Marauder by Cyndi Friberg

Author:Cyndi Friberg [Friberg, Cyndi]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: alpha male, futuristic, space opera, alien romance, Alpha Hero, captive bride
Publisher: Anything-but-Ordinary
Published: 2018-06-27T16:00:00+00:00

Chapter Six

Isolaund raised a mug of anttis brew to her lips and gently blew on the steaming beverage. The tea was hot, but mostly she was stalling, searching for just the right words to convince her stubborn brother to assist her. They sat at an oblong table in the small eating area adjacent to her bedchamber. The Sarronti generally ate together in large common rooms, so meals were also a time for socializing and entertainment.

Space was a luxury in the underground warrens the Sarronti called home. For most, the only private living space they desired was their bedchamber. Isolaund was one of the exceptions. Her four-room suite was large and lavish as befitted her station.

Since the beginning of recorded history, there had been a ruling class among the Sarronti. The Ayrontu, the aristocracy. The designation still existed and in many ways still ruled, but their power was now filtered through the Guiding Council. The seven-member panel consisted of one representative from each of the six designations and the high councilor. This gave those from lesser designations a voice for the very first time. Isolaund thought it inefficient and cumbersome. She longed for the way things had been in her youth.

The common teachings had also “evolved” over the past twenty cycles. Instead of reinforcing ranks and social positions, the new generation was being encouraged to believe that everyone was the same. That designations no longer mattered. How ridiculous. Designations were not only social stratum, they also maximized potential, temperament and intellect.

And of these radical new changes, the attitude toward aggression was worst of all. Violence was only tolerated in defense of the weak, or to protect their precious planet. The Sarronti had never been particularly warlike, but they had a well-trained army for a reason. When they were threatened, they often struck first, destroying their enemy, and ensuring that others were too frightened to challenge them. The approach was direct and efficient. So why were others so determined to unravel the very fabric of their society?

The Guiding Council wanted peace, they believed in diplomacy over force, tolerance over ambition. Isolaund shivered, finding their attitudes cowardly. Despite the new focus on community, and self-expression, Isolaund preferred the company of herself and her battle cats to the incessant chatter of those with lower designations, so she spent much of her time alone.

“I know why you invited me here and you’re wasting your time.” Indrex’s tone snapped with finality and he sat stiffly, hands firmly clasping the arms of his tall-backed chair. He hadn’t touched the food piled on the plate in front of him or even the spiced wine she knew he favored. Three of his elegant fingers were adorned with rings, the colored stones large and reflective. His features were sculpted, cheekbones high, nose straight, jawline firm. As always, his hair was immaculate, falling to his shoulders, a shiny sheet of pale blue. His clothing was colorful and richly decorated, indicating his high station and superior breeding.

The Ayrontu might be refined and sophisticated, but they were also stubborn, sometimes irrationally so.

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