by Piper Stone
“English,” Voltar demanded. He lifted his head, his eyes locked on me. He was telling me to finish dressing.
I nodded, trying my best to obey but my curiosity was piqued. I could easily sense something was wrong. I moved into the other room yet remained at the doorway, hoping to hear what was being said. A slight premonition catapulted me into paranoia. Suddenly, I was petrified, more than I’d ever been. A darted glance told me I was right. Voltar’s face was flushed with anger.
“Captain Brezan.”
They were the only words I was able to hear, the rest of them hushed, even though I could tell they were being said in English. I was shaking as I tried to slip into my panties, my heart skipping several beats. The dress seemed cold in my hands and I struggled in placing it just so, smoothing down my hair and clearing my throat before I walked into the room. They must have seen the welt. I would pass it off. Yes, I could do that. I was a damn good actress.
The door was slammed and there was no sign of Voltar. “What is going on?”
“You are free to go.”
I studied the various implements, unable to distinguish anything. Were they really trying to make certain I could conceive? “Tell me!” Neither one of the doctors even bothered to glance in my direction as I raced toward the door, the darkness so encompassing as I ran outside. “Voltar!” People were everywhere, joyously dancing and partying as if this wasn’t a horrible, nasty situation. I rushed toward the bank of woods, searching for him. Why did I care? Why would I do this to myself?
Everything was muddled together, confusing and I stumbled backwards, counting numbers in order to try to calm down. I would learn to accept my position. I was strong and brave.
Or so I was told so damn many times. However, the collar was enough to challenge that notion. I couldn’t stop shaking.
“I’m here, Felicity Michaels, and we need to talk.”
I heard Voltar’s voice behind me and bit my lip as I turned ever so slowly. In his hand he held what appeared to be a leash. My hand fluttered to my neck, fingering the collar. My approach was the usual girl, the one who’d fought for everything her entire life. I had no trust. I had no grasp of their understanding of our kind. I was simply... terrified. “Am I not good enough? Will I be taken away, sold to slave traders?”
“That’s what you think?” he asked after a few seconds of hesitation.
“Yes. I know how this works. I am not a stupid woman, Voltar. I mean, sir. I am also not a child.”
His pensive look gave way to amusement and he chuckled before gripping both arms. “There is nothing wrong with you. I will be honest with you about all things. Others would not be as truthful. The plans for this event have changed.”
“What are you talking about?” He was shielding his thoughts. I could see Degan and Kodroth waiting in the shadows, watching Voltar’s every move. Even the human guards seemed on edge, pacing the perimeter of the compound. They were expecting unwanted guests. The marauders. That would make sense, but why?
“While this is unfortunate, you must come with us tonight.”
“What?” The two Centurions moved closer. This had all been planned from before they stepped foot into the colony. I had to get additional information and I would one way or the other. “Why? Do the rules no longer apply? Am I not allowed time with my family any longer?”
“I would give you all that time as requested, but things have changed.”
“Things, Voltar? Please, tell me.” I could see he was completely uncomfortable with opening up. The Centurion guards had moved within close proximity. Everyone seemed to be watching exactly what Voltar would do.
“When the time is appropriate, Felicity. I do hope that you’ll be able to see your family again, but it’s far too dangerous at this point. There are factions that are hunting us, potentially you specifically. I cannot take that chance.”
“And if I don’t agree?” I already knew the answer. I would be taken against my will. I didn’t like this one bit. I felt like a bird in a cage and I definitely needed to fly. Either I’d been lied to or this had always been nothing more than a game. I shook my head several times, trying to keep my eye on Degan and Kodroth. Could someone be hunting me? If this was the truth, there was a reason. I would never be free from the horrors. I bit back anguished cries as well as tears. They couldn’t see me cry, broken already and they hadn’t even laid a finger on me.
Kodroth seemed to sense my disregard and took long strides toward Voltar. “We have limited time. You must do this. She needs safety.”
Voltar held up his hand. “I am aware. Be prepared to leave on my order.”
“Good enough,” Kodroth stated, but only after darting a glance in my direction, his eyes dipping to my breasts.
“What is happening? I deserve to know,” I whispered, searching the crowd for my parents.
“Please, understand that I will protect you with my life, but I can’t do that while you are behind these walls. The marauders are on their way, hundreds of them. You need to say your goodbyes. And this is not a request, Felicity.”
I yanked away from him, my natural instincts taking over. “I won’t do that. You aren’t my master or my keeper. I don’t care about this contest. If I’m in trouble then my family is as well. What are you going to do to protect them?”
Hissing, he yanked me closer, his hold so strong. “While I am much more compassionate to humans than other Centurions, you will not challenge me. Is that clear?”
“That’s the only way I know, Voltar. I’ve protected my family for years, not the Centurions or the ridiculous human guards who work for you!”
Bristling, his eyes went wild, changing colors. “You need to be trained. You need...”
“Go ahead and say it. I need a hard whipping. Isn’t that what you were going to tell me? Isn’t that what you’ve been waiting for? I can read your thoughts, Voltar. I can feel your desire.” I dared to defy him. The heat and electricity between us swirled, a turbulent exchange. I was challenging him in front of men under his command. I was breathless with anticipation, my desire off the charts. I knew others around us had heard our exchange, even through the laughter and celebration. I no longer cared. I wanted to see what he was made of.
He threw his head from side to side, growling under his breath. “Yes! I already am your master and while it may take time, you will learn to respect my authority as well as Degan’s and Kodroth’s. If you do not, there will be severe consequences.”
“Then do it! Punish me if you deem it necessary. Show everyone here what kind of man, no, monster you are.” The flash of hurt in his eyes was quickly erased, followed by the same authoritative expression I’d seen so many times before.
Still, I was shocked when he lifted his knee, tossing me over his leg and yanking my dress up to expose my ass. “Voltar!”
His hand came down swiftly and firmly, planting one hard spank after another, moving from cheek to cheek. I was mortified but at the same time, I was ecstatic as he took absolute control, refusing to tolerate my mouth or my actions.
I heard the crowd hushing, as if everyone in the colony was watching me, even prodding him to continue.
And he did.
With every hard smack, I was drawn into his web. I struggled at first, slapping my hands against his legs.
“You need to listen to me. I am not here to hurt you, but I will not tolerate insolence. Not from you or anyone,” he said with firm conviction, his tone still laced with a husky vibe, sensual in every word.
I took gulping breaths, trying my best not to cry, but he had such a strong hold, taking me to incredible heights of pleasure as well as pain. How could any man or monster know exactly what I needed? How had he been able to see right thought me?
He huffed and the moment he yanked down my panties, I threw my hand back. “No! Please.”
“There’s more where this came from. This is just the beginning.” Harder and faster he slapped his hand across first one ass cheek then the other. My bottom
was on fire, stinging. The way my pussy clenched, clamping down over and over again, I was terrified I would come.
Panting, I closed my eyes, willing the rest of the world away. Finally, I could feel him slowing down but my tears were already flowing, salty beads dropping onto the ground.
He huffed and rubbed his hand on my skin before pulling me into an upright position. “I do appreciate and even enjoy your defiance, but Kodroth, Degan, and I are now your masters. The sooner you learn this, the better off you’ll be. Gather your things. Talk to your family. You are coming with us.” With that, he captured my mouth, thrusting his tongue inside.
The kiss was dazzling, sending shooting vibes down the length of my arms and legs. I resisted at first, pushing hard against his chest but as our tongues entwined, I clenched his jacket, pulling him even closer. The kiss became a manic roar shared between us, the longing shattering my last resolve. I moaned as he growled, the sounds reverberating between us.
I heard nothing but echoes in my ears, but I knew that every man and woman was watching us, even eager to see more. When he finally broke the kiss, I took several deep breaths, blinking until I was able to focus.
Voltar’s nostrils flared and he inhaled, lowering his head and sucking on my neck. When his teeth grazed over my skin, I became weak in the knees. Then he was gone, disappearing into the crowd. I fingered the collar, knowing the attachment wasn’t needed, at least with this Centurion.
We were connected for life.
“That was amazing,” Winter said, rushing to my side. “He is so sexy. What did you say to him?”
“I was trying to get to the truth.” I struggled to right my panties, my legs quaking.
“The truth? What do you mean?” She had such an innocent face, a complete lack of understanding just how many monsters there were hiding in the shadows.
I searched for him in the darkness but could only see the waiting eyes of Degan, the same arrogance crossing his face. “Come with me, Winter. Please. I have very little time.” I rushed her into our house, moving quickly to gather my things.
“What are you doing?” she asked in such a pained voice. “What do you mean that you have little time?”
“I don’t know why, but I have to leave with them tonight.” I headed to my hiding place, opening the small door. I took several deep breaths before reaching for my prized weapon and holding it out. “I want you to have this.” I held out my crossbow, knowing that I wouldn’t be allowed to take it where I was going.
“But I can’t. This belongs to you.”
I pushed it toward her, trying to keep my resolve. “It belongs to you now. You need to learn to protect this family. Please tell me that you’ll do that.”
“What’s wrong, Felicity? What’s going on? Please tell me. I don’t like the look in your eyes.”
“I don’t know and that’s the truth, but I fear there will be another attack on the colony or perhaps every colony. Keep our family safe at all costs. I will find a way back to you. That I promise with all my heart. You’re much stronger than you know, Winter. I have faith in what you can and will do.”
Taking the bow into her hands, I witnessed the young girl turning into a woman right before my eyes. “I promise. You will come back to us or I will find you. That is my promise to you.”
Yanking her into my arms, I held her tightly, trying to imagine a life without her. “I love you, sister of mine. We will see each other again.”
I tossed what few items I cared about into a small bag, placing the crimson sheath on top and smoothing my hand over it. “This is beautiful. I adore you.”
“I love you.” She took the bow, stashing it under her bed. After giving me another fleeting look, she kept her head down as she retreated from the house. For a few precious minutes, I allowed myself to wander through the house, touching my father’s shaving gear and my mother’s favorite cooking pan. There was no way to describe my feelings and no way to comprehend what was going to happen.
But I had a terrible feeling that it had something to do with the bastard who’d captured me. I would tell my masters what happened one day, but not until I knew my family was safe. Only then could I fully trust them. Only then could I truly belong to them. I grabbed the bag, turning off the few lights. Saying goodbye to the only world I’d ever known was the hardest thing I’d ever done. But it was a requirement.
I walked out the door with my head held high, heading toward my parents for the last goodbye. The hugs were without words, but I could feel their raw emotions and I would never forget their faces. They loved me as I did them, but this was my new life.
I wasn’t certain if I would ever be fully prepared, but I’d have to learn to accept.
Chapter Ten
Felicity
I hadn’t seen anything as they transported me to their compound since there were no windows in the back of the convoy vehicle. The catacombs I’d walked upon entering the barely lit building filled me with more trepidation. Whatever this place had once been, I knew the location had held prisoners of some kind. I was taken past several enclosures, all complete with bars along the front. Even though the metal seemed old and even rusted in some places, I feared I would be locked away like an animal, only released to do their bidding.
Voltar never let go of my leash as they led me to an elevator, the cold environment like a big steel box. I shuddered as I was led down another hallway to a closed door. The other two remained behind us and all three Centurions were quiet. I was consumed with worry. Hearing the marauders were coming, I knew why in my heart and soul. I had a right to be afraid. I continued to be hunted by a group of humans who were even more dangerous than the Centurions. Why couldn’t the bastard leave me alone? Why was I so special to him? Would he actually destroy the colonies in an effort to find me?
I hadn’t been able to tell Voltar anything. How could I trust him at this point? Yes, he’d been comforting, even kind to me, even though he’d refused to accept any disobedience. Still, I didn’t know him. I would never forget the stories I’d heard as a child about how the aliens had taken our planet away from us. As he waved his hand across a panel, I shuddered.
“I’m certain you will find this room comfortable,” Voltar said, leading me inside.
“And locked in, sir,” I chided.
“Yes, the door will be locked. We simply can’t risk your safety.”
The words were bullshit.
He dragged the leash, yanking me closer. “You continue to be challenging, little human. I will soon grow weary of your games.”
“I’m not the one playing games.” My words were little more than a whisper. I expected immediate discipline, but I heard only his ragged exhale. A few seconds passed. “Are we going to Skars?”
“Yes, tomorrow.” Voltar seemed almost hesitant to answer me.
“What about my family? They must be taken care of.” I continued to push him. I was petrified they would bear the brunt of what I’d done.
“You are in no position to make demands, little human,” Kodroth said.
Voltar held up his hand, giving the two men a single look. “I will make a promise to you that your family will be guarded. I assure you, we will capture the majority of the marauders.”
I knew he wanted some kind of thank you. I simply nodded, my thoughts drifting to the face of the man who’d hurt me. I’d never learned his name. I’d blocked him out for so long, pretending that the experience didn’t happen. Maybe this had nothing to do with him. Maybe.
And maybe I was simply a fool.
Sighing, Voltar removed the leash, gazing around the space. “An attendant will come to you shortly. You’ll be allowed to bathe and prepare for this evening. There is no way for you to escape, but if you try, there will be consequences.”
I snorted and walked away from them, trying not to even look at my surroundings. What did I care? I was their prisoner. I tossed what meager belongings I had onto the floor, wishing I’d never brought the sensuous gown. This wasn’t about
romance. They would take me, use me as they wanted. No matter the desire I’d felt, the reality had kicked in.
I was their prisoner.
“She continues to be rebellious,” Degan said, as if I wasn’t even in the room.
“She will learn. Give her time,” Kodroth offered.
“She will be taught, strict rules imposed. I will return later, Felicity. Tonight, we will begin your training,” Voltar stated, his tone just as dominating as before.
“Yes. Sir.” I didn’t bother looking at any of them. When the door was finally closed, I crumpled onto a small couch, holding my head in my hands. For all my bravado, I was terrified.
I heard the door seconds later and jumped up, holding my arms. The girl entering was obviously a Centurion with the same fragile look as I’d seen in others.
“Welcome. I’m here to prepare you. I am Bene.” She was beautiful in her own right, her light skin luminescent and her green eyes doe-like.
“I don’t need preparing!”
She didn’t seem offended by my nasty tone. “I’m certain you’d like to take a bath, clean off the usual filth. Follow me.”
I trailed behind her, surprised in finding a very sleek and modern bathroom, complete with a claw-foot bathtub. I had to admit, the concept of taking an actual bath was a complete luxury. Bene wasted no time starting the water, setting out various bath soaps and even a razor. I had a lump in my throat as I watched her.
“You’ll need to shave. Hair is not allowed on the body,” she instructed. “I’ll give you some time alone.”
“Why are you doing this?” I asked as she headed into the other room.
Bene tipped her head, her large eyes peering at me in a strange manner. “These are my duties. These are my people.”
“But why does it matter?”
She offered a kind smile. “Because we all want a better life. I’ve had much worse, living with men who treated me in an inferior manner. Being here with these men has been a blessing. The captain is very fair. You will see.”
“And if I’m disobedient?”
