A Troublesome SpeckLord Nebula's three hearts pounded away in his upper thorax. Surely this gift would woo the Empress? His rainbow forests had left her distinctly unimpressed. She'd looked positively bored when he'd revealed the flawless diamond planet. This was his last chance. Since she'd announced she'd disposed of her previous Consort, a thousand suitors – monarchs and plutocrats from across the galaxy – had vied for her affections. Each trying to outdo the others.
“If I may show you the way, Your Supremeness?”
The Empress regarded him. The glowing white microfilaments of her flowing gown lit up her faces, making her faceted eyes sparkle. She nodded her two heads in consent and held out a tentacle. One of her lowest pair; the ones casual acquaintances could touch without the Imperia
