Love Awakened: Love Trilogy, #3

Dedication

For Alan Brandt Futrell (1945 – 2013), my love, my life, and my greatest supporter.

Table of Contents

Dedication

Prologue

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Epilogue

Glossary

About the Author

Prologue

Tigarus, we need to leave now! Tistan Sologne shouted across the room to be heard above the explosions which rocked the structure.

Standing next to Tistan, Lady Ubutu Moira clasped her wriggling son, who had shifted to his black and white cat form in his fear. Even though he was a kitten, being a shifter he was a large kitten, and Moira was having a hard time hanging on to him. Moira suddenly gasped, and Tistan glanced over to see that little Leonus had clawed a bloody trail down her arm. He reached over and grasped the spitting, hissing fur ball by the scruff of the neck and turned it to look into its eyes.

Settle down, young man! You’re hurting your mother! he said sternly.

The kitten calmed somewhat, and looked over at his mother. He twisted himself out of Tistan’s grasp, shifting back to his small two-legged form in the process.

I’m sorry, Mummy, he cried, clinging to her leg, and shaking with fear.

Moira simply picked up a nearby cloak and tossed it around her nude son, cuddling him to her. Turning his attention back to his childhood friend, Tistan impatiently watched as Tigarus shoved papers and discs into a bag, and then moved forward to assist.

I can’t leave my work! Tigarus was muttering, seeming to not even notice the fear on his mate’s face, or the blood still dripping down her arm. "No, let me, I know which is most important.

Tigarus pushed Tistan aside, where he now stood, undecided whether to try to physically move his friend towards the door.

"Gara preserve us!" Moira whispered, her face horror struck.

Tistan followed her gaze to the window. The volcanic mountain range in the distance shot fire, ash and smoke from multiple peaks. It would be only a matter of time before lava started pouring down the sides.

Seeming to suddenly realize both his mate and son were in peril, Tigarus, glanced out the window.

Tistan, get my family out of here! I’m right behind you! he shouted.

Tistan moved quickly, grabbing Moira’s arm and began dragging her toward the door. When he’d arrived less than an hour ago to find the distant peaks rumbling and smoking, he’d left his space skimmer in the outer yard where it now waited to take them to the transport ship orbiting Arel’s largest moon. Had it only been a few hours ago he’d received word from Tigarus of the impending eruption? Tistan had hurriedly made preparations to help move his best friend and his family out of harm’s way. Had he realized just how volatile the situation was, he would have been here faster, but as was his way, Tigarus had failed to mention just how dire the situation was. In fact, his friend had acted surprised to see him.

I’m not leaving without my mate! Moira dug in her heels, refusing to budge.

Another explosion, this time much louder, rocked the building which served as home and research station for the Ubutu family, breaking windows and letting in the heated air from outside.

Tigarus, there is no more time! Tistan called back, physically picking up Moira, with little Leonus clinging tightly to her waist.

He ran from the house, and deposited Moira and her son into the skimmer. He waved his hand in front of him and the forward screen came to life. The skimmer hovered silently, waiting to take off.

Tigarus appeared at the back door and Tistan heard Moira mirror his sigh of relief just as another, much louder explosion issued from the largest peak of the volcanic range, ripping it asunder and raining hot ash and flaming stones around them. A massive blazing rock hurtled towards them. In what seemed a slow motion tableau, Tistan watched as the house-sized burning rock hit the building Tigarus had just ran out of, exploding on impact. Accompanied by warning bells, the safety measures programmed into the skimmer’s computerized operating system kicked in, enclosing it in an invisible bubble of protection. The engines kicked into overdrive, rapidly propelling the craft away from the dangerous wreckage.

Tistan looked on helplessly as Moira’s mouth opened in a silent scream. His childhood friend’s broken body sprawled on the ground among the charred rubble and scattered bits of burning paper from notes Tigarus had felt were too important to leave.

We have to go back! Moira sobbed, clutching her young son to her. He could still be alive!

Tistan activated the sensors but there was no sign of life visible on his screens. He shook his head; unbearable grief closing his throat rendering him unable to voice what he could see was true.

No! Moira’s keening voice echoed within the protective shield of the skimmer, as it glided silently upwards to the waiting transport.

Chapter One

Lady Ubutu Moira sat among the cushions of the window seat in her cottage, and stared with unseeing green eyes at the grey clouds scuttling across the sky. Idly, she twisted a dark curl of auburn hair around her finger, curling and uncurling the strand in an unconscious move which echoed her twisting and turning thoughts. One year ago today she had witnessed the shattering of her world. In her mind she could still see the flames, feel the explosions, and the terror.

Thinking back, Moira could remember the day she had met Tigarus. She had been in her final year at the University of Sciences of the Union of Planets. Tigarus, a renowned expert regarding volcanos, had been asked to speak at the university. Since attending the speech had been a requirement of one of her classes, she’d arrived early. The introduction made by the university head, Dean Cartello Binkly, noted that Tigarus was an alumni and scientist who was greatly respected by the faculty and administration. Moira remembered sitting in the front row of students and being awestruck by not only the good looks of the tall, muscular man, but the rumbling, almost purring voice which spoke of a passion for his field of study. He held Moira’s fascination with his strong features, a bronzed complexion, eyes a peculiar orange gold color that shifted in the light, and long, straight, black hair with an interesting white streak at his left temple. She’d no idea he was a shifter then, only an incredibly virile, tall, and intelligent man. Moira noticed, as did several of the students sitting near her, how his golden eyes had seemed to seek her out throughout his presentation; a situation which had earned her meaningful looks and sly glances from her friends. She’d been so embarrassed by them, she thought with a half-smile.

Once Tigarus’ presentation had ended, he’d sought her out, catching up to her at the entryway to the auditorium. Obviously he’d asked Dean Binkly to make introductions, as the rather rotund man had stopped her before she could leave.

Moira, I would like you to meet Lord Ubutu Tigarus, Dean Binkly said, placing a hand on her arm to turn her toward the man in question and she found herself face to chest with the tall shifter. She raised her eyes way up to meet Tigarus’ golden eyes and when she did her heart began a rapid drumming. Not knowing what else to do, she held her hand out in greeting. Tigarus reached his much larger and darker hand out to grasp hers, but did not release it immediately. His fingers traced a pattern on her palm. She tried to remove her hand from his, but gave up when he insisted on continuing to hold it.

Lord Ubutu, this is Moira Kenetsy one of our top students. In fact she is set to advance out of the university at the end of this session.

What is your field of study, Lady Kenetsy? Tigarus’ warm, deep voice flowed over her, causing her to feel she was melting into the floor.

Just Moira, she corrected him, mentally shaking herself from the trance his hand seemed to induce. My family is of no particular ranking. My concentration is in land forming and geology.

Moira is from Silian III, Dean Binkly explained. Their society is one of complete equality, so no titles are used.

Perhaps you would be interested in sharing a meal with me? Tigarus asked. I would like to speak with you further regarding our plans for the future.

Moira had been taken aback by the request, but readily agreed. No sense in playing hard to get when just a look from the man left her puddled on the floor. Cartello had beamed at her and taken his leave, and Tigarus had led her, still holding her hand, to a waiting skimmer to look for a quiet place to eat and talk.

That conversation had been the beginning of a whirlwind courtship, an introduction to Tigarus’ father, Lord Ubutu Thane and the rest of the Ubutu Clan for the required acceptance before their mating ceremony. The only other person present at that ceremony, who had not been a shifter or Hashani as they referred to themselves, was Tistan Sologne, Tigarus’ best friend. He’d stood as witness for her mate, and Tigarus’ younger sister, Tiana, had stood as hers.

Master Leonus, you come back here right this instant!

Moira turned her head towards the raised voice in time to see her five-year-old son running full out to reach her. He stopped in front of her and shook the water from his black and white fur, turning back to hiss and spit at his nanny. Moira reached down to pick him up by the scruff of the neck and placed her other hand under his bottom for support, turning the wet, soapy kitten to face her. Green eyes, the only thing other than her curls she had passed on to her son, stared back at her.

Leonus! Moira addressed her son firmly. Shift now!

Leonus blinked slowly, and then began the short process of shifting himself back into a little boy, loosening Moira’s hold on him. Moira suddenly found herself looking at the small stature of a very naked, very wet young boy. She smoothed black curls, with the same white streak at the temple as his father, out of his face and looked into the miniature image of her late mate.

I’m so sorry, Mum, Moneelah huffed her way into the room, her ample form encased in one of the brown-toned jumpsuits most of Arel’s citizens wore. He got away from me, again.

Moira pushed her son towards his nanny.

You will finish your bath with no further shifting!

She scrubs too hard! Leonus complained, I didn’t even get that dirty.

Moira cocked an eyebrow at her son since she had seen him in the garden earlier in the day dancing barefoot in the rain. He had spattered mud up his legs as well as coating any nearby plants. The steady rain had washed the garden but her son had been another matter. She struggled to hide her smile, which she knew he would take full advantage of if it were spied. She knew he didn’t like bathing; playing in the rain, yes, however a bath was an entirely different matter.

I’ll stop scrubbing, when you stop tracking mud into Abi’s kitchen, and leaving muddy fingerprints on her cookie jar! Moneelah scolded, shaking a sausage-like finger in the boy’s face.

Leonus displayed his father’s self-assured behavior as he grinned unrepentantly at his nanny. Moneelah responded with a huff and wrapped the drying cloth she’d been carrying around his nude form.

Let’s get you rinsed off, young Master, she sighed.

Moira allowed herself a small chuckle before returning her gaze to the window. She gave a sudden start when she saw the tiny, bright red form that fluttered just beyond, flanked by two green and yellow outfitted courtiers who were holding a large leaf above her head to ward off the rain. Moira hurriedly opened the window to allow her visitors entrance.

Agaretha! I was not expecting you! Please, come in! Moira ushered in the trio.

Of course you weren’t, dear, Agaretha agreed, flying in through the window and shaking the moisture from her brilliantly red robes.

Will you have tea? Moira asked formally, knowing the tiny fichio queen tended to like the pomp associated with her station.

That would be lovely, Lady Ubutu, Agaretha approved, gesturing grandly for Moira to lead the way.

Moira made her way further into the room, taking a seat on a low cream-colored, brocade sofa. Leaving their leaf to drip on the windows sill, Agaretha and her courtiers glided over to join her. The petite queen arranged the red cloud of her robes around her as she sat in the miniature, upholstered and gilded chair Moira always kept on the table in front of the sofa. In addition to the chair there was a matching foot stool, a low sofa and a table complete with tiny tea cups and plates. Thrilled that Moira had the ability to detect her little people who lived in the cottage’s garden; Agaretha had provided the furniture for her own comfort when Moira had moved in upon the death of her mate.

Moira picked up a china bell on a nearby table and rang it. When her housekeeper and cook, Abi, responded, she ordered tea and cookies broken into small pieces. Used to her strange requests, the thin, stern woman merely nodded and left to do her bidding.

What brings you out on such a wet day, Agaretha? Moira addressed her visitor.

Why the rain, of course, declared Agaretha.

The rain? Moira repeated, nonplussed.

Of course, dear, Agaretha nodded emphatically. The rain!

The conversation was interrupted when Abi reappeared with a tray on which sat a pot of tea, sweetener, cream, and a plate of broken cookies. She sat it on the table in front of the sofa, watching with raised eyebrows as Moira proceeded to pour tea into the tiny cups and offer cream and sugar. She shook her head and returned to her kitchen.

Agaretha giggled, and Moira smiled.

Someday you will need to reveal yourself to Abi, or she will have the Solognes committing me to one of their recuperative homes, Moira chided.

Agaretha nodded serenely and sipped her tea. With great care, she finally selected a piece of broken cookie from the plate Moira held out to her, bit into it, and let out a sigh of pure bliss.

Yes someday; if only to let her know how divine her cookies are, Agaretha affirmed. "However there is no fear of the Solognes, my dear. As the ruling lachuso family they have the same ability to see us as you."

Having finished her cookie and a second cup of tea, Agaretha brushed crumbs from her vivid red bodice, resettled herself in her chair, folded her hands together and adopted an uncompromising visage.

Now about the rain, my dear, it simply won’t do. It is too much water, and my people have enough difficulty coaxing blooms forth on this planet; not to mention all the clouds are blocking the sun, the diminutive queen announced.

I agree it has rained overly much, lately, Moira granted. I understand it is unusual for Arel to have much rain, since the planet is normally too cold.

Then you must stop it, child! Agaretha decreed.

M-me? Moira sputtered. I can’t stop the rain.

Of course you can dear, Agaretha nodded, emphatically. After all, you’re the one causing the rain.

I-I have no idea what you’re talking about, Moira shook her head.

Oh dear, Agaretha directed a vexed look at her courtiers, who sadly shook their heads in response. "You lachusos have such a lack of understanding of your own abilities. It is a sad deficiency in your education."

But I have a fine education, Moira protested. I assisted Tigarus with his scientific studies and have certification from the University of the Sciences of the Union of Planets.

Agaretha fluttered quietly over and patted Moira on the knee.

Your certifications are no help to you when learning to control your abilities, the tiny being signaled her courtiers to attend her. That comes from within.

Agaretha, you have me at a disadvantage, Moira tried to explain. I was unaware I had any special abilities, to speak of. The idea that I could control the rain is preposterous!

The trio of small beings flew over to the window, where Agaretha allowed her attendants to collect their leaf and resume their positions slightly behind and to either side of her. She turned to direct a final imperious look at Moira, who had risen to follow.

The idea that you do not control the rain is even more absurd, child! You, of all those who dwell on this world, should be more in tune with yourself! Stop this foolish moping about for one who has crossed over! He does not wish you to mourn, but to enjoy your life! Until you can accomplish that, this will be a wet, grey world indeed!

With that last bit of advice, Agaretha and her entourage flew out into the rain, disappearing into the soggy garden. Moira stared out the still-open window, trying to decipher the meaning of the queen’s last words. How utterly ridiculous to think she could stop the rain. Why the little fichio had accused her of causing the weather was beyond comprehension. Furthermore, how would the little queen know what Tigarus would want? Moira had been his mate for five years, hadn’t she? Moira stomped her foot in indignation. A sudden flash of lightening, followed by a loud thunderclap caused her to jump, her eyes widened and she hurriedly shut the window. There was absolutely no way!

***

There you are Tistan, dear!

Zita Sologne, life-mate to Borann Sologne who was leader of the world of Arel, walked into the room dressed in her customary long, flowing robe, this one a vibrant shade of turquoise. She came abreast of her mate and son, and waited for them to look up from the computerized tablet they were perusing. Tistan couldn’t help but smile at his diminutive mother. Her dusky complexion, which she had gifted all her children, and dark hair arranged in a long braid down her back, was a perfect foil for her tall mate, who had passed on his height, along with his blonde hair, green eyes, and muscular build to his sons. That is except for Tistan’s younger brother, Zorall, who’d ended up with intensely blue eyes.

You needed me, mother? Tistan raised a golden eyebrow at his mother.

I am the only one your mother needs! Borann declared, reaching out to put his arm around his life-mate’s shoulder and drawing her close.

Of course, my love, Zita patted Borann on the cheek, but at this time, our son would be the most useful to me.

Really? Borann mimicked the raised eyebrow of his son.

Zorall and Shi’an have sent word they will be here with Lorash within the month to celebrate the first anniversary of the twins’ birth. I have already sent the invitations to Bendel and Kuini on Solaria, and Leader Arnat, of course, along with several other dignitaries, but I would like to issue one to Lady Ubutu, Zita explained.

Tistan’s younger brother, Zorall had been selected as