Mage

by Cyndi Friberg

  “Are you implying that these females are genetically compatible with Bilarrians as well?” Awred sounded doubtful. “Yes, we started out as the same species, but there are now distinct differences between Bilarrians and Rodytes.”

  “I’m not implying anything. I can prove it.”

  “Are only females involved in this phenomenon?” the king wanted to know. “Many of our females are anxious for compatible mates as well.”

  “I’m only aware of females.” It wasn’t a complete lie. Garin had indicated that the Tandori spell attracted both sexes, but so far there had only been females at Lunar Nine. “You must understand this program is in its infancy. I am not suggesting we pack up all our frustrated singles and ship them over to Earth. I would not even share the possibility beyond this room at this point. I think we should watch carefully and see how things progress for the battle born.”

  Awred stared back at Vox in contemplative silence, while Lotar took over the conversation. “We’ve also heard of a formula that allows Rodytes to procreate without a soul bond. Is there any validity to that rumor?”

  “Such a formula exists, but the results are problematic. Its use is dangerous and the outcome is unpredictable. Natural compatibility is a much better option. That’s why the Rodytes have abandoned its use.”

  “You said you had proof that some humans are compatible with Bilarrians,” Awred reminded him. “Explain.”

  “I am genetically compatible with Emily.” Vox watched his father closely, waiting for a reaction.

  Awred’s expression didn’t change, but he turned suddenly and descended the steps leading down from the chest-high dais. Then he approached Vox directly. “You know this or you suspect?”

  “We know,” Vox said emphatically. He looked at Emily, allowing affection to warm his gaze.

  Awred moved in front of Emily. “Was anything done to your genetics to make you compatible with my son?”

  “No, Master Fire, the connection was natural and intense.” Vox had warned her to remain quiet unless she was asked a direct question. She seemed relieved to join the conversation at last. “And I can confirm that the same is true of all the battle born brides. One is my best friend and I have spoken with several others. Nothing was done to any of them until after their compatibility was established.”

  “Fascinating.” He rubbed his chin, gaze locked on Emily’s face.

  After a long, thoughtful pause, Awred stepped back, positioning himself so he could see both Emily and Vox. “How far are you two willing to take this? Forming a tangible connection with a human female at this early stage could be beneficial in the long run, if what you believe turns out to be true.”

  Vox frantically fought back a triumphant grin. This was exactly what they’d hoped to accomplish. Awred would agree to anything as long as he believed it was his idea. “I’m in love with her, Father. Forming a tangible connection will be my pleasure.”

  Awred stilled and his gaze narrowed, then he reached down and grabbed Emily’s hand. For one terrifying moment, Awred looked furious. But gradually amusement eroded his anger. “You clever boy. I walked right into it, didn’t I?”

  “What have they done?” King Lotar stood and moved closer to the edge of the dais.

  “They’re already bonded. Vox skillfully led me to the conclusion he needed me to make. My son has mated with a human, without your permission I might add.”

  “But if what Vox said is true, there is a much larger issue here.” For once in his life, the king did not follow Master Fire’s lead. They were both political creatures to the marrow of their bones “Are humans really genetically compatible with Bilarrians?”

  “Not all of them,” Vox stressed. “In fact the percentage is quite small. But there are some who are capable of creating children with Bilarrians.”

  “I suppose you have proof of this claim too?” Sarcasm dripped off every syllable. Clearly his father didn’t appreciate being manipulated, even if he’d come to the same conclusion as his son.

  Emily couldn’t hold back her smile. “As a matter of fact, we do.”

  Awred’s jaw dropped. “Are you…” He looked at Vox in shocked wonder. “Your mate is with child?”

  Joy flooded Vox’s soul, making him feel restless and euphoric. Not only had his father acknowledged that Emily was Vox’s mate, Awred seemed excited about the possibility. “She is. We are as shocked as you that it happened this quickly, but Mother confirmed it for us.” He was careful not to say when the confirmation took place. His father didn’t need to know that half of his family had conspired against him.

  “You must return to Earth and report every development to me,” Awred concluded. “But before you go, I’ll need samples of Emily’s DNA so our scientists can figure out how such a thing is possible.”

  “You’ll have to ask my mate about the samples. I’m not making that decision for her.”

  Emily moved closer and looped her arm through his. There was no longer a reason to resist their need to touch each other. Luckily, for Vox, Emily smiled at Master Fire and said, “I’ll gladly help. I’m pretty curious about it myself.”

  * * * * *

  The next three days passed in a blur of smiling faces and bustling activity. Everyone wanted to congratulate the happy couple, so there were receptions, dinners and parties all three days. Whenever Vox was called away, Alanza appeared to keep Emily company. The princess was fascinated with Earth and wanted to hear all about Emily’s life before she met Vox. Emily quickly warmed to Alanza, genuinely liking Vox’s vivacious sister.

  Late the third night, Emily’s thoughts turned dark and melancholy. She knew she was just tired and overwhelmed from all the lavish attention. Vox had taken her out onto his bedroom’s balcony the first night and the tranquil setting quickly became Emily’s favorite place to sneak away and catch her breath. The railed platform overlooked the formal garden and the breeze was often scented with flowers.

  He came up behind her and wrapped his arms around her waist. “We’re going to have to run away, my love. The invitations are never going to stop.”

  Rather than turn around, she continued to stare out into the darkness, feeling lost and restless. “I’m more than ready for a boring routine. Lexie needs my help more than ever. She sounded frantic when I talked to her earlier.”

  “I told my parents that we would likely be gone in the morning. They were disappointed, but they understand.” She didn’t respond and the silence quickly became strained. He gently turned her around and raised her face until she looked at him. “What’s the matter? I thought you’d be happy to get away from all of this.”

  “‘All of this’ is your life. It’s my life too because I love you. We can’t run away forever. All this will be waiting for us when we return.” He sighed and frustration rolled across their link. “I didn’t say that to upset you. I find elements of this place horrifying, but I’ve enjoyed myself more than I ever thought possible. As long as I focus on the people, I know I can adjust.”

  “Then why are you so sad? I’ve felt your sorrow building for the last few hours.”

  “It’s Rebecca. All this excitement about the new baby has made me think of my first pregnancy. I wasn’t even allowed to admit that she existed. My mother made me lie to everyone. She made me feel used and dirty, like the life growing inside me was evil.”

  “We can perform the elektraw now if you think it will help, but I thought you would want your friends and family there.”

  She hesitated, debating the alternatives. “The only other person I’d want there is Lexie and I think it’s more important that I do this now. I can’t fully embrace my new life until I let go of my past.”

  “I can ask one of our priests to officiate or we can have a private ceremony with just us.”

  “Just us. This doesn’t need to be long and drawn out. I just want some way of acknowledging her existence.”

  “I have an idea.” He held out his arms and she moved into his embrace.

 
He teleported them to the carousel garden so the rushing sensation was barely noticeable. The carousel stood motionless and dark, conserving the precious magical energy that animated the animals. Vox activated the device with a mental pulse, but muted the music. “She needs guardians to watch over her. I thought they’d do nicely.”

  A tingle slid down her spine and she quickly blinked back tears. “I agree.”

  Then he found a large decorative rock and moved it to the front edge of the flowerbed. “What was her date of birth?”

  She told him, quickly realizing what he intended and gratitude swelled her heart. Not only would her ravaged soul finally have closure, there would be a tangible acknowledgement of Rebecca’s fleeting life.

  He positioned the stone just so, then stood back and focused on the task. With one burst of fiery energy, he carved the words “In loving memory of Rebecca, June 23rd – June 23rd. Though her time with us was brief, she will never be forgotten”.

  Overwhelmed by emotions too convoluted to name, Emily collapsed into Vox’s arms. She cried, releasing the past and emptying her heart of all the negative emotions.

  Long moments later, the familiar tune drew her back to the present. She looked at her mate and said, “Thank you,” then turned toward the carousel. Colorful light pulsed all around the creatures as they moved with mesmerizing grace. It was surreal and beautiful, a wonderland filled with mystery and love. “This is perfect.”

  Rebecca was finally at peace.

  * * * * *

  They returned to Lunar Nine the following morning exhausted but content. Raylon told Vox he’d found a location he thought would work well for the training sessions. Rather than escort them to the site, he gave Vox the building designation and security codes, then encouraged them to explore at their leisure.

  As Emily had predicted, the building was an abandoned warehouse. It was easily accessible from the residential villages, yet still protected by the higher security protocols in the commerce zone. Vox unlocked the main entrance with the security code, then led Emily into the makeshift gym.

  The main floor was large and open. It wasn’t much to look at esthetically, but—thanks to Raylon no doubt—the building was well-lit and clean. Thick pads had been spread on the floor and the words Locker Rooms had been painted on the wall above two doors at one end of the rectangle-shaped room.

  “It has potential,” Emily encouraged him. “It’s not fancy, but it doesn’t need to be.”

  They crossed the padded floor and looked inside one of the locker rooms. A bank of lockers had been installed along one wall, and three simple shower stalls and two toilets were now available in an adjoining room.

  “The battle born move fast. You’ve got to give them that much,” Vox said as they went to check out the other locker room. The layout was different, but the amenities were the same. As they explored further, they discovered two storage closets and a small kitchenette with a sink and refrigerator. “A beverage kiosk would be nice, but we can survive with cans and bottles.”

  “I think they’ve done an amazing job,” Emily said. “We were only gone a few days.”

  An office was located on the second floor with large windows overlooking the training area. Vox paused to take in the view, but Emily opened doors and looked in cabinets, her curiosity insatiable.

  “Holy crap, there’s an apartment back here,” she cried as she disappeared through one of the doorways.

  Vox followed her into the living quarters, pleasantly surprised by the open, airy feel of the four room manager’s suite. It was barely adequate by his family’s standards, but far superior to the accommodations in the residential villages. “This is actually pretty nice,” he conceded after looking through all four rooms.

  “Way more comfortable than my tiny apartment,” she agreed. “The furniture looks new as do all the linens and bedding. I think the governor is kissing up to you.”

  “He’s kissing up to us. You and Lexie are just as important, maybe more.”

  “It’s sweet of you to say so, but we both know better.” Before he could argue, she motioned toward the adjoining bathroom. “It will be a tight fit, but I think we should try out the tub.”

  They’d promised to have dinner with Lexie and Kaden, but the reservation was still three hours away. “That sounds amazing.”

  “Start the water. I’ll go grab a change of clothes for tonight.”

  He teleported to her apartment first and quickly picked out a comfortable-looking dress and the personal items she’d need to complete her preparations. He returned to their new home and hung the dress in the closet, leaving everything else on a nearby table. Then he teleported to Stargazer Ranch and gathered what he would need for the night. By the time he walked into the bathroom, Emily was reclining in the tub, a blanket of bubbles floating on the water.

  “Now that’s disappointing,” he complained.

  She sat up, sudsy water sliding off her slick skin. Her lovely breasts came into view, first her nipples than the creamy mounds. “Better?”

  “Much.” He grinned as he tugged off his boots and then his socks. “Are you sure we’re both going to fit?” He peeled off his tunic, then shed his pants. He never bothered with undergarments. “I’m not so sure.”

  “This is going to save us.” She motioned toward the faucet assembly that protruded above the side of the tub rather than one end or the other.

  He’d intended to slip in behind her and enjoy having her warm, soft body plastered against his, but her comment made him rethink the position. “Facing each other?” She nodded, so he carefully climbed in at the other end of tub. She bent her knees and raised her feet, giving him room to slide his legs in beside her hips, then she settled her legs on top of his and relaxed against the tub’s slopping surface. “Good call. It never would have worked the other way.”

  “It would be perfect if it were a foot deeper, but I’ll take what I can get.”

  He couldn’t help but ask, “Did you happen to notice the bathing tub in my bathroom?”

  She laughed. “You mean the small swimming pool? Oh yeah I noticed it. Maybe next time we’ll have time to enjoy it.”

  “I’m sorry it was so hectic, but it was entirely our own fault. If we’d wanted calm and leisurely, we should have saved our news for our second visit.”

  “It helped with both your mother and father. They put up with me because I’m having your baby.”

  “That’s not true.” He paused for an ironic smile. “At least not with my mother.”

  She laughed, as he’d hoped she would. “Your father was pleasant and polite. I have no complaints.”

  “You spent a lot of time with Alanza. What did you think of her?”

  Emily wiggled her eyebrows. “I think we need to find her a nice human mate.”

  “One step at a time, my love. One step at a time.”

  They chatted and soaked for most of an hour, then hands began to wander. Exhausted from the emotional catharsis at the carousel, Emily had fallen into a deep sleep moments after they returned to Vox’s bedroom and their passions had been smoldering ever since.

  Wrapping her legs around his waist, Vox pulled her closer and bent his head so he could enjoy her hard little nipples. “I’ve been thinking about these soft beauties all day.”

  She smiled. “They missed you, and so did the rest of me.”

  “We’ll have to do something about that. Won’t we.” He triggered the drain and grabbed the handheld sprayer, quickly rinsing their lower bodies before he stepped from the tub. Fluffy towels waited on the nearby rack, so he wrapped one around his waist and turned back to Emily with the other. She held out her hand, still standing in the bathtub. He shook his head and proceeded to dry her himself.

  It had been less than a day since they’d last joined, but he ached as if it had been far longer. He stroked her with the towel, not yet ready to touch her skin to skin. “You are so pretty like this. It seems cruel to cover such beauty.”

  “You’d chang
e your mind fast if I ever left our apartment like this.”

  “Very true.” He dropped the damp towel on the floor and lifted her in his arms, carrying her into the bedroom. They’d left the connecting door open during their bath and now both rooms were humid and smelled of bubble bath.

  He sat on the edge of the bed and arranged her astride his lap. She wrapped her arms around his neck and bent to kiss his mouth. Their lips pressed and slid, then melded as their tongues swirled around each other. For a long time they just kissed, enjoying their combined taste.

  Her mind opened to him, freely sharing her excitement and the love already within her heart. Each time they joined the link grew stronger and their emotions deepened. Neither tried to hide either thoughts or feelings. They shared themselves body, mind and spirit.

  His hands stroked up and down her back, then wandered lower. She chose a different path, exploring his shoulders and arms before venturing onto his broad chest. Her need grew even faster than his and she was soon rubbing against him, teasing him with her nipples and the moist heat of her sex.

  “Oh God, Vox. Please.” She reached down between them and found his erection with her hand. “I need you in me now.”

  Not able to argue when his hunger was just as demanding, he lifted her slightly, giving her room to position him at her entrance. She tried to take him in all at once, but he wouldn’t let her. Instead, he held her hips firmly, lowering her slowly onto his length.

  She moaned, head dropping back as he gradually filled her. Tension coiled around them both, driving the flames higher.

  “So good,” he murmured against her hair as he pressed her against his chest. When his entire shaft was encased in her slick core, he paused again, not allowing her to move.