Harvest: A Dark Sci-Fi Reverse Harem Romance

by Piper Stone

  I was quite pleased that Degan looked so uncomfortable.

  “I had no choice, Voltar. None. I was called into my father’s office and three hours later I was on a ship heading for Earth. I was told my expertise was vital to this mission in particular, so I assumed what my father meant was catching Zayn. He’s quite concerned about the Demon. That’s all he could talk about for two months,” Degan huffed as he rolled his eyes. “If I’d even attempted to refuse, I would end up in prison for the rest of my life. You have no idea how my father has changed. His demands are brutal.”

  I did know exactly how ruthless Degan’s father was as well as greedy. I had to wonder whether the actual game was for the members of the High Council only. “For some reason, I believe you, Degan. There’s just one problem. Why this particular female? Since we were already getting very close to capturing the Demon, why risk it?”

  “I don’t know.” Degan seemed exasperated.

  “He’s lying.” Kodroth walked closer to me, distrust in his eyes.

  Degan lifted his head, darting his eyes back and forth between Kodroth and me. “I’m not your enemy, Voltar or yours, Kodroth. As I said, I had no choice in this either, no matter who my father is. What I am telling you is the truth. I have no idea why this particular female was selected, but I can tell you that she holds the key to something that terrifies our government.”

  “But someone knows about Felicity. Don’t they?”

  A deep sigh was followed by Degan locking eyes with mine. “That I honestly don’t know. But what I’ve been told is that no matter the circumstances, this particular human is to be protected at all costs, even if it means our death.”

  * * *

  Degan’s words haunted me and I knew he was telling the truth. There was no reason to lie about something of that regard. I’d also caught a glimpse of fear, as if he’d been warned that he could not fail. In the three years since I’d been on this planet, much had changed within our kind stationed on Earth, including our willingness to kill our own. While we would have several additional discussions, we all agreed that if the marauders were planning a coup of some kind, it would be beneficial for them to try to thwart the remainder of the ceremony. That was our first and primary issue to deal with. We’d made certain that every colony was on high alert, prepared for an attack of some kind. What we wouldn’t do was alert the commander any more so than necessary. I had a feeling he was locked in the political game to the hilt. Being clandestine could hold an advantage.

  While I didn’t fully trust Degan, he was now one of us, whether we appreciated the concept or not. I would watch him carefully, but he would also be treated as an equal.

  At least for now.

  I had to wonder whether the human knew how important she’d become. During the imprint, I hadn’t detected anything but desire and petulance for our kind. She also has a repugnance for the marauders. At this point, she wouldn’t be told and certainly couldn’t be entrusted with this kind of information. We would prepare her as our pet in our usual manner, training her into utter obedience and keeping any outsiders as well as our own kind in the dark.

  Including my own men.

  They would be told what was necessary only.

  My mind shifted to the lovely female, my entire body itching to begin her training. I wanted her to experience the harshness of being punished for her disobedience as well as the extreme pleasures of following our orders. The dichotomy was far too addictive. One thing was for certain. The High Council might be pulling the strings, but we were in control of how our mission engaged.

  First things first. We all wanted a taste of the feisty redhead in every manner possible. My mind had been changed. However, she was in extreme danger remaining where she was. We would need to bring her to the compound tonight.

  My cock twitched at the thought.

  She would begin her training, receiving much needed discipline. She would also succumb to all three of us. A growl left my lips as the visions became more intense. Her naked body shackled, her ass cheeks reddened from our hands and other implements. Her mouth open to receive our cocks.

  The knock on the door was sharp, dragging me out of my reverie. “Come.”

  One of the soldiers opened the door, merely darting his head inside. “Everything has been prepared as ordered, sir. We can leave at any time. The convoy vehicles are loaded.”

  “Excellent.” I had forty-five trained actual soldiers under my command. Eight of us had been trained with every weapon as well as various methods of hand to hand combat. The others were called Watchers, keen observers and cutthroats if necessary. Ten of my usual detail would remain at our facility to make certain there was no takeover attempt. The rest would come with us, doling out the supplies as promised but more important, keeping an eye out for the marauders. I had a terrible feeling that this was going to be a very long night. “We leave in fifteen minutes.”

  “Yes, sir.” The soldier nodded then left, closing the door behind him.

  I glanced back at the moon, wondering if the bright light of the orb would help. Some Centurions were superstitious of the giant star, fearful of its powers. I had no time for such bullshit, but the light would certainly help in our attempt to capture additional marauders, if they appeared.

  And I’d bet my life that they would.

  Kodroth and Degan entered, both their faces ashen.

  “What is it?” I asked, fearful of the answer.

  “There are new reports of marauders on the move. Hundreds of them coming this way.” Kodroth shook his head.

  “Too many for our soldiers to deal with,” Degan added.

  “How far?”

  “Twelve hours. Maybe fifteen. We must bring Felicity here.” Kodroth hissed under his breath. “Do you think Zayn is with them?”

  “That would be my guess. We will change our plans and bring her here.” I was angrier than I’d ever been. “When we return, we will get some answers.”

  “The ship is on route. They should be here by morning at the latest.” Degan shook his head. “We don’t have enough soldiers to ward off a full-fledged attack.”

  I exhaled, trying to think about what to do. “Call on every one of our sister compounds. Get as many soldiers as possible. We must also warn the approaching ships.”

  “I already placed a call,” Degan said, obviously used to being in charge. “Time is of the essence.”

  While the man was right, I remained furious with him. “Let’s get to the colony.” Six hours should give us safety to get back to the compound, but everything would have to go as planned.

  Less than an hour later, our entire group was finally outside Colony 57. Perhaps the only saving grace was that there’d been no females selected at the adjacent colony, my guess would be by design. Besides, I doubted the marauders had any interest in the other location. I almost felt as if we were being tested, our strength of character as well as our hunting prowess. The thought left a bad taste in my mouth.

  I remained outside for another few minutes, inhaling the night air. There was a certain stench, the rancid odor one perhaps only our kind could detect, but it was becoming increasingly offensive. The chemical type smell was one I hadn’t encountered before.

  “Come, my friend. Tonight, we won’t be able to solve the problems of our kind. We have a celebration in order and the colony is ready to receive us.” Kodroth slapped me on the back, before noticing my tense stance. “What is it?”

  “I don’t know but we should be concerned. My senses tell me we are being watched. The sooner we can provide protection, the better.”

  “That may be true, but these people are expecting nothing more than a party. As you said, we must allow them some time with their daughter. I will check with the Watchers to make certain there hasn’t been another breach.”

  I was well aware of what was expected of me. “That’s fine. Let the festivities begin.” I held out my arms as I walked inside, giving every human I passed a nod of reverence. I was surprised how
jovial the entire setting was, the celebration massive in design. For a people who had so little, the decorations, candles and lights glowing, a roaring fire and what appeared to be some manner of livestock turning on a spit was truly considered a feast. They’d saved their finest meat and other provisions in the hope that something like this would happen.

  Various adults sent the children toward the trucks to gather the boxes and crates of supplies. So much of what was given to these people had been found by our kind, factories and warehouses locked down for this purpose alone. The facility locations could be considered another weak point in this glorified game.

  “I don’t see her,” Kodroth said as he walked beside me.

  “She is here. I feel her,” I answered, scanning the crowd. The fire pit was to the left of the stage. From where I stood, I could see a grouping of pillows and materials, all positioned in a special manner. There were four groupings, no doubt for her hallowed family members.

  “Everyone is curious as to why we are here, other than to drop off the food.”

  I was able to see the looks of surprise, even worry, as if their feast would be taken away. “They will be fine.” I noticed Felicity’s father approaching, his face holding the same apprehension as the others. I walked toward him, and the crowd parted as they noticed the human. Behind him was his wife and daughter. The younger daughter, Winter, was just as beautiful, the same spunk in her eyes.

  When Daniel Michaels closed the distance, he held out his hand. I knew of this gesture; shaking hands was very human but a warm greeting. I accepted the handshake, keeping the grip firm but not crushing. “We have brought the supplies as your winnings.”

  “Thank you for your kindness. It is much needed in our colony.” A hush fell over the crowd. “Thank you, Captain Brezan and Lieutenant Kul.”

  “You are very welcome. These should last you through the winter.”

  Daniel let his hand fall and stood tall, trying his best to smile. I could see the worry of a father in his eyes, but there was so much pride in what he was doing. The thankfulness was touching. It was also damning in my mind. For once, I actually hated my people. “This is quite an honor, sir. We are very appreciative.”

  They’d been so well trained that I was taken aback. “As it is for us. Thank you for your gracious welcome.”

  He attempted a smile. “I understand you have won the hand of my daughter.”

  “One of three, yes.”

  Swallowing hard enough that I noticed, he took a step back. “Felicity. Please come. Say hello to the Centurions who will become your destiny.”

  Destiny. I could only imagine Felicity’s thoughts. I would never forget her defiance or the lust teeming from her body.

  From behind the crowd she walked. She’d changed from the black warrior type outfit I’d seen her in before. Standing in front of me was a beautiful goddess, her long hair flowing across her shoulders. She still held the same rebellious stance that I’d seen outside the compound, but her expression had been tempered. In the firelight and warm glow of the candles, her red hair shimmered, her porcelain skin much more alluring than I’d remembered.

  “The girl is much more enticing than the fighter we almost captured,” Kodroth whispered in my ear, his delight evident.

  “Yes.”

  Felicity walked closer, yet taking her time, her eyes locked onto mine. The same quiet remained over the crowd, but there was excitement in the air. I’d never experienced anything like this and in truth, wasn’t entirely certain I could play the part. When she stopped almost four feet away, her father pushed her gently, saying something that only she could hear. Her look of resolve was more limited, but the girl would always consider herself a warrior, a woman hell bent on taking care of her family. This was a trait that I adored.

  “Yes, Father,” I heard her say. The dress she was wearing had seen better days, the dark green velour still accentuating her voluptuous figure, her rounded hips and thin waist, full breasts that created a stir between my legs. I was aching from the kind of shameless desire that only a true brute ever had. But I didn’t care. A switch had been flipped.

  Both Kodroth and I closed the distance, standing in front of her while others held their breaths.

  Felicity lowered her head after we approached, her breathing ragged. Taking just a single finger, I lifted her chin, staring into her eyes. “My little warrior. I am so happy that you will belong to us. You will be prized.”

  “And I will be trained,” she countered.

  “Felicity!” her father admonished.

  “It is all right,” I said quietly.

  “No, she knows better than to act like this. She is a willful girl, just like her mother. I thought the earlier round of discipline would have done something.” Daniel shook his head, even more nervous than before.

  Kodroth inched even closer. “Do not worry. Felicity will be disciplined as often as necessary.”

  “Of course I will.” She refused to take her eyes off mine, so insolent. The woman was pushing me.

  The crowd didn’t need any further excuse. As cheers sounded off, many beginning to dance, I couldn’t help but allow my thoughts to slide into concern, even fear. I didn’t want to lose her, especially not since I’d just found her.

  She glanced at me, her mouth going slack.

  And for the first time, I saw real fear in her eyes.

  Chapter Nine

  Felicity

  I wanted to run far away. I craved simply disappearing into the forest, never to be seen again, but that was never going to happen. I had my parents to think about, concern for their welfare, as well as those of everyone in the colony on my shoulders. I stood as quietly and properly as possible and the attraction for Voltar confused every portion of my mind. Both men were very sensual, there was no denying that fact, but they were also warriors and very powerful. I studied Kodroth and could see kindness in his eyes.

  There was something terribly wrong. I’d seen it in Voltar’s eyes. What was he hiding from me?

  The light chill in the air created a series of goosebumps and I had no idea what I was supposed to do. This was my last night with my family. How dare they interfere? I didn’t need to read his mind to know that they weren’t telling me something. I’d be forced to play along for fear of retaliation, but they had another think coming if they assumed I’d lie down at their feet, doing every bidding. No way. None.

  I’d also seen the carnal look, the one that said in no uncertain terms that he’d ravage every inch of my body. I shivered, trying to keep my shit together, but damn it, I wanted the creature even more. My panties were already soaked.

  Everyone around me was celebrating, laughing, and talking, the wine flowing. The scent of roasted pig floated into my nostrils, creating waves of hunger. I was famished, but the thought disgusted me. There were so many fruits and vegetables, and cheese. I adored cheese, having only tasted the luxury once in my life. Even cakes and cookies, chocolates and other delicacies were placed on platters, everyone preparing to devour the entire lot of food while I suffered for them.

  Voltar tilted his head, his finger moving to the single tear that had fallen past my lashes. In a gesture that was so unusual, after swiping the salty bead, he slipped his finger into his mouth. I touched the side of my face, the electricity surging to the point I had difficulty breathing. He was so different than the other Centurions but that didn’t mean I could trust him. Not by a long shot. He was masking the true being inside.

  “Please, will you join us for the Feast?” my father had the audacity of asking them. They would steal me away tomorrow and now, my own father wanted them to eat our food. Their food. After tonight, I’d never see them again.

  The third man approached and there was a darkness surrounding him, as if he had other purposes for being here. His eyes roamed my entire body as if I were his feast and his alone.

  “Unfortunately, we can’t. Felicity Michaels, this is Lieutenant Degan Gardan.” Voltar gave the alien a particular lo
ok. There was no love lost between the two either.

  “You are very beautiful, Felicity Michaels. It will be a pleasure getting to know you.” Degan bowed his head then turned toward Voltar, saying something in their native language.

  “Ka. Dota.” Voltar exhaled and took my hand into his, words spoken to my father. “Please, begin the celebration. As you are aware, every contestant is to be checked by our medical professionals. That is the last item that needs attention.”

  I noticed two Centurion guards stood in the wings, waiting to take me to some horrific procedure. “What if I refuse?”

  “Felicity, please don’t do this. We’ve gone over what is expected of you.” Daddy reached for my mother’s hand. I could almost taste their disgust with me. They had everything they needed, including another daughter.

  “Please forgive her insolence.” My mother’s contempt was palpable. She stood behind me, rubbing her hands up and down my shoulders. I was surprised, tears springing to my eyes. I wanted to stay with them, to pretend none of this had even happened, but no amount of prayers and wishes would be answered.

  “Don’t hurt her. She’s my sister.” Winter’s voice gave me the chills. This was sick.

  “Unfortunately, she has no choice,” Degan answered, a slight growl in his voice. “She will learn what is required by our kind. That I assure you.”

  “Degan, please. Allow me a moment with her.” Voltar didn’t wait for the other monster to answer, instead taking me off to the side. “I know you’re frightened, but I assure you, this won’t take long. You must comply.”

  “Whatever. You don’t care about me or if I’m scared in any manner, Voltar, or am I supposed to call you king now?” I whispered the words, but Voltar heard them clearly.

  His hand cupped my jaw, using enough pressure that it brought tears to my eyes. “While I am very aware of how frightened you are, I will no longer take your disobedience toward me or any Centurion. I’ve already warned you of this more than once. You will be disciplined for your actions. I will not allow the doctors to hurt you in any manner, but if you do not cooperate, your punishment will be much worse. The choice, sweet Felicity, is entirely up to you.”