“No one will harm my Grace. Never again. I will die before I let that happen.” I vowed.
He gave me a look that said he understood even though he was not yet mated himself.
Fatigued and in need of rest, I leaned against the wall opposite the infirmary. There were still so many things to do and not enough time.
“Since we now have a better understanding of the Krilexs’ partners, we will alert our allies and the human colonies,” I declared.
“Do you think there are additional shapeshifters on Alara?” Krin asked.
I released a long breath. “I don’t know, but I am going to assume so. At least we know they are not telepathic, and we can detect them that way. We will have to speak to every cult member to ensure there are none left in their ranks. When I meet with the council and the guards, I will warn them what to look for. Right now, my biggest concern is this new weapon the Krilex has. It needs to be destroyed.”
Krin’s brows pinched as if he hadn’t considered the weapon the Krilex had used to incapacitate us.
“The Drakkari destroyed the Krilex ship that used it on us. Do you think the weapon was supplied to all Krilex ships?” he asked.
We’d been pursued three times since we found the females, but only once were we boarded and the weapon used.
Standing tall, I shook my head. “Let’s hope they don’t distribute their tech widely among the enemy’s ships. It sounds like this shapeshifting race doesn’t trust the Krilex, which could prove to be an advantage to us.”
Krin agreed. “Without a doubt. We won’t let the Krilex carry out their plans.” He positioned his hands on his hips. “If we’re lucky, the next time we capture one of these creatures, they might finally tell us who they are.”
“Hopefully.” I gave my head a scratch then folded my arms. “There is one thing that I find strange. If they’re becoming extinct, why commit suicide when captured? It appears to be counterproductive.”
Krin shrugged. “We will learn more about them in time. You have a lot to take care of in the coming weeks. Leave the new enemy to me.”
A smile crossed my face. “Now that you mention it, I thought I should inform you I’ll be transferring command of the Chetok to you.”
Krin scratched his chin and then gestured with his hands. “Was there ever any doubt?”
We both shared a laugh.
A moment later, I spoke again. “Once I am crowned and other matters are taken care of, I will reach out to those who previously refused to join the Protectorate Alliance. It is imperative that we get more warriors and ships.
We must prevent the Krilex from gaining control over any planet in Alaran space. I won’t let them plunder planets for resources. Everyone needs to stay alert.”
I ground my teeth, not excited about the prospect of fighting with another race. The Krilex, Zinids, and shapeshifters had to understand they were unwelcome in Alaran territory.
Krin listened and chewed the inside of his cheek. I knew that look. He was planning something.
“What are you thinking?”
“When our ship returns to space I will capture and interrogate as many Krilex Captains as I can. Learn everything about their pact with the shapeshifters. If there is a way to end their alliance and stop them from trading tech for females, we must find it.”
“Agreed,” I grunted.
Krin also noted. “When we gain more ships, we could send some out to find the moon this new race is inhabiting.”
I cautioned. “The shapeshifters must not see our ships approaching.” I put one finger up. “But that’s where I believe the Ixul can be helpful.”
There was a beat before Krin nodded. “Let’s hope they finally join the Protectorate Alliance, your highness.” He grinned.
“You will stay for my coronation?” I asked, redirecting the conversation.
“I wouldn’t miss it.” He performed an Alaran salute. “If you will excuse me I have someone to speak to about a job. I’ll catch up with you later.
IT WAS SATISFYING TOwatch him assume the position I had left behind.
My role as King involved advising and consulting with the Protectorate elders and my royal advisors on Alara.
