Page 2 of Protected By the Alien Knight

“Thank you, Crux,” I say, wishing I could add more.

His jaw clenches, and for a moment, I think I see a flicker of emotion in his eyes. But it’s gone as quickly as it appeared, replaced by his usual stoic expression.

“You’re welcome, Ambassador,” he says, his voice low and husky. “It’s my honor and duty to serve and protect.”

His words send a shiver down my spine, but I feel a twinge of disappointment. It’s Annie; I almost repeat. I long for a more personal connection with him, a glimpse of the man beneath the armor. But I know it’s not my place to ask for more. With a final nod, I turn and enter the council chambers, pushing aside my personal desires and focusing on my next responsibility.

As I enter the council chambers, I’m greeted by the sight of the Folmodian delegation. They are a striking species, with elongated limbs, iridescent scales covering their bodies, and large, almond-shaped eyes that seem to change color with their moods. Ambassador Tark, their leader, is particularly intimidating, with a crest of spikes running down his back and a penetrating gaze that feels like it could pierce through my soul.

“Ambassador Agnew, we have been waiting,” Tark says, his voice a guttural hiss that sends a chill down my spine.

“My apologies, Ambassador Tark,” I reply, keeping my tone diplomatic. “I was caught up in a matter of great importance.”

I take my seat at the table, feeling a sense of relief that the Huxarians, the Folmodians' sworn enemies, are not present. Their absence is both a blessing and a cause for concern. While it makes my job easier today, their silence is uncharacteristic and potentially troubling.

As the negotiations begin, I find my mind wandering to Crux, standing guard just outside the chambers. His presence is a constant reminder of the dangers that come with my position, but also a source of comfort. I wonder what he thinks of me, if he sees me as just another job or if there could be something more between us.

But I quickly push those thoughts aside. I have a job to do, and the fate of the Orion Quadrant rests on my shoulders. I need to focus, to ensure the Folmodians' remain a part of our coalition and the fragile peace we’ve worked so hard to achieve is not shattered.

As the meeting drags on, I feel the weight of my responsibilities bearing down on me. But I know I can’t give up. I have to keep pushing forward, keep fighting for what I believe in, even if it means sacrificing my happiness and well-being.

With a deep breath, I turn my attention back to the negotiations, determined to see this through to the end. But in the back of my mind, I can’t shake the feeling that something is missing, and I sigh as I catch a glimpse of Crux through the translucent glass.There has to be more to life than endless meetings and political maneuvering.

two

Crux

The stale air isfilled with the scents and sounds of the busy Orion Space Station as I make my way toward the command center. The vast area is teeming with aliens from a wide variety of species. I watch as they go about their daily lives, unaware of the dangers which lurk among them. That’s why I’m here.To serve and protect.

It’s been many solar cycles since I was last assigned to guard an Earthling diplomat. The fact that my previous assignment ended with the death of my charge was the catalyst for the aversion. But that isn’t why my current position, as personal bodyguard to Ambassador Agnew, is the most challenging and demanding position I’ve had.

Commander Ru’yn’s words echo in my mind as I navigate the crowded corridors. “You will have eyes and ears on her at all times. No matter where she goes, you will be there. Understand? The Folmodian negotiation is priority one.” His golden draconian gaze appraised me, seeking assurance.

“Yes, sir,” I replied, my voice steady despite the weight of the responsibility.

He continued, his gaze assessing my every reaction, “Agnew is a valuable asset to the STI. See that she stays safe. Now, report to the ambassador’s quarters.”

“At once, sir.” I saluted and turned to leave.

Now, as I make my way through the crowded corridors, my mind drifts to the human ambassador. I’ve only known her for a short time, but there’s something about her that intrigues me. I push the thought aside, reminding myself that she’s my assignment, nothing else. I cannot afford a distraction.No matter how alluring.

The memory of losing my last charge weighs heavily on me, a constant reminder of the consequences of my failure. It was supposed to be a routine assignment, protecting a high-ranking official on a diplomatic mission to the Vulpexian homeworld. The Vulpexians are known for their peaceful nature, and the mission was low risk. I felt a gnawing unease from the mission briefing but after a few days I let my guard down for just a moment, lulled into a false sense of security by the tranquil surroundings. That moment was all it took.

The attack was swift and brutal, a blur of motion and the glint of a blade. I reacted instinctively, but I was too slow. My charge, a junior diplomat with a promising future, fell to the ground, blood pooling beneath him.Dead.I didn't voice my reservations out of some misplaced sense of obedience and a belief that the intelligence couldn't possibly be flawed. A mistake born of arrogance that proved fatal. I failed in my duty that fateful day, and the shame of that failure has haunted me ever since.

The ambassador’s quarters are on the upper levels of the space station, far away from the hustle and bustle of the lower levels. I approach Ambassador Agnew’s quarters with a sense of anticipation, my heart beating faster as the door slides open witha deep hiss. I’m greeted by the sight of Annie seated at her desk. She looks up at me, her blue eyes meeting mine, and she smiles, her beautiful face lighting up the room.

“Crux, please, come in,” she says, gesturing for me to enter as she stands and begins gathering her datapad and notes. As she moves about the room, I can’t help but admire her form. She is tall for a human female, and her curves are accentuated by the elegant suit she is wearing. Her brown-silver hair falls in waves around her shoulders, and her eyes are bright and intelligent but carry a hint of tiredness.

I silently chastise myself for the inappropriate thoughts. I must not get distracted.Never again.

Suddenly, the door opens, and a young woman bursts in as my hand flicks to my sword in a flash. “Mom, I need to talk to you,” she says urgently.

I relax as Annie sighs, her shoulders slumping. “Alice, I’m in the middle of something important. Can it wait?”

As I step outside to give them privacy, I overhear their conversation, feeling like an intruder in a family matter. Alice is talking rapidly, her voice rising with each word. Annie is trying to calm her down, her tone soothing and patient. I feel a twinge of sympathy for Annie. She’s trying so hard to be everything to everyone, to balance her duties as a mother and a diplomat.

When she emerges from her quarters, her face is drawn and tired, but her eyes hold a mixture of gratitude and apology. As we walk to the council chambers, Annie turns to me.

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