Chapter 17 – Motok
“We need to leave. There’sbeen a security breach.” Valtus winked at Kerra as I frowned. “It seems that the council has sent guards to investigate.”
Annoyed, I didn’t chastise him in front of my mate but if he thought I was going to allow such freedom with myVenyahe was about to be set straight. And it wouldn’t be with words.
“Where is Rymar?” Rexnor was arming himself with additional weapons as he turned to Valtus. “How much of the council is compromised?”
“That remains uncertain as this time. Rymar has fled with his brother’s capture. Bly is in custody and will remain there until the allegations against him can be substantiated or dismissed.”
“What allegations?” I asked, narrowing my eyes.
“The ones an anonymous source just sent to every member of the council, including evidence from the video and footage from the cell Bly escorted Kerra into and his attempt to assault her.”
Impressed, I nodded to myFirst. “Well done.”
“It’s not much but it’s a start.”
Armed with blasters and not much else, we moved through the complex and hid in the shadows until we made it to the landing deck. Several large battle cruisers were docked as well as smaller vessels, many of which were convoys for the ambassadors and other high-ranking officials that traveled freely back and forth from the Galactic Conclave.
I approached my starship, uncertain if it was ready for travel. The outside was free of the carbon scoring and blaster holes from our previous altercation with the Tylons and Zhorn but that didn’t mean it was fully functional.
“TheVindicatorhas been repaired and awaits our arrival to board.”
I turned to myFirstwith a frown. “Why am I hearing about it now instead of earlier?”
“An oversight due to recent complications.” His expression was far too innocent. “I accept responsibility for my distraction.”
Right. “We will discuss this later.”
“Valtus, I hope you took care of things.” Rexnor lifted his blaster and nodded toward the council’s Elite Guards running in our direction. “We’re out of time!”
I scooped up my mate and bolted forward as I headed for theVindicator. The ramp lowered as we approached and the five of us boarded, greeted by my entire crew. “What’s this?” I asked, spying all of the warriors at their stations. The bridge was full to bursting with additional Braxthar, every last warrior standing at attention and awaiting orders.
Orion cleared his throat. “This is my fault. Once I explained the treachery of the council none wanted to stay. They agreed they would rather fly with you, Commander and bring honor to Vindar.”
“And protect the humans,” Rexnor added. “There are twenty battle cruisers full of warriors awaiting your command. Another thirty remain in orbit. The Directive has been issued.”
Fifty battle cruisers . . . almost two thirds of the Braxtharian fleet.
Stunned, words fled as I held myVenyawithin my embrace.
“The ships in orbit will ensure Vindar and its people are safe. We’ll be hailed if and when there’s trouble.”
I nodded, straightening to my full height as I met the stares of my fellow warriors. “Battle stations!”
Valtus began yelling orders as the ship’s ramp lifted and sealed shut. “We have company. Prepare to engage thrusters and make the calculations necessary for these coordinates.”
I wasn’t familiar with the location or system. It wasn’t Altos or Pythos but nearly as far. “Where are you taking us, Valtus?” Slaver planets were the last place we needed to land with so many of the Braxtharian fleet following close behind.
“To safety. We need to reach the outer rim. It’s time the Conclave knew of the Braxtharian courage that will protect and serve our weaker and more vulnerable allies. Earth is at risk. We warn the humans and then,” he turned to my mate, “we seek justice for our dead.”
Kerra nodded, blinking back tears as she ran forward and placed a kiss on his cheek. “Valtus, you’re my hero.”
He blushed, smirking as she returned to my side, her small hand slipping into mine.
“Oh,” Valtus added, moving our way and pulling us to the side. “I found out why you and your sister were given the tattoos.”
Kerra’s shoulders slumped. “Yes, Valtus?”
