Overlord: Outcasts, #6

By Cyndi Friberg

Determined to bring meaningful change to her people, Lady Eza of the Sarronti seeks out the leader of the Outcasts and proposes a daring alliance. She expects to negotiate with a barbarian. Instead, Overlord Kage Razel awakens longings that have nothing to do with the rebellion. He intrigues and attracts her, making her ache for the consuming passion she has only experienced in his arms. Yet Kage also frightens Eza. She senses secrets in him, portions of his being he will not share with anyone. There is no doubt Eza wants him, but can she trust this mysterious stranger, or will he use his unique abilities to gain control over her world?

Don't miss the exciting conclusion of the Outcasts series!

• Language: English
• Publisher: Anything-but-Ordinary Books
• Release date: Dec 6, 2019
• ISBN: 9781393933830

Cyndi Friberg

Passionate Sci-Fi with a touch of danger and a whole lot of sass. Cyndi has written about rock stars, vampires, and cat shifters, but she’s currently focused on outer space. Her stories are fun, fast-paced, and seriously hot. Her books have made the USA Today Top 100, and frequently land on Amazon Best Seller lists. She is currently working on the Shadowborn Rebellion, a spin-off series set in the Outcasts universe.   She loves to hear from readers: [e-mail] https://facebook.com/fribergc https://twitter.com/Cyndi_Friberg

Book preview

Chapter One

Barely able to breathe , Overlord Kage Razel narrowed his gaze and watched Lady Eza Alonov, a tiny, elf-like Sarronti female. Her head was bent, long dark hair obscuring much of her face as she worked to ease the suffering of Torak, a massive Outcast warrior. Torak’s willingness to reactivate his cybernetic implants had saved hundreds, perhaps thousands of lives tonight. Without his telekinetic power, the warship Relentless would have crashed into the Wheel, the primary structure in the Outcasts’ newly-founded settlement. This would have ended their dream of a free and fair society. The tragedy had been averted, but the price Torak paid was exorbitant.

Torak’s mate, Shivon, crept around the treatment table and stood at Kage’s side. Is that Lady Ezalondra? Shivon’s tone was hushed with worry. They were in main medical, the largest clinic within the Wheel. Not that the location helped. Conventional medicine had proved utterly useless in this situation.

Not trusting his voice, Kage nodded. This was not the first time Torak had endured agonizing withdrawal from the chemicals produced by the integrated tech scattered throughout his body. Kage had attempted to heal Torak last time and failed. Torak was Kage’s second-in-command and one of his closest friends, but Kage’s ability to heal was marginal at best. Clearly, that was not the case with this mysterious Sarronti female.

An hour passed as Lady Eza worked to aid a warrior most considered her enemy. She swept her hands over Torak’s body, never quite touching him. Up and down, she moved from his head to his feet, whispering words Kage’s com-bots couldn’t translate. Her long, black hair flowed to her hips, shimmering with iridescent highlights. The tips of her pointed ears peeked out between the silky looking strands. Standing at full height, she barely reached Kage’s shoulder, yet her power was undeniable.

It had been less than two weeks since he met the intriguing elf. Still, he felt as if they’d known each other much longer. She’d ventured out of the underground warren the Sarronti inhabited, drawn by necessity and hope. Civil war was brewing in the world below, and Lady Eza represented the younger generation, those interested in abolishing the cruelty and subjugation that had been going on for centuries. Unfortunately, the older generation controlled the Sarronti military, so most believed significant change impossible. And then a group of disgruntled mercenaries—the Outcasts—chose Sarronti Prime for their new settlement. Lady Eza, with the encouragement of her peers, decided to explore a possible alliance.

Three days earlier, she’d agreed to become Kage’s hostage in exchange for the release of her feckless nephew, Farlo. The foolish youth was son to General Cagor Alonov, Lady Eza’s brother and head of the Sarronti military. She knew Cagor would use his son’s captivity as an excuse to attack the Outcasts. Hoping to deescalate the volatile situation, she became Kage’s willing hostage. Instead of accepting her decision and allowing her time to negotiate, her hotheaded brother attacked with all weapons blazing.

Eza raised her head and stepped back from the treatment table, her movements weak and unsteady. Fatigue was literally written all over her face. Her lovely eyes, which were usually silver and highly reflective, appeared almost colorless, like facetted crystal. He will sleep for many hours, but the rest should be peaceful.

Thank you. Shivon took a step toward Eza then paused. Thank you so much.

Kage studied Eza for a moment longer. She still looked tired but was no longer swaying. Her energy must have stabilized.

Now that the crisis had passed, other questions rose to the surface of Kage’s mind. Why did you stay in my cabin if you could teleport? She’d appeared in the clinic without escort or explanation. The cabin locked automatically each time he left, so it would have required some sort of paranormal ability to escape. Teleportation was the most likely.

Her full, red lips formed a half-smile as she shrugged. You were so proud of your cleverness, I decided to play along.

His brows arched nearly to his hairline. You’ve been...indulging me? He couldn’t decide whether to laugh or throw her over his shoulder and continue the conversation in private. Any excuse would do as long as he could finally share pleasure with this extraordinary female. He’d wanted the little elf since the first time he saw her, but he needed an alliance with her people more than an intriguing new lover. Even while she resided in his cabin and slept in his bed, he’d played the perfect gentleman, or as close to one as any Outcast could come.

Her smile faded as sadness filled her eyes. I knew Cagor wouldn’t stop until he attacked the Wheel. She referred to the massive complex the Outcasts had created by landing twelve identical ships, arranging them bow to bow, and constructing walkways between each. The Viper, his headquarters, was the heart of that complex. I wasn’t sure if he’d survive the battle, but I knew there was no stopping it.

General Alonov had been a thorn in Kage’s side since he arrived on this secluded planet. Every attempt the Outcasts made to coexist with the Sarronti had been sabotaged by Cagor Alonov and a deceitful female named Isolaund Farr. So you created a situation you knew he couldn’t resist. Anger sparked inside Kage, narrowing his eyes. What if we hadn’t been able to mitigate the ship’s descent?

Harbingers aren’t the only ones who can see into the future.

How in all of hells rings had she known a harbinger was among his advisors? Kage certainly never mentioned Arton to her. Kage depended on Arton’s prophetic visions and brutal honesty when making any important decision, but Arton was intensely private and secretive. Few of the Outcasts knew Arton well, and they all understood his need for isolation. It was unlikely Isolaund mentioned Arton to Lady Eza. Isolaund and Eza were on opposite sides of the Sarronti conflict, and to Kage’s knowledge, Isolaund was the only Sarronti who had interacted with Arton. There was a handful of Sarronti who had abandoned the underground and sought refuge with the Outcasts, but they were even less likely to have informed Lady Eza about Arton. So how had she known?

Before he could ask, Eza shifted her gaze to Shivon. Your mate suffered for a situation I created. I felt obligated to ease his pain.

Well, you’re the only one who could, so again, I’m grateful.

Shivon hadn’t meant the comment as an insult, but it stung just the same. Kage was overlord. It was his job to protect his people, yet he’d been useless in the face of Torak’s pain—again.

Eza’s head dipped as she moved farther back from the treatment table. Despite her obvious effort to conceal her weakness, her movements seemed labored, as if she barely had the strength to stand. He understood the strategy. If he offered her a chair, she’d doubtlessly refuse. As long as others were watching, she would never willingly reveal any hint of weakness. It was the only safe course of action when surrounded by enemies.

So did he? Kage asked.

Did he what? Lady Eza asked.

Did your brother survive the battle?

He did not. I sensed his passing shortly after the battle began. She sighed, and for a moment, Kage sensed her grief. She might appear indifferent, but she cared deeply about her brother and clearly regretted his violent end. His death was inevitable. For power to change hands, some hands must be broken. Cagor chose his path. I simply set the path in motion.

Shifts in power also created vacuums, and the vacancies were sometimes filled by even bigger threats. Like Isolaund Farr. Who will take your brother’s place?

That’s one piece to a much larger puzzle. Her skin was always pale, so it was hard to judge how badly the healing had drained her. The complete absence of color in her eyes still concerned him greatly. Shall we return to your cabin and discuss a potential alliance now that you know I’m here because I choose to be?

I would like that very much. Resisting his need to touch her, Kage escorted Eza out of main medical. The Viper’s rounded corridors were designed to be confusing should an enemy board the ship. Each matte gray hallway appeared identical, and there were no navigational cues on the bulkheads or decking. Crewmembers memorized the layout and asked the central computer for directions if they became disoriented.

He glanced at Eza as they walked along. She hunched slightly forward, hands buried in the fullness of her skirt. The inherent grace he’d noticed so often in her movements was missing. Are you all right?

I’m a bit drained, she admitted with a tight smile, but her steps began to lag.

I think we should return to main medical.

Nonsense. She waved away his concern. All I need is rest and a protein-rich meal. She tucked a stray lock of hair behind her pointed ear as she looked up at him through long, dark lashes. I’m fine. Really.

His chest felt tight, and instinct urged him toward action. Something was definitely wrong. He didn’t sense a specific threat, more like trepidation. They made it to the elevators, and he motioned inside, watching her closely. She took a step forward, then her legs gave out, and she collapsed with a groan. He swept her up in his arms and teleported directly to his cabin. She hung limply from his arms, eyes closed, barely breathing. Worry rushed through his being. She needed a mystic healer, not a conventional doctor, but—

Energy, she whispered. I just need energy.

Did using her abilities always exact such a high price on her body? Her clairvoyance engaged spontaneously the first time they touched, and he’d had to feed her energy to counteract the damage her gift did to her physical body. Is that what happened with Torak, or was she too damn stubborn to stop even knowing she was endangering herself. He’d only seen flashes of her spirit, fascinating sparks of the true Eza, but he had no doubt he’d be seeing more now that her subterfuge was over.

He went into the bedroom and sat on the edge of the bed. Supporting her shoulders with one arm, he allowed her weight to rest on his lap as he brushed the hair back from her face. Can you take what you need, or shall I transfer it to you?

Her eyelids fluttered then opened, and for just a moment, her crystalline gaze locked with his. Just kiss me.

What he’d done in the forest hadn’t been an actual kiss, but he was happy to repeat the procedure. Pressing his hand to the side of her face, he lowered his mouth to hers. She parted her lips as she closed her eyes, her breath warming his skin. He eased into her mind, not sure what he’d find. The first time she’d been suspicious, her mental shields so dense they were impenetrable. Tonight her mind was open, still guarded yet accepting.

He fed energy to her in a steady, concentrated stream. With little effort, he could scan her memories and absorb her knowledge base. But she would know he’d taken advantage of her weakness and she’d never trust him again. He only invaded a mind when he had a very good reason. He would never betray her like that. He needed an ally, not another enemy.

Who was he trying to fool? It wasn’t just the alliance. Kage wanted Eza, wanted her badly. And he didn’t just want her in his bed. He wanted to understand her, to share himself with her and—he refused to finish the thought. Claiming his mate was an instinctual drive for Rodyte males. Kage was a complex hybrid. He hadn’t been sure he would ever experience this soul-deep urging, but it was undeniable. Eza was his mate, or at least his potential mate.

She gradually stirred, sliding her hand up his arm and across his shoulder until her fingers wrapped around the back of his neck. Her tongue brushed his lower lip, tentatively touched his tongue, then retreated. Unable to ignore the invitation, he kissed her, really kissed her for the first time.

His lips slid over and against hers, his tongue exploring her warm, wet mouth. She tasted sweet, yet exotic, and his senses came alive, humming with excitement and longing. She pressed against him, moving sensually in his arms. For one blissful moment, she returned the kiss with equal enthusiasm, then her body went limp again, and her mental shields reengaged with the force of a slamming door.

Kage forced himself to pull away, lightly scanning her body. She was sleeping, a deep exhausted sleep. He no longer sensed any hint of danger. Easing her back onto the bed, he pushed to his feet and stared down at her. Gods she was beautiful, so delicate, yet fierce. She’d saved Torak’s life, or at least his sanity. She’d brought him the comfort of oblivion while everyone else looked on in helpless frustration.

Eza was safe and resting comfortably, unlike the rest of the Wheel. Kage’s warriors, as well as their potential mates, were dealing with the aftermath of a battle and a downed spacecraft. He really should be out there ensuring that those displaced by the crash found new accommodations and anyone traumatized by the battle was offered support and comfort. War was nothing new for the Outcasts. They were mercenaries. This was how they made their living. But many of their potential mates had never seen anything like what happened tonight.

With one final lingering glance at Eza, he told the central computer to notify him when she awakened and returned to his responsibilities.

ISOLAUND FARR CRIED out dramatically and lifted her hips, hoping her lover would quickly lose control. She was far more interested in the chaos spread out in the valley below than in the war chief rutting against her back. Apex was lost in post-battle bloodlust. She could have been anyone, and it wouldn’t have mattered to him. She braced against the rocky outcropping and arched as if she were lost in pleasure. In reality, she reveled in the misfortune of her enemies. They rushed about like insects, putting out fires, tending the wounded and redistributing supplies. One of their massive metal warships had carved a wide path through the forest and came to rest half-buried in the ground. The destruction was glorious, but it should have been much worse. She looked at the minuscule distance between the downed ship and the Wheel and glared. How in all damnation had they slowed the descent of that ship?

Apex let out a sharp cry then shuddered violently, his fingers digging into her hips.

Finally. She thought he’d never finish.

Gods above that felt good! Apex heaved himself off her and quickly righted his pants. You’ll have to spy on the battles more often. Every soldier needs to spill his seed after he’s spilled the blood of his enemies.

Disgusted by his crudity as well as the mess he’d left behind, she smoothed down her skirts and tightened her bodice. Nothing fires the blood like a battle. She panted and shivered as if she too were excited by the situation. Then she composed her expression and turned around. Are you sure the bastard is dead? Teaching the arrogant Outcasts a much-needed lesson had been the primary objective tonight, but dispensing with Cagor Alonov was just as important.

I scanned his body to ensure his heart stopped beating. General Alonov has passed beyond. Apex tossed back his flame-red hair and raised his face to the cool night breeze. He was a handsome devil, but he knew it. And she’d had her fill of self-absorbed males. I will be named general before this week concludes. I guarantee it.

It was all she could do not to roll her eyes. Will Malik be your only challenger?

He scoffed as he crossed his arms over his chest, chin lifting arrogantly. I’m not even sure Malik has the stones. Since joining the Guiding Council, he spends all his time with diplomats and servants. He’s no match for a true warrior.

She shrugged, not caring if it annoyed Apex. Malik hadn’t joined the Guiding Council, he fought multiple challenges for the right to represent the Jintta designation, and he’d won each round decisively. Apex was Ayrontu, so he hadn’t been eligible for the tournament. To her knowledge, Malik and Apex had never fought each other before. They were both war chiefs, both formidable warriors. She honestly wasn’t sure who would win. Malik fought well tonight. His assault teams flew circles around the Outcast fighters, and they are some of the best I’ve ever seen.

Apex scoffed, rugged features twisting with resentment and scorn. Anyone can fight well from within the safety of an assault ship. Advancement challenges are fought face to face with nothing but swords and fists.

Letting her gaze wander the length of his muscular body, she grinned. You’ve got all the right equipment for that competition.

Damn right, I do. He caught the back of her hair and crushed her mouth beneath his. There was no passion in the kiss, just brutal aggression. Need another demonstration of my sword? He rubbed against her suggestively.

I’m not sure I could take it, she whispered against his lips. You weren’t exactly gentle before. And she wasn’t nearly as excited as she pretended. Let’s savor this victory for a while before we return to the world below.

He straightened with a nod and moved behind her, wrapping his arm around her upper chest. He was uncommonly tall for a Sarronti, so he could easily see over her head. She’d watched the battle unfold from this hilltop. In fact, she’d spent many nights here observing the Outcasts, watching them spread like a pestilence and burrow deeper and deeper into the sacred ground. They must be obliterated, burned to ash like an infested crop, or a deceased animal.

How the hells did they control that ship? Apex mused, his deep voice rumbling like distant thunder. It should have plummeted like a stone once the disrupter pulse hit it. I thought for sure it would take out the Wheel just like we planned.

It had to be some sort of magic. She relaxed into the casual embrace, enjoying the feeling of strength and support. Too bad his ego matched his brawn. They had been together less than one cycle of the moons, and already he annoyed her more often than amused. "I tried to warn Cagor about their powers, but he