Kings of Klenar: Sensual Prequel to Sierra Sky

Kings of Klenar

Sensual Prequel to

Sierra Sky

Jude Liebermann

Published by Lee Books

Austin, TX 78717

leebooks.judesplace.com

All Rights Reserved

Smashwords Edition

There are two versions of Kings of Klenar. This is the edited sensual version.

Royalty free stock photo used for Cass & Luna

Copyright 2013 by Jude Liebermann

Chapter One ~ Luna, the Alien

Cassandra pulled down her skirt, wiped the tears from her eyes and finally looked up at her rescuer. Her mouth fell open in surprise as she gazed up at the unbelievably tall male who stood before her. Even in the dark, she could tell something wasn't right about him. The fedora he wore atop his head was pulled low, covering not only his hair but also his eyes.

He held out a long thin arm to her, and she instinctively shrunk away from his touch. Staring at the long thin fingers, she absently counted them, as if needing to make sure he had five. He did.

I won't hurt you. His softly spoken words were almost melodious, and her breath caught in her throat.

Who are you?

His hand gestured to her, and she slowly lifted her hand to clasp his. His skin was warm and soft and she smiled her relief. What had she expected?

My name is Luna, and you're safe now. He helped her to her feet as she turned to stare at her attacker, who sprawled on the ground a few feet away, a small puddle of dark blood forming near his head. Had Luna killed him? Though the air wasn't cold, she shivered.

She didn't like to think how close she'd come to being raped. She'd been mere seconds away from being violated when Luna had appeared out of nowhere.

Are you cold? His warm breath in her ear brought her gaze back to him and realized he leaned down to look at her face. She silently nodded as she returned his intent gaze, staring into the most startling round purple eyes. It was then she realized both men weren't human. What are you? Her whispered question caused him to frown and turn away. Cassandra looked at the hat and without thinking, she whipped it off his head.

Long dark hair spilled out of it and flowed around his shoulders. Luna's gaze grew dark as he snatched the hat from her trembling fingers and cursed in a strange language. Tightening his arm around her waist, he touched something on his wrist. As everything around them brightened and distorted, she opened her mouth to scream. Her body thrummed and her head throbbed, and night turned to day as she passed out in the alien's arms.

* * * * *

Her whole body hurt, and she groaned. Cassandra feared opening her eyes, not sure she wanted to see her surroundings. One lid parted slightly, and she held her breath to see Luna hunched over a body lying on the floor only a few feet away. He wrapped it in cloth and secured it with lengths of rope.

Your disorientation will pass in a few minutes. His voice surprised her, and both eyes flew to the back of his head. He wasn't watching her, as she feared, so she didn't know how he realized she was awake.

What disorientation? She pushed up to a sitting position, which proved a bad idea. Her head spun, and she crashed back to the couch she had been placed on.

Luna chuckled without looking at her, before hoisting the cloth-covered body to his shoulder and carrying it from the room. Cassandra then looked around, realizing it wasn't actually a room. It looked more like one of those fancy jets custom made for millionaires. She stared at one of the covered circular windows, tempted to walk over and open it. Would she discover they were in the sky or worse yet in space?

Luna walked back in the room, wiping his hands on a towel. How are you feeling?

She could only blink at first, as she stared at him for the first time in bright light. Her gaze went from the top of his head to his shoes before slowly going back up. She then forced her gaze away and tried to swallow the lump in her throat. It wouldn't do any good to begin screaming hysterically, since she was in his space ship and had already proven himself capable of murder. There was no one to protect her against him.

She closed her eyes, trying to block out his appearance. The long dark hair could be overlooked, but not his round eyes, translucent skin, freakishly long neck and arms. He was well over six feet tall, maybe even seven feet. She was tall for a woman at five feet ten inches, but he made her feel very small.

Have I been abducted? The scary word brought tears to her eyes, and she dropped her head to hide them.

Luna approached and sat on the far end of the couch. You were about to make a scene. I needed to avoid bringing unnecessary attention to us.

She wiped her eyes before looking up to meet his gaze. His purple eyes were breathtaking, and she inhaled sharply. He blinked but she could still see the color beneath his lids. A slow smile spread across her lips, realizing he wasn't as scary looking as she first thought. In a way, he was very striking. So you'll take me home?

He stared into her eyes for a few moments, and she was almost afraid to breathe. Finally, he sighed, eventually.

His one-word reply took a few minutes to sink in. Eventually? How long is eventually? Did he merely get English confused and meant something else, like soon or yes?

Luna frowned, and she clutched the seat cushion beneath her with trembling fingers. He looked away, and she clenched her jaws to keep her teeth from chattering. Luna, will I be going home soon? He gestured to one of the windows. Not wanting to look away from him, Cassandra reluctantly stood and approached one of the covered portals. Her hand shook as she reached to open the cover. At first she could only see blackness, and she leaned closer to the glass.

Luna spoke from close behind her, causing her to flinch. You see, my ship's cloaking only works against your satellites for so long. I ran out of time and had to leave your orbit.

She held her breath and pressed her face against the window, beginning to make out what was beyond the blackness. We're in outerspace?

When he didn't answer, she spun around to confront him. You took me away from my planet? Where are we going? Her breathing grew shallow, and she pressed her back against the wall as Luna stepped closer.

I am taking my prisoner back home, to Klenar.

Her eyes widened in sudden fear. I'm your prisoner?

Luna's purple eyes narrowed in confusion before he suddenly smiled. No, the man who attacked you is my prisoner. You are my honored guest. His head cocked to the side as he studied her. Are you considered beautiful on Earth? I ask because you are very attractive for an Earthling.

Her laughter came out as a choked guffaw. No one's called me that before.

Luna's long arm approached her and his thin fingers stroked her cheek. Attractive?

Cassandra shook her head, Earthling.

Will you honor me with your name?

Cassandra was surprised at the heat in Luna's long fingers, and she held her breath as they circled her face. She didn't hear his question at first, but then realized he was awaiting her response. Cass.

His hand withdrew suddenly, and she focused on the shock in his foreign features.

She grew alarmed, his expression worrying her. What's wrong?

Why did you say that? I only asked your name.

Cass nodded quickly, and I gave it. My name is Cass.

Oh, that's an unusual name. Relief flooded his features, and she relaxed a bit.

Cass shrugged, trying to be nonchalant. It's my nickname. It's short for Cassandra.

Luna finally smiled. That's better. I couldn't imagine calling you by your nickname, lovely Cassandra.

Why not?

He shook his head. Let's just say that it is not a good word in my language.

She wanted to know more but didn't press him, instead chuckling. Had she unintentionally insulted him by saying her nickname? She had to stifle another chuckle, needing to change the subject. How many Earthlings have you seen? Her question was barely above a whisper, but he was close enough to hear it.

Enough, though I do seem to meet more females than the males of your species.

Why is that?

Luna stepped away from her and looked toward the door. I shouldn't tell you. It would only frighten you.

Not expecting the cryptic response, her eyes widened. Now you have to tell me. Where is the man you call your prisoner? Did you kill him?

Luna shook his head and returned to the couch. He patted the space beside him.

He is being detained in the other room. He will be judged and executed when we return home.

She stopped halfway across the narrow room. Executed for attempted rape? Her hand moved to her throat.

He patted the couch again. I stopped him this time. There have been others.

Others? Her voice squeaked, and she cringed. He's raped other women?

Luna nodded, and killed them. He's a monster.

Cass collapsed next to him on the couch. So he was going to kill me? Tears filled her eyes before she could stop them.

Luna's hand covered hers. I stopped him, and he won't ever be allowed to hurt anyone else.

Cass dropped her head and shook it. Why does he hate Earth women so much?

She could see the veins beneath the translucent skin of his hand as he squeezed her hand beneath it.

He doesn't hate you. He was excited to find your people. When he didn't continue, she glanced up at his face and implored him with her eyes. He frowned and pulled his hand from hers. He can't rape our women, so he found ones he could. He paused, the struggle to finish clear in his features, and he kills them to avoid leaving witnesses behind.

Cass gasped. That selfish son of a bitch.

Luna's bark of laughter surprised her. He's an evil son of a bitch, which is why no Klenarian woman would have anything to do with him, and I suppose the Pricoslings don't put up enough of a fight to suit him.

Cass held up her hand, I think I'm going to be sick. She covered her face and took a deep breath. Who are the Pricoslings?

A door opening interrupted them. She hadn't even been aware it was a door, but a young girl glided into the room, placed a tray of food and drinks on the table and then left without uttering a word.

Cass watched her, unable to speak at first. When the door closed behind the girl, she finally found her voice. Who was that?

Luna leaned forward, grabbed a glass of liquid and handed it to her. Since you asked, that was a Pricosling. They are our servants.

And your sex slaves? She added with disgust, replacing the glass on the table.

Luna sighed, taking a glass for himself. For some. But Marta is merely my servant who tends to my...other basic needs.

Cass didn't know how much more she wanted to learn about Luna's people or their rapeable servants. Does she get paid for her...services?

He had the audacity to smile. No, they are an enslaved race, Cassandra. He said her name slowly, and she liked to hear it. He almost sang when he spoke, and she could listen to him all night.

That girl is your slave? And you've never forced yourself on her?

Luna sat back and studied her. Her entire family are in my care, and no I have never forced myself on anyone. I've never had to.

His smug honesty made her smile. She looked human. He nodded. Beautiful.

He nodded again, but not as beautiful as you. Despite her wishes a hot flush spread through her cheeks.

Does that embarrass you?

She decided to ignore his question. Why are you taking me to your planet, Luna? I really want to go home.

He ate a pastry from the tray, and she licked her lips. He handed one to her and she popped it into her mouth. An exotic sweet fruit burst in her mouth with just the right amount of tartness. She'd never tasted anything quite like it. Delicious, but don't try to change the subject.

Which was?

She growled low in her throat. You're impossible. I want to go home!

His hand stroked her cheek again. You're a very passionate woman, and the color in your cheeks is very stunning.

She glared at him, and he held up his hands. I will take you home as soon as I drop my passenger off with my father's guards.

She ate another pastry and then another. Your father has guards? She took a sip from the glass and murmured in approval.

"Of course my father has guards. He is the king."

Cass choked on the wine in her mouth but managed to keep it from spraying Luna’s face. When she felt confident that wouldn’t happen, she returned his casual glance with incredulity. You’re a prince? I thought you might be some kind of bounty hunter, but your father is king?

Bounty hunter? He said the words with humor in his tone and then nodded. I like that title, but I won’t collect any ransom for bringing back Hadrick. He was once my friend, and it pains me to be the one who must bring him to justice.

She fought the urge to comfort him, and her hand itched to pat his back. Instead, she clasped her fingers together to keep them in her lap. You won’t have to be the one to execute him, will you?

His round eyes shifted to gaze at her again, and he shook his head. The sadness in his face tugged at her heart, and Cass nearly growled aloud. She didn’t want to empathize with her kidnapper.

What will happen to him? I mean how will he be executed?

Confusion replaced the sadness, and he frowned. That’s a morbid question. His slight smile made her shift on the couch. Why so interested?

I’m just curious what your planet does to rapists and murderers, is all.

Luna filled up his glass of wine and relaxed into the cushions behind him, lifting his long legs to the ottoman and crossing one ankle over the other. We’re not as easy on them as your planet is, that’s for sure.

Her gaze traveled the length of those long legs, admiring the obvious muscles beneath the taut fabric of his pants. She had mistakenly thought he was slight, but that was just an illusion caused by his height. Realizing what she was doing, she cleared her throat and looked at the table. So what is done to them?

An eye for an eye.

She blushed red and began to stammer, feeling as if she needed to cover her privates. Then she realized he wasn’t talking about her checking him out. He had answered her question. You mean they are raped and murdered too?

A nervous giggle escaped her at his nod. Who does the raping?

He closed his eyes for a moment. Well, rape isn’t a crime on my planet, but murder is.

Breathing suddenly became difficult for Cass, and she had trouble swallowing past the lump in her throat. Rape isn’t a crime? The words came out in a throaty croak, barely coherent, but Luna apparently heard her.

It’s not possible on my planet, and forcing sex on a slave is not unusual. Though, I don’t know what will happen now that one of our own has actually committed it as a crime.

Chapter Two ~ On the Prince’s Spaceship

Not remembering falling asleep, Cass was quite shocked to wake up in a bed. Almost afraid to lift the covers, she was relieved to see that she was fully clothed. Then she realized they weren’t her clothes. She bolted upright and flung herself against the soft headboard, pulling the sheet up to her neck. Had Luna undressed her while she was unconscious?

She ran through her foggy memories of the night (or day) before. How much wine had she drank? Was it drugged? Had he taken advantage of her? Letting the sheet drop, she took a better look at the sleepwear. It wasn’t sheer or sexy, and the pants completely covered her legs. Would he have left her dressed after he ravished her? She laughed at the thought, and then choked it back when the door opened. Expecting Luna, she pressed the sheet to her neck again, but Marta walked in and smiled at her.

Oh, good morning.

Marta replied with a similar greeting, but it wasn’t English.

You don’t understand me, do you?

The Pricosling shook her head and then gestured to her and tugged on her smock. She pointed again at Cassandra’s body with a questioning look. It didn’t take her long to figure out what she was asking as she touched her pajamas. These? Did you dress me?

Marta nodded with a big smile. Not knowing what else to do, Cass nodded and smiled in return. Thank you.

You’re welcome.

The new male voice came from the door. Even though she knew who it was, Cass still flinched. I wasn’t thanking you.

Luna laughed as he approached the bed, ignoring Cass and speaking to Marta in their language. Her ears burned, as she felt excluded, but it was then she wondered how Luna knew English. Marta smiled at her, bowed and then left the room.

I could have left you on the couch.

Her gaze flew back to Luna’s face at his words, and she blushed. You carried me in here. The question changed to a statement as she realized that fact. Thank you.

As I said, you’re welcome. He smiled brightly at her, showing most of his teeth.

She noticed for the first time how much rounder and sharper they were than a human’s. Wrapping her arms around herself, she fought the shiver creeping up her spine. I should be afraid of you, shouldn’t I?

He sat on the foot of the bed and shrugged. I don’t see why.

"Why? You kidnapped me on your space ship and took me away from the safety of my own planet. I am totally at the mercy of a man from a civilization that enslaves humanoids, that has no problem with raping them…as long as they don’t kill them. Why shouldn’t I be afraid of you?"

Luna moved closer and cupped her cheek in his large palm. Because I would never hurt you.

She stared unblinking into his round eyes and trusted him. Somehow she knew he spoke the truth, but what about the rest of his race? His touch was too distracting, so she pulled his hand away from her face and placed it on the bed beside her.

How did you learn English?

He looked down at their hands, hers lightly touching his mere inches from her left thigh. Gently sliding his hand out from beneath her fingers, he tapped his ear. I didn’t learn it. It’s merely an implanted translator.

Merely? How? What? How? She couldn’t gather the right words to ask the right questions.

Luna smiled again and leaned away from her. I don’t know the science of it, but it takes your words, helps my brain translate them and then translates my response back to English so I can respond. My people can’t take the credit for it though. We found it during our exploration of other civilizations. Those who created it bartered with us for our hover technology.

Hover technology? The question was on autopilot, since she was still trying to digest a translator that could do what he just detailed. It was incredible.

Yes, we live among the clouds, so we had to create a way to build our cities and transportation. Hover technology made it all possible.

She nodded, still thinking about the translator. So if you don’t know English, how do you know what you’re saying back to me?

Pushing away from the bed, he stood before her. Good question, hard to answer though. I guess the best way to describe it is that when I respond in your language, my language shows in my head. So I see what you hear. Does that make sense?

Cass nodded, unable to respond verbally.

"Are you hungry?