Chapter 17
17
Zirene
“ W hen did she get so…feisty?” Zirene huffed, shoulders slumped as he raised an eyebrow at Selena’s royal guard. “Should I be worried?”
It was times like this he wished he could be like his clanbrothers and have a glimpse into her mind—into her soul. But if he allowed her to tie them together, he was afraid how he would damage her.
Not much had been recovered from the destroyed archives about the Shadow-Nova bond. All he knew was that the closer the pair became, the more powerful they were.
And yet, it was a double-edged psydagger.
The way his sanity had spiraled when she’d been kidnapped and separated from him for all that time was evidence of that. His thoughts had become darker. His aggression toward others had been alarming, even for him.
He’d been able to stabilize when she’d woken from her unconsciousness and joined him in their dreamscape—but it wasn’t until he had her in his paws that he was able to slowly return to his normal self.
Zirene feared what would become of him if their minds were linked as intimately. If, the Stars forbid, there was another kidnapping attempt—or worse, someone killed her—how would he be able to live on?
How could anyone in the clan live on?
The Circuli were biologically driven to be connected to a nestqueen—and through them, a greater mental network like the one his Nova now held.
But now that Kaede had allowed their Oetsae to create a mental thread between their minds, he was the only clan member not connected to Selena in such a way. As removed as he felt, not being able to experience the same depth of connection as the rest of her mates, he knew he had to resist the temptation.
Someone had to remain behind to care for their cubs if the prophecy came true—he just hoped that he would be strong enough to live on if it was Selena who died.
“She’s becoming more comfortable with her role, and well, her identity.”
Kaede crossed his arms, his expression thoughtful as he leaned against the gazebo’s pillar. His living suit morphed seamlessly, the sleek black material crawling up from the back of his neck. The visor slid over his eyes, shielding his gaze from the birthing morning sun. The suit’s fluid movements were almost mesmerizing, a testament to the advanced technology woven into its fibers.
Zirene had never voiced it, but he was always impressed by Kaede’s inventions, along with whatever his sisters created. They kept themselves busy, constantly looking for ways to improve their way of life along with the tasks they were assigned.
And for that, he was grateful. Their technological prowess had been a boon for the Aldawi Empire, whether they shared them or not.
“But she’s not being feisty because she’s upset at you.” Kaede licked his lips and then chuckled. “In fact, I believe she’s frustrated at me and my sudden desire to make sure her proper title is used.”
“You know that I don’t think any less of her due to her past, or who she is,” Zirene growled, stepping closer to his most frustrating clanbrother. “I meant when I said I was only using her Seedbearer title to claim her citizenship. She is the Aldawi Beacon. Soon, it’ll be announced to the whole universe.”
“As it should be,” Kaede clipped out and then sighed, pulling his gaze away from the direction Selena had left to peer at Zirene. He tilted his head nonchalantly, unbothered by their close proximity. “Look. I know it may be difficult for you to understand, because of how you and your brothers were raised. Selena has very strong feelings regarding our children. She doesn’t want their childhood to be ripped away due to societal pressure. She wants them to be able to live free, the way she and I never could—the way you never could.”
“Try as we might, we both know that will be nearly impossible.” Zirene frowned, knowing he wouldn’t be able to fully grant Selena’s wish. “I’m certain the females on Liskta have been treating our cubs with the utmost respect, knowing that they will be the future leaders of the Aldawi Empire. Until there are other heirs born from my or my brother’s line, our cubs will be the only ones who can replace us. To continue our line—my legacy.”
Kaede unfolded his arms and stepped forward, nose to nose—and yet, Zirene didn’t feel the itch of being challenged.
“You also have to understand, Z, that it’s not just your cubs who are affected by this. My unborn daughter, what claim will she have to the throne?” Kaede turned his back to him and walked to the railing, overlooking the oceanic waters below, watching the sun peek above the horizon. “Will the throne only be transferred down your direct line? What about Selena’s? Before your ancestors took over, rule of the Aldawi was always passed down through the Beacon, the matriarchal leader.
“Now, we have a demi-human Beacon. Will you pass new laws to accommodate her? How will you make sure that she reaches her true calling as your equal, your Nova, despite her unique background and species?”
Zirene walked over to stand beside the unruly assassin, curiosity gnawing at him. Why was Kaede bringing all this up now?
The assassin’s stance was relaxed, almost contemplative, as he gazed at the early morning light glinting off the rippling ocean surface, casting shimmering patterns that danced under the young sun.
Zirene crossed his arms, mirroring Kaede’s posture. “Why are you telling me all this now?”
Kaede didn’t immediately respond. He seemed lost in thought, his visor hiding whatever emotions might have flickered across his features. Finally, he turned slightly, just enough for Zirene to catch his profile.
“Because just like the morning sun, a new beginning comes after a time of darkness.” He lifted a gloved hand to the view below. “Will you be the sun, bringing light to all the wrongs of the Empire?”
“No, that’s Selena,” Zirene corrected, unsure why Kaede was being so…cryptic, when the male was usually the bluntest person he knew. “But it is true that our children’s claim is something that we would have to address…I just don’t know how or where to start. In a perfect universe, the throne will go to Meti, and she will become the first ruling Beacon of my ancestral line. From there, our dynasty can continue through her.”
Kaede chuckled, his lips curled in a mischievous smirk. “And yet, even though you told Selena that you won’t groom Meti to rule, you’re still putting all your focus on her. The destiny of the Aldawi Empire was supposed to rest on Royak’s shoulders, but it was thrust upon yours. Now that you have a litter of your own, you can breathe, knowing that you’ve done your part by creating the next generation. The Aldawi’s future depends on your eldest cub. We both know that out of the three, she’s the most aggressive—already a fierce, independent female. And yet, she’s the most determined to follow in my sisters’ footsteps. Are you going to go against Selena’s wishes and deny her that choice?”
“Oh Stars, no,” Zirene shook his head. “I made a promise to Selena, and I’m not going to break it. I’ve learned my lesson once, and don’t need her to toss me out of her bed again because I’ve lost her favor. But we both know the truth—someone will have to replace me when the time comes.”
Zirene sighed, feeling the heavy weight of the hard decisions he needed to make about the clan, their children and the Empire’s future. “Hopefully, no one will have to anytime soon, so they can live their lives. I am trying my hardest to make this the safest empire for our children to grow. For all of them to be who they want to be. I refuse to become my sire. And yet, I want to be able to pass my legacy on to make sure our empire, our species, continues to thrive. It’s something that I’m constantly thinking about.”
Zirene swiped his clawed hand in front of him, as if reaching for the water below, attempting to scrape the oceanic waves. “It seems no matter how hard I try, all I can do is worry. Worry about the safety of our children. Worrying about the safety of our clan. Worry about the safety of the Empire. It’s a fine line that I have to walk to make sure all that I care about is protected.”
“Z, you’re not the only one who bears this burden.” Kaede grasped Zirene’s shoulder and met his gaze. “It’s on my shoulders, as well as our clanbrothers’ shoulders. You may be the Sovereign, but Selena is your Beacon. Through her, our lives—our fates—are linked.
“But the question of inheritance remains. What about my unborn daughter, or any more children Selena may have with our clanbrothers? What claim will they have upon the Empire—or Destima? If Selena has any Circuli daughters, they will have to take over the moon’s mental network. The Aldawi Empire spans three sol systems, including those your two brothers oversee. If neither of your brothers have any cubs, what will happen to the other two sol systems?”
Zirene laughed heartily and clasped Kaede’s shoulder in return, feeling a sense of camaraderie with his clanbrother. This was a rare moment of understanding between them, an acknowledgment of the shared burdens they carried. “Well, knowing our luck, your daughter will be as ruthless as you, and would rather lurk in the shadows than rule. If she inherits both Selena’s and your abilities, she may even become the leader of the Fab Five one day.” Zirene dropped his paw and sighed. “But that’s a Star path that we have not yet traveled. If we ever do. Only the Fates know our true destiny.”
Zirene turned to Kaede, his expression softening. “But rest easy, knowing that I will make sure your daughter will not be ostracized just because she’s a demi-human like the two of you. I will accept her as one of my own, as with all Selena’s future children. Our clan may be mixed, but they’re our family. Same goes for your sisters and the friends and family Selena has gathered. Any children they have will be respected no matter their species. That’s my promise to you.”
“Thank you, Z.” Kaede nodded, his lips curling into a rare fanged smile. “You’ve always been a fair and caring leader, which is why my sisters and I have always followed you.” He glanced at the villa, and Zirene followed his gaze, to view the grandeur of its architecture standing tall against the vibrant backdrop. “I know the boundaries of our relationship have been blurred—I’ve gone from employee to clanbrother through our shared love for Selena. But even if that weren’t the case, I’d still have faith that you will keep this promise.”
“Believe me, nothing is more important to me than our clan’s happiness.” Zirene gestured to the new bedroom addition, where he knew Selena was still getting dressed. “The main reason why I haven’t declared war upon the Quaww is because I do not want to cause more stress for our clan. All I want is peace. More than that, what I want is to fix the wrongs my ancestors, for the sake of our children. I want to build a legacy as the Sovereign who unified the Aldawi genders. I want to make it safe for Shadow and Nova bonds to come out in public—and for both male and female Aldawi to live alongside one another.
“I know it’s going to be difficult. I know that there will be opposition, as there is with any change. But our empire can’t stay separated forever. It weakens us.”
Zirene turned his gaze to Kaede, his tone firm. “I’m afraid that one day, we’ll become weak enough that our enemies, within and outside our galaxy, will feel confident enough to attack us. Based on Ryzen’s reports, there is a Federation more corrupt than the CEG, scheming to take over the Yarrkins’ experiments and become more powerful than they ever were.
“The question I have for Mwe is, now that he’s spoken to Ryzen—now that he knows what lies behind our galaxy’s borders—what will he do to reunite the CEG? How will he prevent those invaders from coming here and attacking us? Because between you and me, if it becomes us versus them, the Aldawi will not fall.”
He growled, his paws curled into fists, tail whipping wildly. The frustration simmering within him was almost palpable. Every fiber of his being screamed for action, to face the threats encroaching on their hard-earned peace head-on.
“I would rather split off from the CEG and leave them to fend for themselves. The way they did to us. I refuse to grow weak. We will be prepared for what lies in our future.
“So let your sisters know, Kaede. Let them know, whatever they think is necessary to prepare us, do it . Whatever they think they need to build, build it . I will maintain the most powerful military in this galaxy, because we will not fall .”
“I’ll let my sisters know.” Kaede crossed his arms, a contemplative look on his face. “They’ll be glad to have free rein…but it’s not like you’ve ever restricted us.”
Kaede lifted a hand and tilted his head as a shiny new drone sphere appeared suddenly, decloaking itself. Its sleek design was reflective, almost mirror-like, blending seamlessly with its surroundings.
Zirene’s claws retracted slowly as he unclenched his fists, his eyes narrowing as he observed the drone, curiosity piqued. “Is this one of yours?”
Kaede nodded, a faint smile playing on his lips. “Yes, it’s part of my new security upgrades. Each is equipped with an Oetsae to power and manage. State-of-the-art camouflage and enhanced AI. It’s designed to be virtually undetectable.”
Zirene stepped closer, examining the drone’s smooth, reflective surface. “Impressive. I see you’ve had your hands full.”
“There’s only so much resting I can do around the villa.” Kaede tilted his head as he gently tossed the drone into the air, where it vanished in the blink of an eye. “But I know you would rather have me by her side, instead of out hunting alongside my sisters. This is the best I can do…improving security on Destima and following wherever Selena goes. It’s best for everyone that I am with her—either in person or by drone—at all times.”
Kaede bowed his head slightly, a gesture of respect, his expression turning serious. His gaze returned to the new bedroom addition, and Zirene followed, wondering what the male saw through those walls.
He scanned the villa’s newest upgrade, taking in every detail with a critical eye, knowing soon he would have to expand the children’s wing. The large glass dome was framed with marble pillars, each structure encased by tinted glass that gleamed with elegance.
The new bedroom expansion was a masterpiece of design, combining luxury with functionality. Sunlight poured in through the large windows, casting a warm glow over the elegant furnishings and the soft, inviting bed at the room’s center. The dome’s architecture allowed more natural light to filter in, creating a serene and welcoming atmosphere that was not so bright as to wake anyone sleeping in.
At night, it was just as peaceful. He’d made sure the night sky wasn’t blocked from view with a retracting ceiling, for he knew how much his Nova loved stargazing. If she couldn’t travel the stars, he could at least bring them to her as she dreamed.
He had ensured that this room was a newer, more refined version of the bedroom in the mountain base, tucked behind the waterfall where the clan had initially recovered when his Circuli clanbrothers first woke up. The walls were adorned with artwork from around the Empire, each piece a window to a place Selena could visit—a place she now ruled.
Zirene felt a swell of pride as he took in the room’s beauty. Selena deserved this—a sanctuary where she could find peace and comfort amidst the chaos of their lives. The entire villa was equipped with advanced technology to enhance the clan’s lives here.
The state-of-the-art security system was discreetly integrated, designed by Kaede himself, and the climate control could mimic any environment they desired, providing the perfect balance of comfort and security.
His thoughts drifted to the future, envisioning the family they were building, the children who would one day fill these halls with laughter and joy. He knew that providing a stable, loving home—something most of the clan never had before—was the foundation for everything they hoped to achieve.
Each detail in the room was a step toward that future, a promise of the life they were creating together.
A dream he hoped to have with her—and their clan—by his side.
“It appears Selena is finally done getting dressed,” Kaede muttered. “And she’s on her way to your office.”
“Has her mood improved?”
“You can say so,” Kaede replied, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. “It seems her Favored have cheered her up. But truthfully, she’s really excited to be able to speak to Royak, hoping she can help mend your deteriorating relationship.”
“My brother and I will be fine.” Zirene’s tail flicked in agitation, but he knew his Nova was right to be worried. “There’s no ill will between us. Once I’ve spoken to him in person at the Harvest Festival, everything will be fine.”
Kaede offered Zirene his gloved hand. “Shall we be on our way?”
Zirene looked at Kaede’s hand skeptically, wondering what exactly he was offering. Without voicing his doubts, he accepted, trusting the lethal assassin.
Instantly, the tropical morning darkened, his world shifted, and his ear popped as he appeared in the center of his villa office.
Kaede laughed, the booming sound echoing within the room.
“I could have teleported myself, you know,” Zirene clipped out, his tone edged with amusement.
Kaede grinned. “Yeah, but I wanted to show you what I could do. Does it feel the same as your shadowstepping?”
Zirene shook his head and yanked his hand from Kaede’s, a low growl rumbling in his chest. “No, it does not feel the same.” He huffed as he tried to center himself after that unnatural experience. “Shadowstepping is like melding into the shadows themselves. It’s one fluid motion, like walking through a door. One moment I can be in the midst of the gazebo, and the next step, I can be in any other location within my shadows’ reach.”
“How do you know your limitations?” Kaede asked. His tone held an eagerness of a cub with a new weapon. “How do you know the extent of your shadowstepping range?”
Zirene chuckled, the sound deep and resonant. “It’s my presence, the strength of my connection to the shadows.” He sighed, brow furrowed as he tried to determine the best way to explain to someone who wasn’t Aldawi. “Just here on Destima, I can sense all the Aldawi on the military island. I may not know who they are individually, but I can sense their shadow signatures. I can sense all the Aldawi on this island too—the workers, and those sleeping in the Home Sector.”
Kaede nodded, absorbing the information. “So, it’s nearly impossible to sneak up on an Aldawi, then.”
“Precisely,” Zirene affirmed, his voice filled with pride. “A stronger Aldawi, one who’s more perceptive, can sense the others in the area. Our connection to the shadows makes us vigilant, aware of our surroundings in a way few others can understand.”
Kaede smirked, his lips curling up in a sly grin. “Is that why I can always catch you off guard?” Before Zirene could respond, Kaede teleported instantly, wrapping his arm around Zirene’s neck, chuckling in his ear. “It’s good to know that I have the advantage.”
Zirene moved to swipe his claws at him, but the lethal assassin teleported away just as quickly. Kaede reappeared, kicked back on the couch with his feet on the armrest, his hands behind his head, laughing out loud.
“You’re lucky you’re not an Aldawi,” Zirene growled.
“By the Stars, I am lucky,” Kaede laughed even harder. “Or resisting your power would be more difficult.”
Zirene shook his head. “You’re lethal the way you are.”
Kaede’s laughter died instantly, replaced by a somber expression. “If it wasn’t for the cursed alpha genes in my veins, I would be completely content with who I am. But knowing what I know now about my genetics, and the reason why I have my venom, it’s like a psydagger in my stomach.”
He slammed his fist onto the armrest of the chair. “I’m still angry at Zyxel. He’s never apologized for what he did to me on my own vessel. And for that, I will never forgive him. To think that I’m such a vile creature, all because of a genetic makeup I never asked for.”
Zirene reached out his paw and placed it gently on the male’s shoulder, feeling the tense muscles beneath his touch. “Well, I may not consider you a vile creature, but you’re as lethal, feral, and deadly as they come. It was a gamble to take you and your sisters in, but by the Stars, I’m forever thankful that I did.”
Kaede gave him a gentle smile. “And I’m thankful that you did, too.”
The doors parted. Selena emerged in an elegant gown fit for a politician. Its rich fabric boasted Aldawi’s royal colors of deep purple with sleek black accents and sparkling silver embellishments. A daring V-neck cut revealed the faint scar between her breasts—a powerful reminder of the challenges she had overcome and the strength and grace that radiated from within her.
Selena looked between them and asked, “Am I interrupting something?”
She came up behind Kaede, hugging him from behind, and kissed him on the cheek. Her hands dragged down his arm as she elegantly glided over to Zirene, a serene smile spreading across her face.
Zirene returned her smile, his eyes warm. “We were having a civil discussion between clanbrothers.”
She pinched her lips and raised an eyebrow. “So, you guys are having secret meetings about our clan without me?”
Zirene took her hand, pulling her along as he sat down in his chair, placing her on his lap. He wrapped his arms around her waist, his tail twisting around her, brushing her short hair back.
“We keep no secrets from you,” he said softly. “Kaede and I were discussing things we’ve spoken about before as a clan—mainly, the safety of our children, our clan, and the Aldawi Empire.”
“But there’s more,” she said, rolling her eyes. “I know there is. You guys are not telling me something.”
Kaede interjected, his tone gentle. “Zirene was comforting me, letting me know that any children you have, including the daughter you carry, will be protected under the same laws as those he’s sired. Once you’re announced as the Aldawi Beacon, citizens will question what power any of your children sired by mates other than Zirene will inherit. But he’s reassured me they will be treated as equals.”
“Oh,” Selena said, a bit taken aback. Then she frowned. “That also has been a concern of mine. I’ve been worried about what people may think of my royal guard siring my next child. But there are other, more urgent worries, such as my Favored’s recovery, Mwe’s visit, and the asteroid base refugees.”
“And those are all valid concerns,” Zirene said, his voice firm yet understanding. “They all deserve attention. But you, Selena, are my Beacon, and you are currently pregnant. You have a clan full of mates capable of handling politics, enforcing laws, and worrying about all the things you don’t have the capacity for. Everything does not sit on your shoulders, Selena, just because you are the clan’s nestqueen.”
“Just as everything doesn’t need to sit on your shoulders, Zirene, just because you’re the Aldawi Sovereign,” Selena replied, her voice stern.
Kaede laughed uncontrollably. “You are both right, but I think you guys are both too stubborn to take each other’s advice.”
“Talk about stubborn,” Selena huffed, crossing her arms as she rolled her eyes. “Kaede, you’re one of the most stubborn males I know.”
“But not the most,” Kaede responded back teasingly.
“We can discuss each other’s stubbornness another time,” Zirene interjected, exhaustion creeping into his voice. “I personally would like to get some sleep in before our ambassadors start aimlessly roaming the villa without oversight. So how about we give my brother a call before it gets any later?”
Selena nodded, her expression softening. “Let’s, and then we can all get some rest. Together.”
Zirene tapped the vidtablet on his desk, and the Aldawi royal crest orbited by a shooting star appeared on the large vidscreen spanning the wall. The familiar sight of the crest always stirred a sense of pride—and responsibility—within him.
A very familiar face appeared on the screen. Pale blue-gray highlights accentuated his features, the pewter striped fur and pale lavender eyes. His brother Royak wore a broad smile. “To what do I owe the honor of hearing from the Aldawi leaders?”
“Really? That’s how you’re going to address us?” Selena sighed as she leaned into Zirene’s chest, her elegant gown catching the light, contrasting his dark fur. “It’s been a long time since we last spoke. How are you doing?”
Royak’s expression softened, his smile fading momentarily. “I should be asking you that, Selena, after what you’ve gone through.” Then his grin returned, wider this time. “By the way, congratulations. I’ve heard you’re expecting.”
Zirene’s eyes narrowed slightly. “And where did you get this news?” he asked, concerned about information leaking from Destima. The last thing he wanted was gossip and rumors to spread beyond his control—not when someone close would betray them.
Royak’s smile turned into a smirk. “Masmi, of course. She was bragging all about it. Finally, Kaede got his greatest wish—he’s mated to Selena, and he impregnated her.” Royak’s face then twisted in confusion, his eyebrows furrowing. “Or is our sister mistaken?”
Zirene sighed, his tail flicking in mild agitation. “Masmi always did have a flair for the dramatic.”
Selena laughed softly. “No, she’s not lying. It’s true. Kaede and I are together now.”
“And she’s pregnant with my daughter,” Kaede added proudly from his chair, nodding at the screen.
Royak’s confusion melted away. “Well, that’s good to hear. You’ve been through a lot, and it’s good to see you happy.”
“Royak, how have you been? It’s been too long.” Zirene asked, his voice warm but tinged with regret.
“I could say the same, Brother. The last time I spoke to you was when you killed our sire and claimed the throne,” Royak replied carefully, his lavender eyes searching Zirene’s face.
“I’m sorry about that,” Zirene sighed, glancing down at Selena and giving her a gentle squeeze. “But you know I had no choice. My Nova was kidnapped. My best royal guard went rogue chasing after her. I became Sovereign very suddenly. I didn’t know whom to trust, or where to begin.”
“I understand too well, which is why I’ve been doing my best behind the scenes to keep our empire together and strong,” Royak replied, his voice steady and reassuring.
“For that, I am thankful. And I’m hoping to be able to thank you in person in a day’s time,” Zirene said. “You’ll be there, right?”
“The Harvest Festival?” Royak asked, mischief glinting in his gaze.
“Yes.” Zirene grinned, rubbing Selena’s arm excitedly. “We’re leaving for Liskta tomorrow so we can see our cubs before it starts.”
“I’ve heard rumors,” Royak said slowly, his expression turning serious. “Rumors about species beyond our galaxy, that Selena has brought back with her.”
“Masmi again?” Selena’s tone was clipped and hard, her glare sharp. “I wish whispers about my dealings wouldn’t spread beyond Destima without my knowledge.” She sighed, her gaze finding Kaede and then Zirene before softening and returning to the wall vidscreen. “I’m sorry, Royak.”
Royak held up a paw. “You have nothing to apologize for. I understand.” He looked between Zirene and Selena. “Our sister only shared the news with me so I wouldn’t be surprised when we cross paths. I’ve been in contact with her, hoping to get any updates about the two of you and your growing clan. I’ve been worried…and I miss you, brother.”
Zirene’s heart stilled. He longed for the relationship they once had—their smooth, easy camaraderie. He wished he could fix the damage he had caused and mend their bond.
“I miss you too,” Zirene said, his voice thick with emotion. “I miss how things were between us.”
“Things don’t need to change just because our titles have,” Royak said, his tone gentle but firm.
Zirene nodded, feeling a glimmer of hope. “I want to believe that too.”
The conversation hung in the air, heavy with unspoken words and shared memories. Selena squeezed Zirene’s hand, grounding him in the present moment. He closed his eyes and inhaled deeply, letting the weight of their history lift with promise of a future together.
“The people Masmi told you about are my new ambassadors,” Selena said, shooting Zirene a worried glance while she squeezed his paw, returning to his earlier question. “They came from the asteroid base where I was held. Now that we’ve gotten the Chamber Master’s blessing, I hope to show them around our empire before we send a crew to gather the rest.”
“You’re going to bring them along to the Harvest Festival?” Royak asked, concern etched on his face as he turned his gaze to Zirene. “Do you approve, Brother?”
“I don’t see why not,” Zirene replied calmly. “Oeta and Mwe have vetted them. They harbor no ill will. They just want a place to live their lives. Since they’re going to become citizens of the Aldawi Empire, they might as well experience what we’re all about firsthand.”
Royak laughed, his eyebrows bouncing mischievously. “Will there be males coming with you? Because you know it’s the Aldawi female mating season, right?”
Selena gasped, shooting Zirene a shocked look.
“Of course there’ll be males with us,” Zirene replied with a grin. “It will give them a chance to prove their worth. Maybe an eligible female will be tempted enough to pick one to scratch their mating itch.”
“So, you’re going to allow them to take part in the Mating Games?” Royak chuckled, his eyes twinkling with sly amusement.
“Mating Games?” Selena demanded, her gaze darting between the three males.
“To help celebrate our empire’s change in leadership, Masmi decided it would be a great idea to re-establish the Mating Games to help reunite the genders.” Zirene sighed as he gently stroked Selena’s arm, attempting to soothe her. “This means males looking to attract a female of their choosing—or to be chosen by any female interested in their performance—will go through a series of challenges to prove their worth.”
Selena’s eyes widened as she processed this information. “So, it’s like a display of strength and skill to attract potential mates?”
“Precisely,” Zirene said, his tone soothing. “It’s an opportunity for everyone to see the best of what we have to offer. And it can be quite the spectacle.”
Kaede grinned wildly, activating and deactivating his psydagger in swift swipes. “It also gives us mated males a chance to show off our skills and impress our mates.”
“I see.” Her head tilted to the side, her thick eyebrows coming together in a deep furrow. Her bright blue-green eyes darkened with anger as she shot him a piercing glare. “So you’re telling me that any male can take part?”
“Of course,” Zirene replied. “Males don’t usually venture to Liskta, so they’re few and far between at any other time. Those brave enough to venture to the female den must prove themselves worthy of their graces.”
“So, does that mean my males will be partaking in these…Mating Games?” Selena’s voice dripped with venom, each word drawn out and laced with suspicion. Her narrowed eyes and tight jawline further emphasized her ire.
Zirene couldn’t help but feel a twinge of pleasure at her jealousy. It was a rare sight, and he found it oddly endearing. He often experienced similar feelings whenever he wasn’t able to spend time with her while her other mates could. But he knew his Nova was his , even though she belonged to others too.
She was the center of the constellation crafted by the Fates, a clan forged together by the Stars’ Will—their souls forever calling to each other across lifetimes.
At least, that’s what Kaede claimed—and he was starting to believe him. It was why he didn’t feel possessive or protective whenever she was around his clanbrothers. They were drawn to her the same way he was.
And would make sure she was cared for whenever he wasn’t around.
Zirene knew he needed to soothe her worries before her jealousy led to a potential outburst. Although she wasn’t Aldawi, he knew how territorial she could become when she felt her clan was threatened.
He still felt the phantom sting of the slap she’d given him on the CEG Space Station when he hadn’t prepared her to defend herself before the Assembly.
“We are yours, Selena,” Kaede muttered, teleporting beside their chair. He swiftly grabbed her hand and kissed it gently, his visor melting away from his face as he held her gaze. “Your clan is loyal to you. We have no interest in attracting attention from any other female.”
Royak’s laughter filled the room, echoing off the walls of Zirene’s office. “Selena, I think you’re going to have your hands full. It seems to me that perhaps your males may want to show off to earn your favor? Perhaps attempt to win a night alone with you?”
“That was the plan,” Zirene confirmed, holding his Nova tight against him. “We didn’t tell you because we didn’t want to make you worry.”
“Oh, Stars,” Selena groaned, closing her eyes. “Just when I thought we were going to have a relaxing week—a nice vacation—now I have to worry about my mates getting hurt because they want to show off in some sort of peacocking game.”
“Think of it as a way for us to blow off some steam,” Kaede said with a sly grin. “Who knows? If Zyxel is brave enough to duel me, I could show him a thing or two.”
“Or maybe he can surprise you,” Selena taunted, an eyebrow raised. “You’ve never fought against an Ezzaska before. What if he beats you? What then?”
“If he beats Kaede, he earns a chance to win time with the very female he’s been trying to impress.” Zirene laughed, seeing Kaede’s cocky expression turn lethal and stoic. Without his visor, Kaede’s glare would make most fear him…most, but not him.
“No one’s going to beat me,” Kaede hissed, crossing his arms. “If he does win, it’s because he cheated. Not because of his raw skill.”
“Zirene, I think your new clanbrother is getting defensive,” Royak teased, taunting Kaede. “Perhaps he’s out of practice from all his time as Selena’s bodyguard. Maybe he’s afraid he will be beaten.”
Kaede’s eyes blazed with a determined fire. “I’m not afraid of anything,” he said, his voice low and dangerous. “Anyone who challenges me will find out just how wrong they are.”
Zirene chuckled, patting Kaede’s shoulder. “Easy, Kaede. We all know you’re the best. But let’s not forget this is supposed to be fun. A chance for us to bond, show off a little, and win a night alone with Selena.”
Selena sighed, her earlier irritation melting away. “Fine. But if any of you get seriously hurt, I won’t be happy. I would rather not spend the night nursing your dimstar’s battle wounds. Perhaps instead, I should have a night out with your sisters without any males around.”
“We’ll be careful,” Zirene promised, pulling her closer. “And we’ll make sure to give you a show worth watching.”