The Conscripts: Fight or Die (Blood War Book 3) Read Online Free PDF Page A

assassination attempt in the Senate chambers. He was also Aijuba's uncle.
    “No, my brother. It is I who stand in awe of someone a Wolf warrior of Aijuba’s stature would choose as her mate; she often spoke of you. Our loss continues to be difficult to bear.”
    Kat saw a flash of sadness cross Dasan’s face, then he straightened and said.
    “Yes, my brother. It is difficult to bear, but she died as a true Wolf warrior, with Xotoli blood on her hands. I will always miss her, but I will always cherish her life and the time we had together. I intend to honor her with the rest of my life.”
    Kago’s hard face softened for a moment. Then he said, “Spoken like a true Wolf. My sister warrior chose wisely.”
    Kago put his hand out and they each grasped the other’s forearm. Kat had never seen Kago welcome someone in this way. It was a sign of acceptance few outside the Wolf community ever received.
    “Thank you, Senator,” Dasan said with obvious pride.
    Others at the party noticed the greeting. Kat watched as they took note. She heard the buzz in the room increase as the other guests murmured to one another. Dasan’s stock had just risen significantly among the people he and the admiral would need in the future.
    “We must share a meal soon. I would like to hear stories of Aijuba,” Kago said.
    “Of course. I will contact your office and make arrangements.”
    Kago bowed and Dasan returned the gesture. The senator moved away through the crowd—a tall, proud warrior among those who knew only other, less dangerous battles. Before Kat could lead Dasan to the next guest she wanted to introduce him to, the senator from Rigel Kent approached. Barish wore a very expensive jeweled suit, his hair styled in the latest Rigel Kent fashion. He had a beautiful, much younger blonde on one arm and a brunette on the other. They both wore little except jewels to cover their nipples and pubic triangles.
    “Kat, you must introduce me to the Hero of Rift,” he said.
    “Of course, Senator. Senator Alain Barish of Rigel Kent, may I introduce General Dasan Daniel Sand.”
    “Well, it is an honor, General, to meet the Hero of Rift. Your exploits are well-known throughout the Confederation.”
    He shook hands with Dasan. Kat saw the Senator’s hand crushed under Dasan’s iron grip. Barish grimaced slightly.
    “Thank you, Senator, you are too kind.”
    “Well, as Kat knows, Rigel Kent is raising a great army with Von Fleet’s help. You will soon have additional troops to command against the aliens.”
    “So I understand, Senator,” Dasan replied stiffly.
    Kat could feel his arm stiffen as if he were trying to control himself.
    “General, if I may introduce my two companions. This is Kiara and Dena.”
    Kiara was the tall, slim blonde with eyes that offered much without saying a word. Dena was the tall brunette and her look took in Kat instead of Dasan. Kat met her stare and squeezed Dasan’s arm tighter. She would have to watch that one. She was looking for a new and richer bed to lie in, and Kat doubted she would stop at much to find one.
    “Very pleased to meet you,” Dasan said.
    “So, General, I am sure that you are excited to have Von Fleet’s new divisions and their advanced combat technologies.”
    “Of course, Senator.”
    Kat caught a less-than-enthusiastic tone in Dasan’s voice.
    “You don’t seem excited, General,” Barish said.
    “Senator, is it true that many of your divisions are conscripted ?”
    “Of course. We are a very successful system and many of our system’s citizens hold very important positions in Von Fleet and the other corporations. Conscription is our best tool to help defend the Confederation.”
    “Isn’t it also true that citizens who are conscripted but have enough money can pay for someone to take their place?”
    “Of course. As I said before, we are a very successful system. Our citizens hold vital positions. They cannot be spared to become mere soldiers. They have other