Snapshots 4
Zha'haabron had hated being fussed over when he was hybrid-hosting. Zha'haarak, in contrast, was perfectly happy to be pampered and cosseted and petted - once he got over his initial embarrassed reluctance. It was such a novel experience - and besides, Hijau loved looking after him and wouldn't let him do anything for himself. And when Hijau wasn't there, Jagung had instructions to do the same…
Everyone was still apprehensive - it had only been five days, and Vinas was being very cautious about confirming the success of the implantation - but quietly hopeful. So far things were going well.
Zha'haabron watched, bemused and happy for his host-sib. When he thought no-one was looking, Zha'haarak had taken to placing both his hands over his belly, eyes closed and an expression of bliss on his face, an expression echoed on Hijau's features as he held his bondmate close, strong warm hands resting very gently over slender cool ones. It was beautiful to see.
Though not everyone appreciated it…
He'd have enjoyed the flight to Matou a great deal more if his triple-damned sister hadn't been with him, Peyaru thought sourly. She fidgeted, whined and found fault with everything, especially him. He just couldn't understand what the problem was. And the closer they got to Vejiitamachi, the worse it got.
Zorun, the Saiya-jin-no-Ou's personal guard, was at the spaceport to meet them, along with Buahan and her personal guard. Despite his nervousness, Peyaru couldn't stop himself grinning as he caught sight of the princess: they'd got to know each other reasonably well, through letters and face to face occasionally on the comm link, and he liked her very much. He thought the feeling was mutual - she certainly didn't seem averse to being his mate. And he was really looking forward to being with her.
Buahan beamed as he exited the shuttle, and stepped forward to welcome him. He took her extended hand and dropped to one knee, as his tutor had instructed him, and pressed the back of her little hand to his forehead. She suppressed a giggle and leaned to kiss the top of his head.
"Welcome home, Peyaru-san."
He blinked in surprise, then grinned up at her and kissed her fingers lightly.
"Hello, Bu-sama."
She smirked and tugged at his hand.
"Come with me. I'll show you where you're staying - then you must come and meet everyone…"
A luxurious suite had been prepared for the lordling and his sister, a couple of floors below the King's Rooms. Peyaru had gazed round open-mouthed, tail coiled tightly around his thigh, then glanced wide-eyed at the princess.
"It's wonderful!"
"Glad you like it."
Netsariin turned to Buahan with a gracious smile.
"We thank you, Saiya-jin-no-Oujo, for the honour you do us."
Buahan blinked, then smiled and inclined her head.
"You are welcome, Netsariin-san. I hope you will be comfortable here. Please tell one of your servitors if there's anything else you need."
The northern lady bowed.
"You are too kind."
Buahan was already tiring of such ceremony, and held out her hand to Peyaru, disregarding his sister.
"C'mon - I want you to meet Pirum. You'll like her."
Wondering whether that was an order, Peyaru allowed the princess to drag him to the R'ren'nkh'ian wing, followed by a scowling Netsariin and a handful of bemused Guard.
The children had been at lessons the first time here was here. Today, the midday meal had just been served when they arrived: Peyaru walked into a room full of colour and sound and motion… He swallowed and stood silently beside his mate-to-be as Buahan raised her voice for attention, then introduced the young lordling: Peyaru reddened as all eyes fixed on him, and lowered his gaze. As various welcomes were hissed or growled or simply spoken, the princess led the young male over to a large floor cushion, where Pirum had been keeping them a place. Buahan dropped to sit comfortably, dragging Peyaru with her, then kissed the Hassinan in thanks.
"Pi-chan, this is Peyaru, my mate."
It was obvious the strange, tailless female was not happy to see him, even if her scent hadn't given it away. But she tried to smile and say hello cordially, and Peyaru smiled back. Then Buahan snuggled up to the alien female, wrapping her tail firmly around Pirum's waist…
Peyaru's gaze flicked from one to the other. What was going on here? Pirum wasn't even a Saiyan, yet here was the princess behaving as though they were siblings. Or… or young lovers? That couldn't be, though - could it? He swallowed nervously. He wasn't going to be expected to mate both of them, was he? He'd have to talk to someone, later, try to find out.
But for now, his sister's antics were providing a distraction. The older alien female was talking to her, and he could scent from his seat beside Buahan just how… attractive she found Netsariin. But Netsariin only had eyes for the Elite Captain.
Hijau looked embarrassed. The beautiful lizard prince beside him - Peyaru remembered Zha'haarak from his first visit - was watching them bemusedly, a slight smile playing over his face, but Peyaru was mortified! How could his sister be so… obvious? She was all but sitting in the Captain's lap!
To his relief the Lady Leteetza, her face an odd mix of grim and amused, stepped in.
"Allow me to show you the view from the balcony, Netsariin-san…"
Reluctantly, but not daring to deny the King's Companion, the northern beauty rose and allowed Leteetza-sama to usher her from the common room.
"Heh. 'teetza'll sort her out."
Peyaru jumped at the voice in his ear and turned to find himself nose to nose with Kiraz. He smiled tentatively, and the young prince smirked at him, then gestured towards 'raadiin.
"If she doesn't, we will."
Leteetza folded her arms and glowered at the newcomer.
"I'll be blunt. You're welcome here - as long as you don't cause any problems."
Netsariin pouted.
"I wasn't trying to cause problems, my lady. I simply have a prior claim to Hijau-chan…"
She paused. Leteetza's face was positively thunderous.
"As I understand it, your liaison with my brother," she waited to let that sink in, smirking as Netsariin paled, "was no more than that - a brief diversion. He did not claim you, nor you him. He was claimed by Zha'haarak. Any 'claim' you think you might have is annulled. I trust that is perfectly plain?"
Netsariin nodded tightly. Leteetza inclined her head.
"I would also suggest you show a little less familiarity and a little more respect. Zha'haarak-sama is a gentle, peaceable soul - but I am not. I will not allow anything to upset him. Now, I understand you are here seeking a mate. I am prepared to help you, have receptions organised where you may meet eligible males. As long as you understand that Hijau is not available, not even for a quick tumble. He's the claimed and bonded mate of the R'ren'nkh'ian Prince. I suggest you remember it."
Thoroughly cowed, Netsariin sank to her knees, head bowed.
"I won't forget, my lady."
"Good. Let's go back in."
Peyaru enjoyed the meal (though not the attention that went with it: everyone was curious about him and anything but hesitant in their questions) and by the time the rest of the children dispersed for their afternoon activities had all the names - and some of the characters - fixed in his mind.
Pirum, and the pretty little lizard prince with bright hair the colour of newly opened leaves ('selaan, he thought) were the last to go: she didn't seem keen to leave Buahan, but the zn'hre finally grabbed her wrist and dragged her with him. Leteetza insisted on Netsariin accompanying her for the afternoon (Peyaru thought she maybe wanted to make sure his sister understood how she should behave in the palace) - which Netsariin was happy to do, since Hijau had now returned to Guard Headquarters leaving Jagung (one of the most beautiful Saiyans Peyaru had ever seen) to look after his bondmate.
The princess grinned at the young lord.
"Would you like to see the gardens?"
At Zha'haabron's request, Fa'saayen was holding a special training session, in one of the larger arenas, for those members of the Guard not on active duty at the moment and Merica, and Kiraz, 'raadiin and 'jiisa had asked to sit in…
They'd watched in silence, frowning intently as they all tried to memorise the unfamiliar moves the zn'hre warrior performed. It was a form of combat quite different to anything they'd seen before, fluid and graceful and very effective.
'jiisa leaned forwards, resting his chin in his hands and chewing a lock of his dark green hair.
"I wonder who devised this?"
Kiraz snorted.
"Who cares, as long as it works?"
'raadiin eyed his sire-sib.
"Why d'you ask?"
'jiisa shrugged.
"Just wondering. It's different to the way the shr'en'an fight. And maazi says there never used to be any zn'hre warriors - apart from papa, that is, and this isn't the way he fights. So where does it come from?"
'raadiin rested his chin on his crossed arms, pondering the question as he watched the warriors. Kiraz growled.
"Still don't see the point of it. I mean, if you've got ki, why not use it? Why stick to physical combat?"
"Because it's good training. What would you do if someone put ki-fetters on you?"
"They'd have to catch me first!"
'raadiin hissed in amusement.
"Fair enough… But it's still the best way of increasing ki. And Merica's going to want us to try this later, so we'd better pay attention…"
Radittsu turned up towards the end of the session, and sat with the children for a short while to watch. At the end, Merica and Fa'saayen flew over to join them. Merica was enthusiastic about the zn'hre fighting style - much to Kiraz' dismay.
"Right. Fa'saayen-san is going to take you for a session every five days." He glanced at Radittsu. "I'd like the rest of the King's brats to have the opportunity to learn the basics, too."
The big Saiyan nodded.
"I'm sure he'd be agreeable. I'll speak to him. You won't get 'tiisaan and 'fallon to join in, though."
Merica nodded.
"I wouldn't expect anything else. How about the hybrids?"
Radittsu grinned.
"Just try to stop them!"
Merica smirked, then turned to the children.
"Right - red arena, now. I'll be there very shortly, I just need a word with Rad-san."
As the young warriors flew off, Radittsu frowned.
"Problems?"
Merica shoved a hand through his mane, tail twitching irritably.
"Not sure. Jagung hasn't said anything, but I get the impression Ti'a-chan isn't happy."
The big male blinked.
"Huh? He seems fine…"
"I know. That's why I'm not sure. It's just a feeling. I could be wrong."
"Want me to have a word?"
"Fuck, no!" He grinned wryly. "No - we'll try and sort it out ourselves first. If there's anything to sort out. But I thought you ought to know, just in case I'm right."
Radittsu nodded.
"You were right to tell me. I'll mention it to the Ssii'iin, see if he's noticed anything."
"Thanks. And now," the guard smirked, eyes twinkling, "I'd better go see what my students are up to."
'jiisa struck the wall and bounced back, shaking his head. H'kven but 'raadiin was fast! Not to mention powerful. The young zn'hre gritted his teeth and leapt back into the fray…
An hour later Merica called a halt, and shortly thereafter one of the kitchen staff arrived with a large platter piled high with seared meat. The children grabbed for their favourite cuts and ate while they listened to Merica detail their shortcomings.
The list was shorter and shorter each time - even Kiraz was using his head, now, instead of just wading in without thinking. Pleased with themselves, though still aware they had a long way to go, the princes relaxed for a while, chewing appreciatively. Merica dismissed them early, for once - but 'jiisa hung back. The warrior eyed him curiously.
"Your highness?"
'jiisa chewed his lip for a moment, then inclined his head.
"Merica-san - would it be possible for me to specialise in Fa'saayen's technique?"
Merica stared at him for a moment, then frowned.
"Why? Why do you want to?"
"Because… because… it's ours, Merica-san. Zn'hre I mean. Our own style. I'd like…" Frustrated at not being able to put exactly what he meant into words, the hostling shook his head. Merica gestured for them to be seated then ruffled the child's dark green hair.
"Let's see if I've got this straight. You want to learn it because it's zn'hre. You want to take pride in your own traditions?"
The young warrior nodded hesitantly.
"I think so… though for zn'hre to be warriors is so new - I don't think it can really be called a tradition, can it?"
Merica smirked.
"So you'll be at the forefront of creating traditions for your people. Even better!" He regarded the hostling narrowly. "It'll take a lot of extra work. How keen are you?"
'jiisa grinned.
"Very, sensei."
The guard nodded.
"I believe you. All right, I'm happy with the idea: I'll speak with Fa'saayen and see what he says. Though it might be difficult to continue your training when he returns home."
'jiisa took a deep breath and stared at his trainer.
"I want to go with him."
Merica blinked.
"Back to R'ren'nkh'ia? I don't think your maazi will like that!"
"He'll hate it. That's why I need you to not say anything to anyone yet. And ask Fa'saayen not to, too?"
Merica nodded. Time enough to sort out the family if - or when - the hostling proved himself good enough to train under Fa'saayen full time.
"Right. Leave it with me and I'll see what I can arrange."
With an audible sigh of relief, 'jiisa grinned at the Saiyan.
"Thank you, Merica-san."
The guard twinkled, then stood.
"C'mon brat - time to get back. Let's see what everyone else has been doing, shall we?"
Leteetza had deposited Netsariin with Kayusu, fairly certain that the two would at least keep each other occupied for the afternoon, then made her way to the library. Meron had grabbed her arm excitedly as soon as she entered, dragging her to a workstation almost buried in sheaves of notes, printouts of charts and images, and several very old books. Shoving a pile of papers onto the floor and pushing the little female down onto the now-empty chair, the Thinker eagerly tapped on her monitor screen.
"Look!"
Leteetza looked, then turned to the Thinker, sighing in exasperation.
"What am I looking at?"
Meron swallowed her sarcastic retort and said, with exaggerated patience,
"This is a cargo manifest from nearly a thousand years ago, as far as I can tell - the Tsufuru-jin used a strange way of numbering their days and years, and there are some words here I just don't know. But essentially, the ship that brought these goods in had called at what they call Zhande, and picked up three passengers and something I haven't been able to identify, although it seems to have been very valuable. And the passengers' names were Sy'eidon, Far'neyen and Kik'ralin. Those are zhaneer name forms." she added as Leteetza stared blankly at her.
"And you think Zhande was the Tsufuru-jin name for Zhane?"
"I think it's a distinct possibility."
"It's not much to go on, though, is it? Three names that might be zhaneer and a world that could be their homeworld?"
Meron smirked smugly and handed her an ancient holo-cube.
"The three were quite important, it seems. Important enough for this recording to be made…"
She touched the control panel, and the cube lit up from within… Leteetza stared, then grinned hugely. Inside the cube floated the image of three zn'hre - right down to the long, emerald green plaits that two of them wore draped over their shoulders. She growled delightedly.
"So they did visit. Have you been able to find out anything else?"
Meron shook her head.
"Not yet, I'm afraid. But it's a start. It proves that the zhaneer were here, once. And considered noteworthy, some of them at any rate."
"Can you date the cube, see if there's anything else from the same time?"
"Way ahead of you, my lady. I've got three associates scouring the archives."
Leteetza leaned back, grinning widely.
"Oh, this is good news!"
"Thought you'd be pleased! You ought to go check with Zh'nast, as well, she's made huge strides with the translations."
"That's my next stop…"
The atmosphere in the zhaneer project room was simmering. 'leesaan glanced up as Leteetza entered and beamed widely at her, attracting the old translator's attention. Zh'nast smiled and bowed her head in welcome.
"Greetings, King's Companion! Please, enter and join us."
Leteetza grinned.
"Meron says you have some news."
"A little, my lady…"
Zh'nast's idea of 'little' wasn't Leteetza's. At the end of an hour the Saiyan's head was spinning.
But it was all fascinating. The team had managed to piece together a fairly comprehensive outline of zhaneer civilisation: they were all hermaphroditic, and their society was - very roughly - divided along profession lines, although it seemed that most of them performed more than just one function. There were, for example, chemical biologists who were also acclaimed cloud artists…
Leteetza had raised a hand to halt the flow of incomprehensible information.
"Chemical biologists? Cloud artists?"
Zh'nast paused and frowned to herself, then smiled.
"You have to understand that their concept of 'life' was a little different from ours…"
Which was one way of putting it. The zhaneer had developed sentient plants, even several kinds of semi-sentient mineral, and trained them to perform specific functions - such as the filtration and production of rare (and occasionally themselves sentient) gases, the tending of young zhaneer, food production and preparation, waste disposal, medical procedures, even security around sensitive areas such as their spaceports. And a particular gelid mineral formed the core of their starcrafts' propulsive systems - imagine a fuel that you could hold conversations with!
The zhaneer had no rulers as such, although there were those whose main function was administration. And they were scientists and artists, explorers and adventurers, innovators and teachers. Some - a much revered group - were seers, their advice and guidance eagerly sought and put into practise. Another - small - group seemed to have some kind of power over death, though the team hadn't been able to explore that very far: they were dealing with concepts that had no direct correlation with anything R'ren'nkh'ian or Saiyan… But it had become evident that the zhaneer believed in living to the utmost of one's abilities, pushing one's senses to the full, experiencing completely all that could be known…
As a philosophy of life, it was dizzying in its scope. Leteetza shook her head.
"This is…"
Zh'nast beamed.
"It is, isn't it? Now if we can only find out where they are…"
Leteetza's face fell.
"You haven't managed to yet?"
The brood shook her head.
"I'm sorry, my lady, not yet. We're still trying though. We won't give up…"
Mahrayne was unwilling to cause the class too much disruption, so she had Peyaru and Pasunippu - the two newcomers - sit together. It worked well: Radittsu's nephew was a solemn child with a deep love of learning, while Peyaru was delighted with the opportunity to be part of the educational system that was now famous all over Vejiitasei. Generally things ran smoothly, too: even Ra'vahn and Za'rayne seemed happy enough with the setup, quite content to work through their own lessons at their terminals. But just recently the Hassinan had become aware of Ti'ani…
The hybrid was having trouble concentrating and finishing work on time. He obviously felt very guilty about it, and was upset that he'd disappointed (as he saw it) his teachers - but he didn't seem to be able to do anything about it. And Le'leen couldn't - or rather, as Mahrayne believed, wouldn't - explain what was wrong with his twin.
Ti'ani was just thankful he had sufficient control of his scent to not alert 'raadiin to how he was feeling, and enough to keep him occupied that he was able to ignore the yearning ache that filled him whenever he caught sight of his machii...
Hijau had been cuddled into his bondmate's back when the muted alarm sounded from the monitor around the slender green wrist. Rousing instantly, he wrapped the half-asleep Zha'haarak in a thick fur, swept his love into his arms and raced for the medlabs, heart in his mouth and willing the bright ki-spark that was their hostling to hold on, please hold on…
Vinas and Gtislin were ready, and within seconds of his arrival the prince was surrounded by monitors, a cocktail of different drugs circulating in his slight body - but to no avail. On his knees beside the diagnostic bed, holding Zha'haarak's hand, Hijau wept as he felt his bondmate's temperature rise and their baby die.
A gentle, trembling hand stroking his mane roused him, and he lifted his head to gaze at his zn'hre. Zha'haarak tried to smile.
**Zkai'da… Please…**
*I'm so sorry…*
**It is not your fault**
Hijau kissed the limp hand.
*We could just stop, beloved. All we really need is each other…*
Zha'haarak smiled tremulously.
**But I want your hostling. Please, zkai'da - let's try again**
The captain gazed at Vinas.
"Is it safe to try again?"
The Feeodoreean nodded.
"I believe so. I will run a few checks first, however. Later. Now you must rest."
"May… may I go back to the palace?"
Vinas blinked, then checked his monitors carefully.
"I think so. Though if you feel any pain, discomfort, or if your temperature rises, you must come back here immediately."
Hijau nodded sombrely.
"Of course."
"Very well. If you will return in five days, we will try again."
'haabron clung to Kobis, tears streaming down his face.
**It f… failed again…**
The Saiyan hugged him tightly, silently sharing his grief. And wondering privately if it would be as hard for them, in years to come, when 'haabron wanted to host their own brats…
Zha'haabron looked tired, Limau decided, watching the High King from his place in Council. But then, he was very close to his sibling. Limau had felt the echo of his son's grief, and had some idea of how they must be feeling…
Vejiita was drumming his fingers against the table.
"Very well - we have the records. How are we to tackle this?"
It had taken some time and a little detective work, but the diplomatic corps had managed to track down most of the hash'shavven slaves and their owners - a total of around two and a half thousand of the little aliens in total. A respectable figure that would certainly help the repopulation of Home! The problem was, it went without saying, that their 'owners' weren't going to want to give them up.
Buying them wasn't an option - but neither was simply taking them by force. That ran the risk of them being injured, and the Saiya-jin-no-Ou did not want to jeopardise any of them.
Manzano stood, bowing slightly to the two kings.
"Majesties, if we might… 'borrow' some second class warriors from the military, I think we might be able to resolve this situation with the minimum of difficulty."
Vejiita frowned.
"How?"
"I would suggest we let it be known that the slaves have some kind of illness. Something unpleasant - possibly resulting in sterility, that's usually enough to persuade most species to listen. We say, further, that those with whom the hash'shavven have come into contact will require treatment - which we will provide: I have no doubt the medical facility can come up with something harmless we can use - to which only we have access. It should then be a relatively simple matter to retrieve the slaves - who are of course useless, since they are carriers of this disease - in exchange for 'treating' the owners, and blame the Omanir for the 'problem', thus absolving ourselves of any blame."
Zha'haabron smiled tiredly.
"Masterly, chief diplomat. An excellent idea."
Vejiita smirked and nodded.
"Heh. I like it. We'll leave it with you. Nashi will assist if needed."
Manzano bowed.
"Thank you, Sire."
The king's gaze swung to the zn'hre, his expression not entirely friendly. Jeice's announcement that the hash'shavven would ally with the R'ren'nkh'ia-jin had not pleased him. Nevertheless, he finally acknowledged, reluctantly, that that was better than not having them as part of the Alliance at all…
"How are things on Home?"
Zha'haabron smiled.
"Well, it would seem. The hash'shavven have resumed their forebears' lifestyle easily: the remaining Omanir have been tracked down and eliminated, and the planet restored to full health. Already."
Vejiita nodded.
"Good. Is there anything they require?"
"At present, no."
"Then we will turn to other matters…"
The Council discussed the situation with the Warui-jin at some length without accomplishing anything of any worth. They had no idea how many of the aliens were on Vejiitasei, or where they came from, or what was their ultimate aim, though they strongly suspected that some remnant of the Anzu conspiracy may be involved. Zha'haabron had suggested they try to capture another, only this time let the hybrids try to enter its mind, see if they could glean any information that way.
Vejiita had leapt on the idea, and ordered Hijau and Manzano to see what they could do about capturing another of the aliens…
As the meeting began to wind down, Zha'haabron announced his intention to return to R'ren'nkh'ia for a while in the near future. While Gh'heegonan was proving a worthy Regent, the zn'hre really felt he should put in an appearance before his people forgot what he looked like…
Chuckling, Vejiita agreed - then brought up the subject of his heir's presentation to the people.
"It has already been delayed due to the Omanir Conflict and the attack on the palace. My son is now over a hundred days old: it is past time he was shown to my people as their future king."
Solemn nods from around the chamber signified unanimous agreement.
"When do you wish it, Sire?"
Vejiita gazed at Manzano, then smirked.
"Fifty days from now. Declare a planet-wide celebration. Ensure that everyone, no matter how humble, has a day without working, and food and drink with which to celebrate the occasion."
Manzano blinked in dismay. Did his Majesty have the slightest idea how difficult that was going to be?
His Majesty grinned. Yes, he knew. And trusted his chief diplomat - and his liaison - to make sure everything went smoothly.
Manzano wasn't at all sure fifty days would be enough. But it would have to do: Vejiita was not about to change his mind…
The atmosphere in the family's suite was tense: Hijau and Zha'haarak were at the medlab, trying for a third implantation…
"It's not fucking fair…" Kiraz growled, pacing back and forth. "How come she" a contemptuous toss of his head in Mahrayne's direction "gets it so easy, while Hi'ijaa and the Ssii'irin have so many problems?"
'fallon, snuggled tightly into 'raadiin's side, sighed sadly.
"It isn't fair, is it? But it's not Mahrayne's fault. She can't help the way her body works."
Kiraz glared.
"That makes me feel so much fuckin' better…"
'fallon nuzzled the young zn'hre warrior.
**It's nice to know we won't have that sort of problem, isn't it?**
'raadiin froze, blinking, then stared at the shy little zn'hre at his side.
**What did you *say*?**
'fallon swallowed nervously.
**I… I'm s…sorry, zkai'din… I thought…I thought you wanted hostlings…**
His *voice* tailed off miserably as he fought back tears. 'raadiin eyed him for a moment or two, then stroked his hair.
**Hn… I suppose I do. Eventually**
'fallon beamed up at him.
**Oh, thank you!** His face fell momentarily. **Umm… with me?**
'raadiin brushed a kiss over his forehead.
**Oh, I think so…**
The shy zn'hre hugged him tightly.
**Koibito…**
'raadiin grinned. Radittsu had started teaching Kobis that shifting technique - actually, he was teaching it to anyone who wanted to hear, which to his mind made sense since Zha'haabron's idea of Saiya-jin/R'ren'nkh'ia-jin families was finding considerable support amongst the Elite - and 'raadiin had been soaking up the knowledge at a fast rate. Perhaps it was time to try it out…
He nuzzled 'fallon's neck.
**Come with me?**
Eyes wide, trembling very slightly, 'fallon allowed the young warrior to lead him through into one of the side rooms…
Pirum watched through narrowed eyes, and threw a balled-up piece of paper at Kiraz. As he turned to glare at her, she stuck her tongue out.
"What're they up to, imbu?"
"None of your fuckin' business, snowbrain…"
The young Hassinan shrugged.
"Suit yourself."
Kiraz smirked, seething jealously inside.
"Don't I always?"
'raadiin knew the first time wouldn't be the most sophisticated or lengthy coupling in either world - they were both too eager for that to be the case - but he'd been entirely unprepared for the sheer mind-numbing pleasure of sliding into his pretty little sire-sib's chitsu. So fucking tight! And 'fallon had come almost immediately, whimpering, his back arching upwards then collapsing back onto the bed, panting. The fierce rippling of the muscles along his chitsu pulling 'raadiin into his own first orgasm…
When the exploding suns behind his eyelids had finally faded to black and he could think again, 'raadiin opened his eyes - to find himself half out of the zn'hre underneath him. What the…? He tried moving slightly, ready to freeze if anything hurt, but 'fallon's barbs were nothing more than rounded bumps along his inner channel.
Grinning, already erect again, 'raadiin started to thrust…
It was several hours before he'd tired himself out. 'fallon was almost completely limp with satisfaction - mixed with pain, 'raadiin wasn't exactly small or particularly gentle. They'd both climaxed over and over again, loving the sensation of it, 'fallon's little hisses and whimpers spurring the young warrior on to greater efforts, the clenching of his chitsu an exquisite delight for 'raadiin.
The warrior nuzzled his young lover.
**Sleep?**
'fallon gazed up at him, eyes heavy with exhaustion, and gave him a meltingly sweet smile.
**Please, aijin…**
Smirking, 'raadiin gathered him close as they slid into a deep, satisfied slumber.
Dari stroked very gently over Zha'haarak's hip, easing the pain he still felt so often, and smiled as she laid a hand on his belly. Good strong ki, promising well. Though it had only been nine days so far…
As Tane helped the prince to sit up, Zh'leet handed him a beaker of glop: he sipped slowly, watching her sadly. The brood missed Gh'veen more than anyone had expected - it was almost as though as the days went by, she realised more and more profoundly that he was gone for good, at least in tz'een form…
She needed a friend. And she'd been lonely and mourning for quite long enough. He'd speak with Zha'haabron at early evening meal.
The following morning, after Zh'leet had finished her usual early check of the prince's state of health (oh yes, she trusted Vinas and his monitor, but she preferred to confirm things in person, too…) the King beckoned her to one side.
She thought she knew what he was going to say, and bowed her head.
"I'm sorry, Ssii'iin. I didn't mean to upset anyone…"
Zha'haabron blinked.
"Who do you think you have upset?"
The brood frowned slightly.
"I thought… I've been miserable, and it's affected the hostlings."
The zn'hre rested a hand on her shoulder.
"Only insofar as they love you and don't like to see you unhappy. I need to know if there's anything we can do to alleviate the situation. How would it be if we invited your sire-sib to join us?"
Zh'leet's eyes widened, then narrowed.
"Is my service unsatisfactory, Ssii'iin?"
"Anything but. But I feel a companion would be a good idea."
The brood nodded slowly. She wouldn't admit it under torture, but it would be very good to have someone she could talk to, someone at her own level. Dearly as she loved the family, the zn'hre were completely different from the rest of the R'ren'nkh'ia-jin - of course they were, they were zhaneer really, aliens! - and she sometimes yearned for someone closer to her own type. Someone gentle, dependable and strong like Gh'veen…
"Not Zh'lata, my Ssii'iin. She's too caught up with her own tasks at home. Would it be possible for me to have another tz'een as an assistant?"
Zha'haabron smiled faintly.
"I can see no reason why not. Do you have anyone specific in mind?"
She thought for a moment, then nodded.
"Br'yaan. We worked together in the past. Very successfully. He's dedicated, highly knowledgeable and he loves hostlings. He was at Dhr'ovaanon's enclave the last I heard."
Zha'haabron smiled.
"I will see what I can do…"
And a day later Gh'heegonan reported back that Br'yaan remembered Zh'leet, had enjoyed working with her, and would be delighted to join the High King's entourage. He was in the middle of a project at the moment, but would be on the first ship to Vejiitasei once it was completed.
Zh'leet was cheered by the news, and Vinas was pleased too. He knew of Br'yaan and was happy that the family would have another skilled medic on hand. And the family were very pleased. No-one would ever replace Gh'veen, of course, but it would be nice to have another tz'een around.
Zha'haabron sighed, then smiled wryly. If only all their problems could be solved as easily!
The days flowed past…
The children's schooling - both on Vejiitasei and R'ren'nkh'ia - proceeded as scheduled, and Ubi and her Thinker colleagues began to make plans for a properly organised school: there were several empty buildings on the northern outskirts of the city that could be easily adapted to serve the purpose. The hunt for the Warui-jin continued. The affairs of the Empire filled up most of Vejiita's time and a great deal of Zha'haabron's. Radittsu's stamina increased and his limp diminished, and Tane and Dari worked at lessening the dreadful scarring on his back and hip - with some success. 'dittsu and 'jiita squabbled and fought, yet were nevertheless almost inseparable - which was going to cause not a few problems in the future, Leteetza thought, grimacing. Kinu's Naming Day had been a wonderfully happy occasion, and had the little female wondering about instituting something similar for the other children. Leteetza remembered that Mahrayne was given gifts every year on her Naming Day: it was a charming tradition, and she was sure the children would love it. She resolved to speak to Vejiita and Zha'haabron about it…
The news that Cendawan had gone missing was completely subsumed by Zha'haarak losing the third hostling two days after the Naming. At twenty three days into the hosting, the little creature was recognisably a tiny baby hybrid, and Zha'haarak was distraught. And very ill, his temperature soaring dangerously high and resisting attempts to reduce it: Hijau had the double grief of losing their child as well as coming close to losing his bondmate…
Zha'haabron sat slumped over his desk, hands pressed to his eyes, tears trickling down his face. It had been a long time since he'd felt so helpless… Strong warm hands on his shoulders had him turning into Radittsu's embrace, holding his bondmate tightly as he wept.
The Saiyan stroked his hair, trying to give comfort, his own tears ignored. Hijau was hurting more than he could bear.
**Perhaps… perhaps I was wrong. Perhaps it would be better not to have mixed species families. Not if this is going to happen…**
Radittsu kissed him gently.
*Zkai'da, it's too late for that. We'll have to hope Vinas can find a solution.*
**Perhaps the G'gecks can help…**
*Perhaps they can. We'll have the team explore that possibility, shall we?*
"When can we try again?"
Hijau stared down at the thin, pale form, the golden eyes ringed with dark shadows, and shook his head in disbelief.
"You're not serious?"
On anyone else, Zha'haarak's expression would be called sullen.
"Yes I am." He gazed at Vinas. "When can we try again?"
"Your highness, I'm really not sure…"
"Chief medic, if you are not prepared to help, I'll find someone who will."
And there were charlatans out there, prepared to perform dangerous medical procedures in unsanitary conditions… Vinas gaped, then frowned at Hijau.
"Captain?"
Hijau shrugged his shoulders helplessly.
"It's what he wants…"
Scowling, Vinas checked his monitor, then glowered at the prince.
"If there are no indications to the contrary, I would be prepared to make another attempt in seven days time. Not before."
Zha'haarak relaxed back against his pillow and nodded.
"Very well." He reached for his bondmate's hand, pulling it to his cheek. "Please, zk'vissin?"
Hijau crouched down beside him, nuzzling his hair.
"You know I can't refuse you anything."
The zn'hre sighed.
"I'm sorry you were frightened."
The captain closed his eyes with a shudder.
"Please don't do that to me again."
"I'll try not to…"
Vinas kept Zha'haarak at the medlab for three days after the fourth attempt. On the fourth day, cautiously optimistic and with strict instructions not to allow him to exert himself in any way, he allowed Hijau to carry his bondmate back to the family's suite: the children arrived back from morning lessons to find him settled comfortably on the sleeping platform…
Kinu had insisted on his mother putting him down on the bed: the little hybrid immediately shuffle-crawled his way over to the gentle zn'hre - and snuggled up to him, hissing and cooing and stroking his flat belly with hands and tail.
Zha'haarak stared, then glanced enquiringly at Mahrayne. But the Hassinan was as puzzled as everyone else.
"I… I don't understand it, your highness."
Hijau frowned. The brat was behaving as though he knew there was a hostling there… he hadn't done that with any of the others… Could this mean that this attempt would be successful?
Not daring to hope, the captain nestled down beside his bondmate, cradling him close as Kinu rested his face against the prince's stomach and fell asleep.
Kinu spent a lot of time cuddled up to Zha'haarak, patting and stroking his belly. Everyone was wholly bemused by it, none more so than Zha'haarak himself. But he found it comforting. And if nothing else, it allowed Mahrayne a little time to herself, to devote to one or other of her Saiyans…
'haabron was irritated. Kobis nuzzled him.
*What's wrong, aijin?*
The zn'hre 'humphed'.
**Papa and dadda Raditz have a secret**
Kobis blinked.
*They do? How can you tell?*
**I just can. There's something they're pleased about and they're not telling us what!**
*Well, they are allowed to have secrets, you know!*
**No they're not!**
Kobis shook his head, grinning, and slid his hand inside his zn'hre's bodysuit, fondling the cool erect inkei.
*I'm sure they'll tell us when they're ready…*
Five days after Zha'haarak's return from the medlab, Zha'haabron returned to the suite just before midday meal and paused in the entrance, raising his hands with a smile.
"I would like you to greet our newest ambassador, here to share a meal with us."
A bit abrupt! thought Leteetza to herself - then gaped as the High King stood aside to usher two aliens into the common room.
There was a stunned silence for several seconds, then 'tiisaan flung himself forwards with a loud hiss of delight.
"JEICE!!!"
The grinning hash'shavven caught the little dancer and pulled him into a hug as the room erupted…
It took a good few minutes for the chaos to die down, by which time Jeice, and the shy little female with him, had been settled on a floor cushion and plied with food and drink. 'tiisaan was happily snuggled into his side, eyes wide and bright.
"Ambassador, ne?" Hijau smirked at the hash'shavven. "I think you just couldn't bear to be away from us!"
Jeice chuckled.
"That's more true than you know. But please," he turned to his companion, "let me introduce Keisan."
The exquisite little female blushed under the inquisitive gaze of multiple pairs of eyes. Her skin was paler than her mate's, her eyes flecked with silver, her hair faintly tinged with the palest frost-blue. She smiled timidly at them, a little overwhelmed. Jeice grinned happily and laid an arm across her shoulders.
"Keisan's talent is for ice."
Leteetza blinked.
"Fire and ice? Isn't that a bit of a strange combination?"
Keisan inclined her head.
"A little. But there have been stranger…"
Radittsu frowned slightly.
*Aijin - what about Veiyan?*
Jeice's eyes closed as pain surged through him.
*Veiyan has joined with the soul of our world. Her memory will live on in our child.*
*… child…?*
'zhasaan had watched Jeice and Keisan from the sleeping platform, frowning very slightly. Now he slid from his place beside 'miiron and knelt beside the little hash'shavven female, one hand tentatively touching her stomach. Then he looked up, beaming around the room.
"Je-chan is going to be a papa!"
© 2002 December 22nd Joules Taylor
