleet” even before he became so hated. Thewily bastard had cheated death more than his fair share because he was thatdamned smart and that damned resilient.

Kila didn’t care howtough he knew Piras to be. He was still Kila’s Dramok, and therefore, hisresponsibility to keep safe.

Piras had a delicatebuild compared to many Kalquorians. His elegant features, except for anoverlarge jaw, gave him a fragile aspect when he wasn’t shouting at hisunderlings in a towering rage. Kila’s gut churned to think of those who wantedPiras’ blood.

His Dramok’sdismissive wave failed to ease his worries. “No one here has gotten in my faceyet. I received a couple of threatening coms, but they were traced and thecallers hauled in for questioning. One was on a colony at the other end of theempire, hardly an immediate danger.”

“It’s those who’dsneak up quietly I worry about.”

Hope and Lokmi hadfinally finished their reunion. The dark-haired woman who was the heart of theclan imperiously shoved between Kila and Piras to greet her Nobek.

“Ease up, big guy.Piras was well protected while you were gone, though it wasn’t needed. No onetried to approach him.”

Her lips were softon Kila’s, waking certain parts that had missed her special warmth. For asecond, he considered delaying his concerns in favor of picking her up andtaking her to the sleeping room. Then again, laying her on the rug there in thegreeting room would be just as good. Or bending her over the back of thelounger…

He regained controlover himself as the kiss ended. “Who kept an eye on our fearless Dramok? I’dlike a word, in case it’s necessary to tap him again.”

“It won’t be. He’sgone, and he isn’t returning.” Piras turned from Lokmi, whom he’d greeted inturn. “We’ve brought in a few more spies to operate locally here. A newbodyguard took over a couple of days ago when Lidon left.”

Kila froze. Lidon?Piras’ ex, the Nobek he’d courted to be his clanmate for fifteen years beforeAdmiral Tranis showed up? The Nobek Piras had still been stuck on when Kila hadcome on the scene?

“What the fuck washe doing, guarding you? He doesn’t live here…he’s all the fuck away onKalquor…why wasn’t I told you brought him in?” Kila’s shout made Hope cover herears, but he couldn’t rein it in.

A deadly calmsettled over Piras, and a small part of Kila’s mind registered how it wasusually Piras who yelled and Kila who countered problems with quietcalculation. Not this time. He was shaking and searching for something to throwand break.

“I had nothing to doas far as bringing him in, my Nobek. Tranis sent him. We were shorthanded herewhere spies were concerned—”

“Tranis couldn’tsend another bodyguard? Yes, he sure as shit could have. It didn’t have to be Lidon.”

“I agree, but he wasalready on his way when I found out. I couldn’t have—”

“Yes, you couldhave. You should have sent him packing the second you saw him. You’re equalrank to Tranis.”

“The order wascountersigned by Hobato. I wasn’t given a choice.”

“How convenient,”Kila seethed.

Piras’ temper was atlast kindled. “What the fuck is that supposed to mean?” he yelled, taking astep toward Kila, his fists clenched.

Lokmi grabbed him.“Enough, both of you. Settle down.”

Though hisdesignation was Imdiko, Lokmi had a generous helping of Dramok as well. It camethrough in his voice, the natural command that made everyone, including Piras,pause. For an instant, silence held.

It didn’t quiet thestorm in Kila’s head. Lidon had been Piras’ bodyguard in his absence, and Pirashadn’t told him. He’d had ample opportunity to do so during their frequentcoms, but he’d kept quiet. For weeks.

Kila turned on hisheel and walked out of the home he’d been so desperate to return to.

* * * *

Releases day after tomorrow! Pre-order now: Amazon, Amazon UK, Nook, Smashwords, Kobo, Apple, print

Timeis running out to halt the Darks’ march to the Kalquorian Empire’sannihilation.

Finallyhome on Kalquor, Dramok Ilid is haunted by his encounter with the Darks, whichhe barely survived. His struggle far from over, Ilid’s sanity and the empire’sexistence hang on a quickly unraveling thread. When he learns the Darks havearrived on Kalquor, even his family’s love may not be able to keep him from anunthinkable end.

OnEarth II, head of planetary security Nobek Kuran’s hands are full: meeting hispotential in-laws, training his replacement, and keeping tabs on a roguelieutenant governor with a secret agenda. His troubles are only beginning whena deadly attack on those he loves drives him to the brink of murder. Meanwhile,spy Nobek Selt finds himself growing far too close to his subject, reporterBlythe Nelson. Does his clan dare to romance a woman devoted to uncovering thetruth, including their secret activities on her world?

Havingwiped out the entire Bi’is civilization, the Darks have seized control of theGalactic Council of Planets and attempt to bring the Kalquorian Empire to itsknees. Clans Tranis and Piras are desperate to stop the enemy from destroyingKalquor and its allies. Can Hope Nath and Chief Engineer Lokmi capture a lethalenemy capable of passing through all known barriers?

Releasing January 26

 

 

Dark Empire Book Three: Secret War - Chapter Three Scene Four

 

The question of Cassidy.

* * * *

After his sessionwith Ilid, Degorsk flew to the island headquarters of the fleet. He arrived atTranis’ office. After an affectionate greeting, he settled in the seat acrossthe desk from his Dramok.

“Ilid doesn’thallucinate the Darks after the fact, thank the ancestors. If he did, I’d be alot more pessimistic about his recovery. He does jump at shadows though…as wesaw on the recorded footage, the aliens look similar, except for thetentacles.” Degorsk shuddered. Ilid’s description of the Darks scurrying aroundhis spyship creeped him out. “He’s constantly checking his peripheral vision tomake sure no one in his vicinity is being ridden.”

“Poor kid,” Tranissighed. “You can help him, though?”

“As long as thecreatures don’t show up here. He’s terrified for good reason, if what you’vetold me is true.”

“I wish AdmiralHobato would take it as seriously.”

“Have him sit downand talk to Ilid. That’ll convince him, get him over this stubborn streak he’sdeveloped.” Degorsk scowled, irritated at fleet bureaucracy. He liked Hobato ona personal level, but as a representative of the fleet, he was no fan.

“If I decide tobring Cassidy in as a scientific consultant, she should see the recordings ofyour sessions with Ilid,” Tranis said. “Do you think he’d agree to it?”

“If it’ll keep theDarks out of the empire, he’ll probably be fine. I’ll ask.” Degorsk gave hisclanmate a level stare. “I might not be okay when it comes to involving her,however. She doesn’t need the stress.”

“I don’t have toremind a doctor what the studies say about human women and pregnancy. She isn’tas fragile as your fears tell you.” Tranis’ gaze was gentle. “Besides, shewouldn’t find researching alien beings from another dimension upsetting. Shelives for that shit.”

“She’d find Ilid’scondition distressing. I found it nerve-wracking, and I’m trained for traumaticencounters.” Degorsk gave vent to some of the stress. “We’re so fucked if thosethings make it here. Totally fucked.”

“Cassidy could helpus avoid it. You’re a lot of the reason she’s as tough as she is.”

Degorsk waved himoff. “There’s tough, then there’s facing impending doom. Hey, when did youbecome the optimist of this clan?”

Tranis laughed.“When you started freaking out over fatherhood, apparently. You’ve been a wrecksince Cassidy decided to continue the pregnancy.”

Degorsk opened hismouth to deny his assessment, but there was no sense in it. Tranis was right.“Great, now you’re a therapist to boot. I guess I’ll retire and run off to livein a cave.”

“You might as wellstick around. We’d follow you wherever you go.”

“No escape, huh?” Hegrinned, a hint of his happier nature peeking through. “It’s nice to beindispensable.”

“You should havefigured out you are years ago, my Imdiko.”

* * * *

Only three days away! Pre-order now: Amazon, Amazon UK, Nook, Smashwords, Kobo, Apple, print

Timeis running out to halt the Darks’ march to the Kalquorian Empire’sannihilation.

Finallyhome on Kalquor, Dramok Ilid is haunted by his encounter with the Darks, whichhe barely survived. His struggle far from over, Ilid’s sanity and the empire’sexistence hang on a quickly unraveling thread. When he learns the Darks havearrived on Kalquor, even his family’s love may not be able to keep him from anunthinkable end.

OnEarth II, head of planetary security Nobek Kuran’s hands are full: meeting hispotential in-laws, training his replacement, and keeping tabs on a roguelieutenant governor with a secret agenda. His troubles are only beginning whena deadly attack on those he loves drives him to the brink of murder. Meanwhile,spy Nobek Selt finds himself growing far too close to his subject, reporterBlythe Nelson. Does his clan dare to romance a woman devoted to uncovering thetruth, including their secret activities on her world?

Havingwiped out the entire Bi’is civilization, the Darks have seized control of theGalactic Council of Planets and attempt to bring the Kalquorian Empire to itsknees. Clans Tranis and Piras are desperate to stop the enemy from destroyingKalquor and its allies. Can Hope Nath and Chief Engineer Lokmi capture a lethalenemy capable of passing through all known barriers?

Releasing January 26

 

Dark Empire Book Three: Secret War - Chapter Three Scene Three

 

 A broken man and a doctor determined to fix him.

* * * *

Kalquor

Degorsk smiled atthe young man seated on a bench in the garden area of the fleet psychiatrichospital. Unsurprisingly, Dramok Ilid failed to smile back. His moroseexpression was a cloud among the spring greenery.

Degorsk bowed.“Ensign Ilid, I’m Dr. Degorsk, the psychiatrist assigned to your case. It’s aprivilege to meet you.”

Ilid blinked at him.“A privilege?”

Degorsk detected thefirst of what was no doubt numerous issues following the hell Ilid had beenthrough. “I’ve reviewed the story of your bravery in escaping and warning theempire about the Darks. You faced incredible odds. May I?” He motioned to the partof the bench left unoccupied.

“Huh? Oh, yeah.Sorry.” Belatedly, Ilid stood and bowed. “It’s nice to meet you, sir.”

“The pleasure ismine. Please, you don’t have to stand or call me sir. I’m an on-callconsultant, no longer an official part of the fleet.” Degorsk settled next tohim.

“Did you serve on aspyship? Or just here, putting broken men together again?”

Broken men. Issue number two. “I was part of a couple ofdestroyer crews as a medical doctor. I ended my career on a spyship, so I’vehad some experience similar to yours where such assignments are concerned.”

“Did you know a Dr.Umen?”

Ilid named thedoctor from his former duty vessel. According to the report the young man hadsubmitted, Umen been overcome by a Dark rider. Under its influence, he’dperformed horrific experiments on Ilid and others.

“I wasn’t acquaintedwith him. I hope the fact I once held the same rank won’t disturb you.”

Ilid gazed at him.The Dramok’s face was young and vulnerable. Degorsk wondered if he’d looked sochildlike and lost before his shipmates had been attacked or if his experienceshad sapped the strength from him.

“You don’t look likehim. You don’t talk like him either. I guess I’ll be okay around you.”

“I hope so. I wantto help you.”

“You mean you’reordered to help me.”

Degorsk gazeddirectly into the young man’s eyes, which kept skittering over the grounds, asif looking for something. “As I said, I’m no longer a formal member of thefleet. To be honest, I’m no fan of it. It nearly broke me, a long time ago. Idon’t take orders from the chain of command. I’m here for you, not them.”

It was true. Tranismight have been an admiral, but Degorsk often contracted his services to thefleet at his Dramok’s request. He was recognized by many in the fieldfor helping fleet personnel traumatized in the field of duty return to normallives.

“If I told you Iwant to resign as soon as possible, you wouldn’t try to talk me out of it?”

“Ilid, I wouldn’tsend you out on another ship if they paid me the empire’s entire fortune afterwhat you’ve been through.” Degorsk offered a caring smile…because he did carefor those who ended up needing him, at times to his own detriment. “The fleet agreedto release you as soon as their medical staff maps your brain in hopes oflearning how you see the aliens who did this to you. I’ll personally give hellto anyone who tries to extend your service beyond the month it’ll take.”

“Getting out is allI want,” Ilid breathed, his shoulders releasing tension. “And the nightmares tostop. I’m so tired of being afraid.”

“Let’s get startedthen.”

* * * *

Releases in four days! Pre-order now: Amazon, Amazon UK, Nook, Smashwords, Kobo, Apple, print

Timeis running out to halt the Darks’ march to the Kalquorian Empire’sannihilation.

Finallyhome on Kalquor, Dramok Ilid is haunted by his encounter with the Darks, whichhe barely survived. His struggle far from over, Ilid’s sanity and the empire’sexistence hang on a quickly unraveling thread. When he learns the Darks havearrived on Kalquor, even his family’s love may not be able to keep him from anunthinkable end.

OnEarth II, head of planetary security Nobek Kuran’s hands are full: meeting hispotential in-laws, training his replacement, and keeping tabs on a roguelieutenant governor with a secret agenda. His troubles are only beginning whena deadly attack on those he loves drives him to the brink of murder. Meanwhile,spy Nobek Selt finds himself growing far too close to his subject, reporterBlythe Nelson. Does his clan dare to romance a woman devoted to uncovering thetruth, including their secret activities on her world?

Havingwiped out the entire Bi’is civilization, the Darks have seized control of theGalactic Council of Planets and attempt to bring the Kalquorian Empire to itsknees. Clans Tranis and Piras are desperate to stop the enemy from destroyingKalquor and its allies. Can Hope Nath and Chief Engineer Lokmi capture a lethalenemy capable of passing through all known barriers?

Releasing January 26

 

Dark Empire Book Three: Secret War - Chapter Three Scene Two

 

Spy Nobek Selt is getting too emotionally invested in his subject Blythe Nelson.

* * * *

Nobek Selt caughthimself clenching his fists. He forced them open, spreading them wide andchoking off the growl rising in his throat.

The head speaker ofEarth II’s General Assembly had one of those faces. Haughty, made for sneering.His muddy eyes had a bulging aspect. No amount of whatever Cal Mitchell wore tokeep his graying hair from budging from its perfect coif or his expensive tailoredsuits or his luxurious office could hide the fact he was a self-satisfiedasshole of an Earthtique.

Or maybe it was justSelt who saw him as such. Presumably, Mitchell had some good qualities. Hisoffice, boasting pricey artwork on its walls and fine furnishings, attested tohis success. He was leading his opponents in the polls. He had a wife and six kids,so his lifemate must have found something redeeming about him.

Ancestors,someone had sex with this guy. On multiple occasions. Since he was phased and no one couldwitness him do so, Selt shuddered.

The human’s grufftone was condescending as he rocked slowly in his hover chair behind hisbehemoth of a desk. “Of course you find doing your job difficult, Miss Nelson.You’re only, what, twenty-two? Twenty-three?”

The object of hisderision, standing on the other side of the desk, spoke in a clipped voice.“Twenty-eight, Speaker Mitchell.”

Which he knew, ifhe’d deemed Blythe Nelson important enough to research. Mitchell was thoroughwhen it came to such things. Then again, he might have determined due to herage and the fact she was female, Blythe wasn’t worth investigating beyond ablatant assessment of her trim figure.

Blythe was no doubtaware of how she was regarded by the man Selt believed to be the worst of theEarthtiques, aside from terrorist-hiring Ken Bryant. To Mitchell, she was nomore than a young, pretty woman. Therefore, she was a creature to simultaneouslydesire and revile.

Don’t defendyourself to him, Selt silently urged her. Don’t do him the honor of making hisopinion important.

Her temper…orsomething else…had been woken, however. “The records of original Earth, for themost part, are lost. No amount of digging can uncover what no longer exists,Mr. Speaker. What I have managed to find is pass-protected and—”

“What you’ve managedto find is very little. I’m sure you did your best. Still, I can hardly pay youfor a few sentences of guesswork. I’ll contact a couple of your colleagues, askwhat experienced men can discover. Thank you and good day, Miss Nelson.” Mitchellwaved her out of his office, his gesture negligent.

Blythe’s pixie facereddened. She turned on her low, pointed heel and marched through the door.

Selt scowled atMitchell and hurried in her wake. He would have loved to hang around to keep aneye on the speaker and catch him doing something underhanded, but as far as thespy division knew, Mitchell was clean. An unmitigated asshole of an Earthtique,but he’d done nothing to warrant them watching him beyond his contacts withBryant.

Yet.

Selt’s long stridekept up easily with the petite news reporter who had a penchant for digginginto the histories of government officials. It was her uncanny ability to finddirt on the currently powerful which had brought her to the attention ofAdmiral Piras and his chief agent on Earth, Head Operative Kuran. They wereinterested in the information she’d uncovered, rather than Blythe herself.

She wove among theaides and representatives of the General Assembly. Traffic was heavy, thanks toeveryone trying to escape for a lunch hour of peace. Despite the crowd andBlythe’s tiny stature, she was noted. Scowls erupted on faces.

Selt gave hercredit. Blythe asked the legislators the most pointed questions of thejournalists. She wasn’t afraid to chase after her quarry while shoutingquestions at the top of her lungs, a vid drone flying ahead to grab footage ofwhomever had attracted her well-honed sense for a story. It amused Selt to notehow many powerful men and women hunched their shoulders and hurried past Blytheto avoid her.

The lovely reporterignored them for a change. Her goal seemed to consist of escaping the GeneralAssembly building as fast as possible. Her impish, heart-shaped face was set,her gaze pointed toward the exit.

She reached theoutdoors and fairly ran down the steps. Barely two minutes later, she was atthe visitors’ stretch of shuttle pads. She was soon boarding her small vessel,and Selt entered it behind her.

No sooner had thehatch closed, lending her what she believed to be utter privacy, when she burstinto tears.

“Ah, fuck. Pleasedon’t,” Selt groaned.

“Sorryshithead-asshole-motherfucker!” she screamed at no one. “Lousy fuckwad!”

At least she wascrying from anger and not because her feelings had been hurt. It made it lesspainful to watch. Selt settled in a seat behind the pilot’s chair and gazed ather as she bawled and vented an impressive array of curse words.

He wondered if itwas too late to beg Admiral Piras to allow him to return to the spyship dutyhe’d left to take the job on Earth.

It wasn’t that hiscurrent work was overwhelmingly personal. He had opportunities he’d enjoyedlittle of on board a fleet craft. On Earth, he could see his opponents upclose. Could confront them. Interrogate them. Hurt them, if they deserved it,as the bastards who’d attempted to kill the governor and bomb the orbitingspace station had. His enemies were no longer faceless foes he was forced toattack from a safe distance, like a pathetic coward.

His clanmates Deramand Hadlez still served on the spyship Selt had been transferred from. They’drecently been in danger, which had him second-guessing his decision to accepthis current assignment without debate. He belonged at their sides, guarding themno matter how worthless he’d begun feeling his previous duty had been. If hecouldn’t keep them safe, then he was fine dying trying to.

His current taskwasn’t helping matters. Watching his subject be treated like shit on a regularbasis, often merely because she was a woman, drained his soul. Seeing her cry,even only as a release from the terrific fury he’d learned she was capable of, strainedhim to the breaking point.

Blythe was anassignment, nothing more. Nonetheless, a throb of protectiveness tempted Seltto storm to Mitchell’s office and slap some decency in him. Standing by whileshe was insulted to the point of tears had him feeling useless again.

“Sometimes I hatethis job,” Blythe snarled as she stopped crying. She took out her handheld andhad it bring up a holo-mirror to check her makeup.

“Me too,” Selt said.

* * * *

Releases in five days! Pre-order now: Amazon, Amazon UK, Nook, Smashwords, Kobo, Apple, print

Timeis running out to halt the Darks’ march to the Kalquorian Empire’sannihilation.

Finallyhome on Kalquor, Dramok Ilid is haunted by his encounter with the Darks, whichhe barely survived. His struggle far from over, Ilid’s sanity and the empire’sexistence hang on a quickly unraveling thread. When he learns the Darks havearrived on Kalquor, even his family’s love may not be able to keep him from anunthinkable end.

OnEarth II, head of planetary security Nobek Kuran’s hands are full: meeting hispotential in-laws, training his replacement, and keeping tabs on a roguelieutenant governor with a secret agenda. His troubles are only beginning whena deadly attack on those he loves drives him to the brink of murder. Meanwhile,spy Nobek Selt finds himself growing far too close to his subject, reporterBlythe Nelson. Does his clan dare to romance a woman devoted to uncovering thetruth, including their secret activities on her world?

Havingwiped out the entire Bi’is civilization, the Darks have seized control of theGalactic Council of Planets and attempt to bring the Kalquorian Empire to itsknees. Clans Tranis and Piras are desperate to stop the enemy from destroyingKalquor and its allies. Can Hope Nath and Chief Engineer Lokmi capture a lethalenemy capable of passing through all known barriers?

Releasing January 26

 

Dark Empire Three: Secret War - Chapter Three Scene One

 

Nobek Kuran is keeping secrets from Stacy.

* * * * 

Kuran cursedhimself, though he kept his expression pleasant. He slid in the pilot’s seat ofthe shuttle and fired the engine as if nothing off had occurred, but he hadn’tmissed the searching look Stacy had given him.

He hated keepingsecrets from those he cared for, particularly his would-be Matara. Becoming aspy for the Kalquorian fleet had been his best means of keeping her safe frompotential attackers, however. Spying meant hiding much of what he knew.

Bryant had biggersecrets and was a bigger threat than Stacy realized. He was behind attacks onher and the Kalquorian space station orbiting Earth II, which assisted thenewly populated planet. Only Bryant’s potential connections to those who mightbe part of a treasonous collective kept Kuran from hauling him in for a “talk.”

Kuran agreed thusfar with Admiral Piras’ orders to hold off on arresting Bryant and subjectinghim to interrogation. If the bastard set off another attack on Stacy, however,Kuran might choose to bring him in before alerting his superiors.

He lifted off andglanced at her, taking in the dark-eyed, black-haired beauty at his side. She’dquit studying him to bring out her handheld computer, no doubt reviewing hercampaign speech again. Love surged in his fierce warrior’s heart. He hadn’t cometo Earth II in hopes of finding a female for his clan, but that’s what hadhappened. Beyond her sexiness, she possessed a brilliant mind. He’d do anythingto keep her safe.

No one fucked withhis woman.

* * * *

Releases in six days! Pre-order now: Amazon, Amazon UK, Nook, Smashwords, Kobo, Apple, print

Timeis running out to halt the Darks’ march to the Kalquorian Empire’sannihilation.

Finallyhome on Kalquor, Dramok Ilid is haunted by his encounter with the Darks, whichhe barely survived. His struggle far from over, Ilid’s sanity and the empire’sexistence hang on a quickly unraveling thread. When he learns the Darks havearrived on Kalquor, even his family’s love may not be able to keep him from anunthinkable end.

OnEarth II, head of planetary security Nobek Kuran’s hands are full: meeting hispotential in-laws, training his replacement, and keeping tabs on a roguelieutenant governor with a secret agenda. His troubles are only beginning whena deadly attack on those he loves drives him to the brink of murder. Meanwhile,spy Nobek Selt finds himself growing far too close to his subject, reporterBlythe Nelson. Does his clan dare to romance a woman devoted to uncovering thetruth, including their secret activities on her world?

Havingwiped out the entire Bi’is civilization, the Darks have seized control of theGalactic Council of Planets and attempt to bring the Kalquorian Empire to itsknees. Clans Tranis and Piras are desperate to stop the enemy from destroyingKalquor and its allies. Can Hope Nath and Chief Engineer Lokmi capture a lethalenemy capable of passing through all known barriers?

Releasing January 26

Dark Empire Book Three: Secret War releases in one week! Chapter Two Scene Two

 

 Governor Nichols and Nobek Kuran indulge in some office hijinks.

* * * *

Earth II

Earth’s governorStacy Nichols gasped as her secretary Todd walked in her office and set acomputer drive on her desk. She stared up at her assistant, gripping the edgesof the desk she was bent over.

Her Kalquorianbodyguard Nobek Kuran held her to its surface, his grip on the back of her neckimplacable. Her skirt was bunched at her waist. He drove his cocks deep in herpussy without pause despite the young man pausing to look around. For aninstant, Todd’s and Stacy’s gazes met. The aide turned and walked out.

Kuran grunted andpulled free long enough to readjust. The tip of his primary settled on Stacy’stighter hole. An instant later, he filled her ass, his secondary returning tothe warmth of her soaked pussy. Stacy’s breath caught at the dual thrill of acheand pleasure.

Todd returned andchecked the coffee station that kept Stacy functioning. He took the pot to thenearby sink and rinsed it as Kuran’s groin slapped Stacy’s ass in growingenthusiasm. The Nobek’s harsh breathing betrayed he was close.

Todd returned to thecoffee station, humming a tune. Kuran reached, his hand skating over Stacy’sabdomen, homing in on her mound. Her vision blurred, she watched as Toddpunched in the command for fresh grounds and the time they should brew.

Kuran’s fingersclosed on Stacy’s clit and pinched. “Come.”

The gathering blissbillowed, eclipsing her view of her aide’s activities as it fledged to fullorgasm. Stacy yelled as convulsions ripped through her, as she came despite heremployee’s presence, helpless to deny her lover’s command.

After a few morestrokes, Kuran joined her. His groans punctuated each jolt of his cocks as hotcum filled her ass. Stacy trembled beneath him, held powerless as he finished.

The secretary leftthe room, this time ordering the door closed and locked.

Kuran sighed hisgratification, lazily stroking in and out of Stacy. He behaved as if he had allthe time in the world. After a few seconds, he chuckled, slapped her ass acouple times to make her squeal, then stepped back.

He tucked his cocksin his armored formsuit as Stacy turned toward him. “That was a completelyirresponsible use of phase devices. I should report myself.”

“You should beashamed.” She straightened her clothing, casting an affectionate glance at thesilver chevron pinned to her blouse. “Poor Todd. If he’d known we were in hereinvisible and fucking our brains out while he worked mere feet from us…”

“It excited you.”The muscled Nobek, brutishly handsome, stepped close and pulled Stacy’s skirtup again. His fingers slipped in her panties. He ignored Stacy’s attempts topush him away as he stroked her soaked folds.

“Haven’t you hadenough?”

He wasn’t fooled byher protest. “Hold still for me, or I’ll spank your pussy.”

Stacy debatedwhether she wanted punishment, and if it would be the good or bad kind. Kuran’sexpression hinted at neither. She opted to behave. After all, she was hungry,and she needed at least fifteen minutes of her lunch hour to eat.

I’ll misbehavelater. As if she hadn’t justclimaxed, her cunt flexed.

Kuran grinned as sheceased shoving at him and submitted to his fondling. His kiss was rough andendured as she came for him, crying into his mouth.

“Me fucking youwhile someone was in the room, even though he couldn’t see us, helped get youoff. Admit it,” he growled when she’d subsided.

Unsure whichdirection discipline might go, fun or unpleasant, she acknowledged the truth.“Yes. It excited me.”

“Good. Now we’redone.” He stepped back, a pronounced swagger in his movements.

“Proud of yourself,aren’t you?” She tried to scowl, but a giggle escaped.

He grinned, thedemeanor of deliberate command fading to mischief. He was among the few Nobekswho could pull off the youthful expression. “I’m sure I’m not the only spy totake advantage of phasing during sex. Hey! Let’s do it on Bryant’s desk.”

“Let’s not.” Thethought of fucking anywhere near the lieutenant governor, whether he couldwitness them or not, offered no titillation for Stacy.

It reminded her ofher coming campaign kickoff. They walked through her closed door and past hersecretary, who was gathering his belongings to go to lunch himself.

Stacy said, “Phasingmight offer us the only chance for illicit day sex during the election cycle.How much trouble would you get in if we’re caught?”

“Tons.” Kuran winkedat her. “You’re worth it.”

“Not if it meanslosing your presence.” She sighed when they found the corridor beyond heroffice empty of others and Kuran switched off his phase. She reluctantly didthe same and handed off the device she wasn’t supposed to be in possession ofto her handsome lover. “I hate you’ll soon be unable to be seen openly aroundhere.”

“They found myreplacement quickly,” Kuran agreed.

Ken Bryant hadrecently discovered a former Earther ground forces captain who possessed theproper credentials to take over as head of Earth’s on-planet security, the postKuran currently held. Anti-Kalquorian sentiment among a small but vocal sectionof Earth’s population, denounced as ‘Earthtiques,’ had necessitated the Nobekbeing replaced.

Officially. In hiscapacity as a spy, Kuran would be very much present, though unnoticed.

“What do you thinkof this Michael Adams? It worries me Ken brought him in.” Recent revelationsabout Stacy’s lieutenant governor and anticipated election rival had heightenedher concerns about the man most supported by Earthtiques and conservative voters.

“Adams is competent.Okay, better than competent. As we planned the security for your campaignkickoff, he put forth some excellent ideas, which I agreed we shouldimplement.” They left the building and headed for the shuttle pad.

Stacy nodded tothose on Government Hall’s grounds they passed and was offered nods and smiles.She was glad many also acknowledged Kuran, ranging from polite respect tofriendliness. Most humans accepted, even welcomed, the small Kalquorianpresence on their planet. It was those in the minority, some of whom had latelyset off crude explosives, who worried her.

“You approve ofAdams?”

“So far, he hasn’tgiven me a reason not to. The fact Ken Bryant brought him on board is the onlynegative so far. I’ll probably give the General Assembly my vote of confidencewhen I’m called to report in a couple of weeks.” Kuran offered a comforting smileas they reached Stacy’s shuttle. “It doesn’t mean I won’t keep an eye on himfor the foreseeable future.”

“About Ken—”

“I don’t haveanything new to report on that front. Where are we going for lunch?”

Stacy suppressed afrown as Kuran quickly changing the subject. When it came to Earth’ssecond-in-charge, her bodyguard and lover had grown a lot quieter lately.

Was he hidinganything from her? Something worse than Bryant’s long-ago teenage wife?

* * * * 

Releases in one week. Pre-order now: Amazon, Amazon UK, Nook, Smashwords, Kobo, Apple, print

Timeis running out to halt the Darks’ march to the Kalquorian Empire’sannihilation.

Finallyhome on Kalquor, Dramok Ilid is haunted by his encounter with the Darks, whichhe barely survived. His struggle far from over, Ilid’s sanity and the empire’sexistence hang on a quickly unraveling thread. When he learns the Darks havearrived on Kalquor, even his family’s love may not be able to keep him from anunthinkable end.

OnEarth II, head of planetary security Nobek Kuran’s hands are full: meeting hispotential in-laws, training his replacement, and keeping tabs on a roguelieutenant governor with a secret agenda. His troubles are only beginning whena deadly attack on those he loves drives him to the brink of murder. Meanwhile,spy Nobek Selt finds himself growing far too close to his subject, reporterBlythe Nelson. Does his clan dare to romance a woman devoted to uncovering thetruth, including their secret activities on her world?

Havingwiped out the entire Bi’is civilization, the Darks have seized control of theGalactic Council of Planets and attempt to bring the Kalquorian Empire to itsknees. Clans Tranis and Piras are desperate to stop the enemy from destroyingKalquor and its allies. Can Hope Nath and Chief Engineer Lokmi capture a lethalenemy capable of passing through all known barriers?

Releasing January 26

Pre-order now: Amazon, Amazon UK, Nook, Smashwords, Kobo, Apple, print