Shattered Stars - Viola Grace

Hannah wants nothing more than to pay off her bond and live free, but her patron has other ideas and centuries to keep her. Body and soul.

After a planet-killing asteroid, humanity has to huddle under shelters and live in the dimmest of places. A year of brutal survival and the breakdown of society leave Hannah less than hopeful of her prospects in the new world. A message in the darkness offers a lifeline to those who wish to leave Earth to be bonded servants to alien masters. For most, the price of their bond will be labour, but for Hannah, it turns into something else.

With a stunningly high sensuality rating, she is a prime sexual bondservant and the bidding for her services ends with an amount that breaks records. Her patron is a male with wings who belongs to a species that does more than need sex; they consume it. Mero only needs to look at her, and he is hungrier than he has ever been.

The characters and events in this book are fictitious. Any similarity to real persons, living or dead, is coincidental and not intended by the author. Copyright © 2016 by Viola Grace ISBN: 978-1-987969-17-7 ©Cover art by Angela Waters All rights reserved. With the exception of review, the reproduction or utilization of this work in whole or in part in any form by electronic, mechanical or other means, now known or hereafter invented, is forbidden without the express permission of the publisher.

Published by Viola Grace Look for me online at violagrace.com Smashwords Edition

Shattered Stars

By

Viola Grace

Prologue

They had called it a world killer, and they hadn’t been wrong. Hannah sat with her community around a fire and listened to the broadcast in the silence only broken with the crackle of the wood. “In the wake of the international disaster, humanity has been struggling to survive. Now, today, there is a new hope for a few.” Hannah looked around at those who had managed to get to the outpost that used to be a small town. The community

hall was the best place to gather. It had the largest food stores for a hundred kilometres and was definitely a haven for those who still stumbled in from the cold. “Aliens have landed. That is right. Aliens. After our year of night, they have come and offered a portion of our population a home in the stars. Yes, I understand that it sounds unusual, but if you are willing to try, to take the burden off other survivors by removing yourself from the food chain, contact your local com officer and ask them to find the local meeting site. We understand that you don’t want to endanger your communities, but if you

want to make the food go further, those of you who are able-bodied should apply now.” The nightly broadcast stopped as soon as it had started. The roar of conversation took over, but Hannah wasn’t having any of it. She looked to the far side of the fire where her mother and sisters were huddled next to the man who had taken them under his protection. One year of darkness had been all it took to unravel years of struggle to prove women’s equality. When it came to the bulk labour necessary to power the generators for heat and water, a man was needed.

She got to her feet and walked over to the com officer who was standing near the exit. “Taylor.” “Yes, Hannah?” “Where do I need to go?” She looked him in the eye, and he sighed. “Damn, I thought we had something.” He stroked her cheek. She cocked her head and stared at him, not showing the disgust she felt, not showing anything at all. He shifted nervously and muttered coordinates. “Can I get rations for the journey?” “Yes, two days’ worth has been authorized.” “Good. Hand them over. I may as well leave now.”

He frowned. “You will get it when you leave the settlement.” “Fine. Meet me out front in half an hour.” “There may be others.” She looked back at those who were muttering and discussing their lives and the likelihood of any chance of aliens. “Right. I am sure they are getting right on it.” She left him and headed to her quarters, grabbing the cold-weather gear that she would need to make it to the pick-up point. She put the clothing on and attached the straps she would need to carry the supplies inside the coat. When she was ready, she headed out to the outer gateway, through the maze of

tunnels that connected all of the homes in the small, nameless town. She wouldn’t miss the stink of humanity jammed together. There were probably new stenches in her future. Taylor was at the gate as promised, but he didn’t have two days’ worth of rations. He only had one. “Where is the other one?” He shrugged and grinned smugly at her. “You are such a little thing that I am sure you can manage to live on the one ration pack for two days. You had better hit the target right on, though. You don’t have room for error.” She didn’t argue. “Where am I going?”

He repeated the coordinates twice before she nodded in satisfaction. “One more thing.” She made a fist and punched him in the balls. When he was down, she kicked him in the face and felt his nose crunch. He spit blood and stared at her as he groaned. “If I hadn’t been half dead when you raped me, I would have killed you then. Now, you are just going to have to explain how a little girl beat your ass. By the way, we have witnesses. Explain it to them.” She wasn’t keeping her voice down. With a few sharp tugs on her clothing, she put the rations away. One final glance at what was left of the world she

had known and she stepped out into the blowing wind and acidic sleet. Two days were all she could survive, but if she could make it through those two days, she had a chance.

Chapter One

Bondservant classes were nearly over. There was only one test left to be administered, and then, they would be sorted as to their likely occupation. Hannah had been imprinted with five languages and the household etiquette of twelve races. Her hair was clean and braided. The smock that she wore was for training only, but she was clean, fed and had survived the first three months off Earth without difficulty. Two of her living-pod mates had gone insane and had simply disappeared. Keeping her mind on her goal was the only way to move forward.

“Hannah! Answer the question.” Her instructor was a hot lavender, and he had spines running down his arms. “I am sorry, instructor. I was distracted.” He nodded and made a note on what had to be her file. “What is the correct way to greet a Hmrain?” “Instructor, you do not greet a Hmrain; you allow them to acknowledge you or not. If they acknowledge you, you need to drop to the ground or avert your gaze if the first is not possible. If they do not acknowledge you, you do not acknowledge them. You simply step aside and allow them to enter your master’s or mistress’s home.”

He frowned and nodded. “Correct. The final test for all of you is today, and tomorrow is the bond auction. Many representatives have come here to take one of the new species home with them. You are collectors’ items.” He lifted his head. “This is a reminder, ladies. Your bond price is determined by the profit over your training price. The base price for you is the cost of your education and upkeep. The more medical intervention you required, the higher your base price. You want a patron who will pay over the base price but not too much. The price they pay is what must be paid back to them in labour.”

He went back and gave them the same speech he had when they had begun classes. “There are three major classes of bondservants. The labourers, the domestics and the intimate servants. The labourers are the least expensive and soon gain their freedom. The domestics have an easier life, but they take slightly longer as they have more education. The intimate servants are not chosen by their education but by their sensuality level and their ability to attract their patron. They have the highest daily rate, but they also cost more than the other two classes of bondservant.” Hannah looked at some of the other women in her class, and she pressed the query button on her desk.

“Yes, Hannah?” “What is a sensuality level?” “That is what we are testing today. Ladies, to your feet and follow the guards down the hall to the med centre. It has been arranged for your test today.” They got up as they had been trained to do and filed out row by row. She wasn’t next to any of the ladies of her sleeping pod, so she kept to herself. Tomorrow, they were going to be shattered and spread across the stars. Friendships could only start when they got where they were going. The guards were female and of the same spiked species as their instructor. They also didn’t enjoy small talk. Brrenal was not one of the languages that

Hannah had been able to learn. It was not one that was available for flash loading. Hannah guessed that the Brrenal wanted to keep their secrets. The tang of medical reminded Hannah of getting her shots as a child. She felt the same kind of fear here. They were split up as they entered medical. Each one of them was given an attendant, and each attendant led them further and further into the sterile environment. Hannah followed the slender male with cream-yellow skin, and when he entered a cubicle, she followed him. Her mind chanted, Everything has a price. To her amused surprise, the cubicle was only had a reclining couch and a

small chair next to it. Her attendant helped her settle in the chair, and when she was comfortable, he wrapped his fingers around her wrist. “Relax, miss. Close your eyes and relax.” She jerked as she felt a prickle against her skin everywhere that they were in contact. There was something on his fingers. Something that pressed into her skin. Her eyes opened wide, and she stared into his swirling silver gaze. Her body fell away, and she was left in a place where her senses were all that mattered. She was panting, shivering and covered in a fine coating of sweat. Hannah’s senses focused, and her

attendant was pressing his lips to her wrist, licking gently. She felt the slick cream between her thighs, and her blush fired up. She remembered heat, passion and the tiny bit of pain that brought it all together. It was the memory of the pain that sent her blood to her face. “I have your score, miss. It has been a pleasure.” He helped her to her feet. She followed him, her head down and the slick slide of her thighs betraying that something had actually happened. It hadn’t been her imagination. Her attendant spoke to the instructor, and Hannah was the focus of intense scrutiny. “Hannah, you are being rehoused.”

Hannah looked at him, but he was motioning to one of the guards. She was hauled away before she had the chance to see if any of the other women were being treated the same way. The guard had a grip on her left wrist, and she walked Hanna away from the training centre toward the centre of the station. The light slippers that went with the smock let her record every sensation under her feet and the change in the rough decking to the smoother metalwork of the guest area. Asking where they were going wasn’t going to do any good, so she absorbed the details of where the guard was taking her.

The arrivals’ hall was on her left, and it had a large number of beings milling around in it. A few looked at her with curiosity, but she quickly lowered her gaze. Don’t stare was one of the primary lessons. She was so busy not staring that she didn’t notice when a shadow crossed in front of her. The guard noticed. She jerked to a halt. Hannah looked down at large, booted feet that led up to snug black trousers and a floor-length, open vest hung from his shoulders. She didn’t look at his face. His collarbone was as far up as she was able to see comfortably.

“What are you leading, guardswoman?” The low rumble was in Heniahk. “A bondservant is being sent for grooming, sir.” “She is for the purchasing fare tomorrow?” “Yes, sir.” Hannah held still as he circled her before coming to a halt in front of her. “Is she in heat?” “No, sir. She just completed her sensuality assessment.” She could hear him breathing deeply. “What was her score?” “That is for the sellers to disclose, sir.”

The dark chuckle ran through the open area, and several of the closest folk must have taken one look at what was detaining them and scuttled away. She could see their feet walking, pausing and then moving quickly away. The skin of his belly was blue, and there were a few markings peeping from the richly embroidered vest. Whatever he was, he was scaring the hell out of her guard. The hand on her wrist was icy. “You are dismissed, guardswoman. And you, miss, I will see you tomorrow.” She nodded. “Yes, sir.” He chuckled and turned, his vest swirling wide. That is when she noticed

what appeared to be the lower portion of huge wings. Hmrain. How had the instructor known that there would be one at the bond auction? Hannah tried to relax as she was massaged and her skin oiled. Her hair was already in a lovely twist with long ringlets hanging down. No one was speaking to her, but when her shift was replaced with a long gown, she took the hint. Her stupid reaction to the test had upgraded her status to sexual servant. The dress slid up her body, and a wide, jewelled belt placed around her waist. The shoulders had gauzy scarves

floating when she moved her arms, and the slippers she was wearing on her feet were better quality than those she had come to the groomer’s with. The soft-pink dress was pretty and the same colour as her student smock. That was where the similarity ended. If she took a deep breath, her nipples prodded the fabric in an obvious way, and the chiffon-like stuff threatened to slide away and expose the difference in her skin completely. It was a dress to move very carefully in. When she was ready, they had her sit in a waiting room with two other nervous human women and one nervous male. None of them spoke.

The display showed the progression of the bond auction, and the classes of bondservants were sold to their patrons. A dark-red woman of Ymilian extraction came to them and smiled. “Please come with me.” The man jumped to his feet and followed the woman. Hannah and the others followed more carefully; their gowns fluttered and flowed as they walked. When they arrived at the auction, they were brought into a staging area and arranged in some order that only the organizers were aware of. She inhaled and folded her hands, not thrilled at being left for last.

There was no display or monitor to tell them what was going on. When the woman appeared and gestured for the man to come with her, he followed without hesitation. One of the women smiled, “Either she is his instructor or he is exceptionally eager to please.” They giggled softly, and just when they thought they had been forgotten about, the Ymilian came for the first of the women. Hannah wanted to pace, but she stood straight and waited. It was the hardest thing she had ever done. When the next woman was taken, Hannah fought nausea. She was next. It might take an hour, but she was next.

She stumbled slightly as her handlers eased her onto the stage. With the lighting system, they could see her, but she couldn’t see them. Hannah looked at the spot she had been directed to focus on and definitely didn’t think about the fact that the lighting was rendering her clothing invisible. “Patrons, please observe the intelligence and grace of this female. She has an aptitude for language and can be flash-taught anything you wish. Her manual dexterity is also of the highest sensitivity, as are her mastery of etiquette and the running of a home.” The

woman’s low tones rippled out over the crowd. “Now, for the moment you have been wondering about. Hannah’s sensuality scores are near three hundred.” There was a murmur that ran through the crowd, and she blushed. “Impossible. The others of her kind were nowhere near that.” Hannah stood silently as a wave of comments regarding that impossibility went through the crowd. “In anticipation of such comments, I have arranged a demonstration.” Her attendant from the previous day stepped onto the stage, and he smiled at her. “Breathe, relax and focus.”

He took her wrist again, and her world dissolved into a mass of writhing, panting heat. It was only a minute, but when he released her, he licked her wrist as he had the day before. She was shivering and still panting when he stepped away from her. Polite applause broke out. “Honoured patrons, the bidding is open.” Numbers started flashing across the screen, and Hannah really wanted to run. The time to labour-value calculation for a sexual bondservant was fifty thousand credits to a year. The bidding was climbing up to three million.

The board suddenly went black. The Ymilian woman spoke suddenly. “No further bids are accepted. Thank you all for coming to the first human bond auction. I wish you satisfaction with the service you have purchased from this exciting, new species.” An attendant led Hannah off the stage, and she fought the urge to faint. She had just been sold for life, and she was too terrified to ask who had bought her bond.

Chapter Two

“Your patron has ordered that you be delivered to his vessel.” The handler smiled and put a cloak around Hannah’s shoulders. “Do you know where I am going?” The handler smiled vacantly and didn’t respond. Hannah was led out of the holding area and through to the departure lounge. She was scanned out using the implant in her wrist. Staff from the vessel she was going to board replaced the six guards that surrounded her. It was a little peculiar to see someone sign for her as if she was a lost wallet.

As she walked surrounded by men whose skin was varying shades of green from mint to pine—all wearing a black uniform with deep-blue piping—she thought about the weird turn of going from technologically advanced, to the dark ages and then back to midindustrial before entering a world with tech so advanced that humans had only speculated on it. The cloak covered her from head to toe, but the guards around her didn’t look interested in examining her. As long as she was the one that their boss had ordered, they were happy. There were more than a few curious gazes directed toward them, but they

walked to their slip and ushered her into a ship that contained seating for ten. The guards told her to strap in, so she did. In moments, she felt the pulse of the engines, and they were exiting the inner ring and heading for the outer gateways. If one of them had bought her, she was going to be surprised. None of them appeared to have an interest in her. It was a mystery that wasn’t solved until half an hour later when the shuttle she was on docked with its parent craft and she was escorted out of the small vessel and into a ship that was nearly as large as the station she had just been educated on. The guards walked with her until they had gone up several levels and reached

a large office. The darkest member of her escort knocked on the door. “Sir? She has arrived.” “Send her in.” She pressed her palms to her belly under the cloak, and when one of the guards opened the very wide doorway, she stepped through. The click behind her caused her to tense. “Come forward, Hannah.” She took a few steps and paused. “Here, sir?” “Come around the desk, Hannah. You may have to look up to do it.” There was amusement in his tone. She moved swiftly toward him and stood in front of the booted feet she recognized from the day before. The vest

wasn’t there now. She could see his deep-blue skin tight over strangely configured muscle and tattoos of elaborate design twisted from one side of his pectorals to the other. “Take off the cloak.” She reached up and undid the clasp, shrugging the cloak loose and folding it neatly over her arm. Wide hands removed it from her grip and tossed it aside. “Very nice. Now, turn for me.” Hannah slowly turned until she was locking her gaze on his knees again. “You are my bondservant, Hannah. You can look at me if you like.” “It is against protocol.”

He laughed deeply. “I am planning a number of things with you that go against protocol. It is best that you get used to me quickly.” She darted a look to his face, and she froze. It was the face of an angel made of blue skin with a pearlescent sheen. The wings were the wide appendages of a demon, neatly folded behind him. He was beautiful, and the smile on his lips said that he knew it. His long, dark hair was braided at the temples with tiny metal clasps working down the length of the braids. It was the same metallic colour as his irises. His vertical pupil was the same midnight as his hair. “Sir, you are Hmrain?”

“I am. Do you understand your purpose here?” She blushed and looked down again. “I asked you a question, Hannah.” “Yes, sir. I am an intimate bondservant. I am here to serve your body.” “Have you had training in such things?” He was relentless. “I have not. I have some small experience with my own species but not since a year before today.” Something she said had resonated with him. Her fixed view of his crotch showed a growing interest. “Come here, Hannah.” She swallowed and stepped between his thighs, closer to whatever was going

on under the black fabric. “Climb into my lap, facing me.” He gave the command calmly, but her pulse was anything but calm. She could feel the cream starting to seep from her again, and the urge to grind her pussy against him was creeping up on her. Under normal circumstances, she would ignore her sex drive, but now was not a normal circumstance. Hannah gauged her options and lifted her skirt so she could place a knee on each of his thighs. She perched on him, and her placement had her breasts even with his mouth. “You might want to brace yourself.”

His muttered words were all the warning she got before his mouth closed around the tip of her right breast, drawing her nipple until she felt a prickle of pain through the fabric. She hissed and clutched at his shoulders, fighting the reaction of her body to his deliberate suction. Just when she was getting used to it, he switched and drew her left nipple deeply into his mouth. Hannah bit her lip and shivered, her fingers clawing lightly at his shoulders. When he pulled back, she leaned in, and soon, she was keeping her breast in his mouth as he sucked hard and bit gently.

She heard the moan that came from her throat, and she shifted her hips, moving closer to him. He moved back to her right nipple and the tissue that he had abraded earlier. She was even more sensitive this time, and she breathed in gasping shudders as he continued to suckle until a series of deep pulses started in her pussy and left her fighting for air with her nipple still between his teeth. He released her and looked up into her flushed face, his metallic eyes assessing her with frightening focus. She could see him taking in her flushed and sweating skin, but the hand that moved under her skirt found the complete story.

His slow smile showed her a mouthful of white teeth with some very deadly looking canines. “Take me inside you.” She looked down and carefully reached for the closure to his trousers. Her fingers shook as she eased the fabric open. The erection that emerged at her careful touch was thick, long and on scale with the rest of him. The full enveloping of his cock was doubtful. The awkward moment where she was tugging her skirt out of the way was embarrassing. She always strove to keep things as neat as possible. Getting the fabric caught under her knees and tipping onto the desk caused her tremendous shame.

He didn’t say anything. When she had parted her legs and lodged him at the mouth of her pussy, his gaze locked with hers again. She had been given an order, and her bond was to fulfill it. With slow deliberation, she sank onto him, closing her eyes to focus on staying relaxed. “Open your eyes.” She obeyed and stared at him as she lowered her hips, feeling him press inside and stretch her until she was sure that something was going to tear. “Stop.” She stared at him, and her internal muscles throbbed around him. “Sir?” “Stop. I am hurting you.” He cocked his head.

“Not yet.” “But you are not comfortable.” “As one of my kind has said, sex should not be comfortable.” He laughed, and the motion moved him deeper inside her. “That is a wise statement, but pleasure does not always require pain. Let yourself relax.” “May I touch you again?” He smiled. “Of course. You always have authorization to touch me unless otherwise advised.” She braced her hands on his shoulders and concentrated on the heat coming off his skin. She inhaled the musky and masculine scent coming off his flesh. She sank further onto him with each deep breath.

When she couldn’t get any further onto him, it was because she was pressed tight against him. She was panting, and she felt exceptionally full, but there wasn’t any pain. Sweat dampened her skin as she sat on him, waiting for instruction. He closed his eyes, and to her confusion, his cock began to twist inside her. When he opened his eyes, there was a distant focus. Hannah held onto his shoulders as the slow, internal churning drove her to distraction. A new sensation, suction on her clit, startled her. “Easy, Hannah. Don’t think. Just feel.”

She gasped, and her soft cries filled the room as she sat with her hands clenched against his skin and she fought release. The movement inside her picked up tempo, and a low whine left her throat. The suction on her clit grew fierce, and she threw her head back and gasped as her entire body shook and jerked around him. She wanted to scream, but her throat was locked as pleasure blinded her and stole her breath. He slowed his internal assault, and her clit was released from its captor. Every nerve she had was sensitive and raw, but she wanted to do it again.

Her patron hadn’t cum, unless there was another signal for his kind. When she relaxed again with her head down, she pulled her hands away from him and placed them on her thighs. He chuckled. “Close to three hundred, indeed. I have never had such a delightful feast before. Well, not without me doing all the work. Well done for your efforts. You may dismount now.” She was unsure how her legs would work, but she got off him by using the desk for leverage. The slick cream she had generated was all over him. With heated cheeks, she got back to her feet and her gown fell back into demure lines.

He didn’t ask her to tuck him back into his trousers; he got to his feet and walked to one side of the office, opening a door to a lavatory. She heard splashing, and when he returned, his trousers were damp but closed. Her inner thighs were sticky, but it was her own fault. He nodded to the lav. “You can clean up in there. Your scent is exceptionally distracting.” Her blush was fiery as she walked with as much grace as she could, given her recent position. A damp cloth was next to the sink, and she gathered up the skirt to clean between her thighs. The cool cloth felt

amazing, and to her humiliation, she felt herself getting aroused all over again. “They did not feed you today. Are you hungry?” He flexed and flared his wings as he watched her clean up. She could see him in the mirror. “I am hungry, yes, sir.” “Come with me, Hannah.” He beckoned to her, and she dropped the skirt, rinsed the cloth out again and set it down on the counter next to the sink. “You are not here to be a domestic, Hannah. Feel free to leave a mess.” He didn’t touch her but wrapped his wing around her back.

They exited the office, and she understood the reason for the wide doors. He was not built for stealth. Her patron was designed for power and nothing else. There were indeed guards by the office doors. She felt embarrassed by the noises she had made, but they were soon past the guards and walking down the corridor. “The Shattered Star is a galaxy-class ship. When a new species is found, we travel to the training centre and await the bond auction. I have been waiting for someone like you. Even among your own people, you have a gift.” “Among my own people, I keep it under wraps, sir.” She had to remember

the honorific. Being flippant could get her a beating if he was anything like her instructor. “That will not be necessary here. I want you to be free to feel it all. Everything that you feel will be fed to me, and you are a feast, dear Hannah.”

Chapter Three

After her meal, her patron took her on a tour of the ship. Her patron was explaining her position as he led her through the halls. “You are not confined to my side if I am occupied with business matters. The run of the ship is yours and none of the crew is allowed to touch you. If any of them try... I will give you a charm to summon me immediately.” She nodded. “Yes, sir.” “There is a wardrobe with clothing for you. I will select the outfit for the day and drape it across the foot of the bed. You will wear it no matter how you

feel about it. There is always a purpose to my choice, even if it is my own pleasure.” “Yes, sir.” “On my world, you will have attendants to assist you for the more detailed formal occasions.” “Attendants, sir?” “Bondservants, like yourself. In fact, we are travelling with a few of your people now. They are in the lower quarters.” She was suddenly nervous. “Oh. Good, sir.” He chuckled. “You are not pleased that your kind will see you with me?” “I am still coming to grips with why I am with you. It is not what I studied for.”

“We will make use of that education, I promise you.” Somehow, she believed him. She was warm, fed and sheltered. She needed something new to look forward to. Sex was an inevitability, but using her mind was something she desperately wanted to do. “Thank you, sir.” He smiled slightly and continued their walk through the ship. Whenever she lagged behind, his wing caught her and ushered her back into place. In a highly guarded section of the ship, she was escorted into their sleeping quarters. “When I am in bed, you will be with me. When I am resting and relaxing here,

you will be with me. I want you where I can see you at all times unless I tell you otherwise.” Hannah nodded, and she was escorted to an area with a low couch and a thick carpet. “Sir, I have a question.” “Ask it.” He was circling her in a very predatory manner. “How long is my bond term?” He chuckled, and it turned into a roaring laugh. “As long as I wish it to be. You might be able to pay it off if you live a thousand years, but that is unlikely.” She swallowed. “Understand, sir, I only have fifty years left in my lifespan, and you will tire of me long before that. I believe you have been cheated.”

He laughed again, and it was the rich sound that you would hear in the underworld. Even his laughter held an edge of threat. “I plan on taking very good care of you, Hannah. If you continue to give me all that you have, this life can be very pleasant for you.” She shivered as he got close enough to bite her. He stepped away before she could do more than shimmy in place. As she watched, he removed his boots, pulled off his trousers and lay back on the couch. “Remove your dress. I would like to see what I have invested in.” Hannah nodded and looked at the floor while she undid her belt.

“Look at me. Watch me” “Yes, sir.” She let the belt slide from her fingers, and it struck the carpet silently. She toed off her slippers and stepped away from them. Her patron was watching her, his erection quivering. She enjoyed looking at him. The solid slabs of muscle added to the threat, and she enjoyed the thought of having him around her and inside her again. When she slid her fingers under the left shoulder of her dress, he wrapped a hand around his cock and pumped slowly. She felt the honey seeping from her, and she pressed her thighs together.

She pulled the right shoulder of her dress down, and her breasts and the points of her nipples were the only things holding it up. With a deep inhalation, she pulled the gown off her breasts and freed her arms. The fabric was caught on the flare of her hips. She kept eye contact with him as she pushed the dress off her hips and stood in a puddle of fabric. “Turn around, slowly.” She did as he asked, keeping her hands flat at her sides. When she faced him again, he beckoned her with his hand. “Come here, Hannah.” She walked over to him, and he sat up, pulling her between his thighs. Aside

from him stroking her pussy earlier, it was the first time he had touched her. His fingers were rough, as if he spent a lot of time doing manual labour. The caress on her skin was detailed and his examination thorough. “A little thin, but that can be corrected.” He was observing her casually as he turned her around with his hands on her shoulders. “Now, I had no idea what a lovely ass you have. I will enjoy progressing there.” She felt her cheeks burn red and had to surrender to what was a constant state. Embarrassed by her body and what it wanted was just part and parcel of being her.

He gripped the globes of her ass, and she squeaked as he lifted her up on her toes. “You make the most delightful noises.” She wanted to drop into a hole and have it swallow her up. He pulled her backward, and she stopped when she struck his chest. His hands cupped her breasts, and he whispered in her ear, “Put me inside you.” He lay back on the couch, and she went to face him, but he turned her to face his feet. She climbed over him and positioned his tip in her opening, slowly moving downward and using the memory of the

earlier encounter to spur her acceptance of him. His hands moved over her back, stroking her and caressing her skin. “Ah, gods, so tight.” She clenched around him at his dark whisper. With focus, she continued to take him deeper until her buttocks pressed his pelvis. The slow twist inside her began almost immediately, and she arched, bracing herself on his thighs. Her breasts ached from inattention, and she lifted her hands to hold them, squeezing hard until she felt the first stirrings of release. Her patron stroked two fingers between them before rubbing her own

cream into the rosebud, and when the tension inside her broke, he thrust those two fingers inside a few inches, twisting as her orgasm took a dark turn and she screamed as her senses overloaded. A cool cloth on her forehead brought her around. Her patron was crouched on the floor, and she was lying on the couch. “Oh, I am so sorry, sir.” She struggled to get up, but he smiled and pushed her back. “It is fine, Hannah, and when we are alone, you may call me Mero.” He stroked his hand over her hair. “You have already given me enough to keep

me supplied with energy for the next ten years.” “How did I do that, sir?” He gave her a chiding look. “How did I do that, Mero?” “Better. I like the breathy way you say my name. As for how, my kind take pleasure and turn it into energy. We can also take pain, but it destroys our food source.” She blinked. “I am food?” His smile was slow and showed a lot more teeth than she was comfortable with. “In a manner of speaking, yes.” She really wanted to faint again. “Now that you are awake, I will take you for some rest. I suspect you have

been a little nervous as to your situation.” Hannah laughed. “You can say that.” It wasn’t past tense either. She was still nervous. She was with a man who could fire her out of an airlock if she didn’t please him, and here, there was nowhere to run. It was never supposed to be forever. He picked her up as if she weighed nothing and placed her on the wide bed. With a grunt, he lay down next to her and pulled her against him. Apparently, it was his naptime, too. With her back to his chest, she asked the question she had been dying to ask. “Do you ever cum?” “You mean ejaculate?”

“Yes.” “Only during breeding season. The next one is still a decade away.” She nodded but was confused. “So, does it hurt when the erection stays?” He chuckled. “I will give you a Hmrain biology lesson tomorrow. For tonight, rest.” “Yes, Mero.” He pressed a kiss to her temple and held her while she escaped into sleep. Hannah jerked awake and sat up, her heart pounding. It had all been a dream. She laughed at herself until she looked around the huge room and the gown at the foot of the bed.

She slipped out of bed and went to the lav, taking a short shower and evaluating the light bruising on her breasts and the slight ache in her pussy and ass. She dried herself with a cloth and walked into the bedroom, watching bots scurry around to clean up the bed and the dress and shoes she had left on the floor. A small bracelet was on her wrist and a crystal hung from it, the same colour as Mero’s eyes. She remembered what he said about it and guessed that this was what he meant. The new dress was pretty, burgundy, and ties could fit it to any body shape. There were matching sandals, and soon, she was dressed with nowhere to go.

The central gardens looked like a place to start, and they were on the way to the mess hall, so she decided to go and visit them. The lush forest in the middle of the ship was a reminder of Earth that was. The plants weren’t the same, but the feeling was. She stood next to a tree and simply inhaled and exhaled slowly, enjoying the taste of life in all her senses. “Hey, are you human?” a voice called from behind some of the trees, and she turned with a smile. A man in a set of coveralls came out, and he grinned at her. “Yes, I am.”

“I thought so, but I didn’t see you in the common room.” She nodded and backed away as he stepped in close. “Why are you dressed like that?” He frowned, reaching for her gown. Her unease flared wildly. “I am dressed as my bond contract dictates.” “Does he dress his domestics like that? It isn’t very practical.” He moved toward her again, and she knew that body language. He had found a woman in a revealing dress, and now, he wanted to get under it. “I am not a domestic.” She had to say it. “I am his intimate servant.” The man’s face turned into a sneer. “You are a whore? Why didn’t you say

so? Look, I don’t have any money now, but I am good for it.” He lunged for her, and she dodged him. “No. Stay away, you idiot!” He didn’t take no for an answer and grabbed her, pinning her up against a tree. He was clawing at her skirt when she heard a whoosh and felt the air buffet her skin. He let out a shriek, and she was suddenly free. She stumbled forward and turned to see her attacker dangling from Mero’s hand. Mero was holding him by the neck, and he looked over to Hannah with concern. “Did he injure you?”

She felt the claw marks on her thighs. “Nothing serious, sir.” “Well, then, I shall only take a little of his energy. Just enough to keep him from feeling pleasure or desire for the next decade.” Mero’s eyes glowed, and the human in his hand went limp. Crewmembers arrived and hauled the human away. Hannah took a few steps and had to stop. Her legs didn’t want to hold her. “Hannah?” Mero was at her side, and he held her against him. “What is wrong?” She felt the tears easing from her eyes. “Nothing. I am fine. I am fine.” He nodded and came to some kind of decision. He held her and launched

himself upward, holding her tight as he flew to the upper level. The command deck. “What were you doing in the oxygen farm?” “It reminded me of home. Now, the resemblance is a little too close.” “You have not eaten.” “No, sir.” “I will send for something, but I must attend this communication. Stay with me, and I will make sure you are cared for.” She nodded and stayed in his arms as he met with others of his kind and spoke in a liquid language that wasn’t on her list of known languages. They were all on a series of projection monitors. After an hour of

discussion, one of the men commented on her. She could tell because he jerked his chin in her direction. She recognized Mero’s response when he said Earth, and she blushed when she identified her sensuality rating. She didn’t understand the words, but the cadence of numbers was universal. The group became excited by the news, and Mero was suddenly answering questions about her. It was strange, awkward and a little bit irritating, but when food finally arrived and she pulled the plate of fruit into her lap, she nearly moaned at the exquisite taste. She had missed fruit. She ate with relish and licked every digit on her hand when she was done.

The room was silent, and it only took a quick glance at the room to know that everyone had been watching her eat. She looked to Mero, but his eyes were hot. Watching her eat had turned him on. It appeared to have turned all of his people on. “Sorry, sir.” Mero gave her a slow wink and returned to his conversation with his people. Apparently, she had just made humans the new Hmrain toy of choice, and all she had done was have breakfast.

Chapter Four

Hannah dozed off, leaning against Mero. She woke abruptly when his hand began moving across her ribs and he cupped her breast. The conversations were still going on, but Mero was slowly thumbing her nipple and waking her body. Shivers started in her body at his lazy and casual caresses. His hands were bored, and he was just playing her body to keep himself alert. Hannah held herself motionless and breathed shallowly as she listened to the conversation drone around her.

He seemed to find every sensitive spot, every light bruise on her skin, and he was waking the memory of pleasure from the day before. The longer she sat on his lap, the more of his language seeped into her brain. From what she was beginning to understand, they were discussing the best species to harvest. As she listened, it became apparent that her brain had mistranslated. It was actually, harvests on different worlds. They were talking about farming. She was sitting at a board meeting, and Mero was fondling her breast as he talked about mining and crop rotation. Hannah tried not to smile.

Her arousal grew but remained at a low simmer. When Mero abandoned her breast and reached for her feet, sliding his hand up her skirt, she realized that things were going to escalate quickly. He parted her thighs and slid a finger into her with embarrassing ease. His thumb caressed her clit, and while he discussed business matters, he slowly finger fucked her to a short, hot climax. When her senses righted, she found her hands wrapped around his wrist and her throat was sore. Apparently, she had let her body run roughshod over dignity again. Silence in the room got her attention. She turned and expected to see the

collection of faces, but instead, the room was dark. To her shock, Mero pulled his hand from between her thighs and he slowly licked his fingers. The shock kicked in when she saw the length of his tongue nearly wrapping around his digits before licking away the honey her body had produced. When he was done with his apparent snack, he smiled. “Thank you for breaking up a boring meeting. There are not many of my kind, but we all share the same needs when it comes to what we look for in a companion. You have just increased the price of any of your species with a sensuality rating over two hundred.”

She blinked. “Two hundred?” “Yes, it is the baseline where we can feed without injuring our servant. Anything above simply increases your chance of survival.” His smile was a blinding flash. He pulled her dress back into place, and he stood her up next to him before rising to his feet. For a human, she was a tall person, but there was something intimidating about only coming up to his collarbone. He turned her and walked out of the communications centre with his wing guiding her. They returned to his office, and he handed her a flat screen similar to the ones she had used in the school.

“Research what you like.” He nodded for her to take a seat next to him in the small extra chair that was now behind his desk. She held the precious screen between her hands. “Thank you, Mero.” “It is the least I can do.” She took her seat and opened the files, flicking through them until she found the Hmrain section. She dove into the information, but it was extremely incomplete. There was only a mention of the basic physical description, the wings, height and what was classified as adaptable physiology. Skin tone depended on parentage and darkened with age. The darker the Hmrain, the older it was.

She glanced over at the rich blue of Mero’s hand and nodded. Okay, that was interesting. Breeding was described as cyclical and that was it. She muttered about the incomplete information and changed the topic to Hmrain-controlled worlds. Each one of his kind had a minimum of one technologically advanced world under their protection, and they also had agricultural moons and planets at their disposal. So, if her bond price didn’t prove it, this was confirmation that Mero was wealthy and old. A few years ago on Earth, she would have heard him referred to as a sugar daddy.

She smiled and kept reading, curling up on her chair and enjoying the free access to information. “Hannah, would you care to go for a walk?” Mero got to his feet. She flicked her gaze to him before she looked down at the screen and tears formed in her eyes. “I can’t read anymore?” “You can read all you like when we return, but the captain has asked me to join him for dinner, and I am not going without you.” She sighed and turned off the screen. “Yes, sir.” With reluctance, she got to her feet and smoothed her dress.

He gestured for her to come with him, and once again, she was at his side, walking in the shadow of his wing. Captain Grem-sah was charming, jovial and gave her just the right amount of attention. He was also six feet tall, translucent and had his mate with him. Ryno was charming and not nearly as tall as his husband, but his manners were as impeccable. While the captain and Mero spoke over dinner, Ryno smiled at her and asked, “Are you enjoying the trip?” She nodded. “I have only ever been on the shuttle between Earth and the education station. Anything different is fun.”

“Well, having you here has allowed Grem-sah to bring me out, so I thank you for your presence.” Ryno smiled. “Bring you out?” “It is against protocol for the captain to have his mate attend a social event without a corresponding companion for the other parties at the meal.” “Oh. Well, I am hardly a mate.” Ryno chuckled. “You are as close as most Hmrain get in a lifetime. Unlike most species, breeding isn’t their first priority.” Hannah felt Mero’s gaze on her. She smiled at her companion. “That is a topic for another time. How long have you been on the Shattered Star?”

“It will be seven years in three weeks. Grem-sah bought my bond to bring me on board as a botanist, but I noticed that he was visiting the oxygen farm rather frequently. We struck up a conversation, and our relationship developed from there. We have been officially married for five years.” “Congratulations.” “Thank you. It has not always been easy, but it has been an adventure. Now, I am monopolizing the conversation. What did you do before the education station arrived?” “The year before the station arrived was hellish. We were hit by a global killer. An asteroid so large that the dust cloud it created covered our surface and

began to kill plant life. Those with breathing difficulty were the first to die then waves of disease swept through human communities. We had to find new ways to live, so we started from scratch and returned to a more primitive way of life. It was not pleasant to leave what we knew to start over, but the rules of society were redrawn and everyone had to find their own place in the world once again.” “What was your place?” She sighed and prodded the remnants of her meal. “I was a student learning to be a teacher, and then, I became a manual labourer. It was the only way to earn enough rations to live. I had to be

better than the men just to pull in the same calorie count.” “It sounds harsh. What did you do?” “Whatever I could. It was usually combustible collection for the generators, but I have also gone on reaper patrols where we find the bodies of the dead and dispose of them as respectfully as we could.” Ryno shuddered, his green skin shivering. “It sounds horrible.” “It wasn’t unbearable until my mother chose a protector and he...” She paused. “He and I did not get along, so I had to function as a solo member instead of a family member and that was difficult.” “Did you have siblings?”

“Two. Ruth and Deborah. They are still children and under the protection of the crèche.” Ryno leaned on his forearms and whispered, “What do you wish for them?” “Enough food to grow, enough space to run and someone to watch over them and keep them from harm.” “Do you think they will follow you to the stars?” “I think that they are growing up in a very different world than I did and that anything is possible.” She sat still as the server removed her plate and set down a green and wiggling mass in a sherbetstyle cup. She looked to Ryno. “What is this?”

“It is umbar jelly. The umbar fruit is scraped and squeezed, and this is the gel that remains. It is very nutritious, but do not worry if you don’t like it, it is an acquired taste.” Ryno prodded the mass with his spoon. “I have yet to acquire it.” She grinned and tried a spoonful. It was weird. Mint and lime were warring in her mouth with a hint of coconut milk. She swallowed and tried another spoonful. It was better than the first. Ryno gave her a wry grin. “I believe I have just lost all respect for you.” She giggled and finished her small scoop. She waved her hand at him. “Give me yours.”

He handed it over to her and put her empty bowl on the small plate his had arrived on. She finished the second scoop and sat with her hands folded in her lap. “That was nice.” Ryno chuckled and glanced over at the captain and Mero. “They have switched languages so that we won’t know what they are saying.” “It is effective.” Ryno laughed and continued to ask her about life on Earth before the asteroid. **** “Thank you for bringing her, Lord Mero. Ryno gets so lonely when I have to leave

him behind.” Mero watched Hannah and Ryno giggle and laugh with light hearts. He had seen her steal the second dessert, and it had amused him beyond measure. “It is good for her to socialize as well. As a first meeting, this is going very smoothly.” “Not to be indelicate, Lord Mero, but how long are you planning on keeping her?” Grem-sah’s black eyes were suddenly serious. Mero looked into the face of one of his oldest friends. “Why, Grem-sah, you have never asked that before.” “Ryno has never enjoyed the company of any of your intimate bonds before. He does not attach easily, and I think it

would pain him if she were to be treated ill.” “I am not planning to treat her ill, but you know as well as I that many do not suit the life I offer them. Her species is untried, and the eyes of the Hmrain are watching her success or failure.” Grem-sah looked at the woman who was making faces at his husband. “Is she mature?” “By her people’s standards, yes, and that is what matters. She was a fullvoting citizen of her world.” “She acts so young.” Mero smiled slightly. “She is finding joy again. It is a good sign. Many races go into shock during education. She is coming out of that lockdown. Her files

indicate that she was disciplined on a few occasions. That locks down the senses and spontaneity. I need her whole, so this is an excellent start.” Hannah was asking Ryno about his life before the ship, and she was leaning forward to listen. She might not have noticed that Ryno had switched languages three times, but she was laughing along and commenting, so she obviously understood more than was in her file. It was definitely something for him to keep in mind. As she laughed, her hair slid back and exposed the smooth curve of her neck. There was a small red scratch on her skin, and he was reminded of the attack on her earlier that day. She had stated

that she wasn’t injured, but he now suspected that it wasn’t the case. He turned to Grem-sah. “Thank you for the dinner and the conversation.” He got to his feet, and Hannah’s head snapped toward him. She turned and smiled slightly at Ryno in farewell then got to her feet. He gathered her under his wing and walked her back to their quarters. He was going to examine every inch of her.

Chapter Five

There was a weird tension in him, so Hannah kept her comments to herself while they walked back to his quarters. Well, their quarters. Finding another place to sleep hadn’t been an option. When they were inside his quarters, he guided her to the centre of the room. “Remove your dress.” She paused, and then, her shoulders drooped. She had almost forgotten why she was with him. Hannah undid the laces in the centre of the bodice, and when she was confident she could get it up and over her head, she did.

He stood in front of her, and his metallic eyes were furious. “You said you weren’t injured.” He eased her hair aside and looked at her neck. “It doesn’t hurt.” She shivered as he stroked the scratches left behind by the guy in the oxygen farm. He touched them, and she flinched. “They do not hurt?” “Fine, they hurt a little.” Mero lowered his head to her neck, and he licked the long stripes that he found on her skin. She shivered as heat replaced the prickles of pain as he continued to lick her. He lapped at her neck like he was cleaning her. Her toes curled at the

interest that was flaring up at the stroke of his tongue. He whispered against her neck. “Did he hurt you anywhere else?” “He clawed at my thigh trying to get the skirt up.” Mero gripped her by the waist and carried her to the bed. He laid her back, and to her shock, he knelt on the floor and pried her legs apart. His hiss was deep. “He tore your skin.” “I thought as much.” “We are going to discuss this later. Your body is not your property while I own your bond.” He bent his head, and his tongue lashed out again, starting an inch above

the knee and working upward. Whatever was in his saliva was helping with the burning pain of the scratches, so she didn’t complain. His tongue had the same twisting pattern as his cock, and she shivered as the wet, slick appendage moved closer to her sex. She held her breath while he covered each scrape and gouge in detail. She was aroused and panting when he lifted his head. She boosted herself up on her elbows and met his golden gaze. He licked his lips and smiled. “Would you like me to continue?” “Yes.” He sighed. “I would as well, but I would like to discuss the terms of your

service in a little more detail. Mainly, your responsibilities.” She scooted into a better sitting position, but he remained on his knees. They were still face to face. “In your duties, you must be clean, well groomed and dressed appropriately for the events.” Hannah nodded. “Yes, sir.” “In addition to that, you must continue to stimulate your mind and exercise your body. Stagnation causes dissatisfaction.” “Yes, sir.” “If you suffer an injury, no matter how slight, you are to notify me immediately.” “Yes, sir.”

He gripped her thighs and held on. “I am going to reiterate because I don’t think you understand. I purchased the use of your body until the end of your bond. I cannot have my property being damaged. If I need to assign a guard to accompany you everywhere, I will.” “Yes, sir. Sir?” “Yes?” He raised his brows slightly. “What forms of exercise are acceptable?” He blinked. “Walking, swimming. That sort of thing. Why?” “I would like to be trained to defend myself, but the act of learning to fight would injure me, so it would contravene your orders.”

Mero chuckled. “That it would. I will ask Grem-sah for a crewmember that you can fight with, providing that medical assist you with the bruising. “ “You will?” He smiled. “It is a reasonable request. I can also provide you with nonprojectile weaponry if you like. Training for that can be arranged as well.” “Like knives?” “Yes.” He got to his feet and walked over to the lounge area. He touched the surface of a table, and a small screen popped up. When the captain’s face appeared, Mero spoke rapidly in the language that he and the captain had spoken in during dinner.

The entire exchange took less than three minutes. Hannah pulled her legs up with her feet to one side and leaned on one arm as she waited. She bit her lip before it was over and asked, “Sir?” “Yes, Hannah?” “Can the instructor be larger than I am and male? I have never been attacked by a female of my own size.” Mero blinked and turned back to the screen where the captain was smiling. “Is that possible?” “Yes. I will just have to adjust my selections. I will contact you tomorrow.” “Thank you, Grem-sah.” Mero shut down the screen.

He got to his feet and looked at her. “You are truly a lovely creature.” “I am the only one of my kind you have gotten close to. Of course I look exotic.” Mero walked over with long strides. “Do not contradict the compliment. I don’t make them often.” She blushed. “The only thing I am is taller than the average human female or even the males.” “So, when you spoke of being overpowered...” he waited for her response. “It was an administrator at the settlement my family and I went to. I was near starving, and he offered extra rations if I had sex with him. I said no,

so he took what he was after and left me in the cold hall, bruised and bloody.” “Was he punished?” “No. He had a skill set that was not duplicated in the settlement, so I was advised to forget what had happened.” “Did you?” She shrugged. “Mostly. When I left, I gave him something to remember me by. A punch to the groin and a kick to the face.” He chuckled. “It seems you have defense handled.” “I didn’t know I was allowed to, and the guy in the oxygen factory was way larger than Taylor. Don’t pick a fight you can’t win.”

“You are no longer on the education station. You are allowed to defend yourself. In defending yourself, you are defending my investment and that goes for any male or female of any species, even my own.” She blinked. That was news. “Very well.” He cleared his throat. “Just to make sure, know that I am the sole exception to that rule.” She laughed. “Exception understood.” She waited a moment and then asked him, “Sir?” “Yes, Hannah?” “How did you heal my leg?” “Regenerative properties. My body contains radiation with regenerative

properties. It stimulated your cells into repair and replacement.” She shivered at the look he was giving to the juncture of her thighs. His tone shifted. “Stand up.” She moved to get off the bed, but he stopped her. “Stand up on the bed.” She stood on the yielding surface but had to widen her stance for balance. Mero extended his left wing, and it stroked the wall. A moment later, a panel came out, and one of the struts moved like a finger to enter a code. A set of loops descended from the ceiling. “Put your hands through the loops.”

She reached up and settled the soft loops around her wrists. Hannah guessed at what was going to happen next, and when he lifted her legs and draped them over his shoulders, she gave herself a mental prize. His wings were silky and smooth with the resilience of thick leather. She rubbed the soles of her feet on his back while his proximity to her sex became unbearable. His breathing was soft against her skin, and when he was still a few inches away, he extended his tongue. Her body resisted him for a moment before he slid inside. A few slow strokes and then he leaned forward to devour her.

She tensed and pulled herself up while trying to get away. The twisting tongue and pressure of his teeth spun her to a climax that had her clenching her thighs around his head and feeling the outline of his ears. She screamed and pulled on the straps, but he cupped her ass in both hands and held her to his mouth as he fed. He didn’t let her breathe. She was rocketed from one orgasm to the next, and still, he licked, sucked and twisted his exceptionally long tongue inside her. Her arms ached when Mero stopped. He lifted her away from the straps, prying her hands open. Her legs were still around his neck when he laid her on the sheets.

He smiled and stroked her thighs. “You taste better than honey.” She blushed and focused on relaxing her legs. She had been locked by her body’s reaction to release, and it was taking a lot of effort to get herself back to normal. Hannah finally relaxed enough to unlock her ankles, and from there, she was able to move her legs off his shoulders. “Pity; I was rather enjoying the view.” He looked her over and frowned. “How easily do you bruise?” She blinked. “Normal for a human. I think that is just a bit of an abrasion from... well you know.”

He took her right arm and pulled it over her breasts, looking at the red bands around her wrists. “We will simply have to do something else.” He laughed. “Sir?” “I thought you were to call me Mero.” “You seemed irritated before, so sir is more appropriate.” She twitched her lips. “What do you wish to know?” “What are you consuming?” “It is a combination of brainwaves and pheromones. I have a gland that processed the pheromones and a segment of my central cortex takes the brainwaves. It is transferred from the

waves into radiation. Nothing is wasted.” “So, when you said you could consume pain, you would consume those same events and use them.” “Yes, but pain is fleeting. The body forgets pain as quickly as it can. There is no lingering effect. Having you with me is the equivalent of having a banquet when I touch your body and a snack when you are simply walking with me.” “The absorption is increased by proximity.” He smiled slowly. “Indeed. You are quite clever, Hannah.” He stripped out of his boots and trousers before returning his attention to

her. It was hard to take the compliment when he was moving to cover her. “Proximity is definitely beneficial.” He nudged his cock between her folds and slid into her. She was shocked at how easily he went in when it had been such a struggle for her, but he was working with a lot more help from her body. He simply lowered his torso to hers and didn’t move an inch. She was pinned under him, and her inner muscles began clasping and releasing him. The rhythm that she took up grew faster and faster until an agonizing spasm ripped through her, and she fainted.

Hannah woke in the shower as Mero held her up and cleansed her inner thighs. She spluttered and coughed, standing up under her own power with a tremendous ache between her thighs. “If you are awake, it is time for the sleep period. I have work to do, but you can rest.” He stroked her hair, telling her without words that their separation was not anything that she had done. She breathed easier and finished her shower, wrapping herself in a drying cloth before she towelled her hair dry. He wasn’t wrong. She was exhausted. The tension of the last few days combined with the sex had turned her

normal, boring schedule upside-down. Her nerves were all jumbled. She put the drying cloths in the receptacle and returned to the bedroom. Mero was sitting in the lounge area, making notes and reading reports. Hannah accepted that she was probably a disruption to his schedule, and she crawled into bed, leaving his preferred spot open. She thought about what she had learned, and her mind turned it over and over until it made sense. She was gaining an understanding of the Hmrain. She just hadn’t counted on it being such a painful process.

Chapter Six

Mero was out of bed when Hannah woke up. It was only the dented pillow that showed her he had been there at all. The clothing at the foot of the bed was a bodysuit of a sort. It looked like spandex met a spider web in a rich blue. It took her five minutes to get it on properly, and Mero watched her the entire time. “If I have to get out of here in a hurry, we are screwed.” The blunt words came out of her mouth before she realized that they were disrespectful. “Why are you wincing?”

“I am preparing to be ordered into a position to be whipped.” She opened her eyes. “I will not whip you. Come here.” He put his screens aside and beckoned her close. She walked to him and stood in front of him, her hands folded at her waist. He reached out and moved his fingers until she stepped into the vee of his legs. “Straddle my thigh.” She swung her right leg over his left and did as he asked. “Sit.” She sat. “Now, touch me as you rock yourself to completion.”

Hannah blinked and placed her hand over the thick erection in his trousers. She rubbed him while she rocked her hips against his thigh, and in a few minutes, her tension snapped and she bucked against him with low moans marking each inner spasm. When the intensity of the inner flutters eased, she sighed and relaxed. “Good, Hannah. Now, your instructor is waiting outside, and he will take you to the entertainment complex where you will train. You have your charm?” She held up her wrist with the small stone. “Excellent. I will be involved in trade matters for the morning, but I have ordered you to have a massage here in

our quarters after every fight session. We cannot have you tensing up at the wrong moment.” She licked her lips. “Shall I go then?” “Yes. I will see you for lunch.” “Yes, sir.” She got off his lap and wobbled her way to the door. When she opened it, the guards were there, and across the hall, there was a Pliok with rich purple skin. He did not look impressed. “So, you are to be my student?” “I am.” “This is going to be quick. Come with me.” She walked with him through the halls and to the entertainment complex. The

gym was a large space with plenty of sparring areas. When they faced off against one another, he asked, “What do you do when you are attacked?” “If I can, I run. If I can’t, I fight to disable.” He looked surprised. “Why is Lord Mero wanting you trained?” “I am at most risk from my own people. Intimate bondservants are not looked upon with respect.” “So, there has already been an attack.” “Yes. The man thought that since my body was paid for, he could take what he wanted. I have not been out of my

society long, so I was unsure how to respond.” “Ah, so that was the fuss that Lord Mero attended.” She nodded. “So, I would like to know what to do when I am attacked, step by step, please.” He nodded, rushed at her and caught her in his embrace. She pulled up her knee, elbowed him in the throat and bit at the arm he wrapped around her neck. One of her techniques made him drop her, and with the baseline drawn, the training began in earnest. Pressure points were discussed and pursued. She learned that no species liked getting its eyes gouged and the biting was definitely a plus.

The hours flew by, but soon, her instructor was calling a halt and leading her back to her quarters. A young woman in a domestic shift was there, as was a wide table suitable for the massage. The young woman was human. This was not going to be fun. “Hello, I am Hannah.” “I am Lisa. I will be working on you today.” Hannah nodded. “Would you like me to undress here or in the bathroom?” “Wherever you are most comfortable, miss.” Hannah nodded. “I will be right back.” Inside the bathing room, she pried the suit off her body, and it fought her every

inch of the way. When she had finally got her stiffening muscles to cooperate, she shoved the suit to the floor. She wrapped a drying cloth around her and returned to the main living area. The massage went fairly well for the first half until Lisa got to her bracelet. That seemed to trigger something in her. “These quarters are very large for just you.” The accusation was obvious, but she backed it up by saying, “We are all crammed into bunk rooms with eight people per room.” Hannah sighed as her relaxation went out the window. “These aren’t my quarters. I don’t have quarters. These are Lord Mero’s quarters.”

Lisa paused. “Then, what are you doing here?” “I am his intimate bondservant. You know that last test that they give us?” Lisa made a sound of agreement. “Yes.” “Well, I scored high as did three other humans, and we were taken away and sent to a prepping facility. After you were put up at the bond auction, it was our turn.” “How many years do you have to do?” Hannah sighed. “As far as I can tell, life.” Lisa paused. “What?” “There is no way I can pay off the bond.”

“What about your time off?” “He has to be asleep or out on business. If he is awake, I am on duty.” “Oh. Wow. Why are you bruised?” Hannah cleared her throat. “It is part of the job.” The brusque massage changed to something a little more soothing. When Lisa had loosened all of Hannah’s muscles, she returned with a cream that she rubbed into the sore spots where Hannah had hit the mat. “This cream is amazing. When they told me to apply it to your bruising, I wasn’t sure, but it is definitely working.” “What is it doing?”

“Reducing the swelling and colouring. It breaks up the blood pooling in the skin and flushes it away.” The rest of the treatment was completed in five minutes, and then, Lisa pulled away. “You are done. Would you care to remain there or would you like help to go to the shower?” “I can manage it. This is light discomfort.” She sat up and wrapped the drying cloth around her. “Thank you, Lisa.” “Have a good day, miss.” Hannah headed in for a shower to remove the oil from her skin, and when she emerged, all traces of Lisa were gone.

A new dress was laid at the edge of the bed. Hannah slipped the dress on over her head, and then, she went in search of a reading screen so she could enjoy herself. She settled on the couch and smoothed the skirt so that she could tuck her feet in and get comfy. By the time Mero came through the door, she was learning about the education centre and how it operated. There was no true wrongdoing, but they were scavengers. They listened to industrial societies, and when they went silent, they swooped in and assessed the world, taking off members of the

population and educating them to be servants. She paused at the point in the file where it described the pains taken to remove all indigenous bacteria from the skin as well as alter the biology of the students. She glanced up as a shadow fell across her screen. “Hello, Mero.” “Hello, Hannah. Come with me; it is time for lunch.” She set the screen down and got to her feet, stepping in beside him. They returned to the dining hall, and when they were sitting across from each other, she came to a realization that she hadn’t made before. He didn’t eat.

She picked at her food, and she felt her brow furrow. “What is your question, Hannah?” She looked at him, and his hands were folded neatly with his chin resting on them. His elbows were braced against the table. “You don’t eat.” He smiled. “I can. I usually don’t.” “Because you get your sustenance elsewhere.” He shrugged his agreement. “So, why are we here?” Mero looked around at the crew that filled the hall. “Social interaction. You require it.” She smirked. “I am really fine without it for the most part. If I can just get a

stack of rations, I could remain in your quarters and you wouldn’t have to take time out of your day.” “I do not mind.” He smiled slightly. “So, why did we go to dinner last night?” “So that you could meet others of similar social standing to you and interact.” His grin widened. “I had to check on your social behaviours. You did very well with the exception of stealing Ryno’s dessert.” She blushed. She hadn’t realized he was watching that closely. “Ryno doesn’t like it, so he readily agreed to swap it out when I offered.” “You were very stealthy. But it will not be acceptable for you to do that kind

of thing when other Hmrain and their bondservants come visiting.” “I understand. So, just to recap, you can digest foods.” “I can, and when I am home, I do. The food on ships never tastes right.” She nodded. It made a certain sense when his sustenance came from the living beings around him. Being in a free and open space would help him relax. Also, the wings might have something to do with it. If he weren’t flying, he wouldn’t burn a lot of calories on a ship. She finished her meal, and a crewman came by to retrieve it, not looking her in the eye.

“Is there a reason that none of the men we have seen will make eye contact with me?” “Grem-sah may have clarified your status or possibly told his crew that I will dismember any man who touches you.” “What about my instructor?” “He has been given a dispensation to look at you and touch you. How did you enjoy your lesson?” Hannah told him about the techniques she was learning and how many times she had hit the mat. “Were you injured?” “Nothing major. Lisa took care of the bruising.” “She did a satisfactory job?”

“Yes.” “She was respectful?” Hannah twisted her lips. “She was curious. I didn’t tell her that I was in combat training in the morning. She assumed you had made the bruises, and I didn’t dissuade her.” He blinked and laughed. “Is that what your species requires? Sex by force?” “It is what is socially demanded if a permanent mating or courtship is not taking place. There has to be some element of force involved. Sex for the sake of pleasure in a female is not welcomed as normal.” He nodded. “It does explain much. As you may have noted, the crew does not have a problem with your status.”

“I am aware of that. My instructor was matter of fact about it. That was nice.” She smiled slightly. “How much longer will we be on the ship?” “Four days. I will arrange another instructor for you when we walk on my world.” He smiled. “That would be nice. I am guessing that is when the blade work will begin?” “Correct. Finish your tea. You will be with me in the office for the rest of the day.” She nodded. “What are you doing in there?” “Arranging the distribution of the minerals and crops of my home as well as the surrounding territories. No one goes hungry in a Hmrain protectorate.”

“Oh. That is a good thing.” He chuckled. “I believe so. The representatives that will visit us are from the nations and colonies that are under my wing.” “Are they all indigenous populations?” “Where possible, yes. But when it isn’t, we go to the bond auction and bolster the population.” She blinked in surprise. “Do the bondservants breed with the locals?” “We choose them for compatibility to the largest section of the population to increase the odds of the inter-breeding occurring.” Suddenly, Hannah was very glad to be in a position where she was not

expected to get knocked up and have an infant with an unknown species. Even if it wasn’t expected, it was the desired result, and Mero was very good at getting what he wanted. Two hours later, when she was astride him, fully clothed with his hands holding her hips while his cock gyrated inside her, she concluded that he was better than good at getting what he wanted.

Chapter Seven

Kiiba was a beautiful world, and watching it from Mero’s luxurious shuttle, Hannah had an excellent view of the purple and green that made up the landscape. The oceans were a rich plum, and she wondered what atmospheric gases were altering the spectrum down below. Sitting next to Mero, she could feel his excitement. He was glad to be home again, but there was an undertone to it that was a little familiar. He wanted sex. Since he was content to hold back on his demands, she was able to watch the

world get bigger and bigger before they finally entered the atmosphere. She was excited to walk on soil again. She hadn’t felt grass under her feet since the impact. “You are looking forward to your new home?” She turned and smiled at him. “I am excited to see a living world again. This means a lot.” She wanted to tell him that seeing a living world was going to heal part of her soul, but Hannah figured that he already knew that. She wanted to hold his hand as the excitement of nearly being in breathable, natural air overwhelmed her.

She could see cities, wide agrarian spaces, and finally, the shuttle approached the landing site. There wasn’t a spaceport, which was a bit of a shock. “Just a landing site?” “No one lands on Kiiba without my permission.” “Or else?” “Or, I will hunt them down and destroy their entire ship. It has happened before. Most folk out here know not to interfere with Hmrain planets.” “How can a person own an entire planet?” Mero chuckled. “They pay for it when it is nothing but dust and howling winds and build it up. Kiiba is the work of

years of effort, and I will defend what I have built.” The shuttle settled down, and her heart started racing. Mero got to his feet and waited for her to stand. When she was tucked under his wing, he shepherded her out of the shuttle through the wide hatch built to his specifications. Hannah stepped forward into the sunlight, and she held her hand out as the rays caressed her face. She was about to step further from Mero when he wrapped his hands around her and propelled them upward with enough force to smack her head against his collarbone. She saw stars for a moment, and then, the rush of air around her boosted her exhilaration.

Laughter spilled out of her at the sight of a living and flourishing world. Since the impact, she had never thought that she would see another open sky or taste incoming rain in the air. All the possibilities in life had died with her atmosphere, and now, a distance away that she couldn’t even calculate, she was finding marks of a future again. The world was so wondrous that she neglected to focus on the one thing that wasn’t possible. Mero was flying, and he was holding her. The rush of air was pulling at her skirt, and icy fingers worked their way up her inner thighs. The downside of no

underwear meant she was vulnerable to the breezes, and here, it was gale force. They flew over the farms, over rivers and up the hillside to a town with a huge compound and a palace with a high tower. Instead of heading to the tower, he landed in the courtyard with a heavy back beat of his wings. He straightened and set Hannah on her feet. There had to be forty or more servants standing to greet them, and eight different species were represented. Instead of the smocks used by the education station, the bondservants were all attired in comfortable clothing in blue and silver. Tunics and trousers for both males and females, with

adaptations for any spikes, scales or horns that needed more room. He inclined his head, and a woman glided forward, her grey marble skin gleaming in the light. “Welcome home, Lord Mero. All is ready.” “Dk’ket, this is Hannah.” The woman inclined her head. “Welcome, Lady Hannah.” “Thank you, Dk’ket.” To pronounce the name, Hannah had to swallow, but the woman smiled at her effort. “It will get easier with practice, lady. My lord, would you like me to show your companion to her chamber?” “She will be in my chambers, Dk’ket. She will need a full wardrobe from

casual to formal as well as anything she chooses for her own comfort. No trousers and only a few bodysuits.” Hannah grimaced. Dk’ket smiled slightly. “Refreshments have been prepared and can be served out back if you wish, my lord.” Hannah looked at him with what she hoped was a hopeful expression. He smiled. “Yes, that sounds nice. Are the gardens in bloom?” “Many of the flowers are, and the hedges are alive with colour and scent.” The butler smiled. “Have the refreshments brought to us.” He walked her through the hall, past a sitting room, formal dining room and a

ballroom that looked like it could hold a thousand people. Walking was never the time to quiz him, or it wasn’t when he was walking at this speed. He would slow down if he wanted to talk. The urge to explore could wait. It wasn’t like she was going to go anywhere. Walking out back, the air left her lungs in a rush. The servants, who must have rushed ahead of them via some side passage, pulled the large double doors open. The servants were Lorkeval, the same as Dk’ket. They were solid stone in appearance and very fast. Once outside, she fought the urge to spin with her arms wide open.

“You have a few minutes to explore. Go ahead.” Hannah looked up at him, and he nodded. She took a step and paused. “Will any of the plants hurt me?” He chuckled. “No. They are all fairly benign.” “Can I pick anything?” “Whatever you like. Now go on, Dk’ket will be here soon.” Hannah nodded, and she lifted the hem of her skirt so she could sprint off to see the flowers. The purple undertone was in everything. She touched the flowers with her hand and smiled as some of them closed. She wished her sisters were here

to see this. They needed to know that not all worlds had died when Earth did. She plucked a blossom with a familiar scent and tucked it behind her ear. A quick glance around told her she was alone, so she held her arms out and gave in to the urge to twirl. A few dance steps and skips later and she was ready to button down and return to Mero’s side. “Don’t stop dancing now. You are really very graceful.” She looked up, and Mero was on one of the stone pillars scattered around the gardens. He had been watching. “I always considered organized dance more of a punishment.” As she spoke, she stepped and spun, bringing her arms out and twisting her hands as she moved.

He leaped soundlessly off the pillar and landed next to her. “That is good to know. I was going to use muschka veg as a punishment.” She made a face and kept slowly moving to the music in her head. “So, now I have a punishment and will have to think of a reward.” She chuckled. “No, sex is your job. Your reward... what would you like more than anything?” “What you can’t give me.” “Tell me.” She lowered her arms and looked at him. “I want my sisters.” “Aren’t they with your parent?”

“They are in a closed-in space with men and women vying for a higher place in the pecking order. I want them to see the sky again, even if it isn’t their own. I want them free, even if it isn’t possible to have them with me.” His brow furrowed, and for the first time, she saw him unsure. “I do not know if this is possible.” She smiled and touched his arm. “It is all right. You just asked what I wanted more than anything. I want them free and whole with enough to eat and a good education. That is my ultimate wish. For something more attainable, I would like to design some of my own clothing. These dresses are pretty, but I would like a little more freedom of movement.”

He exhaled in relief. “That is easy enough.” She chuckled and walked forward until her breasts touched his chest. “That is my middle name.” “What is?” “Easy.” He smiled and lifted his fingers to the bloom she had put behind her ear. “You are not easy, but you are honourable and dutiful. I appreciate your adhesion to your bond.” She wrinkled her nose. “You are making me sound like medical tape. Boring medical tape.” He stroked her hair. “Well, now that the fear is gone, I can see the feral being

you used to be. I think Kiiba will be good for you.” Hannah grinned. “It already is. One year indoors with the very air thick with ash and smoke, barely breathable... If I had attacked everyone who irritated or insulted me, I would have been kicked out of the settlement. I had to learn to contain everything that I was in order to live. If the signal hadn’t come through when it did, I was going to do some very bad things and run out into the world without water or rations.” He stiffened. “You would have ended your life?” “I would have pursued the only freedom available. There is a difference.”

He gripped her by the arms and lifted her off her feet. For the first time since she had met him, he kissed her. The feel of his lips on hers was oddly intimate considering all that had come before. She couldn’t wrap her arms around his neck, so she hooked her heels behind his thighs. To her amusement, he kept most of his tongue to himself. The amusement faded as heat sparked between them. She moaned and stroked his tongue with her own. She felt him walking and admired his sense of balance. The wings must help with it. He sat and helped her settle across his lap. He slid a hand into her hair and kept her mouth pressed to his while he

reached between them, freed himself and moved her to straddle him. Knowing what came next, she shifted until he was nudging against her. His hand on her buttocks urged her down, and she slid onto him with delicious slowness. Through the roaring in her ears as he started to move inside her, she heard the clink of dishware. It was soft, but she didn’t really care if they were seen or not. He broke their kiss and pressed his lips to her neck. She felt the scrape of his teeth against her skin, and she shuddered at the burn that seemed to enter her bloodstream from those few inches of skin. As his cock rubbed at her

inner walls, she gasped and moaned. When he moved his head to the other side of her neck, she whimpered. Her tension built, and she let out a low, rattling cry when her climax struck. Her pussy clenched around him tight, and he continued the slow, methodical twist inside her. Her body jerked rhythmically until she was completely spent. Mero lazily licked her neck and moved her dress off her shoulder until her left breast was exposed. She ran her hands through his hair, the cool metal of the bands pressed against her inner wrists. His mouth on her breast, drawing at her nipple, sucking it between his deadly teeth, had her letting out a deep,

slow sigh. Tension built inside her, but it was slower, more deliberate. When he gripped the other side of her dress, the fabric tore. Hannah leaned back and offered her newly exposed skin to him. He didn’t hesitate. She moaned and rocked against him as sweat beaded on her skin and ran down her spine. His hand on her hip tried to minimize her movements, but the sucking at her breast took her over. Lightning shards of sensation ran from her nipples to her clit, and Mero’s ferocity took over. The first bite made her cry out, and when he swirled the tongue over the bite, she started to shake. The second bite was accompanied by a growl deep in his throat, and she

gritted her teeth at the sharp pain. He licked the wound closed, but it was too late, her shaking turned into a climax spurred by the penetration of his teeth and the churning of his cock. Hannah breathed in and out with deliberate focus. Mero tucked her head against his shoulder and murmured soothing words to her in the liquid language of the Hmrain. He moved her carefully, tucked himself back into his trousers and shifted her until she was sitting across his lap, leaning against his chest. He pressed a glass to her lips, and she sipped at the sweet, cold juice. She paused and drank again. This was going to take some serious hydration.

When her hands had stopped shaking, she took possession of her glass and drained it. She finally managed to whisper. “That was intense.” “It is why I tried not to engage in hand or mouth contact. I feel or taste your skin and I go a little mad.” She chuckled. “I hadn’t noticed.” He smoothed a hand down her back. “If you are going to remain as enticing as you are today, a new wardrobe is definitely in order.” She laughed as the mood went from sex to the mundane side effects of tearing her dress nearly in half. When she turned to fill her glass, Dk’ket was there to pour for her. How

long she had been there, Hannah didn’t know, but there was no look of surprise on her face, only polite control and a tiny bit of pity. If Hannah was honest, that last expression was a bit of a buzz kill.

Chapter Eight

His quarters were five times as large as his space on the Shattered Star. Hannah walked in the shadow of his wing and looked around. The huge balcony gave her the idea that Mero’s preferred recreation was flying. The height of the tower they were in would give him plenty of gliding time. His wings were flexing with eagerness. “Hannah, I need to fly. The desk has a data screen, and you can explore the palace at will. This is your home now.” She nodded. “Yes, Mero.”

He left her and walked to the balcony, balancing on the railing with two feet and one hand, in a gargoyle-like crouch, before he glanced back at her and launched himself into the winds of his home. Hannah looked around and found a wardrobe with clothing that would fit her. A simple dress dropped over her head, and she twisted as the slim black number swirled lightly around her. A trip to the bathroom cleaned her up and gave her a look at an Olympic-sized bathtub. She smiled at the thought of a hot bath and headed down the spiralling stairs to check out her new home.

The light scents of food drifted through the halls, so she followed her nose to the kitchen. The servants gathered were giggling. The mean-girl amusement was something that Hannah had seen before. She heard whispered phrases. “Out in the open.” “Poor Dk’ket had to serve them while she was on him.” “What makes her so special?” When Hannah heard that last one, she had had enough. “Hello.” The women and men scattered like she had struck them with a bowling ball. “Lady, I am sorry that you heard that.” A woman with lavender skin and three eyes lined up on her forehead came up and inclined her head.

“As am I. Please make it clear that my bond was purchased just as theirs was, but I have less of a chance of buying my way free. Your name?” “Loala, lady.” “Well, Loala, I initially came here to introduce myself, but you already know who I am. So, is there anywhere without anyone who wants to mock my forced occupation?” It was passive aggressive, but she had to say it. Loala shivered. “I am very sorry, lady. There is the companion’s gallery. The portraits of Mero’s companions are there.” “Can someone show me, please?”

Loala looked to one of the young women who had been pitying Dk’ket for witnessing the coupling. “This is Jiita. Jiita, show Lady Hannah to the portrait gallery and remain with her as long as she wishes you to.” The young woman had the yellow stripes on black skin that marked her as a Rweko. She should really have had a better relationship with sex. Jiita looked very nervous. “Lady, it is this way.” Hannah nodded. “Lead on.” They walked in silence through the palace. Several members of staff paused for a moment to look at her, nodded and resumed their duties.

“So, what is it about me that shocks your sensibilities, Jiita?” She blushed. “You had sex with the master in full view of Dk’ket.” “Yes. She came out and began serving while we were occupied.” Hannah made sure that was clear. “I thought... I thought she was forced to watch.” “I am sure she has seen Mero with other women before.” Hannah couldn’t imagine her patron as abstinent. “Possibly, but he has not had a bond companion here for three decades. He is a good patron and keeps his staff safe, even from his own kind.” “Do you know that first hand or is it rumour?”

Jiita blushed. “Dk’ket is in charge of our training.” “Did she complain about what she saw?” “No. I just thought that you had... that she was forced...” “To see something unsavoury.” “Correct. Lord Mero is a good patron. It is going to take some adjustment in our minds to see him with a female. Most of us were not here for the last one.” “Get used to it. This is why he bought my bond. I was trained to do your job or run a household, perhaps be a clerk of some kind. This position was sprung on me on my last day at the education station.”

“Oh. I thought you had all kinds of training.” “Nope. Those who do get that kind of training probably are enrolled by their patron. I was cash and carry.” Jiita laughed and covered her mouth. The gallery of companions was long, and the women were all of Hannah’s general appearance. “This is my favourite. She sort of looks like you.” The companion in question was a woman of medium build, intelligent eyes and a sexy smile. Her skin was a rich mahogany, and her hair was a navy blue that reached her knees. The gown she was wearing was a version of the one that Hannah was currently occupying.

The curve of the lips was similar as were the set of the eyes, but the facial piercings is where the similarities veered dramatically. “She does look familiar.” “She was his companion for two hundred years.” “How do you know that?” Hannah was surprised. “It is in the edge of the portrait frame. The day she started as companion and the date she got her freedom or retired.” It struck her that, of course, Jiita would know that. She had probably dusted the portraits. Hannah walked along and read the dates one by one. None of the companions had lasted less than fifty

years. She knew from her studies that the lifespans of some of those species had been dramatically exceeded. She walked back and forth, taking in the number of species that had provided the service she was currently offering. “I think I am going back to the gardens now. Will you show me how to get there?” “Of course, lady.” Jiita was walking next to her with her head high and chatting about the flowers and the décor. “We are expecting the rest of Mero’s people late next week. He has told Dk’ket to prepare for fourteen and their companions.” “Wow. That is sudden.”

“They get together every five years, always on a different world.” “Interesting.” “Yes, the meeting takes a few weeks, and we are given leave to hide, according to Dk’ket.” “Why hide?” Jiita blushed. “Some of his people who do not have companions wish for sex.” “Ah, right.” Jiita walked her to the gardens, and Hannah smiled. “You can leave me here. I can find my way home.” The maid nodded and returned to the rear of the house. Hannah walked along the hedges, touching, smelling and enjoying the

plants in the late afternoon sun. It was so nice to just walk in silence, breathing fresh air. She gathered a few flowers and sat on the edge of a reflecting pool. Hannah glanced up when a shadow moved over her, but there was nothing in the sky. A few minutes of silent thought on what the Hmrain would be discussing and another shadow crossed over her. Her instincts warned her of an approaching predator, but she tried to get back into her reflection. Her mind was on alert, and she couldn’t relax. When she stood to return to the large stone structure, she noted that the light had faded dramatically. It was definitely time to get inside.

She was walking across the grass with her bouquet of flowers when she was grabbed and lifted. Her heart pounded as his grip was all that kept her from dropping a hundred feet to the ground. Instead of the balcony, she was gently set on the roof of the tower. A blanket was under her feet. Her legs wouldn’t hold her after the flight up to the tower. She dropped to the ground and stared up at him. “That was unexpected.” He knelt near her feet, smiling wickedly. “You were outside a long time. I got worried.” She stroked the soft blanket under her. “I can tell.”

He leaned forward, and she backed up until she was supporting herself on her arms. His lips were inches from her own when he whispered, “I am very excited to show you my world.” She shivered and closed the gap between his lips and hers. His wings were extended, and he shielded her from the brighter rays of the disappearing sun. He leaned in and caged her between his arms as he pressed her back to the fabric beneath her. There was a softness in his expression a moment before she closed her eyes to surrender to him. She could feel his breath, but he didn’t touch her. She opened her eyes and found him at very close range.

He whispered, “Don’t close your eyes.” Hannah stared at him, feeling intensely exposed. The breeze made her dress flutter, and her heart tripped in her chest. He brushed a kiss against her left cheekbone and then her right. The change from commands to this delicate seduction sent her senses into a whirl. She reached up and touched his cheek, threading her hand through his hair with the gold beads and metal bands cool against her wrist. He smiled and kissed her softly before pressing his lips to her neck, scraping her with his teeth. The long, hot

caress of his tongue moved over her skin and soothed the scrapes. He pulled her dress down, following the fabric and licking and sucking at her skin as he moved down to her thighs. Her dress was pulled off and set away before he lay between her thighs and held her prisoner in his grip while his tongue slowly fucked her. She moaned and shrieked while her body clutched at the invading appendage. Hannah could hear the echo of her voice through the valley around them. She couldn’t keep herself quiet as his tongue rippled insistently inside her. His fingers dug into her thighs, and she thrashed her head as her hips fought to rise and fall.

He growled and continued his attack until she screamed in a low and undulating vocalization. Mero continued to drink from her until her body ached and the tension faded to exhaustion. He withdrew and replaced his tongue with two fingers and his thumb on her clit. Hannah whimpered and her body flared to life again. With a slow motion, he undid his pants and pulled them down and away. Mero removed his fingers and settled on top of her, his cock easing into her without difficulty. He affixed the secondary appendage to her, and it sucked and squeezed at her clit while he

held perfectly still and churned his cock inside her. She stared at him, his gaze boring into her and the stars appearing behind him. Fear ripped through her for a moment, and she reached up to grip his shoulders. His cock continued to twist inside her and heat exploded through her, leaving her gasping and limp. She stared at him helplessly, and he withdrew. She was limp, sweaty and exhausted. Mero got to his feet and lifted her into his arms. He took off and landed on the balcony of his quarters, laying her on the bed before he went to the lav to bring back two cloths, one warm and one cool.

He cleaned her first and then pressed the cool cloth to her crotch. She was a little bleary when she asked him, “Can I close my eyes now, sir?” “Yes, Hannah. I have what I needed. Rest. Tomorrow, we visit some of our lands.” She nodded sleepily. “Sounds good.”

Chapter Nine

The soom they were riding was long, wide and easily held both of them. In Hannah’s mind, it was a horse crossed with an elephant. The hide was smooth, and the saddle was minimal. Hannah just wished she was riding on her own. Mero sat behind her with his legs framing hers, one arm around her waist and the other holding the reins. “So, we are riding on the soom for a reason?” “There are thermal updrafts that make flight difficult, and the magnetic qualities in the soil mess with electronics. We ride in; we ride out.”

His wings were draped over the back of the soom, and he seemed perfectly at ease as the strange gait took them down the hillside and into the valley below. The slow rock of the beast beneath her was soothing. She leaned back against Mero and looked at the world around her. Farms. There were dozens of farms growing crops in the volcanic soil. Plants bloomed, and the scent of fruit and pollen were in the air. Mero pointed out the different crops and explained their uses. “Sir, why are we here?” He chuckled. “I am here to check on the harvests and make a distribution schedule for my other worlds. This is a growth hub. The hundreds of acres in

this valley grow some of the most nutrient-rich food on this entire world.” “Fair enough. Why am I here?” He stroked his hand across her ribs and hips. “Because you are mine and will be at my side unless the situation is too dangerous.” He pulled her back against him and that settled that. There were a variety of species farming, and they waved at Mero as they made their way into the heart of the farming community. “You will remain with Preeahsh while I speak with the farm manager. He will keep you safe.” Mero murmured it in her ear before pressing a kiss to her jaw and dismounting.

She looked at the ears in front of her, and they flicked backward. “I am guessing you are Preeahsh?” The ears flicked rapidly, and the soom turned to stare at her. She sighed and settled in the saddle. She flicked her feet a little, a small bit of ankle was all that was exposed. Her skirt was deep blue and had a lot of fabric. It let her straddle the wide back without the skirt pulling. The loose top that she wore had sleeves that covered her shoulder but were split from wrist to armpit to allow the breezes to keep her cool while her skin was covered from the sun’s rays. Her hair was loose down her back.

Mero left her and wandered into the shade of a stall where samples of the fruit and grains were laid out. Things were calm, and she kept herself interested by identifying the species working on the farm. Preeahsh had no problem remaining in place. Hannah sighed and took up the reins. The soom was surprised, but he followed her directions as she coaxed him into moving in a circle. When he was pointed in his original direction, she smiled and patted his neck, scrubbing her nails into his hide. He stretched his neck, and she leaned forward to keep scratching. It gave her something to do while she waited.

**** Mero watched the manager as he glanced at Hannah. Her presence was self-explanatory. The crops were doing well this year, and he was about to ask about the training of the wild soom when a shout answered his question before it was asked. The crash of a broken fence heralded the thunder of hooves that followed. Shouts from the occupants of the town reached Mero’s ears, and to his shock, a sharp whistle rang out, followed by Preeahsh running toward the sound of hooves.

He watched Hannah urging his favourite mount toward the escaped beasts, and when she reached the herd, she turned so that Preeahsh was leading the stampede. She whistled sharply again and led the animals down the road before slowing them down and turning them, leading the slow group back toward the paddock they had escaped from. “Joks, you need to have food and water for the soom when they get to the paddock. Have men hidden and ready to close the gate that they broke through.” “Yes, my lord.” Joks ran to do as he was bid. Hannah was still posed gracefully on the back of his mount, and Mero smiled.

She had obeyed his rules. She had not left Preeahsh. He would have to make her punishment for endangering herself a light one. He smirked. A dance class was in order. **** Hannah pouted the whole way back to the skimmer launch outside the valley. Preeahsh was settled in the stable with his females, and Hannah was fuming over the punishment that Mero had decided on. Her patron was very amused. It took her a few tries, but she finally said, “I didn’t hurt myself.”

“No, but you endangered yourself. Those beasts are not tame. The would flatten you in seconds. So, you will learn to be lighter on your feet in case you are tempted to try something like that again.” She wrinkled her nose. “I am thinking it was a mistake to tell you how much I hated dance class.” “You get a punishment that doesn’t injure you, and I get a more graceful companion. We both win.” His smugness was cloying. Hannah crossed her arms over her breasts and enjoyed her sulk all the way home. Szriata was a Yimerian of exceptional grace. Her pearlescent skin glowed, and

her midnight hair hung nearly to her ankles. Every movement was a dance. “Miss Hannah, you mustn’t rush. This is a dance, not a race.” She stood behind Hannah and controlled the movements of her limbs. Hannah tried to slow down. “I am guessing that going faster will not get this over with.” “You are guessing correctly. You are lucky that you have been given this chance to learn.” Hannah wrinkled her nose. “I am feeling that luck.” Szriata laughed and stepped away, looking at her in the mirror with her dark eyes smiling.

“I think we might skip this for something that is a little more active. The formal dances are fine, but they don’t appeal to you. Let’s try the bladed fans.” Hannah perked up. “Bladed fans?” “Oh, yes. The dances done with them are sensual and deadly. Mero will have to trust you.” Hannah snapped her jaw shut. He let her put her teeth around his cock; he should trust her with a blade. Szriata went to her supply box and opened it, putting aside some veils before she removed two sets of fans. One for Hannah to practice with and another for Szriata to demonstrate with.

The dance master walked to the floral display on a small table, and with a slight smile, she executed a turn, a bow and her hand moved, flicking the fan open and slicing the head of the flower without even trembling the stem. Those were very sharp fans. Hannah fought the urge to clap happily and followed her dance master’s instructions. The day was definitely looking up. **** From his vantage point overlooking the courtyard, Mero watched Hannah concentrate and learn the motions of the blade dances. Of course, his little human

would be interested in fighting. She was obedient when she was with him, but there was spirit behind her eyes. Duty and honour were what kept her pliant. He wanted more. Szriata was patient with her and very amused by her student. He wondered idly if Hannah realized she was dealing with another Hmrain. **** Hannah sat next to Mero at dinner, and Szriata sat across from her. “So, sister, how is my companion at dancing?” Szriata smiled. “Impatient, brother.”

Hannah blinked rapidly as she absorbed that. They didn’t look related. Szriata smiled at Hannah. “I am guessing that he hasn’t told you that the Hmrain were a designed species a few eons ago.” “Designed?” “Certainly. There was chaos in the empty sectors. Pirates, raiders, slavers, they all hid on perfectly live worlds and preyed on those travelling the shipping lanes around them. The masters decided that a species should be created that would have no ties to any other, including themselves. They combined genetics from dozens of races to create us. We soon walked the worlds and

brought structure to the wilderness.” She winked. Hannah looked over to Mero. “So, you are...” “One of the Hmrain, as is Szriata. There are only two dozen others, but we are sufficiently powerful to keep our worlds safe.” He filled her plate from the selections that Dk’ket brought in. She stared down at the meal and blinked. Neither of her companions were eating. The two sat and chatted while she ate dinner. They had their hands with the fingertips touching on the table, and now and then, there was a power flare. Mero was giving Szriata power. When Hannah finished her meal, she sipped at her water, listening to them

speak about crop rotations, supply runs and personnel. She had a question about that. “So, is everyone you employ a bondservant?” Szriata smiled. “Of course.” Mero chuckled. “When they buy out their bonds, they are free to leave. We even offer transport to any world they wish outside of the Hmrain Dominion.” Hannah had a flicker of hope before it was crushed by a sober expression on Mero’s face. “Not you, Hannah. You fall into a unique category.” She nodded. “Right.” Subdued, she finished her water and waited with her hands in her lap. Her muscles ached from the workout with the dance class.

She kept quiet during their conversation until Szriata asked to be shown the gardens. Hannah blinked and looked up, realizing that she was the one the woman had asked. “Oh. Certainly. Please, come with me.” She nodded to Mero, and he took her water glass, sipping in the exact spot she had. When he ran his tongue around the rim of the glass where her lip print was, she felt a shiver go through her. Szriata was smiling gently at her in understanding. She held out her hand, and Hannah took it. Hannah was supposed to be showing Szriata the gardens, but it seemed that

she had a good grasp of where they were. “So, Szriata, why have you lured me out here?” Her instructor laughed. “I did wish to see the gardens, but I really wanted to talk to you.” They entered the curves of the hedge maze and walked slowly through the green and violet of the living pathway. “What did you want to talk about?” “Mero.” She twisted her lips. “Ah.” “He has great affection for you, but he fears that you cling to him out of obligation.” Hannah cocked her head. “Why is that a concern? My bond was purchased for

more than I could make in four lifetimes. I cleave to him because it is my job.” Szriata nodded. “I was afraid of that. What would it take to remove the pressure of the obligation?” “Well, as I am aware that I am his by bond, I suppose a temporary cessation of sex might be something that would allow me to analyze how I feel about things.” Szriata frowned. “Does he feed from you often?” “If you mean sex, about three times a day.” Szriata stopped in place and stared at her by the light of the moons. “How are you still conscious?” Hannah blinked. “Um, because as soon as it is over, I want to do it again. I

don’t tire of pleasure. I mean, it tires me out, but I sleep, and once I have rested, I am fine.” “Well, that explains a few things, not the least of which is why you are so valuable to him.” Hannah got suspicious. “How often should he need to feed?” “Every thirty days or so. What was your rating?” “Close to three hundred.” Szriata smiled slowly. “Are there men of your species in the bond program?” “Probably. One even made it into the sexual servant auction.” The other Hmrain rubbed her hands together. “That is definitely a good thing to know.”

“Szriata?” “Yes?” “Why are you here?” “Well, I am nearby, a dance master and I run a school for young freewomen.” Hannah smiled. “It sounds like fun.” “It can be. Teaching economics to young ladies can be trying at times. I was glad of the break.” “Is that what your world does? Education?” Szriata smiled brightly. “Education and aphrodisiacs. We keep them very separate for obvious reasons.” Hannah laughed, and the conversation turned to the art of teaching young ladies how to pour tea without flashing elbow.

It was definitely one of the more innocent conversations that she had had and one of the most enjoyable.

Chapter Ten

Mero came to bed, and he didn’t say anything. Hannah watched him remove his boots and pants and waited with slick thighs for him to whisper to her. He didn’t. Mero crawled into bed next to her, kissed her softly and curled his body against hers. His breath was even against her temple, and she was stuck in a mire of her own frustration. Her lover had had a conversation with his sister, and sex was off the menu. Fuck.

He was gone when she woke up, and her clothing was at the foot of the bed, as usual. She washed up and pulled the dress on over her head. Dammit. She pulled it off again, turned it around and put it back on. This was not a stellar start to her day. Dk’ket came in with breakfast while Hannah was putting on her shoes. Hannah’s hands were shaking, and the task was perversely difficult. “Are you all right, lady?” “Fine... I am just... fine.” She sat and picked up her eating utensil. She flicked it too hard, and the food went flying. “You look unwell. Should I tell Lord Mero?”

She held out her hand. “No. No, please. I will be fine. I just didn’t sleep well.” She ate as quickly as she could with Dk’ket watching her carefully. When she was done, she got to her feet and smiled. “Off to dance class.” The housekeeper and major domo watched her until she was out the door. Hannah straightened her shoulders and headed for the courtyard. Maybe dance would get out some of her frustrations. Four hours later, Szriata called a halt. “I don’t know what got into you, but we are done for the day.” Hannah groaned. “I was just getting good.” She flipped the practice fans as

she lunged and twisted. “You were getting deadly. Come on, we are going to spend the afternoon with your seamstress. Maybe holding still will be the ticket to calming you, because dancing doesn’t work.” Hannah made a face, and her stomach rumbled. Szriata smiled. “Perhaps food for you first.” Grumbling, Hannah made her way to the patio, and her dance master came with her. Jiita brought out the single meal and a pitcher of water. Szriata nodded toward the water, and Jiita ran to get another glass. Hannah poured the first glass and gave it to her dance master. “Thank you, dear.”

“You are very welcome. Why don’t you eat?” “We were designed with the ability to feed off living beings around us. Pleasure and satisfaction are the best meals we choose.” “Will Mero be all right if we don’t have sex?” “He will be fine. He would be fine if you did have sex, but if you don’t climax, then it is only coupling, not feeding.” The thought of approaching the heights that he took her to but never going over made her shiver. Jiita brought the other glass, and Hannah thanked her, filling it and starting her meal.

“I see the thought of sex without climax isn’t appealing to you.” Hannah blushed. “Not particularly.” “It is the same for him. He wants to see you happy, that glow in your eyes as you stare at him as if he is the only being in the universe.” Hannah stared at Szriata. “How do you know that?” “Ah, well, the Hmrain can share their thoughts. His thoughts of you do go beyond him seeing you as an energy source.” “On the ship, he was involved in some kind of council meeting.” “Yes, many of our brethren schedule communication. I am close, so I arrive in person.”

“Will you be here for the meeting in a few weeks?” “I will indeed. Now, on to other topics. What do you like to wear?” Hannah tried to explain jeans and tshirts to Szriata, but she settled for skirts that she could move in and possibly work out in. “What do you wish to wear for the first night of the Hmrain gathering?” Hannah thought about her options. “What am I supposed to convey?” “Excellent question. I would suggest wearing your sensuality like a brand. Make sure that all know that only Mero can touch you.” Hannah grinned. “I don’t know if I would have the nerve for it, but the

clothing isn’t really clothing at all.” Her new friend leaned forward. “Explain it, and I will see if I can help out.” Hannah explained her idea, and Szriata’s eyes widened before she burst out laughing. “That would definitely be one for the records. You would need to practice that, just so your movements were right for the costume.” “Should I ask Mero about it?” Szriata stuck out her hand. “No! You won’t know the response until he sees it, so a dry run is definitely warranted. We will arrange things with your seamstress this afternoon.” Her dance master grinned.

“And the jeweller. This is going to be fun.” Hannah stood in place as the last touches were put on her trial costume for the first night of the Hmrain gathering. Jiita leaned back and blinked. “It sounded mad when I heard of it, but it is actually quite stunning.” Hannah looked at the other servants and the artist who had painted her, and she sighed. “Now, I just need to know what Mero thinks.” Dk’ket came in and paused, her mouth open. “Lady, you look stunning.” Hannah looked at herself in the mirror and had to admit she would make an impression.

Her body was painted silver with constellations picked out in deep blue. Her back wore the design of the constellation containing Earth, and her front was Mero’s domain. Blue lines and wings made patterns on her arms and wrists. Rings had been painted into place, and she was decorated from collarbone to toes, with a chain skirt covering her groin but leaving the rest of her exposed. “Is it time for dinner?” The dressing had taken hours. “It is, lady.” She thanked the women who had worked on her and pattered out of the bedroom and down the hall. Her hair was confined with a crown of chain with

silvery strands lying along her hair. The chains around her hips clashed gently with every step. Mero was reading his daily reports as he did every night. She entered the dining room, and he looked up; a moment later, the data screen in his hand cracked. His voice was low and rough, “Hannah, what are you wearing?” “I thought this would be appropriate for the first night of the Hmrain gathering.” He was staring at her as if he couldn’t decide if he wanted to cover her or devour her. She walked up to him, the chains swaying. “So, as I will be representing

you, I thought it would be a good idea to get your opinion of this method of dress. What do you think?” “Dress is an overstatement. Turn for me.” She lifted slightly on her toes and turned in front of him with elegant slowness. Her time with Szriata had paid off. “What is the purpose of this?” She took his hand and placed it on her shoulder. “The idea is that I am yours, and anyone who tries to touch me will leave a mark, and I will mark them.” He lifted his hand and smiled at the paint. “It washes off?” “Oh yes. Very easily.” She leaned in until her lips were an inch from his. “I

was just wondering if you thought that it conveyed the right idea about me.” She flicked her gaze to his, and he was sitting so tensely, he was vibrating. She closed the distance and licked his lips, slowly and with deliberate focus to gaining his cooperation. He bent his head toward her, and she locked her lips with his, deepening the kiss quickly and whimpering at the days of frustration that she had dealt with. When his hand cupped her head, she groaned in relief. The next moment he had lifted her to the table, spread her thighs and opened her sex to the one part of her that she hadn’t painted. He tongued her, and she rocketed toward a climax, holding back as long as she

could until he stroked her clit with his fingers while his tongue ravaged her. She screamed and clutched at the edge of the table as her body bucked against his tongue. She continued low, panting cries while he licked and sucked every ounce of her orgasm from her. Just when she thought it was over, she felt her blood warming again. He flipped her over, and her belly was pressed to the cool surface of the table. She gripped the table tightly as he worked into her pussy, and a squeak came from her lips when his retractable appendage worked its way into her ass. He didn’t thrust, he never did, but both impaling objects twisted inside her,

and she gasped, twisted and clung to the table while he tortured her. When her orgasm struck, she let out a strangle noise followed by a keening cry that went on and on. He whispered encouragement in a gruff tone. “Keep on, give it all to me.” She shuddered again as aftershocks gripped him in slow, luxurious pulses. She moaned low, and he continued to twist and surge inside her. He withdrew from her slowly, turned her to her back and moved between her thighs again. He slid into her, and she took him easily. He stroked a hand between her breasts and then used his fingers to knead and pull at her breasts and

nipples. She was already more stunned than tired, but her body had been denied, and it was eager to play again. With her nipples sharply alert and eager for more play, she arched her back toward him. He gripped her hips and pulled her into his lap, holding her head with one hand to bring her in for his kiss. She moaned as his tongue slid along hers; they tangled, and he mimicked the motions of the thick column of his cock churning inside her. Hannah held onto him, caressing his chest, his belly, his arms, anything she could reach. She left trails of the silvered paint all over him, and she didn’t care.

Her body was rocketing toward another orgasm as the slow twist rubbed all the nerve endings that were interested in her release. She fed at his lips, moaning and whimpering as she sought more. He gave her what she asked for, slipping a hand between them and squeezing her breasts, giving the tiny bit of pain that heightened the pleasure swamping her. His stroking and squeezing of her breasts and nipples, the twist of the thick column of his cock inside her and the wild kisses that drove her higher culminated in her jerking against him with her mouth open on a silent scream with stars bursting behind her lids.

Darkness swallowed her and she was happy to go. Light kisses feathered her eyelids, and she opened her eyes to find Mero smiling. “So, you do have some affection for me after all.” She laughed. “This was how you can tell?” “That you would display yourself so vulnerably and wear my marks on you. It shows that you take my pride to heart. It is a good sign.” “I did miss you. This was my way of getting you to make the first move, so I didn’t feel silly.” He laughed. “So, instead, you are nearly naked in my lap, and you still

have to have dinner.” She blushed. “Dk’ket has seen worse.” “Not recently. You are very circumspect. Well, you were until today.” He stroked her cheek. “I saw it in a vid once, and it seemed like the best way to make an impression. Unfortunately, the side effect is that the silver is all over you.” He nodded. “I know. It makes me want to start all over again and see how many of those designs I can smudge.” She blinked and bit her lip. “I didn’t intend it as a challenge.” “No, but for my brethren, it will be a taunt.” He kissed her softly and

whispered perfect.”

against

her

lips.

“It’s

Chapter Eleven

As Mero’s companion, she was considered the lady of the manor when it came to greeting their guests. The new dress she was wearing was formfitting without being indecent, and it made every movement she made a dramatic flutter. She stood at Mero’s side as his family arrived for the meeting that would take up the rest of the month. Hannah had been briefed. She was not to leave her patron’s side while his relatives were present. She wasn’t a living being, she was food.

Szriata landed a skimmer full of her siblings outside the front gates, and the flightless ones walked toward them. Seven females were outnumbered by the sixteen males flying toward them. It was an oddly attractive swarm. The wings were in an astonishing variety, as were the physical appearances of the incoming Hmrain. They were all lovely and compelling; their designers had obviously held aesthetics in high regard. Mero whispered, “Are you ready?” “Am I dressed?” He chuckled. “You are.” “Then I am ready.” She smiled and then schooled her face into passive lines.

She was relieved when Szriata made the introductions, and Hannah met women who made her question her own sexual orientation. The Hmrain women were stunning. Feminine, differing shapes and curves, but all oozing grace and good nature. The women took her hands one by one, and she inclined her head with each introduction. The men lined up to greet their brother, and when the ladies had cleared her and stepped to the sides, Mero introduced his brothers one by one. Each male took her hands and kissed them. A few used tongue. Hannah had been warned, so she stood, smiled and didn’t jerk her hands back.

The men she was looking at were ice, fire, shadows, starlight and over a dozen other colourations, but the wings fell into three categories. The wings on them were either dragonfly style, the bat wings like Mero’s or eagle wings. They addressed her as Lady, which was appreciated, but when they entered the courtyard and headed for the ballroom where a conference table had been set up, she carefully wiped her hands on her dress. Mero laughed and kissed her quickly before following his siblings into his home. It was time to begin discussions of planetary and star-system management.

Hannah stood at his side for hours until Dk’ket waved at her and informed her it was lunchtime. She bent and whispered in his ear. “Please excuse me.” Mero turned, wrapped a hand around the back of her head and pulled her in for a kiss. Her cheeks heated as his slow exploration of her mouth was done in full view of twenty-three pairs of very interested eyes. She was stiff for a few moments, and then, she surrendered, sliding into his lap and wrapping her arms around his neck. The council of Hmrain waited while they kissed. When Mero finally lifted his

head, she was a little dizzy, but her smile was wry. “See you later, Hannah.” He stroked her hip. “Yes, sir.” He boosted her to her feet, and she nodded to those assembled before escaping. Out in the hall, she exhaled with a gust, expecting to hear laughter, but instead, there was an urgent questionand-answer session, all revolving around how many of her species there were. Hannah shrugged and headed to the kitchen for her only meal that day. She wasn’t going to have dinner after the

body paint was on. It wasn’t a particularly good look. The old servants were on duty, and the younger ones had been given duties far away from the Hmrain. It was time to eat and then stand perfectly still for hours while she was painted. This time, her hair was braided and bound like Mero’s was, heavy makeup was applied, and she was already tired before she stepped out of her quarters covered in designs that Mero had chosen, with the chains clashing against her thighs. Her appearance and dancing would begin the evening meetings. Szriata had coached her via long-range

communications, and they were both confident that she could pull this off. She had been working with livebladed fans for three days. Mero had only had to lick two wounds closed, and she had thanked him appropriately. The halls were silent as she walked the stairs, and the moon was up outside. Her bare feet pattered softly on the stone, and the silence was enough to fill her with tension. She stepped out onto the patio that led to the gardens, and all of the Hmrain were standing around comparing wines. Mero smiled and inclined his head as she came into view. The Hmrain froze in place, and they all stared.

Mero came up to her and kissed her on the forehead. “You look amazing.” She smiled. “Thank you.” “You are most welcome. I am looking forward to smearing that paint later in the evening.” She quirked her lips slightly. “Please let it be while we don’t have an audience.” “It depends on how you move me while dancing.” She chuckled. “War dances it is.” He kissed the only unpainted portion of her again and winked as he returned to his guests. Hannah picked up the bladed fans and used the control in one of them to start the music. Soft drumbeats let her move

while turning the fans in her hands until she was in the centre of the stone patio. The beat picked up and so did her movements, twisting and turning, rotating the fans to flash them in the moonlight. Her audience was rapt, and she had no idea if she was doing a good or bad version of the dance. After three minutes, she was sweating lightly and ready for her big finish. She linked the bladed fans together so they formed a circle, and she leaned back, rolling the razors across the top of her breasts before catching them on the opposite arm. She did the reverse and caught the fans, separating them and going down on one knee, snapping the

fans shut as the music stopped, and she bowed her head. Her breasts were heaving as she tried to calm her tripping heartbeat. Silence reigned for a few moments, and then, applause broke out. Mero walked up to her and held out his hand to help her to her feet. “Excellently done, Hannah. Szriata is very proud.” She carefully placed her hand in his, avoiding transferring any of the paint. When he helped her to her feet, he led her into the crowd, and suddenly, she was a figure to be examined at exceedingly close range. Mero explained about the body paint, and a few of the brethren let out nervous

laughs. Hannah kept her face calm as they analyzed her form, shape and the detail of the painting on her skin. Szriata came to her and offered her a tiny glass of wine. “Here you go. Mero won’t approve anything else.” Hannah took the tiny glass and smiled. “Thank you.” The other women surrounded her and forced the men to back away. It was odd, but it appeared that they were defending her against their kin. The ladies migrated with her in their midst, away from the men. The questions they asked her were about humans in general and the men in particular.

Hannah gave them what answers she could as the moon lifted itself above them. Lights had been fired up along the outer edge of the gardens, and the conversations were animated. If she hadn’t been tired and hungry, Hannah would have enjoyed it a lot more. Szriata finally said something that startled her. “So, you have two sisters?” Hannah looked at the curious faces, and she nodded. “Yes. Both of them are minors and hopefully still under my mother’s care.” “Would you wish this fate on them?” There was no hesitation. “No. I would wish that they could be free or have a short bond. The lack of freedom, of hope is something that is hard to deal with.”

Szriata blinked, and one of the other women took offense. “You would rather toil in the fields and die an early death?” “Myna, I would rather choose the direction of my life every day. I am bound to Mero; I want to be bound to Mero, but when I look out the windows and see this entire world that I can’t step out into without permission, it is a little tense. I am sure I will get used to it in time.” She shrugged. Szriata turned the conversation to the new round of students compared to her graduating class. Mero caught her gaze and beckoned her over. She slipped between two of the women and walked up to him.

He pressed a quick kiss to her palm. “Go upstairs and go to bed. We will be out here for a few more hours yet.” “Yes, sir.” She inclined her head and went inside, heading to their rooms with a relieved slump to her shoulders. The shower washed away the paint and powder applied seven hours earlier. She hadn’t even known that time was passing as rapidly as it was. Something about the Hmrain stopped time. Wrapped in a towel, she wandered back into the bedroom and fiddled with the dance props she had been practicing with. She was glad she had gone with the fans, though the spear was terribly tempting.

She activated the telescoping device and whirled it around her head. “My, my, little one. You look almost dangerous.” She whirled and crouched as she took in the Hmrain named Earno. “You are not supposed to be here.” He shrugged, his emerald skin flexing, and his insectoid wings fluttering. “I am sure that Mero won’t begrudge me a taste of his new pet. We are blood, after all.” She smiled, straightened and shifted until he was lined up with the balcony door. She sauntered toward him until she was six feet away, and with a grim expression, she aimed the spear at his chest. “I begrudge you a taste.”

He smirked and started laughing. “I did not think you had it in you. You soon will.” His threat was obvious, but she was in no mood. She thrust the spear toward him with a short jab that made him stumble back in surprise. Two more jabs got him over the threshold. He gripped the spear, and she grimaced, using her hold to spin and kick him back hard enough to flip him over the edge. The buzz of his wings warned her he was returning, but the steady and familiar thump caused a warm relief to run through her blood.

Mero was behind his brother as Earno shifted to attack. The moment he was in motion, Hannah slammed the doors. He smacked into the glass and cracked it in two places. Mero landed behind him and held him up with one hand around his neck. “What did I tell you, brother?” Earno blinked as the rest of the Hmrain fluttered and flew up to watch. “You will have a long flight back. Be prepared to apologize to my companion when you return.” For the first time, Hannah saw the power that he was taking from her. Earno was surrounded by energy and thrown toward the horizon.

She stood behind the glass and shivered. Mero was in a mood. “Put on another gown, Hannah. You can sleep in my arms.” Hannah nodded and grabbed the first gown with an insulating fabric in her wardrobe. She smoothed the fabric down and stepped carefully toward the balcony. Mero was still bristling with outrage. She walked to him and pressed her hand to his arm. “Thank you.” “If it were not for me, he would not have come to you. I owe you thanks for thinking as quickly as you did.” “Thank Szriata. She showed me that trick and necessity got me to use it.”

“I will make sure to thank her.” He gathered her in his arms and held her against him. The sharing of body heat was welcome because she was still in shock from seeing Mero as anything other than an affable manager of crops and business. “Did he touch you?” “No. I already had the spear in my hands.” She laid her cheek against his shoulder and yawned. “Good. It will take him days to fly home. Let’s hope he has come to his senses.” He held her while he spoke to his cautious brothers and sisters. One had the nerve to ask, “Brother, you seem to

have acquired a bit more energy than is normal.” “That is correct.” “Might we be correct in assuming it has something to do with the woman in your arms?” He chuckled, and Hannah smiled with her eyes closed. “It does. Though, if you combed through her species, you would be hard pressed to find her equal.” They began talking about extraordinary companions, and Hannah dozed in and out. Clutched to his chest was a comfortable place to be. As she used his heartbeat to soothe herself, she revelled in the knowledge

that it was beating for her. It was only fair. Hers was beating only for him.

Epilogue

Hannah was nervous. She paced and watched the chronometer. Szriata should be arriving any minute. When she saw the shuttle, Mero laughed at her. He had a right to; she was jumping up and down and squealing. “Do you wish me to go with you to the ship?” She looked at Mero and smiled. “You can if you want to. I will say that my excitement for this moment will be shared at a later time. Perhaps you can head to the etiquette classes and frighten the young ladies serving tea?”

He cupped her jaw and kissed her soundly. “Your insubordination is appreciated. I will see you soon. Enjoy your afternoon.” She watched the ship land and ran out of the building and toward the tarmac. Szriata exited the ship first and smiled brightly. “I thought you would be here.” “Are they with you?” Szriata turned and beckoned to a group of young ladies behind her. The women made their way down the ramp as Hannah bit her lip. Finally, two familiar faces in plain shifts walked out of the ship’s shadow, and she pressed her hands to her mouth. The grouping gathered at the base of the ramp, and Hannah’s sisters were

staring around with wide eyes. When they saw her, they stopped. “Hannah?” Ruth stared in shock. “Han?” Deborah was right beside her. “Hiya, guys. I thought you might like to see the sun again, even if it isn’t ours.” The girls screamed and ran to her, hugging her and sobbing softly. Szriata gracefully cruised over. “Where is Mero?” “Tormenting your etiquette class. They were working on tea service, and his wings wreck their measured steps around the table.” She was running her hands through her sisters’ hair and everything felt right in the universe.

“Szriata, how much did you end up paying?” Szriata ticked it off on her fingers. “Ten years of rations per girl, plus a five-person hydroponics system. So, about less than a thousandth of your bond price.” “Thank you for making the trip.” “It was a pleasure; the girls were delightful, and we arrived just in time, if you take my meaning.” Ruth looked up and frowned. “What did she mean bond price? We were told we were free.” Hannah stroked her hair. “You are free. Both of you.” Deborah looked up with her face red and blotchy. “But you are not.”

“No. I have a particular talent that makes me very valuable to my patron. I won’t be free, but he did ask his sibling to go and get you just to make one of my wishes come true.” Ruth nodded. “Mom’s boyfriend knocked her up. He was looking for someone else to use when the military showed up with the offer.” Hannah shuddered in relief. “Nothing happened before that?” “Just being cornered and intimidated. Nothing else. I promise.” Hannah sighed. “Good.” Szriata smiled. “Shall we see how Mero is getting along?” Hannah chuckled. “I guess it would be better if they met him.”

“Your owner?” Ruth nearly sneered. “My patron. I get food, lodgings, an education, combat instruction, clothing. Whatever I need to keep me happy and healthy is given to me.” The girls didn’t look like they understood, and with them still years from being adults, she didn’t want them to. Unfortunately, she was about to give a talk about being a sexual companion. It was the payment that Szriata had demanded for the trip. Szriata gave her a look. “They won’t be at the lecture.” Hannah nearly collapsed with relief. “Great. Well, I am sure that you two will want to get settled at the school.”

Ruth scowled again. “Where will you be?” “You can reach me with a com screen. I live...” She analyzed the skies and pointed. “Over there. It is a six-hour trip. Not too bad in the grand scheme of things.” “So, why are we here? Why don’t we live with you?” They were walking toward the port building, and Mero came toward them with long strides, his wings behind him and the vest he wore for formal occasions, gleaming with metallic embroidery. Debbie squeaked. “What is that?” “That is a Hmrain and my employer. Or patron, if you will.”

Ruth was staring. “Do the wings work?” Szriata laughed. “Everything works. Let’s just get this over with. My kind need pleasure to fuel our psychic batteries. It is a simplified definition of the process, but that is the closest thing. So, your sister provides sexual services to Lord Mero, and he turns that into energy.” Debbie’s eyes were still bugging out. She squeaked. “You have sex with that?” Hannah grimaced. “Not all of him at one time.” Ruth looked at her in shock, and Szriata doubled over with laughter. Debbie caught onto something. “Does Szriata consume sex too?”

The educator wiped her eyes and smiled. “I do. I am between companions at this moment, but your sister’s generosity with her own energy has allowed Mero to share some of the harvest. It is her sensuality rating that makes her valuable, and the person that she is. She lets herself feel and that is a very rare situation.” Mero was upon them, and he bowed low. “Ladies.” “Lord Mero, this is my sister Ruth and my sister Deborah.” He rose and inclined his head to them in turn. “It is an honour to see you safely here, ladies.” Ruth stared, and then, she said, “Is my sister a slave?”

He quirked his lips. “Did she say she was?” “No. She gave me some crap about being a bondservant, but that doesn’t make sense. If she was a bondservant, she would have the option for freedom when she had saved enough or done her time. She didn’t mention a freedom date.” Mero met her serious gaze with his own. “Her bond price extends the servitude beyond her normal life span, but she will gain her freedom if she provides me with a child.” Szriata gasped. Hannah was wary. “That wasn’t mentioned.”

He shrugged. “I won’t go into rut for another decade. There did not seem to be a point in mentioning it early.” She bit her lip. “What if I don’t want to leave you?” He wrapped his hand around the back of her head and leaned in to whisper against her lips. “Then, you will not have to. Child or not.” She smiled and kissed him, ignoring her sisters for the moment. They were safe, in the sun and with air they could breathe. They could hate her or have contempt for her, but she had gotten them safe and that was all she could do. Szriata cleared her throat. “You are going to be late for the lecture.”

She was brought back to reality with a thud. “Right. Sorry.” With Mero’s hand in hers and her sisters trailing behind them, they entered the port while she tried to think of the down sides of being a sexual companion. Right now, she couldn’t think of any aside from societal stigma. Mero squeezed her hand, and she relaxed. Society be damned. She knew where she belonged.

Author’s Note

Well, here it is. The book I wrote because I read some books I used to enjoy and realized that they were missing science, physics and a basic knowledge of human biology. If you want to see another book in this universe, I want you to vote. Yes, vote. 2016 was the 100th anniversary of women voting in my province, and I think it is a grand way to decide.

Email your vote, Yes or No, with the Subject: Shattered Stars, to: [email protected] That is right. If I get 100 or more votes from different readers, I will write another instalment this year, or I won’t if there are more NOs than YESs. Thanks for reading, Viola Grace

About the Author

Viola Grace (aka Zenina Masters) is a Canadian sci-fi/paranormal romance writer with ambitions to keep writing for the rest of her life. She specializes in short stories because the thrill of discovery, of all those firsts, is what keeps her writing. An artist who enjoys a story that catches you up, whirls you around and sets you down with a smile on your face is all she endeavours to be. She prefers to leave the drama to those who are better suited to it, she always goes for the cheap laugh.