Alien Beast's Warrior Bride - Juno Wells Page 0,20
queen without even thinking about it, always aware that her safety comes first.
There is something about riding a speeder that feels exhilarating. I like speeders, fighters and flying under the power of my own wings all for the same reason. Though I never take my mind from the queen we protect or the mission, I enjoy this day much more than most.
I am careful to keep my wings pinned tight to my back and out of her face. Soon the precious queen clinging to me slowly relaxes. My hearts beat a double thump in my chest. This must be what true happiness feels like. Contentment is an elusive emotion, but today I am filled with it.
We slide to a stop in front of Base three four seven. I remember it well. We used it before the general came to us. Her scion sheltered here for a time too. This is where Pern first forged his alliance with Commander Chantel. I am well aware that Queen Chantel harbors much resentment for Pern because he divested her of her weapons and sidelined her in the fight against the Moltan. Therefore I try not to mention his name in her dame’s presence.
Two warriors move forward with scanners, and we follow close behind with our weapons drawn. Suddenly, one of the males comes to a stop and gestures to the other.
General Watson whispers, “What’s going on?”
I lower my already deep voice. “They are picking up a life sign.”
We move forward a few more paces and then suddenly the two with scanners are running forward. We hurry to catch up as they enter a huge cave. We walk through several winding chambers only to find the life sign belongs to a human queen. She looks rough and uncared for, as so many do.
General Watson rushes to her side and passes a hydration pellet being offered by one of the warriors. “Are you okay? Here, put this in your mouth. It’ll help hydrate you.”
The young queen snatches it and crams it into her mouth with enough haste to make me think she is parched.
The general pulls out a food bar and removes it from the wrapper. Again the female takes it quickly and bites without a care for what she is eating. “It’s been days since I ate. Thanks.”
Putting a hand on her shoulder, the general asks more questions. “Are you alone here? Have you seen anyone else, alien or human?”
The female shakes her head. “I’ve been wandering for months and stumbled upon this place. It provides shelter and is much cooler than being out in the sun. I haven’t seen another soul or heard anything that seemed like another person ratting around in this cave system.”
“What’s your name?”
“Penelope. Penelope Shrock.”
“It’s nice to meet you, Ms. Shrock.” Pointing to the lettering on her uniform, the general introduces herself. “I’m General Watson of Earth Gov military.” Gesturing at us, she continues, “And these gentlemen are our Draconian allies. I don’t know if you’re aware, but Earth is involved in a war with another alien race. They have huge antlers and fall in the really not nice category.”
The small female nods. “I heard all about the Moltan and those parasites. I’ve gone thirsty so many times because I was afraid to drink the ground water. I’ve been getting by on water I found in a half empty cleaning barrel.”
“Have you been straining and boiling it?”
When the desperate queen nods, the general’s voice turns approving. “Good girl. You ready to get the hell outta here and maybe grab onto a better life?”
“I can come with you?”
“Absolutely. The Draconians accept anyone who requests sanctuary.”
The young one glances fearfully around at us before whispering, “Is it safe? I don’t want to end up in an even worse situation.”
General Watson tosses me an amused look over her shoulder. “Want to tell her what the Draconian national motto is, Borak?”
I can’t keep the smile off my face for anything. “Queens command and warriors obey. I do not think she has a translation chip, so my words will mean very little to your new queen friend.”
She chuckles when the female asks cautiously, “What did he say? I don’t understand.”
Pulling the young one to her feet, the general explains. “He said women command and males obey. It’s how their society works. They consider every woman a queen in her own right. Rest assured, you are perfectly safe if you decide to come with us.”
Excitement jumps onto the smaller female’s face. “I’d love to be somewhere