Author: Scarlett Dawn
Date: 2015-02-05 05:00:00+00:00
Keywords: Aliens; Science Fiction; Romance; Fantasy; New Adult; Adult; Paranormal; Dystopia; Menage; Novella
Description: *The individual installments are no longer in publication. Please see Cold Mark (Mark, #1) https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29666563-cold-mark. From New York Times bestselling author, Scarlett Dawn, comes the third installment in The Cold Mark Saga, Stop, where tipping points are reached and surprises lurk… Braita Valorn is stuck. She has no real freedom, her existence dependent on what the men of Triaz decide. Her fate is not her own. But she desperately wants it to be and will do anything to make it so. When a chance for freedom arises, she does what she must. Hard choices of theft end as

Stop
Copyright 2015 Scarlett Dawn

First Edition

All rights reserved as permitted under the U.S. Copyright Act of 1976. No part of these publications may be reproduced, distributed, transmitted in any form or by any means, or stored in a database or retrieval system, without the prior permission of the Author. For information regarding subsidiary rights, please contact the publisher.

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons, living or dead, is coincidental.

Cover and Formatting by ShoutLines Design

Editing by Rogena Mitchell-Jones Manuscript Services

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Copyright

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

About the Author

Preview of King Hall

Preview of Obsidian Liquor

Half-naked in preparation for a shower, I held Jax’s note in a white-knuckled grip.

I read it again. And again. I skimmed the contents too many times to count.

Escape. I wanted my own life so badly I could cry.

A person doesn’t know just how blessed they are until their freedom is taken away.

I may not be behind laser blocks in a Mian prison, but Triaz was my own personal jail cell.

With too many unanswered questions trapping my thoughts, I prayed with all my might for patience before I scrutinized the bathroom for a place to dispose of the note—without it being found. My eventual grimace was warranted. The safest hiding spot would be if I ate the piece of paper. Many waste receptacles—including toilets—sounded an alarm if an item was placed inside it that shouldn’t be there.

With my lips thin in determination, I tore the note into tiny pieces and quickly stuffed them into my mouth. My nose scrunched, chewing the wad for a gruesome minute. I swallowed it down.

It sure as hell didn’t taste like candy. More like paste and cardboard. But the deed was done.

I efficiently removed the rest of my clothing and lifted my left leg to step into the bathtub.

And froze.

One leg still up in the air, I stared down between my naked thighs.

And screamed as if the room were on fire.

It sure felt like my vision was.

“What in the mother fucking hell?” I shouted. My eyes were glued between my legs.

I patted my intimate flesh repeatedly, even wiping back and forth. Nothing changed.

That just wasn’t right.

The gawking couldn’t be helped—hell, no—but reality brazenly intruded when I heard the door bash open to the Plumas’ bedroom. Moving like a panther, I lowered my leg and grabbed my large towel. I would not be caught naked with a blatant…issue. Using lightning quick actions, I had it wrapped around my bare body just as the bathroom door ripped off its hinges and flew inside, slamming like a rocket against the double vanity. The halo-mirror above the sinks vibrated and then wavered as the two Plumas entered the silent bathroom, making their reflections appear like they were deadly spirits straight from the pits of the underworld.

The door teetered further to the side and hit the tile floor with a resounding thunk at my feet.

Phila and Killeg’s eyes smoldered, the glow so harsh in the contained room, I almost lifted one of my hands to shield my own gaze. Wrath permeated the air like I was caught in a sticky web, and a petrified shiver wracked down my spine. I would never want to be on their bad side—ripped limb from limb with no real effort on their part. Their chests heaved as their blazing eyes took in my person from head to toe, and then swung across the room, scanning the area for an enemy—a foe they wouldn’t find.

I held perfectly still in light of their fury, though my thoughts started to calm as a suspicious awareness hit. My regard altered between each of them, focusing on their hair, silently analyzing the bold, white hue—until their glowing gazes slammed back in my direction. My eyelashes swept down as I blinked ever so slowly.

Holy…shit. I couldn’t be right. There was no way. No…way.

But if I were, I held one hell of a power chip over their heads. One that could end their lives.

And quite possibly wreck mine even further than it already was—which was a valid reason to keep my mouth shut on this assumption. It was only a speculation needing further assessment—not to mention, a cunning scheme on how to complete said assessment.

Bless Mother Joyal, I was trained in tactics and had scored high on all tests involving stratagem.

This night was either the beautiful beginning of many possibilities. Or my ruin.

Staring into their radiant eyes, I decided I wanted to go back to bed. And stay there.

It was too damn early in the evening to act a cool headed role.

And, apparently, I sucked at lying. Joyal teachers really should have a technical course on it.

Killeg’s brows snapped together. His breathing had relaxed. “Why did you scream?”

I stayed silent for a moment, collecting my thoughts. I needed to play it cool. Lie better than I had ever lied before. This meant…I kept my mouth shut. I lifted a finger and pointed at the toilet.

Both blinked in confusion staring at the harmless white bowl. Phila asked, “Yes?”

With overly exaggerated, cautious steps, I walked to the toilet. Flushed it.

The water roared to life inside it with suction that could take my hand with it if it were down in the bowl. Quick thinking. The ‘dangerous’ toilet was all I could come up with. Though, on an honest note, the sound it made the first time I used it had frightened me enough causing me to jump off it. The story wasn’t too farfetched.

They watched me like I had lost my blessed mind.

Hmm. It would probably be smart to keep my eyes wide in terror for this ‘show.’

And damned if they didn’t buy it. Poor defenseless Braita.

After staring into my doe eyes, Killeg’s head tipped back. He bellowed with deep laughter.

Phila—at least—managed to contain his hilarity with a hard snort behind a fisted hand.

I narrowed my eyes and then jammed a finger at the exit. “Get out.”

Killeg’s lips were tilted up in the most delectable grin. He held up both his hands. “We’re leaving.” A slight head tip toward the toilet. “Don’t fall in next time.”

Another jab to the exit. I growled, “Now.”

On silent feet, though their hilarity of their ‘dangerous’ toilet wasn’t as quiet, they both left the bathroom without another word said. When I heard their bedroom door close, I walked to the halo-mirror, the reflection now steady. Ever so deliberately, I peeled my towel away from my body.

I stared.

While the hair on top of my head was a profound black, the color I had been born with, the hair at the juncture of my thighs no longer matched.

It was now snow white.

Pulling Killeg’s gifted cloak tighter around my body, I stilled as he approached. He wore his own cloak, which billowed out from his brisk stride. Underneath it, however, he was attired in all black, very chic in appearance, contrasting greatly with Phila’s borrowed oversized linen white pants and white t-shirt I was trying to cover. I had no clothes of my own here that were wearable—other than my boots—so I was stuck in apparel likely to agitate my Vaq when they saw me.

Me, wearing clothes of the Plumas of the east. Yes, my Plumas would not appreciate it.

“Jax is opening the doors.” Killeg pulled the hood of my cloak up over the top of my head. His warm fingers lingered as they brushed against my cheeks. I locked my knees so I wouldn’t squirm as heat unfurled in my gut. He bent at the waist, leveling his glowing crystal blue gaze with my chocolate browns. His words were quiet, unassuming. “Are you ready?” Too bad I could read right through him on this account.

Are you ready? He meant, don’t you dare attempt to flee.

I snorted. “I’m not going to escape.” Not right now.

His head was slightly cocked, his chaotic white hair in perfect disarray. I wondered vaguely if he styled his hair like that on purpose to keep others off-balance. It was definitely eye-catching. His lips curved up at one corner, more than mischievous in nature. “Do I need to use my own drugging potion on you again to get you to a safe location?”

The blush burning my cheeks was welcome. At least, while we were still on this hov-craft, anyway. He was flirting with me. This…wasn’t so bad. I tilted my head forward a few inches, getting just that much closer to his face, before I grinned and whispered, “Killeg, you can kiss my Human ass.”

His resulting smile was just as radiant as his glowing eyes. Though, he paused with his lips parted, ready to rejoinder, when his attention altered to the kitchen bar where Stiller sat. The purple-haired Mian was silently sipping on a bottle of water, gazing directly at us. Blatantly staring. Killeg straightened and narrowed his crystal blue eyes on his best friend. He hitched a thumb in the direction of the parlor. “Why don’t you see if Jax needs anything?”

Stiller merely shrugged, not moving from the bar. “Jax flew us here. I’m sure he can handle opening the door.” His purple brows rose, and he pointed his water bottle directly at me with his regard still on Killeg. “I feel it is my duty to inform you, this is the most stupid action you and Phila have ever made.”

My back straightened at the implication. Even if it were true.

Killeg slid with a gentle glide, barring Stiller’s view from me. He didn’t say anything. He just continued to hold his best friend’s gaze with a dominating glare only a Pluma could enact. I was thoroughly content with not being on the receiving end of it.

The look was enough. Stiller bowed his head in a respectful manner and jumped off the bar. Although his casual stride halted at the parlor door. In a soft tone, he stated, “I hope you two know what the fuck you’re doing. She’s not worth our extinction and you both know it.” With those parting words, he went to check on Jax.

My lips thinned, and my own words were soft. “Well said.”

Out of view, Stiller still shouted, “Hell, you fucks. Even the damn Human knows it!”

A gentle, sardonic chuckle from behind had me spinning in a flurry.

I had no clue when Phila had exited their bedroom, but he stood only a foot away from me. The corners of his eyes were crinkled as he peered down, holding my gaze. Black eyes so intriguing in their complexities were full of hilarity. He admonished gently, “Braita…how do you know we won’t start a war if you choose your Plumas over us—not the other way around?” My jaw gaped as he tsked gently, brushing his long hair over his shoulders, and showing the tips of his pointed ears in sharp relief. “Or will we?” He hummed ever so quietly, his attention honed solely on me. “It is a conundrum, is it not?”

I snapped my mouth closed. “Riddles are not helping this situation.”

He shook his head and lowered his face to mine. “Oh, but this is a riddle…yes?”

My black brows gradually furrowed because he was more right than he knew. “Perhaps.”

He leaned forward, his eyes wholly capturing mine.

I held perfectly still, curious as to what he was planning.

Sweetly, he kissed the tip of my nose. “You know it is, Human.”

A seven-foot-tall Mian peered down at me. It was the delegate of Triaz I had first encountered when my name had been called on Joyal. He was also the litigator currently handling the transaction—me—between the Plumas of the east and the west. His blue glowing eyes stood out from the darkness of his imperial hooded cloak which sported the Triaz symbol—even though he clearly wore the mark of the west on his left temple, a circle with a line through it. His expression was blank, hiding all thoughts of what he was truly thinking as we stood outside the hov-craft deep in the dark woods, surrounded by the Plumas of easts’ bodyguards. They had arrived at this location before we had landed. He asked, “Are you well, Ms. Valorn?”

“I am.” Even though there was a cool breeze ruffling all the bodyguards’ colorful hair, Phila and Killeg stood on either side of me, their body heat warming my arms.

He tilted his tall frame in my direction and took an exaggerated sniff above my head. He pulled out a small bottle of perfume from his cloak. I jerked in surprise, tucking my head down when he began spraying it all over me. It was a fragrant scent, but also, surprisingly clean. I choked at the overwhelming smell filtering through my nostrils, coughing loudly in agitation until he stopped. He put the perfume back in his cloak, his words simple. “You don’t want to see your Vaq smelling of the east, do you?”

I barely kept from blushing, though my tone was strong to hide all fonder that had occurred on the hov-craft. “I was on their ship. How else do you expect me to smell?”

I could have sworn his lips twitched before he turned and started walking, and I know I heard him mutter under his breath, “Less of them, Ms. Valorn. Definitely less of them.”

I stuck my tongue out at his back. No one could see with my hood up as it was. He was a smart ass, which was as interesting as the man himself. I quickly put my feet into motion as our group followed behind him, trekking through the underbrush. I spoke in careful Mianese to his back. “Sir? What is your name? I’ve never caught it.”

“Rule.”

I blinked. “Rule?”

He didn’t glance back. “Yes, Ms. Valorn. I go by the name Rule.”

“So…Mr. Rule, then.”

“No. Just, Rule.”

I stepped over a large root dipping out of the hard ground. “Rule.”

Patience kept his posture relaxed. “Yes, Ms. Valorn.”

My head teetered back and forth in thought. “That’s neat.” I grinned. “Rule.”

Monotone. “Thank you, Ms. Valorn.”

Jax snickered behind me where he walked next to Stiller. “Enough, Braita.”

“I do think it’s neat.” I gazed back. Winking, I whispered, “He rules the roost of Triaz.”

“Yes, Ms. Valorn,” Rule stated loudly. I jerked my attention forward, my eyes wide on the back of his hooded head. He was still walking with a casual stride. In plain English, he murmured in his monotone voice, “I do rule the roost of Triaz.” He glanced over his shoulder, his blue shimmering eyes piercing me in place, so much so, I had stopped walking. “And, now, if you would please be quiet? These guards are here for a reason, as is our clandestine location for the Plumas of the easts arrival in Center.”

My mouth bobbed for a moment, and then I nodded quickly. Quiet. I could do that.

Firmly put in my place, I kept silent as we trudged for miles through the forest surrounding the city of Center. The only light came from the glowing Mian eyes to mark my way where Mian from the east and west came to ‘play’ together.

Bless Mother Joyal. We didn’t have to hoof it the entire way to our destination. Black vehicles now carted our convoy to our final target. I sat between Killeg and Phila on the backseat of a stretched armored car with Jax and Stiller sitting on the left couch seat that ran along the side of the vehicle. Rule sat on the right couch seat. Done being quiet, my eyes were glued out the tinted window on my left. I asked in awe of the city, “Why do you call this place Center?” I had been unconscious the last time I exited this city, not getting to see anything except the inside of the Coliseum. Massive buildings erupted right next to quainter structures. It was a smorgasbord of a metropolis, the area bustling with activity. Neon lights from buildings glared and blinked at me from signs luring Mian inside for pleasurable entertainment.

Phila explained, “We call it Center because our force field is centered—located—here. The technology creates a circle throughout the restrictive pulse wave, allowing citizens of the east and the west to cross over from their own land into it.”

My brows scrunched. “You mean, normally, people of the east literally can’t cross over into the land of the west, and vice versa? I thought it was merely a politeness to keep the peace.”

Killeg snorted softly. “Damn, they seriously didn’t tell you shit.”

I placed a stopping hand directly in front of his face. “Enough. Just answer the question.”

Killeg smirked at the order, knocking my hand away with a gentle move. “The marks of the east,” he pointed to the star near his right eye, “and the marks of the west are linked to the force field. The mark we choose to obtain—at the onset of puberty—keeps us from crossing into lands where we should not be. It is why the Plumas of the west could not cross over into our land without us allowing it. Here at Center, everyone can gather. Though, no weapons are allowed, except for the Coliseum if a game is planned.”

“Huh, you mean like the ‘arrival ritual’ you made us endure?”

“Yes.” He paused, eyeing me. “The arrival ritual was for the Humans own good. The weak would have only been hurt further here. A swift death for those who could not handle our ways was a mercy.”

“We’ll agree to disagree on that point.” Of course, we would. It had been barbaric in the extreme. Too many Humans had died that day. It was damn near impossible for a Mian to understand that though. I moved on. “How do you allow someone to cross?”

“Each mark contains a numerical code. The delegates of Triaz control the force field. If we would have asked them to allow a certain number to pass, then the delegate would have entered the number into the system, and the individual would have had access to the east. Most delegates live here at Center. Their highest duty is to maintain the force field.”

My eyes skimmed to the right and held on a certain litigator. “Your name does fit.” The delegates literally controlled the land. And, survivable land was everything to any race.

No remorse. “Yes, Ms. Valorn.”

My lips twitched. “Will you say ‘cow’ for me?”

The vehicle went quiet, almost everyone staring at me in shock.

Except for Rule. No, his eyes showed nothing from under his hood. “Cow.”

I grinned. I couldn’t help it. “Thank you, Rule.”

He dipped his head once. “You’re most welcome, Ms. Valorn.”

And…I was pretty sure I saw him smile—just a little—as he turned his head away to gaze out the window. He was definitely an interesting man. One to watch. One to have on my side. He may not have been initially impressed by me when we had first met, but Rule was made of flesh and blood. And everyone had their quirks. I just hoped I was a pleasant one for him.

Stepping from the vehicle, the front entrance to the lavish hotel held my attention. Up above on the mounting steps to the open double front door of the glass structure were my Vaq. They stood side-by-side, both with their arms crossed and feet spread in a solid pose of intimidation. Their own guards dressed in black, just as the Plumas of the easts were, flanked them for this greeting of warring factions. The oxygen in my lungs was non-existent as I peered back and forth between Malik and Leo, a man of gold light, and a man of black darkness.

Though I knew, their appearances were the exact opposite of their personalities.

A trick they held close.

It had worked on me, I was ashamed to admit. But it wouldn’t happen again.

Touching where the Solo on the back of my neck had adhered to my flesh, I was eternally grateful to now have it. I could observe and decide on my own free will what I truly thought of my Vaq.

Rule stared up where they gazed down at me, and then turned his attention to me. “Do you need a few minutes, Ms. Valorn?” He lowered his head and spoke gently. “They are not as frightening as they appear.”

“I know that,” I snapped. My feet were moving before I could stop myself, righteous survival instincts keeping my back ramrod straight. Never show fear to a Mian. Never. The rest of the entourage quickly followed, though Killeg and Phila hadn’t left my side, nearly in perfect sync with me. My Vaq held their ground, evaluating the scene, waiting for me to come to them. I had fled them. It was only natural. I swallowed silently on a dry throat as I ascended the stairs, each one taking me closer to my fate.

When I was in the wake of the light from the open doors, my feet faltered. A quick hand on my back from Jax kept me moving. With determination to show no fear, I stopped mere inches away from my Vaq. I tilted my chin up, raised my brows, and stated coolly, “Malik. Leo.”

My eyes widened in shock, and a harsh grunt escaped past my lips, when Leo grabbed my right wrist and pulled me over to the ‘side’ of the west. I grumbled softly, but he hadn’t hurt me. In fact, his touch had been remarkably gentle, a beautiful dance of defense, twirling me to face the Plumas of the east. It was hard to not roll my eyes as Malik and he stepped even closer together, squishing me between the two of them. “Okay, okay. I get it.”

Malik grunted, his silver gaze swinging down to mine. My lips thinned seeing what he showed no one else. Deep hurt—the kind that tormented until you go insane or put a knife to your own throat.

I had done this to him. To them.

Me.

I had caused them this much pain.

Bit by bit, my head lowered in shame, my gut churning in sickening heat. A roaring toilet might be needed if I didn’t take calming breaths. It had been explained that a great distance away from their Soul would mentally deplete them, but what I had done had also physically disbanded them. I was betting they had hardly slept because of the worry over my well-being on an alien planet.

Dammit, how the hell was I supposed to escape if I felt this way?

Inhaling deeply and exhaling grandly.

Freedom. My freedom. I tilted my chin up in defiance.

I had done what I had done. I wouldn’t bow down for my actions.

It had been needed. And my adventures outside of their land had been fruitful.

I now knew more than they would have told me in a year.

Though, I did say honestly, “I am sorry.”

Leo lifted a hand, and his long, strong fingers tilted my chin in his direction. Brutal golden eyes held my gaze without flinching. “As are we.”

“True,” Malik stated solemnly.

“Although…” Leo’s golden brows touched together over his gaze, and he sniffed in my direction. “I do find it curious how you smell of them.” He bent as I tried not to freeze at his words, bringing his face ever so close to mine. The tip of his nose touched mine, and he inhaled deeply. Quietly, he tipped his head from one side to the other, running his nose gently over my cheeks, breathing in acutely. Just as smoothly, he hummed deep in his throat, lifting to his full height. Still with his grip on my chin, he brushed his thumb in a tender caress over my thinned lips. “I think Malik and I need some time alone with you.”

“I’m agreeable to that.” Shit. I shouldn’t have tipped my head away from Rule when he had sprayed me down. “Though, I should explain I slept in their bed—while they slept on their couch in another room. That’s why I smell of them.” Time to lie. Make it believable. I scrunched my face in false disgust. “Nothing sexual happened between us.”

Malik murmured, oh so, calmly, “We know they wouldn’t be so stupid.”

Threat. Threats were everywhere. “Shall we go inside?”

Leo rubbed his thumb over my lips once more, watching the action closely, before turning his glowing golden gaze on Killeg and Phila. “Yes, let’s do.”

Dinner time with the Mian was more like feeding time with the Mian. If I waited a full week to eat too, then I would probably pile my plate as high as they did. Sitting with our group at a fine dining table, this was all very civil. I kept my attention firmly off the man who I believed to be responsible for this.

Rule. The man of the hour who was keeping the conversation rolling.

Instead, I picked at my food, keeping my attention on my plate. I needed a game plan.

Leo and Malik were suspicious, their understated flicked glares at Killeg and Phila not missed.

Stiller was doing a fine job, responding to all of Rule’s headways into conversation, pulling his Plumas into the discussion as well. Jax sat beside him, silently glancing at me every so often.

I did flick a quick glare in his direction. I was thinking. I didn’t need his concern right now.

Oh! I knew what to do. Humor and protection were always decent topics. It would make my Vaq pleased to know I had been in safe-keeping with the other Plumas. I cleared my throat when the conversation lulled and peered across the table to the Plumas of the east. “Killeg, Phila, why don’t you tell Malik and Leo about my idiocy at the Crank Pit? And how you two got me out of there without your people coming after me?”

Stone, cold silence met my question. Tendrils of fear shivered down my spine as one and all turned their direct attention to me. Some had wide eyes of shock. Others with exasperation—Jax.

My expression couldn’t be more confused, even if my voice whispered, “What did I do now?”

Rule instantly leaned forward, directing everyone’s gaze toward him. “I’m sure she meant to address the Plumas by their formal titles.” His blue gaze snapped toward mine. “Not so informally.”

I stared at the man. Was he kidding?

By the severe way his radiant eyes held mine, he was not.

Leisurely, I sat back on the hard as hell formal chair. I lifted my glass of water, took a small sip before stating casually, “Perhaps in the beginning, it was appropriate. But after my ordeals since I arrived on this planet, I’ll call them whatever I wish—which, I might add, is by their given names.” I lifted my brows in challenge—all bravado. He may rule the force field, but I knew the way around political diplomacies. “I am the Soul to the Plumas of the west.” I was more worried about what my Vaq thought of me calling them as such than what he deemed polite.

Killeg tilted his head, his crazy ass hair not moving an inch. “Pluma Moir and I find no offense. She may call us what she wishes.” His blue gaze altered in my direction. His lips quirked up at the corners, just this way of gracious, not flirting. “You should be happy, Rule. We have found a friend in the Soul to our enemies of the west. Isn’t that correct…Braita?”

Okay. Never mind. That last bit was a jab at my Vaq. But, hell, I had to go along with him or it would look like I was trying to cover something up. Mother Joyal, figuring out oneself—one’s own heart—should not be this difficult. I tipped my head down in respect. “Correct, Killeg.” With innocent eyes, I peered to my left, and then right, directly at my Vaq, who were silently watching on. “You don’t mind, do you?” I had them there. It would be rude now to say anything besides my biddings.

But Malik surprised me. He grunted, and shoved out of his chair. Tossing his linen napkin on the table, he pulled me out of my chair. Staring harshly at Leo, he growled, “We’re going to our room. Now.”

“But…but…” I sputtered, not ready for this interrogation yet. It didn’t matter though. Leo was out of his chair in a blur, both of them holding my hands and pulling me from the formal dinner.

I glanced over my shoulder, back to the table.

My eyes widened in fear, seeing Killeg already on his feet and Phila twirling his steak knife through his fingers. I shook my head in a hurry. Those expressions meant the possibility of war.

All while Rule was sitting back on his chair, arms crossed and shaking his head at the shamble of a mess I had ultimately created. Yet again.

This wasn’t good. Not good at all.

Ah, hell.

The knife was airborne from Phila’s fingers, rushing past our heads.

It lodged to the hilt in the closed door we had almost reached.

My Vaq stopped dead in their tracks, jerking me to a halt with them.

There was a beat of silence inside the room before Phila stated gently, “Killeg and I said we would bring Braita back to you two assholes. But nowhere did we say we wouldn’t take her right back with us if we deemed it necessary—by our laws.” He paused, his tone so damn light. “Take your hands off of her and ask her if she wants to go with you.”

I stood stock still, my eyes glued to the hilt of the knife.

I wasn’t even sure I breathed—the tension palpable.

His voice strained with fury, Leo asked, “Braita, are we hurting you?”

I wheezed, “No.” Their grips on my wrists were light.

Killeg commented further, “She is not a pet to be led about.” She is your Soul. His words were unspoken, but so very heard in the quiet. “We treat our females with respect, in case you have forgotten.”

In the unacceptable silence, Malik let go of my arm. Then Leo followed.

Both turned their heads to me, their faces grim from taking—lawful—orders from their enemies. Malik spoke first, asking in the gentlest, strangled tone, “Braita, will you please accompany us to Malik’s and my bedroom?”

My chest squeezed inside my chest at his tortured silver gaze. Quickly, I nodded once. My hand found the door handle to the closed, knifed door, and I twisted in a hurry. I may not be ready for this, but I would be damned if I didn’t hear them out. Stiffly, they followed me out into the commons area of the hotel until I let them lead the way to their bedroom. They behaved the entire way.

Evidence of how long Malik and Leo had been staying in this hotel was apparent. Clothes hung haphazardly in the open closet of their room. Many luggage bags lined the side of the posh room. Books from their own bedroom back in Belvar littered the floor. Their toiletries were scattered across the double vanity in the bathroom.

It was also evident in the way they were comfortable with the space, flopping down with great exhaustion on a red leather couch.

Again, the realization I had done this to them hit me hard in the stomach.

So much pain caused. By me.

No. I paused in thought as I sat on the soft, red leather chair opposite them. They had done this to themselves with their dishonesty. Cause and effect. The oldest rule in the book.

Malik’s heartfelt silver gaze showed he knew it, too. His words only cemented my theory. “Braita, this is all of our fault. Every word you said to us during the conference call has weighed heavily on our minds.” He ran his hands over his tan face, and then yanked his black straight hair back into a low ponytail, working his strands in rough agitated movements, mad at himself. “We are so damned sorry we lied to you.”

Leo bent over, his elbows on his knees as he held his head in his hands. He stared at the ground like a man drunken on too much alcho-brew. “I wish we could just start over. We would have handled things much differently.” He gripped his golden hair in his fists. “We screwed up. We know it.”

I bit my lower lip when my chin began to tremble. I would not cry. But, hell, my chest hurt so damn bad. I had missed them. I had missed being in their mere presence, just to sit next to them in the quiet or read over Malik’s shoulder or play stupid games together or merely…to hear them breathe. They were the first individuals on this planet I had trusted. They had been my home, the whole reason why my previous experience with them stabbed so deeply in the heart it was traumatizing. I quickly brushed away a tear when it burned down my cheek. My voice was a quiet rasp. “You’ve honestly missed me?”

Leo’s head snapped up, his golden gaze only for me. “Braita, yes. Yes, we’ve missed you.”

I blinked quickly to keep any more tears from shedding. “Only because it mentally tore the two of you apart having me so far away?”

Malik answered gently, “Because we’ve come to care for you. Deeply.” His attention swung to the bed and lowered to the ground. “I’ve even missed you sleeping between Leo and me.” A head tilt to his lover, the other half of his Vaq, but his regard met mine. His small smile was bittersweet, although adorable. “He kicks in his sleep.”

Abruptly, I chuckled. It was a little watery, a few more tears spilling. “I remember.”

Quiet descended as they watched me, and I watched them in return. Each evaluating.

My eyes ran over their sharp and keen features. They were like the sunset I used to watch on Joyal, blessed in beauty and with the ability to make me feel warm inside with contentment. A sight I would joyfully view again and again, trying to memorize such a vision.

And they were my Vaq.

Leo cracked his neck and failed miserably at not appearing nervous. His words came to a halt and flow that made me want to rub his back to let him know everything would be all right. Eventually. “I was thinking…maybe…Well, I thought we could start fresh. A…a new beginning.”

Malik quickly added, “If you’ll allow it.”

I blinked. “And if I don’t?” Would they throw me in a vault somewhere?

Little dots of sweat began to appear on Leo’s forehead, but his strong tenor was returning. “Then it is your choice. No Soul must stay with their Vaq. As is our law.”

Malik grunted quietly, tilting his head, examining my face. “Is there a reason why you wouldn’t give us another shot? Even a hundred more since you know we’re made for each other?”

I thought it prudent not to answer the question. For many reasons. Instead, I stated, “I am your Soul, so yes, we are bound no matter what.” I flicked a finger between the two of them. “I’ve missed you both so very much, but I’ll be honest. I hate how I feel I have no freedom. I thought I’d be able to handle it, to help Joyal and its citizens, but I’ve found, without my freedom, I push even harder for it. Possibly even more recklessly for it.” I tilted my chin up in stubbornness. “If I do this, if we start over, you’ll have to give me space to be myself. To be free. While still getting to know each other again.” As long as I was here and not escaping with Jax for true freedom from the Mian. Damn, my life was complicated.

Neither made a peep, eyeing me.

“What?”

Leo’s golden brows rose. “You’re being evasive.”

Am not. Probably am. “Can you blame me?”

“More evasion.” Malik rested back, at ease. He raised his arms to the top of the couch, ticking his fingers where they rested on the red leather as he evaluated me. Eventually, in the quiet, his silver gaze never having left mine, he asked, “Has something intimate happened between you and the other Plumas?”

Well, fuck. “No.”

Leo took his turn to lean back, spreading his legs wide and placing his hands behind his head. Relaxed and aloof while his golden gaze honed directly on me. “No?”

Instant. Easy. “No.” Maybe one day I would tell them. Maybe. If I was still here.

Leo hummed.

Malik grunted softly.

I didn’t fidget, but I wanted to. After all, this was a lie. For the exact reason I had admonished them. Though, to be perfectly fair, it had been clear my Vaq and I were not ‘together’ when I had left Belvar. When they had lied, it hadn’t been so obvious. Truly, I wasn’t sure if they even needed to know about the private kiss shared by the Plumas of the east and myself…and them wanting me to figure out my feelings for my Vaq. I barely choked out, “What?”

And the fact I didn’t mind being around Killeg and Phila too much. Enjoyed it, really.

I actually liked flirting with them.

And kissing them.

They had seemed to like it, too.

Wait. As an afterthought, perhaps my Vaq should know one day, so they weren’t surprised with a sword in the back—if I chose them.

Bless Mother Joyal, I had no clue how I had gotten myself into this much trouble.

“Nothing,” Malik murmured.

“Okay…” I glanced between them, silent on the couch. “So we’re good? We’ll start fresh?”

“Of course,” Leo answered.

If I weren’t careful, I would start to sweat as Leo had done earlier. “Okay.”

Malik nodded. “Okay.”

My giggle might have been a smidge hysterical as I threw my hands in the air in mini-celebration. “Okays all around then!” I peered to the door in a hurry as they stared. “Where’s my room at again?” I could use a break.

I was a mess. An absolute damned mess. After Malik and Leo had silently shown me to my room, I hadn’t been able to sleep but an hour or two during the day. My stomach was growling at me since I hadn’t been able to finish my dinner last night, but I wasn’t sure if I could keep anything down. At least Malik and Leo had brought my clothing with them so I was able to wear an ensemble that actually fit me.

The teachers of Joyal should have taught interrogation techniques, too.

Though, they might, and I merely hadn’t been far enough along in my training for it.

I had failed miserably. And if I knew it, Malik and Leo’s shrewd as hell brains knew it, too. Today was going to be hell with Killeg and Phila nearby watching as my Vaq and I start fresh in our relationship.

I jumped when a hand touched my shoulder. My head whipped back, and I stared up with wide eyes…at Jax. Bless Mother Joyal. “Let’s get some breakfast.”

Jax nodded, his tender gaze running over my features. We walked down the hallway of the hotel, guards silently following in our wake. He tossed his right arm over my shoulders, asking quietly, “How did it go?”

Like shit. “All right.”

“Liar.”

“Shut up.” I rested my head against his muscular shoulder, letting him guide me to the common rooms restaurant of the hotel. Mian from the east and the west watched us walk by with barely repressed surprise—actual Humans in the midst…with royal guides following us. It wasn’t a sight they saw every night. “I didn’t sleep very well. I need a drink to keep me awake.”

“Coffee?”

“Sure.” I sat on the chair he pulled out for me. The table was large enough to fit ten people. I gazed at it, and then up at him with my black brows raised. “Big enough table?”

“The Plumas will be down shortly,” he stated offhandedly, not noticing the way my shoulders tensed as he waved down a waitress. “Stiller is talking with them right now in their room next to ours. It sounded heated, so I left them to it.”

I could imagine what they were arguing about. It wouldn’t be a long shot it to think it was about me.

Coffee was quickly served by a curious Mian woman who took our breakfast orders, our waitress fully evaluating the Humans at her table. She was swift. That was all I cared about, not the way she examined me from head to toe. Although I almost burned my tongue taking a sip of my newly acquired coffee when Killeg and Phila sat down across the table from me. Wiping a dribble of brown liquid from my chin, I smiled politely at them. Or tried to, anyway. “Good morning. Or evening.” I sighed in defeat. “Whatever.”

Phila chuckled quietly, drumming his fingers on the table. “Good evening to you, Braita.” His black eyes roamed my features. “Tough night?”

My gaze slammed to Jax, and I griped, “Do I look that damn bad?”

Jax was sensible enough to shake his head, his lips firmly shut.

I glared but took great joy in stating, “Liar.”

Killeg chuckled softly, leaning forward over the table. He stuck his hand in his pants pocket and retrieved a pill. He crushed it directly over my cup, rubbing the pads of his fingers together until a silver powder sprinkled down from his pinched digits to my coffee. It floated on top until it sank down to the depths of the hot liquid. He rested back on his chair, gifting me a small smile, stating gently, “Stir it. The combination of the coffee and the pill will give you an extra…boost…for the day.”

My lips twitched at his self-assurance. “Is this a pill you created?”

His grin only increased, showing me his white, straight teeth. “Of course.”

I lifted a spoon and stirred the concoction together, firmly ignoring when Stiller sat down at our table next to Jax. He wore a scowl just for me. He was so sweet. “This better work. I’m exhausted.”

Stiller perked at this. He peered straight at me, his brows rising in surprise…and hope. “Did your Plumas keep you up all night?” He smirked and even winked.

I could only stare. “Does it look like I’m satisfied?” The Mian seemed to find satisfaction from sexual release. I had seen it enough in the back alleys of Vlymun. The same would hold true for a Human too since the Human reproductive anatomy was the same. My voice may have dripped acrid scorn when I growled, “I mean, really. Stiller, does it look like I’m satisfied?” I was on the verge of a meltdown with all the shit I had running amok inside my head.

Instantly, he fell back against his chair. “Dammit.”

“Yes, well, you’re not the only grumpy one, Stiller.”

“No shit,” Jax whispered, peering for the waitress. For a distraction.

“I heard that!”

Jax pointed at my coffee. “Drink up. I don’t like you when you’re testy.”

“Right back at you.” I took a large drink, obeying him. “I don’t like you when I’m testy either.”

It was about right for my day for my Vaq to show up right then.

They sat down on either side of me, scooting their chairs in close.

Malik leaned over and very softly kissed my cheek. “Good evening.”

I took an extra-large gulp of my coffee. “Good evening.”

Leo reached with his left hand, taking my coffee mug from my hand. He raised it to his nose holding my gaze and inhaled heavily. His lush lips quirked up on one side and handed it back. His tone was sugared in sweetness as he stated, “I see our dear friend Killeg is helping you out this morning.”

I raised the mug to my nose and took a big whiff. Coffee was all I could smell with my Human nose. I smiled though, showing all of my teeth. “Yes, he did.” Another large gulp went down. I needed it, the effects of the pill already jolting my brain to attention. “What’s the plan for today?”

Phila interrupted, murmuring casually, “There’s an event at the Coliseum—”

“No.” I snorted softly. “While you may enjoy the games of the Coliseum and Crank Pit, they are not my type of enjoyment.” It should have been obvious, my esteem of him lowering somewhat with his suggestion. I even felt my brows crinkle at the realization, my chest hurting with it.

He shook his head. “You misunderstand me. The games are for the children and the rides are for the adults. It’s a small indoor fair.” A gentle shrug of his shoulders. “I’m not completely entertained by the thought, but I thought you might enjoy some of the special treats they have there to indulge in.”

My eyes widened, and I sat up straight. “Candy?”

Killeg’s lips twitched as his eyes remained on mine. “Yes, the treats there are delicious.”

Swiftly, my head swung back and forth between my Vaq, pleading them with my eyes. “Please, can we go there? On Joyal, candy is a rarity, and I adore it.” My ass bounced on my seat. “Please?”

I had gained the attention of all Mian sitting around us. Even with all eyes on me, I didn’t care.

I wanted candy. “Pretty, please?”

Leo’s blink was ever so gradual. He stared directly into my eyes, flicked a swift glare at the Plumas across from him, but when he touched my cheek, I knew he was caving. Even to an enemy’s idea. He tilted forward, resting his forehead against mine, his glowing gaze gently. “Of course, we’ll go.”

I squealed in excitement and swiftly kissed his lips. “Thank you!”

Leo’s eyes were wide on his face as I turned and grabbed Malik’s black hair, pulling him down to my level to place a peck of a kiss on his lips. I gushed, “Thank you, thank you!”

Malik blinked, shock radiating off him, still trapped in my hold. “You’re welcome.”

Phila snorted softly across the table from us, lifting an invisible glass in cheers. He muttered, “And you’re welcome, my fellow Plumas.”

With my mouth full of a substance they called ‘Pink Kisses,’ I pulled Malik up beside me. I mumbled around the deliciousness in my mouth, “Hold open the bag, please?” The bag Leo was carrying I had already filled.

Dutifully, Malik opened the half-full bag in his hands. He chuckled softly as I grabbed candy item after candy item and shoved it into the bag, making sure there would be room for more. “I’ve never seen a woman able to eat quite that much—”

I placed a sticky pointed finger against his lips. “Don’t even say it.” Especially, since it was saying a lot with him only being near Mian women his entire life.

“Okay,” he mumbled around my finger and then in a blur, he opened his lips and sucked my finger inside. I couldn’t blink, staring as his lips encased my finger into the wet warmth of his mouth. I jerked when his tongue ran up and down my digit, licking all the sugar off. Slowly, I pulled my finger from his mouth, watching as he kissed the tip of it. His grin was unassuming as he lowered, placing his face directly in front of mine. “Are you sure you don’t want to go back to the hotel yet?”

I squeaked, “Nope! Not yet.” I quickly pivoted and fanned my face with my hand, my cheeks completely flushed. My feet faltered a second later when I saw Killeg smack Phila upside his head though they were both glaring at Malik. I instantly turned back around, keeping Malik’s attention on me. “Actually, I think I have enough candy to last me a while. Why don’t we walk along the shops outside for a bit?”

He nodded, grateful to be leaving the fair. Screaming children ran all around in their fun so I could understand. Specifically, when people of the west continually came up to Leo and him, generally kissing their asses. Lifting a hand, he waved to Leo where he had been pulled aside by a mom and her three adoring children. Malik didn’t bother to keep his voice down. “Let’s go!”

I peered around for Jax, but I didn’t see him anywhere. Stiller was talking to Rule by the alcho-brew bar, so I grabbed a cupcake from the table before heading in their direction. “Time to go.” I glanced left and then right. “Where’s Jax?”

“He stepped outside for some air,” Stiller explained, downing a shot of a foul smelling liquid. “He may have gotten lost though.” He chuckled quietly and shook his head. “I can feel him wandering farther away.”

My lips thinned, but I eventually shrugged. “He has the guards with him, right?”

“Jax can take care of himself.”

“Stiller…”

He sighed heavily. “Yes, there are two guards with him.” He pointed a finger at my nose, and it was then I noticed he wavered a little on his feet. Too much alcho-brew for him. “Don’t forget, there are no weapons in Center.” He tapped his head. “He’s fine. I can tell.”

“Thank you,” I stated with honesty. Though I glanced at Rule and whispered, “You may want to help him back to the hotel.”

Rule laughed in honest mirth, his stoic expression cracking, a little of his natural light showing through. “I was planning to do just that, Ms. Valorn.”

Down to the five of us, plus guards, all the Plumas and I walked as unobtrusively as we could down the wide streets of Center. I ogled the wares through the windows, pointing at small music boxes or men’s dress slacks I would love to have for my own—all the women’s clothing were dresses or skirts.

Bless Mother Joyal! I skipped inside a store where I noticed what was damn near a myth to Humans. I pointed. “I want that.”

Malik stared. “No.”

“Come on. They are literally near extinction on Joyal. Humans only brought a few from Earth during The Travel.”

“No,” Leo reiterated his other half’s dictate. “Hell, no.”

Malik grunted, nodding. He actually started to turn away.

I grabbed ahold of his hand and jerked him back around. With much patience, I ignored Killeg snickering a foot away. I pointed again. “I want that.”

Malik sighed heavily, running his fingers through his long black hair. “Why?”

“Because it’s cute.” I shrugged, bending to stare into the cage. I stuck my fingers through the holes, waggling it at the bundle of energy inside. “I’ve always wanted one, but only the politicians were allowed to have them on Joyal.”

Leo bent at the waist, staring inside the cage. His nose crinkled. “It stinks.”

“This whole shop stinks,” I argued. “It’s not just this one.”

Malik joined Leo and me as we stared inside the cage. “We already have a pet.”

I blinked. “An animal that eats severed arms is not a pet.” I paused, curious. “What kind of animal is Blaze, anyway?”

Together, they stated easily, “A Lavano.”

I almost lost it right there. My jaw dropped open, and I shot a hurried glare where Phila had abruptly joined Killeg in laughing quietly. They had better not say a damn word, my experience with ‘Charlie’ not one I wanted to explain right now. Recovering swiftly, I turned back to what an actual pet was. I wiggled my finger inside the cage and soft fur brushed up against it. A tentative lick had ensued before it rubbed its head against my skin. “Aww! How adorable. Oh, I have to have it!”

Malik and Leo both groaned as they stood to their full heights.

Leo crooked a finger at an attendant, stating loudly, “We’ll take this dog, ma’am.”

“What are you going to name him?” Phila asked over my shoulder as we continued down a bustling street of Center. He reached around me, sticking his arm between Leo and me to pet the top of my new puppy’s head. “It has to be a masculine name. This scamp is going to be big.”

Leo, non-too-chalantly, shoved Phila’s arm back. “My Soul will name him whatever she wants.”

I stared down at my lovely pet, his eyes full of wonder as he took in the sites we passed by. My grin couldn’t be erased, his scrunched up face so loveable. I kissed the top of his head, the red fur tickling my lips. With a spring in my step, I stated, “I’m going to name him Sweet Pea.”

As one, all of the men surrounding me stopped in their tracks. Including the guards.

I stumbled to a stop a few feet in front of the group, turning back to see why they had stopped.

They were all staring at me. These tough Mian, the leaders of this planet…had been thwarted by the cute name of my puppy. “What? He is a sweet pea.” I lifted him higher in my arms, bouncing him a bit, watching his large ears flop. “Look at him! He’s in love with the world! It’s adorable.”

Leo cleared his throat, turning a wide gaze to the pup in my grasp. “Braita…when I meant you could choose any—”

“And I did,” I stated stubbornly. “This is the end of this discussion. His name is Sweet Pea.”

Phila started choking deep in his throat until he couldn’t contain it any longer. He threw his head of glistening, long white hair back and roared with laughter. Not even the glares Malik and Leo shot him stopped his hilarity. He just shook his head and stepped forward between Malik and Leo and then advanced toward me. Bending low, he placed his face right in front of Sweet Pea’s face. Lifting a hand to scratch behind Sweet Pea’s left ear, he purred. “A unique name…” his dark gaze lifted to mine, softening, as his voice did, “for a unique owner.”

I gazed down at the Mian bending before me, my eyes gentle on his. “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome, Braita.”

A sound akin to a growl sounded. And not from Sweet Pea, either.

It was coming from Malik’s direction.

“Okay, that’s enough petting,” I whispered, stepping back.

Phila’s voice was so quiet, I barely heard him—I was sure no one else did since there was no bloodshed being had. “That is not the petting I wish to do with you, Sweetness.”

I swiftly turned my heating face away when I heard Jax shout, “Braita! Over here!”

Jax stood in the doorway of the…Well, the sign said Lick Me Up Tavern.

Now that Jax had accustomed himself to the Mian lifestyle, it sounded just like his sort of bar.

Especially since you only had to be sixteen-years-old to drink on Triaz.

“Come on!” Jax held up a glass, silver alcho-brew sloshing over the side. “Live a little!”

My brows furrowed as I glanced down at Sweet Pea, then back up. I hollered, “I can’t. I have a pet now!” I shrugged. “And, besides, I don’t drink.”

Jax narrowed his gray eyes in a special look he only gave me when I was being a prudish bore.

“Fine!” I stomped in his direction, the Plumas following behind with a much livelier step toward the bar. “But they better let Sweet Pea in.”

Malik slammed down his sixth cup, just as empty as his others. He grinned, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand. “You sure you don’t want a drink?”

I lifted my water. “I have a drink, as I’ve said before.” I waved to all of the guards and the other Plumas sitting at our table, everyone joining in to have at least one alcho-brew. “Besides, you have enough drinking partners.”

He pointed his empty at the bartender. “Another round, please.”

Leo sipped on his second cup, his lips curving at his partner. “You are such a damn lush.”

Malik pointed a finger at him, leaning a bit on the table with an elbow. “You just can’t hold your liquor as well as I can.” His black brows lifted as he leaned toward Leo on the other side of me, invading Sweet Pea’s and my space. “Just admit it.”

Leo chuckled. “Never.”

I rolled my eyes, staring across the table where Jax sat. The more Malik drank, the more flirtatious he became. And not only with me. If I had just seen him drink before, then he and Leo’s love for each other would have been obvious. My lips thinned as Leo reached up, right in front of my face, and pressed on Malik’s forehead, pushing him back into his seat. I glanced at Malik, agreeing with Leo. “You are a bit of a lush.”

Malik politely took the cup the bartender handed him before peering back into my eyes. His grin was lopsided, making my heart pound harder. “I’m merely celebrating.” He bent his head and pressed his lips to my ear, kissing softly. “Our Soul has returned to us.”

My eyes drifted to Killeg and Phila at the other end of the table, smartly sitting far away so everyone could drink and be merry. I cleared my throat and tilted my head back to stare into a silver glowing gaze only inches away from mine. “Yes, I am back.”

Jax choked on his drink and began pounding on his chest.

My regard snapped to him. “Are you okay?” It was still only his first drink.

“Yes.” He thumped his chest once more, coughing more gently now. “I’m fine.”

I patted the top of Sweet Pea’s head, bending down to retrieve a dog treat out of the store bag for him. He nibbled at it with vigor until my hand jerked away. There was no stopping it as I tried to grab Malik’s shoulder right before he face planted onto the wooden tabletop. “What the hell?” I patted his cheek repeatedly, but he wouldn’t wake up. I turned my attention to Leo.

I froze.

His eyes were shut, and his head was back on his chair. Completely out cold.

That wasn’t right.

My attention swung around the bar in a flurry as I hurried to stand from my chair.

All of the patrons were passing out, one after another.

Their faces hit the tables. Their bodies hit the ground.

Some were even falling body first onto other sleeping patrons.

My gaze snapped to Killeg and Phila, down the long line of guards passing out.

Both had leaned toward each other, their sides of their heads resting against the other.

Hell, they were even snoring quietly.

The only individuals wide awake were the bartender and Jax.

That didn’t last long though.

My jaw dropped as Jax flew from his chair and over the long counter of the bar. He whacked the stunned bartender in the left temple with his glass, his ‘weapon’ breaking and flying in a glory of shining shards across the bar. The place was now silent.

Sweet Pea wiggled in my arms, and I held him closer to my chest. “Jax…what’s going on?”

“Fuck. That took longer than I thought it would.” Jax raced across the room, jumping over sleeping Mian. He slammed the front door shut to the tavern, locking it. He hit a button next to the door and the windows automatically shaded to deep black, eliminating anyone’s view from the street.

“Jax?”

He snapped his fingers at me. “Let’s go.”

My brows rose. “Go where?”

“Home.” His stare was pointed. “Escape. To Joyal.”

I didn’t speak for a full minute, and then I shouted, “What? Have you lost your damned mind?”

Pure exasperation. “I’ll explain on the way.” He glanced at his halo-watch. “We’ve only got a few hours before they wake up. Even less than that if someone finds them.”

I blinked. “How did you do this?”

“I stole a few vials from Pluma Creo’s room before we left for our outing.”

My words were slow, my mind trying to catch up to this madness. “You stole from Killeg?”

“I’m about to steal more if you would get your ass moving.”

My brows furrowed. “What about Stiller? He’s the other half of your Vaq. He’ll know something is—” I stopped, realizing the truth. “You drugged him before you left the fair.”

He nodded. “And I poured all of the vials into the alcho-brew system here before you walked in.” His gray eyes were staring hard into mine. “You want freedom, right? I’m giving you that option.”

I blinked. “Are you prepared to leave Stiller?”

His lips thinned, but he stated with conviction, “I have a mission, Braita. I have to accomplish it before I think of myself. It’s more than just me. I have to think of the Humans on Joyal, too.”

My brows furrowed, but I didn’t ask another question. He would tell me if I went with him.

Instead, my eyes swung to my Vaq, and then to Killeg and Phila.

Could I truly leave Triaz?

The answer was simple.

For my freedom, I would do anything.

“I’m assuming you have a way to get us to Joyal?” I asked my mindset.

Jax snorted. “Of course.”

“Perfect.” I bent and rifled through the bag from the pet shop. I found the leash inside and hooked Sweet Pea’s collar to it, then wrapped it around the bottom of Malik’s chair. I couldn’t take a dog on the run. Stealth was a must when hiding from Mian with sensitive ears. Ruffling his ears, I kissed the top of his head before I made my rounds, saying a quiet goodbye to not only my Vaq, but to Killeg and Phila as well, even kissing all of their cheeks once.

Jax stood with his arms crossed, his brows raised in surprise. But he remained mute. Just watching. When I was done, he grabbed my hand, pulling through the back of the building. He stopped at a closet and yanked two tattered cloaks from inside. In a hurry, we put them on, yanking the hoods over our heads.

We were out the back door and running down a dark alleyway. I followed Jax, trusting my best friend to get me back to my planet. To the home I had always known and trusted. Our Joyal.

At the end of the alley, there was a black vehicle sitting in the darkness.

Jax opened the passenger side door, indicating for me to get inside.

I slipped in and fastened my seatbelt. I had an inkling there would be fast and reckless driving in our future. Wherever we were headed, Jax was in a hurry as he slid across the hood of the vehicle to cut time to get to the driver’s side door. Within seconds, we were flying down the main streets of Center, heading away from the bustling inner city.

We had ditched the car a half-hour ago, on to our next destination through the forest.

Out of breath, but keeping up, my runs on Joyal having kept me fit for this trek.

Jax was a few feet ahead of me, a bulky bag he had grabbed from the backseat strapped over his shoulder, bouncing against his right hip as he ran like Lavanos were chasing us.

No, worse. Like Mian were after us.

Which they probably were if anyone had stumbled upon the slumbering Plumas.

I jumped over a rock and then ducked under a tree limb, remembering this exact route.

We were headed for the hov-craft. If that was our outlet for exit of Triaz, I had no idea how we were going to find it. Unless we ran smack into it. When we had last left it, the cloaking device had been activated. Jax and I wouldn’t be able to see even if we were standing right in front of it.

But I trusted Jax. He said he had a plan. I trusted him with my life, so I continued weaving through trees and jumping over brush to keep up with him, not about to lose him in the darkness.

Twenty minutes later, he came to an abrupt stop, his hands on his knees, breathing heavily.

I dropped next to him, staring up at the canopy of leaves, the moon’s light barely filtering through. I wasn’t sure how many miles we had just run, but the way my side was killing me, I guessed it was near three. Sucking oxygen like it would quickly expire, I didn’t bother moving for a full ten minutes.

Then we were back on our feet, once again sprinting through the forest.

Sweat drenching my body, my clothes sticking to me like a second skin, I laughed quietly ten minutes later as we both halted in our tracks. I snorted so hard, the stabbing pain in my side jabbed back, making me flinch.

I still pointed at the two large sticks that hovered in the air, making a large ‘X’. “You put them on the stairs before we left it?”

“Yep,” Jax wheezed, walking quickly to the entrance of the invisible hov-craft. “And I marked almost all the bases of the trees we passed with the yellow rubber on my shoe, so I could find the way back here in the dark. It’s why I walked in the back on the way to the city, instead of letting Stiller lead the group.” He shrugged, knocking the branches away. “I feigned a stomach cramp. Stiller believed it since he could feel my worry. He just didn’t know what I was really worrying about.”

“Genius,” I muttered, watching as he tapped on the hov-craft, bringing it into full view, still programmed for his fingerprint. A code entered a second later, and the door opened for us. After we had climbed inside the parlor, he activated the cloaking device once again and shut and sealed the door.

Dropping his bag on the white couch, he unzipped it. Inside were space travel wear. As I lifted one out, along with a helmet, it appeared a little outdated but no worse for the wear.

“Where did you get these?”

He snorted softly. “You really don’t want to know.”

“But I do.”

He shrugged, and started stripping his shirt over his head. “There’s a museum in Center. While you were busy eating sweets, I was at the museum stealing their first ever space suits.” He winked as he began undoing his pants. “And procuring us a vehicle.”

I chuckled as I tore my own shirt over my head, and then started on my pants. We needed to hurry. No time for privacy. “Is there oxygen in them still?”

“Yeah, I made sure to test them.”

“And this hov-craft can get us to Joyal?”

“It better.”

“Jax…”

“Yes, it has all the newest technology for extended space travel, and when I flew it earlier, the thing damn near flew itself.”

“So the coordinates are really all you need.”

He nodded, grinning like a fiend as he shoved one of his legs down into the suit. “You ready to leave Triaz, Braita?”

I was already putting my helmet on and sitting on the recliner. I strapped myself into the chair with the hidden safety belts. “More than ready.”

Jax took a seat next to me, tapping on the halo-screen before buckling himself in. “We’re only one more tap away.” He glanced at me. Even though I couldn’t see his eyes through his helmet, I knew he was asking me silently one last time.

“Do it.”

His pointer finger landed on the halo-screen.

Tossing my helmet off as we landed, I immediately unstrapped. I was on my knees in front of Jax in a mere heartbeat. His helmet hung down, and his body was wrapped in deep tremors. I had no clue how he had managed to land the hov-craft. The farther away from Triaz we had gone, the worse he had become.

I pressed my fingers to unlatch his helmet and tore it over his head. “Jax! Are you all right?”

His gray eyes were bloodshot and he whispered, “The bag. There’s medicine in there.”

Instantly, I knew he was having a reaction from being away from the other half of his Vaq. He needed Stiller, not drugs. But I hurried to the bag, even as pounding began to sound on the door to the hov-craft. Fumbling with shaking fingers, I found the bottle buried in the bottom of the black bag. Tipping four into my hand, having taken that many before I had received my Solo, I helped Jax take them. I sat back in my chair and waited. It wouldn’t take long for the pills to kick in since he had never taken them before. Our people outside could wait. They knew it was us because Jax had transmitted our incoming arrival—for fear they would blow us out of the sky.

I did ask, “What was your mission, Jax?”

In a hoarse voice, he growled, “This ship. Our president had received word of it two years ago, and Joyal doesn’t have the minerals it needs to create this technology. When the tsunami occurred, it was the perfect opportunity for a spy to infiltrate the east of Triaz. Our government plans to clone everything it needs to duplicate it so our citizens will be safe from the natural disasters our planet living on the ground causes.”

All of it made sense since Joyal was prone to underwater earthquakes, except for one small fact. “Why didn’t they just ask Killeg and Phila for assistance?”

“They did.” He rested his head back on his seat, his eyes beginning to glaze from the drugs. “The Plumas denied assistance when our President wouldn’t meet their demands.”

“What did they want?”

Jax snorted, the edges of his lips lifting in a sloppy smile. The medicine was definitely kicking in. “The Plumas wanted access to Joyal’s oceans. Apparently, we have fish here with certain enzymes that help with infection. Triaz doesn’t. Our President was an asshole and said no.”

My blink was slow. “Why did you get assigned the mission and not me?” I wore ten marks on my wrists. I was just as capable as he was.

Jax snickered and lifted his right hand, pinching his fingers together. “Because I’m just a wee bit better than you in test scores.” He laughed outright. “Cow.”

I glared, but it held no heat. “I can still kick your ass on the mats.”

“Only half the time.” He waved his hand at the door. “Will you open it now so they’ll shut the fuck up. My head is pounding.”

I rose from my seat and helped him to remove his safety belts. “Let’s get changed first before they come storming in to strip this place bare.” I paused. “And I want to see if Killeg left any of his potions behind.”

Jack’s dark brows rose. “Why?”

“Because I never expected our President to be so damn covetous. You’ve completed the mission, but what do you think he’s going to do with us now? A man who doesn’t share well will do whatever it takes to protect what is his now that he has his prize.”

Jack’s hazy regard sharpened as he stared into my eyes. “We should probably grab a few inconspicuous weapons, too.” He paused. “Just in case.”

“Yes, no shit.” What the hell had he gotten us into?

As we exited the hov-craft onto the ground of our home, Plata, my suspicions were well-founded. The front of my body was slammed against the landing pad, two government agents grabbing my wrists and placing them in laser-cuffs.

Jax landed right next to me a second later, his warm breath rushing over my face with his hard landing. He growled quietly but allowed the three government agents to cuff him.

I glared from the ground. “Two for me. Three for you. I don’t think my reputation precedes me.”

Jax laughed right in my face, one of his cheeks smashed against the hard ground making his smile crooked. “When did you become so vain, Braita?”

I shrugged a shoulder and grimaced as the agents none-too-gently yanked me to my feet. “When it became obvious you think you’re better than me.”

He was pulled up right next to me. He still wore a grin. “I said only a wee bit.”

“Oh, fuck off.” I scowled once more and then tilted my head to the walkway. “We’re getting arrested and shit. Let’s try to act like we’re taking this seriously.”

Because we were. We were taking it damn seriously.

The agents stepped back since we were in laser-cuffs, giving the proper amount of distance Humans did on Joyal. They indicated we should follow them and started down the trail.

Jax snorted at their backs as we walked sedately behind them. “Not even a ‘welcome back.’”

“Very rude, indeed.”

An agent glanced over his shoulder, studying us silently.

“He thinks we’re weird,” I grumbled, staring right back at the agent. He was the one who had snuck his knee in my back to hold me down.

“The barbarian race has afflicted us.”

“The dastardly devils.”

He paused as we stepped down a brightly lit stairwell. “Okay, let’s try to be serious.”

“Okay.” I lasted twenty seconds. “Do you think the President will give me his autograph?”

“Maybe. On your execution paperwork.”

“I’d already thought about that. I was talking about, like a statement from him saying I’ve beat you in score during our combat training.”

“We’re back to that?”

I shrugged. “I haven’t really left the topic yet.”

“I have. You see, my dear friend Braita, I will always…” He trailed off as Plata’s government building came into view. “Probably time to shut up now.”

“Yes. That might be wise.”

It was a stupid move. We were both thrown in a jail cell. Together. We weren’t even searched.

Our peaceful Human counterparts didn’t think the way the Mian did, a small blessing.

But we sat. And waited. For three damn days.

We were lucky they brought us food.

And, between Jax and me, we had enough medicine to keep him properly drugged.

We kept our conversation light, knowing the area was chronicled.

The President waited for us to slip. To indicate we had turned. Become the enemy.

We never gave him what he was looking for.

So, late on the third night, we were summoned. Sans laser-cuffs.

Bless Mother Joyal, because they chafed horribly.

Four agents—we were down one now—showed us to a conference room. I sat comfortably on a black chair while Jax investigated a halo-screen in the corner that was on a repeating loop of Plata news. Nothing much happening on our home planet from the looks of it. Just tons of sunshine and the reconstruction underway from the tsunami’s destruction.

“How long do you think he’ll make us wait?” I asked in a bored tone.

“Probably a good hour.” Jax sat next to me eventually. “I’m going to take a nap. Wake me when he finally arrives.”

It took three hours, and two trips to the bathroom, for him to grace us with his appearance. Though he entered the room with no fanfare, only three agents—down another—and two of his advisers. They sat across from us in the quiet.

I allowed my best friend to snore in their faces for a full minute since the President had made us wait days before I politely nudged Jax. He awoke with a start, but quickly shook off the sleep, seeing we had company. He wasn’t any more impressed than I was.

Jax sat forward, placing his hands on the table, allowing the President to see the red marks left from the laser-cuffs, and asked bluntly, “Did I steal the right hov-craft for you?”

The President’s smile was miniscule in the extreme. “You did.”

Jax’s brows rose. “And, still, I don’t hear even a ‘thank you.’ Instead, my accomplice and I were detained on Joyal land for three days. Would you care to elaborate why?”

Keen, intelligent eyes stared back at us. The President was no fool. “By all accounts, the surviving Humans became slaves on Triaz. How is it you two were able to escape slavery and steal the leaders of the easts personal hov-craft?”

“Plumas,” I corrected him. “Their title is Plumas.”

His attention hovered back and forth between us, ignoring my jibe. “I’m waiting.”

Jax responded in a bored tone, taking control. Which I was grateful for since I was a horrible liar. “After the ‘arrival ritual’ where most of us died, Braita and I were chosen to go to the east as slaves. We both bare ten marks on our wrists, which gained us certain privileges not all Humans were given. The Mian are a warring people, but they are not without their mercy.

“We were given the opportunity for freedom through combat inside an arena called the Crank Pit. If we won thirty matches, then we would be granted our freedom. Worthy in the eyes of the Mian.” He shrugged a shoulder, lying out his ass. “We won our battles and gained our freedom.”

I added, “We were able to do reconnaissance afterward during the daylight hours due to the Mians poor eyesight in the Sun. Most Mian were asleep during that time. We moved around the city of Vlymun easily and slept in the sewers at night to avoid detection.” All of which, I had actually done. No lying needed.

The President steepled his hands on the table and peered down at his fingers, appearing to study his cuticles. “When you say you won thirty matches against a race far superior to our in strength and speed, what do you mean exactly?”

My voice was cold, remembering the arrival ritual. “We killed them.” I sneered ever so slightly, flexing my fingers on a jerk reaction, as if I still gripped the blades in my hands slippery from so much blood. “We killed them all.”

Jax leaned back on his chair in a relaxed position when the room went silent.

The two of us said nothing else. We waited. Again.

The President eventually sighed, sounding weary. “There is still one piece to the puzzle I don’t understand. So tell me, Mr. Waterston, how did you manage to steal the hov-craft? It appears, in order to operate it a fingerprint was needed. A fingerprint approved by the...” he glanced at me, then back to Jax, “...Plumas of the east.”

I didn’t flinch at the question. I stayed perfectly calm. Though I had no clue how Jax would finagle a believable excuse.

Apparently, Jax didn’t either. He faltered for the barest moment, glancing off to the side, before his attention swung back to the President. “I’d rather not say.”

The President only stared.

“It’s of a personal nature.”

Stony silence was all he was met with.

Jax rubbed his lips together and peered down at the table. “I became a pet to the Plumas.” His voice was quiet, solemn. “They had watched me fight and became enamored with me.”

The President blinked. “A pet?”

Jax cleared his throat and yanked his gaze to the opposite wall. He stared there for all he was worth as his cheeks flamed red, his voice choked. “I had sexual intercourse with them on many occasions. I gained their trust in that manner, and in return, they gave me special treatment. One of which included allowing me to fly their hov-craft on a weekend we spent together.”

My eyes flew straight to my lap, holding my breath. Mother Joyal, this excuse might just work. And it had cost Jax to say it, his flaming cheeks proof positive. The way the President, or any Human on Joyal would view him, would never be the same as soon as word was released he’d had sexual relations with another person, had prostituted himself out. It was the lowest of the low for any Human, an inexcusable act—and illegal act on Joyal.

In the quiet, the President hummed softly. “I don’t believe you.”

My attention snapped straight on him. “What?” I waved a hand at Jax. “He just bared his soul to you, and you say that? What kind of shit—”

He held up a stopping hand, cutting me off. “Let me rephrase that.” He cleared his throat and stood from his chair, his advisers and agents following suit. “Even if I did believe Mr. Waterston’s recount, my decision wouldn’t be any different. The Plumas of the east will want restitution for their stolen hov-craft. I plan to give it to them in the form of you two.” He tipped his head to us, a respectful bow, his tone cautious but resolute. “Your corpses will arrive on Triaz within the week.”

My words were quiet, having prepared for this. “You want to get the outcome you wish by handing over the thieves.”

“But it is something, Ms. Valorn.” He shook his head. “Mr. Waterston didn’t jam the frequency when he left Triaz, as he should have. They know the hov-craft is here.”

Even worse. “Trust me, Mr. President. Let us go back now. Alive. We can work this issue out with them.”

His brows rose. “They trust you so much?”

Oops. “They trust Jax.”

His head tilted back and forth in deep thought. “That much I do believe.” He crossed his arms, peering between us. We sat silent for three minutes. The President ran a hand over his face, and then peered directly at Jax. “Do you truly believe you can right your folly and stop the Mian from retaliation with us? Is your bond with them so strong?”

Jax didn’t bullshit this time. “I could try. But I can’t do it if I’m dead.” He paused and cleared his throat. “And I was never instructed to jam any frequencies. I wouldn’t know how to do that even if I had been told. I barely managed to get the damned hov-craft here with its easy flying mode. All I received was a week’s worth of training after the tsunami before I was shipped out. The folly, as you say, was the government’s fault. Not mine. And if you want me to stop a war from happening, I would suggest you quit threatening to kill me.”

The President’s brows rose and he smiled. A real one. “Those are the first true words I’ve heard you state thus far.” He nodded then glanced at his advisors. “Allow Mr. Waterston to return alive and unharmed, to Triaz with Ms. Valorn’s corpse. It will show we do take citizens of Triaz trespassing on Joyal seriously.”

My jaw dropped. “You’re going to use me as a pawn?”

The President didn’t back away from my question. “Yes. In this situation, we need to show strength. Eliminating one to save many shouldn’t be a new concept for you. You were trained with this and know our rules.”

“Um…I think that’s a really bad choice.” I chewed on my lower lip. I wasn’t sure what I should say or what I shouldn’t now. Death was beating down my door no matter which way I strategized. All I could say was the truth. “Yeah, I think it’s a bad idea. You won’t get the results you want with my death.” War would come if they killed me, and in return, killed my Vaq.

His brows snapped together. “That is the second time you’ve said that. Why do you believe that, Ms. Valorn?”

If I said I was the Soul to the Plumas of the west, I would be locked in a jail cell for the rest of my life while this greedy son of a bitch squeezed the Plumas for all they were worth. “I actually don’t think I like you very much, Mr. President.”

Jax choked next to me his wide gaze meeting mine. “Just wait.” His words held a different meaning. We did have weapons. I could escape, maybe even back to Triaz. “Maybe the President will see reason by the time I leave.”

I sighed, glaring at the President. “Think. Hard.”

Boom.

I grabbed the table as the ground shook. My eyes were wide as screams were heard.

Too late. A red blaring light erupted inside the room. It was the warning of an attack.

The President’s gaze slammed in our direction, altering between us. He barked, “Grab both of them. They need to come with us to the bunker.” Smart. A definite asshole. But he was intelligent.

I jumped from my chair when another explosion rocked the floor, the red flickering glow of the alarm doing nothing to calm my nerves. As the room suddenly filled with agents leading the President away, Jax and I didn’t argue when we were also ushered from the room. We quickly ran with the government officials, to the safe location the President was mandated to hunker down in if an attack on Joyal ever occurred.

Our group came to a screaming halt as we exited the building. All attention was to the sky.

Hundreds of Mian space crafts dotted the dark sky, appearing like death clouds.

The protection of Plata was mediocre at best after the tsunami, the waves having taken down many of the missile ranges. Any being fired made no real impact on their ships, the blasts exploding and lighting the sky in brilliant reds and yellows, but it was all it was against the attack—a pretty show.

“Mother Joyal,” an agent whispered in fear next to me.

“Keep praying,” I muttered. “If they get really pissed, we’re fucking screwed.”

Her attention slammed to me. “How do you know they’re not already pissed?”

Stupid question. “Because we’re not dead.”

She actually whimpered. How the hell had she become an agent?

“Suck it up and do your damn job,” I growled. “Get everyone moving. We should be in the bunker by now. Every minute we waste is another opportunity for—”

“Oh, shit,” Jax mumbled, pointing to the far left. Ground level.

As one, everyone peered in that direction.

Half of our thirty-stack of agents began to run. Literally. They raced away as fast as they could.

Although a brave twenty stormed out of the building we had just exited, holding weapons aimed where our attention was honed. An entire flock of Mian were on the ground, a cloaked spacecraft having now come into view behind them. The entire mass wore black, hiding their bodies in the nightfall. Only the radiant shine of their glowing eyes indicated where they were. Or the sporadic glare from a sword by the explosions in the sky. They were the darkness descending from the pit of Hades.

I shoved the agent next to me. “Bunker.” Another hard punch. “Hello! Bunker, idiot!”

She blinked out of her trance. I saw it in her eyes. She wanted to run.

I stated as calmly as I could manage, “They’re faster than you. Much faster.”

Her throat bobbed as she swallowed, but she quickly went into motion, barking orders. “The agents who just came out, stay here and give us back up.” She pushed forward and grabbed the President’s arm. “The rest of you, with us.” Now…that was why she was an agent. Everyone took the lone orders given, doing exactly as the one sane person said in the stain of their own fear.

Jax and I were herded in a fast rush to the far building, an unassuming whitewashed crumbling structure. I had my doubts until we were led down—at least twenty flights of stairs. Deep underground, the area was lit by yellow horrendous lighting. Down two more halls, descending another round of stairs, and then it opened into a spacious concrete area.

I jerked when I heard the screams erupt from above. The Mian were getting closer.

A solid door made of silver stone, built directly into the wall was opened by four agents, pushing and shoving with all their strength. The President was quickly led inside, and the rest of us followed at a hurried pace, none trying to trample the other, but still moving rapidly as the echoes of battle drew closer. The Mian had undeniably made it to the stairs, the sound bouncing off the walls in a macabre of ghastly music.

The door was shut. Locked down tight.

I turned in a slow circle, evaluating the bunker.

If I were into the latest in technology, this would be a dream room.

Instead, it merely felt like a tomb with flashing screens.

Jax was staring at the door. “What do you think they’ll do to us if they get through?”

“I don’t know,” I stated honestly. “They actually brought a war here.”

Jax’s lips thinned. “And it’s personal. Those closest to them stole a valuable item of trade.”

I blinked. “This escape for us has turned to shit.”

“I was planning to go back to Triaz.”

My gaze altered to him. “Really?”

He nodded. “I like Triaz better than Joyal. But I couldn’t let Humans die because I failed to accomplish my mission.”

I wrapped my arms around his waist and placed my head on his shoulder. “I’m not mad. I understand.”

He kissed the top of my head gently, holding me as tightly as I was him. “Would you have come back?”

“Maybe,” I answered. “I came here for freedom…but in light of the President’s actions, I’m not sure I ever really had it here either.”

Jax grunted softly. “No shit.” He tipped his head to the side, rubbing my back gently, even when he growled harshly, “Are you fucking deranged in the head, people? The Mian are nearly here, and yet all you can do is stare at two people consoling each other?”

One man grumbled, “You’re touching. It’s against the law.”

“He kissed her,” another whispered quietly to her neighbor.

I blinked and said with extreme slowness, “Morons, Mian are outside. What is the bigger issue here?”

The room reacted then, quickly jostling with activity made for a siege such as this. It was about damn time.

Boom. Boom. Boom.

I froze inside Jax’s hold.

The Mian had made it to the door.

Thank you so much for taking the time read Stop. I hope you enjoyed it!

As always, all honest reviews are appreciated.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Scarlett Dawn is drawn to all things quirky and off-beat. She believes there are no boundaries for an imaginative soul. Her love of the written word started from at an early age, when her grandmother would take her to bookstores every weekend. Dreams came alive within the books she found there, and now, she is thrilled to share her stories with others who have fallen under the spell of taking fantastical journeys. Scarlett resides in the Midwest with her family.

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A fresh, meaty, sink-your-teeth-in-and-hold-on-tight new adult fantasy series kicks off with King Hall…

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