Tallusian Nights [Xihirian Shifters 2] (Siren Publishing Classic) Read Online Free PDF Page A

There aren’t many untouched spots left.” He gritted his teeth, making his head hurt. “The Realmist concentrated on larger areas of population. So, yes there’re a few undamaged areas.” She turned to find where a child was crying out then back at him. “Your cold lands they seemed to have avoided.” His voice changed, and it was even hard to talk without growling. He knew she could probably tell he was gritting his teeth because of his clenched jaw. Hopefully, she’d attribute his behavior as anger toward the Realmist.
    “Yes, no one lives there. But I’m guessing it’s where you’ve set up camp?” She put her hands on her hips as she waited for him to answer. He relaxed his expression as best he could without showing his teeth.
    “Yes, it was the best place to build a hospital with temporary housing.”
    “On ice?”
    “Yes, the ice is solid and under it is solid ground. Plus, it’s easy to defend.” He looked down at the floor, attempting to avoid eye contact. No doubt his eyes were changing, glowing bright amber with vertical pupils. “The large Realmist ships left after our ships arrived. But, they left behind some fighter ships within your atmosphere. We’re dealing with those now. Some Realmist troops have landed, too, which brings new concerns.” Zalora frowned up at him. She pushed her hair back from her face, gathering some curls in her hand. She seemed to study him as she pulled her hair together, twisting it as to subdue her curls. When she let go, they bounced free as if they were elastic. Again, floral, feminine scent exploded around him, making him gasp. He held his breath to minimize some of its effect on him.
    “Sit down, relax.” She motioned to another chair near her desk. “You seem tense. Do you feel okay?”
    “I’m okay,” he growled.
    “Did you just growl?” Her eyes were wide.
    “No, I don’t think so.” He looked down at his hands. He could feel her staring at him for a moment. Then she busied herself again.
    “I’m sorry for being irritable with you earlier. I appreciate your world coming to our rescue. My father has always spoken highly of your king as well as your military leader. I can’t remember their names at the moment.” Her lovely smile made his heart jump. The sensation was so intense he nearly clutched his chest. His entire body reacted to her, making all of his muscles tense. Quickly, he sat down to hide even more evidence of her effect on him. Now I know exactly what Kade meant about our flight suits being too tight.
    “Xihirah’s at war against these Realmists. We’re determined to stop them.” He straddled his chair, resting his arms on its back. “We never thought they’d attack so far out in our galaxy. Especially Tallusia. This world’s so peaceful, and you stay to yourselves.” His communicator beeped. He hit a button.
    “Captain.”
    “Yes.”
    “Pilot Kilson here.”
    “Go ahead.”
    “I’ve arrived with my loaddisk at the last coordinates you sent.”
    “Very good, I’ll be out with our first group. You’re to take them to the Med-Vac camp. Is it up and running?”
    “Yes, sir, it’s fully operational.”
    “Excellent. Our first group will be out shortly.” Val ended their communication. “Okay, let’s get our first group to the ship as quickly as possible.” Val stood up, pushed his chair out of his way, then walked to the room’s center. “Listen please.” He held up his right hand. The room silenced at his command. He made eye contact with the adults in the audience. “Anyone who’s injured or ill, we’ll be taking first. There’s a medical crew waiting at the camp which has already been prepared. I’ll wait at the door for your first group to be ready.” He nodded toward Zalora. “Send at least four adults with each group.” He turned then walked down the hall.
     
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    “Anya, I want you to gather up our first group as he instructed. You’ll be going with them.” Zalora nodded toward the