Tracy St. John's Blog, page 13

Infiltration: Chapter Three Scene One

 

 

This week, an extremely troubled Tranis discusses a missing spyship and a strange message sent from it by Ensign Ilid with Piras. 

* * * *

Kalquor,Fleet Headquarters

Followinghis report, Admiral Tranis was silent. Despite being on Alpha Space Station,which orbited Earth II, Admiral Piras stared at him across the desk in Tranis’office. The other Dramok blinked slowly as he absorbed the news.

“Thespyship orbiting Bi’is…the vessel that replaced mine…I mean, Captain Kila’s…hasn’tresumed communications?”

“Asof a week ago, nothing. Shortly before, the father of an ensign on boardreceived a strange message from his son.” Tranis sent it straight to Piras’computer through a secure channel. He waited as the other Dramok, seeminglyright there in front of him thanks to the clarity of their vid connection, readwhat Tranis already knew by heart.

Hello,my father,

Iwas sorry to hear you were unwell when Mother messaged me last. No doubt you’veshaken off the shadow of illness by now. If there were danger, she’d have toldme, so I hope I won’t offend you with this com. It’s just I’m worried, isolatedas I am. Everyone is so busy, it’s as if I’m among strangers, and I have no oneto talk to. I know, a Dramok must cast aside his feelings and attend to hisduties, and I’m trying my best to do so. I suppose I regard it as my duty tocontact you and let you and whomever else should know when I sense mattersaren’t what they should be. On the surface, all is well; but deep down, I’mconcerned. You did raise me to act on my concerns, thus this message.

Ihope with every cell of my being to see you healthy and strong. My love isforever with my parents.

Ilid

Traniswatched Piras’ eyes move as he read the communication, then read it again. Hiscounterpart’s lips tightened and brows drew downward. Despite the tenseexpression, Piras was handsome in his way, most of his somewhat delicatefeatures offset by a strong jaw. Sleek black hair framed his features as theytightened. Piras had a bad habit of grinding his teeth.

Tranisnoticed his own jaw clenching and forced it to relax. The two Dramoks hadn’tbeen on what could be called friendly terms for a large portion of theiracquaintance, but they worked well together. Duty to the empire had always beentheir reluctant bond, in addition to others.

Pirasdirected his attention to Tranis. “It appears to be a warning of some sort. Ifanyone possessing half a brain had read it before it was sent, they’d havenoticed. It must have gotten through the ship’s flagging system. It’s writtenin terms that wouldn’t have set it off.”

“Wethought so too. Incidentally, the young man’s father hadn’t been ill. EnsignIlid and his mother had no such conversation.”

“Isthere more to this?”

“Normally,the young man sends coms intended for his parent clan to his mother. His Nobek fatherGruthep is an intelligence officer in territorial enforcement and a formercommander with the ground forces. It can’t be an accident Ensign Ilid contactedhim instead.”

“Aman of such experience would certainly detect the strangeness of the note. Thewords danger, isolated, strangers…and the phrases Ihave no one to talk to and matters aren’t what they should be…itsuggests he didn’t feel he could trust his commanding officers.”

“Whichis what struck Gruthep. Most of us in Fleet Command who are aware of the comagree. It makes our inability to reach the spyship extra troubling.”

“Whowas in command of Captain Kila’s replacement?”

Sincethe transfer had taken place and Piras was back in Fleet Command’s fold, Traniscould tell him. “Captain Abgi. Are you acquainted?”

“Iam, and he’s a fine spyship captain. He’s been a part of the department fordecades, decorated for multiple heroics. I can’t imagine him doing anything toset off a warning of this nature.”

“Norcan I, but his ship is missing. It demands an investigation.”

Piras’brows shot up. “You aren’t thinking of sending—”

“Afterfive years watching Bi’is, Captain Kila and his crew know the situation betterthan anyone. It makes the most sense to send them.” Piras was famous for histemper, but heat crept in Tranis’ tone. “I’d prefer not to, but who else isthere?”

Theyglared at each other across a desktop separating them by a three-day journey.

Pirasspoke first. “You’re leaving something out.”

“Nothingas far as this mission is concerned.” It wasn’t entirely true, but how could hecomplain to Piras about a mere sense of unease?

Tranis’discomfort was due to the reaction to the Bi’is situation by their commandingofficer. Rear Admiral Hobato, the chief executive in charge of Fleet Command,had been dismissive of Ensign Ilid’s message. His agreement to send anotherspyship to investigate the unresponsive vessel’s lack of communication had appearedhalfhearted. It was odd behavior from a man Tranis knew to be meticulous andconscientious.

Piras’expression suggested he was ready to argue whether or not Tranis was holdingback. He surprised him. “All right, Admiral. I agree Captain Kila’s ship is themost logical to send to Bi’is to investigate. I’ll inform him immediately he’sto leave no later than tomorrow, Earth time.”

Tranisrelaxed. “Thank you, Admiral. We’ll be awaiting Captain Kila’s report. I’dappreciate it if he sent it directly to me, as well as you.”

“Soordered.” Piras paused and made an effort to appear pleasant. Or maybe it wasgenuine. In certain respects, the man once known as the Terror of the Fleet hadmellowed since Tranis had served as his first officer. “I understandcongratulations are in order. I hope your Matara is doing well?”

“Thankyou. The pregnancy is in its early stages, but all seems well as far as themother and child are concerned. We’re very excited, as you might imagine.”

“Nodoubt some members of your clan show it better than others.” There was achuckle in his tone. “I wish you the very best with this exciting addition toyour family.”

“Again,thank you.”

Pirasreturned to business. “I’ll confirm when Captain Kila’s ship is on route toBi’is. Piras out.”

Theman disappeared. Tranis clicked his own com unit off, then the sound blockingdevice, which had made their conversation private.

Hestared moodily at the window vid displaying the sea beyond the installation.Fleet Headquarters was based on an island several miles out in the ocean. Thevast expanse of green water suggested serenity and peace. Tranis wished hismood would cooperate.

Itwas difficult. His Nobek clanmate Lidon had recently left his job at Kalquor’sGlobal Security law enforcement at the fleet’s request. At Tranis’ own personalrequest. Uniquely qualified to fulfill a necessary task, he’d gone on a specialassignment off-planet the day prior. Despite its temporary nature, Tranis hatedevery second the bold warrior was gone. Talking to Piras, who’d been Lidon’sintended Dramok before Tranis had appeared on the scene, hadn’t helped hisfunk.

NowPiras would send his own Nobek, Captain Kila, into the heart of a mystery thatmight prove treacherous. He’d already sacrificed much of his life for Kalquor’ssake. No doubt he wondered when fate would decree he’d sacrificed enough.

Tranis’gaze went to the missing Ilid’s last com to his father, displayed on a holoscreenhovering over his computer. He wondered what had happened to the spyship theyoung man served on…what had happened to the ensign himself. Was the lad safe?The last line of his message sounded like a heartbreaking goodbye to his motherand three fathers.

Mylove is forever with my parents.

Tranisthought of his mate Cassidy, of the child she carried. He tried to imaginebeing the father to a young man like Ilid and wondering whether his child wasin danger. His stomach curdled.

Findthe missing ship, Kila. Bring Ilid home to his family.

* * * *

The alien force dubbed the Darks has grabbed control of keypositions on Kalquor and the Galactic Council of Planets. Other leaders arestill unaware of the threat among them. The galaxy is wide open for destruction by an unfathomable enemy.

Former emperor Nobek Yuder has suspicions, but due torestrictions placed on him after his prison sentence, he can only stand by andwatch helplessly. A renegade Royal Councilman has designs to bring him back tothe political arena, but doing so could destabilize the Kalquorian Empire,leaving it vulnerable to invasion.

Meanwhile, one man on the brink of death, the only man whocan detect the nearly invisible Darks, is pulled from a lifeless shuttle byCaptains Kila and Nako. His incredible story tells them they’re in a raceagainst time to save not only the empire but the whole galaxy…but are theyalready too late?

On Earth II, Governor Stacy Nichol’s relationship with ClanRihep continues to grow. So does the danger, as opponents make deadly movesagainst her and the orbiting Kalquorian station where the clan lives. NobekKuran is determined to keep his clanmates and would-be lifemate safe, but howcan he stop a faceless enemy?

Relationships, old and new, are strained to the breakingpoint at a time when Earthers and Kalquorians need each other more than ever.The Darks are closing in, and no one is ready to oppose them.

Releasing November 3. Pre-order now at Amazon, Amazon UK, Nook, Smashwords, Kobo, Apple, and print.

Infiltration: Chapter Two Scenes Two and Three

 

Is it hot in here, or is it Tara and Yuder? Yeah, it's them. 🔥

* * * *

Thecelebration was a small affair in Clan Clajak’s section of the cliff home. Yuderwas delighted to be among his family, but he was grateful two hours later whenhe and Tara entered their own apartments a few levels down.

Hegazed at the greeting room, where visitors to the home were entertained. He musedat how familiar and yet strange it appeared. Tara hadn’t changed the cozyseating areas of low tables and floor cushions. The handwoven rugs featuringdesigns of royal purple were the same, as were the paintings and few decorativeitems scattered on various surfaces. Why did it appear odd, as if he saw itthrough a stranger’s eyes?

“Areyou all right?” Tara’s gaze riveted on him, and he realized he’d been silent ashe took in their surroundings.

Heoffered a smile. “I’m getting my bearings. Three years is longer than itsounds.”

Shemoved close and hugged him. “I’ve spent little time here myself since you wentaway. It finally feels like home.”

Hekissed her and realized it was their first since he’d arrived. Her lips weresoft and yielding. He hadn’t had to wait three years to kiss her, thanks to herfrequent visits, but in prison he hadn’t felt capable of kissing her well.

Hedid so now, glorying in her lips moving sinuously on his and the warmth of hertiny body against his six-and-a-half-foot frame. Had he forgotten how fragileshe felt? The need to shield her from danger rose, though the threats toKalquor and its residents had ceased. Such was the persona of a Nobek, the breedborn to protect.

Herlips parted, and he eagerly accepted her invitation to taste. His tonguedelighted in her flavor as it twined with hers. She sighed and pressed closer,little fingers tracing his back, bringing chills to his spine and heatelsewhere.

Mylove.

Hereleased the kiss. “I want to reclaim you in every room of our home. Startingin here.”

Shegiggled, sounding more a girl than a woman in her sixties. She looked faryounger, no doubt a result of her routine of meditation, clean eating, a rigorousskin care regimen, and devoted exercise. If Tara had one fault, it was vanity.“My last great attachment to conquer,” she often sighed.

Yuderdidn’t mind. She was beautiful, and she was his. She could bathe in skin creamsfive times a day if it meant waking next to her each morning.

Thenotion overcame the exuberant lust filling him. “The clanning laws have changedsignificantly since my legal problems.”

“Youwish us to be official?” Her eyes widened. “When did this happen?”

“Beforethe Galactic Council trial.”

“Solong? You never hinted you were thinking of a registered union.”

“Howcould I when I was certain I’d have to serve a sentence? Or while I sat inprison? It was no place to propose.”

“Wedon’t have to, Yuder. You have my heart without government acknowledgement.”

“Youdon’t want to?” His heart pounded painfully.

Tara’ssmile eased the stab of fear. “Of course I do. A public declaration of myhappiness and devotion to you would be a gift. What of Clajak?”

“Thegreat obstacle. At the homecoming, he seemed…fine. Maybe he wouldn’t be upset.”

“It’sa big maybe.” Sadness tinged her serene expression. “Jessica says he keeps avigil at Irdis’ memorial each anniversary of her death.”

AsYuder had until a couple years before the scandal had sent his life into atailspin. A year after he and Tara had become lovers. It wasn’t because he’dloved Irdis any less, but because he’d felt it was time to let the past rest. “I’dlike to say he’s a grown man whose emotions are his problem. I could point outhe rules an entire empire well, and therefore his grief is his affair andshouldn’t interfere in my life, but…”

“Itisn’t that simple,” Tara finished. “Don’t you think I understand? I care forhim. I hate to bring him any pain, though I’m at no fault for doing so.”

Lovefilled his being. Tara was so good. She’d allow their relationship to remain asit was, lacking the precious public declaration of their bond. If she’d beenany less the woman she was, Yuder might have done so as well for his son’ssake.

He’dmade numerous mistakes where Clajak was concerned. It had no doubt been hisrelentless demands Clajak had rebelled against when he was young. There hadbeen a number of others: Yuder’s inability to protect Irdis from assassins, who’dmurdered the mother Clajak had worshipped. His terrible decisions as emperor thathad left a broken wreck of an empire, which Clajak had inherited.

Butlife had given Yuder the unexpected joy of Tara and her love, affording asecond chance to be the clanmate to a woman he didn’t deserve. Irdis had beenan incomparable gift. Tara was a miracle. He wished the world to acknowledgehis unbelievable fortune.

“I’llstart with a few hints and see how he reacts. If he seems open, I’ll discuss itas diplomatically as possible.” He grinned as Tara did, agreeing he wasn’tknown for his diplomacy.

“Andif Clajak objects?”

“ThenI’ll have to be the bastard he thinks I am and clan you anyway. I love you,Tara. After three years of living apart, I won’t hide it, even for my son.”

“Hedoesn’t think you’re a bastard. Every special occasion we celebrated in yourabsence, he mentioned you should have been there.”

Yuderblinked. He couldn’t speak. Despite his shortcomings, his son loved him.

Tarakissed him. “The problem between you two is you’re so much alike, both the goodand the…challenging parts. Clajak inherited far more than your silverhair. You share a stubborn streak a mile wide.”

“Whichhas bitten us both in the ass more often than I can count.” Yuder had recoveredmost of his equilibrium and reached for the remainder. After all, he had abeautiful woman to make love to. “Enough of the sentimentality. I’m in dangerof becoming as emotional as an Imdiko, and you’re wearing too many clothes. It’sgetting late. Did I mention I’m determined to make love to you in every room ofour home before the sun rises tomorrow?”

 

Taraburst into laughter even as her pulse sped. Yuder’s purple eyes had gone dark,and his sharp features had taken on the predatory air he wore when he wasaroused.

Asa Nobek, there was always a hint of savagery beneath the civilized mask he woremost of the time. He’d never been brutal when loving her, but Tara didn’tpretend she wasn’t excited by the idea he could be. He was strong, every inch ademanding male when he chose. Her heart fluttered when he looked at her as hedid now: with merciless hunger.

Shebelieved her love for him was as pure a light as any in existence, but therewas no hiding from her darker drives, which he could awaken by casting her amere glance. She gladly surrendered to those urges under his ruthless stare ashe towered over her.

“Whateveryou want of me is yours.” Her whisper trembled in the air.

Thecat-slit pupils of his eyes widened, eclipsing his irises. His voice emerged ina growl. “Stand still while I undress you. Don’t move.”

Shetrembled as he slid her dress over her head, a mouse cornered by a cat, waitingto be devoured. He did so with his gaze, feasting on the flesh he exposed as hetossed her dress aside. She stood before him in a laced-trimmed ivory bra andmatching panties, frozen in anxious excitement.

“Pretty.Did you wear these for me?” He smiled, but there was a touch of cruelty in it.Tara was wet in an instant at the aura of threat.

“Yes.”It was a code they’d developed. Anything Tara wore “for him,” he was free totear apart.

Hiscalloused palms and fingertips slid along her shoulders and arms. They spannedher waist, almost able to circle it. She was reminded anew how much bigger hewas. His fingers dove in the upper cups of the bra, his fingernails scrapingher flesh. He yanked. Lace and satin ripped and fluttered to the floor andTara’s feet, tickling their tops.

Wetnessflooded the crotch of her panties, all she was left wearing. Perhaps it wasbecause the rest of her life was lived in pursuit of mindful serenity, but suchdisplays from Yuder brought arousal surging to the fore.

Hepaused, his attention focused on her naked breasts. They were small, but theywere firm and sensitive. Her nipples, flushed and pink, pointed brazenly at herlover.

Asoft growl trickled from his lips, and the hair on Tara’s arms stood up. Heclosed fingers and thumbs on the tips and slowly pinched. Tara gasped whenpressure deepened to darts of pain. Yuder immediately released her nipples. Hisarms swept around her, lifting her to her toes as his head sank down. His mouthenclosed a breast to eagerly suck.

Heatbillowed through Tara. She almost grabbed to hug him closer, but he’d told herto remain still. As he pulled determinedly on her flesh, she debated whethershe wished to disobey and be put on his lap for a spanking. She’d missed himand the pleasures they hadn’t been able to share.

Therewere so many enthralling options to choose from. Because she couldn’t decide,Tara remained in place for the erotic mauling. She could always misbehavelater.

Yuder’srough silk tongue abraded her softer skin, rubbing it as he sucked the entiretyof her mound into his rapacious maw. Tara forgot how to breathe as his teethscraped. She, a woman who believed ardently in peace, loved rough sex. Hersalty arousal scent rose, barely discernible against Yuder’s spicier aroma ashe too succumbed to desire.

Heslowly released her breast, the suction of his greed stretching the small peaktaut until it escaped with a slight popping noise. His attention wentimmediately to the other breast, leaving its reddened twin tingling.

Tarabecame aware she was moaning continuously under his delicious assault. Hersenses were scrambling, thoughts losing clarity as he nipped, licked, andsuckled. She realized her thighs were rubbing together, delivering slightfriction to her clit, sending thrilling pulses to her core.

Shegroaned Yuder’s name.

Hereleased her breast, uttering a snarl. His black stare rose to hers, and hislips wrinkled from his teeth. Behind the flat human-like incisors, hinged fangshad descended from the roof of his mouth. A cry flew from Tara in wordlessagreement.

Hestruck, burying the thin fangs in her upper breast, his arms pinning hers toher sides so she couldn’t struggle, couldn’t escape. A thin scream rose fromher throat at the jabs of pain.

Hurtended as quickly as it had come, anesthetized by Yuder’s saliva. Tara sank intosurrender and pillowed her cheek on his crown as he fed intoxicating venom intoher.

Inless than a minute, sweet bliss swirled in her mind. Her senses grew inawareness of her lover’s strength. She reveled in the warmth of his mouth, thetingling where he bit. His sweet-spice arousal scent filled the air, and shefilled her lungs with it. Her skin detected the very air currents, and thebrush of her chestnut hair on her shoulders was electrifying.

Arousalheightened to an incredible degree. Her pussy clenched rhythmically,anticipating the moment Yuder would fill her. The crotch of her panties wascoated in wet excitement, and heat pulsed inside.

“Yuder,yes, it’s been so long, anything you want, anything…”

Thebite ended, and he lapped her breast, claiming small drops of blood from thepinpricks. His grip loosened, and she ran her palms across every inch of himshe could reach. His clothes were a terrible barrier. She tugged at them,desperate to feel naked skin.

Hechuckled, rising so he loomed over her again. The sound was merry, but animaldarkness remained in his gaze. “What happened to staying still?”

“Youknow the effects of your venom. Even when you don’t bite, it takes superhumanstrength to keep my hands off you.” She managed to pull his shirt up to hischest and immersed herself in kissing and licking the muscled brown flesh sheexposed. Her lips burned at the contact; Kalquorians ran hotter than humans.

Hecaught hold of her wrists and drew them over her head, easing back as he didso. She keened at the loss of contact but quieted as he examined her.

Heheld her stretched, nearly to the point of putting her on her toes. His gazewas weighty with an enticing aura of dominion. It was easy to imagine him as anemperor on his throne, directing his subjects. Tara had an image of herself asa concubine, existing only for his pleasure. It was an intoxicating fantasy.

Afantasy too easy to play into as he gripped her panties and tore them from her.She gasped as the restless air drifted across her womanhood, as his gazefeasted on her wet flesh. Her entire body flushed under his avid scrutiny. Hadhis venom not filled her with ardent need, she might have hidden from his inspection.

Theundercurrent of ruthlessness fled from his expression, however. His featuressoftened, and he gazed at her, his love naked. “My beauty. My beloved mate. Ithink I’d rather die than be separated from you again.”

“Yuder.”Any other words failed her in the face of such open devotion.

He pulled her to himself once more, hiskiss desperate. He didn’t resist when she yanked at his clothes. Indeed, hebroke the kiss to take them off, giving her free rein to touch hismagnificence.

Kalquorians, as a rule, were naturallymuscled. Yuder was no different, but his was a leaner look than the average man,not bulky. Tara loved the streamlined contours of his frame, which showed nosign of his nearly two hundred years. She showed her love by tracing eachdefined muscle she could, using tongue and fingertips, until he picked her upand draped her across a velvet floor cushion almost as long as she was tall.

It was his turn to touch. He seized herwrists again and pinned them over her head to the floor. His other handwandered her body, stroking her from scalp to knee and retracing the pathupward. The rasp of callouses was profound on her soft skin, and she arched forbetter contact. His lips met hers as he kept fondling her.

Her venom-soaked brain, consumed by thepleasure of his touch, shouted for more. She tried pleading for him to touchher pussy while he kissed her, but he offered no opportunity for her muffledwords to escape. He no doubt knew what she wanted, because he caressed herlower stomach and upper thighs, so very close to where she needed him most. Herefused, however, to touch her clamoring sex.

She writhed, wailing in his mouth anargument. His answer was to swirl light fingertips through the wetness coatingher inner thighs. He teased her mercilessly, ignoring her heels thumping thefloor.

He ended the kiss when he was ready, thencrouched next to her, his wicked smile teasing her for her gyrations.

“Please, touch me,” she panted.

“I am touching you.”

“Yuder! You know what I mean.”

“Your pussy? Your hot, wet pussy? Is thatwhere you wish to be touched?”

A warning went off in the back of her mindat his devious tone, but lust pushed to the fore to answer for her. “Yes! Iwant your fingers on my pussy. On my clit. In me.”

“Well,if you insist, my love.”

Thefeather-light sensation of a finger on the tip of her clit brought a surge ofviolent passion. It was gone in an instant, and she gasped. “Please, Yuder.”

“Allright.” Another barely-there second of contact was hers.

“Don’ttease,” she groaned. “Of all nights, don’t play like this.”

“Youwouldn’t have me rush this after three years, would you?” He affected surpriseas his finger drew slow, tantalizing circles around her clit, refusing to touchit any longer. “Our reunion must be a slow, measured affair, to be drawn outfor our greatest satisfaction.”

“Youbeast. You bit me just to drive me crazy.”

Hissmile was the height of sensual cruelty. “I’ve planned my first chance to makelove to you since the first night I lay alone in my cell. Seeing you desperatefor me has been the fantasy that sustained me during those lonely months. Yes,I bit you so you’d be as eager as possible, so I could hear you beg me tofulfill you again and again.”

Hekissed her gently to soften the harsh words. He continued to draw circlesaround her clit, and she squirmed, seeking his touch.

Instead,he traced her slit. A single finger entered her, pumped once, and pulled free.He returned to circling her clit, then repeated the same path. He kissed hisway to her breasts as he teased. Her wails for more merely succeeded in gainingthe lightest of touches at the tip of where she wanted him to rub her toorgasm.

He’dsaid he wanted her to beg. Her entreaties filled the air, but it seemed he’dnever grant her relief…until he did.

Thosedeliciously calloused fingers abruptly rubbed her clit in demand. He left offsucking her breasts to watch her face as excitement rushed through her. She wasaware of his dark eyes cataloguing her expressions while rapture billowed huge,as it reached the breaking point, as blinding white eclipsed the predatoryfeatures hovering above her.

Violentbliss took her. Waves of brutal pleasure heaved from head to toe. Tara was lostin the ecstasy only Yuder was able to grant.

Elationslowed by degrees, each pulse sweet despite the diminishing strength. Her eyeshad closed, the better to concentrate on every instant of perfect delight.

“Youaren’t done.”

Herlover’s threat quickened her breath, but she had little opportunity to prepare.He plunged two…no, three fingers in her and found the sensitive spot inside atonce. His thumb rubbed her engorged clit with ruthless insistence. Passionspiked anew, and her eyes flew open to meet his determined gaze. She abruptly teeteredon the verge of climax.

“Oh!”was the only thing she was able to say. Renewed orgasm filled her withstarlight. She thought she might have screamed in the grip of shatteringthrills, but she wasn’t sure.

“Again,”he growled when she could hear and see. He moved too quickly to be fathomed. Oneinstant he hovered over her, the next his mouth had latched onto her spasmingpussy. His tongue dove in, his upper lip rubbed her clit, and she detonated.

Shewas lost in the endless tumult, emerging between crests for flashes of herfingers twined in his long, silver hair; of her feet kicking the air, of thesensation of his wet fingers filling and stretching the taut entrance to herass. He fed on her like a starved man, as if he’d never get his fill.

Tarawas just coming down from the latest high…she’d lost count…when Yuder reared upand yanked his trousers to his knees. A pair of slick, gleaming cocks spranginto view, thick and ready.

Theywere so big, and it had been years. The venom had worn off, and a tremor ranthrough Tara.

Yuder’sprimal expression eased. He gazed at her as he leaned close, his face inchesfrom hers. “Have I ever harmed you, my love?”

“Never.”Anxiety notched down enough to add an exciting edge to desire.

“Inever will.”

Hiskiss was tender, as if he didn’t tremble from raging lust. Tara tasted herselfon him, fascinated at how his and her flavor mingled. It was perfect, atestament to how they were meant to be together, in every way possible.

Sherelaxed and opened to the questing pressure at her entrances. She wrapped herlegs around his ass, her arms around his neck, and surrendered.

Histapered shafts pressed in slowly, carefully. Kalquorian men lubricated as womendid, and he slid easily for the first couple of inches, until his girth broughtan ache that made Tara catch her breath. On watch for the slightest discomfort,Yuder invaded a little extra before stopping to allow her to adjust. Not fully;he knew she enjoyed the endorphin rush of a little hurt.

Tarareveled in their joining, slow as it was. It was Yuder who’d returned, but itfelt like a homecoming for her as well. He was her true sanctuary, rather than theapartments where they lived and slept and loved.

Hescrutinized her as he continued his gorgeous invasion, filling her until herjaw tightened in pain. Then he stopped. His ardent kisses mauled her mouth, hislust coming to the fore to leave her lips feeling bruised. When her hipsshifted, urging him on, he watched her and made them one.

Theimpossible fullness of two cocks brought lightning-strike friction when hemoved against her sweet spot. Tara cried out, her hips bucking out of hercontrol, driving her onto him. A thunderclap of hurt met the wallop of passion.They blended in a nameless sensation of both ecstasy and agony. Tara screamedYuder’s name, her fingernails digging at the back of his neck.

Hisinner beast snatched control. Fangs distended, tendons standing out, he poundedher, taking her with frightening strength. Pain and rapture grew exponentially,and Tara cried out. A dim part of her mind registered her hips rose to meet herlover’s, her body welcoming the brutal thrill of harsh lovemaking. Sherecognized despite his bestial expression and seeming callous rutting, Yuderwas holding back, refusing to let her to come to real harm.

Thenorgasm broke over her, sending her deeper into the maelstrom of primal forcesbeyond mere lust. Somewhere in the storm, she heard Yuder shout, felt thesteady throb of his release.

Joined.Made as one. In that instant, Tara found bliss too profound to describe.

Shereturned to find herself lying on top of Yuder. They gasped in the aftermath,the still-iron links forging them together twitching in her. She sank in thejoy of his arms around her, the feeling of their hearts beating close to eachother, their damp skin melded close. She emptied her mind of all but theexperience of him.

Shecould have spent eternity in such perfection. Life, however, was everchanging,and bliss was fleeting.

Yuderspoke into her tousled hair, refuting her beliefs. “Kitchen or dining roomnext?’

 

** * *

 

Yuderwatched Tara rush past the open doorway of the common room as he sipped tea onthe lounger. The news vid he’d tuned the entertainment system to was muted. Hewasn’t sure why he’d switched it on. A lifetime of staying current on thelatest events of the empire had made the need for information a habit. It feltodd to not watch several newsfeeds at once while speaking on the com to an aideand handed up-to-the-second reports from a platoon of assistants.

Thosedays are behind me.His stomach knotted to recognize his uselessness.

Taraflashed past again, a whirlwind in a red robe. “How many stim tabs did youtake?” he shouted after her.

“Two,”came the return shout. “Many in my future today, thanks to last night’s sexualtour of the apartment.”

Yudergrinned. His days might prove to be empty, but at least he could count on fullnights.

Heturned off the system and wandered to the doorway. Tara was hurrying up thehall, five handheld computer devices stacked in her arms. Yuder held out his hands.

“Thankyou,” she gasped, sliding them to him. “Are you ready?”

Henodded, killing the urge to tell her he’d been waiting for her for the lasthalf hour. She wasn’t running late, only preparing her day as the abbess of theBuddhist ashram she’d founded. She was also the interim head of Dramok Mereta’sspiritual compound. The secretary-general of the Galactic Council, impressed byTara’s clearheaded sense and ability to respect others’ beliefs, had asked herto supervise the daily running of his sect’s headquarters. The Temple of Life,which former priest Mereta had broken from in favor of his own revelations, hada great deal in common with Tara’s faith. Mereta’s philosophy had more, andthey’d established a reciprocal connection prior to his becoming secretary-general.

Shewasn’t in charge of teaching Mereta’s disciples. He had ordained priests of hissect to do so. Tara merely kept New Life ashram’s administration runningsmoothly as she ran hers, directing Mereta’s office staff with assurance. 

“I’mready too,” she told Yuder, her smile soothing the worst of his cares. “Willyou really spend the day amongst us pious types?”

Hechuckled as they entered the conveyance which would take them to the bay wheretheir personal shuttle awaited. “Don’t I have a meditation practice of my own?Besides, I’ve grown used to sitting and waiting.”

Hemanaged to keep bitterness from his tone, but Tara shot him a worried glanceanyway. “We have qigong and tai chi classes.”

Hesmiled reassuringly at her as the door opened and they entered the ImperialFamily’s shuttle bay. “I’m fine, my love. Being in your presence is the mostimportant thing right now.”

Sheslowed as they neared their shuttle, a small vessel among those scattered inthe space open to the clear blue Kalquorian sky. “I should take a few days offto spend with you away from—”

“Theashrams will be among those few places where the media won’t be shoutingquestions at me,” Yuder reminded her. “I don’t want to be cooped up in ourquarters all day…despite the enticements it offers when you’re home.”

Shegave him a playful shove at the reminder of their night, blushing and laughing.“Behave. You’ll put this old woman in her grave at the rate you’re going.”

“Old?Not from what I experienced last night. By the way, do your yoga exercisestoday. I prefer you stay as flexible as possible.”

“Yuder!”She was shouting laughter as they sat side by side in the shuttle’s sleekcockpit. “That reminds me, I need to make an appointment to have my eyeschecked.”

Yudergazed at the shuttle controls, reacquainting himself on the vessel’s operationsbefore starting it. “Are you having trouble seeing?”

“Onlyif you call dark blobs hovering in my peripheral vision trouble. I noticed themafter you landed yesterday. I haven’t seen them since, but better safe thansorry.”

* * * *

The alien force dubbed the Darks has grabbed control of keypositions on Kalquor and the Galactic Council of Planets. Other leaders arestill unaware of the threat among them. The galaxy is wide open for destruction by an unfathomable enemy.

Former emperor Nobek Yuder has suspicions, but due torestrictions placed on him after his prison sentence, he can only stand by andwatch helplessly. A renegade Royal Councilman has designs to bring him back tothe political arena, but doing so could destabilize the Kalquorian Empire,leaving it vulnerable to invasion.

Meanwhile, one man on the brink of death, the only man whocan detect the nearly invisible Darks, is pulled from a lifeless shuttle byCaptains Kila and Nako. His incredible story tells them they’re in a raceagainst time to save not only the empire but the whole galaxy…but are theyalready too late?

On Earth II, Governor Stacy Nichol’s relationship with ClanRihep continues to grow. So does the danger, as opponents make deadly movesagainst her and the orbiting Kalquorian station where the clan lives. NobekKuran is determined to keep his clanmates and would-be lifemate safe, but howcan he stop a faceless enemy?

Relationships, old and new, are strained to the breakingpoint at a time when Earthers and Kalquorians need each other more than ever.The Darks are closing in, and no one is ready to oppose them.

Releasing November 3. Pre-order now at Amazon, Amazon UK, Nook, Smashwords, Kobo, Apple, and print.

 

Infiltration: Chapter Two Scene One

 

 It's a short scene today. Yuder's welcome home party could be a little more welcoming...and Royal Councilman Oiteil (remember him from Alien Indiscretions?) a little less scandalous.

* * * *

Yuderswallowed a feeling of dread he’d managed to block in the last few weeks’excitement of returning to Kalquor. What would life be if he couldn’t serve hisempire?

“Seeingyou makes me wish not for the old days, but the missed opportunity to have seenClan Zarl and Clan Clajak on the governing dais at once,” Oiteil sighed, loudenough to include the rest of them. “Imagine the fiery debates that would havetaken place if Emperor Yuder, Crown Prince Clajak, and Princess Jessica facedoff against the likes of Ospar and Rajhir.”

Eyeswidened to hear the names of the two former councilmen who’d been indictedalongside Yuder. Thanks to the former emperor taking sole responsibility forthe crime they’d been accused of, Ospar and Rajhir had served no prisonsentences, but they’d still been banned from public service for life.

“It’sno use wondering what might have been.” Clajak’s tone was gentle but firm. “Wedo better to look to the future, which I’m thankful to know you’ll be a partof, Councilman.”

Oiteilbowed. “You’re too kind, my emperor. Speaking of debates, if you’ll excuse me,I must return to my chambers. We’re still ironing out the details of nextyear’s military budget.”

“Iknow you feel work is helping you at such a difficult time, but if you need abreak—” Jessica began.

“I’mfine, my empress, thank you. Welcome home, Imperial Father. I hope to hear fromyou soon.”

Oiteilleft. Clajak scowled, a ghost of his temper, as infamous as Jessica’s, showingitself. “Imagine bringing up Ospar and Rajhir. What was he thinking?”

“Iwonder what’s happened to his voice. He hardly sounds like himself,” Jessicasaid.

Yuderhadn’t noticed anything odd about Oiteil’s tone, but he hadn’t spoken to him inyears. He’d probably miss many nuances in the coming days.

Tarasaid, “Don’t forget, he’s grieving the loss of his clanmates. They weretogether for more than a hundred years. If he isn’t sobbing his heart outbehind closed doors, I’d be amazed. He’s a Dramok, after all, not a Nobek.” Shesqueezed Yuder’s arm. He also had enjoyed over a hundred years of clanship withZarl, his Dramok, and their Imdiko Tidro.

Histhroat closed at the losses he’d endured. First Clajak’s mother Irdis, who’dbeen so young when she’d died. Zarl and Tidro had lived long lives, but bythen, the shadows of illness and scandal had touched them.

“Thisis no place to hold a homecoming,” Tara abruptly chuckled. “Shall we go in fora proper party?”

“Let’s.”Clajak’s tone was adamant. “My father is home…and no doubt his grandchildrenare growing impatient waiting for him.”

“Yes.”Yuder was grateful to switch to such a delightful subject as they headed forthe lift that would take them to the living areas of the Imperial Home, wherehis and Tara’s apartment was also located. “Tell me how tall Wayne and Noellehave grown so I won’t be too shocked when I see them.”

* * * *

The alien force dubbed the Darks has grabbed control of keypositions on Kalquor and the Galactic Council of Planets. Other leaders arestill unaware of the threat among them. The galaxy is wide open for destruction by an unfathomable enemy.

Former emperor Nobek Yuder has suspicions, but due torestrictions placed on him after his prison sentence, he can only stand by andwatch helplessly. A renegade Royal Councilman has designs to bring him back tothe political arena, but doing so could destabilize the Kalquorian Empire,leaving it vulnerable to invasion.

Meanwhile, one man on the brink of death, the only man whocan detect the nearly invisible Darks, is pulled from a lifeless shuttle byCaptains Kila and Nako. His incredible story tells them they’re in a raceagainst time to save not only the empire but the whole galaxy…but are theyalready too late?

On Earth II, Governor Stacy Nichol’s relationship with ClanRihep continues to grow. So does the danger, as opponents make deadly movesagainst her and the orbiting Kalquorian station where the clan lives. NobekKuran is determined to keep his clanmates and would-be lifemate safe, but howcan he stop a faceless enemy?

Relationships, old and new, are strained to the breakingpoint at a time when Earthers and Kalquorians need each other more than ever.The Darks are closing in, and no one is ready to oppose them.

Releasing November 3. Pre-order now at Amazon, Amazon UK, Nook, Smashwords, Kobo, Apple, and print.

Infiltration Now Available for Pre-Order: Chapter 1, Scene 3

 

The pre-order is up! Release date is November 3.

Wait...former emperor Yuder went to prison? Yes, he did. A lot has happened since we last saw the Imperial Father. I'll let you get right to it:

* * * * 

Kalquor,Royal House

AsNobek Yuder readied to disembark the shuttle which had carried him home, theImdiko attendant who’d seen to his comfort during the spaceflight bowed deeply.

“Welcomehome to Kalquor, Imperial Father.”

Yudermanaged a tight smile despite the outward show of respect. Perhaps the youngman meant it. “Thank you, Imdiko Biba.”

Bibapressed a button, and the hatch opened. A ramp descended. A moment later, Yuderdid as well. After three years of living in a Galactic Council prison, his staybroken briefly to attend his Imdiko clanmate’s funeral two years prior, he wasa free man and restored to Kalquor.

Theshuttle bay in the cliff serving as the Imperial family’s home was familiar tohim. He’d known it from infancy, born the blood heir to the empire’s throne.The granite walls were polished as smooth as marble. The floor was flat, but itwas graded for secure footing. Beyond the rock surfaces, the bay was a bastionof advanced technology thanks to its computer panels, glassed-in security area,and the sleek personal shuttles of its residents dotting its open space.

Yuderwasn’t forced to seek the face he’d missed most. His human mate, Tara McInness,rushed forward from the knot of Kalquorians, Earthers, and red-armored guardswaiting to greet him. “Yuder!”

“Mylove,” he whispered in her ear as their arms wrapped around each other. Tarahad visited him regularly at the Kefwis Correctional Colony, at least once amonth, but she looked…she felt…different to him now that he was a freeman. It was as if he’d not seen her since leaving the Galactic Council HighCourt in cuffs.

Hedrew back just enough to look into her lovely face. Her delicate featuresglowed with joy. She was in her sixties, in Earther years no less, but avigilant health routine and serene mind kept her appearance younger.

“Myheart,” he said. “Sometimes I wondered if this day would come.”

“Timeis a slippery beast. Slow when we’re impatient, racing when we’d linger.” Shesmiled, her brown eyes twinkling. “Let’s discover how long we can stretch theminutes from this day forward.”

“Welcomehome, my father.”

Tarachuckled and moved aside for Clajak. “You won’t let me keep him to myself, huh?”

“Sorry,Earth Mom. I’ve been counting the days until his homecoming.” The steel-haired Dramokemperor of Kalquor grinned at her, a sight to warm Yuder. Clajak adored hismother-in-law, and he knew Yuder still kept his deceased mother precious to hiswarrior heart. It hadn’t made it less difficult for Clajak to accept Tara’srole as Yuder’s beloved.

Perhapsthe hurts had healed while Yuder was away. His son certainly seemed pleased athis return and spoke warmly. “How was the journey?”

“Toofar for a man like me on a ship of such small size. I believe the GalacticCouncil’s penal system wishes Nobeks to return to their eager embrace. Why elsewould they stick a member of my breed on such a small vessel, unless theywanted me to commit murder?”

Clajaklaughed and surprised Yuder by hugging him. After a second’s shock, the elder manreturned the embrace, moved by his only child’s greeting. Even before the deathof Clajak’s mother, father and son had butted heads more often than not. Had hebeen any less of a Nobek, tears might have risen to Yuder’s eyes.

Clajakstepped aside. His mate Jessica, who was also Tara’s youngest daughter, shovedpast him for her turn. Slightly taller than her mother, the empress of theKalquorian empire was similar in looks, but miles distant in temperament. If aNobek personality could be proven to exist in a tiny human female, Jessicawould be the prime candidate. As tempestuous as Tara was serene, her hug wasenthusiastic as she beamed at him.

“Welcomehome, my father. It’s wonderful to have you back.”

“It’swonderful to be here with you. How many councilmen have you made cry since welast spoke, my fierce daughter?”

Laughterbroke over them. Jessica blew a raspberry but hugged him harder.

Therest of the Imperial Clan greeted him: Imdiko Emperor Egilka, the steadyintellectual, and Nobek Emperor Bevau, the deadly but compassionate strength ofthe clan. Yuder accepted their smiling reception while thinking of the vastdifferences between them and his late clan, with whom he’d ruled Kalquor formany years.

Whata mess we made of it, at least at the end. Clan Clajak had to shepherd theempire through the war we started and through a civil war too.

Yuderwas awed by his son’s clan and embarrassed at his own shortcomings. Three yearsof his life given to the justice system suddenly seemed a cheap price to payfor all he’d gotten wrong.

Ifanyone else felt the same, they showed no sign of it. His family accepted himwith heartfelt welcome.

Anotherwaited to greet him. Yuder bowed to the sole representative of the RoyalCouncil present. “Councilman Oiteil. It is a delight to see you again, though Iwish I didn’t have to offer my condolences. My deepest sympathies for the lossof your Imdiko and Nobek.”

DramokOiteil returned the bow. “I had no idea you’d received the news. Thank you forthe kindness, Imperial Father. We have a similar tragedy in common, being thelast survivors of our clans.”

“OneI wouldn’t wish on anyone. I’m sure the Imperial Clan has extended everypossible assistance you require.”

BesideYuder, Tara rubbed her eyes and blinked. Her smile at Oiteil was tentative.Jessica’s attention on the councilman was intent.

Oiteilmanaged a shaky smile. “Of course, they have. Unfortunately, there is littlewhich can ease the heart at such a time.”

“You’rekind to interrupt your mourning to welcome me home.”

“Workis my salvation, not that I consider this an onerous task in any way. We haveso much history, you and I.”

“Indeed.”Oiteil, gray sheening his black hair, had begun his career as a RoyalCouncilman when Yuder was an emperor. He’d been a voice of reasoned debate, andYuder had always counted it as a benefit each time he was re-elected.

Thosedays were far behind Yuder now, but Oiteil remained a vital member of Kalquor’slegislative branch of the constitutional monarchy. The Nobek swallowed a pangof jealousy. He was barred from government service, though the Royal Councilhad pardoned him for his crimes.

He’dbeen raised to rule the empire and had also once been a member of the planet’spremiere global law enforcement organization. Both avenues were closed to him,thanks to the Galactic Council’s terms of release and his age.

Howam I to fill my days now?

Perhapsa hint of the desperate fear he’d compartmentalized and hidden so well fromhimself during his incarceration showed. Oiteil leaned close and whispered sothe others couldn’t hear. “You and I need to talk once you’re settled in. Thereis a great deal you can do yet for the empire.”

“Youwill hear from me soon.” Yuder tried to show anticipation for Oiteil’skindness, but he was aware of the restrictions placed on him. He couldn’t evenserve on an agricultural committee. Public service was no longer in his sphere.

* * * *

The alien force dubbed the Darks has grabbed control of keypositions on Kalquor and the Galactic Council of Planets. Other leaders arestill unaware of the threat among them. The galaxy is wide open for destruction by an unfathomable enemy.

Former emperor Nobek Yuder has suspicions, but due torestrictions placed on him after his prison sentence, he can only stand by andwatch helplessly. A renegade Royal Councilman has designs to bring him back tothe political arena, but doing so could destabilize the Kalquorian Empire,leaving it vulnerable to invasion.

Meanwhile, one man on the brink of death, the only man whocan detect the nearly invisible Darks, is pulled from a lifeless shuttle byCaptains Kila and Nako. His incredible story tells them they’re in a raceagainst time to save not only the empire but the whole galaxy…but are theyalready too late?

On Earth II, Governor Stacy Nichol’s relationship with ClanRihep continues to grow. So does the danger, as opponents make deadly movesagainst her and the orbiting Kalquorian station where the clan lives. NobekKuran is determined to keep his clanmates and would-be lifemate safe, but howcan he stop a faceless enemy?

Relationships, old and new, are strained to the breakingpoint at a time when Earthers and Kalquorians need each other more than ever.The Darks are closing in, and no one is ready to oppose them.

Releasing November 3. Pre-order now at Amazon, Amazon UK, Nook, Smashwords, Kobo, Apple, and print.

 

Let's Get This Party Started

 

Hi all! (But not the All...eek.) Dark Empire Book Two: Infiltration will be heading your way in November...but you know I can't wait that long. As I did with the first of the series, Shadows Approach, you can look forward to a preview until the book's release. 

Today we begin with Galactic Council Secretary-General Mereta receiving a report from the inspection team that has just returned from Bi'is...and a whole lot more. Chapter One, Scenes One and Two follows for your enjoyment:

* * * *

PlanetJedver, Galactic Council of Planets central world

“Theteam we sent to inspect Bi’is has reported in, sir. You’ve been asked to meetwith them right away.”

DramokMereta, secretary-general of the Galactic Council of Planets, regarded hisassistant Tulbayn with mild interest. “So soon? They don’t wish to wait a dayor two?”

Tulbayn,an emerald-furred Joshadan who typically wore a serene smile, appeareddisconcerted. “I asked them, and they insisted it’s important they report theirfindings to you as soon as possible. I told them it wasn’t protocol, butCommander Nezlo said you’d want to hear their news immediately.”

“Mostextraordinary.” Mereta leaned his elbows on his polished desk. His long fingerswove together, but for the indexes, which steepled. He settled his chin on thefingertips, letting the gentle music of a Plasian string quartet enter hissenses. Such beautiful music, a feast for the soul. He directed his attentionto Tulbayn once again. “Nezlo didn’t ask to call together the full council foran emergency session?”

“No,Secretary-General. He said you should listen to what they learned first, as hisreport is of a sensitive nature.”

Meretaconsidered, reaching for the quietest part of his mind as his gaze drifted overan arrangement of pure white flowers on his desk. The Bi’is inspection team hadencountered a situation important enough to bring immediately to him, but notto the entire council. Had such an occasion ever come up in the past? If so, hehadn’t heard of it, and he’d been around a very long time.

Alneusians,the species to which Commander Nezlo belonged, weren’t known for excitability. Meretawasn’t well acquainted with him, but he understood Nezlo was held in highregard. His competence couldn’t be in question, as only the best negotiatorsand diplomats were capable of dealing with the troublesome Bi’isils.Troublesome indeed, despite being kept under the Galactic Council’s thumb sincetheir attempt to destroy Mereta’s home planet of Kalquor five years prior.

“Itake it I have time to see Nezlo, as my last appointment canceled.”

Tulbayn,used to Mereta’s silences and contemplations, treated the lengthy pause afterhe’d last spoken as if it hadn’t happened. “There’s an hour free before you’reto address the Appropriations Committee.”

“Canthe commander come now?”

“He’sin reception already, sir. He and the rest of his team.”

Surprisesought to disturb Mereta. He acknowledged it without a tremor of irritation, merelyinterest in his own reaction. “The entire team?”

“Yes,Secretary-General.”

“Theycame straight from docking their ship?”

“That’smy understanding.”

“My,my, Tulbayn. I wonder what it was they discovered on Bi’is?” He leaned back inhis leather hover chair and contemplated the softly illuminated ceiling.

“Itmust have been notable.”

“Indeed.I suppose I should discover what the excitement’s about. Will you show them to theconference room? I’ll join them in a moment.”

“Yes,Secretary-General.” Tulbayn bowed as a Kalquorian would, despite knowingMereta’s objections to such demonstrations. She hurried out of his officebefore he could rebuke her.

Hesmiled at the door, which had closed behind her. Joshadans were a mostremarkable race. Simple, kind, unassuming. Above all, forgiving. The galaxycould learn from Tulbayn’s people. Civilization would be a more peaceful placeto live if its residents did so.

Meretaclosed his eyes and sank into a meditative state almost immediately. At nearlya hundred and fifty years of age, much of his adult years spent as a Temple ofLife priest, it was more accurate to say he deepened the quietness his consciousnessresided in. Calm flowed through him and blissful silence filled his mind.

WhateverNezlo and his team reported, whatever malicious mischief the Bi’isils were upto after five years of quiet, the universe remained indestructible. Theknowledge ruled Mereta’s outlook on life and kept him calm, even in the face ofcalamity. His unwavering steadiness had made him secretary-general when he’dhave just as soon retired to teach his disciples on Kalquor. Duty and servicewere his mandate, however, so Mereta had allowed the approximately two hundredmember planets of the Galactic Council to set the burden on his shoulders.

Afew minutes later, he left his office. His pace unhurried, Dramok Meretadrifted down a short corridor to the conference room in his professional suite.Its door was open, but he heard no sound of conversation. Odd.

Heentered the room. He’d traveled several steps before he noticed the myriadaliens awaiting him. Or rather, the strange, dark shadows sitting upon theirshoulders, arms or tentacles ringing the inspection team’s necks.

Thedoor shut behind him. Tulbayn’s trill of a voice called from behind him. “Door,lock.”

Meretaswiveled, his official white robes whispering on the soft carpet. Tulbayn’seyes, emerald to match her fur, gazed at him from a few feet away. Her kindlyfeatures wore cold dislike, almost making her unrecognizable.

Adark blob of shadow clung to her.

“Tulbayn,you aren’t yourself,” Mereta said. His gaze swept the rest of the group, theinspection team. “None of you are. Is this Bi’is’ doing?”

“Yousee.” Commander Nezlo, stood, encased in their protective exosuit. It sealed theAlneusian aquatic resident in seawater. A shadow was inside and outside,somehow present in both places.

“Ido.” His peripheral vision seemed more detailed than when he peered directly atthe strange dark shapes clinging to his visitors. He had an impression ofscaled skin, studded by many eyes. “Do I address sentient creatures orcontrolled parasites?”

“Parasites!”a Beonid shouted as expressions of rage filled their myriad faces.

“Abetter word failed to come to mind. Obviously, you are intelligent entities.What is your reason for coming here? For summoning me?”

“Hesees us. He isn’t phased, but he sees us.” Nezlo’s bulbous eyes, murky in thewater he peered from, riveted on him. “It is not good.”

Meretawas suddenly aware of movement at his feet. He glanced down to spy a bulbousshadow sporting multiple tentacles dashing up his robe. A dart of instinctiveshock jolted his chest, and he attempted to brush the creature off. His handpassed through it without any sensation of contact. Nor did he feel it tuggingon his robes.

“Itake this as an act of hostility,” he advised them as he continued to try topush the climbing creature away, as it continued to climb to his abdomen, thenhis chest. “I shall resist—”

Itscurried up and over his shoulder. Then darkness rose, deleting Mereta’s sightand hearing.

Butnot his consciousness. He was in that place he knew so well, an inner spacewhere peaceful bliss reigned.

Itwould seem I’ve been overtaken physically. He detected a note of fearthreading the darkness and contemplated it until it faded.

Deathcomes to us all, sooner or later. The creature has my body. A portion of my brainas well, as they used the others to communicate. Ah, poor Tulbayn, they didthis to you too. I shall consider this unforeseen situation and determine ifthere’s anything I can do about it.

 

Iam one with All.

TheAll hear you.A distant call. The collected atoms of the All’s greatness in the conferenceroom felt the separation keenly. They strengthened their bonds with each other,and the call was louder. You have control over this Mereta.

Ido.A hesitation. I…there is a portion of its mind closed to this piece of All.

Ashudder ran through the assembled. Separation was an abomination.

Itsees us yet doesn’t enter between dimensions.

Anotherof the atoms asked, shall we perform tests to discover the source of theinterloper’s ability?

Therewas a lengthy pause. The Mereta is of too much importance as our emissary. Youcan control it? It is in a position of great power, beyond the reach of its ownsource. The All requires it do as we command.

Ihave possession. Only the small section eludes me…but it doesn’t prohibit mefrom the knowledge this unit (another shudder) contains.

Itis good. By controlling this unit, we have access to the many species of thisdimension. We will learn of them. We will stop them. They’ll pay for theirdesecration of our home.

Itis good. I’ll first learn of those leaders we must control in this collectionof units. Then we may destroy them.

Afterwe have them destroy Kalquor, the poison source infecting our realm. Then therest, so our home remains pure.

Deathto the invaders and those who’d invade after them. Death to those in thisdimension.

Theirwill was strong. The All was coming, and it would erase the Separate beingswhen it arrived, after they’d ensured the Separates posed no threat. Theknowledge bolstered those who’d come before the All despite their aloneness, toready for the erasure of the lesser species.

* * * *

The alien force dubbed the Darks has grabbed control of keypositions on Kalquor and the Galactic Council of Planets. Other leaders arestill unaware of the threat among them. The galaxy is wide open for destruction by an unfathomable enemy.

Former emperor Nobek Yuder has suspicions, but due torestrictions placed on him after his prison sentence, he can only stand by andwatch helplessly. A renegade Royal Councilman has designs to bring him back tothe political arena, but doing so could destabilize the Kalquorian Empire,leaving it vulnerable to invasion.

Meanwhile, one man on the brink of death, the only man whocan detect the nearly invisible Darks, is pulled from a lifeless shuttle byCaptains Kila and Nako. His incredible story tells them they’re in a raceagainst time to save not only the empire but the whole galaxy…but are theyalready too late?

On Earth II, Governor Stacy Nichol’s relationship with ClanRihep continues to grow. So does the danger, as opponents make deadly movesagainst her and the orbiting Kalquorian station where the clan lives. NobekKuran is determined to keep his clanmates and would-be lifemate safe, but howcan he stop a faceless enemy?

Relationships, old and new, are strained to the breakingpoint at a time when Earthers and Kalquorians need each other more than ever.The Darks are closing in, and no one is ready to oppose them.

Pre-order coming soon!

 

Coming in November - Dark Empire Book Two: Infiltration

 

The alien force dubbed the Darks has grabbed control of keypositions on Kalquor and the Galactic Council of Planets. Other leaders arestill unaware of the threat among them. The galaxy is wide open for destruction by an unfathomable enemy.

Former emperor Nobek Yuder has suspicions, but due torestrictions placed on him after his prison sentence, he can only stand by andwatch helplessly. A renegade Royal Councilman has designs to bring him back tothe political arena, but doing so could destabilize the Kalquorian Empire,leaving it vulnerable to invasion.

Meanwhile, one man on the brink of death, the only man whocan detect the nearly invisible Darks, is pulled from a lifeless shuttle byCaptains Kila and Nako. His incredible story tells them they’re in a raceagainst time to save not only the empire but the whole galaxy…but are theyalready too late?

On Earth II, Governor Stacy Nichol’s relationship with ClanRihep continues to grow. So does the danger, as opponents make deadly movesagainst her and the orbiting Kalquorian station where the clan lives. NobekKuran is determined to keep his clanmates and would-be lifemate safe, but howcan he stop a faceless enemy?

Relationships, old and new, are strained to the breakingpoint at a time when Earthers and Kalquorians need each other more than ever.The Darks are closing in, and no one is ready to oppose them.

Pre-order coming soon!

 

Start the journey with Dark Empire Book Two: Shadows Approach. On sale now!

 

A new planet. A newenemy. Is the end coming for the Kalquorian Empire?

In the aftermath ofthe Kalquorian civil war and the defeat of the Bi’is invasion fleet, the empirehas enjoyed peace. A new Earth has been born. A Kalquorian leads the GalacticCouncil of Planets. An era of harmony seems assured.

However, new dangersarrive on the horizon. Governor Stacy Nichols finds herself at odds withpowerful opponents who want Earth II to return to the old ways that led to thedemise of their original planet. They’ll do anything to stop her, especiallywhen they discover her newfound romance with Clan Rihep of Kalquor.

After five years and aterrifying encounter with an unknown entity, Clan Piras is finally leavingtheir spy duties in Bi’is space. Now they must face enemies closer to home: thefamilies of those they sacrificed while on a secret mission during theKalquorian civil war.

A new threat to theexistence of Kalquor and the entire Galactic Council of Planets arrives in themidst of these challenges, a dark menace unlike anything faced before. Oneyoung, inexperienced spyship ensign is all that stands between the galaxy andutter destruction. Can he warn the empire in time…or is it already too late?

DarkEmpire 1: Shadows Approach is now on sale at Amazon, Amazon UK, Nook, Smashwords, Kobo, Apple, and print.

All Good Things Come to an End - Chapter Six Part Two

 

Our final excerpt has arrived. Continue the adventure by ordering your copy at Amazon, Amazon UK, Nook, Smashwords, Kobo, Apple, and print.

Something terrible is on its way to the Galactic Council of Planets. The infiltration has begun.

* * * *

Galactic Council of Planets transport

The inspection team from the Galactic Council of Planets satin a conference room aboard a Kalquorian-designed cruiser, speeding to its homeberth on Jedver, the hub planet of the council.

They were of a smattering of multiple races, seven of thetwo hundred belonging to the GC. They ringed the table, gazing across itssmooth light green surface at each other.

Only Nezlo, the Alneusian commander of the inspection team,stood…or rather, floated. Their environmental exosuit was filled with the waterof their home sea on Alneusia. The suit possessed a humanoid shape and couldmove as a bipedal entity, thanks to its robotic chassis. Their bulbous eyesfilled most of the bubble headpiece.

It was an excellent suit, impervious to most shocks andattacks. Had the Alneusian been exposed to the air their fellows thrived in,they would have died in seconds, but the suit was made to withstand a largenumber of threats to its inhabitant.

It wasn’t made to keep out an entity phased partially fromanother dimension, however.

The Alneusian spoke their native language, and the earpiecesworn by their fellow inspectors’ translated. They answered in their own speech.What they said would have been typical of any debriefing after an inspection ofBi’is, nothing anyone who stepped into the room would have been surprised tohear. The yeomen who occasionally entered to ensure everyone had what theyneeded for their meeting found little amiss.

One or two did a doubletake when they glimpsed something oddat the periphery of their view. A Bezcux yeoman swung around on its six legs toappraise with swaying stalk eyes the Plasian inspector, certain it had spotteda dark, bulbous shape hanging on the Plasian’s neck and back. A youngorange-furred Joshadan chirped surprise at the inspector from Cimyo, thenhunched and uttered an apologetic trill when she was given a questioningglance.

Tricks of the light, the Bezcux and Joshadan both thought inthe bare seconds before they too were mounted and their minds seized.

Beneath the drone of the debriefing, a second conversationtook place, unheard by ears or translators. It was as intense as the meeting’sofficial transcript was dull.

Two hundred species, but only one appears to possess theability to invade our realm.

It is a member of this body, however. It will tell how toreach what is ours.

It operates in secret. It does not trust the body.

Separation kills. The All will prevail.

If they remain separate.

What does the All tell us? It is good to listen.

Listen to the All.

They listened. The answer came quickly.

Extermination. The Kalquorians first, then the rest toconfirm they will not invade what is ours.

Yes.

Death to the Kalquorians.

Death to those who are not All. It is good.

 * * * * 

A new planet. A newenemy. Is the end coming for the Kalquorian Empire?

In the aftermath ofthe Kalquorian civil war and the defeat of the Bi’is invasion fleet, the empirehas enjoyed peace. A new Earth has been born. A Kalquorian leads the GalacticCouncil of Planets. An era of harmony seems assured.

However, new dangersarrive on the horizon. Governor Stacy Nichols finds herself at odds withpowerful opponents who want Earth II to return to the old ways that led to thedemise of their original planet. They’ll do anything to stop her, especiallywhen they discover her newfound romance with Clan Rihep of Kalquor.

After five years and aterrifying encounter with an unknown entity, Clan Piras is finally leavingtheir spy duties in Bi’is space. Now they must face enemies closer to home: thefamilies of those they sacrificed while on a secret mission during theKalquorian civil war.

A new threat to theexistence of Kalquor and the entire Galactic Council of Planets arrives in themidst of these challenges, a dark menace unlike anything faced before. Oneyoung, inexperienced spyship ensign is all that stands between the galaxy andutter destruction. Can he warn the empire in time…or is it already too late?

DarkEmpire 1: Shadows Approach is now on sale at Amazon, Amazon UK, Nook, Smashwords, Kobo, Apple, and print.

Now On Sale: Dark Empire Book One: Shadows Approach - Read Chapter Six Part One

 

This is the next-to-the-last excerpt. Don't miss out...continue the adventure. Order your copy at Amazon, Amazon UK, Nook, Smashwords, Kobo, Apple, and print.

Young Ensign Ilid has some concerns about his sanity after the away team returns to his spyship after a trip to Bi'is. Has he gone space crazy...or is something strange happening to his crewmates?

"Tracy St. John's exceptional writing, well-developed characters, immersive world-building, and seamless blend of action and romance make this book an absolute must-read." -Amazon review

* * * *

Spyship orbiting Bi’is

Ensign Dramok Ilid watched from his control podium as theaway team’s shuttles returned from Bi’is. The three vessels docked in thespyship, and he closed the bay doors. Captain Abgi and Weapons Commander Sutastepped forward to greet the commander at the head of the disembarking team,Weapons Subcommander Ved.

“Report, Subcommander,” Suta ordered, his creased face asunsmiling as ever.

Ilid always felt more at ease when the old Nobek wasn’tlooking at him. He bet Nobek Ved did too, despite his occasional lover’sresolute toughness, which kept him from admitting to any intimidation.

“The labs of Bi’is were quiet, Captain, Weapons Commander.We found no sign of the Sector C secret research facility the previous spyshipsuspected.”

Captain Abgi, almost as old and weathered and tough as Suta,frowned. “Neither did the Galactic Council inspectors, according to the fileswe intercepted a few hours ago. The captain I spoke to from the other spyshipseemed so sure. What of the communications suggesting there might be suchfacilities?”

“The last of the suspicious messages between Bi’isscientists occurred just prior to the previous spyship’s leaving. Similardialogue has ceased since then.”

Ilid glanced from his computer podium’s readings. Vedsounded…off. His deep voice had a wooden quality Ilid hadn’t heard from himbefore.

The subcommander’s features showed no emotion. Typical forreporting in, but even Ved’s natural Nobek ferocity, a quality which excitedIlid more than he’d admit out loud, had a tamped-down trait uncharacteristic ofhim.

Keeping his fingers moving over the keypad of his computer,Ilid swept his gaze over the team grouped behind Ved, wondering if they’dnoticed anything off. If they did, their bland faces showed no hint.

Funny. The scouts, mostly Nobeks and a smattering ofDramoks, somehow looked alike with their flat expressions. Those at the cornersof his eyes seemed to have strange smudges, like shadows, hovering over them.When he gazed directly at them, there was no darkness, however. Disquiet wormedits way in Ilid’s gut.

It’s too soon to be antsy from an extended assignment.Get a grip.

It was true Ilid wasn’t looking forward to a year’s detailsurveilling Bi’is. Despite ten-day leaves every six weeks, the deployment wasshaping up to be a grind. It was rumored the previous spyship had orbitedKalquor’s enemy for five years, since the end of the war. He couldn’t imaginehow the previous crew had kept from killing each other from the boredom.

Suta’s gruff voice was disappointed. “What of signs of thoseshadow entities that were reported? Was anything off regarding yourassignment?”

“No, Weapons Commander. We saw nothing suggesting an alienpresence beyond the Tragoom slaves the Bi’isils keep. No entity we saw matchedwhat was recorded by the previous spyship.”

Ancestors, what was it in Ved’s tone that sounded wrong? Itwas driving Ilid crazy.

He returned his attention to his readouts, setting aside theanxious feeling that was beneath a Dramok. He was only twenty-two, but hisbreed admitted no nonsense. He was born to eventually lead, and he wasdetermined to live up to what was expected of him.

An alert beeped politely on his podium. He tapped hisearpiece and listened before reporting.

“Excuse me, Captain. The first officer reports the GalacticCouncil vessel is leaving orbit and heading back to their space.”

Abgi snapped a nod to Ilid. “All right, team, good job. Beready to assemble and resume on-planet surveillance in two days, unless advisedto the contrary. Dismissed.”

He and Suta left ahead of the team. Ilid used theopportunity to get Ved’s attention. “Hey. Was it really so quiet on theplanet?”

Ved regarded him for several seconds. Long seconds. For amoment, Ilid wondered if the Nobek recognized him. There was no spark offamiliarity in his gaze.

Then the corner of his lips twitched, a hint of a smile. “Weconsidered cutting each other’s throats for something to do. You can’t get moreboring than Bi’is.”

Ilid laughed, partly out of relief. It was a typical Vedresponse, and if he maintained a wooden quality of speech, it was doubtlessbecause the assignment had been wearying. “Hopefully, it was just an off weekfor the little gray bastards. You’ll find something devious worth crackingtheir huge skulls over next time.”

“A man can hope.” Ved looked him over. “Shall we gettogether later tonight, Ilid? Maybe you can offer the excitement Bi’is was missing.”

Usually, such an invitation would have thrilled Ilid. Vedwas his favorite bedmate on the spyship, the sexiest crewman on board, in hisopinion.

This time, a chill ran down his spine. Ved’s gaze remainedas flat as his voice, and Ilid thought about conjuring an excuse of why hewasn’t available.

He was being ridiculous. What kind of Dramok was weirded outby a bored and tired Nobek? He grinned widely at Ved. “Tonight would be great.”

“My quarters at the end of your shift then?”

“Sure. I’ll be there.”

Ved left him still wearing a half-smile. Had he ever seenhim smile that way?

Enough. It’s too soon to go space crazy.

 * * * * 

A new planet. A newenemy. Is the end coming for the Kalquorian Empire?

In the aftermath ofthe Kalquorian civil war and the defeat of the Bi’is invasion fleet, the empirehas enjoyed peace. A new Earth has been born. A Kalquorian leads the GalacticCouncil of Planets. An era of harmony seems assured.

However, new dangersarrive on the horizon. Governor Stacy Nichols finds herself at odds withpowerful opponents who want Earth II to return to the old ways that led to thedemise of their original planet. They’ll do anything to stop her, especiallywhen they discover her newfound romance with Clan Rihep of Kalquor.

After five years and aterrifying encounter with an unknown entity, Clan Piras is finally leavingtheir spy duties in Bi’is space. Now they must face enemies closer to home: thefamilies of those they sacrificed while on a secret mission during theKalquorian civil war.

A new threat to theexistence of Kalquor and the entire Galactic Council of Planets arrives in themidst of these challenges, a dark menace unlike anything faced before. Oneyoung, inexperienced spyship ensign is all that stands between the galaxy andutter destruction. Can he warn the empire in time…or is it already too late?

DarkEmpire 1: Shadows Approach is now on sale at Amazon, Amazon UK, Nook, Smashwords, Kobo, Apple, and print.

 

Now On Sale: Dark Empire Book One: Shadows Approach - Read Chapter Five

 

It's out! Thank you so much, everyone who bought the print copy, pre-ordered the ebook, and left ratings/reviews. 

Excerpts will no longer be posted after Sunday. I hope you've enjoyed this extended sneak peek into the first of the Dark Empire series. In today's entry, Stacy's lieutenant governor has a few choice words about her spending time with Clan Rihep.

"The intricacies of its politics, the secrets hidden within its shadows, and the underlying mysteries kept me engaged throughout the entire story." -Amazon review

* * * *

Earth II, spaceport

Kuran hadn’t fully quelled his anger by the time hisclanmates showed up in Earth’s spaceport, so he didn’t bother to hide it. Etnilwould have noted it in any case. For all his playful tendencies, his Imdiko wasa talented psychologist, and he knew Kuran too damned well.

“Uh oh.” Etnil greeted him with a hug and a half-smile assoon as he stepped out of the hatch. “Did someone spit on one of your knives?”

Kuran attempted to joke. “Worse, if you can believe it.” Hefilled him and Rihep in on the news that Piras and Kila were to arrive in acouple of weeks.

All humor fled from Etnil’s expression. “That’s fucked up,my Nobek. You must be furious.”

“I’m sorry, Kuran.” Rihep squeezed his shoulder. “I wish Icould say something to help you deal with this news.”

Their gentle support bolstered his strength. “Thanks. Ican’t imagine how I’ll look Piras in the face and not shove my fist in it. Eventhough he was right to do it and he kept Kalquor from falling into the Basma’shands—”

“Stop,” Etnil ordered. “You’re allowed to be angry. Stayhonest where your emotions are concerned. I have faith you can cope, especiallyas little as you’ll be required to do so directly, but you don’t have tosugarcoat it.”

“Right.” Kuran drew a deep breath and found he felt better.Just seconds in the presence of his clanmates, his lifelong friends andcompanions, and everything fell into place. “Are you ready for me to introduceyou to a big reason why I’m willing to try?”

“Well, yeah.” Etnil’s lips twisted in a mischievous grin.“You don’t think I left the tin can to merely breathe real air and walk inrolling meadows under the shining sun, do you? Gotta have a beautiful woman todo so with.”

“It’s nightfall.”

“Like I said, a walk in rolling meadows under the glowingmoon with a beautiful woman. Do you need your hearing checked?”

* * **

Earth II, governor’s office

“Dramok Rihep and Dr. Etnil. It’s a pleasure to finally meetyou.” Stacy hurried around the desk to shake their hands. She probably lookedtoo eager to do so, especially when Ken Bryant sat in the chair in front of herdesk.

As if Kuran wasn’t a slab of beefy goodness on his own, hehad the audacity to have equally gorgeous clanmates. Rihep was a dream, hisfeatures heart-stopping thanks to a square jaw and perfect smile. Etnil beamed,and she noted the gleam in his purple gaze. She’d laughed at plenty of Kuran’sstories about his jokester Imdiko.

“It’s a delight, Governor Nichols. We’ve looked forward tomaking your acquaintance.” Rihep bowed after he released her hand, but his gazeremained locked on hers. Stacy felt zapped by electricity.

Hello, instant lust.

“I’d given up on meeting you. Having Kuran as ourrepresentative, there seemed to be no hope to make friends. Thank you forgiving us a chance to say hello despite his many faults. You’re a saint.” Etnilalso bowed while affecting a worshipful expression.

Stacy laughed. “You’re exactly as he described.”

“Charming? Brilliant?”

“Excuse us a moment.” Kuran grabbed Etnil in a headlock andpulled him away yelping as Rihep turned to the lieutenant governor and offeredhis hand. “Mr. Bryant, I recognize you from the news feeds. Congratulations onyour new planet. My sincerest wishes for every success.”

Bryant rose to his feet after an instant’s hesitation. Heshook Rihep’s hand. “Thank you, Dramok Rihep. I offer much appreciation foryour assistance in getting us up and running as head of supplying the planet.”He glanced at Kuran and Etnil, now standing quietly, to include them.

“All credit goes to the indomitable Earther spirit. I’mexcited for this new start for your people.”

Bryant appeared flustered to Stacy. Most Kalquorians he’dmet were aware of his stance concerning their further involvement in theplanet’s affairs and had adopted attitudes of distance. Rihep’s kind sincerityand enthusiasm must have been a shock.

“We’re excited too. Thank you again.” He managed a tightsmile for the group. “If you’ll excuse me? I hope you enjoy your visit, sirs.”

He flashed an intent glance at Stacy, and she suppressed asigh. “Let me see you out, Ken.”

She followed him to the door, then just outside it when hefailed to pause. He turned to her and whispered, “Is this seemly conduct forour governor? I can’t imagine an official reason for you to meet these men.”

“They’re part of what made this world possible.” She gavehim as bland an expression as she could muster. “Perhaps not Kuran’s Imdiko;he’s on the space station purely as mental health support for the Kalquoriansstationed there. But Rihep has coordinated supplying our infrastructure needsand will continue to do so in the near future. The biggest reason they’re hereis because I have to work closely with Kuran. He’s done a great deal to putinto place the planet’s security needs against the extreme factions thatcontinue to exist.” She wondered if she were speaking to a member of such afaction.

“I’m aware of these matters. Dramok Rihep and Nobek Kuranhave done an exemplary job carrying out their duties, for which they’re wellcompensated. A simple thank-you isn’t sufficient?”

“Earth wouldn’t have happened without Kalquor’s assistance,as little as a vocal few would care to admit it. I feel an extra effort toextend our people’s appreciation is fitting.”

“The vocal few, as you call them, will make their opinionsknown if they feel you’re falling under alien influence. Particularly aliens wefought a war against a decade ago.” He spoke through gritted teeth.

“Then it’s a good thing Kuran is around to keep an eye onthem.” Stacy was determined Bryant wouldn’t be the only one issuing veiledthreats.

“For now. Even those who aren’t traditionalists aredetermined this world is Earther only, so they’ll be demanding the fewKalquorians present move on as soon as possible. They won’t accept a governorwho joins a Kalquorian clan or house.”

Stacy stared at him levelly. “I’ve done neither, nor do Iintend to in the foreseeable future. Earth is my primary focus.”

“What’s your personal focus?”

“That’s my business.”

“The people will make it their business.” What she’d takenas hostility abruptly lessened, but Bryant was still intent. “I’m looking outfor your best interests, Stacy. You’ll gain a lot more acceptance as a leader,and a chance to be elected to remain so, if you remember this planet is Earth’srebirth and not Kalquor the Second. You might want to remind your friends inthere of it as well.”

Seething, she replied, “I will, while we have dinner at myresidence tonight.” She turned on her heel and re-entered the office. “Door,close.”

She hoped it did so in his condescending face.

Kuran’s eyes narrowed as he looked at her. Rihep’sexpression remained pleasant, but his gaze was intent.

Etnil cocked his head in boyish inquisitiveness. “Iseverything all right? Does anyone require electro-shock therapy?”

Kuran glanced at him, his brows lowering. “Electro-whattherapy?”

“An ancient Earth technique designed to calm frantic minds.Would you like to try it? I’ll be glad to set up a demonstration for you.”

Stacy’s irritation drained away in the face of his humor.Though she hadn’t intended to ask the clan over, wasn’t even sure if what wasavailable to serve them would be to their liking, she was determined to make apoint. “Hey, what do you say to coming to my place for a spaghetti dinner? I’vehad marinara simmering all day. I won’t vouch for cooking to Kalquorian tastes,but I’m no slouch when it comes to wielding a spatula.”

Rihep brightened, and he glanced at his clanmates, whoappeared as delighted. “Thank you, Governor. We’d be happy to join you.”

“Only if you call me Stacy. I don’t stand on ceremony at mytable.”

“Then yes, Stacy.”

Could they be any more handsome when they smiled? The nightwas looking up.

 * * * * 

A new planet. A newenemy. Is the end coming for the Kalquorian Empire?

In the aftermath ofthe Kalquorian civil war and the defeat of the Bi’is invasion fleet, the empirehas enjoyed peace. A new Earth has been born. A Kalquorian leads the GalacticCouncil of Planets. An era of harmony seems assured.

However, new dangersarrive on the horizon. Governor Stacy Nichols finds herself at odds withpowerful opponents who want Earth II to return to the old ways that led to thedemise of their original planet. They’ll do anything to stop her, especiallywhen they discover her newfound romance with Clan Rihep of Kalquor.

After five years and aterrifying encounter with an unknown entity, Clan Piras is finally leavingtheir spy duties in Bi’is space. Now they must face enemies closer to home: thefamilies of those they sacrificed while on a secret mission during theKalquorian civil war.

A new threat to theexistence of Kalquor and the entire Galactic Council of Planets arrives in themidst of these challenges, a dark menace unlike anything faced before. Oneyoung, inexperienced spyship ensign is all that stands between the galaxy andutter destruction. Can he warn the empire in time…or is it already too late?

DarkEmpire 1: Shadows Approach is now on sale at Amazon, Amazon UK, Nook, Smashwords, Kobo, Apple, and print.

 

Dark Empire Book One: Shadows Approach Chapter Four Scene 2

 

Out tomorrow! Who's ready?

On today's excerpt, Nobek Kuran learns he'll work with the man responsible for his brother's death...none other than Admiral Piras.

"Shadows Approach is an enthralling masterpiece that left me eagerly anticipating the next installment." -Amazon review

* * * *

Alpha Space Station

After Kuran accompanied Stacy to her office and assuredhimself she wouldn’t leave for the next hour or two, he took a shuttle to theorbiting space station and hurried to its operations section.

To his relief, he made it to his scheduled meeting in aconference room with minutes to spare. Rear Admiral Hobato and Admiral Traniswere already there. The Dramok fleet officers sat at one end of a long table,speaking in low tones.

They rose as Kuran entered, and he bowed. He was no longeran official member of the Kalquorian fleet, merely a contractor, but it was athrill to work with members of the highest command.

“Admirals, it’s an honor.”

“The honor is ours, Head of Earth Security. You’ve had yourhands full, I’m sure, since the governor’s arrival and the Imperial Clan’svisit. Please, sit.” Hobato, aged and dignified, motioned to the chair to hisright, across the table from Tranis.

“It’s been hectic, but the transfer of power has beenseamless thus far.”

“It may be another story when the residents arrive inforce.” Tranis’ smile flashed in his bearded face. He was the youngest admiralto have achieved his rank, and Kuran wondered if it was the reason he appearedolder than his years.

“What of the lieutenant governor and the legislators whohold to more traditional Earther values?” Hobato asked.

The Earthtiques had been Kalquor’s and the GalacticCouncil’s greatest concern. No one wanted to see a return of the tyrannicalregime that had started a horrific war with Kalquor a decade before, endingwith the original Earth’s destruction.

“Thus far, the traditionalists have kept their disagreementspolite. The lieutenant governor did go out of his way to avoid speaking to theImperial Clan and other Kalquorians during the official welcome to GovernorNichols.”

“In many cases, loyalty can be problematic, especially whenit involves Old Earth’s ideology.”

“Fortunately, Governor Nichols is of better character.” Itrequired effort to keep the warmth from his voice, but Kuran managed.

“You proved your loyalty to Kalquor during the civilconflict,” Tranis observed, switching subjects abruptly.

“I should hope so. Honor and empire.”

“Including when it’s painful? Objectional on a personallevel?”

What were they up to? Kuran hadn’t been given any idea whatthe meeting was about beforehand. “War against one’s own kind isn’t painfulenough?”

“There can be worse conflicts. At least we were allowed tocharge into battle and face our foes eye to eye.” Tranis glanced at Hobato,then returned his gaze to Kuran. “You know why we brought you in to headEarth’s on-planet security as a contractor.”

“There are those Earthers who resent Kalquor despite thereparations the empire has paid. An official military presence wouldn’t beaccepted by the Earthtiques…er, the traditionalists.”

Both admirals quirked slight smiles at his slip. “The planetneeds our protection at this time, however,” Hobato said. “Trag is alwaysproblematic for worlds lacking adequate security. Though it’s distant andbackward enough to be of negligible concern, Asicar has also been showing signsof aggression recently.”

“Asicar? That planet hasn’t come up in conversation since mygrandfathers’ time.”

Hobato waved a dismissive hand. “They’re making threats,probably just to remind us they exist. Bi’is kept them under their thumb fordecades. Since Bi’is is no longer a danger, Asicar is eager to be takenseriously.”

“As before, they’re doing it the wrong way.” Tranis shookhis head. “In any event, there are dangers to Earth. Kalquor is in the bestposition to ward off those dangers, but a vocal minority of Earthers willscream loudly if we offer overt protection.”

Kuran’s brow rose. “Spyships?”

“They have some fighting capability. They’ll be part of ourdefense of Earth.” Hobato tapped on the computer before him, and a holoscreenbeamed over the table.

Kuran frowned at the unfamiliar ship displayed. It made himthink of a cross between a destroyer and the decommissioned raider class, butit had sleeker lines. It reminded him of an incredibly thin arrowhead. “Newships?”

“These will make up our main space-oriented defense of theplanet. This is a marauder-class fighter. They can function in the atmosphereas well as space. They’re smaller and possess less firepower than destroyers,but they’re faster than destroyers or the old raiders. They’re outfitted withthe latest of phasing technology, as the spyships are.”

Kuran admired the vessel. “How big of a crew?”

“Up to fifty, and they’ll each carry a dozen single-manfighters. If Earth is attacked by a force twice the size of the squadron oftwenty-five we’ve assigned to the planet, we should be able to fend it offuntil the destroyers on Fropan Base arrive.”

Kuran whistled. Fropan Base, a fleet military space station,was an hour away at a destroyer’s top speed. That the marauders would be ableto hold out against fifty Tragoom ships was impressive.

He grinned at Tranis. “I’m guessing you’ll be in command ofthese beauties?”

“As tempting as the idea is, no. This may be where you findloyalty to honor and empire painful, Kuran.”

“Sir?”

“The man in charge will be Admiral Piras.”

Kuran went still, the name ringing shrill in his skull. Hisfangs began to descend. He fought off the instinct with reluctant determination.

“I see.”

“Indeed.” Hobato regarded him, displaying no emotion. “Heand Captain Kila will oversee Earth’s defense from hostiles off the planet.Their squadron will be phased at all times, and you won’t have to speak to themtoo often. A check in once a month is all we require, if everything remainspeaceful.”

“The Laro Station ruse remains a sore spot for manyKalquorians.” Tranis spoke quietly.

Ruse? Kuran’s hands tried to curl in fists, and he forcedhis fingers straight.

Laro Station had been a butchery. One of Kuran’s youngerbrothers had been on it when the Basma’s forces had overrun it and killedeveryone on board. Piras had given them the means to do so. He’d killed Jeridyas sure as if he’d cut his throat.

Hobato and Tranis were watching him, waiting to learn hisreaction. It occurred to Kuran that if he refused to work with Piras, he’d bedismissed from Earth. He’d have to leave Stacy.

His voice was rough. “Laro allowed Piras and Kila to getclose to the Basma. It was the station or a civilian target, was myunderstanding.”

Tranis dipped a nod. “Only a high-value site would havebrought Piras into the traitors’ fold. It was a hard decision for him.”

Kuran imagined it was. Jeridy would have volunteered to besacrificed if he’d known. It had meant an honorable death, the greatest wish ofa warrior Nobek.

It didn’t help Kuran feel better about losing him. Nor didthe argument that Piras’ and Kila’s actions had directly resulted in savingHaven Colony from the Basma, where his other brother Mejir had been stationedas part of its frontline defenses. Mejir lived, thanks to the man who’d broughtJeridy’s death.

He drew a deep breath and put as many of his emotions asideas he could manage. “I doubt you could have found a more suitable person to dowhatever must be done to maintain Earth’s safety.”

Tranis’ brow lifted in subdued amusement. “Piras is nothingif effective and loyal to the empire, over all other considerations. Can youmaintain a professional relationship with him?”

Could he? Kuran considered it. If he kept Stacy and Mejirfront and center in his mind, those whom he could lose and had nearlylost…maybe. If he could fend off Jeridy’s young face in his imagination despitethe loss still echoing in his heart.

“I can work with Admiral Piras and Captain Kila to keepEarth safe.”

“Very well.” Hobato appeared pleased. “We’ve long hoped torestore Clan Piras’ reputation in the empire. I thank you for helping us takethis first step.”

Kuran managed to refrain from telling Hobato he wantednothing to do with resurrecting Piras’ standing on Kalquor. It was damned hardto hold a snarl at bay.

 * * * * 

A new planet. A newenemy. Is the end coming for the Kalquorian Empire?

In the aftermath ofthe Kalquorian civil war and the defeat of the Bi’is invasion fleet, the empirehas enjoyed peace. A new Earth has been born. A Kalquorian leads the GalacticCouncil of Planets. An era of harmony seems assured.

However, new dangersarrive on the horizon. Governor Stacy Nichols finds herself at odds withpowerful opponents who want Earth II to return to the old ways that led to thedemise of their original planet. They’ll do anything to stop her, especiallywhen they discover her newfound romance with Clan Rihep of Kalquor.

After five years and aterrifying encounter with an unknown entity, Clan Piras is finally leavingtheir spy duties in Bi’is space. Now they must face enemies closer to home: thefamilies of those they sacrificed while on a secret mission during theKalquorian civil war.

A new threat to theexistence of Kalquor and the entire Galactic Council of Planets arrives in themidst of these challenges, a dark menace unlike anything faced before. Oneyoung, inexperienced spyship ensign is all that stands between the galaxy andutter destruction. Can he warn the empire in time…or is it already too late?

DarkEmpire 1: Shadows Approach releases Friday! Pre-order now at Amazon, Amazon UK, Nook, Smashwords, Kobo, Apple, and print.