Glossary

Glossary
Notes:
1. When you see a verb ending with -sa, it signifies past tense. Ex: i’poskpro (promise) becomes i’poskpro-sa (promised).

2. When you see a verb ending with -i, it signifies present tense. Ex. prosewa (watch) becomes prosewa-i (watching).

3. To make a plural, add a ‘z’ if the word ends with a vowel. If the word ends with a consonant, add ‘iz’. Ex: artia (heart) becomes artiaz (hearts) or an’thran (human) becomes an’thraniz (humans).

Translations
abo - can
a’fo - for
agalo - affection/love
aliho - holy
alsis - also/too
anthrax - human
artia - heart
asepros - please
asou - our
ateki - that
atia - what
atioro - room
ayma - away
ayme - stay
bi’li - life
borwo - would
bos’de - dear/precious
brena - breath
bu’halla - boy
cle’thi - uncle
da’kata! - damn!
deh - and
dikoyo - yours
dimo - mine/my
dro - could
ecru - rush
emos - them
enemata - family
epkra - keep
epvat - deep
esi - we
esu - you
eth - with
etno - get
eto - of
feigos - wife
genbi - birth
gerna - hunger
go’malar - woman
gumak! - fuck!
halla - little/small
hawi - will
heswi - wish
hosa - as/like
hubla- hurt
husigos - husband
idi - I
idsa - said
io’slo - lord/master
ipa’sprin - princess
ipi’sapri - prince
i’poskpro - promise
ireca - calm/tranquility
isen’gra - grandparent
isti - this
it’ska! - shit!
itwa - was
kago - good
kepai - take
kesi - like
khami - miss
kherhan - handle
kindan - danger(ous)
kine’ - need
kiono - kill
ko’dau - daughter
ko’nali - girl
laki - still
lat - but
leijha’mi - beautiful
li’ani - animal
li’ho - honey
lym - only
maie/mais/isa - be(am)/is/are
malar - big/large
maos - spouse/mate
meco - to
me’hom - come
menosed - tired
menowa - wait
meon - name
miace - once
mo’ba -  baby
mupei - must
nantios - pregnant
nasfi - fight
nem - me
nite’gra - granddaughter
no’edatioro - bedroom
nomiri - sorry
nomthi - think
od’yia - god
oka - do
ongla - wrong
on’hi - him
orahan - handsome
oro - know
oseti - sweetie
oshe’gra - grandfather
o’syn - son
oyare - enjoy
pao - on
prathi - thing
prosewa - watch
rati - time
reki - there
rioistis - warrior
rosha - hard
ryomeh - hurry
sa - at
sehi - in
seino - close
sosri - right
spi’ho - home
sropu - push
stil’lin - shine
stonon - just
susa - us
tazolo - look
teosla - last
te’rade - sister
teroso - more
teto - the
thewa - want
thi - not
thiwo - two
thosidi - idiot
tos - so
tosh - he
trasca - scare
trikos - electric
ulhi - soul
ursa - your
ursamose - yourself
va’siki - king
va’sique - queen
veho - have
vergita - forever
verteh - never
vles - see
voihe - help
vosto - stop
wahani - wild
xadlo - glory
yahe’gra - grandmother
ya’lar - collar
yene - yes
zonali - alive

Phrases
idi agalo esu - I love you
ulhi’maos - soul mate
dimo ulhi’maos - my soul mate
dimo agalo - my love
bu’halla wahani - boy wild (wild boy)
dimo artia - my heart
orasire sehi ceir - rest in peace
Od’yia dimo! - God my! (My god!)
kourita - thank you

Epilogue

*Nearly two years later*

Xavier looked around the room with pride in his eyes. He smiled as he watched his sister gliding over the floor in her husband’s arms. Evelyn had finally married Charles much to Marcus’ consternation, but that hadn’t deterred anyone at all.

Xavier had backed up his sister every step of the way, as had Nikki. So, with the firm approval of the King and Queen, no one was upset about the match. Just Marcus. But Xavier knew he’d get over it, just like he’d gotten over Xavier marrying Nikki.

Xavier’s eyes continued to travel around the room and found his father sulking in a corner. His mother, Devnet sat next to him, obviously berating him for raining on their daughter’s parade. Xavier was glad that his mother was able to keep Marcus from truly messing up Evelyn’s wedding day.

Xavier glanced at Amy and Jules who were also sitting at the same table as his parents. Jules had his arm around the back of Amy’s chair and was leaning over making faces at the little human girl sitting in Amy’s lap.

Alejandra Kristine Grieves had her mother’s eyes and her father’s smile. And at the tender age of seven months, she was already showing signs of being a spitfire like her mother.

Xavier watched the proud isen’graz interact with their nite’gra while the little girl’s parents took a turn around the dance floor. Granted, Jules and Amy had not taken that trip down the aisle yet, but even Kristine was certain it wasn’t far away. Especially since Kristine and Zachary were planning on moving into Zachary’s family home right after Alejandra turned a year old. Amy was already moving her things into Jules’ home since Kegan and Serena had moved out almost a year ago.

Xavier let his gaze wander away from the trio until he found Kegan and Serena. The two of them were sitting at another table, where Kegan was busy feeding a five month pregnant Serena some food. Everyone had breathed a sigh of relief over a year ago when Kegan and Serena had finally made it official. Still, it had taken the two of them several more months before they had gotten a home of their own. Now, they were happily settled and eager for their first child to arrive.

Xavier’s eyes continued to wander around the room until he saw his two and a half year old son running towards him as fast as his little legs could carry him. Xavier couldn’t help but smile as he watched his son zigzagging through the crowd with more grace than most kids his age. However, his smile turned into a frown when Jasen looked up at him with worried eyes.

Just as Xavier was about to ask Jasen what was wrong he heard his wife’s shout in his head. Xavier, Terra is getting very impatient!

Jasen came up to his father and puffed out his announcement between breaths, “Dad! My sister is trying to be born!”

Xavier was already scooping up his son, walking briskly towards the doors while he spoke to Zachary. Zach, inform everyone that our daughter is ready to make her entrance into the world, would you? I am going to help Nikki get ready.


Of course, came Zachary’s reply.

Xavier was aware of Zachary and Kristine already making their way off the dance floor as he made his way out of the room and quickly sped off towards his apartments.

As he entered, Nikki was just getting onto the bed.

Xavier frowned as he lowered Jasen to the ground. “Are you just getting here?”

Nikki rolled her eyes, “Of course I am. You know I was in the kitchens helping with the cake for the reception! And I can’t move as fast as you since I’m pregnant.”

Xavier simply nodded and moved to help her get ready. Seconds later Kristine and Zachary burst through the doors.

“Jasen li’ho, go with your uncle Zach and wait downstairs, okay?” asked Kristine as she moved to help Xavier with Nikki.

Jasen looked at his mother for a moment before he nodded and took Zach’s hand.

“Come on, we’ll keep the others from panicking okay little man?” said Zachary with a wink.

“Okay, cle’thi! I can help you!” exclaimed Jasen as he left the room with Zachary.

By the time the two of them had arrived down in the living area, so had Amy, Jules, Alejandra, and Devnet. The rest had stayed to keep Evelyn and Charles’ reception going strong.

Devnet was the only one besides Kristine who would be in the birthing room with Xavier and Nikki. When Devnet had made it upstairs, Nikki was already pushing with Xavier standing next to her whispering words of encouragement.

Less than thirty minutes later Princess Nicole Terra Raneri made her way into the world.

THE END

Translations
isen'graz - grandparents
nite'gra - granddaughter
li'ho - honey
cle'thi - uncle

Chapter 39

Xavier watched her move around the floor with grace. His eyes traveled over her slim figure and darkened. A low growl sounded from his throat, alerting his friend standing next to him.

Zachary turned to look at Xavier and chuckled when he saw the orange of his eyes. “Really X, the night is almost at an end and you can’t wait to celebrate, can you?”

Xavier growled again. “Whose idea was it to have this ridiculous celebration dance again?”

Zachary rolled his eyes, “Your mother’s. And your mate’s. It is your one year anniversary after all, so it’s only right that we make sure the rest of the kingdom knows their King and Queen are still happily married.”

“Zach, all they have to is look at us when we are together on any given day and they will know, I haven’t fallen out of love with my Queen. Or her with me.”

Zachary grinned, “True, but still.”

Xavier growled again and stiffened. Zachary turned to look where Nikki was, still on the dance floor and with his father no less.

“Xavier, Marcus isn’t…”

“His hand is too low,” was all Xavier said as he marched out to the dance floor and took his mate from Marcus’ embrace.

Zachary chuckled to himself as he saw the puzzled look and shrug Marcus gave before walking off the dance floor. Nikki however, had a smile on her face and Zachary just knew she was teasing Xavier about his possessive instincts.

**********************************************************************

Evelyn leaned her head against his chest when she felt his arms tighten around her waist. She gave a soft sigh and closed her eyes, content to let him hold her.

She could feel his breath stirring the hair on top of her head just before he spoke softly, “Enjoying yourself?”

“Mm hm.” She held him tighter as she replied, “I wish we could stay like this forever.”

He chuckled, “Well, I’m not sure I could continue dancing in a slow circle like this, but yes I would love to hold you like this forever too.”

Evelyn lifted her head up to look into his eyes. “Maybe we should tell them Charles.”

He shook his head, “Not yet, Evelyn.”

“But…”

“Evelyn, it’s Xavier and Nikki’s one year anniversary celebration. Let them enjoy it first before we break the news.”

“Charles, Xavier and Nikki are okay with us seeing each other.”

“I know. I meant, if we make the announcement, others will get upset and you know it will be up to your brother and his wife to calm them down. Do you really want the two of them to be spending this celebration day dealing with hot tempers?”

Evelyn pouted, but nodded her head. “You’re right. This is their day. We’ll tell them another day.”

Charles smiled and leaned down to place a chaste kiss on her forehead, “Don’t worry Evelyn. When the time is right, we will have all of the ones we love sharing in our happiness with us.”

Evelyn couldn’t help but return the bright smile that Charles gave to her. She knew he was right. Someday everyone would know how they felt about each other and everyone would be happy for them. She just hoped it would be someday soon.

**********************************************************************

Kegan winced as the cry came again from the other room and gave his mate a look of fear. “Tell me again why we agreed to be the ones to look after the prince while his parents are off romping through the wilds?”

Serena rolled her eyes and pushed him off of her, “It’s just one night Kegan, plus Nikki trusts us to take care of Jasen.”

“She trusts Kris too. Kristine’s her best friend, so why couldn’t she take the kid for the night?”

“She and Zach are getting ready for their wedding. They don’t have time to take him.”

“Well what about Amy?”

“Amy is helping her daughter with her wedding.” Kegan opened his mouth to say something else, but she beat him to it. “And Evelyn admitted she’s too young to care for the heir and Devnet is busy with Marcus holding down the fort until Xavier and Nikki return tomorrow. That leaves Jules, who is helping Zach and Charles who is helping Marcus.”

Kegan groaned and rolled over onto his back. “Then they need to get a nursemaid.”

Serena chuckled as she finished putting on her robe and looked at Kegan over her shoulder, “Jasen is nine months old, Kegan and a fairly good kid. You’re just upset because you’re not getting any.”

He lifted his head up and glared at her, “I’m not the one who started it!”

She gave him a wink and grinned, “I know, which is why I’m certain you will wait right there, just as you are while I go take care of Jasen.”

She blew him a kiss as she began to walk out of the door. “Don’t go anywhere lover and don’t you dare change put anything on. I want to pick up right where we left off.”

She laughed as she heard the low growl that followed her out of the room.

**********************************************************************

“Oh, Xavier! Yene! Yene!” Nikki screamed as her nails left marks down her mate’s back.

Xavier simply grunted and continued to pound into his wife’s body. Her screams, the way her legs tightened around his waist, and her nails that constantly seemed to be leaving searing trails down his back only served to make him thrust harder and faster.

Nikki’s head was thrown back against the wall where he’d pinned her body with his the moment they’d arrived to the room. They’d quickly shed their clothes and soon he’d lifted her up and pinned her there. She had been more than ready for him, immediately wrapping her body around his as their lips crashed together.

He licked a trail down her neck to between her breasts before taking one plump mound into his mouth and sucking.

Nikki moaned, then growled as she bucked her hips against his. “Teroso li‘ho, idi kine’ teroso.”

He growled against her breast, but did as she asked. Sliding his hands under her butt, he gripped her to him with every upward stroke he gave.

“Yene! Sosri reki! Od’yia! Idi maie tos seino!” Nikki moaned.

“Me’hom a’fo nem, dimo agalo!” panted Xavier, as his mouth moved to suck her other breast.

With a cry of his name, Nikki clenched him to her as her body was swept into her orgasm. Xavier moaned against her skin as he felt her walls grip him and milk him dry.

“Gumaaaak! Nikki!” He roared as he joined her in falling over the edge into bliss. Her body continued to cling to his until both were spent and leaning heavily against the wall.

As they remained there, trembling and breathing hard, Nikki was the first to speak. She giggled softly before saying, “You are so hot when you’re jealous!”

Xavier jerked his head up. Narrowing his eyes he hissed, “I was not jealous!”

“Sure.”

“I wasn’t!” At her continued look of disbelief, he added, “Just impatient. It is our anniversary after all and I just wanted to spend it with you!”

She grinned, “I know, honey. I wanted you too.”

“That’s not…”

She placed her finger over his lips and looked into his eyes, “Xavier. Idi laki thewa esu.”

Xavier watched as her eyes turned a light shade of orange. He smirked before pulling them away from the wall and carrying her to the bed. Within moments, sounds of lovemaking filled the air again.

**********************************************************************

In a floor length satin dress with the green color matching her eyes, Kristine made her way towards her future. Her dress was a halter top front and extremely form fitting, but it was made of a material that allowed her to be able to move freely. In her clasped hands, she carried a bouquet of the wildflowers that were common in this world and her red hair was swept up at the sides and back from her face. Soft tendrils hung down to gently caress her shoulders as she smiled at the man before her.

Zachary couldn’t take his eyes off of his bride-to-be. She took his breath away and he knew from the look on her face that she had to be feeling the same as him.

Kristine drank her fill of Zachary. He was dressed in his official uniform of dark green pants with a black jacket. The jacket was accented with gold braids around the edges, similar to the ones Xavier wore since he was decked out in his royal clothing too. The outfit was completed by ankle high black boots and several beaded emblems on his left breast signifying his rank.

As Zachary offered her his arm, the two of them moved to stand before the King and Queen who were dressed as befit their rank. Both Nikki and Xavier wore the golden circlets in their hair so that everyone would know they approved of the match.

As his parents had done for him, Xavier called on the powers that be to bless the couple before them. Then Nikki looked at Kristine and asked, “Kristine, do you promise to protect your husband from pain whether it be physical or mental?”

“I do.”

“Do you promise to give him your strength should he ever need it?”

“I do.”

“Do you promise to love him forever and give him the family he will need to nurture him?”

“I do.”

“Then I ask you to make these promises to him.”

Kristine turned to Zachary, “I promise to give you my strength and love for as long as you shall have me, and to give you the family you dream of. I promise to be by your side always, giving you the love you deserve.”

She took the ring from Nikki and slipped it on Zachary’s finger saying, “With this ring, I pledge my love, loyalty, and life to you. My husband.”

As Zachary smiled at her Xavier asked, “Zachary, do you promise to protect your wife from pain whether it be physical or mental?”

“I do.”

“Do you promise to give her your strength should she ever need it?”

“I do.”

“Do you promise to love her forever and give her the family she will need to nurture her?”

“I do.”

“Then I ask you to make these promises to her.”

Zachary looked at Kristine and said, “I promise to give you my strength and love for as long as you shall have me, and to give you the family you dream of. I promise to be by your side always, giving you the love you deserve.”

He took the ring from Xavier and said, “With this ring, I pledge my love, loyalty, and life to you, my wife.”

Kristine smiled as he slipped the ring on her finger. Then they both looked to Xavier who took Nikki’s hand and held them clasped above Zachary and Kristine’s heads.

He spoke loud enough so that the room could hear him, “As King and Queen we acknowledge that two have become one.”

Nikki picked it up from there. “Let those that are present see that you are blessed in your union by the King and Queen…”

“And by the powers that be,” finished Xavier.

As he and Nikki lowered their hands, he nodded to Zachary, “Accept your bride, Chief Advisor.”

Zachary turned to Kristine and lifted his hand to brush it over her cheek. Sliding his fingers around her neck, he leaned in and kissed her lips. Kristine closed her eyes, savoring the softness of her husband’s lips as she heard the sounds of sniffles begin. Still, she didn’t let that take away from the wonderful kiss Zachary had given to her.

As Zachary pulled away, everyone heard Xavier’s announcement, “People of the Underearth, I give you Mr. and Mrs. Ronan Zachary Grieves.”

Applause filled the air as the newlyweds turned to face the crowd.

**********************************************************************

Kristine stood still in the middle of the room, her eyes watching as her husband slowly removed her gown. She smiled at him as his fingers caressed the skin he exposed.

Zachary returned her smile as his hands continued to move over every inch of skin he could touch. She was naked now to his view and he savored looking at her. Lifting his eyes to her he whispered, “Esu isa tos leijha’mi.”

Kristine let out a soft sigh as his lips claimed hers. He took his time, allowing his lips to touch hers first before deepening the kiss. By the time his tongue had caressed her bottom lip, asking for entrance, she was moaning deep in her throat. Zachary wrapped his arms around her and lifted her up, carrying her to his bed. He lay her down in the middle of it, then stood up to remove his own clothes.

Kristine watched through hooded eyes as Zachary undressed. Her breathing quickened as more and more pieces of clothing fell to the floor. When he straightened up and looked at her, she gave him a seductive smile and opened her arms to him.

Zachary slowly climbed onto the bed, allowing his body to slide up hers. They moaned together as their bodies seemed to not allow an inch of air between their skins. Kristine widened her legs and allowed him to settle between them as his lips once more claimed hers. She began to trail her hands down his back and allowed her fingers to feel as much of his as possible.

Zachary too was letting his hands feel all of his wife’s skin. Although they already knew each other so intimately, this was new. New because this was their wedding night, when they made promises to love each other forever. This was why they were taking their time. They were memorizing each other all over again as husband and wife.

When Zachary had drank his fill of Kristine’s lips, he let his lips trail down her neck. Feasting on her soft skin, he made his way down her body taking care to cover all of her curves. He could hear her sighs and soft moans as he moved over her. Then when he nuzzled her wetness, she whimpered and lifted her hips.

A cry escaped her when his mouth took her in and began to suck in earnest. Still, Zachary took his time feasting on her, gently pushing her over the brink. When she lay panting in satisfaction, he slid up her body and slowly slid into her heat. Kristine lifted her hips to meet his and closed her eyes in bliss as soon as he was sheathed completely inside of her. She wrapped her legs around his and met him stroke for stroke. She could feel him trying to take his time, but his body was trembling.

Soon he had picked up the pace and was softly growling. Kristine urged him on with her hips and hands, letting him know she was right there with him. He threw his head back and groaned as his hips bucked against hers.

Kristine lifted her head to kiss his chest before she rolled them over and began to ride him. She looked down at him, watching the look of ecstasy spread over his face before he cried out her name. She closed her eyes and moaned his name as she felt her orgasm blend with his. His hands remained on her hips as she continued to ride him, albeit much more slowly. Little by little she came to a stop until she sat there and watched him. He opened his eyes and she couldn’t help the smile that spread over her lips.

His eyes glowed a bright white, prompting her to lift a hand and caress his cheek. Leaning down over him, she pressed her lips to his for a moment before whispering, “Idi agalo esu, dimo husigos.”

Zachary immediately pulled her down to him, hugging her tightly to his body. Turning his head to hers, he looked into her eyes. “Idi agalo esu alsis, dimo feigos.”

**********************************************************************

Xavier held up the covers as Nikki walked into the room carrying Jasen in her arms. She slid under the covers and snuggled up close to him. With their son safely nestled between their bodies, they both got comfortable.

Xavier lay there watching as Nikki stroked their son’s back, softly singing him to sleep. He smiled and brushed his lips over her hair, then over his son’s before leaning back and closing his eyes.

Do you think Zach and Kris should move into his family’s home for good? asked Nikki.

Xavier opened his eyes to look at her. Maybe they will, someday. It will always be theirs, but I think they both want to be close to us for a while before they really settle down.

Nikki grinned. I would have thought they’d want the privacy, you know.


I know, but they have privacy here too. He shrugged, It’s their decision and you and I heard Kris say she would rather be here because you already went through everything and she needs your expertise.


Yep. But I also think it has a lot to do with her mother.


With Amy?


Yes, I think Kris was afraid that if she and Zach took the house, Amy would be put out.

Xavier chuckled softly, She was embarrassed to have her mom know, you mean?


Yes, replied Nikki with her own soft chuckle. She is embarrassed, even though Amy has been perfectly okay with her daughter being married to a Wahani. After all, Amy has her own Wahani to keep her occupied.

Xavier grinned, Is that so?


Well, I guess it’s safe to say we all have our own. Even your sister.

Xavier rolled his eyes. Don’t remind me. I know they are almost ready to announce it and I think my father is suspicious of it. He’s already dropping hints to me to look for a suitable husband for my sister, the princess.

Nikki rolled her own eyes. Geez, is he ever going to give that up?


Don’t think so, but even if he protests, I’m not going to listen. He gave her another grin. I didn’t listen to him when he told me to let you go, so why should I listen to him now.


Right, you are the King after all.

Xavier closed his eyes again and sighed, “He’s just going to have to accept what everyone else has. Evelyn has found a great man who makes her incredibly happy. I couldn’t wish for anything more.”

Nikki leaned in and kissed his cheek, “I love you.” Xavier turned to look at her and she smiled. “Who would have thought that one day I’d stumble into a wild boy from a new world who chose his own way and allowed others to do the same?”

Xavier’s eyes shifted until they shone bright white. “I love you too, Nikki. I couldn’t have been able to do any of this without you. It’s you who shines the most.”

Nikki simply looked at him for a moment before she leaned close to kiss his lips. As she settled both her and their son closer into Xavier’s side she whispered, “Close your eyes, my love. Close your eyes and dream of our glorious new world.”

The wild boys are calling 
On their way back from the fire 
In august moon’s surrender to 
A dust cloud on the rise 
Wild boys fallen far from glory 
Reckless and so hungered 
On the razors edge you trail 
Because there’s murder by the roadside 
In a sore afraid new world 


They tried to break us looks like they’ll try again 


Wild boys never lose it 
Wild boys never chose this way 
Wild boys never close your eyes 
Wild boys always shine 


You got sirens for a welcome 
There’s a bloodstain for your pain 
And your telephones been ringing while 
You’re dancing in the rain 
Wild boys wonder where is glory 
Where is all you angels 
Now the figureheads have fell 
And lovers war with arrows over 
Secrets they could tell 


They tried to tame you looks like they’ll try again 


~Wild Boys by Duran Duran 


Translations
yene - yes
teroso li'ho, idi kine' teroso - more honey, I need more
sosri reki - right there
od'yia - god
idi maie tos seino - I am so close
me'hom a'fo nem, dimo agalo - come for me, my love
gumak - fuck
idi laki thewa esu - I still want you
esu isa tos leijha'mi - you are so beautiful
idi agalo esu, dimo husigos - I love you, my husband
alsis - too
dimo feigos - my wife

Chapter 38

Nikki woke with a start and sat up in bed, hastily looking around for some sign of her o’syn and husigos. Just as she was about to scramble out of bed to send a mind speech message to Xavier, the bedroom door opened.

In walked Xavier, carrying their three month old son, Jasen in his arms. As Nikki settled back on the bed, Xavier grinned at her and said, “We are going to have to find something for my mother to do, otherwise we may never see our son again.”

Nikki chuckled, “Didn’t want to let you take him, huh?”

Xavier shook his head as he sat down on the bed next to Nikki. He kissed his son’s forehead before handing him to her. Nikki pushed the shift that she wore down her shoulder, exposing one breast. Lifting her son in her arms, she guided him to his breakfast. As usual, Jasen didn’t waste time latching on to his meal.

Xavier removed his clothes before sliding into bed next to Nikki. Wrapping an arm around her back, he shifted her until she was resting comfortably against his chest. He leaned down and placed a kiss against her shoulder as he watched his son feed. Nikki smiled as Xavier lifted a hand to caress their son’s cheek, then let his fingers trail over her breast and up to her cheek.

Leaning close to her ear, he whispered, “Idi hawi verteh etno menosed eto prosewa-i teto thiwo eto esu kesi isti.”

Nikki tilted her head back to kiss her husigos on the cheek, “Idi hawi verteh etno menosed eto veho-i esu prosewa susa.”

**********************************************************************

Kristine opened her eyes again and looked at Zachary who had just finished getting dressed. He was going to his morning meetings in lieu of Xavier who was more likely helping Nikki with their son. Usually that was the way it went lately.

Zachary would take the morning duties while Xavier and Nikki fed and spent the mornings with their son. Then Xavier would join Zachary for a bit as well as any others for midmorning duties. Then Zachary would return to his rooms for lunch and a bit of rest before he went off to work again.

It was in the afternoons that Kristine usually accompanied Zachary since it was already unspoken that the two of them were pretty much joined at the hip. It was during those times that Zachary taught Kristine more about his job and answered any questions she had about the kingdom and the way it functioned.

Kristine enjoyed every moment she had to learn about Zachary, his job, and his world. She also knew Zachary wanted her to know everything too. And Zachary was always proud of her when she helped him figure out any problems or dilemmas he had about anything. Zachary often commented that he liked the way her mind worked.

Of course, she knew that wasn’t the only thing he liked about her. He’d proven that time and time again in every aspect of their life together.

And they were together. She knew that. In fact, it had been a few months since she had been back to Zachary’s father’s home were her mother was still living. No one had complained about that, not even Amy. It already seemed natural for her to have simply moved into the rooms Zachary had in the castle since that was where he always seemed to be. And since Nikki lived there, it only seemed natural that Kristine was as close to her best friend as possible.

When both Xavier and Zachary were busy, Kristine was often with Nikki. Granted, most of that time Nikki was also working on something for the kingdom, but it had become a sort of communal effort. Nikki’s office had been made into a very comfortable place where Kristine, Nikki, Devnet, baby Jasen, and occasionally Evelyn could come together. So, the women could either be working on something for the kingdom or caring for baby Jasen.

It was definitely a group effort and Kristine knew that Jasen was going to grow up never wanting for love. She knew that because while he spent the mornings with his parents, he spent the afternoons with their group, and the evenings with his father’s group.

Zachary turned to look at her and smiled, “Going back to sleep?”

She shook her head and yawned, “No, I’m going to take a bath, then go meet Nikki for a bit of breakfast.”

He nodded, then growled softly when she stretched.

She chuckled, “What?

He walked over to the bed and leaned down to kiss her, “You are too beautiful, you know that?”

She blushed at his compliment and slid her fingers through his hair, “Yes well, you aren’t that bad looking either, dimo agalo.”

She noticed the way his pupils widened at her endearment. Suddenly he cleared his throat and moved away from her. She frowned as she watched him move over to his desk and begin to rummage around in one of the drawers. Just as she was about to ask what was wrong, he turned around and fixed her with a look of such longing it made her catch her breath.

Quietly, he made his way back to the bed and knelt besides it, looking up at her. Kristine leaned forward to look down at him as she whispered, “What is it?”

Zachary gave her a small smile as he said, “There’s something I need to ask you. I was waiting for the right time, but I don’t think there’s ever going to be a better time than now.”

Kristine arched her eyebrow, “What?”

Zachary sighed, “I’m hoping, I mean, I would be honored if you…” he paused as the words seemed to catch in his throat. “What I mean is, would you… would you do me the honor of marrying me?”

Kristine’s eyes went wide as she gasped. Zachary was asking her to…

“Yes!” she screamed as she threw herself off the bed and into his arms.

With a chuckle, Zachary landed on his back with Kristine straddling him and peppering his face with kisses. In between kisses, she kept repeating the word yes as if making sure he knew she didn’t have any doubts at all.

Taking her face in his hands, he looked into her eyes, “Are you sure, Kris? Knowing what and who I am. Are you…”

Kristine placed a finger over his lips. “Zachary, I know. I want to be with you, always. I love you.”

Zachary returned her smile as she lowered her lips to his and sealed her acceptance. All doubts he’d had about her ever being able to accept what he was disappeared with that kiss.

**********************************************************************

Evelyn looked up and down the street before hesitantly knocking on the door. She waited for a few minutes before knocking again. Just as she was about to knock a third time, she heard hurried footsteps approaching behind the door. Suddenly the door swung open and a breathless Charles looked at her in surprise.

“Evelyn? What are you doing here this early in the morning?”

Evelyn looked up at him through her eyelashes, “Everyone is going to be busy today, so I thought I’d come and catch you before you got busy too.”

Charles gave her a confused look, but said nothing.

Evelyn shifted from foot to foot. “Could I come in?”

Charles straightened and hastily stepped back, “Oh, sorry. Please, come in.”

Evelyn moved past him into his house and walked towards his living area.

Charles shut the door and followed Evelyn into the room. “So, I guess you won’t be busy today?” he asked.

Evelyn turned to look at him, “That depends.”

Charles tilted his head, “On what?”

Evelyn looked at him for a moment before she moved over to him. She placed a hand on his chest and looked up into his eyes.

“On you,” she whispered.

Charles smiled and lifted a hand to caress her cheek, “Oh Evelyn, what I wouldn’t give to love you freely.”

Evelyn rose on her tiptoes and brushed her lips against his, “You can, Charles.”

His own lips moved against hers before accepting her invitation and pressing them together. He slid his arm around her waist, holding her to him as he kissed her. When she slid her arms around his shoulders and parted her lips, he deepened the kiss. A small moan escaped her throat when his tongue caressed hers.

As they pulled away for much needed air, Evelyn took Charles hand in hers and began to lead him out of the living area. Charles knew exactly where she was leading him and planted his feet, refusing to move.

When Evelyn turned to him with a protest on her lips he said, “We can’t Ev. Not like this.”

“Why not? I give it to you freely. They can’t touch you if I consented to this.”

Her eyes begged him to give in, but he shook his head. “I won’t Evelyn. You mean too much to me to do this.”

“But I love you! And I know you love me!”

Charles nodded, “I know.” With a soft sigh, he slid his hands over her arms and said, “I do love you, but I want this to be at a time when we don’t have to worry about what others will say. Please, just be patient. A little more time and we may be able to talk to the King and Queen about this.”

“Charles, Nikki has told me that…”

“I know, Evelyn. You told me that, but I think we should wait until their son is a little older and Xavier has a firm hold on the kingdom. Just in case there is a disagreement between your father and Xavier, we don’t want to cause dissention in the kingdom.”

Evelyn’s lips trembled, “And if Xavier decides to betroth me to someone else?”

Charles gave her a smile as he caressed her cheek, “You already told me they know about us. And I have it on the Queen’s assurance that she won’t allow that to happen. Neither will Xavier.”

Evelyn closed her eyes with a sigh. Turning her head to kiss his palm, she whispered, “You’re right. I know you’re right.”

As she opened her eyes to look at Charles again, he took her hand in his and led her back into the living room. “Come on, why don’t you get comfortable on the couch and I’ll make us some lunch.”

Evelyn grinned, “Would you mind if I started a fire in the fireplace? I’d like to sit in front of it, a warm picnic of sorts.”

He chuckled before leaning to kiss her again. When he broke away he answered, “Whatever you wish, my lady.”

**********************************************************************

Serena rolled over on her side and looked at the sleeping man next to her. A smile spread over her face as she blinked the sleep out of her eyes. She loved looking at Kegan when he slept because that was when he was the most relaxed. Granted, he was often relaxed in her presence, but this was unguarded.

In sleep, there were no worries. Gone were the furrowed lines and stern countenance he often wore when doing his duties as second to the Weapons Master. While working, Kegan was nothing but serious and his demeanor was such that those who weren’t close to him found him a little intimidating and unapproachable.

Serena knew that was what made him a great warrior, just like his father. Jules was the same way, always serious and extremely good at letting any enemies know he meant business. However, when Amy came around, he was like a whole other being. Even Kegan could see the way Jules’ eyes softened and the way his voice suddenly seemed smoother and more lilting.

It was the same with Kegan. Serena had seen him in action a few times over the last few months. She had seen the look in his eyes and the way he carried himself when he was working. But the moment his eyes rested on her, she saw the way they softened. She heard the way his voice lightened and the change in his body language.

Those were only physical changes, there for everyone to see. The changes that weren’t visible were only for her to see. It was when their connection would come flaring to life when he let it. While working, Kegan dampened down their connection so that it wouldn’t disrupt either of them. It was something that Xavier had taught him to do.

Xavier had learned it the hard way since there was no one around to teach him or Nikki about being ulhi’maos, but Xavier had willingly taught Kegan what he had learned. Kegan in turn had taught Serena, even though Serena had often told him that she knew what it felt like to fight and kill since she had to do that in the arena.

None of that mattered to Kegan. He knew she was strong enough to defend herself, but she was his ulhi’maos and that alone made him want to do nothing but protect her. Both of them knew it was instinctual. It was because they were both Wahani and that was just their nature. The males always protected their mates no matter how strong their mates were.

And they were mates. Ulhi’maos. She’d known that the moment she’d opened her eyes and looked into his, but both of them had known she wasn’t in any condition to complete the connection. She had been amazed at the restraint Kegan had shown in waiting for her to heal before connecting with her.

Luckily, she had healed quickly, like most Wahani did. Still, Kegan allowed her to make the first move. She’d been staying in the extra bedroom at his father’s home at that point. So, little by little, she and Kegan began to get to know each other and opened the connection between the two of them.

It was that connection that allowed them to really get to know each other. She knew Kegan had taken what they were in stride. She was the one that had been a little hesitant, but no more.  Now, she loved the way it seemed like second nature to always feel him inside of her head. It comforted her to know he was always there, just a thought away. Never one to back down from a new challenge, she was constantly learning all about being an ulhi’maos and about her mate.

Now, months later, she knew him much better. She knew how he loved to laugh and constantly make others laugh. She knew he liked the friendly banter between him and Xavier about being ulhi’maos. She knew he loved to tease others, but never meant any harm by it.

Kegan always tried to lighten the mood if it got too serious and he felt as if someone’s spirits needed to be lifted. She really liked that about him. How he was always trying to keep everyone’s spirits lightened. But sometimes, the others didn’t get that. Most especially Xavier, who always seemed to be on the defensive when it came to Nikki and their son.

Still, Xavier would quickly get over it and soon he was right there joking along with Kegan. Serena had a feeling it was because Kegan was now the only other one who knew exactly what Xavier was going through as a male ulhi’maos.

Kegan stirred besides her and moved closer to her, sliding his arm around her waist and pulling her to his body. Without opening his eyes, he buried his face against her neck and spoke in her mind.

What are you doing up so early, dimo agalo?

She chuckled, Kegan, it’s early afternoon!

Kegan lifted his head at that and blinked the sleep from his eyes. Looking towards the window, he saw the light shining through the sides and grinned.

“Oops.”

Serena laughed at that. “Oops? That’s all you have to say? Oops?”

He turned to look at her and pouted, “Hey! I wasn’t the one who kept us up until the crack of dawn now, was I?”

She stared at him for a moment before she lowered her lids and licked her lips. “Hm, and wouldn’t you know, I’m still hungry.”

Kegan growled when he saw her eyes turn orange. Lowering his lips to hers he said, “Well, I guess that explains why you are up.”

She gave an impatient growl until his lips met hers. As their tongues began to duel, she rolled them over until she was on top.

Serena was glad that her mate didn’t have a problem with her being the dominant one on occasion. That was the one thing Kegan had never had to be patient about. Once Serena was comfortable with their being ulhi’maos, she never seemed to hesitate when it came to pouncing on and mating with her soul mate.

**********************************************************************

Amy stood in the kitchen trying to figure out what to make for dinner. She had several things on the table, but was still wondering what she should do for tonight. She would have to hurry, Jules would be home soon and she didn’t want him to have to wait long for his supper.

She walked over to the basin to wash a few vegetables when she looked out of the window and saw Jules making his way down the street towards the house. She smiled and returned his wave when he saw her in the window before moving to open the front door.

“Hi,” she said as he came up to her.

“Hey,” he replied as he kissed her cheek and moved inside, closing the door behind him. “You haven’t started dinner yet, have you?”

She shook her head, “No, why?”

He smiled, “They want us to go to the castle and have dinner with them.”

“Really? Anything special?”

Jules shrugged, “It’s nothing formal, really. Xavier said it’s just going to be him, Nikki, Zach, Kris, you, and me. Devnet and Marcus are baby sitting Jasen and all the others are busy with their own things.” He paused a moment before adding, “I can send a message if you don’t want to go.”

Amy shook her head, “No, that’s fine, we’ll go. I couldn’t decide what to make for dinner anyway.” She chuckled. “Okay, so I guess we don’t have to dress up then?”

Jules wiggled his eyebrows, “Hon, you don’t have to dress up to look good for me. You always are.”

She laughed, “You are too good, you know that?” She wrapped her arms around him, hugging him close before pulling away and leading him to the bedroom.

“You going to bathe before we leave?” she asked.

“Yes, don’t think I can enjoy the meal smelling like I just came from sparring with some soldiers.”

“Oh, Jules! You were just sparring with them? But you don‘t smell that bad!” she replied with a smile.

“I know, but it’ll make me feel better. And I do want to look presentable at least,” he chuckled.

Amy nodded and watched as he began to undress. He stopped midway and looked at her with a smile, “You going to just stand there?”

She grinned, “Sorry, the thought is tempting.” She let out a sigh, “Okay, going to get changed now.”

Jules grabbed her around her waist and pulled her close, his lips locking with hers. Moments later, they pulled away and he smiled at the way she was breathing hard.

Placing his forehead against hers he spoke in a husky voice, “We’ll continue that when we get home from dinner.”

Amy nodded, “Yes,” she breathed. “Most definitely.”

**********************************************************************

Dinner had gone smoothly. Kristine and Nikki were the first two in the room, but Xavier and Zachary had joined them as soon as they had changed clothes. It had been about fifteen more minutes before Jules and Amy had shown up.

As soon as Amy had walked through the door, Kristine had gone to her side and hugged her. The two of them had quickly assessed each other, inquiring as to their well-being before Nikki asked everyone to take their seats at the table.

When everyone was seated, the meal was brought out and they all set about eating and talking. The conversation was kept light, everyone just catching up with everyone else. Everyone there knew that it was just a dinner shared among family and friends, no work or business was to be discussed.

Soon, the meal was done and now they were all laughing and talking over dessert. Nikki leaned over and whispered something to Kristine who nodded and turned to whisper to Zachary. Zachary turned to Nikki and gave her a nod.

Nikki cleared her throat and spoke, “Everyone, if you would…”

She waited until the talking had died down before she smiled and turned towards Zachary. “I believe Zach has an announcement to make.”

Xavier turned to look at his wife, who simply smiled and squeezed his hand under the table. When she sent him the unspoken, he asked her and she said yes, he turned to grin at Zachary.

Zachary stood up and swallowed. He let his eyes wander over those at the table before he spoke. “I just wanted to let you all know that this morning, I asked Kris to marry me.” He turned to look at her with a smile, “And she accepted.”

Amy’s eyes went wide and she gasped. Zachary had asked Kristine to…

“Oh my God!” she screamed. All eyes turned to her as she launched herself out of her chair and moved around the table to take her daughter into her arms. Everyone sat there with smiles on their faces as they watched mother and daughter hugging each other with tears on their cheeks.

Amy finally let go of Kristine and turned to Zachary, wrapping her arms around him and squeezing the life out of him. Zachary clearly didn’t mind as he stood there with a smile on his face.

“Oh you dear boy! I knew you would one of these days! And my daughter was still clueless about your feelings, wasn’t she?” she laughed at the expression on Zachary’s face. “I knew it! Well, congratulations! I know you’ll take good care of her.”

Zachary gave her a sheepish grin, “Thanks, Amy.”

Amy nodded and turned to Kristine again. “I’m glad, Kristine. I’m glad he makes you happy.”

Kristine hugged her mom back and whispered, “I’m glad too mom. That you and I are both happy now.”

As Amy pulled away from Kristine with a nod, the others began to move in. Soon, everyone else was congratulating and celebrating another happy union.

Translations
o'syn - son
husigos - husband
idi hawi verteh etno memosed eto prosewa-i teto thiwo eto esu kesi isti - I will never get tired of watching the two of you like this
idi hawi verteh etno memosed eto veho-i esu prosewa susa - I will never get tired of having you watch us
dimo agalo - my love
ulhi'maos - soul mate

Chapter 37

Kegan grimaced as he heard another scream echo down the stairs. Besides him, Serena squeezed his hand gently and whispered in his mind.

It’s okay, dimo agalo. I’m right here.

He flicked his gaze to the woman sitting next to him, feeling the surge of courage that came from her. Returning the squeeze she gave him, he replied, Xavier wouldn’t hurt her, I know it. And Nikki wouldn’t allow him too anyway. So, what could possibly be causing her to scream like that? Not the child!

Serena gave him a slight smile. Kegan, she’s not having an animal. Would you let that go already?


What? You know how they got every time Nikki went into heat! 


I know, Kegan. But just because that’s what happened doesn’t mean the baby is going to come out an animal! Geez, where does your imagination come from?

Kegan shook his head and muttered, “Shoulda stuck to breeding my bitches.”

Serena gave him an icy glare as Evelyn retorted, “Keep it up Kegan and that’s just what might happen.” She turned to look apologetically at Serena, “The fates were definitely cruel to you, weren’t they?”

Serena rolled her eyes, “Sometimes I think so.”

As another scream reached them, Kegan flinched and came to his feet. Turning to Serena, he tugged her to her feet.

“I can’t do this. Sitting here waiting to find out what’s going to happen. Please, Ser, let’s just go home.”

Serena looked from Kegan to Evelyn and back again before Evelyn spoke up.

“It’s okay, Serena. You should go home and rest a bit more anyway. I know Nikki will expect you to be resting still. I promise to send word as soon as we know anything, okay?”

Serena sighed, “Okay, thanks Evelyn.”

Evelyn nodded and ushered the two of them out of the King and Queen’s living area, sending them on their way to Kegan’s home. She stood there watching as Kegan slid his arm around Serena’s waist and pulled her closer to him. Serena instantly leaned against him and rested her head slightly against his shoulder, indicating that she was indeed still a little tired from her ordeal in the arena.

It had been almost four months since the fall of Valin and the destruction of the arena. In that time, Serena had been brought back to the castle and placed into the royal infirmary to recuperate from her wounds.

The moment anyone had laid eyes on a shell-shocked Kegan carrying a nearly lifeless Serena, they had known that the King and Queen were no longer the most recent ulhi’maos in the kingdom. After that day, it had been interesting to see the way the two of them had dealt with that realization.

Kegan had spent most of that time looking guilty, as if he thought he was being punished for saying all those things he had to Xavier. That was until Serena had finally healed enough to be let out of the infirmary.

At that point, Xavier had offered to give her a room in the castle, but Kegan had immediately stepped in and asked Serena if she wouldn’t be uncomfortable staying with him at his father’s house since they had an extra room. She had willingly accepted and gone home with Kegan.

Strangely enough, the one who seemed to be having a tough time with the whole bonding issue was Serena. Kegan seemed more than eager to try to work things out with her and he seemed genuinely interested in her. He also sought Xavier out anytime he had questions about the bond or how to deal with a new relationship.

Xavier, being the diplomatic leader and good friend that he was, set aside any differences and helped Kegan in any way he could. Provided that he wasn’t otherwise occupied with his own ulhi’maos or with matters of the kingdom. Granted, Nikki often lent her own advice when possible and Zachary still managed to take care of most of the kingdom’s affairs so that Xavier could have more time with his feigos.

All in all, Evelyn thought that the last four months seemed to have flown by quickly for everyone she knew. With each passing week, Nikki had gone into heat more and more, requiring Xavier to stay incredibly close to her. By the last month and a half, Xavier was pretty much confined to the bedroom along with his feigos. Of course, everyone knew that he wasn’t complaining.

Neither was Zachary, who had taken over most of the responsibilities of the kingdom with the help of Jules. Despite those duties, Zachary still found plenty of time to be with Kristine, who often accompanied him around the castle anyway. In fact, Evelyn wondered if Kristine was even staying at Zachary’s family home anymore since she seemed to be everywhere in the castle along with Zachary.

If that was the case, then that probably explained why Jules seemed to disappear when he wasn’t on duty, just like Amy did. Amy was still staying at Zachary’s family home, but obviously she wasn’t complaining about the fact that her daughter was never there. And it also explained why Serena didn’t have a hard time going home with Kegan, especially if Jules wasn’t around the house.

Thinking about the way everyone seemed to be playing musical chairs with their living arrangements, Evelyn was glad that she didn’t have to play that with Charles. Granted, their relationship hadn’t ventured into the physical part yet, but she knew she was in love with him. And she knew she didn’t have to move into his place to know that he loved her.

Evelyn knew Charles was waiting for the right time. After all, she was barely going to be twenty and she was still the princess. She knew Charles didn’t want to overstep his boundaries until he had gotten a clear sign from her brother, his King. Even if she told Charles that Xavier approved of them, she knew Charles would never do anything until he heard from Xavier himself.

Still, she wasn’t complaining because right now she was happy with the way life was going for everyone and for herself. Plus, there was the most pressing matter of her nephew who was finally making his arrival into the world.

**********************************************************************

Nikki gritted her teeth as Xavier leaned over her and whispered more words of encouragement. “Nikki, dimo agalo, kepai epvat nu’brena deh sropu, li‘ho. Esu veho meco sropu rosha-re. Stonon miace teroso.”

She glared up at him as she growled, “Esu idsa ateki teto teosla rati!”

“Idi oro, lat isti rati…”

Nikki ignored him and took a deep breath before sitting up and pushing hard once more. As the pain seared her, she screamed. “God! It burns! Why the hell didn’t anyone tell me it would hurt this much?” she hissed.

“It’ll be over in a little bit, dimo agalo. Push just a little bit more.”

She hissed once more, “You push! I’m tired of pushing! After this, I’m never going to push again!”

Xavier grimaced as she gripped his hand hard and her claws came out to dig into his flesh. He cast a pleading glance towards his mother who stood on the other side of Nikki, occasionally wiping the sweat from his wife’s body.

Devnet gave her son an encouraging smile before leaning down to speak to Nikki. “Daughter, I know it hurts right now, but it will be over soon. I had to work hard for my two children too, but look how beautiful they turned out. I promise you, it will all be worth it in the end. To watch them grow and live and fill your life with love.”

Nikki turned to look into Devnet’s eyes for a moment and realized that what she said was true. She was going to bring new life into the world. She was going to have a son. A son who would be a perfect combination of her and the man she loved. Her ulhi’maos.

She turned to look up at Xavier and gave him a smile. Idi agalo esu, she whispered into his mind before she took another deep breath and pushed with her whole heart.

**********************************************************************

Marcus paced back and forth at the bottom of the stairs in the living area. Every time he heard a scream, he rushed to the stairs and stared up them as if he expected someone to come down and tell him what was going on. When nothing happened, he’d resume his pacing.

Zachary would occasionally roll his eyes at Marcus, but continued to sit patiently on the couch with his arm around Kristine. Kristine tried to be patient, but she was bouncing in her seat, anxious to see the newborn son of her best friend. She was grateful that Zachary was there to provide the calmness she needed to get through all that waiting.

Her mother sat in a chair opposite the two of them, trying not to watch Marcus wear a groove into the floor. Occasionally she would sigh and ask Marcus to sit down before he wore himself out, but her request fell on deaf ears.

Evelyn was still leaning against entrance to the royal rooms, glaring at her father at this point. Finally unable to stand it anymore, she straightened up almost shouted at her father.

“Oh would you stop that already! Your pacing will not help their son to be born any quicker so just sit down before you drive us all mad!”

Marcus stopped his pacing and stared at his daughter in disbelief. “What?”

Evelyn rolled her eyes in indignation, “You heard me. Sit down!”

Marcus didn’t say a word. Instead, he slowly looked around the room at everyone else who was staring at him before nodding. “Right. Yeah, I should just sit down.”

Evelyn let out a relieved sigh as Marcus sat in a straight backed chair before she sagged into a comfortable one for herself. As she got comfortable, Amy gave her a grateful smile.

“Is Charles going to come by when he gets off duty?” she asked.

Evelyn nodded, “He said he was going home to change first, but if the baby comes before that, I have to send him a message.”

“Jules told me to send him a message when the baby is born too, but I think I’ll just go deliver it personally,” replied Amy.

Zachary chuckled, “I could give him the message when I go relieve him of duty.”

Amy shook her head, “That’s okay, it’s not a problem.”

Kristine looked up at her mother with a frown, “He won’t mind if you approach him while he’s on duty?”

“No. I’ve done it before. Besides Zach doesn’t mind when you do it to him. In fact, you are always with him when he’s on duty.”

Kristine blinked at that before turning to look at Zachary. Zachary caught the look in her eyes and immediately spoke up. “Kris, it’s okay. Amy can go tell Jules the news.”

Kristine shook her head, “That’s not it.”

Zachary hugged her closer and leaned in to whisper against her ear, “Dimo agalo, your mother needs him. You are always with me and she’s accepted that. You have to accept that she’s ready to move on too.”

Kristine closed her eyes for a moment as she felt Zachary graze her temple with his lips. He ran his hand soothingly up and down her arm and nuzzled her hair, trying to keep her calm in this moment of realization.

Unlike Kristine, Zachary had known something was brewing between Jules and Amy for months. In fact, he had a suspicion that something was up just before the war started. However, it was completely obvious when the war started and Jules had to be stationed at the border. Watching Amy being left behind was all the evidence Zachary had needed to know that Amy was moving on.

Then when the war was over, and things began to return to normal. He’d noticed how Amy didn’t have a problem at all with Kristine always staying at the castle with him. He knew it had everything to do with Jules and he was glad that Kristine’s mother had someone she could confide in the way Kristine confided in him.

Finally Kristine opened her eyes and looked up at him. He gave her an encouraging smile and she nodded before looking at her mother. “He’s right, you should be the one to tell Jules the news.”

A silent look of acceptance passed between mother and daughter before they both seemed to visibly relax. Once more, the small group went back to their silent waiting.

**********************************************************************

Nikki was vaguely aware of the soft warmth against her chest just before she heard the words in her mind. Nikki, open your eyes, dimo agalo. Open your eyes and look at our son.

She willed her eyes to open and blinked the exhaustion away as she gazed down at the carefully wrapped bundle lying against her chest. She smiled sleepily as emerald green eyes gazed up at her from beneath dark eyelashes.

“Oh Xavier!” she whispered. “He’s so beautiful.”

Xavier chuckled as he leaned down to place a kiss on his son’s forehead before placing a longer one on Nikki’s lips. Looking into her eyes he responded, “Yes he is, leijha’mi, but you are more so.”

Devnet leaned over Nikki on the other side of the bed and smiled. “Come on, Nikki. Xavier is going to lift you up so that we can clean up the bed. Then you and your son can have a nice long rest, okay?”

Nikki nodded and leaned into Xavier’s embrace as he lifted both mother and son into his arms. She kept their son against her chest where both she and Xavier cooed over him until he was told to put her back into bed.

Once she and the baby were settled in again, Devnet glanced at both of them. “Have you decided what his name will be?”

Nikki looked up at Xavier who nodded, “Yes, but we will tell you the name tomorrow.”

Devnet grinned, “Ah, so you told her the tradition, huh?”

Nikki nodded, “Yes and I agreed that we should follow it.”

“Okay. If that is your wish, then I will let the others know.” She leaned down to kiss Nikki’s cheek before walking around to hug her son. As she placed a kiss on his cheek she said, “You get some rest too, Zachary can handle the kingdom for one day. We will see all three of you tomorrow.”

Xavier didn’t argue with her as he walked her to the door and saw her out. He closed the door behind her and moved back to the bed where Nikki was already drifting off to sleep. As he began to get undressed, he noticed that his son was already fast asleep against Nikki’s bosom.

He smiled at the sight of the two of them like that and slowly slid underneath the covers to join them. Nikki shifted slightly to allow him to wrap his arms around them both, holding them close. When they were all comfortable once again, they all drifted off into much needed sleep.

**********************************************************************

Zachary pulled her closer to him and nuzzled her neck, slowly waking her up. He felt her sigh and move closer to him, her bottom fitting snugly against his hips. He continued to press soft kisses against her neck until she began to wiggle her bottom.

Kristine smiled to herself when she heard and felt his groan against her neck. Turning her head slightly, she brushed her lips against his jaw before turning around in his arms. Once she was facing him, Zachary pulled her body flush with his and captured her lips for a full kiss. She lifted her leg to drape it over his hip as their kiss deepened. When her hands began to roam up his chest, he pulled away for some much needed air.

Breathing hard, he tried to get out his words. “We should be getting up soon. We can’t miss the introduction of the prince, you know.”

Kristine looked towards the window before turning to him with a sly smile. “We won’t miss it. I want to properly say good morning to you.”

Zachary grinned as she leaned in and kissed him once more. Soon, their hands were roaming all over each others bodies as they began to roll around in the bed. When she was beneath him, Zachary dipped his head to suckle her breasts prompting her to arch her back and curl her fingers into his hair. She spread her legs and wrapped them around his hips, grinding against him.

He moaned against her breast before moving to the next one, his hand teasing the one his mouth just abandoned. Kristine writhed beneath him, lifting her hips higher, trying to take him into her body, but he wasn’t finished pleasuring her.

Lowering his hand to her knee, he lifted it up and bent his mouth to her wetness. As he began sucking in earnest on her bud, Kristine threw her head back with a soft cry. Zachary lifted her leg higher, opening her wider for his ministrations and slid his tongue inside of her. Kristine gripped the sheets in her hands as Rath alternated between sucking her clit and thrusting his tongue into her body.

When he felt her body trembling and heard the high pitched gasps she gave, Zachary let go of her knee and plunged two fingers inside of her as he sucked hard on her clit. She came with a scream as he lapped up her juices, enjoying the pleasure he gave her. As she was coming down from her high, he flipped them over and lifted her up onto his chest.

Kristine rose up to her knees and placed her hands against his chest before impaling herself on him. She grinned in triumph when he growled at the way she felt surrounding him.

Without hesitance, she began to ride him in a steady rhythm. He slid his hands to her waist and she arched back, curling her fingers around his wrists for leverage. With his help, she picked up the pace and moaned when he lifted his hips to meet her downward thrusts.

Together, they moved in perfect sync as they moved faster and faster towards the end. This time when she came, he was right there with her, their cries of bliss blending perfectly together.

Kristine was still moving over him, her walls still milking him, even after he’d emptied himself inside of her. Finally, with a sated sigh, she collapsed on top of him and smiled against his chest.

“Hm, now it’s time for a little nap.”

Zachary chuckled, “You said we were saying good morning and now you want to go back to sleep.”

She gave another contented sigh before lifting her head and looking into his eyes. “Nikki won’t mind if we stay in bed all day.”

He rolled his eyes. “Kris, I’m the C.A. I have to be there.”

She playfully stuck her tongue out at him, “I know that silly. I wouldn’t miss this for the world.”

She leaned down to kiss him again before she slowly slid off of him, making him groan on purpose. Zachary didn’t move from the bed as he watched her walk towards his bathroom.

When she reached the door, she looked over her shoulder at him with a grin. “Are you going to join me or take that nap you said we can’t take?”

With a growl, Zachary leaped out of the bed and pursued a laughing Kristine into the bathroom.

**********************************************************************

Serena stood next to Evelyn and surveyed the crowd. On the other side of Evelyn was Charles and Amy. The four of them were at the front of the crowd on a raised platform along with some of the other nobles of the kingdom. From her position, Serena had a good view of the rest of the huge crowd that was gathered to welcome the newest heir to the throne.

She could hear the buzz of excitement and murmurs of gladness that their King and Queen had produced a healthy baby boy. Serena herself was excited to see him. She was also excited to see everyone else too. This would be the first time she would get to see the King and Queen in such a formal setting since she had been a prisoner in the arena long before Xavier had been made King and taken Nikki as his wife.

She wasn’t the first Wahani that Valin had captured, but she had been far from the last one. However, she was one of the lucky ones that had survived it all. Her family had lived along the border in a small farm, which had made it easy for the rebels to capture them.

Her older brother had died fighting their capture and her father had died fighting in the arena. Since she had been trained by both her brother and father, her captors saw her as prime meat to toss into the arena too. She had heard that her mother was given as a slave to one of the rebels, but had met her death when she had refused to follow his commands. Now, she was the only one left of her family.

Looking up towards the walkway where the royals would make their entrance, she saw Kegan and Jules enter the area, doing a sweep of the place before taking their positions at their respective corners. As she gazed at her ulhi’maos, standing tall and on guard. She knew without a doubt that she would one day start a new family with him.

Despite the way he had reacted to the Queen’s delivery of her son, Kegan had reassured her plenty of times that he was more than willing to have a family with her someday. She knew without a doubt that they would have children when they were both ready and when the time was right.

A few moments after the two men had taken their positions, Zachary and Kristine walked out onto the walkway and stood slightly to the right. Immediately after them came the former King and Queen. Marcus and Devnet moved slightly to the left and everyone waited until the crowd grew quiet.

A few beats of silence passed before Serena saw Xavier walk out and hold his arms in the air.

“My people, it is with great pleasure that My Queen and I are introducing all of you to our son.”

He motioned behind him and Serena watched as Nikki walked out cradling their son in her arms. As she moved to stand next to Xavier, he leaned forward to take the infant boy into his arms before turning back towards the crowd. Nikki moved closer to Xavier’s side, sliding one arm around his waist and using her other hand to help him lift their son above his head.

“People of the Underearth, I give you the heir to the throne, my son, Xavier Jasen Raneri.”

Those surrounding the King and Queen went to their knees as Zachary said, “I pledge my loyalty to the Prince. Long live Prince Jasen.”

As every person in the crowd began to kneel, Serena heard the resounding cries of “Long live Prince Jasen” echoing around the area.

From her kneeling position, Serena looked up at her newest family with tears in her eyes as she too joined in the celebration. “Long live Prince Jasen.”

Translations
dimo agalo - my love
ulhi'maos - soul mate
feigos - wife
kepai nu'brena epvat deh sropu, li'ho - take a breath deep and push, honey
esu veho meco sropu rosha-re - you have to push harder
stonon miace teroso - just once more
esu idsa ateki teto teosla rati - you said that the last time
idi oro, lat isti rati - I know, but this time
idi agalo esu - I love you
leijha'mi - beautiful

Chapter 36

Xavier moved slowly across the room, stalking his prey. She was on all fours in the middle of the bed, eyes glowing orange. His eyes slowly moved over her naked skin, the smell of her need beckoning him closer.

She purred softly as she arched her back in need before lowering her head slightly to look at him through lowered eyelashes. He growled low in his throat when her tongue languidly moved over her lower lip. She began to recline back against the headboard when he reached the foot of the bed and began to slowly undress. She watched him as he did so, enjoying the way his skin slowly came into view.

When he was as naked as she was, he leaned over and proceeded to crawl up the bed licking his lower lip as she spread her legs for him. His gaze moved to her beckoning folds and he dipped his head down, allowing his tongue to take one long lick of her sweetness.

She gasped in pleasure as his tongue continued to lap at her juices before tenderly pushing inside of her to stroke her walls. As his nose nuzzled her mound, she lifted her hips to push closer to his face for more pleasure.

He could feel her thighs beginning to tremble, so he removed his tongue from her and took her pleasure button into his mouth, sucking gently. Sliding two fingers into her heat, he quickly built up the pace and matched his sucking mouth to the rhythm of his fingers.

The mewling sounds she’d been making quickly escalated until she came with a soft cry of his name. As her orgasm washed over her, he moved his mouth to her opening and greedily lapped up her sweet offering. Even with that respite, she still wasn’t satisfied. Her mate still hadn’t fed her craving. Luckily for her, he knew exactly how to keep his mate sated.

Leaning over her, he lifted her in his arms, careful not to injure her five month extended belly. Shifting her in his arms, he sat her in his lap, facing away from him. She leaned back against his chest as they both slid one arm beneath her belly, fingers entwined. Widening her legs, she lifted up on her knees and he used his free arm to help her settle down on his shaft.

As soon as they both knew she was comfortable, she slid her free hand up behind them and into his hair while he used his free hand to help her ride him. He leaned his head down to nibble her neck and shoulder as he continued to lift his hips up into hers. He could feel her walls tightening around him, knowing that these days it didn’t take long for her to reach her end, especially when he’d already given her pleasure just recently.

As their arms tightened beneath her belly and fingers clutched harder, he buried his face in her neck. She was using her knees and thighs as leverage to raise herself up and slide back down on him in quicker movements. That and the viselike grip of her walls were more than enough to send him over the edge.

Still he held on, breathing hard against her neck, letting her have her pleasure first. She was keening now, louder with each downward stroke of her hips. He lifted his free hand to cup her breast and gently bit at the base of her neck. With a cry of ecstasy, she threw her head back against his shoulder as her latest orgasm ripped through her.

He growled against her neck as he felt her liquid heat drench his shaft and the sudden pulsing of her already tightened walls around him. As her nails dug into his palm and at the nape of his neck, he thrust his hips harder up into her body and let go with a roar of her name.

Her body reacted instantly, walls milking him of his nourishment. She continued to rotate her hips in his lap until she could feel the last of his seed being absorbed by her body and the faint shudder he gave with his completion. Sitting completely still, they let the last of their mating heat pass before either one of them made a move.

He was the first to move.

He simply lifted her slightly to lay her on the bed and spoon up behind her, nuzzling her shoulder as he wrapped his arms around her. Locked in his tender embrace, she quickly drifted off to sleep, her body and heart completely nourished and satisfied.

**********************************************************************

Kegan glanced up as he heard the door open and frowned when he realized it was only a servant.

Zachary caught the frown and hid his knowing smile from Kegan. “He’ll be back soon Kegan. There’s no rush.”

Kegan looked up at Zachary, “I don’t think Valin is going to wait while Xavier and his mate go get frisky, do you?”

Zachary chuckled, “It’s been almost a week, Kegan. If Valin hasn’t made his move yet, I doubt he’s going to do it within the next couple of hours.”

“Hours! Are you saying we’ll be here for hours? Geez! How many more months is it until the heir is born?”

The door opened once more to reveal Xavier, who was still buttoning up his shirt. He glanced at Kegan and softly growled, “If you must know, she’s due in four months. Until that time, I will do whatever it takes to keep her happy and safe, even if it means I have to keep getting frisky with her every minute of every day. Understand?”

Kegan lowered his head and muttered low, “Understood, Your Highness.”

Xavier nodded, “Good.” He turned to look at the table, “So, where were we?”

Zachary didn’t even bat an eyelash as he pointed at the map and said, “Here, at the site of the arena. How we are going to get our people in to destroy it and Valin.”

“Right, okay as I was saying earlier this is where Nikki led me out…”

**********************************************************************

Nikki stood near the door to their bedroom, watching as her husigos dressed in his fighting outfit. Her arms were folded over her chest, but she didn’t say a word. She knew it was fruitless to do so.

He’d never let her go. Not when she’d already risked her life and the life of their unborn son so much already. She understood that, she really did. Still, it didn’t stop her from wanting to be at his side when they destroyed the arena. She knew how to get in after all. And so did Evelyn. Which was why Evelyn was going with them, but not her.

Xavier finished buckling up his weapons belt and looked up at his feigos keeping vigil at the door. He sighed and ran his fingers through his hair at the look on her face. They’d been over this already, several times. Granted, she’d been in all of the meetings helping them plan how to get in and fight at the arena, just as Evelyn had been. But he was only allowing his sister to go this time and only as a guide, not a fighter.

“Nikki, leijha’mi, please don’t do this.”

“Do what? What am I doing?”

“Giving me that look.”

“What look?”

He shook his head, “You know you can’t go. We talked about this plenty of times.”

She nodded, “I know.”

“You have to stay here and keep our son safe.”

“I know,” she replied as she began to walk towards him.

“My mother will be here with you and so will Kris and Amy.”

“I know, Xavier.” She stood in front of him and cupped his face in her hands. “Promise me you won’t go looking for danger?”

He sighed as he gripped her wrists. She tightened her hold on his face.

“No! Don’t avoid the subject! Promise me Xavier! Or you will find me out there with you!”

He looked up into her eyes, hesitating for a few moments. Then he lowered his forehead to hers, still looking into her eyes.

“I promise, dimo ulhi’maos. I promise I won’t go looking for danger.”

“You’ll let Zachary, Jules, and the others do their jobs first?”

“Yene. Idi thewa meco memeh spi’ho meco dimo feigos.” He paused before adding, “Deh meco vles teto genbi eto dimo o’syn.”

Nikki smiled at his words. She too hoped he would be there to welcome his son into the world.

**********************************************************************

Valin screamed in rage as he grabbed his guard’s gun and blew the messenger’s head off. Everyone else in the room went silent and seemed to shrink in fear. Nikoli stood slightly behind Valin, eyes glued to the body as it toppled to the ground. He swallowed and kept his voice as low as possible.

“My lord, we knew they would be coming soon.”

Valin growled, “Yes, Nikoli, we knew. That is why we were preparing for it! We had every advantage what with those magnificent weapons we stole from the human world!”

He whirled around and glared at his best advisor. “Yet somehow those beasts managed to deflect our weapons, disable them, and are now swarming into our lands! Tell me Nikoli! How is it that those imbeciles have managed to get this far? How!”

Nikoli did his best not to squirm beneath his leader’s hysterical yelling as he calmly replied, “I do not know how they defeated our weapons, but since someone managed to come and rescue the Wahani King, I am assuming it is that person who has given the Wahani knowledge of our land.”

Valin gritted his teeth in frustration before he tossed the gun he still held at the wall. “I know that you idiot! What I want to know is how they are defeating our weapons! Get someone out there who can get me results! I will not allow those beasts to win! Do you hear me! I want every last one of them wiped out! I will show them that their ways are extinct, just like they will be!”

Nikoli bowed his head, “Of course, my lord.”

**********************************************************************

Xavier stood surrounded by the guard that Zachary and Jules had assigned to him while Zachary and Evelyn stood on either side of him. He watched as Jules signaled for the next wave of fighters to move in and breach the enemy’s defenses. Charles stood not too far away with several other technicians and the machines they’d built to render all electronic devices in the area useless. Once he’d given Jules the go ahead, Jules had given the order for the fighters to move.

Now, Kegan stood by with his men, vigilantly watching for any sign of the weapons the rebels tended to use. So far, no more had surfaced since the Wahani had managed to disable them with their telekinesis powers.

As the recent wave of fighters swarmed the rebels, Jules gave another signal to the next batch which would push through the holes that had appeared amongst the rebel line. Xavier nodded to Zachary as the fighters made their way past the line and into the grounds surrounding the arena.

They were finally in.

**********************************************************************

There was no mistaking it. Nikoli could hear the shouting and the sounds of fighting echoing through the corridors. They were being invaded. Valin’s reign had finally come to an end, but even Nikoli knew his leader was too far gone to even admit defeat.

Turning to the guard next to him he issued orders. “Take five of your best soldiers and guard our leader. Lock him in his rooms if you have to and kill anyone who tries to get to him. Even if it is one of ours. Understood?”

The guard bowed, “Yes sir.”

Nikoli turned to the rest of the men in the room. “Go to the others. Spread the word. We are to fight to the end and keep the Wahani from getting into this place at all costs. Anyone who tries to turn traitor will end up at the end of my weapon! Now, move!”

With a resounding cry, his men rushed out of the room to do his bidding. Nikoli took a deep breath and closed his eyes for a moment, sending a silent prayer that he would die a soldier’s death.

**********************************************************************

“Your Majesty! The fighters have gotten in! All rebels are being apprehended as we speak!” announced Jules as he came running up to the small group surrounding Xavier.

Xavier nodded. “Good. Take the group like we planned and find Valin. Bring him to me alive!”

Jules bowed, “Of course, my lord.” He turned to look at Evelyn standing next to Zachary. “Ready, my lady?”

Evelyn glanced at her brother for a moment before nodding briskly to Jules. “Ready.”

Xavier watched as she moved to Jules’ side and the rest of the group that was going with them quickly formed a tight ring around them. Charles was one of the men who was going with them, Xavier knew he wouldn’t want to be too far from the woman who claimed his heart. Within moments they had disappeared into the arena as the fighting continued all around them.

**********************************************************************

Valin shoved the guard in front of him and reached for the small gun he always kept hidden in his sleeve. Pulling it out, he shot the guard in the shoulder and screamed.

“I don’t care who gave you those orders! I will not be locked up like a prisoner while those filthy beasts run wild in my home! Don’t you dare waste your breath trying to explain things to me! Go and skin one of them! Make yourself useful man! I want them dead!”

He fired the gun once more and screeched at all of the guards to get going or he’d add them to his collection of dead animals.

**********************************************************************

Nikoli let go of the man he’d just killed and turned as he heard one of his men yelling for him. Watching as he ran up to him nearly out of breath.

“I’m sorry, sir, but our leader refuses to stay in his rooms. He’s already shot two of the men and is threatening to skin every last one of us.”

Nikoli muttered under his breath. “I don’t need this right now!” Turning on his heel, he barked more orders. “Guard the corridors! Pull all of the men back! I want the main guard all moved to the hall outside of the leader’s rooms now!”

Once more everyone began running to obey his orders as he made his way through the place towards Valin’s rooms. Even from far away, he could hear his leader’s hysterical screaming.

“Kill them! Skin them alive! Kill the prisoners before those beasts can get to them! Use every weapon we have! Pull out all of the stops! Burn this place down if you have to!”

Nikoli came running around the corner to see Valin screaming and shoving soldiers out of his way.

Valin turned to glare at Nikoli. “What the hell is going on! How dare you try to lock me in my rooms! Why aren’t those beasts dead yet?”

“I’m trying, my lord, but having you undermining my orders isn’t helping!”

“I refuse to just sit and watch you fail!”

“I am simply trying to keep you safe! Instead, you want to run right into the nest!” yelled Nikoli.

Valin blinked at that before backing down. “Fine. I’ll stay in my rooms. Just make sure you find that so-called King and split him open.”

“As you wish, my lord.” He motioned to the guards who escorted Valin back into his rooms and shut the doors.

As Nikoli turned around and headed down the hall, he could hear the fighting getting closer. He issued more orders, “Defend this hall with your life men! Do not allow anyone through.”

He took his stand just behind the doors to the hall, knowing that if they managed to make it this far, Valin wouldn’t last much longer after that.

**********************************************************************

Evelyn watched as the others pushed ahead of her. Charles and Jules remained at her side as well as four other men, but the rest were clearing a path through the corridor. As soon as the signal came that all was clear, the small group moved ahead. Evelyn turned the corner and nodded as soon as she saw the doors.

“That’s it. Those are the doors that lead to his rooms. Go through that set and there is another set to the left which is his private sitting room and his bedroom is behind that.”

Jules nodded. “Good, we’re here then.” He turned to the others. “Okay, you know what to do from here, make sure the others know which way to go.”

The men nodded and began moving into place with Jules not to far behind them. Evelyn, Charles, and two others moved into a corner to stay out of the fighting. As they watched the men push forward into the hall, Evelyn began to look around the area, smiling to herself.

**********************************************************************

Valin paced impatiently as he listened to the sounds outside. He glanced up once more to see the guards waiting tensely in front of the doors, keeping him in and the fighting out. He growled under his breath. He trusted Nikoli to do what he had to do. He knew Nikoli had always been the best, it was why he’d promoted him over any of the other greedy bastards. None of them were as loyal or as efficient as Nikoli was. When this was over, he was going to give Nikoli anything he wanted.

He turned once more and paced towards his bedroom, hands behind his back. Just as he reached the doorway, hands reached out and yanked him through. He stumbled and righted himself quickly, just as he heard the door softly closing behind him. Whirling around, he paused the moment he noticed who it was. Dressed in black leather pants and a matching corset, Evelyn smiled demurely as she leaned back against the door. Valin’s mouth began to water at the sight.

“Hello again, Valin.”

He growled, “How the hell did you get in?”

She chuckled softly, “It was easy.” She pushed off the door and moved sultrily towards him. “We didn’t get to finish our conversation from last time.”

Valin nodded his head as his eyes glazed over. “Yeah.”

When she laughed, he shook his head to clear his daze and glared at her. “Wait a minute! You drugged me, you bitch!”

She grinned, “Did I? I thought you were drunk. Weren’t you trying to get me drunk?”

He backed away from her and pulled his gun out from his sleeve, aiming it at her. “You tricked me! All you wanted was to distract me so that someone could get that filthy brother of yours out! Well, that’s the last time you will win! Now we do things my way!”

Evelyn laughed, “Haven’t you been listening?” She cocked her head towards the door. “See? Your people are losing. My people will win and my brother is here to see you lose!”

Valin roared and aimed the gun at her again. Before he had the chance to fire, Evelyn leaped out of the way, landing in a crouch behind him. He whirled around, eyes wide as he watched her change before his eyes.

When she slowly stood, Valin saw the long blonde mane of hair, flowing freely down past her thighs and the long wicked nails protruding from her fingers. Her eyes glowed a bright red as she opened her mouth and growled at him, showing sharp teeth and even longer canines.

He whimpered in fear as she took a step towards him, her voice lower and raspy as she spoke. “You lose, Valin.”

He covered his eyes with one arm and screamed bloody murder as she launched herself at him.

**********************************************************************

Nikoli turned towards the doors of Kivar’s private sitting room with a frown. “What the hell?”

All of them had heard the shout of one of the guards within the room.

“Keep guarding the hall!” he ordered as he ran towards the sitting room and threw open the door. Inside he saw the two guards banging on Valin’s bedroom door.

As he heard the doors to the hallway being broken down behind him, one of the guards turned towards him and yelled, “Sir, there’s someone else in the room with him!”

Nikoli swore under his breath as he rushed to the door and shoved the guards out of the way. “Go help the others!”

As the two men made their way into the hall to fight, Nikoli jammed the door knob with the butt of his gun until it fell at an angle. Backing up, he braced himself and threw his entire weight against the door.

Just as he burst through the door, he heard Valin’s bloodcurdling scream.

**********************************************************************

“Jules! Evelyn is gone!” yelled Charles as he and the rest of the guards began searching for any clues as to how she’d disappeared.

“What? Where the hell did she go?” asked Jules who remained near the hall doors, as Charles and the others rushed up to meet him.

“I don’t know! One minute she was right next to me and the next she was gone!” replied Charles.

Suddenly a scream rang out from inside Valin’s rooms, followed by a very feminine roar. As one they all turned to look in the same direction.

“It’ska! Evelyn!” yelled Charles as they all began fighting their way into the rooms.

**********************************************************************

Evelyn slammed into Valin, knocking him to the ground and pouncing on top of him. Roaring loud, she reared back and flexed her claws, intending to rip him apart. As her hands raced towards their goal, something hard slammed against her head, knocking her off of her prey. She rolled slightly and grunted in pain as she shook her head before looking up. Before she had a chance to launch herself at Valin again, Nikoli was besides her and used the butt of his gun to strike at her jaw, knocking her into the ground again.

Valin scrambled to his feet and screeched at Nikoli. “Stop! I want to finish her!”

He knelt on her back, pinning her to the ground and grabbed her hair, yanking her head back. “You filthy bitch! You are just like them! A beast! Well, if you insist on acting like one, then I will treat you like one!” He yelled.

He moved his face closer to hers as she growled at him. “I’ll rip you apart you bastard! And if I don’t, my brother will see to it that you die painfully!”

Valin laughed. “No princess. I will win! My people will capture your brother and bring him to me. I will skin him alive and then use his hide as our marriage bed!” He spat before slamming her head into the ground.

Standing up, he yelled at Nikoli. “Kill every last one of them, except the Wahani King! I want her to see him die!”

Before Nikoli had a chance to reply, the commotion from the sitting room stopped him. Turning his head, he swore. “Knock her out, my lord! They have breached the doors!”

Valin made his way back to Evelyn’s side, but she lashed out at him with her claws, preventing him from touching her. Nikoli swore once more and turned to slam the doors shut, catching a glance of the Wahani who had swarmed into the outer room before he joined Valin in subduing the princess.

**********************************************************************

Xavier didn’t move as the guard relayed the message to all of them. All Zachary saw was the slight clenching of his jaw when he’d heard that Evelyn was hostage to Valin and his second, Nikoli. The two men had locked themselves in Valin’s bedroom with the princess as their hostage and no one had managed to get in without causing harm to her. Jules and the others had effectively wiped out all of the rest of the rebels, but Valin and Nikoli were the last to remain.

“Zachary, give the orders for Kegan and the others to sweep the arena and clean up the leftovers. Make sure all prisoners are taken care of,” came Xavier’s quiet command.

“Of course, Your Highness.” As he turned to relay the orders, Xavier began making his way towards the arena.

**********************************************************************

Nikoli paced in front of the bedroom door, sweat beading his brow. He knew this was the last stand. He knew all of the rebels had been defeated and the Wahani were now in control of the arena and the surrounding area. Glancing at Valin, he wondered if his leader even knew what a hopeless situation they were now in. There was no way the two of them could make it out of there alive, especially since he was the only real fighter between the two.

A knock sounded on the door, causing him to freeze and aim the gun towards the door even though he knew the gun was useless against a Wahani at this point. Still, it offered him some sense of security as he tried to speak in a strong voice.

“What is it?”

“King Xavier wishes to negotiate for his sister’s life,” came the reply.

Valin laughed, “There will be no negotiation! Evelyn is mine!”

Nikoli frowned at the door, not wanting his leader to see his disappointment.

“I don’t think…”

“Zachary, let me talk to him,” interrupted another voice which Nikoli was very familiar with. Even with the door and a gun between them, that voice still sent shivers down Nikoli’s spine.

“Valin, I’m sure Nikoli has informed you that my people have taken control of the arena and are freeing the prisoners as we speak. All of your men have been disarmed and arrested. You and Nikoli are all that remain. And you are surrounded. You cannot escape. However, I am willing to make your death painless if you hand the princess over to me without a fuss. If you continue to resist, we will make sure you pay for every second of resistance.”

There was silence as Xavier let that sink into Valin’s brain.

“Are we in agreement, Valin?”

Nikoli turned to look at Valin who was glaring at Evelyn. She had been chained to the wall with chains that Nikoli had refused to think about why Valin had them in his bedroom in the first place.

Nikoli whispered, “My lord, I think we should take his offer. Maybe we can plead with him for our lives if we give her to him peacefully.”

Valin whirled around and glared at him as he hissed, “Are you mad! I will never surrender to beasts! They are beneath me! Beneath you! We will kill them all! Exterminate them! They are not fit to survive in our world!”

Nikoli frowned, “We are out numbered, sire! We cannot defeat them!”

“I will not let them win!”

“They have already won!”

“NO!” screamed Valin. “I am still alive! I know a way out!” He moved to Nikoli and shoved him towards the door. “Go! Distract them while I escape! I will take the princess and go while you defend my life!”

Nikoli hissed, “Didn’t you hear him? They have the place surrounded! You cannot possibly escape!”

“Nikoli! I gave you an order!” Valin roared.

Nikoli opened his mouth to protest once more, but Valin slapped him as he screamed, “Don’t you dare disobey me, you coward! I am your leader! I made you what you are! Defend my escape!”

Nikoli clenched his jaw as he exchanged glares with his leader. “Yes, my lord,” he murmured from between pursed lips.

“Good!” nodded Valin as he grabbed Evelyn and unchained her from the wall. Yanking her to his side and holding a knife to her ribs, he hissed, “Try anything, Princess and I’ll run you through.”

Nikoli watched as Valin made his way to the fireplace and ran his fingers over the corner of the mantel. As the wall slid aside, Valin yanked Evelyn with him and disappeared into the dark hole. Nikoli turned and opened the bedroom door before standing back and holding up the gun at Xavier who stood motionless.

“Sorry, Your Highness, but Valin won’t be surrendering himself or the princess today.”

Xavier narrowed his eyes at Nikoli, “Where is he?”

“Gone.”

“And the princess?”

“With him.”

Xavier growled and tilted his head towards his second, “Find them.”

Nikoli cocked the gun, “Can’t let you do that, Your Majesty. My orders are to defend his life.”

Xavier glared at him. “Do you really think he will escape?”

There was a pause before Nikoli responded, “No.”

“Then what are you doing!”

“I have my orders, sir.” came Nikoli’s reply.

Xavier stood there staring at the man in front of him. He remembered Nikoli well. He was Valin’s second as Zachary was his. And like Zachary, this man defended his leader, loyal to the very end. Even as he stood there and looked into Nikoli’s eyes, Xavier knew what Nikoli knew.

Valin had lost.

Nikoli was giving up his life for a leader who had never appreciated his loyalty. He was going to die fighting, for loyalty, for honor. It made Xavier respect Nikoli for the warrior he was and mourn for the warrior he could have been.

Slowly he nodded and stepped back, motioning to Zachary.

Zachary looked towards Nikoli as he heard Xavier’s voice in his head, He will defend his leader to the very end. He knows his job well and will not stray from it. He is a good soldier, treat him as such. I will take Jules and hunt down Valin.


As you wish, Your Highness, came Zachary’s reply.

Xavier nodded towards Nikoli. “Stil’lin pao, rioistis.”

Nikoli responded, “Sehi xadlo, ursa io‘slo.”

**********************************************************************

Valin ran through the corridors dragging Evelyn with him until he burst into the sunlight, blinded momentarily.

Nikoli ducked Zachary’s swinging fist and swung his own fist upwards, connecting with flesh.

Valin blinked tears out of his eyes, blurry vision straining to make sense of the shadows looming ahead of him.

Nikoli’s fist connected again with Zachary’s chin as the others continued to keep vigil in the loosely formed circle around the two fighters.

Valin could feel Evelyn scrambling to her feet behind him and saw her blurry form rush past him into the waiting arms of her brother.

Nikoli spat blood as he doubled over from the blow to his stomach and staggered back, sinking to his knees.

Valin watched as Xavier handed his sister over to Jules before walking briskly towards him, claws extended.

Nikoli looked up at Zachary for a moment, acknowledging his defeat with his eyes before lowering his head.

Valin could feel the scream lodged in his throat as the claws ripped thorough it and blood spilled down his chest.

Zachary watched as the body slumped to the floor before lifting one hand over his heart and whispering, “Orasire sehi ceir, rioistis.”

Xavier stood still as Valin lay drowning in his own blood, waiting patiently as he watched the light fade from the rebel leader’s eyes. Only then did he turn and walk away from the useless piece of meat.

**********************************************************************

Kegan continued to supervise the others as they helped the prisoners out of the holding cells of the arena. Some of the prisoners had put up fights, but they were quickly dealt with. Others were grateful for the rescue and helped in any way they could to get out of the place quickly. Still, some prisoners had to be helped out because of their deteriorated conditions and the worst had to be carried out.

Jules, Zachary, and Xavier soon joined him. He nodded in greeting. “I take it Evelyn is okay?”

Xavier nodded, “She and Charles are already on their way back to the castle.”

Kegan sighed, “Good, that’s one less worry, right now.”

Xavier arched an eyebrow, “Well, you can keep on worrying ‘cause I’m not leaving until I’m satisfied everything is okay here.”

Kegan looked at his father with a smirk, “Is he serious?”

Jules rolled his eyes, “Keep your mind on your job, son.”

Kegan nodded, “Right. Okay, well we’ve finished searching all the holding cells, except the west one. But we are working on that one right now, so we should be done within another two hours.”

Xavier nodded, “Good.” He turned to look at Jules, “And the arena?”

“It’s being emptied as we speak. As soon as Kegan gives the word, we’ll burn the place to the ground.”

“Okay, Zach…” Xavier paused as he felt the familiar heat begin to spread through his body.

Kegan looked up at Xavier when he’d paused. “What?”

As he looked from Xavier to Zachary, then his father, he knew.

“Aw, Da’kata! Now! Xavier, now?”

Xavier gritted his teeth as he turned to look at Zachary. “You are in command, C.A.”

Zachary nodded, “Understood, Your Highness. Jules will follow you home.”

Xavier shook his head as he began to shift form. He growled, “No, I can travel faster on my own. Jules needs to be here to help.”

Without another word he turned and sped off into the distance.

Kegan watched him go with a frown, “How many months is it again?”

**********************************************************************

Jules moved into the doorway and looked at Kegan who was walking towards him. “Finished?”

Kegan looked up at him, “Yes. They got the last of the prisoners out. You can start torching the place.”

Jules nodded and walked back out to give the orders.

As Kegan made to follow him, he heard a sound coming from a cell close by. Instantly putting his senses on alert, he listened for any more sounds.

When he heard a soft moan, he moved quietly towards the cell and looked in. His eyes scanned the area and almost missed the tiny stirring of straw in the far, dark corner.

“Hey, is someone there?”

Another moan reached his ears as the straw shifted again and he saw fingers reaching through it. His eyes widened as he heard a whispered voice, “I’m… over… here… please…”

Without another moment of hesitation, he walked to the straw and began brushing it away until he saw the body curled into a fetal position on the floor.

Long auburn hair was terribly matted and caked with dried blood, covering the face completely. Strips of cloth were all that remained on a body that was covered in more dried blood, bruises, and dirt.

“Od’yia! What the hell did they do to you? Hey, can you hear me? I’m going to have to carry you out of here, okay?”

Another moan was his answer as he slid his arms around the body and lifted it into his arms. He nearly dropped the body as he realized just how light it was and got another shock as the head rolled back and the hair fell away to reveal a pale, pale face.

But that wasn’t what made him catch his breath. As he stared down into the now open grass green eyes, he could see the other half of his soul staring right back at him.

And he knew…he knew her name was Serena.

Translations
husigos - husband
feigos - wife
leijha'mi - beautiful
dimo ulhi'maos - my soul mate
yene - yes
idi thewa meco memeh spi'ho meco dimo feigos - I wan to come home to my wife
deh meco vles teto genbi eto dimo o'syn - and to see the birth of my son
it'ska - shit
stil'lin pao, rioistis - shine on, warrior (meant to show respect towards someone)
sehi xadlo, ursa io'slo - in glory, your highness (meant to return respect towards someone who offered it first)
orasire sehi ceir - rest in peace
da'kata - damn
od'yia - god