Soul of Desire

Chapter Fourteen

I was not allowed to go on the rescue mission, and I was furious at Nix for it. They were leaving me behind for something so small as pregnancy. I thought for the hundredth time since he and the others left.

“Damn it.” I hissed as the shifter I held slipped, causing me to strike my claw on the side of the generator casing.

“What is it, cub?” Hart asked, coming to sit beside me. I sighed and dropped my tools. I wiped my claws on a rag and took a long drink from the water flask.

“I am worried. I do not do worried well. It has been two months with no word from Nix and the others.” I said.

“Do you think something happened to them?” He asked softly. I nodded.

“Yeah, I do, and it’s driving me crazy,” I answered, standing up. I was looking out across the fields. We had gotten the planting done in the first three weeks. The Therros had an incredible high- speed fertiliser that increased growth exponentially. Our crops were almost ready for harvest, something else I was reading up on. The city was doing well; several clans banded together to make furniture. Someone even made me a cradle. I stroked a claw over the small bump protruding between my hips.

“Have faith Luca, Nix is not stupid,” Hart said softly.

“He would sacrifice himself to save a clan. You said yourself; the Manx has not been seen in a generation. I gave up everything, even my humanity for him and he’s gone. I am afraid he will not come back.” I fought hard to keep the tears at bay. A large claw rested on my shoulder.

“Everything will be well cub.” He whispered. Hart kissed the top of my head and left me to dwell on my dark thoughts. I turned to stare over the fields towards the horizon. Dread and sorrow filled me as more time passed.

Winter arrived and with it, still no news on the rescue party or the Manx. I was wrapped up warmly as the first snows began to fall.

“What are you doing out of bed?” I turned to see Candy striding towards me. I smiled.

“Watching the snow,” I replied as the tall grey female came to stand by my side.

“Where are they?” She whispered excitedly. I pointed to the room behind me.

“Asleep.” We crossed the veranda to look through the partially open door. Nestled inside the cradle were two little black Therros cubs. Malaki and Nadia Kane, my two-week-old twins. Our people had celebrated long into the night on their birth. Twins were unprecedented within the race.

“How are you feeling?” Candy asked as I closed the door on the cold. I shrugged.

“I am alright,” I said with a sigh. I had almost resigned myself to Nix never coming back. It had been seven months with no word. The Therros left here on Dragoon looked to me for answers. Answers I could not give them. The snow outside gusted in intense flurries. I stepped out further, the small flakes falling on my head. Brieeorg grinned at me, having just landed in front of my house.

“Good morning Luca, how are your cubs?” He called softly. I smiled.

“They are asleep. How are you today?” I asked. His grin slid off his face.

“No news I am sorry to report my friend.” He said.

“Thank you. I appreciate all you have done for us over the last several months Brieeorg.” I breathed out a cloud of steam. The large Dragus bowed his head, and he turned to look over the Therros city.

“You have done well here, Luca; you should be proud of the things you have achieved in such a short time.” I looked to the crop fields, covered by an almost transparent shield from the elements.

“He’s right.” Candy chimed in. The female grey was as desolate as I was, Jeg had accompanied my mate.

“Brieeorg, Yana said, a ship of Dragus is bound for Kal in the next week. We have chosen our representative for the Galactic council. I wonder if they would be able to journey with you?” I enquired when the male looked back to me. He smiled, showing his immensely sharp teeth.

“As I am the one making the journey, I would welcome the company. Who have you chosen?”

“Thank you. Hart and Cleo are our representation.” I stated, leaning back against one of the thick columns holding up the veranda. I crossed my arms over my chest.

“Good choice. Hart is a fair male and Cleo is devious and intelligent. Hart is also the uncle of your mate. They will do well for the Therros and you.” Brieeorg replied, sounding impressed with my choice.

“Father was wondering who you would choose. I am happy to report, I won. Mother will be joyous.” Brieeorg told us delightedly. We chuckled.

“Glad to hear it. Ferrin cannot enjoy victory all the time.” Candy laughed.

“I will return in three days for Hart and Lady Cleo. Until then, farewell Luca, Candy. I cannot wait to see my father’s face.” Brieeorg called launching into the sky. Candy stood next to me. I wrapped one arm around her waist, leaning my head on her arm, and she hugged me back.

“I miss him, Luca.” She whispered. I nodded.

“Yeah, I know. I feel it too. Like a gaping wound in the soul.” I replied. With a sad smile, I turned my friend towards the sounds of little cries coming from the room behind us.

                                                         ****

Holon was a huge Ginger. He was one of the Therros we liberated from the Sumi ship. He was currently training the new Army. I sat under a tree with Maliki and Nadia laid out on a blanket beside me. Candy and Koi were sitting with them, making faces and laughing at the cub’s expressions. They were almost four months old now. Nix and the crew had been missing for a full cycle. I climbed to my feet and began to stretch.

“I am going to join them; do you mind watching the kids?” I asked, turning to my friends. They both smiled.

“Go for it; the cubs will be fine,” Koi replied using one claw to tickle Nadia. The little black panther giggled and tried to swat her away, drawing chuckles from the two females. With a smile, I turned and ran across the field to stand in the back of the group. Holon was in the process of explaining silent takedowns. I covered my grin. I had trained Holon in every combat scenario; the coding blasted into my head.

“Don’t think I didn’t see you sneak in there Luca.” Holon laughed, turning to face me. I grinned.

“I don’t like to sit and watch,” I replied with a shrug. The males surrounding me bowed their heads in my direction. The whole community had witnessed the ferocity with which I fought. The Ginger made his way to my side.

“Lady Luca, forgive me, but you are our only leader. The prince and princess are without protection. We would not wish to endanger you while training.” Holon said. I sighed, reaching out I squeezed the males arm gently.

“I understand. I am not offended. Thank you for your honesty. I will return to the city.” I said. The gingers surrounding me slapped claws to their hearts. They growled low in their throats as a sign of respect as I crossed the grass back to my children. Candy and Koi stood up.

“They wouldn’t let you join them?” Candy asked. I shook my head. Koi folded up the blanket after handing Malaki to me.

“I did not think that they would Luca. With Nixim gone, you are our only leader. Your cubs are too young to lead our people. You are too important.” She said softly. I watched the female Puma closely. She was covered from ears to toes in loose-fitting robe and cowl. My heart went out to the poor female. Like Candy, she lived in the first house with the cubs and me. She was unable to function alone in society. Her fear of the males around her, almost paralysing. I was a savage killer, and Candy tortured by the Zeg; we were the only Therros she trusted to be alone with her. Not even Maze and Hela. I sighed. Candy led the way back towards the city.

Reaching the first house, we stopped and stared. Our mouths were hanging open. Maze and Hela were grinning from the front patio. The place having tripled in size; it now had arches and shimmering gold cornices.

“Wow.” I murmured. Candy and Koi made similar noises in the back of their throats. I looked around at all the smiling, expectant faces.

“Do you like it? Our Queen deserves a palace.” Maze announced. The crowd gathered around us cheered.

“It is beautiful thank you,” I said, looking around.

“Don’t think we have not noticed what you have done to help us, my Lady,” Holon said, walking forward.

“We had our first harvest within a month of settling on Dragoon. We have a great relationship with the Dragus; our representatives on the council have re-established trade within the Galaxy. Our Army is in full fighting condition, and our first ships will be complete within the month. Within this cycle, our Queen has also given birth to not one but two heirs, prompting several other females to follow in her footsteps and birth young as well. We have several Therros completing their Galactic equivalency for teaching so that we can open our schools. If not for you, Your Grace. We would still be on the Helligan, in space. A race without a future. A Palace is the least we can do to thank you for not forsaking us.” Holon stated. A tear rolled down the dark fur of my face. I cuddled Malaki to me.

“Thank you,” I whispered. A cheer erupted, making me smile.

I woke to a shout from outside. I dived out of bed and hurried through the massive palace towards the commotion on my front doorstep. Candy and Koi were right behind me. I opened the door to find Yana.

“Yana! What is it?” I called striding down the front steps. The yellow Dragus turned to face me; worry shone in her eyes.

“There is a Sumi raiding party in this area. News of Nixim’s disappearance has reached your enemies. They will be here by daybreak.” Yana reported.

“Your Grace, I would not ask you to join this war. It is ours alone to fight. I would ask you to shelter my children.” I said calmly. Yana’s features softened.

“I will protect them a fiercely as my own young. Tell the Therros who cannot fight to gather their belongings and meet in the clearing. The Dragus will hide them. As for the rest of you, good luck.” She replied, taking to the sky with a strong leap.

“Koi, Candy pack your things,” I called running back up the stairs. Koi ran for her room. I sprinted to my children. Grasping a bag, I shovelled their belongings into it as fast as I could. Fear suddenly overcame me, I froze. The bag dropped from my claw. I lowered myself to my knees and looked between the two cots holding my sleeping cubs. They were almost six months old.

“I wish you could have known your father. He was so strong and brave. If only he were here. Koi and Candy will defend you. I have taught them everything I know. Alone they are lethal; together, they are unstoppable, my beautiful ones. Yana will hide you. I do not know if I will come back to you, but I will fight like hell to return. I will not make you any promises my sweet little angles. I love you.” I whispered, gaining my feet. I picked up each cub, nuzzled their cheeks, kissed their heads and placed them gently into their carry baskets. Picking up their bag, I hurried from the room.

We met the rest of our community in the clearing; the Dragus loaded Therros into large carry baskets. Brieeorg stepped forward.

“Koi, Candy and the cubs will come with me, Luca.” He announced. I kissed my children again and looked to the Puma holding them.

“We will defend them with our lives if it comes to that Luca.” Candy whispered. I nodded, turning to Koi. I kissed her cheek a moment before she stepped into the basket and strapped herself in. I stepped back, standing with the assembled Army and several others staying behind to defend the colony.

“Your Grace,” Holon called. I spun, my eyes glowing neon blue in the dark. I held up one claw.

“Do not even think about giving me the ‘we need you, speech’. I am in no mood to tolerate it tonight.” I growled. Several males chuckled softly.

“I wouldn’t dream of it. The ship is ready.” He announced, pointing over my shoulder. The colossal hanger doors of the manufacturing plant rolled open, revealing the most beautiful battlecruiser I had ever seen. Painted on the side in bold letters was the ships name. Styxx. I laughed, a tear rolled down my cheek. The ship named after the river of hell, I loved it.

“She is beautiful,” I yelled over the noise of the tug bot, pulling the huge ship from its hanger. The cargo doors opened, revealing the ship’s crew. Reggie, the old Calico greeted me with a huge grin.

“Are you ready for this?” He murmured when I reached him. I took a deep breath and nodded.

“Let’s get this bird in the air,” I yelled. The Therros behind me cheered. Reggie led me through the ship and onto the bridge, he motioned for me to take the Captains seat. I shook my head and pushed him into it.

“I fix them, not fly them. She is yours. You do it.” I whispered. Reggie nodded. I sat in the second seat, looking out across the colony through the front screen. I concentrated on breathing as I spotted the first of the Sumi ships enter the atmosphere.

“Get us in the air Reg,” I growled as the engines fired. The ground beneath us shook as we sprang into the air. The Sumi fired, hitting our shields.

“Get them away from the colony.” I murmured. Reg nodded.

“Get them away from the colony,” Reg ordered taking the captains seat. We shot up high into the rapidly brightening sky. We broke through the atmosphere and into space, the enemy hot on our heels. The communication screen lit up, and a Sumi face appeared before us.

“Give up, Therros; we have your leader. Nixim Kane and the crew of the Helligan won’t live much longer. Give up, and we will take you to them.” The Sumi purred. I hissed through my teeth; all eyes turned to me.

“Prepare to use the transporter,” I whispered. Leaving the bridge. Reggie grinned savagely.

“We are sending a representative to treat with you.” The Calico replied. The Sumi captain smiled.

“Wonderful.” He said as the communication ended. I pulled on a flight suit and stepped into the cargo hold with five gingers. When Brag entered the room, I grinned. He saluted me with two fingers. A light flashed around us, and we suddenly appeared in the cargo hold of the Sumi ship.

“It’s Kane’s mate! Kill her!” Someone yelled, terrified. I felt the flash fire of rage roll through me, my body began to twitch before it elongated, and I became a full-fledged Panther on four legs. I tore into the Sumi storming into the cargo hold. The gingers and Cheetah around me fought viciously to stay at my side.

“Your Grace, this way,” Jani called softly from the doorway. I made a chuffing noise in the back of my throat. The others grinned waving me forward. I launched into a run; the haunting scream of a panther rolled through the Sumi ship terrifying all in my wake. Within the hour, we had taken the ship. The captain sat in his chair as I paced on four legs in front of the viewing window.

“Where are Nixim Kane and the Helligan crew?” Reggie demanded over the on-screen communicator. I snarled spinning to bare fangs at our captive; my eyes shone a brilliant blue.

“They are on Brug.” He murmured. Reggie swore. I looked up at the screen.

“Brug is the Sumi prison planet, not far from here.” My friend answered for me. I made a coughing sound in the back of my throat. The gingers grinned. I pushed the anger away and shifted back to my small Therros form. The Sumi Captains eyes widened, and he began to sweat as I approached.

“You’re Kane’s mate.” He whispered. I nodded.

“That I am.”

“If I tell you how to rescue your mate, will you promise not to let your men kill me?” He asked, hopefully.

“Of course, I promise my men will not kill you.” I murmured. Our prisoner breathed out in relief.

“There is a secret passage into the planet interior. This ship holds a transponder and will allow you entrance.”

“What are the planetary defences?” Reg asked. Vio, the Sumi prisoner, answered immediately.

“There are enough explosives to blow the planet apart one thousand times over if someone breaches the seal without the authorisation code.”

“Damn, Jani give me your knife?” I said, holding out my hand. The Lieutenant handed over the blade, And I stabbed it into Vio’s leg.

“You promised!” He screamed. I shook my head and crouched down in front of him.

“No, I promised none of my men would kill you. I will kill you. First I can’t tell if you are lying so I am going to take a page from my uncle’s book to get the results I am looking for. I am going to torture you into telling me the truth just to make me stop. There are five males here, and each one has two knives. There are nine left, and I am very good at picking places to stab. Now, before I go any further, where you there when I killed Grogill?” I asked softly. Vio nodded.

“So, you saw what I did to him?”

“Yes.” He whimpered.

“Good. I am not going to do that to you. I have decided not to kill you. When I am done stabbing you, I am going to deliver you to the high Chancellor and tell him thank you for allowing one of his Captains to assist in the rescue of my mate and his crew.” I said. Vio’s face lost all colour, and he began to shudder.

“I think he is more afraid of that than he is of the blade in his leg, my lady.” Jani chuckled. I grinned.

“Oh, good. Now, you were saying.”

“There is no transponder; it is only activated if an enemy takes our ship. Please don’t stab me again.” Vio sobbed.

“Not a chance.” I hissed as another dagger appeared in my hand.

The surface of Brug was completely white. Thick with ice. I studied it from orbit. My mate and the crew of the Helligan had been held captive here for a year. I felt my heart stutter in my chest as I thought about the things probably happening to them down there.

“Well?” I asked over my shoulder.

“Yeah, it’ll work. The installation isn’t shielded. We can teleport you in and out. We need to be stationary. If we are under attack, it could prove tricky.” Reggie said from his captain’s chair. I nodded.

“Let’s do it,” I said nodding to Holon.

“Captain Reg, I think it might be a good-.”

“Idea not to finish that sentence Holon. Nothing short of death is going to keep this female from going down there. Good luck.” Reggie said as the light surrounded me. I landed inside the prison and shifted into my full cat form. A small party of Ginger Therros behind me. I closed my eyes, lifting my nose in the air. My eyes blazed a bright blue as I caught a familiar scent. I tore off to the left, running as fast as I could. I bounded around a corner ripping into two Sumi guards before they even knew they were under attack. The males with me tore off the cell door to reveal a snarling Haze. Her eyes popped wide when she spotted me. Her claw shook as she held it out to me. I stalked forward a chuffing sound emerging from my throat.

“Luca.” She murmured, she raised her eyes to the males with me.

“Brik and Captain Kane are down at the end of the hall. This whole section is Helligan crew. Luca, you have to hurry; they are going to sterilise Nix today.” She murmured. I shot out of the cell like a bullet, racing down the hallway—my scream of rage echoing along the corridor before me.

“It’s Luca!” Cheers sounded in the dim light. I crashed through a door; my speed had me launching off a wall and onto several Sumi. I ripped into them savagely, claws tearing through skin and bone. The huge black-furred male strapped down on one of the four tables laughed. His eyes were glowing with his feral grin.

“Hello, my love?” He growled as I dropped the last body to the ground. I shifted back to my Therros form and stalked towards him. I cut through the restraints, balled back my fist and punched my mate in the nose. He laughed, catching my arm.

“If you ever leave me again. I will cut off your tail! Got it.” I snapped. Nix grinned and pulled me into his arms.

“I love you too, Kitten.” He whispered. Pressing his forehead to mine. I closed my eyes, breathing in his scent.

“Ah, guys. A little help.” Brik asked from the table to our left. I stepped away from my mate and released Brik and Jeg.

“Haze.” Brik murmured.

“I already freed her,” I replied, pointing to the mangled doorway. Thirty Therros were gathered there, including Haze, she stood apart from the others. Her head bowed.

“Haze,” I called concerned. Her head snapped up, her gaze met mine.

“They roughed me up some; I am alright.” She stated. I nodded, taking her at her word. Brik appeared at her side though he did not touch her.

“Luca, we found the Manx. There are four, three males and one female.” Holon reported pointing to the four felines behind him.

“Good, call the ship. Organise the teleport.” I ordered. Nix looked down at me with a small grin. My head suddenly snapped up, meeting Haze’s eyes. I crossed the space, grabbing the sides of her face. I pulled her down to my height.

“Did they breed you?” I whispered. She sobbed quietly.

“Yes. They took our daughter. They are holding her in a facility three floors down.” She breathed. I looked down at her legs; one was severely injured. My face began to twitch as I allowed the fury to roll through me once more.

“Get them on the ship.” I snarled. I turned and dived through the ventilation shaft.

“What the hell is she talking about? We are not going anywhere without her.” Nix growled. Brik and Haze stood huddled together. Haze whined in the back of her throat.

“Stand fast sir,” Holon said. A grin spread over his face when I appeared several minutes later in my Therros form carrying the small bundle that was a tiger cub. I handed her to her parents and re-joined my mate.

“Styxx, we are ready for transport,” Holon called. A light suddenly surrounded our party. I stood quietly by my mate’s side as we appeared on the ship. Reggie was waiting in the cargo hold. He gave a great whoop of joy.

“Your orders, my lord.” He called to Nix. Nix pulled me against his side.

“Home Reg, take us home.” He said.

The Styxx landed outside the city. The Helligan crew gaped at the difference since they were last here. Yana, Ferrin and their sons stood waiting for us. A great cheer erupted from the crowd assembled. I ran down the gangway and across the field as fast as my legs could carry me. Koi and Candy were laughing and crying while they hurried towards me with my children.

“Thank you, my friends.” I cried as I reached my children, holding them to me.

“Nadia has a temper like her mama. She smacked Maliki with her rattle ten minutes ago.” Koi whispered. I chuckled looking down into their little amber eyes. Both panther cubs grinned at me.

“Luca.” Nix’s voice came hesitantly from behind me. I spun around, the crowd around us growing silent. Nix’s eyes grew wide when he saw I held not one but two cubs.

“Maliki and Nadia Kane, I would like you to meet your Daddy. Nix this is your son Maliki and your daughter Nadia.” I said, stepping closer to my mate. Nix touched their little faces reverently.

“Two, you gave me two cubs.” He murmured. Nadia made an unhappy yowl when her father did not pick her up, causing several Therros to chuckle. Nix grinned, lifting her into his arms. Her head immediately popped over his shoulder to look around from her new height.

“You’re never going to get her down now.” Candy muttered stifling a laugh.

“I know. Daddy is much taller than mummy. So much more to see up there.” I replied. Malaki leaned his head against mine. I nuzzled his cheek. He chuckled and hugged my head. Nix turned to face his crew.

“My cubs.” He called grinning. Haze stepped over to us. She was holding the small bundle that was her daughter. Nadia immediately looked down at the little female and grinned.

“What is her name?” I asked.

“Mei.” Brik murmured. Malaki reached out and touched Mei on the nose. The little tiger glared at him. I laughed.

“She has her mummies scowl.” I cried cheerfully. Haze stared at me for a moment before a smile cracked the severity of her face.

“She does not!” She protested. Brik looked down at his daughter a sudden chuckle erupting from his mouth.

“She does too. Look at that.” He said a little awed. I turned around and looked up at Yana and Ferrin.

“Thank you for safeguarding our pride,” I called. Both Dragus grinned.

“It was our pleasure,” Yana replied.

“Welcome back Nixim Kane. It will be a pleasure for you to charge the Sumi with invasion. They entered our moon space without authorisation and captured your Sovereign leader without leave of the Intergalactic Council. Let us know when you want to press charges, should be fun.” Ferrin answered with a cheerful grin. I bowed my head.

“You will be the first I call,” I replied.

“That bloodthirsty glint is the reason I like her so much. Kindred spirits, she and I.” He chuckled, looking to his mate. Yana laughed winking at me while she and her sons took to the skies.

Nix was standing on the balcony outside our rooms. I climbed out of bed on silent feet, my nightgown swirling around my ankles. I stepped into the doorway.

“I thought you were dead,” I whispered. Nix spun around. He hurried to me, wrapping his arms tightly around me.

“The message about the Manx was a trap. A good one. Yana could not have known. It was a clever ploy. I doubt the Sumi ever expected you would be a strong leader for our Pride in my place.”

“I had to do something. Our Pride had no idea how to look after themselves anymore. Most were raised as slaves on ships. I did a lot of reading Nix. Brieeorg and Ferrin brought me books upon books. I poured over them for months. Winter was hard. We had plenty of food stored, and the Army managed to finish the water Turbines within several weeks before the foreshore froze. Unfortunately, we lost three Leopards and a Puma to Frostbite within the first month with inadequate heating. Surprisingly, it turned out most Therros females can knit. We have a thriving trade now, with several of the nearby systems. We traded wood and carved furniture for wool and livestock. We made warm clothes and cured meat. We are still on shaky legs Nix, but we are making it work.” I said softly leaning my head on his chest. I could feel strange lumps in his fur. I leaned back to see what they were.

“Don’t look at them Kitten, please.” He murmured, stepping away from me.

“Look at what? Not look at my mate. Not look at the father of my children, who I have not seen in over a full year. How could I not look at the male I love?” I asked quietly turning I stepped back into our room. Nix spun me around by my shoulders; his eyes were glowing a piercing blue.

“They tortured me, shaved off my fur and cut into my flesh. Only scant hours ago, they were going to sterilise me. For months, they worked to break me. I fought them; I fought them as hard as I could. Kitten, I fought, I swear it. I needed you, and on my last day when I was near the point of no return, you came. Like a phantom of vengeance, you appeared out of the darkness.” He growled, dropping to his knees, his arms wrapped around my waist. His face buried in my stomach. I felt the splash of hot tears as they penetrated the soft cloth of my nightdress and fur. I curled around Nix’s head. Rocking him slowly. I didn’t know what to do.

“The twins were a surprise. They came early. It was the middle of the night; I think I woke the whole colony. Koi and Candy were as frantic as I was. Linus, the old Ginger came; he was so calm. He delivered all his cubs before the death of his mate. I was in labour for seventeen hours Nix, seventeen.” I growled shooting him an unimpressed mock glare. Nix’s breathing was slowing, and his head tilted to one side as he listened. I helped him stand and led him to the bed. He sat back against the headboard. I perched on the end of the bed, hugging a pillow. I sighed.

“Nadia was born with the nastiest most unimpressed scowl on her face; you could imagine. She did not want to come out and made her sentiment about her eviction known with lusty little screams.” I rolled my eyes. Nix smiled, his eyes growing lighter.

“Linus was watching me strangely. I swore I could still feel movement. He grinned at me and told me to push again. I did, just to shut the old male up.” I growled. Nix chuckled this time.

“Malaki entered this world three minutes after his sister. He was silent and solemn. He hardly ever cries and has most of the female population of this planet wrapped around his little black claw.”

“That’s my boy.” Nix murmured with a grin. I tossed the pillow at him. He laughed softly catching it to his chest.

“And their mother? How is she?” He asked.  I shrugged getting up to pace.

“I’m alright; I guess,” I said. Nix frowned he looked away down at the floor. I cursed under my breath.

“I missed you. For months, I waited. The blistering cold covered the planet, and I waited. While our Pride gave you all up for dead, I waited. Finally, word reached us of the Sumi coming. They were going to attack when the sun rose. We knew they would come. The week after you didn’t return, we began work on another defence. Reggie oversaw the construction, and we reconfigured the Nano-machine to build two ships. One was a warship, and the other was to hold the colony. It had compartments for livestock and crops, living quarters. It’s incredible. Yana and Ferrin came and gathered up the Therros and Humans who could not fight. Koi went with them; she and Candy cared for our cubs. During our battle, we captured a Sumi Captain. He told us where you and the Helligan were. Reggie reported earlier; the Helligan has suffered extensive damage. It is going to take a little while to fix her.” I said.

“Kitten,” Nix called softly, hesitantly. I looked at him.

“Yes.”

“Will you keep me as your mate, even though I allowed us to be captured? Even though I could not get us free?” He asked seriously. My eyes popped wide.

“What are you talking about? I don’t understand.” I was confused. Nix moved the pillow and stood up.

“Therros females only take the strongest males. I have not lived up to my place by your side. I will sleep in the single male’s quarters until you decide. I cannot in good faith tie you to an unworthy male.” He explained crossing the room to the door. My mouth dropped open as I watched my mate walk out of our house.

“What the bloody hell just happened?” I growled into the surrounding darkness.

“Luca.” I spun around, dropping into a defensive crouch. Brik held out one claw. I breathed a sigh of relief.

“You scared the life out of me,” I said with a small laugh.

“I see you are having the same problem as I am,” Brik said with a curse, watching his captain, leader and King walk further into the city.

“You mean Haze is acting this way too?” I asked, turning to face the male fully. He nodded. I suddenly noticed he held Mei in his arms.

“It’s too cold to have her out here. She can sleep in with Maliki and Nadia.” I waved him into the house and down the hall to the cub’s room. Mei was still small, and I motioned for Brik to place her in one of the cradles. Koi entered through the side door, having heard our voices. She bowed her head towards the large white male, though stayed as far from him as the room would permit. We stepped out of the room and left the children to sleep. I led Brik into the sitting room.

“Now explain to me what this is all about. Nix said something about me deciding whether to keep him or not? I was under the impression Therros mated for life.” I demanded pacing as the large male sat. He ran one claw through his hair.

“Haze and now Nix have it in their minds, they are unworthy of us. Being captured makes them weak.” Brik stated.

“I have been captured, how many times? You were in the cells with them. It makes us unlucky, not weak; in my case, it probably makes me a jinx.” I shrugged. Brik nodded.

“Exactly. Trying to explain to Haze being caught makes you unlucky not weak is next to impossible.”

“So, you’re saying this is a confidence thing?” I was trying so hard to understand. Brik nodded.

“Yes. Therros warriors are a sensitive bunch; they are all honour and Pride in combat.”

“So how do we convince them they are strong again?” I asked. I was at a complete loss on what to do. I suddenly wished Cleo and Hart were here.

“I don’t know, and we don’t have much time. Nix and Haze moving into the single quarters sends a message that the captain and his second are in disfavour. Someone will make a run at the throne.”

“You mean me. Someone will come at me?”

“Yes, your cubs are in danger.”

“I need Hart,” I said to Koi over Brik’s shoulder. She nodded and hurried from the room.

“How is Koi?” Brik asked softly. I sighed.

“She is getting better every day. However, she will not interact with other Therros. She has been spending a great deal of time with Linus, though. He is the only male she is not afraid of.”

“Linus is old, and she could overpower him easily. He is, however, a good male. He was a healer in the camp they kept him in. Koi could learn much from him.”

Koi hurried back into the room, placing a small round disk on the table. A screen flashed before me showing Hart and Cleo.

“Hello, cub,” Hart said with a smile.

“Hart, Cleo. We found the Helligan.” I reported. Hart sucked in a breath, Cleo clutched his arm.

“My nephew?”

“He and the crew are alive and well. They returned home this afternoon.” I said. Cleo frowned.

“What is it Luca, you do not look like yourself?”

“Nix has told me, he is unworthy to be my mate and has walked out to stay in the single male quarters while I decided whether to keep him at my side or not.” I finally admitted. Hart's mouth dropped open in shock.

“Are you bloody kidding!” Cleo growled baring fangs.

“Oh, that’s not all. Haze is pulling this crap too. Stupidity seems to be contagious.” I said, turning the disk, so they could see Brik sitting beside me. Hart's eyes began to glow an eerie blue.

“We are coming back to Dragoon. We will be there by morning. Brik, do not leave her side!” Hart snarled savagely. Brik clapped one claw to his heart and bowed his head.

“Don’t worry Luca; we will have this all sorted in no time.” Cleo counselled, she shot me a smile before the communicator turned off. I looked at Brik.

“Oh boy, I would hate to be Nix come morning.” Brik murmured.

“Why?”

“Get comfortable Luca; I am going to tell you a story.” My friend's mate said, leaning back in his chair. I sat further back, folding my legs under me and smoothed down the skirt of my nightdress.

“The Sumi and the Zeg did not destroy Vent until nearly five cycles ago.”

“Nix freed you all at the same time, right?” I asked. Brik nodded.

“Yes. The invasion happened more than fifty cycles ago, Luca. We were imprisoned for fifty years before Nix freed us.” It was my turn to gape in astonishment.

“Fifty years.” I breathed.

“Yes. Within that time, Nix grew powerful, savage. He and I were in the same mine, we worked and fought together. We headed up the resistance. Nix was captured and transported by ship. He was to be publicly executed at one of the Sumi courts when he suddenly got free on board the transporter. Locked in the cell beside him was Haze. She was considered feral and was scheduled to be destroyed as soon as they landed on Vent.”

“On Vent?”

“Yes. Nix and Haze destroyed Vent and with it, ninety per cent of the Sumi population. It took them three years to free everyone in this colony. The things we had to do to accomplish our freedom were horrific.” Brik said softly.

“I know how that goes. I tortured a Sumi soldier to get your location.” I whispered sadly. Brik’s eyes grew wide.

“You did?”

“Yes. The males accompanying me on board the enemy ship didn’t say a word to anyone about it. They merely reported the information, not how it was achieved.” I admitted.

“Luca,” Brik said softly. I covered my mouth with one claw; tears welled in my eyes. I shook my head.

“They had my mate. We have been together over a year, and no one knows how long I am going to live for. I wanted Nix back because I am selfish. I did not want to be alone for the rest of my life.” I murmured. Brik squeezed my claw with his.

“That’s not selfish. Mei is not my biological cub. There was a male tiger captive. They used alternative fertilisation methods to make Haze pregnant. She killed every Sumi that entered her cell.” He said proudly. I chuckled.

“Haze never wanted cubs, Luca. She never wanted to bring another life into this harsh, cruel universe.” Brik said wiping a claw over his face.

“I get that. I understand.” I murmured. Brik flashed me a small smile.

“After she gave birth, I made a promise to her. I said, no matter what, Mei was my cub. Our daughter.”

“Therros are stupid,” I growled launching to my feet. Brik laughed.

“Yeah, we’re not real bright.” He admitted ruefully. I shot him a grin. I looked out the window to see a transport land behind the palace.

“Hart and Cleo are here,” I said watching as the sun began to rise over the ocean. Brik came to stand beside me.

“I wonder what Hart has planned?” He asked. I shrugged.

“No idea, but it is going to require pants if I am going to adult today. I’ll be right back.” I muttered sourly causing the large white feline to laugh softly as I left the room.

I pulled on a long peasant skirt and top. The average clothes the females of our colony wore and walked back to join the steadily growing party gathering in my living room. Hart and Cleo had arrived. Standing in my doorway was Jeg and Candy having met Hart at the landing pad. Brik and Hart were talking in lowered voices. Cleo hugged me I sighed leaning into her.

“How did this all go sideways?” I asked quietly.

“Male Therros were directly involved. Which adds an extreme amount of testosterone and stupidity to the mix.” She replied with a wink. I chuckled.

“What about Haze?”

“She has spent far too much time with Kane, and she became contaminated by idiocy.”  Candy said, appearing by our side. We both grinned at her.

“We have to make them jealous,” Koi announced coming into the room. She stood by the door behind me. All eyes turned to the Puma.

“Come again?” I said, confused.

“Make them jealous. Neither one of them had to fight for their mate. No one challenged you for Haze; neither did any of the female’s challenge Haze for Brik. Luca killed two females and claimed Captain Kane, but he did not fight to claim her. Make him do it. If Kane lost the plan would backfire.” Koi said softly. I shook my head.

“I am mated to Nix; I cannot take another Therros,” I said. Hart shook his head.

“No, you were a human bitten into being a Therros. The same rules do not bind you as those that are born of the blood. You can take another mate. Nix cannot.” Hart interrupted his tone contemplative. I looked at the Therros around me with wide eyes.

“Are you all freaking nuts? It would be a bloodbath.” I hissed.

“I think it is a wonderful idea,” Cleo stated. Brik shook his head.

“That takes care of Luca’s problem. What about mine?” An idea rocketed through my head.

“Oh, oh, wow. I think I know a way. During the first three months, we were setting up the turbines-.”

“Oh! The Serpent!” Koi and Candy cried their claws covering mouths, eyes wide with laughter. I grinned.

“Yeah, the Serpent. Her name is Hilda. She is terrifying to look at and loves Therros. We are good listeners. She helped us stabilise the towers.”

“How will this help me?” Brik demanded sounding defeated.

“Notice Luca is back in shape. No one else would train with her, and Holon would not let her work with the Army. Hilda offered to help her train. It looked brutal.”

“It was brutal. How many times did I kill her?” I asked, turning to Koi. The female laughed.

“It had to be at least nine or ten times.” She said, smiling widely.

“Twelve.” Candy chuckled. Cleo hugged her friend, happy to see her laughing and smiling.

“What are you saying?” Brik stepped forward, hope shining in his eyes.

“We ask Hilda to kidnap you. Haze will slay the Serpent to save you and voila! All done.” I said. Brik and Hart exchanged a glance. The old panther nodded.

“Do it.” He growled.

The notice of intent for me to take another mate travelled through the colony like a wildfire. It was the only thing everyone was talking about. I stayed inside the palace, fear consuming me. I was sitting on the floor in the living room watching the cubs play when Reggie launched through the door. I jumped to my feet, staring at the Calico with wide, shocked eyes.

“What the hell is going on?” He demanded stalking into the room.

“About what? At present, there are several items on my agenda. Which one are you referring too?”

“You are taking another mate!” He growled. I nodded.

“Apparent Nix is having a confidence crisis. I have been told a mating battle could fix that.” I replied, sadly sinking into a chair. Reggie gave a great sigh of relief. He bent down and picked up Maliki, snuggling him to his chest. He grinned at Nadia and Mei who were trying their best to eat the leg of the coffee table.

“I was worried for a minute there. I didn’t think you were serious. The lads are wetting their pants. When we picked up Kane and the crew, we also took on several other Therros. Three of those males have decided to try for you. I heard these males have been trying to kill Nix for the last cycle. They had made a plan to overthrow him but disregarded it when the notice for a mating battle came out.”

“Good, that gives us a reason to kill the mutineers.” I murmured. Reggie nodded.

“Yes, it does.”

“Mate battles, especially royal ones, are held at sunset.” Hart counselled walking into the room. He tickled the female cubs on the tummy as he passed. They giggled smitten with the old male.

“Hart.”

“Reg.”

“How is Nix?” I asked Hart quietly. He shot me a sympathetic look.

“Oh, he’s fine. When I left him, he was sitting quietly, reading a book.” My mate’s uncle replied. My eyes narrowed in suspicion.

“Are you trying to lie to me?” I demanded smelling the air. Reg winced as Haze appeared in the doorway.

“What are you doing?” She snarled her eyes shining with the ferocity of her anger. Reggie grabbed the cubs and backed to the far side of the room. I stood up.

“I am doing what I was told to do,” I replied evenly. Haze growled, showing her teeth.

“He is in a rage. I have never seen him like this Luca. He is dangerous.” She yelled.

“Good! Perhaps he should have remembered that before he told me to find another mate!” I shouted my temper was rising to match the female in front of me. Haze sucked in a shocked breath. She took a step back, and her head tilted to one side in submission.

“Forgive me. I did not know he was the one who instigated the separation.” She murmured, backing down. Hart snarled, a menacing sound from behind me.

“How dare you. Nix is this females mate and your sovereign. You walk in here like you own the place. What would your King say if he were standing here?” The old male said through clenched teeth.

“He would kill me.” She whispered, her eyes wide. She looked to me, and her daughter clutched in Reggie’s claws.

“Luca’s life debt has been repaid. It is the only thing saving your life.”

“Hart!” I said, shocked. He shook his head.

“No Luca, this female has deserted her mate and child. She has no honour.” He hissed. Haze staggered, her shoulder striking the door frame. She shook her head. I took a step towards her.

“No, she hasn’t. She is fighting for them. I know that look. It is the look of a woman who feels she has betrayed herself, her mate and her principles.” I stated walking to my friend. I gripped her shoulders.

“Pull yourself together.” I snapped. Haze stared at me.

“I don’t know how.” She whispered. I shook her.

“Yes, you do!” I growled. She shook her head.

“Who are you?” I asked suddenly. Haze looked up at me, she shrugged.

“I am Haze.”

“I know what your name is. I want to know who you are.” I asked. The female looked down at her boots; a small smile appeared on her face.

“I am second in command of the Helligan, Captain Kane’s most trusted lieutenant.”

“You are also a mother and a mate. Now if you don’t find Brik, right now. You are going to lose him to a huge sea serpent.” I admitted with a wince. Haze growled in the back of her throat.

“What!”

“If you don’t find him, he is going to be taken by the sea serpent. The only way to get him back is to kill her, and if you fail- she gets to keep him. Don’t worry about Mie; she is happy with the twins.” I said shoving the other female out the door. Haze spun on her boot heel and ran down the stairs to find her mate.

“Have you even spoken to Hilda yet?” Hart asked. I shook my head.

“Nope. I am not even sure she is here right now. She said something about visiting a cousin.” I replied as Reggie put all the cubs back on the floor.

“Haze said Nix was furious.” I murmured nervously.

“I doubt he expected you to take him seriously,” Reg answered, sitting down. I shrugged.

“I didn’t, not really. How many males were there against him in the Sumi prison?” I asked Hart.

“Three. Two are leopards; the other is a puma.”

“A puma!” Koi cried softly from the doorway. She sank into a chair, her head hanging in desolation. She refused to look into the male’s eyes.

 “There is an odd number of Puma’s Luca. I would take this male as my mate to save Nixim from having to fight him.” She whispered. Reg and I exchanged a look.

“Koi, you don’t have to do this,” I said as the female met my gaze. She gave me a hesitant smile.

“Yes, I do.” She murmured.

“What is his name?” I demanded getting to my feet.

“Mex,” Reg answered tightly.

“Koi stay with the cubs?” I asked over my shoulder. She nodded sliding down onto the floor to play with the three cubs. Hart and Reggie raced after me as I took the steps two at a time.