Intensity

Setting up orbital stations was lonely, but not a horrible occupation. Raine has spent years organizing computers and systems to work in harmony, but when she is sent to a spa to wait for her ride, she learns that work is not the only pleasure in life. Orell has waited for her for centuries and he is not going to let a little thing like a Terran obsession with work get in the way of him claiming his true mate. He will use every amenity at the spa to wear her down and then he will swoop in for the kill, so to speak. What is a little death amongst friends and lovers?

The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal. Criminal copyright infringement, including infringement without monetary gain, is investigated by the FBI and is punishable by up to 5 years in federal prison and a fine of $250,000. Please purchase only authorized electronic editions, and do not participate in or encourage the electronic piracy of copyrighted materials. Your support of the author’s rights is appreciated. This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events or locales or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental. Intensity Copyright © 2011 Viola Grace ISBN: 978-1-55487-991-5 Cover art by Martine Jardin All rights reserved. Except for use in any review, the reproduction or utilization of this work in whole or in part in any form by any electronic, mechanical or other means, now known or hereafter invented, is forbidden without the written permission of the publisher. Published by eXtasy Books Look for us online at: www.eXtasybooks.com

Intensity A Terran Times Tale By Viola Grace

Chapter One aine Burke ran a final check on the station and smiled. “Defence systems are up, life support is up, the tank is ready and medical is in great shape. This relay station is officially available for an occupant. Now, get me out of here.” Through the connections wired into her skull, she heard, “Excellent, Agent Burke. Your pickup has been delayed.” “Aw crap.” She rubbed at her forehead as her voice echoed in the control room. Her control officer asked, “Is there something wrong with the station?” “No, yes. There is a creepy resonance in the station that I can’t track down. I have checked every instrument and the harmonics on the station and the sound strikes every time I try to relax.” “I think it may be stress related. The chemicals in your mind have been ramped high while you got this station running. Take some time on the resort planet below while you wait for the warship to come by. It has been delayed by an emergency

R

1

Viola Grace

and it will be back as soon as it has dealt with the life-or-death situation to give you a ride back to the dispatch centre. We have set up a reservation for you and you can simply enjoy yourself for a change.” Raine looked out through one of the view screens at the blue and gold planet below. Yosh was a pretty planet, but it filled her with the same trepidation that the singing in her mind did. “Is there another option, Control?” “Nope. Take some time. Lie in the sun on the planet with nothing else on your mind. You need some time to yourself and this is the perfect moment. It won’t count against a scheduled leave and you can work on that tan you are worried about.” Raine chuckled. “Will do, Control. I will be down on Yosh when the warship comes back to get me. Ping the shuttle or the resort when they are on their way.” The dispatch officer chuckled. “Will do. You look like hell, take some time and enjoy the sun and sand.” “You can’t see me, how can you know what I am looking like these days?” “I know how many hours you have worked in that station getting it operational. You have to look like hell. Now, don’t get your implants wet.” The chuckle was friendly, but the dismissal was 2

Intensity

absolute. Whether she wanted to or not, Raine was going to land on Yosh and have fun. She just wished that the sight of the world below did not send a strange anticipation and dread through her simultaneously. Despite what the Alliance scans showed, there was something beneath her on that planet and it was waiting for her. She knew it with every inch of her body and she was going to have to go and face it. “Well, no time like the present.” She got to her feet and removed her couplings, stowing the wires after she removed them from the ports on her skull and neck. Raine twisted her head from side to side, sighing at the relief of pressure now that the electronics of the station were not being routed through her mind. Whistling in the empty halls of a station that she had set up was a tradition. She shut down and locked up each corridor after double checking that it was ready for an occupant at the drop of a hat. An early life organizing things around her down to the last napkin at a family gathering was the talent that had earned her a spot as a Volunteer. Who knew that being able to quantify and assess everything around her was a desirable trait? The station was dead silent behind her when she finished—heat, light, air, everything was 3

Viola Grace

running at minimal levels. The station was stocked with water and rations and every amenity that the caretaker of the relay would need. It got very boring on these stations, so making the caretaker comfortable was in everyone’s best interest. Her ship waited for her, the Dart. It was her most faithful companion and contained everything she had been able to bring with her from Earth. It was only one duffel bag of items, but each one made her smile and held a specific place in her heart. She had chosen the items with the same care that she used for each aspect of her occupation. She closed the door to the station carefully, sealed the hatch of the Dart and got behind the controls to do the flight checks. It took several minutes, but when she was satisfied that she was fit to fly, she keyed in the access code and the outer hatch of the station opened, expelling her ship with the burst of atmosphere that had been in the bay. Once she floated free, Raine fired the engines and turned toward the planet. Enforced vacation or not, the Alliance was only going to look for her on the planet. If she wanted to connect with a jump ship at any point, she needed to be somewhere they could find her and that somewhere was Yosh. She settled in orbit and did a few scans, looking for the landing site. The resort was very low key, a subtle environment on the most beautiful coastline of Yosh. The beacon lit the moment that she sent 4

Intensity

out a probe and it led her in toward the dubious relaxation of the resort. “I can always cancel my reservation and move along.” She chortled at the sound of her own voice, but she was already used to speaking to herself. After a brief introduction to Alliance protocols, she had been offered implants to bring her attention to detail to larger items, buildings and small stations. Being in company while she did her work had never been an option, so talking to herself became second nature. She was immensely amusing. A peculiar hum settled in her mind and she shook her head, promising herself that she would have her implants overhauled at the earliest opportunity. The hum had been prevalent in her mind since she started work on the station, but it was the fact that it grew stronger every day that had her worried. If her implants were degrading, she was going to be in for a very uncomfortable time. “Welcome to the Yosh Resort, Madam Burke. Please be welcome and comfortable.” The graceful woman greeted Raine the moment that she opened the hatch of her shuttle. Two of her four arms placed a ring of flowers on Raine’s head and the others reached for her duffel bag. “I can carry my own bags.” “It is not necessary and it is the function of the 5

Viola Grace

bellhop to carry baggage. You travel very light compared with the guests we normally take on.” The woman’s smile on her lavender face was genuine. Raine stepped down and turned to lock her shuttle, the heady scent of the floral crown surrounded her. The attendant carried the bag easily, so Raine shrugged and walked at her side. “Do you have many guests?” “Currently, there are approximately a dozen other guests here. High season does not resume for another two months.” “Ah. What is your name?” “Heela of the Mordichai cluster.” The woman’s elaborate black coronet bobbed as she inclined her head. Raine was wearing her hair in her customary ponytails on either side of her head. They left her ports open for jacking in at any time. She couldn’t help but admire the detail in the braiding and smiled at the knowledge that Heela was a married woman with her husband on the planet. The detail of the braids indicated social standing, marital status and spousal occupation. “Your husband works here as well?” The woman grinned at her. “Yes, he is the manager at the front desk. If you need anything, ask for Tvoro. He will sort you out or I will be loosening my braids.” 6

Intensity

Raine chuckled. “Is that an offer made to any guests?” “No. Most of them believe that there are no physical means for their services, everything happens by magic. It is refreshing to work for someone who works for a living.” They cleared the private landing area and when they rounded the corner, a glowing palace of crystal hummed in the afternoon sun. “Welcome to the Yosh Resort and Spa.”

7

Viola Grace

Chapter Two very inch of the facility was spotless. Pale grey marble lined the floor, flowers bloomed everywhere and fresh breezes blew through, bringing the sounds of nature in from the bay and the gardens in the centre of the complex. A handsome man wearing the tight braids of a married Vendu greeted her at the desk. “Madam Burke, welcome to the Yosh Resort and Spa.” “Thank you, Tvoro.” Heela winked and nodded. “I will bring these to your room while you check in.” Chuckling, she asked Tvoro, “Why do I need to check in when you have already assigned me a room?” “Ah, Madam Burke, it is so that I can acquaint you with the facilities and amenities of our facility. Please, come with me.” The man waved two of his four arms as he exited from behind the desk. Bemused, she followed him to an open office with windows facing the interior garden.

E

8

Intensity

“Here at the—” “Yosh Resort and Spa. Yes, please, get to the point. I am rather thirsty.” She waved her hand in circles to speed his speech. “Please forgive me. Of course, you must be tired from your journey.” He pressed a discreet button on the table and in less than thirty seconds, a woman appeared with a pitcher of iced water with slices of citrus and a glass. “It isn’t that I am thirsty from the journey, I have just been spending quite a bit of time in space. Water isn’t plentiful on rations.” He darkened to purple. “I forgot.” “Don’t worry, Tvoro, I am the forgive-and-forget type.” She took the glass he handed her and sighed happily as the liquid slid down her parched throat. “This place is truly lovely. Why haven’t I heard of it before I was sent to set up the relay station?” He looked down. “This is an expensive and exclusive resort. Few Alliance members can afford it.” She blushed this time. “Right. I forgot that I was allowed to come here due to political manoeuvring.” He looked surprised, his black eyes widened. “On the contrary, you were invited by our management.” That shocked her to her toes. “I was?” 9

Viola Grace

“Of course. You have the prime guesthouse. We had to extract a few of our regular guests to make that happen, but management made it worth their while.” She wrapped some hair around her finger and furrowed her brow in confusion. “I don’t understand. When was this done?” “Three days ago. The management insisted on nothing but the best for you and that is what we provided.” His chest puffed out in pride. “The resort provides round-the-clock room service. Whatever your species needs, we can provide. There are full spa treatments available and you need only call the front desk to book an aesthetician and they will be waiting when you reach the spa.” She smiled and imagined the list. She jumped as it appeared and formed itself into Alliance Common behind her eyes. Her implants were picking up on the lists and she blinked frantically to clear the vision. “What is it, Madam Burke?” “Raine, please. The signal that provides your menus and lists is similar to the one for my implants. I am seeing the impressive list of options across your face.” He paled and immediately brought out a data pad, made adjustments to the pervasive field, sending the signal to all of the outlets. “Is that 10

Intensity

better, Madam Raine?” She sighed as the signal shifted. “Yes. Now, all I hear is the static of my implants and I see nothing abnormal.” “We haven’t dealt with any altered guests, so pardon the frequency.” “Of course. Now, what other amenities do you have?” He smiled and began to go over the pools and gardens as well as the dining room. “We have a charming dining room and bar for those guests who wish to mingle while they dine. You are more than welcome to join any party you wish.” Her mind jumped with enthusiasm before she remembered that she had little to no clothing suitable for this venue. “Management has arranged a wardrobe for you that will enable you to blend in with the clientele here at the resort. You will have everything you want, you need only whisper your requirements and they will be granted.” She nodded. “Thank you, I am sure that I will be very comfortable.” He grinned and stood, “Please allow me to escort you to your guesthouse. It has already been keyed to your biometrics.” “The Alliance again?” “Of course.” He walked a respectful distance from her as they moved down marble pathways 11

Viola Grace

flanked by wild, fragrant greenery. “Who built this resort? It seems ancient but this planet has never been settled. It was startling to find that there was a habitation here.” “That is a query for management. I am sure it will be answered in time.” Questions could wait until later. She inclined her head as a wave of fatigue ran over her. “I will be very pleased to get to my room.” “Of course. This way.” He increased his pace and soon, they were passing under an archway between two enormous trees. She fought the urge to stop and gawk at the miniature castle that appeared in the green expanse but had to say, “Wow.” “It is lovely. It is our most requested guesthouse. There is a maid or butler on staff at all times and a private pool as well as a private path to the ocean if you wish to spend your time on the beach.” He was proud of the facility and it showed. Tvoro showed her the main entryway and introduced her to Minya, her personal servant for the duration of her stay. Minya was sober and no-nonsense, dismissing Tvoro and taking control of Madam Raine. The moment that he was out the door, Minya looked over Raine from head to toe. “Madam, I believe you need a hot soak and a good night’s rest. I will read your specs and have a meal 12

Intensity

brought in the moment you wake.” The woman in the crisp green uniform had the look of a battlefield commander. Her braids marked her as a widow and her stance was ex-military. Raine couldn’t stifle her urge to salute. “Yes, Minya. That sounds wonderful. Lead the way.” The halls were dotted with tables and vases full of flowers. Wide windows opened to catch every ounce of natural light. It was just nice to walk through the halls and not worry about disturbing the other guests. Minya was silent, sensing that she was not up to a tour. When she opened the double doors to the bedroom suite, Raine had to hold her breath again. The beauty of the room was astounding and it brought to mind the exotic hotels back on Earth, each trying to outdo themselves with craftsmanship and beauty. This one trumped every picture she had ever seen. “Oh, this is wonderful.” Her expression came out on a soft exhalation of air. “It really is. Do you have to seal your ports before you bathe?” Minya was bustling around the room, starting a bath in the huge sunken tub and turning down the bed. “Yes. I had a canister of sealant with me. It was in my bag.” Minya quickly darted into the lav and returned 13

Viola Grace

with the canister. “Would you like me to spray them?” “Have you sealed ports before?” Minya nodded. “We had some communicators back in the Mordichai cluster. I worked with a few of them.” She shrugged and sat at the dressing table. “Be my guest. Three light coats usually does the job.” Minya stroked her hair away from her neck and gave a light squirt of the sealant. “It’s silver.” “Yeah, that is so that everyone knows what I am. It keeps the awkward explanations of the metal ridges in my head to a minimum.” “I will try and stay tidy then.” Amusement was in Minya’s tone and she used short strokes to complete the neck port and then she moved on to the temples and the forehead. “I have a port over each ear as well.” “Very well. This is working quickly, how do you get it off?” “I can give out a short pulse that cracks the sealant.” “Handy. What is your designation? Not a lot of Alliance personnel make it to this resort.” The very understated nature of the observation made her laugh. “I am a logistical specialist. I get stations up and running so that when personnel arrive, all the bugs have been worked out.” “That sounds difficult.” 14

Intensity

“That is why I have the implants. They let me see all the systems in the station at the same time.” “As if you become part of the station itself?” “Yes, I measure its life signs and correct what needs correcting for the target species.” She sighed as the cool sealant closed the ports in an armour-plated gel. “There you go, Madam Raine. Your bath is ready.” Minya backed off and replaced the canister in the lav. Raine opened her eyes and checked the seals in the mirror. Each port had a tiny silver cap on it and a quick touch with her fingers confirmed that her ports were indeed covered. She walked to the edge of the huge soaking tub and smiled. “I will just take a quick shower and then come back for that soak.” Minya smiled in approval and prepared a stack of towels. In the shower, Raine could barely contain the pleasure that vibrated through her at the touch of hot water. It seemed to be years since her skin had absorbed moisture that wasn’t ingested. Gel showers were efficient and perfect for a person with the implants, but the quick-hardening slime was less than satisfying as a cleaning mechanism. Water, however, was perfect. Knowing that a hot bath waited made her shower for cleansing purposes only. She exited 15

Viola Grace

from the shower and wrapped herself in the fluffiest robe she had ever put on. Patting on bare feet, she blushed when she noticed Minya waiting to take her robe. “I am your maid while you are here, Madam Raine, best you get used to my assistance.” The maid slid the robe from her shoulders and helped her into the tub. As the water churned around her, she smiled. She just might be able to get used to this environment. Now, if only her implants would stop humming, she might just be able to relax.

16

Intensity

Chapter Three he beds on Yosh had to be made of puffy clouds, because when she sat up and Minya placed a tray on her lap, she realized that she hadn’t slept that well in years. “Is it morning?” “Yes, Madam. You slept for eighteen hours. It is amazing what relaxation can do for your rest. Now, have some water. You are dehydrated.” Meekly, Raine rubbed at her eyes with one hand while holding a glass to her lips with her other. When the first glass was empty, another was placed on her tray. “I have booked some spa treatments for you. Your skin is rather dry and you have enough tension in your shoulders to enable me to break rocks on them.” Raine grinned and shrugged, “It’s an occupational hazard. It isn’t a natural thing to run electronics through one’s brain. It takes a toll.” She drank the second glass of water and then started to squirm slightly.

T

17

Viola Grace

Minya nodded and lifted the tray. “Your breakfast will be waiting at the table.” After the necessary events of morning were taken care of, she put on the fluffy bathrobe waiting for her and returned to the bedroom. “Wow, you are fast.” The room looked pristine, as if Raine had not just spent close to a Terran day asleep in that huge bed. Minya finished shoving the used sheets into a cleaning cabinet and she nodded. “I do this for a living, Madam.” A dome had been put over her breakfast, keeping it hot for her return. A selection of cured meats, eggs, toast and fruit waited for her. Memories of her last meal on Earth rioted in her mind as she took her first bites. “It tastes like…home.” Minya grinned. “I will tell the staff. They were concerned that they hadn’t gotten the textures right. They slaved over your breakfast all night.” Raine chuckled. “So, I should expect a lunch at sundown?” “No, Madam. Now that we know we have found your correct taste zone as well as dietary requirements, everything will be adapted for your species specifications.” “When do you sleep, Minya?” “I slept last night. I have a room on the main 18

Intensity

floor and an alarm sounds in my room if you get out of bed, alerting me to your needs.” “That is a little much. Can’t you just tell me when you are on duty and I will move my schedule around you?” Minya smiled. “It doesn’t work that way. I am only explaining it to you so that you are aware of what is going on around you. I believe it is important for you to be aware of what the staff here is used to so that you will understand the attitudes of the guests here. They expect us to be available no matter the time of day or how tired we are. You are an unusual guest and the others will expect you to act like they do.” The maid went to the wardrobe and withdrew a glittering piece of fabric and a pair of jewelled sandals. “This will help you to blend in. The management has provided a full wardrobe for you so that you won’t experience any uncomfortable moments. There is a jewel chest within the drawer of the dressing table. You can select whatever you wish.” Curious and with a mouthful of toast, Raine got to her feet and investigated the drawer, choking at the cask of jewels and gems that met her gaze. It took a lot of swallowing and coughing, but eventually, she got herself back under control. “Is there some kind of deposit I have to leave?” “No, Madam. They are at your disposal so that 19

Viola Grace

you will feel at home here.” With Minya’s help, she got dressed and slipped into the sandals. Minya selected jewels that made Raine’s eyes look huge in the mirror. The sarong was a clingy platinum and the blue green pearls made her skin glow and her eyes seem dreamy. Her hair was arranged in a loose tumble that framed her features and when Minya was finished fussing, Raine had to admit that she looked fabulous. “Someone at the front desk will take you to the spa. A full range of body and skin care has been scheduled and before you know it, you will be one hundred percent.” The soft slap of her sandals kept her company as she left her private house and made her way through the fragrant gardens surrounding her home away from home. An attendant welcomed her to the reception area and led her through silent halls to the spa. The masseuse had strong hands and the intoxicating flowers were blooming in a pot nearby. After an hour of being forcibly relaxed, Raine was soaked, buffed, polished, trimmed and plucked until she was sure that every inch of skin was throbbing with awareness and abrasion. Back in her sandals and gown with her hair up in an elaborate and gem-studded arrangement, she followed her nose to the dining room. The staff 20

Intensity

came to her without her beckoning and in a moment, she was seated with a server all her own standing by. By the time she finished selecting her food, two of the other guests had arrived and were being seated. It was the first time she had seen other guests up close. In the spa, walls had separated them and she had heard a few other females and males but had not been exposed to them. One couple had a very unattractive male with a Selna female in elegant garb. The woman looked to her companion, but the male smiled at Raine, exposing dangerously pointed teeth. Uncomfortable, she adjusted her field of vision to the new couple coming into the dining room. They were aloof, elegant and didn’t give her more than a passing glance. The dining room went from pleasant to prickly in a moment and when her server attended her again, the woman whispered, “The management has requested your presence in the private dining room. Please, come with me.” Relieved, she got to her feet and followed the woman to a set of invisible doors that appeared as a hairline crack in the wall before swinging open. The other inhabitants of the dining room stared as she followed her server through the huge doors. The crystals that made up the walls took on a 21

Viola Grace

rougher-hewn look as they walked the twenty feet to the room with one occupant. Raine blinked in surprise as she recognized the species from the latest Terran Times instalment, dragon shifters that had become creatures of human, as well as a number of other species, mythologies. Drai or Draikyn were one of the oldest races in the Alliance and it was only since the entry of Terrans to the Alliance that the dragons had resurfaced. He stood and bowed from the waist, his elegant movements in complete concert with his white vest and dark trousers. His midnight hair slid slowly over one shoulder, caressing his neck as he raised his head, his aqua eyes twinkling. “Welcome to Yosh, Raine Burke.” His huge bat wings flexed and shivered as he straightened to his full seven-foot height. “Thank you.” “I am your host, Orell Kovik. Are you enjoying your stay?” He moved around the table and pulled out her chair. She took her seat carefully, keeping the long slit of her gown as closed as she could manage while he stood over her. “I am enjoying my stay so far. The hospitality offered here has been exceptional.” She touched her neck self-consciously. Those aqua eyes of his were focussed on her implants. 22

Intensity

“Pardon my stare, but I have not seen a woman with data jacks in her head before. Do they bother you at all?” He took his seat across from her and nodded to the server. The server opened another section of wall and retreated through it. At his bald question, she answered him frankly. “I have experienced a bit of buzzing recently, so I will probably have to have them overhauled when I next go to the dispatch centre. It has become a rather annoying counterpoint to the serenity here.” She rubbed at her forehead a little and then put a bright smile on her face. “So, you are the management?” “I am the owner of Yosh as well as the resort, yes.” He leaned back in his chair and his wings extended out to either side, framing his bronze body in dark, satiny skin. She swallowed as some of the dreams she had had the previous night flickered into her consciousness. Half-forgotten images of wings, hands and lips on hers burned to life in her mind where before she had only had a faded memory of sensual warmth. A blush came to her cheeks and she folded her hands in her lap. “Is it a family business?” He grinned at her discomfort. “No, I am the original owner. I designed the resort and then went for a nap while it ran quietly, supporting 23

Viola Grace

itself as I slept.” A ripple of unease went through Raine. The possessiveness in his gaze was unmistakable and her last medical check had taken longer than necessary. “I see. So you are one of the Drai sleepers that have been making themselves known of late?” He inclined his head. “I am. Centuries of silence and then you were nestled above me for weeks. How was I to resist?” She leaned forward, a dangerous manoeuvre in her wrap gown, and glared at him. “You are not making yourself quite clear and I value clarity.” The server returned with glasses of water and wine, setting selections in front of Orell before placing hers in front of Raine. He sipped at his wine and watched her carefully. “You are the female that the Alliance has authorized to be my wife. Your genetics are a baseline match and all alterations for compatibility have been made already. There is only one thing standing in the way of my courtship of you.” She blinked. “I thought it had all been arranged.” “Arrangements are nothing if there can be no feeling between us. Drai courtship has several stages and with you, I cannot even begin the most basic of all overtures.” He propped his chin up on his fist. 24

Intensity

“There is a certain amount of frustration to that, but I am sure that things will be settled in the end. I simply need to engage in patience and that is something my generation of Drai excel at.” She bit her lip as courses of food began to appear. “What are the stages of courtship?” She lifted her fork and began to tease her salad. “The first contact is the dream. The second is the song that the male sings so that the female becomes used to his mental touch. The third is for the female to admit she has gotten the contact efforts from the male. Then the fourth is almost final. You must come to my home and approve of it as your own. The fifth level is consummation. That one is self-explanatory.” He spread his words between bites as each sentence gave her a bit of insight into his motivation and the actions he described. “I see. Anything else?” She sat back as the servant removed her plate and replaced it with the next course. “Yes. The Baku crime family has placed a price on your head. Three representatives of their organization are in the outer room and if I do not hand you over to them, they will attack Yosh with all of their available ships in an effort to retain your person for their purposes.” He continued to eat the next course as if he hadn’t a care in the world. Her mind flashed her images of the Hiral with 25

Viola Grace

his shark-like smile, the Prial couple with their lack of eye contact, a peculiar behaviour for a curious species. “They want me? A price on my head?” She ate absently, her mind whirling at the danger that lurked only a dozen metres away. “Yes. Apparently, the relay stations that you have set up are impervious to attack. They want you for the purpose of either hacking into existing systems or creating systems for them. You are quite popular in certain circles.” His grin showed extended canines. Her smile was weak. “Yeah, who knew?” He remained remarkably calm as she went into a spiral of confusion. As if there were no true danger, they ate their meal, course after course, in silence while she tried to find a way out of her one conclusion. She was screwed.

26

Intensity

Chapter Four hat the hell am I supposed to do?” The aggression that burst out of her was unlike her, but the pain in her mind was growing with every moment. The static was building to a horrible pitch and since she didn’t know what was causing it, the fear and confusion were taking over. “Raine, is there something wrong?” He left his chair and was at her side in an instant. “The pain in my implants. There has been static with me for weeks, but the pain is new.” “This static, has it been only a few weeks?” She gritted her teeth as a wave of pain washed through her thoughts. “Yes.” Through her narrowed eyes, she saw him pale. In a second, the pain receded to a more tolerable irritation. “What did you do?” She slumped in relief. “I took some of the pressure off. A specialist will be here in a day or two. She will take a look at the implants for you. I have heard that for some, they

“W

27

Viola Grace

act as a low-grade infection.” His face was incredibly close and she couldn’t help but notice the enticing scent coming from his skin. Blushing, she closed her eyes and rubbed her forehead. “The pain hadn’t reached that level of intensity before. Whatever is going wrong is picking up speed.” “Don’t worry about it. Now, what shall I tell the crime family waiting in the dining room?” She blinked. “You aren’t going to collect the price on my head?” He laughed—a low sound that crept inside her and plucked nerves that had spent too much time alone. “Of course not. I have my own designs on you. I just wanted you to be aware of what was going on. We will send them away and they will return. Hopefully, we will be ready for them when they come back to collect you.” “We?” He took her hand in his own. “We. Whether we progress beyond this moment of partnership or not, we will definitely be a we while facing your enemies.” She straightened her shoulders and fought the rising nausea. “Then, I suppose we should start by telling them that they can leave without me.” He smiled and nodded to the servant hovering in the doorway. The woman bobbed a quick curtsey and disappeared down the hall. 28

Intensity

“Denna will send the message, Tvoro will make them leave. Would you care to get some fresh air?” She nodded, on the verge of tears. Shifting emotions had never been easy for her, even as a child. Tears were always her default for the frustration of altering direction and shocking information. She had cried when her mother was diagnosed with cancer, cried when she underwent failing treatment and had shocked her family when she didn’t shed a tear at the funeral. Raine had reacted to shock but not to the loss. She calculated the loss as part of the initial information. Calculation was her life. “Yes, I believe that it would be nice to go for a bit of a walk.” He took her by the hand and a wall opened up for them as they left the private dining room. “That is a lovely trick.” Orell grinned. “Most Drai can manipulate their homes. I installed the secret entrances and exits in the property when I constructed it centuries ago.” “You have been here for centuries?” They passed the gardens and slowly paced their way to the beach. “More or less. When I was told that my true mate would not be travelling the stars for several generations, I purchased this unoccupied world, built the resort and spa as well as a home on the sea.” 29

Viola Grace

Raine fought the urge to freeze in place. Since she had been a child, her dreams had contained dragons and a green castle on the sea. After she adapted to the short, sharp shock that his words had sent through her, she straightened her shoulders again and paced with him toward the sea. The ocean breezes tugged at her skirt, pulling it away from her legs as they walked on the paved stone path next to the beach. “You have been awake here for that long?” “No, as soon as the building was finished, I set up the organizational system for the spa and resort and went to sleep. It made enough money over the time I was sleeping to have paid for Yosh twice over.” She nodded. “A good business plan. Apparently, I am not the only one who likes to plan ahead.” He chuckled and tucked her hand in the crook of his arm. Her fingertips memorized the flex of every muscle under her touch. “Drai are notorious for collecting financial security. We crave it like some species crave air.” Raine noted that he carefully blocked the full force of wind from her by a slow flexing of his wings. The courtly action made her smile. “So, why was I treated to a full makeover when I arrived?” 30

Intensity

He looked her over. “You work hard. You deserve to be treated well when not on active duty.” She raised her eyebrows. “Will there be an active duty here on Yosh if your courtship is successful?” “A woman with your talents needs to be able to use them. With a little help and organization, I believe that there is a position here for you that will challenge and occupy your intellect whenever you so choose.” She paused and looked up at him with amazement. “You are serious.” Orell leaned down and pressed a soft kiss on her lips. “I am always serious.” She went up on her toes as he continued the contact, his lips firm and warm, parting hers. Her nipples scraped against the silk of her dress, her belly tingled and she clenched and unclenched her hands as they shared the one point of connection. The static rose in her mind again, as suddenly as it had cut off before, and she cried out as she staggered back. The spike of pain stopped and Orell cursed as he lifted her off her feet, carrying her down the beach and up the private path to her guesthouse. Minya opened the door and he swept past her, lifting her effortlessly up the stairs to her room. As he laid her on the bed, he caressed the implants on 31

Viola Grace

her forehead and neck. “I am sorry. The specialist is on her way.” As he left her, the pain faded again and Minya took control of her. “Ah, Madam, you need more rest. Let me run another bath for you.” “No. No more bathing. I just want to sleep.” She rolled to her side and cuddled the pillow under her head. With Minya gone to do whatever it was that personal maids did while the guest was sleeping, Raine went over everything that she had learned that night. There was a dragon on Yosh and he had designs on her future, she had a price on her head and she was being hunted for her mind, her implants were trying to kill her or at least give her a migraine and the dragon who wanted her future had a kiss that could melt stone. All in all, it was a little much to take. Raine curled up in a ball, the slick fabric of her gown skidding her across the bedding. After a few minutes of trying to settle, she stripped the gown off, kicked off her sandals and crawled between the sheets with nothing on but the jewels and hairpins. Her dreams fought her control every step of the way, but when she woke from a restless night, she knew one thing—her dreams about dragons had taken a severely heated turn. 32

Intensity

She stumbled free of the bed and grimaced at the slickness of her thighs as she made her way to the lav. It took her ten minutes to pull all of the pins and braids out of her hair, but after a quick shower and a rapid scrub of her teeth, she felt ready to face the day. Minya was waiting with a change of clothing for her and a polite smile on her face. “Madam, you had the worst night’s sleep I have ever witnessed. You are expected in the salon in ten minutes for a rejuvenating massage.” “Seriously, after everything I learned yesterday, I don’t think that a massage is the solution to my problems.” She slid into the miniscule top and micro skirt, frowning at herself in the mirror. “Madam, get out that door and to the salon. Your breakfast will be ready after your massage. Now go.” Minya’s military posture was evident. There was no arguing with her, so Raine didn’t even try. She slipped on her sandals and pattered down the halls, the metallic skirt swaying against her ass. She felt completely naked beneath her skirt and when the breeze stroked her, she realized that she was. What was it about this place that left underwear out of the wardrobe? The receptionist at the salon got to her feet and quickly escorted her to a treatment room with a quick smile and a nervous gesture. 33

Viola Grace

Raine removed her clothing and jewels, covering herself with a sheet. She lay down on the bed, face up, and waited. She didn’t wait long. A woman with only two arms and dark rainbow hair came in. “Hello, Raine. My name is Fixer and I am the specialist.” Raine knew the name and lay still as the most talented woman in the Sector Guard pressed her fingers to the implants and as she stroked them, the pain and static faded away leaving music in its place.

34

Intensity

Chapter Five ixer worked on each implant individually, making polite conversation as she did so. “Relay speaks very highly of you.” “She has been a good resource while I set up the stations. She also speaks highly of you.” The touch on her skin was cool and soothing with a slight tingle. The music in her mind was subtle now. “Are my implants causing me to have audio hallucinations?” Fixer gave her an upside down smile. “No. That isn’t what you are hearing. You know what that is, don’t you?” Raine sighed. “It’s Orell. He has been trying to make contact with me since I got into this part of space. From what I have read, it is a Drai courtship ritual.” Fixer smoothed her fingers down and across Raine’s forehead in an endless pattern of trickling energy. “It is. The Drai prove compatibility by touching their mate’s mind. That is their biggest

F

35

Viola Grace

proof of a solid match, their mate hearing their call.” A tension that she didn’t realize she was holding onto released and Raine smiled at the pain-free moment. It was her first since the implants had been placed. “The implants act in Terrans like a low-grade infection. Your body can tolerate them for a time and then they begin to increase your sensitivity to everything. After a while, you start becoming one with the systems you work on and if steps aren’t taken, you lock yourself in with the data.” “How many of us have you fixed?” “Seven. Some have been Guardsmen, some not. There. You are done. The implants are made of a neutral material and are now sub-dermal with a valve that will allow you to jack in when you need it.” Fixer smiled. “That was…way too easy.” “Thanks. It’s what I strive for. Now, get dressed so that we can get some breakfast. I am starving.” Fixer’s smile was infectious and soon, Raine was dressed and they made their way to the dining hall. Orell was sitting next to a male Selna in a uniform that matched Fixer’s. The rest of the dining room was completely empty. “That is my partner, Shade.” Fixer explained the male Selna with the wave of her hand. 36

Intensity

“Pleased to meet you, Shade.” The Guardsman stood and approached her, taking one of her hands and bowing low over it. “It is enchanting to meet you, Agent Burke.” “Thank you, Shade. I don’t mean to be rude, but I was looking forward to breakfast.” She smiled kindly at Shade and his mouth opened slightly in shock. Fixer grinned and moved to seat herself. Shade immediately abandoned Raine and assisted his mate to a seat. Orell held a chair out for Raine and she couldn’t help but notice that it was as far from the handsome Shade as he could manage. The moment that they were seated, servants brought out hot tea, caf, iced water with citrus and a selection of breads and jams. To Raine’s amusement, the food was placed in front of Fixer and she had to make do with her caf and water. “Fixer requires food to make up for her loss of energy while using her talent. Your meal is on the way.” Orell lifted one of her hands to his lips and pressed a kiss on her knuckles. The music in her mind took on a sensual note and she blinked at the heat that spiralled from her hand and straight to her core. She didn’t jerk her hand back and that in and of itself told her that she wasn’t afraid of his advances. As a human amongst races that she had 37

Viola Grace

never imagined could be real, she had never found one that called to her in a way that was beyond mere curiosity. Something inside her recognized him and that little frisson of enthusiasm was going to be her downfall. A teeny, tiny little cheerleader in her mind hopped up and down the moment that he looked her way. When he placed her hand back on the table, she fought to keep her face straight, but knew she failed when Fixer shot her a knowing look. The music in her mind was a seductive cadence so enthralling that she almost missed Shade’s comment. “So, a shit-storm is about to hit Yosh. Do you need any help?” She perked up and looked around the table at her dining companions, sighing in relief as food was slid in front of her. “We are prepared for the Baku. Thank you, Fixer, for setting up the control centre.” Fixer raised one hand in acknowledgement and kept eating. Raine had to ask, “Control centre?” Orell inclined his head. “I will show you after breakfast. One of the initial installations to Yosh was a defence system, but without a control centre, they were simply underground weapons that could be manually fired if needed. Fixer assisted with that now that we are guarding one of the 38

Intensity

relay stations.” She nodded. Her eagerness to see what he was referring to was probably evident in the speed at which she ate. A delicate round of burps emanated from her as she sat and waited for everyone else to finish. The music in her mind went from sensual to soothing, calming her from the inside out as she fidgeted. When Fixer and Shade said their goodbyes, she smiled warmly and thanked Fixer sincerely. The Guardsmen left and she was standing in the middle of the reception area with Orell. She turned on him the moment that the other couple left. “Where is the control centre?” He grinned down at her enthusiasm. “We are standing on it. Request it again, but ask to access it this time.” “Access Control Centre.” She jumped and was caught in Orell’s arms as a chair and console rose from the floor. “It is keyed to your voice and your implants have been taken into account. Feel free to examine the layout, but you only have one hour before we need to speak about a more personal matter.” His tone was implacable, but his expression was indulgent. “Now, go and play.” She chuckled and made a beeline for the control seat, plugging the jacks into her ports the moment 39

Viola Grace

that she found them. Raine settled into the chair and let her mind run through the system checks and finally into the weapon stations themselves. She whistled low and long. “Three hundred weapons?” “I wanted to be prepared for anything.” She counted and did checks on the weapon stations. “Two hundred fifty are still operational, the other fifty require hefty repair.” She could see him, though her eyes overlaid the display on his features. He was sitting across from her, beyond the control station. His entering notes into a data pad and handing it off to Tvoro reinforced his casual attitude. Apparently, even with few if any guests, there was still administration to be carried out. “Oh.” She found the satellites that measured the local system for unusual activity. With just a little bit of tweaking, she managed to work her way into the relay station. “Wow.” A cleared throat tried to get her attention and when she refused to stop playing, a power reduction pulled her back to the control centre. She rubbed her eyes and glared up at Orell, “Spoilsport.” “I gave you three hours. Now it is time for our little discussion.” He helped her uncouple her implants, then lifted her to her feet. Returning to her body always gave her a rush of 40

Intensity

sensation and having even the minimal contact with him was enough to start a pulse in her core. Flustered, she tried to pull her hands from his, but he tugged her to him and with her body flush against his, she had an interest, but it was not in his discussion. “Come with me. What we have to discuss is not for the staff to hear.” He tucked her hand on his arm and they walked out into the afternoon light. “How long was I in there? I remember getting up just after dawn or so.” She looked up at the sun and blinked in surprise. “Fixer had you in her clutches for three hours, our lunch took two hours and then you locked down into the control centre for three hours. You have had a busy day.” His tone was light, but the music in her mind was sober. She chuckled and he swung her into his arms, the impact of their bodies shocking her out of her amusement. He lifted her up, his arms wrapping around her as he brought his lips to hers. This kiss was all about possession and not about convincing her to give in. Music swelled in her mind and she wrapped her legs around his hips for balance as she threaded her fingers into his hair for a better grip. The music took on a rhythm that she matched with her hips, rocking her clit against him until she gasped and stiffened in his arms. 41

Viola Grace

She felt wind rush all around her and it wasn’t until she pulled free of his intoxicating kiss that she noticed that they were airborne.

42

Intensity

Chapter Six aine was conflicted. On one hand, she was aroused and eager. On the other hand, she was in the grip of a winged man and flying out over open water. She couldn’t decide which emotional spike to ride through the storm of choices. The sting of saltwater coasted along her limbs and contrasted with the heat of Orell’s hands gripping her ass and thighs. She trailed kisses along his jaw and down the thick cord of his neck. He groaned when she started to use her teeth. “Raine, if you want to stay out of the water, stop doing that.” His voice was a heavy growl. She lifted her head and felt the throbbing in her lips. Stopping was the last thing that she wanted to do. He felt amazing, felt great and tasted better. There was no way she wanted to stop, but she did. The moment that she lifted her lips from his, they gained altitude until she could see the castle

R

43

Viola Grace

that had haunted her dreams since childhood. Green spires and crystal walls rose out of the sea on a platform that kept it just above the surface of the water. She smiled as they circled the towers before entering one of the high and open windows. His wings beat the air and he slowly lowered her to the cool expanse of a bed that took up half the tower room. She leaned back on her elbows and stared up at him as he shuddered and flexed his wings as he struggled for control. Her mind told her that she should be terrified. He was twelve inches taller than her tallest boyfriend back on Earth and that had to lead to any number of distortions of proportion. “Now, for our discussion.” He removed his shirt and crawled onto the bed, keeping his body above hers while he met her gaze with his aqua eyes. She watched his head get closer to her breasts and with his teeth, he tugged the closure of her top. Two fasteners she didn’t know were there, hidden in the embroidery, gave way under the sharp nips. Raine held her breath as he grazed her skin with his teeth, leaving trails of sensation behind. Tracks of heart-pounding fire followed each nip, lick and swirl of his tongue. When her blouse was open and nothing but her 44

Intensity

skin parted them, she gasped at the roar of wet heat that swirled through her to concentrate between her thighs. He took his time, working his way over every inch of her flesh, leaving individual flames running through her. She tried to thread her fingers through his hair, but he grabbed her hands and pinned them next to her head with a growl. “I talk, you listen.” She listened with every press of his lips to her flesh. Every tug on her nipples and when the heat of his breath teased the lips between her thighs. She listened with every inch of her being. His tongue parted her, causing her body to arch between her heels and shoulders. As the dexterous, wet heat slid in flickering circles on her clit, she let her breath out on a high-keening wail. “Welcome to the conversation.” His chuckle ran through her and he surged up along her body, grinning down at her. She was twisting, frantic. To be so close to release and then to have him pull away was beyond what she had been expecting. “I thought I was to listen.” “That was to your body, not to you.” He moved off her with a sudden flare of his wings and in the bright light streaming through the windows, she saw him in all his glory. He paused for a moment, flexing his wings and 45

Viola Grace

letting her get a good look at what she was getting into or what would soon be getting in to her. He was long, longer than her hand and if he wasn’t thicker than her wrist, he didn’t miss it by much. She bit her lip and contemplated escape until she remembered that she had been altered for this. None of the women who were mated to Drai had run screaming to the Alliance, so she had to trust that the doctors knew what they were doing and that Orell wouldn’t cause her any permanent damage. When he saw whatever he was looking for in her eyes, he came toward her and repositioned himself over her. He wove his fingers through hers, lifting them to press kisses to the knuckles before returning them to their gentle imprisonment beside her head. He worked down her body once again. This time, he used his teeth to remove her miniscule skirt instead of going under it. There was a tearing sound and she was bare to the soft exhalations, the tugs of his teeth and the tireless efforts of his tongue. With every wet slide, she held her breath and exhaled on a moan. He parted her with his tongue and delved inside in a slow and insidious rhythm that had her back on the brink of release with only a few strokes. To Raine’s surprise, Orell was making noises of 46

Intensity

enjoyment and it seemed that he was never going to stop until he pulled away from her with a groan and slid up her body, fitting the flaring head of his cock to her. His grip on her hands gave him leverage as he started to surge into her with his hips propelling him into her in minute increments. He held her in place and as the pressure inside her built until she thought she was going to shatter before she took one more millimetre of him, he began to retreat. When he came back into her, she didn’t know if it was her slickness or his, but it went easier and she was able to open her eyes to meet his heated aqua gaze. Once her eyes were open, he started to thrust in earnest, taking her beyond what she had previously seen as the pinnacle of her arousal until she feared the impact of her orgasm. It would surely blow her to pieces. Sweat trailed down his spine, coated his chest and he balanced his form with huge, open wings that bathed them both in twilight. “Harder, please.” Her words escaped on a sigh. A whisper of sound. He obliged, lifting her and draping her legs over his shoulders, pounding into her with a ferocity and intensity that shook her limbs in a release that started and built with every thrust. Her voice shook her ears and continued as he rocked and slid inside her in a sudden rush, his 47

Viola Grace

eyes glowed and he stared into her eyes as he roared his own satisfaction to their conversation. She felt him caress her, inside and out. Body and mind were touched and caressed by him and she was crossed between shivering and twitching in satisfaction. He rolled off her when she most wanted his weight against her but pulled her into his arms as he settled on his side. “That was a charming conversation. We should discuss things more often.” She looked at him, sated and smug. “You didn’t mention the subject matter of our conversation. That was remiss of you. We might have to start again at another time.” He grinned, exposing those long, sharp teeth that could and probably were used in mating. “We can, but I have to ask you something.” “What is that?” “Do you like my house?” She laughed at the absurdity of the question. “I have seen this castle in my mind since I was a child. It was in my psych evaluations at every stage in school and dragons have always been my favourite beast.” “But do you like it?” He was serious. “Yes, Orell, I like it. But I thought that there was a different order to things.” He gave her another satisfied smile. “I 48

Intensity

improvised.” She started to giggle and the giggle turned into slow touches and soon, she was on her hands and knees in the fading light of Yosh, her Drai marking her with mating scars that she would carry for the rest of her life. This time, he roared as he spilled into her, setting a harmonic reverberation that made the entire complex quiver. He roared, she screamed and every green crystal on Yosh hummed along. “Woman, you have delayed me. I thought to work on some of those malfunctioning systems.” Orell did not seem too upset, he was trailing his fingertips over the curve of her hip and back again. “Then we had best get back to the resort. Why did you open a resort here anyway?” She looked around idly, finding flickers of her clothing and shoes for retrieval. “Resorts in remote areas can be very lucrative. They also can demand secrecy and a certain amount of privacy to maintain exclusivity. It was easiest for me to set up the facilities and let the Vendu run it. They are well paid and it gets them out of the Mordichai cluster.” She nodded and lifted his hand to her lips, pressing a slow kiss into the palm. “As much as I would love to remain here, there is the danger of imminent attack. We had best address that as 49

Viola Grace

quickly as possible.” He groaned and got to his feet, pulling on his trousers and boots while she struggled to right and refasten her minimal wardrobe. “Who designed these clothes?” she finally got the blouse closed and the skirt to sit where it should. “They were in a sketchbook that I left for the Vendu. They must have taken it upon themselves to create them for you.” Raine promised the staffers a few choice words when the threat was over. Lingerie could be very sexy. It just slowed the males down a little but speeded them up at the same time. How could that be a bad thing? Once dressed, she hopped back into his arms and they flew back across the open water toward the coastline. As they were once again over land, she whispered, “Next time, I start the discussion. I have a few questions I wish to ask certain parts of your anatomy.” She had to hold on tight as he figured it out and almost dropped her on the ceiling of the arboretum. The smile she hid came as soon as the panic was over. Conversations with a Drai could be far more entertaining than she had ever imagined. 50

Intensity

Chapter Seven he window to her bedroom was standing open and Minya backed out the door as Orell flew through the opening. Raine flinched, pulling her arms and legs in as they cleared the window frame. A bath was drawn and waiting. “Do you think they figured it out?” Raine felt a fleeting bit of embarrassment before she untied her top and peeled off the excuse for a skirt that she was wearing. She was out of practice when it came to sex and sex with a Drai was exhausting. She sat on the edge of the tub and frowned at the laces of her sandals. They were fighting her fingers and she really wanted to soak her sore muscles in that tub. Orell knelt at her feet. “Let me. Yes, I am pretty sure that they figured it out. The energy pulse that ran through the crystal would have shivered the walls of the resort. Is that a problem?” “Yes. No. I have no idea. It seems like it should

T

51

Viola Grace

be, but I am too tired to care.” She smiled up at him and he ran his palm along her thigh as he pulled her laces free with a flick of his claw. She hadn’t seen much of those claws while his hands were on her, but she had to admit that they were handy. “Take a bath. I will have a meal brought to you.” He smiled and as she slipped into the water, he untied her hair. “Have you actually looked at your implants since Fixer altered them?” She stifled her groan as the water burned the lightly abraded skin between her thighs. “No. I didn’t see a mirror. I will check them later when I go through the wardrobe and find a dress with more than a meter of fabric.” He laughed. “I will try to remember your penchant for covering up. The clothing I selected was merely a whim. While I appreciate, deeply, how you looked in today’s selection, if we are flying anywhere, it is highly impractical.” If her look could have scorched him into a cinder, she would have. Her glare was all she was going to use, the sting of the water was wearing off and it felt wonderful to be surrounded by supporting heat. He chuckled and walked to the door. Minya must have been on the other side of the doorway because he stood, murmured for a moment and then walked toward the tub, stripping as he moved. 52

Intensity

He slipped into the water next to her and after he settled his wings, he pulled her onto his lap. “Hold still. I used to be pretty good at this.” Orell started a strong massage on her shoulders that elicited a groan from her throat. She scooted down until her shoulders were under the water and braced her arms on either side of his thighs. The scraping prod against her spine was ignored as his fingers worked magic on her tension. “Orell, why did you become a sleeper? There really aren’t any good records that explain it.” She moaned lightly as he worked down her spine one millimetre at a time. “You are familiar with the Drai and their relatively isolationist attitude?” “I suppose so. The only travelling Drai I have heard of have been sleepers.” “Right. Generations ago, a woman came to Drai in a hail of light and fire. Her name was Cynthia and she was a Terran.” Raine tried to look back at him, but he held her in place as if he didn’t want her to see his face. “You are kidding.” “I am not. She was one of you and after she landed, she found and became the mate of one of our greatest generals, Rokil Wingart. They were happy, but Cynthia was a little stressed by the knowledge that she carried. Apparently, she had not only found her way to our little interdicted 53

Viola Grace

planet, but she had travelled through time to get there. “At her direction, Rokil summoned over two dozen Drai and asked them if they knew about the future that Draikyn scientists were projecting for their race. Everyone knew that the interdiction had been put into effect in an effort to keep our blood from diluting, but what Cynthia told us chilled us to the bone. The efforts did not work. Our race would lose the ability to shift into our battle form in a matter of three generations. “Three men walked out, ignoring what was being said, but Cynthia outlined what she had learned in her own time that her race was compatible with ours and held a chance for a stronger bloodline to emerge in the future. Drai would have a future, but only if they moved outside their own world and waited for their own mates to come to them.” She had to ask. “Why did the men agree?” “None of the men had found their mates amongst the Draikyn and all were already over one hundred fifty years old without so much as a dream about a woman of their own race. They were willing to try anything and finding another world to sleep on until their woman found them was no worse than the endless rounds of balls and introductions to females who inevitably chose someone else.” He dug his fingers into her lower 54

Intensity

back and she arched and moaned as the knots he had created earlier melted under his touch. “That sucks.” “It does. Now, let me finish. Twenty-four men agreed to fight their way off the surface and to take their place in the stars. We sold everything to get our stakes in the stars and I purchased Yosh. I set up the resort, built the home for my mate in Drai tradition and burrowed under the surface to sleep with only a tenuous psychic link to my home. Five years ago, I woke and I have been trying to get you close enough to test our compatibility since the moment you finished your basic training.” He was massaging her thighs now. “So, when did you start dreaming of me?” She let him pull her up so that her back was against his chest, his erect cock pressed between them and throbbing against her spine. “I saw your energy over a hundred years ago and it filled me with hope.” “How long would you have waited for me if I hadn’t appeared just now?” “Drai can sleep for thousands of years in our other forms but few ever try. I would have waited a few more centuries until I lost patience. Dragons are good at patience.” His hands took on a more caressing aspect as he worked his fingers between her thighs to stroke her folds. She squirmed and froze as the door opened to 55

Viola Grace

admit Minya. The woman efficiently laid out a number of dishes on the table and scowled at Orell. “Don’t tire her out, sir. She hasn’t been sleeping well.” He withdrew his fingers with a sigh and wrapped his arms around Raine. “Thank you for the reminder. What is the status on the Baku?” “They will be here in twelve hours. You had better allow her some rest, sir, or she won’t be able to participate in our defence.” The tone from the older woman was implacable. She wasn’t going anywhere until Orell agreed to let Raine sleep. He nodded. “I will help her finish her bath and make sure she gets food before she goes to sleep. Have the others prepped for a fight and make sure that everyone is fed and well rested.” “As you wish, sir.” “Thank you, General. Dismissed.” He nodded and Minya reluctantly left, closing the door behind her. Relaxed and fairly aroused, she turned in Orell’s arms. “So, you really are not going to make the next move?” He sighed and stood, the rush of water cascading from both of them as he kept his grip on her. “No. We are going to have dinner and then you are getting some sleep. Depriving yourself of a good night’s sleep for the sake of pleasure is a lovely idea but not when lives are at stake.” 56

Intensity

She sobered abruptly. “Right. I forgot. Let me get a robe on and we can discuss the plan of defence over dinner.” He helped her steady herself on the tile and stepped out next to her, his muscles gleaming and cock beckoning. She closed her eyes for a moment before she grabbed a towel and dried herself. When her body had gone from wet to damp, she slid on a robe and cruised past Orell. She sat at the table and watched him try to dry his back for a moment before he seemed to get frustrated. He opened his wings and flapped them vigorously, rising a few feet off the ground and sending gusts of air in Raine’s direction. When he felt he was dry enough, he wrapped a towel around his hips and joined her at the table. She served him two-thirds of each bowl and platter, keeping one-third for herself before she began forking up everything on the porcelain. When she had sated her immediate hunger, she smiled. “So, Orell, what is the plan?” He swallowed, dabbed his lips with a napkin and grinned. “You will man the remotes and I will take care of any ships that make it through the guns. The ground crews are ready and arming for any that make it through our defences.” “You have Vendu military officers serving as bell boys and aestheticians?” He chuckled. “Yes. They were happy to have 57

Viola Grace

this as an assignment after years of service to their government. I made the deal before I slept and it has been considered a form of retirement or active-family, friendly duty for the Vendu. They suck at space warfare, but they are very good with guns on the surface.” “I was unaware of that.” He nodded and picked up a vegetable stick. “It’s a little-known fact. Anyway, finish your food and then get into bed.” She shivered at the heat in his tone. “It won’t do any good. I can’t sleep here. Something keeps waking me and that static was driving me nuts.” “The static is gone and I will make sure that nothing wakes you. Now, go to sleep, Raine.” There was something in his tone, but before she had a chance to analyze it, his face swam in her vision. She was suddenly, totally exhausted. Raine felt herself listing to one side and was unsurprised when Orell caught her. She focussed as he carried her to the bed and slid the robe from her with gentle hands. She raised her head and glared at him with squinted eyes. “Don’t let me sleep through the battle.” His soft chuckle matched the caress on her forehead as he tucked her in and a soft lullaby played in her mind. “I promise you will be there with me.” 58

Intensity

She let the music, physical satisfaction and exhaustion pull her under. “Good. See you on game day.” “Yes, you will.” His dark chuckle and the soft kiss was the last thing she heard and felt as she let her mind be carried away to a well-deserved rest. Tomorrow, they would blow some shit out of the sky. She needed her beauty sleep.

59

Viola Grace

Chapter Eight warm hand stroked her spine, pulling her gradually out of the lovely dream she had been having. Naked limbs, heat and wings above her had rocked her sleep from restful to stimulating. “They are an hour away, Raine. Time to wake up and get ready for the battle.” She opened her eyes and noticed that Orell was only wearing trousers. “Where is your shirt?” “Fixer is creating some clothing for me that will shift as I do, but since that hasn’t happened, I will be shifting in the raw. Come on, Raine, get up.” She levered herself up out of the fluffy pillows and glared at him while doing an interior check for morning breath. Deciding to err on the side of caution, she slid out of bed and pattered to the lav without giving him a morning kiss. She finished the call of nature and then wandered over to the sink to scrub her teeth. Her hair was still pulled up in her ponytails, but she

A

60

Intensity

tidied it before wandering back into the bedroom where Orell was going through her wardrobe. “These should be suitable for you. Nice and concealing.” His grin as he held up the gown and matching boots was slightly lecherous but otherwise well meaning. She frowned but slid into the open-sided gown, tying the small strings that held it in place. It was opaque and wouldn’t flip around, but the gown was so faithful to her skin that it didn’t need to tease. Everything was on display for anyone who cared to look. The thigh-high boots in a matching burnished bronze completed the outfit. She raised one eyebrow as she faced him with her hands on her hips. “We are so going to have a discussion about what is considered appropriate.” He grinned and came forward to place his hands over hers on her hips. “I like it, but I conceded your point. Perhaps horny and hopeful male Drai should not be given free reign to design gowns.” Raine looked down at the burnished bronze gown, the deep-vee neckline combined with the open sides held by a series of small strings running up and down her rib cage to complete their journey over her hips. It wasn’t so much a gown as two pieces of fabric that collided by chance. “Shall we join our troops?” He gallantly shifted 61

Viola Grace

to offer his arm to her. Grimacing, she took his arm and let him lead her back to the reception hall. Every Vendu on the planet was there, armed, armoured and seriously ready to defend their home. “At least we know that you are the target. That will narrow down their area of attack.” She nodded and opened the control centre, taking her position and jacking into the data stream surrounding Yosh. “Satellites are online, five ships. Three large, two small, all armed.” “I had best get into the skies then. I will see you later and we will redesign your wardrobe.” He pressed a kiss to her lips and Raine cupped his cheek with her hand. “I will see you after we negotiate this threat, Orell. Don’t singe your wings.” She gave him as serious a look as she could while reading streams of data as they rolled over his features. She pulled him toward her for a second kiss and her blood sang as their tongues met, tangled and parted for a few glorious moments. Panting, she threw herself into the data stream and brought the empty relay station online. They wouldn’t be expecting an attack from behind the moment that they passed the station and she was willing to take on every advantage she could find. She heard Orell’s words in the distance. “Raine, send the warning.” 62

Intensity

She used the com systems to send the signal. “Ships of the Baku family, please turn around or you will be destroyed. You are entering Yosh airspace and trespassing will not be tolerated.” A few moments passed with the ships gliding silently past the small station. Three large ships and two smaller outriders. When the signal came back, it sent a final wave of determination through the folk of Yosh. “People of Yosh, surrender the Alliance Agent Raine Burke and you will not be harmed.” The voice was feminine but harsh. “Raine, we have our answer. Ladies and gentlemen, let’s defend our home.” Orell’s roar reached her on every level. With a full dispensation to defend the surface, Raine aimed the station guns at the retreating ships and opened fire. One of the outriders was struck repeatedly and turned to run. Raine watched through the station’s sensors as one of the other Baku ships blasted the smaller ship into pieces. Apparently, the Baku had a win-or-die attitude for their captains. It was good to know that she could now defend herself and the others with everything she had. She gave the Vendu a status updated. “Three warships, one smaller ship.” She heard the cheer from the folk in the room. 63

Viola Grace

As the Baku passed out of the range of the station, she passed her concentration to the planetary guns. Orell was in the atmosphere, gaining as much height as he could. They were in the moment of waiting. They could not fire until the ships came closer. The waiting is the hardest part, is it not? Shocked, Raine opened her eyes wide to look for Orell. He wasn’t in the room. All she could see were the backs of Vendu on guard. I should have told you. After our consummation, I can now speak directly to you while I am in my dragon form. Can I speak to you this way as well? She could hear his silent laughter. Apparently. We will speak this way again soon. I can see the ships. She blinked in surprise and settled with the guns firing at the incoming ships while avoiding her Drai companion. The blasts emanating from the surface had similar properties to fireworks back on Earth in the way that they separated halfway to their target, but the spread of the energy didn’t have any other points of similarity. Each individual spread bored holes in the sides of the ships as they were struck and after a two-hour firefight, two of the ships were gone, leaving one larger ship and the remaining small one. 64

Intensity

The guns on the surface were not suited for close-quarters fighting, so it was up to Orell now. Raine watched via the monitors on the surface of Yosh and while Orell managed to down the smaller ship with a stream of emerald fire, the larger ship closed in on the resort. “One ship left. It is approaching the resort from the north and firing on Orell.” She kept the Vendu informed in a low monotone as the fight grew closer. As they approached, a sense of worry for the dragon overtook her. Raine pushed her mind out, past Orell and into the ship’s systems. She ran through the data streams of the Baku ship and was horrified to find that they were drawing a bead on Orell. In desperation, she reached through the ship and used her ability to shut the ship down, weapons first. The ship rocked and careened out of control, driving nose first into the ocean. With the hull already pierced, there was no chance for survivors to escape. As the ship shut down completely, Raine pulled her control back to the resort and sat in the chair, in silence. The Vendu were looking at her, watching her closely. She sat up and returned their gazes. “The final Baku ship crashed in the sea. No detectable survivors, but someone might want to check.” 65

Viola Grace

Minya came forward, her arms empty of weapons and away from her body. “Madam, what did you do?” “I pulled their ship down. Why is everyone staring at me?” Raine could smell blood, but she knew she wasn’t injured. With shaking hands, she removed her couplings from her skull. A coppery taste ran into her mouth and she touched her upper lip with her hand. It came away stained with blood. “A nosebleed? Is that what all the fuss is about?” She swiped again, but there was more blood coming. No one said anything. Orell walked into the room and lifted her in his arms without a word. “I don’t see the fuss in a nosebleed.” She tried not to touch her gown, but blood had already dripped on it. Ah well, no loss. He took her into the spa area and to a medical centre within. He placed her on an exam bed and started a diagnostic scan. “It isn’t the nosebleed that has freaked them out. It is the eye bleed that is causing the problem. Raine, what did you do?” “I brought the ship down, sort of. I shut them down one system at a time and they pitched into the ocean.” “When did you remove yourself from the system?” “When it was shutting down. Why?” 66

Intensity

He grunted. “Your body is shutting down. You caught their computer’s death.” The darkness she had felt came back to her. Not that of killing fifty people who were trying to kidnap her, but the darkness of the dying ship. She held his hand as he gave Minya a series of commands. The words that came to her were Udell and Flame. When he turned back to her, he gave her an encouraging smile. “We need to put you in stasis to stop the shutdown. When you wake up, healing will commence, I promise.” She smiled weakly, knowing it would look horrid. “I know. Do what you have to do. I will be here when the healer has arrived. Don’t worry. I will be fine. We can’t have waited this long to have it end before it starts.” He pressed a kiss to her forehead and when he straightened, he was blinking away tears. The machines were sending out signals that she was in distress and the next moment, Minya was pressing a hypo to her neck and the last thing she saw were those glorious aqua eyes, solemn and glowing. I will be here.

67

Viola Grace

Chapter Nine rell visited his mate every day, pressing his hand to the plexi arch that surrounded her and touching her mind with his. She greeted him each time, asking how things were going and ignoring her own slowly deteriorating state. It had been one month since the attack. One month since his life began to shut down with hers. “Sir, you need to sign these work orders to repair the defence stations.” Minya had remained at her lady’s side, but all of the business of the resort still flowed through her. “Why? They won’t come for her like this and we have nothing else worth taking.” He was grim. “Because she would not be pleased to know that you had suspended everything while she was in stasis. When she wakes, she will demand an accounting and you will have to face her small but determined wrath.” General Minya Dorfelling crossed her arms and scowled at him. Small but determined, yes that suited Raine. He

O

68

Intensity

removed his hand from the plexi and authorized the repairs. “Anything else?” “Flame will be here within the day. He regrets the delay, but he was on assignment and could not get here earlier.” Minya took the data tablet with her and left him alone with his mate. Did you hear that? Raine’s chuckle ran through his mind. I don’t hear much in here. Flame is on the way. I still am not sure what that means. The Sector Guard has a number of specific and healing talents, but the others are unsuitable for someone with implants. So, Flame can cure the system shutdown? Orell paused and dragged in a breath. I am hoping that he can. Raine sent waves of reassurance to him. If not, then I am glad of what time we did have. Don’t talk like that! I haven’t waited centuries to let you slip out of my fingers. There was silence between them for almost a minute. When I get out of here, I am going to kick your ass or hire someone to do it for me. He paused for a moment before he started to laugh. And I will bend over and take it. I hope to see you soon, love. On the psychic plane, she blew him a kiss that hardened his cock and made his palms sweat. 69

Viola Grace

Aroused, aching and lonely, he left her side and walked to the guesthouse. Since she had been locked in medical, he had applied to Morganti to borrow their seamstress. The boxes had arrived in the last week and he hoped that they were more to Raine’s liking. Planning for their future had kept him from going mad, but if Minya had not given him good news today, he might not have lasted much longer. Drai separated from their mates were vicious creatures and he was no different. If Flame did not arrive today, Orell was going to have to find the Guardsman and drag him in by his braids. **** The first thing Raine felt upon waking was fire. She opened her mouth to scream but was not sure if anything was coming out. Her world was wreathed in green flames and her nerves burned. She heard shouting, voices but nothing that made sense to her. All she knew was the pain of coming back to life after a fairly long nap. Hands helped her to sit up and she heard the shouting again. Two Drai men were grappling on one side of the room and the blazing aqua eyes of one of them were so blessedly familiar. It took her three tries but eventually, “Orell.” croaked out. He stopped fighting with the other dragon in 70

Intensity

that moment, his eyes focusing and fixing on her. “Raine. Let me go, Harusk.” The other Drai let him go, standing aside to take the arm of the Terran woman at his side. They both wore the clothing of the Sector Guard and clung together as Orell approached Raine. You died, love. The Terran brought you back and— Who cares, come here. She beckoned him close and when he was in her arms, she let the tears fall. When his lips touched hers, they tasted of his own tears and with a sob, he pulled her tight against his chest. A shuffling in the room was unmistakable and when they parted, they were alone. Her chest ached. Pain was still a close memory. “That was not fun.” He pressed kisses to her forehead, “If you ever do something so stupid again, I will lock you in the tower.” She sighed and relaxed in his arms. “Only if you are there with me.” “That is the only way I would ever do it.” He shifted her on the metal bed and lifted her into his lap. His wings draped behind him and she was cuddled against his chest. “You suffered from a neural disconnect. Are you aware of what that is?” “My brain shorted out. All autonomic reflexes were compromised. It is a risk that we are all made aware of when they train us to use the implants. I 71

Viola Grace

never thought I would have a reason to take the chance, but I couldn’t let them shoot you.” He froze in place. “What?” “Both targeting systems locked on you. I had to shut them down. I just didn’t realize that I was that deeply connected to them.” She inhaled the scent that was his alone. “I have missed you.” “The staff has missed you. They were a little worried about my mood these last few weeks. I am afraid that I lived up to the Drai reputation for madness.” She chuckled weakly. “I can imagine it.” He rubbed his chin on her hair. “I visited you every day.” “I know that. I felt it. Even if everything is rather fuzzy about that time.” She snuggled down and let his arms warm her. Raine jerked when the door slammed open and a relieved Minya stood there with a swath of fabric over one arm. “Oh, Madam. We are all so happy that you are back with us.” Orell let out a heavy sigh. “What is it, Minya?” “I have a gown for Madam to wear so that she may be properly introduced to the guests.” Minya lifted the fabric. Orell made a noise that Raine had not heard before. He growled. That was a little much. She slapped his chest with one hand. “Oy, knock it off. I promise you can 72

Intensity

hold me every night from here on out, but tonight or today, I have to get dressed and meet the other Terran in the mix.” Orell still wasn’t happy, but he helped the General of the Vendu army get his mate into a gown of the lightest silk that covered every inch and hinted at everything else. She laughed. “You went shopping without me.” “I did. Well, we did. All of the women on Yosh put their two cents in and we sent an order to Morganti.” She didn’t seem to know if that was a good thing or a bad thing, but Raine didn’t care as long as she wasn’t dressed like an on-duty Companion at an arena fight anymore. The gown drifted around her ankles in soft folds. The bodice was wrapped tightly from hip to breast, giving her confinement and support and the colour was the same bright aqua as Orell’s eyes. He smiled slowly, a wealth of promise in his eyes. “I can see your point. The other clothing was fun, but this is…much more appropriate.” Raine wished that she wasn’t so feeble. The expanse of skirting on the gown made her want to twirl like a six year old. She took a few steps, stumbled and then let Orell support her as she walked out of medical, down the hall and into reception. 73

Viola Grace

The four Guardsmen were standing in a conversational grouping and when she entered the room, the Terran woman grinned at her and the Drai sighed in relief. “Hiya, Mayden. Long time no see.” Raine waved weakly at the other human in the room and she gasped as she was treated to a hug. The Terran Guardsman squeezed Raine tightly. “I am so relieved. I thought Harusk and Orell were going to actually have a smack down.” “So, that wasn’t my imagination. I came screaming back to the world and my mate was trying to wrestle with another man. I mean, in a dream, sure…and they should have been oiled up…but really, on my first moment back?” Mayden was quivering with amusement. “Is Harusk scowling as much as Orell is?” Raine made an assessment. “Yeah, pretty much. Shall we get some lunch?” “Sure. Jenya? Can you give me a hand with the invalid?” The other woman approached and smiled at them. “I am Digger or Jenya. Your choice. You have the clearance, so feel free to use either one.” Each woman took an arm and supported her to the dining room. “The staff has a lot of Terran preferences.” Mayden smiled. “We know. We have been here for two days while your mate balled up enough 74

Intensity

energy to restart you. Of course, we didn’t count on your going into cardiac arrest the moment that you came back online. Sorry about the ribs, but we couldn’t use most of the powered units in medical, they got shorted out.” “What?” “Come on, have a seat and we will explain everything.” Jenya had a pleasant smile and a friendly face. A cup of tea was in front of her the moment that she sat down and with Mayden and Jenya grinning at her. They told her the story of her return to Yosh.

75

Viola Grace

Chapter Ten s they had tea, the story unfolded of a dragon rising from the sea, gathering his power to give to a Kozue warrior. There was too much power handed over in that moment that every instrument in medical went down. The Sector Guard teams had arrived one day early to come up with a plan of attack. Harusk was there to keep Orell calm, because Flame’s healing was not a pleasant one and no matter how well intentioned, most mates wouldn’t stand by to listen to their woman screaming. Flame’s power worked by injecting the cells with power. She was so close to dying that it was best that Flame not simply use his own talent. If he had to provide that much energy, it would bind them together forever. It was fine for Jenya to be bound to Flame, but it would be awkward for Raine to be tied to him. Orell had volunteered immediately to provide the power. He went to his source, the ocean, and in

A

76

Intensity

his dragon form, he swam, gathering power until had had enough biological energy to hand over. When they circled around her chamber and the power was exchanged, it blew out all of the mechanicals, including her unit. Raine didn’t so much die, as simply never started breathing. “You are kidding.” Jenya laughed and the men glared at her amusement. Mayden had banished them to the other table because they had nasty table manners. Mayden filled in, “Nope, you lay there like a landed trout. All cold and pasty. I jumped in and let my CPR training take over. Fortunately, Harusk was there to keep Orell back as he flipped out, but as soon as you started breathing on your own, Flame took over and the burning and screaming started. “That was when my hubby had a fight on his hands. They took it outside for a while, but your screams managed to spur your mate on to extremes of strength and he pushed back into the room.” From the other table, Harusk piped up, “I would have held him back if I didn’t want to keep from hurting him.” Mayden rolled her eyes and followed up with, “And the rest you know. You stopped bleeding internally, your kidneys and liver started to 77

Viola Grace

function again and before we knew it, you were sitting up and asking for Orell with nasty morning breath. Thanks for drinking the mint tea by the way.” Raine blushed but took another sip of tea. “You are welcome. So, what is next on your agenda?” “Well, after our visit here on Yosh, Jenya will return to Udell and I will return to Teklan.” Mayden smiled. A thought came to Raine. “Are you in a hurry?” The women looked at each other and shrugged. Their partners shook their heads. “No. Why?” Minya was lurking nearby and Raine smiled and nodded to her. When the older woman came to her, she whispered in her ear. Minya grinned and disappeared through one of the discreet doors. “Because, dear ladies, there is no sense going to a resort and spa without getting a massage and facials.” Raine grinned and leaned back as the women’s faces lit up. “You, too, boys. The least that Yosh can do for you.” They continued polite chatting until four Vendu arrived and nodded for the Guardsmen to come with them. “I will see you before you leave. Now, have fun and enjoy.” She smiled and stood to hug the ladies before they left. Raine was feeling stronger with every passing second, but when she resumed her seat and Orell 78

Intensity

took her hand, her strength increased exponentially. She raised his hand to her lips and pressed a kiss to his knuckles. He returned the caress and she closed her eyes to let the sensation ripple through her. She smiled with her eyes shut. “So you went ape shit when you thought I was in danger?” “As was my right as your mate. So, what would you think of having the Sector Guard here more frequently?” She opened her eyes to find him an inch from her face. “I think it would be fun. Certainly different, why?” “Because with our ability to defend ourselves, we are equipped to offer them a secure vacation spot. Several have children and it isn’t feasible to have gatherings on the battle bases or in toxic atmospheres. I also gather that you would like to be able to meet and commune with more of your own kind. If they come to us, it takes a worry off my mind.” She smiled and leaned close for a kiss. “What use is having a private planet with a resort and spa if you can’t invite folks to come for a visit?” He smiled and pulled her toward him, his hand cupped the back of her skull and he kept the kiss going until her blood was singing and her body ached. He pulled back and pressed his forehead against hers. “I wish you were up for more, but I 79

Viola Grace

can wait.” She groaned with frustration, the silk between her thighs slid with every restless shift. “Fine. Let’s go for a walk. If I can’t work off the tension, perhaps I can walk it off.” They were a quarter of a mile down the beach when she tripped him and pushed him to the sand. He lay on his back, his wings acting as a blanket and he watched, bemused, as she unbuckled his belt and opened his trousers with eager fingers. His cock sprang out and she leaned in to lick at the head, loving the feel of his hands in her hair as he fought with himself to pull her away. Raine smiled inwardly as she took more of the salty heat into her mouth. He wasn’t going to hurt her and was afraid of making the first move, so if she jumped him, he was in the clear. After a few smooth strokes, she sat up and moved her skirt out of the way while she climbed onto him. The wet pressure of his cock against her opening made her lean her head back and groan. Working herself onto him would have been easy if he had helped, but he was too busy digging his claws into rocks and sand. Her body slowly gave way to the intense heat of his shaft and as she worked herself up and down, she fought the orgasm that came rushing to her consciousness. 80

Intensity

When he was fully inside her, she leaned forward, bracing her hands on his abdomen as she flexed and contracted around him. She met his aqua gaze and slowly started to move her hips in a detailed figure eight. She had always read about this kind of thing in magazines, but the feel of the immobile hardness inside her was indescribable. He touched every inch of her channel, stroked, rubbed and rocked inside her. Orell groaned, his hands turning a rock into gravel with a squeeze. He shuddered and she started moving on him with speed, lifting and dropping, plunging and pumping her hips against him until she screamed as her release overtook her. Her eyes widened and she stared into Orell’s eyes as his body gave way to pleasure inside her. The sharp jets of cum inside her heated her once again and her limbs shook as a second wave took her over. She smiled and stroked his rib cage as they both fought for breath. “There. You didn’t have to lift a finger and I feel much better.” He grinned and stroked her hips with careful hands. “As do I. Are you sure you are well?” “I am.” “Good.” In a move she couldn’t track, he propelled them upward using his wings and once he was on his 81

Viola Grace

feet, Orell launched them into the air. How he managed it while remaining inside her was a mystery, but the result of the rhythm of his flight was a delicious friction that went on forever. Where are we going? There are visitors at the resort. We are going to spend a night in our bed. Then a day, then another night. But…I told the ladies that we had to say goodbye. The men will explain it to them if they haven’t figured it out, tonight is mine and you did promise. She grinned. I know, there is also the matter of an ass kicking, so brace yourself, it could come at any time. You remember that? You would be amazed at the things that I can remember. Whatever she was going to say next was left as her senses burst into a kaleidoscope of colour and touch. Her orgasm was more electric than physical and she held her breath while they approached their castle. She bit her lip and then his as the sensations started to build again and when he soared through the open window, she sighed happily. It may be an alien world, with an alien man and an alien situation, but she was right at home.

82

Author’s Note The Sector Guard and Terran Times have begun to bleed together, but in situations like this, why not bring folks from Freak Factor, Past Tense, and Resurrecting Flame along for the ride. Building a home that the woman has to approve is something borrowed from bowerbirds. I have always found it fascinating that a male sets out to create and decorate a home to attract a mate. How much more metro could you be? So, my dragons are bowerbirds. They have to meet, seduce and entice a woman who is meant for them. No pressure. Thanks for reading, Viola Grace [email protected] http://www.violagrace.com http://www.extasybooks.com

About the Author Viola Grace was born in Manitoba, Canada where she still resides today. She really likes it there. She has no pets and can barely keep sea monkeys alive for a reasonable amount of time. Her line of day job tends to be analytical which leaves her mind hopping to weave stories. No co-worker is safe from her character analysis. In keeping with busy hands are happy hands, her hobbies have included cross-stitch, needlepoint, quilting, costuming, cake decorating, baking, cooking, metal work, beading, sculpting, painting, doll making, henna tattoos, chain mail, and a few others that have been forgotten. It is quite often that these hobbies make their way into her tales. Viola’s fetishes include boots and corsetry, and her greatest weakness is her uncontrollable blush. Her writing actively pursues the Happily Ever After that so rarely occurs in nature. It is an admirable thing and something that we should all strive for. To find one that we truly like, as well as love.