M.A. Church's Blog, page 126

First Annual MM Memorial Day Scavenger Hunt

Welcome to the first annual MM Memorial Day Scavenger Hunt! 10 Days, 30 Blogs, and loads of prizes! The rules are simple: At each stop on the tour you'll find a military themed picture with a word or words. Collect the words and figure out the secret phrase (HINT: It's lyrics to a song). Once you think you have the correct phrase, enter it into the Rafflecopter at any of the stops.
One grand prize winner will be selected from all the correct phrases.  Use the other Rafflecopter options to enter to win one of the runner-up packages.
Good Luck and Happy Hunting!

Our stop's phrase is:   Isn't



Grand Prize ($45 GC total)-Kindle Paperwhite (VWF)
-Swag (VWF)-$25 GC (Jessie G)-$20 GC (Sara York)-2 ebooks (Jessie G & BFD)-Bad Boyfriends series ebooks & print (3 books) from Nya Rawlins
1st Place ($35 GC total)-$25 GC (Nya Rawlins)
-$10 GC (Sloan Johnson)-CTR & backlist ebooks from Kade Boehme-Unicorns & Hidden Gem ebooks from Lissa Kasey-Winner's ebook of choice from MMGoodbookreviews-Adventures of Cole & Perry ebook from Amanda C. Stone
2nd Place ($30 GC total)-$20 GC (Aria Grace)
-$10 ARE GC (Prism Book Alliance)-Love at First Site ebook from Cardeno C.-Trouble Comes in Threes ebook from M.A. Church-Winner's choice of Felice Stevens ebook
3rd Place ($20 GC total)-$10 Amazon GC (READing is FUN Da Mental)
-$10 GC (Two Chicks Obsessed with Books and Eye Candy)-backlist ebook from Annabeth Albert-Winner's choice of Aria Grace ebook-Winner's choice of Andrew Grey ebook
4th Place ($20 GC total)-$10 GC (Felice Stevens)
-$10 Amazon GC (Amy Lane)-Undercover Love series ebooks (2 books) from Brendan Cothern-Winner's choice of Susan MacNicol ebook-Winner's choice of Lexi Ander ebook
5th Place ($20 GC total)-$10 Amazon GC (BFD)
-$10 GC (Lexi Ander)-Winner's choice of Kindle Alexander ebook-Winner's choice of Susan MacNicol ebook-Winner's choice of backlist ebook from Cate Ashwood


a Rafflecopter giveaway
Participating Blogs/Authors:May 25BFD Book BlogCardeno C.Kade BoehmeMay 26Prism Book AllianceCate AshwoodReading is FunN'mentalMay 27Lissa KaseyHearts On Fire ReviewsNya RawlynsMay 28Carly's Book ReviewsJessie G. BooksTwo Chicks Obsessed with Books and Eye CandyMay 29Annabeth AlbertMM Good Books ReviewsM.A. ChurchMay 30Amanda C. StoneAmy LaneAria GraceMay 31Kindle AlexanderSara YorkTaylor BrooksJune 1Andrew GreyDivine MagazineBrenda CothernJune 2Kai Tyler3 Chicks After DarkSloan JohnsonJune 3Felice StevensLexi AnderVampires, Werewolves & Fairies Oh My!

In Enemy Hands Chapter 8

Chapter Eight
Varo slowly made his way to the restroom. His head spun pleasantly and his lips tingled, but he was by no means drunk. How dare Adlar insinuate he was? The day one drink put him on his ass was the day he stopped drinking all together.

He made his way through the king’s bedchamber. It was as rich and luxurious as he thought it would be. He found the attached bath and went to open the door… and missed the handle completely.
What kind of trickery is this? Do they have door handles that run from your hand? He giggled at the thought then slapped a hand over his mouth. Horrified, he looked around. He was a prince, for stars sake—and as such, he did not giggle. It was not a princely thing to do.
He was sure Adlar would agree with him since the other male called him princeling often enough. At first that had infuriated him, but now…? Not so much. It had almost become a pet name, and he’d never had one of those before.
It made him feel special.
He looked back down at the door handle. Stars, how long had he been just standing there like some clueless first year cadet? It was a blessed door handle, not a starships warp engine—which was a good thing or he’d really be in trouble.
He reached for the door handle again and this time he managed to grasp it. Success! Pleased, he opened the door. Grinning madly, he stepped into the bathroom. It was, of course, as decadent was he thought it would be. It was suited for a king.
He found the urinal and unbuttoned his pants. After the third try he managed to get them undone. By the stars’ fading light, maybe Adlar was right about that Helkan rum. Not that he’d admit that to the other male. Adlar was already much too confident.
He managed to pull his cock out… and that took some work. Stupid thing kept moving around on him. The room tilted and he threw out a hand, slapping on against the wall. It wasn’t his cock moving around, it was the room.
The urge to giggle hit him again. His pride and joy might be capable of twitching, but it sure didn’t spin and rock. Okay, that was some funny shit right there. He didn’t care what anyone else thought, that was hysterically funny.
Laughter welled up inside of him, and the giggles burst out. He snorted, gasped at such an unprincely sound, and then finally gave up as loud guffaws poured from him. And he still had his dick in his hand!
That sent him off on peel round of laughter because really, how was he supposed to be able to piss while laughing? His laughter abruptly stopped when a pale hand wrapped around his cock and a warm body pressed up against his.
That pale, cool hand stroked him expertly, the long graceful fingers working magic upon his length…. a pale hand with black fingernails. Somewhere in the back of his mind a warning bell went off, but the sound was lost due to some very skilful ministrations.
All he could do was stared. His shaft attempted to harden as it was stoked, but it only managed to plump slightly. Again, warning bells went off. Any time Adlar touched him he got hard so fast it was embarrassing. Something was wrong, but he couldn’t put his finger on it.
Finger on it. Finger… on… it… It hit him. Those fingers! Adlar wouldn’t pain this nails black. That’s not Adlar! Not Adlar Varo moaned, his body straining away from whoever had a firm grip on his clock. Sharp pain sizzled through him when he moved and the hand didn’t let go.
“Shhh, my pretty one.”
Varo stiffened, and his foggy brain scrambled in search of a name. Maylar. That’s Maylar. What in the stars is he doing? “W-what are…? No, no! You-you… need to stop. Stop!”
Maylar smooth back a stand of Varo’s hair and leaned closer. Softly he spoke in Varo’s ear. “Oh come now, Pretty. Don’t you like this? Like my touch?”
“N-n-no.” Varo shook his head as his cock went soft. This was bad, very bad. What if Adlar came in here and saw this? Aw gods, what if Adlar thought Varo welcomed Maylar’s touch?
What if he activated the shock collar?
That panicked him enough to snap him out of the alcohol-induced fog. He grabbed Maylar’s wrist and tried to pry it off his cock. The male was stronger than he appeared. “Let go of me!”
“Aw, don’t like my touch, do you, Pretty? Bet you like Adlar’s, though.” Maylar whispered in Varo’s ear as he continued to stroke Varo’s shaft. “Don’t you? You like being Adlar’s slave? Like being something owned?”
Varo shivered at the husky, evil sound of Maylar’s voice as it crawled across his nerves. “I am not—”
“Not what? A slave? Oh, but you are. And owned by your enemy, no less. Property—that’s all you are, Varo. Property owned by a Helkan. What a horror that must be for you. When your newness wears off, Adlar will get rid of you, you know this, yes? He’ll just trade you off to a new owner and never look back.”
Varo trembled. He never thought about what the future held. Right now it took everything he had to just live day to day. He refused to let himself think of tomorrow because it scared him to death. Before, he’d planned his life out. He knew his purpose. But now? He was adrift.
Maylar was right in the fact he was an oddity with his bright, blond hair and tanned skin. Outside of his men…. His men. He hadn’t seen or heard anything about them since they first landed on this bleak rock. How could he have forgotten his men? What kind of leader was he?
“Your worth is based on how good you are in bed. Are you good in bed, Varo? Do you really think you can keep the attention of a male like Adlar? Have you managed to convince yourself that you matter to Adlar?” Maylar laughed softly, his breathe teasing the loose hair around Varo’s face.
Varo stiffened.
“Oh, goddess, you really think Adlar cares for you?” Maylar laughed delightedly. “You poor deluded fool. You have, haven’t you? Well, I guess that would make you more… pliant to his advances. The male is a beast in bed, isn’t he?”
“Get off me!” Varo snarled, struggling. He refused listen to any more of this. He couldn’t, just couldn’t, listen. It struck too close to home. “At least I’m not a paid blood whore.”
“My dear sweet prince, that’d be a step up from what you are now. But unlike you, I am free. I can do what I please. You, on the other hand, are nothing. Less than nothing.” Maylar licked Varo’s cheek and squeezed Varo’s dick. “Now, the question is, do you want to stay nothing?”
Varo froze.
Maylar released Varo’s shaft and stepped around to face Varo. “I can get you off planet, if you want.”
Suddenly Varo was very sober. Disbelief crossed his face as he buttoned his pants. The urge to piss was gone, oddly enough. “Right. You’d help me escape. Uh-huh. More likely you’d throw me to a pack of batar’s.”
“While that’s an entraining thought, no. Make no mistake, I wouldn’t mind seeing you dead. But more than that, I want you off this planet and out of my way.”
“Explain,” Varo snapped.
Maylar’s smooth, androgynous face twisted into a snarl. He bared his fangs. “I want Adlar, and you’re in my way. I can’t kill you, so getting you off planet is the next best thing.”
Varo took a step back. He hadn’t been afraid of Maylar until now. “I thought you two didn’t have any type of relationship outside of Adar feeding off you.”
“I was working on that. He was using me more to feed, more so than his others. He’d even let me spend a full night in his bed several times. We’d talked . We’d spent time together. Then you showed up, and I was banished to the guest room. I’d decided that when Adlar finally woke up and saw me as his mate, I’d been okay keeping you as our slave. You are… erotically different. But not now.”
Varo carefully blanked his face. That wasn’t how Adlar saw things with Maylar, but still… a chance to escape was too good to ignore. “How do I know this isn’t a test Adlar set up?”
Maylar smirked. “A test? You give yourself way too much credit. There is more to his world than you, Pretty.”
“But how can I trust you?”
“I guess you can’t. Tell you what.” Maylar waved his hand at the bathroom door. “Go back out there and tell Adlar what I offered. He’ll be furious, I’ll be punished… and you lose any chance at freedom. You’ll ride his cock until he gets tired of you… then you’ll belong to someone new. And you have no say in it.”
That scared Varo more than his feeling for Adlar. “Okay then, tell me your plan.”

Maylar smiled.
TBC

HAHABT winner!

AND THE WINNER IS:
Denise Dechene
Okay, I've sent the email out! I want to thank everyone who took part in the Hop and for all the comments. ~M

The Writer's Minion presents The Valespian Pact Audiobook Blog Tour by Lexi Ander and a Giveaway

Alpha Trine (The Valespian Pact #1)
Publisher: Less Than Three Press:Ebook Release Date: September, 2013Audiobook Release Date: February 2015Cover Artist: Aisha AkejuGenre: Sci-Fi/Gay/PolyISBN: 9781620042434Available in both ebook and print and audiobook


Alpha Trine was the winner of 2014 Rainbow Awards


Audio Purchase Links: Available at iTunes and AudibleAudible: http://www.amazon.com/Alpha-Trine/dp/B00U0HGZU2/ref=tmm_aud_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1427073838&sr=8-1

Book/Ebook Purchase Links:Less Than Three Press - http://www.lessthanthreepress.com/books/index.php?main_page=product_bookx_info&cPath=95&products_id=501
All Romance - https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-alphatrine-1281142-145.html
Amazon - http://www.amazon.com/Alpha-Trine-Lexi-Ander/dp/1620042444/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1414374016&sr=8-1&keywords=alpha+trine
Barnes & Noble - http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/alpha-trine-lexi-ander/1116830303?ean=9781620042441
Bookstrand - http://www.bookstrand.com/alpha-trine

Blurb:

The sole survivor on a science vessel adrift in deep space, Zeus was adopted by the Emperor and Empress of the Mar'Sani, though he is both human and blind, and seen by most as unfit to join the royal family. Though they were able to repair his vision, Zeus does not trust his eyes and the nobles of his parents' court refuse to ever trust a frail human.

Dargon Kal-Turak, along with his symbiote and lover Alpha, command one of the most dangerous ships in the stars. Narrowly escaping a trap, they dock in a space port to make repairs, but find that the Psionics hunting them are closing in fast. In desperation they kidnap the port Master Mechanic, unaware that the man they've brought on board is more than he seems, and will bring far more upheaval to their ship, their lives, and the stars than any of them could have imagined.




Striker (The Valespian Pact #2)
Publisher: Less Than Three Press:Ebook Release Date: June, 2014Audiobook Release Date: March 2015Cover Artist: Aisha AkejuGenre: Sci-Fi/Gay/PolyISBN: 9781620043783Available in both ebook and print and audiobook


Audio Purchase Links: Available at iTunes and AudibleAudible:

Book/Ebook Purchase Links:Less Than Three Press - http://www.lessthanthreepress.com/books/index.php?main_page=product_bookx_info&cPath=95&products_id=616
All Romance - https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-striker-1520603-145.html
Amazon - http://www.amazon.com/Striker-Valespian-Pact-Book-2-ebook/dp/B00KR0UOHM/ref=sr_1_6?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1427074383&sr=1-6
Barnes & Noble - http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/striker-lexi-ander/1119678546?ean=2940149272051
Bookstrand - http://www.bookstrand.com/striker-0

BLURB:



Author Bio:
Lexi has always been an avid reader, and at a young age started reading (secretly) her mother’s romances (the ones she was told not to touch). She was the only teenager she knew of who would be grounded from reading. Later, with a pencil and a note book, she wrote her own stories and shared them with friends because she loved to see their reactions. A Texas transplant, Lexi now kicks her boots up in the Midwest with her Yankee husband and her eighty-pound puppies named after vacuum cleaners.
Web site: http://www.lexiander.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/lexi.ander.9Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/LexiAnder1Blog: http://lexiander.blogspot.com/E-mail: lexi.ander.author@gmail.comGoodReads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6521302.Lexi_Ander



a Rafflecopter giveaway






Link for Haka:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-rDoV0EBu44&authuser=0





And now for the interview!

I love this series and have read it more times than I can count, lol. What made you write the first book?Yay! I'm so tickled you loved the series. ^_^ The Valespian Pact was inspired by a story prompt that requested a Sci-Fi story with mpreg of a non-human male without the use of technology. The requester was pretty specific about the non-human being a person who didn't look remotely human. I wasn't really worried about the impregnation part because there are so many options for mpreg in the natural world (there is a species of flat worms are all born male. When they mate, the males "sword fight" with their "penis" and the one that loses gets to be the female. Pretty cool, eh? ). The hardest part was picking what to use.
The real question was how to make the non-human attractive to the reader. If the idea was too foreign or people couldn't empathize with the character then no one would believe that Zeus could ever fall in love with someone completely dissimilar to the norm. Then when I finished Alpha Trine, I had one of those moments where I thought I had failed my objective. I really liked the story, okay I sorta loved it, but I wasn't sure what others would think because sometimes what I liked was way out in leftfield. I'm still amazed at how much people love the series. It's humbling.


Where did you come up with the Mar'Sani? Is the world and its people based on something or totally made up?
The idea of the Mar'Sani started out with a race of reptile-people. In science fiction, more often than not, lizard-people are depicted as villains, the bad guys. Even though they walk upright and have advanced technology, they are still depicted as the vicious Neanderthals of the galaxy. Few find them attractive or worthy of a hero's tale. It's sorta unfair because reptiles have amazing qualities but many people prefer furry to scaly.
I did borrow from Greek Mythology for place names and Mar'Sani character names from Atlantis lore. I changed Atlantis to the planetary name of Atlainticia. Some of the names name for the Ancients came from Greek mythology, and of course, Zeus. But that was all I took from mythology. I didn't want anything more because the Greek Gods were sort of *ssholes and some of them are downright creepy. Everything else about them is made up. Mar'Sani are a fierce people who don't do things halfway. They throw themselves full-force into their convictions. How they view their responsibilities, family, spirituality—they commit to with all of their hearts. So even though they are alien in appearance, they are still lovable.
I also borrowed the reptilian scientific names for the names of the Mar'Sani houses. The revered and fear Gerrho'Sauridae is an actual lizard family that is native to Africa and Madegasgar, I just made mine venomous and a really cool color to blend into the Black Sands Desert. There are also little things like the space station Bashker'Qa is actually the character K in Cyrillic script. Udens Mahte'lan is from Latvian mythology term udens mahte, an epithet applied to 67 water goddesses. Oh, I almost forgot. The warrior side of the Mar'Sani, I borrowed (loosely) from the Māori people and their Haka. The battle in Striker is where you can see the correlation the most with the responsive chant and the face paint.
So while there are definitely made-up things about the Mar'Sani and the Valespian-verse, there are some things that are drawn from my love of reading reference material. ^_^ (I'm waiting for someone to ask me where the V'Saar came from and I can show them pictures of a really cool helmet. LOL!)


Is there going to be a book #3 for the series? How far are you into it?
Yes, there will be a third book. Actually there will be seven books total. I had originally planned four books for the series. Two for Zeus and two for Prometheus, but when turning everything over I realized that for Prometheus to accomplish his task there would be too much telling. There were side stories and quests that impacted his story. After looking at what those side stories would be comprise of, I decided I would "show" instead of "tell" what happened. So three stories were added in the middle from characters the readers already know. I'm a pantser. But with the different plots and side stories I did have to sit down and bullet point what was needed in every book. Those points have to do with the plot arches and making sure the information across the board is consistent. The only one that I haven't completed an arch for is Legends because I know some things will change before I get to that point. It always happens when writing, especially when I discover that what I had in mind won't work for some reason and have to change the direction. Here's what's planned so far.
Bespoken (#3), which is about the Galactic Princes finding Prometheus.
Chosen (#4), is about the GyrFalconi navigator Axis. He's taken a liking to the Chimera triplets but go missing and Axis refuses to stay home and hope for the best. What he finds will affect all of Atlainticia.
Rebirth (#5), is about Canry and Nethus… and there really isn't any hints that I can give about this that won't give out spoilers. ^_^
Boundless (#6), is about the mission the Galactic Princes send Madux and Star Eater on. If they fail, the Grid will fall.
Legends (#7), we are back again with Prometheus, Vipre, and Malek. What they and their allies have to do, and what some will give up to protect the galaxies from the V'Saar hoard will bring an end to the series. *tissues required*
Right now I'm in the middle of completing the Sumeria's Sons series. The final book, Releasing Chaos, is the WIP I'm working on currently. Bespoken is next on my writing schedule and then I'll roll right into Chosen. I'm really, really excited about both. I had a difficult time trying to figure out where (when) to start Prometheus's story. The story doesn't flow correctly if started in the wrong place. I believe I know where to begin, but is it the right spot? I won't know until I start penning it.


Out of all the characters, who is your favorite? Do you have one?
That is such a hard question. When I was writing Alpha Trine, I was totally in love with the Orion, Rhee. (Not that I don't love the MCs!) He's a bad*ss and the background on his family pod (which won't be revealed until Bespoken) is really cool and no one knows but me. *sad face* At least for now. So it's really hard to talk about why I like them without people jumping to conclusion that it's all the tentacles. Don’t get me wrong. The tentacles are totally cool, but the Orion are so much more than their extra appendages.
While writing Striker, I became infatuated with Otho the L'Eema. He is such great fun to write and his story becomes so much bigger by the time I start Legends—Dudes, I can't wait to show you.


I love Alpha. How did you come up with him?I adore Alpha, too. When I came upon the idea of Alpha, I was devising the reason why the Dar Massagas needed a symbiote. What did the Alpha-Zetamites glean from such a union? Why was it important? If I couldn't explained convincingly then Dargon and Alpha weren't credible characters.
Alpha's shape came before the why of it. I wanted Alpha to be old and versatile,

Didn’t you win a Rainbow Award for one of the books?
Alpha Trine won the 2014 Rainbow Award in the Best Bisexual General Fiction category. I didn't think that Alpha Trine would win. I was simply tickled (you just don't know how I cried) when it received an Honorable Mention and thought that would be the end of the road. The announcement for Alpha Trine winning in that category came three weeks later, after my father the passed away. At times, our relationship was strained. He didn't approve of me writing gay romance, but he always told me that if writing gay romance made me happy, if this was my cause, he was glad that I found something in this world to fight for. Even though he didn't understand my choices he would've still told me he was proud of me for winning an award. I don't think I'll ever be able to think of the Rainbow Awards and not think of my dad.

Thank you so much for having me on the blog today!!

Feline Fridays

Behind the Eight Ball teaser:

Chapter One – Heller

Step. Step.Stop. The rustling of dead leaves caught my attention, and I froze, with one paw still in the air. Not moving and barely daring to breathe, I waited. My whiskers twitched as a cool October breeze disturbed the scent of decaying leaves and rich soil. The foliage trembled again as something rooted around. I slowly lowered my paw. The disturbance wasn’t very noticeable, except to my predatory gaze. The movement continued. Gradually, bit by bit, I crept forward, making sure my long fur didn’t disturb the surrounding mounds of dying leaves. It was times like these I wished my coat were short like Dolf’s. One thing was for sure—whatever was below those leaves was going to be mine shortly. All I needed was to cover a little more distance, and I’d be close enough.Step. Step.Crouch.Heart thumping, I watched as the movement continued. My muscles tightened, and my bottom started wiggling. Unable to wait, I sprang forward, claws extended. Leaves flew into the air as I landed on my target. Bugs scattered. Eyes narrowed, I searched for…. There! There was the little bugger. I growled at the big black beetle and trapped it with my paw. Seconds passed. The bug wiggled under my paw, tickling me. Hunched down, I carefully lifted my paw and peeked. Dammit, can’t see. Unable to get a good look, I lifted my paw a little higher… and there it went, scuttling across the ground. Gleefully, I slammed a paw down, trying to trap it. Slap. Slap. Slap. Arrgh! What’s the deal? I keep missing. Looked like I’d found myself in a game of whack-a-mole, except with a beetle. And off we went. The bug scurried away with me hot on its trail. Every time I thought I had a paw on it, I ended up missing. Stupid critter was fast. I bounded along behind as it raced across the ground. Then it suddenly cut back and ran straight under me. Surprised, I leaped in the air, all four paws coming off the ground. Whoa! Zigged when I should have zagged. I landed and nonchalantly licked a paw. Hope no one saw that. I had to give the bug credit. That was a smart move. The shrill cry of a mockingbird caught my attention. I lifted my head, searching for the little tattletale. Up in a tree it sat, its warning cries echoing around the yard. I eyed the tree. Hmm, I could climb it, but the stupid bird will probably just take off. Still, might be fun. Maybe after I finished playing with the bug… and damn. The bug. My attention returned to where it had been, my tail slashing. Great. Lost it. Stupid bird. I sat up and threw a glare over my shoulder at the bird. Standing, I turned my back to the little menace, tail held high. And that’s what I think of you, buddy. I prowled around for a while, sniffing, enjoying the coolness of the morning. In the early morning sunlight, the dew on the grass sparked like diamonds. Maybe it was pretty, but the stuff was also cold and wet against my paws. I was glad for my fur. As I wandered back toward the house my stomach growled. I was hungry and… I sniffed. Oh, was that a blue jay I smelled? Oh, oh, a blue jay. Yum. The human side of me groaned, but the kitty part wanted to jump with joy. The noisy little shits were actually quite intelligent. Catching one was always a feat. Quick as I could, I hid in the bright fall foliage by the back porch. I stayed very, very still so the stupid bird three feet from me didn’t fly off in a panic. I licked my lips, my whiskers twitching as I watched the little rascal across from me raise its head. Shit, shit, shit. What caught its attention? Come on, already. It’s all fine, nothing to worry about here. No cat hanging around. Just go back to pecking around on the ground. Everything’s good. See? I’m not moving, not even breathing. Crouched low, I waited while my breakfast relaxed, and returned to looking for acorns. Other birds came and went, but I refused to get distracted. I knew the one I wanted. Inch by agonizing inch brought me closer, my prey completely unaware death hovered. My mouth watered, and my heart thumped. The chatter of the birds around me was easy and relaxed, no distress calls sounding. That’s right. Just keep on eating. Soon I’m going to be eating you. My body tensed, back legs ready to spring me into action….
And the phone in the house rang.The birds took off in a wing-flapping mad rush. I turned back to the house, snarling. Unbelievable! I should’ve shut the damn window in the house. I should’ve known better, but I just had to raise the windows this morning. I’d never stopped to think about a ringing phone messing up my stalk. I darted back inside and shifted just as my cell stopped ringing. I needed to check that since the ringtone was the head beta of our clowder, Dolf. One didn’t ignore any more than one ignored our Alpha. I was one of four betas now, but up until a few years ago, I’d been the clowders hacker. My main job was protecting our Alpha, even though I ran a lawn service for the clowder members. I also did website design for many paranormals and fixed computers on the side. I was a regular jack-of-all-trades who really, really needed to find his clothes before my nuts froze off. Now that I was furless, I noticed the bite to the fall air even more. I hurried to my bedroom. The hardwood under my bare feet sent shivers up my spine. As I dressed, I heard my cell beep from the kitchen, letting me know I did indeed have a message. I returned to the kitchen where my cell sat. At least that couldn’t fly off. 
* * * So, I *still* haven't heard anything on 8 Ball. I was hoping to announce a release date, but that's a no go. I *should* be hearing something just any day now. (Yes, I'm climbing the walls lol. This is the 10th week. Rarely does it go this long.) Anyway, let's talk about Remi a little. You first met him in Trouble Comes in Threes. He's the one who didn't act like an ass when Dolf told all the betas about Kirk, his other mate who happened to be human. Remi is easy-going and fun-loving. He's not one to get mad often. But don't be fooled. Out of the four betas, Remi is the strongest. Just because he's laid back, don't assume he's a pushover lol. He's not. Now, in Behind the Eight Ball, Remi meets his mate near the end of the book. Surprise, surprise, he's not a human. It certainly caught me by surprise lol. No, Remi's mate is actually a paranormal, and a damn strong one to boot. Remi's story will be book #3 called It Takes Two to Tango. One of things I noticed about Remi was his love for funny T-shirts. So of course I had to go find a site that sold these kinds of things. Oh man, some of the sayings cracked me up. Matter of fact, both of my kids are getting some of these shirts for birthdays and other holidays lol!Here are a few saying you might see mentioned in either upcoming book. *wink*

In Enemy Hands 7.2

Chapter 7.2“I hope you don’t mind Maylar joining us.” Omori’s voice dropped. “I need to feed and had already set a date with him. I was also unsure if you might need his services.”
“No, brother, as it turns out, I do not. But I do thank you for the offer.” Adlar glanced at Varo who was slowly turning red.
Omori pinned Varo with a look, and then nodded. “That’s good then. Although I’m sure Maylar will be sadden to hear he lost such a… generous client.”
Varo crumpled his napkin in his fist.
Adlar saw the action, but didn’t comment. He was too pleased Varo had showed such signs of jealousy.
“Ah well, he still has you.” Adlar winked at Omori. He hoped Varo understood the hidden message. No, he didn’t need Maylar anymore. He planned to feed from Varo only.
“Indeed he does.” Omori gaze traveled to the male across the way, lingering. He shifted on his chair, and then reached down to rearrange himself, a slight smile on his lips.
“Getting uncomfortable?” Adlar smirked, seeing the action.
“Getting?” Omori dragged his gaze from Maylar. “No. Already am? Absolutely. And we better change the subject before I decide to feast on Maylar instead of this delicious meal Chef prepared.”
Varo gulped.
Adlar didn’t see the point in mentioning he and Omori had shared Maylar on more than one occasion. There was nothing sexual between him and his brother, of course. And while they often shared a lover, there would be none of that this time.
The idea of anyone seeing Varo naked outside of him made him finger one of his knives. Varo was his. Only his. He’d kill anyone who tried to come between him and what was his. Maylar joined them and the conversation flowed. Varo didn’t speak much. That was mostly due to Varo not sharing a history with the three other males.
At the end of the meal, Omori offered them Novo, a drink that contained Phis cream of coconut milk, pineapple juice, and white rum. The drink was white, sweet, and slightly thick.
Adlar nodded at the drink he sat in front of Varo. “Try it. I think you’ll like.
“I’ve had Novo before,” Varo said, taking a sip.
“Not like this, you haven’t. We use Helkan white rum instead of the usual stuff you can get anywhere. But beware, our alcohol has a kick to it.”
Varo savored the drink, and then slowly swallowed. “It does taste… richer. Huh. Something in it tastes much more distinctive.”
“That’s our rum.”
Varo took another sip. “Wow, it’s much lighter. It makes the whole drink taste different. It’s actually much better. I really like this.”
“I’m glad. Just remember it has a kick to it. Stuff will sneak up on you.”
The four of them moved from the table to the living area. Omori and Maylar took one couch. Maylar curled his feet under him and leaned close to Omori. Adlar and Varo took the other. Adlar noted Varo sat as far away as he could.
Which wasn’t too far since it was a smaller couch, but still. He wanted Varo closer. Varo didn’t have to drape himself over Adlar like Maylar had done to Omori, but he wanted the other male’s attention, and he knew exactly how to get it and have a little fun at the same time.
He rested his arms along the back of the couch. With a touch that was as light as a feather, he ran his fingers down Varo’s neck. A shiver racked Varo, and Adlar smiled. So sensitive. He couldn’t wait to run his fangs down that sensitive patch of skin.
Varo shot him an annoyed look. Adlar returned it with an innocent smile. Varo snorted and rolled his eyes. Adlar wrapped one length of hair around his finger and tugged. Varo raised an eyebrow. Adlar continued tugging.
Finally Varo huffed. He got the message and scooted closer. During this, Omori had launched into one of his never-ending stories of their childhood. Of course they were stories about all the misadventures’ he’d gotten into, never the things Omori had done. Soon Omori had all them laughing.
“Good gods, I was never that bad.” Adlar shook his head at Omori.
“Right. I’m sure if our parents were still alive, they’d disagree too with that statement.”
“Oh, that’s right.” Varo sipped his drink. “I remember now hearing the former king and his mate had died in a shuttle accident. I’m sorry for your loss. Were the both of you close to your parents?” Varo asked.
“Very much so,” Adlar said.
“Yes, they were a steady influence in our lives,” Omori agreed
“They loved us greatly and wasn’t afraid to show it.” Adlar added.
“You’re very lucky then.” Varo gulped his second drink, and then leaned closer to Adlar. “Where’s the restroom?”
“You’ll have to use my private one,” Omori said. “The guest bathroom is out of order for now. I’m having it updated. Go up the stairs into the bedroom and take the second right. That’s the bathroom.”
“Um, are you sure?” Varo asked.
“Of course,” Omori said. “There are restrooms in the palace, but why hunt those down when you can use mine?”
“Okay. Thank you, Your Highness.” Varo stood and immediately flung a hand out. Instead of grasping the back of the couch, he grabbed Adlar’s shoulder. “Stars!”
Adlar rested his hand over Varo’s. “Are you okay?”
“Oh yes.” Varo took a steadying breathe. “Just a bit lightheaded.”
Adlar snickered. “I told you that drink snuck up on you. Need help getting to the bathroom?”
Varo straighten, a haughty look crossing his face. “If you’re implying I’m drunk, I must inform you that I am not. I’m perfectly capable of getting to the bathroom by myself.”
Removing his hand, Varo sniffed and turned to leave.
Adlar watched him go. Varo had no problems walking across the room. If anything, he was frighteningly precise in his movements and his speech was clear and articulate.
Omori glanced at Adlar, eyebrow raised. “That Helkan rum is about to kick his ass.”
“I know. This should either be interesting or horrifying. He has even less of a tolerance for alcohol than I thought. Maybe I should take him home just in case he gets lippy.”
“It wouldn’t really be fair to punish him in his condition,” Omori pointed out.
“No, it wouldn’t, which is why we might need to leave. Alone I can let certain things slide. Around you, I can’t.” Adlar frowned at stairs Varo just climbed. “He’s opinionated and very resistant to being a slave.”
“Well frack, of course he is, Adlar. He’s a prince.” Omori rolled his eyes. “You can say what you will, but that male is no more a slave than you or me.”
“And all that changed when he got past the Satellite Surveillance Network and tried to attack us.”
“It might have changed his circumstances, but that in no way changed who he is. You’re going to have your hands full breaking that one.”
“I don’t want to break him, just bend him some,” Adlar said.
“Excuse me, Sire, but are you and your guests finished eating?” Maylar asked.
“Hmm? Oh, yes.” Omori gaze traveled over Maylar. “Why?”
Maylar shrugged. “I don’t wish to smell our dinner all night.”
Omori glanced at the table that held the food. “Ah, I see. I can have servants come take it away. There’s no need for you to clean up.”
Maylar ran his finger over the pointy end of Omori’s ear. “I don’t mind. Why don’t I pick out a few things for us to snack on later and the servants can come get the rest, hmm? You do have a small place for cold storage needs.”
Omori lifted one of Maylar’s curls and let it slide through his fingers. “Yes, do that. You’re going to need to keep your strength up.”
Maylar’s smile was hungry. “That sounds promising, Sire.”
“While he’s doing that, would you like to see the schematics for the new battle bot I was telling you about?” Omori asked Adlar.
“Indeed. You have them here? I’m really not in the mood to go traipsing all over the palace.”
“Yes. Let’s go to my office.” Omori stood. “Maylar? Would you please bring Varo to us after you finish what you’re doing?”
“I most certainly shall, Sire.”
“Thank you,” Omori said.


Maylar watched them leave the seating area. They moved down a narrow hall toward Omori’s office. Once they were out of earshot, Maylar smirked. “Oh, I most certainly shall.”
 TBC next Thursday!

Pride Promotions presents Piece Us Back Together Tour and a Giveaway!

If you're looking for the HAHABT, click here





Author Names: Raine O’Tierney, L.J. LaBarthe, Cate Ashwood
Book Names: All That Shimmers (Raine), Swimming With Elephants (L.J.), Red Runs Through (Cate)
Release Dates: May 6, May 13, and May 20 Blurb(s):
Piece Us Back Together:Life can seem bleak for people suffering devastating injuries or illnesses of the mind and body, and every day can be a struggle. But sometimes, when hope seems in short supply, they find a reason to keep up the fight. The men in these stories face some of the most difficult challenges imaginable, but fortunately they won’t be facing them alone, because when everything seems darkest, a point of light appears. With compassion, understanding, and love, these hurt souls have a chance to piece the broken parts of their lives and themselves into something strong and beautiful. Love might even be able to mend the most serious wounds of all—those of the heart.

All That Shimmers by Raine O’Tierney Beau Bell is a former Olympic hopeful, left paralyzed from the waist down after a car accident. He has every reason in the world to be pissed off and miserable, yet he’s training for the Paralympics Men's 100m—S6 division. The chair? Just a part of who he is now. Beau's attitude is golden. If only he could contend with this one little issue: errant erections and no way to relieve them!Nikša Meríc is a lonely scientist and really bad poet living underneath the old building where he does his research. Every night he watches his neighbor through his basement window as he undresses in his wheelchair. Although there is no apparent reason for Nikša to be unhappy, he’s struggled with depression his whole life and has tried to kill himself on multiple occasions.When Beau proposes that his “voyeur” come over and help him experiment with the erections he can’t actually feel, the relationship they build is a sexual one. But the relationship they need is one that will heal each other’s heart as well.
Available May 6th, 2015

Swimming With Elephants by L.J. LaBartheAfter suffering a torn rotator cuff in his left shoulder, Garrett believes his life is over. Depressed, bereft, in pain, and unable to return to the career he loves as an arborist, he sees no hope or future for himself. But a trip to Havelock Island in India turns his world upside down. He meets Jai, an Indian nurse, and becomes smitten with him. Near the end of his trip, while swimming with an elephant, he tells Jai how he feels.
After Garrett returns to Australia, he wonders if he can ever be healed of all his pain—physical, emotional, and mental—and fears that love and romance will never be his again. But then Jai turns up in Perth and brings with him astonishing news.
Available May 13th, 2015

Red Runs Through by Cate AshwoodCarter McClintock’s life is uncomplicated. For the past five years, he’s spent so much time in hospital scrubs that one day bleeds into the next, and that’s just the way he likes it. That is, until he meets Matthew Nolan. Carter has never had a patient affect him the way Matthew does. During Matthew’s stay in the hospital, the chemistry is unmistakable, and once he is discharged, Carter asks him out.Despite the obvious attraction between them, Matthew’s HIV status keeps him from handing Carter his heart, refusing to believe anyone could ever truly want him. When Matthew’s past comes to light, their budding relationship is threatened before it has even begun. But Carter isn’t one to give up without a fight and he will do anything to show Matthew the lengths he will go to keep them together.

Pages or Words: Varies by book
Categories: Contemporary, Fiction, Gay Fiction, M/M Romance, Romance
Excerpt: (Attached to the mail)
Sales Links: Piece Us Back Together Anthology:http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=6413
All That Shimmers:http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=6340
Swimming With Elephants:http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=6379
Red Runs Through: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=6412


About the authors:
Raine O’TierneyRaine O'Tierney lives outside of Kansas City with her husband, fellow Dreamspinner Press author, Siôn O'Tierney. When she's not writing, she's either asleep, or fighting the good fight for intellectual freedom at her library day job. Raine believes the best thing we can do in life is be kind to one another, and she enjoys encouraging fellow writers! Writing for 20+ years (with the last 10 spent on M/M) Raine changes sub-genres to suit her mood and believes all good stories end sweetly. Contact her if you're interested in talking about point-and-click adventure games or about which dachshunds are the best kinds of dachshunds!Website: http://raineotierney.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/raine.otierney.1?fref=tsTwitter: https://twitter.com/RaineOTierney
L.J. LaBartheL.J. LaBarthe is a French-Australian woman, who was born during the Witching Hour, just after midnight. From this auspicious beginning, she went on to write a prize-winning short story about Humpty Dumpty wearing an Aussie hat complete with corks dangling from it when she was six years old. From there, she wrote for her high school yearbook, her university newspaper, and, from her early teens to her twenties, produced a fanzine about the local punk rock music scene. She loves music of all kinds and was once a classical pianist; she loves languages and speaks French and English and a teeny-tiny smattering of Mandarin Chinese, which she hopes to relearn properly very soon. She enjoys TV, film, travel, cooking, eating out, abandoned places, urbex, history, and researching.L.J. loves to read complicated plots and hopes to do complex plot lines justice in her own writing. She writes paranormal, historical, urban fantasy, and contemporary Australian stories, usually m/m romance and featuring m/m erotica. She has won a Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention and another award for Best Historical Gay Novel.L.J. lives in the city of Adelaide, and is owned by her cat.Blog: http://misslj-author.livejournal.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lj.labarthe.9?fref=tsTwitter: https://twitter.com/brbsiberiaInstagram: https://instagram.com/ljstar239/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/dreadpiratestar/Tumblr: https://www.tumblr.com/blog/dreadpiratestarkiller and https://www.tumblr.com/blog/historybuffstar
Cate AshwoodCate Ashwood wrote her very first story in a hot-pink binder when she was in the second grade and found her passion for writing. Her first successful foray into romance writing came five years later when she wrote her best friend, who was experiencing a case of unrequited love, her own happily ever after.Cate’s life has taken a number of different and adventurous roads. She now lives a stone’s throw from the ocean, just outside of Vancouver, British Columbia with her husband, her brand new little boy, and her two cats. Her life is filled with family and friends, travel, and, of course, books.Website: http://www.cateashwood.comFacebook: http://www.facebook.com/cate.ashwoodTwitter: https://twitter.com/cateashwood


Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25405465-piece-us-back-together https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25274912-all-that-shimmers?ac=1 https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25364751-swimming-with-elephants?from_search=true&search_exp_group=group_b&search_version=service https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25405457-red-runs-through
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Cover Artist: Paul Richmond
Tour Dates & Stops: 6-May Scattered Thoughts & Rogue Words Wicked Faerie's Tales and Reviews
7-May Vampires, Werewolves, and Fairies, Oh My MM Good Book Reviews Bayou Book Junkie
13-May Amanda C. Stone Bike Book Reviews Hearts on Fire
14-May Carly’s Book Reviews Molly Lolly
20-May Decadent Delights TTC Books and More Prism Book Alliance
21-May Inked Rainbow Reads Love Bytes BFD Book Blog Chris McHart

Rafflecopter Prize: One e-copy of each book in the anthology (to one winner)Rafflecopter Code: a Rafflecopter giveaway



And now for the interview!


Cate:How do you come up with the titles to your books?
I am absolutely terrible at titles! I've even forced LJ to name my books for me before. I spent an obscene amount of time tonight trying to come up with a title for the first book in my new series, and I'm still drawing a blank. I got lucky with Red Runs Through. It actually came from a snippet of a line of a song and I thought it fit perfectly. The story revolves around Carter, who does blood tests on Matthew, and Matthew, who has HIV, but ultimately, it's about heart, so Red Runs Through. :) 

Say your publisher has offered to fly you anywhere in the world to do research on an upcoming book, where would you most likely want to go?
Oh, God, wouldn't that be amazing? Right now, the book I'm working on takes place in Vancouver, which is very close to where I live, so that wouldn't do. I'm also working on another collaboration with LJ, this one taking place in Adelaide, Australia, where she lives. I'd LOVE to visit her there! She's shown me photos and it looks gorgeous.
Really, though, there are so many places on my travel list. I'd love to visit the places I wrote about in Thirty Things. I was only able to see them through Google Maps a lot of the time, so it would be amazing to actually follow the road trip Nate and Finn took. I'd love to go back to France and England and Ireland as well. I think that there are very few places on this planet that I wouldn't want to see.

What is a talent you wish you had, but don't?The art of avoiding procrastination. Seriously. I think I spend half my day doing things that aren't necessary at all.


L.J.:Tell us something about your newest release that is NOT in the blurb. 
There is a term that I've heard used quite often in my own life situation, and it is "invisible disability." That is, a disability that is a definite impairment but isn't immediately obvious. This long-novella is about one of these sorts of disabilities. I have intimate experience with how people treat you when they discover that no, you're not doing X, Y or Z because you're a killjoy, you're not doing it because you physically canNOT, and it ranges between accepting and kind to insulting and depressing. 
Dealing with that on top of the disability is very frustrating. This story features one of these "invisible disabilities" and how people react to it or treat the character who has it, as well as him finding love and acceptance not just with a wonderful man but in himself. That latter is particularly important, I think, because being at peace with yourself isn't an easy thing.

What is your most embarrassing moment? 
I find this funny now, but at the time, I was mortified. It makes a great story, though! When I was 14, I was a huge fan of the band The Damned. They were playing a show in Adelaide (my home city, the capital city of the state of South Australia), so my mum rang up the club and asked if we could go in early and get a poster. The club said yes, so we did. When we got there, mum asked if we could go upstairs and look at the club, and they said sure. It was closed at the time, doors opened for the show at 10pm. So we went upstairs and lo and behold, who was there? The Damned. 
I promptly forgot how to speak, and mum did all the talking. The band gave me their autographs and mum happily told them they were  lucky not to go swimming that day as someone got attacked by a shark. Then we left the club and I staggered around the corner in this fit of fangirl ZOMG!ness, and promptly walked smack into a tree. 
My mortification was extreme because right behind us, having decided to go and get some dinner, were The Damned. So I met the band, got their autographs, listened to mum tell them about shark attacks and then I walked into a tree. Good times, good times!

When writing descriptions of your hero/ine, what feature do you start with?
Eyes. Personally, I'm an eye person. Eye colour is really remarkable—there's such a depth and complexity to it, no one has single colour eyes, they're a combination. For instance, brown eyes are a mixture of shades of brown, blue eyes are as well. So it's always the eyes have it first.

HAHABT Blog Hop

Love is Love!

Hey everyone! I’m M.A. Church, and welcome to Decadent Delights. I want to thank you for stopping by for the HAHABT Blog Hop.
While it’s hard dealing with narrow-minded people with their misguided beliefs, we need to remember education is the key. It’s essential to fighting homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia. Through patience and understanding, we can make changes.
I’ve told a few people what I write. Most times the response is an odd look, a shrug, and the question why… which leads to why restricting a group of people’s rights is a bad idea. Look at our history to tell you why.
Sometimes a conversation is all it takes to get someone to just stop and think, instead of reacting with what they’ve been taught. Often we shun the naysayers. That kind of negative energy is not only hard to deal with, it’s hurtful. Harmful. I’ve walked away from those people too.
But… I’ve also reached a blessed few. Got them to think. To listen. To try to put themselves in that persons shoes and see what it’s like. And when it happens and a lightbulb goes off… it’s a beautiful thing. Together, we can make a difference.
May 17th is International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia



Now for the contest! :) The prize is book #1 and book #2 of The Harvest series in ebook! Just comment on my post for a chance to win. Make sure to leave me an email addy so I can contact the winner after the Hop is over. :)

Have fun hopping, y'all. There are a bunch of great folks in the Hop!

~M

Feline Fridays!

Hey everyone! This is a new thing I'm doing on Fridays. I *had* been posting In Enemy Hands on this day, but I've moved it to Thursdays.

So, what is Feline Fridays? It's all about cats lol. Video's of cats, pictures of cats, cats being cute, cats being *not* so cute lol... and it's also going to include stuff from my Fur, Fangs, and Felines series too. It might be teasers from one of the stories or maybe pictures of one of the guys. If you're hanging out here, you'll get a chance to see stuff with my werecats before the others lol. And please, feel free to ask questions or give me ideas lol.

Speaking of the guys, I'm still waiting to hear about book #2 Behind the Eight Ball. This is Heller's book and here's a short little synopsis for ya:

A cool autumn morning, a yard full of birds, and a kitty on a mission. What more could a shifter want? Beta Heller Wirth has it all… except a mate: a shifter mate, that is. He’s been looking, but so far it’s a no-go in the fate department. And after seeing how happy Dolf is with Tal and Kirk, Heller really wants to meet that special someone. Even though Kirk was human at one time.

Frankly Heller can’t think of anything worse than having a human mate. Many in his clowder agree. Which might be why Dolf’s human mate, Kirk, is determined to change some attitudes. Heller’s included. Okay, maybe Kirk isn’t so bad. Besides, once he mated Dolf and Tal, Kirk wasn’t fully human anymore.

While Kirk may be okay, Heller knows humans are dangerous. They kill without remorse. They destroy whatever they touch. They just can’t be trusted. Period. So of course the goddess Bast gives him a human mate. When Heller figures out what he smells is a mate scent from a human, he reacts badly. He runs—and by doing so, rejects his mate.

Lawson Dupre isn’t exactly sure what just happened in his car detail shop. One minute there was a guy about to pass out, then he seemed okay and was even flirting, and then he runs out the door like the hounds of Hell were after him. Lawson’s best friend and one of the co-owners of the shop, Janelle Foles, quickly explains what she suspects the stranger is to Lawson.

Janelle’s also not human.

Lawson is one of those rare humans who know paranormals exist. Janelle and her brother, Marshell, are Vetalas, snake-like paranormals. So finding out his mate is a werecat isn’t freaking Lawson out. The fact that his mate seems to hate humans is. If that’s not enough to deal with, there’s a werewolf stalking Lawson.

Watch the fur fly as Heller and Lawson struggle to overcome deeply misguided beliefs and hurt feelings. Heller’s clowder still isn’t thrilled about another human mate joining them.




Okay, yes... Heller's a diva, slightly narcissistic, and the man is fussy about his hair. He's also awkward, insecure, and lonely. He knows pain and heartache, but he doesn't always make the best choices. No man is an island, as the saying goes. Heller needs reminding of that lol, and he gets it.

*Snicker* Of course he does.

In this book you'll also meet Janelle and Marshell Foles. They're Vetalas. Vetalas are a type of paranormal, almost snake-like, who try to hunt in pairs. They appear human until they attack (or are attacked), at which point they reveal sharp teeth and blue, snake-like eyes.

They possess extremely strong, sharp fangs that can rip open a throat. The top two central incisors are very long and pointy, and so are the canines. A Vetalas bite marks resemble the marks of a vampire attack. They paralyze their victims with a venomous bite. It can knock the victim out cold, depending on the amount used, and can causes a ringing in the ear, along with weakened strength.

Yeah, they're bad to the bone, lol, and Lawson loves them like family. Matter of fact, they *are* his only real family now. Lawson's folks could handle him being gay. What they couldn't handle him was him dating Marshell, a black man. Yes, there's a story there lol. Hopefully DsP takes the book and has it out around the end of the year.  :)



And here's a cute video I found lol.

Anyone with a cat will understand...
Posted by Alltopics on Wednesday, November 19, 2014

In Enemy Hands Chapter 7.1

In Enemy Hands Chapter 7.1
Adlar stood to the side and watched the two males size each other up. Varo was edgy—Adlar could all but smell the nerves pumping off him. He was unsure as to why. Varo was a prince, so being around others such as himself shouldn’t trigger such a reaction.
“Well, come.” King Omori gestured to a table near the sitting area that held food. “I had refreshments brought for us. Please, help yourself. I thought we could share a meal together.”
“Thank you, your Majesty.” Varo edged closer to Adlar, and then flashed a brief glance at Adlar. “Um, that would be nice?”
Adlar heard the question. He let his hand rest at the small of Varo’s back and felt the other male trembled under his touch.                                                 “Indeed, it is.” Unless he was very much mistaken, Varo wasn’t just nervous—he was intimidated by Omori. He immediately set about to dispel such an unnecessary emotion. “It’s always an adventure eating here, believe me. You just never know what the male has in store for us.”
“Ha!” Omori punched Adlar in the arm. “Don’t let this one fool you. He’s tried to bribe my chef away more than once.”
Adar allowed the hit with a smirk. “Someone hasn’t been working out lately I see.”
Varo gasped.
“Ohhhh, fighting word.” Omori returned the smirk. “Well then, meet me in the morning, brother, and we’ll see how much I’ve not been working out.”
Varo’s head whipped around.
Adlar gently urged Varo along, ignoring the stunned look. He left his hand at the small of Varo’s back. “You’re on. Two hours before first meal, your lordship. Should give you plenty of time to recover after the ass kicking I plan for you.”
Varo goggled at the both of them.
“Big words, Adlar, big words. And I got your ‘lordship’,” Omori growled playfully as he grasped his cock. “I look forward to it.”
“As do I.” Goddess, Varo looked like he was about to have a stroke right there. Did he not know they were only playing? Did Varo and his brothers’ never play like this? How sad.
Adlar made a point of leaving his hand where it was in an effort to comfort Varo. He sighed silently at how invested he’d become in the other male… but he sure as frack didn’t move his hand either. Varo slowly relaxed, the tension leaving his body.
He studied his brother as they moved across the room, not sure what prompted Varo to be intimidation. Omori was a little taller than him. Maybe a bit bulkier too, but not much. All Helkans had a long and lean build. He wasn’t even that dressed up since they were meeting in his private chambers.
As they reached the table, Omori moved to one side so Varo could serve himself first, and Adlar saw the problem. There was a cold, calculating look in Omori’s eyes—a sternness to his face that suggested a devious mind lay behind those intense amber eyes. It was the price of being king.
But it was the power in that lean face he often didn’t notice that intimidate others. Omori was a very driven, strong-willed male who held some very precise beliefs and didn’t back down. He wasn’t afraid of violence if it was needed. And he didn’t care what others outside of his own race thought of him.
It was one reason he’d kept their planet safe for as long as he had. The male fought for his beliefs and would not hesitate to destroy any and all who tried to stand in his way. Adlar laughed silently. And people thought he was the dangerous one.
They were wrong.
After fixing their plates, they sat. Omori sat at the head. Adlar was to the right, and Varo to the left. The meal progressed without mention of Varo’s shuttle getting through the Satellite Surveillance Network. There was no mention of the fact his starship had been monitoring the planet in the first place.
Nothing was said about the Yesris ever-present demand for Black Phospolrock… or how the Yesri felt they have a right to just take the crystal. Even the old standby—the weather—was a useless topic. You had a choice on Helkan—dark days or darker days, and that was it.
“Oh, don’t know if you heard, but I’ve been working on a new battle bot,” Omori said as they ate.
“Really? What have you done?” Adlar asked.
“Nothing much. I thought it would be nice if it had the capability to fire a net at us while training. Another bot would have the ability to work a ball and chain system. The ball would be spiked, of course.”
“That might lead to a few broken ankles or gaping wounds,” Adlar pointed out.
“For training purposes it would be made with less dangerous materials and no spikes. The last thing I want is for a warrior to get hurt. I know we have the medical equipment to heal broke bones, but that still requires seventy-two unit hours mandatory recuperation. We’ll introduce it and let them practice until they adjust, and then change it out to something more threatening.”
“I want to try it first,” Adlar said.
“Of course.” Omori nodded. “I assumed such.”
“The real thing too, Omori. No fracking watered-down version neither.”
“Of course. Again, I expected no less.”
Varo was mostly quiet through the meal leaving Omori and Adlar to carry the conversation, but now he spoke up. “Wait. Wouldn’t it be safer to use the more ‘watered-down version’ as you called it first? I mean, you don’t know how the battle bot will respond with such a weapon.”
“Worried about me, princeling?” Adlar asked, eyebrow raised.
“More worried about who’s going to care for you if you get hurt.” Varo fired back.
After startled silence, Omori suddenly laughed loudly. “Be afraid. Be very afraid, Varo. The last time he broke his leg I had to care for him. Good gods, a more demanding male you’ll never meet. By the time he was completely healed I needed a vacation. Frack, running a kingdom was easier than dealing with Adlar.”
“He threatened to put a pillow over my face.” Adlar snorted. “ That’s the quality of care I got from my loving brother.” Adlar threw his napkin at Omori.
“Indeed I did. You were a colossal ass.”
Varo snorted, gasped, and then coughed loudly. “Sorry, sorry. Swallowed wrong.”
“Right. It had nothing to do with not trying to laugh.” Adlar grinned at Varo to show he was kidding.
“Nope, nothing at all.” Varo grabbed the glass of water next to him and sipped. He set it down once he got his coughing under control. “Goddess. Colossal, huh?” He looked at Omori.
“You have no idea, Varo.” Omori threw the napkin back Adlar. “Besides, threatening and doing are two different things I might remind you, Adlar. Anyway, it’s not like I could’ve gotten within a foot of you and you not know it.”
“He does seem to sleep lightly,” Varo said.
“Assassins better sleep light or they sleep forever,” Adlar said. Just as he finished speaking, a gong sound in Omori’s quarters.
The king checked his wrist com, a slight smile coming to his face. He tapped a few buttons, and then looked at Adlar. “Deep, brother. That was very deep.” Omori added in dreadfully serious tone, his face solemn as if Adlar had just imparted the universe’s secrets at the table.
Adlar glared at Omori… then threw his head back and laughed. “Bite me, Omori.”
“I’d rather he’d bite me.” Heads swiveled. Coming toward the table was Maylar, one of the A’moor. “Greetings, my King.”
Maylar stopped by Omori’s chair and bowed deeply. “You called for me, Sire?”
“Indeed I did,” Omori said. “Thank you for coming so soon. Would you care to join us?”
“I’d be honored.” Maylar bowed slightly to Adlar and nodded to Varo. “Greetings to the both of you too.”
“Maylar,” Adlar nodded.
He noticed Maylar hair was a mass of elaborate coils of braids that cascaded down his back. Several strands had escaped and framed his face, giving him even more of an ethereal appearance. Adlar was beginning to think Maylar did this on purpose.
It emphasized his sensual androgynous appearance. This time he wore a nearly sheer black sarong with an equally sheer thong underneath. Cream-colored scrollwork wound around the bottom of the sarong. On his feet he wore delicate black sandals.  The male was dressed for seduction.
Varo didn’t say anything, but Adlar noticed the tight-lipped glare aimed at Maylar he quickly masked. Interesting. Could that be jealousy I see there?  
“Excellent,” Omori said. “Food is on the table. Help yourself.”
Maylar glided across the room to the serving table. Oh yes, the final meal suddenly got much more interesting.
TBC next Thursday :) Keep an eye out for an new thing I'm doing on Fridays too! ~M