Alien Attachments (19 page)

“So, the uprising—what, ten years ago? When they formed the council, it didn’t really work like the book says?”

“Not even close. The whole thing started when the previous Emperor, Korzan’s father, died. Korzan came to power amidst tremendous social upheaval. The empire almost ended then. There were many who thought it was time for the monarchy to be over. It almost worked. In the end, the council was formed to govern the GTO and the deployment of the military, but the power never left the Emperor. He made sure of that. Those who opposed had a nasty habit of dying. Balastar’s father is one. He was a good man but didn’t know when to shut up. He openly fought against the Emperor. In a way, his death was the tipping point. No one has spoken of dissolving the empire since. At least not out loud. There are rumors of a coup. We have no way of knowing how, when, or where, but I’d be willing to bet Balastar knows something.”

Great time to be finding out about aliens, just when their world is falling apart.
“Your emperor sounds like a real piece of work. Are we safe here?”

“Clearly Rucon has started to doubt it. We talked to him after you left yesterday. Rucon is a merchant. He has ships. Heavily armed ships. I don’t know how many, but he plans to both retain the rights to Earth and protect the planet.” Ria leaned forward with a somber look. “I’ll be honest, I don’t know if he’d go to such extremes to protect Earth if it didn’t have carnium, but it’s a good thing for the people of your planet that it does.”

Ria’s eyes narrowed and she tilted her head to the side. “You know,” she said slowly, “if it weren’t for the emperor and his pureblood crap, you and Ian could be together.”

“What?” Dani stood, her blood boiling. “I told you I like my relationships uncomplicated.”

“I know, I’m sorry. It’s just that you two are in a tough spot.”

“So? It doesn’t give him the right to treat me like shit.” Dani held tight to her anger. It kept her balanced where Ian was concerned. She didn’t want to feel sorry for him or his position.

“You’re right. Change of subject.”

“Fine.” Dani sat back down. “What if the empire was dissolved? What happens to the armed forces?”

“No one knows for sure. The original plan was for the GTO to oversee them. They would be used solely for the protection of GTO member planets and law enforcement. These days their primary function is keeping those planets from any further rebellion. The situation is ugly. One thing is for sure. The military will have the advantage.”

“So there’s no other army that can face yours?”

“Our psi gives us multiple advantages. The most important is our ability to directly interface with machines. And, as you know we’re physically powerful, faster than non-psi abled, and, of course, psi-mates and the more powerful individuals can communicate telepathically. It all adds up.”

“Damn. Dictatorship on a galactic scale,” Dani said. “So, this coup. Any idea who or how?”

Ria shrugged. “It’s anyone’s guess. The empire’s force is enormous but there are only so many planets it can contain at once. A multi-planet rebellion could work. The loss of life would be staggering. A more likely scenario would be from within. The military, the GTO, members of the council. Any combination of these could take over, but then the question is what happens to Sandaria? Not just the emperor but the entire planet? It’s a mind-blowing concept.”

Ria was visibly shaken.

“The fall of an empire,” Dani mused. “It all seems so…I don’t know, primitive for an alien race.”

“Advanced technology doesn’t have much to do with how a civilization is ruled. In the end, as with any society, it comes down to power. And without the emperor, Sandaria wouldn’t have much. It doesn’t have anything truly outstanding from a trade perspective. Not like Earth and its carnium.” Ria gave Dani a concerned look. “Everyone would want a piece of that.”

A shiver ran down Dani’s spine when she realized just how precarious Earth’s safety was.

The following Saturday night, Dani glanced at her reflection in the full length mirror. All the hours of training had transformed her from simply lean, to lean and toned.
Now, I look like a mixed fight champion
. Mara procured a stunning, floor-length gown that matched Dani’s blue eyes. The left side was gathered from under her arm to the floor causing the fabric to drape in folds across her body. Long sleeves were open on top, held together with crystal buttons every four inches. The neck line plunged with the perfect amount of cleavage, enticing, not vulgar. She couldn’t figure out the material, soft and flowing like silk, but more weighty, like heavy cotton.

Now this, is a party dress.
Dani spun around and admired the way the material flowed.

A knock at the door in the sitting room stopped her twirling. “Come in,” she called, making her way from the bedroom.

“Wow.” The word echoed as both Dani and Ria spoke.

“Ria, you are stunning. The cream color makes your red hair pop. It’s beautiful.” Ria wore a floor length, sleeveless, silky dress. No bunching there, just a straight line that flared slightly at the floor. The design showed off her figure perfectly.

Ria smiled. “Thank you. I’m going to assume my hair popping is a good thing?”

Dani laughed. “Yes, a very good thing.”

“You’re stunning as well. That dress is incredible. Turn around, let me see.”

“Isn’t it great? Mara got it for me. I wonder if I’ll be able to keep it. I just love this material. What is it? Do you know?”

Ria fingered one of the folds. “If I had to guess, I’d say it’s Morvian. The planet is known for its food and fabrics. Very expensive.”

“I hope she’ll let me pay her for it.”

Ria touched up her lipstick in the mirror. “Oh, you ready for a laugh?”

“Always.”

“Ian told me to tell you to try and stay away from Balastar as much as possible.”

“You’re kidding, right?”

Ria shook her head. “He actually said that to me. As if you’d have a choice.”

“Yeah well, if you see him, remind him there’s only so much I can do without pissing him off, and I’m not supposed to do that either.”

“I know, I know. I told him pretty much the same thing. I did, however, leave out the bit about how hot we think Balastar is.”

“Thanks. He called twice this week trying to get together for lunch. I told him we were busy with Earth. I have to be honest Ria, I like him. He’s not only hot, but I think he’s okay. As in, not evil. I don’t get any bad vibes or anything when we talk.”

“He obviously likes you,” Ria said.

“He does and he’s willing to show it.”

“Just be careful.”

“I will.”

* * * *

Dani gasped as she and Ria entered the Cavacent’s private dining hall. They stopped a moment to take it all in. The space exuded plush elegance. A massive chandelier radiated soft sparkling light. Red velvet drapes covered the walls, and the dining table stood bathed in a purple table cloth. The French doors stood open to the balcony, and music played from a quartet nestled in the back corner.

True to his word, Rucon kept it small. Jared, Gina and Battista, supposedly the only humans present, were the center of attention. A small group of Sandarians pelted them with questions. Dani wanted to swap some hugs but according to their story she’d just returned from Earth so she’d have to wait. “Wow, they sure clean up well, don’t they?” she said to Ria.

“Aw, Jared’s got a bow tie,” Ria said. “Bow ties are cool.”

“Someone’s been watching Dr. Who.” Dani smiled at her friend.

“You were right.” Ria nodded. “That is a great show. I’m almost done with the list you gave me. You’re gonna have to give me some more movies and shows to watch.”

“No problem.” Dani waved to Jared, who raised his glass to her and Ria. It was obvious the three humans enjoyed the attention. Waiters appeared, offering delicacies and drinks. Dani opted for some bubbly stuff, and Ria, wine. Dani took a small sip and was glad to see she’d guessed rightchampagne, or at least something like it.

Dani sensed Ian before he spoke.

“Ladies.” He came in behind them and stood next to Ria. “You two are stunning.” He raised his glass to them. He wore a tux that fit like a glove. His psi was held in check but her stomach still did flip flops. “I hope you enjoy your evening.”

Before she thought it through, Dani blurted out, “So our cover means you’re going to be civil to me tonight?”

Her words hit home. He met and held her gaze for the first time since the portal move. “It does.” His psi brushed over hers. It had the feel of an apology which totally confused her. “I’ll see if I can work on my manners moving forward.”

Dani ignored the tug on her heart. She could fall for him, she knew.
More like drown.

Ian raised his glass again and joined the Earth support team.

Dani couldn’t help but watch him go.

“What, was that?” Ria said.

“I don’t know.” Dani took a rather large sip of bubbly. “And I don’t care.”

“Uh, oh. Incoming,” Ria said, under her breath.

Balastar sauntered in from the balcony with what looked like a very dry martini.

Shaken, not stirred.
The photographer’s eye in Dani drooled. The black suit he wore was definitely bespoke, and the subtle grin on his face could melt an ice queen.

He was safe. The attraction physical. Neat and clean.

Ria let out a slight whimper. “Why couldn’t he have the hots for me?”

“Good evening, ladies.”

“Councilman Alder,” Ria said with a slight bow.

Dani did the same.

“Balastar, remember?” He held out his arm to Dani. “Do you mind if I steal her away awhile before dinner?”

Ria gave a shrug. “How could I possibly refuse?”

Balastar flashed his killer grin. “I suppose you couldn’t.”

“Indeed.” Ria returned Balastar’s smile. “I’ll just go check on our Support Agents. See you two at dinner.”

Dani took Balastar’s arm, and he led her out to the balcony.

Outside a warm breeze caressed her skin. The spicy aroma Sandaria exuded wafted around her. Something was different out here, but she couldn’t put her finger on it. “It’s lovely tonight but…” She tilted her head and looked around.

“There’s a storm coming. Another two or three hours.” They reached a semi-private corner and set their drinks down on the balustrade.

Dani turned to him. Soft music spilled from the double doors, and the sound of laughter and conversation filled the evening air.

Balastar brushed her fingers. “Your eyes are extraordinary.”

“Which means your eyes are extraordinary,” Dani said playfully.

“And so they are. I’ve never met another with eyes the same color as mine.”

“I haven’t either. We must share some distant relative,” Dani said.

“Exactly what I was thinking. Not too close, I hope.” He winked at her, which stirred the butterflies in her stomach. “I think we should research that. Compare our family trees. What do you say?”

Dani kept her face neutral as she tried to find a way out of this.
Crap. Comparing family trees? Not happening.

“There you are, I’ve been looking everywhere for you.” Jared’s voice boomed across the balcony. Dani suspected he’d been sent by Ian.

“Jared! Don’t you look dapper,” Dani said. Truth was, he looked a bit frumpy next to Balastar, but then who wouldn’t?

“Thank you, Dani. ’Course, I know you’re just being nice and all. You however, belong in one of them magazines you like so much.”

Dani’s heart pounded. She thought he was going to say something about her being a photographer. She smiled and squeezed his arm. Hard.

Jared reached out a hand to Balastar. “I hear you’re the one responsible for this shindig. That’s real nice of you. I’m Jared O’Conner, Ian’s Support Agent.”

The two shook hands. “Balastar Alder. A pleasure to meet you, Jared. May I call you Jared?’

“Be kinda weird if you called me Bob now, wouldn’t it?”

Dani groaned, but to her surprise, Balastar laughed.

“That would be weird indeed. Dani and I were just remarking on—”

Jared leaned forward as he interrupted. “Your eyes.” He looked from Dani to Balastar and back. “That’s amazing, given Dani’s—”

“Background? Being from Mitah and all?” Dani finished. She was getting frazzled. First Jared saves her, then seems determined to give her away.

“Exactly. Just what I was gonna say. You’re from different planets,” Jared said, clearing his throat. “Speaking of different planets, Balastar, how long you guys been flyin’ all faster than light? I find it fascinating, you know. Do you time travel when you do that?” Jared asked.

“Only a short period of time is actually faster than light,” Balastar said. “The bigger piece is bending space.”

“Bending space?” Jared asked, placing his drink down and crossing his arms.

Balastar settled against the rail. “Yes, it’s all very complicated and fascinating. Think of a round ball made out of sponge. You’re on one side and want to travel to the other, say from Sandaria to Earth.” Balastar raised his eyebrows a hint when he looked at her.

He continued, “First, you jump to FTL speed, then you squeeze the ball.”

“Beg pardon?” Jared said.

Balastar pinched his finger and thumb together. “The points on opposite ends of the ball come together momentarily. You move to the other side, release the ball, and decelerate. The mechanics involved are exceedingly complicated, but that’s basically what happens. I share your fascination with the subject. When I was younger, I flirted with the idea of becoming an engineer so I could more fully understand. However, by my calculations, I would still be in school right now, so I decided against it.”

“I can see why. How about those portals? Now that’ll blow your mind, huh?” Jared said.

Balastar smiled, enjoying himself. “Yes, another interesting topic. From what I understand, it uses a similar principal of bending space; however, it’s completely powered by psi. That’s why there are limits to their use. The Portal Masters that created the portal are drained a little each time the gateway is used. You get four uses per hour and no more.”