Page 95 of Stars in Halo

Its impressive front reached up into the night sky. Its white walls and gold columns reflected the moonlight, revealing detailed carvings covering every surface.

The House DKRT’s ship descended with a graceful touch onto a sub-orbital pad nestled amidst the sprawling gardens, a scene of beauty and elegance.

Zoran’s men emerged as the vessel’s portal opened, cradling a precious bundle in their grasp. Each was a self-styled protector of the sleeping children.

Katya’s arms cradled the ebony-haired cherub.

She was followed by Katya’s mother, Kiko, leaning on Xion.

The unlikely cluster advanced to the palace entrance, which slid open with a whisper.

To reveal a woman.

She was stunning, with trailing silver and black tresses, an unlined dark-skinned face, and unmistakable features that Xion marked at once, for she resembled Duke.

Youthful and lithe, she appeared like a sister, not his mother.

He handed Kiko to Zoran and bounded up the steps towards her.

‘Khosana DKRT,’ Xion said with a formal bow and click of his heels.

Duke had taught him well how to greet a Ccyth noblewoman.

She smiled, appreciating his effort. ‘You’re Xion Sable, one of the famous Riders and Duke’s friend.’

‘I am, ma’am,’ the Rider rasped.

The Khosana turned her attention to the posse. ‘The rest of these lovely ones are my new charges?’

Xion nodded, presenting the children and their carers. ‘Naam, the D’Hanna family members we rescued from the ALMQ facility. They need your protection, Your Highness.’

Khosana DKRT’s eyes softened as she gazed at the group and the tousled heads of the sleeping young ones. ‘My heart aches for the tragedy they’ve endured. Bring them in at once.’

She gestured for the group to enter the palace, her voice strong and commanding.

‘Take them to East Wing, closest to my private chambers. They will be well cared for and receive my house’s finest treatment.’

Zoran’s soldiers swept past, carrying their precious cargo inside. They moved with efficient speed and tenderness that belied their giant forms.

She turned back to the Rider. ‘They will be well taken care of here, Xion. I am grateful for your efforts in their rescue,’ the Khosana murmured, eyes flicking with curiosity over him.

‘The pleasure was mine, Your Highness,’ Xion replied, his gaze never leaving Katya and the youngsters as they were escorted away.

Katya paused, her arms still around the cherub. She reached a hand and squeezed his bicep, her eyes filled with gratitude. ‘Sante, Xion. For everything.’

‘De nada,’ he rasped, jolting at the emotion that sparked between them.

‘I’ll put Kaaia to bed and return soon to find you,’ Katya whispered.

‘We’ll be in the small salon,’ the Khosana advised, her eyes glittering as she assessed the pair. ‘Ask one of my staff to bring you back to it when you’re done.’

Xion slumped with heavy limbs into a lounge chair inside House DKRT’s sumptuous lounge.

Crossing one leg over his thick thigh, he leaned back into the recliner and stretched.

His body ached, thoroughly bruised and battered.

His mind was weary, his ego wounded, his soul sore as all fokk.

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