Tempest Rise (Treborel)

chapter Nine



The first available transport wasn’t scheduled to leave until late afternoon. Katar contacted the Southern Air Base to inform them of his whereabouts and Caps accident. They were quite eager to have their field commander back in action and a flight team was rerouted to his destination. They were less than thirty minutes north of the warehouse complex.

Katar arrived at the small cafeteria as they began to clear the breakfast entrees away from the buffet. Fresh fruit and bread was all that was left for the two lovers to feast upon. Piling his plate high, he turned to find Lysette at his elbow, her plate equally full. Finding a table near the far wall they sat quietly, each regretting the loss of free time they so desperately wished for. As Katar studied Lysette’s clean glowing face he realized there couldn’t possibly be another woman more beautiful than she. Her damp blonde hair was pulled back to the nape of her neck, cascading down her back and curling around her shoulders. She had barely three hours of sleep yet looked as if she had spent the entire night in deep restful repose.

Katar told her of the transport that was to arrive shortly and watched as disappointment filled her face. “I wish I could stay, even if it was for only one more day. But it’s just not possible.”

Taking his hand in hers Lysette smiled softly, “I know, I’m going to be in surgery most of the day anyway. I just wish I knew when I was going to see you again.”

“I wish I could tell you. The fact is I don’t know myself where I’m going to be from one day to the next.” Katar sighed and smiled at her adding, “But the war is coming to an end soon. Ergos can’t hold out much longer. They’re out of food and supplies. We cut off their water two days ago. Tor surrendered last night; Ergos is standing alone against an overwhelming force.”

Realizing Lysette wasn’t encouraged by this, he leaned across the table. “Okay, It could be weeks, but it’s not going to last forever and now that I know you're so close . . .” They both knew they might not see each other until the conflict was over, it was best not to make promises. Yet Katar couldn’t help himself. “When this thing is over I want to take you to Treborel and the Empathic Institute. I want to introduce you to my home.”

Finally a smile appeared on her face as she said, “I’d like that very much, Katar.”

He wanted to ask her to stay with him in Borel, but the words wouldn’t form. They finished their meal and spent their last few minutes together checking on Cap’s progress. The recovery area was quietly full of movement. Cap was sequestered near the back of the long dark room. They found Kendra seated at Caps bedside trying to coax him into using his voice.

“The raspy sound isn't’ going to fade until you start using your vocal cords again.” Kendra scolded the young officer, “Sooner or later you're going to have to speak. It really doesn’t sound that bad.” Flustered she looked up at Katar and Lysette then back to Cap with a determined look saying, “I never would have thought you were vain, Cap Taylor. I guess I’ll just have to sit here hour after hour talking to you until you answer me.”

“That may be just want he wants Kendra.” Katar warned with a sly smile, looking down at his friend.

“In that case, I should go,” Kendra rose, Cap scowled at Katar showing his displeasure at being betrayed. “When you’re ready to talk just ask for me.” With that, she was gone.

Lysette placed her medical probe on Cap’s chest, pleased at his vital signs. “You’re doing well Commander. You’ll be out of here in a few days.” She smiled softly, then stood and kissed Katar deeply and said, “I’m going to report in, I’m sure you two have things to discuss. Find me before you leave; I’ll walk you to the landing area.”

Cap managed a weak smile, surprised that his friend was kissing the one woman he had sworn to do hate him. Taking a slow deep breath, Cap spoke his voice was rough and dry, “Katar, I think I must have been hurt worse than I . . . thought. You told me you weren’t interested in her.”

“I can’t help it Cap. She’s got a hold on me I can’t break.” Katar turned back to him with a wink. “And I’m tired of resisting.”

“What about . . . Enda?” Cap let himself relax into the pillows, his throat ached.

“I’ve told you before Cap, if you interested in Enda, I have no ties to her. She knew I never intended our relationship to go beyond anything more than it was.” Katar said defensively.

“Do I detect . . . guilt?” Cap croaked, despite his growing fatigue.

Katar stared at his injured friend and wondered how Cap could always see inside his head and said, “You know as well as I do, that I never worried how my . . . romances turned out. The direction they went in was left to chance. I really didn’t care. But now, with Lysette, I want to guide it.” Katar sat down in Kendra’s vacant chair and continued, “I’m in love with her Cap. I’ll be damned if I know how it happened.” Katars voice changed to a solemn tone. “Now it's very important to make sure Enda understands that it's over between us. I don’t want anyone or anything to come between Lysette and myself. I’ve never known anyone like her, Cap. She’s more than just beautiful and intelligent. Lysette cares deeply about the things she’s involved with and she’s not afraid of the future. She's not afraid to face all the changes that threaten the entire continent. She is exactly what I want, what I need.”

Glancing over at Cap Katar saw that his friend was tiring. “I’ve talked enough, you need some rest.” Katar rose glancing around for Kendra. “It was quite a surprise seeing Kendra here. Why don’t you let her help you?” He turned back to Cap smiling brightly. “Some women think a deep raspy voice is sexy.”

That solicited a smile from Cap and he reached up to tug on Katars uniform. “I can always count on you to get right to the point.” Then his smile faded as his eyes closed. Forcing them open he added weakly, “I owe you my life . . .”

The fear and concern that he had felt the night before returned to Katar in a rush of emotion Looking into the tired face of the man who had been his friend and confidant since childhood the arrogant Prince realized how deeply he cared for Cap and how much his loss would have hurt. Katar cleared his tightening throat as Cap added, “Just make sure you don’t find yourself in the same situation. I won’t be there to help for a while.”

Katar grinned as Cap’s face relaxed into sleep and said, “I think I can manage to survive for a few days without you.”





The sky darkened as one of the many early summer storms formed above the palace. It was almost as if Prince Roth brought the storm with him into Sean Nolan’s office, waiting for the thunder to launch its echoes across the sky. Sean appeared through the door as Roth was inquiring with Val about his availability.

Sean was in no mood for Roth, he said, “Roth, I didn’t realize you were back in Lavose?”

“I’m just in for the day, I decided to take a short break and see how mother was holding up.” Roth answered glancing past Sean to his closed office door.

Nodding at his remarks Sean addressed Val, “Do you have the information I requested?”

“Yes sir intelligence confirms Lady Waytals story. But has no information on her engagement.” Val sorted through her papers and handed him a document with a portrait attached. “They sent this over, it looks like her.”

“What did security say?” Sean concentrated on the information as Val glanced over at Prince Roth in hesitation. “Val?”

Staring at her boss, Val's gray eyes hardened as she answered with awkward dignity. “She was admitted to the palace at Prince Roth’s request. She is his guest.”

Turning his attention to Roth, Sean waited in silence for a response.

“Ah, Lady Waytals?” Roth feigned surprised enlightenment. “I am sorry Sean I wasn’t paying attention to the conversation. I did invite her, I’m so sorry; I must have forgotten to tell you. I received a communiqué from her regarding her fiancé, Prince Katar. She’s worried about him. It seems Lady Waytals and the Queen doesn’t get on too well” Roth smiled brightly at the pair and glanced back toward Sean’s office. “Is she here?” Again the pleasant smile of surprise presented itself as he turned and headed to greet Enda. “I suggested she speak with you about finding her elusive Prince. I know you and Katar have kept in contact these last few months coordinating efforts and such.” Stopping as she reached the door he added, “I forgot she was arriving today, is she in your office?”

Not waiting for an answer he opened the door and walked in before Sean had a chance to register all the information Roth just spewed at him.

“Lady Waytals, I am Prince Roth. It’s so good to finally meet you!” Roth overflowed with charm as he kissed Enda’s hand.

Rising to greet him Enda gasped, “Your Highness! I am honored.” She smiled graciously, glancing toward the returning Lord Nolan as his assistant delayed him one last time.

Entering a few moments later Sean found Roth sitting on the edge of his desk completely enamored by the vivacious Lady Waytals. Moving around to his chair Sean announced, “Lady Waytals, I’m afraid Prince Katar has been reported to have crashed in his helijet just outside a field hospital late last night.” Sean paused to allow her to react.

Enda’s face paled, her jaw fell slack, shocked at the horrifying news. “Is . . . he dead?” She asked her voice barely audible.

“No, apparently not, just bruised a little.” Sean answered without conviction.

“Roth rose and turned to face Sean saying, “You could have prepared her a bit, Sean instead of just throwing it at her like that!” Roth went to the small corner bar and poured Enda a glass of water. Accepting it gratefully Enda asked for more details.

“Apparently he rescued a fellow pilot from some wreckage and flew him to a nearby field hospital as a storm was approaching. The winds knocked the helijet into a small grove of trees as he was trying to land.” Sean answered still not convinced Enda was who or what she claimed.

“He could have been killed!” Enda gasped, once more turning to Prince Roth and taking his hand. “Oh please! I must see him. Is there any way I can go to him? I just won’t believe he’s safe until I can see him.”

“In view of the situation Lady Waytals, I would be pleased to escort you to that very field hospital myself this very moment.” Roth rose gallantly turning to Sean. “Where is he?”

“Our latest installment near Sondral.” Sean answered, quietly then turned to Lady Waytals and added, “It could be dangerous and there is no guarantee that Prince Katar will still be there when you arrive, his injuries . . .”

“I must try Lord Nolan.” Enda began to sob covering her eyes with a tissue; she produced neatly from her purse.

“Then we shall leave at once.” Roth proclaimed helping Enda to her feet he escorted her to the door and added, “I’ll handle this Sean, don’t trouble yourself.”

Sean simply stared after them in silence.

Roth couldn’t believe his luck. The very diversion he needed to place Enda exactly where she needed to be had happened without any effort on his part. Lysette’s new assignment, the Sondral Field Hospital fell right into place as well. He couldn’t have planned it better himself. His only concern was if Katar had managed to spend any time alone with Lysette last night. Feeling the jealousy rise, he clenched his fists and led Enda toward the Helijet transport waiting for them on the back lawn.

After tonight, Lysette would be done with Katar, forever.





Lysette finished her rounds quickly then headed toward the small laboratory located at the front of the complex. Katar came up behind her and kissed her neck. Startled she turned around to find his lips on hers. Oblivious to the medical personnel staring at them he pulled her close and said, “The helijet is landing now. I meant what I said last night, Lysette.” He pulled her against him and smiled softly say, “I love you.”

“And I love you.” She answered, forcing the tears back that threatened to surface.

“Those stars are sparkling in your eyes again.” He said turning and pulling her with him toward the rear exit. “I’ll be back as soon as I can. I hope I can come back to pick up Cap in a few days.”

Before she knew it they were at the landing area and Lysette was kissing Katar goodbye. “Be careful.” Was all she could manage and he was gone.

The rest of the day was filled with inquiries from the female staff as to who Lysette’s tall, handsome suitor had been. When it was finally discovered he was Prince Katar, she became the talk of the unit. With a contented smile, Lysette ignored them and carried on with her work. She wasn’t impressed with Katar because he was a Prince, there was so much more to him than simply royal blood.

Late that afternoon a ‘My Beloved’ arrived. Wondering how he managed to send flowers in the middle of the war Lysette smiled and spent the day in perfect bliss. There were no casualties throughout the rest of the afternoon. When Prince Roth arrived and asked Lysette to join him for dinner, she had no excuses. Agreeing, she realized this was the perfect time to tell him about her relationship with Katar. Hopefully this would be the end of his constant attention.

Roth had successfully hidden his fury after being informed that Katar had spent the entire night in Lysette’s quarters. He had no reason to doubt his sources. Lt Onlot had been accurate since the conflict began. Calming himself, he knew the impact of Enda would be even more severe now that Lysette had become intimate with the mountain barbarian. Roth wasn’t truly convinced that Enda’s claim was valid, neither did she care. He knew Lysette would break off all contact with Katar and never give him the chance to explain.

Hopefully Katar would never know why Lysette had suddenly decided to stop seeing him. In her heartbroken state, she would be vulnerable, vulnerable to him. Roth would convince Lysette to marry him. She’d be much happier in Lavose with her family and friends nearby instead of stranded in the wilderness as her medical knowledge was ignored.

It was far past the dinner hour when Lysette arrived at the suite that had been arranged specifically for Roth. It was nearly three times the size of her small room with a large sofa, high back chairs and brightly colored curtains. Lysette was surprised to find that Roth was not alone. The beautiful blonde sitting on the sofa across from her was smiling brightly as Roth introduced them. Lysette was encouraged by her presence, perhaps Roth had moved on.

Roth played the perfect host during the meal. Roth kept the conversation light and casual until the appropriate time. It was clear that Lysette was intrigued by Enda’s presence. Roth hoped she was jealous but doubted it was true. Moving to open another bottle of the exquisite port Roth frowned at Enda, concerned at the quantity she was consuming. He vowed to throttle the wench if she became too intoxicated to complete her task.

“Lady Waytals, I am acquainted with most of the Lon Tesse court. Your name isn’t familiar to me. Is your home in Ragal?” Lysette asked, pulling her glass away as Roth attempted to refill it again.

“Oh no, my dear.” Enda smiled, enjoying the anticipation, the time was at hand. “I’m from Treborel. I came here to locate my fiancé.”

“Lady Waytals was at the capital today,” Roth interrupted, not wanting Katar’s name to be mentioned too quickly. “She was speaking with your uncle with I arrived. When I heard that Lady Waytals hadn’t been in contact with her betrothed since the conflict began, I offered my assistance.” Roth smiled brightly at Lysette, and then changed the subject. “Lady Waytals were you aware that Lady Nolan is a surgeon here at the hospital? I understand she’s been working closely with the Empathic healers of Treborel.”

“How interesting,” Enda turned her attention back to Lysette, with an intense gaze and said, “So young and beautiful to be spending so much time inside a man’s body instead of next to one.” Studying the young surgeon, Enda wondered if she was truly capable of wrenching Katar away from this beauty. The young Prince had better pray his plan was a success. She would let nothing stand in her way. It would be a pity for Roth to lose his only love, forever. “Perhaps you could help me in my search. I understand that my fiancé was involved in a helijet crash near here last night.” Enda finished, smiling at how easy it would be to have someone killed in the middle of a war.

“Lady Waytals, I did speak with the Commander. Our information must have been faulty, he is not here.” Roth interrupted, quietly pretending to soothe Enda.

“It’s quite alright, Roth.” Lysette was touched by the woman's dedication to her lover. “I operated on a Treborelan Officer that was involved in the crash.”

“Oh no!” Enda rose wailing, “Your uncle told me he was only slightly injured.” She pulled Roth up from the sofa, desperately grabbing onto his uniform lapel. “He’s dead and you just couldn’t find the words to tell me!”

“No! Lady Waytals.” Lysette rose and took hold of her hands. “He is going to be fine; I’ll take you to him right now.”

Enda stared into Lysette’s calm, smiling face with astonishment and relief. Gasping for breath she replied, “Oh my love, my Katar! Thank you so much, Dr Nolan, I would very much like to see him now.”

The look of surprise and confusion on Lysette’s face thrilled Roth. He hid his pleasure at how smoothly Enda had given the secret away.

“I’m sorry, did you say Katar?” Lysette asked her voice uncertain.

“Yes, Prince Katar of Treborel. Please take me to him.” Enda moved toward the door, pretending not to notice Lysette’s hesitation.

Time suddenly seemed to slow as the impact of Enda’s words took hold of Lysette. There must be some mistake. Lysette heard herself clarifying the situation, “The officer I operated on was Commander Caplin Taylor.”

“What?” Enda turned back to stare at Lysette in surprise and added with a laugh, “Cap Taylor? I thought Katar was flying the helijet?” She stopped smiling and threw a look of disappointment at Lysette saying, “Are you telling me that Katar isn’t here after all?”

“Prince Katar was a passenger in the helijet and he was here last night. He sustained only minor injuries.” Lysette forced herself to continue, matching Enda’s gaze. She was indeed a beautiful woman Lysette could see why any man would be attracted to her.

“Then he is here and he’s alright?” Enda searched Lysette’s face for an answer.

Once again Lysette heard her voice reply, “He’s fine but he’s no longer here.” Lysette couldn’t believe what was happening. She was so certain Katar’s feelings were real. Suddenly her head cleared and she looked upon Enda with new eyes and asked, “Are you telling me that Prince Katar is your Fiancé?”

Roth sat back on the sofa in anticipation of the following discussion, impressed with Enda’s aloof calmness.

“Yes, we were engaged shortly before he left for the Alliance Summit. Unfortunately we were unable to plan and announcement because he was unable to return to Borel.” Satisfied Katar was nowhere near, Enda felt free to repeat her story. Moving back to the sofa to sit next to Roth, she smiled brilliantly at the amused Prince the instant her back was to Lysette. Biting the inside of his cheek as a smile threatened Roth swore to bed the seductive wench before she returned to Treborel.

Shifting his gaze to Lysette, Roth was startled at her stricken face. Fighting back the guilt that threatened to surface Roth reminded himself this was for her own good. He was the only one that could truly make her happy. Yes, he would do his best; at the very least he would be discrete with his future dalliances.

Enda began describing what appeared to be a story of several years of romance between herself and Katar. The more detailed Lady Waytals description became, the more Lysette began to doubt her sincerity.

“Just exactly how did Prince Katar propose?” She asked, wondering if the noblewoman was refined enough to distinguish a seduction from a proposal of marriage. Perhaps she had mistaken a brief affair for a long lasting relationship.

Satisfied that her story was being absorbed, Enda relaxed against the back of the sofa as she replied. “Katar isn’t one for long speeches or sweet words. He simply asked.”

“Lady Waytals, I find your story quite unbelievable.” Lysette was convinced the poor woman had been deceiving herself.

“Dr. Nolan I don’t know what to say!?” Enda bolted upright with calm surprise. “But frankly, it isn’t important to me whether you believe me or not. You are of no consequence to me or my fiancé.”

“I am sorry you feel that way, Lady Waytals. But I am of importance to Prince Katar.” Lysette sat back down in her chair. “Katar and I are seriously involved and he has never mentioned you. I think perhaps you’ve mistaken a brief liaison for something much, much more.” Lysette reached out compassionately and touched Enda’s hand.

Jerking back Enda glanced quickly at Roth, shock filled her face. Rising quickly Roth moved to Enda’s side, taking her hand in support. Turning to Lysette, Enda calmly defended herself, “I cannot mistake a man's intentions, when he blatantly asks me to bare his child.” Turning to Roth, Enda buried her head in his shoulder.

Focusing on Lysette, Roth spoke with great regret. “Lysette, I had no idea you and Prince Katar were involved. I never would have brought Lady Waytals here if I had known.” Roth helped Enda to the small chair by the window. “Perhaps we should end this conversation, for tonight and discuss this in the morning when we are all less emotional.”

It was Enda who refused, rising from her chair, she crossed slowly to Lysette. “No, I think it is best that we bring everything out.” Enda took Lysette’s hand and calmly led her to sit on the sofa beside her. “I’m sorry we both had to find out about each other this way.” This time Enda was rational and soothing. “Every time this happens it hurts as much as the very first time.” Enda paused and sighed deeply, continuing, “Katar had promised me that this would never happen again. It was the only reason why I agreed to marry him. He has a weakness for beautiful women. I thought he had truly given up these convenient romances. I had hoped when he knew I was truly going to be his it would all end.” Looking into Lysette’s pale face, Enda smiled sadly. “It is so difficult, being Heir to an Empire. I know there are so many women willing to do anything just to catch his eye. My only consolation is that he always returns to me.”

Lysette could no longer speak. She felt only numb disbelief fill her with hopelessness. Rising without a work Lysette walked slowly from the room oblivious to Roth’s words of consolation. Moving without thought toward her quarters, Lysette stopped in front of Joah’s door. The elderly empathy spoke constantly of Borel and the queen he had once served as healer. Perhaps he could help her; perhaps he could tell her the truth. The truth she wanted to hear, that Lady Waytals was an imposter; that the man she was so deeply in love with wasn’t playing games with her heart.

‘Help me Joah.” Her mind pleaded as she stood before the door barely in control of her emotions. The door jerked open and Andrus face appeared. Without a word, he took her hand and pulled her inside. His touch soother her, gave her strength. As Joah rose from the end of his bed she poured out her story. Unaware of the anger that grew on Andru’s handsome face, Lysette concentrated on Joah as he listened calmly.

Tears poured down Lysette’s face and she finished and said, “I need to know if she’s telling the truth. Were they involved?”

The kind smile that appeared before her did nothing to relieve her pain as Joah spoke, “Prince Katar has had many beautiful women by his side as many powerful men do throughout their lives. Enda was one of his most recent companions.”

All her strength disappeared with his words. Andru moved forward to place his arm around her shoulder in comfort, as Joah continued. “I have never known Prince Katar to deceive anyone. Lady Waytals is indeed a close friend, but I cannot attest to any marital plans. This is something you must discuss with him.”

Rising, Lysette thanked Joah and headed for the door followed quickly by Andru. As they reached her quarters the young empathy took her hand once more and said, “I wish I could take this pain away. You have no idea how hard it is to see you in pain.” Andru concealed his anger at the man who had thrown away the love he so desperately wanted. “I’m here if you need me, for anything.” He wanted to offer so much more. To tell her he would like to try to fill the void she felt. Yet he held back knowing there would be time in the weeks to come for such words.

Smiling softly, Lysette kissed Andru’s cheek in tender appreciation, his dark brown eyes frowned as she spoke. “Thank you Andru. I’ll be fine.” Then she disappeared into her room. Collapsing on her bed, Lysette let the tears flow, until exhaustion led her into a dreamless sleep.



A lingering trace of light filtered in through the recovery room doors as Cap scanned the darkness of the large room. Everywhere laid the sleeping forms of his fellow soldiers. He recalled how each had received a lingering visit from Kendra at some point during the day. All had been given the pleasure of her attention. Whether she had read to them or played some simple game to help them pass the time, they had all been given her smile. All except him, she had walked past him each time, without a single glance.

He hadn’t spoken since his conversation with Katar. It had made his throat ache. His voice has been so rough, it sounded as if he had swallowed shards of broken glass. Not that his voice had been soft or exceptionally sweet before. He simply couldn’t stand the idea of sounding like a whispering old man speaking his last words before death took him to oblivion.

Cap knew that Kendra wouldn’t return until he used his deformed voice to ask for her. In the darkness of the night, after the loneliness of the day, he decided to get a grip on his pride. He tried to speak her name. As if she had read his thoughts Kendra appeared through the windows in the doorway. From across the room, Cap could tell she was only delivering some instructions to the healer on call. She was not coming in his direction. Gathering his strength, Cap rose as his tired muscles cried out. Pulling himself up, he headed slowly toward the door. Passing the sleeping forms that filled the room he reached the double door. Kendra glanced up somehow knowing he was there. Frozen, she waited as he slowly opened the door and came to her. Her pulse quickened as she saw the look of determination on his unshaven face. Turning toward him, she waited as the excitement that only his presence could cause filled her.

“I’m Commander Caplin Taylor; I’m looking for an Empathic Healer.” Cap’s eyes met hers as his raspy voice reached her.

“I am the Empath you seek.” Her voice answered him, softly filled with tender joy as she stepped forward and took his arm. Rubbing her fingers over the roughness of his beard, she asked, “How about a shave?”

“I’d really like that.” He answered, swallowing hard as the ache in his throat returned.

Shifting her hand slightly, she brushed her fingertips against the scarred curve of his throat and the pain vanished. Cap was pleasantly surprised at the tender ease with which Kendra shaved him. The seductive sponge bath that followed nearly had him undone. If this was the sort of reward he was to receive from using his rough unsavory voice, he was just going to have to get used to the sound of it.

Kendra spoke constantly telling him about her day and the progress of the patients around him. She solicited comments from Cap occasionally, wanting him to test his voice without straining the already damaged vocal chords. By the time she returned Cap to his bed, it was nearly dawn. The back rub she gave him combined with the exertion of his movements lulled Cap to sleep.

Relieved that Cap was truly on his way to recovery, Kendra finally admitted to herself, she had fallen in love with him. Yet her hidden past, linking her to Prince Katar under the most vile of circumstances would not let her reveal her feelings to his most cherished friends. She wondered if there was any chance of a future for her and Cap. Perhaps it was time for her to release the violent memory that haunted her for so many years. Perhaps Caplin Taylor, companion to Prince Katar was the one person who could help her do that. If she only knew how deep his feelings were for her. She felt she could trust him. Soon, she told herself, soon. When it was over, if Cap loved her, he would stay by her side.

As the next few days passed Cap and Kendra grew closer. Lysette grew distant. She only came to Caps to examine him quickly then disappear. The day came for Caps release and she had come to say goodbye. Cap was growing concerned at the coldness of the woman that his friend had become so enchanted by. Cap decided to take Katar asked and make sure he knew what he was getting himself into. Before then, Cap decided to give her one last chance.

Glancing up at the cold surgeon as she handed him his release papers, he was surprised when she smiled softly and spoke in a caring manner. “Be careful Commander. You were very lucky this time. Next time your friends might not reach you in time.”

“Thanks Dr Nolan, but I’m not going to make the same mistake again.” He smiled back at her hoping for some further sign of warmth. Perhaps she had been hard to deal with because she missed Katar. “I guess your spirits have lifted today because Katar is due in shortly.”

Lysette's smile vanished and her eyes grew distant as she answered, “Katar and I have much to discuss.”

Cap looked out the window as Katar’s helijet landed. “Well since he’s just arrived, I won't take up anymore of your time.” Cap wondered what Katar had done to get this strong-minded female so upset. All thoughts of Lysette left him when he saw Kendra coming for him.

As Lysette headed out the door to the landing area Kendra gave Cap a quick kiss on the mouth and said, “I wish I had time to take you to the transport, but I’ve been called into surgery. Her smile faded. “You take care, as much as I’ll miss having you around. I don’t want to see you in here again.”

Pulling her down to the bed next to him Cap’s smile disappeared, “The conflict will be over soon, maybe a month or two. Where will you go when it’s over? How will I find you?” He asked his voice still raspy.

“I’ll be back at the institute for a while. I don’t know where I’ll be assigned after that.” Kendra looked into his coal black eyes, wanting to lose herself within them. “The conflict delayed all the plans for the Southern Colony.”

“If I don’t get back here before the conflict is over, is it alright if I visit you at the Institute?” His voice was soft, he’d completely forgotten about the abrasiveness. Cap hadn’t realized how difficult it would be to leave Kendra. He felt like he had known her all of his life.

“I’d like that Cap.” Kendra whispered, wishing he would tell her how he felt.

Instead he pulled her slowly to him and kissed her softly then said, “Watch for me then, and if you get transferred leave word with Lysette. She can let me know through Katar.”



Lysette’s heart pounded as she neared the landing area. Katar climbed out of the small craft and smiled at the sight of her. His tall, muscular form made her stomach jump. He was so handsome in his dark blue uniform. Grabbing her around the waist as she reached him, he kissed her boldly. When the kiss wasn’t returned, he pulled back concerned and said, “Your heart wasn’t in that kiss, is something wrong?” He studied her face, noting the iciness in her eyes.

“I was just wondering if you greet Enda Waytals like that every time you see her.” Lysette cringed as she realized how catty and childish she sounded.

“Enda?” Katar said searching her face, confused. “I don’t understand.”

“I do and perfectly!” Lysette snapped at him and turned around to head back to the hospital.

“Lysette?” Katar followed. What had come over her? How did she learn about Enda? Why did she care? He never would have taken her as the type to get jealous over an old flame.

When she reached the door to her quarters, she stopped and turned back to face him saying, “I have nothing more to say to you.”

Grabbing her arm gently, Katar stopped her from entering her room. “Lysette, I don’t follow after anyone like a lost puppy. I’m making an exception because I’m crazy about you and I can see you’re very upset. I don’t understand what’s wrong. If you want to clear this up, hiding in your room isn’t going to accomplish it.” Katar pulled her inside and closed the door behind them, turning back to her.

Realizing he was right, Lysette took a deep breath and calmed herself saying, “I have been told by a very reliable source that you are engaged to Lady Enda Waytals and have been for quite some time.”

A smile of relief crossed Katar’s face and he gently reached for her. “Enda and I . . . “ He began.

Lysette cut him off saying, “I’m no stranger to conceded men who think that every pretty girl should be at their back and call. I will not be a convenient romantic dalliance. I can see you don’t even consider this a serious conversation. I will no longer be the one who keeps you occupied until you can return home to your fiancé. I am insulted by your pretense of ignorance and I will not allow myself to be used any further.” Lysette’s anger consumed her; she couldn’t believe she had allowed herself to be seduced by another deceitful relationship.

“Lysette, calm down.” Katar said beginning to lose patience as Lysette ignored his attempt at an explanation.

Pushing him back from her as her fury rose, she continued, “How could you tell me you loved me when all the time you were promised to someone else. Did you even mean it? You knew how I felt. Why didn’t you just tell me? Just explain the situation instead of lying?” Lysette gasped trying to hold back the tears. “What is wrong with the Royal mentality that turns an heir presumptive into such a beast, where women are concerned? You and Roth are exactly alike!”

“Lysette!” Katars voice boomed throughout the tiny room. He was angered that she would even dare to compare him to the spoiled shallow Prince of Lon Tesse. “So you think I am a beast that beds anything that will have me? You think I play with women’s affections just like your Lon Tesse Prince?” Katar moved forward, closing the distance between them, his voice low and lethal. “I am not Roth; don’t ever compare me to him. I am also not, I repeat NOT engaged nor have I ever been engaged to any woman, especially Enda Waytals. The fact that you have listened to such ridiculous lies, make me doubt how well I know you.”

Not to be undone, Lysette glared back at the angry prince saying, “I spoke to her . . .”

“You what?” Katar couldn’t believe what she was saying. Had she put through a communication to Treborel in the middle of a war to check on his marital obligations?

“She said you asked her to have your child?” Lysette’s anger faded as she realized what Katar was saying.

“You contacted her?” Katar spoke his thoughts out loud, astonished. “I tell you I love you, so you decide it’s okay to delve into my past relationships?”

“You think I went looking for this information?” Lysette asked, confused. The fight had gone out of her.

“I can’t believe this! I spent the last ten days shuffling my pilot’s schedules in order to spend three entire days with you in the middle of a damn war and all you can do is accuse me of cheating on a non-existent fiancé.”

“She came here looking for you.” Lysette stammered.

The fight left him as he realized their relationship could easily end in the next few moments. He took a deep breath and continued, “Lysette, I admit that in the past I have . . . played with the affection of . . . certain females. I was very young and foolish. That is behind me.” He looked into her tear filled eyes. He felt partially responsible for her pain. He should have told her about Enda. He should have contacted Enda long ago and ended their relationship. He added, softly, “Now you’re got to decide if it is me you trust or some woman who sought you out for who knows what reason. If you can’t take my word as truth over someone else, then we have no future together.”

Lysette could see the pain and disappointment in his eyes as he turned to leave. “Katar, I believe you.” Lysette followed him, taking hold of his shoulder; she turned him back to face her. “I didn’t contact her.” Seeing the doubt on his face she continued, “Roth brought her here from the palace in Lon Tesse . . . “

“Roth, of course. Enda must have told him some story to get into a palace function. He couldn’t wait to bring you the news of my supposed engagement.”

“I don’t think . . .”

“It doesn’t matter, let’s forget the entire ordeal.” Katar pulled her into his arms, relieved that he didn’t lose her to petty jealously. “I’m sorry I accused you of prying. I should have known you wouldn’t do something as petty as that. I just never told anyone I loved them before; I guess it made me a little paranoid.” Pulling back from her, he looked into her eyes. “I need to know if you have any doubts about how I feel?”

“I never should have doubted you, Katar. I know you love me, just as much as I love you. I will never doubt it again.” Lysette’s voice choked with emotion.

Katar swept her up in his arms, kissed her deeply and carried her to the tiny bed. Falling together, they forgot everything else except reconfirming their love.