Alien Salvation

Alien Salvation Title Page Chapter One Chapter Two Chapter Three Chapter Four Chapter Five Chapter Six Chapter Seven Chapter Eight Chapter Nine Chapter Ten Chapter Eleven Chapter Twelve Chapter Thirteen Chapter Fourteen Chapter Fifteen Chapter Sixteen Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen Chapter Nineteen Chapter Twenty Chapter Twenty One Chapter Twenty Two Chapter Twenty Three

Alien Salvation By Tracy St. John

(c) Copyright July 2011, Tracy St. John Cover Art (c) 2011 by Eliza Black Smashwords Edition Published by new Concepts Publishing New Concepts Publishing

Lake Park, GA 31636 www.newconceptspublishing.com This is a work of fiction. All characters, events, and places are of the author’s imagination and not to be confused with fact. Any resemblance to living persons or events is merely coincidence.

Chapter One

Lindsey McInness peered through her binoculars from the top of the office building, looking at the Fort Lauderdale beach three blocks away. The silver oblong shape lying on the beach tilted to one side, one of its landing struts badly bent. The Kalquorian shuttle had landed hard, skipping across the blond sand like a stone skipping across the water. Lindsey had watched it come down half an hour earlier. Her father Aaron squinted through his own set of

binoculars while her mother Tara crouched between them, her face eternally peaceful as always. The sharp sea breeze lifted Tara and Lindsey’s matching chestnut locks and Aaron’s soft gray strands. The breeze was cooling in the heat of the early spring sun. Tara finally asked, “Any signs of life?” “Not yet.” Lindsey put the binoculars down and looked at her mother. Despite Tara’s serene expression, her appearance made Lindsey wince. She was too thin, her tank top and shorts accentuating her starved

appearance. Her arms and legs were sticklike. Food had been hard to come by lately, and none of them had possessed an extra ounce of fat when Armageddon had struck Earth six months earlier. With Aaron injuring his back falling down the stairs a few weeks ago, the situation was becoming desperate for the little family. Desperate enough that Lindsey had decided to approach the Kalquorian ship the moment she saw it careening through the powder blue Florida sky. With no sign of life coming from the craft, it was time to make her move.

“I’m going down for a closer look,” she informed her parents. “I’m not sure that’s a good idea.” Aaron frowned, putting down his binoculars too. The past two years had been harsh to him. He was in his midfifties, but living in hiding and then seeing most of Earth demolished in cataclysmic explosions had aged him badly. His eyes were sunken, his face almost skull-like. It broke Lindsey’s heart to see him look so old. “It isn’t, but those Kalquorians probably have food. If they survived, they

might be willing to share. If they’re dead, they won’t need it anyway.” Lindsey hurried across the roof to the door leading into the building, keeping her gaunt frame huddled in a crouch. Kalquorians, other Earthers, whatever was out there — she had no intention of advertising the family’s presence to anyone. Her parents followed, Aaron moving slowly with pain. At least he could still walk. Maybe there was a Kalquorian doctor on that shuttle. Maybe the Kalquorians were friendly, having nothing to do with Armageddon. And maybe Santa

Claus was with them, handing out presents to good little children. Help was too much to hope for, but Lindsey had lived on little more than hope for a long time.

They entered the stairwell, finally able to straighten and walk normally without the fear of hostile eyes upon them. Tara also existed on hope, which was obvious in her next statement. “They might know Jessica.” Aaron’s voice echoed in the stairwell as they climbed down the six flights. “We don’t know

for sure the Kalquorians weren’t behind the attack on Earth. We were at war with them, after all.” Lindsey saved her reply until they reached the ground floor. She entered the office building’s lobby, which had been looted. Graffiti was scrawled on all the walls, charming little notes like ‘God is Dead’, ‘Traitors Die!’ and the darkly humorous ‘My Parents Visited Earth and All I Got Was This Lousy Mushroom Cloud’. Broken furniture lay in huddled piles, some blackened by fire. Heat blasted like a furnace in the poorly ventilated

area, and Lindsey was grateful for her tank top and shorts. The family made their home on the top floor and roof where looters and refugees were less likely to discover them. With all government and law enforcement a thing of the past, it was every man for himself. Survival now depended on one’s ability to defend herself and her supplies. Lindsey picked her way over rubble to get at a small storage closet, though her steel-toed boots were good protection from the metal and glass pieces scattered about. She

cast careful glances at the entrance doors as she went, now just glass shards clinging to metal frames. They hadn’t blockaded the entrance. Nothing attracted looters like the appearance of defense. Lindsey had saved her booby traps for the top two floors. She tried for a comforting smile to ease her father’s fears. “If the Kalquorians are as desperate for Earther women to breed with as the underground claimed, it makes no sense they’d have set off all those bombs. Why would you kill off the species needed for your own survival?”

His face went even grayer, if that was possible. “That’s another reason to not rush over to that ship. You don’t know what they’ll do when they see you. They might rape you. Abduct you.” Lindsey reached the supply closet and opened the door. Pulling out the false floor, she grabbed a percussion blaster. The larger stockpile of weapons was upstairs, within easy reach of where they lived. “I’ll be careful.” Tara winced, her dislike of violence finally rippling through her calm acceptance of life’s rough treatment. “A

blaster?” “You’d prefer me unarmed?” She watched her mother struggle with her fears for Lindsey’s safety and her Buddhist beliefs against armed confrontation. Lindsey leaned down to kiss her mother’s elfin face, unable to watch the moral conflict duking it out in her eyes. “I won’t shoot them on sight, Mom. I’ll give them a chance to be nice.” “Do what you have to,” Aaron said, but he lowered his eyes when Tara looked at him. His voice low in apology, he said, “Losing one daughter was more than I wanted to bear. I

can’t face losing both.”

Tara nodded her understanding, hugging him close with skeletal arms. Unable to witness their pain, Lindsey turned away and crept to the double doors, alert for any sign of others in the area. “Get back upstairs,” she ordered. “Stay out of sight. The crash might attract some desperate characters to the area, and I don’t want to lose what little we have.” Nothing outside stirred except the palm tree fronds holding up the blameless blue

sky overhead. Lindsey stepped through the doors, angling her body to avoid the dagger shards of glass that reached to spill her blood. She darted to the dubious cover of a burnedout hover shuttle on the street in front of the building, watching carefully for any enemy, be it Earther or Kalquorian. **** Bacoj was out of the ship and down the ramp the instant the main hatch opened. Japohn’s growl followed him, and the brawny Nobek was on his heels in an instant. “Bacoj, you wait until I’ve

determined we’re clear!” The young Kalquorian turned to face his clanmate. “You’ve been scanning for hostiles for the last thirty minutes. How much more clear can we be?” The massive Japohn stood over him, his blue-purple eyes scanning the windswept beach on one side and the tall buildings on the other. Long, loose black curls spiraled to his muscular shoulders, left bare by his red-trimmed black formsuit. Japohn was a behemoth by even Kalquorian standards. He looked big and clumsy with 300 pounds of

bulky muscle, but Bacoj knew his Nobek’s agility was not to be underestimated. The man was quick and vicious in a fight. If Bacoj hadn’t been so angry right now, Japohn’s scowl, nearly hidden behind his mustache and goatee, might have given him pause. Bacoj turned to look their surroundings over. On the street bordering the beach, abandoned hover craft transports and archaic automobiles on round black wheels dotted the surface on which they had once traveled. Almost all of them were blackened, burnt hulks of metal and molded plastic. None of the

nuclear explosions that had wiped out most of Earth’s inhabitants had happened here. The surviving Earthers had obviously turned on each other in an orgy of destruction. Japohn’s sharp eyes looked over everything, suspecting every piece of the landscape of harboring enemies. “We may be under observation from a distance. Let me do my job of protecting you.” Nobeks were the clan defenders, and Japohn was taking his position very seriously. Too seriously, in Bacoj’s opinion. He twitched, shaking off Japohn’s heavy

hand on his shoulder. “I’m already outside. I need to check the engine to see how much damage was done.” He strode over the rippled skin of sand, hearing the soft grind of his knee-high boots against the grainy surface. He restrained a groan at the damage to the underside of their shuttle. It looked like Japohn had used it for a punching bag. He opened the engine

compartment, wincing in expectation. “We took a direct hit from that magnetic surge. It

can’t be good news.” Japohn ran his hand over the hull. “The whole skin is crumpled. It’s my fault. We should have taken the long way and avoided the portal like you wanted.” Yes we should have, Japohn. But we always have to do things your way, don’t we? Bacoj bit back the angry words. His clanmate sounded sincerely upset with himself, especially since their other clanmate Vax had been hurt in the crash. And who was really at fault? He knew who his superiors would blame. Bacoj took a deep breath. “I

was the one piloting. And I am clan leader. The blame for this is mine.” He raised his voice to a yell. “Vax, hit the ignition.” The shuttle powered up with a thick grinding sound that masked its usual efficient hum. Purplish-black smoke roiled from the compartment, and Bacoj coughed as the fumes hit him. Still, there was a sense of relief. “All right, shut it down!” The ship fell silent again. Light thumps on the ramp claimed Bacoj’s attention, and he turned to see Vax leave the ship to stand at Japohn’s side. The smallest member of their

clan, Vax looked somehow childlike and defenseless next to the Nobek. His well-formed face, usually gentle with a smile, was drawn. His brows pinched close to each other. Bacoj’s Imdiko, the clan’s nurturer, was in obvious pain, his broken arm encased in a hard shell and supported in a sling. “What’s the verdict?” he asked them. Bacoj smiled encouragingly. “Fortunately, I don’t see major damage to the engine. It’s the power recharger that’s the real problem, along with the loss of all but one thruster. I can repair

it well enough for a few short hops.” Vax, ever the optimist, smiled back. “It beats walking.” Bacoj looked towards the southwest, seeing nothing but dark, hulking buildings, the glass broken out of windows and doors and strange hieroglyphics painted on their exteriors. He’d learned a little of the Earther language English since that was the dialect of the area he was assigned to. But he couldn’t read any of the writings posted on the seemingly abandoned buildings. Bacoj was low in rank, a mere shuttle pilot, and

he hadn’t counted on much interaction with Earth’s native population. “I’ll also have to repair the stabilizers. Once that’s done, we might be able to reach the search teams southwest of here within three days.” Vax’s blue-purple eyes widened. “Three days? There’s no hope of restoring communications with the fleet?” He must be in a lot of pain to be so worried. We’ll have to make him take pain inhibitors. Bacoj swallowed. Vax was an easygoing man, never making waves and content with

whatever life threw in his direction. The complete opposite of Japohn, in fact.

“The com panel is fried, along with environmental controls. We’ll have to open the atmospheric vents and hope this mild weather holds.” The gravity of their situation hit Bacoj with renewed strength. “My commander is going to have my head for this.” Japohn frowned. “I was the one who insisted we take the unstable Bermuda Triangle portal. If anyone is to be punished it’s me.”

Bacoj regretted sharing his anxiety. “I’m the pilot and the clan Dramok. The responsibility is mine. How’s that arm, Vax?” The Imdiko tried for a brave smile, but he looked like he might vomit. “Sore, but I think I’ll survive.” “I want you to take a pain inhibitor.” When Vax opened his mouth to protest, Bacoj held up his hand for silence. “We’ve got enough for you to last until we get to the search party’s base.” “But if someone else needs it—”

“No one else is hurt. You’ll take as much as you need.” It was easy to be clan leader with Vax. He took orders with little argument. Japohn stiffened, and they immediately looked in the direction that had his attention. Vax asked, “What’s wrong?” “Someone’s coming.” Bacoj saw nothing moving among the refuse of the Earther landscape but didn’t doubt his Nobek’s claim. A bounty hunter before the war, Japohn could detect danger better than most. Bacoj’s hand went to the dagger sheathed in his belt. “How many?”

“I think one. You two had better get back inside the shuttle just in case.” Bacoj let go of the blade, confident in Japohn’s ability to handle a single Earther. “We’re a rescue operation first and foremost. It may be someone who needs our help.” “We aren’t in much of a position to help anyone, including ourselves,” Japohn reminded him. “Still, let’s not be too hasty to attack if we’re approached. We can at least give a good impression of our people.” Japohn snorted, his gaze

still riveted on a burnt out husk of a transport vehicle. Bacoj couldn’t be sure if he would obey his orders. Not for the first time, he wondered if he’d made a mistake clanning the assertive Nobek. **** Peeking through the filthy windshield of an electric car, Lindsey swallowed, her dry throat clicking. All three aliens were staring in her direction. She’d been spotted despite her best efforts to remain hidden. She was still a block away. Surely that was enough of a head start for her to evade them.

But her parents were starving, especially her father. Lindsey knew he’d been going without to make sure Tara had enough food. Desperation made her bold. She stood up straight and walked towards the Kalquorians, putting on a brave face like a mask.

She studied them as she drew closer, staring at them as frankly as they stared at her. Her eyes went to the tallest one first. She’d known Kalquorians were big, averaging about six and a half feet tall, but this one was a monster. His clinging

black outfit showed every bulge of his amazing physique. Black curls hung to his wide, bare shoulders. His skin, like the other two, was dark like the people of the Middle East. His face was handsome but the expression he wore, watchful with suspicion, made him look brutish. Fear licked through her belly, turning her insides strangely warm. Heavens, he was the most virile-looking creature she’d ever set eyes on. The smallest of the three men was still at least a foot taller than her own five-five height and well-muscled in proportion to his frame. The

tense but gentle expression he wore gave her courage to keep going. Hair swept back from his attractive face in soft waves. She liked the strength of his chiseled jaw. He’d apparently been injured. One of his arms was encased in a hard-molded gray shell, and a strap slung around his thick neck held it close to his chest. The third man was thicker bodied than his injured friend, his face striking even though it wore a frown. Despite the downturn of his sensuous lips, he didn’t look unfriendly. His was a look of concern, as if he had enough problems without an Earther showing up for who-

knew-what reason. He tossed his head as a breeze blew an errant lock of his long, wavy hair across his unlined face. Lindsey wondered if the hair was as soft as it looked. Lindsey had known the Kalquorians were similar in features to Earthers, but she hadn’t expected them to be so attractive. They were gorgeous examples of masculinity with wide shoulders, tapered waists, muscled thighs and … she warmed as her gaze skittered over the prominent bulges of their crotches. Their clothing left very little to the imagination.

Considering what she was about to do, it was a good thing she found them to be so handsome. Hopefully, she would be as attractive to them. She was clean, at least. Yesterday’s rain had given her the opportunity to bathe. She reached the curb across from the three men. Without slowing, giving her mounting fear no chance to overtake her, she crossed Highway A1A, stepped up on the opposite curb, and stomped over the soft beach sand to stand in front of the blacksuited trio. She kept her blaster held loosely at her side. She wanted them to know she

wasn’t helpless but didn’t want to be overtly threatening either. She looked up at them, trying to ignore her speeding heart. Three pairs of purple eyes regarded her, their pupils slit like cats’. That was the biggest difference she could discern between their races. She’d heard they also had fangs, hinged like those of a rattlesnake. A Kalquorian’s bite supposedly rendered his victim drugged and helpless. They were so big. Lindsey had to force her blaster to remain at her side. “Hello, Kalquorians. Can you understand me?” She

enunciated carefully.

each

word

It was the frowning Kalquorian with the sensuous lips who answered. “We speech some English.” His voice was a soft rumble, and Lindsey restrained a shiver. His gaze was so intense, she had to look away. She nodded at the badly dented spaceship behind them. “It looks like you’re having a little trouble.” The Kalquorian glanced back at his ship, his frown deepening. His gaze returned to

her, and he stepped closer. Lindsey caught a scent that reminded her of cinnamon. “Much trouble,” the man agreed. “Portal unstable. Make damage.” “The Bermuda Triangle wormhole? Yeah, it eats ships. None of ours can use it unless they’re double hulled with buffer fields.” She licked her lips. “Are you here to hurt Earthers?” His eyes widened, and he held his hands up. “No to hurt. We to work containment for radiation.” He made a vague motion towards the northwest. “You understand?”

He must mean the Atlanta blast site. The Kalquorians are trying to contain the fallout? Lindsey nodded. “I understand. Do you have food?” The biggest Kalquorian’s eyes narrowed, and his lips pursed. However, Lindsey saw compassion fill the others’ faces. The Kalquorian who spoke to her stopped frowning. He said, “We supplied short time. You hungry?” Some of her tension bled away. They were willing to share with one Earther at least, but their food was apparently limited. She had to make it worth their while to feed the

rest of her family. Lindsey gave them a hopeful smile, trying for friendliness. It wasn’t easy when her legs trembled so hard. “Do you have names?” The aliens’ speaker returned her smile, and Lindsey felt warmth cascade through her body despite her fear. The smile lit his handsome face, elevating him to mouthwatering gorgeous. He said, “I am Dramok Bacoj.” Motioning to the suspicious giant, he continued the introductions. “My Nobek Japohn. The injured is Imdiko Vax.”

Lindsey dragged her memory for the limited information she had on Kalquorians. “Dramok is the clan leader, right?” Bacoj looked pleased. “This is correct. Nobek is protector. Imdiko is caregiver. You name?” “My name is Lindsey.” She bit her lip. Was she really about to do this? She thought about her father’s drawn face, her mother’s twig-like arms. Taking a deep breath, she plunged ahead. “I’ll be blunt, Dramok. My family is starving. All the food has been looted from the stores and there’s

precious little to hunt in Fort Lauderdale. We don’t even have anything to use for bait to catch fish, and—” Bacoj held his hand up, stilling her stream of nervous words. “You fast speak too much, Lindsey. I no understand.” Okay. Then we’ll just cut to the chase. Lindsey said, “Kalquorians like Earther women for sex, right?

Three mouths dropped open in cartoonish shock. She almost laughed despite her growing terror. The

expressions so didn’t fit the aliens’ faces. Blinking fast, Bacoj answered, “We are need for species survive.” “Then the rumors of your imminent extinction are true.” At Bacoj’s confused expression, Lindsey said, “You like sex for its own sake?” Bacoj exchanged looks with his clanmates and received very Earther-like shrugs. He returned his gaze to Lindsey. His tone was hesitant, as if afraid he would get the answer wrong. “We like sex.” “With women?” She’d heard so many stories about the

Kalquorians that she had to be sure. “We like sex with women.” Lindsey couldn’t help another nervous swallow. “Fine. I’ll trade sex for whatever food you can spare. I can’t say I’ll be very good since I’ve never done it, but it’s all I have to offer.” The effect of her statement was instantaneous. Even as the three men stared at her in continued surprise, the air was suddenly thick with that cinnamon-y smell and the bulges at their groins swelled. Lindsey fought the urge to run screaming. The only male sex

she’d ever seen belonged to a statue in an illicit art book she’d gotten from a friend. From the looks of things, her would-be lovers were much larger. Frighteningly so. The biggest Kalquorian, the scary one Bacoj had introduced as Japohn, spoke in a hoarse voice. “You give sex for us? All of clan?” Lindsey forced her eyes to meet his. Blue-purple, they were beautiful to look at, the least threatening feature the man possessed. “That’s the offer, big boy. Willing sex from me for food.” The soft voice of Vax spoke

next. “How many to feed?” “Three. Myself and my mother and father.” The tension in their exchanged looks told her she was asking a lot. Tears welled up in Lindsey’s eyes. Where would she get food for her parents if they said no? She blinked back the evidence of momentary weakness. Her tone was less than diplomatic as she snapped, “Well, do we have a deal?” Vax said something in his own staccato language. Japohn answered, his glowering face easing to show concern. Vax shook his head before

delivering another burst of speech, his gentle smile growing. Both men looked to Bacoj, who nodded. He smiled down on Lindsey, his eyes bright with eagerness. “We make trade.” He reached for her. Lindsey stumbled back a step, her guts flip-flopping. She thought of her parents on the rooftop three blocks away, watching the exchange. If Aaron knew what she’d agreed to on his behalf, he’d throw himself down the stairs again. “Can we do this inside?” she asked, looking towards their ship.

Bacoj nodded. “Sleep mat inside.”

“Okay.” Lindsey’s stomach churned with nerves, and she couldn’t help but look at the large bulges in the Kalquorians’ pants. Handsome as they were, she was sure she wasn’t going to like their attentions one bit. She turned to wave towards the office building where her family hid, letting them know everything was all right … okay lying to them that everything was all right. Her heart pounding, Lindsey marched up

the ship’s ramp past the men and entered its interior.

Chapter Two

Lindsey waited for the men in the main cabin of the shuttle. It was a small space with bench seating around two small round tables attached to the floor. The ceiling, floor and walls were all the same white surface, and the black furniture was stark. She thought little of the Spartan décor. She shrank back as the aliens joined her. Their sheer size was so intimidating. Was she really going to do this? Bacoj looked at her, his gentle expression doing little

to alleviate the dread settling heavily in her stomach. He walked past her to the back of the cabin, where a door hissed open. “Here sleeping room,” he announced. She slowly walked toward him, aware the other two men were behind her. Surrounded. If she changed her mind, would they let her go? Or would they force her to keep her bargain? The swelling of Bacoj’s groin told Lindsey he very much wanted to have her. She fought back the rise of panic that threatened to send her screaming out of the shuttle and down Fort Lauderdale’s debris-strewn streets.

She peered into the sleeping room, standing just outside the doorway. This room had a little more warmth than the main cabin. Golden light emitted from the walls and ceiling, casting a warm glow. Soft chocolate brown plush covered the little bit of the floor not covered by the bed, a raised billowy surface big enough to sleep a family. Or three large Kalquorians. White linens covered its surface. “You all sleep in here? Together?” Japohn’s heavy voice answered her. “We are clanmates.”

So perhaps the rumors of same-sex coupling among the Kalquorians were true. Lindsey tried to decide how she felt about that. Her Buddhist upbringing taught her to accept others as they were, a far cry from the state-approved religion’s anti-homosexual stance. Why should I even care? All I want is to get some food anyway. It’s none of my business what these guys do with each other. Lindsey stepped into the room. She leaned over, yanked at the shoestrings of one boot and pulled it off, a little

embarrassed when sand sprinkled the clean floor. “Let’s get this over with.” A big hand curled around her wrist, stopping her. She looked up into Bacoj’s purple eyes. He said, “Wait.” She straightened. He didn’t want to do this after all? Despair warred with relief. His mouth worked as he fought for words in her language. “You trade. To help family. You no—” he shook his head, struggling to express himself. He barked something at the other two men that sounded like kalom. Vax shook his head

helplessly. Japohn thought a moment before saying, “Whore?”

Bacoj’s expression cleared. “Correct.” He turned back to Lindsey. “You no whore. We no allow you act whore.” Lindsey’s eyes widened. She certainly felt like a whore, but realizing the alien didn’t regard her as one made her feel a little better about the situation. She warmed to Bacoj. “So what do you want me to do?” He smiled. “This trade make good. For you and us. You no

sex before?” Her stomach fluttered at his heated expression. Really, the man was stunning. Perhaps sex wouldn’t be that bad after all. “That’s right. I’m a virgin.” Bacoj nodded. “You nervous be.” More like terrified, especially since it looks like you have an anaconda in your pants. “You could say that,” she told him. He smiled, and Lindsey saw long, needle-thin fangs appear behind his more humanlike square teeth. “I help no fear.” She stared at the fangs,

unable to help herself. “How—” Lindsey never saw Bacoj move. All at once, he had her wrapped in his arms, held close to his gorgeous, muscular body, his face warm against her neck. Pain jabbed into her throat. “Ow! What are you doing?” She struggled in his grip. He held her easily as he might a baby. The pain was fading already as Vax answered. “He bite you.” “No kidding! Get him off me!” Japohn stroked her hair, his

dark expression softening. He brought her chestnut locks to his face and inhaled. The pleasure on his face made Lindsey’s lower body clench, and her struggles weakened. Warmth infused her. “His bite give intoxicant,” the huge alien said. He stroked her hair and Lindsey shivered with sensation. “It calm. You feel?” Boy, did she ever. Euphoria coursed through her veins as Bacoj disengaged, his raspy tongue sliding a wet trail over where he’d bitten her. Lindsey felt warmth pulse from her nether regions, wetness

pooling in her panties. Bacoj smiled gently. “Apology. I no wish frighten.” Lindsey moved against him, but not in struggle. Suddenly she couldn’t get close enough to the Kalquorian even though their bodies were already molded tight to each other. “Sure. I’ll get over it.” “Feel good?” “Very good.” Her arms slipped around his neck. “Very, very good.” His beautiful, sensuous mouth found hers, enfolding her lips in a kiss. And what a kiss. Lindsey had received

pecks on the cheek before from dates, dry, impersonal things that still pushed the boundaries of acceptable behavior on pre-Armageddon Earth. But Bacoj’s kiss was a revelation: moist, warm and lingering, sending electric shocks of heat from her lips to her womb. She felt melted inside, like chocolate left out in the sun.

His lips parted to let his tongue snake into her mouth. Lindsey gasped to feel the warm wet flesh invade, tasting her inner recesses. Her insides

went from melted chocolate to molten lava in an instant. Just when she didn’t think the kiss could get any better, Bacoj’s hand cradled the back of her head, holding her so he could plunder deeper still. His tongue wove around hers, cat-scratchy and delightful, sending her heartbeat thundering as if she’d run a marathon. As his remarkable kiss continued, hands tugged at her clothing and his, baring her to the hard heat of his skin. She’d never felt anything like this wondrous sensation of another’s body molded against hers. He was granite where she was soft, and she reveled in

how she melded against him, seemingly absorbing into his muscled frame. She ached to get closer still, to imbue the alien with her own essence. The intoxicant he’d sent into her system made her brave with desire. All inhibitions fled as it sang effervescent harmonies in her bemused brain, entrancing her. Lindsey’s hands roamed the chiseled frame, eager to know every ripple, every indentation, every bulge. She started with the thick column of his throat, running her fingers down to delight in the width of his shoulders, the flat planes of his pectoral muscles, down over

his abdomen with its double row of bumps, devouring him with her touch. And she dared even lower, to touch the hard, slick maleness folded between their bodies, pulsing against her belly. Her hand gripped him there, feeling the wet, velvety skin over his iron, and just below that a second length of firm flesh… Lindsey jerked back, tearing her lips from the sweetness of the alien’s embrace, her eyes skittering down Bacoj’s muscled torso to confirm what her hands had discovered. Shock warred with the euphoria of his bite as she struggled to comprehend what she was

seeing and touching. “Earther men one. Kalquorian men two,” Bacoj said softly. He waited patiently as Lindsey looked at his two penises. They were shaded darker brown than the rest of his skin, and glistened with fluid. He lubricates like I do, Lindsey thought. Her mother had told her in embarrassing detail about the birds and bees, so she knew Earther men didn’t get wet. Bacoj’s penis in front was longer and thicker than the other. It tapered to a point like a bullet, and a drop of whitish

fluid depended from the small opening. There was no opening on the smaller twin, and Lindsey couldn’t figure out its function. “I don’t understand. What’s the second one for?” From the corner of her eye, she saw Vax and Japohn grin at each other. She glanced at them. They propped against the far wall, gloriously naked like Bacoj. They were as chiseled with muscle and they too had extra … appendages. Japohn’s front penis was the size of a baby’s arm. A big baby. Okay, a toddler. Nervous excitement roiled in Lindsey’s belly.

Bacoj caught her by the chin and gently turned her to face him again. “I show you.” The dark promise in his eyes made her shiver in anticipation.

He scooped her up and laid her down on the bed. But instead of illuminating her on the whys and wherefores of two penises, he kissed her again, crouching over her body. The warmth in her belly roiled, a ticklish, teasing sensation. Who knew a kiss could be so exciting? Lindsey had never guessed the simple act of joining mouths could be so

thrilling. Bacoj kissed his way down her neck to her breasts. Lindsey gasped and arched as his lips closed over one carnation-pink nipple, sending bolts of desire rocketing through her body. Her nipple tightened, becoming a sharp peak in response to his attention. He sucked on the hard nub, and she writhed beneath him as the pleasure doubled, tripled. It was as if there was a direct connection between her breast and her lower regions. Sensation zipped back and forth between the two points, making her gasp.

His hand stroked her other breast, his thumb playing over that pebbly point. Bacoj teased the small mounds with fingers, mouth, teeth and tongue until Lindsey thought she might scream. Desire spiked almost painfully under Bacoj’s torture. His weight held her pinned to the sleeping mat, otherwise she might have blasted off right through the ceiling into space. She keened wordless cries, expressing the sweet torment he put her through. At last he had pity for her and continued his journey down her body.

Lindsey found a little sadness despite her intoxicated state as she watched him lick down her sunken belly. She’d lost at least a cup size on her breasts, and her ribs were obvious beneath her skin. Her hip bones jutted. But Bacoj didn’t seem to mind her too-thin frame. His mouth devoured her greedily, as if he’d finish wiping the remaining flesh from her bones. Lower and lower, until his tongue probed her navel, sending fresh shivers down her spine and erasing her selfconsciousness. She wondered

if he’d go lower still and perform the act the Church had damned as profane. She wanted him to. And she wanted to do the same for him. The thought made her shiver with anticipation. Bacoj grasped her thighs, propping them over his wide shoulders. His gaze flicked up to meet hers, and he smiled. “You smell like ocean.” “Is that good?” “I like.” And as if to prove it to her, his face dipped down to her secret flesh. His mouth closed over it in the sweetest kiss of all. Lindsey arched as

overwhelming desire bubbled through her womb. She cried out to feel Bacoj’s tongue sweep over the pink petals of her core, scooping up the sticky honey of her need. Every sense was alive, every cell of her being electric with an ache of the deepest pleasure she’d ever known. Her feet drummed helplessly against his back in reaction. He chuckled against her mound. Bacoj laved her thoroughly, leaving none of her folds untasted. He held her thighs tight to his shoulders, stilling her lower body for his attentions. Lindsey’s upper body writhed, caught up in the

thrills that raced through her being. The warm ball of pleasure built thick in her belly, pressing at the confines of her body until she thought she might faint.

Every time his tongue found her clitoris, a bright bolt of sensation crashed through her womb, leaving Lindsey moaning. It felt so good, yet it was torment too. She felt she might explode if he didn’t quit. But instead of halting the delicious torture, Bacoj increased it. His lips closed over the hard nub of hungry

flesh, holding it in their soft vise as his tongue flicked quickly back and forth. Then Lindsey did beg him to stop, her voice strangled with need. “Don’t, please, stop, stop, STOP!” She grabbed handfuls of his thick, soft hair, trying to push him off. The sensation was overwhelming, straining her beyond endurance. She couldn’t take it, it was too much, he was killing her with bliss… Molten ecstasy filled her and exploded outward. A bright flash of lightning filled her loins, and she screamed as

overwhelming sensation flung her into a pulsing nirvana of exhilarating pleasure. Waves of bliss pounded through her body, and she had a vague knowledge that she was now grinding against Bacoj’s face, riding every throb of delicious fulfillment, the likes of which she’d never imagined. His mouth shattered her in a million glorious pieces, and she didn’t care if she never came together again.

The bright point ebbed, giving her a brief moment of breath, then another brilliant

flare filled her. Then another. And once more. An eternity later, Lindsey slowly returned to herself, sobbing in the wake of her first orgasm. Bacoj climbed over her to embrace her gently, murmuring softly to her in his own language. She held onto him tightly as she regained reality. His arms surrounded her, keeping her safe and whole. He made sure I enjoyed it. He could have selfishly done his business with me, taken what he wanted without any concern at all for my enjoyment. But he didn’t.

The alien’s consideration and generosity was a pleasant surprise. More than anything, Lindsey suddenly wanted to return the favor. She wanted to make him feel good too. She felt his sexes nudge at her still trembling flesh, and she suddenly realized what the second penis was for. The Church’s greatest sin. Holy crap, did Earth know about this? Is that why they hated the Kalquorians so much? Bacoj slipped a hand between them, probing her secret flesh. “Tight. To make ready,” he whispered, and he

slipped a finger inside her sex. Lindsey gasped to feel something inside her body reigniting the clamoring need so recently discovered. Her sheath grasped at the invader. The alien moved his finger in and out, delighting her senses. His mouth seized hers as he pleasured her, and she tasted herself on him, salty and sweet. Bacoj added a second finger, and she groaned into his mouth. Lindsey had always felt ambiguous about sex. It was far too deadly to chance on pre-Armageddon Earth, and never having found a man she

could trust fully enough to marry, she’d

dismissed all thoughts of intimacy. But now need was roaring through every cell of her body, demanding and overwhelming her. The alien male pulled his fingers free, and she whimpered with loss. Then one of those fingers, slick with her juices, settled over her anus, and she froze despite her body’s eager throb. Unlawful. The worst sin imaginable. Death penalty if caught.

“Easy,” Bacoj murmured, and Lindsey realized she’d been holding her breath. She released it slowly. “Sorry,” she apologized, forcing herself to relax. The bliss from his bite contented her once more. “Bad memories of what could happen for such things with the old regime.” He nodded, his expression sympathetic. “Earther Mataras on Kalquor also suffer emotion pain much. We know this touch scare you. I promise no harm.” Bacoj slowly pressed his finger inside her taboo orifice, gently stretching her open. The sensation wasn’t painful at all,

not even uncomfortable. It was just strange, in a heady sort of delightful way Lindsey wouldn’t have been able to describe to another person. When he moved back down and his mouth found her swollen nether lips again, the feeling of him filling her back there grew in pleasure. Little shocks of excitement sizzled through her lower regions. Bacoj inserted a second finger, extending her boundaries farther still. The initial ache of unaccustomed girth somehow only added to the growing desire now warming her belly. Lindsey’s groan was answered by a growl

from the alien as he licked and sucked at the soft petals of her sex. She closed her eyes, wanting only the sensation of the fingers working in and out of her, of him mouthing her until she tiptoed on the precipice of another climax. Lindsey dug her fingers into Bacoj’s hair, her head lolling from side to side as he pleasured her in a way she’d never even dreamed of. Some sacrifice I’m making. I wouldn’t mind doing this on a regular basis. A tiny spasm clenched her guts; a gentle precursor to

better things on the horizon. Lindsey reached for bliss even as Bacoj pulled free of her. She opened her eyes with a whine of deprivation. He grinned at her as he climbed up to crouch over her. “You ready,” he said. “Oh yes. I certainly am.” His hand went between them, adjusting himself. His rigid lengths, poised at the entrances to both her nether orifices, were hot and slick. She was suddenly eager to feel him inside her. She wrapped her legs around his waist, inviting his invasion. “Matara,” he whispered, his

face softening. She basked in the heat of his gaze. He kissed her and she tasted her salty flavor on his lips. He pressed into her softness, letting her slowly envelop him. Lindsey’s breath caught to feel him enter her carefully, letting her body adjust to his. As he slowly filled her, she felt a quiet ache again from her tighter orifice. Greater still was the pleasure of

joining with another body, to be made one with a separate being. No wonder so many of

the Church’s adherents had been unable to resist the sins that could send them to prison or execution. The bliss was too profound. The sudden pain from her lower parts made her struggle to get out from under Bacoj. He kissed her face, whispering, “Apology, apology. First sex, pain. Done now.” Of course. He’d breached the virgin barrier, tearing the thin wall of flesh that proved her innocence. Lindsey quieted, letting him soothe her as the brief agony faded. Bacoj continued to ease inside her, and even as her

anal passage became more grudging in its acceptance of the thickness, she relished the feeling of being possessed. The slight discomfort somehow added to the overall experience, and Lindsey felt herself gentle even more to the Kalquorian’s need. He alternated between looking into her face, his lips parted in an expression of bliss, and closing his eyes as he savored her tight warmth. Bacoj finally reached his end, his masculine flesh embedded deep within her. Slow spasms from her sheath clutched at him, and he groaned, pausing for a moment

to lie still. The sensations threatened his control. The Earther was so hot inside. Yielding. Wet. He’d never felt her like, and he was glad he’d already brought her to pleasure. He wouldn’t last long, not in the sweet, balmy confines of her intimate sleeves. Had she demanded all their food in return for this moment, he’d have gladly given it to her. He looked into her alien eyes, the brown almost swallowed by her strange round pupils. Despite the oddness of her eyes and her starved frame, he saw her beauty. The richness of her soft

chestnut hair, her full lips, the rounded hips that deprivation hadn’t quite erased yet … all these things demanded his appreciation. And the look on her face made his heart thrum quicker. The expression of soft wonderment and the glazed rapture in her eyes tugged at his emotions. She intrigued him, this lovely little Lindsey. He wanted to know her more than just carnally. Her hands traced over his face and torso, her eager touch telling him she liked his appearance as well. Her mouth curved in a slight smile as she looked up at him. Bacoj was perversely glad he’d crashed

the shuttle. Making love to this little Earther was worth the censure he’d receive. He pulled his hips back, leaving the warm interior of Lindsey’s body. She moaned a protest to feel him go, drawing back until only the tips of his penises remained within her. He chuckled as he reassured her. “No finish, Lindsey. I give more.” He pressed back inside her, filling the yawning emptiness. She sighed. And groaned anew as Bacoj found his rhythm, slipping in and out of her flesh with amazing friction. Ticklish heat was building again, fed by

the growing strength of the alien’s thrusts. Lindsey’s hips moved of their own accord, meeting Bacoj’s with primal knowledge. She might have never known a man before, but her body instinctively identified the mechanics of mating. Their groins slapped together explosively, a loud

counterpoint to the soft, wet sounds of flesh sliding into flesh. A growl slipped from Bacoj’s throat, and a thrill of desire shivered through Lindsey at the animal sound.

The pace became more frantic, and rapture expanded as Bacoj’s driving length found a spot so sensitive within Lindsey’s passage that she forgot to breathe. Physical elation overcame her, and she tipped over the edge into mindless ecstasy once more. Bacoj’s cries joined hers, and the thickness within her pulsed as if to burst through the walls of her sex. He pounded harder than ever, but the hurt from his eager use only added to the orgasm that throbbed through her entire being. Waves of heat beat against her womb, casting her higher and higher.

At last he collapsed over her, blanketing her with his big, warm body. Lindsey had never known such sweet satisfaction. “You well?” Bacoj whispered in her ear. “Oh boy. You’d better believe it.” “Good. I happy you enjoy me.” “Did I do okay?” Bacoj propped up on one elbow to smile down at her. “You feel good. Most good I know.” He huffed in frustration. “I no have words for goodness you give.” She giggled. “I think I get

the idea.” Bacoj grinned, and a sound from one end of the room stole his attention away. “Apology,” he said and looked at Lindsey once more. “You sex Vax now?” Lindsey looked at the two men still leaning against the wall. She’d forgotten they were there, watching her with their leader. She wondered that she didn’t feel embarrassed, but the euphoria from Bacoj’s bite persisted. It actually turned her on that she’d had an audience. Vax smiled hopefully at her. “What about your arm?” she asked.

“We find way.” There was no doubt in his voice. His eyes were very dark, and his flesh was very eager. Bacoj lifted off her. “Lindsey go top Vax? Easiest for injury.” Lindsey licked her lips. “Hmm. That sounds pretty good.” Vax joined her on the bed, sitting on its edge as Bacoj moved to stand next to Japohn. Lindsey straddled the heavily breathing Imdiko. His encased arm was like a block of wood between them. Despite his obvious excitement to have her in his lap, he winced.

“Lay back,” Lindsey encouraged. “I don’t want to bump your arm and hurt it.” “Wait,” Bacoj said. He suddenly disappeared in a blur of movement, and Lindsey’s mouth hung open in shock. She’d never seen anything move so fast. Bacoj could beat a cheetah in a foot race. “Are you all that quick?” she asked. Bacoj was suddenly next to them. “Yes.” He held a clear tube with orange liquid against Vax’s neck. “Bacoj—” Vax began, protest on his face.

The Dramok growled something in his own language, and the smaller alien’s mouth snapped shut. A hiss sounded from the tube, and Bacoj pulled it, now empty, from his clanmate’s skin. “No pain,” he told Lindsey, stepping away from the bed. “Good,” she said, seeing the line between Vax’s eyebrows ease. “But lay back anyway. I still don’t want to make it worse.” He brushed her cheek with his good hand, smiling. “You

kind.” He reclined on the bed, letting his fingers trail down her body. She shivered as he captured a nipple, rolling it gently between his fingertips. For all his easy nature and tender touches, Vax was still a hell of a lot bigger than her, and she felt his strength. Lindsey had no doubt he could dominate her even with the one arm incapacitated. The thought sent shivers down her spine, and she wondered at her excitement. Why would being helpless with this man make her so gooey with desire? It had to be the intoxicant. Reassured, she leaned over him to kiss his smiling mouth.

Her tongue peeked out to taste his lips, and he parted them. Lindsey explored his mouth much as Bacoj had hers. She licked over his tongue, his teeth, and the roof of his mouth where she found the smooth hardness of his folded fangs. Sandwiched between their bodies, she felt the slick twin prods of his arousal pressing against her belly. Her hands wandered over him, worshipping the amazing physique with touch. Were all Kalquorians in such good physical condition, or had she just stumbled across the best examples of their kind?

Vax groaned against her lips. “Apology, Lindsey. No wait long.” He was worried he wouldn’t last long enough to ensure her pleasure. That he cared raised her estimation of him. “When were you last with a woman?” she asked, curious. He muttered something in his own language, and Japohn translated. “On Dantovon, when I join clan. Few days before war.” “Two years?” No wonder he was so fervent with need. “Okay, Vax. Tell me what you want.” “Raise.” His hand gripped

her hip and pressed upward. She sat up on her knees, bringing her sex to hover just over his. He released her to grip both penises, positioning them so that they poised to enter her. “Down slow. Do no hurt you. Careful.” He was every bit as solicitous as Bacoj had been, concern for her enjoyment and comfort paramount. Lindsey decided these Kalquorians were honorable men. She couldn’t imagine the race bombing Earth’s cities into oblivion, war or not. Lindsey moved slowly as he

directed, though she wanted to plunge down, taking his flesh deep into hers. She was excited all over again and eager to experience more of the unexpected joys of intercourse.

Vax’s turgid masculinity parted her wet folds, and she sighed to feel the thick invader slowly enter her body. Next came the press against her anal orifice, and Lindsey shuddered against the rush of passion that came with the taboo incursion. Was it the sensation of being utterly filled

or the delight of partaking in forbidden fruit that made the penetration so enthralling? She didn’t know. Right now, she didn’t care. All that mattered was the overwhelming pleasure of intense fulfillment. She lowered down on him, both of them softly groaning as she took all of him in. Lindsey was amazed at how much she liked sex. Her mother had classified it as pleasant. Moderation could have been Tara’s middle name, but her description was well beneath low-key. Pleasant, indeed. Coupling with a man is more along the

lines of mind-blowing screaming ecstasy. I’ll have to find Mom a thesaurus. Being so much bigger than her, the width of Vax’s hips made it difficult for Lindsey to rise up on her knees. She struggled for just a moment before getting her feet flat on the bed, turning her kneel into a squat. She placed her palms on the sculpted planes of his chest for support, carefully avoiding his injured arm and making him take her weight as her hips moved over his. In and out, the friction warming her, spurring her insides to spasm with pleasure. Boy, it sure felt right to her. “Is this okay?” she

asked. His response was nearly hidden in a long, drawn-out groan. “Good. No stop.” His hand swept over her breasts, and she responded to the heat of his touch by clenching inner muscles around his flesh. Vax sucked in air, and his eyes widened. Interesting. She clasped her sex tighter around his again and was rewarded with a growl. His fangs appeared, sending a thrill of desire-tinged fear through her belly. Lindsey thought she might actually be getting the hang of this sex stuff.

She rode him harder and harder, and the warm tickle of bliss began its upward spiral, heating her insides with renewed vigor. “No long, Lindsey,” Vax warned, his face working as he grew thicker and heavier inside her body. Good, because I’m not far from it either. Now where was that spot Bacoj found? Lindsey ground her hips in a circle as she bounced atop the gasping Kalquorian, searching for that elusive part that had felt so explosively sensational. Vax’s hand fell from groping her breasts to her mound. Corded muscle stood out from

every scrumptious inch of his body. His thumb pressed against her clitoris, and something inside her heaved. “Now, Lindsey!” At that moment, the length of his penis slid over the tight bundle of nerves at the front of her sheath. The detonation was instantaneous, and Lindsey ground against the bucking man, lost in the rapture of orgasm. It poured over her, each wave sweeter than the last.

Lindsey almost fell on top of Vax, remembering at the last

second his injury. She held herself up on shaking arms, sobbing for air as the surges pounding her insides slowed to ripples. Vax’s manhood pulsed within her, his groans filling her ears like the purest melody ever played. At last they quieted. Vax stroked her long, chestnut hair, his smile as delighted as a child discovering his surprise birthday party. “Apology so fast. Happy you enjoy.” “I sure did. I’m going to have to do this more often.” “You do again now? Too tired?” Japohn’s voice was cautious, as if he expected to

be turned down. The first stab of fear since Bacoj’s bite hit Lindsey as she looked at the looming Nobek. Perhaps the intoxicant was wearing off, because the sheer size of the man was overwhelming. “You’re extremely endowed, Japohn, much more than I expected when I made my offer. I’m not sure a girl my size can handle you.” She tried not to stare at his burgeoning sex, but found it hard to take her eyes away. She looked him in the face with difficulty. His face lit in a smile, shocking Lindsey with its

sudden absence of ruthlessness. She hadn’t realized how truly savage he seemed until the predatory expression he wore was wiped away. It amazed her to recognize Japohn could actually be charming. The bass rumble of his voice was just as alluring. “No fear, Matara. No hurt. Much pleasure.” Lindsey was getting tired and starting to ache down below. But it wasn’t fair to have struck a trade, have sex with Japohn’s clanmates, and then deny him the same privilege. She had every intention of

living up to her word if possible. “You’re sure? It’s not that I don’t want to, it’s just that—” Her voice died out as he approached her. Japohn’s mere presence was enough to steal her ability to speak. Lindsey felt every bit of strength flee. He stroked her hair, his touch as gentle as a father soothing a child. “Bigger Kalquorian men with smaller Earther female than you. Make good sex, no pain.” “There are even bigger men than you?” Lindsey was aghast.

Bacoj and Vax laughed at her expression, but their hilarity wasn’t mean. Bacoj nodded. “Japohn big, no biggest. Japohn careful to Lindsey.” Well, she’d have to trust them on this, she supposed. She’d made an agreement. “Okay. If you’re sure.” Japohn’s arms gathered around her, pulling her carefully off Vax. “I bite, if help?” Lindsey thought about it. She was curious to learn if sex would be as good without the intoxicant, but with its influence waning, fear was

making giving in to the Nobek hard. “That might be best.” Bacoj helped Vax off the bed. “Bite part normal sex for Kalquorians. Make pleasure more.”

Japohn held her close, her back to his chest. His sexes curved up tight against her buttocks. Lindsey swallowed to feel the immense, throbbing flesh beneath her. “Yeah, I’ve had no complaints so far. It was pretty — ow, darn it, that smarts!” The bite came suddenly, and again the pain began to fade

before she could finish her complaint. There had to be some kind of anesthetic in the aliens’ saliva, she guessed. Good thing, because the brief flash of agony was more than enough to bear. Her attitude about being bitten started to change within seconds. Euphoria settled its warm embrace around her, and Lindsey relaxed in Japohn’s arms. The hot flesh of his erections was more titillation than a dreaded prospect now. Oh yes, she definitely looked forward to having this man too. She squirmed against him to let him know he was most welcome to take what he

wanted. Japohn’s fangs pulled free. His mouth closed over where he’d bitten her, sucking hard on her neck. Like the fabled vampire, he drew on her blood. She heard him swallow, and her head fell back on his shoulder. Knowing he fed on her, she eagerly acquiesced to his hunger. It gave her a strange sense of elation she couldn’t understand. And it made her fervent to be possessed sexually again. Her secret flesh pulsed with renewed need. His mouth left her neck. “Matara,” he whispered in her

ear. His warm breath made her skin erupt in goosebumps. She turned her head to look in Japohn’s eyes. Their cool depths consumed her. “What does Matara mean?” “Childbearer.” The word niggled at Lindsey’s intoxicated conscience. She’d not considered the Kalquorians could get her pregnant. But that was what the war had been about; Kalquor’s need for mates and Earth’s refusal to provide them. She knew she should be concerned about the consequences of sex with the

men, but she’d already mucked it up with the first two. And feeling Japohn hard and ready against her incited too much lust to think her way around. She’d worry about it later. Japohn kissed her, his mouth more demanding than the other two had been. One arm still wrapped around her waist, holding her off the floor, and the other slid down her concave belly to search out her sex. Lindsey bucked against his knowing fingers as they found her softest flesh, and she moaned around the invading tongue. She gushed honey, and Japohn growled against her lips.

He lowered her onto the bed, putting her on all fours. His mouth released her, and after sweeping her hair over one shoulder, he kissed a path up her spine to the back of her neck. Japohn knelt over her, covering her with his solid warmth. His arm left her waist, and he gripped one breast in his palm. He kneaded the soft mound. The other hand never missed a beat as it rubbed her wet folds. Lindsey moaned, lost in a haze of desire as he handled her expertly. When his thighs pressed against hers, she obligingly slid her knees

farther apart, giving complete access to womanhood.

him her

Japohn’s sexes brushed her anus and vulva, and somewhere in her excitement, Lindsey realized it was the larger member homing in on her tightest orifice. She knew he couldn’t take her that way, not with his girth, but she was too aroused and intoxicated to resist. Fortunately, Japohn wasn’t as far gone as she was. His hand left off its delightful torment of her nether lips to adjust himself. His penis slid

down her crevice until it found her more pliant opening, leaving the smaller organ to rub against her clitoris. Lindsey warbled a happy sound as Japohn pressed into her. Her inner walls expanded to welcome the thick visitor. In he traveled, deeper and deeper to claim her innermost recesses. Towards the end, her body became a little more grudging in its acceptance, yielding with an ache almost as sweet as the pleasure suffusing her lower regions. Her breath came in little gasps as he came to his end, rooted firmly within her tight niche.

As needful as his clanmates, Japohn wasted no time in working his length in and out of her core. His second penis stroked with delicious friction against Lindsey’s pearl, making her sob with agonized delight. His hands held her shoulders, driving her back against him as he thrust forward. The pain of taking him so deep and hard somehow translated into pleasure, an anguished bliss that radiated throughout her womb. Her insides seemed to tremble, a precursor to the quaking that would soon suffuse her entire body. Japohn growled, his

utterances as beastlike as his lovemaking. He bent over her, covering her with his magnificent body. His mouth closed over the back of her neck, but instead of a gentle kiss, she felt the scrape of his teeth on her skin. He took a mouthful of her flesh and bit down. There were no fangs involved in this bite, just the firm grip of his square teeth holding her by the nape. His hands moved from her shoulders to clamp around her hips, moving her harder still against his driving length. Lindsey wailed as craving suffused her. Japohn growled

in answer, the sound reverberating down her spine and into her nether regions. The alien took her like an animal, a primal beast bent on rutting, and she gloried under the desperate attention. It was sex in its most base form, with no adornments, no false pretentions. Only the urge to couple existed, an urge as old, as brutal and unassuming as life itself. It was the ultimate act of species survival, and it felt more right than anything Lindsey had ever done. She screamed back at the brute riding her, losing herself in the torrential rhythm of his

hips pounding hers, driving his need hard into her eager warmth. Her womb flexed with a long, muscular pulse, and bright light burst through her, turning her cries into ragged, torn things. Japohn howled into her neck to feel her clench around him, and his rhythm staggered. He managed two more thrusts before his climax ripped from him, pouring liquid ecstasy into Lindsey’s body.

Lindsey collapsed, her arms no longer able to hold her up. Japohn released his grip on her neck, letting her crumble face-

first into the softness of the bed. Only her buttocks remained aloft, held tightly in his grip as he emptied his juices into her hearth. Both shuddered as the last spasms rippled through their bodies. Japohn pulled free of Lindsey, laying her down fully before crashing onto the bed beside her. The other two Kalquorians joined them, laughingly applauding as they too lounged on the bed. Lindsey found herself sandwiched between Japohn and Bacoj, with Vax curled against Bacoj’s back. They snuggled with her like a

litter of puppies.

companionable

Lindsey wondered how long it would take them to repair their ship and continue on their way. She found herself hoping it might be awhile. She wouldn’t mind hanging out with this particular clan a little longer.

Chapter Three

Cuddling with the Kalquorians was a joy as sweet as the lovemaking. Lindsey wished she could linger in the warm companionship of being held; her hair, face and body stroked by the men clustered around her. She’d never known such contentment as this. However, her parents were no doubt anxiously waiting for her to emerge unscathed from the alien shuttle. Lindsey reluctantly got her to her feet. She pulled her clothes on with genuine regret, and the men did

the same. She couldn’t help but glow as they watched her, their tender gazes an invisible caress. Even Japohn looked at her with seeming affection. She really wished she had more time to spend with them. Lindsey led the Kalquorians to her family’s hideout, her percussion blaster at the ready for attack. Japohn and Bacoj were armed with laser rifles, and all three men had nastylooking daggers with serrated edges slung on their belts. Vax carried a large sealed food container in the crook of his undamaged arm, his eyes scanning the ragged landscape

of burnt buildings and stripped vehicles. Lindsey was glad the aliens had taken her warnings of hostile Earthers so seriously. The worst of the gangs had migrated south to Miami, which had not been destroyed like so many other cities. Still, the pockets of survivors left in Fort Lauderdale were dangerous in their own right, attacking anyone they thought might have food or medicine. Raids on each others’ camps were commonplace. Thus far, Lindsey’s family had escaped notice. She hoped it continued that way. They stuck close to the

doubtful shelter of buildings, venturing off the sidewalk and onto the street when piles of rubble hindered their progress. As they drew near the office building where Lindsey’s parents waited, she shot Vax a smile. “It was kind of you to cook us a meal. We would have accepted just the emergency rations with gratitude.” His easy grin spoke his delight. She’d learned Vax was a chef on his home planet, and he’d amazed Lindsey with his skills in the shuttle’s tiny kitchen. “I happy cook for you. You earn real food. I hope like Kalquorian cooking.”

She’d certainly liked how it smelled, and the idea her parents would enjoy a real honest-to-goodness meal made some of her anxieties ease. Bacoj said, “Apology most food we give is emergency rations. We no rescue team. Only containment.” “Tell me more about your containment assignment.” Japohn answered because he had the best command of her language. His suspicious gaze narrowed on the broken windows of a former clothing boutique as he looked for any signs of attack. Looters had torn the shop apart, and

nothing but broken

fixtures and one lonely clearance sign remained. “Containment for radiation. We keep from spread until evacuations complete.” “Your people are trying to evacuate the affected areas?” Japohn glanced at her, his expression softening briefly to one of pity. “Evacuate all Earth.” Only knowing the danger of being out in the open kept Lindsey from stopping in her tracks. “Why are you

evacuating the whole planet?” “Can no stop most radiation. Containment shields no permanent solution. Air, soil, water all contaminate. Earth no support life two your years.” Lindsey did stop for an instant, gaping at him. “We were hit that bad?” Japohn nodded and jerked his arm to indicate she should get moving. She did, but she had to force herself to pay attention to her surroundings. Shock tried to steal her focus. Japohn’s voice tried for sympathy, attempting to soften his devastating news. “Clean

up take decades. Earth recover long time for life return.” Lindsey tried to fathom the devastation her planet faced. She’d known a lot of major cities had been hit, but this was beyond her. Dogged to the end, she asked, “How many Earthers have died?” It was Bacoj who delivered the blow. “Estimate near 75 percent. More loss for sickness, injure.” Lindsey stopped again and stared at him. He was talking billions of lives. Not thousands of men, women and children. Not millions. Not hundreds of

millions. Billions. The Kalquorians also halted, looking back at her, their faces compassionate. “Who did this?” Bacoj struggled to find the words. “Kalquor fleet invade Bermuda Triangle portal. Earth government make trap nuclear for portal breach. Kalquor no know this. Kalquor invasion detonate. Apology, Lindsey. Kalquor no want kill Earth.” Lindsey struggled to absorb his explanation. If she understood the Kalquorian’s halting speech correctly,

Earth’s leaders had booby trapped the wormhole, setting up their major cities for nuclear annihilation if breached by an invading force. Rather than allowing the planet to be taken over, her government had destroyed it and most of its innocent inhabitants as well. Rage at the insane loss of life choked Lindsey. She could remember one sermon in the church the law demanded she attend, one of the last before she’d gone into hiding. War with Kalquor had seemed inevitable, and the priest had exhorted the congregation that it was better to die pure and sinless than to live forever in

sin. That if the lustful Kalquorians, determined to have Earth’s women as sex slaves, succeeded in capturing their planet, righteous fathers should slit the throats of their wives and daughters to save them from everlasting hell. Apparently, the Church-run government had agreed.

I knew it, she thought. I knew the maniacs in power would do us all in. So why am I so shocked? **** After a few moments in

which Bacoj watched pained rage suffuse Lindsey’s face, she turned on her heel and resumed leading the Kalquorians to where her parents hid. He felt terrible and wished he spoke her language better so he could express his feelings to her. It had to be a shock to learn Lindsey’s leaders, those charged with the wellbeing of the populace, had been the ones to visit such horror upon her planet. The fact his people had had a hand in the demise of Earth made him ashamed. In retrospect, Kalquor had not handled its end of the conflict well either.

It had all started with a virus centuries prior. The virus swept through the Kalquorian people, cutting down their numbers and rendering most females infertile. The few female children born after that time were reproductively damaged, the virus’ effects written into their very DNA. As fewer and fewer fertile women reached adulthood, the males had been forced to cluster into clans. Each clan consisted of one of each personality type: the Dramok, a natural-born leader, the nurturing Imdiko, and the protective Nobek. Three men to

each woman still left many men unmated. Despite these efforts, the species’ numbers dwindled until extinction had loomed on Kalquor’s horizon. It was then that Kalquor had looked to Earth. The shocking similarities between the two races had been remarked on. Theories abounded they might have a common ancestry, theories the fanatically religious Earth government had repudiated. Hostile, Earth refused to entertain Kalquor’s desperate pleas for compatibility tests. With extinction estimated to be only 300 years away, Kalquor had acted. They tested an Earther

female without her consent and discovered the two species were indeed compatible for breeding. Upon the discovery, Kalquorian clans had kidnapped approximately 1500 Earther women and spirited them to Kalquor. Kalquorian men worshipped their new Matara clanmates, and for the most part, the repressed females had responded positively to their change of status. Tipping the two worlds into full-fledged war had been the Imperial Clan’s choice of an Earther Matara, Jessica McInness. With one of their own on Kalquor’s throne, Earth

had responded with a declaration of war. The battles had nearly finished off Bacoj’s people. Despite Kalquor’s advanced technology, the hordes of Earther troops had come close to overwhelming them. The Kalquorians’ desperate lastresort invasion had resulted in Earth’s leaders setting off stockpiles of nuclear warheads under many of the major cities. They chose to kill themselves and most of their hapless population rather than submit to Kalquorian rule. It had been a horrifying end to a horrifying war. Kalquorians

still reeled from the knowledge that they had been instrumental in the decimation of the very people they needed for salvation.

Now all that could be done was to rescue as many Earthers as they could find, to take them away from their dying planet to start new lives among their former enemies. The hope was to forge a new species from the remains of the two. Lindsey led the group to a tall, seemingly abandoned building. She picked her way

carefully through glassdaggered doors to enter an uncomfortably warm room. Little of the refreshing salttinged breezes entered the rubble-strewn environs. She stopped to listen carefully, and Bacoj’s ears strained for sound too. All he heard was the distant roar of the ocean. “Mom and Dad must be on the roof,” Lindsey said, her voice approving. “It’s too hot to be indoors.” Bacoj agreed. He was starting to sweat and wanted to be outside again. “This way,” she encouraged them, holstering her gun. Bacoj

and Japohn kept theirs at the ready. Lindsey led them to a flight of stairs and started up, then paused. She turned to face them. “Please don’t tell my parents what I traded for the food.” Under Earth’s old regime, sex outside of Churchapproved marriage had been a death penalty offense. The government was gone, but not all the fears it had incited, apparently. Bacoj nodded his agreement for the clan. “No tell parents sex.” Lindsey nodded and resumed climbing the stairs.

Bacoj followed her with Vax behind him and Japohn bringing up the rear, keeping an eye on the floor below to make sure they weren’t followed. It grew hotter and hotter as they reached the upper floors. The air seemed to gain in thickness, making it hard to breathe. Fortunately, Lindsey soon swung open a door at the top, letting in sunlight and the sea breeze. She smiled at someone on the other side. Bacoj filled his gaze with the gentle sight. She really was a pretty girl. Again he felt the urge to know her better.

“Here I am, back safe and sound.” She stepped onto the roof of the building. Propping his laser rifle against his shoulder, his fingers well away from the trigger to appear as harmless to the Earthers as possible, Bacoj followed her out. Two elder Earthers looked up at him, their eyes wide. Their gazes moved to include Vax and Japohn as they joined the group. Lindsey’s mother’s elfin features were pinched with hunger, but she was lovely anyway. She looked to be aged at about the middle of her life,

much like a Kalquorian slightly over 100 years of age. That meant she was probably near 50 Earther years. She and Lindsey didn’t resemble each other except for the chestnutcolored hair. Her expression was open and kind, and she stuck out one hand to him. “Hello Kalquorians.” It took Bacoj only a moment to recall the Earther custom of shaking hands. His paw swallowed her delicate fingers, and he carefully pumped her hand once before letting her go. She was so tiny! If Lindsey had been this small, he wouldn’t have had sex with her, no matter how much he wanted

to. He’d have been afraid he’d break her.

“Do they speak English?” The mother looked at Lindsey, and Bacoj realized belatedly he hadn’t greeted her. He’d been too shaken by the woman’s insubstantial appearance. She needed feeding, desperately. “They can talk a little. Bacoj, Japohn and Vax, this is my mother and father, Tara and Aaron.” Bacoj bowed. “Honor for meet you Tara and Aaron.” He looked at the father.

Lindsey had gotten her larger frame from Aaron, along with his broader features. They shared the same rounded nose, the same strong chin. Aaron looked markedly older than Tara, his handsome face lined with worry, his once-dark hair more gray than not. He was slightly stooped, no doubt from the injury to his back Lindsey had told them about. Right now, Aaron stared at each Kalquorian in turn, the suspicion in his expression obvious. His arm curled protectively around Tara, and he took Lindsey’s hand to tug her close. Bacoj was impressed.

Injured, wasted from hunger, and outnumbered by men twice his heft, Aaron still left no doubt he’d defend his family with his last breath. Bacoj bowed again, according him the respect he deserved. Vax spoke, stepping forward. “Food. You eat.” Tara bestowed her sweet smile on him, and Bacoj was amused to see Vax blush. “We’re very hungry. Thank you for your kindness in bringing us food.” Her forehead crinkled in concern, and she gently touched the brace encasing his arm. “You are hurt, Vax.” Vax set the food container

down, ducking his head so his long hair hid his embarrassed face. “No bad. Find doctor in search party.” He straightened and nodded at Lindsey’s father. “Search party doctor help Aaron injury when we tell. Send to you.” Lindsey cocked an eyebrow. “Search party? Who did you lose?” Tara waved her daughter’s curiosity off. “Let’s have some of this good food our new friends have so kindly supplied. We can talk while we eat. I’ll get some plates.” She left the rooftop, disappearing into the darkened stairwell.

Aaron finally spoke, his voice grudging. “Thank you for your help. I wasn’t sure what to expect from your kind. It’s rumored you bombed our cities.” Lindsey answered for Bacoj, much to his relief. Their language was so complicated, and Aaron’s demeanor let the Dramok know he would be quick to react to any misunderstanding. “No Dad, their invasion prompted our psychotic government to blow us up themselves. I hate to say I told you so, but there you have it.” “That’s their account.” His

bushy brows beetled. “I’ve talked enough with them to believe what they say, and they are very generous men, giving more than expected.” Lindsey turned an enchanting shade of pink. “I mean, just look how Vax cooked us an actual meal. Mass murderers don’t treat their victims so well.”

Tara came back to the rooftop, her arms cradling round discs decorated with pictures of purple flowers. Silver-colored rounded and pronged utensils rattled on top

of the discs. She sat down on the ground next to the food container and handed each person one of each. “So much terrible loss, but that is the nature of our suffering. Sit everyone. Let’s eat.” They sat in a circle with the food container in the middle. Vax opened it, and the Earthers inhaled the aroma that wafted from the dishes inside. Naked eagerness suffused their faces. Vax took the round platters from Tara and dished out the meal. Tara’s voice was whisperthin. “What have you brought us?”

“Roasted ronka, Matara Tara. Boiled gusasp in wedi herbs.” He served everyone quickly, heaping the Earther’s plates high with chunks of meat and seasoned vegetables. It hurt Bacoj’s heart to see how Lindsey and her parents shook with suppressed excitement to be fed. The effort to eat like civilized people instead of shoveling huge mouthfuls down their throats was obvious. He exchanged a look with Vax, noting the unnatural brightness in the Imdiko’s eyes. Vax blinked hard, refusing to humiliate the Earthers by weeping for their

deprivation. Even Japohn looked upset, holding his hand up when Vax filled his plate only halfway to indicate the bulk of the food should be saved for Lindsey’s family. Aaron’s voice was garbled as he spoke around a mouthful of ronka meat, his hand held over his lips. “This is delicious. Thank you so much for sharing with us.” Whatever trepidations he felt had disappeared from his voice for the moment. Bacoj relished the rich, juicy result of his clanmate’s efforts. “Vax cooks. Cooks well to feed large Kalquorian crew.”

Lindsey asked, “That’s your assignment here on Earth?” She speared a blade of gusasp with her pronged utensil and closed her eyes in undisguised ecstasy as she chewed. Vax nodded. “Assign cook for containment force.” Lindsey opened her eyes to stare at Bacoj. “So you’ve mentioned rescue parties, containment forces, and now a search party. What’s being searched for?” Bacoj swallowed before he answered. “Empress Jessica family.” Japohn added, “They live

near before war. Must find for her.” The Earthers paused in their eating, giving their rapt attention. Tara’s expression in particular was eager. “Tell us about Empress Jessica. Is she treated well by your emperors?” Bacoj blinked his surprise at the question. “She Empress. She Kalquor leader. All treat well.” He mused for a moment, while he considered how to inform them of the Empress’ importance to his people. “She give Empire prince and princess,” he said finally. His statement elicited wide-

eyed stares from all three Earthers. Tara choked out, “She’s had children?”

It had been Jessica’s clanning to the Imperial Clan that had given Earth the reason to finally declare war. No doubt her producing heirs would infuriate those who still took offense to the mixing of the two races. Bacoj kept his tone carefully neutral. “Boy name Wayne. Princess name Noelle.” Aaron suddenly ducked his head, and Lindsey’s lower lip trembled. Tara’s face beamed with delight, much to Bacoj’s

surprise. “That’s wonderful!” the elder female enthused. “Is she happy with her life there?” Bacoj tried to fathom their responses to no avail. Well, at least they didn’t seem to be upset at the combination of Kalquorian and Earther DNA. “I no meet Empress. I hope she happy.” Japohn tried to be helpful. “She like yell at council much. Think she be like Nobek. Enjoy fight for fair causes. She good leader.” Tara glowed with what looked like pride. “For some, fighting for a good cause is

life’s greatest pleasure. I know her type well.” Lindsey shot a guarded look at her mother and changed the subject abruptly. “Bacoj says the radiation will make Earth completely uninhabitable in the next couple of years. We’ll have to leave the planet to survive.” “It’s that bad?” Aaron echoed Lindsey’s question. At her nod, he asked, “Where will we go?” Bacoj answered him. “You go Kalquor. We rescue, give Earthers home.” “Earth has its own colonies. We have facilities on three of

Jupiter’s moons,” Lindsey pointed out. Her face settled into stubborn lines, her expression a twin of her father’s. Bacoj started to answer, but Japohn’s deep voice resounded with steely command. “Kalquor extinct with no Earthers. Earthers go with Kalquorians. We need for breed each other.” Anger rose in Lindsey and Aaron’s faces, and Bacoj mentally cursed his Nobek for his heavy-handed approach. Before anyone could protest, Tara spoke up again. “I want to go to Kalquor anyway.” She smiled at Bacoj. “My

youngest daughter was taken to your planet before the war. It’s my understanding she went willingly.” The other two Earthers didn’t look particularly happy, but they kept quiet. It was amusing to see how the mother ruled the group, her quiet manner holding sway over the more aggressive members of her family. Maybe Tara could teach Bacoj how to lead his own clan better. He came to a quick decision, not bothering for once to consult with his clanmates. “We take you search party. Doctor treat

Aaron and Vax. I fix ship, take you rescue party. You go Kalquor, find daughter.” Tara’s smile warmed him like the sunshine overhead. “Thank you. We gladly accept your offer.”

Bacoj looked at Lindsey to see how she reacted to this sudden change in her future. She stared at him, her eyes blazing with anger until her gaze slowly rolled over his body. She swallowed, and a different kind of heat replaced the resentment. He could see her evaluating the possibilities

of being in close quarters with him and his clan over the next few days, the same possibilities that were threatening to arouse him in the presence of her parents. He hoped she would soon look forward to their trip as much as he did.

Chapter Four

Lindsey had never appreciated having her stomach full more than at this moment. The pangs of hunger had at last dissipated, and she sighed with contentment. Even if sex with the Kalquorians hadn’t been the mind-blowing wonder it was, she’d have done it just for this lovely satiety. For once, the grim reality of their daily lives seemed not so desperate. Tara spoke for the whole family. “Thank you again for the lovely meal, Vax.”

“I pleased you enjoy.” “Oh, very much.” Lindsey and Aaron helped her clear the dishes. Because they had conceded the necessity of leaving Fort Lauderdale with the clan, they didn’t bother hiding the leftover food. Vax repacked everything in the container he’d brought. Once everything was put to rights, Tara smiled brightly at the aliens. “Will you excuse Aaron and me? We usually meditate at this time.” “Medidate?” Bacoj stumbled over the unfamiliar word, mispronouncing it.

“Meditate,” Japohn corrected and said something in their language. When Bacoj’s expression cleared, Japohn turned his attention to the elder McInnesses. “This religious observance?” Aaron nodded. “We’re Buddhists. Our faith was outlawed under the old regime, so we had to practice our religion in secret.” Tara added, “It’s the same belief shared by your Empress.” “Empress known to you?” Bacoj’s mien was suddenly as suspicious as Japohn’s, and Lindsey’s stomach knotted in

worry. Lindsey hurried to explain. “When Jess — when your Empress joined Kalquor’s Imperial Clan, our government told many stories of her treachery and immoral beliefs. Her family’s disappearance made the headlines as well.” The Kalquorians exchanged glances she couldn’t read. “No know where family go?” Japohn asked. “They were never captured. It was speculated they had help from friends in staying hidden. A lot of people were taken into custody and interrogated, but nothing came of it.” The guilt of

what others had gone through to keep her family safe rose anew. Lindsey’s only comfort was knowing she’d have done the same for any of them. Bacoj considered. “Government catch, no tell maybe.” Aaron barked harsh laughter. “Trust me, had the police caught up with them, they would have been made very public examples of.” Lindsey was uncomfortable with the conversation. Despite having no reason to distrust the Kalquorians, she wasn’t ready to reveal her family’s identity to these strangers yet.

She changed the subject to one she was sure would distract them from further questions.

To her parents she said, “I’m going with the Kalquorians while you meditate. I’ll have a closer look at their shuttle, see how much space they have for our use.” She glanced meaningfully at Bacoj and was both gratified and embarrassed to see his crotch swell as he took in her real intent. Her parents nodded. With another round of thanks, Tara and Aaron went to their meditation area elsewhere on

the roof. The Kalquorians followed them at a respectful distance, watching the couple seat themselves. Tara arranged her legs in the lotus position on a thin yoga mat while Aaron perched on a sofa cushion. His injury no longer allowed him to sit with the proper posture. Bacoj whispered to Lindsey, “We see Earther meditate? Know how Kalquorian meditate. Curious of Earther chants, postures.” “Our form of meditation isn’t much to look at, especially since we’ve had to keep it secret for our whole

lives. We sit quietly with our eyes closed, searching for peace within. No extra movement or chants.” She motioned them towards the stairwell. As they left her parents behind, Bacoj returned to his normal speaking voice. “You religion god no anger you share with us?” Lindsey looked up to him to make sure she understood his meaning. The darkness of his eyes as he gazed up and down her body left little doubt, but she clarified anyway. “You mean having sex?” He nodded, a grin slowly taking over his face. “Yes. You

god allow share sex with aliens?” Lindsey warmed all over. “In Buddhism we have no god to sit in judgment, no sins to pay for except the karmic debt we place upon ourselves.” Bacoj’s smile faded. He looked to Japohn and Vax, but they only shook their heads helplessly. Lindsey sighed. “You’ll have to speak better English for me to explain my faith so you can understand, or I’ll have to learn Kalquorian. The short answer is my beliefs do not stand in the way of having sex with you.”

That got them all smiling. Japohn said, “You come with us for rescue ship to Kalquor. You share more during trip?” The heat in the three pairs of purple cats’ eyes made things down below clench. Lindsey swallowed. Her voice was husky. “I can’t say I dislike the idea.” The men moved to surround her, their hands hot through her clothing. Lindsey reluctantly pushed their eager touches away, looking in the direction of her parents like a guilty teenager. Fortunately, they were hidden behind a large air intake vent that

protruded from the roof. “Not here,” she whispered. “Earthers prefer privacy.” Vax sounded a little breathless. “We go ship.” “Yes,” she answered. The sooner the better. Their brief caresses had excited her, and without hunger hurting her belly, she had no doubt the next round of intimacy would be even better than the first.

Her heart beating fast in anticipation, Lindsey left the rooftop with the clan. ****

They had no sooner entered the clan’s sleeping room when the men all tugged on Lindsey’s clothing. Her clothes disappeared with an alacrity that left her gasping. “You sure become assertive when it comes to sexual relations,” she stammered, suddenly naked in the middle of the group. Bacoj shucked his kneehigh boots and peeled his formsuit off. “Kalquorians strong men. Strong needs.” He helped Vax, who was struggling one-handed to undress. “So I noticed.” Lindsey

couldn’t help but ogle the three sets of erections surrounding her. Warm arousal suffused her lower regions. She calculated. Three days to reach the search party. A couple of days while Bacoj repaired the shuttle. Then a short hop to the rescuers that were transporting Earthers to Kalquor. So she had nearly a week to enjoy this trio of lusty aliens, if they could find the privacy with Lindsey’s parents on board. Lindsey didn’t think it would be too hard to manage. Two years of hiding had taught her plenty about subterfuge. Japohn embraced her from

behind, his turgid flesh hard against her lower back. His mouth closed over the side of her neck, and she cried out as pinpricks of pain stabbed into her flesh. “Ow! Why are you biting me again?” She struggled helplessly in the big alien’s grip. “Makes feel good,” Vax soothed, his hand closing over her breast. His thumb massaged her nipple, bringing it to a hard nub. “It makes me feel weak,” she protested as the intoxicant sent languorous pleasure creeping through her body. Her hips bucked against Bacoj’s

questing fingers as he explored the damp folds of her sex. She moaned with the sensation. Even the penetration of Japohn’s fangs was fast becoming an erotic thrill. Vax tested the weight of her other breast. The warmth of his hand sent a jolt through her. “You like control. We like control. We take control.” Japohn released his grip on her neck. He licked the wounds slowly with his cat-scratchy tongue as his big hands kneaded her buttocks. “Vax right. All can no dominate. You submit.” “Why me? Why don’t I get a

vote in this?” Lindsey wasn’t really protesting anymore. Her mouth was on automatic pilot, asking questions her body had no interest in hearing the answers to. Japohn tilted her head back so she could see his humorless smile. Her sex clenched at the sight of ruthless domination in his expression. “Our ship. Our rules.” Before meeting the Kalquorians, surrender had never been in Lindsey’s vocabulary. But with Vax’s mouth closing over her breast, Japohn massaging her buttocks and Bacoj slipping his

fingers into her inner realms, she abdicated all control. “That’s fair, I suppose,” she sighed, releasing herself to their dictates.

Mouths and hands delighted her, tasting and groping every inch of her body. She felt devoured, and Lindsey exulted in being consumed. Her hands roamed the chiseled perfection of her three lovers, relishing the muscles that Bernini or Michelangelo might have carved had they been capable of working in the medium of flesh.

Japohn and Bacoj lifted her into the air, supporting her back against their shoulders, her buttocks in one of each of their hands. They held her thighs spread wide as if she straddled a chair. Vax stepped between her legs, his sexes homing in on her orifices. She watched as he slid into her hearth, groaning as he disappeared into her warmth to fill her with his dark brown delicious lengths. Seeing him slipping in and out of her sheaths deepened the pleasure of his thrusts. Lindsey spared a glance at Bacoj and Japohn, who stared

intensely as their clanmate took her. Their hungry expressions were identical as they breathed hard through wet, parted lips. Being watched performing the most intimate of acts made her clench hard around Vax’s thick stave, and he groaned in response. A quick look revealed his face soft with hazy bliss. Her hands roamed his torso, and he snatched one to his mouth. One at a time, he sucked her fingers into the velvety wetness, twining his tongue around each digit. Then he leaned close to her to ply her lips with a deeply penetrating kiss. He never

missed a stroke as he delighted her with his mouth. Lindsey’s senses were filled with the gorgeous alien. The sparks of desire were warming to flames, licking through her womb. Vax’s thrusts grew stronger, feeding the blaze. Harder and faster, the friction of his movements inciting combustion until her nether parts were engulfed by the inferno. Her cries rang in the air as she clutched at him. Moments later, his voice joined hers. As she shuddered against the Imdiko, Lindsey was dimly aware of the tension singing

through the bodies of the other two. The instant Vax reluctantly withdrew from her warmth, Bacoj and Japohn carried her to the bed. She found herself on all fours, Japohn’s massive sexes before her eyes as he kneeled in front of her. Renewed excitement pulsed in her womanhood, and her mouth watered at the sharp, cinnamon-like aroma of the Kalquorian. Her tongue peeked out to sample the bullet tip of his larger member, and she heard him catch his breath. Japohn did taste like cinnamon. Lindsey had another

lick, a longer one to savor the delightful tang of his lubrication. As she drew back a little, rolling his wetness around in her mouth, she saw a pearlescent white drop form at the small opening of his penis. She drew it from him with the tip of her tongue. The flavor of his pre-ejaculate was different, sweet, spicy and savory all at once, like a pretzel coated in cinnamon and sugar with the slightest hint of cayenne. There was no doubt about it. Kalquorians were delicious.

With a zeal that made Japohn groan, Lindsey wrapped her mouth around his sex. She sucked him in until she almost gagged on his length. Curling the fingers of one hand around the base of him, she slid her lips back and forth over the hot organ. His pulse pounded against her tongue, and he growled deep in his throat as his hands tangled in her hair. Lindsey had forgotten all about Bacoj until he wedged himself behind her. She thrilled to feel his sexes probing at her, the larger one tentatively pressing against her anus. She

offered no resistance to the exploration. She recognized the intoxicant from Japohn’s bite was making her reckless, erasing all fears of pain and injury. She didn’t care. Lindsey wanted to know every pleasure the Kalquorians could offer, wanted to experience every form of sex the tyrannical Earth government had denied her. She suckled on Japohn as Bacoj eased into her tightest orifice. The pressure against the walls of her tight sleeve bloomed into heady pleasure, making her sex clench hard on the smaller organ breaching it. The ache of taking him so was lost in a wash of desire. She

moaned with delight to be so utterly, beautifully filled. Japohn wrapped his massive hands around her head, slowly pumping her mouth. Bacoj matched his careful rhythm, his hands gripping her hips. The men worked in tandem, grinding themselves in small circles against her. Lindsey opened herself completely to them, trembling sweetness trickling through her belly as she let them take all they wanted. The men chorused gasps, grunts and growls as they thrust harder into her willing flesh. Lindsey was consumed

with pleasure at the taking, an eager receptacle to their lust. She’d never known how good it could feel to relinquish control to others, to simply concede to their wants. It was heady, this freedom from responsibility, this surrendering to the Kalquorians’ dictates. The higher they took her, the greater her desire to submit became. Bacoj and Japohn drove harder into her warmth, and she exulted in their mastery over her. The little darts of pain from the thick invader working her backside, the brief moments of choking pressure from the massive ram sliding deeper into her throat;

these minor discomforts were only incentives to yield more thoroughly to her lovers. Japohn rewarded her first, his thick cream pulsing into her greedy mouth as he emitted a long, drawn-out groan. She swallowed the sweet-spicy nectar, her nether regions erupting in spasms as he poured his ecstasy down her throat. Bacoj shouted, his rhythm lost in desperate jerks as he emptied his juices into her tightest passage. The three bucked in mindless glory, all thought erased under the sway of consuming rapture. They

writhed together until the last sweet throbs of elation left their loins, and they wilted like flowers battered by a summer thunderstorm. Vax joined the group on the bed, twining his legs in Japohn’s as he lay behind the Nobek. They lay in a heap of tangled limbs, Bacoj, Lindsey and Japohn gasping in the aftermath of spent passion.

Once she’d caught her breath, Lindsey took advantage of the relaxed attitudes of the aliens basking in the afterglow. She kept her tone as casual as

possible to avoid arousing suspicion. “I’m curious. What happens to the Empress’ family if they’re found?” Bacoj stretched then curled around her again. “Take to Kalquor. Empress worry for family.” Lindsey hated to hear Jessica was concerned over them. Her little sister had always taken on more responsibility than she needed to. And now a mother besides! It gave Lindsey a warm feeling to have a niece bearing her middle name. How sweet of Jessica to have honored her

that way and to have given her son Aaron’s middle name too. Bacoj stroked her hair, and Lindsey couldn’t help but snuggle against his warmth. She absolutely loved sharing her body with men, with these three at any rate. “But what happens to them? Obviously they’ll want to be close to her, but what kind of work is there for Earthers to do on your planet?” Vax propped himself up on Japohn’s meaty shoulder so he could see her on the other side of his much larger clanmate. “Imperial mother and father no require work. Imperial Clan

care for all needs.” Bacoj added, “Empress’ sister many clans for choose. No her need for work. Join clan with high rank.” Japohn grinned at her, the expression softening his fierce visage. “No like Bacoj’s clan. We young. No impress royal sister.” Lindsey couldn’t help but smile back. “I’m sure she’d like you fine.” Bacoj shrugged. “No want royal sister Lindsey. Like this Lindsey.” He rubbed his already recovering masculinity against her thigh to show her just how much he liked her.

She couldn’t help but laugh at the naughty gleam in his eyes. Japohn’s brow creased, his suspicious nature showing again. “Odd for you, Empress sister same name.” “Not really.” Lindsey kept her voice casual, determined they wouldn’t learn her identity yet. She needed more time to be sure she could trust the alien race. “Lindsey is a common name. I read somewhere that it was in the top ten of female names among English-speaking zones for the last few decades.” Vax smiled sweetly, his face sympathetically understanding.

“Vax common Kalquor name. Know five Vax where I grow.” Japohn patted Vax’s good arm, glancing at his Imdiko with affection that sat strangely on his wary face. “Like this Lindsey. Like this Vax.” Before either could respond to the Nobek, shouts sounded from outside the shuttle. In an instant, all three Kalquorians were on their feet, pulling on their formsuits. Even Vax with his injured arm was dressed faster than her eyes could follow. “Who is it? Are we being attacked?” she asked, reaching for her clothes.

There was no answer. She was talking to an empty room.

After pulling her clothes on, Lindsey hurried into the main cabin of the shuttle where the Kalquorians were gathered. She gaped. The walls and floor of the ship were missing. A crowd of about two dozen Earthers, their expressions hostile, stood on the beach, surrounding them on either side. All were armed with guns and wielded baseball bats. After a horrified moment, Lindsey realized the walls and floor were transmitting a vid

image of what was going on outside the shuttle. There was still a solid metal surface between her and the unfriendly mob. Her heart learned to beat again. Japohn’s voice was noncommittal, his expression almost amused as she stepped close to the clan. “They no welcome as you. No trade sex for food, I think.” Lindsey snorted breathless laughter, startled at the big brute’s ability to joke. Japohn just kept surprising her. A man near the main hatch of the ship shouted, “Come out, demons! Come out or we’ll

come in and get you!” His close-cropped head was squarish, like a block of wood. He was dressed in military camouflage, the uniform loosely encasing his spare frame. The muscles on his tanned arms, laid bare by his rolled-up cuffs, were whip-thin. He could have been the poster boy for the hard work of survival. “We speak to them?” Bacoj asked Lindsey. She sighed. She recognized the group’s speaker as Clive Marsh, a man she’d unaffectionately dubbed as ‘Blockhead’, both for his

physical appearance and his attitude. She saw other familiar faces in the mob as well. “Don’t waste your breath. I’ve seen them around, and they’re strong adherents of the former government’s sanctioned religion. They don’t want to talk to you except to maybe torture you for information.” Bacoj frowned. “No need torture. We tell truth.” “They wouldn’t like what you have to say.” Japohn studied her face, anger pinching his features. His hand closed over her arm, and he drew her close to him, wrapping the other arm around

her. “They hurt you? Harm Matara Tara, Aaron?” His instant protectiveness made Lindsey feel emotionally close to Japohn, which made no sense given she’d only met him this morning. Was it because they’d had sex? Now is not the time for soulsearching. Blockhead’s mob isn’t looking to play checkers with these boys. “I haven’t given them the opportunity to get to my family. I’ve spied on them and didn’t like what I saw. They raid other groups and steal their supplies, and they’re not above beating people up for what they want.

Fortunately, they haven’t found our hideout yet.” Lindsey licked her lips, looking at the forest of bats waving in the air. Being found with the Kalquorians wouldn’t do her any good. “Can they break in?” Japohn snorted, his deep voice easily drowning out Blockhead’s continued shouted threats. “No worry come in here.” He bared his fangs at the crowd and addressed Bacoj. “They find engine maybe. Do more damage.”

The concern in Bacoj’s face deepened. “Can stun. Warn

first.” He grasped Lindsey’s hand and tugged her away from Japohn to the one wall still visible, the one between the main cabin and the cockpit. A panel of multicolored buttons was set at his face level, and that’s where he drew her. “I need words,” he told her. She understood he wanted to speak to the gang outside. “What do you want to say?” “Warn for retreat.” Lindsey decided simple was best. “Get back. We don’t wish to harm you but we will defend ourselves.” Bacoj repeated her words

exactly. The sound of his voice rolling out of the address system startled the group outside, silencing their yells for a few beats. Blockhead recovered first. His shout hurt Lindsey’s ears, and she considered having Bacoj tell him they could hear him fine without all the excess volume. “Give us medical supplies and food, and we’ll leave peacefully.” Vax shook his head adamantly. “We no enough for all.” “He’s lying about the leaving peacefully part anyway.” Lindsey considered

before dictating to Bacoj. “Tell them you’re part of a larger convoy. You’ll have supplies brought in a couple of days if they leave now.” The Dramok frowned. “Longer time for help come.” Lindsey smiled bitterly. “If he can lie, so can we. We’re buying time until you can get this tub repaired well enough to get us out of here.” Bacoj’s eyebrows rose, and he smirked at Japohn. “Lindsey ruthless like Nobek.” “That good.” Bacoj repeated the falsehood she’d fed him. As

Lindsey figured, Blockhead’s group didn’t buy it. “Lies!” he shouted, walloping the side of the shuttle with his baseball bat for good measure. “Give us what we want or we’ll take it!” Lindsey rolled her eyes. “It’s a waste of breath, but tell them this is the last warning. If they don’t leave, do the stun thing. But no killing, right?” Bacoj touched her face as if to comfort her. “No kill. Enough that already.” He turned back to the panel and savagely pressed the button to communicate. “Last warning. Leave or we will defend ourselves.”

“Get ‘em, boys!” Blockhead shouted in response. Like a bunch of Neanderthals, the mob pounded the sides of the shuttle with their bats. The violence in their faces gave Lindsey pause, but it still was a struggle to not snicker at the sight. All they lacked were animal skins to make them revert to caveman status. Homo sapiens had fallen far indeed.

Shaking his head, Bacoj punched a green button. A low hum filled the air, and half the assailants dropped to the blond

sand. Blockhead was one of the stricken to Lindsey’s immense satisfaction. The effect on the rest was immediate. Arms dropped to the attackers’ sides, and they stepped back, gaping at their inert companions. “Leave or more fall,” Bacoj commanded the Earthers. Many dropped their bats in their haste to drag the unconscious away. They struggled mightily to get away from the shuttle, but within half a minute, the crowd was gone. Bacoj gave Lindsey a worried glance, clearly concerned with how she felt about seeing her people beaten

back so decisively. “Serves the buggers right,” she said, patting his muscled shoulder. “They finally got some of what they deserved.” All three aliens relaxed. Bacoj’s grin was particularly bright. “Gratitude, Lindsey. You help much.” Despite his lightened demeanor, Japohn’s voice was steel. “They watch us now. Move Lindsey parents here. Keep family safe.” Bacoj’s grin faded, and an attitude of firm command settled over him. “I agree.” He gripped Lindsey’s upper arm, letting her feel his strength.

“No vote again. Apology.” She pressed her lips tight against the argument that rose in her throat. It rankled to give up so much control to the aliens, but Lindsey had to agree with their assessment of the situation. “I guess it’s for the best,” she conceded.

Chapter Five

Two hours after scaring off the bat-wielding Earthers, Bacoj tapped a backup power cell into one of the undamaged slots of the regenerator and nodded to Lindsey. “Hold here.” The pretty Earther stretched up to press the fingertips of both hands to the end of the cell as he raised an adhering tool to bind the two pieces together permanently. She eyed the thin needle end of the device suspiciously. “Don’t fry my fingers with that thing.”

Bacoj was his most reassuring. “I swear no harm. Tool no hot.” She chuckled, a rich throaty sound that sent a thrill down his spine. “That was a joke, Bacoj. I know you won’t hurt me.” He grinned down at her, glad to hear she trusted him. He wondered if she would ever join a clan. Okay, he was wondering if she’d consider joining his clan. The more Bacoj was around her, the more attractive he found Lindsey. “No hurt, much pleasure,” he said, wishing he could speak her language better. He’d like

to tell her exactly how he’d pleasure her. Lindsey ran her gaze over his body, letting him know he didn’t have to speak Earther to get his point across. “Naughty boy, fix this tub, would you?” “Good job, you reward?” She reddened, but the smile she gave him was pure heat. “Big reward if you hurry up before my arms fall off from fatigue.” He nodded and hastened with the repair. Seeing Lindsey stretched up like that gave him an excellent image of how she’d look suspended naked in the air with a pair of hover

cuffs around her wrists. He wondered how she felt about being bound helpless for sex. With her need to control it might take some convincing. Of course, having her cuffed and struggling against him while he took what he wanted had its possibilities too… “Release Lindsey,” he said, turning the adherer off. She let her arms flop to her sides, shaking the tension out. “Vax, start shuttle!” Bacoj called. The engine chopped to life, the ratcheting sound making him wince. But it quickly smoothed out, almost regaining its normal purr. Bacoj felt a

rush of pride at his repair job. The trip to the search party would take a ridiculously long time to complete, but at least they wouldn’t be walking and swimming the whole way. “Is it working right?” Lindsey asked. “Good for leave.” He tried to make her understand how their journey would go, gesturing as he spoke. “Small trip day, recharge night. Three days.” She nodded. “Hippity hoppity to the search party then.” Bacoj wasn’t sure what she meant, but she seemed satisfied with his explanation.

“We tell parents. Leave at Japohn return.”

Her face tightened for an instant, and she looked towards the buildings in the direction the Nobek had gone in an hour ago. “You shouldn’t have let him take off like that. Too many things could go wrong.” Bacoj was surprised to see her obvious worry for Japohn. Could she care so much for a man she’d just met? Hope flared bright in his heart. He tried to keep his expression noncommittal. “Food

containment fail. More food need.” “I realize that, but if Blockhead’s group is watching us they could take him down. Even he’s not strong enough to fight off thirty people, which is about how many is in that gang.” His inability to control his Nobek clanmate made Bacoj’s stomach clench. “Japohn stubborn. Insist his way.” “But isn’t the Dramok in charge of the clan?” Bacoj drew a deep breath. He gave Lindsey a shamefaced smile. “Japohn older. Much experience with hostile

situation. Know more me.” Lindsey narrowed her eyes at him. “He may have experience, but he should use it to advise, not run all over you. You’re not stupid, Bacoj. Man up and put him in his place.” She rose up on her tiptoes and planted a kiss on his lips. Despite his surprise at the unexpected affection, Bacoj quickly wrapped his arms around her tiny frame, pulling her close. Feeling her against his body made his senses come alive, and as he tasted the velvet sweetness of her mouth, he wondered once more

if Lindsey would perhaps honor his clan by joining them. Having her warm his bed for the rest of their lives was a tantalizing prospect. Certainly Vax and Japohn wouldn’t object to such a delightful opportunity. As the kiss broke she smiled up at him. The question was trembling on his lips when her gaze diverted over his shoulder. Relief suffused her face. “Here comes tall, dark and overwhelming now.” Bacoj looked to see Japohn crossing the street, returning empty handed but safe. The moment broken, Lindsey slid

from his arms and called to the Nobek. “No luck, huh?” He shrugged, the thunderous look on his face easing as he looked at her. “Apology, Matara. I fail. No find you food.” Japohn’s voice was heavy with regret. “We’ve got the emergency rations. I’m just glad you’re back safe.” She turned to Bacoj. “Should we prepare my parents now?” He nodded. It was time to go. **** Lindsey entered the

sleeping room as her parents put their few belongings in the drawers the clan had emptied for their use. She smiled to see her mother looking perky and her father not quite so drawn as he had before. A full meal in their stomachs had made a big difference. And a dose of the Kalquorian’s pain inhibitor had taken most of the strain from Aaron’s face. She could have wept to see him looking more like his old self.

Swallowing the rush of emotion she said, “Good, you’re almost finished. The

boys are locking down for takeoff.” Tara smiled up at Aaron. “See if you can help the Kalquorians. Lindsey and I will put the rest away.” He gave her a quick kiss on the cheek. “All right.” The instant her father left the room and the door shut behind him, Lindsey folded her arms over her chest. “Okay, you’ve got me alone. What’s on your mind?” Tara showed no signs of embarrassment that Lindsey had detected her subterfuge. And she wasted no time in getting right to the point.

“They’re good men. Are you going to join their clan?” Lindsey’s mouth dropped open in shock. Her mother had always been able to read her like a book, but it disconcerted her nonetheless to be so obvious. Wondering what Tara thought she ventured, “Three men to one woman. It’s kind of unsavory, don’t you think?” The elder woman loaded the last of their items in the drawer and tapped it as Vax had shown her. It slid closed to blend seamlessly into the wall. “You’re thinking in terms of Earth’s old regime. The ones who held us in fear are dead.

We cannot be punished for following our true beliefs anymore.” “Since when do we believe in group sex?” Lindsey snorted. “You know what I mean.” Tara’s tone was mild. Lindsey had always envied her unflappable demeanor. She’d never heard her mother raise her voice. Tara had a knack for calming everyone around her. Even Jessica’s fiery temper stayed soothed in their mother’s presence. “So you think it’s okay for a woman to be intimate with three men at a time? Wow,

Mom. That’s nonjudgmental even for you.” “What is there to judge? We’re going to Kalquor where it’s necessary for their species’ survival, perhaps even ours at this point. And if it’s enjoyable, what’s the harm?” “Our beliefs warn against excessive lust.” “Is it only lust that made you have intimacies with them?” Lindsey was startled anew. Her face warmed as she realized her mother knew she’d already had sex with the Kalquorians. Was there nothing she could keep secret from the woman?

Thirty years old, and Lindsey still couldn’t get away with anything as far as Tara was concerned. She knew she sounded like a child caught with her hand in the cookie jar, but she couldn’t keep the grudging guilt from her tone. “The first time was to bargain for food.”

“So you have been with them more than once.” Tara kept her voice and expression carefully bland. “Are you still bartering for their help?” Lindsey met her gaze, summoning every bit of dignity

she could muster. Which wasn’t much. “No, now I’m having relations with them for pleasure. I like sex. A lot.” Let Mom chew on that. But Tara refused to be shocked. She was dogged in her questioning. “Do you like them beyond what they do for you sexually?” Lindsey threw her arms in the air, frustration and embarrassment making her groan. “Mom, this is so uncomfortable! I don’t want to discuss it with you.” “I won’t have you giving yourself to men just to put food in my stomach, Lindsey Noelle

McInness.” The sudden tears standing in Tara’s eyes made Lindsey regret her moment of anger. It was guilt driving her mother’s interrogation, not disapproval. Lindsey wrapped her arms around the smaller woman. “They don’t require I have sex with them to help us. Apart from the first encounter they haven’t demanded a thing from me, and even then it was me who offered. Like you said, they seem to be good people.” She stepped back, resting her hands on Tara’s thin shoulders. “I wouldn’t be attracted to them sexually if I

didn’t like them.” Tara blinked back the tears. A knowing smile teased her lips. “Are you sure it’s just liking?” “Jeez, Mom. One of your daughters is already married off to a Kalquorian clan. Are you in such a big hurry to unload both of us?” Tara’s eyes were filled with wisdom that Lindsey didn’t want to see. It irked her that her mother always seemed to know what was going on in her head before she did. “You light up in their presence, and they in yours. It’s infatuation on both sides, at the very least. If they

make you happy, why are you acting ashamed?” “I just met them! How can you be so accepting that I’m having sex with three men who are absolute strangers to me?” But it wasn’t the attraction and desire the aliens had wakened that bothered Lindsey. Nor even her eager plunge into all things carnal with men she knew almost nothing about. It was that damnable fear of getting caught, of being punished to the point of death that brought terror of her actions to the fore. Even having been surrounded all her life by the unconditional

love and acceptance of her family couldn’t dispel the certainty that authority was looking over her shoulder, ready to condemn and kill. “It’s hard, Mom. I still think about being dragged to a work camp. About being beaten, branded, tortured and executed. We’ve been judged every day of our lives.” Lindsey took a deep breath. “I’m also not sure Dad will understand. He had a hard time wrapping his head around Jessica joining the Kalquorians.” Tara nodded. “Fathers are protective of their daughters. It’s their nature.” She smiled

brightly. “But your sister paved the way for you to have more than one man in your life. In the end, if you’re happy your dad will adjust.”

Yes, brash and bold Jessica joining the Imperial Clan had indeed knocked down the highest barriers of Aaron’s acceptance of the very nonEarther concept of Kalquorian marriage. One other concern, one even bigger than Lindsey’s fear of condemnation, had to be faced. In the clarity of her mother’s experience and faith,

she knew she was safe to get her honest opinion. “Is it too soon to feel a real connection? You know. To be in love?” Tara’s smile broadened. “I knew your father was the one within five minutes. I think your clan knew that about you just as quickly.” With that, she left the room. “My clan.” Lindsey tasted the sound of the words on her tongue. It rang true to her ears, but she worried it was only infatuation, a temporary devotion brought on because Bacoj, Vax and Japohn were the first men she’d had sex with. And did they really feel

drawn to her too as Tara implied? Enough to make the relationship permanent? Too many questions. To find the answers, Lindsey would have to get past her fears. She wondered if she was strong enough to do that. She moved towards the open door. Japohn suddenly stood there, making her start with surprise. “We ready soon.” His brows drew together, and his words were clipped. Despite her attraction to him, the quicktempered alien made Lindsey nervous. It wasn’t the ease with which he became irritable so

much. She’d lived with Jessica too many years to be worried about frequent bouts of bad humor, often over imagined offenses. It was that the man was so big. Unlike Lindsey’s younger, finely boned sister, Japohn looked like damage incarnate. Especially when he glowered as he did now. He scared her. He also made her sexually excited. The little taste she’d had of his dominance was definitely a turn on, something that still surprised Lindsey. Looking up at the looming threat that was the handsome Nobek made her imagine letting him do things to her she’d

never thought of before. Using the soft voice that had so often quieted Jessica’s storms, Lindsey said, “You look upset.” She traced her fingertips over his sleeveless biceps as if to calm him, but she was actually enjoying the granite muscle. Japohn’s gaze went to her touch, and his expression lightened a smidge. His angry tone gave way to remorse. “I find no food. I sorry you eat ration.” That the fierce alien allowed her to see guilt moved her. Lindsey sidled closer to him until their bodies almost

touched. “It’s good to eat anything. I don’t mind emergency rations.” Her hands seemed to take on a life of their own, eagerly moving up to his shoulders, running over the plains of his sculpted chest hidden beneath the clinging fabric of his formsuit. She couldn’t be near him or the other two without wanting to touch. “Can I make you feel better?” she asked in a whisper.

His groin swelled at her words. They were near enough that she felt his twin organs

press against her belly. In a strangled voice Japohn said. “No time. You make I want much. I go too fast. You no pleasure.” Lindsey didn’t care if she climaxed. Something in the tortured look he wore made her want to soothe him. “It’s okay. Your clan is being very kind to us. I want you to know I’m grateful.” She pressed herself against him, delighting in the rigid lengths that spoke of his desire for her. She wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling his face down towards hers. “Lindsey,” he whispered,

and she shivered to hear her name on his lips before his kiss swallowed her mouth. She rubbed her belly against the staves sandwiched between them, and Japohn groaned into her mouth. His body stiffened. He held her so close she thought they might meld to one another. She ground against him, rubbing hard against his cocks and he groaned again, louder. Lindsey pushed one hand between them, massaging his sexes through his formsuit. He went rigid all over. She felt the slow pulse of his release, the warmth of his seed wetting her abdomen through their clothes.

She ached for her own climax, wanting to feel the Kalquorian plunging into her depths, but Lindsey knew anticipation would make their eventual coupling all the more delightful. She’d always been a proponent of delayed gratification, and she had every intention of making Japohn reward her for her patience later. That he would willingly do so, she had no doubt. He unlocked his mouth from hers. A smile quirked his features, the relaxed expression making him the most striking of his clan. Lindsey’s ardor went up a few notches to see how stunning he

was when not scowling. She felt her power keenly, her ability to ease the most bestial needs of men. It was heady stuff. “Gratitude.” Japohn shook his head and corrected himself. “Thank you. Feel better.” “My pleasure, Japohn.” She slipped from him with a smile and located a clean blouse to change into while he quickly swapped formsuits. Before they left the sleeping room for the main cabin, Japohn kissed her again, his touch as gentle as any Vax had given her thus far. No, being a permanent part of these men’s lives might not

be such a bad thing, she thought. **** The shuttle lifted into the air like a drunk standing up from his barstool and trying to find his legs. Lindsey’s stomach wobbled uneasily with the shuttle, and she braced herself against the seat she sat on. The restraints Vax had insisted everyone wear were welcome stabilizers for the occupants of the main cabin. The ride smoothed out after they reached altitude and began their journey. Lindsey’s brief moment of motion sickness eased, and once Vax

released his restraints, everyone else followed suit.

Bacoj called back to them from his position in the cockpit. “We go one-third way before overnight recharge.” From what he’d told them earlier, Lindsey had figured out the Kalquorian search party was on Big Pine Key, where the McInnesses had extended family. Lindsey and her parents had gone underground in Pompano Beach following Jessica’s coronation as Kalquor’s Empress. Those helping them hide had reported

that government agents had searched Big Pine Key, intent on arresting them. The Kalquorians were following the same reasoning that perhaps their monarch’s family had run to familiar faces for help. “Three days from Fort Lauderdale to Big Pine as the crow flies?” Aaron sniffed. “Not very fast. We could have made it to Key West in less than two hours in a hover shuttle taking U.S. 1.” Lindsey scowled despite knowing her father was tired and hot from the hurried packing and moving to the shuttle. And he still regarded

the aliens with suspicion, putting him on edge. “What hover shuttle?” she pointed out, feeling a little mean. After all, the Kalquorians didn’t have to take them along. Tired or not, he should be grateful. “I meant in the old days.” Vax, bless his good-natured heart, took no offense. He even smiled at Aaron, his expression encouraging. “Slow, but no walk. This good.” Aaron reddened, Vax’s gentleness shaming him when Lindsey’s impatience couldn’t. “Yes, it is good. This is a comfortable seat and there are plenty of emergency rations.

Thanks again for taking us with you.” Vax nodded. “Good you come.” He jerked his head at Japohn. “We look out?” Japohn, seated against the partition separating the cockpit from the main cabin, reached up to tap the control panel. The other walls and the floor seemed to blink out, and Tara gasped as the outside view suddenly appeared. “Cool vid display, huh Mom? It beats windows by a mile,” Lindsey said. She leaned over to watch the Florida coastline slide beneath her feet. Their seats seemed to

float in midair, and she couldn’t help but grin like a kid on a rollercoaster ride. This was fun. Tara had a death grip on her seat, but she relaxed after a few moments. Watching the blue-green water foam up on the beach was a delight for Lindsey. Soon the strip of sand gave out to the waterside bars and million-dollar homes with miles of docks. Tara’s smile had the far-off wispiness of reminiscence. “Look at the intracoastal. I love taking boat rides out here. Remember when the girls rented that yacht for our

twentieth anniversary, Aaron?” “That was an amazing night,” Lindsey’s father agreed, and she warmed under the smile he gave her. She and Jessica had secretly spent three months cleaning one company’s party yachts in exchange for the insanely expensive four-hour boat ride up and down the intracoastal waterway. The hours spent scrubbing the huge vessels on top of part-time jobs and high school classes had been worth it. Lindsey would never forget her parents’ glowing faces when they’d boarded the yacht to discover fifty friends waiting to toast their long union.

“Boats sunk,” Japohn observed. He was right. Boat after boat, still moored to their piers, hung just below the water’s surface, wavering in the sunlit waves. “And the houses are vandalized,” Lindsey added. Many of the fine homes were burnt-out hulks. Lindsey remembered the fires that lit up the skies in the weeks that followed Armageddon. The structures not burned to the timbers were clearly defaced, windows smashed and walls

graffiti-marked. It always amazed Lindsey that when mankind unleashed its rage, the focus of destruction seemed to center on itself. No matter they’d already been dealt such a devastating blow when the major cities went up in poisoned mushroom clouds. The instant the world disintegrated, people had turned on themselves, further destroying the trappings of civilization. The few antigovernment riots in the years before Armageddon had degenerated into people setting fire to their own neighborhoods, looting their

local shops, and beating on their neighbors before soldiers had quieted the uprisings by shooting everyone in sight. It was the ultimate act of selfhatred. Tara’s voice was resigned. “What a shame. Anger is never helpful.” Aaron was equally hushed. “No nuclear wasteland here, but the destruction is still pretty bad.” Japohn stared at the damage with clinical interest. “Nuclear affect here some day. Wind and ocean carry radiation.” Tara grimaced. “Not exactly

mankind’s finest hour, is it?” Lindsey pointed excitedly. “Look. There’s a bunch of people over there.” Japohn spoke to Bacoj in their language, and the Dramok shifted their course to fly over the knot of Earthers gathered in the parking lot of a waterfront bar. “Look for injured, need help immediate,” Vax said. The upturned faces as the shuttle approached were drawn, dirty and, in the case of the men, in various stages of stubble. Glints of metal made Lindsey cry out.

“They’ve got blasters!” Even as sparks appeared at the ends of the firearms, Japohn waved at her reassuringly. “No hit this distance. Lindsey safe.” “I guess it’s a good thing you didn’t crash here.” Lindsey swallowed at the bestial expressions of her fellow Earthers. They passed over the dozen or so survivors. The sounds they made didn’t reach the group in the shuttle, but the stretched wide mouths erupting spittle let Lindsey know they screamed wild hatred at the Kalquorian ship.

She saw no civilization in any of the faces that followed their passage. If Blockhead’s group had resembled cavemen, this one was something even more primitive and brutal. She shuddered at the expressions, devoid of any rational thought.

Tara wept quietly. Acceptance that life was suffering didn’t mean even the most dedicated Buddhist wasn’t overwhelmed by it sometimes. Aaron did his best to comfort her. “Honey, it’s going to be okay.”

“Ignore me,” she said, trying to downplay her heartbreak. “It’s just so hard to see us reduced to this, like brutal animals.” Bacoj had shifted in his seat to look back at them through the doorway. “No more vid,” he told Japohn, who immediately switched it off. The walls of the cabin returned, shutting out the remains of Earth. Lindsey wondered if everywhere on her planet, people had fallen so low. Seeing the ruins of Fort Lauderdale, she wondered how much worse the major cities that still stood were. She’d

heard stories to turn her hair white. She got out of her seat and walked up the aisle so she could talk to Bacoj without yelling over the occasionally sputtering engine. “We’re not stopping in Miami, are we?” His fingers flew over the glossy black panel before him. Strange colored symbols lit its surface. “Where My-mee?” he asked, stumbling over the city’s name. A topographical map of the southern tip of Florida appeared in the air before him. Lindsey leaned over him to point, her breast brushing his

shoulder. “Here,” she pointed, amused to see his face redden as he glanced at where she made contact with him. “The gangs have taken the city over. It’s a definite no-man’s land, especially for three Kalquorians in a busted shuttle.” Again he tapped the panel, his fingers a blur. A red line appeared on the map, far north of where Lindsey’s finger indicated. “No stop there. Go more west.” “Good. From what I’ve seen, the less population we encounter, the better.” The rest of their trip that

day was uneventful and quiet. Silence reigned in the shuttle, everyone deep in dark thoughts.

Chapter Six

The shuttle ran low on juice over the Everglades, and Bacoj found a relatively dry spot to land for the night. Japohn set up a perimeter field circling a quarter mile around the ship using an armful of sensor sticks set up at equidistant points. Bacoj, whose limited English was better than Vax’s, managed to explain that the perimeter field would set off an alarm if anything bigger than a cat crossed its boundaries. After seeing the violent human wreckage back in Fort

Lauderdale, Lindsey was relieved the Kalquorians had the alarm system. Making life even better, Japohn caught and killed a five-foot long alligator, giving them a hot meal that night. Tara praised their meal, first congratulating Japohn on his hunting skills until the giant alien was awkward with embarrassed pleasure, then Vax who couldn’t bear to simply cook the meat over a fire. He pounded the gator until it was tender and then prepared it in a mildly spicy sauce. The results were spectacular. “Vax, you are an artist when

it comes to cooking,” Tara sighed, rubbing her stomach with satisfaction. “Thank you.” “Mine all is pleasure,” Vax smiled. He lifted an eyebrow at Aaron. “Correct?” “The saying is, the pleasure is all mine,” Aaron gently amended. Lindsey huffed. “Dad, why are you teaching him complicated phrases when ‘you’re welcome’ would do?” Aaron huffed back. “There’s nothing wrong with them speaking like gentlemen.” “I think we’d do better learning their language seeing

as how we’re ending up on Kalquor.” Bacoj interjected a bit of diplomacy. “Good us learn you language, good you learn our.” Aaron gave him a thumbsup. “Agreed.” Lindsey held back a giggle as Japohn copied the motion. The frowning Kalquorian didn’t look natural doing a thumbsup. If he wouldn’t look so grim, it would work out better. Maybe if he wore that devastatingly gorgeous smile he’d shown her earlier today? Lindsey’s lower parts tickled to life as she thought about Japohn’s smile and the

reason she’d received it. He still owed her a good time. As if the universe agreed with her, her parents stood. Now that they were fed, their heads nodded with fatigue. Tara asked, “How do we say ‘goodnight’ in your language?” Vax stood and bowed. “Ek dug.” Tara copied him. “Ek dug, everyone.” Bacoj and Japohn rose to echo the good nights. Lindsey stayed seated, and Aaron frowned at her. “Staying up, Lindsey?”

His suspicion was obvious, and she tried not to let it bother her. She was a grown woman after all, not a little girl. Still, it was difficult to meet her father’s gaze. “For a bit. Ek dug, old folks.” She waved with a grin. Tara snorted with pretended offense. “Old indeed.” She tugged Aaron into the shuttle. They were using the clan’s sleeping room, the Kalquorians having insisted due to their elder status and Aaron’s injured back. The Kalquorians sat down next to Lindsey before the fire.

All were silent, and she realized they listened for the door to the sleeping room to close as she did. With the peeping of frogs and the crackle of the flames, Lindsey couldn’t hear when that happened, but it was obvious the men did. They slid closer to her in unison and she warmed to feel their bodies brush against hers. “Go in?” Bacoj suggested. She liked how the firelight gave their dark skin a warm glow. While the night had turned cool, the fire drove the worst of it away. And it was less likely her parents would

hear anything untoward. “It’s a beautiful night. Let’s stay out here.” Delighted grins surrounded her. The next instant, the three men were seated in a circle and she was lying on their twined legs. Mouths tasted her exposed skin, and hands worked quickly to expose even more. She gasped at the suddenness, but quickly warmed to the eager touches. When Vax’s fangs bit into her upper breast, she groaned with desire. The pain was a sweet prelude to what was to come, and her body clenched in happy response.

As the warm elixir of the intoxicant flowed through her veins, making her more pliant to the men’s ardor, Lindsey felt her almost desperate need to control everything slip away. It was a relief to acquiesce to the strength of the men, to allow them to strip her clothing away, and to let them direct the lovemaking. Lindsey groaned as hot mouths tasted her flesh. Teeth scraped her skin, sending tendrils of sensation deep into her body. The blend of pleasure and slight pain was heady stuff, making her insides melt. The more insistent the men’s

attentions became, the more sublime. Lindsey felt she might simply dissolve into a boneless puddle in their arms. “Lindsey no wish control now?” Japohn growled. His hands kneaded her buttocks, his fingertips brushing her anus. The sensitivity she felt there was a happy surprise. “You know more about this than I do,” she sighed. “You’re better off taking the lead.” Vax’s fingers stroked her womanhood, making her wet and aching. Bacoj sucked hard on her breast, as if he’d draw it all the way down his throat. She felt completely possessed

and loved it. “Lindsey want more submit?” Japohn’s whisper in her ear was full of lascivious threat. “Play our slave, be fun game?”

She knew if she hadn’t been bitten, the menace in his tone would probably have sent her running into the swamp. But euphoria held her in its grip, making the peril an irresistible tease. She was eager for whatever the dangerous Kalquorian had in mind. “Anything you want. Just don’t stop,” she answered

recklessly. That brought growls rumbling from all three aliens. “You obey clan?” Bacoj asked, his eyes dark. “Obey?” Lindsey giggled. “You really want to order me around?” Bacoj grinned, and the heat in his smile twisted her guts, wringing more wetness from her body. “We masters. You slave.” She tried to be responsible for an instant. “Are you going to hurt me?” “Small hurts.” He pinched her nipple hard enough to make

her gasp, but the quick stab of pain made her insides tumble with desire too. “Hurts to make excite.” “And punish for no obey.” Japohn’s open palm suddenly cracked hard against one of her buttocks, and Lindsey jumped. Heat radiated from the blow, and she squirmed from the sensation heating her nether regions. She was definitely turned on by the aliens’ forceful display. What an interesting discovery. “We’re playing a game right? You don’t mean for real?” With the intoxicant

flowing through her, she was fighting to keep her senses. “Just for this?” Bacoj leaned close to kiss her gently on the lips. “Yes, a game. Too much, you tell us. We stop.” Vax chimed in. “You safe, Lindsey.” Well then. There was nothing wrong with a game. She bowed her head, trying for a subservient posture. “I’m yours,” she whispered, excitement making her mouth dry. With another chorus of animal growls, the men shifted position until they knelt all

around her. Bacoj grasped her upper arm, lifting her upward. “On knees,” he commanded. She rose, grateful for the springy vegetation cushioning her bony joints. She looked up at the Dramok for approval. “Eyes down. Hands behind back,” he ordered. Lindsey dropped her head and brought her hands to the small of her back. She was left staring at the very prominent bulge at the crotch of Bacoj’s formsuit. Honey oozed down her inner thighs. “Legs apart.” She slid her knees outward,

feeling the lips of her sex part open with the motion. She moaned at the sensation. “Stay still. You no move. No speak. Punish if no obey.” Her backside still gently throbbed from Japohn’s demonstration of the discipline she’d suffer. Lindsey shivered thinking of the rewards of disobedience. She might try misbehaving later. For now, she wanted to know what delights the clan had for their ‘slave’.

They explored her body with a thoroughness that shocked

Lindsey. Despite the intoxication of Vax’s bite and her arousal, she found it hard to remain still. Fear of discovery and capital punishment from the former fanatical regime had scarred her emotional health. At times she wanted to swat away the big hands roaming over her trembling flesh. She fought the instinct to cover her nudity. What had she been thinking to want to remain outside where passing refugees might glimpse her wanton actions? The Kalquorians tested her resolve to remain submissive to their demands, drowning out her fears. Calloused fingers

pinched her nipples until she shuddered against the mingled pleasure and pain. The thick digits pressed into her sex and anus, probing and stretching the pliant passages. When Vax’s thumb brushed the slick button of raw nerve-endings, Lindsey jerked. The stab of pleasure overwhelmed her senses. “Please,” she moaned, eager for more. Japohn’s hand smacked hard against her buttocks once, twice, three times. “Silence!” he hissed. Lindsey’s hungry sex clenched around Vax’s fingers

as the warmth of the blows penetrated deep in her flesh. Her sleeve flexed in a slow, small climax that offered little relief. She panted as the Imdiko’s fingers stilled. “We no say pleasure. Wait permission,” he warned. When she peeked up through the hair keeping her face hidden, she saw his normally gentle face was almost as severe as Bacoj’s. “You pleasure, Lindsey?” Bacoj demanded. “Just a little one. I’m sorry,” she whimpered. She’d never felt less sorry in her life. Bacoj grasped her chin and

lifted so she faced him. The instant before she cast her eyes downward, she saw the pleased expression he wore. It made her feel good. His deep voice held only the steel of command. “You control body. We tell you when pleasure comes.” Silence spun out for a moment, finally broken by Japohn’s voice behind her. “You say, yes Dramok.” “Yes, Dramok.” Bacoj released her chin, and she dipped her head again. The men resumed their clandestine explorations. Lindsey bore it silently, though she wanted to

scream her longing for them to take her, to bury their thick appendages deep in her hungry body. At last Bacoj stood, peeling his formsuit down his delicious body as he loomed over her like a great tree. Lindsey suddenly found his twin sexes only inches from her face. The scent, so much like cinnamon, hung heavy in the air. His hand gripped the larger of the two penises. “Open mouth, slave.”

A bolt of ecstasy struck her nether regions and she gushed

fresh wetness over Vax’s fingers. The Imdiko emitted gruff laughter. “She like,” he informed Bacoj. Bacoj buried the fingers of his other hand in her hair, pulling her parted lips to his hard length. He slowly slid into her accepting mouth. The spicy-sweet flavor of his lubrication coated her tongue, delighting her. Bacoj tasted scrumptious. Lindsey moaned as he gradually filled her mouth. His stave was hot, and she felt his pulse on the underside of his thickness. She rubbed her tongue against the throb, eager for more of his

juices. She swallowed against the delightful intruder. He groaned. He slid in further still until Lindsey couldn’t breathe, and she gagged against his implacable entry. Suddenly her hands were planted against his thickly muscled thighs, shoving to escape the terrible choking sensation. Bacoj drew back to allow her to recover. As soon as she stopped coughing, Japohn captured her wrists in his hands, pulling them to cross behind her back once more. He held her arms imprisoned there with one hand while peppering

her backside with light spanks. “Take what Bacoj give.” Tears sprang to her eyes as the thrilling punishment stung. “He’s too big!” Harder swats for her temerity to speak. Bacoj still held her by the hair, and he was advancing towards her again. “Open mouth. I teach.” Despite the fear of gagging again, Lindsey obeyed the command as if born into servitude. She wanted this. Their domination made her body alive with deep, undeniable yearning. Again the velvety slick penis slid into her mouth.

“Relax throat. No breathe when all inside. Wait for pull out.” She forced herself to remain relaxed as he breached the point of comfort, holding her breath as he pressed farther in. He tilted her head back as he traveled deeper, opening her throat to take all he had. Lindsey closed her eyes in the effort to keep panic at bay. Serve him. You’re his slave and have no choice but to accept his demands. The immensely titillating thought kept her acquiescent despite the rising terror. After only a moment Bacoj slowly reversed, his smaller penis

dragging beneath her chin. Lindsey drew in an uninhibited breath with relief. “Good, slave.” His approval brought that warm feeling of pleasure again, and she concentrated on his erotic desires as he pushed into her mouth once more. As he established a steady rhythm, Lindsey discovered it excited her to serve him in this fashion. Now that she had the trick of taking him deep, his use of her mouth was enthralling to the senses. Japohn kept her wrists imprisoned with one hand while he explored her anus

with the other. He’d inserted two fingers deep inside, and he gently stretched her snug tissues. At the same time, Vax ran his fingers over her softest folds, parting the petals to tease her entrance and occasionally pinching her engorged nub. It took all she had to stay still under the intense attention. The fullness in her womb was creeping ever closer to bursting. She didn’t think she could possibly hold it off.

The vein lining the underside of Bacoj’s penis

thrummed hard and fast against Lindsey’s tongue. As Bacoj moved the hot length back and forth, she rubbed firmly against the pulse. His breath caught, and he groaned. “More,” he demanded. She obeyed, giving him friction with her velvet flesh. He worked her mouth faster, his gasps coming quickly. “Soon. You swallow.” Lindsey was eager to taste him, and she rubbed her tongue over him harder and faster. A low growl greeted her efforts, and Bacoj suddenly tensed, his fist tightening in her hair. His shout rang in her ears.

Warm, sweet-spicy-salty juice pulsed into Lindsey’s mouth, flooding her senses. Her womanhood flexed hard and she tipped over into paradise as Bacoj filled her with his satisfaction. She swallowed all the thick honey he gave her as her womb swelled and ebbed, swelled and ebbed with completion. Her strangled cries twined with the Dramok’s, joining the chorus of the peepers filling the swamp. When Bacoj withdrew, Vax said, “She pleasure again, no permission.” “I hear her. Disobedient slave.”

Japohn released her wrists. “Hands and knees,” he said. Lindsey’s sex gave an unrepentant throb as she put herself in the vulnerable position he demanded. She’d never known such ecstasy. If her parents weren’t around, she’d be tempted to ask the Kalquorians to keep her in chains. Being in control was highly overrated, at least where sex was concerned. Japohn spanked her thoroughly, his big hand making sure to cover every part of her backside. She gasped with every blow as the punishment warmed her ass.

But it felt so good to give herself entirely up to them, so right. The stings of the Nobek’s discipline only fed her body’s craving for their amorous attentions. She was throbbing with need once more. It can’t be just the intoxicant. Something in me is definitely twisted she thought. She lifted her hindquarters a little higher, inviting Japohn to continue his chastisement, delighting in his strength. A few more smacks, and he stopped. “Warm for you, Vax,” he chuckled. A gentler palm traced her smarting cheeks. “Very warm.

Laxan feel good,” Vax growled. That statement earned very male laughter from the other two men. Lindsey wanted to ask what laxan was, but she had her orders. No speaking. She would mind her masters as much as her eager body would allow. Vax snuggled up behind her, his thighs pushing hers farther apart. His sexes lay heavily on her burning rear. “Very warm,” he repeated. “Definite laxan.” “You allow this, slave,” Bacoj snarled. “No fight.” He waited for a response. “Yes, Dramok.” Lindsey hung her head in obeisance.

Vax’s hand worked between them to position his sexes. In the haze of the bite’s effects, Lindsey nearly swooned with pleasure to feel his larger organ settle against her anus. If there was a more complete way to give herself to the clan, a more profound gesture of complete surrender, she couldn’t imagine it. She softened in anticipation of his invasion.

Vax pressed into her taboo chamber slowly. The snug sleeve admitted him, though grudgingly. His smaller organ

found entrance to her sex as he crept further into her tightness. When Lindsey whimpered, he paused, giving her a moment to adjust before pushing a bit deeper. If she’d been allowed to speak, Lindsey would have told Vax it wasn’t pain that made her breaths come in quiet sobs. It was the immense pleasure of being so utterly possessed, the intensity of absolute submission. She was on the verge of another climax already. Only the slowness of the penetration and his pauses for her comfort kept her from losing control. Her fingers dug shallow ruts in the ground as

Vax filled her. When his groin finally met her rear, Vax paused again. Lindsey shuddered to feel him seated so deeply within her body. Bacoj and Japohn crowded on either side of her, and someone’s hands clutched the cheeks of her ass and spread them apart so they could see their clanmate rooted inside her. “Good slave, take all Vax,” Bacoj said. The praise in his voice made Lindsey feel good. “No take me laxan tonight.” Japohn’s voice was heavy with regret. “Too small. Take time for train.”

“Mouth good. Hot. Wet. You like.” “Yes. I like much.” “Watch slave face while Vax enjoy?” “Yes,” Japohn agreed. The two men lay on the ground on either side of Lindsey so they could look up at her face. Strangely, she felt more exposed and vulnerable that way then when they’d looked at where she and Vax joined. Her belly quivered. The Imdiko rocked his hips, smoothly pulling out and pushing back in. His hand reached beneath Lindsey to

stroke her clitoris. Pleasure was gathering itself, readying to steamroll through her body. She groaned. “Pretty slave.” Deep in the fog of arousal, Lindsey wasn’t sure who said it. Fingers closed over one nipple, tightened on the nub to send shivers of delight into her womb. “Eager. I think slave disobey again soon.” More fingers touched her, inciting growing passion. He was right. She wouldn’t be able to deny another climax. The thought of more punishment brought the burgeoning climax

closer. Lindsey shuddered. Vax thrust faster into her accepting warmth. She groaned through gritted teeth. The hot friction drove her nearer to the precipice. “I punish slave next.” The greed in Bacoj’s tone told her he looked forward to discipline as much as she did. The orgasm was starting, an exploding star burning brighter and brighter. Vax was steadily drumming against her sore backside, his hips pumping harder and harder, as if he’d drive his length right through her.

“Ah. Ah. Aaaah,” Lindsey cried, the exhalations getting longer as the conflagration swept through her, sending burning heat to raze her entire being. Her body quaked in helpless shudders, and she couldn’t help but meet Vax’s thrusts with her own. The desperate urge to consume him drove away all thoughts of obedience as she rammed her flesh back to swallow him. Vax’s shout silenced the peepers, and Lindsey came anew to feel him pulse hugely in the tight confines of her passage. She fell to her elbows

and pounded her small fists against the spongy ground. Bacoj’s hands closed over her wrists to hold her still and keep her from hurting herself. Lindsey sobbed in helpless bliss as the shockwaves pulsed hugely through her abdomen. To think she’d once contemplated lifelong celibacy! The Kalquorians had shown her the error of her ways. At last the climax spent itself, leaving Lindsey as limp as a rag doll. She sagged to the ground as Vax extricated his organs from her clutching sheaths. He patted her rump. “Best laxan for Vax entire life.”

The other two chuckled. Then Bacoj’s voice turned steely again. “Rise knees, slave. Hands behind back.” Lindsey obeyed, her legs shaking. Her ass still smarted from Japohn’s earlier spanking, and she almost dreaded being punished again. Bacoj inspected her tender mounds and frowned. “No can more discipline tonight. More dulma may bruise.” He glared as if it was her fault Japohn had been so heavy-handed. “I punish tomorrow.” Something to look forward to. Lindsey hid a smile. “Yes,

Dramok.” “My turn, slave,” Japohn growled. He kneeled in front of her and lifted her up. “Spread legs.” She did so, straddling his megalithic thighs. Everything on the man was massive, especially the turgid lengths he filled her with. She groaned as he settled her on his lap. Laxan with Japohn would most assuredly rip her in half. She felt a pang of remorse she was unable to share herself with him in that way. But as she curled her legs to wrap around his waist, the feeling of him seated within her

womanhood drove away any regret. The Nobek had more than enough going for him to make up for missing out on the ultimate taboo. She liked how he stretched her most pliant flesh to its limits, filling her as no other man possibly could. “You pleasure when want now,” he rumbled. “I repay for kindness this morning.” “Thank you, Nobek.” “You are welcome, slave. Offer breasts.” Lindsey pressed her shoulders back, leaning away from Japohn so her breasts pointed up. With her hands still clasped behind her back, she

was forced to trust him to hold her and keep her from falling. His grip surrounding her ribcage assured her of her safety.

His head bent to her chest, capturing first one, then the other nipple in his sucking mouth. The tip of his tongue lashed the pink nubs, making them tighten. Lindsey’s head fell back, and she sighed her pleasure to the stars overhead. He held her that way for a long time, suckling gently one moment, hard the next. His sexes flexed within her every

now and then, reporting on his pleasure as he consumed the soft mounds. Lindsey warbled delighted little cries, lost in the joy of his warm mouth, teeth and tongue. When his fangs broke the skin of her left upper breast, she offered no complaint, not even flinching at the twin pinpricks. Instead, her nether regions clenched around his rigid flesh, offering proof that she’d come to equate sensual pain with pleasure. She closed her eyes to feel the fresh onslaught of intoxicant rush euphoria through her body. Japohn lifted her so that her

chest met his. “You may touch me, slave,” he said. “Thank you, Nobek.” Her greedy hands lost no time in taking him at his word. As Japohn rose up on his knees and began to thrust deep into her core, she caressed the strong jaw, the corded neck, the wide shoulders, the chiseled chest, the muscled back. Her lips followed next, trailing wet kisses everywhere she could reach, tasting the sweet-saltiness of his skin. Her fingers dove into his thick curls, their softness at odds with the granite hardness of the rest of the man. She

tangled her hands in his hair, delighting in every nuance of him. Lindsey nibbled at his goatee, straining upwards in an effort to snare his mouth. He lowered his face to hers, permitting her kiss on his pouting lips. She opened her mouth, offering him the one orifice he didn’t penetrate. His tongue swept in, and she moaned to finally be completely possessed by him. His hips swung like a pendulum, filling then emptying her hearth with determined thrusts. She clung to him, pressing her feet, twined at the

ankles, against his flexing buttocks, pulling him into her body as far as possible. Japohn was so big that his tip bumped into her cervix, sending delicious darts through her belly. She tightened her thighs around him, rising and falling over his driving shafts. The additional pressure made her clitoris rub hard against him, sending yet more shocks of pleasure tumbling through her belly. She was igniting again, and she moved against him eagerly, desperate for more fulfillment despite being brought three times already.

Kinky submissive nymphomaniac. Who would have guessed? Or am I just making up for thirty years of virginity all at once? It didn’t matter as the moment of release arrived, consuming her as Japohn drove hard. Lindsey clutched at his shoulders desperately, riding wave after wave of elation while he drummed into her without pause. The moment one spasm relented, another took its place. She lost all sense of sight and sound as the incredible sensations tore her from conscious thought.

After a breathless eternity the convulsions faded, and Lindsey discovered she lay on her back on the ground, an absolutely still Japohn crouched over her. He remained inside her and as hard as steel yet. His shoulders bled from shallow cuts. Bacoj and Vax thumped him on the back, chortling. “You are done, Lindsey?” the Nobek asked. Her eyes widened in horror to see the lines of scratches furrowing the alien’s flesh. Had she done that? Japohn slapped the side of

her left breast, making it sting. Lindsey arched a little and moaned. “I ask question, slave. Answer.” “She senseless still,” Vax laughed. “Japohn sex good.” “I’m done, Nobek. Sorry.” She couldn’t take her eyes off his shoulders. Japohn glanced at his injuries, and a slow smile stretched over his face. The behemoth looked proud. “No apology this. Marks of honor. Good slave.” He liked it? She wasn’t the only one with masochistic tendencies then.

Bacoj was also grinning ear to ear. “Surprise slave conscious. Big pleasure.” “Give more,” Japohn growled. He snuggled up into Lindsey as far as he could then sat up straight, kneeling between her thighs. He jerked his head at his clanmates. “You help.” The other two lit up with delight. “What we do?” Vax asked. “Bacoj hold arms over head. Vax to breasts.” The rest of his instructions were in Kalquorian, leaving Lindsey wondering in a maelstrom of fear and anticipation what they

were about to do to her. Fresh wetness seeped around Japohn’s sex as she succumbed to their dominance. Bacoj clasped her birdboned wrists in his hands, stretching her long and pinning her to the ground. Vax used his good hand and mouth on her breasts, alternating gentle strokes and kisses with stinging slaps, pinches and sharp nips with his teeth. Lindsey writhed beneath the delightful abuse, completely helpless to protect the soft orbs. Her vulnerability brought renewed excitement. “Now slave,” Japohn

growled. “You obey.” She shuddered under his dark stare. “Yes, Nobek.” “No pleasure until told. Silence and stop move.” Could she really hold still under Vax’s mouth and hand? Lindsey forced herself to lay as motionless as her uncontrollable trembling allowed. She pressed her lips together to keep from crying out as the Imdiko captured one tight nipple between his teeth and stretched the tender flesh to a point. She looked up at Bacoj, and the Dramok frowned. “Close eyes, slave. Keep closed.”

Her eyelids slammed shut before she could even think about defying him. Something in his voice demanded immediate obedience.

A feather-light touch brushed her clit, and she jerked. Japohn’s steel-tinged voice snarled, “Lindsey.” Biting back needy sobs, she forced herself to relax. Obey. Obey. That’s all you have to do in this game. Make their will yours. The finger again brushed her swollen nub and Lindsey

shuddered but otherwise remained still. In the darkness behind her closed lids, she felt their exquisite torture better than ever. With no sight to distract her, Bacoj’s warm but implacable grip on her wrists was a sweet trap. Vax’s continued attentions on her breasts made her want to squirm with tormented pleasure. Japohn still filled her up tight with his twin spears as he prodded her wet pink pearl with knowing fingertips. She felt her flesh swollen around his, engorged with prior lovemaking and desire for more. Japohn smiled down at the

distended clit, now fully emerged from its hood. He stroked the eager nub, feeling how the woman beneath him fought to maintain the control he’d demanded of her. Little Lindsey was such a delightful surprise. Earthers were supposed to be repressed, even terrified of sex. But their tiny playmate had turned out to be everything the sexually dominating Kalquorians liked. Japohn was impressed with their unexpected find. Tough and no-nonsense, ready to protect her family, he detected a bit of warrior nature in her soul. Yet her quick response to his need this morning with no

expectation of having the favor returned had been his first clue that the luscious Earther might be amiable to submissive pleasures. His clanmates had agreed the possibility was worth pursuing when he’d privately spoken to them. And now here she was, lying on the soft earth, obeying the three of them as well as her remarkably strong libido allowed. Japohn was determined to see just how much torment she could withstand. Judging by the fierce trembling of her body, she’d be begging for release soon, even though she’d been ordered to be quiet. Japohn

growled deep in his throat. Hearing her plead for completion would be sweeter than the screams of a dying Tragoom. We should clan her. I wonder if Bacoj and Vax have considered it. Having such a submissive woman warming his bed sounded very good to Japohn. Soft and yielding in the sleeping room; plus intelligent, tough, and equal to him when the sex was over. If Lindsey wasn’t a perfect mate, she was as close to it as Japohn was ever likely to find. He liked her. And he was

enough of a man to admit he might feel even more. It didn’t surprise him to be instantly attracted enough to consider the lifelong clan commitment. It had been the same when he’d met Bacoj and Vax. He smiled to himself as he continued to push Lindsey towards breaking her silence. **** Lindsey felt Bacoj’s warm breath on her face the instant before he spoke. “Open your mouth, slave.”

She’d been clenching her

teeth together in the effort to keep quiet. Vax and Japohn’s continued manipulations were driving her crazy, bringing her to the edge of rapture, and then backing off to deny the heady fall. She was afraid of the sounds she’d make if she obeyed Bacoj, but there was no disputing his order. She parted her lips and hoped for the best. Her breaths came with tiny whimpers. While continuing to hold her wrists in the manacle of one fist, the Dramok twisted her hair in his other. He pulled gently, tilting her head back towards him. His cat-scratchy tongue flicked over her lips and ventured into her mouth where

it dipped and explored. Vax’s teeth scraped one breast, sending darts of painful pleasure to her core. It took everything she had to not thrust towards him for another nip. And what Japohn was doing to her nether regions … she thought she might go insane from the teasing touch of his fingertip on her clitoris, from the thick organs seated so beautifully within her. The struggle to remain quiet beneath her tormentors was growing too hard. Mouths, tongues, hands all over her, a banquet of sensual pleasure that gave no sustenance, not

when just as she neared completion they slowed the feed. Lindsey had gone beyond aching for release. She thought she’d die from want of it. Please let me, please let me, her mind gibbered as once again she felt pleasure swell within her overwrought body. Bacoj’s sweeping tongue in her mouth, Vax’s nips and pinches on her hard nipples, and Japohn’s wet fingertips swirling around her distended nub brought the sweet dissolution nearer. Oh yes. Here it was, close enough to claim with just one more brush on her clit…

Japohn’s hand left her, as did Vax and Bacoj’s mouths. Lindsey’s body thrummed with anguish as the men once more denied her. Steady. Obey. They won’t torture me forever. Will they? As soon as her breath lost its whimpering edge, the torment resumed. Lips sealed to hers, tongue tasting the entirety of her mouth. Another tongue swirling around the peak of her breast, then teeth closing over the tip while the rough wet flesh flicked across it. And a calloused finger drawing circles all around the

straining nubbin of eager desire. Heat built anew, pulsing brighter and brighter, quickly suffusing her. She trembled, and ecstasy swept near, approaching her at a gallop, rushing quickly now, almost upon her, oh sweet heavens, here it was… They withdrew again. It. Was. Too. Much. Her wail came all the way from her aching core. “Please, please, please, please…” she kept saying the word over and over until her breath ran out. She drew in another to continue begging, beyond shame.

“Lindsey.” Japohn’s flat voice stalled the attempt. “Yes, Nobek?” She didn’t try to keep the sob out of her voice. “You disobey, slave.”

“Please.” She had nothing else to offer. She was completely at their mercy and they knew it. They could make her suffer for eternity if they wanted and there wasn’t a damned thing she could do about it. Desire beat against her with desperate fists. She’d never known such need.

“Please, Nobek. Please, master.” A long pause. Then finally, “Yes, slave. You have enough.” Bacoj released her wrists, and she sensed he and Vax move away as Japohn shifted. His body descended over hers, cloaking her in his hard heat. She kept her eyes closed as his mouth seized hers in a demanding kiss. Japohn drew back and plunged back in, and Lindsey suddenly found the elusive rapture they’d denied her. She arched beneath him, crying out over and over as the massive Kalquorian rode her, sending

her into the stratosphere with his powerful thrusts. She felt him jerk inside her sheath as she milked him for every precious drop. Lindsey sighed with deep pleasure in the aftermath. Still lodged tight within her, Japohn chuckled in response. He propped himself up on his elbows and looked down on her with the smile that transformed him from scary to stunning. “Lindsey good?” “Lindsey really good now.” She gave his jaw a mock punch. “You guys were so mean to tease me like that!” He grabbed her fist and

pressed it to his lips. “You like. You fun slave.” “But learn obey,” Vax said. He shook his head at her and stroked her hair. “You much learn for submit.” “She like punish,” Bacoj snickered. “She no behave so we give discipline.” “Yeah well, a girl has to have hobbies.” She stuck her tongue out at them and blew a raspberry. “Jeez, heaven help me if my parents find out about this. I’ll never be able to look them in the eye again.” “This private,” Vax reassured her.

Japohn nodded. “Strong Lindsey with others. Our Lindsey when alone.” Lindsey’s stomach flopped at the possessive look he gave her then it tumbled a few times over when she saw identical expressions on the other two. Was she really their Lindsey now? Had her mother been right about the clan wanting her on a permanent basis?

Chapter Seven

The first rays of daylight had just appeared when Japohn stalked into the camp, a decent-sized deer slung over his shoulder. His proud grin grew as his clan and the Earthers cheered his success. “This eat good,” he declared, dropping the carcass on the ground. Everyone gathered around. “Well done,” Aaron congratulated him. The distrustful glares he’d been giving the Kalquorians since rising disappeared in the face

of food. Vax looked over the deer with anticipation, prodding and poking it. “Much meat. Skin and cook.” Bacoj clapped a hand on the Nobek’s shoulder. “We help. Eat and leave.” All three Kalquorians unsheathed long double-bladed knives from their belts. Tara’s eyes went wide and Aaron loosed an awed whistle. Lindsey gaped at the serrated daggers, staring at blades as long as her forearm. She had the feeling the vicious-looking weapons were rarely used to dress woodland creatures. No,

these were meant for bloody hand-to-hand combat. She wondered if Bacoj’s clan had ever killed other sentient beings. With Japohn, it wasn’t too hard to imagine. The Nobek wore savagery like a second skin. She thought Bacoj might also possess the ability to spill blood given the right situation. When not secondguessing himself, the Dramok was as focused as a laser. As she watched, he wielded his knife with assurance, knowing exactly how to slice open the deer’s hide so he could peel it back from the muscle. Vax also skinned the animal

with ease, though with his cook’s background, he was probably used to butchering meat. Still, Lindsey remembered the stern expression Vax had worn as he dominated her the night before, and she shuddered. Did this morning’s easygoing Imdiko have a much darker side his rough sex play had only hinted at? A low buzz vibrated through the air, bringing all three men’s heads up to alert. Their nostrils flared as they scented the air. With a sudden blurring motion, Japohn raced away from the group, his passage silent. An instant later, Bacoj followed,

his light footfalls barely discernable. Lindsey exchanged nervous stares with her parents as Vax left the deer carcass to silence the perimeter sensors. Armed with terrifying weaponry, inhumanly fast and silent, the Kalquorians were a frightening surprise this morning. And it’s turning me on. Holy Hannah, I’ve got issues, Lindsey thought, clenching her thighs together in an effort to slow the juices seeping from her mound. Vax smiled comfortingly at the silent Earthers. “I think animal make alarm. No scare.

Field stun trespasser. We protect.” He resumed butchering the deer, unaware the concern wasn’t about what might be coming from outside the campsite.

No, I’m definitely worried about who’s already here. No wonder we lost the war. But the sudden stab of fear didn’t temper the desire that seeing the aliens’ power had incited. Their show of physical supremacy aroused her as easily as last night’s kisses. Lindsey might have spent more time worrying about her

urges, but Bacoj and Japohn were emerging from the treeline. The Nobek carried a bedraggled, unconscious woman in his arms. “Get medical,” Bacoj called to Vax. The Imdiko ran to the shuttle. The Earthers crowded around the dark-haired refugee as soon as Japohn laid her gently on the ground. Lindsey thought she might be the same age as herself, though the woman was so starved it was hard to tell for sure. Bruises covered her exposed throat, arms and legs. Her thin dress was torn in several places and

she had the sour smell of someone who hadn’t washed in weeks. “What happened to her?” Tara asked. “Stunned. Unconscious when find,” Bacoj answered. He gently pried open the woman’s eyelids then checked her pulse. “No fed. Injured. Someone beat her.” As Bacoj continued to look her over, the woman’s eyes fluttered open. Her gaze was unfocused. “What happened?” she groaned. Lindsey took the conversational lead. “You were stunned by our perimeter field.

You’ll be okay.” Vax joined them, handing Bacoj a medical kit. Japohn boomed impatiently, “Who harm Matara?” The woman blinked at the loud voice. Her gaze traveled up and up as she looked at the giant. “Kalquorians? As if things weren’t bad enough!” She hid her face behind her hands. Lindsey pulled at her hands. “It’s okay. They’re trying to help. Who hurt you?” “Tragooms.” She cringed for a moment as Bacoj rubbed a nasty cut with a damp cloth

that smelled antiseptic. When she realized he was cleaning the wound, she relaxed. “That feels much better. There must be anesthetic in it.” “Stop pain, no infection.” He smiled at her, and she returned it shakily. It helped he was so handsome, Lindsey thought. She put down the twinge of jealousy. The woman grabbed Bacoj’s wrist, her expression drawing down in desperation. “You have to save us. The Tragooms have the rest pinned down in our camp. There are children!” Bacoj scowled. At first Lindsey thought he might be

angry that he was expected to rescue a bunch of helpless Earthers, but his muttered, “Hate Tragooms. Want all dead,” told her different. “How many?” Japohn asked. His dark face was eager, and he caressed his knife handle. At least the blade was safely sheathed.

“I don’t know. Half a dozen maybe?” Tears flowed down her cheeks as she struggled to sit up. Lindsey and Tara helped her. “They come in three or four times a day to take someone away. We can’t stop

them.” She clutched at Bacoj as he rummaged in the medical kit. “Please, I’ll do anything if you’ll help us.” He gently pulled her hands from his arms and pulled a metallic cylinder with a plunger on one end from the case. Lindsey watched as he opened the other end of the tube and dropped a purple tablet the size of a horse pill inside. The sound of fizzing emitted from the tube before he sealed it shut again. “What’s that?” Lindsey asked. “Calm for her. Help her to speak clear, tell information for

Tragooms.” He pressed the flat end of the tube against the woman’s neck and depressed the plunger before she could react. She jumped in surprise. Vax patted her shoulder. “You feel better moment. Medicine.” “Oh. Okay.” She looked at Tara and Aaron questioningly and they smiled encouragingly. “It’s okay. The Kalquorians are very good and will help.” Tara spoke with quiet confidence. Lindsey whispered in Bacoj’s ear. “If you wanted her

to feel better, why didn’t you just bite her?” One corner of his mouth lifted. He gave her a long look before leaning close to whisper back. “Bite enemy to harm or lover to enjoy. No bite female but Lindsey.” “Oh.” Over his shoulder, Lindsey saw Vax grin at her with a short nod. Had he heard their exchange? She glanced up at Japohn. He too regarded her with amusement. Super hearing to go with the rest of their super powers. These boys just keep amazing me.

Bacoj’s words ran through her thoughts again, and she warmed to realize the men didn’t want the intimacy of biting another female. Only her. “Oh,” she said again, her voice soft with happy surprise.

Chapter Eight

Bacoj’s stomach roiled as he watched Japohn prepare for battle. The Nobek strapped on black body armor before attaching an assortment of knives to his belt. No percussion blaster. Bacoj clenched his fists. Stupid, bloodthirsty Nobek. No, Japohn wasn’t stupid. Thick-skulled and stubborn, but not stupid. Still, the foolhardiness of his actions was going to leave the clan without a Nobek. Even a former bounty hunter of Japohn’s

prodigious fighting skills got unlucky once in awhile. This might be one of those times. Especially since the idiot was obviously planning on hand-tohand combat. “I don’t want you going after those gurlucks alone.” At least Bacoj kept his voice steady. One didn’t waver with a Nobek, especially one as willful as this one. Vax stood in the corner, watching them silently. He wouldn’t speak against Japohn, though Bacoj knew he disapproved of their clanmate’s actions. Vax had let him know soon after they clanned Japohn

it was up to Bacoj to claim his leadership over the Nobek. “Japohn won’t respect you unless you stand up to him on your own. Until you do that, having me gang up on him with you will only diminish you in his eyes.” Bacoj knew Vax was right. But what would happen if the young Dramok asserted his authority and Japohn refused to listen? Worse still, what if the Nobek did accept his leadership and things went terribly wrong? Especially in a situation like this one, in which so many lives hung in the balance?

“I’m going with you,” Bacoj told him, reaching in for his own body armor, suspended among formsuits in their shared closet. Japohn shook his head, frowning. “You have to stay here where I know you’re safe. I’m used to working alone, and I can hit them before they know I’m even there.” He patted Bacoj’s shoulder, his tone condescending enough to set the Dramok’s teeth on edge. “It’s not the first time I’ve fought half a dozen Tragooms.” “It would be safer to sneak the Earthers out. We can’t afford to lose you, Japohn.

Even your bloodlust can’t hide that from you.” The Nobek refused to address his concerns. “You won’t lose me. I’ll do a sweep of the perimeter to make sure everyone here is safe before I go. I’ll leave in about ten minutes, so be ready to receive fifteen refugees pretty quick.” With that, Japohn walked out of the sleeping room, leaving Bacoj seething impotently. He heard the Nobek mutter something to someone in the main cabin. Bacoj learned which of the Earthers had stepped into the shuttle when Lindsey’s voice rose in

disbelief. “Where do you think you’re going?” she asked. There was no answer. “You need to stand up to him before he gets himself killed,” Vax growled.

Before Bacoj could respond, Lindsey stormed in. “What the hell is Japohn doing?” Bacoj ran his hands through his hair. He was getting a headache. “Japohn being Nobek.” Lindsey stamped her little foot in frustration. If Bacoj

hadn’t been so furious, he’d have found the gesture of temper adorable. “He’s not taking on those Tragooms alone. You have to stop him, Bacoj.” Sure. While he was performing miracles, he’d wind back time and save Earth too. “He no listen me.” She came close to him, her slight body at once arousing his interest. The woman was an addictive creature. Last night had left no doubt in his mind he wanted to clan her. “Make him listen to you.” Lindsey rose up on her tiptoes and pressed her soft lips to his.

In an instant Bacoj’s arms were around her, molding her hard against his very interested body. Fury at Japohn fed his ardor. It was never a good idea to arouse an angry Kalquorian. Only the greatest control kept him from ripping her clothes off and taking her with ruthless need. Lindsey broke the kiss with effort. Her hands trembled against his chest and her scent wafted to his nostrils. Her eyes lowered, her submissive instincts coming to the fore in his demanding embrace. His manhood turned to iron in response to her softening body. A growl leaked from deep in his

throat. With obvious effort she asked, “Do you have any ideas on how we can rescue the rest of those people?” It took a moment for his brain to register the question. Right. He had a problem on his hands, a problem that left no time for lovemaking no matter how desperate he felt for her. Bacoj gently pushed Lindsey away from him, putting space between their clamoring bodies. “Idea. Yes. I think good idea.” Her chin raised and her gaze rose to meet his. “Then stop

Japohn. Don’t let him do anything stupid.” His little Earther was strong when sex wasn’t involved, an equal to him. Bacoj was relieved. He admired her spirit and didn’t want that part of her lost just because she enjoyed handing over the reins during intimacy. It made her sensual surrender that much sweeter. He gave himself a mental shake. Concentrate on the problem at hand. Stop thinking about sex, you fool. “Japohn hard to stop.” “But you can do it. You’re the Dramok. He’s supposed to listen to you, right?”

Bacoj sighed, glanced at Vax. The Imdiko raised his eyebrows, his thoughts obvious. Go ahead, Bacoj. Are you our Dramok or not? Damn them both. If it was that easy, didn’t they realize he’d do it?

Steeling his voice to appear patient with Lindsey, Bacoj said, “Japohn know more. More experience.” “Would he have chosen you for a Dramok if he didn’t believe in you?” Her statement startled him.

He’d never considered Japohn might actually want him to take control. Vax grinned at Bacoj’s stunned expression. “Lindsey correct.” In Kalquorian he said, “Japohn pursued us. He campaigned to be our Nobek. He must have seen you as a worthy Dramok to do so.” Bacoj rolled the idea around in his head. Nobeks were by nature fierce protectors of their clans, quick to advise their Dramoks, but even quicker to carry out orders. The members of the warrior breed were dedicated to a fault, their trust in the clan’s leadership

unshakeable. But even if Japohn took Bacoj’s orders to heart, there was still the matter of gross inexperience. “What if idea bad?” Bacoj worried. Lindsey shrugged. “Run it by all of us. We’ll discuss it, find any weaknesses and keep Japohn from getting his Nobek hide handed to him.” Vax nodded in approval. “Nobek, Imdiko and Matara advise. Dramok decide and lead.” Bacoj felt a thrill when he heard Vax mention Matara. His clanmate was considering Lindsey a part of their clan

already. But to make Lindsey ours, I need to be a real leader. She can’t be the Matara to a weak Dramok. Bacoj drew himself up. “I am Dramok,” he asserted, more for his own benefit than theirs. He gently pushed Lindsey aside, her smile giving him the courage to walk out to confront Japohn. **** Lindsey felt a rush of warmth seeing the resolute strength on Bacoj’s dark face as he left. For heaven’s sake, was she going to melt into a puddle of goo every time the

aliens displayed assertiveness? Just seeing the forceful expressions the men sometimes wore was enough to make her feel shaky inside. I am such a freak. She glanced at Vax and flushed to see the calculating look he gave her despite his sweet smile. In some ways she thought he might be as dangerous as Japohn. Not in a physical sense, but his easygoing Imdiko nature masked a will of steel when he was aroused sexually. Since she had a bad habit of turning to jello in the presence of such mastery, he made her nervous.

And excited. Especially when he stared hungrily at her body like it was one of the tasty meals he prepared. Like he was doing now. Swallowing hard and trying to contain the butterflies that had been set loose in her belly, Lindsey asked, “Should you go with Bacoj to give him some support?”

He shook his head, his eyes keeping her imprisoned with his stare. “I go, make Bacoj weak to Japohn.” “Will Japohn listen?” Good,

steady voice. No hint of the hormones rampaging through her. But Vax moved towards her, and her anxiety level rose along with her libido. Even though he was the smallest of the clan, he still towered over Lindsey. He stood before her, his mere presence making her feel small. Vulnerable. Helpless. She looked down, unable to meet the intensity of his purple cat’s eyes. Vax stroked her cheek, his low voice a reassuring rumble. “Japohn listen if Bacoj be Dramok. No worry.” His warm touch drifted

down her face, trailing fingertips down her throat and over the part of her chest that her vee neck tee shirt left exposed. Lindsey’s nipples tightened to poke brazenly at the thin fabric of her bra. No doubt Vax could feel her heart thundering within her breast. “How’s the arm?” she asked, desperate to distract him. Her voice was definitely unsteady this time. She wanted to move away, but her legs refused to budge. It was as if he held her in a thrall. “Small pain. No keep from pleasure Lindsey.” Vax stopped touching her long

enough to punch a button on the wall panel. The sleeping room’s door shut and made a buzzing sound to indicate it locked. “Um, is this a good time for that? I mean, we’ve got a situation here—” her voice failed when Vax lifted her chin so she had to look in his dark eyes. “Little time. I pleasure you fast.” “Vax…” She finally found the strength to take a wobbling step back. The hold he had on her chin tightened, and he pulled her close to him once more. There was no

compromise in his expression. “What?” His frown made her heart skip. The memory of Japohn’s spankings last night shivered from her brain down to her sex. Even one-armed, Lindsey had no doubt Vax could deliver punishment of his own. She dropped her gaze in submission. “Yes, Imdiko.” “Clothes off.” She hesitated, and he growled. She hurriedly stripped. Her mother and father were busy keeping the refugee Dee

Dee company, soothing the battered woman’s nerves while she ate an emergency ration pouch. But sooner or later Lindsey’s absence would be noted, and one of them would come looking for her. What then? A quick glance up at Vax’s uncompromising face let Lindsey know the threat of discovery was the least of her worries. He meant to have her, and there was nothing she could do about it. The realization made her want him more than ever. ****

The morning had turned muggy. Bacoj had no trouble following his Nobek’s musky scent in the thick air despite the verdant odor of vegetation. He jogged through the stinging plants Aaron had identified as sawgrass to catch up to his clanmate. Japohn heard him coming of course and left his check on the perimeter field to meet Bacoj. The hulking Kalquorian missed little, finely tuned to his surroundings no matter how alien they might be. Bounty hunting had made him a very resourceful and dangerous

man. As Japohn stalked towards him, his heavy brow creased, Bacoj reminded himself, He chose me for his Dramok. And Japohn would never suffer a weak leader. I want Lindsey for my Matara. She won’t suffer a weak leader either. “Bacoj, what’s wrong?” Japohn looked towards the campsite half a mile away, no doubt expecting to hear the worst. Tension sang in his body as he waited for the word to dash back and save the day for the battered group. Bacoj held a hand up to

indicate all was well. “You need to return to camp so we can discuss our best plan to rescue those Earthers.” Japohn frowned harder than ever, but it was confusion and not anger that creased his brow. “But we already decided I would hit the Tragooms –” Bacoj interrupted him, speaking with certainty he didn’t feel. “No, Japohn. I took your idea under consideration, but I have another option we as a group will discuss. One that won’t put my Nobek under such direct threat.” He turned and started back to the campsite. Don’t give him

a chance to argue. Just act like his obedience is guaranteed. “Come, clanmate. I need your expertise to fine-tune my plan.” There was silence behind him as he walked away, and it took monumental effort to not look back. Bacoj wondered if Japohn would ignore his summons and go after the Tragooms on his own after all. After two seconds that felt like an eternity, the Nobek spoke. “Yes, my Dramok.” Bacoj’s shoulders relaxed and he drew a relieved breath as Japohn caught up to walk easily at his side. ****

Lindsey lay on the bed, her hands behind her knees, holding her legs up and open for Vax’s agonizing attentions. The Imdiko grinned to hear her whimpers as he teased her engorged labia with his fingers. She was so wet and tender, every brush making her tremble with need. He wished he had time to bury his swollen cocks in her warmth, but his clanmates would be returning soon to discuss strategy. He’d have to be content with a brief session of mastery over the lovely Earther. He inserted a finger into her folds, enjoying the sight of his

dark flesh disappearing into the rosy pinks of her sex. Lindsey groaned and arched at the penetration. Her clitoris jutted at him, begging to be kissed. In a few moments, the wicked little nub would get its wish. But for now, he concentrated on invading the sweet clutching warmth of the petite woman’s hearth.

In and out his finger slid, making Lindsey toss her head from side to side in rapture. She bit her lips in an effort to keep quiet as he’d commanded, but tiny cries escaped

nonetheless. Vax ached to take her hard and fast, and he promised himself at the first opportunity he would. The little Earther was so giving when it came to lovemaking, so incredibly right for the alpha mentality of Kalquorian males. He wondered at the clan’s luck in finding her. We have to clan her. Bacoj and Japohn must be thinking the same thing. The bed linen beneath Lindsey’s flanks was dark with wetness. Her honey flowed, and Vax inhaled deeply of her luscious scent. He was painfully hard, tormenting

himself every bit as much as his pretty Earther. He gave into a quick impulse and bent forward to lick her sweet cream from the crevice it seeped down. Her salty flavor filled his mouth, and he sighed in delight as she cried out. Vax pulled his finger free, grimacing in frustration to have only one useful hand. He gave her lifted buttocks two hard slaps, one for each cheek. “Silence.” He glared. Lindsey shuddered and bit her lips together again, her eyes wide as she looked down her body at him. Did she know how appealingly vulnerable she

looked when she did that, he wondered? It brought all his instincts to nurture to the fore. And right now, the pretty Matara needed him to take care of her desire. A duty he enthusiastically embraced. “I soon allow you pleasure. You enjoy quiet.” “Yes, Imdiko.” The thick walls of the sleeping room and closed door would mask most sounds made, but the space wasn’t soundproof. Vax knew how important it was for Lindsey to conceal her activities from her parents right now. He completely understood that

Tara and Aaron might become very upset to hear their daughter screaming behind the locked door. Vax readied to test her obedience. He licked his lips in anticipation. **** When Vax thrust two fingers hard into her core, Lindsey almost shrieked. She bit her lips so hard she tasted blood. The alien worked her hard and fast, sending mind-shattering bolts of ecstasy deep inside her belly. The rapture was excruciating. His head dipped down, his long black hair cascading to

shield his face and her mound from sight. Lindsey couldn’t fight off the groan that escaped her throat as his raspy tongue swirled around her clit, bringing her closer to explosive fulfillment. Her nub felt huge with need, aching for intimate contact. Every atom of her secret flesh begged for release. Completion neared, yawning huge to engulf her. No way she could stay silent when it happened. No way. But her parents were outside. More importantly, Vax had ordered her silence. She had to obey Vax. Had to.

The utility belt to Japohn’s formsuit lay on the bed, discarded in favor of the larger belt that fit over his body armor. Lindsey let one leg go for an instant to grab it and shove the hard strap into her mouth. Before Vax could notice she’d been disobedient, she laid hold of her splayed limb once more. She had no sooner done so when he curled his fingers inside her sheath, finding the sensitive spot that made her guts clench. “Pleasure, slave,” he

ordered. The next moment his lips closed over her pink pearl, and he sucked hard on the sensitized nubbin. Climax, hard and vicious, seized her with a brutal grasp. The first spasm built to a towering altitude, bearing her to dizzying heights before throwing her down to shatter in a million pieces. She was flung up again as another wave took hold, and the orgasm beat ruthlessly inside her, battering her senseless. Lindsey lost all sense of time as she quaked beneath Vax’s torturing mouth and hand. The strap between her

teeth was her only remaining link to the real world, and she bit into it, muffling the shrieks battling to escape her straining throat. At last the paroxysms of requited lust settled into ripples that lapped through Lindsey’s overwrought body in gentler and gentler swells. She slowly relaxed into the warm glow permeating her senses. Vax gave her nether lips a last, lingering lick. “What you say, slave?” Lindsey tried to spit the strap out of her mouth. Vax looked up from between her legs and burst into laughter. He

took the hard strip away. “Thank you, master,” Lindsey finally replied. The Imdiko eyed the deep impressions of her teeth in Japohn’s strap, his deep chuckles filling the room. “Good fun, Lindsey?” “Very good fun. You’re amazing, Vax.” He smiled, his sunnier easygoing disposition back in place. “Gratitude.” He shook his head and corrected himself. “Thank you.” Vax sat on the edge of the bed next to her. One-armed, he lifted her slack body onto his

lap. Lindsey snuggled against his chest, carefully avoiding his injured arm. She warmed to feel him hold her close, almost protectively. She wondered at the feeling of safety she felt in his embrace, especially considering how defenseless he made her feel during sex. It doesn’t make sense. How can I be helpless against these men and yet experience security all at once? Lindsey sighed, wishing she understood her motivations better. Sex had sure complicated her grasp of who she was. At least one thing was becoming abundantly clear:

she wanted to remain with this clan. Basking in his warmth, she tilted her head back so she could look into his face. When he gave her a tender smile, she found the courage to venture a question. “Will your clan take an Earther Matara?”

He was silent for a moment, considering her question. His voice careful, he answered, “If Earther woman want us, we clan.” Had Vax hesitated with his answer because he didn’t really want her? The thought of

rejection loomed large, making Lindsey’s stomach clench. But she’d never been one to not face unpleasant news. She pressed on. “Just any girl?” Vax shook his head. “Clan special female.” He paused, then said, “You special.” Special enough to join your clan? Lindsey was on the verge of asking when a knock came at the door, sending her scrambling from Vax’s lap. Tara said, “Lindsey and Vax? Bacoj and Japohn are back. They want everyone to come outside.”

Lindsey scowled at the amusement in her mother’s voice as she struggled into her clothes with Vax’s solicitous help. “We’ll be right there, Mom!” She buttoned her shirt while Vax slid her steel-toed boots on. With only one hand, he left her the task of tying them. She grimaced at him. “How embarrassing.” Vax sounded pleased as he smoothed her hair into place. “Matara Tara, she know we pleasure. No upset.” Lindsey cringed inside, thinking her mother might not be so understanding if she

knew exactly what kind of kinky fun her daughter was into. “No, it doesn’t upset Mom, but don’t say anything in front of my father just yet.” Vax chuckled. “Good fathers protect daughters. I understand.” He kissed her quickly before they left the room.

Chapter Nine

Japohn looked at the rest of the rescue party under his command and felt like laughing and groaning all at once. He fought back both urges. He was used to working on his own, a result of bounty hunting prior to the war. When Kalquor called him to serve in the war against Earth, they’d deployed him to infiltrate enemy ground defenses, an assignment that played to his strengths. Now he had a team consisting of battered and starved Earthers and an injured

Imdiko. The darkness was no barrier to his sharp eyesight as his gaze ran over the crouched group. Tara was nearly swallowed in Vax’s body armor with Aaron at her side. Vax hovered near them. That was good. Tara’s beliefs ran deep, and Japohn feared she wouldn’t defend herself even against a murderous attack. Vax had defensive training. Despite his useless arm he would put up a good, if futile fight against the Tragooms if they were discovered. The elder Earthers would have the chance to escape if things went wrong. Dee Dee, looking like a

child in Bacoj’s armor, huddled near the ground next to them, her eyes wide. At his side, Lindsey was dwarfed in his chest and back armor that reached to her knees. The added protection made her awkward and she’d protested wearing it, but to Japohn’s relief, Bacoj had backed him up in insisting she be as protected as possible. Not that she’d need it, if all went according to plan. And if things went awry … well, he’d fall before letting a Tragoom anywhere near her. His fingers touched the oval of tiny indentations now

permanently pressed into his utility belt. He had to survive this night just to find out how the hell that had happened. There’d been no opportunity to question Vax, who’d looked entirely too full of himself when Japohn had discovered it. Lindsey’s face had flamed red, something she only seemed to do when sex was involved. Japohn smothered a grin. The thought of her biting on his belt to muffle screams of sensual relish was delightful. He wondered what he could do to make her mark his skin in such a way. Enough. He had to concentrate on the task at

hand, not to mention Lindsey’s fighting instincts now that she wasn’t in an erotic submissive thrall. The girl worried him. Protective of others to an alarming degree, he had no doubt she’d risk her life to save anyone in danger. Including him. He’d have to play to her instinct to defend her parents. “No save me in trouble,” he whispered to her. “Protect parents first. Fight go bad, take all back to camp.” Lindsey glanced at her parents and nodded, though her lips thinned in a frown. She knew what he was up to. No fool, his little Lindsey.

“All right, all right. No heroics. Just don’t get yourself killed, you big brute.”

She glared at him, and Japohn resisted the urge to kiss her pretty lips until she got that soft, yielding look in her eyes. Her grumpy concern for his welfare touched him every bit as much as the way she’d given him pleasure the day before with no thought for her own. Somehow she’d seen past his angry, brutish exterior enough to care what happened to him. At least that’s what his instincts told him.

Japohn allowed himself the luxury of touching Lindsey’s soft chestnut hair. “I go. Listen for signal.” She nodded, and he was off, skulking up the hill that stood between the group and the warehouse where Dee Dee’s embattled friends hid. Japohn scented the Tragoom well before he saw it. The sharp, rancid odor was every bit as repugnant as he remembered. Foul to sight and smell, Tragooms had few allies outside of their own kind. Not surprising, considering they had a nasty habit of raping and eating anything that stood still

long enough for them to catch. Bacoj had done a flyover earlier, using the shuttle’s heat sensors to pick up the enemy’s whereabouts. He’d detected seven Tragooms in total, all spaced evenly around the large building where the Earthers were trapped. The warehouse and surrounding buildings, part of what Lindsey called an ‘industrial park’, sat in a shallow depression in the landscape, the hills on either side barely big enough to be called such. Still, they rose just enough to give the Tragooms an advantage when it came to keeping an eye on their food supply. The Earthers had been

effectively corralled. Dee Dee had only escaped because the Tragooms had been occupied with grabbing two of her weaker companions for their morning feast. Japohn moved silently among the bushes and thick tufts of sawgrass, keeping low to the ground. Being so big had always been more of a hindrance than help. He had trained long and hard to offset his body’s bulk so that he could move with quiet, swift dexterity. The intense preparation had saved his life too many times to keep count. The stench of Tragoom

sharpened, and he slowed his approach. A snuffling grunt a few feet ahead alerted him to his quarry. Japohn crept closer, and the Tragoom came into view. The creature was slightly taller than the average Earther, built so stout it seemed like a breathing boulder. Pointed ears on top of its head swiveled this way and that, listening to the night sounds of the nearby swamp. Tiny, mean eyes, reflecting white in the glow of the rising moon, stared blindly to Japohn’s left. Tragooms didn’t have very good eyesight, a disadvantage Japohn had capitalized on more than once.

Thick tusks curled from its lipless mouth to bracket its round, elongated snout. Dee Dee had called the Tragooms ‘pigheads’. Having looked up an image of the Earther animal in the shuttle’s database, Japohn thought she’d been unnecessarily insulting to pigs. The Tragoom’s mottled gray skin looked blotched in the moonlight. It wore armor that had been cobbled together from other species’ body protection. Japohn knew whatever spaceship it had arrived in would have been constructed from other races’

technology as well. Tragooms were not about innovation; they preferred to use whatever they could scavenge or steal. Japohn silently unsheathed his thinnest knife, a long blade as slim as Lindsey’s smallest finger. Tragoom hides were thick with bulky swaths of muscle beneath, encasing most of their vital organs in hard-topenetrate flesh. Only three spots on the vicious creatures’ bodies were vulnerable to blades. Japohn’s current quarry had two of those areas covered; a Joshadan

breastplate protected the soft spot just below the heart, and an Arlish codpiece shielded its vulnerable genitals. The light breeze that kept the muggy night from being unbearable suddenly shifted, and the Tragoom’s large nostrils flared. Its ears swiveled forward as it turned its ugly face towards Japohn, scenting the Kalquorian’s presence. Japohn ran and sprang, his leap covering half the distance to his enemy. Another lunge, and he was on the surprised Tragoom, his knife sinking into the brute’s eye and the brain

beyond. The Tragoom went down without a cry, its thick legs kicking a few times before stilling. That was no fun. Japohn disliked surprise attacks, preferring the heat and strain of a real fight, thick with blood and pain. Oh well. At least he hadn’t gotten much of the Tragoom’s stench on himself. He looked around to make sure none of the dead creature’s fellow nasties had been alerted to the scuffle. His gaze took in the building ahead, one of a group of structures dotting the paved landscape. Dee Dee had

described the blacktop as a parking lot, and derelict vehicles scattered here and there. Nothing moved out there, and he saw no hint of life from the warehouse either. Detecting nothing threatening approaching, he whistled low to signal his ragtag team. They crept up the slight incline toward him, Lindsey in the lead. When they reached him, they looked down at the dead Tragoom, clear even to weaker Earther eyes in the moonlight. Dee Dee looked grimly pleased. Tara and Aaron exchanged an uncomfortable glance. Vax grinned at Japohn, his nod approving.

Lindsey made a small sound that Japohn thought might be a nervous giggle. “Stick an apple in its mouth, and we can have a luau,” she whispered, her voice a mere breath carried to him on the breeze. Japohn brought their focus back to the task at hand by signaling for attention. “Careful. Silent. Follow plan.” They nodded as one. In single file, they followed him down the hill, across the parking lot and up to the warehouse. The small noises the Earthers made as they walked would be masked by the high-pitched singing of

peepers he thought. Their biggest danger lay in the breeze carrying their scents to the Tragooms. Dee Dee moved to the front of the group, loudly scratching ragged fingernails against the gray steel door in a pattern of three quick scratches, followed by two slower ones, then three faster again. Japohn heard hushed conversation from within the building.

Voices rose and fell as what sounded like an argument broke out. Finally he detected the stealthy sounds of

something heavy being slid away on the other side. The doorknob turned and a slit of darkness appeared at the doorjamb as it opened. Dee Dee whispered, “It’s me. I brought help.” The thin frightened face of a man appeared. “Dee Dee?” “Yeah. There’s a Kalquorian clan here to get you out.” Japohn winced as excited chatter burst from the room. “Keep quiet!” Lindsey ordered in a quiet but commanding voice. Except for hushed weeping, the refugees complied. The

door widened to show the group of terrified Earthers clustered beyond it. A quick head count of the men, women and children gave Japohn the number of eleven. Dee Dee had said they’d started off with a colony of almost thirty before the Tragooms had found them. There’d been fifteen when she’d escaped this morning. “Two at time,” he whispered. “We take you safety.” One woman knelt on the floor, clutching two tiny waifs to her emaciated body. “Both my children come with me,” she insisted. “You’re not

separating us.” Aaron stepped forward. “I’ll carry one, you carry the other.” He held out his arms. After a reluctant moment, the woman nodded and lifted a shivering girl child, allowing him to cradle her. Japohn saw him wince as his back bent a little more than before, but he made no complaint. The Nobek decided Aaron would get another dose of their rapidly depleting supply of pain inhibitor tonight. The mother hefted a slightly larger wide-eyed boy. At Japohn’s nod, they hurried across the parking lot, their

shoes softly pat-patting on the surface. The Nobek watched and waited until they disappeared over the small hill. He nodded to two more women, and they left under Tara’s guidance. The evacuation went like clockwork. The hole in the corral left by the now dead Tragoom had made all the difference. But just as Japohn thought they’d not need Bacoj at all, a high grating scream cut through the night. Lindsey and the two remaining refugees froze in the doorway. “What was that?” Lindsey quavered, her eyes wide.

Japohn had his percussion blaster out, his gaze picking up lumbering figures crossing the pavement towards them. “Tragooms know Earthers escaping.” In Kalquorian he said, “We’ve been detected, Bacoj!” The Dramok’s voice sounded over his open com unit. “On my way.” Japohn gave Lindsey a little push. “Go Lindsey.” “Like hell I will.” She had her own blaster out, standing in front of the two Earther men who cowered like rabbits. Furious terror for her safety

made Japohn slap the back of her head as if she were a rebellious youngling. “You go now!”

Lindsey staggered at the blow but stuck her lower lip out in obstinate resolve. “I’m not leaving you. Now stop hitting me and tell me what direction to shoot in. I can’t see them yet.” The racing Tragooms, four of them now, were already too close for Lindsey and the others to get away. Japohn growled. “We live, I punish hard. Real punish. You no sit

for days.” Her face paled a little at that, but she didn’t waver for a second. Stubborn Earther female! Still, he couldn’t help the grudging respect he felt for her. **** In the darkened cockpit, the shuttle’s low hum was interrupted by intermittent sputters and coughs. Bacoj flew to the warehouse that had been the survivors’ refuge before the Tragooms turned it into a trap. The warm bodies of those below were easily seen by the thermal scanner as he hovered overhead: two yellow-

orange blobs hurrying around the sides of the building to join the four racing across the parking lot towards the whitehot figure that was Japohn and the three red Earther forms with him. Bacoj had firm control over the anger that had erupted when Japohn couldn’t convince Lindsey to run for safety. Japohn’s com had been left open for easy communication, and he’d heard the whole exchange. When the Nobek had promised her severe punishment, Bacoj’s first thought was, you’ll get your turn after I deal with her. His fear for her welfare was

choking, feeding his fury at her stubborn refusal to carry out her team leader’s orders. He had to clan Lindsey now. Such a willful, spirited girl needed three firm mates to keep her out of trouble. The Tragooms were getting close, and Bacoj saw the flares of percussion blasters as Japohn and Lindsey fired on their attackers. One Tragoom went down before Bacoj set off the stun wave. An electronic buzz sounded as he pressed the button. Bodies below collapsed where they stood, and he relaxed in his seat. His plan

had worked better than he’d hoped, even with Lindsey’s overprotectiveness of Japohn. The thought of the tiny Earther defending the hulking Nobek made Bacoj laugh out loud now that the danger was over. She was something else, all right. She’d keep the clan on their toes. You’re ours, my lovely Lindsey. If I have to argue with Japohn and Vax for a hundred years, you’ll join my clan. Somehow, he didn’t think there’d be any objections from his Nobek and Imdiko. Bacoj set the shuttle down on the parking lot and

reminded himself to get back to the business of killing off the stunned Tragooms. Then he could retrieve Japohn and the Earthers. Especially his soonto-be mate.

Chapter Ten

Searing pain. All over. Lindsey had never known she could hurt so much. Every muscle in her body clamored in anguish. It was as if she’d been stretched until ligaments and tendons had torn. Lying still was torment, and she tried to move. Big mistake. White-hot agony engulfed her entire body, stealing her very breath. She tried to scream but couldn’t find the air to do so. Her eyes popped open to find the Kalquorians bent over

her, watching her. She was in the shuttle, lying naked on the bed. Lindsey writhed, but that only hurt more. Her body was a torture chamber, and she couldn’t escape. She made herself lie still. “It hurts,” she whispered to the men. Bacoj nodded, his expression soft and sympathetic. “We know. Much pain.” “What happened?” She couldn’t remember, not with every part throbbing. Tears crept from her eyes. Where was Mom? Japohn scowled at her. He

looked more savage than ever, and she cringed instinctively from the anger in his expression. Fresh pain ripped through her at the slight movement, and she couldn’t fight off a sob. Some of the Nobek’s fury ebbed at the sound. He brushed a lock of hair from her cheek. “I say run, you stay. Bacoj stun to save from Tragooms.” “Stun aftereffects painful,” Bacoj added. “But no life threat.” The rescue mission. It came back to her in a rush, and Lindsey understood Japohn’s anger. Worse, she remembered

his promise to punish her for disobedience. If he decided to discipline her now with all the pain she was in, it would kill her. She hoped. She didn’t want to live with such agony. “It didn’t harm you.” Was the brief moment of hating him for not suffering like she did wrong? Probably. “I hurt.” Lindsey studied him. The skin around Japohn’s eyes was tight. His mouth compressed in a thin line. There was the slightest tremor running the length of his body. “I guess you do,” she said, regretting her momentary loathing.

But damn, she was in misery. Vax held a hand out to her. His face looked as gentle as ever, but there was firmness in his eyes. “Stand, Lindsey.” Was he nuts? She could hardly bear to breathe, let alone get on her feet. “It hurts too much.” His hand remained before her, unwavering. “You sleep for worst pain. Now you stand. Walk.”

When Lindsey didn’t move, Bacoj grabbed her by the

shoulders and pulled her to a sitting position. Lindsey shrieked as agony barreled through her body. Nausea roiled through her in reaction. “Stop. Bacoj, don’t!” His expression was kind, but he ignored her pleas. He pulled her to her feet. “Stand.” The order was implacable. “It hurts. It hurts,” she sobbed, shuddering all over. “I think I’m going to be sick.” “You might,” Vax agreed. “Walk now.” “I can’t. Please—” Her words were cut off as Vax and Bacoj each took an

arm and forced her to stumble across the floor. She screamed with the agony. It felt like jagged claws were rending the flesh from her bones. Her knees buckled, but they kept her on her feet, kept her walking. When they reached the far wall, they turned her around and made her walk back. Her desperate entreaties to stop fell on deaf ears. Lindsey cried for her mother, but Tara didn’t come. She vomited, her heaving stomach adding to the hellish pain. Bacoj held her up while she was sick, and Vax kept her hair out of the way. Afterward, Japohn cleaned the mess as

the other two forced her to walk some more. Lindsey cursed the two aliens who bullied her back and forth across the room with language she’d never spoken before. They didn’t respond to the ugly words pouring from her lips. She raged and wailed, begged and swore. And hurt. Oh, how she hurt. How long this went on, she couldn’t guess. But after awhile, her screams gave way to agonized weeping. She concentrated on putting one foot in front of the other, making Vax and Bacoj support her less and less.

Either the pain is getting better or I’m getting used to it. But do people get used to such terrible pain? Her thoughts were tattered with weariness, but they came with more clarity. She noticed Japohn also walked back and forth on the other side of the room. His head hung down, his shoulders slouched, and he occasionally staggered a little bit. Again she felt a wave of guilt for her earlier anger he didn’t suffer like her. I wouldn’t wish this on my worst enemy. No wonder he wanted me out of range of the stun so badly.

“Are you okay, Japohn?” she asked. His head came up and he smiled wearily at her. Her heart warmed to see the kind expression replace his earlier anger. “I be well. You better, Lindsey?” “I’ll survive, I think. I might even want to live again in a day or two.” “Today, you feel better. Pain leave soon.” “Faster, Lindsey,” Bacoj prodded. His grip tightened on her arm. She groaned. “I’m starting to think the translation for

Dramok is bully.” He snickered. “Better bully instead other names you say.” Lindsey flushed. “I’m sorry I was so ugly. There’s no excuse for that.”

“You hurt. Stun effects bad. No insult felt for what say in pain.” She looked up at him. “I still owe you all an apology, especially Japohn. For my language and for not doing what I was supposed to during the rescue. Please forgive me.” Japohn sighed on his end of

the room. “I forgive. For apology, no punish. Stun effects punish my Matara enough.” He raised an eyebrow at Bacoj. The Dramok nodded, his smile growing. “Agree. Our Lindsey learn lesson.” Lindsey couldn’t figure out why Bacoj suddenly looked as pleased as a cat that’d caught a bird. Vax was grinning too. Something had just passed between the three men, and she had no idea what it was. Who cares? The pain is getting better, and that’s all that matters right now. Well, maybe one other thing. Surely

the others heard me screaming and carrying on. Why aren’t my parents beating down the door? “Where’s my mother?” Lindsey asked. Bacoj answered. “She sleep no long time. Stay awake, help others. She sleep now.” Vax added, “No wake Matara Tara. She tired. We care for you. Walk Lindsey. Pain leave more fast when move.” Lindsey was able to move better, but she was so tired now that she kept slowing. “Even my skin hurts.” Bacoj nodded. “Why we take

clothes. Walk.” Lindsey concentrated on walking for a little while. After a few minutes she asked, “Did everyone get away?” “All safe. Tragooms dead.” Exhaustion was making her feel a little mean again. She wished she could stop and sleep for a little while. “What about the two men you stunned with me and Japohn? Why aren’t you making them walk?” Vax answered, pulling her along. “They walk before. No sleep for worst pain. Scream louder than Lindsey.” Lindsey looked at him in

horror. “You’re telling me there’s worse pain than what I woke up to?” Vax nodded and Bacoj said, “We bite you long. You sleep through most bad pain.” Lindsey thought back to when she’d been a young girl. She and her sister had barely survived when a tornado had touched down, tearing their home to pieces around them. Their babysitter had been killed, and both girls badly injured. Weeks of painful recovery had followed, and she’d thought she knew a thing or two about suffering. “Even the tornado wasn’t

this bad,” she whispered. When Bacoj opened his mouth, she grumbled, “I know, I know, walk Lindsey.”

One step after another, on and on she walked. At some point she realized Bacoj and Vax had released her arms, and she was completely under her own power. They stayed next to her, catching hold for brief instances when she stumbled. The pain grew more distant. The soft brown floor passed beneath her bare feet. She looked at the two pairs of heavy boots on either side

keeping pace with her. Taking the Earther for a walk. Walk, Lindsey, walk. She drifted, the floor blurring. “She walk asleep.” Bacoj’s amused voice roused her. Vax stooped, his hand closing over her thigh, then her calf as she continued to step, her legs on automatic pilot now. “Muscle good response. Stop Lindsey. You sleep now.” Bacoj lifted her in his arms and carried her to the bed. “Japohn sleep now too.” He laid her down, and Japohn crawled up beside her. The Nobek pulled Lindsey close to him, spooning against

her back. He was warm and solid. Lindsey snuggled against him, enjoying how his bulk made her feel small and safe. Already on the brink of going under, she mumbled, “Sorry again for all the whining.” Japohn’s deep rumble soothed her. “You do well. You strong like Nobek.” Lindsey let slumber drift over her, pleasantly aware that Japohn’s leg slung over hers and the arm clutching her close didn’t hurt. ****

“Wake, Lindsey. Eat.” Lindsey opened her eyes in response to Vax’s gentle voice. He and the other two men sat on the bed next to her. Japohn was wolfing down a large chunk of meat as if he hadn’t eaten in weeks. Vax held a tray on his lap, more steaming chunks of meat and a pile of leafy greens topping its surface. Her stomach growled. “That smells wonderful. I’m starved.” Lindsey sat up and realized she was still naked. Now that pain and exhaustion had abandoned her, modesty returned, especially since her three

companions were clothed in their formsuits. She curled in a ball, her arms clutching around her knees as she looked around for her clothes. Vax plucked a small chunk of meat from the tray and waved it in front of her face. Lindsey tried to take it from him. “I can feed myself. I am a grown woman.” Bacoj grabbed her hand and forced it down. He kept her thin wrist in his grip. She stared at him in surprise. “Kalquorian tradition. Clan feed Matara,” he said. “Well, it’s weird for an Earther.” She tried to pull free,

but his hand was like a vise on her arm. He held it easily, not straining against her struggle at all. The show of strength made her insides go wobbly, and she had to fight for a firm voice. “Bacoj, let go.” He didn’t and Vax pressed the meat to her lips. “Eat,” the Imdiko insisted. Lindsey pulled her head back. Suddenly a pair of very large, brown hands shoved between her thighs and chest to grab her breasts.

Lindsey surprise

squeaked in at Japohn’s

unexpected touch. “Hey!” As soon as her mouth opened, Vax dropped the chunk of meat in. As she squirmed, Bacoj grabbed her other hand, holding both prisoner. Japohn pressed up against her back, his hands still manhandling her breasts. Lindsey chewed and swallowed quickly so she could speak. “Would you three stop?” Japohn kissed the top of her head, laughter rumbling his chest. “You learn for accept care. We know you strong. You prove that. Now you let us serve.” Vax had another morsel

ready to feed her. There was no compromise in his expression, none in Bacoj’s either. Lindsey gave in with little grace, huffing and pouting. “Are all Kalquorian men like this?” Bacoj grinned. “We serve Matara. We serve all needs.” He shifted position so that he kneeled in front of her, letting go of her wrists to grasp her knees. Lindsey gasped as he forced her legs apart, lying down on his stomach to kiss her mound. She was instantly wet. He traced her slit with one finger as Vax fed her a leafy green. Japohn rolled the points

of her nipples between his fingers and thumbs, sending sharp spikes of need flashing through her body. “Well, maybe this once,” she sighed after she swallowed the mouthful of food. Japohn cradled her in his arms, his hand on her chin tilting her head back for his kiss. His mouth moved slowly, gently over hers, a delicate touch for such a strong man. Lindsey parted her lips, slipping the tip of her tongue out to taste him. Salty, with the tang of the meat he’d devoured, the same meat Vax fed her. As if he heard her thought,

Vax interrupted the kiss with a reminder, “Lindsey eat now, Japohn.” “Yes, Imdiko.” Japohn released her chin, allowing Lindsey to accept another bite. Meanwhile Bacoj continued to gently run his finger over her soft folds, spreading her wetness over the nether lips. Lindsey shuddered in reaction, and he smiled up at her. His stare was intense, and she had to look away. It was as if in that instant he’d looked into her very soul, and she felt too exposed to hold his gaze. To cover the sudden stab of vulnerability, she asked Vax,

“What am I eating?” “Deer in sauce, Kalquorian veg-a-buls in herb stock.” He grimaced as he stumbled over the word ‘vegetables’. Bacoj’s light touch circled her clitoris, and Lindsey caught her breath. She let it back out slowly. Don’t look at him. Don’t look at him. She was more afraid of his stare than what he was doing to her. Her voice sounded higher than usual. “You’re a culinary genius, Vax.” Japohn sounded like a proud father. “Vax work best eat place on Kalquor. He leave for Bacoj pilot, me fight war.”

Bacoj’s finger slipped down her slit to dip into her well, penetrating her slightly. Lindsey couldn’t help the tiny whimper that escaped. Then he smeared her honey all over her clitoris, bringing bright and instant pleasure. She jerked with a cry.

Vax smiled and put the tray down on the floor. “You eat more after,” he said, leaning close to kiss her. **** Bacoj inhaled with a deep, appreciative breath as he

gently fingered Lindsey. Her juices had such a clean, fresh fragrance. He wanted to bury his face in her essence, drown in her sweetness. My Matara. When Japohn had wakened this morning, well before Lindsey began to stir, the clan had at last discussed Bacoj’s wish to clan her. The other two had been every bit as determined as he to claim her for their own. Now they just had to convince her it was what she wanted too. Bacoj pushed her legs farther apart, opening her exquisite sex. Pale, white-pink

skin darkened to a light blushing pink on the outer lips, shading to deeper and deeper rose-tints. The more he touched her, the darker she bloomed, the slick flesh hedging ever closer to red. He traced over her folds, drinking in the sight of how she quivered at his touch. He glanced up to see how the other two were doing. They’d laid her down flat on her back. Vax kissed her, his mouth working at hers. He broke the kiss to whisper something in her ear, and her swollen lips whispered the word ‘please’ before his demanding mouth descended

on hers once more. Japohn held her wrists imprisoned in one hand at her waist while his mouth and other hand roughly pleasured her breasts. Lindsey gently writhed beneath his attentions as he licked, sucked, lightly bit, pinched and massaged the mounds. Her hands alternated between flinging wide and clenching into fists. The sight of his clanmates enjoying their would-be Matara delighted Bacoj. He lowered his gaze to the entrancing sight of her vulnerable sex once more. He dipped into her wet pool and circled her clit with

moistened fingers. She squirmed at the teasing touch, attempting to bring the swelling nub into direct contact with his careful strokes. He denied her what she wanted, enjoying the control he exerted. She was his to please or not, to be granted completion or denied. Bacoj had every intention of allowing her release, but not until he was ready. And he was so not ready yet. Another dip into her honey, more swirling around the most sensitive of her flesh. Lindsey’s moans were

becoming throatier, filled with a pleading sound. Bacoj wondered if she’d be begging yet if Vax’s tongue didn’t choke off her cries. The lips of her sex were puffing, reddening. Her swollen clitoris began to peek out of its hood, begging to be caressed. Bacoj slid his fingers all around it, coming so close that Lindsey would shudder in anticipation then backing off to leave her keening with want. “You are a cruel bastard,” Japohn whispered in their language. He grinned at his Dramok before returning his attentions to Lindsey’s breasts.

Bacoj chuckled. He was enjoying his mastery over his little Earther. “I’m just getting started. She hasn’t felt the half of it yet.” He turned his attention from her clit to the tight blossom of her anus. Rewetting his fingers in her copious juices, he traced the puckered rim of her tightest passage. She jerked at the sensation of being stroked there then relaxed. “Good girl,” he whispered, though she wouldn’t hear or understand him. Anal penetration, from all accounts, had been a death

penalty offense on Earth before Armageddon. Lindsey’s ultimate acceptance of the Kalquorians’ second organs had been a happy surprise. He pressed a finger into the taboo orifice, feeling how tight and warm she was. When he’d taken her before, the snug aperture had been a delight for his body. She lifted her buttocks from the bed now, the motion guiding his finger deeper into her sleeve. Not just accepting. Enjoying. Bacoj’s heart drummed hard in his chest. She was so perfect for him. He slowly pressed deeper

into her, giving her time to adjust to the invasion. His other hand went to her sex, two fingers teasing that entrance. She moaned into Vax’s mouth and wriggled her hips, trying to take those into her body as well. Bacoj thrust the thick digits into her sheath, taking her hard and fast. Lindsey tore her mouth free of Vax’s to cry out. Her rear came off the bed, her hips jerking upward in reaction. Vax and Japohn chuckled. Vax gripped her chin, forcing his kiss on her again while Japohn recovered a mouthful of breast and pushed her hips back down with the

hand that kept her wrists imprisoned. He held her somewhat still for Bacoj’s continued attentions. She writhed desperately, her moans continuing unabated. Her feet drummed against the bed surface. Bacoj worked both orifices mercilessly, feeling how she clutched against his fingers as he drove her closer and closer to the edge. He thrust against her until her whole body tensed. He stopped, his fingers all but leaving her warmth. She fought Japohn even harder, trying to re-capture him with her trembling flesh.

“Still, Lindsey,” Bacoj said. An angry squeal answered him, but she relented, going motionless beneath them. When her grasping insides loosened a bit, he resumed pounding his fingers into her softness, sending her writhing once more. Fresh warmth cascaded onto his hand. Her nether lips were red and swollen now, tightening her hold on his fingers. Her clitoris bulged at him, unabashedly entreating him for attention. His little Matara was perfectly ripe now, ready to be plucked. Bacoj hooked his fingers within her womanhood,

searching for the nest of nerves that would make her lose her senses. He found it on the third thrust, making her entire body thrum with tension. If her cries hadn’t been muffled by Vax’s mouth, Bacoj had no doubt the Earthers outside would break down the door in response to her screams.

He finally gave her pink pearl the attention it wanted, flicking his thumb over it again and again as he continued to thrust his fingers in and out of both orifices. Lindsey stiffened and strained. Her sleeve

convulsed hugely, milking Bacoj’s fingers with a strength that made his already painful erection throb in agony. He ignored his own needs, continuing to torment his precious Earther into more orgasms until her body finally lay still, sapped of all strength. Once her shrieks quieted, Vax released her mouth from his. Lindsey panted, her eyes out of focus. “I think we made her happy,” Bacoj told his grinning clanmates. “I see you’re on a mission to convince her of our worth,” Vax laughed.

“I’m still not done, if you’re willing to continue.” Japohn snorted, but his expression was gleeful. “I already need to change formsuits, so do your worst. If you think she can handle it.” Lindsey’s focus had cleared, and she glared at them through narrowed eyes. Bacoj thought she looked beautiful and well used. “Darn, I need to learn Kalquorian. I don’t like not knowing what you three are discussing,” she gasped. “It sounds like she’s ready again to me,” Bacoj said. “Let’s win the affections of this Matara.”

**** Lindsey was sure she couldn’t possibly climax again until Bacoj’s mouth closed over her womanhood. But her sex, swollen and still sensitive, responded eagerly to the softness of his lips, the sweet roughness of his tongue as he seized on her. “Oh please,” she sobbed, shaking her head from side to side. Japohn still held her arms imprisoned, his grasp unbreakable. With a dangerous smile that was pure predator, he nipped her breasts, the tormenting bites sending shivers of pure pleasure

through her body. She twisted her face away to keep her mouth free of Vax’s, her lips feeling tender and bruised from the devouring kisses that left her senses reeling. His tongue traced the whorls of her ear instead, his breath warm, making her skin bump with gooseflesh. “Please,” she moaned again, the sensation of Bacoj’s tongue delving into her core bringing desire rushing back in a tidal wave. How could it be they had her body clamoring for release again so soon? Her helplessness against them only made her thrill all

the more to their seduction. They could take whatever they wanted, however long they desired, and she’d be unable to stop them. Her vulnerability only heightened the pleasure they teased from her, their complete dominance as aphrodisiacal as the skillful ways they manipulated her body. As if to prove this beyond a shadow of a doubt, Bacoj seized her thighs, holding them apart in an iron grip as he laved her tender flesh. She was completely open to him and unable to deny his tongue its exploration. She groaned in surrender as he tasted her

thoroughly, his tongue darting into her inner regions. Lindsey didn’t fight Vax when he pressed his lips to hers again. She had no defense against any of them. She could only give in, only endure the rising spiral of passion once more, her body the Kalquorians’ to command.

Vax plundered her mouth as thoroughly as Bacoj explored her sex. Japohn’s hands, tongue, teeth and lips were meticulous in mapping her breasts, leaving no part of the soft mounds untouched.

Lindsey felt owned, mastered, enslaved. She’d never known such bliss. Bacoj’s mouth closed over her pleasure bud, and her body jerked with involuntary reaction. His tongue swirled around and around, sending her closer to the inevitable explosion. She whimpered, submitting to the excruciating sweetness of delicious torment, her body rushing towards glorious dissolution. She displayed no outward insistence he send her over the edge, letting only her thoughts make demands she would not

voice to her masters. Please don’t make me wait this time, please don’t tease, please let me do this, please let me, please, PLEASE, PLEEEESE… Bacoj sucked hard on her clit. At the same moment, his tongue whipped over the straining flesh, battering it from all sides, rubbing over it until the dam burst, taking her over in a deluge of mindnumbing sensation. All sense of sight and sound disappeared as rapture consumed her being, taking her far away from all mundane sense of the world around her. Lindsey was lost,

borne under by ecstasy so complete she forgot all knowledge of her body. When she came back, the men were gathered around her, gently stroking her, murmuring softly to her in their language. She blinked at them, wondering at the power they had over her. Wondering how she could possibly be with any other clan after knowing this one. “That was insane,” she croaked, her voice slightly raw from screaming. “Insane? Like madness?” Bacoj asked. He’d been wearing a satisfied smile, but now looked concerned.

“Insane like out-of-myeverloving-mind great. I’ve never felt anything so good. I swear my mind just left my body.” That earned her grins from all three. “Pain total gone?” Vax asked. “No trace left. Trust me, I’ll never stick around for a stun wave again.” She shuddered. “As good as what you just did to me, that felt every bit as horrible.” “Learn lesson. Good.” Bacoj kissed her soundly and stood. He opened the closet that held the clan’s clothing and swapped the formsuit he wore,

its crotch darkened with wetness, for a clean one. He tossed Vax and Japohn a change apiece as well. “Oh. You don’t want to … um … I guess not.” Lindsey flushed. They’d apparently gotten their releases servicing her. She felt embarrassed she’d gotten all the attention, but at the same time, she felt cared for. Special. Absurdly happy they’d put her enjoyment ahead of their own. Darn it, I just met them. How can I want to join their clan already? But the sense of being cherished only increased as

they helped her dress, Vax fussing with her snarled hair until it lay in a straight sheet down her back. At long last, she was presentable again. Lindsey’s lips were still swollen from his forceful kisses, but there was nothing she could do about that. Either the others would figure out what she’d done with the Kalquorians, or they wouldn’t. It was out of her hands.

Hopefully Dad will be okay if he realizes what’s going on. Bacoj was heading for the door. “We leave soon. Find

search party tomorrow. I check others now.” After he left, Vax lifted the forgotten tray of food and balanced it on his knees. “Sit,” he told Lindsey. “Finish eat.” She sat next to him, but when the Imdiko lifted a chunk of meat to her lips, she tried to take it from him. Japohn was immediately next to her, grabbing her wrists. Lindsey blew out an explosive breath and glared at him. “Okay, okay! Treat me like a helpless baby if it makes you happy.” She let Vax feed her. Japohn crooked a smile. To Vax he said, “You tell me

Lindsey no allow feed. I punish her.” He mock-glared at her. “Tyrant,” she said around the mouthful of food. He bent to kiss her cheek. “I hunt. Many to feed.” Japohn left them, darting another warning glare at Lindsey before walking out. Vax chuckled. “Oh, be quiet,” she said, but she accepted the food he gave her. She didn’t want to be spanked so soon after the pain of the stun wave. Even though the thought of Japohn’s heavy hand descending on her buttocks made her feel all squirmy inside.

Boy, Kalquorians are dominating creatures. I wonder if Jessica had half the problems with her clan.

Chapter Eleven

The clan, along with Lindsey and her family, left the refugees behind with two deer carcasses and the promise of rescue as soon as they reached the search party. There wasn’t enough room on the shuttle to accommodate the group, but with a supply of food and the threat of Tragooms done, everyone agreed it was the best option for all concerned. They’d found the Tragoom ship, part of which had been constructed of an old Kalquorian transport. Bacoj

cannibalized it for parts and made more repairs to his own shuttle’s engine, which was beginning to sound the worse for wear. Lindsey noted the serious set of his jaw with unease, but when she asked him if the craft was all right he’d only replied, “Get Lindsey family to search party if carry on backs.” Which didn’t lift her spirits at all. As they flew towards the gulf coast, Lindsey sat across from her parents in the main cabin. Vax and Japohn sat at the other table. They had been discussing some Kalquorian game for quite some time in their own language and the

conversation was apparently getting heated. Vax responded to Japohn in a loud voice, his fist clubbing the table top. Japohn rolled his eyes and spoke back just as loudly. Lindsey shook her head at them. “Look at them arguing about some silly game,” she said to her mother. Tara chuckled. “Not so different from our men, are they? How many times has your father yelled at a boxing match on the vid?” “Yes, well in a household full of females, I needed to thump my chest every once in awhile,” Aaron said. “Kurble

sounds like fun to watch, though the idea of poisoned barbs on the ball is rather extreme.” “What do you think of this clan, Dad?” “They’re a good bunch.” His warm smile froze and faded. Lindsey saw him figure out why she’d asked the question, her heart in her throat. “Oh Lindsey. Really?” Tara patted his arm. “They treat her well, Aaron. What’s more, they’re obviously taken with her.” “But three men? It just seems unnatural.”

Lindsey watched him struggle. Her father was a man who lived firmly by his beliefs to not judge others for however they chose to live their lives. Still, he was obviously not ready for his daughter to follow such an un-Earther path. “Jessica is clanned to three men,” she pointed out. He scowled. “And don’t think it hasn’t worried me half to death.” He darted a glance at the still arguing Imdiko and Nobek. “You just met them, Lindsey.” “You proposed to me two days after we met,” Tara reminded him. “We never had a

doubt.”

“There’s no such thing as divorce where the Kalquorians concerned. It’s a lifelong bond. There’s no getting out of it if things don’t work out the way you’re hoping.” Lindsey took a deep breath. He was voicing all her concerns, making her face the worries that still remained. But looking at the three of them — granted she was looking at the back of Bacoj’s head as he piloted — every cell of her being yearned to be closer to them. Maybe it was only

infatuation. Maybe she was being a fool. But Lindsey knew she’d be absolutely miserable if she never saw them again. Their strength, their compassion, their kindness spoke to her. No Earther man had ever had the same effect. To her father she said, “I wouldn’t contemplate it if I wasn’t in it for the long haul. I can’t explain why I want to be with them, not in sane, rational terms. It just feels right.” Tara leaned her head on Aaron’s shoulder. “It’s obvious they care for her. They look at her the way you look at me.” Aaron sat quietly for awhile,

his expression grave. At long last, he sighed. “I’m not going to turn cartwheels over this. If it’s what you really want I won’t protest. But Lindsey, be sure. Most people don’t know right away like your mother and I did.” She smiled at him, feeling her love for her father at full force. “Have I told you what a great dad you are?” That got him to smile. “Have they asked yet?” A little of her certainty of the clan’s reciprocated feelings slumped. But Japohn had called her his Matara. That had to count for something. Still…

“Not yet.” Tara nodded. “Not surprising. They’re physically strong, self-assured when it comes to a battle, but they seem a little unsure of themselves emotionally. Maybe you should ask them.” Lindsey’s heart skipped a beat. “Oh boy.” “Why not?” Lindsey laughed nervously, and both Vax and Japohn paused in their argument to look at her. She ducked her head and lowered her voice. “You’d think it would be easy for a woman who can face off

with Tragooms without flinching.” Aaron offered his own rueful chuckle. “Matters of the heart are scarier than physical fighting. You could have soaked a towel when I proposed to your mother. I was sweating that bad.” Lindsey watched them look at each other, the affection in their eyes obvious. Even when they disagreed, which didn’t happen often, the adoration was palpable. She’d never known a couple who exemplified perfect love as much as her parents. Could she really hope to have that, and

with three aliens to boot? Putting the cart before the horse, Lindsey. They still have to say yes if I get the guts to actually ask them. ****

They reached the gulf coast that evening, setting down on a rain-swept beach. After more deer meat for dinner, the group spent the early evening in the main cabin exchanging common phrases of their respective languages. Lindsey’s family was a bit embarrassed when the clan picked up English with far

more ease than the Earthers could handle Kalquorian. Japohn in particular seized on their language, his grammar at times as good as any native English speaker, though slang phrases still baffled him. Of the Earthers, Aaron had a knack for Kalquorian. Initially he’d been quiet, no doubt still trying to comprehend Lindsey’s attraction to the alien men. But as the evening wore on, easy camaraderie with the clan grew and his tension eased. By the time he and Tara were ready to retire to the sleeping room, he was laughing with the other men at the women’s sometimes hilarious mistakes, especially

when Tara mangled the phrase ‘I am glad to meet you’; instead stating, “I am glad to be chewing on you.” After the elder McInnesses retired, Lindsey and the clan sat around the main cabin, watching the rain fall in steady sheets outside the open hatch. Lindsey was no fan of rain, not since nearly being killed as a child from the storm that produced the tornado. But there was no wind, and for no rational reason she felt protected with the clan. They make me feel safe. Even when they go all Tarzanin-charge so I’m completely

helpless, I still feel secure. And Dad likes them despite himself. So what am I waiting for? Lindsey took a deep breath and plunged in headfirst. “I’d like to join your clan.” Three pairs of startled purple eyes swung her way. His voice barely loud enough to be heard over the snare-drumming rain, Bacoj asked in a disbelieving voice, “Our Matara?” Oh crap. They don’t want me after all. But she’d already gone for bust, so there was no point in trying to backpedal. Keeping

the quaver in her guts out of her voice she confirmed, “Yes, I’d like to be your Matara. If you want me.” The three men exchanged looks, smiles erupting on their faces. Japohn laughed out loud. “We want you much!” Vax bobbed his head up and down, his grin blinding in his dark face. “Yes. We want Lindsey for Matara.” “You ask us,” Bacoj chuckled. “We spend today try to think how to ask you.” Tension bled from Lindsey’s body. “Thank goodness. I thought you might say no.”

“We say yes, yes, yes!” Lindsey had to laugh at the undisguised delight on their expressions. Despite acknowledging how much she wanted to be a permanent part of their lives, she hadn’t fully appreciated how disappointed she’d be if they’d turned her down. “So now what happens?” she asked. She had no clue how long Kalquorian engagements went on for or what their clanning ceremonies entailed.

“Make love?” Japohn pulled

her into his lap. He was very happy to have her there she realized as she wriggled against the hard prod under her bottom. She punched his chest good-naturedly. “I mean how do I become part of your clan, you sex fiend.” Bacoj slid close to touch her. “Clanning done. We want you, you want us, you are clan Matara.” She gaped at him, shock replacing the warm fuzzies she’d been enjoying. “That’s it? That’s all it takes for a lifetime commitment?” Vax had also moved near,

his good hand joining those of his clanmates in stroking her hair, face and body. “Official ceremony announce clanning, but you now clan Matara.” Lindsey stared at each man in turn. Just like that, she’d entered into a permanent arrangement. She fought off a surge of panic. “I didn’t realize it was that easy.” “Sometimes clan ties be challenge. Important families can make difficult.” Bacoj grinned at her. “My clan no important. No challenges.” “I guess we’re safe then,” Lindsey said weakly. She felt a little unreal. With one

sentence, she had as good as married three alien men. A tie that couldn’t be undone. “Now we make love to our Matara?” Japohn’s whisper was warm against her ear, raising gooseflesh despite her sudden attack of trepidation. The hands on her body were becoming more demanding, and her heart rate doubled. Fear, lust, need — all combined to leave her weak in Japohn’s arms, completely defenseless against the three men’s seduction. Lindsey grabbed the Nobek’s broad shoulders, pulling him down to kiss her

lips. “Come here, you big lug.” His tongue plunged into her mouth, and she moaned at the warm penetration. All her senses fired, clearing the panic at her sudden clanned status. Japohn’s kiss was everything she liked, insistent and thorough, leaving no doubt as to who controlled the action. Lindsey was instantly pliant. Other mouths warmed the skin being quickly exposed as the men stripped her. Their hands were just as hot, branding her with their touches. “You must stay quiet tonight,” Bacoj whispered to

her after Japohn released her from the bruising kiss. “No want father upset.” “I know,” she whispered back. “He’s not terribly thrilled about my decision. Not that he doesn’t like you — it’s just not normal for Earther women to be joined with three men at a time.” “We understand,” Vax said. “Aaron good man. Love Lindsey.” She smiled. “He is a good man.” “We are good men too,” Japohn said. “Take care our Lindsey.”

“Our Matara.” Bacoj relished the words. She felt another stab of worry, but the clan went back to kissing and caressing her. She let passion drive her concerns away.

After the tempestuous couplings they’d enjoyed before, Lindsey was shocked at the gentleness the men treated her with. Suddenly their touches were whisper-soft, fluttering against her skin like moths’ wings. The kisses were as ephemeral as light breezes. She trembled to be handled

with such delicacy. Even Japohn touched her as if she might break apart at the slightest pressure. His lips on hers were silk, his tongue sleek and honeyed. His hands, so incredibly massive, cupped her head like a child’s teacup. Bacoj sipped daintily at her nipples, his tongue darting out to tickle at the taut peaks. His fingertips traced over Lindsey’s abdomen. The feather touch made her muscles tense with unexpected yearning. Who knew such tenderness could produce heady cravings like as these? Vax crouched between her

legs, his fingers tracing the vee-line where her thigh met her mound. Then he stroked the soft chestnut pubic curls. “Curious what look like no hair?” he wondered out loud. Then his light petting went to her slit, which he found wet. Lindsey’s legs fell further apart in invitation. With a happy sigh the Imdiko mouthed her warmth, lapping at the steady flow of juices. Lindsey lay suspended in bliss, a living buffet at which the men languorously fed. Pleasure built slow and sure, suffusing every cell. At this moment, there was no doubt in her mind she belonged with the

clan. The compassion they treated her with made her feel so thoroughly cared for that she wept silent, contented tears. When Japohn released her mouth, she asked, “You really, really want me to stay with you?” For an answer, the men lifted her up. Japohn knelt and Lindsey found herself straddling his thighs. The big Nobek entered her sex slowly, letting her wet sheath take its time to accommodate him. Lindsey’s head fell back as he penetrated deep inside, a low moan escaping her throat. She

clung to his shoulders as he pressed into her tightness, mashing her breasts against the warmth of his chest. He paused when she’d accepted the entirety of his larger organ. It felt so good to have him within her that she at first didn’t notice his smaller penis hadn’t entered her anal sheath. Japohn’s hands closed over her buttocks, lifting her and spreading the cheeks wide. Then Bacoj grasped her around her waist and pressed against her from behind, his larger length probing at the tight orifice. Slick with its own natural lubrication, the tapered end of his sex pushed ever so

slightly into the confines of her rear passage. Lindsey’s breath caught. She’d been intoxicated by the Kalquorians’ bite the other times she’d surrendered to this act. They hadn’t bitten her this time. Her anus was reluctant to accept the invasion, and the growing ache of obliging Bacoj’s thickness made her grip Japohn’s shoulders until her fingernails bit into his skin. He growled, his cock jerking within her in response. The pain intensified as Bacoj slowly inched in. She shuddered and her head slowly shook from side to side, as if saying no would negate the

pressure. He halted. “Stop, Lindsey?”

“No,” she gasped. She wanted this. She wanted to be claimed in every way the Kalquorians could think to possess her. The discomfort was secondary, an intense sensation that only served to remind her of their power and her ultimate helplessness to deny them anything they truly wanted. Just like that, the growing agony transmuted to something glorious, a deep awareness of being relieved of all

responsibility. In her lovers’ arms the shackles of leading, of having the burden of others’ needs was lifted. Here with these men, she shed the repression of being in charge. There was no need to think or worry or weigh the consequences of every single action. There was only the beautiful freedom of acquiescence. The uninhibited liberation of doing as she was told. “I’m yours to do with as you want,” she whimpered. “Please, Bacoj. Don’t stop.” He kissed the top of her head. “I won’t. You belong to

clan. We take you as we like.” “Thank you.” Bacoj was true to his word, pushing into her tightness, moving slowly but firmly, making her accept all of him. Lindsey sobbed quietly as the pleasure of his demands overcame her, the thrum of desire reverberating through her belly. Having both he and Japohn inside filled her to bursting. When it came, she had no doubt her orgasm would be cataclysmic. She trembled at the threshold already, her body ready to fly apart at the slightest prod. Perhaps sensing the taut

wire she balanced upon, the two men held very still, letting her adjust to their dual penetration, holding her safely between their warm, strong bodies. They stroked her hair, her face, and her arms, whispering soothing words in their own language. Little by little she calmed, her overwrought senses edging away from the precipice. Her breathing quieted. Her quivering abated. The tension in her body eased. Once Lindsey was relaxed, the pleasure settled into a steady warm hum, Bacoj whispered, “Now your Imdiko, my Matara.”

Lindsey looked up to see Vax standing over them, his sexes rigid exclamation points. Supporting himself on Bacoj’s shoulder, he leaned towards her. She opened her mouth, and his larger penis slid in, the smaller rubbing beneath her chin, over her throat. He pressed all the way in, and she remembered Bacoj’s lessons in time to keep from gagging. All three men were inside her at once. The feeling of total possession was glorious. She rose and fell over Japohn and Bacoj’s gentle thrusts, making small sounds of bliss as Vax matched their

rhythm, taking her mouth with an unhurried momentum. Lindsey’s hands ran over the Imdiko’s thighs and Japohn’s chest, memorizing them with touch. She felt consumed, the fire rising again, licking lazily in her nether regions at first, and building to a conflagration as the unceasing friction from the men’s quickening pace banked to an inferno.

Lindsey’s ears were filled with their gasps and lowthroated moans, backdropped by the moist sounds of their coupling. Her own whimpers

wove within the symphony, a bright, high tune as they drove harder and harder against her, pressing needful flesh into her accepting channels. They were pushing her upwards again, forcing her towards the apex of pleasure. Hot, hard, and uncompromising, the men imposed their passion on her, sweeping her along until she hurtled into the abyss. Only instinct kept her from screaming, the dim memory of her parents in the next room locking her throat tight around the shrieks that begged to be voiced. Overwhelming sensation tore through her senses, ripping her to pieces

until only the bodies closed around her kept her whole. On the heels of the explosion, the three men groaned as one. The feeling of Bacoj and Japohn pulsing within her and the warm spurts of Vax’s passion filling her mouth sent her into the stratosphere once more. When she returned to earth the three men were gasping in the aftermath of their climaxes. Everyone gently pulled free of her. They lay her on the floor, arranging themselves to surround her, putting her at the center of the group. Lindsey drifted, feeling sleep settle over her in the warmth of their care.

“Ek dug, Matara,” Bacoj whispered in her ear. Lindsey snuggled against him, a satisfied smile creeping over her face. Just before she fell into rest’s abyss she remembered they needed to know who her sister was. It was only fair to be completely honest with the men she’d spend the rest of her life with. No hurry. Tomorrow will be soon enough. Won’t they be surprised!

Chapter Twelve

The rain ended by sunrise, and Lindsey was happy to be on a beach again, away from the fetid smell of the Everglades. She was a beach bunny through and through. She wondered if the shores of Kalquor were as nice as Earth’s. Strong arms embraced her from behind, and Lindsey smiled up at Bacoj. It still worried her to be wed so abruptly, but being held in his arms made her feel safe. Feeling his strength, knowing

he and the others would look out for her welfare … it was like being in a warm cocoon where nothing could touch her. Tara had been surprised when they’d made the announcement that morning. “No ceremony?” she asked, her voice weak. “Apparently not.” Lindsey answered. “Just one that formally announces the tie.” Only then did the clan seem to realize how abrupt the clanning was for the Earthers. “You are no ready, Lindsey?” Bacoj looked concerned. “Change mind?” “Earther engagements can

last a long time,” she admitted. “I didn’t realize just agreeing to clan made the arrangement permanent then and there.” Japohn scowled, his brows beetling ominously. “You should no offer commitment unless ready now.” “You’re right,” Lindsey agreed. “I said I wanted to clan with you. I will hold to that obligation.” He relaxed a bit. “Good.” Noticing Aaron watching the proceedings carefully, his expression noncommittal, Japohn bowed deeply to her father. “We take good care Lindsey. She is our center. Her

happiness is sacred. We hold her above all other things. My life is hers. I kill or be kill to keep her safe.” The Nobek’s impromptu speech stunned the Earthers. After a long moment, Aaron recovered. He nodded and offered his hand to Japohn. “Very well, Japohn. I am trusting you with my daughter’s wellbeing, since this is what she wants.” Japohn shook the hand, his cautious smile gentling his features. Then the other men also shook Aaron’s hand. Her initial shock wearing off, Tara hugged each of Lindsey’s new

spouses. Now the group minus the foraging Japohn stood on the glowing beach, enjoying the sun’s warmth and the fresh tang of ocean scent. Vax stood next to Lindsey and Bacoj while Aaron wrapped his arms around Tara nearby. Lindsey noticed her father peeking at them from the corner of his eye occasionally. She knew he still struggled with her clanning, but she’d made her choice, for better or worse. There was no sense in being ashamed for the irrevocable decision she’d made. Bacoj’s voice rumbled

pleasantly in her ear. “We reach search parties today late. Repair ship.”

Now was as good a time as any to tell Bacoj and Vax their identities, especially with Japohn gone. Lindsey was afraid they’d be angry she’d not informed them she was the Empress’ sister before clanning with them, and once these two men got over the initial shock, they could help keep Japohn from losing his temper. Lindsey turned around to face her Dramok and Imdiko.

She wrapped her arms around Bacoj’s neck. He smiled down at her, his expression happy. I hope you’re still happy with me when I lay this on you. With a deep breath, Lindsey began. “Bacoj, as a member of your clan now, it’s time I told you something I should have told you before, but I needed to be sure – well, we didn’t know exactly what had happened to set off the mess here on Earth, and though logic said Kalquor wouldn’t have destroyed the very people they needed–” At Bacoj’s bemused stare, his head slowly shaking from side to side, Lindsey realized

she was rambling, confusing him once more with too many words. Darn it, just tell them. She held out her hand to Vax. He stepped shoulder to shoulder with Bacoj, taking her fingers in a gentle grip. Lindsey started again. “I have a secret to tell you. I hope you’ll understand why I kept this quiet for so long.” Bacoj stroked her hair, his expression warm, caring. “No fear of us, Lindsey. You Matara now. Trust us to tell.” Lindsey opened her mouth. At that moment, a blur of movement next to them startled her enough to yelp. Japohn was

suddenly there, looming over the clan. His fangs displayed, he growled, “Many Earthers come. They disable perimeter. Many weapons, no friendly. We leave now.” Lindsey gasped to find herself lifted in Bacoj’s arms. Carrying her like a child, he ran to the shuttle yelling, “On ship now!” The other two Kalquorians ushered Lindsey’s parents onto the shuttle craft. Bacoj deposited Lindsey on a seat in the main cabin. He rushed into the cockpit and started the shuttle. The engine

spit and missed for a couple of seconds before smoothing out. They lifted into the air, and Vax brought the wall vids up, displaying the surroundings. As they flew away, a mass of humanity raced onto the beach, percussion blasters and laser rifles firing at the escaping shuttle. Lindsey guessed the number of attackers to be around two dozen. “No fight off so many,” Japohn observed. He was relaxed again now that the danger fell far behind them. Tara smiled sunnily at him. “Retreat can be the best show of strength.”

“Live to fight another day,” Lindsey agreed. Japohn grinned, warming her with his regard. “Good say, Lindsey.” “Yeah, I wish those words of wisdom were mine.” They flew over the Gulf. Tara exclaimed when she spotted a group of dolphins breaching the water’s surface. It was a beautiful day, and even the occasional lurch and sputter of the shuttle’s engine couldn’t dampen the group’s good spirits.

“Be glad to fix engine,” Vax grinned. He leaned close to whisper in Lindsey’s ear. “Be glad to fix arm. Want two hands to use on Matara.” She flushed, and the Imdiko chuckled. Sitting on her other side, Japohn snickered. Soon a line of islands appeared like a trail of breadcrumbs floating on the water’s surface. Bacoj called back from the cockpit. “Soon find search parties.” A ripple of relief swept over the group. Seated across from Lindsey and her two men, Aaron asked, “How do we say ‘thank you’ in Kalquorian?”

Vax waited for another loud cough from the engine to die down before answering. “Gutuk ze.” “Then gutuk ze to you gentlemen for all you’ve done. You’ve taken very good care of us these last three days.” Japohn and Vax nodded in happy acceptance of his appreciation. As they flew closer to the third small mass of land, the excitement of coming to the end of this leg of the journey felt palpable. “Almost there.” Aaron got a wicked gleam in his eye. “Now how do I ask my Matara for celebration sex?”

As the Kalquorians erupted in surprised laughter, Tara and Lindsey rolled their eyes. “Oh Aaron,” Tara groaned, flushing a delicate pink. “Jeez, Dad. Gross.” Lindsey made gagging sounds. Japohn shot her a sidelong glance as he answered. “Ya socro drem vig pu mek gatnop?” Vax went hysterical with laughter, nearly toppling off his seat. His face was tomato red as he bent double with hilarity. Aaron grinned in anticipation. “Give me the literal translation on that one.”

Rubbing his face clean of tears, Vax crossed the space between them to sit at Aaron’s side. He bent to whisper in Lindsey’s father’s ear. Suddenly both men convulsed in unrestrained mirth, Aaron pounding the Imdiko’s back with his open palm. “I’m not sure she can bend that way!” he howled, and that set both Vax and Japohn off again. Lindsey exchanged a disgusted look with her mother. “Apparently, men are slobs no matter what the species.” Tara sighed. “But they do have their uses. I guess we’re

stuck with them.” Japohn suddenly stopped laughing. His head came up, nostrils flaring as if scenting prey. Or danger. The shuttle engine stuttered, smoothed out, then stuttered again. An instant before alarms went off in the cabin, Lindsey smelled smoke. Bacoj yelled, “Engine fire. Prepare. Crash ocean.” From her seat, Lindsey could see him frantically punching commands into the computer before him.

Japohn

grabbed

a

vee-

shaped strap from behind the back of Lindsey’s seat, snapping it into place beneath her, belting her down. Vax did the same for Tara and Aaron before returning to his own seat next to Lindsey. He and Japohn secured themselves. The straining engine went silent. The shuttle plunged down towards the dark mass of the sea. Lindsey couldn’t help herself; she screamed along with her mother to see the ocean rushing up at them. Japohn and Vax each took her hands and held on tight. “No fear, Bacoj good pilot,” Japohn said, shouting to be

heard over the now ratcheting engine. “No fear my ass!” Lindsey shrieked, and the water was all she saw now, hurtling towards them faster than she could think. A loud boom made her ears pop as they hit, and she was jerked hard in her seat despite Japohn and Vax clutching her. They were plunged into darkness as the vid and lighting failed. Blind now, Lindsey felt the shuttle bounce up and down. Her parents’ cries rang in her ears. Then all seemed to go still, leaving her gasping. Lindsey listened to her heart pound.

The shuttle groaned all around her, and there was the sound of movement and footsteps. “All unhurt?” Bacoj’s voice was the sweetest sound she’d ever heard. Hearing him and feeling Japohn and Vax’s arms still around her calmed her immeasurably. She chorused “Yes” with her parents. “We sink fast. Under water now.” Lindsey went rigid with fear at his words. She strained to see in the darkness, but there was only the void to look at. She forced herself to breathe slowly, trying to keep panic at

bay. She could hear Bacoj moving around as he spoke. “Japohn we take door off. You take Aaron, Vax take Matara Tara, I take Lindsey. Earthers keep wear restraints. Water come fast, take you where we no find. We free you, take you out when ready. Understanding?” “I got it,” Lindsey said. I don’t like it, but I got it. Her father sat nearby, but for some reason his voice sounded a million miles away. “I think my seatbelt broke.” Japohn released her. His footsteps, so incredibly light

for such a big man, told Lindsey he moved away to her left. Towards the hatch. His voice was still steady, as if he went down in the ocean every day. “Hold on very hard, Aaron. Water rush in strong. Do no let go seat.” Vax patted Lindsey’s arm. “I take care Matara Tara now. You wait for Bacoj. You will be safe.” He moved away and murmured softly to her mother. Lindsey was left alone, strapped in her seat, waiting to be rescued. It didn’t sit well with her at all. Not since Jessica had saved her life in

the aftermath of the tornado had Lindsey allowed herself to be in such a position.

Bacoj and Japohn’s voices sounded from the direction of the hatch. “Ready?” “Now.” The high painful shriek of bending metal filled the soulless black of the shuttle. It grew louder and louder until Lindsey’s ears rang with pain. A deep-throated roar joined the sound. The next moment what felt like a wall of concrete

crashed against her body. Through the dull pain she realized she was suddenly under water, struggling to find the latch of her restraint in the now silent darkness. Her hands scrambled frantically over the strap, reaching down farther, but still not finding the locking mechanism. Oh jeez, I’m going to die. I’m going to drown in here. Someone grabbed her hands, pushing them away and fiddling with the straps. They suddenly broke free, and strong arms surrounded her, gathering her close to a warm solid body.

Bacoj had found her, just as he’d said he would. She felt him kick, carrying her through the unrelieved black of the shuttle that wanted to be their tomb. How could he see to get them out, she wondered? Even his sensitive Kalquorian eyes couldn’t possibly pierce the darkness. But he swam without pause, and after a few moments the water around them lightened. They were out of the sinking shuttle. Bacoj swam up, bringing her closer and closer to the light above. But her lungs were straining now, desperate for

air. Lindsey fought the vicious urge to draw air into her lungs, the overpowering need to breathe. Her conscious mind fought with her instincts, and she struggled to maintain control. The water around her grew brighter, but the surface didn’t seem to draw any closer. Gray mist appeared at the edges of her vision. She was on the verge of blacking out. Her chest burned with a fierce ache. She wasn’t going to make it. She wasn’t going to make it. And then they smashed through the surface, into the sunlit realm of air and sky and air and seagulls screeching and air. Breath screamed into

her lungs. Lindsey whooped in lungfuls, her head falling back on Bacoj’s shoulder as she went limp in a half-swoon. Between gasps Bacoj said, “Land close. Hold on.” Before she could answer, Vax and Tara broke the surface with a huge splash. Lindsey’s mother sputtered and choked and sucked in oxygen. Vax held her with his injured arm, no longer pinned to his chest with the brace. Lindsey grimaced to see how it bent halfway between his wrist and elbow. The Imdiko’s face was tight and pale. Bacoj called to him in their

language, and Vax flicked his eyes towards them. His gaze settling on Lindsey, he gave them a suggestion of a smile and nodded. To Tara he said, “Float on top. Relax, Matara.” Holding the still coughing but very much alive Tara beneath her armpits, he stroked towards the nearby shore.

Bacoj also swam towards the golden beach, towing Lindsey. She thought about telling him she could swim herself, but her limbs were still leaden from shock. Lindsey

was an excellent swimmer, but Bacoj plowed through the water much faster than she could have managed. Moments later he stood upright. Hefting Lindsey in his arms, he waded through the surf to the beach. Just as they reached dry land Vax found his feet and half-carried, halfdragged Tara to shore as well. The group collapsed to the sand. Lindsey had a hard time restraining herself from kissing the ground beneath her. The warmth of the sun, the gritty sand she laid full length on, the scritchy-scratchy sound of the breeze in the palm tree fronds,

all were a blessing after the harrowing crash. As well as her mother and the two barefoot Kalquorians who sat gasping on either side of her. Her mother. Two Kalquorians. A stab of fear brought Lindsey upright on shaky legs. Bacoj and Vax were up fast too, but she barely noticed. She looked out on the ocean, its frothy surface showing no sign of the downed shuttle or anything else. “Where are Dad and Japohn?” Bacoj was already running towards the water. He dove in

just as something dark bobbed up among the waves. Vax said, “There, Lindsey. They come now.” Tara wept relieved tears as Bacoj met Japohn and Aaron in the water. The two Kalquorians worked together to tow Lindsey’s father to shore, closing the distance at a remarkable speed. They’re fast. You’d think they’d take it easy. Japohn was underwater a long time. Surely he’s out of breath. Even supermen get tired, right? But look at them go, like it’s a race or something. Between them Aaron floated

limply, not kicking to help. Lindsey drifted towards the edge of the water. For some reason, she could barely feel her legs. Of course Dad’s not helping. He’s tired. In shock like I was. He was under for so long. They were almost to shore. The grim concentration on Bacoj and Japohn’s faces was now apparent. Dread became a leaden weight in Lindsey’s heart. When Japohn stood, pulling Aaron from Bacoj to sling the limp Earther over his shoulder and run the rest of the way to the beach in a blur of motion, it took all she had to

not scream. An instant later, Japohn laid Aaron’s motionless body on the sand. Lindsey ran to them, throwing herself down beside her father. Aaron’s eyes stared sightless at the sky, his lips blue, his skin bloodless. “Dad? Daddy?” Panicked, Lindsey shook him by the shoulders. Tara was next to her, sobbing. “Oh please, no!” Getting hold of herself with effort, Lindsey checked Aaron for a pulse. Nothing. She started CPR, bearing down on his chest with all her meager weight.

“I do, Lindsey,” Bacoj said, gently pushing her and Tara aside. Nodding, she moved over to start artificial respiration, pinching Aaron’s nostrils shut and breathing in his mouth. They worked on her father, Japohn spelling Lindsey when she grew dizzy from filling Aaron’s lungs with air. Vax held Tara nearby, unashamed tears flowing down his cheeks while she begged over and over, “Aaron wake up, please wake up.” Lindsey lost track of how

long they fought to pull her father back from the abyss. It felt like hours passed while Bacoj administered compressions and she and Japohn took turns breathing for Aaron. She might have gone on forever, clinging to the hope he would revive if Tara hadn’t finally choked, “Enough. It’s time to stop.” Bacoj sat back, his hands finally leaving Aaron’s chest to cover his face. Lindsey’s mouth left Aaron’s. She gently pressed his eyelids closed before curling her arms around his head and letting go to grief.

Harsh sobs shook her body as she held him. Japohn howled. “No! Father Aaron live!” He resumed Bacoj’s halted chest compressions. Lindsey looked up at the Nobek’s frantic face as he desperately tried to thwart the one implacable foe he couldn’t defeat. Tara pulled free of the sobbing Vax to wrap her arms around Japohn’s shoulders. Stroking his long curls, she whispered in his ear. “He’s gone, Japohn. You did everything you could, but it’s his time. Let him go.” Somehow her gentle voice

got through to him, and he gave up. He turned to pull Tara to him, burying his face against her shoulder. The big man shook as he moaned. “I apology. Water take him when door open. I look, cannot find long time. Apology, apology. I fail, no save. Apology.” Tara cried with him, rocking the behemoth in her thin arms as if he were a child. “There’s nothing to forgive, sweetheart. You risked your own life to find him. I will always be grateful to you for not leaving him out there.” Lindsey crawled to them to mold herself against her

Nobek’s shaking body. “You couldn’t help it, Japohn. I know you did your best.” “No forgive, Lindsey. I fail you.” “No, Japohn. You found him. You didn’t give up.” She pulled his sea-matted hair back to kiss his ear. “I’m thankful to you for that.” She didn’t know if he believed her. He seemed as shattered as she felt. Vax and Bacoj joined them, wrapping their arms around the trio. The group huddled together, holding one another as tears flowed from Earther and Kalquorian alike.

**** They made no attempt to locate the Kalquorian search party that day though they’d washed up on Big Pine Key. The heart had gone out of the little group. Even the promise of being cleaned up, fed, and sleeping in soft beds held no allure for anyone. Grief cloaked them in heavy folds, making it difficult to function.

Japohn went foraging for supplies and Bacoj managed to catch a few fish, which Vax cooked over an open fire he built on the beach. Caring for

Lindsey and Tara seemed to help the Kalquorians deal with the guilt and pain. No one had any real appetite, but as the day waned the Earthers ate out of respect for the men’s efforts. The women covered Aaron’s body with palm fronds, a silly exercise Lindsey thought, but they had to do something. Leaving him exposed seemed terribly wrong. The clan promised a proper service would be given once they found the search party. And of course they cried oceans and oceans of tears. Lindsey thought she would endure a thousand tornadoes, a

million Kalquorian shockwaves to remove the pain she felt now. She’d never known such agony. The moon rose soon after darkness descended. Tara fell asleep clutching Lindsey as the women sat staring into the fire. Lindsey watched the flames flex and snap, the light weight of her mother huddling against her barely noticeable. She stared dully as the men carried palm fronds onto the beach, laying them in a sort of bed on the sand nearby. A few beach towels Japohn had located in a nearby tourist shop went on top. After arranging them to their satisfaction, Bacoj came

over and carefully untangled Tara from Lindsey’s side. He lifted the bedraggled older woman in his arms like a child and carried her to the frond bed, laying her down. The Kalquorians gathered around her, murmuring to each other as they covered her against the night breeze with more towels. Watching them care for her mother with such concern and consideration eased some of Lindsey’s pain. It also brought home how intensely she’d come to rely on them; not so much for physical survival, but because they filled her heart in a way she’d never known. Once they had tucked Tara

in, the men gathered around Lindsey by the fire. It was natural to lean into the arms that closed around her, to rest her cheek against a muscled chest, to reach to touch the warmth of the bodies surrounding her. Aaron’s death had left a gaping hole in her being, but there was no denying the completeness she felt with the clan. Her clan. She was sore. She was wrung out physically and emotionally. She felt nasty with her hair dried in sea-salt stiff clumps and her clothes cemented in taut creases with gritty sand. But being held so gently by her mates somehow

made her almost whole despite the unfathomable loss of her father. “Will you make love to me?” she asked them. Bacoj stroked her cheek, searching her face. “You want? Sure?” She nodded. “It would comfort me. Make me feel not so alone.” Without another word, the men undressed her. She sighed to feel the welcome warmth of their hands and mouths caress her. Each man took her in turn, groaning as they enclosed themselves in her hearth, rising and falling over her as

they claimed what was theirs. Under their care Lindsey climaxed with each lover, every orgasm melding her shattered remains back together. She emerged from the lovemaking a different Lindsey, but in one piece once more.

She also resurfaced confident in her decision to join the clan. As they snuggled against her, exhaustion finally ready to rescue from the harrowing day they’d endured, Lindsey said, “I love you. All of you.” She didn’t expect a

response. She didn’t need one, satisfied to simply acknowledge her own feelings and be at peace with them. But she felt the reaction of Vax and Bacoj, who lay on either side of her. Japohn, spooning behind Vax, had his hand on her shoulder and it tightened. A smile in his voice, Bacoj answered for all of them. “We love you also, Matara.” Still hurting but serene, Lindsey let the roar of the surf and the warmth of the men’s arms around her lull her to sleep.

Chapter Thirteen

A low hum and the exclamations of the Kalquorians woke Lindsey just as the sun broke the horizon. She opened her eyes to see the men dressing in their unfathomable speed. “Dress, Lindsey,” Bacoj urged, yanking his boots on. “Shuttle comes.” With a yelp, Lindsey grabbed her sandy clothing, getting the legs of her jeans tangled as she fought to put them on. She noticed her mother standing and looking at

the palm frond-covered body of her father. A sudden rush of pain enveloped her, and in frustration she cursed at her inability to get dressed. “I help,” Japohn said. He grabbed her pants from her, shook them out with a snap of his wrists, and slid them up her legs. Lindsey ground her teeth against the gritty sand scraping her skin. While the Nobek fastened the snap and zipped her up, Bacoj shoved her into her tank top. Vax worked on her boots. Tara joined them, her face drawn. The approaching shuttle came into view over the tops of

the palm trees as the clan finished dressing Lindsey. It landed a few yards away on the beach, settling quietly in the sand. “We speak to them. Stay here,” Bacoj advised. Lindsey and Tara waited with Aaron’s body as the men went to the shuttle. The craft’s main hatch opened and two Kalquorians stepped out. Bacoj’s clan bowed slightly before their fellow aliens, letting Lindsey know the newcomers outranked them. Bacoj advanced ahead of his clanmates and spoke, his guttural speech floating to

Lindsey’s ears. The two newcomers glanced at her and Tara. Their eyes widened. I think we’ve been identified, Lindsey thought. She hoped they wouldn’t let on to her clan. She felt it was up to her to share her identity with her mates. The five Kalquorians headed their way. When the two strangers stopped before the women, Bacoj’s clan ranged themselves around Lindsey. She didn’t miss how the taller of the rescuers narrowed his eyes at them. He was a leanly muscled man, handsome in a rough sort of way. He spoke

first after both men bowed to them. “I am Dramok Fosir, in charge of the search efforts for our Empress’ family. This is Imdiko Weth who is a doctor.” The Imdiko smiled, his broad face as jolly as a muscled giant could be. “My great pleasure to meet you, Mataras.” Fosir’s gaze flicked to the covered form lying nearby. “My sympathies for your loss. Dramok Bacoj has told me of the loss of your mate and father. We will take you to our base where we will make all arrangements as you require

for his body.” Tara managed a wan smile. “Thank you.”

Weth pulled a metallic box from his belt. “May I scan you to determine your overall conditions?” Tara pointed out, “I believe Vax has the worst injury.” Weth gave Lindsey’s Imdiko a quick glance. With a comforting smile, he said, “We will set him to rights at the base. For now, please let me see to your health.” As he waved the scanner

over them Lindsey said, “You speak our language very well.” Fosir answered her. “It is necessary for our work. We have to be able to communicate to your people in order to track down Empress Jessica’s family.” His eyes narrowed again, and Lindsey steeled herself for the question he would no doubt ask next. Instead he said, “As part of the containment crew, Bacoj’s clan wasn’t prepared for as much interaction with your people.” Weth studied his scanner’s readout then stashed it on his belt once more. To Fosir he

said, “The Mataras need food and water. Otherwise they are well cared for.” “Good work to your clan, Bacoj.” Lindsey’s Dramok nodded his acknowledgement of the praise. Fosir’s tone was cautious as he asked Lindsey, “Is it true you have been claimed by this clan?” “They claim me and I them.” Her voice was firm. Fosir and Weth exchanged looks. Again Lindsey was sure they’d say something about her identity, but instead Fosir

bowed and motioned towards his shuttle. “Mataras, let us take you and the body of your beloved to our base camp.” They boarded the shuttle, and after Fosir and Weth brought Aaron’s body on board to lie in the back cabin, Fosir sat in the pilot’s seat. The rest sat in the main cabin. Bacoj sat on one side of Lindsey, and Tara sat on the other. She held hands with both. Bacoj smiled down at her, his face easier than she’d ever seen it. “Soon clean. Eat real food.” Lindsey sighed in anticipation. “That will be

nice.” The shuttle lifted off, and Lindsey knew she had little time left to tell her men who they’d clanned. “I have to tell you something before we get to the base.” The men looked at her expectantly. Her grip on her mother’s hand tightened, and she felt a reassuring squeeze in return. With a deep breath she said, “I’m Empress Jessica’s sister. Tara is her mother.” Three faces froze. Three pairs of purple eyes grew wide. Three mouths dropped open. There was stupefied silence for

several beats as Lindsey watched them try to absorb the bombshell. Finally Japohn sputtered, “This is joke?” He looked furious. Her heart thudding painfully, Lindsey nodded at Weth. “He knows. He and Fosir both recognized my mother and me, didn’t you?” Weth nodded, keeping a careful eye on Japohn. “We kept silent when we realized you hadn’t informed your clan yet.”

Bacoj turned to face her. His expression was guarded, but his eyes were intense. She fought to not drop her gaze from his stare. “Why you no tell us?” “Because at first I wasn’t sure I could trust you.” Tara was at her most placatory. “You all have to understand, our entire lives we’ve lived under a totalitarian regime where no one could be trusted. After the government was gone, there were reports that it had been Kalquor that set off Armageddon here.” To Lindsey’s distress, Bacoj pulled his hand free of hers.

Vax and Japohn were visibly upset, but he displayed no emotion at all. He leaned towards Weth and barked a few sentences at the older Imdiko. Weth nodded and spoke to Lindsey. “Bacoj has asked me to translate so he may better speak to you with no fear of misunderstanding. Is that acceptable to the Imperial Mother and Sister?” Tara nodded. In a small voice, Lindsey answered, “Yes.” After another quick burst of guttural speech from Bacoj, Weth asked, “You joined my clan. How could you do that

without telling us who you are?” Lindsey swallowed. She’d never seen her Dramok look so cold. “I planned to when the time was right, but that time never seemed to happen. We kept getting into trouble; first with the Tragooms, then after we clanned I got distracted by our, uh, celebration—” she was a little relieved to see their mouths quirk at the mention of sex they’d enjoyed “—and the next morning we had to run from those militants right away, then the ship crashed and Dad—” At the memory of her

father’s death, emotion closed her throat. Lindsey’s eyes filled with tears, and she bowed her head as a sob escaped. Bacoj’s hand closed over hers once more, and she sobbed again to feel his touch returned. He spoke in Kalquorian once more, and Weth translated. “I understand now. But Lindsey, we are not a powerful clan. We have little rank, and you are the Empress’ sister. Councilmen and their clans are waiting to court you back on Kalquor, clans that can offer you finer homes and greater wealth—”

“Enough,” she interrupted, anger creeping into her voice. “If you guys haven’t figured out by now I don’t care about that stuff then we’re in real trouble.” She looked at each in turn. “I told you how I feel. If you feel the same for me that’s all I care about.” Their expressions were soft, and the three men nodded. In English Bacoj said, “We love you. We want you happy.” “Then stop trying to get rid of me.” Lindsey slid close to Bacoj, and he wrapped his arm around her. Vax and Japohn leaned forward to touch her, stroking

her face and hair. She felt safe again until she noticed Weth’s frown. His expression made disquiet gnaw at her. In a matter of minutes, the shuttle set down. Fosir had not activated the vids, so Lindsey had no idea what to expect when the hatch swung open, but the sound of running feet drumming across a hard surface made her think there were a lot of people at the Kalquorian base. Fosir had commed ahead, but as he spoke in Kalquorian, she didn’t know what he’d said. She had to assume he’d told his superiors the Empress’ family had been found. The excited

speech outside assured her that the aliens knew something important had happened

. “Usually the Dramok precedes the rest of his clan,” Weth said when the tattered group hesitated. “All wait the Empress’ family. Mataras first,” Bacoj answered. That earned approving nods from Fosir and Weth. “Come on, Mom,” Lindsey said, taking her mother’s hand. “I look completely

wrecked,” Tara sighed, raking her fingers through her sandencrusted hair. It was a good sign that she was concerned about her appearance, Lindsey thought. “You don’t look any worse than the rest of us. Let’s go find a shower.” They stepped out of the shuttle. The instant the two women appeared on the ramp, silence descended over the Kalquorians who had assembled outside. Dozens of the dark-skinned men were lined up across the pavement of a former shopping center’s parking lot. Several

other shuttles lay scattered across the asphalt. Behind the rows of Kalquorians, half a dozen large metallic square structures definitely not of Earth origin dotted the horizon. Lindsey and Tara stepped down to the blacktop. An intake of breath from the assembled crowd made them both look back. Bacoj’s clan escorted the hover stretcher bearing Aaron’s covered body out of the shuttle. Fosir and Weth followed. Lindsey hugged her mother close when Tara began to weep again. The lines of Kalquorians bowed as one. Lindsey

swallowed the lump in her throat at the sign of respect from people who’d never met her father. Either Jessica had made a huge impression on her adopted planet, or the rules of decorum were strict. Knowing her sister, Lindsey was willing to bet on respect. Jessica was hot-tempered, but she also possessed a strong ethical core. As the Kalquorians rose from their combined bows, one separated from the group and strode forward with assured steps. Stocky for a Kalquorian, he still was tall enough that the top of Lindsey’s head would only reach his nose. He

stopped before the women and bowed again. “I am Dramok Sarod in charge of the search for you, Imperial Mother Tara and Sister Lindsey. May I express my sincerest grief at the loss of the Imperial Father Aaron McInness.” Rubbing at the tears spilling down her cheeks, Tara answered with a stronger voice than Lindsey had thought her capable. “Thank you, Dramok Sarod.” Weth stepped forward. “The Imperial Mataras should be seen to immediately. They are in good health but have needs

that should not wait for attending.” Sarod nodded. “Of course, Doctor Weth. I put them in your capable hands.” There were other priorities in Lindsey’s mind. “We came across survivors in the swamp on our way here. They need immediate help.” Sarod’s eyes widened a little. “Rescue teams are scheduled for arrival in this sector in two days.”

“There are children in this group. They need help now.

They were attacked by Tragooms.” His brows drew together and his upper lip lifted in a slight snarl. “Tragooms are attacking these people?” Japohn spoke up. “Tragoom threat destroyed. Earthers still need help. Several Mataras and children. Little food.” “You have their coordinates?” Bacoj spoke in Kalquorian. Sarod turned to the ranks of the assembled troops under his command and spoke loudly. Several men broke from the lines, rushing away with blurred speed. In a matter of

seconds, four shuttles took off. Sarod turned back to Lindsey. “The survivors will be brought here right away.” Lindsey was a little dumbfounded at the apparent power she wielded as the sister of the Empress. “Thank you,” she managed, exchanging a startled glance with her mother. Sarod looked at the covered body and then at the young clan. His tone was as cold as Bacoj’s had been when Lindsey had revealed her identity. “You allowed the death of the Imperial Father.” Lindsey’s temper rose at the

accusation. If she had any type of authority, she was willing to use it to defend her mates. “My clan allowed nothing. They did all in their power to keep us safe.” “Your clan, Matara?” Sarod gave Fosir a shocked look, which grew when Fosir jerked his head in a quick nod. “I have chosen to join Bacoj’s clan as their Matara. We are well suited, and they make me very happy.” She was adamant. “My apologies to your clan then. No insult was intended. If you say they did their best by the Imperial Family, then I must

accept this as true.” The looks being exchanged between Sarod, Fosir and Weth were worrying Lindsey to no end. Nevermind, she comforted herself. The clanning is a permanent arrangement. They can’t make me give up my guys. Squashing her sudden nervousness, Lindsey pointed out, “My Imdiko is injured and needs medical care.” Sarod looked at Vax and winced to see the awkward angle of his arm. “Of course, and you and the Imperial Mother must be attended to at once. We will see to the body

of the Imperial Father until you have told us the arrangements to be made.” He nodded to a couple of Kalquorians, who took the stretcher away. Weth gestured towards the metallic buildings. “Please come with me.” Bacoj took his place at the head of the clan as Weth led them to the base camp. Lindsey and Tara, flanked by Vax and Japohn, followed.

Chapter Fourteen

Just outside the Kalquorian base’s medical bay, Sarod stood with Bacoj and Japohn as the rest of their party was tended to. Lindsey and Tara had been thoroughly scanned and injected with multiple vitamin compounds. Now the focus was on Vax’s busted arm. Sarod took Bacoj’s complete report with Japohn adding details where needed. At the end of the interview he said, “You’ll have to answer for using the Bermuda Triangle portal. Nothing smaller than

destroyer size is supposed to enter it. It’s too unstable.” Japohn said, “It was at my urging. The fault does not rest entirely with Bacoj.” “That may be, but that’s his commander’s decision, not mine.” Sarod looked at the Earther women, his stern expression easing. “No doubt you will be highly rewarded for finding and bringing the Empress’ family to us.” Bacoj smiled as he looked in on the patients. “Having Lindsey as our Matara is reward enough.” Sarod spoke gently. “The Imperial Clan may have

problems with her clanned to such a young, low-ranking group.” At Bacoj’s wary look, he continued. “I do not say these things to offend you. It is obvious you have her best interests at heart.” “I understand your concerns. They are mine as well.” From inside the treatment center, he heard the medic attending Vax say, “That’s definitely a break that’s begun to heal wrong. I’m going to numb the arm before we reset and heal this.” Bacoj said to Sarod, “We explained our situation to

Lindsey. She said she doesn’t care about such things as rank.” “That may be, but Earthers don’t always know what’s best for them.” The commander grimaced. “Look what they did to their own planet and people.” Japohn’s expression was thunderous with fearful worry. “You’re telling us we must let her go? Give her to another clan?” Vax’s loud hiss of pain held off whatever Sarod’s response would be. The three men looked in to see Lindsey hurry to the Imdiko’s side and clutch

his good hand. “Are you all right, sweetie?” she worried. As Vax offered her a strained smile, the medic soothed, “He’ll be fine, Matara Lindsey. I’ll give him another tab of anesthesia. Sorry Vax.” He injected Bacoj’s Imdiko with a numbing compound. Before he touched the bent limb again he double checked. “Is that better?”

“Yes. The pain is gone.” His smile was much more relaxed now, and as the doctor re-broke

his arm, Vax whispered something to Lindsey that made her giggle. Sarod told Bacoj and Japohn, “There is no doubt she cares for you. I will not presume to order you to release her. I only ask you consider how well you can meet the needs of someone as important as the Empress’ sister.” Bacoj swallowed hard. “We love her.” “Enough to do what’s right for her?” That was the biggest concern Bacoj had since Lindsey’s stunning revelation.

How selfish was he to keep the woman he loved from the best possible life she could enjoy? He looked at his Nobek and saw his worries reflected in Japohn’s eyes. **** Lindsey was impressed with how fast Vax’s arm was healed. The medic warned him against lifting anything too heavy for the next day, but the arm was now straight, and he had the use of all his fingers. Once the doctors were finished fussing over them, Sarod led the group to two rooms. One was for Tara, who immediately bid everyone goodbye so she could

shower and nap. The next room was for the clan. Bowing, Sarod left them to inspect their temporary lodging. A thick bed mat sat on the floor. Fresh formsuits and even a light shift for Lindsey had been provided. A low table with seating cushions surrounding it was placed in one corner, and a large, clear stall sat in another. The tank hanging over it had a very Earther looking shower head hanging down, and Lindsey looked forward to washing the grit off her body. “No very special,” Japohn grumbled. He seemed extra moody, and Lindsey wondered

if he continued to blame himself for Aaron’s death. Or perhaps he was still angry she hadn’t been completely honest with them? Lindsey shrugged. “It’s not the Four Seasons, but it’s better than sleeping on the beach.” Bacoj stepped over to the shower and turned it on. His formsuit was off in an instant. “Temporary shelter, no extras. Come, Lindsey.” “As long as I can get cleaned up, I’m not complaining.” Vax was also already naked and helped her pull her blouse

off. “We wash you.” Bacoj adjusted the temperature as Vax took great delight in the use of both hands in disrobing Lindsey. Japohn stripped himself, and the three men pulled her into the shower and surrounded her. “Good temperature?” Vax asked. Lindsey sighed beneath the warm water sluicing over her body. “Nice.” She looked at the gleaming wet bodies surrounding her. “Close quarters. I like it.” Vax reached up to turn a knob on the cylinder. “Cleansing agent,” he

explained, and Lindsey scented something vaguely antiseptic in the water now.

Three pairs of big hands rubbed all over her body, combing through her hair and scrubbing sand from her skin. She was chafed from the gritty sand under her arms, in the crooks of her elbows and knees, and it had even found its way into her rear crevice. “Poor Lindsey,” Bacoj murmured, his fingers lightly playing over reddened bumpy flesh. “Medic give cream to

soothe. Wash sand off first.” Vax lifted one of her legs to concentrate his efforts on her sex. The sensitivity he found there had nothing to do with sand. Her supporting leg buckled to feel his clever fingers stroking her nether lips, but Bacoj and Japohn were there to keep her from falling. They lifted her easily into the air, cradling her upper body between them and each holding a thigh, opening her wide for the now very healthy Imdiko’s attentions. Lindsey didn’t bother to struggle, and her weak protest

of, “That’s not fair,” fell on deaf ears. Then Japohn’s mouth was on hers, quieting any further argument. Bacoj fell to suckling her breasts. Bacoj and Vax hadn’t shaved in a couple of days, and their faces were delightfully scratchy against her skin, though not irritating like the rashes the sand had left her with. Their light beards scraped, reminding her of their brute masculinity. Her breath caught and her fingertips sank into the hard muscles of their shoulders. Vax ran his tongue around the outsides of her folds, teasing the sensitive flesh he held parted with his fingers.

His tongue was cat-raspy rough, delighting the vulnerable petals of her labia. Japohn sucked her tongue into his mouth, his teeth gently closing over to scrape the flesh. Then he whipped his tongue over hers, thrashing roughly. Next the wet appendage twined about its twin, stroking it until she was left whimpering from the outrageous sensation. Bacoj sucked hard on one nipple, sending feeling zapping from her breast to her sex. She cried out in Japohn’s mouth. Then Bacoj did it to the other nipple, the suction so strong

that she squirmed in their grip. She trembled, unable to protect herself from the growing roughness of the attention. Bacoj bit down on the tip, sending burning pleasure/pain down the same path straight to her nether regions. A nip on the other point, and she was struggling to escape and bring her breasts closer to him all at the same time. Vax paused in his slow, sensuous licking of her sex to enjoy the view. “Beautiful, Lindsey,” he growled. He used his fingers on her, tracing the folds, inspecting every nook and cranny, even outlining the tight rosebud of her anus.

Lindsey felt a flush of embarrassed arousal to be so closely inspected. Then he ran a finger over her clit, a light feather touch, and she jerked as bright awareness jolted her. Japohn and Bacoj took their hungry mouths off her to grin at their clanmate. “What you do?” Bacoj asked.

“This.” Vax stroked her with that barely-there pressure again, and she emitted a little scream as electric pleasure blasted her once more. “And

this.” He darted his tongue out to flick her swelling nub, and Lindsey’s head fell back as she yelped her reaction. “Then this.” He wrapped his lips around her clit and whipped it back and forth with his tongue. Warbling louder and louder, her body tightened and strained, clutching for orgasm. Vax stopped. “Please,” she begged, her hips pushing towards his face. Japohn tilted his head to look at her mound. “All swelled. Red. You are be cruel, Vax.” “No. This is be cruel.” He bent his head to her sex once

more and circled her clit with his tongue. She squirmed to feel the wet warmth so close to the unhooded tip, never quite touching it. The other two men tightened their hold on her, keeping her from realizing the climax that hovered just out of reach. She panted. So close … if he would just lick her right there… Instead he straightened, standing at his full height. Lindsey whimpered to be cheated of the near climax. He grinned down at her. “You want, Lindsey?” “You know I do. Stop teasing me, Vax!”

His eyes narrowed, and she went very still at the cold look he gave her. “I do what I wish with my Matara.” “Yes, my Imdiko.” The words fell out without her thinking about them. She barely breathed as he closed the distance between them until his twin prods nudged her orifices. He crept closer, his sexes stealing into her so gradually she thought she might go mad from the anticipation. Her hips lifted slightly, and all three men growled at her. “Be still,” Bacoj ordered.

Lindsey whimpered, but something in her went obedient when they were like this, something that wanted to be told what to do and submit without struggle. Despite the agony of the tormentingly gradual penetration, she went limp in their arms. They growled again, but this time the sound was approving. She warmed at the praise. This really is where I belong. **** Vax took his time, his gaze centered on where he slowly infused Lindsey’s body with his own. What he wanted to do was

take her hard and fast, satisfying the need that made his groin ache. But like a sauce that needed to simmer over low heat, he knew gratification, both his and hers, would be that much more delicious for the delay. He just hoped his clanmates would be patient enough with their urges to grant him the preparation time. Lindsey was quiescent for now, but her panting told him she hovered on the edge. The stark need on her face made his cock twitch. She was so beautiful, his little Earther Matara. Even wan from grief and thin from near starvation, Lindsey was the most precious

thing he’d ever known. He enjoyed seeing her respond to him, how she succumbed to his gentle domination. He couldn’t imagine a woman of his own species meeting his needs better.

Vax continued to slide delicately into her warm, grasping sex and the tight embrace of her back passage, watching himself disappear into her hearth. Taking her so slowly emphasized his mastery over her, something a nurturing Imdiko rarely had the opportunity to enjoy. Especially

one of his youth. Her labia was swollen, tight around his girth. Her clit had emerged from its hood, begging to be touched again. Soon, precious. But not until you’re so crazed for release that you scream for it. At last his glistening members were fully embedded within Lindsey, claiming her. She moaned, her eyes beseeching him as he held still, feeling how her hearth flexed around his thrumming sexes. Seeing her so helpless and vulnerable, unable to claim pleasure or deny him his, made him want to shelter and master her all at once.

“What are you thinking?” Japohn asked in their tongue, his voice quiet. “That I’ve never loved anyone so much.” Without waiting for a reaction, he slowly pumped his hips against Lindsey’s, watching himself emerge and refill her. He was dimly aware of his clanmates exchanging a glance, but it was unimportant what they thought of his heartfelt statement. “Look, Lindsey,” he said. “Watch me make you take love.” Her whimpers grew louder as she did as he told her. She

tightened, coiling around his slowly thrusting staves, her arousal growing. Vax kept his pace deliberate, maintaining her near the detonation point without letting her ignite. She began to gasp with agonized desire. “Vax, please.” Her tone of voice was satisfyingly needy, but it wasn’t quite enough. He wanted more. He placed his palm on her mound, feeling the soft chestnut curls. He rubbed in a slow, circular motion, careful to avoid her straining, swollen clit. “Vax.” His name was

spoken with a sob. He could see the careful control she cultivated dissolving. He caressed a breast, still flushed from Bacoj’s earlier attentions. Her body was tensing as desire clenched her hard. He angled his next thrust to drive against the front of her sheath. Lindsey’s breath caught, and her eyes flew wide. Vax waited until the near climax retreated, leaving her shaking with denied satisfaction. Her cry of protest was loud, but not quite the unrestrained shriek he wanted. He pinched her nipples hard, and she wailed again.

“Vax, please! Please!” He thrust against the nest of nerves within her hot passage again. Just once, enough to almost bring her again. She went rigid, and for an instant Vax thought he’d pushed her too hard and she was going to come. But instead she hung on the precipice for a few moments before the intensity ebbed enough for her to realize she was going to be denied again.

Then she did scream. His name pealed from her lips again and again, raw

desperation in every cry. She struggled against Bacoj and Japohn, but they held her still. Vax noticed both men were so hard their cocks curved up to meet their stomachs. “You orgasm now,” Vax said. He wasn’t sure she heard him over her shrieks, but that didn’t matter. His own need had become painful. He’d tortured them all long enough. He pinched her nipple again, simultaneously rubbing his thumb over her engorged clit and ramming his lengths hard and fast into her grasping core. Lindsey’s screams became deafening as her overwrought

body finally found the cataclysm it had fought for. She spasmed hard all around him, her sex a tight fist that milked his flesh, tearing his seed from his loins. Vax roared as climax ripped through him, wringing him dry of everything he had. The sensation of erupting came from the top of his head to his fingertips and toes. Electric pulses traveled the length of his body. He sagged against the side of the shower stall, his knees trembling with weakness. From far away, he heard Bacoj say, “Damn it, Vax, did you have to take all of us with you? Now I’ll have to wait until I recover for

my turn.” “Bad Imdiko. Bad!” Japohn’s laughter was breathless. Vax looked up at them, feeling a rush of pride at the respectful looks they gave him. Lindsey was limp in their arms, her eyes closed, tiny whimpers escaping her parted lips. Her sheath still offered small spasms as she came down from bliss. “That’s how you make love to a Matara,” Vax gasped. He reached up and turned off the water. The water tank indicator read nearly empty. He planted a kiss on Lindsey’s lips, and her face lit

in a soft smile. Vax carefully pulled free of her before opening the stall door and staggering to the bed mat to crash on its surface. **** Lindsey shuddered in Bacoj and Japohn’s arms as they dried her off and carried her to the bed where Vax was recovering. She’d been torn apart by rapture and felt as if she might never come down from the high. It was like being on another plane of existence. Her mind was floating even as the convulsions of pleasure still softly ebbed and flowed through her womb.

“Her stomach,” Bacoj told Japohn. “I owe her discipline still.” His words brought a fresh thrill. She’d forgotten the delayed spanking Bacoj had promised several nights ago. She remained limp as they settled her on the mat’s surface. She still drifted in that serene space in her mind, languorous in the continued pulses of desire. No one had bitten her, yet she was in the thrall of a quiet euphoria that didn’t wane as strong hands on her ankles pulled her legs apart. Japohn’s bulk settled next to her, and his breath was

warm in her ear. “You lie still for dulma. Accept punishment.” “Yes, my Nobek.” Her voice was a singsong.

His hand wriggled beneath her, working between her body and the mattress she laid on. When his fingers closed over her clit, she sighed at the clench of her sex. Pleasure lapped over her in warm waves. “Out of senses from love,” she heard Bacoj observe. “She enjoy discipline.” “Serve her well,” Japohn chuckled. His fingers were

slippery as he continued to work her sensitive flesh. The first blow of Bacoj’s spanking, despite landing squarely on her buttocks, warmed her from head to toe. She moaned pleasure, her sex gushing thick honey on Japohn’s fingers. He growled appreciatively. “Soon make hard again.” Lindsey didn’t reply. The meaty smacks on her ass continued, providing much more pleasure. The intense sensation didn’t register as pain at all. In her continued blissed-out state, it fed into a sense of wonderful delight that

grew with every sharp strike. Japohn’s knowing touch strengthened the pleasure, driving her towards exultation. She gripped the bedding as a wave of pure feeling swept through her body. Her groans took on a throaty quality. “I think she climax like this.” Japohn’s voice was awed. “Pleasure, Lindsey,” Bacoj encouraged, spanking her harder and faster. “Do pleasure now.” As if his words threw a switch, her abdomen clenched tight, then a thunderclap of release reverberated through

her body. She gasped and groaned as it rolled over her, sending her hurtling into the heavens where another starburst enfolded her in ecstatic embrace. It was as if she could feel her earthbound body, but was at the same time removed from it. I’ve reached this point in meditation a few times, she thought. Despite the cacophony of orgasm riding her body, her mind was clear and quiet. Peaceful. Transcendent. She was still in that uplifted state when Japohn and Bacoj raised her up between them. They kneeled facing each

other. Japohn entered her from the front as Bacoj filled her back passage. Slick with juices, they slid in and out of her fonts in perfect rhythm. Lindsey felt them rub against one another through the thin wall that separated the two men. She rose and fell over their eager flesh, her thoughts calm even as her body rioted at the continued fulfillment. The hard bodies encased her safely as her mind floated free. Every orgasm that roared through her senses only gentled her mental state further. The chaos of physical rapture fed the tranquility of nirvana realized. They took her farther than

she’d ever been before. Lindsey’s continuous spasms were bringing the men close to their own paradise, and she urged them on, willing them to join her in her heavenly state. She reached behind to grasp Bacoj’s hips, pushing to drive herself harder against their thick staves. She licked and nibbled Japohn’s flesh, biting harder when her nips produced moaning growls from his throat. He responded to her punishment by pounding into her mercilessly, which encouraged Bacoj to do the same.

Lindsey felt she entered their consciousnesses, riding along as they approached climax. Japohn’s body was a riot of pleasured agony, the intensity of feeling her clutching warmth driving him with ruthless desire. It was all animal instinct, the fierce imperative to fill her belly with his seed, to rut until the beast within had fully claimed his mate. With Bacoj, his focus was less animal, more laserlike in its intensity. He was seduced by her accepting softness and felt the need to prove to her his

strength as a man. With assured power, he established his mastery by serving her needs. He was at once dominant and provider. His lovemaking was a testament the dichotomy of giving and taking all at once. They were both approaching their ends and Lindsey opened her body and consciousness wide to receive their offerings. Bacoj went first, his cry a symphony to her ears. She felt every pulse with him as if it was her own, the thrilling force of sending his juices into her dark passage in thick bursts. Then Japohn’s bass roar joined his cries, his loins clenching

for an excruciating instant before his seed poured heavily into her womb, marking her as his, his, his. Lindsey’s ringing soprano rose high above the music as she experienced the glory of their orgasms mixed with hers. They tumbled into a heap, gasping with satiety. Lindsey’s mind retreated from her mates, from that euphoria state and returned to the solidity of her body. She sighed, reluctantly allowing the otherness of heightened consciousness to recede. “Thank you,” she whispered, knowing the others

wouldn’t comprehend what she was so grateful for. “Beautiful, Lindsey,” Bacoj whispered back. “We love you. We do what’s right.” **** Lindsey fell asleep, her lips curved in a soft smile. As soon as her breathing deepened, Bacoj rose from the sleeping mat and gestured for the other two men to follow him to the seating area. Vax jumped up, his disposition sunnier than ever. Japohn joined them around the low table, his movements slow with obvious dread. After everyone was seated

on a cushion Bacoj addressed the most immediate concern. “How is your arm?” Vax flexed the straightened limb. “Very good.” He looked at his clanmates and sobered immediately. “What’s wrong?” “We have to discuss what to do about Lindsey.” “What do you mean?” Japohn’s growly voice strove to be gentle. “Sarod believes we should give her up to another clan, one befitting her status as the Empress’ sister.” Vax didn’t try to hide his upset. He scowled at them. His

head shook slowly from side to side and his fists clenched. “She wants us, not some highranking clan. She said so.”

Bacoj laid his hand on the Imdiko’s tensed shoulder. “What she wants and what’s best for her may be very different things. We have to put her welfare first, Vax.” He was shocked when Vax shook his hand off and bared fangs at him. “No.” “Vax.” His clanmate visibly struggled with his

unaccustomed anger. After a moment his fangs folded back out of sight and anguish flooded his face. “How could you even suggest this?” The words were spoken in a low, pained howl that made Lindsey stir in her sleep. When she quieted Bacoj said, “Because I love her. That means I’m not going to be selfish with my wants.” Japohn snaked an arm around the Imdiko, rubbing his back. “Look at us, Vax. We’re young with nothing to offer her.” Bacoj could see the terrible realization creeping into Vax’s

face, but the Imdiko remained stubborn. “We love her. That’s all she wants.” “And what do we do when we take her back to Kalquor with no rank? The Empress’ sister can’t be clanned to a cook, a shuttle pilot and a bounty hunter.” It tore at Bacoj’s heart to see Vax’s lower lip tremble. It not only hurt to see his Imdiko suffer, but it also brought home how much he himself didn’t want to let Lindsey go. Vax wasn’t giving up easily. “There is no shame in what we do. Once this assignment is over and we return to Kalquor

you could be a security guard. A law officer. You and Bacoj will move up with promotions, I’ll go back to being head chef and maybe open my own establishment in a few years.” Bacoj sighed heavily. “These things take time to happen, Vax. She deserves the best now.” Vax looked at Lindsey, and the other two followed suit. Bacoj’s gaze traced over her precious face, over the sweet body he’d made love to only minutes before. The thought of her sharing herself with another clan made him want to tear things apart with his bare

hands. MINE, his heart insisted. But his common sense told him different. Vax’s voice was choked. “If you make us do this, you’d better understand me, Bacoj. I won’t clan another Matara.” The anger in the Imdiko’s tone shook Bacoj. Vax had never spoken to him with so much venom. But he was Dramok, and that meant taking responsibilities he didn’t always want, even at the risk of alienating his clanmates. Vax was right in his assertion. Lindsey was the only woman for them, even if they couldn’t have her. His voice

tight with emotion, Bacoj said, “No, no other Matara will do. We won’t find another like Lindsey.”

Chapter Fifteen

Lindsey walked along the beach remaining within sight of the Kalquorian base camp. The search party had already begun packing up to leave now that their mission had been completed. One of the buildings had already come down and she’d watched the Kalquorians fold the seemingly solid metal walls like bedsheets. What amazing technology the race possessed, she thought. And yet for all their advanced knowledge, they still

couldn’t save their own species without Earther females. Nor could they salvage Earth. Looking out over the ocean sparkling in the warm sunshine, the blameless golden sand beneath her feet, it was hard to accept her world would be uninhabitable within a matter of months. She’d discovered that not only was the Galactic Council racing to save the human survivors of the catastrophe, but they also had sent several contingents of scientists whose sole purpose was to collect DNA from the various flora and animal life. The search had begun for a suitable planet to terraform to

restart those species so they wouldn’t be lost forever. So many things to shed tears over: grief for her father and planet as well as gratitude for the kindness of so many other species, some of which had been counted as Earth’s enemies. A whistle sounded and Lindsey looked towards the base camp. Three shapes headed her way, and she swiped the wetness from her cheeks. Her clan, for which she was the most thankful for, was coming to collect her. It stunned Lindsey how her heart swelled just to see them.

She continued to marvel at how she’d fallen in love so completely, so fast. But she no longer questioned it. It was right. She knew that beyond a shadow of a doubt. Even the strain in the three men’s postures did little to alleviate how calm their mere presence made her feel. The bit of worry that nagged at her was like the buzzing of a persistent fly at an otherwise lovely picnic; a mild irritant only. She hurried to them and threw her arms around Bacoj’s neck. “How bad was it?” she asked. He smiled down at her, his

eyes warming despite the tension that caused tiny creases around them. “No too bad. Commendation for save Earthers from Tragooms. Crash also make find Empress’ family. No discipline action for crashing shuttle.” Lindsey went on tiptoe to plant a kiss on his lips. She felt the swell of interest against her abdomen and grinned. “That’s a relief.” He nodded, his arms circling around her waist to pull her closer. “New shuttle sent soon. We leave few days.” “Where are we going?”

The tightness around his eyes increased. “Clan go to Atlanta.” He took a deep breath. “Lindsey, transport go to Kalquor in four days.” She frowned. “You’re not suggesting I go without you?” Japohn stepped close. “You wish to see sister.” She stared up at him. He was glowering more than usual Japohn fashion. She recognized her Nobek was very unhappy. Did he think she wanted to leave them? “Yes, I want to see Jessica, but don’t I belong with my clan?”

He looked away. “We station here for year while rescuing continue. Trip nine months to reach Kalquor.” Bacoj added gently, “Imperial Mother Tara need you with Imperial Father Aaron gone.” She glanced at Vax, who stood a little apart from them. His stance was stiff, his expression withdrawn. They were trying to get rid of her. A spark of anger ignited, and she quashed it. They were only thinking of her best interests after all. “I’ve already discussed the situation with my mother, and

she’s assured me she’ll be fine. Almost two years is too long for me to be separated from you.” At their continued strained silence, an ugly thought rose to choke her voice. “Unless you don’t want me as your Matara?” Bacoj snapped, “Of course we want Lindsey.” He struggled visibly with his emotions for a moment before saying in a softer voice, “We want what is best for you.” Well, that was a relief. She’d thought for a moment they would make her leave. She stroked Bacoj’s chest, admiring how the sleeveless

formsuit molded to his sculpted torso. “Guess what I want right now?” He swelled against her in response. When his lips crushed down on hers and his tongue invaded her mouth, she melted against him, her insides going molten in an instant. The Dramok yanked her clothes off with almost brutal force. He ravished her breasts with powerful hands as his mouth took hers with cruel passion. She moaned, a little frightened and a lot turned on by his ruthless possession. Holding her tight in his arms, Bacoj crashed them

down onto the sand. She felt his hand work between them, freeing his penises from his formsuit. They sprang free of his clothing, landing on her bare belly hard and slick. She grabbed hold of them, wriggling to get them in position for his first thrust. With a drawn-out groan, Bacoj pressed in fast and hard. Lindsey arched beneath him with a cry at the abrupt penetration, the painful pleasure of determined possession immediately stoking her inner fire. Her Dramok lifted up as if doing a pushup, looking down on her as he rode her with authority.

Balancing on one hand, he grasped her wrists with the other, pinning them to the sand over her head. “I love see you like this,” he growled, his fangs showing. “Helpless. Forced give what I want to take. Face soft with want for me. Mine.”

“Yours, my Dramok,” she sobbed. The initial ache of his strong lovemaking was fading into delicious licks of heat, warming her insides. He pounded against her in long, sure strokes, filling her with both lengths to bursting. She

warbled as he drove her steadily to glory. He brought her with grim determination, the orgasm swift and furious. Then again. Still Bacoj did not vary his pace, continuing to ply her with the same steady thrusts, driving her to the precipice once more. Lindsey sobbed and shrieked, her cries rising above the screams of the nearby seagulls. **** Bacoj fought against Lindsey’s clutching sex, refusing to succumb to the sweet invitation to fill her well with his seed. He wanted to

stay inside her forever, making her writhe as she did now, her eyes unfocused as yet another rush of rapture claimed her, making her jerk in helpless spasms. He owned her, mastered her, possessed her completely. And he had to let her go. The pain in his heart was overwhelming. He wanted to die right here and now, making love to his beautiful Lindsey. To perish while seated in her welcoming warmth seemed so right. To live without her seemed an impossibility. He’d never known such agony as what faced him now.

She crescendoed again, and this time his body disobeyed his command, rushing to explode with hers. The eruption began in the base of his spine, clenching his buttocks as it steamrolled through his loins, charging through his larger organ and erupting inside her, filling her, making him a part of her. He was dimly aware of his roars shattering the air as his cock jerked and wrenched within the tight confines of her hearth. Electric pulses traveled to his fingertips and toes. And through the excruciating joy of joining, the pain came crashing back, worse for the sweetness of

their bodies fused together for perhaps the final time. Sorrow suffused his being, choking Bacoj. **** As her body pulsed in the aftermath of ecstasy, Lindsey looked at the man over her with a growing sense of disquiet. Bacoj was crying. The big, confident man had tears streaming down his cheeks, dripping off his chin to wet her face. Before she could catch her breath to ask if he was all right, he pulled free, leaving her horribly empty. He moved aside and Japohn took his place.

“Lindsey,” the Nobek said, his voice rough. He seated himself within her quickly, despite how tight she was from her recent climaxes. She whimpered with the effort of yielding to the well-endowed man, but his strength made her melting soft with acquiescence. She shuddered in delightful torment, especially when he lifted her off the sand to rest on his kneeling thighs. The position, with all her weight pressing her down, pushed him as far into her as her slight body would allow. He scraped her cervix, bringing sensation of such intensity she suffered a small,

softly rolling climax right away. He held her tightly to himself, keeping her pinned in place until her body quieted again. His hand fisted in her hair, holding her cheek to his wide, smooth chest. She listened to his heart boom, lulling her to a place of complete trust.

Japohn rose up straight on his knees, continuing to hold her tight to his body. His hips swung slowly back and forth, running his lengths in and out of her channels with luscious friction. His groin rubbed her

clit, sending sparkling darts of pleasure shivering through her body. She moaned throatily, a willing receptacle for his needs. Lindsey felt she hung for a sweet eternity like that, warm and safe in the Nobek’s arms as he loved her thoroughly, completely. He gently pulled on her hair, tugging her face into position so he could invade with his probing tongue, taking her mouth with the same deliberate care as he took her sex and anus. She dissolved against him, seeking to meld to him so completely that they may never be parted.

His pace gradually increased, grinding her swollen clit with quickening friction. She mewled against his lips, her nether regions tightening down as pleasure built. He rumbled a moaning growl, the sound at once bestial and needy. Japohn took her faster still until the steady slap-slap of their bodies meeting was a constant drum of sound. Lindsey clutched at his back, her nails digging in as the momentum of bliss increased. She quaked with oncoming orgasm, shaking so violently that even the Nobek’s formidable power couldn’t hold her still.

Culmination burst through her in a glaring wash of white light, and she screamed into Japohn’s mouth as the explosion took her into space. She felt him tense all around her, his body stiffening in a paroxysm of realization. Then he pulsed hard within her, soaking her interior with his hot juices as he roared low in his throat. Japohn held her tighter than ever as their tremors slowly tapered off, as if he would fuse their bodies together forever. Only when their breathing slowed and their melded sexes ceased twitching did he

extricate himself and hand her off to Vax. The young Imdiko kissed her with a softness yet desperation that liquefied Lindsey’s insides. She had a bare moment to wonder how he could possibly feel both gentle and demanding all at once before sensation took coherent thought away. Vax’s hands and mouth danced all over her body with a delicacy that left nothing unexplored. She alternated giggling and sobbing as he found ticklish and arousing spots in quick succession. He twisted her around in his arms, thoroughly giving every inch his laser-like attention.

By the time he laid her in the sand and gripped her ankles to spread her wide, she was panting with need. Lindsey wrapped her tiny hands around his slick eager cocks, pulling him to where she needed him to go. His eyes held hers with quiet intensity, as if he’d expose and sample her every thought as he had her body. Vax’s gaze never lowered as he pressed into her passages, pinning her with his stare as firmly as Japohn had pinned her with his arms. **** Vax groaned as the sweet body beneath him yielded so

easily to his thrusts. Hot. Wet. Soft yet clutching him with determined strength. Her body was an offering worthy of gods, and yet it was he that she gave herself to. Would continue to give herself to if Bacoj and Japohn would only weaken in their determination to send her away.

His conscience, nibbling away at him with guilt over his selfishness, still couldn’t defend him against the greedy roar of possessive love. He wanted Lindsey. Only Lindsey. And he couldn’t stand the idea

of her with another clan. Loving men other than he and his clanmates. It wasn’t fair to be given a glimpse of paradise only to have it ripped away. Despite the ecstasy of having his strength inside Lindsey, her tight orifices clenching until he thought he might explode with physical jubilation, agony knifed through his soul and he collapsed over her, his body covering hers, pressing her into the mounded sand beneath them. Vax held back the sobs that wanted to wrack his body, overwhelmed by heartrending pain even as his groin tightened with oncoming

exultation. He thought he might go mad from the differing commotions of emotion and physical sensations. He dug his toes into the sand, changing the arc of his thrusts slightly to find the sweet spot of nerves within his beloved’s sleeve. She was immediately galvanized, her sex coiling tightly around his in reaction. Her strangled scream rang in his ears, and Vax plunged against that spot again, forcing her onward until she convulsed around and beneath him, lost in the beautiful torture of rapture. Vax felt his seed gather

itself in the pit of his belly before charging in full attack, emptying from his straining cock to invade her sacred ground in a hair-raising onslaught of pleasure. He howled his gratification even as he lost his battle against the tears that overflowed the banks of his eyes, drenching his face with the grief of losing such a precious creature as his Lindsey. **** Something was wrong. As the men brushed sand from her body and shook it from her clothes before dressing her, Lindsey felt the

palpable strain. It was in the way Vax kept his face averted, his long waves of hair hiding his expression. It was in the thunderous silence grimvisaged Japohn kept. And while Bacoj’s face was devoid of anything but gentle smiles for her, she kept thinking of how he’d cried after they made love. The feeling that something bad was about to happen pressed against her, negating the satisfied joy of having just given herself to the men. Looking for anyway to alleviate the dread that poked at her with an insistent finger, Lindsey noted, “Sand is not exactly fun to have in my butt

crack.” After making a sound that was suspiciously like a sniffle, Vax offered, “Sand softer on Kalquor.” “We’ll have to try this again when we get there.” Vax hunched and turned away. Bacoj and Japohn exchanged a dark look, and Lindsey couldn’t take anymore. She never hid from bad news, couldn’t stand to live with the unknown. She opened her mouth to demand an explanation when Vax suddenly straightened. “Someone come,” he said.

Indeed the dark blur of a Kalquorian running at full speed approached, stilling her voice. When he stopped before the clan, she saw he was as young as her men. Not even winded, the stranger bowed to the clan. “Empress Jessica has sent a message to Imperial Sister Lindsey. The Imperial Mother requests your immediate return.” Lindsey’s heart leapt. Communication from Jessica! Forgetting in her excitement the clan’s strange behavior,

she clutched at Bacoj and Vax’s hands. “Come on, boys; let’s see how my baby sister is doing.” Bacoj lifted her in his arms and ran back to the base camp, turning their surroundings into a sun-soaked blur.

Chapter Sixteen

Tara was waiting anxiously in the doorway of her quarters when the clan arrived. As soon as Bacoj set Lindsey on her feet, she grabbed her mother’s hands. “Did you watch? What did she say? How does she look?” Lindsey bounced impatiently. Tara tugged her into her room, as utilitarian as the one Lindsey shared with her men. “I waited for you. Come in, boys,” she called over her shoulder. “Meet your in-laws.”

The women knelt on the seating cushions and peered at the Kalquorian computer, a paper-thin flat console lying on the table. Shivering with excitement Tara spoke with the eagerness of a child on Christmas morning. “Will someone tell me how to do this?” Japohn knelt behind them and said something in Kalquorian. A floating vid appeared over the computer, green hieroglyphics hovering before their faces. “Need voice recognition. Say something, Imperial Mother,” he urged. “What should I say?”

At her words, Jessica’s face suddenly appeared in place of the Kalquorian characters. Lindsey’s breath caught, and her mouth spread in a huge grin. Jessica looked beautiful. Her elfin features were more delicate than Lindsey’s, having inherited Tara’s fine bone structure. Her long, straight chestnut hair was the same as her older sister’s however. She wore a purple robe that set off her healthy coloring. Lindsey had an urge to try to hug the image. She’d missed her baby sister so much, and her throat closed in emotion.

Best of all, no hint of shadows appeared beneath Jessica’s eyes, something she’d worn since the tornado that had nearly killed them both. Lindsey would have died without Jessica, but emotionally, the younger girl had suffered worse. The haunted look had disappeared from her wide almond-shaped eyes. Had she found peace finally? Lindsey prayed it was so. Jessica’s voice was pitched high the way it always got when she was excited. “Hi Mom and Lindsey! Boy, I wish I could see you. I hate this two-day

delay, so send me a message as soon as you can! I would have sent this sooner, but hearing about Dad –” her voice caught, and Lindsey and Tara wept along with her. After a few moments, she recovered, swiping the tears away. “Well, I had to do a lot of crying, which I continue to do, as you can see. But I’m coping, and I can’t wait for you to get here. Meanwhile I have some people I’d like you to meet.” The vid’s view widened out, and Lindsey gasped to see three Kalquorians holding a small boy and baby behind Jessica. The men dwarfed her

tiny sister, and she had a moment of turmoil seeing how vulnerable she looked next to them.

“These handsome devils are my clan. The Emperors Clajak, Bevau and Egilka.” The man identified as Clajak stepped forward. Unlike all the Kalquorians Lindsey had seen, his sleek hair was steelcolored instead of black, brushing wide shoulders swathed in a blue robe. The easy assurance he wore eased Lindsey’s trepidation, and his voice was honey smooth as he

bowed to them. “It is our greatest honor to greet the Imperial Mother Tara and our Empress’ sister Lindsey. We look forward to you joining us soon. Imperial Mother, may I present your oldest grandchild, Crown Prince Wayne.”

The vid picture zoomed in on the wide-eyed toddler as Tara and Lindsey squealed in girlish delight. The boy had the cat-slitted purple eyes of a Kalquorian. His skin was between the Middle Eastern dark tones of his fathers and Jessica’s fairer golden shade;

coffee with a liberal dose of cream. “They gave him Aaron’s middle name,” Tara sobbed through her brilliant smile. “Look at him! I’m a grandmother, Lindsey.” Lindsey squeezed her mother’s shoulders. “Congratulations Mom. Hey, I’m an aunt!” The vid picture widened again. Another Kalquorian, the one Jessica had identified as Egilka, stepped forward, his flowing green robe doing little to disguise his long, muscular frame. His hair was caught back in a long braid, and he

wore a mustache and goatee. He held a tiny, wriggling baby cupped in his hands. The man spoke. “It is my honor to present your granddaughter Princess Noelle.” The vid shifted again, giving them an up-close look at the sleeping cherub. She was obviously only weeks old, a new, shining life. Lindsey was breathless as she looked at the baby who bore her middle name. She chuckled to see steel-colored hair spring in peach fuzz tufts from the waif’s round head. “I wonder who the father of that

one is.” The vid moved again to include the whole Imperial Family. The third Kalquorian, Emperor Bevau, said, “As you can see, mother and children are all healthy. We are taking good care of your family, Imperial Mother.” Lindsey took a moment to admire her sister’s devastatingly handsome mate. Bevau was the most physically gorgeous man she’d ever seen, with chiseled cheekbones and a sensuous mouth. The only imperfection she could see was a long, pale scar on one of the muscled arms that emerged

from his red robe. Tara sighed next to her. “They’re beautiful, beautiful children.” As if she’d heard her mother’s comment, Jessica said, “I bet you can’t wait to hold them, huh Mom?” The vid moved in until her face filled the picture. With a wink she said, “You’ve got some catching up to do, big sis. Don’t worry matey, there are plenty of clans lining up to impress you. I think you’ll be very happy with your prospects.”

Lindsey snorted. “Tell them

all to go home, you scurvy swab. I already found my clan.” She glanced up to smile at her mates. None of them looked at her, and her grin faded as she noticed their pained expressions. Jessica’s voice claimed her attention again. “Send me messages as soon as possible.” She teared up again. “I’ve missed you so much. I can’t wait to see your faces. I love you both and Daddy too.” She blew a kiss at them, and the vid blinked out. Tara hugged Lindsey tight and turned to Bacoj’s silent clan. “Can I play it again?”

Bacoj nodded. He barked an order in Kalquorian, and the computer made a meek beep sound. “Now you say, ‘play Empress message’ when you wish see more.” “I will help to you record message to Empress when ready,” Japohn offered. “Thank you. Play Empress message,” Tara ordered, and Jessica’s face re-appeared. The vid began to play again. Lindsey rose from her cushion to face her clan. “May I speak to you guys privately?” Bacoj inclined his head. “Of course, Lindsey.”

Leaving her mother smiling through happy tears, Lindsey led the clan out of her quarters. The moment they were in their own quarters and the door was shut, Lindsey demanded, “What’s wrong? Don’t tell me it’s nothing because I can see it in your faces.” Vax stepped away from the others, his arms crossing over his chest. He wouldn’t look at her. He wouldn’t look at the others. He stared at the wall behind Lindsey, his pain apparent. Japohn looked at Bacoj, who sighed unhappily. Bacoj motioned to the bed mat. “Sit

please, Lindsey.” I’m not going to like this. Her stomach squeezed down as she lowered herself to the mat and waited. She watched as Bacoj swallowed hard. His mouth opened, shut, and opened again. “You go to Kalquor with Imperial Mother Tara.” Lindsey looked him in the eye. She forced herself to keep her voice calm. “No. I’m staying with my clan.” Bacoj’s face twisted for an instant before he regained a patient, resigned expression. “We can no be clan. You release to join other clan.”

Her heart took a painful thump. “You can’t. The clanning is a lifelong commitment that can’t be broken.” Japohn sighed heavily. He settled his bulk next to her and put his arm around her. “Members of Imperial family different. Empress Jessica has clans of rank for you. We concede her wish.” “What did I do to deserve this? What did I do wrong?” Lindsey let the tears spill over, not bothering to hide the pain.

Bacoj knelt at her feet. He took her hands in his, kissed the backs of them. “You do no wrong. You Imperial Sister. You find better clan.” Anger rose, and she welcomed it. She jerked her hands away and pushed Japohn’s arm from her shoulders. “Don’t you dare hide behind that excuse. If you don’t want me, at least be men enough to admit it.” Bacoj grabbed a handful of hair at the back of her head, pulling to make her meet his gaze. “Want no other but you,” he ground out, fury and agony mixing on his dark face.

“Then why are you pushing me away?” “Want best for you.” He released the painful hold to cup her face in both hands. “You go to sister, be with mother, find good clan.” Lindsey fought the growing anguish ripping her apart. She thought it might destroy her. Pulling free of Bacoj’s grip, she looked at the grim Japohn and silent Vax. “This is what you all want?” Japohn shook his head, but his words were damning. “What is best is what we want. You go to Kalquor.”

“Vax?” The Imdiko finally met her gaze. “Want you stay in clan. No agree to this.” Bacoj shot him a dark look, and Vax returned it. The men glared at each other, neither backing down. Lindsey felt a small ray of hope. “So it’s a tied vote.” Bacoj looked at her. Her heart sank again as his eyes filled with tears. He choked, “No vote. I am Dramok. I decide.” He stood and backed away a step. “You are no my clan’s Matara. I am sorry.” Lindsey couldn’t feel her

legs, but she managed to stand. Her chest and stomach were like shattered glass, cutting her to ribbons from the inside. Her voice breaking, she managed, “That makes two of us, Bacoj. I’m sorry I ever met you.” Lindsey ran out of the room, sobbing like a lost child.

Chapter Seventeen

Tara shook Lindsey from heavy sleep. “Sweetie, wake up.” Lindsey jerked and searched for her clan for a moment, wondering why she slept in her mother’s quarters. Then she remembered she no longer had a clan, and her throat closed. After a trembling moment, she shoved tears back. She’d cried enough before falling into exhausted sleep. “What’s wrong, Mom?” Her voice came out thick and

choking. Tara patted her shoulder soothingly, her expression full of sympathy. “Nothing. I just thought you’d want to record a message for your sister before we have dinner.” “All right. But I don’t really feel like eating in their dining room.” Bacoj’s clan might be there. I don’t want them to see me like this. “I don’t want to eat in there either. Too many people bowing and scraping.” Tara shook her head. “I know it’s their attempt at respect, but I can’t get used to it simply because my daughter married

their emperors.” “Better get used to it, Mom. Our rank is bound to have a lot of unpleasant surprises.” Lindsey didn’t try to hide the hurt in her voice. Tara hugged her. “I’ll bring something back for us both. That will give you a chance for privacy while you message your sister. We’ll have a nice, quiet meal, okay?” “Sure.” The pain settled a little. Now she felt mostly dulled with loss. Hopeless. Then a fresh wave of despair swept over her. Darn it, was she going to cry again after all?

“They’re good men, Lindsey. I’m sure in their minds they’re doing what’s best, even if they are full of shit.” Shock at the profanity drove back a little of agony. “Mom!” Tara gave her a shamefaced grin. “Sorry. I thought you might be getting ready to cry again.” Lindsey grabbed her in a fierce hug. “You’re the best, you know?” she whispered. “You’ll get through this, sweetheart. Maybe those oversized twits will come to their senses in time.” “Maybe.”

Tara rose from the bed and nodded to the computer. “Japohn set it up so all you have to do is say ‘Record Message’. When you’re done say ‘End Message’ then ‘Send to Empress Jessica’.” “He came in here while I was asleep?” Tara nodded, her gentle face looking very wrong when her expression turned flinty. “I told him what a fool he was to give up a woman like my daughter.”

Lindsey was nearly breathless. Her mother never

meddled in her personal issues; she must be really upset on her behalf to have confronted Japohn. “What did he say?” “He asked me not to remind him of that fact.” Tara left. Lindsey rose and looked at herself in the mirror that hung next to the shower stall. She looked drawn, tired and very unhappy. Lindsey sighed and used her mother’s comb to straighten her sleepsnarled hair. Then she found a fresh unwrinkled sheath to put on. The soft fabric settled over her body. Lindsey tried on a happy smile for the mirror. It

looked as masklike as it felt, but there was little help for it. Even the thought of speaking to Jessica couldn’t lift her mood. Try your best. Jessica knows you better than anyone, and if she thinks she’s caused you any pain, she’ll rake herself over the coals. Finding a sense of resoluteness in the thought, Lindsey marched over to the table and flopped down on a seating cushion. Keeping the fake smile firmly in place, Lindsey said to the computer in front of her, “Record message.” The computer beeped in compliance, and a mirror image

of her stiff, smiling visage appeared before her. “Hey matey, yo-ho-ho and all that,” Lindsey said. The image of herself and Jessica playing pirates as kids, swinging sticks in mock sword fights made her laugh for real. It had been their favorite game. She’d spent more than one allowance on cheap plastic jewelry to bury in the yard, making crude maps for Jessica to follow as they searched for ‘treasure’. Lindsey shook her head, tearing up now over happy memories. “Who would have ever imagined my scabby-

kneed kid sister would be Empress of an alien empire? You never fail to surprise me, Jess.” She swiped at her leaking eyes. “And thanks for the most beautiful niece and nephew ever, although I suppose your clan had a little something to do with that.” Her words made her think of Bacoj’s clan, and the humor vanished as quickly as it had come. She saw the grimace on her face and quickly wiped it off. She babbled to hide her renewed pain. “I can’t wait to see you in person. It’s been way too long. You have no idea

how happy it made me to see you healthy and in one piece, and a mom!” Lindsey halted, out of things to say. She wanted to break down, to sob her pain to her sister, to cry on a shoulder nine months into the future. Instead, she forced another fake smile. “Boy, I suck at this one-sided conversation thing. Sorry. I love you, you scurvy swab. The transport leaves for Kalquor in two days, so I guess I’ll see you in a few months … not counting these transmissions of course.” She shook her head, impatient with her

awkwardness. “Okay, I’m done sounding stupid for now. Bye sweetie. End message.” The computer beeped, and her image disappeared. Lindsey pulled in a deep breath. “Send to Empress Jessica.” After the com beeped again, she muttered to the empty room, “Well, that sucked.”

And burst into tears. **** Bacoj looked over his updated orders and flicked off the vid. To the other two men

he announced, “Our new shuttle arrives in two days. We’ll be able to take off immediately to join the containment crew.” Without any real humor, Japohn said, “Hopefully you’ll have the good sense this time to ignore any bright ideas I share about shortcuts.” Bacoj rewarded his attempt to amuse them with a lift of his lips. The smile took a tremendous amount of effort. He added, “It’s one of the newest models. It has a larger kitchen.” His try to draw Vax into conversation failed. The Imdiko

huddled in the far corner of the room, his head leaned against the wall and eyes closed. He’d barely spoken since Lindsey’s tearful departure, quietly shedding his own tears from time to time. Bacoj sighed. “If you’re tired you should go to bed, Vax.” Vax’s eyes slid open. His gaze on Bacoj was winter cold. “The mat smells like her. I can’t stand to lay there.” The young Dramok felt a surge of bitter anger sweep over him. He recognized the painful loss that birthed it and clamped down before he could say ugly words to his clanmate,

widening the wedge between them. In a tired voice, Bacoj said, “I’m sorry you hate me. I did it for her.” Vax stared at him for a few moments, his eyes growing bright again with tears. Finally he answered, “I don’t hate you Bacoj. But I don’t like you very much right now either.” He stood and walked to the door, his head down as if it was too heavy to hold up. “Where are you going?” Japohn asked softly. “I need to get out of here for awhile. Looking at the two of you makes me sick.”

After he left, Japohn punched the wall, putting a massive dip in the surface that smoothed itself out within a couple of seconds. Bacoj covered his face with his hands. He’d done the right thing. So why did he feel so horrible? **** Lindsey wandered the beach near the base camp. There was no moon tonight, but the sky blazed with stars. Soon she would be out there in space, flying away from the only home she’d ever known and the only men she’d ever loved. She knuckled away the tears that

seemed determined to escape her eyes no matter how hard she tried to keep them back. If love brought so much pain, she be damned if she’d dare it again. “Lindsey.” The whisper of her name on the breeze turned her towards the base camp. A dark silhouette approached, and in the soft glow of the camp’s outdoor lights, she recognized the shape of the man. With a ragged cry she ran to Vax and threw herself in his arms.

He clutched her close, his mouth feeding at hers like a starving man. They fell to their knees in the sand, grasping and pulling at each other’s clothing, desperate to claim warmth. The instant their sexes were naked, Vax sat her on his lap, his livid cocks claiming her inner recesses in one stabbing thrust. Lindsey grunted with the welcome force, the instant of pain unimportant in the relief of being melded with him. The moment she was fully impaled on him, they both went still. Lindsey barked a harsh cry, and Vax answered her in kind.

Forehead to forehead, the lovers cried unashamedly, tasting each others’ tears. Lindsey’s arms wrapped around Vax’s neck, and he clutched her to himself, his arms iron bands against her back. They broke down completely, emitting gulping sobs that left them shaking. For a long time there was nothing else to do but wallow unselfconsciously in their shared misery, their weeping carried over the sand on the shivering night breezes. Even the greatest grief can be clung to for just so long before the emotions must rest, even if for only a moment. At

long last their tears dissipated, leaving them hiccupping with deep, shuddering sighs. The glow of where their bodies combined beckoned, and they let it draw them into its sweet shelter. Vax rocked back and forth on his knees, making his sexes shift within Lindsey with the slightest of motions. She burrowed her face against the firmness of his chest, taking the temporary comfort of his strength. It seemed impossible she could be aroused when her heart hung so heavily in her chest, but the delicate rubbing of his groin against her clit, the infinitesimal shifts of him inside brought quivering

tickles throughout her core. She grasped his hips with her legs, caging him as if she could contain him forever in the sweet prison of her desperate embrace. He growled, raising upright on his knees. Beneath her calves, Lindsey felt his buttocks tense, and he drove against her with long, determined strokes. She groaned as her lips found his, rising and falling over his thick lengths. Vax’s tongue flicked over her mouth before diving in to penetrate its warmth. Their combined wetness made soft, moist sounds as he

took her, a soft bed of melody upon which their moans rolled. Lindsey knew as he slipped deliciously in and out of her that she would love no other clan. Knew it beyond a shadow of a doubt. There was no sin in Buddhism, but to allow any men other than Vax, Bacoj and Japohn entrance to her own sacred temple would be a mortal transgression nonetheless. If only she could convince her Dramok of that fact! Vax’s pace increase signaled his control was failing, and Lindsey concentrated on the pounding

flesh that she possessed and that possessed her in turn. Her mouth fell open and her head fell back as she warbled her rapture to the black star-strewn sky. Pleasure spooled tight in her belly, twisting her insides, constricting her around the Kalquorian’s turgid flesh. Vax drummed against her, his body slap-slapping against hers as he groaned long and low.

Lindsey’s sex clenched him like a fist determined to wring every drop of pleasure from his straining body, and Vax let go with a roar. Feeling him jerk

hard within her, she succumbed too, the flash of ecstasy wrenching free of her guts, tearing from her in terrible elation. Afterwards they lay in a tangle of limbs, unmindful of the sand that abraded their skin. Lindsey traced the dim features of her beloved, misery reclaiming her as the final pulses of bliss faded. “You will always be my Imdiko, Vax. There can be no other for me.” They cried once more, somehow comforted in their mutual despair.

Chapter Eighteen

The sun was just rising as Lindsey and Tara stood on the beach, the sea to their backs. Before them was a chest-high pile of wood scavenged from nearby abandoned homes. The sour smell of accelerant provided by the Kalquorians drifted from the carefully arranged stack. Nearly one hundred Kalquorians stood in military-straight lines on either side of them, the faces uniformly serious, though their eyes were bright with curiosity. As Bacoj, Japohn, Vax, and

Sarod came over a sand dune, escorting the tightly swathed body of Lindsey’s father on a hover stretcher, the Kalquorians bowed their heads. Lindsey’s eyes filled with tears at the sight of Aaron’s whiteswaddled form and her openly crying clan. Her former clan, she amended. Fresh pain cascaded over her, nearly sending her to her knees. She would never get through the next few minutes. They looked at her. They were still among the youngest of the Kalquorians present, but Bacoj, Japohn and Vax all looked as if they’d aged at least

ten years. Bacoj in particular looked haggard and slightly bent, an invisible weight dragging him down. Was he regretting sending her away? Take me back, Bacoj. Stop this madness already. The four men and body halted before the carefully constructed bier for Aaron’s cremation. At a muttered command from Sarod, the ranking member of the procession, they turned as one towards the body and gently lifted it from the stretcher. Stepping in time, they bore it to the pile of wood and laid it on top. Then they marched

backwards five paces, bowed and straightened. Tara and Lindsey walked slowly forward until they could have reached out and touched Aaron. They wore matching purple robes with gold trim that had been left anonymously outside the door of their quarters. Lindsey suspected her clan had procured the ceremonial vestments; Sarod made a point of letting the Earthers know when he had done something of service to them, as if intent on impressing them. Tara spoke first, her voice surprisingly strong. “We recall

with love Aaron Wayne McInness, who lived this life as our husband and father. To our friends we counsel you should not weep or lament with grief as it will not comfort the deceased and forgets the joy he brought us.” Lindsey dully recited, “Impermanent is life, subject to birth and decline. Having taken birth, we are destined for extinction. Blessed it is to be tranquil through journey’s beginning, middle and end.” She handed a small vase of water to her mother, who poured it over her index finger. It splashed to the sand. “The

dedication water, with which we call the earth to witness the merit of Aaron McInness. Idam no natinam hotu, sukhita hontu natayo.”

Tara handed the vase back to Lindsey before continuing. “The life of a man is short, filled with pain and suffering. Recognize this and live your lives accordingly. Be kind and just, for no one escapes death.” Lindsey spoke. “Just as the rain can pour in a mighty torrent, strong and unbending, the clouds that produce it must

eventually run dry, and the rain passes away. So is the life of man. Though strong and robust for a time, it is fleeting.” “Be wise and understand this, do good deeds and live a holy life, for no mortal escapes death.” Tara drew a deep breath. “We commit our husband and father to the afterlife. He was a good man who loved and cherished his family above all else. Though my heart aches with want of him, I am a better woman for having known him and shared my life with him. I will always love you, Aaron. Thank you for all you gave us. Don’t look back; continue on your journey

knowing we will be all right.” That last was whispered as her voice failed. Her eyes brimming with tears, Tara stepped forward and kissed the top of the covered head. Lindsey’s shoulders shook with suppressed grief as she too kissed her father farewell. “Goodbye, Dad. I love you.” They stepped back. At a nod from Tara, Bacoj’s clan and Sarod lit the pyre. Fed by the accelerant, flames leapt into the sky, quickly consuming Aaron’s remains. Some of his ashes would be gathered the next day to be taken to Kalquor so Jessica could attend a

ceremony there to say goodbye as well. Then his ashes would be scattered in Kalquor’s ocean. With a final bow, Lindsey and Tara led the procession back to the base camp, where everyone would begin final preparations to leave. Lindsey felt as if she was leaving most of her heart behind too. **** “Lunch, sweetie?” Tara asked Lindsey later that day. “Or shall I go and bring you back something?” “That would be great, Mom. Thanks.” Lindsey lay on the sleeping mat, staring at the

ceiling. She wished she could find the oblivion of sleep. Without it, there was nothing to do but think. Thinking sucked. There were too many thoughts of her father, of the clan. Of loss. “I’m thinking of telling Sarod you were born with a tail. I wonder if that would calm his interest?” Lindsey snorted laughter. Trust her mom to find just the statement to lift her spirits, if only for a moment. The moment passed far too quickly “Well, I’m off.” Tara bent to plant a soft kiss on Lindsey’s forehead. “Enjoy your wallow.

I’m not allowing you to mope in bed after today. It’s not healthy, and neither your father nor Bacoj’s clan would want to see you unhappy over them.” “Yes, Mom.” Lindsey gave her a long-suffering sigh. Tara tweaked her nose and walked out of the quarters. Lindsey heard her speak to someone outside the door. She stared at the ceiling.

I miss you so much already, Dad. If you were here, you’d tell me what a jackass Bacoj is being. And you’d hug me and say how lucky any man would

be to have me. And then we’d wish for the old days when you’d fix us coffee and we’d sit at the kitchen table, talking about everything but what hurts. Damn it, Dad. I’m thirty years old, but I still need you. Why did you have to die? “Hate see Lindsey cry.” She jerked with a gasp, bolting upright to see Japohn standing just inside the closed door. “How did you get in here?” she demanded, rubbing her cheeks dry. “Imperial Mother let me in as she leave.” The big Nobek’s head hung down, as if he

expected her to order him out. He growled, “She say clan is stupid for let Lindsey go. She is right.” Lindsey had to fight to keep from throwing herself at him. “I thought you agreed with Bacoj.” He wouldn’t meet her eyes. “I want best for you. We can’t give you best.” Japohn squeezed his eyes shut, his fists clenching. “But hurt, Lindsey. Hurt so much to no have you.” She slowly walked closer to him, pain welling bright in her heart. “Yeah, it hurts me too. Especially right now when I

need my clan so much and they’re not with me. Thank you for participating in my father’s funeral, by the way.” Japohn nodded, his face relaxing but eyes still shut. “Imperial Father Aaron great man. Honored to see him through final journey.” He finally opened his eyes and looked in her face. Lindsey saw her misery reflected in his eyes. “Clan broken, Lindsey. Vax no speak to us. Bacoj stare at nothing, no prepare for mission. I hit things, want to break.” His chest hitched, and his voice came out strangled. “And no Lindsey.” He shook

his head, unable to say another word. “Then stop being stupid!” she yelled, no longer able to keep her frustration in check. “You and Bacoj need to stop being so damned noble and take me back. Make me your Matara again.” “No my decision,” Japohn groaned. “I agree now you stay with us, but Bacoj is Dramok. He is determined you go to better clan.” “If I live a million years, I won’t go with another clan. Japohn, he listens to you. Make him see reason.” Japohn sighed. “I try. But he

stubborn. Like Nobek.” He offered her a weary smile. “So I’ve noticed.” Lindsey reached up to stroke his cheek, unable to keep from touching Japohn. The next instant, his arms were banded tightly around her, lifting her off the ground to consume her in a demanding kiss. Every sense exploded as he took her mouth, and Lindsey wrapped her arms and legs around his body, fiercely clutching at him. With a moaning growl, Japohn crushed her against the nearest wall, pulling her skirt

up to her waist and yanking the crotch of her panties aside to explore her with insistent fingers. She squealed to feel his touch there, and she wriggled in response against his body pinning her to the wall.

He stroked her soft folds, making her wet. As her honey seeped from her core, he spread it over her labia and clit. She rewarded him with more of her thick juices, which he smeared back to her anus. “Yes,” she sobbed the moment his mouth left hers.

“Take me, Japohn. Take your Matara.” He rumbled deep in his chest in response. He lifted her slightly higher, and his head reared back. Lindsey saw his long, rattlesnake fangs an instant before he buried them in her neck, injecting her with the intoxicant that would take all the pain away. She sob-sighed as the first sweet twinges of euphoria crept through her mind, soothing all the hurts she’d endured these last few days. Soon there was nothing of importance except the muscular man holding her

against the wall, his body a firm shelter in which to hide from the world. His fingers worked in and out of her sex and anus as he bit, exciting her willing flesh. Lindsey shifted her hips, taking him as deep as he would allow, whimpering with need. “Please, Japohn,” she begged. “Do it now.” He withdrew fingers and fangs, and she felt him work the crotch of his formsuit. His naked sexes sprang loose, throbbing with heat and slick with his lubrication. He shifted her again, and she cried out as his cocks parted her entrances.

Japohn entered her slowly but steadily, and Lindsey warbled a welcome to the intruders. He was a big man, and she felt the slight ache of adjusting to him, but the discomfort was a balm to her shattered emotions. Her body eagerly adjusted, making room for all he would give her and begging for more. “Love you, Lindsey,” he whispered, and the words were a benediction. She soared on the emotion behind his simple utterance, and she knew she belonged nowhere else but in the arms of this man and his clanmates.

I’ll find a way to get back into the clan, she thought, and under the influence of Japohn’s bite, she believed it. There had to be a way to convince Bacoj. She just had to figure it out. Her hands dove into Japohn’s curls, holding his head as she kissed him passionately. He returned the embrace a hundredfold as his thrusts moved her up and down the wall. She rode his fervor, climbing up and up the glorious path to completion. She felt herself dissolving around him, her insides liquefying. She was the softness to his solidity, becoming more malleable by

the second to seep into his pores, soaking into him until she was an eternal portion of his very essence. When she came, it was with quiet cries that she announced her climax. The orgasm rolled through her in silky waves, and her sheath coaxingly milked Japohn, making him groan. He pushed into her harder and faster, his grunts as bestial as her sighs were melodic. The stronger his plunges into her body, the more yielding she became. He was granite moving through velvet, and the pulses of culmination flowed and ebbed in gentle surges that lit her from within.

Japohn shuddered, and he pulsed hugely within her. His groan seemed to emanate all the way from his toes, and Lindsey delighted in every jolt his larger cock gave as it throbbed its offering into her womb. She kissed his face as he succumbed, tasting the sweet-salty tears that wet his cheeks. Words were beyond her as she continued to flow in bliss, but could she have spoken she would have told him not to cry, because this time would not be their last. She would make

Bacoj see reason, even if it took forever. Somehow, she would rejoin the clan.

Chapter Nineteen

Lindsey stood in front of the clan’s quarters, mentally rehearsing her speech. If Japohn had done as she asked earlier, he would have gotten Vax out so she could talk to Bacoj alone. She had a feeling the three of them ganging up on their Dramok would have the opposite effect of bringing him around to their way. As Japohn had observed, he could be obstinate, especially when pushed too hard. If Bacoj would just listen for a few moments. If he would just

give her an opportunity to share her proposal and not dismiss it without thought. That’s all she could hope for. She stepped close to the door, and it opened for her. Lindsey realized the door was still keyed to recognize her at the same time she processed the fact that the room inside was dark. Before she could feel more than a twinge of disappointment that Bacoj must have left too, he stepped forward to be framed by the hall’s light. She had an instant of recognizing the desperate look in his eyes before his hand shot out to grasp her forearm. He yanked her into the

quarters, and the door shut behind her, enclosing her in complete darkness with him. Without a word, his mouth took hers in a sweet, slow kiss that made Lindsey’s knees buckle. His mouth still locked on hers, Bacoj swung her up in his arms and carried her a few steps before laying her gently on the sleeping mat. His heavy bulk settled over her, caging her wonderfully beneath him. His hands worked at her clothes, pulling them off, making her naked. He touched her all over, as if to memorize every dip and curve of her. Lindsey moaned, her carefully

rehearsed speech far from her mind as the hard, calloused hands enveloped her. The only thing that existed for her in this dark sanctuary was Bacoj’s touch and the eternal kiss he warmed her lips with. Her lover shed his formsuit like a snake sloughing off skin. He was so warm, so welcoming, like coming indoors from a winter storm. Lindsey felt his hard prods at her thighs, the tips tracing wet designs on her flesh. She parted her legs in silent invitation, and he moved to press inside her, seeking her heat.

She arched beneath Bacoj as he breached her openings, filling her to perfection. Once fully immersed inside, he went still, nestling in her hearth while his mouth and tongue worked hers, kissing her as if he might die if separated. They lay like that for a long time, joined at mouth and groin, content to be one entity for a time. After a while, Lindsey could no longer separate where she ended and Bacoj began. They were fused, two halves making a perfect whole. But passion woke, stirring them to move at last. They

twined together, sliding against one another in sinuous harmony. They moved slowly at first, lazily slithering about their combined bodies, in no hurry to ignite in tumultuous explosion. When they glided against each other a little faster, it was a natural progression. They let their senses dictate the pace, sometimes slowing again, sometimes stopping completely. If Lindsey had been forced to put a name to their joining, she would have called it organic. There was none of the usual frenzy to push to the end. There was only the purity of ultimate connection.

When at last the need to find completion did overcome them, they still moved as if joined by one soul. No words were spoken, no encouragement was needed. Their unity was so total that they climaxed together, their mingled groans ebbing and flowing in time with each other. Only after the last pulse of orgasm spent itself and their breath quieted did they realize Japohn and Vax had come into the room, silently standing back and watching the pair. Once they knew Lindsey and

Bacoj had discovered their presence, the Nobek and Imdiko joined them on the mat. Again, no words were needed or even wanted. The four bodies twisted and knotted together until it was impossible to tell whose limbs belonged to whom. For a too-brief time the hurt was healed and the clan was made whole again. The group made love far into the night until exhaustion claimed every one of them, sending them into reluctant oblivion. **** Lindsey’s eyes opened. The lights overhead were set to gradually brighten as the sun

rose, and the room blazed. She looked into Bacoj’s steady gaze. She felt Vax’s body firm against her back. His and Japohn’s thicker arms circled her waist from behind. Bacoj looked at her with a look of agonized adoration. She swallowed. No one had ever looked at her with such hopelessness and love before. “Hi,” she whispered. He smiled at her, but the pain in his expression remained nonetheless. “Hello. Last night no change—” She put her hand over his mouth. “Stop. I know, Bacoj.”

“I so glad you visit. I think you no forgive me.” She fought for a light tone, thinking he’d be more likely to listen to her if she spoke gently, without an argumentative tone. “I figured, why deny myself the little time I have left here with you?” He smoothed her cheek with a calloused thumb. “Thank you.” She snuggled close to him, deliberately letting him feel the warm softness of her body. She had no compunction about using any unfair advantage she might possess. “I have an idea if you’ll hear it.”

His eyes closed down with the finality of a slamming door. “Please no make harder. Hurt enough.” Vax propped himself up on an elbow and snarled, “I want hear idea.” Japohn sat up and with a respectful tone added, “What can harm to hear, my Dramok?” Bacoj glared at them both for an instant before his body sagged. He covered his face with his hands, muffling his groan. “All right. What idea you have, Lindsey?” Lindsey sat up, shooting a look of gratitude at Vax and

Japohn. Bacoj also rose and sat cross legged facing her. His expression was still grim, letting her know he was ready to shoot down anything she might say. But at least he would let her speak.

She took a deep breath. “I’ll go to Kalquor tomorrow as you wish. I’ll meet the suitors my sister has lined up for me. I’ll do everything I’m supposed to do. Does that meet with what you feel is right?” He watched her with sharp eyes. She could almost hear him turning her words over in

his head, looking for the trap. Finally he gave her a slow nod. “It is what is required.” “Your assignment is for one year, right? Then you return to Kalquor, to the lives you had before the war.” Vax answered her. “Better lives. Bacoj qualify for better position after service.” Japohn added, “I have new opportunity when return. Real work, no more bounty hunter.” “So you’re going back to Kalquor in less than two years. Right, Bacoj?” He frowned, still obviously trying to figure out what she

was up to. “Correct.” Lindsey was proceeding very carefully now. “That’s enough time to look over my clanning options. More than enough, in fact. Now suppose I don’t like any of the clans who court me?” His eyes narrowed. “Many men. Many clans to choose from.” “I’m a picky girl, especially since I’m already madly in love. So Bacoj, here’s my proposal. If I’m still unclanned when you get home, can we reconsider my being your Matara?” He blinked at her, his surprise apparent. “We will

still no rank high enough.” Lindsey fought the huff of frustration that wanted to spring from her lips. “You know I don’t care about that.” She took his hands in hers and felt the strength in them. “Bacoj, I’m not going to clan with men I don’t feel something for no matter their pedigree or bank account.” At his confused expression she added, “Only belonging to a clan I love will make me happy. Isn’t my happiness worth something on Kalquor? To you?” He looked at her with an earnestness that broke her heart. “You happy worth

everything.” Bacoj stared at their linked hands, his face heavy with concentration. Lindsey could feel Vax and Japohn at her back, holding their breath as their Dramok struggled to do the right thing. Finally he looked her in the eye again. A tired smile hinted at his lips, and Lindsey dared to hope. Bacoj nodded. “You no clan when we return, we reclan.” Vax and Japohn began laughing in celebration, but when Bacoj held up his hand for silence, they immediately quieted. There was no smile on

his face when he said, “Lindsey, you want different clan, you join. Do no give up happy life for this clan. You swear this to me.” She tightened her hands on his, her heart racing and soul singing with victory. “Yes Bacoj. If I fall in love with another clan I won’t wait for you. Deal?” He picked her up and put her in his lap. His very hard, very stiff lap. “It is deal. I love you, my Lindsey.” Vax and Japohn crowded close, ready to join the celebration. And for Lindsey, it was a triumph, because there

was no doubt she would be their Matara again. ****

The next day came too soon. Lindsey’s heart throbbed painfully as the shuttle’s engines cycled on behind her. She did not want to board it. She did not want to go to Kalquor. Not without the three men Tara was bidding goodbye. Her mother kissed each cheek in turn. Japohn was almost bent double so she could reach him. They were all three blushing furiously, their smiles shy to be treated with

such affection. Had Lindsey not been so miserable, she would have laughed to see the hulking Kalquorians so bashful with the tiny Tara McInness. “Take care of yourselves,” Tara told them. Bacoj bowed. “Yes, Imperial Mother.” Tara frowned at him, her voice all maternal disapproval. “You know better than that.” Bacoj’s grin split his face, and he wrapped his arms around her in a gentle hug. “Be well, Matara Tara.” Vax and Japohn joined them in a group hug, much to the

undisguised shock of the other Kalquorians gathered on the parking lot/shuttle pad. Sarod’s mouth hung open to see Tara treated with such familiarity. Lindsey suppressed an urge to smack him upside the head. The clan let Tara go, and she stepped back, brushing the back of her hand against a suddenly wet cheek. “I’ll see you all again,” she said, her words more order than observation. They nodded, all three blinking hard. She turned and boarded the shuttle. It was Lindsey’s turn to say goodbye. She swallowed a

throatful of tears as she stepped close to the men and gulped again when each one reached to stroke her hair and face. “Last chance to come to your senses,” she said. Bacoj pulled her close, crushing her to his body. He whispered in her ear, “We love you, Lindsey. Do no doubt.” She burrowed her face in his formsuited chest, inhaling his spicy scent one last time. Feeling the hard planes of his strong body, storing it in her memory to hang onto in the lonely weeks to come. With a resigned sigh, she finally stepped back. “I’ll see you in

about twenty-one months, you big lugs.” The tears she’d fought broke loose as she embraced each in turn for final kisses and caresses and whispered words of love. Japohn’s arms shook around her and Vax wept openly. Bacoj tried to smile, but the look was so pained it was more a grimace. “Be well, our love,” he choked as she backed through the shuttle hatch, looking at her clan for as long as she could. Lindsey felt her soul ripping to tatters to be leaving them behind. This was such a mistake, but she’d done the

best she could. The separation was for less than two years. She could handle it — couldn’t she? The door snicked shut, cutting her from her clan. It took all she had to not scream from the agony, the torture no less than having a limb torn off. She might have stood there forever, staring at the hatch and shaking if Tara hadn’t gently pulled her to her seat. Lindsey sobbed in her mother’s arms as the shuttle lifted off, carrying her away from the three men who held her heart.

Chapter Twenty

Bacoj clicked his hand-held, taking his time as he rolled through the new shuttle’s preflight check. He tried to enjoy the bright sun’s warmth on his bare shoulders, the easy sounds of laughter from other Kalquorians on the launch pad as they prepared to leave the now disassembled based camp. Half of the search party had already departed, most on their way home to Kalquor. He felt a jab of jealousy, thinking of how many were going to be so much closer to his Lindsey

than he was. Not his Lindsey. He had to remember that. Japohn and Vax’s low conversation in the shuttle helped. Vax was speaking to them again, buoyed by the hope that their Matara would return once they finished their Earth assignment. Japohn’s anger had dissipated too. They were all living on hope, hope that she indeed loved them enough to forswear the easy life a higher ranking clan could give her. That devotion and loyalty would sustain her far better than a fine home would. She was a woman of integrity, and

Bacoj thought if her heart did indeed belong to them, she would not be swayed. But worries plagued him nonetheless. She’d known them for such little time. Did she really love them or had infatuation temporarily blinded her? And what of their selfishness in keeping her from the life she deserved? How did he condone that? Hope sandwiched between fear and guilt made for an uneasy Dramok. Bacoj finished his check and stepped back to look over the shuttle. It was bigger with a few more luxuries than the first

one. Still, he missed the shuttle now lying somewhere at the bottom of the Gulf, missed it because that was the first place he’d made love to Lindsey. Gone, like the base where he’d last possessed her. He’d not only lost her, he’d lost the touchstones that reminded him of her. Only the scent of the ocean, fresh and salty like her delicate aroma, remained now. Once they flew to the remains of Atlanta, that briny reminder that kept her psychologically close would be gone too. “Dramok?” The thick voice behind

Bacoj startled him, and he whirled around to face another Kalquorian. The man’s formsuit was trimmed in green, signaling his Imdiko status. He looked near Bacoj’s age. “Yes?” The gentle face of the Imdiko was filled with awed curiosity. “You are the one who found the Empress’ sister?” “Yes.” Bacoj was getting used to the bit of celebrity he’d acquired by accidentally rescuing members of the Imperial Family. It was beginning to be a nuisance. “You really clanned her before you knew who she

was?” Steeling his patience, Bacoj replied, “I did.”

The Imdiko nodded, and sadness replaced the avid interest. “My clan returns to Kalquor now. No Matara for us. Most Earthers run and hide from our people.” He gave Bacoj a weary smile. “You were lucky to have a Matara for even a short time.” His words made Bacoj look around himself, at his fellow Kalquorians. He noted only three Earther Mataras among the black formsuited men, at

the envious looks given to the clans who’d claimed them. While the search party’s mission had been all about finding and rescuing the McInness family, no doubt many of the men had hoped to find the missing pieces of their clans as well. And it suddenly occurred to Bacoj that though he ached fiercely from his loss, he would have given anything for just five precious minutes in Lindsey’s presence. He’d had so much more than five minutes. He smiled at the man in front of him. “I was very fortunate wasn’t I? Thank you,

Imdiko.” The Kalquorian bowed and walked away, leaving Bacoj better able to shoulder his grief. **** The pilot’s thick, guttural voice came over the shuttle’s announce system, startling Lindsey out of her dreary mental fog. She blinked and looked around the spacious cabin that contained her, Tara, and Sarod. Sitting across from the women, Sarod translated the pilot’s brief burst. “We will dock with the transport in ten of your Earth minutes, Imperial

Mother. Would you like to see the vid?” Tara leaned forward, her expression interested. “Yes, please.” Sarod barked a command in his own language, and one wall dissolved to show a lozengeshaped ship in space. It was smooth and featureless, but as Lindsey watched, a port opened, admitting another shuttle. When the hatch closed again, there was no seam to show where it had been. She found the energy to be slightly impressed. Sarod told them, “Your quarters on board are

prepared. I believe you will both be quite comfortable.” He smiled hopefully at Lindsey. “Thank you,” Tara supplied when Lindsey didn’t respond. She looked at her daughter and sighed. “You should have stayed with your clan.” Lindsey drew her depression around her like a heavy cloak. “Sorry I’m such a crummy traveling companion that you’d rather be alone.” Tara scowled, an event rarely seen. She almost never got angry, and had Lindsey been able to shake off her blue mood she’d be openmouthed with shock. “It’s not that, and

you know it. You’re miserable and I hate seeing it. You need them after losing Aaron. I could just shake those men for making you leave.” The younger woman managed to defend them a little. “They de-clanned me out of love.” “Does it hurt any less?”

Tara had to be furious to press the issue, Lindsey realized. Even the most understanding person in the universe turns into a lioness when you mess with her cubs. She blinked back tears at the

overt display of love, at the knowledge Tara would forsake having her daughter at her side for her happiness. “Of course it hurts like hell, but it’s done, Mom. Can we not discuss it anymore?” Tara took her hand, squeezing it tight. Lindsey laid her head on her mother’s thin shoulder. Their shared grief became more bearable from the contact. **** Bacoj wandered out onto the beach where Japohn and Vax stood watching the sun set in shades of orange and red. The base was gone, and their

shuttle was one of only a dozen left. The time to leave had arrived. He stood a little apart from his clanmates, still unsure of his status with them. Vax was speaking to him again, but the rift between them had been bad. He wondered if the relationship with his Imdiko would ever fully recover. He looked out over the water, admiring the lovely scene. There were differences between Earth’s seascape and Kalquor’s, but there were more similarities. The Imperial Clan lived on the coast, and within a few months, Lindsey would be

looking out over another ocean. Emptiness gnawed at his guts. From the corner of his eye, he saw Japohn look at him. “We’re ready to leave when you say. We just wanted to say goodbye to Aaron.” Tara had scattered some of her husband’s ashes in the blue waters of the Gulf, reserving some for the funeral services to be held on Kalquor. Bacoj nodded. “Aaron McInness was an honorable man. I have missed him.” He did miss Lindsey’s father. The man had possessed strength of character and unwavering love for his family.

Another person to be grateful to have known. Another loss to grieve. He felt Japohn and Vax draw close behind him. Vax put a warm hand on Bacoj’s shoulder and squeezed. The Dramok’s throat closed to feel the touch, and he put his hand over his Imdiko’s. Maybe everything would be all right after all. No sooner had the thought slipped in his head when Japohn suddenly stiffened. Bacoj looked up at the Nobek, instantly alert at the feral expression on his face. Japohn’s lips wrinkled back

and he displayed his fangs. “What is it?” The Nobek growled, “Listen. Ships are coming, and I don’t think they’re ours.” Bacoj strained to hear over the crash of waves. After a couple of seconds, he heard it too. Blended notes of engines, but engines of various different types. The whir of a Dantovon vessel. The easily recognized hum of a Kalquorian ship. The growling roar of Earther engines. And others, all coming towards them, fast.

He squinted against the flaming dazzle of the setting sun, the direction from which the sounds came. Several dark dots were out there, growing larger as they closed in. As alarm and fury unhinged Bacoj’s fangs, Japohn shouted, “It’s a Tragoom attack! Back to the base!” The men took off across the beach as fast as their legs could carry them. **** Lindsey lay on the huge bed of her mother’s suite on board the massive Kalquorian transport. They had separate quarters, but everything was

Kalquorian clan-sized, and Lindsey had found her cavernous rooms too lonely to bear despite the luxury they afforded. The massive bed, intended to sleep four Kalquorians, filled half the room. A seating area and dressing table completed the furniture. Vids lined the walls, programmed to show art, photographs, the empty space outside, whatever one chose from the ship’s library. In the adjacent sitting room, groups of seating would allow Tara to entertain a small party if she so chose. A food dispenser could afford snacks or light meals, and a call on the com would

bring a feast to her door. After almost two years of privations, they had every want or petty desire at their beck and call. Yet the best of the best for the Empress’ family couldn’t assuage Lindsey’s grief at being separated from her clan. Bacoj, if you could feel how bad I hurt, you’d never in a million years have sent me away. Too bad she couldn’t give him the experience. The whir of the opening door brought her head up as Tara walked in. Her mother smiled. She seemed to have recovered her usual grace

since her outburst on the shuttle. “Sarod says the transport will be leaving as soon as the last shuttle arrives, probably within the hour.” “Okay.” Lindsey’s head dropped back on the bed. She contemplated the dimly glowing ceiling that provided the room’s lighting. “He invited us to have dinner with his clan.” “Okay.” “I think he’s hoping to impress you. He must have proper rank for the Imperial Sister.” Lindsey propped herself up

on her elbows. Her stomach curled in on itself. “Tell me you’re kidding.” Tara flopped on the bed beside her. “Be warned, daughter of mine. They’ll be coming out of the woodwork to impress you no matter how much you protest your love for Bacoj’s clan. I’ve never been so grateful I can’t have more children. If I had to deal with suitors so soon after Aaron’s death, I might be tempted to pick up a percussion blaster.” “That’ll be the day.” Resignation fell over Lindsey. She faced almost two years of fending off eager clans

desperate for mates. She would be counting the minutes until her clan’s arrival on Kalquor. Forcing her own acceptance of the situation, she teased her mother, “You’d still better watch out. You’re pretty hot for an old lady.”

Tara glowered at her, but the corner of her mouth quirked. “I’m middle aged.” The women grinned at each other for a moment before her mother’s face suddenly fled into grief. “Oh Lindsey. I can’t imagine being with anyone but Aaron.”

As Tara’s and the tears gathered her holding her shaking body.

face crumpled flowed, Lindsey into her arms, mother’s tiny,

Chapter Twenty One

“Tragoom attack! Get to shelter!” Japohn’s roar cut through the sea-salty air, scattering the few Kalquorians left towards the deserted Earther town. The grounded shuttles offered no real safety from the Tragooms, and the men looked for cover among the abandoned Earther buildings. All except Bacoj, who ran straight for his new ship. Japohn’s disbelieving yell rang in his ears. “Bacoj, where are you going?”

Bacoj didn’t miss a step. “Calling for help before they block communications.” He jumped through the open hatch, his clanmates two steps behind. In an instant Bacoj was in the cockpit, shouting frantic instructions to the com. The signal indicators wavered and blurred well below transmission strength. “Too late.” Japohn slid into the seat next to his, fingers flying to activate the sensors. “Our people are gathering in a nearby building. We’ve got a lot of company flying in.”

“How many?” “About 20 ships, all wellarmed.” He showed his fangs. “The opportunistic bastards must have been monitoring this base. They waited to attack until our numbers were low.” Vax peered over his shoulder, his brows drawn in worry. “How are we on personnel numbers?” Japohn exchanged a dark look with Bacoj. “About two dozen, including us. With at least ten Tragooms on each of their ships, it’ll be a slaughter. Go close the hatch, Vax.” The Imdiko did so, returning within seconds. Bacoj glanced

at his sensors and instinctively looked up, though there was only the ceiling to see. “Half their ships are directly overhead the shuttle pad now.” “The other half are converging on that building where our people ran to hide.” Vax bit his lip. “Where are the closest rescue teams looking for Earthers?” Bacoj looked at his Imdiko, wishing he could somehow sugarcoat the truth for his clanmate. “Not close enough. The Tragooms will finish us long before anyone comes to see why ten shuttles never left here.”

He saw Vax swallow hard. For a wonder, he managed a weak smile for Bacoj and squeezed his shoulder. “I’m glad you made Lindsey leave.” “Trust our Vax to find the good even in certain death.” Japohn chuckled and shook his head. It was no surprise to see him relax now that their fate was certain. For a Nobek, there was honor in this end. ****

Lindsey and Tara had reached the point in their latest cryfest where they were

reduced to sniffles when a low beep announced they had a visitor. They untangled their arms from around each other without a word, got up, and approached the mirror together. Mother and daughter finger-combed their hair, rubbed their eyes dry, and checked themselves. Suddenly they locked eyes in the mirror and burst out laughing. “Vanity,” Tara giggled, her smile dazzling in her sunbronzed face. “We’re a pair all right,” Lindsey hooted. “Too bad we don’t have lipstick for our primping.”

Linking arms, they left the sleeping quarters and crossed the sitting room to answer the door. It slid open, revealing Sarod, who bowed deeply. “My apologies for disturbing you, Imperial Mother and Sister. I have received communication from the Empress. I am preparing a shuttle to return you immediately to Earth, Matara Lindsey.” She gaped at the Dramok. “I don’t understand. Why am I going back to Earth?” He kept a careful poker face. Whatever Sarod was feeling, he kept to himself. “You are to be

returned to your clan, the clan of Dramok Bacoj.” When Lindsey continued to stare at him open-mouthed, he added, “You have a message from Empress Jessica on the matter. I will return to escort you to the shuttle as soon as it is ready.” With another bow, he left. The door slid shut and Lindsey slowly turned to her beaming mother. “What did you do, Mom?” Tara was wide eyed with innocence. “I’ve done nothing except send a message to my youngest daughter catching her up on all the latest.” “You told her about Bacoj’s

clan!” Lindsey accused. Tara had no qualms about meddling in her daughter’s affairs. “She is your sister. When have you ever kept secrets from her?” Lindsey had to admit that was true. Jessica had always been her closest confidante. Tara tugged her towards the computer. “Let’s listen to her message.” A few moments later, Lindsey was looking into her sister’s very bad-tempered face. “Hey you scurvy swab, what’s this about leaving your clan behind? Tell those guys to man up and stop worrying

about rank. If you love them and they love you that’s all that matters!” Jessica took a deep breath. Lindsey could almost hear her thoughts as she mentally counted to five. The Empress relaxed into a concerned smile. “Look, I’m dying to see you, but I know a thing or two about fighting for the men you want to spend your life with. Stay with them if it’s what you truly want.” Her eyes narrowed, but Lindsey could tell Jessica was only pretending to be angry now. “You tell Bacoj, Japohn and Vax they don’t want me to come out there.”

Lindsey was amused through her sudden attack of lightheadedness. “Now I know she’s a mom.”

A man spoke in the background, someone Lindsey couldn’t see. The deep voice said, “Yes, those poor men don’t want to meet their Empress in a mood.” Jessica’s lips tightened and she snarled, “Don’t start, Egilka. I’m still mad about this morning.” A long-suffering sigh answered her. “If not this morning, it would be something

else.” As Jessica glared to her right, Lindsey and Tara laughed. Tara shook her head. “Same old Jessica. Bless her clan with patience, please.” Jessica returned her focus to the device that had recorded her message. “Anyway, I’ll see you after your clan has completed their assignment. Tell them to keep you safe.” She winked. “I love you, you scurvy swab.” The vid blinked off. Lindsey blew the air a kiss. “I love you too, matey.” Her heart wanted to explode with joy. The only thing that

kept her together was concern for the woman at her side. “Are you going to be all right, Mom? You’ll be without family for nine long months.” Tara was radiant, easing her worries. “As long as my girls are happy, I’m fine. You know what our faith says; loss is part of the cycle. Fortunately, this loss will be only temporary.” Tara wrapped her in a hug, and Lindsey began laughing, great peals of childlike delight. She was returning to her clan. She was returning to her clan! ****

Japohn frowned as Bacoj stabbed a finger at the image of the nearest Tragoom ship hovering in the sky over the landing pad. “I’ll have to be fast and accurate. If I can take off at an angle and hit that ship here, it will knock out a few stabilizers and send them bouncing off one or two more of their ships.” Japohn studied the vid and considered. If they’d been detected hiding in their shuttle by the Tragooms’ scanners, there was no indication yet. Tragooms weren’t likely to destroy grounded shuttles anyway. The opportunistic race would be enthralled to get their

hands on intact Kalquorian ships. They’d attack only if they had to. Half of the enemy force was hovering over the landing pad now. The other half was firing on the building where the other Kalquorians had fled for shelter. He nodded his approval. “Your plan might distract the Tragooms surrounding that building long enough for some of our people who are pinned down to get out.” “That’s the idea.” Vax’s brows creased with worry. “Won’t the Tragooms notice when you start the engines?”

Bacoj blew out a breath. Their Dramok was visibly tense with worry. “That’s the trickiest part of this whole thing. I’ll have to ascend the moment the engines fire so they don’t have time to react. Even so there’ll be two seconds of lag between the power up and flight.”

Japohn grinned, his heart totally in the fight. He hoped they’d be able to take at least one ship’s worth of the enemy with them. “Since they haven’t sent down a party to slaughter us, I’m pretty sure the Tragooms don’t know we’re in

here.” “It’s the one thing that might make this work.” Vax considered. “Fire the engines, ascend immediately, and at the correct angle to drive one Tragoom ship into another. You don’t expect enough of yourself, Bacoj.” The three men managed to laugh. The odds he could carry off the plan were not quite impossible, but close enough. Still, any chance was better than none. Japohn clapped a meaty paw on Bacoj’s shoulder. “You’re a brilliant pilot. You’ll make it work.”

The humor disappeared from Vax’s face. “What if we live through this?” Japohn was matter-of-fact. “It won’t be for long. The Tragooms will sniff us out.” “That’s the thing that scares me. Being eaten alive.” “Give me your knife, Vax.” Vax drew his knife from his belt and handed it to Japohn, who looked it over. It was a good blade, sharp, serrated, plain. A weapon, not a kitchen tool or ceremonial piece. He handed it back to Vax. “Don’t be a hero and try to take any

with you.” He grasped Vax’s hands over the knife’s handle and touched the tip of it just below the Imdiko’s breastbone tilted upwards. “Like this at this angle. Shove as hard as you can as fast as you can. It’ll be quick. I’ll help you if I’m able.” He pulled the dagger away from Vax’s body, turning the handle towards the Imdiko before letting go. Vax’s face relaxed with relief. “Thanks Japohn. I feel a lot better now.” He put the knife in his waist belt, keeping one hand on it as if for reassurance. “I’m ready too.” Bacoj

patted his own blade, slung on his belt. It too was utilitarian, not showy, with a plain black handle and sharp edge. It would do the job nicely. Now that Vax’s worst fears had been addressed, he and Bacoj looked steady. Resolute. Ready to die killing mortal enemies. Japohn felt a rush of pride for his clanmates. It was a good way to go out. **** The shuttle Sarod used to take Lindsey back to Earth was very small. There wasn’t even a passenger cabin; just the cockpit and a small storage compartment. Lindsey sat next

to the sober-faced Kalquorian, watching the blue-marble planet grow larger on the vid screen. She also admired the steady hand of her pilot, who apparently preferred to manually steer rather than letting the ship’s system do the work. His silence wore on her a little. Sarod had spoken little except for polite pleasantries. His expression was careful, not allowing her to guess if he disapproved of her returning to such a low-ranking clan.

“You make piloting this

thing look easy,” she commented. Miss Friendly Conversationalist, that’s me. He glanced at her, a pleased look warming his face. “It is for the most part, as long as you’re not doing any fancy maneuvers. This is the simplest vehicle we have that is space worthy. So simple that the pilot can usually work the weapons while evading fire.” “This has weapons?” “The bare minimum and very primitive. You never know when you’ll run into a hostile situation. Just enough to discourage attack while making an escape.” He spoke

in his own language and a small vid appeared before Lindsey’s face. “Here’s the viewer vid for targeting. You move the stick for aiming, and push the button to fire.” He demonstrated, moving the lever with a button positioned on its tip. When he let go, Lindsey grasped it and maneuvered it so the vid showed her what she was targeting. It was a simple system. She told Sarod, “Just like a video game. So easy even an Earther can do it.” He grinned at her and sobered again, studying her

face. “I hope your clan knows how lucky they are.” Lindsey was tempted to pat his muscled shoulder, so wistful was his rumbling baritone. “I know how lucky I am. They’re wonderful men.” “They’d better be.” At Lindsey’s frown he rushed to explain. “Forgive the protectiveness. Mataras are precious to us.” Lindsey did pat his shoulder then. “You’re going to make some girl very happy.” Sarod looked so delighted she almost laughed out loud. “Thank you, Matara Lindsey.” He was much more relaxed

after that. **** “Here we go,” Bacoj told his clanmates. He tapped in the command and the shuttle’s engines hummed into life. The two seconds it took for the ship to cycle up into full ignition were the longest he’d ever endured. He knew the Tragoom ships’ sensors alerted the enemy the instant the Kalquorian shuttle came to life. He was counting on surprise to keep them from reacting in time. Then the shuttle jerked into the air. It wasn’t a pretty takeoff, but Bacoj was looking

for quickness, not grace. The shuttle careened straight for the nearest Tragoom attacker. With a deafening boom, the shuttle shook violently, throwing Vax backwards from where he’d been kneeling between Bacoj and Japohn’s seats. The dim lights failed, and the scream of gravity dampers and ship stabilizers filled the young Dramok’s ears. The sense of vertigo was overwhelming, and since the computers miraculously remained online, he was able to see the enemy vessel he’d plowed into was flying erratically, taking his shuttle with it.

“We’re hooked onto the Tragoom ship. I can’t break free,” he shouted to his clanmates. His eyes widened as he saw the path the fused ships were taking. Before he could warn the other two to brace for impact, the Tragoom ship ricocheted off another of the attackers and smashed into a second ship. Then there was the sense of extreme vertigo again, and the sensation of lifting out of his chair as the still locked-together ships fell. They hit the ground with

force, and Bacoj had only an instant to register crushing pain on his legs before all stopped and a sightless, soundless void fell over him. **** Sarod frowned at a vid that looked to Lindsey like nothing more than neon blobs on a background of light blue. He punched commands into the control panel, changing the pictures faster than her eyes could register. He said, “I’m getting some strange heat signatures and power readings from the base. Everyone should have cleared the area by now.” More quick

commands. More blurring pictures. Suddenly he growled, “Tragooms!” Lindsey’s heart lurched. “Are any of our people still down there?” Sarod brought up another vid, and Lindsey gasped to see many strange ships that looked haphazardly cobbled together hovering over the parking lot that had served as the Kalquorian landing pad. More Tragoom ships crowded the air over a three-story office building, but they were moving away from it, joining the other group. A few dots of life blurred from the building

towards the dubious cover of trees. Only Kalquorians moved like that. There was no way to tell if her clan was among them. Sarod’s fangs were fully extended, giving his speech a lisping quality. “About a dozen of our shuttles are on the ground. The gurlucks waited until they outnumbered us to attack.” He thumbed the com and shouted in staccato bursts of Kalquorian. “Is help coming?” Her fists were white-knuckled. Tragoom ships had again reversed their course, now chasing the running Kalquorians.

Sarod’s fingers flew up and down the panel in a blur, bringing up readouts, most of which she couldn’t make sense of. “It will take about ten of your minutes for our forces to arrive. At least someone was able to put up a fight. Three Tragoom ships are disabled and on the ground.” He grinned savagely. “Those five ships are chasing down the men on foot. Can we do anything?” He nodded. “If you’re up to distracting them.” Lindsey looked at the weapons stick and the small vid before her. Like a video

game. Except my clan is at stake if they’re still alive. “This is my targeting monitor right?” Sarod nodded and concentrated on his own instruments. “That’s it Matara. We’re within range now. Fire whenever you have a shot.” Lindsey got the rearmost Tragoom ship in her sights, taking careful aim. Her Buddhist upbringing made her uneasy to fire, but damn it, the men she loved were in danger. She pressed the button. An explosion bloomed on the ship she fired at, and it lurched, dropping down like a stone before it managed to catch

itself, pulling back up with a drunken list.

She’d fired on other living creatures. It was surreal, especially because there was no sound of the fight in the shuttle’s cockpit. Sarod grinned ferociously, and Lindsey felt the alien surge of answering bloodlust. “Excellent! You scored a direct hit with some damage.” Lindsey targeted another ship that had broken off its pursuit to swing around on them. They would kill my clan, she thought and fired.

The enemy ship disappeared from her screen, and she uttered an animal-like howl of triumph. “I think I got another one!” Sarod laughed, his dark glee filling the cabin. “You did. The whole group is breaking pursuit and coming after us. I’m getting us out of here.” Lindsey turned to him, her thumb hovering over the firing button. It twitched, eager to unload more destruction. “We can’t leave our people!” Sarod shook his head as he turned the ship away from the remains of the base camp. “We aren’t able to fight the

Tragooms, Matara, not in this little shuttle. We could only give the attacked a chance to escape.” An insistent beeping sounded in the cockpit, and a red light flashed three times before dying out. “What’s that?” “They fired on us. They missed, but that was a little too close.” A disembodied voice spoke the guttural Kalquorian language, and Sarod answered. “Defenders are on their way. Eight minutes until they engage the Tragooms if the cowards don’t run.” He scowled at his

readouts. “They’ve broken off their chase. We should be safe now.” But what about my clan? Will the Tragooms go back and finish the job at the base? Lindsey asked, “Can we go back and hit them again?” Sarod shook his head, his disappointment evident. “They’ll be looking for us now. We’ll have to sit back and wait.” Lindsey realized she was still clutching the weapons stick. She made herself let go despite wanting to scream at Sarod to take her back, to let her save her clan. She realized

she was ready to kill for them, wanted to kill for them, and it was a sobering thought. “I’ve never tried to cause someone’s death before,” she murmured out loud. Sarod patted her shoulder like a beaming father. “You did well. Your Nobek will be proud.” If Japohn is even alive. Never had eight minutes ticked by so slowly. **** “Bacoj, can you hear me?” Japohn’s deep rumble and the gentle pressure of his hand on his arm pulled Bacoj from a

black world of nothing into a black world of agony. Grinding weight and pain on his legs drew a long groan from his throat. He tried to move but his legs were pinned.

Overhead there was a tremendous creaking. “It sounds like the roof of this thing is caving in.” Vax answered in a thin voice. “It probably is. I’m betting that Tragoom ship is lying on top of us.” Bacoj concentrated on opening his eyes wide, trying to see his companions. He’d

never known such unremitting darkness. “Am I blind or is it just dark in here?” Vax again: “We have no lights. All power was lost in the crash. Are you hurt?” “I’d say so. The control console is in my lap. I think both legs are busted.” Japohn’s hand remained on his shoulder, a small bit of comfort Bacoj welcomed. “I believe your side of the ship took the brunt of the crash. You must have lost consciousness for a few minutes. I thought you were dead at first.” It would have been a mercy if you were. Bacoj heard his

Nobek’s thoughts as clearly as if he’d spoken them. They were in a fix, all right. Conversation helped him cope with the pain. “What about you two?” “I’m pinned in my seat too, but I don’t think I’m injured badly.” “I broke my other arm.” Vax sighed. “Bacoj?” “Yes?” “Maybe piloting isn’t for you after all. At least not when I’m on board.” His clanmates’ laughter exploded in the darkness. Bacoj gasped against the pain

hilarity brought. “No jokes. It hurts to laugh. Any idea what’s going on outside?” “No, but I could open the hatch and see.” Japohn demurred. “Tragooms would get you Vax, and I can’t stomach the thought. Let them force their way in and find us already dead before they can have the honor.” Bacoj tried to shift to a more comfortable position. Lances of agony shot through his legs and he sucked a breath in between clenched teeth. Nausea roiled his stomach. To distract himself he said, “I

wonder if any of the others got away.” “If not, it wasn’t for a lack of trying. You did an excellent job, my Dramok. Our deaths will be worthy of praise.” Bacoj managed a smile at that. He thought he might have done well, and that eased his fears. It wasn’t such a bad way to go, dying with the reassurance of his clanmates at his side. Best of all, his Lindsey was safely on her way to Kalquor, heading to a life of privilege and comfort. The thought eased him more than anything else. He hoped she would find a clan who loved her

as much as he did. Have a good life, my love. Be happy. **** Lindsey started as a frantic beeping sounded from the console. “Here come the fighters,” Sarod said, cold satisfaction in his voice. He brought up the vid showing the oncoming singleman ships that had caused so many Earther casualties during the war. Dual-purpose, they could fight in a planet’s atmosphere or in space.

Lindsey’s eyes widened as the fighters flew over the shuttle, their speed turning them into silver streaked blurs. Within a breath, they were out of sight again. “They’re moving fast. Can we go back to the base now?” “We’re better to stay out of range until the fighting’s done.” Kalquorian speech burst over the com, and Sarod made a disgusted sound. The disappointment on his face made Lindsey’s heart squeeze tight. Almost too afraid to ask, she blurted, “What’s going on?”

He sighed. “The Tragooms detected the fighters. They’re running for it instead of standing and fighting. Our fighters will catch most of them, but there’s no sport in it now.” Another burst from the com brightened his mood again. “Tragooms are on the ground at the base camp. Survivors of the three crashed ships. Maybe there will be something left there to fight with after all. We do prefer hand-to-hand when possible.” Lindsey wiggled with impatience. “Can we go back now?”

Sarod smiled indulgently at her. “Yes, Matara.” As he piloted the shuttle back towards the base, Lindsey sent a prayer to Bacoj, Japohn, and Vax. I’m on my way back to you. Please be okay.

Chapter Twenty Two

The strange quiet of the shuttle ended the moment the hatch door opened. Growls from Kalquorians and squealing screams of dying Tragooms filled the air around Lindsey as she stepped out. Bloody Kalquorians trooped out of the crashed Tragoom ships, smiling with fangs extended. Lindsey shuddered looking at them. She looked all around, hoping to find her clan. None of the dark faces were familiar to her. As Sarod joined her on the

asphalt she said, “I don’t see them.” Sarod looked towards the closest Tragoom ship, licking his lips. Lindsey could tell he wanted to join in the bloodshed, but instead he called out, “Battalion leader!” A massive Kalquorian, his hair done in what resembled dreadlocks, came trotting up to them. His hands and arms were covered with blood up to his elbows. It looked as if he wore red gloves. In halting English he answered, “I command battalion.” He bowed to Lindsey. “This is the Imperial Sister.

Her clan was here during the attack.” The battalion leader’s eyes widened, and he bowed to Lindsey again, even lower. “We find those after Tragooms run. We no bring back dead yet.” He motioned to a small knot of Kalquorians sitting on the ground. All seemed to be wounded, some badly. Lindsey walked over to the group, her eyes searching each face hungrily. Sarod joined her. “I don’t see them,” she told him. Please, please don’t let us be too late. Sarod spoke to the group in his language. Three men took

turns answering. After a few moments of back-and-forth conversation, Sarod turned to Lindsey. “It was Bacoj’s clan that raised the alarm. They weren’t seen in the building that everyone took shelter in.” One Kalquorian in the group spoke up, his face swollen and caked with rivulets of drying blood. “A shuttle hit one of the Tragoom ships, knocking it into two others. Those are what you see crashed here.” He pointed at the wreckage. “Perhaps the Matara’s clan flew that shuttle. If so, I’d like to offer our gratitude. The pilot saved our lives by distracting the Tragooms.” A murmured

chorus from the rest of the attacked Kalquorians agreed with him. “But where is the shuttle that saved you?” Lindsey peered at the wreckage. Several shuttles had been damaged by the crashed Tragoom vessels. It was impossible to identify Bacoj’s new ship. “That one, I think.” The man pointed beneath one badly canted Tragoom ship, and Lindsey realized it was tilted because a shuttle lay beneath it. The shuttle was a crumpled ruin, but the front where the cockpit was positioned was

more or less intact. She ran to the shuttle, dodging bits and pieces of stricken vessels, vaulting over a few in her rush to get to it. She reached the hatch and beat on it, her small fists making soft thuds against the metal. “Bacoj! Vax! Japohn? Are you in there?”

Lindsey grasped the hatch’s manual opening mechanism, jerking in vain against the bent door. It wouldn’t open. She screamed in frustration. Several hands grasped her arms and shoulders gently,

moving her aside. A group of Nobeks, their fierce predator faces still alight with the joy of killing, surrounded her. One spoke. “Allow us, Matara.” The Kalquorians grabbed the bent hatch where they could get handholds. They braced themselves and nodded to each other. With bestial growls, the men pulled on the door. **** “Here they come,” said Japohn as the screech of twisting metal filled the cabin. Bacoj struggled with the

dagger on his belt, but the console crushing his legs had it pinned against his thigh. He shouted to be heard over the tortured scream of the hatch being pulled off. “I can’t get to my blade.” He felt the point of a knife against his ribs. Not a killing blow. Japohn grunted with effort then said, “I can’t reach. Vax, you have to do this.” Vax’s breath in Bacoj’s ear was warm. The Imdiko’s right arm wrapped around him, and the dagger moved to the middle of Bacoj’s abdomen. “Higher, Vax. Hurry. You’ve got it now. Right there.

Remember to drive it up into my heart.” Bacoj leaned his head back on his clanmate’s shoulder and buried his face against his neck. He felt the fine tremor that betrayed Vax’s emotions. “Please, my Imdiko. Give me this mercy.” The hatch came off in the main cabin with a final wailing shriek. Dim light poured in. The Tragooms were about to find them. “Quickly Vax,” Japohn urged. “Do it now!” Vax answered with a shuddering sigh. His body tensed, and the tip of the knife pressed painfully against

Bacoj. An unfamiliar voice yelled in Kalquorian from outside. “Matara, no! You don’t know what you’ll find in there!” As Vax gasped and hesitated, a voice the clan had never expected to hear again rang out over the light sound of footsteps boarding the shuttle. “Bacoj? Are you there?” Bacoj jerked to hear his Matara calling his name, and Vax dropped the blade with a cry. “Lindsey?” “Vax! Where are you? They’re alive!” Vax was gone from Bacoj’s

side in an instant. Bright lights swept into the space, and Bacoj strained to twist his body, noticing Japohn doing the same in the seat beside him. He stared disbelieving as Lindsey, beautiful, wonderful Lindsey, wrapped her arms around Vax’s waist behind them. Vax clutched her, laughing and crying all at the same time. Japohn’s eyes and mouth were wide open with stunned surprise. “What are you doing here?”

For Bacoj’s part, he could

only speak his beloved’s name as he reached for her. “Lindsey.” She looked at him and Japohn, pinned helpless in their seats. Her face stretched with horror, and she screamed at the large shapes boarding the shuttle. “They’re hurt. Get them out!” Bacoj’s straining fingers brushed her arm for an instant before she and Vax were pulled away by other Kalquorians. Their rescuers crowded the tiny cockpit, further blocking Lindsey from his sight, but that was okay. He was going to live, and Lindsey was here. Bacoj

barked laughter, the fresh rush of pain insignificant as the console was lifted off his legs. He had Lindsey back, and he’d be damned if he’d let her go again.

Chapter Twenty Three

Summer sixty miles outside of Atlanta was way too brutal, Lindsey thought as she entered the clan’s quarters. Her light cotton dress was soaked from perspiration after working in the refugee registration headquarters all day. The cool air of the small apartment was a welcome treat. Vax and Japohn were already home. Japohn leaned over a counter as Vax spooned out trays of food. Lindsey sniffed appreciatively, and her stomach growled. Air

conditioning and a meal waiting. Life was good. Both men grinned at her as she walked in and immediately moved to embrace her. She tried to ward them off with raised hands. “Yuck. You don’t want to be near me. I’m sweating like a pig.” “You are sweet to me always,” Vax said, and hugged her tight for a second before stepping back, his nose wrinkled. “I will run bath.” Lindsey laughed at him as he went to the whirlpool tub on the deck. “I told you!” Japohn wrapped his arms around her, his thick aroma

eclipsing hers. Search and rescue was even sweatier work. “Now you smell like me too,” he grinned. “Air conditioning not fixed at center?” Lindsey shook her head, peeling her dress off and dropping it on the floor where she stood. Her soaked underwear and bra followed. “What a day. A pregnant woman walked into the center this morning and her water broke right there. You’ve never seen so many medics swarm a single person.” “The baby born all right?” Japohn’s formsuit joined the

pile. “Mother and child are both healthy.” Vax interrupted them. “Get out here, both of you. The stench is killing my appetite.” Japohn chuckled and led Lindsey out to the deck where the heat sweltered like a hot, wet blanket. They both sighed as they sank into the cool whirlpool. Their apartment was small, but Lindsey’s status as the Empress’ sister afforded them a few amenities clans their rank didn’t usually have. The kitchen with all the best gadgets and clan-sized whirlpool bath were two such

luxuries, things Lindsey didn’t mind taking advantage of. She sank into the whirlpool, submerging her head, and came up snorting water out of her nose. Much better. “Vax, your barbecued chicken pizza was a huge hit with the refugees,” she reported. “Not one crumb remained half an hour after you dropped it off.” Vax accepted the praise with an aw-shucks smile. “Will miss chicken on Kalquor. I can do so much to cook it.” Lindsey stretched, luxuriating in the cool, swirling water. It felt good to not be sweating for a change.

“Where’s Bacoj? He’s late.”

Japohn’s head was leaned back, resting on the lip of the whirlpool. His eyes closed, he mumbled, “He was called in to meet with supervisor.” Lindsey huffed. “The one night we get the whole clan together. That figures.” Vax tweaked her nose affectionately. “He not too late. Home soon.” As if on cue, Bacoj walked into the quarters. His eyes lit to see Lindsey and Japohn in the whirlpool, Vax squatted down

beside it. His formsuit was off in a twinkling, and he hurried to wade in with his Matara and Nobek. The healing scars on his legs were purplish-red, but to Lindsey, he was absolutely beautiful. She held up her arms for an embrace, which he gave as he sat down beside her. “This is good,” he groaned, settling back. His hair was drenched with perspiration. Vax stood and went back in to fetch the trays of food. Balancing them carefully on his hands and forearms, he brought them to the deck, setting them down next to the whirlpool. He stripped and

joined the clan in the soothing waters. Bacoj snagged a strip of chicken, delicately seasoned and broiled to tender perfection. He fed it to Lindsey before stuffing his own mouth full. Lindsey chewed slowly, savoring the genius of Vax’s cooking. Swallowing, she sighed, “Now that’s what I’m talking about.” After a few more bites, fed to her by each man in turn, she spoke to Bacoj. “Your supervisor called you in? You didn’t wreck another shuttle, did you?” Bacoj laughed, nearly

choking on buttery-sweet caramelized carrots. “Not today. I try again tomorrow.” That earned laughter all around. When the humor subsided, Bacoj said. “He offered promotion.” He smiled at their congratulations. Lindsey clapped her hands in childlike glee. “Tell us about it.” “It mean new assignment. Our experience makes whole clan favorable to lead searchers look for Earther survivors in remote areas.” Japohn didn’t try to hide the pride in his voice. “You would command?”

“Yes.” Vax’s smile was huge. “That is big honor. One you deserve.” He fed Lindsey more chicken. “Two year assignment.” Bacoj contemplated a chunk of bread as if it was the most interesting thing he’d ever seen. Lindsey’s stomach slid to her feet. She swallowed the chicken, and it stuck in a big, wadded lump in her throat. They were scheduled to leave for Kalquor in seven months. The vid communications between her and Jessica had been flying back and forth nonstop as they planned the

family’s reunion. She swallowed and hid her disappointment. “It’s important work. You’re definitely the man to lead it.” Bacoj looked up at her. His purple cat’s eyes contemplated her for a moment, and he reached to stroke her cheek. “I tell him no.”

“What?” He smiled, his expression so loving it made her breath stutter. “My Matara needs to rejoin her family on Kalquor as planned.”

Relief battled with stunned guilt. Bacoj had given up the promotion he’d wanted so badly. For her. She couldn’t allow it, and readied a protest. “But—” He silenced her by putting his fingers over her lips. “You need to be with your mother and sister. Your welfare is always my priority.” Japohn nodded and spoked garbled words around a mouthful of food. “Good decision, my Dramok.” She pushed Bacoj’s fingers away. “But this was a big opportunity for you.” Guilt was winning the battle. Lindsey

hated to be the reason Bacoj wasn’t realizing his potential. He shrugged as if it was no big deal. “Matara comes first.” His eyes twinkled at her in merriment. “Besides, I do not wish to explain to Empress Jessica why I keep you away for so long.” Lindsey couldn’t help but laugh at that. After the Tragoom attack two months earlier, the clan had received a passionate tirade from Jessica for breaking her sister’s heart, one in which her infamous temper had been on full display. The return vid from Bacoj, sent from his hospital

bed, had been full of extensive apologies and grave vows to never make Lindsey sad again. Kalquor’s Empress knew how to make an impression. Japohn snorted laughter. “Not even a Nobek wants to make Empress mad. Your sister is scary.” Lindsey laughed so hard tears ran down her cheeks. One day they’d figure out the marshmallow that lay beneath Jessica’s bluster. For all her temper, her sister was one of the most giving, loving creatures to roam the universe. When she recovered, Lindsey leaned over to kiss her

Dramok. “Thank you, Bacoj. But I really need to make this up to you.” His face brightened. “What you have in mind?” Lindsey slid to him to kneel over his lap. His rigid cocks greeted her as she lifted her lips to his. She ignored them — for the moment — to concentrate on the kiss they shared. She whispered against his mouth, “What does my Dramok wish of his Matara?”

Bacoj reached beneath her to position his organs. “Put me in you, my love.”

Lindsey slid over him, sighing to feel the completion of becoming one with her lover. Bacoj groaned and pulled her close, clutching her to his chest. “Stay right there for moment,” he said. “I want just to be in you.” Lindsey smiled in the comfort of his arms. They sat that way for awhile, happy to simply reconnect after a long day apart. “Love me,” he finally whispered, loosening his hold but not letting her go.

She moved her legs so that she squatted over him, allowing her freedom of movement. Lindsey took him slowly, the setting sun warm on her face, the swirling water cooling the rest of her skin. Bacoj’s flesh within her was hot, a delightful counterpoint to the whirlpool. Lindsey rose and fell, rocking back and forth, grinding in small circles to delight her lover and herself. Bacoj voiced his pleasure with alternating gasps, groans and growls. His hands lowered to cup her buttocks, squeezing the mounds as she rode him.

“Faster,” he murmured. “Just a little.” She obeyed his dictates, giving him all he desired. Every need he voiced, she granted. She watched his handsome face react to the movements she made, to the soft clutching of her sheaths around his cocks. His. Forever and ever. It wasn’t enough to think it. She had to tell him. “I’m yours in every way possible,” she whispered in his ear. He whispered back, “I was a fool to send you away, to think I could live this life without you. I welcomed death when the

Tragooms attacked.” She gripped his face between her hands. “Don’t say that. Don’t you dare. Your death would have destroyed me.” “Show me. Show me you love me as desperately as I love you.” Lindsey rode Bacoj hard in answer, clenching wet, slippery muscles around him, making him growl with need. Her mouth enveloped his in a demanding kiss, mating their tongues. She pounded against him, rough and insistent. His hands closed around her hips, adding his strength to drive her harder than ever. His

organs plunged in and out, bringing spasms to quake her belly. The first ticklish surge broke over her. “Ah. Ah. Aaaah,” she wailed, her hands gripping his broad shoulders hard. She jerked helplessly as shuddering pleasure raced throughout her body. Another rush of ecstasy made her scream when Bacoj buried his fangs in her neck, muffling his roar as he joined her in completion. His cock jerked and throbbed within as it pumped her full with his juices. Lindsey sighed as euphoria seeped its warmth into her

body. She sagged against Bacoj, and he released the bite. He slowly licked the tiny wounds, lapping up the thin streams of blood that seeped from the punctures. She nearly purred at the sensations of his rough tongue on her skin, his strong hands still gripping her hips, and his sexes twitching inside her womanhood. “There is nothing about you that I don’t love,” she said, her voice singsong with intoxication. “Lindsey,” he whispered, a world of emotion in his voice. He kissed her so thoroughly, she was left gasping again. He

chuckled as she wriggled, her needy keening telling him she was ready for another round. “Japohn, you’d better take over,” he said.

“Gladly.” The Nobek helped him lift her free. He turned her around to face him and laughed loudly when her legs clutched around his waist hard. “My Matara. You are eager today.” “Shut up and give me what I want.” “So demanding.” He smacked one buttock reprovingly, but his grin told

her he enjoyed her enthusiasm. The warmth of the blow made Lindsey more desperate than before. “It’s Bacoj’s fault. Punish him.” She moved against the hard rods sandwiched between them. “Reward me.” Japohn hissed in reaction, his eyes going almost black with desire. Their surroundings moved in a blur for half a second, and Lindsey found her back pressed against the side of the bath. The Nobek invaded her, taking her with a brute strength that brought her almost immediately. “Punishment and reward,”

he growled in her ear as she clawed his back, climax pulsing fresh electric warmth through her belly. “It is the sweetest of combinations, is it not, my Matara?” Her cries of delight answered him as he drove deep into her, his thickness pushing hard against her yielding walls. She was so tight against him, and he knew he wouldn’t last long. That was all right; he had the whole night to make love to her, over and over. The whole night? He had their entire lives. Japohn didn’t shed tears easily, but there was no

mistaking the sting in his eyes. Lindsey was his, and nothing would take her away again. He thrust ever harder, as if in doing so he could meld them together, never to be separated. She had adjusted to him beautifully, as she always did, and her slick, wet sleeves allowed for easy motion even as they clung to him. She was moist warmth, the perfect shelter for a man to find the sweetness of release after a long day. Japohn kissed her hard until her lips were swollen from his rough tasting. Lindsey gave as good as she got, her teeth

clicking against his as she speared his mouth with her tongue. His groin tightened with the oncoming orgasm, coiling in on itself as it prepared to send his seed blasting into her hearth. Everything below the waist tensed, the ache growing by the second. A little more … a little more… The force of his semen pouring through his cock to fill Lindsey’s womb was almost painful in its intensity. Japohn’s head fell back, and he howled his climax to the redtinged sky. Her body clutched and released, clutched and released, milking him greedily

for every drop until she drained him dry. Her ragged breath was a windstorm in his ear. Lindsey clung to Japohn as he shuddered against her. She’d lost count of how many times she’d climaxed, but the intoxicant Bacoj had pumped into her system wasn’t quite done with her yet. She still burned, her softest tissues tender from use. As the Nobek slowly, carefully disengaged, she moaned at the friction.

“It’s up to you, Vax,” Japohn said, carrying her to their Imdiko clanmate. “She’s still in

need.” “Sweet little Lindsey,” Vax breathed, cradling her in his arms. “Let’s see what I can do for you.” His mouth possessed hers with a gentleness that soothed and excited all at once. While he kissed her with quiet passion, he cupped a breast, his thumb rubbing her peaked nipple. She moaned in his mouth as warm pleasure cascaded from his touch to her sex. Against her lips, Vax murmured, “You’re filling out nicely. I remember no so long ago there was no so much to

fill my hand with.” “It’s your cooking. If you keep it up, I’ll get fat,” she warned with a giggle. He smiled down on her, and the loving look warmed her all over. “We work it off.” His fingertips pinched the dark pink flesh, sending fresh zings of pleasure to her core. Then they skated down her torso to explore her nether lips. Lindsey arched into his touch, excitement tumbling through her. “You very swollen, my Lindsey,” Vax told her. “Hot to the touch. Slick, and not from water.”

She groaned when one finger parted the petals of her sex to press into her. His thumb pressed her clit, and she cried out. He watched her face as he pushed in and out and circled the sensitive nub. Lindsey writhed in his grasp, unable to hold still as he pleasured her. “Such wiggling,” he chuckled. “I think I hold you down.” He stood. Holding her against him with one arm, Vax spread a towel on the deck by the bath. He lifted her to bend her over the side, resting her torso on the towel and leaving

her legs in the tub. One hand gripped the back of her neck, holding her pinned. His control over her made things inside Lindsey go molten. And when the other two men each grasped a buttock, parting her open, she went completely limp in anticipation. She loved it when they made her helpless. The strange sense of being both at their mercy but completely safe was headier than any foreplay. Vax pressed a finger inside her again, working her flesh with mastery. He knew what felt best, and within seconds Lindsey was moaning,

straining against the hands that held her to take him in as far as she could. Vax added another finger, then a third. He wasn’t gentle, but he was thorough, and Lindsey’s throaty cries punctuated every thrust. She kicked, splashing water. Her body was gathering for orgasm, her belly a clenched fist. She longed for Vax to flick her clit, to give her that one little spark that would send her into ecstasy. She was close, but she couldn’t quite get there. She slapped her palms on the towel, making muffled pattering sounds, trying to handle the growing agony of

need. “Please, Vax,” she begged. Instead of satisfying her, the Imdiko pulled his fingers free, leaving her empty, unfulfilled. Lindsey sobbed a curse, which made him laugh. “Look how red her sex is. The clitoris is swollen and out of the hood.” He sounded as if he was gloating. Bacoj chuckled. “Such an eager Matara. You should reward.” “I will. First this.”

One

of

Vax’s

fingers,

slippery from Lindsey’s juices, entered her anus. She’d already had Bacoj and Japohn’s smaller cocks in there, and the penetration wasn’t uncomfortable at all. He added a second finger, gently stretching her. It felt good, and she looked forward to taking him there the way he liked. The way she liked. She never felt more sensual than when the men took her in that most taboo manner. Even Japohn had trained her to accept his above-average endowment. The slight discomfort was nothing compared to the joy of being utterly possessed. So when Vax’s thick

erection pressed against her anus, it only heightened the trembling eagerness of impending climax. He filled her with himself, his careful invasion sweet to her every sense. Everything below her waist clenched, announcing her delight to be joined with her Imdiko. He growled in response, his hips slowly moving back and forth. When his groin met hers, the motion lifted her buttocks slightly. She was so close she could taste it. And still the cataclysm wouldn’t come. It hovered nearby, teasing and taunting. Vax kept her at the pinnacle, not quite letting her fall into

that beckoning abyss of pleasure. Lindsey’s cries were continuous, a wordless begging. Everything below ached, and the fullness of unrealized rapture ballooned bigger. Her belly tightened against the pressure, fighting to contain it though she wanted to burst. No coherent thought existed as she mindlessly reached for completion, desperate to be demolished in an explosion of bliss. “I think you’ve had enough,” Vax panted. His hand reached beneath her, his fingers searching. “Come, Lindsey.”

He pinched her clit, and she detonated. Her shrieks split the darkening sky, sent a thousand stars flying through the cosmos as she convulsed. The quickened pace of Vax’s lovemaking kept the spasms rolling through her rigid body, and his roar joined her cries. Lindsey went to a place where nothing but warm sensation existed, peppered with bursts of rapture. She knew nothing more of the men surrounding her, didn’t feel it when they lifted her from the tub, dried her off and carried her to the two pushed-together king-sized beds they shared.

When at last she emerged a little ways from the peaceful netherworld, it was dark. A light from the hallway made the room gray-toned. Sandwiched between the warm bodies of Vax and Bacoj, she blinked slowly. Japohn reached around Vax to touch her cheek.

“Are you back, my love?” he rumbled. “Sort of.” Her voice came from far away. “That’s the deepest she’s gone so far.” Bacoj spooned her from behind. His lips

pressed to her hair. “Did you enjoy?” “Very much. Bacoj?” “Yes?” “Thank you for making me your Matara. Again.” He chuckled. “Thank you for making me make you our Matara.” Lindsey sighed happily. Rank had its privileges. And love was the greatest privilege of all.

The End Did you really enjoy this

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Other books by Tracy St. John available at New Concepts Publishing

Unholy Union

THE CLANS OF KALQUOR SERIES:

Alien Embrace

Alien Rule

Alien Conquest

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