Asteroid

Sebena has spent her time in the Alliance using her accuracy to blow large rocks into tiny rocks suitable for refinement. When she picks up a heat signature she has to pursue it, even if it means doing it on her own time. Finding a life pod is not really a surprise, but having it functioning and its occupant alive is quite the shock. Issul is the avatar of the planet Zeering and has been lost in the asteroid field for a century. Opening his eyes in the mining vessel, he sees his rescuer and both he and the world within him have a visceral reaction to her.

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. Asteroid Copyright © 2012 Viola Grace ISBN: 978-1-77111-138-6 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

Asteroid A Terran Times Tale By Viola Grace

Chapter One ining was a dirty job and being a mining gunner was far beyond what most of her coworkers were willing to do for the paycheque. Sebena Hadros had thrown herself into life as a gunner with gusto and she enjoyed every minute of it. “All staff to stations. The ship is in motion.” The disembodied voice rippled over her and Sebena walked down the hall with a relaxed stride, pinning her hair into place as she went. The mining ship, Sheppan, was her home and her place of business all in one. She manned one of the guns that both guarded the ship and created the small bits of floating rock from the asteroid field that they flew through to gather the minerals. Blasting rock into bits had never been a career choice offered to her in high school, so hooray for the Alliance and the Volunteer recruitment centre. She slipped into her gun and put her headset on. “Gunner Hadros reporting at station.” Control answered. “Acknowledged, Gunner.

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Viola Grace We are looking for the following minerals today. Scan and target.” Sebena watched the data roll over her screen and she programmed the info into her scanners. With her assignment given, she started to scan the asteroids for her targets. She spent her day blowing rocks to pieces and listening to music from home. It wasn’t officially sanctioned, but she was allowed to blast tunes inside her gun turret as long as she didn’t miss her targets. Once she shattered a rock, she filed a notice to Control and they sent collectors out to capture the minerals. It was almost boring for her by the time she was on her final scan pass of the day. A blip that shouldn’t have been there caught her attention. “What the hell?” She swung her scanner back and watched the image on the screen. There was no doubt she was seeing a heat signature in the asteroid field. “Control.” “Yes, Gunner Hadros?” “I am getting a heat signature in the asteroid field.” “You are probably reading one of our collectors.” “No, it is deeper in the field. I am sending you the coordinates.” Sebena waited for a response. “I cannot read anything in the area you 2

Asteroid selected. It must have been a sensor blip.” Sebena had been staring into the field all day. She knew the ebb and flow of the rocks. If Control couldn’t read it, they wouldn’t pursue it but her shift was over and she could. “Acknowledged, Control. Gunner Hadros leaving station.” “Acknowledged, Gunner.” With a sigh, she removed her headgear and left her station. There was something or someone out there and she was determined to find it. Sebena walked the halls, clasped hands with a few of the other gunners going off shift. Nilia walked with her for a way. “Do you want to hit the gym?” “No. I am going to take a zipper out to see something that caught my attention. Wanna come?” She smiled at the other woman’s look of horror. “Why would you want to go out there when we spend all day staring into those lifeless rocks?” “Because something caught my attention.” “Good luck and have a good evening out there then. I am heading for the hot tub and that new gunner on number three. He seems to have an interest in me and I have no objections.” She stroked her hand down her lush hip and Sebena had to admit that it would take a powerful will to ignore her friend’s charms. 3

Viola Grace Nilia was a mind-numb Wyoran whose deep red skin and chestnut hair drew the attention of most males on a normal day. Now that she was entering a receptive phase, every masculine head in the ship turned when she passed. It was funny to watch, but Sebena had other things to do. She had a life sign to find. The launch bay’s monitor had looked at her in astonishment when she signed out a suit and a zipper. The small craft was designed for one person, but it had grapples to collect samples of any likely minerals. Sebena had a collection of another kind in mind. She snugged herself into the EVA suit and did a pressure check the moment she finished snapping her helmet into place. The suit held constant pressure, so she was good to go. The Sheppan was locked in until the following morning, processing and parcelling the day’s haul. It would still be here when Sebena returned. She locked herself into the zipper and left the launch bay. She typed in the coordinates that she had noted on her scans, adjusted for drift and hit the accelerator. She skimmed around the floating mini-planets and large-sized rocks all moving fast enough to kill her on impact. 4

Asteroid Her display told her that she had been flying for an hour when the blip appeared on her screen. “Aha! Got you now.” A slight turn to the left and she was right on the readings that were flaring up on her display. “Oh, wow.” An escape pod was lodged against a chunk of mineral. She used her grapple to attach the zipper to it and left her transport to examine her find. The pod was bright with energy and it was registering as containing a living being, so she knew her duty. She returned to the zipper, removed a hammer and after she attached a tether to the pod, she started to chip it loose of the mineral. Her oxygen supply chirped to let her know that she was down to half a tank. With stronger movements, she hacked the pod loose. The moment that it floated free, she fastened it completely to the underside of the zipper and she climbed back into her transport to head home. “Control, this is Gunner Hadros. I have found a survival pod and am bringing it and its living occupant in for examination and medical treatment.” “Acknowledged, Gunner. We will have medical staff waiting in the launch bay.” “Thank you, Control.” She hit the accelerator and tried to steer clear of 5

Viola Grace the rocks trying to crush her. With the pod attached to her zipper, it was a little harder to manoeuvre, but she managed to get back to the Sheppan just in time for her oxygen supply to redline with warning. She released the pod and it floated into the launch bay on its own, skidding across the surface and resting neatly on the metal floor. Sebena’s zipper landed with less grace than the pod and she staggered out of her vehicle while the monitor sealed the bay and increased the gravity. The pod was still sealed and she watched the emergency team put it on a lift and move it toward medical. Sebena had to strip out of the EVA suit before she could follow her find and by the time she arrived in medical, they had the pod in isolation and there were staffers working on opening the unit. She asked the observing physician, “What is it?” He looked at her, “You are the one who found him?” “It’s a him?” “It is. We have contacted his planet. He was reported missing over one hundred years ago.” She blinked. “A hundred years? What species is he?” The doctor’s lips twitched. “It isn’t his birth 6

Asteroid planet that we are contacting. He is a planetary avatar. The mineral field must have broken the planet-mind connection. His world has had a reward for him that is astronomical.” The technicians opened the pod and worked on the inhabitant. A peculiar pulse under her feet came to her attention. “Why is the ship moving?” “With the Alliance demanding his immediate delivery to his planet, the fastest way to get there is to take him ourselves.” Sebena watched the male lifted from the pod and she had to hold her breath. He was lovely. His skin was pale gold and his hair a lovely auburn. His ears were pointed and he had the physique of a body builder. Whatever he had been before he became an avatar, it was a species she really wanted to meet. As if sensing her, his eyes opened and his gaze fixed on her. She blushed scarlet in a second but wasn’t sure if it was embarrassment or arousal, because both were warring in her system. His gaze was pure gold and as she watched, a dark blue began to swirl throughout. Without a doubt, the planet had just regained contact with its avatar and they were staring right at her.

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Chapter Two he doctor spoke to his technicians. “There is no risk of infection. Biohazard protocols are not necessary. Gunner, you have done well, you are dismissed.” Sebena nodded and with a slight smile to the waking avatar, she left medical. Outside the closed doors, she leaned against the wall and took a deep, settling breath. She had rescued the avatar of a planet and he was alive and well…and gorgeous. The image of him was going to haunt her dreams tonight. Sighing happily at a job well done, she wandered over to the dining hall to get some dinner. If the ship were moving, she would have the following day off, so she had better check the duty roster to verify it. A day off on the ship meant she could enjoy a little hot-tub time herself, preferably without a companion. She was sitting at a table with some of the other gunners when a ripple of surprised voices got her

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Asteroid attention. Sebena turned to see what was causing the fuss only to meet the amused gaze of the avatar. “May I join you?” His voice was low and rich. It gave Sebena the feeling of being drenched in warm chocolate. Her companions moved aside quickly and waved goodbyes as they took up a nearby table so they could watch. “Of course. Please.” She waved at the seat across from her. “Thank you.” She blinked. “For what? Bringing you in? It is the responsibility of every Alliance person to offer aid to rescue pods.” He smiled and the sharp curve of his elegant lips made her fingers itch to trace them. “And yet, they are not required to go hunting for a signal that was dismissed by their dispatcher. Thank you for following your heart to find me. My name is Issul and I am the Avatar of Zeering. He would like to speak to you if you would allow it.” She smiled helplessly. “Of course.” His eyes swirled from gold to navy. “Gunner Hadros, I would like to express my thanks in person, so to speak. This ship is bringing Issul back to me and I would like it very much if you would accompany him to the surface.” She swallowed. “I see. I will have to request 9

Viola Grace authorization for leave to a planetary surface.” His smile was just as devastating when Zeering was the one speaking. Sebena tried to hide the way that her heart was pounding, but it was no use. “You find his form pleasing?” She blushed scarlet. “Yes, I do. He is very much within the mating ideals for my species.” If being clinical could have squelched her embarrassment, that description should have, but instead, her mind scampered down the thoughts of how Issul would look unclothed. “Excellent. He is interested in you as well, though he is irritated with me for mentioning it. Your facial symmetry is pleasing and your eyes remind him of the oceans of his birth world.” Her blush tried to ratchet itself up several notches. “Which world is that?” “It has no name, nor has his species. They are simply the people. He was captured and transported when young and he and his captors crashed on my surface. Issul was mine within hours and he wreaked his revenge on those who had taken him.” “He didn’t want to return home?” She sipped at her water, trying to cool her over-heated system. “There was nothing for him there. Once one of their kind is taken, they can never return. Their souls are considered tainted.” 10

Asteroid “That sucks.” The words were out of her mouth before she realized that the Alliance Common interpretation would not match the Terran equivalent. Issul-Zeering tilted his head. “I don’t understand the reference, but it was not pleasant.” “How did he end up in an escape pod?” The eyes swirled gold again. “I was on a diplomatic mission for Zeering, negotiating for travel through our system, when we were struck with some of the floating asteroids in the field where you found me. The ship came apart under the assault and I had to seek safety in the pod. I am simply glad that you found me. How can I thank you?” Sebena shook her head. “No thanks are necessary. Again, it is my job to help where I can.” “You went beyond duty for this and I will not forget it.” He reached out and took her hand. A wild tingling ran up her arm at the contact. He jerked his hand away and rubbed his fingers together. She fought the urge to do the same. The tingling continued up her arm to run through her torso and rippled through her groin. Sebena kept her thighs together and ignored the sensual response that tightened her nipples and caused a surge of wet heat within her. A command officer strode up to them and cleared his throat nervously. “Avatar Issul, the 11

Viola Grace captain would like to offer you space at his table and an evening of entertainment.” Issul sighed. “I would be happy to accept.” He got to his feet and smiled down at her again. “You will accompany me to the surface. Zeering insists.” Sebena smiled. “If the planet insists, I will file the request for time.” The Avatar looked as if he wanted to say or do something else, but instead, he followed the staffer out of the dining hall. Trembling, she bussed her tray and walked blindly out of the dining hall. She needed a hot soak now, to hell with tomorrow. If she interrupted Nilia’s little plan, tough. Sebena spent two hours working out in the gym, her efforts drew a few admirers, but most folks who passed wanted to know about the Avatar. On a small ship with less than two hundred crewmembers, gossip was the fastest form of travel. A quick shower later and she was ready for a soak. The hot tub was a favourite feature for most of the staff, but with the refiners and packagers on duty, only the gunners were in need of the muscle relaxation. Nilia was soaking in the tub, her breasts barely 12

Asteroid beneath the heated gel that pulsed and twisted against her. “Hiya, Nilia. I needed the soak after all. Don’t mind me. I will be over here.” She smiled and dropped her towel, sliding into the heated gel away from Nilia and her seduction project. Sebena sank to her chin and groaned as the warmth surrounded and supported her. Her hair was still braided up, so she didn’t have to worry about getting gel in it and given the activities on the mining vessel, the gel was filtered, cleaned and then re-circulated every few minutes. It made for quite a bit of peace of mind considering that there were over twenty-five species represented in the population and everyone used the hot tub. She found a seat and relaxed with the gel tugging gently at her limbs. Nilia floated over and smiled. “Tell me about the Avatar. Is he as hot as Merkil says?” Sebena gave her friend a sobering look. “Tell me that you haven’t been gossiping with him about the newcomer.” “Well, he stopped by and you know he has an eye for beauty.” Sebena grimaced. Merkil was a flirt and he wasn’t fussy. One of the rare masculine Selna, he had a sex drive that did not restrict itself to conventional pairings. He would screw anything if it held still long enough. His only criterion was 13

Viola Grace that his sexual partner was attractive. He wouldn’t fuck ugly. Sebena had kept herself from falling into his bed, but it had been an effort of will. His pheromones were strong and seductive. Merkil had no problem using them to capture his bed partners of either sex. “You shouldn’t listen to Merkil, he thinks with his penis.” “Well? You saw the Avatar. What does he look like?” Sebena opened her mouth to answer, but she saw a figure approaching from behind Nilia’s head. “Like that.” Issul had a towel loosely draped around his hips that left little to the imagination. From the top of his head to his toes, he was gorgeous, elegant and lethally sexy. To her shock, that sexy gaze was aimed straight at her.

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Chapter Three vatar Issul, how nice to see you again.” Sebena kept her voice pleasant, but it was far too high even to her own ears. To her consternation, he dropped his towel and slipped into the hot tub right next to her, smiling and leaning back against the edge of the pool. “This feels lovely. No wonder it is a common relaxation spot on the ship.” He closed his eyes and the expression on his face was pure bliss. “Yes, it is.” She heard her friend clear her throat and quickly made introductions. “Avatar Issul of Zeering, this is Gunner Nilia Vordi.” The Avatar lazily opened his golden eyes and smiled at the lush Wyoran. “I am pleased to make the acquaintance of any of your friends, Sebena.” He leaned forward and took Nilia’s hand in greeting. The Wyoran smiled brilliantly at Issul and he smiled politely before reclaiming his hand. Nilia was in shock. Not one male on the entire

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Viola Grace ship had dismissed her since her season had struck. “I am pleased to meet you, Avatar.” “And you as well, Gunner.” He returned to his seated position next to Sebena and suddenly she was no longer relaxed. Nilia looked from Sebena to Issul. “So, Issul, how long have you been an Avatar?” “Nine hundred and fifty-three years.” He opened his eyes and navy blue was trickling into the gold. “Have you enjoyed it? I have heard that the life of an Avatar is a lonely one.” Nilia lifted herself out of the churning gel slightly and the dark peaks of her nipples were exposed. His gaze was mildly interested and so the perverse hope that Sebena had been holding onto sank. “I will leave you two alone to discuss whatever you choose.” Sebena moved to the edge of the tub and levered herself up and to her towel, the slick gel sheeted off and she wrapped the towel around her, not looking back at the hot tub and its inhabitants. She didn’t hear him, but a hand gripped her arm. “Sebena, what is wrong?” Sebena turned and looked up into Issul’s face before allowing her gaze to wander lower. His body stirred and his cock slowly rose as she watched. 16

Asteroid Surprised, she brought her gaze back up to his face. “I thought you and Nilia wanted some time together.” “I came here to spend time with you. The captain did nothing but sing your praises when I questioned him and so I came here to find out what you are like when you are not on duty.” “What about Nilia?” “A Wyoran in heat is not my idea of a good companion for an evening. If I simply wanted sex, there are plenty of women on my world who would oblige. I want a companion and I would like her to be you.” Her hands on her towel clenched. “I have no idea what you are talking about.” “When I woke, Zeering gave me information on a new trend sweeping the planets. Avatars are choosing mates and he thinks that it might help me adjust to my return to his world.” His hand was still on her arm and he stroked her slick skin slowly. The tingles that he was sending through her shook her to the core. “Wait. I am a gunner, I am not a mate.” She pressed one hand against his chest in an effort to hold him back. He was suddenly far too close. The electric feeling ran up her arm and he felt far too good under her hand. She wanted to caress, to stroke and then to taste. “You are not merely a gunner. You are a 17

Viola Grace woman who follows her own instincts. What are your instincts telling you now?” He continued his slow touch. “That you are attracted to Nilia and that I should be getting back to my quarters. Excuse me.” She didn’t wrench away, but she gave a visible shudder and pulled herself away, heading for the women’s showers. She was going to make the gel as cold as she could. Her body wasn’t going to handle any more heat. The showers were on a gender lock, just in case any of the hot-tub antics needed to be cooled off. She slipped through the field just in time to hear the energy crackle in protest. Inside the showers, she set the controls for cold and flipped her towel over the edge of the unit. The gel covered her skin and calmed the inflammation in her nerves. It cooled her in the seconds before it shattered and took the liquid from the hot tub with it. Breathing deeply to calm herself, she got dressed and left the locker room, sneaking down the hall to her quarters. Sneaking around on the ship was all around wrong, but if she was confronted with Issul one more time, she was going to do more than simply walk away. Her instincts were screaming at her to lunge into his arms and find out if he tasted as 18

Asteroid good as he looked, but her sex drive was the one part of herself she had always kept under the firm grip of logic. Merkil was loitering in the hall near her room. “What is it, Merkil?” He smiled at her and it was a seductive smile. “I came to offer you another chance. After all, you are of a rare kind, I am of a rare kind…” “Selna are not rare.” “Male Selna are. There are less than a handful of us out in the worlds.” “I am aware. I am also aware that you were booted off your home world for your misbehaviour and that you have not had a serious relationship ever. I don’t do casual sex, Merkil.” “With you, it would be far from casual. You have so much passion just below the surface.” Merkil reached his hand out to her, but it never landed. Issul stood next to her and wrenched his hand back with a casual shift. “She said no, Selna. Back away.” Merkil tried to swing at Issul, but the Avatar just bent his arm and soon, the Selna was on his knees. “You think she will want you instead? That woman is cold. I was merely trying to thaw her out a little.” Sebena felt the shame that he instilled in her with that one comment. It was not the first time 19

Viola Grace she had heard it. Men took her analytical approach to relationships as cold, but she merely needed to feel a little spark to fan the flames. No one had truly gotten that spark to flare. Until now. “Issul, you can let him go. He won’t try anything. I have already had a complaint listed against him for aggressive behaviour. One more and he is off the Sheppan.” Her threat caused Merkil to wince. The Selna rubbed his arm where Issul had held him. “I will be on my way. Good evening to you both.” She nodded and watched him disappear before she turned to the Avatar. “Why did you follow me?” He looked into her eyes and there was a considering expression on his features. “Why do you think? In my lifetime, I have met many women, but none set my blood singing like you do. It is as peculiar for me as it is for you, but I believe we should give it a try.” She thought about it for about half a second before she took a step toward him. “Let’s try then.” He reached out and lifted her chin on two fingers. Issul leaned down slowly, giving her plenty of opportunity to back away if she wanted to. Sebena stayed firm and closed her eyes when 20

Asteroid they started to cross. His breath feathered across her lips and they parted in reflex. He stroked her lips with his own, slowly caressing her. She shivered, her skin coming alive with just that tiny touch. Sebena was amazed. She had had a few lovers in her life, but none had been able to arouse her like this with a simple kiss. Most had found her inability to climax to be a personal failing in her and eventually, she had simply given up on sex. Sebena leaned up to increase the pressure of the kiss, but Issul backed away, moving from her mouth to feather kisses across her cheekbones and her nose, across her forehead and then back to her mouth. She sighed and smiled against his lips at the blooming warmth that was spreading through her at his caresses. While he was kissing her, she heard two people pass them in the hall, soft giggles trailed away, but she kept her eyes closed. She was lost in the spell he was weaving and when he backed away from her, she swam up out of the warm haze to open her eyes. Issul was smiling and there was enough of Zeering in his eyes to make her self-conscious. “It is a good start, Sebena. A very good start.” He took her hand and placed it on his arm, walking her the twenty steps to her quarters. “I 21

Viola Grace will wish you good night. May your dreams shake the stars.” Still dazed, she entered her quarters and smiled hesitantly at him before closing the door. A low, moaning sigh squeezed out of her chest and she quickly stripped for bed. It was going to be a restless night, but she hoped that dreams came quickly.

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Chapter Four he message to join the captain for breakfast woke her with a harsh beep. With the bleary eyes of a woman who had not had any sleep staring at her in the mirror, she took a rapid gel cleanse and brushed her mediocre pale brown hair into a long, loose pony tail down her back. It had waves in it from her braids but otherwise was unadorned. She dressed in her uniform and made sure that she looked presentable before heading out to the captain’s mess with only five minutes to spare. She moved quickly through the halls and skidded to a halt in front of the door at exactly the right time. Sebena pressed her hand to the palm scanner and the door opened to show Captain Helov, Avatar Issul and the junior officer who was serving. She greeted them, “Good morning, Captain, Avatar Issul.”

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Viola Grace “Gunner Hadros, please be seated.” There was only one empty place set and it was next to Issul. She nodded and took her seat. The junior officer began to serve the moment that she was settled. She was nervous and simply listened to the captain and Issul speaking. She couldn’t add anything to the conversation regarding Alliance politics, so she sipped at her water and paid attention. She perked up when she heard something of interest. “We are landing today?” The captain gave her a slight smile. “Well, you are landing today. The planet has filed for your release from the mining ship for no less than three months.” Sebena blinked. “I beg your pardon, Captain?” “The Alliance has authorized your residence transfer to Zeering. You will be eligible to return to the Sheppan in three months.” He smiled as the officer put a plate in front of Issul and then himself. Sebena’s breakfast was served last and she waited for Issul to begin before she took a few careful bites. The food was not what she was used to, but if she didn’t have to man her gun today, she should have time to work it through. The captain’s species had similar requirements to her own, but there was a density to the foods offered that 24

Asteroid wasn’t going to sit well. “I see. When was I going to find this out, Captain?” “We received the notice this morning. Too bad, you are our best gunner. No one has an accuracy and yield rating like you do, Hadros.” Sebena sipped at the water again. “That is very true. My accuracy was the reason I made it into the Volunteer program. It is my defining characteristic.” Issul seemed curious. “Is it? How so?” “Targeting and precision was determined during the interview process. They tested me afterward and it was confirmed that my reflexes were above normal. I was offered the position in the Volunteers just before the launch day. I waved goodbye to my family and was on the first wave out to the stars before I knew what was happening.” The captain sat back. “I never knew that.” She blushed. “I don’t really have much interaction with anyone here aside from the gunners and they don’t ask questions.” The captain had a serious expression, but when she looked at Issul, he had something different on his features. “Do you miss it?” She swallowed. “I really do. Knowing that I have a world where my family is that I cannot 25

Viola Grace return to is hard. I mean, I know I agreed to it, but it doesn’t make it easier.” Issul nodded. “I understand that better than you could ever know.” Clearing her throat, she asked, “Captain, how close were we to Zeering?” “Two days away. We are entering his system now.” She swallowed. “I see. When will we be within distance for planet fall?” “Six hours from now.” “So, six hours from now…” “You will pilot the Avatar to the planet Zeering and remain there with him as he adjusts to the changes that have occurred in the society. You will not only be there as the possible mate to this avatar, but also as his bodyguard.” Her resentment fell away. “What?” She looked between the captain and Issul and cocked her head. “Why would he need a bodyguard?” Issul leaned back in his chair and a slight smile curved his lips. “Because someone has already attempted to kill me.” Sebena listened with a bit of shock as Issul explained that his ship did not strike the asteroids by chance. A blast had taken out his starboard propulsion and it had sent his ship spinning into the field. 26

Asteroid They had chosen that moment to strike because the mineral-rich field was well known for blocking any signals. “Do you know who did it?” She was already devising a plan to keep Issul safe, which was ridiculous as there was little chance of anyone causing him physical harm on the surface. The planet would keep him safe. Zeering took control of the body. “There is a religious order on my world who has been attempting to gain a foothold with me by putting up one of their own as avatar. I have been refusing them on the grounds that Issul was still alive, but they claimed that there was no chance that he would return. They requested that they be allowed to submit candidates to me for the last one hundred years and I have rejected each one. They will be submitting another candidate in two days and with Issul’s return, there is bound to be a large fuss.” She looked at the face and read the expression of the planet in the man’s body. Zeering was quiet and didn’t want any trouble. He was shy and just wanted the folk on his surface to get along. “Zeering, how long have the people on your surface been there?” She wanted to bite her nails, but it was inappropriate for the captain’s table. “One thousand forty-two years. They arrived one hundred years before Issul did, but I could not 27

Viola Grace take them as Avatars. They burn out too quickly.” “What species are they?” “Reeban. They are not close enough to what I need to use as a vessel, but they do not like Issul. They were offended when I chose him as my avatar.” The Reeban were feathered and easily irritated, but they were also fiercely loyal when given reason to be. If there was a problem, it was likely that a small minority were fanning the flames. “Why would Issul be safe with me? You have far more power than I do to keep your Avatar safe.” “He needs to get to the throne that they have constructed within the temple of Zeering. If he can take the seat, they will accept him as my chosen. This was an arrangement devised by the priests, but I have managed to keep any of their candidates from taking the seat of the Avatar.” The grim cast to his voice let her know that those who tried to sit on the throne never stood up again. She nodded. “So, you want him guarded until he can park his tush on the throne?” “Precisely. You seem the kind of woman who can guard those under her care. I trust you, Sebena.” His eyes were equal parts gold and navy when he said it and she blushed again as the admiration in his tone melted her. 28

Asteroid Captain Helov looked between them and he smiled slightly. “Gunner, you will be given a set of weapons and the safety of the Avatar will be on your shoulders. You have six hours to requisition any additional items that you think you will need. Good luck, Gunner.” She fought tears at being forced away from what was her home. Sebena straightened her shoulders and inclined her head. “Avatar Issul, I will meet you in the starboard shuttle bay in six hours. I have lists to make.” Sebena got to her feet and turned to leave, but Issul grabbed her wrist. He stood and leaned toward her. “Thank you for this, Sebena. I will not forget it.” The memory of their first kiss ran through her thoughts and she relaxed, some of the worry for her future melting away at the genuine concern in his eyes. “I know you won’t.” He released her wrist and she left the room, her mind running through possibilities and everything she would need to defend a planet’s body against some angry birds.

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Chapter Five ebena was quiet as she piloted the ship toward Zeering. She was wearing stunners strapped to each thigh and a stun rifle was stowed in the back. Now that they were alone, she had a request to make. “Issul, can you ask Zeering to change my hair colour? I know it is not normal for a planet to make changes to someone other than their Avatar, but I know it can be done.” He looked at her with confusion. “I like your hair colour.” She smiled. “Thank you, but the Reeban determine rank by the crest colour.” A hint of understanding came to his eyes. “And you want your rank to be high?” “It will make things easier. Pink is one of the rarest colours for a female and so I think that if it was my colour, it might ease things along a bit. At the very least, it will offer a distraction for them. They will be watching me and not you when you

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Asteroid ascend the throne.” They were approaching the atmosphere. She hoped that he agreed, because this was one thing that they needed for any of her nine schemes to work. “Give me your hand.” She extended her right hand to him and his palm slid along hers. Power ran up her arm and crawled up her neck, coming alive along her scalp. She couldn’t see what was happening to her hair, but the energy flowing through her gave her the same tickle as licking a nine-volt battery. “There. It is a very pretty shade, but I will miss your original colouration.” He sounded wistful, but there was admiration in his gaze. She fought her blush and tugged her hand free. “Thank you, Issul and Zeering. This will be most helpful. Now, I just need to find a place to land us within walking distance to the temple.” “Why don’t we just land in the city?” “If the attacks on you were truly assassination attempts, then we need to come in quietly, bringing as little attention to ourselves as possible. Barring that, I will land us right in the centre of the square and I will blast our way into the temple and up to the throne.” “You will bring as little damage to the population as you can?” “Of course. These are stunners calibrated for 31

Viola Grace the Reeban specifically.” She patted the unit at her hip. “What is your plan?” “We land, take the streaker out and get to the temple as rapidly as possible. Do you know how to drive one?” He looked behind them to the transport unit lashed in the back of the battered shuttle. “I have never flown anything like that.” “Do you mind if I fly it then?” “I am happy to let you take charge of our transport. It will simply be a relief to be back in contact with the surface of Zeering again.” It was a relief that he wasn’t going to be insulted by her piloting the streaker. In her time in the Alliance, she had run across few males who insisted on driving and the results were never as good as if she had been behind the controls. The com chirped and she opened the line. “Incoming shuttle, identify yourself.” Sebena drew in a deep breath and exhaled slowly. “This is the landing shuttle out of the mining ship Sheppan, Alliance registration oneoh-two-two-five.” There was a pause and then the voice returned. “What is your business on Zeering?” “Trading for supplies. The Sheppan suffered an asteroid strike and lost half its food supply. We need proteins and as much vegetation as I can 32

Asteroid locate.” “Acknowledged. Please hold your position.” She nodded and winked at Issul as he sat and watched her playacting. “Please land at the spaceport. You have zone fifteen for your landing and three days on the surface. I hope you find what you seek.” “Thank you. A good day to you.” She disconnected the com and found the beacon that they lit for her. She entered the atmosphere and she could feel Issul vibrating with energy and anticipation. With her head down and hands on the controls, she brought them down into the skies of Zeering. Her landing zone was on the far side of the spaceport, but it was still within reasonable distance to the temple. A flicker on the com panel made her smile. She gestured at Issul to keep quiet. They had planted an open-com virus during the first communication. She had expected it, many worlds kept close tabs on visitors. Merkil had once come back to the ship fleeing an angry set of Tival parents who had planted a tracker on his ship when he landed. The captain had paid the family for the seduction of their daughters and Merkil had been reprimanded, his pay had been garnished for the remainder of the year. Sebena landed them neatly on their assigned 33

Viola Grace spot and rapidly unbuckled her harness before the shuttle had even powered down. Issul followed her lead and in seconds, she was wearing her rifle across her back and straddling the streaker. Issul wrapped his arms around her waist and whispered in her ear, “Ready when you are.” She struck the cargo release and the entire back of the mining shuttle cracked in half, opening wide to let them out. Sebena breathed deeply to calm herself and throttled the streaker into high. It levitated on a magnetic field and as she moved the controls, they shot forward. The security team that had been heading toward her shuttle froze as she zipped past them. The streaker was a nickname for a magnetically accelerated personal transport. If it was piloted by someone who knew what he or she was doing, it appeared to be nothing more than a streak of colour as it moved. Issul’s hold was firm but not crushing. His energy was pulsing through the tight bodysuit that wrapped her from neck to ankle. The dark suit had been Nilia’s suggestion when she heard about the situation Sebena was entering. No sense tangling herself on a baggy mining suit. If she needed to move, she needed to be wearing something more practical. The skin suit was it. She watched the temple grow as they got closer. Issul’s hold tightened on her waist and ribs. 34

Asteroid Security forces were organizing in front of her, so she took the streaker up. Shots were fired from the ground, missing them by inches but heating the air around them. “That is not friendly.” Zeering spoke in her ear, “I will provide a distraction.” Under them, the ground shook, blurring the temple slightly as it rocked under the onslaught of the planet. Sebena landed the streaker on the flat roof of the temple. Issul immediately let her go and stood to help her from their conveyance. “I can feel the seat of power calling to me.” She smiled and was going to speak, but a shadow moved and she lifted one of her stunners, blasting the priest before he could bring his own weapon to aim. Seeing a Reeban up close, she blinked at the feathers crowning the head and the beaklike nose that sat proudly in the centre of his face. “Okay. Now I know what we are dealing with. Let’s get you where you need to be.” She drew her other stunner and took point. They knew no one was behind them. There was no other place for the priests to hide on the sunny roof. Armed and on alert, she started down the stairs with Issul at her heels. The priests blocked her at regular intervals. She 35

Viola Grace almost laughed when one said, “Halt in the name of Zeering.” He ended up on the floor, but she propped him up nicely. He deserved respect for standing up to for what he believed in. The journey from the roof of the temple down to the throne room took them half an hour. Issul walked behind her and let her do the work the entire way. She didn’t mind. There was a certain satisfaction in knocking men on their asses at a distance. The throne room wasn’t guarded. The pulsing power of the navy blue quartz was unmistakable. She knew that power and as Issul walked past her, he was humming with the same rhythm. Priests suddenly coursed from all doorways and watched the avatar take the steps to the throne. Sebena knelt and brought her stun rifle around, aiming at anyone who even hinted at raising a weapon. She guarded the avatar as he took his throne and the moment that he sat, a ripple spread through the walls and floor, a bright wave that passed over the entire world. The Avatar of Zeering was home.

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Chapter Six hen the priests started to kneel, Sebena lowered her weapon and looked at Issul. He was the embodiment of power—his hair moving slightly as energy shifted through him and throughout the room. His eyes were completely navy blue, a sure sign that Zeering was firmly in control. A Reeban with a gold headpiece came forward. To Sebena’s surprise, he bowed low to Issul. “Avatar, we have prayed for your safe return.” “I am aware that this was not always the case, priest. My Avatar has been lost to me for a century and it was one of yours who caused the most painful separation.” The priest flinched. “My dear Zeering. It is good to hear your voice. We have despaired of hearing you speak in our lifetimes.” Zeering inclined his head. “My Avatar and I need to renew our bond. Please escort this woman to guest quarters and treat her as you would my

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Viola Grace wife. She is to retain her weapons.” “But my lord, weapons are not allowed in the temple.” “She is to retain her weapons.” The priest bowed low. “Yes, my lord. She will retain her weapons. We will bring her to the guest quarters in the village.” “She will remain here in the temple and sleep under my roof. Give her the Avatar’s chamber. She will rest in my bed. Go.” The priest stood, his navy blue feathers ruffled. He looked at Sebena and bowed stiffly. “Lady. Please accompany this acolyte to your rooms. We will bring in a female to attend you.” Her lips twitched in amusement. “Thank you, Priest. I welcome the rest.” She got to her feet and released her hair from her ponytail, looking at the cotton-candy pink locks that Zeering had crafted for her. The priests looked at her hair and a grudging respect came to their eyes. She looked to Issul and he gestured with his chin for her to leave him. The moment that she turned to follow the acolyte, a column of energy swallowed him as the power of Zeering bonded into his skin once again. The acolyte led her up a set of stairs and down a hall. Two huge doors were at the end of the hallway and he reached out to open the doors, 38

Asteroid swinging them wide. “The Avatar’s quarters, Lady. We have kept them maintained for the last hundred years, waiting for his return.” She smiled wryly. “And here I heard that the priests had attempted to kill Issul in an effort to install their own Avatar. Too bad no one asked Zeering about it. He can’t occupy a Reeban.” The acolyte paused while opening the bathroom door. “What?” “Apparently, your bodies or minds cannot hold him properly. You burn out too fast and every lost Avatar causes Zeering grief. He wanted your people to thrive, not to be lost in the grief of a world who had lost the extension of himself.” She was babbling and she knew it, but there was a pressure on her mind and she had to tell this young male exactly what the problem was between Zeering and his kind. “Who told you this?” “Zeering, while he was fully occupying his Avatar. Oh, is that a bathtub?” The acolyte blinked at the change in topic. “Of course. The Avatar was used to bathing in water and so it was installed when the temple was built centuries ago.” The young man with the mud brown hair bowed low. “Is there is nothing else for you, Lady?” “A meal in an hour would be wonderful. For 39

Viola Grace now, I would like to bathe.” She shooed him out and he bowed his way out of the bathing room and out through the two huge doors. He closed the doors behind him and she turned back to the bath with a happy giggle. The taps were a little awkward, but she managed to turn them on and after a few minutes, the hot water flowed and began to fill the tub. As she sat and waited, she went through the oils and soaps at the edge of the tub, sniffing until she had picked out her favourites. The bathing room itself had a separate cabinet for the necessary, a charming sink and a wall of mirrors. It was a huge room and it seemed a shame to waste the Olympic-sized bathtub on herself. She laughed and stripped out of the bodysuit. Who was she kidding? She was only too happy to jump into the water and enjoy a soak. Real water was in short supply on a mining ship that didn’t deal in ice. Sebena dipped her toes into the water and with a happy sigh, she slid into the rising level. She turned off the water when it lapped against her breasts and she leaned back with another sigh. Oh, she had missed this. Her body enjoyed the buoyancy of the water and she revelled in the feeling of her fingers getting pruney under the water. 40

Asteroid She slid under the water and soaked her hair, getting the pink stuff nice and wet. With a happy growl, she poured some of the floral soap into her hand and lathered it up. She soaped her hair and then her body, loving the smell and the relaxed sensation that spilled through her as the scent worked her over. Laughing at herself, she rinsed off and flicked the drain. There was no time to spend the entire day in a bath, but it had been good while it lasted. Decidedly woozy, she chalked up her lightheadedness to the heat of the water, but when she took a few steps into the cooler air of the bedroom with a towel wrapped around her, she knew something was wrong. She staggered forward and headed for the door. She only had the towel around her, but she didn’t care. She needed help and she needed it now. Two young priests saw her and immediately ran to her side. “What is it, Lady?” “I have been poisoned, bring me to the Avatar.” “He is communing with Zeering. We are not to disturb him.” She gave them a dark look. “If he wakes and his mate is dead, he will be a lot less pleased than if you simply interrupt him. Now. Please.” She collapsed at their feet. The next few images were spotty from her point of view. She was carried, set down, carried again, set down again, 41

Viola Grace she heard arguing and then a familiar voice that washed over her and made her feel warm from the inside out. A hand of power lifted her and she hovered in the air, her body covered by the wrap she had grabbed in the bathing room. “She has been poisoned.” Issul’s voice was deadly. “She mentioned something to that effect, but she smells like Miyaka flowers. It was thought that she had an allergy to them.” The priest’s voice trembled as he spoke. His tone was too high and his words too fast. He knew something, but in Sebena’s dazed state, she was too distracted to pick it out. Her body was moved across the room, about four feet in the air. Pain was beginning to radiate from all her nerve endings. Zeering lifted her up the steps toward the throne, the power of the planet once again controlled by Issul’s body. Sebena felt the surge of energy as she passed through the column of power that Zeering was radiating. He gently placed her across Issul’s lap and her lips quirked in a drowsy, pain-laden smile. “I am sorry to have interrupted your meditation, Issul.” “And I am sorry that our first coming together will have to be this way, but the poison that they 42

Asteroid used is invasive and you do not have much time.” The towel was burned away in seconds in a blaze of blue fire and she was left naked and draped across his thighs and the arms of the throne. A matching flare covered Issul’s skin and in seconds she was sitting directly on hard thighs and a searing column of heat that caused a flicker in her body even while it began the process of dying. She used the last of her remaining energy to look him in the eye and the touching concern on his face with his eyes equal parts of gold and blue made her smile. “I am far more interested in survival than dignity, so do what you have to do.” His gentle smile burned itself into her memory and she relaxed as he began to stroke her skin. Whatever he was about to do was going to change her, and at this moment, she had no objection as long as she lived to reciprocate another day.

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Chapter Seven he light surrounding them became an opaque wall that shut out the curious priesthood and left them in a column of privacy that relieved the tiny bit of tension that Sebena had been harboring. She sighed happily as his hands stroked over her breasts, because everywhere he touched, the pain that was threatening to turn into an acidic shriek faded away. When he caressed her breasts, she sighed and arched into his hands, feeling the curls of pleasure that were expanding inside her. Zeering was riding Issul’s every touch. The planet’s power was the pleasure that she felt coursing and pooling in her. It made sense it was far easier to acquire an Avatar with pleasure than with pain. As the pain receded, she lifted one arm to caress Issul’s neck. She used her grip to lever herself upward and when their lips were half an inch apart, he ran his hand between her thighs and parted the lips of her sex in one slow stroke. Two

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Asteroid fingers slid into her while he kissed her, the same slow kiss that he had given her on the Sheppan. When his fingers thrust and retreated, she gasped and she could feel the curve of Issul’s lips against her own. Pleasure spun through her as he continued the slow kiss with the more insistent motions of his hand. Heat spiked through her with every insertion and retreat of his hand. She felt the passion rise and after she passed the limits she thought she was capable of, harsh cries came from her lips as the tension snapped and her body curled against Issul while she shook in his grip. Her first orgasm instigated by someone else, it was an amazing revelation. The soft laugh was part Issul and part Zeering as he shifted and lifted her against him. She was kneeling on either side of his hips, her legs pressed to the throne of Zeering. Face to face, she looked into his eyes as he whispered, “My Avatar, my life, my bride.” Her eyes widened when the arrow-like head of Issul’s cock wedged in her opening. He pressed his hands against her hips and moved his hips so that she took him inside her. Her channel widened to take him, but there was still an ache of discomfort as he filled her in every dimension. Her channel slicked with desire, making the next movement easier. Sebena’s instinct to move 45

Viola Grace took over and she rose up on her knees before sliding back to rest fully against his thighs. Issul’s eyes glowed as she rocked and ground against him. He leaned forward and this time, his kiss was not gentle. His teeth bit lightly at her lip and when she opened to him, he explored her mouth with his tongue. He mimicked the rhythm that she had taken up and while she sighed and looped her arms around his neck, he reached one hand between them to rub against the point where they joined, bringing her to another swift orgasm that made her buck against him and a trembling cry was given to him as his due. He gripped her hips and thrust into her furiously, bringing her up on a spiral of pleasure that had her on the edge of pleasure again in moments. Issul gripped her head and kissed her savagely as he shouted his release. She felt the jet of cum inside her, but there was a surprise that went along with it. The energy of Zeering burned into her, starting in her womb and radiating through her entire body. The scream that came to her throat was swallowed by another kiss. Pleasure and pain blurred into one moment of confusion as the planet mapped every inch, every cell, every nerve and made himself at home. Welcome, Sebena. You are ours now. 46

Asteroid What the hell? You were poisoned. I know that. Why are you in my head? Issul is in your body. You don’t seem to mind that. She blushed. Zeering had a point. It still feels a little invasive. You will get used to it. Does this mean… Yes. You are mine now. The Alliance will be notified once you and Issul have completed the acclimatization. She thought it out and realized that it was never going to end any other way. From the moment Issul had set eyes on her outside his pod, she had known that he was determined to have her, but for the life of her, she couldn’t figure out why. You are extraordinary and Issul looks forward to proving to you just how extraordinary you are at every opportunity. Now that he and I have renewed our bond and are aware of the threat that the Reeban pose, we will take steps. What are you planning? A little housekeeping. They will no longer be allowed to do what they have done here. An image came into her mind of a mountain and a series of blasts that eventually left nothing but a tower of blue marble. The temple was built around the tower and she knew then what she was looking at. The Reeban had built a direct connection to the world below and tried to pass it off as tribute when it was really an attempt at 47

Viola Grace manipulation. What will you do? We will discuss that after the bonding is complete. We still have some more work to do. She fought the urge to smile, as the subject he was referring to was taking on an insistent form within her. Does Issul know we are speaking? He knows and is impatient for me to finish so that he can begin. Amusement flowed from the planet and she felt him retreat to a previously unused corner of her mind. Humans didn’t use their entire brains at one time and it seemed that it was exactly the kind of arrangement that this planet preferred. She could almost feel him setting up housekeeping. Sebena looked at Issul’s face and reached up to caress his jaw, neck and shoulders. He ran his hands over her back and arched his hips into hers. The pillar of heat inside her started to move once again and she placed her hands on his shoulders for balance. The column that hid them from view flickered randomly as the joining continued. Sebena could see Issul with her, the pleasure that they were finding together as they moved as one and off in the corner of their thoughts, Zeering burned brightly. The tension within her coiled and tightened, Sebena dug her nails into his shoulders and when 48

Asteroid his hands bruised her hips and his lips crushed against hers, he howled and she moaned. Their bodies locked together as his spasmodic jerks thrust him to the hilt in harsh repetition. She sighed and licked at his lips while their galloping heartbeats slowed and synchronized. The concealing column was gone now. The priests were on their knees and staring in astonishment. She looked around them and a sinking feeling began. Sebena took in her position, Issul’s hands on her ass, and the cheerful hum of Zeering in her mind. “Oh, hell.” His chuckle in her ear brought her head around to glare at him. “You think this is funny?” She punched his chest lightly. “You are alive, well and bonded to me. I am relieved and ecstatic.” She could feel the tension seeping out of him, and the cum seeping out of her. Her pink hair surrounded her and she knew that as soon as she dismounted, her body would be visible to all and sundry. “This is embarrassing.” He laughed. “The priests are in shock. You are now the embodiment of Zeering. Your body is holy to them.” She tried to move off him, but her muscles were locked. “How long were we like that?” 49

Viola Grace “Making love?” “Coupling. My limbs are tight and I feel like I ran a marathon.” “What’s a marathon?” He rubbed her back and buttocks with long strokes of his hands. “A foot race on Terra that takes hours for the participants.” She groaned and leaned her head against his chest as he unknotted her legs and lifted her away from him before readjusting her posture so she was draped across his lap once again. The high priest stepped forward. “Greetings, Avatar Issul. Greetings, Avatar Sebena. We greet you on behalf of the population of Zeering.” She arranged her hair to cover her breasts and Issul’s arm across her hips covered her bikini area. The priests were staring at her, some with an appalled expression, some with admiration and some with mindless worship. The lust was the least shocking to her. She felt Zeering sweep into control of her body. “Thank you, Priest. Greetings to you all. It is with great joy that I present my new Avatar to you. She will represent the women in your population and requires female priests to attend her. This will begin today.” “But, Zeering, that is impossible. We have made this temple a sanctuary for the males of this world.” 50

Asteroid She felt Zeering smile. “It is no longer a sanctuary. My Avatars will begin to bring balance to this world. It has been skewed for far too long.” “My Lord, this is impossible. We cannot bring women into our temple. The priests would revolt.” “Let them go. Only the faithful are worthy to remain in my presence. Those who doubt my judgement are free to leave.” To Sebena’s horror, Zeering stood upright in her body wearing nothing but a cloak of pink hair. “I have re-joined Issul and bonded to Sebena. We now will spend a night together and in the morning, there will be change.” Issul stood at her side and took her hand. “This couple is my choice and they will rule over my surface until they choose to leave it, together.” Zeering walked them through the throne room and with only a nod to the high priest, they returned to Issul’s quarters where Sebena’s adventure began.

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Chapter Eight he moment that the doors closed behind them, Zeering released them both. Sebena’s blush flared into solid and vibrant life the moment she was free and Issul simply smiled and shook his head. “Does he march you around naked a lot?” Sebena darted into the bathing room and grabbed a towel to wrap around her. “Not a lot. No. You were fading quickly and getting inside you mentally and physically was the most effective way to save what was left of your life. Burning off our clothing made that possible.” She groaned and came out of the bathroom to see Issul lounging on the bed. “Was having us hike here naked part of his fun?” She had to ask Issul, Zeering was hiding from her irritation. “It was necessary. Getting the priests to provide appropriate clothing for us would have taken longer than you would have liked. Your hair

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Asteroid covered most of you.” His lips were twitching with amusement. She lifted a hank and scowled at the pink locks. “How stupid does it look?” “It looks lovely. I especially like that Zeering matched the rest of you to the pink.” She glanced down and her blush fired again as she caught his meaning. Sebena sighed and began rummaging through the wardrobes that lined the wall. The men’s clothing was all neatly arranged, but there was nothing designed for someone of her frame, so she took one of the shirts and pulled it over her head. It fell to her knees and she rolled up the sleeves until she could see her hands. “Why get dressed?” “Because it makes me feel better. I am not a fan of public nudity, especially if it centres around me.” She returned to the bathroom and looked for the bottle that she had used as soap. She emerged from the bathroom and looked him up and down. “Issul, did someone remove the bottle of bath soap? The one that poisoned me is missing.” “Not that I am aware of. They are under orders to only enter these chambers for personal attendance and housekeeping. Neither of those were needed in the last two days.” That shocked her. “Two days?” 53

Viola Grace “Time moves differently when you are with Zeering. He is not focussed on anything but making sure that every cell recognizes him.” Issul got to his feet and opened a set of doors that let the sunset stream through the room. “So, we were in there and together for two days? Why aren’t I sore?” He laughed. “There are a few advantages to being an Avatar. Being impervious to damage is one of them.” “So, if I had been poisoned after the change, there wouldn’t have been any problem?” She quirked a brow. “Why would they have bothered to poison you if they knew you were impervious to damage?” “I am not sure that they knew. Zeering has never shared my vulnerabilities with the Reeban or the lack of them for that matter. They never asked. They simply decided that they would rather have one of their own on the throne.” He shrugged. A knock on the door startled them both. Issul wandered casually to the door and opened one side. Sebena heard him speaking and a lighter feminine voice replied, but she couldn’t make out their words. “Sebena, this is Karri. She has volunteered to be your maid and dresser.” Issul opened the door 54

Asteroid wide and a young Reeban woman stood there, her black feathers lying flat against her skull. Sebena chuckled. “Get some pants on, Issul, and let her in.” As the timid, young woman came in, her backpack bulging, Sebena wondered how many times in the next few years that she would have to utter that exact sentence. He seemed completely at ease in his skin and having had a portion of him inside her, she had to admit that he had reason for pride. “Welcome, Karri.” The young woman gave her a surprised look. “Thank you, Avatar Sebena. I was supposed to be here two days ago, but you were…busy.” Laughing, Sebena led the young woman to a sitting area near the balcony. “Do you think you can work with my hair? I know it isn’t feathers, but I like it.” Karri nodded shyly. “I have had training as a groomer, Avatar Sebena. I can also offer you a massage and nail treatments. The clothing that I selected was based on your measurements when you arrived. I hope it will be suitable.” “Let’s start with just getting a brush for my hair. The changes Zeering made created a much softer and lighter substance than I am used to.” Karri opened her backpack and pulled out swaths of silk. “This is a lounging robe. It may be 55

Viola Grace more comfortable than Avatar Issul’s shirt.” Issul was wearing pants but lounging on the bed once again. “I like the way she looks in my shirt.” Sebena lifted her hand. “Your opinion was not asked for.” Karri was shocked. “You speak to him like that? The Avatar of Zeering?” Sebena snorted. “Of course. He was being a twit. And thanks to Zeering, there are now two Avatars to work with the people of his world. One who understands the female perspective and then him.” She jerked her thumb at Issul and he barked a laugh. She removed the shirt she was wearing and slipped the robe on, enjoying the slick feel of the fabric against her skin. It covered her to her toes. The deep purple colour contrasted nicely with her hair, the patterns on the hem were elaborate and stiffened the fabric into straight lines. Karri pulled gowns, brushes and some items that Sebena couldn’t identify out of her pack. “Avatar Sebena, may I set up a dressing station for you?” “Of course. Use whatever resources are available and send for anything you need. The priests will provide it.” Under Karri’s polite ministrations, her hair was braided and Karri had created a list of necessary 56

Asteroid items to request from the priests. “How did you come to volunteer for this position, Karri?” Issul was at the door requesting dinner and Karri leaned forward to whisper, “I was selected by the priests because my family already had four other daughters and my brother was one of the candidates who died on the throne.” “What are your feelings about that?” Sebena watched the grief flicker over the woman’s features. “He should not have listened to the priesthood. He knew that Zeering’s Avatar was alive.” “How?” “Zeering never grieved. If Issul had died, Zeering would have grieved and we would have known it. Planets have been known to begin ice ages because they lost their Avatars.” Issul opened the doors as the priests brought a table into their chambers. Chairs followed and soon, a meal was brought to them. The empty spaces in their rooms were rapidly taking on a homier look. “Have the priests prepared a room for you?” Karri shook her head. “They don’t host women in the temple.” “That is about to change. If I do one thing, it will be to create a little more equilibrium here in the temple.” She checked her reflection in the 57

Viola Grace mirror on one wall. The braiding had been done neatly and the two long, twisted locks hung to her hips on either side of her head. Zeering, are you growing out my hair? Among Issul’s people, the women are considered most feminine when their hair reaches their ankles. I am attempting to please you both with this effort, but you really need to eat, I need some raw materials to work from. You could have mentioned something. I just did. Now, go and have a meal with your mate. He is eager to share the simple moments of life with you. She sent a mental growl to the planet and smiled at her maid. “If you have somewhere to be, you are dismissed for the evening. Will you return tomorrow?” Karri grinned, her cute beaked nose bright gold and gleaming in the sunset. “I will be happy to. I will bring a seamstress with me and we will set about building you the proper wardrobe for a woman of your station.” “Until tomorrow then.” Sebena smiled and inclined her head in dismissal. Karri grabbed her backpack and left with a spring in her step and a lift to her feathers. It was a blatant insult to assign a woman of such a low family to the service of an Avatar, but Sebena liked her. The dark black hair denoted the lowest of merchant classes, as did the gold beak. 58

Asteroid The more exotic the colouring, the higher the caste of Reeban. Karri was firmly at the bottom of the financial food chain and Sebena couldn’t help but think that someone was trying to capitalize on her brother’s death at the hands of the Avatar’s throne.

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Chapter Nine ssul smiled and served her a portion of the dinner. “It isn’t what you are used to, but it is fairly tasty. We can make other arrangements in the future, but for tonight, we are stuck with Reeban cuisine.” “I will deal with it as long as Zeering keeps me from having any untoward reactions spurred by ingesting the food.” “You will be impervious to anything that his soil can produce, as well as most commonly imported substances.” “Nice.” Sebena eyed the food on the wide platter in front of her. The colours were bright and the combination was appetizing. “What is your impression of your maid?” “Karri? She seems genuine, but they will try and use her against us. That much is certain.” Sebena mimicked his hold on the eating utensils that resembled chopsticks crossed with spoons. It took a few tries, but he didn’t seem to mind

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Asteroid getting the small noodles flicked in his face. Issul simply wiped the food away and continued his meal, his shoulders moving in silent laughter. She shrugged and kept working to get some of the food into her. She wasn’t brave enough to ask what it was quite yet. Sebena would let the contents of her plate remain a mystery. “Zeering will guard you against anything that they plan. We will not be allowed off world for a few decades, but I am sure that we will find ways to amuse ourselves.” His switch of topics made her blink. “Please tell me that your mind isn’t always on sex.” “Only when you are around, Sebena. It seems that I have a weakness where you are concerned.” He portioned off another serving and continued to eat. She finished her meal and sat back. The table was strewn with the wreckage of her attempts at learning how to use the implements. “Who does the dishes?” “There will be some acolytes here in an hour to remove the remains of our meal.” He finished his food and sat back. “So, what is the routine here? Do we engage in public spectacles every day or was this a special occasion?” 61

Viola Grace “A special occasion. Zeering had to refresh his connection to me and begin his connection with you. It was a matter of urgency that the toxins be removed from your body and the only place to do it was within Zeering’s energy column. I did not have enough power stored in my body to heal you.” “Will we find out who poisoned me?” She was amazed as he smiled. “I know exactly who poisoned you. Priest Novik Alort. He is descended from the high priest that was in power when I disappeared. He is the only priest recorded as coming through those doors in the last few weeks.” She paused. “Wait. Recorded?” “Of course. When this temple was built, my private quarters had full scanners implanted in the hall outside the doors as well as the balcony. Everything coming into this room is recorded in detail and Zeering accessed the computer while we were joining.” “He can multitask? How nice.” Her voice was dry. “He is a good planet to be linked to. He has never forced me into any position that I would not have wished to be in.” Issul smiled. Sebena smiled shyly, got to her feet and dropped into his lap. “That is the sweetest thing.” “You will be fitted with a wardrobe suiting 62

Asteroid your new station in the morning and we will meet with the high priest and local politicians and work out the current state of the population.” “Is that it?” He loosely draped his arms around her hips and nuzzled at her neck while speaking. “We don’t do much aside from negotiating for mineral rights and determine colony statuses. Our concern is the state of the planet, not its population.” She lifted her chin as he rubbed her neck with his lips and nose. Sebena sighed and enjoyed being cuddled. “I am amazed that I am not sore from our previous joining.” “Zeering is thoughtful that way. He keeps our bodies up to species standard at all times and will attempt to grant any requests you have regarding your physical systems.” “Like my hair?” “Precisely. He increased my height to a more intimidating size so the Reeban would be forced to look up to me.” “Your people are smaller?” She bit her lip as one of his hands worked beneath the robe. “As an adult male, I would have stood even with your shoulder. When I was taken from my people, I was an adolescent and it was simply luck that caused my crash here on Zeering.” She sighed as he cupped a breast and thumbed 63

Viola Grace her nipple softly. “What were your people like?” “Young. As a species, we were very young. My people did not trust strangers from the sky and we ran from them when they landed. I was foolish enough to try and confront the invaders and they captured me, taking me with them. They were running tests on me when we crashed.” “Were you scared?” Sebena used her hands to caress his chest and neck. “Petrified. I ripped the cords out of my arms and ran for it. We were quite a distance from the Reeban colony, so I was halfway up the mountainside before Zeering spoke to me.” “He made contact with you directly?” “He did. He had been desperate to make contact with the Reeban, but they were not suitable. All his energy was hovering near the surface and he seized the opportunity to take an Avatar.” Despite the curls of pleasure running through her, she sat up straight and leaned away from him. “He took you as Avatar by force?” “He asked me who I was and where I was from. I told him that my people would not have me back again and then he took me as his Avatar.” Sebena sighed and relaxed against him again. “Good, I didn’t want to think the worst of Zeering. Why wouldn’t your people let you come back?” He sighed and sat up, pulling her tight against 64

Asteroid him. “Because no good has ever come from the sky.” She felt his homesickness. It radiated out of him in a wave. “Have you ever tried to go back? Not to live but to visit?” “Zeering would not allow it. After he changed my body, he felt it would be inappropriate to show me to my family and friends. My height alone would frighten my people.” She looked up at him. “I like your height. It makes me feel delicate, feminine.” Issul blinked. “Then I am glad that the changes occurred before you met me.” “I think I would like you in whatever form you had, but this one does make it easier.” She smiled and caressed his cheek. “My face is my own and everything else was increased proportionally.” “Lucky me. You are truly beautiful, right down to your pointy ears.” She caressed his ears and he shuddered under her light touch. She leaned forward to kiss him and a knock at the door caused her to groan and lean her head on his chest instead. “It is the housekeeping staff.” His voice resonated in his chest. A panel folded open on one wall and a red light flared. Issul was on his feet in seconds, standing her 65

Viola Grace upright and striding across the room. “I stand corrected. It isn’t housekeeping. It is Karri and she is holding a bomb.” I will handle this. Zeering took over Sebena and Issul, moving them in concert. Sebena was standing between the doors and Issul threw them open.

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Chapter Ten emain calm, Karri.” Tears coursed down the maid’s face as she stood with her hands locked onto the device. “I am so sorry. They didn’t give me a choice.” Zeering nodded Sebena’s head and reached out to touch the bomb. Power flowed into the device and the pulsing energy inside the box faded to nothing. Sebena watched her hands dexterously unclasp the links that bound Karri to the box and she carried it inside the Avatars’ chambers. The box quivered as the device tried to reactivate. Zeering walked the bomb to the balcony and Sebena handed the box to Issul while she powered up. He hurled the box over the city and Sebena watched in amazement as her arm extended and a bolt of power crackled from her hand to strike the falling bomb. The detonation was incredible. The energy wave coursed over them and caused panicked

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Viola Grace cries from the folk of the city. I could not let them ignore this insult. One more and I will remove them from the surface. Sebena shook as she regained control of her body. She immediately moved to console the collapsed woman in the doorway. “It’s all right, Karri. No one was hurt. Are you okay?” Sebena touched the woman’s chin and flinched at the darkening marks on Karri’s face. “They threatened my family, Avatar Sebena. I don’t know if they are safe.” Karri sobbed and tried to hide the bruising, wincing as she moved her arm. Issul came up behind her. “We will see to your family, Karri. Give us a moment and we will come with you to your home.” Sebena helped the woman rise to her feet and brought her inside their rooms. When Karri was seated at the table, Sebena reached for one of the basic gowns she had been given and she yanked it on over her head. Hands helped her smooth the lines of the fabric and when she was free of the dress, she saw Karri with a focussed look on her face. Her wrists were still raw from her attempts to free herself, but she took her work as a maid seriously. In under a minute, Sebena was presentable and gowned properly. Issul was wearing a blue shirt, black trousers and polished black boots. 68

Asteroid “Come, Karri, we will get your family to safety if they wish it…and you will tell us who tied you to the bomb.” There was no doubt in Issul’s voice. He was going to get the answer he wanted. “My uncle, Treesh. He is one of the objectors who does not wish for your return. He thought that my brother should have been named Avatar and was devastated when he wasn’t.” Sebena wished that she could have been more shocked, but family pride was always dangerous. Back on Earth, her ancestors had done stupid things for pride and family honour. It was rather comforting to know that things across the universe kept that balance. She straightened and put her arm around Karri. “Are you ready?” She swallowed and Sebena could feel the swirling of Zeering behind her eyes. Issul was showing the same fifty-fifty markings. They moved together and passed the astonished priests in the hallway, down the stairs and through the polished-stone lobby. Sebena could feel the glow of power that surrounded them. Zeering was on high alert and they were going to get some questions answered. The house was bright. Lights glowed intensely within. Sebena stayed with Karri and lit the street outside the house with her glow. A crowd was 69

Viola Grace gathering. No one had seen an Avatar in the flesh in his or her lifetime and now there were two walking the streets. Issul raised his hand and the door burst into blue flames. He walked inside and Zeering whispered to Sebena. Go inside. Treesh is subdued and they need to see that Karri is safe. Sebena kept her arm around Karri and brought her into her family’s home. The sisters were bound to chairs. Karri’s parents were beaten and tied back to back. Karri cried out and knelt next to her parents, untying them. Her mother looked at Sebena with swollen and bruised eyes. “We are loyal to you, Avatars.” “Will you give your daughter into my service, to be a priestess of the feminine Avatar for her life?” As she was untied, Karri’s mother knelt before Sebena. She quailed inwardly, but Zeering kept her head high and her hand steady as the woman took it. “We give her gladly and happily into your safekeeping. Zeering will protect her from the machinations of males and for that, we are grateful.” Issul was standing next to two unconscious males. He nodded for Sebena to speak. “What do you need to make your lives whole, right and worry free?” 70

Asteroid The woman looked up in surprise. “Wedding portions for my other four daughters would be what we need. Once they are married off, I would be able to have my life wind toward retirement with calm and dignity.” Sebena looked to her maid. “Karri, will you be traded for the wedding portions of your sisters?” Karri smiled. “Gladly and with a good heart.” The woman continued to unravel her siblings until all the girls were hugging and sobbing. Karri’s father stood, his matte black feathers ruffled and bloody. “My brother said there was no way to disarm the bomb. He said that my daughter would die for her loyalty to you.” Sebena smiled. “He was mistaken. Zeering stopped the bomb and allowed me to detonate it over the city without damage to your child.” She addressed the family. “Issul and I are not Avatars because we chose it or because we have named ourselves so. Zeering has poured a minute portion of his mind into us and speaks through us when he chooses. Only by using a body can he have a voice that the people walking his surface can hear.” He asked another question. “Why did he never choose a Reeban as his Avatar?” Issul smiled grimly. “Your brother will explain that at dawn in the temple. Anyone who wishes to can watch as the first of the Reeban takes Zeering 71

Viola Grace into him.” The family was confused, but Issul lifted Treesh and his cohort over his shoulders, walking easily toward the temple. It was many hours until dawn and there were preparations to be made. Sebena stood on the left side of the throne, Issul on the right. They were wearing matching clothing and Sebena had to admit that while the seamstresses had been sleepy when they arrived, they had perked up considerably when the realized that this was the first official clothing to be worn by the Avatars and as such, it required the utmost care to get everything just so. The room was filled with onlookers and several had unveiled hostility burning in their eyes. As the bright light of morning touched the throne, Zeering took over their bodies and spoke with one voice. “People who have made their lives on my world, I have been too long without a voice and now that my Avatar has returned to me, I can speak on a subject that has waited too long for an explanation.” Priests at the foot of the stairs to the throne were guarding Treesh. He was confused by what was going on, but he still sneered at the Avatars as they spoke. 72

Asteroid “I am Zeering, the world under your feet. For a thousand years, the Reeban have walked my world and for nine hundred years, Issul has been my voice. Many of you have considered this an insult. Why would an off worlder be more worthy than one of your own? The truth of the matter is that the Reeban cannot take a planet into them. “Last night, one of your own tried to kill my Avatars. He beat his own kin, threatened his family and tied his niece to a bomb meant to destroy my voices in your temple. Today, we are here to give him what he wants. If he wants to feel the touch of the planet, then let him come to the throne and sit upon it. No one will stop him. I have reduced the power flowing through it to less than one hundredth of what flows in each of these bodies right now. “Bring him to me.” The priests goaded the wild-eyed Treesh up the steps. He gained confidence when the throne did not glow as it had in the past when a Reeban touched it. In a sudden surge of enthusiasm, he sat on the throne and his feathers stood on end while the mind of the planet touched his. “Amazing. I can feel Zeering inside me.” His words caused a murmur of surprise and together, Issul and Sebena walked down and away from the throne. 73

Viola Grace Treesh lifted his hands as they took on a blue glow. “There is so much power. I can move mountains.” The temple began to shake and outside, cries of fear spilled through the streets. Sebena wanted to halt the display, but the Reeban had to see why they were not suitable. Treesh grinned and there was a manic madness in his face. It contorted suddenly and his hands clutched at his head. “No, no, what is happening? Stop it, Zeering. Stop it!” They spoke, though few could hear it over the panic. “I am not yours to command, Treesh. This world is mine, my heart, my soul and you will not twist it to your purpose.” Treesh writhed in the grip of the power and his head simply exploded. Sebena nodded and turned to the watchers. “You want, you do not accept, you desire, you do not take what is given and you would turn my power into a tool for your own advancement. This is not what I need. I need a voice and hands to help you flourish. Issul came to me lost and Sebena found me. These two are the balance that I need and that you need. They will help you and I will help them.” Sebena took Issul’s hand and they bowed to the assembled. They walked out of the throne room, leaving the pieces of Treesh behind. Karri 74

Asteroid followed with her head high and her bruises worn with pride. The punishment had been recorded and would be filed with the Alliance. For now, they had other matters to attend to. A joining cut short was not fun at all.

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Chapter Eleven s soon as Karri helped her out of the stiff and formal gown, Sebena wrapped the robe around her and watched as Issul began to remove his own clothing. Karri hung up the gown, bowed and left with a smile on her face. Her quarters were next door and in a few days, there was going to be an expansion of the Avatars’ quarters to allow for a dressing room and maid’s quarters. The high priestess of Zeering was going to be nearby at all times. Watching Issul strip was the best unwrapping ever. Each inch of skin came as a surprise and it seemed like forever since she had seen him unclothed. The dozen hours since they had last been alone were an eternity for her. She stood and played with her sash while she watched him peel his trousers off to free his peculiarly tipped erection. Sebena walked forward and took him in her hand. She stroked up and down along the hot, silken shaft.

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Asteroid “I have never seen an image of a species put together quite like you.” His head was thrown back to expose the thick column of his throat. “Zeering has seen to it that I am one of a kind. As are you.” Her hand slowly explored the sharper tip of his penis, the small opening that called to her thumb. Precum began to come fast and furious at her touch and she realized that it was this that it had been waiting for. When she withdrew the light pressure, the flow ceased, but as long as her thumb circled, a steady emission slicked his skin. Issul tugged at her robe, unravelling the closure to expose the pale column of skin that she wore. She laughed and wrapped her arms around him, trapping his erection between them as she shifted her hips. Her body throbbed, her pulse picked up pace and she felt the same in his body. They moved as one, acted as one and fell to the bed as two, but he joined them quickly with a long thrust to her body. She lifted her legs to take him deeper as he moved with a hard and fast rhythm. She cried out when the pleasure mounted, groaned when he slowed to torture her with deep, measured thrusts and gasped when her first orgasm caught her by surprise. He continued to thrust within her and Zeering joined them in the bonds of pleasure. Energy 77

Viola Grace burned along every nerve, driving her senses higher than she should have been able to stand until Issul’s body jerked into her and they connected via their link to Zeering. His pleasure became hers and hers his in that instant. Through the bridge between them that was Zeering, they rose high and a bright flare of power rippled outward as they clung together. Issul rolled them to one side and remained inside her, her leg draped over his hip. She sighed and snuggled close, but the horror of the dawn execution replayed in her mind over and over. “What do we do if they don’t stop trying to kill us, Issul?” I will remove them from my surface. I am not joking, Sebena. If they will not help their own people by surrendering to my choice, they will leave. She spoke out loud to keep Issul in the loop. “What if they have nowhere to go?” I will allow for folk to reapply for colony status, but they will not for one moment forget that they are here because I allow them to be. They do not have a right to lands or property here beyond what I have offered them. I did not choose them, they chose me and I had no voice for their first century of occupation. That has changed and I will not be silent again. “Okay, as long as we know what we are dealing with, we can make a plan.” Issul ran his hand down her back, caressing her thigh where it hitched over his hip. “We will be 78

Asteroid fine. I am sure of it. Nothing will harm you while I am around and you are still officially my bodyguard. We will get through this point in Zeering’s history and centuries from now, we will smile in remembrance at what we have overcome. Consider it part of our courtship period.” She laughed and pressed against him, rubbing her breasts against the warm plane of his chest. “Did your people engage in this kind of courtship?” He smiled. “No, we fought for and grabbed our mates. In fact, I think I was attempting to impress a female when I was taken. At this particular moment, I do not regret anything that happened after.” Sebena reached up and stroked his ear. “Aw, that is so sweet. Don’t worry, I will make you regret it.” His chuckle moved his stiffening cock inside her. “You plan to make me regret our joining?” She rocked her hips against his lazily. “Of course, everyone needs a hobby.” He rolled to his back and caressed her torso slowly. “I think I can offer you a better hobby than regret.” She rose and fell, an enigmatic smile crossing her lips as she concentrated on the strokes deep within. Dark and light swirled around them, the glow 79

Viola Grace of Zeering combining with the daylight streaming in through the windows. Sebena watched her lover, her partner and her mate as she took them to the heights of enjoyment and when they were both on the edge, Zeering joined them and tipped them over. **** Karri listened to the sounds of the Avatars coupling. One day she hoped to find that sort of connection with a male, even if marriage was off the table as High Priestess of Avatar Sebena. She guarded their door with pride. Her fatigue had been burned off by Sebena’s touch and with her family safe and taken care of she was ready for this new phase of her life. When a wave of power passed over her, she stood taller. The pleasure that the Avatars were sharing would benefit anyone who was close enough. Karri could feel herself getting stronger, taller and the bruises on her face no longer ached. It had been shocking to watch her uncle’s head explode, but she realized now that the death her brother had experienced years earlier had been swift and merciful. He had met the planet and burst into flame, without the agony of a slow death. Karri lifted her pad and created sketches of 80

Asteroid clothing and hairstyles that would flatter Avatar Sebena and her lovely and exotic hair. If she was to be the high priestess, Karri was going to make sure that her Avatar was impeccably presented at all times. The seamstresses might hate her, but she was going to make sure that every thread was just so for her new mistress. The moment that Zeering had offered her sisters’ dowries, the Althip clan had irrevocably been made loyal to the Avatars. To be able to marry above their bloodlines was an option that none of her sisters had ever imagined. They may be worker class, but with their attachment to the temple, the Althips now had a social standing that would allow them options. The speed with which the Avatars had moved to save Karri’s life also warmed her when she remembered it. No matter what others thought about the aliens in their midst, Karri knew one thing. Sebena and Issul would always try to do what was best for the population at large. It was a good focus to have in creatures that could literally move the ground under your feet. Another wave of power washed over her and Karri laughed. The Avatars were a good match and it seemed they were going to be proving it all day. That was fine, the high priestess would be standing guard, keeping them safe in their distraction. 81

Viola Grace Something told Karri that it was going to be a full-time occupation for quite a while.

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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.