Barbarians of Malka

By Justus Roux

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Also byJustus Roux

 

Master Series:

 

My Master

 

Master's Ecstasy

 

Obey!

 

Sweet Rapture

 

Mistress Angelique

 

Wrath's Lust

 

Breathless (Has novella: Master Drake)

 

Erotic Shivers VolumeI ( Has novellas: Yes Master Dante, Ecstasy’s Story, Wrath’s Story)

 

Love Thy Master

 

Dante and Angelique

 

Master Nikolai

 

Kiss the Moment

 

A Master’s Love

 

 

 

The Demon Hunter Series:

 

Keeper of My Soul

 

Heavenly Surrender

 

Breathless (Has novella: Forever, Demon Hunter Ryo's story)

 

Ayden's Awakening

 

 

 

Barbarians ofMalka Series:

 

Protector of My Heart

 

A Warrior’s Will

 

A Song for My Warrior

 

The Warrior’s Heart

 

Barbarians ofMalka

 

 

 

Single Title

 

Paradise

 

With These Chains

 

My Warrior

 

 

 

Anthologies edited byJustus Roux :

 

Erotic Tales

 

Erotic Fantasy: Tales of the Paranormal

 

Who’s Your Daddy?

 

Bosslady

 

Erotic Tales 2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter One

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“If you don't stop that,”Lita said as she laughed.

 

“You love it and you know it,” Jack added as he lifted her up again.

 

“I'm not your weights.”

 

“You don't weigh enough to be my weights.” He gently set her down.

 

Litaand Jack have been dating each other for a few years now. Both are studying to be doctors. Jack was really into bodybuilding to relieve some of the stress of medical school andLita danced.

 

“It's so beautiful out here,” she said as they stared out across the ocean. The sun had just set and now the moonlight was starting to wash over the water.

 

“Yeah it is.” Jack sat down on the sand and pulledLita into his lap. “Nothing is as beautiful as you are.”

 

“Stop it…though it is sweet of you to say.”Lita blushed.

 

Jack loved how shyLita was. She was very delicate looking. Her face was so sweet and those blue eyes of hers sparkled with so much life.

 

Litacuddled up in his lap. She loved the feeling of his strong body. Jack was rather tall standing six two. He was very handsome with dark hair and eyes. His smile was bright and his laughter was contagious. He always brightened up a room. She breathed in his scent and the briny smell of the ocean.

 

“Look at that,” Jack pointed up to the sky.

 

“What is that?”Lita quickly stood up, Jack stood beside her. “Is it a plane?”

 

“I don't know. It's flying awfully low.”

 

A loud burst knocked both of them to the ground. Jack took the brunt of it as he tried to protectLita .

 

“Hurrygrab the female.”

 

Jack heard the muffled voices as he felt himself being tossed to the side.

 

“I have already chosen another female, so we have two now.”

 

The male voices filled Jack's mind. He tried to stand, but it felt like his body was made of stone. He looked over to the sound of the male voices. His vision was a bit blurred at first. He sawLita being carried by a very large man wearing a loincloth. The other large male was looking around. Jack saw the spaceship. His mind was having trouble adjusting. What the hell was happening?

 

“Jack!”Lita cried out.

 

“Silence female.”

 

“Put me down. I have to see if he is okay. Put me down!”

 

Jack sawLita fighting to break free of the large male's hold.

 

“Jack!” she cried out again.

 

“Let's go,” the other large male said as they headed to the spaceship.

 

Jack used every ounce of strength. He had to pull himself up. His eyes stayed locked onto the spaceship. He could still hearLita calling out his name. He had to get to her. His legs felt like jelly as he ran toward the spaceship. He jumped just as the hatch started to lift up. He rolled onto the metal floor and quickly got out of sight. He must be in some sort of cargo hold. He had to regain his balance. The knock he took was taking a lot out of him, but at least he was on the spaceship. He would getLita back from these…what the hell were they? They looked human, just really big humans.

 

He felt his body starting to lift up. He grabbed the rope of the box that he was hiding behind. His legs went straight up into the air as the ship lifted off the ground. He held on with all his strength until finally his legs came crashing down. The impact of his head hitting the crate knocked him out.

 

 

 

ccc

 

 

 

“Who are you? Where are we?”Lita said as she pounded on the metal door.

 

“Relaxhoney, I'm guessing we were adducted by aliens. By the way, my name is Sheila.”

 

“I'mLita . Adducted by aliens, that makes no sense.”

 

“Look around, sweetie. Did you get a good look at our adductors? Damn…if I knew aliens were that hot I would have signed up for NASA.”

 

“You are awfully calm about all of this.”

 

“There is no point into getting all worked up. I doubt I could put up much of a fight against those enormous men. So, just relax and enjoy the adventure.”

 

“I have to get back to Jack.”

 

“I'm guessing Jack is your sweetheart.”

 

“He might be hurt. He was knocked out from the blast of this ship landing.”

 

“Take my advice and forget about Jack.”

 

“I could never just forget about him.”Lita looked at the stunningly beautiful woman. She never saw a woman this beautiful before in real-life. Sheila was a bit taller than her, very curvy, flawless face, and hair so soft-looking you wanted to reach out and touch it. Next to herLita felt very self-conscious.

 

“Unless those big men took him too, you are going to have to forget about him.”

 

“I will talk to their leader and…”

 

“And what?We have no idea what they plan to do to us. Hell, Jack might have won the karma lottery if these big beefy men plan on sacrificing us or hell they might even eat us for all we know.”

 

Litastepped away from the door and headed over to the bed, which was covered in some sort of animal fur. She sat down. She could only pray that Jack was okay. She literally jumped when the door slid open.

 

“Relax females we won't hurt you.”

 

Litacouldn't move seeing the very large male standing by the door. He was even bigger than Jack was. He had to stand at least six foot five. His long dark hair was pulled back in a long braid that hung down his back. A dagger was strapped to his large thigh and when he came further into the room she saw the enormous sword strapped to his back.

 

“What do you want from us?”Lita asked quietly.

 

“We are taking you back toMalka . You will become mates for the strongest of our males.”

 

“I want you to take me back. I have to see if Jack is alright. You can't take me from him.”

 

“Forget about your puny Earth male.”

 

Litapulled the fur blanket closer to her when she saw that look of lust in the barbarian's eyes.

 

“Micha, you can't touch the females,” another big barbarian came in.

 

“I know.”

 

“Niro has forbidden it.”

 

“I know, I know. Let's go.”

 

Both men left the room.

 

“See honey, you would do well to forget about your Jack.”

 

“I can't forget about him. I love him.”

 

Sheila started to laugh.

 

“What's so funny?”

 

“Love is fickle, you will get over it.”

 

“Don't you have a special man?”

 

“No…men are nothing but wallets to me, sugar.”

 

“Excuse me?”Lita looked puzzled.

 

“Use a man up then move on to the next. That's my motto. I have the right tools for the job.” Sheila gave her ample breasts a squeeze. “I'm not interested in love. While I'm still beautiful I plan to get all I can from men. Seeing how we are going to a new planet, who knows what my beauty can get from these stupid barbarians. You would be wise to start thinking like me.” Sheila lay down on her bed. “Now, I must get some beauty sleep. I want to look my best when these peons take me to their leader.”

 

Litadidn't say anything. She just lay down and held the fur blanket tightly to her. Please let Jack be alright, she prayed.

 

 

 

ccc

 

 

 

“Tai and Micha come here,” the Rundal male shouted into the intercom.

 

“What is it?” Micha said as he hurried into the cargo hold, Tai was right behindhim, both men had their swords drawn.

 

“An Earth male.”

 

Tai went over and saw the large Earth male lying motionless behind the large wooden box. “Is he dead?”

 

“No.”

 

“Let's kill him and eject him from the ship,” Micha said.

 

“No…” Tai blockedMicha's sword. “I have never seen an Earth male this large before. Perhaps they do have a few skilled warriors.”

 

“Phhff, let's kill him.”

 

“No, damn it Micha.” Tai picked Jack up and threw him over his shoulder. “He is almost as heavy as a young warrior.”

 

“Shit, I bet aMalka boy could best this Earth man in battle.”

 

“We will see.”

 

“You want to watch this male battle?”

 

“Of course, it would be cowardly to just kill him. You are not a coward are you Micha?”

 

“No!” Micha growled.

 

“Good, then leave the Earth male alone until we see what Niro wants to do with him. He might want Zenos to dispose of this male.”

 

“That's a good idea. I would like to see Niro's son kill this male.”

 

Tai carried Jack over to one of the extra rooms. He threw him on the bed then left the room.

 

“Remember Micha, we will see what Niro wants to do with that male.”

 

“I heard you the first time.”

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter two

 

 

 

 

 

“You are too slow, Zenos,” Flora teased. She raced across the training grounds.

 

“Saawill kill me if you get hurt,” Zenos said.

 

“Daddy doesn't know I'm out here.”

 

“You shouldn't be out here.”

 

“Well then catch me and get me off the training grounds.”

 

Zenos sped up and quickly caught up to her. Flora yelped when Zenos lifted her up and threw her over his shoulder.

 

“Oh, you got me.”

 

“We have to get you back to your mother.” Zenos carried her off the training grounds,then he set her back down.

 

“You are such a worry wart. No one is going to hurt me.”

 

“Females can't be left alone, and you know that.”

 

“I have you to protect me.” She smiled coyly at him. She and Zenos have known each other since they were children. She let her eyes wander over his strong body. Zenos looked so much like his father Niro. Now that he was nineteen his training had picked up, so he had less time to be with her.

 

“I will always protect you, Flora.” Zenos smiled at her. He has loved Flora since they were kids. She was to be his mate, but Niro changed his mind when Zenos was sixteen. Alamaxa, the son of Tomar and now the new ruler of the Rundal, didn't like Niro just giving Flora to Zenos. Flora should be earned and chosen the proper way. Now that Zenos was nineteen, he planned on making Flora his mate.

 

His heart pounded as he moved closer to her. The look in her eyes told him she wanted his kiss.

 

“Flora…” Zenos whispered as he pulled her into his arms.

 

“We can't…someone might see.”

 

“I don't care.” Zenos kissed her as he crushed her body against his. “Let me take you. I want to feel my body join with yours.”

 

“No Zenos…my father would be so angry. He said I must only have sport with my mate.”

 

“I will be your mate.” He cupped her ass and kissed her again. His cock was so hard it ached. “I need to have you, Flora.”

 

“I feel your body's need…we can't Zenos.”

 

Zenos lifted her up and pressed her against the wall. He pushed her covering to the side as he started to loosen his loincloth. “Please Flora, allow me to have you.”

 

“Zenos!”

 

Zenos quickly set Flora down and tighten his loincloth.

 

“What do you think you are doing? You are supposed to protect her!” Niro's voice rumbled.

 

“Father…”

 

“Saahas been looking all over for you, Flora. Go to your father.”

 

“Yes Niro.” Flora hurried off.

 

“Did you take her?”

 

“No Father.” Zenos couldn't look Niro in the eye.

 

“Saatrusts you. He allows no other male around his daughter but you. How dare you touch her likethat. ”

 

“I…”

 

“You will go down and meet the ship that will be arriving from Earth.”

 

“Yes Father.” Zenos hurried off.

 

Niro walked back on the training ground. His heart was heavy. Tomar the grand leader of the Rundal was dead. Losing his friend tore at Niro. He only hoped he could make it through the ceremony. Alamaxa was now the grand ruler, not just the acting ruler. Niro was finding it harder and harder to meet Alamaxa's demands. He hated taking Flora from Zenos. Yet, Zenos should earn his female like all the other barbarian males.

 

“Niro…” Robin walked up behind him and wrapped her arms around him. “I'm going tomiss Tomar so much.”

 

“Me too, little one.Tomar'sheart couldn't bear to be without Sasha. I'm surprised he lived this last year without her. Though, his spirit left when she died.”

 

“We must leave soon to go to the Rundal village.”

 

“I know, but first we must greet the two Earth females.”

 

“They are already back?”

 

“Yeah…Zenos will come with us to the Rundal village.”

 

“I thought you wanted him to stay here with Demos.”

 

“I caught him and Flora together again. They almost had sport.”

 

“He loves her.”

 

“He can't take her until he is named her protector.”

 

“You took me before you were named my protector.” Robin held him tighter.

 

“That was different.”

 

“How so.”

 

“Tomar didn't interfere with thesekind of matters. Alamaxa was adamant about Zenos earning the right to be Flora's protector. Yet…for his own sonTaran has already chosen his mate.”

 

“The Rundal customs are different than ours.”

 

“I know this…it's just…”

 

“You don't like him sticking his nose into our business.”

 

“Yes. What does it matter to a Rundal what a barbarian mating customs is?”

 

“Let's not think about all of this now. We must give Tomar a proper burial.”

 

“You are right, little one. Tomar deserves the highest honor even in his death.”

 

 

 

ccc

 

 

 

The younger warriors showed Zenos respect as he passed by. The older ones simply stood. However, once Niro entered the chamber they saluted. Zenos knew he had to earn the respect of the warriors. He stepped to the side to allow his father through. He watched Niro standing there. He only hoped that one day, he would look as grand.

 

“Tai, Micha…” Niro nodded his head to them as they approached.

 

Zenos looked at the frightened Earth female that Tai gently had a hold of,then his eyes went to the stunning female Micha walked behind.

 

“This isLita and Sheila, great Niro,” Tai said. “There is another matter.”

 

“What is it?” Niro asked.

 

Tai motioned to the Rundal warriors. Within moments they came out with a large male in chains.

 

“Lita!”Jack yelled.

 

“Jack!”Lita froze when she saw the lizard-looking males who flanked Jack.

 

“Holy shit, this is some sci-fi crap,” Shelia said as she too looked at the Rundal warriors.

 

“This Earth male somehow got onto the ship,” Tai said.

 

“Let her go, now!” Jack struggled with his chains.

 

“Earth male, calm yourself or the barbarians will kill you,” one of the Rundal warriors said quietly.

 

Niro walked up the ramp toward Jack.

 

“That is Niro, the leader of theMalka warriors. You would be wise to show him respect,” the Rundal warrior said. Both Rundal warriors bowed as Niro came near.

 

Niro looked at the large Earth male for a moment.

 

“You can do whatever you want to me, but please letLita go home,” Jack said as he bowed his head to Niro.

 

“Son, come here.”

 

Zenos hurried over to Niro. “Yes father.”

 

“You are the ruler of these people…I implore you to letLita go. Do what you will with me.”

 

“We don't want Earth males, now be silent.” Niro looked over to Zenos. “Well, Son what should we do with him?”

 

“He was only trying to protect his female.” Zenos turned around and looked at Micha and Tai. “Weren't you instructed to only take unattached females?”

 

“How are we supposed to know which females have mates?” Micha said with slight disdain to his voice.

 

“You will watch how you talk to my son,” Niro said.

 

“If this male got onto the ship that would suggest he was near his female,” Zenos said.

 

“He might have been her brother,” Micha said. “How am I supposed to know? Kill the Earth male, Niro.”

 

“Father, we can't simply kill him. This would be wrong.”

 

“Why would it be?” Niro asked.

 

“He was only trying to protect his female. WhatMalka male wouldn't have done the same?”

 

“So you suggest we let him have his female back?”

 

“No, I'm not saying that. I'm just saying it would be wrong to kill him.”

 

“Take him to a holding cell. I will deal with this matter when I have come back from the Rundal village. However, take both females to my hut. Demos and Nina will watch over them.”

 

“Yes Niro.”

 

“Damnit, letLita go!” Jack struggled harder.

 

Zenos looked at Jack. His hand was on the hilt of his sword just in case this Earth male did manage to break free.

 

“No…Lita!” Jack yelled as she was being taken from the dock.

 

“Jack! Please don't fight them. Please!”

 

“You bastard, give her back to me.” Jack glared at Zenos.

 

“Are you challenging my son?” Niro said.

 

“I will kill you all if you lay a finger on her.”

 

Zenos moved closer to Jack. Niro's hand instantly went to the hilt of his sword. He knew Zenos could easily kill this male. Even so, no one especially some Earth male was going to touch his son.

 

“You should not issue a challenge to a room full of males. How can you help your female if you are dead?”

 

“I don't care what happens to me.”

 

“You should…” Zenos pulled his sword from its sheath. “I see you don't carry a weapon. Just how do you plan on killing us all?”

 

“With my bare hands if necessary.”

 

“You are foolish. Know your opponent before you strike.”

 

“Niro, Zenos must kill that Earth male now,” one of the barbarian warriors yelled out.

 

“Son, this male's fate is in your hands. Do what you will with him?”

 

Zenos regarded Jack for a moment. He would have done the same thing if some strange men had come and taken Flora away. “Do what my father commanded you to do.”

 

Niro watched as two of his warriors took the Earth male away. “We must prepare to go to the Rundal village.” He waited until the other warriors had left. “Zenos, why didn't you kill that male? He clearly challenged you?”

 

Zenos put his sword back into its sheath. “He was distraught by being powerless to help his female. Micha and Tai should have made sure thatLita wasn't another male's mate. I can't punish that Earth male for what those two did wrong.”

 

“Should Micha and Tai be punished?”

 

“No…it would be wrong to punish two of your best warriors over some Earth male.”

 

“You have your mother's compassion. I would have killed the Earth male for challenging you.”

 

Zenos looked at his father. “You would have?”

 

“Yes. No male challenges you and lives. Though now that you are nineteen you need to fight your own battles.”

 

“I'm too weak to rule our people,” Zenos said quietly.

 

“No you're not.”

 

“I don't understand. You just said you would have killed that male.”

 

“But you showed mercy. I think in this case your course of action was the right choice.”

 

“I still don't understand.”

 

“I'm merciful in most cases. Even so, all I saw was just another male. We have far too many males already. Furthermore, with the Loma females producing so many male offspring…in any case, I couldn't see pass the fact that earthling was male. I'm glad you were able to. Your mother must be thanked for you having a broader vision than I do.”

 

Zenos smiled. He could see Niro's pride in him.

 

“Now enough of this, your mother and sister are waiting for us. We must leave for the Rundal village.”

 

“Father, will Alamaxa allow us to attendTomar's burial?”

 

“I didn't bother to ask. Nothing will keep me from paying my respect to my friend.”

 

“But what if…”

 

“Don'tworry, it would be foolish for Alamaxa to make me angry. This is a most tenuous time for both the Rundal and our people. Without Tomar ruling the Rundal I don't know if peace can be maintained between our people.”

 

“If there is war…”

 

“The Rundal will lose. I have no wish to hurt our allies. It's my hope that Alamaxa can see it is beneficial to keep the peace between our people.”

 

“Mom…” Zenos rushed over to Robin. She looked like she had just been crying.

 

“Daddy, mom is really upset,” Rose said as she held onto Robin's hand.

 

“Don't fuss over me,” Robin said.

 

“Little one…” Niro lifted Robin into his arms and held her tightly to him. “Shh…don'tcry, my little one.”

 

Zenos watched as Niro brought calm to Robin. The love his parents had for each other showed.

 

“It feels strange knowing Tomar is dead,” Robin said sadly.

 

“I know…”

 

“He willingly helped me so much through more things than I can count. And yet, I couldn't make him feel better after Sasha was killed.”

 

“You tried, little one. If something happened to you, there would be nothing anyone could do to make me feel whole again. It was the same with Tomar.” Niro hugged Robin tighter. “He is with Sasha now. Just think about that when the sadness hits.” Niro gently put her down.

 

“Mom…” Zenos quietly said. It tore him up to see his mother cry.

 

“I'm alright.” Robin stroked his face.

 

“Niro, we must leave,” the Rundal warrior said.

 

Niro grabbed Robin's hand and led her onto the ship.

 

“You think mom is going to be alright?” Rose said.

 

“She will be. Are you going to be alright?” Zenos looked at his little sister. It's hard to believe she was fifteen already. She looked like Robin, but she had Niro's green eyes. She was taller than Robin by six inches.

 

“I will be. Tomar was a great male.”

 

“That he was.” Zenos grabbed her hand and led her onto the ship. He was disappointed when Niro told him he was going to the Rundal village. Now, he was glad he was going. He wanted to be there for his mother and sister. Plus, he wanted to pay his respects to Tomar. He met Alamaxa once, way back when he was just six years old. Alamaxa scared him. He was so large and had such a stern look to his face. He wondered if Alamaxa would scare him now.

 

He made sure Rose was strapped in then he fastened his seat belt. He looked over at his parents. Robin was leaning on Niro as he had his strong arm around her, trying to bring her comfort. He could see his mother calm down being in his father's arms.

 

“Listen, my children. Alamaxa must be shown respect. Be quiet and follow my lead.”

 

“We will do as you say, father,” Zenos said.

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter Three

 

 

 

Mara watched Ramiro standing out on the balcony staring off to nowhere. Losing his father had been very hard on Ramiro, especially considering he lost his mother just a year ago.

 

“Is father going to be alright?” Colt said.

 

“It will take time. I have to get your sisters ready forTomar's burial.”

 

“Are you sure they are not too young?”

 

“Tonais twelve, she should come. Alamaxa insists that Lana also attend.Julus and Marg will be staying with a helper.”

 

“Let me guess, Alamaxa only insisted that your two Rundal children attend. Am I allowed to attendTomar's burial? After all I'mLarmat .”

 

“Of course you can attend. You knew your grandfather.”

 

“Then why can'tJulus and Marg attend? Is it because they are alsoLarmat ?”

 

“No, they are only two years old and won't understand what's going on.”

 

“You look tired, Mother.”

 

“Don't worry about me.”

 

“I will go get my sisters ready to go. You just stay with father.”

 

“Thank you, Colt.”

 

Mara and Ramiro had adopted five children over the last twelve years since they have been joined. Colt was their first. He was five when they saved him from being murdered by his father. Colt's mother died giving birth to him and his father never forgave him for it. Colt was now eighteen and was quite a handsome young man. His blond hair was almost white in color which showed off his pale blue eyes. He was strong and stood six foot four. Moreover, thanks to Niro allowing Colt to train with Zenos he has become quite a skilled warrior.

 

Mara recently savedJulus and Marg from being killed by their father. They were twins and were rather small. Their father assumed the two were going to be weaker males when they grew up, so he was going to kill them to sparehimself the shame of having weak sons.

 

Tonawas twelve and Lana was six years old, both were Rundal females.Tona's father died when she was only four and left her an orphan. Lana's mother and father died at the same time Sasha had been killed. Alamaxa was convinced that a raiding horde ofLarmat warriors killed every one in his mother's caravan. They were on their way to the mainLarmat village. Tomar believed it was wildconjas that killed his beloved mate and her party, though he couldn't convince Alamaxa of this.

 

Mara smiled when Zenith andPetra came in.

 

“Mara…”Petra hurried over and took her friend into her arms.

 

Zenith walked over to Ramiro. “Are you going to be alright, Ramiro?”

 

Ramiro turned around and looked at his old friend. “I will be. You are looking well.”

 

“I wish I could say the same about you.”

 

“Where are your children?”

 

“They are with my mother.”

 

Zenith andPetra had three sons.Dalas was eight years old,Trom was seven and Bo was five. All of them looked like Zenith.

 

Ramiro looked over to the door when Colt came back withTona and Lana.

 

“Alamaxa doesn't want Colt to come to the burial,” Ramiro said.

 

“Screw him. Colt wants to say goodbye to Tomar too.”

 

“I know this that's why I'm allowing him to come with us. I'm the son of Tomar too. Alamaxa wouldn't dare to make a scene in front of our people. However, he has ordered that allLarmat warriors are to leave the Rundal village within the next week.”

 

“Why didn't he do this when Tomar was alive?”

 

“It's simple; father wouldn't have allowed him to do that. Now that father is dead, nothing will stop Alamaxa.”

 

“Are you and Mara going to leave the Rundal village?”

 

“I don't know yet. I'm the General of the Rundal warriors. I can't just simply pack up and leave.”

 

“Niro will be arriving soon. I hope Alamaxa doesn't get allpissy about it.”

 

“He wouldn't insult the leader of the barbarians. I'm glad Niro is coming. Perhaps, he will allow Colt to stay with him for a little while. Colt and Zenos are good friends.”

 

“I'm sure Niro won't mind.” Zenith watched as Colt walked over to them. He bowed his head respectfully at Zenith. After all Zenith was the General of the barbarian warriors who were stationed in this region. A title his father passed on to him when he retired.

 

“Father, we must leave soon,” Colt said.

 

“Alright.”Ramiro watched his son walk away. It didn't matter that they weren't blood related. Colt and all his other adopted children were his and Mara's family.

 

“He has grown into a fine warrior,” Zenith said. “Perhaps he could help me train my sons.”

 

“Train already?Your oldest is only eight and surely Bo who is only five is too young.”

 

“AMalka male starts training when they are five, sometimes younger if their mother allows it.”

 

Mara walked over and gently grabbed Ramiro's hand. “We must leave now.”

 

Ramiro nodded his head and allowed her to lead him out of the room. He was worried about Mara, she looked so tired lately. Once everything was over, he would make sure to give her plenty of rest. He doesn't know what he would do if anything happened to her. They have been through a lot together. He was a Rundal male and she was a human female, so their union was frowned upon by the Rundal, Loma and the Barbarians, especially, theLarmat clan. And through it all they have stood strong together. He loved her with every fiber of his being. It didn't matter to him that she was human. She felt the same way about him. It was their love for one another that helped build the foundation for their ever-growing family.

 

 

 

ccc

 

 

 

Alamaxa stood by the altar that heldTomar's body.An anger simmered inside him. No matter how much Tomar tried to convince him that it was wildconjas that killed Sasha, Alamaxa didn't believe it. It had to be theLarmat that killed his mother. It had to be. Now his father was dead.Tomar's broken heart couldn't keep his body alive. His father just gave up the will to live. Alamaxa didn't understand this. Surely, Tomar could have found another mate after a brief period of mourning. Alamaxa loved his mate Lei, but he wouldn't follow her in death.

 

“Ramiro is bringing that bastardLarmat son of his,” Lei said as she walked up to Alamaxa.

 

“How darehe . I told him not to bring him. I want noLarmat scum at my father's burial ceremony.”

 

“Ramiro said his son wanted to say goodbye to Tomar.”

 

“Why? Tomar wasn't blood related to thatLarmat .”

 

“There is more my beloved. Niro and his family have arrived.”

 

“This should be for Rundal only.”

 

“I know and I agree.”

 

“If father didn't spend so much time with those dirty barbarians…” Alamaxa glared at Ramiro as he entered.

 

Ramiro climbed up the stairs leading to the altar. He looked atTomar's body lying there peacefully. Tears stung his eyes.

 

“Don't cry you weakling. Show strength for your warriors,” Alamaxa growled.

 

“Are you going to shame our father's burial ceremony with your anger?”

 

“No…but you do by bringing that Larmat brat of yours here.” Alamaxa gave Colt a cold look.

 

“I will leave if it makes it easier on you, father,” Colt said. He could feel Alamaxa's distain for him.

 

“No, you will stay. Tomar loved his grandchildren, Alamaxa.”

 

“His Rundal grandchildren,”Taran said as he stood by Alamaxa.

 

“I see you have already poisoned your son with your venom,” Ramiro said.

 

Taranlooked at Colt as if he was an annoyance that needed to be dealt with. He gave Mara the same look.

 

“This is so sad.”

 

They all turned around. Robin stood there with Niro, Zenos and Rose by her side. Tears started rolling down her face.

 

“Tomar was a great male. What he has done for not only the Rundal, but also the barbarians will be remembered for all time. He deserves a grand burial. He deserves to have peace today. Whatever squabbles you have should be put aside today. We owe Tomar at least that much.” Robin buried her face in Niro's chest and started to cry harder.

 

Zenos looked at Alamaxa. He still looked scary, but for different reasons. Therewas  hatred in his eyes that wasn't there when he met him all those years ago.

 

“You are right, Niro's female,” Alamaxa said, breaking the silence. “Allow anyone who wants to pay their respects to my father in.” Alamaxa took Lei's hand and walked up to the sitting area.Taran sat beside his father, while Ramiro and his family set on the other side of the room. Niro had no choice but to join Alamaxa, after all they both were rulers. First he and his family paid their respects to Tomar. Seeing Tomar lying there reminded Niro of his father's burial ceremony. Niro held back his tears. He couldn't show any kind of weakness. He was the ruler of theMalka barbarians. Zenos held onto Rose as she cried. Niro held Robin. He looked over toZenos, he too didn't shed a tear. No barbarian male dared cried in front of anyone. He watched Zenos struggling to contain his tears. Tomar was like a grandfather to Niro's children.

 

“We must be seated,” Niro whispered to Robin.

 

She allowed him to lead her up to Alamaxa. Two Rundal males showed them where to sit. Niro was seated beside Alamaxa.

 

Niro watched the stream of Rundal coming into the burial chamber. All of them were crying.

 

“Alamaxa,” a large Rundal warrior hurried over.

 

“What is it?”

 

“Zenith and his warriors wish to pay their respects.”

 

“Let them come.”

 

“There is more.”

 

“Speak.”

 

“Alistair has arrived.”

 

“What?!”Alamaxa stood up.

 

“The Larmat clan wishes to pay respect to Tomar.”

 

“I will not allow this.”

 

“Tomar was respected all overMalka , Alamaxa,” Niro said.

 

“I forbid any moreLarmat warriors to enter this chamber.” Alamaxa stomped down the steps. Several of his warriors followed.

 

“Alamaxa, where are you going? You can't leave now,” Lei said.

 

“Niro…” Robin said as she grabbed hold of his arm.

 

“This is the Rundal village, little one, I can't interfere with Alamaxa.”

 

“But Alistair only wants to pay his respects to Tomar.”

 

“I know, but there is nothing I can do.”

 

Niro watched as Ramiro and Colt left the chamber right after Alamaxa. Niro stood and went over to the altar where Tomar was. The Rundal warrior stopped anyone else from going up while Niro was there.

 

“I will do what I can to keep the peace you work so hard for, Tomar. I remember my promise to you. I will see that Ramiro gets what you wanted for him,” Niro said quietly. He glanced up when he saw Alistair entering the chamber. Ramiro and Colt were walking up with him.

 

“Niro,” Alistair said as he bowed his head.

 

“Alistair, what happened?”

 

“Alamaxa will only permit me to enter, and then only long enough to say goodbye to Tomar.”

 

“Come toDascon when this is over. We must speak,” Niro said.

 

“I will.”

 

Niro watched as Alistair placed a small dagger beside Tomar. He bowed his head then unsheathed his sword. Niro followed, soon all the barbarians in the room did the same.

 

“Unsheathed your sword son,” Ramiro said to Colt. “Do as Alistairdoes .”

 

“Yes father.” Colt quickly unsheathed his sword. Alistair waited for Niro to lift his sword to the sky,then he followed. Right afterwards all the barbarians did the same. Colt did too. A deafening battle cry rang out as all the barbarians cried out their best battle cry in respect to Tomar.

 

“How barbaric,” Lei said.

 

“They are saluting a fallen warrior,” Robin said.

 

“Tomar wasn't a warrior.”

 

“To be saluted as a warrior is a high honor for the barbarians.”

 

“It would be.”

 

“Rundal warriors salute,” Alamaxa bellowed.

 

Colt watched as Ramiro unsheathed his sword and held it in front of him and bowed his head. The room went very quiet. Only when the warriors sheathed their swords did noise return to the room.

 

“The Rundal way is much more dignified,” Lei said.

 

“Each way shows respect to Tomar,” Zenos said.

 

“Zenos…” Robin said quietly.

 

“I'm the mate to the ruler of our people you will show proper respect, son of Niro.”

 

“I will show you respect as long as you remember to show my father and mother the same respect.”

 

“Zenos,” Robin said louder, warning her son to be quiet.

 

Taranglared at Zenos, but didn't say a word.

 

Niro headed back up to Robin and quietly took a seat beside her.

 

Ramiro left the altar and Colt followed him. Colt watched Alistair walking out of the chamber. Alistair held himself in the same way Niro did. Colt was in awe seeing the ruler of his people. He had heard about Alistair when he was younger, Mara made sure to tell him all about the Larmat clan. She would invite male and females from the Larmat clan to visit and speak with Colt. Ramiro believed it was important for Colt to know about his people.

 

When Alistair left the room Colt turned his attention back to the ceremony. The stream of Rundal seemed endless as they came up and paid their respects to Tomar. Colt fought back his tears. Tomar treated him with such a kindness, hell he treated all Ramiro's adopted children as if they were his flesh and blood grandchildren. It's a shame thatJulus and Marg will never get to know him.

 

“It is okay to cry, my son,” Ramiro said.

 

“I'm a barbarian male…we don't cry.” Colt took deep breaths to stay off his tears.

 

“Rundal males are allowed to cry. You are my son, therefore you are part Rundal.”

 

Colt looked over at Niro and Zenos. Both of them weren't crying. He could tell they were sad, and yet they held back their tears so effortlessly.

 

A chorus of Rundal females started to sing. Colt couldn't understand the words.

 

“They are blessing my father's soul. Wishing his soul wings so he may take flight and rejoin my mother,” Ramiro said. He knew Mara and Colt wouldn't understand the Rundal language.Tona and Lana knew the language and the song of a death. All Rundal females learned this song at a very young age. They learned all the ritual songs.

 

Colt looked at his Rundal sisters as they begun singing along with the other Rundal females.

 

“Our tears will make the path to guide you to eternal happiness. Each tear we shed shows our love for you. See the flood of love we send your way…” Ramiro's voice shook and a few tears escape. “See the flood of love we send with you. Forever we will remember, forever we will carry your essence in our hearts. Forever we will speak of you and the love you gave.”

 

Colt looked at the tears that rolled down his father's face. It took all his strength not to cry, but he wouldn't, he couldn't, not in front of Niro and Zenos, especially not in front of Rose.

 

“Stay with your mother, son,” Ramiro said as he went back over to the altar.

 

Niro, Zenos, Ramiro, Alamaxa,Taran and several high ranking Rundal males lifted the stone slab in whichTomar's body laid. TheseaofRundal parted as they carriedTomar's body out of the chamber.

 

“Where are they going?” Colt asked Mara.

 

“They are going to placeTomar's body into their spacecraft.”

 

“Why?”

 

“A few of the higher ranking warriors will takeTomar's body back to Rundal.”

 

“But I thought Rundal blew up.”

 

“It did, but there are still remnants of the planet. They will launch his body out into the debris. Of course he will be in some sort of capsule. They did the same thing for Sasha. They do this for all high ranking Rundal.”

 

“Should we go to where father is?”

 

“No, we will wait for him to come back.”

 

Colt looked across the room and saw Robin holding onto Rose, both females were crying. He couldn't stop himself from going over there.

 

“Colt where are you going?”Mara asked.

 

However, he didn't answer. He quickly went over to Rose.

 

“Colt…”

 

He was surprised when Rose latched onto him and held him tightly.

 

“I'm going tomiss Tomar so much.” She wept.

 

“Rose…” Robin didn't know what to do. To her this was no big deal if Rose hugged Colt, but the other barbarian males would surely have a problem with it.

 

“Uggh, who saidyou can come over here,” Lei said as she looked at Colt with disgust. “You are Larmat and are not welcome in Rundal.” She got up and walked out of the chamber.

 

“Don't listen to her, Colt,” Rose said as she held him tighter.

 

Zenith hurried up the stairs to Robin. “Colt release Niro's daughter.”

 

“Why?” Rose said as she reluctantly let Colt go.

 

“A female shouldn't touch a male who isn't her father, brother or mate. You know this Colt.”

 

“Zenithit's okay,” Robin said. “I will handle it.”

 

Zenith bowed his head then went back toPetra .

 

“Are you alright now, Rose,” Colt asked.

 

“I will be.”

 

“Colt…” Mara came over withTona and Lana with her.

 

“Hello Mara, please sit down,” Robin said.

 

“Robin, I'm sorry, I didn't know he was going to do that. Colt come over here andsit by me. All those barbarian males are talking.”

 

Colt went over and sat down by Mara.

 

“Ramiro was going to ask Niro to let Colt stay with you guys for a little while, but I doubt he will agree now.”

 

“Of course Colt can stay with us. I will talk to Niro,” Robin said. “I'm sure Zenos would love to have his favorite sparring partner to train with.”

 

They sat in silence as they watched the Rundal and Barbarians quietly leave the burial chamber. After a little while the room was empty. A Rundal warrior rushed into the room and headed straight for Mara.

 

“Mara, Ramiro wishes for you and your children to head back home now,” a Rundal male said as he hurried up to them.

 

“Why?”

 

“Please follow me. I'm only following orders.”

 

“Okay…” Mara turned to Robin. “Thank you, Robin, please let me know what Niro said.”

 

“Umm, Niro has ordered that Robin, Rose and Colt to follow me.”

 

“What?” Mara asked.

 

“Ramiro said it was alright for Colt to go with them and for you not to worry, he would explain. Now please do what I asked.”

 

Mara hugged Colt. “I will come and see you soon.”

 

“Mother I am eighteen. I will be alright.”

 

Mara was worried about Colt going alone to theDascon village. As long as Ramiro was with him, noDascon male would dare hurt him. There were plenty ofDascon people who still held prejudice toward the Larmat clan. Even though Niro tries to refer to all warriorsMalka warriors, there were still plenty of prejudices among the clans.

 

“Don't worry, Mother.” Colt gave her a hug.

 

“Please hurry, mate of Niro,” the Rundal male said.

 

Robin, Rose and Colt followed the Rundal male out of the chamber and straight for theconja stables. Niro, Zenos and Alistair were waiting there. The other Larmat warriors had already left.

 

“What's going on?” Robin asked.

 

“Colt, you will fly with Alistair,” Niro said.

 

“Niro…” Robin said as he lifted her up and placed her on hisconja .

 

“Rosego with Zenos. Let's go.”

 

“What the hell is going on?” Robin asked.

 

Niro climbed on theconja behind Robin then kicked its sides. Theconja took flight.

 

“Little one, Alamaxa has insulted the Larmat clan. I'm afraid Alistair may declare war on the Rundal.”

 

“What?!How the world…”

 

“Alamaxa killed a Larmat warrior. I never saw a Rundal fight like that.”

 

“Why did he kill a Larmat warrior?”

 

“He insulted Alistair and the Larmat clan in front of Alistair's warriors. The Larmat male became enraged and attacked Alamaxa.”

 

“So Alamaxa's guards killed the warrior?”

 

“No Alamaxa killed him, and he did it so swiftly. Then he demanded that all Larmat leave Rundal immediately. Any Larmat left in the Rundal village at sunrise will be executed.”

 

“Oh my God…wait…what about Mara's twin boys.”

 

“Mara will be bringing them, along with her two Rundal daughters to our village. Ramiro is staying with Zenith in the Rundal village.Petra will be taking hers and Zenith's children toDascon as well.”

 

“Should you pull out your warriors from Rundal?”

 

“No. Alamaxa would be a fool to hurt aDascon .”

 

“Why did Alamaxa have to do this today? Tomar deserved a better send off. Why does Alamaxa hate the Larmat so much?”

 

“He believes they killed Sasha.”

 

“But Tomar proved that wildconjas did it.”

 

“I know, little one…”

 

They rode the rest of the way in silence.

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter Four

 

 

 

 

 

Jack woke up. His head hurt and his body ached. What in the hell was in that water the large female gave him. The last thing he remembered was being thrown in this room with shackles on, then that woman came in. He was so thirsty he couldn't refuse the water she offered.

 

He was happy that at least he wasn't shackled anymore. He rubbed his wrist as he sat up. His eyes darted around the room. How in the world was he going to findLita and get her out of here?

 

He slowly stood up. He still felt a bit woozy from the drug that woman gave him. The room he was in was rather small. There were bars on the windows and no doubt the door was locked.

 

He walked over to the window. He could still see out between the bars. He was in some sort of large village. Everything looked primitive, and yet at the same time there was a strange sophistication to everything. There were no electrical lines, and certainly no cars driving around. Still, those lizard people did have that spaceship. He guessed it was the lizard men who had any technical know how on this planet.

 

He quickly became on guard when the door opened up. The large male that stood in the doorway was most awe-inspiring. He had to stand at least six footfive, he was very broad and well muscled. His long dark hair was in a braid that hung down the length of his back. His one eye had a scar over it and the other was violet in color. Jack could see the hilt of the sword that was strapped to this intimidating man's back.

 

“My name is Demos, and it would be in your best interest to do as I say.”

 

“Where isLita ?”

 

“She is safe. Now come with me. If you even once act up, I will kill you.”

 

Jack remembered what that barbarian named Zenos had told him. How was he going to protectLita if he was dead? In addition, judging by the size and no doubt fighting skills of this Demos guy, Jack would be no match for him, not as he was.

 

“Alright I will go with you peacefully.”

 

“I wasn't asking you. I was telling you to come with me. You are lucky that Zenos has allowed you to live. You would be wise to remember that.”

 

Jack walked over to Demos. Damn this guy was big. Hell, Jack genuinely thought he was a big guy on Earth, but on this planet he was average size at best.

 

He followed behind Demos as they walked out of the small hut and down the dirt road. Jack looked around. There were lots of men, but very few women. Even the little boys seemed to out number the girls.

 

“Demos, Niro is on his way back from Rundal, he will arrive at night fall. He wants you to be at the meeting chamber when he arrives.”

 

“What has happened?” Demos looked at the scout.

 

Niro always sent at least one of his warriors on ahead to announce his arrival. It was traditional for theDascon ruler to do this.

 

“Alamaxa has insulted Alistair. He killed a Larmat warrior.”

 

Jack could feel the tension in the air. Once Demos dismissed the warrior he moved on. He didn't even look to see if Jack was still following him or not.

 

They headed for a very large hut. This thing seemed to go on forever. Jack deduced this must be that Niro's hut. That meansLita was in here somewhere.

 

“Father, when are we training?” A boy hurried up to them. The boy looked just like Demos.

 

“Ranor, where is your sister?” Demos said sternly.

 

“Jenevais with Mother.”

 

“I told you to watch her.”

 

“But…”

 

“You better go watch her.”

 

“Yes Father.” Ranor rushed off.

 

Jack continued to follow Demos into the leader hut. They went down a long corridor then Demos abruptly stopped, turned around and glared at Jack. “My female and offspring are in this section of the leader hut. One step out of line here and I will kill you where you stand. Do you understand?”

 

Jack just nodded his head.

 

Demos instructed the male who was patrolling the area to get some of the warriors ready for Niro's arrival.

 

Jack paid little attention to what the two men were saying. Thoughts ofLita filled every thought. He wondered if she was okay, were these barbarians treating heralright?

 

Demos turned back around and opened the door.

 

“There you are,” Nina said as she hurried over and wrapped her arms around Demos. “Mmm, I've been thinking about you all morning.”

 

Demos lifted her up and kissed her deeply. Nina moaned deeply as she wrapped her legs around him. When she opened her eyes she saw Jack standing there.

 

“Who is this?” Nina said as sheunwrapped her legs from Demos' waist.

 

“That doesn't matter now. Finish what you started, female.”

 

“Put me down for a moment.”

 

Reluctantly Demos did. He stepped aside and motioned for Jack to come in.

 

“Are you from Earth?” Nina asked.

 

“Yeah…” Jack didn't look at her. He didn't know what in the hell to do.

 

“He boarded the ship that came back from Earth.” Demos grabbed Jack by the arm and led him to one of the support beams that were in the middle of the room.

 

“Stay there,” Demos said.

 

“Why did you board the ship?” Nina asked as she walked over to Jack.

 

“They tookLita .”

 

“Enough!” Demos bellowed as he secured Jack's arms to the pole with the rope.

 

“Lita?Is that your wife, girlfriend?”

 

Jack didn't say anything.

 

“Come here, my female,” Demos growled as he pulled Nina into his arms. He lifted her up and carried her over to the nearest wall. He pinned her to it. He lifted her covering and started to remove his loincloth.

 

“Whoa, wait a minute, big guy. You are going to take me right here in front of him?”

 

“Yes, my cock hungers for your pussy.” Without saying another word, he let his loincloth fall from his body,then he quickly impaled her with his large cock.

 

She let out a loud moan.

 

Jack looked away, but he could still hear the sounds of their fucking.

 

“Demos…we…can't…ohh…but…ahh…”

 

Demos stopped thrusting for a moment. “You want me to stop?” he said breathily. “Do you?” He slowly moved his cock in and out of her.

 

“Oh shit…I'm going to come…oh baby…oh yeah…harder…oh harder baby,” she moaned loudly. Right now she didn't care who was watching.

 

Jack closed his eyes and all he could see wasLita . The image of her writhing under him when they made love ignited his body. Only the sound of Demos roaring his orgasm snapped Jack out of his daydream.

 

“Mmmm, my female,” Demos said as he kissed down her neck.

 

“Okay, we have to stop, put me down.”

 

Demos used his body to block Jack's view as Nina straightened out her covering while he put his loincloth back on.

 

“Damn, that was hot,” Nina purred at him. “Next time, make sure we are alone, you are such an exhibitionist.”

 

“I would fuck you in a room full of males. Let them hear the pleasure I bring you.”

 

“I better go clean up.Jeneva and Ranor will be back soon.”

 

“Where did they go?”

 

“Ranor came running in here a little while ago and tookJeneva with him. He said he would be right back.”

 

“Damn it,” Demos growled.

 

“What?”

 

“I know where he went. He better nothave taken his sister to the training grounds.” Demos headed for the door.

 

Nina quickly went over and stopped him.

 

“They will be fine. They are your offspring; no one would dare touch them.”

 

“Ranor knows better than to take his sister to the training grounds.”

 

“Maybe he went to the female training grounds.”

 

“Stay here, don't let him loose.” Demos left the room.

 

Nina walked over to Jack. “I'm sorry about Demos not able to wait until we were alone to…you know.”

 

“Where isLita ?”

 

“Which one of the Earth women was she?”

 

“She is petite, shoulder-length brown hair, very pretty and rather shy.”

 

“I will go see where she is.”

 

“Thank you.”

 

Jack watched Nina leave the room.

 

 

 

ccc

 

 

 

Ranor showedJeneva around the training grounds. There were only a few male warriors training.

 

“I can't wait until I'm big enough to train with them,” Ranor said.

 

“You are only twelve.”

 

“So, Zenos said I'm already showing great skills as a warrior.”

 

“Zenos is nice and he is so handsome too,”Jeneva giggled.

 

“You aretwelve, you are too young to become a male's mate.”

 

“So…”Jeneva lightly pushed him. “Show me some of your skills.”

 

“Alright.”

 

Ranor took out his sword and showedJeneva what he had learned.

 

“Very good, Ranor.”She clapped. Her eyes opened wide when a very large male headed over to them.

 

“What's wrong?” Ranor turned around then quickly stood in front of his sister ready to defend her.

 

The large male started to laugh. “What do you think you can do, boy?”

 

“My daddy is Demos,”Jeneva said.

 

“I know. Why is he allowing such a young female to be out on the training grounds?”

 

“My brother Ranor is here to protect me.”

 

“Is thatso. Tell me, boy. Do you genuinely think you can stop me from hurting your sister?”

 

“She is too young to be a male's mate. Leave her alone.”

 

“She may be too young to be my mate, but that doesn't mean she is too young for me to have sport with.”

 

“Don't you touchher. ” Ranor gripped his sword tightly. He was so afraid. This male was so big; his sword was as big as Ranor was.

 

“Let's see if you can stop me,” the large male chuckled.

 

He charged at Ranor knocking the boy to the ground. He put the point of his sword toRanor's neck.

 

“Come on is this the best the son of Demos can do?”

 

“Leave him alone,” Jeneva yelled as she tried pushed the large male off Ranor.

 

He gently pushed her away and grabbed Ranor by the neck. He stood up and then threw Ranor to the ground sendingRanor's sword flying.

 

The large male's laughter stung at Ranor.

 

“Are you okay?” Jeneva asked as she rushed over to Ranor.

 

“Run Jeneva, run to father. That male will hurt you if you don't.”

 

“I have never fucked a twelve-year-old female before,” the male growled.

 

“Run Jeneva, please run.”

 

“What about you?”

 

“Don't worry about me. Please run.”

 

Jeneva screamed when the large male grabbed her.

 

Ranor used all his strength to pull himself up. The hit he took from the male knocked the wind right out of him. He hurried to get his sword, but before he could reach it, he heard the sound of swords clashing.

 

“Daddy!”Jeneva cried.

 

Ranor looked over and saw Jeneva sitting on the ground crying while Demos was fighting the large male. Ranor grabbed his sword and hurried over to his sister. She was shaking like a leaf.

 

“It's okay now.”

 

Jeneva latched onto Ranor and started to cry. Ranor watched his father quickly defeat the male. His eyes widened when Demos ran his sword through the males stomach then quickly pulled it out and slashed his throat. The blood that poured from the male pooled out and stained the ground. Ranor heard the male gasped, sputter, and then finally become motionless.

 

Demos pushed Ranor from Jeneva and lifted her up into his arms.

 

“It's okay, daddy's little angel,it's okay. Did the male…didhe…”

 

“No daddy, Ranor stopped him.”

 

Demos hugged Jeneva tightly then he glared down at Ranor.

 

“I told you not to take your sister to the training grounds,” he growled at Ranor.

 

“I'm sorry, father.”

 

“Sorry is not good enough. Your sister could have been…” Demos couldn't bringhimself to say the rest of the sentence. “Go home now!” he bellowed.

 

Ranor quickly ran out of the training grounds and straight for his home.

 

“I have arranged forLita to be brought back here.”

 

Ranor heard his mother say through the door. He quickly opened the door and rushed in.

 

“Ranor…”

 

He hurried passed his mother and went straight for his room.

 

“Ranor what happened?” Nina asked as she entered his room. “Where is Jeneva?”

 

“She is right here,” Demos said as he enteredRanor’s room. Jeneva was still cradled in his arms. Demos went to her room and gently placed her on the bed.

 

“Stay in here.”

 

“Yes, Daddy.”

 

Demos came back into Ranos room and grabbed him.

 

“What the hell happened?” Nina asked.

 

“He tookJeneva to the training grounds.” Demos dragged Ranos out of the room and into the hallway.

 

“Demos…”

 

“Jeneva almost was…some male almost…I had to kill that male.” He grabbed a leather strip and began hitting Ranor with it.

 

“Stop it, Demos,” Nina said.

 

“No, Jeneva could have been hurt because he disobeyed me. He will learn a lesson.”

 

“Demos…”

 

“My father beat me within an inch of my life when I didn't obey him.” Demos threw Ranor to the ground. He was about to begin beating Ranor again but the look in Nina's eyes made him stop.

 

“I know that doing this is what you males do to each other, but…he is my little boy. Ranor should be punished, but not like this.”

 

“Go to your room and don't come out until I say you can.”

 

“Yes Sir.” Ranor hurried off.

 

“I killed a warrior today because my son was careless enough to take a female to the training grounds. Jeneva is starting to look like a grown female, not so much like a little girl anymore. Nina…” Demos looked at her. “Even though it is forbidden to touch a female until she reaches eighteen summers old, many males don't care. If a female is alone without a protector even one as young as Jeneva, she runs the risk of being raped. That asshole hadJeneva's covering pulled up, and he was fumbling with his loincloth. If I was even a minute later he would have raped…my little girl.”

 

“Demos…”

 

“What would have been worse was that Ranor would have witnessed his sister being hurt like that, and he would have been powerless to stop it. Both of my offspring could have been scarred from that.”

 

“You protected them,that's all that matters now. I will talk to Ranor and to Jeneva. You have to calm down before you hand outRanor's punishment.”

 

“You are right. Damn it, Niro… I have to get the meeting chamber ready. And I have to deal with that Earth male.”

 

“Don't worry about Jack. I will watch him for you.”

 

“Jack?”

 

“The Earth male's name.”

 

“How do you know his name?”

 

“I asked him.”

 

“You shouldn't be talking to him. If he hurts you I will…”

 

“Relax,I can take care of myself. You trained me remember. What's going on with Niro? I thought he was at the Rundal village.”

 

“Alamaxa killed a Larmat warrior, now Niro fears war might break out between the Rundal and Larmat. That's all I know right now.”

 

“Oh…I hope war doesn't break out. Whose side wouldDascon be on?”

 

“I don't know. However, I better get the meeting room ready. I will deal with Ranor later.”

 

“I'm so glad you went to check up on them. It never occurred to me that Ranor would take her to the male training ground.”

 

“Don't blame yourself. The blame is onRanor's shoulder. Besides, nothing happened thank the Goddess.”

 

“Go, do what you have to do. I'm alright. I will hold down the fort here.”

 

“Fort?”

 

“Never mind, just go.”

 

“That damn Earth male…I had to bring him here before Micha killed him.”

 

“Why would Micha do that?”

 

“I'm guessing he wants the Earth male's mate and he is afraid Zenos might allow the Earth male to become her protector. So if he kills him now…”

 

“I get it. It's sweet that you wanted to protect him.”

 

“I did it for you. He is from your home planet.”

 

“Thank you, baby.Now you better go.”

 

She kissed him and when he left, she leaned up against the wall. Her legs felt a bit wobbly when she thought about what almost happened to her kids.

 

She took a few deep breaths then went to check on the kids. Jeneva was still a little shaken up, but otherwise alright. Then Nina went toRanor's room. He quickly wiped away the tears when she came in.

 

“What is it, Mother?” He sniffled. He was trying to act so brave.

 

“Are you alright?”

 

“I deserved much worse. I failed to protect my sister.”

 

“You are only twelve, Ranor. That other male was full grown.”

 

“Father killed him so quickly, and I couldn't even manage to harm that male at all.”

 

“Your father has lots of experience. He has been fighting and training since he was younger than you, not to mention he is an adult, and you are just a child.”

 

“I'm the son of Demos…I should be better than I am.”

 

“Now stop that. You are the best in your training class. Zenos told Demos you are very skilled for your age. Not to mention Zenith was impressed by your skills. You need to remember to listen to your father. He knows everything there is to know about being a male warrior on this planet.”

 

“I deserve to be punished. Jeneva could have been hurt.”

 

“Don't worry you will be punished alright. Now go to your sister and make her feel better.”

 

Ranor hurried from the room and headed straight forJeneva's room.

 

Nina only had a few minutes beforeLita was brought over. With everything that just happened she forgot to ask Demos what was going to happen to Jack. Demos did manage to save him this time, but there was no way Jack could stay tied to the pole in the greeting room forever. Jack sure wasn't safe on this planet. Maybe she could talk to Robin tomorrow and see if she could arrange for Jack andLita to be brought back to Earth. Of course with this thing with the Rundal, she doubted that was going to happen.

 

She went back to where Jack was tied up. She wished at least she could untie him. She knew that wasn't happening either.

 

“I wish I could untie you.”

 

“Letting me seeLita is enough for me.”

 

Nina smiled at him then went to see what was taking so long to bringLita here.

 

 

 

ccc

 

 

 

“Ride me, female,” Micha growled.

 

“Oh damn your cock is so fucking big…oh yes,” Sheila moaned loudly. She moved her hips faster and faster. Micha gripped her hips and helped her to ride him.

 

She looked down at him as he laid there. Getting these stupid barbarians to do what she wanted was too easy. She was a bit shocked at first when this big oaf killed the younger male she had bedded first. Yet, she was thrilled to see two men fighting so viciously just to fuck her. This one under her now was a higher rank than that other peon, so he probably could get her what she wanted easier. She wondered as she listened to him growl and grunt, if he managed to kill Jack yet.

 

“Tell me, you big strong male…” She moved her hips around and around much to his delight. “Did you kill the Earth male yet?”

 

“Not yet…mmm, yeah faster…ah.”

 

Sheila stopped moving. “You didn't kill him. I asked you to do that for me and you said you would.”

 

Micha growled and rolled over pinning her under him. He thrust faster and deeper into her.

 

“Hey…stop…you don't get any more of my pussy…”

 

“Shut up. I'm not stopping for anything now.”

 

“God damn it, you are starting to hurt me.”

 

“Take it, take it all…” He drove his cock as deep as it would go into her. He impaled her again and again, faster and harder. He roared so loud when heorgasmed it frightened her a little. He lay on top of her for a few more moments then rolled off.

 

Sheila sat up and reached for her covering.

 

“What do you think you are doing?” he asked as he ran his hand down her back.

 

“Getting dressed.”

 

“I'm not finished with you, yet.”

 

“Oh yes you are. You didn't keep your promise. You said the Earth male would be dead.”

 

“And he would have been if he had been there when I got there.”

 

Sheila looked at him. “He wasn't in that room?”

 

“No, the guard said Demos took the Earth male out of there.”

 

“Who is Demos?”

 

“He is the General ofDascon warriors.”

 

“General…” Sheila smiled. “Where can I findthis Demos ?”

 

“Why?”

 

“I would like to meet him.”

 

Micha chuckled.

 

“What's so funny?”

 

“Like Nina will let a woman as beautiful as you near Demos.”

 

“Who's Nina?”

 

“Demos' mate.”

 

“So, what rank are you?”

 

“I'm a high ranking warrior.”

 

Sheila ran her hand up his chest. “Will you still kill the Earth male for me?”

 

“Why should you care what happens to him?”

 

“Lita disgust me with her whimpering and whining about him. There are so many big strong males on this planet, and yet she stills wants that puny male.” Sheila despised the fact thatLita and Jack loved each other so much. Shit, Jack jumped into an alien spaceship to save her ass. No man would have done that much for Sheila. Let Lita be miserable,who cares.

 

“Phff, that's a stupid reason. Who cares what that little femalewants. It's the strongest warrior who will be her mate anyway.”

 

“Still…” Sheila started kissing down his belly. “I would love to see you kill him.” She took his large cock into her mouth and starting sucking.

 

“Mmmm, that feels so fucking good.”

 

She let his cock popped from her mouth.

 

“Don't stop.”

 

“I could do so many nasty things to you. I will suck this big cock every night if you want. Oh, the things I can do with my tongue.” She ran her tongue over his cock then down to his balls then back up again. “All you have to do is give me what I want.”

 

“Suck it now,” he growled. He went to grab her head, but she quickly moved.

 

“I will suck you all night if you promise to give me what I want.” She squeezed her breasts together and moaned softly.

 

“I will give you what you want.”

 

“Mmm,” she purred as she bent over and took his cock back into her mouth. She sucked him off over and over until he couldn't get hard anymore.

 

 

 

ccc

 

 

 

“Jack!”Lita cried out as she entered Nina's home.

 

“Lita.”

 

Nina watched as Lita kissed all over Jack's face.

 

“Oh Lita, you look…beautiful.”

 

She was wearing the wrap around coverings that all the female barbarians wore.

 

“I'm so happy to see you are alright. Why are you tied up?”

 

“Don't worry about it. The important thing is that you are alright.”

 

Lita turned to Nina. “Please untie him.”

 

“I'm sorry but I can't. It's for his protection. Jack, she can't stay for too long.”

 

“Where are they keeping you?” Jack asked as he gazed intoLita's eyes.

 

“I'm with these really big women. I think they are guarding me.”

 

“Have any of those men touched you.”

 

“No…”

 

“What? I don't like that look in your eyes.”

 

“There have been a couple times where…”

 

“Who tried to hurt you?”

 

“Calm down, Jack. I wasn't assaulted. This very big male saved me twice, and then he posted those large female warriors to guard my room.”

 

“What was his name? I must thank him.”

 

“I don't know what his name was. He never stayed long enough for me to thank him.”

 

“What did he look like? Maybe Nina might know who this guy was.”

 

“Tell me what he looked like. I know about every male warrior inDascon .”

 

“Well, he was very broad, tall, dark hair braid down his back…”

 

“Honey, that described almost every male warrior in this town.”

 

“Oh, he had this scar over one eye and his other eye was this very pretty violet color.”

 

“Demos?”Jack looked to Nina.

 

“Yep, that sounds like my sweetie alright.”

 

“Please pass my thanks onto your husband…mate…” Lita said.

 

“I will.”

 

“I owe him…” Jack said.

 

“Kiss each other goodbye. I have to take her back to her room.”

 

Nina's heart about broke seeing their loving kiss and the way they gazed into each other’s eyes. Damn that Micha and Tai for choosing a female who already had a male. There was no way Jack would be able to defend Lita from these horny barbarian males. One of them would surely defeat him or worse kill him for her.

 

Nina escorted Lita back to her room.

 

“Remember stay in here unless you have your guards with you,” Nina said.

 

“I will. Why is Jack tied up in your home?”

 

“It seems like Demos wanted to protect him too.”

 

Lita'ssmile was so sweet. Oh yeah some horny ass barbarian male is going to want her bad enough to kill Jack to make sure he gets her.

 

Nina motioned for her male guard to follow her. Demos assigned this guy to her, even though she was perfectly capable of protecting herself. They had this same argument over the years finally she just conceded and let him have his way. Normally, she had two guards but Demos dismissed the one for letting Ranor andJeneva sneak pass him this afternoon. Her heart started to pound harder when she saw Demos standing there talking with his warriors. It's been so many years since they have been joined and she still gets excited just looking at him.

 

The moment he saw her, he hurried over.

 

“What's wrong?”

 

“Nothing, just walking around.”

 

“You took that Earth female to see her male, didn't you?”

 

“How do you do that? I can't hide anything from you.”

 

“Nor should you try to.”

 

“He was so worried about her. I just had to let him see she was alright.”

 

“You should have just asked me and I could have taken him to see her. That little Earth female is sought after by several warriors.”

 

“Well yeah, she has a pussy, that's all they need to know.”

 

Demos chuckled. “It's more than that. She has a vulnerability to her,an innocence about her.”

 

“Not to mention she is pretty. The other one is much more striking-looking I bet she has them lined up too.” Nina saw the strange look in Demos' face. “What is thatlook for?”

 

“That other one…she has a coldness about her.”

 

“I noticed that too. She seemed like quite the bitch. Even so her beauty will have them lining up.”

 

“Micha has already killed a young warrior to obtain her.”

 

“I thought it was frowned upon to kill when challenging a protector.”

 

“It happens sometimes. Killing another warrior during a challenge isn't against the law and most warriors try to reframe from killing each other.”

 

“I heard that you protected Lita twice then assigned her female guards.”

 

“She didn't want the male's attention. No male has a right to take what isn't his.”

 

“She and Jack wanted me to thank you.”

 

“Go back and guard my offspring,” Demos ordered Nina's guard.

 

“Yes, Demos.”

 

“Robin might want to talk to you when they get back.”

 

“Alright.”She grabbed his hand, and he led her to the meeting room.

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter Five

 

 

 

Zenos stayed with Rose as Niro and Robin greeted Demos. Zenos smiled seeing his mother talking with Nina. He knew his mother and Nina were from Earth. So were so many of his mother's friends. He often wondered what his mother's home planet was like. Zenos grabbed Rose's hand when Robin motioned for them to come over.

 

“I still can't get over how much Zenos looks like Niro,” Nina said.

 

“Ranor looks identical to Demos,” Robin added.

 

“What is it, Mother?” Zenos asked.

 

“I want you to take your sister and Colt back to our part of the leader hut.”

 

“Zenos, you will come with me,” Niro said.

 

“I think it might be best if he escorts his sister and Colt back to our hut,” Robin said.

 

“I will have a guard come and escort all of you to the hut. Zenos stays with me.”

 

“Excuse me,” Robin said to Nina as she went over to Niro.

 

“It's good to see you again, Colt,” Nina said.

 

“I'm glad to be back inDascon . It's been awhile since me and Zenos have trained together.”

 

“I have really picked up my training. I hope you have or else I'm going to kick your butt.” Zenos chuckled.

 

“What?!She is only fifteen summers old.” They heard Niro growl.

 

Zenos looked over to Rose. “What did you do?”

 

“I don't know.”

 

Then Zenos noticed Colt looking at his sister and her stealing glances at him. It wouldn't take long for Niro to notice this as well.

 

“Come Rose.” Niro grabbed her arm.

 

“Daddy?”

 

“I will be at the meeting chamber in a moment. Zenos show Colt to his room.”

 

“Yes Sir.”

 

“I will talk to you later, Nina,” Robin said as she followed Niro and Rose.

 

“Okay, what was that all about?” Nina asked Demos.

 

“Off hand I would say it was something about Colt and Rose.”

 

“Oh you don't think that…”

 

“It won't happen. So, don't even think about it.”

 

“Well not right now anyways, Rose is only fifteen.”

 

“Not ever.”

 

“Why not?”

 

“Colt is from the Larmat clan.”

 

“So what.”

 

Demos gestured to one of his warriors. “Take my mate back to our hut.”

 

“Yes Sir.”

 

“Hey wait a minute. I thought you wanted me to keep Robincompany .”

 

“Okay then, take her to Robin's hut.” Demos said nothing more as he headed toward the meeting chamber.

 

“Please follow me.”

 

Nina knew it was pointless to argue with Demos right now, so she allowed the warrior to escort her.

 

 

 

ccc

 

 

 

“You are not to ever let a male touch you,” Niro growled at Rose.

 

“Colt just hugged me. He wanted to make me feel better that's all.”

 

“Niro…” Robin tried to interject.

 

“Don't let a male touch you!” When Niro's voice rumbled like that Rose knew not to press the issue. “Get in your room.”

 

“Yes Daddy.”

 

“What in the world has gotten into you?” Robin asked.

 

“You allowed Colt to touch her like that?”

 

“He was only trying to console her.”

 

“That doesn't matter.”

 

“You let Demos andSaa hug her.”

 

“That is different.”

 

“How so.”

 

“They already have mates and I trust them with my family's lives.”

 

“Colt has been around Zenos and Rose for awhile now, and he has done nothing that would suggest we couldn't trust him.”

 

“Why couldn't Ranor be a couple of years older, then…”

 

“Alamaxa wouldn't allow that union.”

 

“I don't care what he thinks. I will choose my daughter's mate if I want to.”

 

“Why didn't you let Zenos choose Flora?”

 

“That is different. He will be the next ruler of our people. He should follow our customs of earning his mate.”

 

“I think Rose should choose her own mate.”

 

“She is only fifteen this doesn't need to be decided now.”

 

“You should consider Colt for her mate. He is trained by Zenith and Ramiro. He knows both the Rundal and Barbarian ways of fighting. You have seen him spar with Zenos.”

 

“If he wasDascon then I would consider it.”

 

“Oh…that's it isn't it.” Robin moved away from him. “It's because Colt is from the Larmat clan is why you won't consider him as a potential mate for our daughter.”

 

Niro didn't say anything.

 

“That's it isn't it, Niro?”

 

“Yes,” Niro growled. “I have nothing against the Larmat people, but I don't want my daughter being a mate of one of them. Especially, since thereare so many deservingDascon males. I don't wish to discuss this now. I must go to the meeting.”

 

“What if Alistair wantedBrandon to become Rose's mate?”

 

“Alistair wants a Larmat mate for his son as well as his daughter. I'm sorry, little one, but I am in no mood to discuss this, especially with an appending war which might erupt at any moment. When Rose is closer to eighteen, we will discuss this more.” He gently kissed her then left the room.

 

Robin sat on her bed. She could see how much Colt was in love with Rose, just by the way he looked at her. Rose was starting to have feelings for him too. Anyone with eyes could see this. However, Niro wasright, Rose is only fifteen so there was time to deal with this later. Still, how could Niro speak of equality amongst the clans if he is unwilling to even consider a Larmat male as a mate for his daughter?

 

 

 

ccc

 

 

 

Zenos showed Colt to his room then he left to find Flora. He hurried toSaa's hut. He knewSaa would be at that meeting. He knocked on the door.

 

“Hello Zenos,” Sabrina said. “Come in.”

 

Zenos looked around hoping to catch a glimpse of Flora.

 

“Roth is withSaa right now. I would figure you would have been at this meeting too.”

 

“I thought I was but father changed his mind for some reason.” Zenos saw Flora out in the garden.Saa made Sabrina her own private garden way back when they were first joined. She loved being outdoors, so he wanted somewhere safe she could be outside.

 

Flora smiled at him. He wanted to run over there and take her into his arms, but there was no way he was going to do that with her mother being right here.

 

“I will come back later then.”

 

“Tell your mother, I said hello.”

 

“I will.” Zenos looked at Flora one more time then left. He waited outside their hut just beyond the view of the guardsSaa had posted there.

 

“Zenos…” Flora whispered as she gestured for him to come around to the side of the hut.

 

“Flora…I brought you something from the Rundal village.”

 

“Really, what is it?”

 

“It's back at my hut.” He couldn't take his eyes off her lips. He couldn't resist and pulled her into his arms as he kissed her deeply. He felt her melt into his embrace. She tasted of sweet honey and smelt like flowers. Her skin was so soft against his. He grabbed a bunch of her reddish-brown hair, which felt like the softest of covering fabrics. He groaned as he felt her erect nipples through her covering.

 

“Zenos,” she said breathily as she gently pushed him away. “We can't.”

 

“Feel what you do to me.” He placed her hand on his loincloth, so she could feel just how hard she made his cock. His body trembled when she gently stroked his cock through the fabric.

 

“I'm sorry Zenos, but…we can't be together.” She reached into his loincloth and grabbed a hold of his large and very hard cock.

 

“Then why are you touching me…oh…like this,” he moaned. “What if you sparka frenzy ? I won't be able to…mmm…stop.”

 

“I want to bring you some relief.” She stroked his cock a little faster and harder.

 

“I want to give you pleasure too, Flora,” he said quietly. He leaned up against the wall as she continued to stroke his cock.

 

“You are giving me pleasure, Zenos. The look on your face is so…beautiful.”

 

Zenos felt the pleasure build and build, soon his body felt like it was going to explode. His body trembled and he moaned loudly. He was aware of his loincloth ties being loosened, but at this moment he didn't care. Flora continued to stroke his cock. He started thrusting his hips forward needing more. She had him right there on the edge of something wonderful. He felt his loincloth fall from his body.

 

“Oh my…” Flora gasped. She watched her hand stroking his large cock. She was mesmerized by it. Her body tightened with such a need she could barely stand. Her eyes lingered on the head of his cock and the small droplet of liquid that glistened there.

 

“Flora,” Zenos moaned.

 

She couldn't stop herself, she had to taste him. She came down to her knees and took the head of this cock into her mouth.

 

“Ah!!” Zenos growled. He looked down and saw the tip of his cock in her beautiful mouth. The warmth and wetness of her mouth felt incredible. He fought the urge to grab her head and thrust his cock deeply into her mouth.

 

“Zenos, you taste so good. Does this feel good?”

 

“Yes…oh yes…” He moaned loudly.

 

He watched as she timidly took more and more of his cock into her mouth. He leaned back on the wall. He gently grabbed her head and stroked her silky hair. The pleasure was growing, intensifying. His balls retracted then a surge of cum exploded from his cock. The pleasure was so intense he could barely manage to stay standing up. When he had caught his breath, he looked down at her still kneeling there.

 

“Your juice tasted so good,” she quietly said.

 

Zenos pulled her up to her feet. He quickly put on his loincloth, did a quick look around to make sure his moans didn't draw the guard's attention. When he thought it was safe he pressed her against the wall. He got down on his knees and moved her covering to the side. He looked at her pussy for a moment. He ran his fingers over the small patch of reddish brown hair that covered it.

 

“Zenos…don't…”

 

He timidly ran his tongue over the lips of her pussy,then he gently opened her lips up exposing more of her. He licked feverishly all over her pussy, pausing at the opening so he could lap up her sweet nectar. The smell of her pussy was intoxicating, and it made him lick even more greedily.

 

She latched onto his head as she tried to steady herself. She could feel his tongue moving all over herpussy, she could hear the lapping, sucking sounds he made. Her body shuddered when her first orgasm hit. She tried to hide her moan. His tongue darted in and out of her opening making her want to move her hips in the same rhythm his tongue was going. She grabbed his head firmly as she rubbed her pussy on his face. She couldn't stop herself from doing this. Soon another orgasm hit her, making her legs feel wobbly. She started to slide down the wall. He grabbed her and laid her down on the floor where he buried his face back into her pussy. He licked and sucked at her clit then he fucked her with his tongue.

 

“Zenos!” she cried out unable to muffle her moans anymore.

 

He rolled over so now she was sitting on his face. He encouraged her to rub her pussy back and forth as he licked her. She reached under and grabbed a handful of his hair as she rubbed her pussy back and forth on his face until she came again. She got into a squatting position and lifted herself off his face. He grabbed her hips and lowered her back down.

 

“Zenos…we must stop.”

 

He stuck his tongue deeply into her pussy then he scooted her forward a bit so his tongue could reach her asshole.

 

“Zenos,” she gasped as she felt his tongue swirling around her rosebud. The sensation was intense and soon she had yet another orgasm. He rolled over and took her with him. He gently lapped at her pussy as she laid there with her legs sprawled opened. He kissed her pussy lips then climbed up her body.

 

“I need to bury my cock in you,” he moaned.

 

“We can't…” she said breathily. “Use my mouth to bring you relief.”

 

He removed his loincloth then climbed up her body until he straddled her head. He eased his cock into her mouth. He groaned loudly feeling her sucking on his cock. He slowly started to thrust his cock. He felt her hands squeeze his ass urging him to fuck her mouth. He couldn't stop himself from thrusting harder and faster.

 

“Flora!” he cried out as his cum shot down her throat. He quickly removed his cock from her mouth afraid that he might hurt her if he kept it buried in her mouth for too long. Just before he got up, he felt her tongue on his balls. He couldn't move, nor did he want to as she bathed his balls with her tongue. He moaned when she gently started sucking on his balls. He felt her move out from under him then quickly her tongue was caressing his ass.

 

“This feels good, doesn't it?” she cooed as she rolled her tongue around his ass. “It felt good when you did it to me.”

 

Zenos closed his eyes and enjoyed the sensation of her tongue exploring his ass. Her tongue flicked and rolled, first in short quick burst then in long wet strokes. Her hand went to his cock as she continued to lick. It didn't take long for her to get him right on the edge of an orgasm. When she stuck her tongue deeply into him, it brought him right over the edge. She lingered for a few more moments then she sat up against the wall.

 

He quickly put his loincloth back on and then sat down beside her. They didn't say anything as they sat there.

 

“As long as you don't mount me then…I'm still saving myself for my mate, right?”

 

“Yes.”

 

“Zenos…” She looked at him. Her juice was still glistening on his face. “I want you to be my mate. How do we do this?”

 

“Normally, I would ask to be your protector.”

 

“Normally?”

 

“My father wants me to win you if I want to be your mate. I'm not quite sure what he meant.”

 

“Ask him if you can become my protector?”

 

“I will.”

 

“We better clean up before my father finds us like this.”

 

She leaned over and kissed him,then she came up to her feet. She straightened out her covering. He stood up and just watched her.

 

“I better get back. Sooner or later mother will realize that I'm not in the hut.” She kissed him again then snuck back inside her hut.

 

He quickly went back to his hut so that he could clean up. He soaked in the large bathing pool as he thought about what he and Flora just did. His hand slowly stroked his cock as he remembered her scent and taste. Her pussy was so sweet and hearing her moans of pleasure was like nirvana to him. He stroked faster and faster as visions of her kneeling there in front of him with his cock buried deeply in her sweet mouth filled his mind. He came hard. He needed to claimher, he needed to take her the way a protector took his mate. His cock needed to be buried deeply inside her sweet pussy. The thought of another male touching, tasting, mounting her enraged him. He climbed out of the bath and dried off. He put on his loincloth and grabbed his sword. He hoped Colt was at the training grounds. He needed to train to work out some of this frustration.

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter Six

 

 

 

Sabrina went to Robin's hut. She caught Flora sneaking back into their hut. She didn't say anything especially when she spotted Zenos hurrying away. IfSaa would have seen this, he might have hurt Zenos,then Niro would have killedSaa . Sabrina was afraid for her mate.

 

“Hey girl,” Robin said as she hugged her tightly.

 

“I need to talk to you.”

 

“Sure, come in. Nina is here.”

 

“Hello Nina,” Sabrina said as she walked into the hut. Nina was busy showing Rose a few defensive moves.

 

“What's wrong?” Robin asked.

 

“Is Zenos here?”

 

“I think he went to train.”

 

“I caught Flora sneaking back into our hut,then I saw Zenos hurrying off. I'm pretty sure they were together. Especially…well, when I went to talk to Flora she had Zenos' scent on her. I hope they didn't mate.Saa would be so angry.”

 

“Did you ask Flora about it?”

 

“No, I'm trying to keepSaa from hurting Zenos.Saa is very adamant about Flora remaining a virgin until she is joined. I wish Niro would let her and Zenos be joined then all of this could be avoided. Robin, I am so afraidSaa is going to catch them together. If he hurts Zenos then Niro might orderSaa’s execution.”

 

“Niro wouldn't order such a thing, especially not to one of his best friend. Niro would understand thatSaa was only protecting his little girl. Niro would hurt any male that got near Rose.”

 

“You know I think Flora loves Zenos. I want to see her happy.”

 

“I'm pretty sure Zenos loves Flora. But that damn Alamaxa…”

 

“I know. Well, why doesn't Zenos declare that he is Flora's protector? If he manages to defend her against rival males, then they can be joined.”

 

“Hasn'tSaa talked to you yet about Flora?”

 

“What do you mean?”

 

“Niro andSaa decided how Flora's mate was going to be chosen. It would appease Alamaxa.”

 

“How is her mate going to be chosen?”

 

“Maybe it's best if I letSaa tell you.”

 

“No, you tell me. I want to know how my little girl's mate is to be chosen.”

 

“She will be given to the winner of the Trials.”

 

“What?!”

 

“Flora is the prize for the winner of the Trials.”

 

“What did you say, Mother?”

 

Both women turned and looked at Zenos standing by the doorway.

 

“Father decided that Flora was to be some prize to be given away?” Zenos said angrily.

 

“Saadecided it was best.”

 

“No, Father decided it was best. I will not stand by and watch Flora given away like that.”

 

“Zenos calm down.”

 

Zenos stomped inside. “No, I won't calm down. I will be Flora's protector. I will take on any male who challenges me.”

 

“Zenos, it's been decided already.”

 

“The hell it is.”

 

“Don't talk to your mother like that,” Niro bellowed.

 

Zenos turned around and glared at his father. “You will not give Flora away at the Trials.”

 

“Saawants the best male for his daughter.”

 

“I'm the best male for his daughter.”

 

“We will see.”

 

Zenos growled then pulled his sword from its sheath. Niro quickly did the same.

 

“Stop this!” Robin yelled.

 

“Are you skilled enough to defeat me, son?”

 

“I will be Flora's protector.”

 

Niro charged at Zenos ignoring Robin's pleas for them to stop. Zenos quickly put himself in defensive stance. The power his father had rattled Zenos' sword. He had sparred many times with Niro, but he never saw his father fight like this. Within moments Niro had knocked Zenos to the ground and had his sword pointed at his throat.

 

“Niro stop it!” Robin hurried over. “Please stop it.”

 

Niro stepped back and let Zenos get up.

 

“Sheath your sword! How dare you challenge your father,” Robin said as she began to cry.

 

Zenos quickly sheathed his sword. The tears that flowed from his mother's eyes tore at him.

 

“Little one,shhh ,” Niro said as he dropped his sword and took Robin into his arms.

 

“I didn't fight my best, boy. Tell me what are you going to do when a warrior as skilled as me challenges you for Flora? You really think only the younger warriors will challenge you?Saa has decided how his daughter will find her mate. I can't go against his wishes. If you wish to become her protector and prove yourself worthy of her, win the Trials or be prepared to challenge the winner for her.”

 

“Mother, I'm sorry.”

 

“Just don't do that again.Come on Rose.” Robin grabbed her daughter's hand and left the room.

 

Niro waited a moment then grabbed a hold of Zenos' arm. He pulled him closer. “Don't think just because you are my son that I will back down from a challenge. When you draw your sword against me, I will kill you next time. Do you understand? No male challenges me, not even you. Do you understand, boy?”

 

“Yes Sir.”

 

Niro pushed him away. He remembered having this same confrontation with his own father whenHakan wanted Robin to be the prize for the winner of the Trials. Demos won the Trials and took Robin for one night. The thought of his friend knowing Robin like that still bugged him even after all these years.

 

“Now I suggest if you want Flora you step up your training. Now go.”

 

Zenos left the room.

 

Sabrina and Nina just sat there not quite sure on what they should do now.

 

“Let's go see if Robin is alright,” Nina whispered to Sabrina.

 

 

 

ccc

 

 

 

Alistair watched Colt training with his guards. The way the young male moved was most remarkable. He fought like aDascon warrior, but there was Rundal thrown in as well. Speed and power, Colt was very good at both.

 

“Zenos,come here,” Alistair said when Zenos came onto the training grounds.

 

Zenos quickly went up to where Alistair was sitting.

 

“Yes Sir.”

 

“Please call me Alistair. Tell me, did Zenith train Colt?”

 

“Yes he did, so did Ramiro.”

 

“Ah, that explains it. Sit down.”

 

Zenos did as he asked.

 

“Niro told me about Flora. I thought it was fair to warn you that the Larmat warriors will be in this year's Trials.”

 

“What?!”

 

“I see you are shocked by this.”

 

“It's just that it's always been aDascon tradition.”

 

“It was the compromise your father made for the Larmat not to take revenge on the Rundal. To tell you the truth I don't believe your father was too happy to allow my people into the tournament.”

 

“A lot ofDascon males won't be too happy about this. No disrespect intended.”

 

“Relax, son of Niro, I like it when a male isn't afraid to speak his mind. Your father doesn't have a problem telling me what's on his mind. What do you think should have happened?”

 

“I don't know what you mean.”

 

“Should the Larmat have gone to war with the Rundal? After all Alamaxa is determined to push us into war. How much more must my people take from the Rundal to appease theDascon clan? Please feel free to tell me what you think.”

 

“I believe peace should be preserved. If the Larmat go to war with Rundal then theDascon clan would be forced to choose sides, then the Great War would start all over again.Dascon would surely side with Rundal. After all, they have shown no aggression to us. Thus, the Larmat andDascon would war until one side is destroyed.”

 

“Spoken just like your father.”

 

“However, I don't believe the Rundal should be allowed to provoke the Larmat either. My father must show Alamaxa the strength of our clan and force him to make peace with the Larmat, but in a nonviolent way.”

 

Alistair chuckled. “It's like talking to your father.”

 

Alistair's attention went to the training grounds. Colt had defeated two of his guards and was busy sparring with the third. “My guards are some of the best Larmat warriors and yet this young male is defeating them. I'm most impressed.”

 

“Zenith is a good trainer.”

 

“Can you fight that well?”

 

“I don't have the speed Colt has. Some of those moves are most difficult for a human male to do. Ramiro has trained Colt well in the art of Rundal fighting.”

 

“I would like to see you spar with Colt.”

 

“It wouldn't really be fair. He has fought three opponents already, and I have just entered the training grounds.”

 

“Challenge him anyways.”

 

“Yes Sir.”

 

Zenos went down to where Colt was. “Alistair wants to see us spar. I can wait for a moment for you to catch your breath.”

 

“Thank you. I am rather tired now.” Colt went over and drank some water.

 

“You must show me what Ramiro has taught you.”

 

“I will if you want.”

 

“Thank you. Are you ready?”

 

“Okay.”

 

Both of them went out onto the training grounds. Alistair watched.

 

“Alistair, that young Larmat male is rather skilled,” one of the large Larmat guards said.

 

“I see that.”

 

“Those moves are very strange.”

 

“He has blended all three styles of fighting.”

 

“Excuse me?”

 

“He has learned theDascon , Larmat and Rundal ways of fighting.”

 

“How did he learn the Larmat way? SomeDascon scum taught him.”

 

“Hey, Zenith is a grand fighter, and you will show him respect.”

 

“Yes Sir.”

 

“As far as how the young one learned the Larmat way, I'm not sure.”

 

Zenos defeated Colt.

 

“That youngDascon male did what you could not,” Alistair said.

 

“He got lucky.”

 

“Is that what it was?” Alistair walked down and over to Zenos and Colt.

 

“Sir,” Colt said as he bowed his head in respect.

 

“You fight well.”

 

“Thank you, Sir.”

 

“Call me Alistair. And you Zenos, that was most impressive, of course I expect no less from the son of Niro. Tell me Colt, who trained you in the ways of Larmat fighting?”

 

“My father.”

 

“Your Larmat father?”

 

“No, my father Ramiro.”

 

“How would a Rundal know our style of fighting?”

 

“He learned from Zenith.”

 

“What?!” a large warrior bellowed.

 

Alistair held out his hand in gesture for the warrior to be quiet. “How did a Dascon warrior know our ways?”

 

“A Larmat warrior called Gea taught him.”

 

“Why?”

 

“Zenith asked and Gea agreed.”

 

“Gea?”Alistair turned to his men. “Has anyone heard of this male?”

 

“Rasmusbanished Gea.”

 

“What for?”Alistair didn't like the uneasy looks in his guards' eyes. “Tell me.”

 

“Gea took a Dascon female for a mate, soRasmus killed her and exiled Gea.”

 

“Does this Gea still live?” Alistair asked Colt.

 

“Yes, he lives on the outskirts of the Rundal village.”

 

“Do you think you can show me where Gea lives?”

 

Colt stood silent for a moment.“If you promise not to harm him.”

 

“Why would I harm him? I promise I won't harm him. We leave in the morning.” Alistair left and his guards followed.

 

“Zenos, Alistair shouldn't go near the Rundal village. Alamaxa might hurt him.”

 

“You said Gea lived on the outskirts of the Rundal village. Just make sure you keep Alistair far enough away from the village.”

 

“What about my father, he wants me to stay here.”

 

“Alistair will tell my father what he plans to do. He would have to or else my father might think he was attacking the Rundal. He will tell Ramiro where you went, so don't worry. Besides, you did say you wanted to speak with Alistair, well here is your chance.”

 

“Do you believe it's wrong for me to want to learn more about my clan? Especially, seeing how the Dascon clan has given me so much?”

 

“I would want to know about my clan, so no, I don't see anything wrong with it.”

 

“What do you think about the Larmat clan?”

 

“I don't know, but from what I’ve seen so far I see nothing wrong with your clan.”

 

“Maybe some day we could go visit the Larmat village.”

 

“That would be nice. I always wondered what the Larmat village looked like.”

 

“Me too.”

 

“Now before you go off with Alistair, you must show me a few Rundal moves. I have to win the Trials this year. Flora is the prize to the winner.”

 

“Oh that sucks.”

 

“I know, so I better train my ass off. No other male will be her mate.”

 

“Then let's get started.”

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter Seven

 

 

 

Sheila watched the young male warrior train. Micha would have a shit fit if he knew she was walking around without him. Even so, screwhim, she wanted to make sure there wasn't better prospects out there. That Niro, the leader of these idiots, did have a son. That young warrior was the spitting image of that buffoon.

 

She strolled out onto the training grounds catching the attention of a few males.

 

“Hey, you shouldn't be out here alone,” Zenos said as he hurried over to her. “Where is your protector?”

 

“I don't know.”

 

“Who is your protector?”

 

“Micha.”

 

“He should know better than to leave you alone.”

 

“What's your name?”

 

“I'm called Zenos.”

 

“You look just like Niro.”

 

“Niro is my father.”

 

Zenos looked around the training grounds and saw a couple of the males eyeing Sheila. He better get her out of here. He saw her once before when the ship from Earth arrived. There was no denying she was very beautiful.

 

“I will take you back to your room.”

 

“I'm tired of being in that damn room. Why don't you show me around?”

 

“That would be improper. Ask your protector to show you around.”

 

“All Micha wants to do is fuck. He keeps me in that damn room all the time.” She moved closer to Zenos. “Why don't we go back to your room? I bet you know how to please a female.”

 

“Micha is your protector, and I have no wish to challenge him for you.”

 

“Is that so?” Sheila started to walk away.

 

“You can't walk around by yourself a male will certainly attack you.”

 

“Then I guess you are stuck being my tour guide.”

 

Zenos tried to think where Micha would be. Perhaps he was escorting Alistair out of Dascon. Micha was one of the highest ranking warriors, he could be anywhere. Maybe Demos might know where he was. Nina said Demos was going to decide what to do with that Earth male.

 

“Come on, stay with me.”

 

“My pleasure,” she purred. She let her eyes lingered down Zenos' strong body. She has hit the jackpot. Not only was he sexy and younger than Micha, he was also the next ruler of this godforsaken place. Oh yeah, she will get him to want her and make her his mate. Once she was his mate, well…she was sure Niro would have a tragic accident and Zenos would become ruler, making her these people's queen. She liked this idea very much. The only snag in this plan was if Zenos was skilled enough to defeat Micha.

 

Just before they reached Demos' hut Sheila dragged Zenos into a corner.

 

“What are you doing?”

 

“I just have to touch you.” She pulled her covering down exposing her perfectly shaped breasts to him.

 

Zenos looked at her breasts, his cock reacting to what he saw.

 

“Oh I see you like what you see. Come on touch them.” She grabbed his hands and placed them on her breasts. “Oh yeah, baby.”

 

Zenos couldn't stop himself from kneading her breasts.

 

“Come fuck me right here. Ride me hard and fast. Bury that cock deeply into me.” She pulled him closer. She started to fumble with his loincloth. “Come onbaby, fill my pussy with your huge cock.”

 

Zenos' cock demanded that he take her. A female was offering herself to him. How was he going to find the strength to say no?

 

“I can't…you are…Micha'sfemale.”

 

“No I'm not, sugar. Now come over here and fuck me.” She rubbed her body against his.

 

“I can't…” He tried to move back, but his cock ached and his need was great.

 

Flora,echoed in his mind.

 

“I can't.” He pushed away from her and walked out of the corner.

 

“Your cock is telling me a different story, honey.” She pressed herself against his back and reached around to stroke his cock through his loincloth.

 

“Stop.”

 

“You don't mean that. You sure aren't fighting very hard. You can have me. Why not take what is offered?”

 

Demos walked over toward his hut when he spotted Zenos and Sheila. What in the world was that boy thinking. That female wasMicha's .

 

“I can't…” Zenos said quietly.

 

Demos walked over and removed Sheila from Zenos.

 

“Hey, what the hell do you think you are doing?” Sheila said.

 

“Are you trying to get Zenos hurt?” Demos rumbled.

 

“Who the hell are you?”

 

“I'm Demos. Zenos what are you doing with this female. Do you plan on challenging Micha for her?”

 

“She was alone on the training grounds. I was trying to….” Zenos couldn't concentrate his need was too great. “…find out where Micha was, I thought you might know.”

 

“Go to my hut and calm yourself.”

 

Zenos went over to Demos' hut.

 

“Didn't Micha tell you not to walk around alone?”

 

“Yeah, but I'm not his prisoner.”

 

“You will get hurt.” Demos motioned for one of his guards.

 

“Yes Sir.”

 

“Go find Micha and bring him to my hut. I believe he has escorted Alistair out of the village.”

 

“You will stay with me.” He looked down at her. He closed her covering. “It is unwise to tease a Dascon male as it is unwise to walk around alone.” He grabbed her arm and dragged her to his hut.

 

“Hey, stop that, you have no right to drag me around like this.”

 

“Tell me why you chose Zenos to entice?” he asked before he opened the door to his hut.

 

“He is sexy.”

 

“So, it's not because he is the son of Niro?”

 

“I could care less.”

 

Demos didn't say anything more as he opened the door and led her inside. She was shocked to see Jack tied to a pole in the middle of the room.

 

Demos went over and cut the rope that held Jack.

 

“Thank you,” Jack said as he rubbed his wrist.

 

“Lita has been chosen by Shiro. He wants to be her protector.”

 

“What?!”Jack exclaimed.

 

“If you want your female you must defeat Shiro. This won't be easy. He is as big as Saa, who stands three inches taller than me.”

 

“Where is he? I will challenge him now.”

 

“Then you will die. Don't be foolish Earthling.”

 

“Why are you telling me this? I assumed you wanted me to challenge this Shiro.”

 

“I'm telling you this so you may start your training. There will be nojoinings until after the Trials. If you can manage to defeat Shiro before that, then you can claim Lita as your mate.”

 

“I can feel your disdain for me. Why are you helping me?”

 

“My mate wishes to help you. You may stay at my hut provided you show my mate and offspring respect. If you hurt them, I will make your death slow and painful. Do you understand?”

 

“Yes.”

 

“There is a room over there. You can sleep there. You are free to go to the training grounds and practice. However, be warned if you try and see Lita, Shiro will take it as a challenge. Are you clear on this?”

 

“Yes.”

 

“Don't insult, raise your sword in anger, yell at any male, or they will see it as a challenge. Don't react to any insults or challenges given to you. My mate has agreed to help you train. You will spar with the males she provides. I would advise you not to try and spar with any other male. Your presence here insults them. We have enough males on this planet and the thought of an Earth male being brought here has angered many of the males in this village. Do what I say and you may live to see the Trials.”

 

“I will do what you say. I have to get Lita back and I will do anything to accomplish that.”

 

“Good, your resolve might make this possible. This Earth female will be staying in my hut until her protector shows up. I strongly advise you to go to your room.” Demos walked over to Sheila. “You stay in here. I catch you walking around and I will send two of my biggest males to show you why you shouldn't be walking around without your protector.”

 

Zenos came out of the side room. Calm had return to him. He saw Jack standing there. He remembered what his father said about the Earth males, they were worse than the weaker males in Dascon. However, this male before him looked strong and was only a couple of inches shorter than him.

 

“Am I supposed to salute you or something?” Jack asked.

 

“Why would you?” Zenos replied.

 

“You are the son of the leader, so…”

 

“You must bow your head to my father, but not to me until I have earned the respect of all my people.”

 

“Come Zenos, you better get back to your practicing,” Demos said.

 

Jack watched Demos and Zenos leave.

 

“Well, it looks like you are still alive,” Sheila said.

 

“You look unharmed,” he replied.

 

“Your precious Lita has got one very big barbarian male. I have seen him. He is a monster of a man.”

 

“Has he touched her?”

 

“Well of course he has, he is her protector.”

 

“How do you know this for certain?”

 

“Because my protector fucks me every chance he gets. So why wouldn'tLita's protector do the same.”

 

Jack couldn't picture his little Lita with one of these barbarian males.

 

“Well at least you know she will be protected from the other males. After all, I doubt you will live to see the Trials. You did hear what Demos said. These males don't like you very much, and they are quite the blood thirsty lot.”

 

Jack didn't want to hear anymore. He walked over to the room Demos said he could sleep in and shut the door.

 

The door burst open scaring the crap out of Sheila.

 

“There you are. I told you not to leave your room,” Micha growled.

 

“Oh, what are you really going to do? I was bored.”

 

She yelped when he picked her up and threw her over his shoulder. He went straight to his room and threw her on the bed.

 

“Hey, watch it. You could have hurt me.”

 

Micha grabbed a leather strap and went over to the bed.

 

“What are you going to do with that?”

 

He started beating her with the strap until she begged him to stop. She laid on the bed weeping.

 

“You tried to entice Zenos. Why?” He hit her with the strap again.

 

“Stop!” she cried out.

 

“That young whelp is no match for me. Even the great Niro won't go against our tradition. He won't just give you to his son. That boy has to earn you.” He hit her with the strap again then he threw it across the room. He took off his loincloth and stood by the edge of the bed.

 

“Get over here and suck me off. Maybe, just maybe I will forgive you of your treachery.”

 

She slowly sat up and just stayed there.

 

He grabbed her hair and pulled her over to him. “Suck my cock or I can beat you some more. The choice is yours.”

 

She quickly took his cock into her mouth and starting sucking.

 

“That's it. Show me how much you want me to be your protector. If you please me I won't whip you anymore.”

 

He made her suck his cock again and again until her jaw was just too tired to do it anymore, then he bent her over and rode her relentlessly. Finally, he fell asleep leaving her sore and exhausted. She cursed him under her breath. The way he killed that young warrior to obtain her in the first place should have been a clue to the kind of male he was. There was no way she was staying with this asshole. One way or another Micha was going to set her free. Even if that meant that she was going to kill him to achieve this.

 

 

 

ccc

 

 

 

Litastood at the far side of the room. The very large male just stood there looking at her. She was so frightened she couldn't move.

 

“Please don't look upon me with fear. I won't hurt you.”

 

Lita was taken back by his gentle voice.

 

“My name is Shiro. What would you like me to call you?”

 

“I'm Lita.”

 

“Lita…what a beautiful name.”

 

He started to move closer to her but stopped when she squatted down cowering against the wall. From the moment he saw this delicate little female he knew he had to become her protector. His cock was so hard it was driving him to distraction.

 

“You will stay here with me. I will protect you from the other males.”

 

His voice didn't match his monstrous size. His eyes were a light blue, which his very dark hair highlighted. He was a very handsome man, almost to the point of being beautiful, which again didn't match his enormous size.

 

“Are you hungry?” he asked.

 

“A little,” she quietly replied.

 

“I will go get you some food. Don't leave this room.”

 

She came out of the corner when he left the room. She looked around. This room was very masculine. Weapons of all sorts adorn the walls. She went over to the bathing chamber; a pool of warm water put a gentle mist in the air. She wondered how the water was heated. The room she had before had the same kind of bathing chamber. She headed to the balcony and stepped out onto it. She was surprised to see an easel with paints all around it on one side of the balcony. She went over and looked at the painting up on the easel. It was of the scenery. She gazed out at the scenery and back at the picture. The painting was very good. She picked up one of the brushes. It was similar to the paintbrushes on Earth, but just made of different materials. Probably, from those strange pig-like creatures she saw earlier. She grabbed a scale which held some of the paint. She wondered what kind of animal shed this scale.

 

Shiro came back into the room and was panicked when he didn't see Lita. He set the tray of food down on the bed then hurried into the bathing chamber. She wasn't in there. He quickly went over to the balcony then stopped abruptly when he saw her standing there looking at his painting. The wind blew her covering giving him glimpses of her leg. Her shoulder-length brown hair gently danced in the breeze. He couldn't take his eyes off her.

 

Lita turned around and froze seeing Shiro standing in the doorway.

 

“Don't be frightened,” he said softly.

 

She stood silently for a moment. “Is this your painting?” she asked quietly.

 

“Yes. It calms me to paint”

 

“It's very good.”

 

“Thank you.”

 

It was taking all of his restraint not to just grab her and pull her over to him.

 

“I have brought you some food. Please come in and eat it before it gets cold.” He stepped back from the doorway and moved to the side.

 

She quickly came in. She saw the tray of food sitting on the bed. She went over to it and grabbed a piece of bread. There was way too much food here just for her to eat.

 

“Do you want some food?” she asked.

 

He walked slowly over as to not spook her. She lifted the tray and set it on the table which was off to the side of the room. She sat in one of the chairs, he sat on the other.

 

They ate in silence.

 

“That was very good. Thank you,” she said.

 

“When you are hungry let me know, and I will go get you food.”

 

“Don't you have a place to cook food in this room?”

 

“No, I'm but a warrior, not a General. There are but a handful of Generals, Demos is grand General. They have sections of the leader hut to themselves.”

 

“But you live in the leader hut.”

 

“All high ranking warriors do.”

 

“Isn't a General considered high ranking?”

 

“No, they are above high ranking. Below high ranking is a skilled warrior,then below them is a training warrior.”

 

“Oh, I see.”

 

“Once I become a General, then I can add on to the leader hut and have a private hut too.”

 

Lita stood and began clearing up the dishes. She placed them neatly on the tray.

 

“What did you do on Earth?” Shiro asked.

 

“I was training to become a doctor.”

 

“Doctor…you mean healer?”

 

“Yes, I guess you can put it that way.”

 

“Did you like being a healer?”

 

“Yes, I wanted to be a healer very much.”

 

“Then I will see to it that you train with the best Dascon and Rundal healers.”

 

Lita didn't know what to say. She expected Shiro to be like Micha. Sheila told her what Micha made her do and that he never talked to her or cared what she wanted. She was just a possession to him, nothing more.

 

“What's wrong?” Shiro stood and moved closer to her. She didn't back away.

 

“Sheila told me how badly Micha treats her and…”

 

“Micha is a vicious male. In battle this is a good thing, but he shouldn't treat his female viciously. This is not tolerated in the Dascon clan.”

 

“Then why is he allowed to treat her badly?”

 

“Perhaps, this Sheila is lying.”

 

“Why would she lie? She seems nice, a bit outspoken, but still nice.”

 

Shiro debated in whether to tell Lita what Micha told him. How that Sheila wanted the Earth male killed, and how she asked Micha to do it for her. Micha was bitching that he didn't want to waste his time on that Earth male.

 

“It is sometimes wise not to give your trust away so easy. But this is your nature isn't it?”

 

“I don't know what you mean.”

 

“You see the good in a person first. This is a noble quality one which the late Tomar had.”

 

“Tomar was the leader of those lizard people right?”

 

“Yes, he was a grand leader. He will be missed. And those lizard people are called Rundal.”

 

“Oh…I will remember that. I don't want to insult them.”

 

Shiro couldn't help but smile. She filled him with such warmth. He reached out and gently caressed her cheek.

 

“You are not going to force yourself on me are you?” she said quietly as she kept her gaze on the floor.

 

“I will try not to.”

 

He felt her back away.

 

“I have never felt the warmth of a female, and you are so beautiful. I swear I will try with everything I have not to take you until you are ready for me to.”

 

“You are being so nice to me.”

 

“Of course, I'm your protector.”

 

He moved closer, his will power starting to fade. He stood right in front of her. She only came up to the middle of his chest and was but a slip of a person beside him. He really should have chosen one of those Loma females. They were large females and perfect for a male of his size. And yet, looking down at this delicate flower before him, he wanted nothing else but her.

 

He reached down and scooped her up into his arms. He had to at least feel her body against his, had to kiss her sweet lips. It was torturous he knew, but he had to at least have a kiss. He pressed his lips against hers. He could feel her body stiffening up.

 

“Please one kiss, please,” he whispered against her lips. He moaned when she kissed him back. He tightened his hold on her. He turned around and carried her to the bed. His body needed hers.

 

“No…” she said gently pushing away. His hold on her was too strong. She was powerless to stop him. He could do what he wanted to her and she had no way to stop him. He was just too strong. Just before she hit the panic button he gently set her down.

 

“I must leave to gather myself,” he said as he rushed from the room.

 

Lita slowly sat down on the bed. A part of her was grateful that the barbarian male who had chosen her was so gentle, and yet another part was terrified. Jack would challenge this male for her and that is what terrified her. There was no way Jack could defeat him and would Jack end up dead in the process?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter Eight

 

 

 

Colt held onto Alistair as theconja flew higher. Ramiro wouldn't allow Colt to have his ownconja , especially after what happened to Sasha, though Zenos taught him how to ride one already. Of course, Ramiro didn't know this.

 

“Do you know who your real father was?”

 

“I don't remember him at all. The only thing I knew was that he tried to kill me and that my adopted mother saved me. Therefore, to me my real father doesn't exist.”

 

“You truly see Ramiro as your father?”

 

“Of course.”

 

“The fact that he is a Rundal doesn't bother you at all?”

 

“Why should it. It doesn't bother you does it?” Colt asked curtly.

 

Alistair started to chuckle. “You are bold speaking to me like that. It doesn't bother me that your adopted father is Rundal. As a matter of fact, I admire Ramiro and feel he should have been named leader of Rundal.”

 

Colt showed Alistair where Gea lived. It was a rather modest looking hut off by itself. It was obvious that Gea farmed the land around his home.

 

Alistair landed theconja and waited for Colt to jump off. His two guards landed shortly afterwards. Niro advised Alistair to only bring a few guards. This would draw less attention to them. Alistair usually listened to Niro's advice.

 

“Who are you?” Gea came out with his sword drawn.“Colt?”

 

“Gea, these males mean you no harm. This is Alistair, the leader of the Larmat clan.”

 

“You are Alistair,” Gea said as he sheathed his sword. Alistair wasn't what he expected. The way people talked, he genuinely thought Alistair was going to be a monstrosity. Alistair stood six foot six, strong, confident. His light brown hair was the only testament that he was half Dascon and half Larmat. However, it was those pale blue eyes that capturedGea's attention the most. Those eyes have seen great sorrow and great joy.

 

“You trained Zenith the fighting style of the Larmat?” Alistair asked. Gea looked like any other Larmat warrior, his golden hair was tied back,his deep blues were piercing. He looked to be a male in his late fifties.

 

“Yes, I did.”

 

“Why?”

 

“Is this the reason you are here, leader of the Larmat?”

 

“Partially.”

 

“What other reason brings you here.”

 

“First, I wanted to warn you that Alamaxa has banned all Larmat people for the Rundal village. The penalty is death for any Larmat entering the village.”

 

“Phfff, thatdamn Alamaxa…Ramiro should have been the leader of the Rundal.”

 

“I agree.”

 

“I have no plans on going to the Rundal village. Zenith comes out here to train with me.”

 

“Secondly, your mate was a Dascon female. How did you obtain her?”

 

“Alisa was taken from her village.Rasmus made her a sex slave for his warriors. I simply saved her from a cruel fate.”

 

“Why would you do that? You are a Larmat male.”

 

“Not all Larmat males behave in the same way. Besides, love knows no boundaries.”

 

“You loved her? Did you have a child?”

 

“I loved Alisa with all my being. When I took her fromRasmus I knew the consequences of my actions. I would have done anything for her. We lived and loved in peace until a band of Larmat warriors coming back from a raid on yet another small Dascon village found us.Rasmus had ordered his warriors to kill Alisa on sight and to let me live, but if I step one foot into a Larmat village I would be publicly executed. They killed her right there in front of me. I managed to kill two of them before they overwhelmed me.”

 

“Did you have a child?”

 

Gea was silent.

 

“You will answer our leader,” one of the guards growled.

 

“He is not my leader. I was banished from our clan.”

 

“So you pledge allegiance to Niro?” the other guard growled.

 

“I pledge allegiance to no one.”

 

“You did have a child didn't you?” Alistair said.

 

“Yes, a son named Ra. He was two when they killed him. I had three years of joy, three beautiful years,then my beloved son and mate were killed. I watched as they raped then killed my Alisa. I watched as they tore my little son apart throwing the pieces of him to the animals to eat. The rage I felt, the anguish I endured.Rasmus knew this was the worse punishment he could have given me.”

 

“But why are you showing a Dascon warrior our fighting techniques?” Alistair asked.

 

“Zenith has been kind to me. He shows me nothing but respect. I remember when he and his scouts stumbled upon my modest dwelling. I expected a Dascon warrior to kill me for being this close to the Rundal without Niro's permission. Hell, I welcomed it. Yet, he simply approached me and bowed his head like any warrior would do to an elder warrior and asked my name. My being Larmat didn't matter to him. He treated me like he would treat any Dascon warrior. He warned me of theconjas that were popping up near here. He told me I was welcome to come to the Rundal village if I need supplies. I liked him right away. It mattered not that he was a Dascon warrior. After a short time of me going to the Rundal village and him journeying out to hunt theconjas we became friends.”

 

“Did he show you the ways of the Dascon warriors?”

 

“He offered, but I refused. I'm too old to learn a new style of fighting.”

 

“So this is why you showed him our ways.”

 

“No…” Gea fell silently.

 

Alistair motioned for his guards to give him some privacy with Gea, though he allowed Colt to stay.

 

“I will not hold against you, your reasons for wanting to teach a Dascon warrior our ways. I just want to know why you did.”

 

“Tell me something Alistair, have you stopped the abuse of the Dascon females?”

 

“Yes, it is forbidden to take a Dascon female as prisoner. And I set free all the ones who were before when I came into power.”

 

“Good, this is the right thing to do.”

 

“Now answer my question.”

 

Gea stood silent for a moment. “I showed Zenith the Larmat way of battle because I want him to teach all the Dascon warriors our techniques.”

 

“Why?”

 

“I was angry and I wanted vengeance. I still do. And if this tension between the Rundal and Larmat does erupt into war, I hope the Dascon clan rushes to the Rundal side and kill every last Larmat warrior.”

 

“You speak of treason.”

 

“Niro said that the clans were joined and that we shall be known as theMalka clan. And yet, we are not. There are still the Dascon and Larmat clans.”

 

“This is so we can still take pride in where we come from. Yes, we are called theMalka clan and our warriors are now referred to as barbarian warriors. Even so, in our hearts we will still feel strongly for our own clan.”

 

“And yet you are from both clans. What do you call yourself, Alistair?”

 

“I'm the leader of the Larmat clan.”

 

“What of your mother's clan. What aboutHakan , Niro's father, who took you in and kept you alive?”

 

“I feel strongly for both clans. Nevertheless, Niro has charged me with leading the Larmat clans.”

 

“Niro is wise to choose you. Perhaps you will be able to change the Larmat clan for the better. Now I suggest you and your men stay at my hut for the night. The wildconjas will be taking flight soon.”

 

“Thank you for your hospitality.”

 

“As for you, young Colt, how do you feel about the Larmat clan?” Gea asked as he led them into his hut.

 

“The Larmat are my people.”

 

“Your father tried to kill you. Doesn't this influence how you perceive your people?”

 

“What my father did was wrong. However, I believe in what Alistair is trying to do. I'm proud to be a Larmat male.”

 

“What of your Rundal father and Loma warrior mother?”

 

“I love my parents, and what they are matters little to me. They have shown me the ways of the Rundal, Loma, Dascon and the Larmat people. And I truly believe that I am a Barbarian ofMalka warrior. However, that doesn't mean that I'm not curious about my race.”

 

“Well said, Colt.” Gea smiled at him.

 

Alistair looked at Gea. He understoodGea's resentment of his own race.

 

 

 

ccc

 

 

 

The sword felt awkward in Jack's hand. He was more at home with a scalpel in his hand than this barbaric sword, but if this was the only way to get Lita back, then so be it, he will learn how to wield a sword.

 

“Have a firm grip on the hilt. These big warriors can make that sword vibrate quite hard when you clash swords with them. If your sword goes flying out of your hand you will be in some deep shit,” Nina said.

 

“I'm sure you didn't come to this planet knowing how to wield a sword,” Jack said.

 

“No I didn't. Demos trained me.”

 

“Why do these barbarians take females from Earth?”

 

“Their race has too few females. Niro was hoping once the Loma females started having children that the ratio between male and female might improve. And it has slightly. Unfortunately there are more male children than female children being born. So, they have to keep taking a few females from Earth to keep producing offspring.”

 

“What about the Loma females?”

 

“Only one village of their females came to this planet. Niro hoped more would come and he planned to negotiate with the Empress of the Loma people, but regrettably Loma exploded about ten years ago.”

 

“Exploded?”

 

“Maybe imploded would be a better word. The Rundal planet suffered the same fate quite some time ago that is why the Rundal people live on this planet.”

 

“Wow, I don't know what to say to that.”

 

“The point being is the barbarians take females from Earth to give their race a fighting chance. However, Micha and Tai should have made sure the two females they took didn't already have a male. This is the condition Niro has set for obtaining females. The other condition is the female must be at least eighteen.Now, let's getting practicing.”

 

Jack and Nina practiced for several hours. She was a good trainer and he learned quickly.

 

“Ranor come here,” Nina said. “You remember my son, don't you?”

 

“Yes.”

 

“Yes mother,” Ranor said as he hurried over to her.

 

“I want you to spar with Jack.”

 

“Wait. I don't want to risk hurting him,” Jack said.

 

“You won't.”

 

Ranor got into a fighting stance. Jack reluctantly got into his stance. Ranor charged. Jack blocked his attacks. He was surprised byRanor's speed and strength. Hell, this kid had to be only twelve or fourteen at most, and he was outfighting Jack.

 

“Stop,” Nina said. “That was very good Ranor.”

 

“Ranor come here,” Demos' voice bellowed.

 

“Go to your father. I know how much you enjoy training with him.” Nina watched Ranor hurried over to Demos. Today it was more than just Ranor training with his father; it also meant that Demos had forgiven Ranor for putting his sister in harm's way. Nina looked back at Jack. He had such a look of sadness in his eyes.

 

“What's wrong?” she asked.

 

“If I can't even best a child…”

 

“You just started your training today. My son has been training with me and his father since he was five years old. I want you to meet your next opponent.”

 

Jack looked up and saw a large male approaching.

 

“This is one of Demos' warriors. His name isAzore . Get ready to spar.”

 

Azoregot into a battle stance, Jack quickly followed.Azore attacked. Jack managed to block a few of the blows, but soonAzore had unarmed him. He swung his leg and knocked Jack to the ground. Next thing Jack knewAzore was on top of him with his sword pointing at Jack's throat.

 

“Azore,please let him up.”

 

“Pathetic,”Azore growled as he got off of Jack. He left the training grounds. Jack just sat there on the ground.

 

“Don't get discourage,” Nina said. “You still have two weeks.”

 

“Two weeks. That Shiro probably has been training since he was five and I'm supposed to beat him just practicing for two weeks.”

 

“You are going to give up on Lita that easy, huh?”

 

“Of course not.”

 

“Then stop whining, go get your sword, and let's get back to work.”

 

Jack walked over and grabbed his sword. When he turned around he saw Nina looking at a very large male who just walked out onto the training grounds. He went back over to her.

 

“That is Shiro,” Nina said.

 

“What?!”Jack said as he looked at the large male. Shiro was bigger than all of the males out here. It didn't matter how big this guy was, he wasn't letting Lita go without a fight. He got into his battle stance.

 

Nina smiled and ran him through another set of drills.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter Nine

 

 

 

“What are you trying to do?” Ramiro said as he approached Alamaxa in the garden.

 

“I'm trying to enjoy the sunshine. How dare you barge into my families’ privategardens. ”

 

“Why did you ban the Larmat people from our village?”

 

“You tell me why you still have compassion for those fair-haired barbarians after what they did to mother?”

 

“Enough! You know the Larmat warriors didn't attack mother's caravan. Father said her death was caused by a wildconja attack.”

 

“Father didn't examine mother. He only examined what was left of her guards. So how does he know it was aconja that murdered her?”

 

“You didn't expect our father to see his beloved wife in that condition, did you?”

 

“Of course not.I saw her, her body was barely recognizable. You saw her. You know what I speak of.”

 

“Her wounds were that of aconja attack. So, it supported father's theory.”

 

“How do you know theconjas didn't happen upon their corpses? You don't know that. The fact is that she went to the Larmat village per Alistair's request. So they knew she was coming. It would have been so easy to attack her caravan.”

 

“Why would Alistair order such a thing? You have talked with him. You know the kind of male he is.”

 

“I didn't say Alistair ordered the attack. Actually, I'm pretty sure his intentions were just as he told our mother. But, how many times have some of those Larmat males gone against what Alistair has commanded.”

 

Ramiro stood silently.

 

“See, you don't have an answer for that, because you know Alistair has been trying to get his clan in order. Rebellions and small battles have erupted all over the Larmat territories. I even heard reports that there are still small battles being fought between smaller Larmat and Dascon villages.”

 

“This may be, but the fact is that mother's caravan was attacked by wildconjas . You also know that there have been problems with the wildconjas near that region she traveled, that is why father changed her route. Yeah, he changed her route, so how would the Larmat know where to attack?”

 

“As you stated father changed the route to keep mother safe from theconjas . You are only proving my case, brother.”

 

“Ah!” Ramiro growled. “Why won't you listen to reason?”

 

“Your eyes are clouded because of your Larmat children. To denounce the Larmat clan would be the same as denouncing your own children.”

 

“Let me come at this in a different way. If you declare war on the Larmat clan, our race will be annihilated.”

 

“You genuinely think our warriors can't fight those barbarians?”

 

“It's not that they can't fight them…”

 

“Then what are you saying?”

 

“Those barbarians have known nothing but war, they have more experience and not to mention they outnumber us.”

 

“Their older warriors have seen battle. The younger ones have yet to see it. We are far more intelligent than those filthy barbarians.”

 

“What about the Dascon clan?”

 

“They will not interfere.”

 

“What makes you so certain?”

 

“If they do, they will surely side with us.”

 

“That's it isn't it? You want the two barbarian clans to war again.”

 

“This peace they have between one another is just a farce. They are searching for an excuse to battle again, and I will give them that excuse.”

 

“If you outright declare war on the Larmat clan, Niro will not help us.”

 

“I know this.”

 

“So you are provoking the Larmat. I can't believe this. Father should have never allowed you to be our people's leader. If it wasn't for the kindness of the Dascon people our race would have been wiped out a long time ago.”

 

“And for this I'm grateful. However, now is the time for our people to take their rightfulplace. ”

 

“Rightful place?”

 

“We should rule this planet. Not these barbarians.”

 

Ramiro looked at his brother in shock. Alamaxa's true reason for provoking the Larmat clan became very clear. He knew Niro would help them. After everything Tomar has done for theDascon people, Niro would do no less. The war would start all over between the barbarian clans. All Alamaxa would have to do was wait for the Dascon clan to destroy the Larmat. With the Larmat clan in turmoil already it wasn't too hard to come to the conclusion that the Dascon clan would win. Alamaxa would then turn on the Dascon clan. Niro would have no choose but to surrender to Alamaxa.

 

“Why?”

 

“Why what?”

 

“Why rule? Our people are happy with the way things are. Niro doesn't interfere with us. What does it matter if we rule the barbarians? It serves no purpose, so many will lose their lives in this nonsensical war.”

 

“Our race is the superior one on this rat hole of a planet.”

 

“Do you hear yourself?”

 

Alamaxa grabbed Ramiro and lifted him off the ground. “I can easily kill any barbarian andI sure the hell can outwit them. If you want to play beggar to those filthy barbarians then go on ahead and do it.” He threw Ramiro to the ground. “I watched as father kowtowed to those damn barbarians. Instead of makingthem bargain with us for our help, father just gave our help to them. He gave them our technology, our medical know how, etc. He should have made them give us more land, more something. We are but servants to those damn barbarians, and I'm sick of it. Either Niro does what I say, or he will not get any more of our help. As far as those damn Larmat people are concern, I don't care if they all die.”

 

“Father helping the barbarians didn't make our race any less. He was repaying the barbarians for helping us. The Dascon have shown us how to hunt, how to battle, hell they protect us. You have a warp view of how things are. There has always been give and take between our races.”

 

“Get up and get out. I don't expect you to understand.”

 

Ramiro stood up. “Alamaxa, I implore you to let go of your hatred and pride. You are no less great for wanting to keep the peace between the races. Please see this.”

 

“Get out!” Alamaxa roared. “Go to the Dascon village. I want you out of my sight.”

 

“You can't force me to leave.”

 

“If you wish to challenge me then do so. Otherwise, go to your precious human family.”

 

Ramiro knew he was no match for Alamaxa, and it was best just to leave for now.

 

Alamaxa summoned his guard.

 

“Yes Alamaxa,” the guard said as he bowed.

 

“I want to step up the four males’ training. I want to make sure one of them wins that barbarian Trial. Let Niro see the strength of my warriors. Now go. They only have two more weeks to train.”

 

The guard nodded his head then hurried off.

 

 

 

ccc

 

 

 

Jack went with Nina to the healing wing of the leader hut.

 

“I thought you might like this,” she said. If she could prove Jack could be useful to the clan, maybe no harm would come to him. The way he fought at practice was making Nina a little worried. It was more than him winning Lita, hell only a miracle would accomplish this. Shiro was one of the most skilled warriors. Sooner or later one of these males would attack Jack. It was only a matter of time. However, if she could show Niro that Jack does have a useful skill maybe Niro would forbid any warrior from hurting Jack. It was at least worth a shot. Nina liked Jack. He was a nice person.

 

“Herbal medicine?”Jack said as he looked at the bottles.

 

“Yes.”

 

“I'm sure it's different than it is on Earth.”

 

“I'm sure it is, but the principal would be the same. The Rundal are very skilled in the art of healing, and they have been kind enough to show some the barbarian females this skill.”

 

“Why are you showing me this?”

 

“You said you were training to be a doctor on Earth. Furthermore, with this thing going on with Alamaxa, I'm not sure when or if you will be able to get back to Earth.”

 

“You believe the Rundal would train me?”

 

“Yeah.If not, the other healers would. Niro's motherKelila is one of the most skilled healers, I'm sure she would love to train you. I will ask her and you can get your training started.”

 

“I can't thank you enough for everything you have done.”

 

“Don't mention it. Come here,” Nina said as she led Jack to an older female.

 

“Kelila, I would like you to meet someone.”

 

“Hello Nina.”

 

“I want you to meet Jack. Jack this is Niro's motherKelila .”

 

“Nice to meet you.”

 

“Same here.”

 

“Jack was training to be a healer on Earth, and I was wondering if you wouldn't mind training him in our way of healing?”

 

“You are the Earth male Niro told me about.”

 

“Yes.”

 

“Have you started your sword training? Beating Shiro won't be an easy task.”

 

“Nina has been gracious enough to help me train.”

 

“When you are done training with her, I will be more than happy to train you in the art of healing. Come with me now, Mara has come for an examination, and I would like to hear what you think is wrong with her.”

 

“Okay.”

 

“Ramiro's mate?”Nina asked.

 

“Yes, Colt asked me to check on his mother. He was worried that she was tiring out too fast.”

 

Jack followedKelila into the examining room. The female who lay on the examination table was just as big as he was.

 

“Mara, Jack is my new assistant, you don't mind if he examines you do you?”

 

“No, not at all.”

 

Jack walked over to the large female. She was very attractive, looked to be in her mid-thirties, her body was in excellent physical condition. She looked a little pale and tired.

 

“Have you checked her blood for anemia…tired blood?” He would have to rephrase his words and hopefullyKelila would understand what he meant.

 

“Yes, her red cell and white cell count are normal.”

 

Jack asked Mara some routine questions. He noticed that her stomach was slightly distended. “I assume you have a mate.”

 

“Ramiro is my mate.”

 

“Have you run a pregnancy test on her?”

 

“No, her mate is of the Rundal race.”

 

“What? You mean the lizard…”

 

“My mate is not human,” Mara replied.

 

“The Rundallay eggs, so there is no way she can be pregnant,” Kelila said.

 

“I would like to run a pregnancy test anyways.If that is okay? Her stomach is a bit distended and judging by the rest of her body, she is in exceptional shape, so I don't think it would be a case of fat storage. She otherwise appears to be healthy. She is a bit pale and tired, but you said her blood work came back alright. I just want to rule out pregnancy.”

 

“I will run a pregnancy test.” Kelila drew some of Mara’s blood and left the room.

 

“You are from Nina's home planet aren't you?” Mara said.

 

“Yes, I am. Are you from this planet?”

 

“No, I'm from Loma.”

 

“Oh…I'm sorry about what happened to your planet.” Jack felt awkward.

 

“Tomar warned the Empress, and she refused to listen. That is in the past now.”

 

Kelila came back in with a strange look on her face.

 

Mara sat up. “What's wrong?”

 

“Jack is right, you're pregnant.”

 

“This is not possible.”

 

“I ran the test three times, and each time it came back positive.”

 

“Whoa,” Nina exclaimed. “But I thought that a Rundal and human couldn't produce offspring?”

 

“That was whatTomar's research suggested.”

 

“Lay back down please,” Jack said. He felt around Mara's stomach. She wasn't that far into her pregnancy. “I can't tell if this will be live birth, or if she will lay an egg. There is no way of knowing yet. However, I don't believe a human can lay an egg.”

 

“No it's impossible for a human to lay an egg. I must go tell Niro about this. Mara, I want you to come in every week until you give birth. I'm guessing this will be a live birth, and it will probably have the normal gestation as a human infant.” Kelila turned to Jack. “Thank you, Jack.” She smiled at him.

 

“Wow, wait until Ramiro hears this,” Nina said.

 

 

 

Chapter Ten

 

 

 

Niro wrapped his arms around Robin,then he lifted her up.

 

“Mmm, little one,” he purred.

 

He slowly walked over to the large table in the meeting room.

 

“What are you doing?” she asked.

 

“My body needs you.” He kissed down her neck as he paused by the table.

 

“Don't you have a meeting soon?”

 

“I don't care. I need you.” He laid her down on the large table then pulled up her covering. He quickly undid his loincloth. He rubbed her clit for a moment as he watched the pleasure dance across her face. He couldn't wait anymore, so he drove his cock deeply into her. Her legs wrapped around his waist pulling him closer.

 

“This sweet pussy…ahyesss ,” he hissed. He never got tired of taking her. Even after all these years his body still craved hers. He thrust harder and faster, watching her beautiful face the whole time. He bent over and captured her lips as he continued to ride her.

 

“Niro…oh Niro…” she moaned. She plunged her tongue deeply into his mouth, and their tongues danced around each other. She moaned louder and arched her back up as her orgasm engulfed her.

 

Niro arched up and rode her faster. He felt her hands exploring every muscle line of his chest and stomach. His orgasm slowly built, his body trembled from the pleasure of it. He kept his cock in her as he leaned over and recaptured her lips.

 

Zenos hurried to the meeting room. Niro had commanded that he be here, and he dared not be late this time. He was tired from his extensive training today. He burst into the room and then quickly turned around when he spotted his father and mother making love on the table. This wasn't the first time he caught his parents in an intimate embrace, and he was sure it wouldn't be the last time. His father was always touching his mother. Zenos remembered walking in on them when he was only five. He attacked his father believing he was hurting his mother. He was so embarrassed when Robin explained everything to him.

 

“Son, you are on time for a change,” Niro said as he put on his loincloth.

 

“If you knew I was going to show up here why…never mind. Is it safe to turn around yet?”

 

“Yes it is. I'm sorry you had to be embarrassed,” Robin said as Niro helped her down from the table.

 

“I'm not embarrassed just annoyed. You couldn't want to take mother until later, father?”

 

“Whatme and your mother do is none of your business. Besides, when I need my mate, I need her.”

 

Demos entered the room.

 

“Good you are here, Demos,” Niro said.

 

“It seems as though Ramiro's mate is pregnant.”

 

“What?!”Robin exclaimed.

 

“Nina just told me about this.”

 

“Is my mother certain of this?” Niro asked.

 

“Yes.”

 

“Tomar believed it wasn't possible for our races to produce offspring. He would have been so thrilled to see that is possible,” Niro said.

 

“Yeah, he would have been,” Robin added. “Does Ramiro know?”

 

“Not yet.”

 

“I wonder what the child will look like?” she asked.

 

“We will have to wait and see, I guess.”

 

“Does Coltknow, what about Mara's other offspring?” Zenos asked.

 

“She is telling her offspring. Colt isn't back yet.”

 

“Why did you call a meeting, Niro?” Demos asked.

 

“Little one, you better go see if Mara needs some help.”

 

“Okay.” She kissed Niro and left the room.

 

“It seems as though Alamaxa is sending four of his warriors to compete in the Trials,” Niro said.

 

“Why? No Rundal has ever competed in the Trials before. They are no match for us.”

 

“I'm thinking it's because the Larmat have sent warriors to compete as well or perhaps Alamaxa wants to show us the strength of his warriors.”

 

“Larmat warriors will be competing in the Trials?” Demos asked.

 

“Yes, it was part of the deal I made with Alistair.”

 

Demos groaned.

 

“I see you don't approve,” Niro said.

 

“The Trials are a Dascon tradition. Only Dascon warriors should be allowed to enter. Not to mentionSaa’s daughter's mate will be the winner.”

 

“Worried that a Rundal or Larmat warrior will win?”

 

“No.”

 

“I'm going to win the Trials, Demos,” Zenos added.

 

“You are certainly training hard enough,” Demos added.

 

“Ramiro has been banished from the Rundal village,” Niro said. “I have ordered Zenith and his family to come back to Dascon with him. I told him to make it look like he wants to see the Trials.”

 

“Father, what are you planning?”

 

“I want our defenses beefed up, and I want to speak with Zenith about devising a perimeter around the Rundal village.”

 

“Why?” Demos asked.

 

“I believe Alamaxa is trying to push us to war with the Larmat again. After everything me and Alistair have done to keep the peace between the clans I will not allow a Rundal to destroy it.”

 

“You are going to attack the Rundal village?” Zenos asked. He had such a shocked look on his face.

 

“My son, when you become leader you will be force to make difficult decisions all the time. This is the burden of being leader. With Alamaxa exiling Ramiro it has opened a window of opportunity, I can't ignore.”

 

“Ah, I see.” Demos nodded his head.

 

“I don't understand,” Zenos said looking at both of them.

 

“Alamaxa won't come to the Trials. He can't, his pride won't allow it. If his warriors are defeated, he couldn't take it. So, he will still be in the Rundal village. Once the Trials are over Zenith and I will attack the Rundal village. I will challenge Alamaxa.”

 

“No father!” Zenos exclaim. “I saw how he killed that Larmat warrior.”

 

“Are you saying I'm not skilled enough to defeat Alamaxa?”

 

“It's not that…he will try to kill you.”

 

“I certainly hope so, because my goal is to kill him.”

 

“Let me challenge him, Niro, we can't afford to lose you,” Demos said.

 

“It must be me, Demos. Leader against Leader, it's the only way.”

 

“Why kill him?” Zenos asked.

 

Niro stood silently for a moment. “Tomar confided in me just before he died that he wanted Ramiro to lead the Rundal. He saw what Alamaxa was becoming.”

 

“Why didn't he just decree that Ramiro was the new leader?” Zenos asked.

 

“He knew Alamaxa would kill Ramiro if that happened. Unfortunately, Alamaxa is far stronger and more skilled than Ramiro, Tomar knew this. Besides, it is Rundal custom that the oldest son become the next ruler, just is it our custom. I want to give Tomar his wish. I want to give the Rundal the leader they deserve. The only way to make this happen is for me to kill Alamaxa.”

 

“And if he kills you?” Zenos asked.

 

“Then you will become our leader, son. If I do fail, Demos, I charge you with finishing the task. Alamaxa can't be allowed to rule the Rundal.”

 

“There has to be another way. We have never attacked the Rundal village. There is bound to be a lot of innocent lives lost.”

 

“There is no other way. I'm hoping Alamaxa's pride will force him to fight me right away. The sooner we battle the less chance there will be that innocentRundals will lose their lives. I wish I didn't have to tell you of my plan, son, but I need to prepare you. You may leave now. I have to go over the details with Demos and you need to get back to your training.”

 

“Wait, what about Alamaxa's son?” Zenos asked.

 

“He will have to die as well. He will only try and kill Ramiro if he is left alive.”

 

Zenos left the room. His head was spinning. This wasn't the course of action he expected his father to take. However, the more he thought about what Niro was planning the clearer it became. There was no other way. If Alamaxa was allowed to live, he would end up sparking a war. If he was dead then Ramiro would become the ruler of the Rundal and peace could be maintained. The simple genius behind his father's plan blew Zenos away. Alamaxa would never see this coming. He couldn't give Niro that much credit. Now Zenos would have to pray to the Goddess that his father would be victorious.

 

He walked into the temple. The Loma people asked for a temple to be built to their Goddess. Niro graciously allowed them to build it. Zenos wondered if the Dascon and the Loma people prayed to the same Goddess. He would like to believe so.

 

He knelt down by the altar and sent a pray up to the Goddess. He quickly turned around when he smelt Flora's familiar scent. She was kneeling at one of the pews with her eyes closed. She looked so unhappy that it tore at his heart.

 

He walked over to her, and she quickly stood up. She threw herself into his arms.

 

“Zenos, I'm so afraid,” she cried.

 

“Shh, what has gotten you so afraid?” He gently stroked her back as he held her.

 

“I don't want to be any other male's mate. I want to be your mate. I begged my father to let you become my protector, and he said no. Only the winner of the Trial will be my protector. What if it's not you?” She held him tighter. “I want to be with you and only you.”

 

“I will win the Trials, Flora.”

 

“You don't know that for certain.”

 

“Even if I lose, I will challenge the male who does win. Either way, I will be your mate. I swear it.”

 

“I love you, Zenos.”

 

Her words filled him with so much warmth. “I love you, Flora,” he said as he held her tightly to him.

 

“Flora!”

 

She quickly let go of Zenos and stepped back. “Father…”

 

Saa came over and grabbed her by the arm. He glared at Zenos then left the temple with Flora.

 

Zenos turned back to the altar. “Please Goddess, watch over my father and give me the strength to become Flora's mate.” He prayed for a little while longer then headed out of the temple straight to the training grounds. Flora's tears and her words of love spurred him on to train even harder. He would be her protector, her mate…there was no other conclusion.

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter Eleven

 

 

 

 

 

Colt arrived back at the Dascon village just as Ramiro approached.

 

Alistair looked up at the sky and saw the ban ofconjas coming in. “Looks like your father has come to be with his family.”

 

Colt quickly looked up. He saw the ten Rundal guards flanking his father and right behind them was Zenith and several Dascon warriors.

 

“Father!”Colt exclaimed as he hurried over to Ramiro.

 

“I see we have arrived at the same time.” Ramiro embraced his son.

 

“How did you know I even left this village?”

 

“Where is Alistair?”

 

“He is right over there.”

 

“Come, my son.” Ramiro walked over to Alistair.

 

“It is good to see you again, Ramiro,” Alistair said.

 

“As it is to see you.”

 

“Your son was most helpful to me. Please let me know what I can do to repay him.”

 

“Stay away from the Rundal village. Alamaxa knew of your trip and sent his warriors out to intercept you.”

 

“Father, how could he know this?”

 

“Scouts.He has them everywhere.”

 

“What about Gea?” Colt asked.

 

Ramiro pointed in the direction of Zenith. Right behind him was Gea.

 

“I sent my guards out to warn Alistair and to escort Gea to Zenith. Thankfully, my guards are far more skilledconja riders than Alamaxa's guards.”

 

“What was Alamaxa's intention?” Alistair asked.

 

“I don't know. Most likely he wanted to take you prisoner, and no doubt he would have killed your males and Gea.”

 

“He goes too far.”

 

“Alistair, I am happy to see you and your guards are fine,” Zenith said as he approached. “I must report to Niro. Would you like to accompany me?”

 

“Yes, I need to speak to Niro as well,” Alistair said.

 

“Where is your mother?” Ramiro asked Colt.

 

“She is in the guest wing of the leader hut. I will show you.” They both went to where Mara was. When they entered Ramiro quickly went on guard.

 

“Who are you?” he growled at the strange man touching Mara.

 

Jack backed away.

 

“Ramiro, this is Jack, he is from Nina's planet. Kelila is training him in the art of healing,” Mara said.

 

Ramiro hurried over to her. “Are you ill, my love?” He knelt down by the bed.

 

“No…but the Goddess has given us a miracle.”

 

“What?”

 

“I carry your offspring. Actually, I'm going to have twins.” She smiled over to Jack.

 

Ramiro slowly stood.

 

“Mother, I thought you said you were unable to give father offspring?” Colt said as he hurried over to her.

 

“That's what I thought too.”

 

Ramiro placed his clawed hand onto Mara's stomach. She could see just how happy he was and it filled her with so much joy, she thought she might burst.

 

“What will the offspring be?” Colt looked over to Jack.

 

“I don't know. I can only assume a mixture of both parents. But then again since the Rundal are humanoid the twins might be purely human.”

 

“Will this harm Mara in any way?” Ramiro asked.

 

“There are always risks with any kind of pregnancy, but since she is in phenomenal physical condition, she should be just fine.”

 

“Not to doubt your skill, but is Kelila also monitoring Mara?” Ramiro asked.

 

“Of course.”Jack finished washing up. “I must leave now. If you have any more questions Kelila will be stopping by soon.”

 

“Thank you,” Ramiro said.

 

“Where are you going?” Colt asked.

 

“I'm going to the training grounds.”

 

“Good, then I will go with you. Mother, do you need anything?”

 

“I have everything I need right here.”

 

Colt smiled watching his mother and father cuddle each other. Theywere always so loving toward each other. He heard what people say about their union. Hell, he hears what they say about his parents adopting Larmat children. His parents don't listen to any of it and taught him how to ignore the words of cruel people.

 

He walked with Jack to the training grounds. Jack observed the strange way the Dascon males looked at them.

 

“I'm sorry, maybe you should have walked to the training grounds alone. The heavy stares of those males must be very uncomfortable,” Jack said.

 

“Why should it be? Why should you apologize, I'm the one they despise.”

 

“You, why?”

 

“I'm Larmat and they are Dascon it's that simple. They wouldn't waste the time to make you uncomfortable. You are nothing more than a weaker male in their eyes.”

 

“Weaker male?”

 

“Here, let me show you.” Colt turned and headed out of the leader hut. He was taking a big risk walking around the village, but he didn't care.

 

“Should we be walking around the village? Nina said that I should stay in the leader hut.”

 

“You have dark hair, so you could go unnoticed. My pale hair makes me stand out. Don't worry I will protect you.”

 

“I can protect myself.”

 

“Really?Just because you wear a sword on your back doesn't mean you know how to wield it. Niro's mate Robin has banned the use of weaker males in this village. But no matter how hard she tries she can't stop what has been the Dascon way. The Larmat simply kill our weaker males.”

 

“That's harsh.”

 

“That's reality. My mother saved twin males from suffering the fate of the weaker Larmat male.”

 

“Those two little boys I saw earlier?”

 

“Yes,Julus and Marg.”

 

Colt went to a large hut at the edge of town.

 

“What is this?”

 

“This is where they keep some of those weaker Dascon males. Some young Dascon male told me about this, though I have no use for this, he apparently used it a few times.”

 

“Used it? I don't understand.”

 

Colt stepped inside the hut. The smell of sex and sweat filled the air. “Take a quick look then let's leave. This place makes my stomach lurch.” Colt waited by the doorway as Jack went further into the hut.

 

Jack stopped abruptly when he saw the huge room filled with large males having sex with smaller males. A wave of nausea and anger swept over him. It was obvious the smaller males had no desire to be used like this. It took every ounce of his willpower not to charge at the large male who was forcing a smaller male to suck his cock. The smaller one whimpered and tried to break free until finally he did what the large male wanted.

 

Jack hurried back to Colt, and they left the hut.

 

“That's wrong!Just fucking wrong!”

 

“That is how a Dascon male uses the weaker males. Like I said Robin can't stop this entirely. Even when or if there is enough females I doubt some of the Dascon males will stop abusing the weaker ones.”

 

“But your people just kill weaker ones. That is wrong as well.”

 

“Yes it is.”

 

Jackpaused, he wasn't expecting Colt to agree with him so fast.

 

“Now let's get to the training grounds. Why is an Earthling training anyways?”

 

“I want Lita to be with me.”

 

“Oh I see and what Dascon male is her protector?”

 

“Shiro.”

 

Colt stopped and just looked at Jack. “Shiro…”

 

“Yeah, what?”

 

Colt looked Jack up and down. “You won't defeat him. You are too puny.”

 

“I'm almost as big as you are.”

 

“Almost…” Colt smiled at him. “Then spar with me. If you believe you can best me.”

 

Jack remembered what Demos said about not accepting challenges. “I can't…I'm only supposed to train with the males Nina tells me to.”

 

“Wise.I would have defeated you in ten seconds. However, I wouldn't have tried to kill you. You never know if that is what your opponent has in mind.”

 

Jack didn't say a word he just walked over to Nina.

 

“What is a Larmat scum doing here?”

 

Colt turned around and saw Micha.

 

“Answer me.”

 

“I don't have to even speak with you.”

 

“You are that lizard male's offspring aren't you? I heard your mother is going to pop out little lizards or half lizards, whatever the case, they will be monstrosities.”

 

“Like I care what you think. You are wasting your time if you think you can spur me to fight you.”

 

“Pussy,” Micha growled as he walked by.

 

Ramiro taught Colt a long time ago how not to get into unnecessary battles. So it wasn't that hard to ignore Micha. His words meant nothing to Colt.

 

“Colt.”

 

Colt smiled seeing Zenos walking over.

 

“You look tired,” Colt said.

 

“I have been training nonstop. I just got back from a break.”

 

“Hello Colt.”

 

Colt lit up seeing Rose. “Rose, you shouldn't be at the training grounds.”

 

“She wants to see father spar with Demos. I will watch her, you know that,” Zenos said.

 

“Of course.”

 

“Now that you are here, you can watch her too. Let's go, I don't want to miss father's match.”

 

They headed over to the sitting area. The training grounds were where the Trails were held.

 

“Rose…” Niro said as he hurried over to her. “What are you doing here?”

 

“I want to see you spar with Demos, Daddy.”

 

“You stay with your brother.”

 

“Of course, Daddy.Colt is here to protect me as well.”

 

Niro looked over at Colt. He could see the way the young male looked at Rose and more importantly he saw the way she looked at him. Anger started to slowly simmer in Niro. No male was touching his little girl, especially a Larmat male.

 

“Daddy, you look angry.” Rose latched onto his arm. “Why? You are not angry with me are you?”

 

“No.” Niro smiled at her. She looked so much like Robin, but she had his eyes. Many young males had approached Niro wanting to be Rose's protector when she turned eighteen. Niro turned them all away. He didn't want to think about his little girl having a protector and damn it, he wasn't going to worry about it until she turned eighteen.

 

“Jeneva!”Rose yelled.

 

Niro looked over and saw Demos entering the training grounds with Ranor and Jeneva. He motioned for Demos to come over.

 

“Sit with Rose,” Demos told the two.

 

“Zenos is watching over her, he can help Ranor look after Jeneva.”

 

Demos just nodded his head.

 

“Stay with your brother,” Niro said.

 

“I will Daddy.”

 

Niro walked out onto the training grounds with Demos. Everyone stopped what they were doing and watched the twospar .

 

“Your father has great speed for a male his size,” Colt said to Zenos.

 

“Yes, so does Demos.”

 

The match went on for sometime until finally Niro defeated Demos. A loud thunder of applause filled the training grounds as Niro helped Demos up.

 

“Daddy was magnificent,” Rose said as she clapped wildly for her father.

 

“Father lost?” Ranor said.

 

“Your father fought exceptionally well,” Rose said to him. “Sometimes he beats daddy. Zenos you remember last month when Demos won.”

 

“Yes, that was a good match.”

 

Rose saw Ranor cheer up. She looked over at Colt. The way he looked at her made her feel all warm. His beautiful pale blue eyes were so intense and that pale blond hair of his made his face look ethereal. She often dreamt of him. She thought about him a lot.

 

Colt came over and sat closer to her.

 

“You are so beautiful, Rose. Forgive me for staring at you.”

 

She blushed and looked away.

 

“You are beautiful, Rose. If you were eighteen, I would be your protector.”

 

“You want to be my protector?” she asked shyly.

 

“More than anything else.”

 

Her smile lit up her whole face and caused him to stop breathing for a moment. He wanted her to be his mate. “Would you want me to be your protector?”

 

“Yes,” she said quickly.

 

“You fought well, Demos,” Niro said as he drank some water.

 

“As did you.”

 

“We will have to practice more. I want to be in top fighting form.”

 

“That is understandable.”

 

Niro dip the drinking cup into the bucket of water and then brought it up to his lips. He dropped the cup and rushed to the stands.

 

“Niro?”Demos said, baffled by Niro's actions.

 

Colt jumped back quickly dodging Niro's sword, but he didn't draw his sword.

 

“Daddy, what are you doing?” Rose asked as she quickly came up to her feet.

 

“Don't touch my daughter,” Niro growled. “No male comes near her.”

 

“I meant no disrespect.”

 

Zenos grabbed Niro's arm. “Father…please sheathed your sword. Colt didn't touch her inappropriately.”

 

Niro slowly sheathed his sword. “Take your sister back to Robin.Now Zenos.”

 

“Yes Sir.”

 

Niro watched Rose looking at Colt. He had to get out of here before his anger made him hurt Ramiro's son. Niro stomped off.

 

Colt went out onto the training grounds and practiced with the other Larmat warriors. He could see Niro's distain for him, not so much for him as a person, but because he was Larmat. He would never let Colt be Rose's protector. This thought angered and hurt Colt. Maybe sparring with other males might make him feel better.

 

 

 

ccc

 

 

 

“Let go of me, Zenos,” Rose yelled when he dragged her into the hut.

 

“Well, if you would come willingly I wouldn't have to drag your ass.”

 

“I wanted to make sure Colt was alright.”

 

“Father wouldn't have hurt him. Colt is the son of Ramiro, after all.”

 

Rose pulled her arm away from Zenos. “Why does daddy do that? He doesn't draw his sword when Dascon males talk to me. He just growls at them and shoos them away. He doesn't like Colt because he is a Larmat. I'm right about that,ain't I?”

 

“I don't know.”

 

“Yes you do.”

 

“What does it matter you are only fifteen.”

 

“I'm almost sixteen.”

 

Zenos rolled his eyes. “Whatever. The point being that you have to be eighteen before you can have a protector anyways. Therefore, don't worry about it now.”

 

“I want Colt to be my protector.”

 

“And next week you will see another male that you want to be your protector.”

 

“You're wrong. I want Colt to be my mate.”

 

“What's going on?” Robin said as she entered the room.

 

“Daddy drew his sword and tried to attack Colt.”

 

“He did?” Robin looked at Zenos.

 

“Yeah he did,” Zenos added. “He thought Colt was sitting too close to Rose.”

 

“Daddy wouldn't have done that if a Dascon male was sitting with me.”

 

“Rose…your father only wants to protect you. He didn't hurt Colt did he?”

 

“No, thank goodness.”

 

“I better get back to the training grounds,” Zenos said.

 

“I think you are training too hard,” Robin said.

 

“I have no choice.”

 

“You will win the Trials, Zenos,” Rose said. “You love Flora, so you have to. The Goddess will see to it.”

 

Zenos just smiled at Rose then left the room.

 

“What daddy did to Zenos wasn't right, Mom. And what he is doing to Colt isn't right either.”

 

“Your father has good reasons for what he does.”

 

“I don't care what he said. I want Colt to be my protector when I turn eighteen.”

 

“You may change your mind before then. I remember falling in and out of love a lot when I was your age.”

 

“I love Colt, Mom. I don't think that will ever change.”

 

“We will see.”

 

“I have lots of Dascon males looking at me all the time and not one of them makes me feel this warm inside the way Colt does. He wants to be my protector. He asked me today if I wanted him to be my protector.”

 

“He did?”

 

“That was what we were talking about before daddy came over and tried to hurt Colt.”

 

“PleaseRose, let's not bother your father with this now. You still have a few years before any of this has to be decided.” Robin watched Rose stomp off. She let out a deep breath then walked out to the balcony. She looked out over the village. Something was going on that Niro wasn't telling her about, and it filled her with so much fear. When he didn't confide in her meant he was trying to protect her from something. Zenos was training so hard, but did he really stand a chance against all those older males? She didn't want to see her son heartbroken. Now this thing between Rose and Colt, Robin could see how they looked at each other.

 

“Little one,” Niro purred as he wrapped his arms around and pulled her to him. He looked out across the village too.

 

“I heard what went on between you and Colt. Rose isn't happy with you right now.”

 

“He was sitting too close to her.”

 

“She loves him, you know that don't you.”

 

“A young female's heart is fickle.”

 

Robin snuggled back against him. “When are you going to tell me what's going on?”

 

“What do you mean?”

 

“I know when you are trying to hide something. Please tell me what it is.”

 

“When I know more I will tell you, little one.”

 

She could feel all the burdens his big shoulders carried. She only wished she could ease some of the burdens.

 

“Don't worry about Rose. She will forgive you soon enough.”

 

“I know she will. She is my little girl.”

 

“Your son will win the Trials.”

 

“I know he will.”

 

“It is a beautiful day.”

 

“Yes it is. We should go for a walk. Would you like that?”

 

“Do you have time?”

 

“For you, little one, I have all the time in the world. I will post a guard outside the door to protect Rose while we are gone.” Niro stepped back into the room and extended his hand to her. She quickly took it and let him lead her out of the room.

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter Twelve

 

 

 

Ramiro walked out onto the training grounds with Zenith.

 

“I thought for sure you would bring your three sons out here,” Ramiro said.

 

“I would have ifPetra didn't protest so much. She said there are too many adult males out here practicing for the Trials, and she is afraid that our boys would get hurt. I suppose, now that I think about it, she is probably right.”

 

“You looked troubled. What's wrong?” Ramiro asked.

 

Zenith wanted so much to tell his best friend what was going on. But how do you tell your friend that Niro was planning on attacking Rundal village and killing Alamaxa. It was best if Ramiro didn't know until after it happened.

 

“There's nothing wrong, just this tension between your race and Larmat is troublesome.”

 

“That it is.”

 

“Whoa, look at your son,” Zenith said as he spotted Colt sparring with an older Dascon male.

 

“He fights well.”

 

“Damn well. Look at the speed he has. I knew he was good. I mean I help train him so of course he will be good.”

 

“Of course.”Ramiro chuckled.

 

“Where did he learn some of those moves? I know you taught him some of them, but some of them, I have never seen.”

 

“He watched Alamaxa train.”

 

Zenith turned to Ramiro. “What did you say?”

 

“I said he has watched Alamaxa train.”

 

“Alamaxa allowed this?”

 

“I doubt he noticed Colt was there.”

 

Zenith watched Colt for awhile longer. A fear for Niro started to slowly build. If Alamaxa fought like this and with his size and experience…Niro is underestimating him. Zenith knew this in his heart.

 

“I have to go, Ramiro. However, I will be right back.” Zenith hurried from the training grounds and went to find Niro.

 

Niro's guards took Zenith to where Niro and Robin went. He hated to interrupt Niro when he was with his female, but this couldn't wait. When he found them, they were lying in agarden, obviously they had just finished making love.

 

“Zenith?”Niro said sleepily.

 

“I must speak with you. It's of the highest importance. Meet me on the training grounds as soon as you can.”

 

Zenith went back to the training grounds and started helping Zenos to train. In about a half hour Niro showed up.

 

“You are looking good, Son. Your form has much improved.”

 

“Thank you, father.”

 

“Now what was so important that you interrupted me?” Niro asked Zenith.

 

“I will be back in a little while, Zenos.” Zenith led Niro over to where Colt was training with Ramiro and two Dascon males.

 

“They have been lining up to take a crack at Colt,” Zenith said as he gestured to the Dascon males who were sitting behind where Colt was fighting.

 

“Of course they do. Colt is Larmat.”

 

“No…that's not it. Watch him for a moment.”

 

Niro watched as Colt started his sparring match with a large Dascon male. After a short time Colt defeated the male.

 

“Those Rundal moves are different than what Ramiro taught him.”

 

“Then whose moves are they?”

 

“Alamaxa's moves.”

 

Niro looked at Zenith.

 

“This is what I wanted to show you. You believe Alamaxa fights like the other Rundal males, but looking at Colt, I would say you’re wrong about that. With his size and strength…”

 

“I understand what you are telling me.”

 

“You should train with Colt.”

 

Niro groaned.

 

“Lookpass the fact he is a Larmat male. I know that is hard to do, especially considering you battled with the Larmat for so long. Nevertheless, that young male knows Alamaxa’s fighting style.”

 

“Shiro, spar with Colt,” Niro said.

 

“Yes Niro.”

 

Colt looked at Niro then quickly over to the very large Dascon male heading toward him.

 

“Are you too tired, boy?” Niro asked.

 

“No Sir.” Colt got into his fighting stance.

 

“This should be good,” Zenith said to Ramiro as he came over to him and Niro.

 

Niro watched Colt spar with Shiro. Colt adapted his fighting style to accommodate forShiro's enormous size. Niro felt someone coming up behind him. He turned quickly and saw Jack walking over. He wasn't watching where he was going. His eyes were glued on Colt. Niro didn't see Jack as a threat, so he went back to watching Colt.

 

“Who is that?” Zenith asked as he reached up to grab his sword.

 

Niro stopped him. “It's just that Earth male.”

 

Zenith relaxed.

 

Colt fought very well, but he was just too tired from fighting the other males to defeat Shiro.

 

“Damn it,” Colt growled when Shiro pinned him.

 

“Good fight,” Shiro said as he helped Colt up.

 

“You fought very well,” Colt added. He was mad at himself for not winning. Niro was watching and he wanted nothing more than to impress him.

 

“That was amazing,” Jack said as he approached Colt.

 

“I lost.”

 

“You were tired. I bet you would have won if you were rested.”

 

“It doesn't matter I lost. That was Shiro, your rival.”

 

“I know.”

 

“Earthling, get back to your training,” Niro said.

 

Jack hurried back to where Nina was.

 

“Tomorrow you will train with me,” Niro said to Colt.

 

“Me?” Colt pointed to himself.

 

“Yes. Be here at first light.”

 

“Yes Sir.”

 

Zenith waited for Niro to leave. “Well, well, looks like you are going to get your wish, Colt.”

 

“Niro wants to train with me.” Colt smiled.

 

“Now, you are going to train with me and Zenos. Now move your butt.”

 

“Yes Sir.” Colt hurried off to find Zenos.

 

“Your son is happy as hell.”

 

“That he is. Tell me, why does Niro want to train with him now?” Ramiro asked.

 

“He finally saw the boy fight, and I guess it impressed the heck out of him. Come on, you can train with us too. We will take turns wearing those two youngsters out.”

 

Ramiro laughed.

 

 

 

 

 

ccc

 

 

 

Litalay sleeping inShiro's bed. Normally, she locked herself in the bathing chamber and rested there. He went to train so she knew she had a least a few hours before he returned.

 

Shiro entered his chamber and unstrapped his sword. He set it down on the chair,then he stretched. That young Larmat warrior surprised him. The male was tired and yet he still fought well. Ramiro should be proud of him.

 

Shiro looked over at his bed and spotted Lita lying there. His eyes lingered over her body. Her covering was up exposing her shapely legs. One side had fallen off her shoulder allowing him to see the top of her right breast.

 

He had been very patient with her over the last couple of days. He kept his distance, allowed her to sleep in the bathing chamber, only spoke to her when she spoke to him and most importantly he didn't touch her.

 

He sat gently on the bed trying not to wake her. He reached out his hand and slowly ran it up her smooth leg. His cock hardened even more when she let out a soft moan. He moved his hand to the inside of her thigh. He could feel the warmth radiating off her pussy. She was wearing nothing under her covering. This was too much for a male to take. He leaned over and kissed up her thigh. She slightly opened her legs, giving him a view of her pussy. He ran his hand over the small patch of brown hair that covered her treasure. The scent of her was intoxicating making his cock ache. He leaned in a little more and ran his tongue over her slit. She opened her legs more giving him full access to her. He couldn't stop himself and stuck his tongue into her pussy. He frantically lapped up her sweet nectar.

 

Lita moaned loudly as she slowly opened her eyes. Shiro buried his face in her pussy as he licked wildly.

 

“Jack,” Lita purred. She reached down and grabbedShiro's hair, holding him in place. “Right there, baby, oh yes…”

 

Shiro licked at her clit in a fast rhythm bringing her to orgasm quickly. She moved side to side holding his head firmly to her. She felt another orgasm starting to build.

 

“Jack…” she said breathily as another orgasm washed over her. She arched up when Shiro stuck his tongue deeply into her. She moved her hips in the same rhythm he darted his tongue in and out of her. When he brought her to another orgasm, she released his head and laid there limp.

 

“Argghhrrr!!!”Shiro roared as he lifted his head up from between her legs.

 

Lita quickly sat up and scooted to the end of the bed.

 

Shiro stood up and took off his loincloth. His cock was enormous. He reached down to pull her to him, but she quickly went to the other side of the bed.

 

He felt a feeling beyond lust building up inside him. He had to have her. He knew he wasn't going to be able to stop this.

 

“I need you,” he howled.

 

“I thought you were…”

 

“Let me have you,” his voice begged. The feeling inside him was buildingup, soon he wouldn't be able to stop himself. “Go…I can't stop myself…go…Lita…” He wouldn't take her with her looking so frightened. He heard the name she called out when he licked at her pussy. It wasn't his name.

 

He sat on the bed trying with everything he had to stop this frenzy building up inside him. “Go damn it…or I will take you.”

 

Lita looked at him sitting there. While he pleasured her, she honestly believed he was Jack. She let the covering fall from her body.

 

“Don't hurt me,” she said quietly as she lay naked on the bed.

 

Shiro looked at her lying there waiting for him. She was so small, so delicate, in comparison to him. He climbed on the bed and pulled her to him. He positioned her on top of him.

 

She slowly lowered herself onto his large cock. Her pussy stretched to accommodate him. He could see the look of pain on her face.

 

“Get use to me,” he said softly. He bit his lip trying to regain some control.

 

“I can't take all of you.”

 

The last of his willpower was gone. He rolled over pinning her under him as he began to thrust. He wanted to bury himself to the hilt in her, but he dared not. He held his weight with his arms, so he wouldn't crush her.

 

“Your pussy is so tight, oh…yesss,” he hissed. He thrust a little faster. “Am I hurting you?”

 

“You are so large.”

 

“I need release, Lita…I need…” He arched up even further and came so hard it made him dizzy. Within seconds his cock was hard again. He needed more, his body demanded more. He sat up and flipped her over. The primal part of him needed to take her this way. He had to take her this way. He lifted her hips up and drove his cock deeply into her.

 

“Ouch…”

 

“I'm sorry, Lita.” He withdrew a little and started to thrust. When she tried to lift her upper body, he pushed her back onto the bed. He leaned over and bit her shoulder holding her in place as he thrust faster. He growled and grunted as he drove himself deeper and faster into her. He felt her body tremble. He bit harder when she moaned loudly.

 

“Ahhh!!!” he roared as he came. He kept himself buried in her for a few moments,then he rolled off her. His cock started to get hard again. His body needed more.

 

“Lita…” he said as he closed his eyes and tried to calm his body. Her little body couldn't take anymore, he knew it. His breath caught when he felt her mouth on his cock. He opened his eyes and watched her trying to take his huge cock into her delicate little mouth. She used both of her hands to assist her. That delicious sucking noise coming from her made his body shudder. Soon his cum pumped into her mouth. He watched his cock slip from her beautiful lips. However, within seconds his cock became hard again. She looked at him then took his cock back into her mouth.

 

“I need to thrust, Lita.” He started moving his hips, watching more of his cock disappearing into her mouth. The frenzy started to ebb inside him. He gently stroked her hair as he watched her suck his cock.

 

After a few moments she let his cock pop from her mouth. Her mouth was tired from sucking such a large cock. She used her hands to stroke him.

 

“That feels so good, Lita,” he moaned. He started to thrust upwards matching the rhythm of her strokes. He arched up as his cum squirted from his cock.

 

Lita watched stream after stream of his cum shot into the air and splattered on her hands and his stomach, then his body went completely limp.

 

She released his cock then reached for something to cover herself with. She sat on the edge of the bed.

 

“Who is Jack?” Shiro quietly asked.

 

Lita started to cry. He quickly sat up. He went to reach for her, but he felt her pull away.

 

“Please don't cry.”

 

“It's just that…”

 

“Shh…” He moved a little closer to her. He covered himself up with the blanket. “Don't cry, Lita.” He gently rubbed her back. He wanted to take her into his arms and kiss those tears away.

 

“Jack is my mate.” These were the only words she could think of to make Shiro understand what Jack meant to her.

 

“Your mate?But Niro said you needed a protector. He allowed me to be your protector.”

 

“When those other males took me from Earth, they hurt Jack to take me.”

 

“Jack…he is the Earth male isn't he?”

 

“Yes…” Lita quickly turned around and looked into his eyes. “Please don't hurt him. I beg of you not to.”

 

“I won't hurt him, unless he challenges me.”

 

“Thank you.”

 

“You love this Jack don't you? I see it in your eyes.”

 

“Yes I do.”

 

“Then why did you allow me to take you?”

 

“You have been so nice to me, and after you pleasured me it wasn't fair not to allow you to get some pleasure too.”

 

“You said Jack when Iwas tasting you. You believed I was Jack, didn't you?”

 

“Yes.” Lita turned around.

 

Shiro was angry, hurt, disappointed, hell he wanted to kill this Jack.

 

“I'm sorry, Shiro. You are such a sweet male it isn't fair that you got stuck with me. Let me talk to Niro and explain things to him. I have to do something for you.”

 

“You don't need to apologize or talk to Niro.”

 

“You deserve better than me.” She turned back to him. “I'm so sorry, Shiro.” Tears started to wield up in her eyes.

 

“Don't cry.”

 

“I don't deserve your kindness.”

 

“Yes you do. Don't say that.”

 

“Jack is going to challenge you for me. I heard that he is training with Nina. What happens when a male loses? That Micha killed the male he challenged for Sheila.”

 

He could see the fear in her eyes. “I wouldn't kill a male who challenged me. Most males don't.”

 

“You will win. Jack can't beat you. I know this.”

 

Shiro didn't know what to say.

 

“Promise me one thing.”

 

“I will try.”

 

“When you do win, promise me you will ask Niro to send Jack back to Earth. It will be easier for him to forget about me if he goes back.”

 

“You don't want me to let Jack win?”

 

“I wouldn't ask that of you. I know how much your pride means to you.”

 

“You would stay here onMalka with me?”

 

“Yes and I will try to be a good mate to you. Just please let Jack go back to Earth.”

 

He could see that her words were genuine. “I will ask Niro about Jack.”

 

“Thank you.” Lita stood up and let the cloth that covered her fall to the ground.

 

Shiro wanted to take what she was offering to him, but he knew her body was probably sore from his earlier invasion.

 

He reached down and grabbed her covering. He wrapped her up in it.

 

“Your body needs time to recoup. My cock was too much for your little pussy. When you are no longer sore I will take you up on your offer. Why don't you go soak in the bath?”

 

Lita just smiled at him and headed to the bathing chamber.

 

Shiro sat back on the bed. A part of him wanted to hurry up and defeat this Jack, so Lita would be his mate. Yet, another part of him was reluctant to do so. Lita loved this Jack. If Jack went back to Earth she would be so heartbroken. Shiro didn't know if he could bear any more of her tears. Still, she would be his and all he had to do was to defeat some puny Earth male for her. He could see Jack in his mind. He saw him practicing with Nina. Jack was determined, but he wasn't very skilled with a sword. Defeating him would be so easy.

 

Shiro lay back in the bed. He wanted to roar out his frustration. Lita was within his reach, but would her heart ever truly belong to him. It was enough to drive a male crazy thinking about it.

 

“Shiro.”

 

He quickly sat up and looked over to the bathing chamber.

 

“Thank you for being such a gentle male. I don't know what I would have done if you were like Micha. I just wanted to say that.” She went back into the bathing chamber.

 

He sat there for a little while then he put back on his loincloth. He grabbed his sword and went over to the bathing chamber. He opened the door slowly, so not to scare her.

 

“I must go train. Please stay in the room.”

 

“Alright.When will you be back?”

 

“I don't know, but I will bring back something for us to eat.”

 

He closed the door and left the chamber. He went straight to the training grounds. There were so many males out here. The Trials were coming up, so everyone had stepped up their training. Shiro saw Demos training with Zenos. Zenith was with Colt. Ramiro was watching with his two small Larmat sons with him. Niro wasn't here and neither was Alistair. Shiro saw Micha training with Tai. Then he spotted Jack training with Nina. Anger boiled up inside him. This was the male who heldLita's heart. He was the only thing stopping Shiro from claiming Lita completely. He saw the determination in Jack's face. He was training hard.

 

Shiro couldn't stop himself from going over there.

 

Nina stopped then placed herself in front of Jack.

 

“Shiro…” she said quietly.

 

“Spar with me, Earth male,” Shiro growled.

 

“Jack no,” Nina said.

 

“Step down, mate of Demos,” Shiro said.

 

Nina looked around. Shiro knew who she was searching for.

 

Jack just looked at Shiro, but he didn't say anything.

 

“Spar with me, unless you are afraid.” Shiro wanted Jack to see that no matter how much he trained he wasn't going to defeat him.

 

“Shiro, he can't spar with you,” Nina said.

 

Shiro heard the heavy footsteps coming up from behind him. He knew who it was even before he turned around.

 

“Shiro, leave the Earth male alone. You will spar with him soon enough,” Demos said.

 

Shiro turned around and glared at Demos.

 

“Please Shiro, go find another sparring partner,” Nina said.

 

Shiro didn't move.

 

“I will be your sparring partner,” Demos growled.

 

Shiro drew his sword and lunged for Demos. He needed to spar and he needed someone who could put up a good fight. He wanted to tire himself out until he couldn't think anymore. Demos gave him what he needed. Their match went on until they both were exhausted. They had drawn quite a crowd as their match dragged on. Finally, Demos won.

 

“Damn good match,” Demos said as he graciously helped Shiro up.

 

“Yes it was. Thank you.” Shiro sheathed his sword then walked off the training grounds.

 

Nina brought Demos over some water.

 

“Thank goodness you were here,” she said as she wiped some of the sweat off Demos' forehead. “Shiro really wanted to fight with Jack.”

 

“That Lita must have told him how she felt about the Earth male. I think it's best if Jack stayed off the training grounds when Shiro is out here.”

 

“But how am I going to know when that is?”

 

“Shiro is my warrior, I will keep him busy. I will let you know when.” Demos looked at her so sexily it made her body instantly heat up. “My female, I have need of you.”

 

“You are all sweaty.”

 

“So are you. Come here.”

 

“You are going to take me right here in the middle of the training grounds?”

 

“If need be.”

 

Nina took off running, he quickly followed. He caught her at the entrance to the training grounds. He lifted her up and pinned her to the wall.

 

“Holy shit, baby, you can't take me…oh damn…” she moaned when he ripped the pants off her. He unlatched his loincloth then quickly buried his cock into her. He didn't care who watched. His need for her was so great he was powerless to stop himself. He rode her hard and fast.

 

“Come, my female,” he growled deeply. He felt her arms and legs wrap around him tightly, and soon he felt her pussy pulsate around his cock. He roared out his orgasm. He thrust a couple more times then slowly pulled his cock from her.

 

“Damn baby,” she said winded. She took what remained of her pants and wrapped it around her waist.

 

“I better get you home. I'm too tired to fight off any male that looks at you too long.” He lifted her up and started carrying her to their chamber.

 

“You are going to carry me the whole way?”

 

“Yes.” He smiled at her. “You know you love this. I want you nice and eager for me by time we get back to our chamber.”

 

“I thought you were tired.”

 

“I'm never too tired to take you.”

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter Thirteen

 

 

 

 

 

Zenos sat out on the grass in front of the leader hut. His body was tired. He trained so much today and when he wasn't training he was watching the other warriors. He gazed out over the sunset.

 

“Son, you trained well today,” Niro said as he sat down beside him.

 

“Thank you, father.”

 

“I'm sorry that I couldn't allow you to just become Flora's mate.”

 

“Don't father…I know why you did what you did.”

 

Both of them looked over to the balcony to the east when they heard a female singing. Flora was learning the Rundal mating ritual song from Ramiro's two young Rundal daughters. Flora's hair was free of her braid and it drifted on the wind. The light of the sunset made her reddish-brown hair seem a blazed which illuminated her pretty face.

 

Zenos couldn't look away. Her singing voice was beautiful.

 

Flora laughed when she messed up the words. Her laughter made Zenos' heart beat faster.

 

“Remember this image of her, Son. At the Trials when it seems like you will be defeated you remember this moment. I always pictured your mother in my mind when things get tough. It gives me the strength to carry on.”

 

“I will remember what you said.”

 

“Zenos!”Flora yelled out when she spotted him. She waved at him and so did the two Rundal girls.

 

Zenos waved back and was a bit disappointed when Flora went back into her hut.

 

“Father, did you see the way Colt fought today?”

 

“Yes I did.”

 

“He showed me some of his moves.”

 

“Good, it will aid you at the Trials.”

 

“Some of those moves are Alamaxa's fighting style.”

 

“I know, Zenith has already informed me. I will be training with Colt tomorrow.”

 

“That's what he told me. He is very excited about training with you.”

 

“I'm sure he is.”

 

“You don't like him very much do you?”

 

“What makes you say that?”

 

“The tone of your voice changes when you speak about him or about any Larmat male.”

 

Niro remained silent.

 

“Yet, you don't see Alistair any different than a Dascon warrior. You are the one who said that both clans should be called the Barbarians ofMalka .”

 

“Is this how you see both clans?”

 

“Yes.”

 

Niro smiled. “You will make a fine leader of our people, Son.”

 

Zenos smiled from ear to ear. His father's praise meant a lot to him.

 

Niro stood up and looked over toSaa's part of the hut.

 

“What is it?” Zenos quickly got up.

 

“You shouldn't be walking around without an escort. Does Saa know your out?”

 

Flora slowly emerged from the shadows.

 

“No,” she said quietly.

 

“Flora, it's dangerous to walk around without an escort,” Zenos said.

 

Niro knew she was trying to stay hidden until he left.

 

“Flora!”Saa's voice rumbled.

 

“You better go,” Niro said.

 

Zenos ran over to her and took her into his arms. He didn't care that his father was right there or that Flora's father wasn't too far. He needed to hold her.

 

“Zenos…” Flora held him tightly.

 

Niro allowed them one moment. “She better get back to her father. He will be out here in a moment.”

 

Zenos reluctantly let her go. She hurried back into her hut.

 

“Daddy!”Rose called out. “There you are.”

 

“What is it, Rose?”

 

“Mom said it's time for dinner.”

 

“Alright.Come on Zenos.”

 

“I will be there in a moment.” Zenos looked up at the balcony where Flora had been. He smiled when she came back out on it. She motioned for him to come up. He quickly went over and climbed up the vines and rocks, then pulled himself up onto her balcony.

 

“I can't believe you actually climbed up here so fast,” she said.

 

Zenos pulled her into his arms and kissed her. “I want you,” he whispered against her lips.

 

“Zenos…what if we get caught?”

 

“I don't care.” He started to pull up her covering. Her hand went to his cloth-covered cock.

 

“Not right here…I can't.” She was shocked when he threw her over his shoulder and climbed down from the balcony. She held onto him as tightly as she could. He carried her off to the side then gently laid her on the soft grass.

 

“You are so beautiful,” he said as the last of the sunlight glistened off her hair.

 

She opened her arms and he quickly went to her. His hands explored her body as he kissed her lips. He slowly kissed down her neck,then he moved her covering exposing her breasts to him. He quickly began to suckle on her nipple as she gently stroked his hair. He took his time going from one nipple to the other. He reached down and pulled up her covering, allowing his fingers to slip inside her pussy.

 

“Your body wants mine,” he said as he licked her pussy juice from his fingers.

 

“I want to feel you inside me, Zenos.”

 

He quickly removed his loincloth and positioned himself between her legs. “Are you sure, Flora?”

 

“Just don't take me as a protector would.”

 

“I won't.” He couldn't hold back any longer, he thrust the entire length of his cock into her. He stopped when he saw her wince.

 

“Did I hurt you?” he asked.

 

“A little, but this is normal.”

 

He slowly thrust until she wrapped her legs around him, then he couldn't stop himself from thrusting deeper and faster. The sheer pleasure of having his cock encased within her pussy was better than he could imagine.

 

“My male,” she purred.

 

“Flora,” he growled as he thrust faster and faster. He needed to come. “Flora…oh…mmmm,” he groaned as his entire body shook from the intensity of his orgasm. He laid on her wanting to feel her under him. He was careful not to crush her.

 

“Promise me you will win the Trials,” she said as she stroked his back, enjoying the weight of him on her like this. “Promise me, Zenos. I want to be your female. I only want your body.”

 

“I promise, Flora.”

 

“Flora! Where the hell did you go now!” Saa bellowed.

 

“Oh no, it's daddy. I better go.”

 

Zenos rolled off her and watched as she straightened out her covering. He ran his hand down her long reddish-brown hair.

 

Flora waited until Saa went back into the hut. She knew he was getting his sword.

 

“My male,” she purred as she stroked his cheek, then she hurried over to her hut. She straightened her hair and then quickly picked a couple of flowers. Saa came barging out of the hut with his sword in his hand.

 

“There you are. I told you not to walk around without an escort.”

 

“There wasn't any one around. All I wanted to do was pick a couple of flowers.”

 

“Your brother was here.”

 

“Roth is only sixteen, Daddy.”

 

“So, next time you at least bring Roth with you.” Saa looked around. He didn't like that Zenos' hut was this close. He grabbed Flora and sniffed around her.

 

“What are you doing?”

 

All he could smell was the strong fragrance of the flowers she was carrying.

 

“Making sure you didn't sneak off to see Zenos.”

 

“You know he is going to win the Trials.”

 

“And if he does, then I will welcome him as your mate, until then I don't want you around any unattached male.” Saa took one more look around then dragged Flora into the hut.

 

Zenos lie back on the grass and put his loincloth on. He could still smell her scent on him.

 

“Zenos!”Rose cried out.

 

Zenos stood up and hurried over to her.

 

“Your dinner is getting cold, and if you make mom mad, daddy is going to let you have it.”

 

“Alright, alright.”

 

“Why do you look so funny?” She looked at him strangely.

 

“I don't look funny.”

 

“Yeah you do.”

 

“We are keeping mom waiting.” He grabbed her arm and dragged her inside.

 

“Zenos stop doing that. We aren't kids anymore, you know.”

 

“Well, you are still a kid.”

 

“No I'm not.”

 

“Yes, you are,” he said in a teasing voice. He rushed over and picked her up, throwing her over his shoulder.

 

“Put me down.” She squirmed in his arms.

 

“Oh Zenos, put her down,” Robin said as she set Zenos' plate down on the table.

 

“You heard your mother.”

 

“Yes Sir.” Zenos set Rose down.

 

“I hope you're hungry. There is plenty,” Robin said.

 

“I'm starving.” Zenos sat down and started eating.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter Fourteen

 

 

 

Alamaxa looked over the five Rundal warriors he had hand picked to compete in the Dascon Trials. Each one of them was very large and very skilled.

 

“The honor of the Rundal warrior rest on your shoulders. Make me proud,” he said.

 

The five warriors saluted him then headed for theirconjas .

 

“Father.”Taranwent over to him.

 

“They are waiting for you, Son.”

 

“I can't wait to tell you about our victory.”

 

Alamaxa patted his son on the shoulder. “Don't forget your other task.”

 

“If Zenos survives the Trials, I will make sure to kill him myself.”

 

“Be careful.”

 

“I studied your plan, Father. I'm well prepared. Besides, I'm pretty sure Zenos will challenge at least one of our warriors sometime during the Trial. Killing a warrior during the competition isn't against the barbarian laws.”

 

“Still, be careful. I can't afford to lose you. Niro will be so distraught over his only son's death that he will be more open to any offer I give him. If not, all I have to do is kill him, and it will send those Dascon warriors into chaos. Niro only has the one son and his daughter can't be leader. With no leader those stupid barbarians will fight each other to see who will rule.”

 

“Your plan is perfect, Father.”

 

“Now go. I want our warriors to train at the Trial grounds to get them use to the environment.”

 

Tarannodded his head then hurried over to where the other warriors were. He climbed on hisconja and they left.

 

Alamaxa watched as they took off.

 

“Do you really believe they can beat those barbarian warriors?” Lei said as she approached him.

 

“Yes I do.”

 

“You want to see him fight Niro's son, don't you?”

 

“You know me too well, my mate.”

 

She pressed her body against his. “I miss your cock.” She started making a clicking noise.

 

“Now is not the time for that.” He stepped away from her.

 

“Ramiro makes time to fuck his mate.”

 

Alamaxa growled at her.

 

“I heard that Ramiro's mate is pregnant with his offspring, so much for your father's theory. Imagine the abomination their offspring will be. Still, Ramiro must fuck his mate a lot.” Lei started to walk away. “Perhaps, I should have one of your guards fuck me.”

 

Alamaxa charged at her and grabbed her roughly.

 

“Don't ever speak to me that way. I catch you with another male and I will kill you.” He turned her and bent her over. He tore the covering off her. “You want to be fucked!” he growled. He removed his covering and rammed his cock into her. He thrust brutally into her until he came. He pushed her away from him.

 

He put his covering back on.

 

Lei slowly stood up. She grabbed what was left of her covering and wrapped it around herself.

 

“There I fucked you.”

 

“I miss what we had before your father died. This bitterness you carry is weighing too heavily on you.”

 

“Then ease my burden and leave me alone.”

 

“Alamaxa…I need your tenderness.”

 

“And I need more offspring.”

 

She gasped then started to cry. “You know I have tried to give you another offspring.”

 

“I will take another mate in addition to you to provide me with more offspring.”

 

“You can't do that.”

 

“Yes I can. It is our tradition for the leader to be entitled to more than one mate.”

 

“Your father never looked or touched another female other than your mother.”

 

“My mother provided father with many offspring.”

 

“And if your two older brothers had survived the destruction of our planet you would have never been our leader.”

 

“But they didn't. The point is my mother gave father six offspring and my sisters have given their mates several offspring. And yet, you have given me only one offspring. I have already chosen my second mate.”

 

“You bastard…” Lei looked for something to hit him with. “That is why you don't make love to me. You are with her. Who is she? Where is she?”

 

“She is in the birthing chamber. She is already providing me with another offspring.”

 

“Who is she? It is Karmas isn't it? That little bitch. It is her. I assumed you were picking our son's mate. However, you took that little whore for yourself.”

 

“You are astute.”

 

“Does our son know what you have done?”

 

“He is the one who pointed her out to me.”

 

“He did what?”

 

“Go back to our hut. I have much to plan.”

 

Lei ran out of the room and headed straight for the birthing room. Two large guards stopped her from going on any further.

 

“No one is allowed pass this point.”

 

“Move out of my way. I command you to.”

 

“We only take commands from Alamaxa. Not from one of his mates.”

 

Lei hurried back to her hut and collapsed onto the bed. She cried until she couldn't cry anymore. Alamaxa had replaced her and her own son willingly helped him to do it. Their betrayal was too much for her.

 

She walked over to the balcony and looked out across the village. She closed her eyes and jumped.

 

 

 

ccc

 

 

 

Niro went onto the training grounds. He saw Colt warming up. Zenos was already out training with Zenith.

 

“Niro,” Shiro hurried over to him.

 

“What is it?”

 

“The son of Alamaxa is here, and he has brought five Rundal warriors with him. He demands to be allowed onto the training grounds.”

 

“He demands,” Niro snorted. “Who does that little whelp think he is?”

 

“I will escort him to the guest chambers.”

 

“No, let him and his males train. I wouldn't want Alamaxa to think that we are being unfair to his people. Still, why sendTaran here?” Niro wasn't expecting Alamaxa's son to show up. However, this made things a bit easier. They could killTaran right here after the Trials. “Go show them in.”

 

“Yes Niro.”

 

“And Shiro…”

 

“Yes Sir.”

 

“Leave the Earth male alone until he challenges you for that female. I don't need you distracted right now.”

 

“Yes Sir.”

 

Niro stretched and did some warm up exercises. He glanced over toTaran as he and the five large Rundal males entered the arena.

 

“I don't like having Rundal in the competition,” Zenith said to Niro.

 

“They will lose quickly.”

 

“I'm sure they will. Tomar would never have insisted that his people participate in our Trials.”

 

“Tomar was wise, unlike his son.” Still, something bothered Niro about this whole thing. Niro gestured to Colt. “Tell the boy to get ready.”

 

“Be nice, Niro.” Zenith went over to Colt.

 

Niro looked at Zenos training with Shiro then he quickly looked back over toTaran . He was talking with his males and all of them were looking at Zenos. One of the Rundal males growled loudly and then started sparring with another one.

 

“You look troubled,” Demos said as he came up behind Niro.

 

“I had an unpleasant thought.”

 

“I will tell our males not to hurt the Rundal.”

 

“That's not it.” Niro took Demos over to the side. “I think I know why Alamaxa insisted on letting his warriors compete in the Trials.”

 

“He believes they can win.”

 

“No…he knows the chances are they won't win. That's not his goal.” Niro looked over at his son. “Alamaxa wants to kill Zenos.”

 

“No…why…”

 

“Zenos is my only son.” Niro held the hilt of his sword tightly. “It is not against our laws to kill your opponent during the Trials. It's frowned upon, but there is no punishment if a male is accidentally killed.”

 

Demos wassilent.

 

Niro looked into Demos' face. “You know what I say makes sense. Look at what we are planning on doing. It's not too far-fetched to believe that Alamaxa is planning a similar thing. If he kills Zenos…all is left is to kill me. With no leader you know what will happen. Robin and Rose would be killed within the week, so will you and your family unless you establish yourself as leader right away.”

 

“Nothing will happen to Zenos. If you believe that those Rundal males’ only purpose is to kill Zenos, then pull Zenos from the Trials.”

 

“Damn it…that fucking Alamaxa,” Niro growled. “This is why he insisted Zenos earn his mate like all the other males and why he insisted that Flora be the prize for the winner of the Trials. Oh, how could I have been so blind? I can't take Zenos out of the Trials. Not with Flora being the prize.”

 

“Then change it.”

 

“You know I can't. I can't even warn Zenos. It will throw his fighting off.”

 

“Your son is strong. No Rundal will defeat him.”

 

“That is whyTaran is here. Alamaxa sent his son to kill mine if his warriors fail.”

 

“Taranis no match for Zenos.”

 

“Yeah, but Zenos won't be expectingTaran to attack him.”

 

“Then I will post guards around Zenos after the Trial. All Alamaxa has done here is spark your anger, which will make it easier for you to kill him.”

 

“Act like everything is normal. I don't wantTaran suspecting anything. We can't have him leave. Besides, after the Trials are over, I will killTaran myself and any of those Rundal males who are still here. I better go train.”

 

“Colt looks like an eagerconja .”

 

Niro walked over to Colt. “Are you ready?”

 

“Yes Sir.”

 

Niro attacked Colt. He held nothing back. Colt managed to dodge and block all of his attacks. Niro paid attention to every nuance of Colt's attacks. The match went on forever until finally Niro won.

 

He helped Colt up. “You let me win,” Niro said.

 

“Sir?”

 

“I notice everything, boy. Tomorrow you will come at me with everything you got. If you defeat me, I will grant you one favor.”

 

“Onefavor… anything I want?”

 

“Within our laws.”

 

Niro went over to Shiro.

 

“Wow, you did great,” Zenos said as he approached Colt. “Why did you back off a little there at the end?”

 

“I didn't want to win.”

 

“What makes you think you could have beaten my father?”

 

“He favors his right side and when he switched to his left side…Zenos, I believe something is wrong with his right hand. He was in pain right before he switched hands. All I had to have done was attack from the left, the next time he switched hands.”

 

“Alamaxa would have seen what you did wouldn't he?”

 

“Probably.Why do you ask that?”

 

“You said you watched Alamaxa fight. I was just curious.”

 

“Larmat-Rundal scum,”Taran hissed. “Where is your weakling father?”

 

“Taranyour words mean nothing to me,” Colt said.

 

“Sure they do. I can see it in your eyes.”Taran looked at Zenos. “Spar with me, son of Niro.”

 

“Alright, but back off Colt.”

 

“As you wish.”Tarantook out his sword. Zenos did the same. They made their way out to the middle of the arena.

 

They began to spar.

 

Niro started toward them but Demos stopped him. “You can't, it will draw their suspicions.”

 

The Rundal males growled and hollered eggingTaran on.

 

“Come on Zenos, show him what a barbarian male can do,” Colt yelled out. This started to get the younger barbarian males wound up.

 

Taranwas surprised by Zenos' skill. He wasn't expecting him to be this good already. When Zenos used a Rundal move it threwTaran off. Within seconds Zenos had him pinned under him with his sword to his neck.

 

One of the large Rundal males charged. Before Niro could do anything Colt intercepted the male.

 

“Stand down,”Taran said as Zenos graciously helped him up. “We are only sparring. Good fight, son of Niro.”

 

“Good fight, son of Alamaxa.”

 

Niro walked over to Zenos. “Are you alright?”

 

“Why wouldn't I be?”

 

“Using that Rundal move against him was clever.”

 

“Thank you, Father.” Zenos looked at Niro's right hand. “Father, did you injure your right hand?”

 

“Why would you say that?”

 

“Colt believes you injured your right hand, because you switched to your left hand twice during the match.”

 

“He is very observant.”

 

“Then your hand is injured?”

 

“No…it's an old injury that acts up. I got it when I went to save your mother from the Larmat leader Malin.”

 

“Is that the battle you would have died if Demos didn't arrive when he did?”

 

“Yes.”

 

“Father, if Colt noticed that, Alamaxa will.”

 

“It doesn't hurt that much, and normally it doesn't affect my fighting.”

 

“But when it does…those are the times Demos wins your sparring matches isn't it?”

 

“Yes.”

 

“What if your hand acts up when you are battling Alamaxa?”

 

“There is a difference between sparring and battle, Son.”

 

“Larmat scum howdare you approach one of my guards,”Taran said to Colt.

 

“It is unwise to insult a group of people when there are so many of them in hearing distance,” Niro said.

 

Taranlooked around and saw the arena had several Larmat males in it now. All of them looked angry.

 

“It is the folly of youth,” Alistair said as he entered the arena and went over to Niro. “Back to your training,” he said to the Larmat males. “I see Alamaxa has sent his son to represent him.”

 

“It seems that way. I will get my warriors off the training grounds so your males can train in peace.”

 

“Thank you, Niro.”

 

“Zenos, let's get some rest,” Niro said. Then he ordered all Dascon males to leave the training grounds. He looked over at Colt. “You are Larmat you can stay and train with them if you wish. You will need the practice if you expect to beat me tomorrow.”

 

Colt nodded his head then hurried over to Alistair.

 

Niro went back to his chamber. Zenos was right behind him. When they entered Zenos went straight for the food Robin had prepared. Niro looked at Robin busy showing Rose how to weave the leaves of thebalma tree to make silk for their coverings and for bandages. He glanced over to Zenos stuffing his face. Alamaxa wanted to destroy all of this. There was no way Niro was going to let Alamaxa hurt his family or his people.

 

“Niro…” Robin said as she hurried over to him. “What is wrong?”

 

“Nothing, little one.”

 

“Colt almost beat him,” Zenos said with his mouth full of food.

 

“Really?”

 

“That boy is skilled. However, I don't believe he would have beaten me.”

 

“Daddy, is Colt entering the Trials?” Rose said.

 

“I don't know. Is he, Zenos?”

 

“Why wouldn't he?”

 

“Zenos,please don't talk with your mouth full and sit down and eat like a civilized person.”

 

“I'm hungry.”

 

“That is no excuse.”

 

“Zenos, Colt can't enter the Trials,” Rose said.

 

“Why not?”

 

“He will win.”

 

“Phhfff, he will come in second, but I'm going to win.”

 

“Daddy, forbid Colt from entering the Trials.”

 

“Why does it matter to you?” Zenos asked.

 

“Please Daddy.”

 

“You know I can't do that.”

 

Robin could see Rose getting visibly upset.

 

“Honey, what is this all about?” Robin went over to her.

 

“If Colt enters the Trials, he will win Flora. She is Zenos' perfect mate, not Colt's.”

 

“Is she alright?” Niro asked.

 

“Why don't you two guys take your lunch out on the balcony?”

 

“You are worrying for nothing, Rose,” Zenos said as he grabbed his plate of food and headed out to the balcony with Niro.

 

“Mom, Colt can't win Flora. It will make Zenos so sad and…Colt is supposed to be my mate.”

 

“Oh Rose…”

 

“Tell daddy to stop Colt from entering the Trials.”

 

“You are that sure that Colt can beat your brother.”

 

“You heard Zenos say that Colt almost beat daddy.”

 

“Rose, Niro can't stop a male from entering the Trials. You know this. Besides, you know Colt is your brother's best friend do you really believe he would take Flora from him?”

 

Robin heard someone knocking on the door.

 

“Pull yourself together okay, sweetie.” Robin went over to the door and was surprised to see Demos.

 

“Where is Niro?”

 

“Daddy, Demos is here to see you!” Rose yelled out.

 

Niro came back into the room. “What is it?”

 

“I just got word that Alamaxa's mate Lei killed herself.”

 

“Oh my goodness,” Robin said. “Did someone tellTaran ?”

 

“Yes, he was personally notified.”

 

“We should send an emissary to Rundal village,” Niro said.

 

“It seems as though Alamaxa had two mates. His younger mate just gave birth to a son. I believe what we were discussing earlier was accurate.”

 

“What's going on?” Robin said. “Why would Alamaxa have two mates? Tomar didn't.”

 

“Their customs stated that the ruler may have more than one mate. Tomar was the exception most of the past rulers had several mates.”

 

“But why would she kill herself?”

 

“I don't know, little one.”

 

“Does Ramiro know?” Rose asked.

 

“Yes, he will be picking the emissary to go. He wanted me to ask your permission,” Demos said.

 

“Anyone but him can go. I don't care whether it's a Rundal or Dascon, just as long as Ramiro stays here.”

 

“Understood.”Demos left.

 

“Maybe Ramiro wants to be with his brother now,” Rose said.

 

“It's complicated, sweetheart,” Niro said. He was right, Alamaxa wanted Zenos dead, and he was willing to sacrificeTaran to achieve this. He doubtedTaran knew what his father really planned. The only problem now was Niro would have to kill a young Rundal female and an infant. Alamaxa can't have any heir. Niro didn't relish the thought of killing a female and child, but he had no choice.

 

He felt Robin squeeze his hand.

 

Niro looked down into her beautiful face. He smiled at her and gave her hand a squeeze.

 

“You can lean on me, Niro.”

 

“I know that, little one.”

 

“Then let me ease some of your burdens.”

 

“You do already. I must go speak with Ramiro. Make sure Zenos doesn't go back on the training grounds for at least a few hours. I want the Larmat males to be able to train in peace.”

 

“Alright.”She reached up and stroked his cheek. “If you need to talk, I will listen.”

 

He grabbed her hand and kissed it softly. “I know youwill, little one.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter Fifteen

 

 

 

“She didn't know about Alamaxa's other mate,” Ramiro said as he poured Mara a glass of water.

 

“How could she not know?”

 

“Alamaxa didn't want her to know.”

 

“Perhaps he wanted to spare her feelings.”

 

“I doubt that. He probably didn't want her causing trouble.”

 

“Did you know he had another mate?”

 

“No…and that is what troubles me. Whyhave so much secrecy?”

 

“I thought that young female Rundal was supposed to beTaran's mate?”

 

“That is the impression I got. Yet, when I went to consoleTaran he told me he had chosen that female for his father. Moreover, even more troublesome is that he didn't care that his mother just killed herself. He showed no emotion at all. Even Alamaxa cried at the news of our mother's death.”

 

“Taranis a cold person. Both his mother and his father made him that way. You saw how they raised him. Poor thing had no tenderness shown to him. It's really no wonder whyTaran didn't care about his mother's death. That female never showed him an ounce of love. She gave all her love to Alamaxa.”

 

“Taranwill be our next leader.” Ramiro didn't like the look on Mara's face. “What is it?”

 

“I don't wish to say anything.”

 

“You can tell me anything. You know this.”

 

“You have too much to think about and besides I may be wrong about this.”

 

“Wrong about what?”

 

“It's not my place. I don't know the inner workings of politics, so I shouldn't say anything.”

 

“I value your opinion. Please tell me what's on your mind.”

 

Mara sat up and gently rubbed the bump on her stomach. “When I was the guard for my queen, I paid attention. What troubles me is that Niro is insisting that you stay here in Dascon.”

 

“I wouldn't have gone back to Rundal anyways. Alamaxa has exiled me.”

 

“Then why would Niro tell Demos to insist that you stay. It's like it is of the highest importance that you remain here. Therefore, I started going over why was it important.”

 

“And…”

 

“Remember this is only my opinion, but if I was Niro I would want you to be the ruler of the Rundal. So, I would find a way to assassinate Alamaxa to ensure you would be the leader. The Trials are coming up. Everyone will be focused on this. If I was going to send an assassin I would do it during the Trials.Taran is here, so killing him would be easy. Alistair is here, so no Larmat would be near the Rundal village. There would be nothing tying them to Alamaxa's murder. The Rundal people would believe one of their own did it.”

 

Ramiro slowly stood up.

 

“It's just my opinion.”

 

“Niro wouldn't send an assassin. He would go.”

 

“Why would he?”

 

“It's the barbarian way. Leader against leader, a barbarian would accept this, but not a Rundal. They might see this as an act of war by the Dascon clan. Niro would have to know this. That means he is planning on attacking the Rundal village and forcing his will on my people.”

 

“Your people want you to be their leader. Alamaxa isn't a fair ruler and the riff he has created between the Larmat and your people can only cause trouble.”

 

“If Niro attacks the Rundal village many innocent Rundal will die.”

 

“Revolution is a bloody thing. Look at what the Empress of Loma was going to do. She was going to kill my queen and my entire village, just because a male child was born. Your father saved my village, still many villagers did lose their lives trying to flee and protect the Rundal who was helping them. Those villages gladly gave their lives for this. How many Rundal would sacrifice their lives to oust Alamaxa?”

 

“You want me to do nothing?”

 

“Yes, mylove, let what will be, happen. If Alamaxa was meant to rule your people, then he will defeat Niro.”

 

“I can't just let some of my people die.”

 

“What would Tomar have done if he was in your position?”

 

“He would have thought about the greater good. But why would you assume that I will make a better ruler than Alamaxa?”

 

Mara gestured to someone at the door.

 

Ramiro turned around and saw Colt standing there.

 

“What is it Mother?”

 

“What do you think of Alamaxa?”

 

Colt looked at his father then at the floor. “It's not my place to say anything about him.”

 

“Go on Son, it is okay. I want to hear what you think about him,” Ramiro said.

 

“I believe he should concede his rule to you. He thinks about nothing except for his pride. He believes Tomar was weak for maintaining peace with the barbarians. Tomar was a great ruler and when I look at you, I see him.Taran is just like his father if not worse.”

 

“Would you be a better ruler thanTaran ?”

 

“I'm not a Rundal.”

 

“But you are my oldest son.”

 

“I wouldn't know how to rule the Rundal. If you were ruler and something happened to you I would concede my rule toTona .”

 

“But she is female.”

 

“So, she is a Rundal. It would keep peace among your people, father. To have a Larmat rule the Rundal would be wrong in my eyes.”

 

“Why is that?”

 

“A people need to have their own kind as ruler. If a Larmat was the ruler they would think I would do everything to benefit the Larmat and not the Rundal. Besides, mother's people had females lead them. Her queen has a seat on Niro's council. He didn't make her take a lesser role. Furthermore, if a barbarian can allow a female to be on the council, I don't see why the Rundal would have a problem with it.”

 

“Well spoken, Colt.”

 

“You look tired, Colt, you should go and rest,” Mara said.

 

“I wanted to check on you first. Your belly grows faster than a human female belly should.”

 

“I'm carrying two babies, remember.”

 

“Still…”

 

“Don't worry about me. You go rest.”

 

Ramiro waited for Colt to leave. “Why did you ask him about Alamaxa?”

 

“He knows about all the people onMalka . He has a unique prospective on things.”

 

“Wait a minute…” Ramiro sat down next to Mara. “Queen Rhaya does have a seat on the council Niro created. That means she may know if you are right about Niro.”

 

“She probably would, but I doubt she would tell us anything. If we were meant to know what's going on we would know.” Mara grabbed his claw. “Mylove, let what will be happen. I know it's hard to just sit by and do nothing. But you must. Niro may be planning nothing for all we know.”

 

Ramiro squeezed her hand. The more he thought about what Mara said the more everything made sense. Yet, what scared him the most is what Alamaxa was up to.

 

 

 

ccc

 

 

 

Sheila struggled with the rope Micha tied her to the bed with. Her body was sore, her throat was dry. He tied her up like this last night and proceeded to use her repeatedly. He was angry that she was flirting with another male when she went to see him train yesterday.

 

She had to kill Micha soon. She couldn't take too much more of his abuse. Trying to get Zenos’ attention was too difficult right now, especially with Micha watching her every move.

 

She saw that other male winning match after match and thought he might be able to defeat Micha. Hell, she didn't even know that guy's name. She only knew that he was strong. Micha noticed her flirting and proceeded to defeat that male. He would have killed him too ifLita's large protector didn't stop him.

 

Sheila was truly afraid for her life last night when Micha brought her back here. He beat her with the leather strap and tied her up like this. He placed his sword to her throat and warned her never to flirt with another male again. Then he proceeded to use her body again and again.

 

She jerked causing the bed to rattle when the door burst open.

 

Micha looked at her lying there. “I hope you learned your lesson.”

 

She just nodded her head.

 

“Good.” He untied her and handed her a glass of water.

 

She gulped it down.

 

“Go to the bathing chamber and make yourself pretty for me.”

 

She didn't argue. She slowly got up, her muscles not allowing her to move any faster. The warm water of the bath felt good on her sore muscles.

 

“Hurry up!” Micha bellowed.

 

She quickly got ready and went over to him.

 

“My beautiful female.”He grabbed her arm and dragged her from the room.

 

She had no idea where he was taking her, nor did she protest.

 

Micha stopped just before they entered the training grounds.“On your knees.”

 

“What?”

 

“On your knees.You are going to suck my cock right here.”

 

“Are you crazy?”

 

Micha shoved her down then pulled her up so that she was on her knees in front of him. “Do what I say unless you wish to feel my anger again.”

 

She reached up and undid his loincloth. She moved it to the side then took his cock into her mouth.

 

“Suck it good. I want them all to see the pleasure my female gives me.”

 

She could feel the heaviness of the stares from several males.

 

“She sucks cock so good,” Micha growled. He grabbed a handful of her hair and rammed his cock down her throat. “That's it take every last inch of it.”

 

Sheila tried to break free of his hold. His large cock was gagging her and blocking her breathing.

 

“I won't let you free until you swallow every inch of it.” He pushed her head down forcing all of his cock into her. “Yes, you took all of it.”

 

“What are you doing?” Shiro said.

 

“Having my female suck my cock. What is it to you?”

 

“She is struggling. You are hurting her.”

 

“She is doing what she is told to do.”

 

“Release her. Why would you want all these males seeing this?”

 

“I want to feel their envy.”

 

“Release her now!” Shiro pulled his sword out.

 

Micha let go of Sheila's head, and she gasped for air.

 

“Why do you care what I do to my female? You have your own female.”

 

“No male should abuse his female. You know our laws.”

 

“I told you to suck my cock,” Micha growled at Sheila. “What I do with my female is none of your concern.”

 

“You disgust me.” Shiro put his sword back in its scabbard and headed onto the training grounds.

 

“Get me off now, female.” He looked down and watched her suck him. His orgasm hit hard and he roared out his orgasm. He looked over at the young male pleasuring himself as he watched them.

 

“How would you like to feel her mouth on your cock, young male?” Micha asked.

 

“I don't wish to challenge you.”

 

“Of course you don't want to challenge me.” Micha chuckled as the young male hurried off. He pulled Sheila up to her feet.

 

“It is your law that you can't hurt a female?” she said as she glared at him.

 

“You better stop looking at me like that.”

 

“What if I told Niro what you are doing to me?”

 

Micha grabbed her roughly and pulled her to him. “You tell Niro anything, and I will kill you. No one will be able to protect you from my anger.”

 

“Micha.”

 

Micha released Sheila then tied his loincloth.“Niro.” He bowed his head to him.

 

Niro looked at Sheila standing there beside Micha.

 

“Shiro told me you are abusing your female.”

 

“I only wanted her to pleasure me.”

 

“Is he abusing you?” Niro looked to Sheila.

 

“No,” she quickly said. She was too afraid to say anything else.

 

“It is against our laws to abuse a female, Micha. You know this?”

 

“Of course.”

 

“You tell me if you feel he is abusing you.”

 

Sheila nodded her head.

 

Niro went back onto the training grounds.

 

“Oh,that damn Shiro.”

 

“I guess things are going to change a little aren't they,” Sheila said.

 

“Don't get too confident. Shiro only saved you from publicly pleasuring me. He can't save you from what I do to you in my chamber. You remember that. Now get inside the training grounds and watch me. And don't flirt with anyone, or I will do far worse than what I did yesterday.”

 

Sheila followed him onto the training grounds. She heard Micha growl when Robin started coming over to them.

 

“You say one thing to her and I swear I will torture you to death. Do you understand?”

 

“Yes.”

 

Micha knew Niro was sending Robin over here to see if Sheila would tell her if he was abusing her.

 

“Sheila, why don't you sit with me,” Robin said. “Micha, Niro wants to spar with you first.Don't worry , Sheila will be protected.”

 

“Go, my female, you could probably use the company of other females.” Micha went over to Niro.

 

Robin led Sheila over to where a couple other females were sitting. Sheila saw Lita sitting beside Rose. A rush of anger hit her. Lita looked well taken care of. This wasn't fair, why did Lita get the better barbarian male, and not to mention Jack training to challenge Shiro was what everyone was talking about.

 

“Sheila, you don't have to be afraid to tell me if Micha is abusing you.”

 

“Who said he was abusing me?” Sheila sat down next to Lita.

 

“You told me he was hurting you,” Lita said.

 

“Of course he is. Do you see the size of him?”

 

“So, he is not abusing you? Shiro told Niro that…”

 

“Meand Micha play like that. I don't call that abuse.”

 

“Alright.”

 

“Micha said that he wants to build us a hut after we are joined. That is your custom right?”

 

“Yes, a high ranking warrior can build his own hut beside the leader hut,” Robin said.

 

“He said I could have anything I wanted. He is even going to have a clothing maker design me some more clothes.”

 

“That is nice of him,” Lita said.

 

“Has Shiro done this for you?”

 

“I haven't asked for anything.”

 

“I didn't have to ask. Micha wanted to do these things for me. You should tell Shiro what you want.”

 

“I wouldn't feel comfortable doing that.”

 

“Why not.It's his job to provide for you. Don't tell me you actually think Jack is going to win against Shiro?”

 

“That's not nice to say that,” Rose said.

 

“Rose…” Robin looked at her.

 

“Where is Jack?” Sheila asked.

 

“I don't know,” Lita replied.

 

“Oh, they probably won't let him on the training grounds when Shiro is out here. Can't blame them, Shiro would probably kill Jack.”

 

Robin could see that Lita was getting upset.

 

“Let's change the subject, shall we.”

 

“So when are these Trials going to happen?” Sheila asked.

 

“In two days.”

 

“Are we allowed to watch?”

 

“Yes, your protector will have to be with you.”

 

Sheila watched as Shiro came over quickly the second Lita looked upset. He was very gentle with her and didn't pry when she wouldn't say what had gotten her upset. He was so large, and yet he was so very gentle with Lita. He went and got her a glass of water,then when she looked cold he went and brought her a light covering. Micha didn't come over once. He only looked over to make sure Sheila wasn't flirting with anyone.

 

After a few hoursShiro came and escorted Lita back to their hut. He didn't want her to grow too tired or bored watching him train. Micha, on the other hand, made Sheila stay the entire time and just growled at her to follow him back. He fucked her roughly then he left her alone in the chamber.

 

Sheila lay on the bed and steamed. There was no way Lita was getting the better deal here. Damn it, Sheila was going to get Zenos to be her protector. She wanted to be these people's next queen. Hell, she was the most beautiful female on this planet. She deserved to have the best. And damn it, she was going to make it happen. First thing was first, Micha had to die.

 

 

 

 

 

ccc

 

 

 

Niro readied himself for his match with Colt. He could see the focus in Colt's eyes.

 

“Remember boy come at me with all you got.”

 

“Yes Sir.”

 

Colt bolted at him. Niro easily blocked the barge of attacks from Colt. Something was different this time. Colt wasn't holding back. Niro liked this. He wanted to see the extent of Colt's training. Zenith told him how hard Colt trained every day.

 

Niro could see his attacks were starting to wear Colt down. This was how he was going to defeat the boy. Surprisingly, Colt change his fighting style, he mixed Rundal, Larmat and Dascon styles all at once. This impressed Niro for it made him change up his fighting style too.

 

The match went on for what seemed like forever.

 

Colt was getting tired, but he had to win. He saw the look of pain flash over Niro's face. This time he couldn't hesitate when the moment came. Niro's powerful attacks were really wearing Colt down. If he didn't go for the winning blow soon Niro was going to win, just as Colt was about to expend the last of his energy Niro switched his sword to his left hand. This was it. Colt had to attack from the left now. He used the last of his strength and speed and lept over Niro. He swung his sword. He was surprised when Niro blocked it. Colt dropped down and swept his legs knocking Niro over, but before he could pin him, Niro jumped up to his feet. Colt gasped when Niro jumped on him pinning him to the ground. He could hear the cheers from the other males.

 

“Good fight,” Niro said as he helped Colt up.

 

“Good fight,” Colt quietly said.

 

“I will reward you for your effort,” Niro said.

 

“But I didn't win.”

 

“Still, you did fight with everything you had.”

 

“Daddy!”Rose ran over to him. “You won.”

 

“Well boy, what do you want?” Niro took the towel from Rose.

 

Rose handed Colt a towel. Her smile filled him with so much warmth.

 

Robin walked over and kissed Niro.

 

“I want the honor of spending time with Rose.”

 

“What?!”Niro growled.

 

“Of course with a chaperon,” Colt quickly added.

 

Niro watched the way Rose gazed up at Colt and the tender way he looked at her. Then Colt's pale blond hair reminded Niro that he was a Larmat male.

 

“I will arrange it,” Robin said.

 

Niro looked at her.

 

“You did say he could have anything. Colt, come over tomorrow morning. You can spend time with Rose then.”

 

“Thank you.” Colt smiled at Rose,then he walked over to where Zenos was.

 

Colt's pale blond stood out amongst the dark-haired Dascon males. Niro hated himself for thinkinglike this, but there was no way his daughter was going to have aLarmat male for a mate.

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter Sixteen

 

 

 

 

 

Zenos waited by Flora's hut. Sabrina had taken her to the covering maker to get her a new covering for the Trials. Saa insisted that his daughter look her most beautiful for her new protector. Zenos could seeSaa's pride in his daughter and the fact that she was going to be the prize for the winner of the Trials. The most powerful male was going to be his daughter's mate. This was the highest honor for a father.

 

Zenos' body was sore from his training. There was only one day left before the Trials. He smiled when he spotted Flora with her mother.

 

“I still think the darker one with the reddish accent was prettier,” Flora said.

 

“It was too revealing. You know your father would have had a cow. The emerald green one matches your eyes.”

 

“I should wear my hair up, don't you think?”

 

“No, let it flow freely.”

 

Flora looked over when she felt Zenos' heavy stare. Her heart started to beat faster. She gestured for him to hide for a minute.

 

“I have to get dinner going. You want to help?” Sabrina said as they walked in.

 

“I think I want to try on these coverings again.If that is alright?”

 

“Go ahead.”

 

Flora quickly went to her room then hurried to the window. She opened it and climbed out. She ran over to the other side of the hut.

 

“Zenos,” she whispered.

 

“Flora.”

 

She turned around and then threw herself into his arms. His strong arms tightened around her. She took a deep breath inhaling his scent. She felt so safe here in his arms. She always did, even when they were children. He always had protected her for as long as she could remember. His beautiful eyes and that smile always had such a gentleness and warmth.

 

She hugged him tighter. She prayed to the Goddess everyday to give Zenos the strength to win the Trials. He had to win.

 

“Shh, I will win the Trials, Flora.”

 

“I know you will. Are you training today?”

 

“No, father said I should let my body rest.”

 

“That is a good idea.”

 

She lingered in his embrace a little longer,then she moved back. He looked so tired. He had trained so hard. She grabbed his hand and led him to the garden by his hut.

 

“Where are your father and mother?” she asked.

 

“They are at Demos' hut. Rose is with them.”

 

“I bet she is. I heard that Colt asked to spend time with your sister. Does that bug you?”

 

“I trust Colt not to hurt her.”

 

Flora gestured for him to lie down on his stomach.

 

“What are you going to do?”

 

“Relax you a bit.” She climbed on his back and started rubbing his shoulder.

 

“Mmm, that feels good.”

 

“I bet you are really sore.”

 

“A little.”

 

“So it doesn't bug you that Colt likes your sister?”

 

“Rose is only fifteen.”

 

“What does that have to do with anything?”

 

“She has to be eighteen to have a protector.”

 

“You know Colt wants to be her protector.”

 

“I hope he is. He will make a good mate for my little sister.”

 

“You don't care that he is a Larmat male?”

 

“I wouldn't care if he was a Rundal male. As long as he protects and makes Rose happy is all that matters.”

 

She massaged his back then his legs. She started to move to his arms, but he rolled over quickly capturing her in his arms.

 

“I know a better way for you to relax me.” He smiled provocatively at her.

 

“Zenos…”

 

He captured her lips as he moved her covering up. His hand slipped down to her pussy. His fingers danced over her clit. “You like it when I touch you there, don't you?” he whispered against her lips.

 

“Yes,” she moaned.

 

He slowly kissed down her body as his fingers continued stroking her clit. His mouth hovered over her pussy. “You like it better when I lick you…don't you.” He flicked his tongue over her clit. “Or do you want me to suck on your sweet pussy?”

 

“Do both,” she quickly said as she opened her legs wider.

 

He lapped at her pussy then briefly sucked at her clit. He alternated between licking and sucking her clit. He growled when she latched onto his head pushing his face closer. He knew she was about to come. He flicked his tongue in a steady rhythm over her clit. Her hips rose up and she pushed down on his head, covering his face with her pussy. She held him there for a moment then released him. He stuck two of his fingers deeply into her. He felt her pussy pulsating around his fingers.

 

“You want me to lick you some more?”

 

“I want to suck on you,” she said breathily.

 

“In a minute, I want you to ride my face and bring yourself to another orgasm, first.” He rolled over taking her with him. She squatted over his face. He grabbed her hips and lowered her down. He moved her hips back and forth, rubbing her pussy all over his face. She reached under her and grabbed his hair as she began to move her hips. She rubbed her pussy back and forth on his face until she came. She moaned loudly when he stuck his tongue deeply into her pussy. He used his arms to move her up and down, making her fuck his tongue.

 

“Zenos,” she moaned.

 

His tongue twirled around and around as he darted it in and out of her pussy. He growled when she started moving her hips up and down on her own. She stopped and covered his face with her pussy as another powerful orgasm hit her.

 

“Zenos,stop,” she panted. She climbed off him. She could see her juices glistening off his face. She leaned over and started licking her juice from his face.

 

“You taste good, don't you?” he asked.

 

“I want to taste you.” She quickly moved down his body. She fumbled with the strings to his loincloth. He reached down and helped her to remove it. She stared at his large, hard cock. Slowly, she licked her lips in anticipation of sucking his beautiful cock.

 

“Stop teasing me, female,” Zenos growled.

 

She took his cock into her mouth and sucked feverishly. She took more and more of him into her mouth with each down stroke. When she had all of him in her mouth, she paused. The feeling of having his hard cock sliding down her throat, filling her mouth like this felt so good. His pubic hair tickled her nose. She looked up still having all of his cock in her mouth. That look on his face as he watched her made her pussy so wet, it dripped. Slowly, she let his cock emerge from her mouth. She watched him the whole time. She paused to lick at the head of his cock.

 

“Flora…takeit all back in your mouth. I love seeing my cock buried in your beautiful mouth.”

 

She did as he asked.

 

He reached down and grabbed handfuls of her hair as he began to thrust. She relaxed her throat and allowed him to guide her head. She sucked as hard as she could as he started to thrust faster. She looked up, needing to see his handsome face. She moaned seeing that look of ecstasy on his face.

 

“Flora,” he growled as he thrust faster, moving her head up and down to the same rhythm he thrust. “I'm going to come.” He pulled her head up, pulling her mouth off him. He watched his cum spray over her cheek and lips.

 

“You liked coming on me, didn't you, my male?” she cooed as she licked her lips. She used her hand to wipe his cum off her check,then she licked her hand clean.

 

“Yes…”

 

“You want to do it again?”

 

“By the Goddess, yes.”

 

She rolled over onto her back. “Do you want to fuck my mouth again or do you want my pussy?”

 

He didn't reply. He simply rolled on top of her and buried his cock deeply into her pussy. He thrust wildly, coming up to a seated position, lifting her hips up as he continued to ride her.

 

“Ahhh!!!” he cried out as he pulled his cock from her just as his cum sprayed out. His cum splattered on her stomach and breasts.

 

“You want to come on me again,” she purred. She rolled over and lifted her hips up to him.

 

“Flora, I can't take you like a protector would. You don't want me to.”

 

“I want you, my male.”

 

Zenos' cock got impossibly hard seeing her ass lifted up to him like that. “You said you wanted to wait for your protector to be named first.”

 

“To me, you are my protector, Zenos.”

 

He couldn't stop himself. He mounted her, ramming his cock deeply into her. He bent over and bit her shoulder. He growled like an animal as he rode her. The more she wiggled the harder he bit. Something primal took over as his growls became more animal-like.

 

“My female,” he growled as he bit her shoulder and thrust harder.

 

“Zenos…oh, my male,” she moaned loudly.

 

Robin walked out onto the patio. Niro was upset about Colt and Rose, she could see it. She hoped that having dinner with Demos and Nina might have helped. And it seemed to take his mind of things for awhile.

 

“Zenos, my male…oh my male.”

 

“My female,” Zenos growled loudly.

 

Robin gasped then quickly closed the patio door. She hurried over to the garden and paused,then she quickly turned around. Zenos was taking Flora like a protector would, and they weren't being quiet about it. Oh shit, if Niro or Saa came out here now. She hurried back to the patio.

 

Zenos roared loudly followed by Flora making mewing noises.

 

“Zenos!You out here!”Robin yelled out. She heard the rustling in the garden.

 

“Just a minute, Mom,” Zenos said.

 

“You better go,” Flora said. She looked frightened.

 

“Don't be afraid,” Zenos whispered.

 

“What if she saw us? If my father found out…”

 

“Shh, don't worry. I will go out…I will say I fell asleep out here. I have done that before, then once I get mom to go back inside you make a dash for it.” Zenos smiled at her. He wanted to lie in her arms for a little while.

 

He quickly put his loincloth back on then he hurried over to Robin. He stopped abruptly when he saw that strange look on Robin's face.

 

“What's wrong, Mom?” he asked.

 

“Did you fall asleep out here again?”

 

“Yeah…I guess I did.”

 

“I brought you back some dinner for Demos' hut. You better go wash up.”

 

Zenos went to the door and opened it. “Aren't you coming?”

 

“In a minute.”

 

“It's cold out here…”

 

“I will be there in a minute.”

 

Zenos had no choice but to go inside. If he hesitated any longer it would look suspicious.

 

Robin debated whether to confront Flora or not, then decided not to. Zenos couldn't have anything distracting him from the Trials tomorrow. She waited for a moment then went back inside. She saw Flora running over to her hut out of the corner of her eye. Robin went over to the dining area. She looked at Zenos wolfing down the food she brought home for him. She really didn't need to see her son having sex that was something she could have lived without. She shook the image of it from her mind.

 

“There is more in those boxes,” she said.

 

“Good, I'm starving.” He grabbed another box of food.

 

He grew up too fast. It seemed like yesterday he was just a little boy. Robin felt the tears starting to build. The one image that really stood out was that of Zenos standing in front of Flora trying to protect her when he was about six years old. He was always protecting Flora. Robin smiled remembering him when he was just a little boy. Her mind drifted off. The sound of him knocking over his cup snapped her out of it.

 

He looked like Niro, almost a carbon copy of his father. The only difference was Zenos has a slightly gentler look about him. He looked at her. His eyes were exactly like Niro's.

 

“What's wrong, Mom?”

 

Her little boy wasn't a boyanymore, somehow he became a full grown male.

 

“Mom?”Zenos stood up and hurried over to her.

 

Robin started to cry.

 

“Mom, why are crying?” He became visibly flustered.

 

“You are not my little boy anymore.” She cried harder.

 

“Please stop crying, Mom.”

 

Niro hurried into the room. He growled at Zenos. “What did you do?”

 

“Niro, don't…he didn't do anything.” Robin went to the warmth of Niro's embrace.

 

“Then why are you crying, little one?”

 

“I just realized that Zenos isn't my little boy anymore. He is a full grown male.”

 

“Mom, please stop crying.”

 

“I will make her better. You just go to your room.”

 

“Fathermake her stop crying now.”

 

Zenos watched as Niro kissed away Robin's tears. “You are upsetting your son as well as me, little one. Please stop crying.”

 

“I'm okay now.”

 

Niro wiped the last of her tears away.

 

“I'm sorry, Zenos. It's a female thing.”

 

Niro escorted her to their room then he bolted back out and grabbed Zenos. “What did you do?”

 

“I was just sitting here eating dinner.”

 

Niro let him go.

 

“Niro.”

 

“Go rest, Son. The Trials are tomorrow.”

 

Zenos watched Niro hurry back to his room.

 

“Mom will be alright. She cried the other day when I was trying on coverings. She kept saying I was growing up too fast,” Rose said as she entered the room.

 

“She did.”

 

“Yeah, I felt so bad I thought I did something wrong.”

 

Zenos looked at Rose. She was growing up. She looked like a full-grown female, not a little girl anymore. “Did Colt visit this morning?”

 

“No, he is coming tomorrow. Ramiro had something for him to do.”

 

“I will be here when he is here.”

 

“No you won't, you will be warming up for the Trials. Don'tworry, daddy said he will be here.”

 

“Good, you shouldn't be alone with any unattached male.”

 

Rose started to leave then stopped. “Zenos…”

 

“What?”

 

“I will pray to the Goddess to let you win tomorrow.”

 

Zenos smiled at her. “Thank you, Rose.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter Seventeen

 

 

 

Colt nervously entered Rose's hut. He held tightly the small bouquet of wild flowers that he had picked for her.

 

“Oh that is so sweet,” Robin said. “Rose, Colt is here.”

 

Rose hurried into the room.

 

“You look beautiful, Rose.” His eyes lingered over her.

 

“Thank you.”

 

“This is for you.” He handed her the flowers.

 

Rose took the flowers and smelled their sweet fragrance. “You remembered…” she smiled at him.

 

“Remembered what?” Niro bellowed.

 

“That I liked these kinds of flowers. Zenos took me out into the village a couple months ago, Colt was with us. I mentioned that I liked the flowers that grew in the fields. Let me put them in some water.”

 

“Are you ready for the Trials?” Niro said as he looked at Colt sternly.

 

“Yes.”

 

“I assume you will be fighting on behave of the Larmat clan.”

 

“No. I will be fighting as a Barbarian ofMalka .”

 

Niro was silent.

 

“That is a good gesture,” Robin said. “Please come in and sit down.”

 

“Why wouldn't you fight as part of the Larmat clan?” Niro asked.

 

“I really don't have a clan. My father is Rundal, my mother is Loma.”

 

“What about your real father and mother?”

 

“Ramiro and Mara are my real parents to me.”

 

“Then you should fight on theRundal’s behave to honor your father.”

 

“I asked him about that. He said I should fight as you proclaim all males to be, the Barbarians ofMalka . My father believes you meant all males, the Dascon, the Larmat and Rundal males.”

 

Rose came back in and sat down beside Colt.

 

“That is what you meant wasn't it?”

 

“Yes, it was.”

 

“Niro, why don't you head to the Trial grounds? Colt can escort me and Rose there in a little while,” Robin said.

 

“But…”

 

“Go on, I will be here to chaperon them. Besides, your son is already at the Trial grounds warming up.” Robin didn't like the look that came over Niro's face.

 

“You are right, little one.” Niro gently kissed her and left.

 

Robin was expecting Niro to argue, but when he didn't it made her nervous. She turned back to Colt and Rose.

 

“I will be out on the balcony. We will leave shortly. I'm sure you want to warm up before the Trials, Colt.”

 

Rose waited for Robin to go out on the balcony,then she looked up at Colt.

 

“Are you going to try and win the Trials?” she asked.

 

“Yes. I have to.”

 

Rose felt like someone knocked the air out of her. “You want Flora don't you?” she said quietly.

 

“No.” He gently grabbed her hand. “I want to win for you.”

 

“Me?”

 

“If I win then your father will see me as the best male for you. Maybe then my being a Larmat male won't matter to him.”

 

“You are fighting for me?”

 

“Only you, Rose.”

 

“But...I'm only fifteen, well almost sixteen.”

 

“I will wait for you, Rose. The moment you turn eighteen, I will be your protector.”

 

“If you win the Trials you will win Flora.”

 

“I will let Zenos challenge me for her right afterwards.”

 

“You think you can beat Zenos?”

 

“It will be a tough match, but yes I can beat him. And if Zenos wins it doesn't matter to me. All that matter is that your father sees me for who I am, not what my race is.” Colt moved closer to her. “I love you, Rose. I have from the moment I saw you.”

 

“I was only what eight or nine when you meet me?”

 

“Yes.”

 

She reached up and gently grabbed the strand of pale blond hair that had escaped the braid. She twirled it in her fingers. “I love you, Colt,” she said softly.

 

“Then I must win today.”

 

“Can I kiss you?” she shyly asked.

 

He cupped her face in his hand. “I want nothing more than to kiss you, but your mother is right out on the balcony.”

 

He let his hands fall, and she moved closer.

 

“Kiss me, Colt.”

 

He took her into his arms and kissed her. Their kiss was a bitclumsy, neither of them had ever kissed before.

 

“Whoa, knock that off,” Robin said.

 

They both immediately let each other go.

 

“You know better than that, Colt. Rose is only fifteen.”

 

“I'm sorry,” he said quietly.

 

“And you, young lady…never mind, we better get ready to go.”

 

Robin grabbed a few things then turned back to tell them to hurry up. She stopped when she saw Colt gently caressing Rose's cheek and her playing with a strand of his hair. Their gestures of love were innocent, so Robin let them have a moment.

 

“Are you ready, Mom?” Rose said.

 

“Yes.”

 

Colt escorted them to the arena. A crowd was already gathering. He walked them over to Niro.

 

“Good luck to you, Colt,” Robin said.

 

“You and Zenos will be the final two, I know you will,” Rose said.

 

“Colt.”

 

He turned around.“Father.”

 

“Good luck, son, however, be careful out there,” Ramiro said.

 

A large, olderDascon male came over. “Your number is twenty-three, son of Ramiro. What clan's honor are you fighting for?”

 

“I fight for the Barbarians ofMalka .”

 

The male looked over to Niro.

 

“He can fight forMalka's honor,” Niro said.

 

“Come with me.”

 

“Mother, you shouldn't be out here,” Colt said to Mara.

 

“And miss your first time competing at the Trials…no, I will be fine. Your father will make sure of that.”

 

“That's right. Don't worry about your mother. You worry about the match.”

 

Mara sat down beside Robin. She was about to stand up again when queen Rhaya came over.

 

“Don't worry about standing up, Mara,” Rhaya said. She sat down beside Niro. “I'm still disappointed that you won't allow the Loma females to compete.”

 

“I have explained my reasons for this,” Niro said.

 

“I know, but that doesn't mean I can't bitch about it.”

 

Niro chuckled.

 

Alistair came into the arena. Niro watched him greet the Larmat males who were competing today. Then he walked over to Colt. Niro smiled seeing the shock look on Alistair's face. He really expected Colt to be fighting for Larmat honor. He even told Niro he believed Colt had a good possibility of winning today.

 

Alistair made his way up to Niro and Rhaya.

 

“Colt fights forMalka ?” Alistair said as he sat down on the other side of Rhaya.

 

“That is what he told me,” Niro said. “I better get the Trials started.” Niro walked over to the platform. He smiled watching Saa hugging Flora. A very large older Larmat male was hugging his daughter. She too, was the prize for the winner. Flora was going to the winner of the fighting matches and the young Larmat female was going to the winner of theconja matches.

 

“Niro, I need a moment to speak with you,” Shiro said.

 

“Shouldn't you be with your female?”

 

Shiro gestured over to Robin. Lita was sitting beside Rose.

 

“What is it? I only have a moment before I have to start the Trials.”

 

“I have a request…” Shiro didn't know how to say this. Niro was probably going to think he was crazy for asking this.

 

“It can't be that bad.”

 

“I want to relinquish my claim to Lita and I ask that you give her to the Earth male.”

 

“Why would you want to do that? You know that Earth male isn't a match for you.”

 

“I know that.”

 

“Then explain. I gave you Lita because you have more than earned the right to be a female's protector.”

 

“I know and I am honored that you believe me worthy of a female. This is not easy for me. I have developed feelings for her and would love nothing more than to be her mate.”

 

“Alright, now I'm confused.”

 

“I can't be her mate. She loves that Earth male. And I love her too much to make her unhappy. I want to see her happy, so she should be with him.”

 

Niro was speechless for a moment. No male has ever wanted to give up his female, just because she loved another male.

 

“So please grant me my request.”

 

“You are willing to be without a female?”

 

“Yes. I can't make her as happy as that Earth male can. I know this. I want nothing more than her happiness.”

 

“I will grant your wish, but wait until after the Trials to tell her.”

 

“Thank you, Niro.”

 

Niro watched Shiro heading back over to Lita.

 

“Shiro was way too big for that little female anyways,” Saa said. “Still, I don't know if I would have had the strength to give up Sabrina to another male.”

 

“I don't know if I could have given up Robin.”

 

“You should give Shiro that Loma widow. Alistair did say she wasn't happy in the Larmat village, and he didn't know what to do with her. Shiro and Enstia would make strong offspring, and she is a very large female, so he won't hurt her when they mate.”

 

“That isn't a bad idea, Saa.” Niro looked over to Flora. “Your daughter looks beautiful.”

 

“That she does. Still, it will be hard to let her go. However, knowing she is going to the strongest male does help.”

 

Niro announced the beginning of the Trails. A deafening roar from all the males in the arena filled the air. Niro went over to Alistair.

 

“Alistair…I have found a suitable mate for Enstia.”

 

“Really who?”

 

“Shiro.”

 

“What, I thought…” Alistair glanced over to Shiro and Lita.

 

“He is giving her up to the Earth male.”

 

“Damn, today is full of surprises. Shiro would make a good match for Enstia. She is a rather large female after all.”

 

“Enstia is a strong female,” Rhaya added. “She was one of my best warriors. Shiro is perfect for her. Though, has enough mourning time passed? She wouldn't want to insult the Larmat people.”

 

“Yes, I have had no offers from any Larmat males to beEnstia's mate.Adrian was a large Larmat male, he was about the size of Shiro, and soEnstia's size didn't matter to him. It's a shame they didn't have offspring.”

 

“What's sad is that Alamaxa killedAdrian in the first place.”

 

“That cowardly Alamaxa…” Alistair calmed himself.

 

“Well, Alamaxa won't matter after today,” Rhaya said.

 

“That brings me great comfort,” Alistair said.

 

“Then you agree that Enstia should go to Shiro?” Niro asked.

 

“Yes, I do.”

 

Niro went over to Robin and sat down beside her. He knew she was very nervous, hell, he was too. This was Zenos' first Trial. Niro was glad that he didn't tell Robin what was going on. She had enough to worry about. She didn't need to know that Zenos' life may be in danger today or that Niro was leaving right afterwards to go and kill Alamaxa.

 

Niro watched the first two contestants coming out. Two young Dascon males were first in the fighting area. Two Larmat males were heading to theconja arena. Zenos wasn't competing in theconja part of the tournament. He was too focused on winning the fighting part so that he can win Flora.

 

“Niro, I'm so worried about Zenos,” Robin said. “I hope he doesn't get hurt.”

 

“He will be fine.”

 

“Do you believe he has a good chance of winning?”

 

“Of course, he is my son, and he has trained hard.”

 

“Zenos will win, Mom,” Rose added.

 

 

 

ccc

 

 

 

Taranwatched the first match in the fighting arena. “Para, you have won the luck of the draw. You fight Zenos first.”

 

Paragrowled.

 

“Your main task is to kill Zenos. Don't worry about the match. When you see the chance to kill him, do it. After all, you can't be punished for killing an opponent today. They will assume it was accidental. You kill Zenos,Para , and I will make sure that father gives you two of the most beautiful Rundal females to pleasure you. In addition, I will make you the General of our warriors. Ramiro is exiled so we are going to need a new General.”

 

“I will not fail you,Taran .”

 

 

 

ccc

 

 

 

“You son is up next, Niro,” Demos said as he sat down behind Niro. Nina, Ranor and Jeneva were with him.

 

“Who does he fight?” Robin asked.

 

“A Rundal male namedPara .”

 

“Oh, Niro I hope Zenos doesn't hurtPara .”

 

“I will do whatever you command, Niro,” Demos said.

 

Robin looked back at Demos. She became really nervous seeing that same stern look on Demos' face that Niro had. Something was going on.

 

“What's going on?” Robin said.

 

“Don't worry, little one, it's just the vibes of the Trials, it gets all males worked up.” He was relieved when he saw her instantly relax.

 

He never felt so powerless. He couldn't just run down there and kill the Rundal male before he fought Zenos. He wanted so badly to protect his son, but if he even let on that he knew what the Rundal were up to it might destroy his plans to assassinate Alamaxa. Everything was in place, he couldn't risk messing it up now. Sometimes he hated being the ruler of his people. All he could do was hope that his son was skilled enough to defeat the Rundal male.

 

Zenos came out onto the field. He looked up at Flora sitting there beside theLarmat female. Flora looked beyond beautiful. She spotted him and she stood up. She smiled at him giving him that extra incentive to win.

 

Zenos looked at the large Rundal male coming toward him. He cleared everything out of his mind and focused only on the match. The signal was given to start.

 

Paracharged at Zenos.

 

Zenos quickly blocked the attack. He was surprised by theRundal's aggressiveness. Usually they didn't attack first.Para attacked just as Zenos predicted he would. Rundal males fought similarly.

 

Niro stood up whenPara knocked Zenos over. His hand was on the hilt of his sword. He held his breath then released it when Zenos jumped back up.

 

“That male doesn't spar he is attacking,” Demos whispered to Niro.

 

“I know.” Niro started to move forward, but Demos stopped him.

 

“You know you can't interfere.”

 

“Damn it…I know that.”

 

“Yay!”Rose cheered when Zenos pinned the Rundal male. “Zenos won!” She clapped enthusiastically.

 

Niro relaxed and sat back down.

 

Robin grabbed his arm.

 

“Did you see how Zenos overtook that Rundal? It was amazing,” Ranor said.

 

“I know,” Rose added.

 

“It's hard watching our son battle like that isn't it?” Robin said.

 

“Yes…” Niro took two deep breaths to calmhimself . It was clear thatTaran's plan was to kill Zenos.

 

“I can killTaran now, if you wish me to,” Demos whispered to Niro.

 

“No…damn it…we can't raise suspicion.” Niro wanted nothing more than to order Demos to killTaran now. However, he couldn't do this.

 

He quickly looked over to Rose when he heard her gasp. She had such a look of love on her face it made Niro immediately look out onto the field to see which Dascon male made her react this way. Colt was out on the field with an older Dascon male. It was clear that it was Colt and not the Dascon male that made Rose react that way. When Colt smiled up at Rose, Niro felt his blood start to boil. The smile on Rose’s face, the way she lit up, Niro couldn't deny that his little girl was in love with a Larmat warrior. Ah! He didn't need this right now.

 

“Holy shit!”Demos exclaimed.

 

Niro quickly looked back onto the field. Colt had easily defeated the experienced Dascon male.

 

“Colt!”Rose yelled as she stood up and clapped for him.

 

“It seems as though your daughter is in love with that Larmat male,” Alistair said.

 

Niro said nothing.

 

“This is a very interesting day indeed,” Alistair added.

 

“That young Larmat male might win the Trials,” Rhaya added. “Perhaps he was just lucky this round.”

 

“We will see,” Alistair said.

 

The Trials went on. Zenos and Colt defeated every opponent they faced and quickly became the favorites to win. The Dascon people were thrilled that the son of Niro was doing so well. After all Niro won every Trial he competed in, and no less was expected of Zenos.

 

“You are doing very well,” Zenos said to Colt.

 

“So are you.”

 

“Spying on my father's training has served you well, Colt,”Taran said as he approached them.

 

“Why aren't you competing in the Trials? Alamaxa trained you didn't he?”

 

“I won't soil my hands with this.”

 

“Your warriors have all been defeated. Maybe you should have entered.”

 

“I don't see Ramiro sending any of his loyal males out there.”

 

“You leave my father out of this.”

 

“Colt your next match will be starting soon. I just heard them call your number,” Zenos said. “Good luck.”

 

“Thank you.” Colt grabbed his sword and headed to the field.

 

Taranlooked at Zenos. This stupid barbarian managed to defeat all of the Rundal warriors Alamaxa sent.

 

“Your warriors fought well,” Zenos said.

 

A thundering cheer from the Larmat side of the arena filled the air. Zenos knew Colt had won.

 

“You have fought better than I thought you would.”Taran spotted Zenos' sword leaning up against the wall beside him.Taran tightened his grip on his sword. He had to attack Zenos now. When Zenos leaned over to scoop his cup into the water barrelTaran attacked.

 

Zenos quickly moved when he heard the clashing of metal. He was shocked to see that Colt had blockedTaran's sword.

 

“Go Zenos.”

 

The four Rundal males from earlier moved in.

 

“Damn it, go Zenos.”

 

“I won't let you fight alone.”

 

“They are going to kill you, now go,” Colt growled.

 

Zenos grabbed his sword and charged atTaran . Colt helped to hold off the other Rundal. Zenos felt a surge of adrenaline fill him. This wasn't a sparring match if helost, he was going to lose his life, not to mention Colt's life was at stake too. He had to quickly killTaran in order to help Colt.

 

Zenos' body moved with precision that years of practice earned him.Taran moved like Alamaxa, but Zenos knew these attacks thanks to Colt. Within moments Zenos' sword went throughTaran's belly. He heard more clanking of metal against metal in the background. He looked up to seeTaran's head being sliced off.

 

“Are you alright?” Niro said as he dropped his sword and grabbed a hold of Zenos.

 

“Yes…Colt…” Zenos turned around and saw Demos wrapping a piece of cloth around Colt's arm.

 

“He is alright, a small wound that's all.”

 

Zenos felt weak.

 

“Calm yourself, the rush of battle has left you. Take a few breaths.”

 

“Why are you here?”

 

“Is he alright?” Alistair said.

 

“Yes.”

 

Zenos glanced up at Niro. “Why didTaran attack me?”

 

“Because…you are my son.”

 

“Zenos are you hurt?” Colt asked.

 

“No, what about you how is your wound. If you weren't here…”

 

“But I was. I will bealright, one of them sliced my arm that's all.”

 

Niro placed his hand on Colt's shoulder. “Thank you.”

 

Colt nodded his head.

 

“We better get back to our seats,” Demos said.

 

“Father, why are you here?” Zenos asked.

 

“Nina saw the four Rundal warriors heading toward you and she went to get Demos. I must thank her for her astuteness. Now, my son, the battle is over you must concentrate on winning the Trials.”

 

Zenos took a couple of deep breaths. He heard his number called out. He hurried out onto the field. One of the more experience Dascon males was waiting for him. Zenos finally understood what Niro meant about there being a difference between sparring and real battle. This understanding made him less afraid for Niro when he fought Alamaxa. Zenos cleared everything out of his mind except for this match.

 

“Yes!” Rose cheered. “Zenos and Colt are the final two. I told you they would be.”

 

“Yes you did,” Robin said.

 

“Mom, why does Colt have a bandage on his arm?” Rose said.

 

“He must have gotten hurt in his last match.”

 

Zenos walked over to Colt. “You are injured and it's because of me that you are. I don't feel right sparring with you.”

 

“Flora is waiting for you to win, Zenos.”

 

Zenos gazed up at Flora. She was standing up holding hands with the Larmat female. In just a few moments both of their lives were going to change forever. Flora smiled at Zenos.

 

“Don't let her down, Zenos,” Colt said.

 

“Don't let me win, Colt.”

 

“I don't plan on it.”

 

Rose stood up as the match began. She didn't know who to cheer for until she looked over at Flora. “Come on, Zenos you can do it!” she cheered.

 

Colt and Zenos fought hard, but Colt's injury prevented him from sustaining this level of battle. Zenos seized the moment and pinned Colt. A deafening roar filled the arena. Zenos stood up and helped Colt to his feet.

 

“You fought well, Colt.”

 

“So did you.”

 

Zenos looked around and saw the change in the Dascon males. They saw him differently. He had just earned their respect.

 

“Well done, Son,” Niro said as he presented Zenos the ceremonial dagger. Saa escorted Flora to Zenos.

 

“You have earned the right to be my daughter's protector,” Saa said.

 

Flora threw herself into Zenos' arms. “I knew you could do it, my male.”

 

Niro lifted his arms up, a signal for everyone to be quiet.

 

“I'm proud that my son has won this year's fighting Trial. I'm also proud to present Alka the dagger for winning theconja part of the Trial.”  A large Larmat warrior approached Niro.

 

“Well done,” Niro said to him as the father of the Larmat female gave her to Alka.

 

“It is time to celebrate.” Niro dismissed everyone. He stopped Colt from leaving.

 

“You have done well, Colt.”

 

“Thank you, Sir.”

 

“I want you to go to the Earth male and let him mend your wound.”

 

“Yes Sir.”

 

“I have something to tell you.” Niro led him over to the side so no one else will hear. “I'm going to kill Alamaxa. I will be leaving now. I know he is your father's brother and you will probably hate me for killing him. But, I feel your father is the rightful ruler of the Rundal and killing Alamaxa is the only way to ensure he will be.”

 

“I understand and I feel the same way.”

 

Niro paused.

 

“If I don't succeed and Alamaxa wins I want you to help guard Zenos.”

 

“Of course I will.”

 

“One more thing…” Niro can't believe he was finding this part hard to say. After all, the boy has proven himself worthy. “When Rose turns eighteen, you may become her protector.”

 

“I'm honored. I swear I will protect her with my life.”

 

“Now go get that arm checked on.”

 

Colt hurried off. Niro saw the pride in his eyes. It became clear to Niro that Colt entered the Trial to win his approval.

 

“What you have done is a great thing, Niro,” Alistair said.

 

“Where did you come from?”

 

“I was waiting to speak with you. By letting a Larmat male be a potential mate for your own daughter you are paving the way for total acceptance of both clans.”

 

“Rose loves that boy. I'm not blind. Besides, he has proven himself worthy.”

 

“And you don't mind having half-breed grandchildren.”

 

“You are a half-breed and I don't mind you.” Niro chuckled.

 

“Let me come with you to the Rundal village.”

 

“You know I can't do that. I don't want the Larmat involve in this.”

 

“What if something happens to you?”

 

“Then my son will take over my rule. He is ready.”

 

“Are you at least taking Demos with you?”

 

“No. You must stay here to help Zenos. There is one thing you can do for me.”

 

“Name it.”

 

“Make sure Robin has a good time at the celebration.”

 

“I will. But won't she wonder where you are?”

 

“I have told her already thatme and Rhaya have important matters to discuss.”

 

“Niro, we are ready to leave,” a Dascon male said.

 

Alistair looked at the twenty warriors Niro was taking with him. They were strong and very capable. However, it was clear that Niro was leaving his best warriors behind to help Zenos.

 

“You better come back.”

 

“Robin is waiting forme, of course I will come back.”

 

Alistair waited for Niro and his warriors to take off then he headed for the celebration hall.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter Eighteen

 

 

 

 

 

Zenos accepted the congratulations of everyone as he sat in the ceremonial hall. He was thrilled that he was now the protector of Flora. Yet, knowing Niro was on his way to attack the Rundal village weighed heavily on him. Niro had left all of his best warriors to guard Zenos. Hell, he even told Colt that he could be Rose's protector. It was like Niro wasn't for sure that he was going to win his battle with Alamaxa.

 

“What's wrong, my male?” Flora said.

 

“I fear for my father.”

 

“Zenos.”Gea approached him. “Congratulations on your victory.”

 

“Thank you.”

 

“I have a question for you. Since your father is not in Dascon andhe in on his way to battle does that make you the acting ruler?”

 

“How did you know about my father's plan?”

 

“Zenith told me. He wanted me to protect his family while he was gone.”

 

“Zenith is assisting father?”

 

“Of course he is. He is the General of the Dascon warriors who are stationed at the Rundal village. Who do you think is attacking the village? Surely, you didn't believe that your father would launch an attack on a village that size with just himself and twenty warriors.”

 

“I didn't think it completely through.”

 

“But are you the acting leader of your clan while your father is away?”

 

Zenos looked to Demos.

 

“Yes, he is?” Demos replied.

 

“Then you should know that two of those Rundal warriors who were at the Trials escaped and headed back to the Rundal village. Chances are they will beat your father there.”

 

“What?!”Zenos stood up.

 

“Hear his full report, Zenos,” Demos said. “Listen closely.”

 

Zenos sat back down.

 

“Ramiro and ten of the Rundal warriors who followed him into exile chased after the two males. I tried to stop him from going, but he wouldn't listen.”

 

Zenos looked to Demos. “What should I do? Should I go after father?”

 

“No, you must stay here. If Niro is defeated you must be able to step in as ruler. This will protect your mother and sister's life. I can't tell you what you should do. Niro ordered me to stay by your side.”

 

“Zenos what's going on?” Robin said. “You better tell me right now.”

 

“Zenos you have to tell her,” Flora said.

 

“Tell me, Zenos.”

 

He could see the worried look on his mother's face. She knew something was wrong.

 

“Father has gone to attack the Rundal village, so he can kill Alamaxa.”

 

He saw all the color leave Robin's face. He bolted over to her to catch her before she fell. He caught her just in time.

 

“Mom!”Rose ran over. Colt was right behind her.

 

“Why didn't he tell me?” Robin said.

 

“He didn't want you to worry.”

 

“He knew he couldn't keep this from me. I know when he is in danger, I can feel it. Damn it, Niro. When did he leave?”

 

“Before the celebration feast.”

 

Zenos saw Colt explaining things to Rose.

 

“Colt, your father has gone to the Rundal village as well. He is trying to stop the two Rundal males who got away,” Zenos said.

 

“He can't go back to the Rundal village. Why in the hell did he?”

 

“To protect Niro,” Demos said.

 

“Hey, where is Kelila?!” Jack yelled as he rushed into the room.

 

“I'm over here. What's wrong Jack?”

 

“Mara has gone into labor.”

 

“Mother!”Colt rushed over to Jack. “Take me to her.”

 

“Where is Ramiro?” Jack asked.

 

“He isn't here. Now, take me to my mother.”

 

The three of them rushed out of the room.

 

“Her worrying over Ramiro must have triggered early labor,” Nina said.

 

“Zenos…if your father dies, I don't know what I would do.” Robin started to cry.

 

“Hey…” Nina hurried to her. “Niro won't die. Come on, don't think like that.”

 

Zenos stood up and looked down at Nina holding Robin trying to calm her down.

 

“Listen to me,” Zenos said loudly causing the room to become quiet. “I want my father's elite warriors to prepare to assist him.”

 

“Wait a moment, Niro commanded us to stay here with you,” one of them said.

 

“While my father is away in battle, I assume the responsibility as ruler. Now do as I have commanded. We will give my father as much help as he needs. He must concentrate on his upcoming battle with Alamaxa. Do not interfere with this battle.”

 

“Zenos?”Robin said.

 

“Leader must challenge leader. This is the barbarian way.”

 

“It is not the Rundal way,” Gea said.

 

“I know, but our people must see that Niro conquered Alamaxa to put Ramiro on the throne. It can't be because we bullied the Rundal into doing our will. Ramiro must be protected at all cost. If he dies, all of this will have been for nothing andTomar's will won't be fulfilled.”

 

“Tomar'swill?”Robin said as she stood up and gathered herself. She couldn't be hysterical now.

 

“Before Tomar died, he asked my father to help make Ramiro the leader of the Rundal. And with a heavy heart he gave my father permission to use any means necessary to accomplish this.”

 

“Why didn't Tomar just proclaim Ramiro ruler?” one of them asked.

 

“The Rundal tradition is much like our own. The oldest son assumes leadership after the father dies. Tomar couldn't bring himself to kill Alamaxa, nor did he want to witness his oldest son's death, so asked my father to wait until after he died to fulfill his wish. I will make sureTomar's wish is realized. We owe him that. After everything Tomar has done for our people, we owe him his wish for his people. Now, the elite of the Dasconclan, prepare to leave. Help my father. This is an order.”

 

Flora was in awe of Zenos. He spoke with such authority, conviction, and seeing him standing there like he was he looked just like Niro.

 

“You heard him,” Demos said. “We move out within the half-hour.” Demos walked over to Gea. “I entrust you with the safety of Zenos.”

 

“You trust a Larmat warrior to guard the son of Niro?”

 

“Zenith trusts you with his family. That's all I need to know.”

 

“I'm honored to guard the son of Niro.”

 

Robin went over to her son.

 

“Are you alright now, Mom? I did what I could to aid father.”

 

“You did the right thing. I'm so proud of you.”

 

Alistair came up to them. “Do you need my warriors’ assistance, Zenos?”

 

“No…my father asked that the Larmat people not get involved. I will honor his wish.”

 

“Very well.I will keep my warriors here if they are needed.”

 

“Alistair, what should I do now?”

 

“The same thing I will be doing…waiting.”

 

 

 

ccc

 

 

 

Colt held onto to his mother's hand as she bore down again. He could see that she was in a tremendous amount of pain.

 

“Go help your father,” Mara said between contractions.

 

“I'm not leaving you alone. Beside, Zenos has sent the best of the Dascon warriors to help father.”

 

Mara pushed again. She took two deeps breaths.

 

“Father will be alright. You must concentrate on making sure his offspring are born.”

 

“It's too early. Please, Goddess let our offspring be alright.”

 

“You are doing well, Mara,” Jack said.

 

Kelila stood up and stepped back. She had such a surprised look on her face.

 

“What is wrong?” Colt asked.

 

Kelila stood there silently.

 

Jack hurried over and took her place. A small clawed-hand was poking through reaching for life.

 

“I can see the first child. I will have to assist it.”

 

“Is it human?” Mara asked.

 

“I believe this one is going to be Rundal.”

 

“Here's hoping it's a male,” Colt said.

 

“I don't care what it is as long as it's healthy.”

 

Colt watched Kelila run out of the room. She was visibly upset.

 

“What's wrong with my offspring?” Mara said.

 

“Nothing that I can see,” Jack replied. A little head began to emerge. “Push, it's almost here.” Jack was stunned to see that the rest of the infant was human. It only had Rundal claws. “It's a boy.” Jack smiled hearing the baby cry.

 

“It doesn't cry like a Rundal,” Mara said. “Colt…”

 

Colt rushed to see his new brother. Jack cleaned the infant off.

 

“Mom, this one is mostly human.”

 

“Mostly?”

 

“He has father's claws.”

 

Jack wrapped the infant up and handed it to Colt. “Keep him warm. Alright Mara let's get the next one out.”

 

“Is he healthy?”

 

“He appears to be. I will have to examine him first.”

 

Colt handed the small infant to Mara. “He looks like you,” Colt said.

 

Mara smiled at the little baby, and then a rush of pain flooded her. Colt took the little baby from her. He held onto his brother with one hand and held his mother's hand with the other.

 

“Push Mara,” Jack said. He was shocked when the baby emerged. “This one is female.” The baby girl was mostly human, but she had a tail.

 

Colt went to see his sister. “This one is mostly human too. She has a Rundal tail.”

 

Jack finished cleaning her off,then he wrapped her up and handed her to Mara. He finished with Mara.

 

“How is mom?”

 

“She will be just fine.”

 

“Thank you, Jack,” Mara said.

 

“Congratulations to you, two healthy babies.”

 

Jack finished cleaning up then went to see where Kelila went. She was standing by the ceremonial hall.

 

“What happen in there?” Jack asked her.

 

“The child was a mix of Rundal and human…”

 

“That was to be expected.”

 

“I didn't expect that. I figure they would be Rundal or human, not both.”

 

“How is Mara?” Robin asked.

 

“She is doing fine and so are the babies.”

 

“Good. Well, did she have Rundal or human babies?”

 

“She had abominations,” Kelila said,then she rushed off.

 

“They are a mix, but they are mostly human.”

 

“May I see them?”

 

“If it's alright with Mara.”

 

Jack escorted Robin to the maternity area.

 

“How badly do they look?” Robin asked.

 

“The boy has claws and the girl has a tail. Other than that they are very beautiful babies. I don't understandKelila's response.”

 

“Aren't you shocked?”

 

“I was a little, but then I got use to it. I mean Ramiro is Rundal and Mara is human, the offspring were bound to have some of both species.”

 

“Congratulations Mara,” Robin said as she entered the room. “May I see your babies?”

 

“Of course.”

 

Colt handed Robin the little boy. Robin undid the blanket and looked at the boy. His tiny claws looked strange on his human body. Yet, his face was so cute.

 

“He is beautiful.”

 

Colt wrapped the baby up. He held the boy then took the girl and handed it to Robin.

 

Robinunwrapped the baby. She was very cute to. Yet, her tiny tail was strange.

 

“My mother has fallen asleep. Let's take my brother and sister to the nursery.”

 

“I need to get them under a heat lamp anyway,” Jack said.

 

Colt took his sister from Robin then followed Jack to the nursery. Robin went too. After Colt made sure his siblings were safe and warm he turned to Robin.

 

“What is Niro going to do with them?” Colt asked.

 

“What do you mean?”

 

“I saw how his mother couldn't stand to be near them. She ran out of the room before my brother was delivered.”

 

“I assumed most people believed that the babies were either going to be Rundal or human, not both. They will get use to them.”

 

“And when they are grown who is going to want a mix breed for a mate? Hell, people can't accept a mix between Larmat andDascon, I doubt they will be thrilled about a mix of Rundal and human.”

 

“We will worry about that later. Right now, we all should be happy that the babies are healthy and the fact that they are premature doesn't seem to matter.”

 

“You are right.”

 

“Rose told me that Niro gave you permission to be her protector when she turns eighteen. Is this true?”

 

“Yes.”

 

Robin looked like she was going to throw up.

 

“Do you not wish me to be your daughter's protector?”

 

“That's not it. I'm glad Niro is allowing you to be Rose's protector. It's just that Niro has gotten everything all in order. He must see this upcoming battle as being very difficult.”

 

“Niro will defeat Alamaxa.”

 

“You don't know that for certain.”

 

“I have seen Alamaxa fight. And I know how he thinks. He will underestimate Niro's abilities. Niro has too much to lose if he is defeated. When a male has something more than just his life to lose this makes him fight harder.”

 

“Then why did Niro make sure that his family was going to be taken care of if he should lose?”

 

“What male wouldn't do that? I would, even if I knew that I was almost assured victory I would still want to be prepared for everything.”

 

“I suppose you are right.”

 

“Oh they are so cute,” Rose said as she looked at the two babies.

 

“I thought I told you to stay with your brother,” Robin said.

 

“I wanted to see the little babies. Colt, your brother and sister are just too adorable. How is your mom doing?”

 

“She is resting.”

 

“I bet she is. Oh look at you.” Rose rubbed the little boy's cheek. His little claw grabbed her hand. “Wow, he has got a tight grip already.”

 

Colt couldn't help but smile at her. She didn't even flinch or looked disgusted for a second.

 

“Colt, will you make sure Rose gets home safely. I must lie down.”

 

“Do you wish me to escort you home?”

 

“No that's alright.”

 

“At least let me escort you,” Jack said.

 

“Alright.”

 

Jack led Robin out of the room.

 

“I will have to protect my new brother and sister. I doubt many barbarians will be as accepting as you are,” Colt said.

 

“Accepting? Why wouldn't they be? I mean the little boy only has claws, so this will make him a grand warrior. The little girl has a tail. I'm sure if this bugs her, she probably could have it remove.”

 

“TheRundal's tail is important to them. There are too many blood vessels and the tail serves many purposes.”

 

“Okay the tail stays then. She will be a prize for the Rundal people, and you know it. Furthermore, if she is as beautiful as your mother is then the male barbarians will over look the tail. I mean some of them have sport with some of the Rundal females already.”

 

“Have sport…I like the way you say those words.”

 

Rose felt her body heat up seeing how Colt was looking at her.

 

“This is going to be a long two years, two months and three days,” he said. He moved a little closer to her. “The moment you turn eighteen, I will show you what I dream of doing to you.”

 

“Colt…” Rose blushed, and then a curious look flashed across her face.

 

“What do you want to know, Rose? I see that you want to ask me something.”

 

“It's not proper to ask a male this kind of question.”

 

“I won't tell anyone. I know how curious you are.”

 

Her eyes went down to his loincloth. She could see the large bulge starting to form. “Do Larmat males have sport the same way Dascon males do?”

 

“How do you know how a Dascon male has sport?”

 

“I asked an older female who had a mate.”

 

“And how do Dascon males have sport?”

 

“They are tender sometimes, rough sometimes, and very eager all the time. She told me if she teases her male, he will go intoa frenzy . Though, to be honest that frenzy thing sounds scary.”

 

“You will be happy to know that a Larmat male doesn't go into a frenzy that is only what Dascon males do.”

 

“Why only the Dascon males?”

 

“Legend says that the Goddess favored her Larmat males and this angered theDascon males. Her refusal to pay them same amount of attention she did to the Larmat males gave birth to the sexual frenzy. It also said she made the Larmat males’ hair out of spun gold to show her favor of Larmat males. However, she made the Dascon females more beautiful to appease the Dascon males.”

 

“Wow, the Dascon tell the story different.”

 

“Really.”

 

“Yeah, they say the Goddess favored the Dascon male, so she gave him the ability to be a better lover for his female. The frenzy was her gift to Dascon females.”

 

Colt chuckled.

 

“So that is the only difference between a Larmat and a Dascon male during sport?”

 

“Larmat males like having sport rougher. Of course our females like to be submissive.”

 

“Submissive?”

 

“I will show you what that means when you turn eighteen.”

 

Rose's gaze couldn't leave the bulge in Colt's loincloth. “Are Larmat males just as big…you know.” She blushed again and turned away.

 

“I don't know. I have never seen a Dascon male naked. Would you like me to show you how big my cock is?”

 

“Yes,” she said quickly.

 

“I can't do that.” He moved closer and took her into his arms. “I want you so badly already. I better take you back to your hut.”

 

Rose reached up and pulled his head down to her. She sweetly kissed him. He fought the urge to pull her closer and to completely devour her lips. She was too young and he swore he would wait until she was the proper age.

 

“I like kissing you,” she said.

 

He smiled at her and reached down for her hand. He gently kissed the back of her hand. “I love kissing you, even if it's sweet torture.”

 

“You know I will understand if you seek comfort somewhere else while you wait for me.” She couldn't look him in the eye.

 

“My body is only for you, Rose.”

 

“My body wants yours.”

 

“I better take you back to your hut.” He grabbed her hand and led her out of the room. He kissed her goodbye then hurried back to his hut. He collapsed on the bed and took off his loincloth. He pleasured himself over and over until he finally felt sated. He was glad that he wasLarmat, he didn't even want to think about the frenzy Rose would have started.

 

 

 

ccc

 

 

 

Shirowaited for Jack to come out of the maternity room.

 

Jack paused at the door when he spotted Shiro. Oh shit, he didn't have his sword with him.

 

“Relax, Earth male. I have not come to fight you.”

 

“Then what do you want.”

 

“I came to give you Lita.”

 

“I don't understand. Where is she?”

 

“She is with Nina.”

 

“I still don't understand.”

 

“I'm letting you be her protector. You better make her happy.”

 

“Just like that….I thought I had to challenge you for her.”

 

“Do you honestly believe you could have beaten me?”

 

“Probably not, but that wouldn't have stopped me from trying.”

 

“Lita loves you. I can't force her to love me. I won't do that.”

 

Jack didn't know what to say.

 

“However, once the word is out that you are her protector, every male in this village will challenge you for her.”

 

“I will do my best to protect her.”

 

“Your intentions are good, but honestly, you couldn't defeat a Dascon boy, let alone a full grown male.”

 

“So you giving me Lita reallymeans nothing.”

 

“It means everything. I want her to be happy. I will still be her protector until the joining ceremony. Even though I will let you have her, I still retain my right to protect her from other males. You would be wise to go along with this.”

 

“I don't know what to say.”

 

“You don't need to say anything. The only catch is that you can't see her until the joining ceremony. That's all I ask of you.”

 

“I will do as you ask.”

 

That's all Shiro said. He left Jack standing there baffled.

 

 

 

ccc

 

 

 

Sheila was beyond upset when she discovered that Zenos had claimed the right to be Flora's mate. Any hope she had of making Zenos her mate was gone. All that was left was beingMicha's prisoner. Honestly, she started believing that perhaps being dead was better than being stuck as his mate.

 

She left their chamber without Micha knowing. She had to get out of there. She seriously thought about running away, but where would she go. Micha was a strong warrior and every male that challenged him for her was easily defeated.

 

She saw Lita smiling and talking with Shiro. He looked sad and happy all at the same time.

 

“Thank you, Shiro. Thank you for letting mebe with Jack.” She hugged him.

 

“What?!”Sheila couldn't stop herself from saying.

 

Lita turned to her. “Shiro is letting Jack be my protector.”

 

“Why in the world would you do that?”

 

“I want to make her happy. Where is Micha?”

 

“I don't know.”

 

“You should be…”

 

“I know I shouldn't walk around without my protector.”

 

“Where did these come from?” Lita asked as she gently grabbed Sheila's arm. Her arms were covered in bruises.

 

“Did Micha do this to you?” Shiro asked.

 

“What if he did?”

 

“Then I will have him brought up to Zenos for judging. No Dascon male has the right to abuse his female.”

 

“He gets a little rough at times…” Sheila wanted to tell Shiro about the torture Micha has made her suffer through, yet she couldn't bring herself to tell him. Her fear of Micha was too great.

 

“He should be gentler with you. I will talk to him.”

 

“No!” Sheila quickly said. “That's okay. I better get back to my chamber.”

 

“Allow me to escort you.”

 

“No, I would rather go alone.”

 

“It's not safe.”

 

“I will be alright.” Sheila quickly left.

 

“Shiro, I believe Micha is abusing her. She looked frightened when you wanted to talk to Micha.”

 

“I will look into this matter. Right now I must take you back to our chamber. Zenos wanted to speak with me.”

 

Lita followed him back to their chamber.

 

Sheila rushed into her chamber and closed the door.

 

“Where the hell have you been?”

 

Her blood ran cold upon hearingMicha's voice.

 

“I just wanted to get some air. I didn't know how to get a hold of you.”

 

Micha rushed up and grabbed her arm roughly. “I saw you talking with Shiro. You want to tell me what you were talking about?”

 

“I heard he was giving Lita to Jack, and I wanted to know if it was true.”

 

“That idiot Shiro, I would have killed that Jack the second I knew he wanted to challenge me for my female. Is this all you talked about?”

 

“Yes.”

 

Micha dragged her out of the room.

 

“Where are we going?” she said.

 

“I want to fuck you on the training grounds. The vibe from the Trials is still strong.”

 

“You said you weren't going to make me publicly pleasure you anymore.”

 

“There won't be anyone out there, and I really don't care if there is. I want to fuck you on the training grounds.”

 

Gea spotted Micha dragging a small dark-haired female toward the training ground. He could see that she clearly didn't want to go, and she looked frightened.

 

Gea was supposed to report to Zenos right now, but he couldn't just walk away from the scene in front of him. Alisa had told him about the abuse she suffered at the hands of her Larmat captors. It took him a long time to quiet those demons in her mind. He wasn't about to stand by and watch a male abuse a female.

 

His footsteps hastened when he heard Sheila scream. When he entered the training grounds he saw Micha on top of her, he was strangling her.

 

“Get off the female now!” Gea growled.

 

Micha jumped up to his feet and drew his sword. Sheila coughed and tried to move. Micha put his foot on her pinning her to the ground.

 

“What I do with my female, Larmat scum, is none of your business.”

 

“You are going to kill her.”

 

“The way we have sport is also none of your business.”

 

“Female, do you want to play with him like that?” Gea asked.

 

Sheila looked over to very large blond-haired male and shook her head.

 

“Get off of her now!”

 

“Are you challenging me for my female?”

 

Gea drew his sword. “So be it, but first let the female up so that she may be a safe distance from our battle.”

 

Micha moved his foot then kicked Sheila hard. “Get over there and sit down. I want you to watch me kill this Larmat scum.”

 

Gea waited until Sheila was a safe distance away then he charged at Micha. The images of what those Larmat warriors did to Alisa and Ra fueled his rage. Seeing Sheila crying and holding her side fueled his rage.

 

Their battle was fierce. Micha had no intentions of losing to this Larmat male and yet he could feelGea's rage. This Larmat male wanted to kill him as much as Micha wanted to kill him.

 

Shiro entered the training grounds. Zenos asked him to find Gea and this was the only place he hadn't looked yet. He immediately went over to Sheila when he saw her hunched over in pain.

 

“What has happened?” he said as he glanced up at Gea and Micha fighting.

 

“That blond-haired one is challenging Micha,” she said quietly.

 

“Do you need to see the healer?”

 

“I think so…my rib really hurts.”

 

“Let me see.” Shiro gently felt around. Her rib didn't feel broken, but judging by how loudly she winced, her rib was surely bruised.

 

“How did you get injured?”

 

“Micha kicked me.”

 

“He what?”Shiro stood up and went to reach for his sword. As he didGea's sword went threwMicha's chest. Micha fell to the ground. Gea pulled his sword from him.

 

“Shiro…” he said as he cleaned the blood off and sheathed his sword. “I have won the female, but in doingso, I have killed a Dascon warrior. I will abide by the punishment Niro or Zenos hands out.” He unstrapped his sword and set it down by his feet.

 

Sheila slowly got up and gingerly made her way to where Micha was lying. The bastard was dead. She broke down and started to cry. Despite being in a tremendous amount of pain, she rushed over and threw herself intoGea's arms.

 

“Thank you…thank you…”

 

“Take me to Zenos. Female, what is your name?”

 

“My name is Sheila.”

 

“I'm called Gea.” He gazed into her beautiful blue eyes. Her eyes reminded him of Alisa.

 

“Please follow me, Sheila. I must pay for taking another male's life. I'm ready Shiro.”

 

Shiro went over and grabbedGea's sword. He followed him to the leader's chamber. Zenos was waiting there with Flora and Colt.

 

“What is going on?”

 

When a male willingly gives up his sword something terrible has happened.

 

“Gea has killed Micha,” Shiro said, handing Zenos the sword.

 

“Why?” Zenos asked.

 

“To protect this female and to claim her,” Gea said.

 

“Zenos, Micha was abusing this female. Check her body. She must be taken to the healer soon. Micha kicked her very hard in the ribs.”

 

Zenos grabbed Flora's hand and they went over to Sheila. “Let me see, my female will be in the same room.”

 

They went to a small room off to the side.

 

“Please remove your covering.”

 

Sheila slowly removed her covering and let it fall to the floor.

 

Flora gasped seeing the multitude of bruises and whip marks that covered Sheila's body.

 

“Micha did this to you?” Zenos asked. He reached down and grabbed her covering and gently covered her back up.

 

“Yes.”

 

“Why didn't you tell someone? You should have come to me or my father, you could have even told mother.”

 

Sheila all of sudden felt ashamed. The whole time she plotted to become these people's queen and the genuine concern Zenos had in his voice for her, shamed her.

 

“Let Shiro take you to the healer.”

 

“What is going to happen to Gea?” she said quickly.

 

“Micha would have been put to death for abusing a female. It is one of the most heinous crimes in the Dascon clan. Gea will have no punishment and will assume the role as your protector. That is if you want him to?”

 

“I would like him to be my protector.”

 

“But first, you must go to the healer.”

 

They went back into the main room. Zenos walked over and handed Gea his sword. “You will not be punished for takingMicha's life. Sheila has agreed to allow you to become her protector. She has to go see the healer. I must warn you that Micha has abused her body badly. Have patience with her.”

 

Gea just nodded his head. He went over and scooped Sheila into his arms. “I will return once she has seen the healer.”

 

“We will wait until Gea gets back. Shiro, the attack has begun on the Rundal village. We must pray to the Goddess that father is successful and for the safety of the Rundal people.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter Nineteen

 

 

 

 

 

“Try not to hurt the Rundal people as you clear a way for Niro,” Zenith said.

 

He gave the signal and warriors moved forward. Niro had them placed all around the Rundal village. They would move forward until Alamaxa's hut was encircled. Any resistance would be met with brute force. Niro had no desire to hurt the Rundal people, but he would if he had to.

 

The Rundal females and offspring were ushered away by the Rundal males. Niro repeated to them that he had no intentions on hurting them, but they would not interfere with what the Dascon clan was about to do.

 

A few Rundal males charged at the advancing barbarian horde. They were defeated easily.

 

“Alamaxa!” a guard yelled as he ran into the room.

 

“What is it?”

 

“The Dascon clan is attacking the village.”

 

“What?!”Alamaxa hurried over to the window. There was some kind of commotion going on.

 

“Assemble my warriors.”

 

“But Sir, there are so many barbarian warriors advancing…”

 

“How many?”

 

“A couple hundred at least.”

 

“Assemble my warriors.”

 

“They are no match for that many barbarian warriors.”

 

“Do as Isay, or I will kill you myself.”

 

The guard hurried from the room.

 

Alamaxa quickly put on his armor. Rundal armor consisted of a breast plate, wrist and shin guards. He grabbed his two swords and headed for the courtyard.

 

Only a handful of his warriorswas there. The others must have run off. He didn't expect Niro to attack. Taran must have failed in killing Zenos. No matter, surely Niro would fight the barbarian way, leader against leader. All he had to do was to defeat Niro.

 

“Ready yourself warriors.”

 

“Yes Sir!”

 

Zenith halted his warriors when they reached Alamaxa's hut. Thankfully, only a handful of Rundal were killed so far. He bowed his head when Niro approached.

 

“Do you want us to kill Alamaxa's warriors?” Zenith asked.

 

“Yes, do not leave one of them alive. Send a couple of warriors to go fetch Alamaxa's young female and his offspring. Have them brought here.”

 

Zenith instructed four of his warriors to get Alamaxa's mate and their child.

 

“Let's go. The sooner this is over the less Rundal need to die,” Niro said.

 

Two large warriors easily broke down the front gates, and like a well-oiled machine the rest circled the entire complex ensuring Alamaxa couldn't escape.

 

“If I die, you must kill Alamaxa,” Niro said to Zenith.

 

“I thought you wanted me to do that.”

 

“Demos…” Niro quickly turned around. He saw all his best warriors standing behind Demos.

 

“Your son ordered us to aid you,” Demos said. “I'm glad the Rundal didn't put up too much of a fight.”

 

Niro just nodded his head. He instructed Zenith to keep his warriors back. Demos and all the elite warriors followed Niro into the hut.

 

Alamaxa made the most impressive sight standing in the middle of the courtyard with his battle armor on. Ten large Rundal warriors stood by his side.

 

“Where are the rest of your elite warriors, Alamaxa?” Niro said.

 

“That is no concern of yours.”

 

“Let us battle, just me and you.”

 

“Why do you fight, Niro? Is it your wish to take over our village?”

 

“I fight to put the rightful heir on the throne.”

 

“I'm the rightful heir.”

 

“Tomar wanted Ramiro to lead the Rundal and I intend to give him what he wanted.”

 

“Ramiro is dead. The fool came back here…”

 

“He lives, Zenith made sure of that. The two Rundal warriors Ramiro was chasing are dead.”

 

“Tomar wanted Ramiro to lead?” a large Rundal male asked.

 

“Yes.”

 

“He is lying. He wants Ramiro to lead so he can manipulate him. He knows he can't do this with me.”

 

“I don't lie. Tomar wanted Ramiro to lead. Enough talk. Now we fight.”

 

“Did Taran kill Zenos?” Alamaxa chuckled.“Is that why you are so angry.”

 

Niro reached back and pulled the small leather pouch off his dagger belt. He opened it up and removed a clawed hand. He threw it at Alamaxa.

 

“That is what remains of your son. Zenos killed him.”

 

Alamaxa roared then charged at Niro. Demos instructed his men to back away, but to keep an eye on Alamaxa's warriors.

 

The clanking of the swords echoed throughout the courtyard.

 

Alamaxa was much more skilled than Colt was. His attacks were brutal and quick, and yet Niro had no problem keeping up with him.

 

Demos grew worried watching Alamaxa fight. He never saw a Rundal fight like that. The speed and strength he hadwas awe-inspiring. He could see his warriors were worried as well. Niro was a grand warrior, the best Dascon had, but could he defeat Alamaxa?

 

Niro could see Robin's smile in his mind. Hear Rose's laugh. He could still picture Zenos winning the Trials. Zenos was strong enough now to lead the Dascon clan. Demos could teach him all the finer points. This relaxed Niro.

 

“Niro, I love you,”Robin's voice filled his mind.

 

He swung his sword as hard as he could,sending Alamaxa's sword flying. Alamaxa leapt into the air and rolled on the ground scooping up his sword.

 

Niro charged at Alamaxa, so much depended on him winning. His people needed him to win. The Rundal needed him to win. His family needed him to win.

 

“It's a male, Niro,”Tomar'svoice filled his mind.“You have an heir.”

 

Everything Tomar did for the Dascon people, Niro couldn't letTomar's wish for Ramiro to rule not happen. He owed his old friend that. Hell, he owed the Rundal a good leader.

 

Niro roared sending fear racing through Alamaxa. With amazing speed Niro raced over to Alamaxa. Two swipes of his sword disarmed him. Niro circled really fast and embedded his sword deeply into Alamaxa's chest. The impact was so strong that Niro's sword penetrated through Alamaxa's armor.

 

“Ramiro, no, get back here!” Zenith yelled.

 

Demos quickly turned around and stopped Ramiro from going any further.

 

“Alamaxa!”Ramiro yelled as he watched his brother fall to the ground. “No…there had to be another way.”

 

All of Alamaxa's warriors attacked. Demos and his warriors quickly defeated them.

 

Ramiro walked slowly over to Alamaxa.

 

“You sent this barbarian to kill me…you…couldn't…do…it…yourself…you pathetic…weakling,” Alamaxa said as he coughed up blood.

 

“I didn't send them.”

 

“Then you warped father's love for m…e…”

 

“You did that.”

 

“Your abominations you call offspring will never…rule…our people.”

 

“Even now you can't let go of your hatred.”

 

“You are nothing…Ramiro.” Alamaxa gasped then stop breathing.

 

“I'm sorry it had to be this way, Ramiro,” Niro said.

 

“Was it truly father's wish that I was to rule our people?”

 

“Yes, I swear to the Goddess it was.”

 

“Alamaxa!”Karmas said as she hurried into the room with a small Rundal offspring in her arms.

 

Niro pulled his sword from Alamaxa.

 

“You will be joining him soon,” Niro said with a heavy heart. He didn't relish the thought of killing this young Rundal female and her baby.

 

“You can't do that,” Ramiro said, placing himself in front of Karmas.

 

“Her son will challenge your rule when he gets older.”

 

“I will not allow you to kill her or the baby.”

 

“It must be done,” Demos said.

 

“No…enough of my people have died already.”

 

Karmas set the baby on the floor then went over to Alamaxa's body. She grabbed his dagger and plunged it into her heart. She collapsed down onto his body.

 

The little infant started to cry and whimper.

 

Ramiro walked over and picked it up trying to quiet the child. “I won't let you kill this baby. It's wrong and you know it. This child can't be blamed for what his father has done.”

 

“Spoken like Tomar.” Niro sheathed his sword. “What will you do with the child?”

 

“I will raise it. He is my nephew after all.”

 

“I will clear my warriors out. Zenith and his warriors will go back to Dascon until you have called for him to come back.”

 

Ramiro gestured to a few Rundal males. “Prepare Alamaxa's body for burial. We will give him the same respect we gave my father.”

 

Niro watched Ramiro assume leadership. He was just like Tomar. Alamaxa would have fed Ramiro's body to theconja , and yet Ramiro honors Alamaxa with a traditional Rundal burial.

 

“Zenith, I wish for you to stay,” Ramiro said.

 

“Of course I will.”

 

“Your mate gave birth to your twins,” Demos said.

 

“She did!” Ramiro hurried over.

 

“A boy and a girl, both are healthy as so too is Mara.”

 

“Were they human or Rundal?”

 

“They are both. The boy has your claws and the girl has your tail.”

 

“Interesting,” Zenith said.

 

“A mix of Rundal and human?”Niro asked.

 

“Yep.”

 

“This is exciting news,” Niro said as he gestured for his warriors to move out. “I will meet with you later, Ramiro. I will return within the month, or you can come to Dascon the choice is yours.”

 

“You are getting quite a large family,” Zenith said.

 

“Yes, I am relieved that Mara is alright.”

 

“Well, let's hurry up and get everything in order here so that you can go see your new offspring.”

 

“I can't wait.”

 

“Oh, I also heard that Niro is allowing Colt to become Rose's protector when she is the appropriate age.”

 

“I'm thrilled for Colt. He loves Rose.”

 

“I'm sorry that we had to kill some of your people. Niro will find a way to make this up to your people.”

 

“Let's see how bad the damage is and tell my people what has happened.”

 

 

 

ccc

 

 

 

Robin rushed out and threw herself into Niro's arms the moment hisconja landed. Zenos watched his mother and father greet each other. Their love for one another showed. He was so glad that Niro was alright.

 

“That means your father is now the leader of the Rundal,” Zenos said to Colt.

 

“Where is he?”

 

“He is settling in as ruler. I'm sure he will come to Dascon soon,” Demos said. “You should have seen Niro fight. It was something to behold.”

 

Zenos smiled. He was full of pride for his father.

 

“You sent my elite warriors, even after I commanded them to stay with you,” Niro said as he approached Zenos.

 

“Mom was worried and I wanted to make her feel better.”

 

“You needn't have worried, little one,” Niro said as he kissed the top of Robin's head.

 

“You should have told me what you were doing.”

 

“I want to see Ramiro's new offspring,” Niro said.

 

Colt led them to the maternity room. “Mother is sleeping, but here are my brother and sister.”

 

Niro walked over to the two cribs. He reached in and grabbed a hold of the boy. “He is strong.” Niro looked at the tiny claws then back up to the infant's peaceful face. He glanced down at the girl then set the boy down and picked her up. Her tiny tail wagged when he held her.

 

“What are you going to do with them?”

 

“Nothing, but I would like to know their names.”

 

“Mother wants to wait for father to help name them.”

 

Niro set the little girl down. “This is hope for the barbarians. A new race of human… I wish Tomar could have seen this.”

 

Colt just smiled.

 

“Send your mother my congratulations.”

 

“I will.”

 

“Little one, come snuggle with me. I'm tired and need to rest.”

 

“I told you father wouldn't care about your brother and sister's small differences,” Zenos said.

 

“I'm glad he doesn't care. Mother will be relieved. I'm going to fly out to the Rundal village. I want to make sure father is alright.”

 

“I'm sure your mother would be glad if you did. She is probably worried.”

 

“Will you pick Rose some of those flowers she loves for me?”

 

“Sure.”

 

Zenos hurried back to his hut. Now that he was a protector he had his own part of the leader hut. He hadn't had time to fully enjoy Flora yet. Now, nothing was stopping him for pleasuring her.

 

“Is your father alright?” Flora said as Zenos entered the hut.

 

“Yes he was victorious.”

 

Zenos moved closer to her. He unstrapped his sword and set it against the wall then he took off his loincloth.

 

“My need for you is great,” he purred as he reached out to grab her.

 

She stepped back and slowly removed her covering.

 

“Don't tease me. I waited too long to take you as your protector.”

 

“You have always been my protector, Zenos.”

 

She climbed on the bed on allfours, she lifted her hips up and lowered her head down.

 

Zenos just looked at her waiting for him. He could see the wetness of her pussy. He took a deep breath inhaling her scent.

 

“Take me, my male,” she cooed.

 

He slowly went over to her. He placed his hands on her hips then gently caressed her ass.

 

“Please, my male.”

 

“I want to savor you, my female.” He slipped a couple of fingers into her pussy. Oh damn was she ready for him. He pulled his fingers out then licked her juice from them. He got down on his knees and started licking at her pussy. He licked feverishly wanting to lap up as much of her sweet juice as he good. He felt her body tremble.

 

“Fill me with your beautiful cock, please.”

 

He stood up and grabbed her hips with one powerfulthrust, he filled her with his cock. Both let out a loud moan. Zenos growled then started to thrust faster. He leaned over her and bit down on her shoulder, keeping her pinned to the bed.

 

“Yes, my male…oh yes,” she cried out.

 

He growled loudly and thrust even harder and faster. Her body shuddered under him. He arched up and roared out his orgasm. He kept his cock buried in her for a moment as he leaned back over and snuggled against her.

 

“I can't wait until we are joined,” she said as she enjoyed his body pressed against hers.

 

“We only have a few days,then you will be my mate forever.”

 

“That sounds so good.” Her body collapsed onto the bed. He moved a little as not to crush her.

 

“Hold me like this for awhile. I love having your body cover mine,” she said.

 

Zenos nuzzled his face against the top of her head. Only two days and they will be joined then no one would take her away from him.

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter twenty

 

 

 

Gealanded theconja beside his home. Sheila had a death grip on him. He was surprised that she agreed to come with him. He told her he would wait until he has proven himself worthy of her before they came back here. She wanted to come with him now. In a way he could understand. Alisa wanted to be far away from where she was abused. It stood to reason that Sheila wanted the same thing.

 

He hopped off theconja when she loosened her hold on him. He reached up and helped her down.

 

“You leave out in the middle of nowhere,” she said looking around.

 

“If you don't like living out here we will go wherever you want.”

 

Sheila turned around and looked up at him. “Why would you let me chose? You barely know me.”

 

“You are my female and your happiness is all that matters to me.”

 

“Still, you hardly know me.”

 

“I will learn all about you.”

 

“What if we don't like each other?”

 

“If I don't please you, I will send you back to Niro.”

 

“Alright, but what if you don't like me?”

 

“It is an honor to have a female. I will grow to love you.”

 

“And if you don't?”

 

“I'm not worried about that.”

 

“Well, I'm not exactly the most loveable person. I don't understand how you could pledge yourself to me before you had a chance to get to know me.”

 

“Your happiness is all that matters.”

 

“What about your happiness?”

 

“It is hard for a barbarian male not to be happy. We are rather simple creatures.”

 

Sheila laughed. “That you guys are.”

 

Her laugh was so hearty he couldn't help but to laugh too.

 

He escorted her to the hut.

 

“It is very modest, but I like it,” he said.

 

“A little decorating and it could be very nice.”

 

“You may do as you wish with the hut.”

 

“Where do you buy stuff?”

 

“The Rundal village, sometimes traders come through on their way to the Rundal village too.”

 

“That's those lizard people’s village right?”

 

“Yes, they are very gentle people. Perhaps you will make friends with Zenith's mate.”

 

“Maybe.What clan is she from?”

 

“She is a Loma warrior.”

 

“One of those big chicks.”

 

“Chicks?”

 

“Female.” Sheila sat down on the bed. “There is only one bed.”

 

“I will sleep on the floor until you wish to share a bed with me.”

 

“You are being too nice. Usually when someone is nice they are up to something.”

 

“I only want to make you happy. That is my only motive.”

 

“Still…”

 

“What you have been through will take time to heal. I will help you get through this.”

 

“You are bigmale, I doubt you have ever been abused before.”

 

“My mate Alisa was brutally abused by my clan. I helped her through the healing process.”

 

“You already have a mate!” Sheila stood up. “I don't do the threesome thing.”

 

“Alisa died some time ago.”

 

“Oh, I'm sorry…” Sheila sat back down. “How did she die?” She could see his pain in his eyes.

 

“She was murdered by my clan, so too was my son, Ra. I failed to protect them.”

 

She was surprised when he rushed over to her and came down to his knees in front of her. He gently grabbed her hands.

 

“I swear to the Goddess that I will not let anything happen to you. I will protect you with every fiber of my being. Please, don't let my failure to protect Alisa and Raskew your judgment of me.”

 

“You were probably outnumbered.”

 

“That doesn't matter I should have protected them or at least died with them.”

 

“How did you survive the attack?”

 

“They let me live so I could suffer.”

 

“That is awful. What did you do to your clan?”

 

“Alisa was from the Dascon clan. Ra was seen as an abomination.”

 

“They killed them just because she was from the Dascon clan?”

 

“I saved her from being tortured by my clan. I left my village with her. My clan saw this as treason. Even if I lived in a small village and simply just took a Dascon female as a mate the outcome probably would have been the same.”

 

“That's awful…just awful…”

 

“I will protect you.”

 

“Hey, I know you will, so don't worry about me holding your past against you. I hope you won't hold mine against me.”

 

“You are too beautiful to have committed any major infractions. Besides, I would never hold your past against you.”

 

“Beauty can be deceiving you know.”

 

“I see the warmth of your soul in your eyes.” He stood up and went back over to the other side of the hut.

 

“You are too good for me,” she said quietly.

 

“I'm honored to have the chance to prove myself worthy of you, Sheila.”

 

She smiled at him. She didn't know what to think about this whole thing.

 

“I'm hungry what do you have to eat? I suppose you better start teaching me how to cook too.”

 

“I will be glad to show you. Let's start withtrof stew. The Rundal people love thisdish, I have modified it for the barbarian palate.”

 

“Let's get cooking then.”

 

 

 

 

 

ccc

 

 

 

Shirostared out over the village from his balcony. Niro sent Nina to take Lita away. Lita will be staying with Demos and Nina until the joining ceremony. This was probably for the best.

 

“Forgive me for intruding.”

 

Shiro quickly turned around upon hearing a female's voice.

 

“Niro wanted me to introduce myself to you. I'm called Enstia.”

 

“I'm called Shiro.” He escorted her back into the room.

 

“I'm to be your new female.”

 

“Why do you look so sad?” he said.

 

“My mate Adrian was killed by Alamaxa.”

 

“You still greave for him?”

 

“Yes, I loved him.”

 

“Was he a Larmat warrior?”

 

“Yes, he was one of Alistair's guards. You havea sadness about you too. You must have loved that Lita.”

 

“I did…but she didn't love me.”

 

“She was such a small female.” Enstia looked away from him. “I will understand if you don't wish to be my protector.”

 

“Why wouldn't I want to be your protector?”

 

“I believe I'm the largest female on this planet. I'm the size of a male.”

 

“You are very beautiful.” He smiled at her. “As you can see I'm quite large myself.”

 

“You are the same sizeAdrian was.”

 

“Both of our hearts have been wounded. I will give you all the time you need to grieve your mate. When you are ready I will be honored to be your protector. Would you like to go to theLarmat village with Alistair?”

 

“No, I prefer it here.Adrian liked this village as well. Everything seems so peaceful.”

 

“It's not peaceful at the Larmat village?”

 

“It is to an extent. There are still some of the Larmat people who don't like having Alistair led. Their prejudice pollutes the air in the village. However, here, the Dascon people adore Niro, so there is little animosity.”

 

“Except for when the Larmat warriors show up with Alistair, we do have some prejudice here too. You can't expect everyone to be happy all the time. I will secure a hut for you. You were a Loma warrior right?”

 

“Yes, I was one of the best.”

 

“Then perhaps you would like to train with me.”

 

“The female warriors train at a different place than males.”

 

“I will be your protector, so you will have to stay with me. I would love to see your skills.”

 

Her face lit up.Adrian didn't want her training. He wanted to protect her. This Shiro surprised her. She figured he would be the same way. She missed training.

 

“Do you want to train with me?”

 

“Yes.”

 

“Then we will get to know each other while we train. Your part of the leader hut will be just down from mine. Here let me show you. This part of the hut is for guests, but now it will be yours.” He led her to her chamber. It was only a little ways from his.

 

“This is nice,” she said as she walked around the chamber.

 

“It looks a lot like mine. Decorate any way you wish. But please let me escort you through the village. It is not proper for a female to walk around alone.”

 

“Thank you, Shiro. You are being very kind to me.”

 

“Whenever you want to be with me just come over to my chamber. If I'm not there I'm probably at the training grounds.”

 

“Alright.”

 

“I will let you get settled in.” Shiro went back to his chamber. He had no idea that Niro had already chosen another female for him. Enstia, seemed like a sweet female, but it was too soon for Shiro to give her his heart. Besides, she was still grieving her mate. Shiro was a patient male, he would give her all the time she needed.

 

 

 

ccc

 

 

 

Jack waited for Lita. Today they were going to be joined. Shiro was true to his word and took on any male that challenged Jack for Lita. Though, this made Jack feel like a wimp. It was worth it to be with Lita again. He debated whether to ask Niro to send him and Lita back to Earth. He liked working as a healer here, and as soon as Lita andhim were joined she would start her training to be a healer too.

 

“You look so beautiful,” Jack said when Lita came in.

 

She just smiled at him.

 

“She does look beautiful,” Robin said as she and Niro came into the room.

 

Niro will join you. The priests and priestess won't do it. They say you are not barbarian, so the Goddess won't recognizeyour joining. I'm sorry about that.”

 

“Niro joining us will be recognized by the other barbarians, right?” Jack asked.

 

“Yes.”

 

“Then let's get started.”

 

Niro went through the ceremony Robin taught him. Lita was pleasantly surprised that she was going to marry Jack just like she would have done on Earth. Even though Niro was a bit clumsy performing the Earth ceremony it mattered little to them. When he pronounced them joined, he showed them to their part of the leader hut.

 

“When you become more skilled with a sword, then I will allow you to move into the village if you want,” Niro said.

 

“Niro wait…” Robin grabbed Niro's arm gently. “They should be given the option to go back to Earth, shouldn't they?”

 

“Do you wish to go back to Earth?”

 

Lita and Jack looked at each other. They knew the answer without asking each other. “We would like to stay if that is alright with you,” Jack said.

 

“That's fine. Besides mother likes working with you, and she is willing to start training your mate.”

 

“We have to go to Zenos' joining. Congratulations on being joined,” Robin said.

 

“Congratulate Zenos for us,” Jack said.

 

“I will.” Robin and Niro left.

 

Jack scooped Lita up into his arms and carried her inside their chamber. He gently laid her on the bed.

 

“Jack… I have to tell you something.”

 

“Shh, it will wait.” He lay next to her on the bed and slowly removed her covering.

 

“You look good in a loincloth,” she said.

 

“I feel silly, but it's damn hot on this planet, so I will get use to wearing this.” He clumsy removed his loincloth. He grabbed her and kissed her deeply. He missed her so much, missed holding her like this, kissing her, loving her.

 

“I waited so long…” He rolled on top her and gently eased his cock into her. He slowly thrust inside as he held their passionate kiss.

 

He took his time. He wanted her to come and come, until she was toosate to come anymore. He pulled his cock out and kissed down her body. He licked at her pussy until she came three times, then he quickly filled her with his cock. He knew how much she loved being filled with him after she came.

 

Her body went limp after the fifth orgasm. He quickened the pace of his thrusts, needing to find his own release. After he came, he slowly pulled his cock from her and lay beside her.

 

“Are you sure you want to stay here?” she asked as he cradled her in his arms.

 

“Yes…it's rather peaceful here, and now that you are my mate those males will leave us alone.”

 

“Jack…” She propped herself up so she could look him in the eye. “I want no secrets between us…I let Shiro have me while he was my protector.”

 

“Why?”

 

“He was being so nice to me and the torture of his needs was too much to watch. I hope you forgive me.”

 

“He gave you to me. He loved you, and yet he let us be joined. I can't be angry at you for giving him pleasure. I should be I guess, but I'm not.”

 

“Let's not talk about this anymore. We are together and that's all that matters.”

 

“That's all that matters.”

 

She snuggled back down and enjoyed being in his arms.

 

 

 

ccc

 

 

 

 

 

“Zenos, you look fierce,” Laigne said.

 

“I'm glad you could make it,” Zenos said. Laigne and his Loma mate Fenella moved to a small village about twenty miles from the main village. A lot of Loma warriors who had weaker males for mates moved there. Zenos remembered how kind Laigne was to him when he was child. Laigne was a weaker male mother saved sometime ago. The two worked hard for weaker male rights. Father only put up with Laigne because mother cared for him so much and the fact he helped her out a lot too.

 

“I can't believe you are getting joined. It seems just like yesterday we when use to play together.”

 

“You pretended to be theconja that I was to slay.”

 

“And I was the female theconja had taken,” Rose said as she walked over to them. “It's good to see you, Laigne.”

 

“You look so much like your mother.”

 

“Congratulations, son of Niro,” Fenella said as she came over. Three small children followed behind her.

 

“Laigne!”Robin hurried over and gave him a big hug.

 

Niro walked over and patted Zenos on the back. “Yoube a good mate for Flora,” he said to Zenos.

 

“You know I will.”

 

“Great Niro,” Fenella bowed her head and so to do her little children.

 

“You had two daughters and one son,” Niro said as he looked overLaigne's offspring. The male looked strong and the females were very pretty. “Tell me how many females have the weaker males and Loma warriors have?”

 

“The female offspring out number the male offspring two to one,” Laigne said.

 

“This is good news.” Niro looked over at Laigne. “I don't like Robin going out to your village all the time. You must come see her more here and bring your family with you.”

 

“Yes Niro.”

 

“Now my son it's time for you to join with your female.”

 

Niro and Robin watched as Zenos and Flora went through the joining ceremony. Both Robin and Sabrina cried.

 

“Why do females cry so much?” Saa said as he tried to quiet Sabrina's tears.

 

“Robin do you even remember Earth anymore?” Sabrina asked.

 

“No…I haven't thought about Earth in years.”

 

“Soon we are going to be grandmothers you know that don't you,” Sabrina said.

 

“I can't wait.”

 

When the ceremony was over, they congratulated Zenos and Flora then left so they could be alone.

 

Niro grabbed Robin's hand and led her out into the village.

 

“Our son has a mate. Time flies…soon Rose will be joined with Colt.”

 

“If he proves himself worthy of her.”

 

“Of course.”

 

Niro led her to the lake just outside the village. The sun was setting making the water shimmer.

 

“Niro, I love you so much.”

 

“You warm my heart, little one.”

 

He wrapped his arms around her and held her tightly.

 

“When Zenos takes over as leader I'm going to build us a hut by this lake.”

 

“That sounds wonderful.”

 

“Our grandchildren can come out and play. I hope Zenos and Flora give us a lot of grandchildren.”

 

“What about Rose and Colt?”

 

“I prefer not to think about my little girl having a mate.”

 

Robin chuckled.

 

“The Goddess blessed me when she sent you to me.” Niro kissed the top of her head.

 

“I'm the one who is blessed. You have given me so much. Protected me and loved me. Hell, you even put up with my strong opinions of village matters. I feel so safe here in your arms.”

 

“Little one…” Niro hugged her tighter as they both looked out over the lake. She was the one that gave him strength to lead his people. She was the one that allowed him to win battle after battle. She gave him two beautiful children. She loved his people and was a good queen to them. She helped raised Zenos so that one day he will be a grand ruler. In addition, she taught Rose how to be a strong female. He had no words to say to her to thank her for everything that she has given him.

 

“I could stay like this forever,” she said contently.

 

“Umm, so could I.”

 

Niro gazed out at the lake thinking about all his blessings. Zenos was going to be the one that truly will make everyone on this planet be one. He would let the Dascon, Larmat and Rundal clans have pride in their people, but at the same time they will be proud to proclaim themselves to be the Barbarians ofMalka .

 

This thought filled Niro with so much pride.

 

“I'm putting the hut right here, so we can look at the sunset everyday,” he said.

 

“That would be perfect.”

 

“Mmm, Little one…” he purred as he nuzzled his face against the top of head.

 

The Barbarians ofMalka …he liked how that sounded more and more.

 

The End

 

 

 

 

 

Amoureux

 

Written byJustus Roux

 

 

 

 

 

Amoureux- lover

 

 

 

Dante’s love for his favorite slave Bazil grows everyday and yet, the very nature of this love is tearing Dante apart.

 

Dante is dubbed the Master of Pain. He needs to give pain and his slaves need to receive the sweet erotic pain that only he can give them. Dante enjoys seeing the pain he gives turn to pleasure for his slaves. However, he is unable to bring pain to Bazil. He knows his favorite is different than his other slaves. Bazil loves Dante’s tenderness. Dante is plagued with erotic visions of giving Bazil pain. Bazil wants to give his Master what he needs.

 

Angelique sees the torment Dante is in and she wants to help him. She convinces him to take on new clients and to accept her gift of two new slaves. The male slave bears a striking resemblance to Bazil and the female slave looks like a female version of Ecstasy. Angelique has searched the world to find these two for her beloved Dante.

 

If Dante can’t find peace soon Bazil will be forced to leave his Master. Neither of them wants to be apart, but Bazil would do whatever it takes to soothe his Master.

 

Amoureuxis another exciting addition toJustus Roux ’s Master Series.

 

Available in Oct 2008

 

www.justusroux.com