Good Breeding

By L.D. Rybar

Cam Leedon lost his best friend seven years ago, and now he is a young emperor trying to run the Imperial Empire. His palace security chief, Lieutenant Summers will protect him from all dangers for it is Regulation number 1, but she has a terrible attitude and an agenda of her own. She will do whatever she can to protect him, but she also has her ward in mind. She wishes to leave the palace assignment and emperor as soon as she can. Lieutenant Summers has her troop, Summer's Seven, who will assist her wherever she decides to go. Will Emperor Leedon and Lieutenant Summers overcome their adversaries and live to speak about it?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Page Publishing, Inc.
• Release date: Jan 11, 2023
• ISBN: 9798886540550

Book preview

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Good Breeding

L.D. Rybar

Copyright © 2022 L.D. Rybar

All rights reserved

First Edition

PAGE PUBLISHING

Conneaut Lake, PA

First originally published by Page Publishing 2022

ISBN 979-8-88654-040-6 (pbk)

ISBN 979-8-88654-055-0 (digital)

Printed in the United States of America

Table of Contents

Prologue

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

Chapter 30

Chapter 31

Chapter 32

Chapter 33

Chapter 34

Chapter 35

Chapter 36

Chapter 37

Chapter 38

Epilogue

Appendix A

Glossary of Terms

About the Author

Maybe I haven't

lost my mind

completely.

Prologue

Here she stood at the front stairs of the emperor's palace. It was so grand, opulent, and glittering with glimmering bright lights for the current holiday. Diane Gudther had been in the palace a million times. Her mother worked in the kitchen, and Diane practically grew up here. However, this was the first time she had been formally invited to one of Emporet Cameron Leedon's lavish parties. This extravagant one was for the Spring Equinox Celebration.

Diane was taught what was proper and expected for those working here or with servants at the palace. One always kept his or her servant head lowered, eyes dropped around the palace residents and the privileged. You never used nicknames or abbreviations of one's name. You didn't even think a pet name for a friend. Diane learned that the hard way. She couldn't sit down for a week after calling the Emporet Cam instead of Cameron.

Cameron was her best friend growing up. As her mother cooked in the kitchen, little Diane would play and run around the palace with the emporet. Being the son of the emperor, there was a great concern for his personal safety and who he could play with. Diane was a convenient safe bet. They had been best friends for many years.

Diane remembered one time when she and Cameron snuck out of the palace to the local tattoo parlor. They each picked a design. Diane picked a small yellow butterfly and had it stamped to her left hip. Cameron selected an equally small, fierce red dragon for his right hip. He had teased that his dragon was going to eat her butterfly up. They got in so much trouble when they got back in the palace, and it was bath time. Diane couldn't sit down for another week, but it was worth it to her to share something that special with Cameron.

As she got older, Diane was even used as Emporette Candace's (Cameron's nine-year-old little sister) nanny. Diane took good care of Candi her entire life. She loved that sweet little girl. The emperor even mandated in the Imperial Empire that all citizens could call his daughter Candi because she was so sweet.

Diane felt invigorated by the loud, harsh-sounding, defiant music coming from inside. She felt like an emporette in her amazing beautiful gown. Just like in the books she read from the forefathers' library.

She had gone shopping for a shimmering new gown for the equinox celebration. The gown had wide shoulder straps to hold up the cupped breast and fitted bodice. The back dropped down to show off her creamy white skin. The gown glittered with sequences against a soft lilac silk material. The gown's skirt glimmered and floated with chiffon layers of deep mauve and wine mesh. The amazing skirt flowed down to the mid-calf, allowing her to dance easily.

It was the first and best gown Diane had ever owned. Her and her mother found it at a secondhand store. They had made a few alterations to accommodate Diane's voluptuous body and wide hips. She was larger than most other girls, probably from her mother's fabulous cooking. She was as tall as most other girls. Most all females were between five feet, eight inches and six feet due to the forefathers' genetic manipulation. Diane came in at five feet, eleven inches. She wore lovely conservative strap sandal with a three-inch heel.

She also carried a matching mauve pouch. Inside the elegant pouch were only a few items like her empire's ID, some credits, a hanky, makeup, and her most coveted invitation.

Tonight Diane had her beautiful long blond hair up on her head with small soft ringlets all around. Her makeup was lightly applied. She had some light skin powder across her face with her eyelids covered in a thin plum powder layer. Her eyelashes were enhanced by the latest technology, Masmetic. Diane's emerald green eyes were sparking like the stars in the sky. Her round cheeks danced with glittery powder and finally her lips were dark mauve with the finest lip paint.

As she smoothly glided to the great hall and the raging party, Diane felt like she was floating on air. She knew seeing Emporet Cameron again in this circumstance would get his attention. He'd avoided her since he hit pubescence and started hanging out with his cousins and other friends. Diane was going to make sure he saw her and they talked. She had to make him see he was going down a dangerous, risky path, and there was no way back if he continued.

She hoped she didn't interrupt the glorious happy environment too much and they could enjoy the fun party when she was done chatting with him.

She slowly walked into the great hall and stood seeing the magnificence of the place. There were blue-and-white twinkling lights, bouquets of flowers, floating streamers, and a multitude of other fabulous decorations. There were a hundred people—teenagers—laughing, dancing, drinking, eating, and just enjoying themselves. These were people she knew from secondary school. They were not her typical crowd, but she had a royal invitation, so she belonged here as well.

As she bravely ventured into the party, Camella Kathwall and Tiffanee Manabull evilly sauntered up to her. She braced herself for some snarky comment or vicious insults. These wicked girls could destroy others, and they had driven girls to drop out of school. Some kids had even committed suicide when these mean girls were done with them.

Camella was the emperor's niece and Cameron's close cousin. She was seventeen years old just a little older that Diane. Diane was sixteen years old but was turning seventeen in two months. Camella had beautiful long blond hair, deep-blue eyes, and an evil nature. She had on a very skimpy, slinky deep-red gown with four-inch heels making her about six feet, three inches. She always liked to tower over everyone, making them feel small and insignificant.

Tiffanee was Camella's best friend and equally vicious. She had cascading black hair with deep brown eyes. Her ivory gown—if you can call it that—had spaghetti straps, small triangle material covering her breasts, and more straps to the skirt. The skirt had slits from her hip to the floor. Her ebony skin looked so soft and smooth. There was a lot of skin exposed too. She had on white four-inch heels, making her six feet, one inch. She set her forearm on Camella's shoulder smiling smugly.

Hi, Diane. You look fabulous tonight, Tiffanee politely commented with a glint in her eyes.

All Diane could do was stare at her, waiting for the expected jibe. Their most famous insult was to call her Gudder because her last name was Gudther. However, the common insult never came.

That is a very pretty dress you are wearing, Camella nicely said. That didn't sound like a barb at all.

What was going on?

Diane didn't know what to do. These nasty girls were never nice. She worried what they were up to. Diane managed to cautiously squeak out, Thanks.

I know we have not always been very nice to you, Camella replied sweetly. We are turning over a new leaf, Diane. Cam likes you, so we like you. Let's get a drink and we can gossip about everyone else here. She swiftly grabbed Diane's arm, looping her hand around it.

Camella and Tiffanee ushered her over to the fruit fountain. Camella filled a glass with the fruity beverage and handed it to Tiffanee.

You know I'm not drinking this, Tiffanee said as she passed the drink to Diane. You know it's only Voktum for me. It was said that Voktum could literally burn your stomach out.

As they moved away from the fountain toward the tables scattered around the dance floor, Mandhee Kendall approached them. She was another of their disparaging clique. She was beautifully exotic with red vibrant hair and dark-green eyes. She also was a cousin to the emporet, however further down the line from the royal family.

Diane tensed as Mandhee sauntered—more like slithered—toward them.

Camella quickly stepped in front of Diane, slightly blocking her from Mandhee. How's it going, cuz? Camella sweetly asked.

Wonderfully, Cami. I see you are slumming. Mandhee sneered as she peered around Camella toward Diane.

Why, no. I haven't been to your house for a while. She smirked back at her nasty cousin.

You prefer to be with her instead of me? Have you lost your mind?

No. I think I finally found it, Camella happily stated as she turned and softly smiled at Diane.

Diane felt strange warmth toward her. Mandhee huffed and turned away, moving through the crowd, pushing them out of the way.

Diane finally relaxed.

Tiffanee had run off to get a bottle and glass of Voktum. She rapidly guzzled the first glass. She lifted the bottle toward Diane. Do you want some?

No, thanks. I'll stick with this. She lifted her cup to her mouth. Diane had some of her wonderful fruity beverage.

They casually walked around the raging party and talked to several other people. Diane had a second glass of fruit drink that Tiffanee had brought to her. However, all she could do was smile. It was the best night of her entire life. She had finally been accepted, and everything was going to turn around for her.

She had made it!

She still needed to find Cameron. There had been hundreds of teens around her tonight but none of them the emporet. Diane would just continue to have a fun time laughing, dancing, and drinking fruity punch while she watched for him.

All of a sudden someone harshly grabbed Diane's upper arm, swinging her around.

What's happening? Diane nervously inquired.

* * *

Emporet Cameron slammed another drink. He was not sure how many he'd had tonight. He was getting drunk all because of her. He had seen her waltzing into the party and standing by the entryway. She looked like a vision of loveliness with her blond hair up and her shiny purple gown.

Why had she come?

She would never be invited.

He stood there looking at her next to his cousin Hecthor Needton and also his closest friends, Benjamin Boldt and Simaha Ravihaderm. Hecthor's friend and tagalong, Damien Caltious, was hanging out with them too.

Each of these guys was at least six feet tall with broad shoulders, as the way the genetic dominate genes were designed a millennium ago. They were all the same, yet all were very different.

Hec had golden skin, blond hair, and blue eyes with a very adventurous wild nature.

Ben had light skin, black hair, and deep blue eyes. He was a very solid, loyal friend with a love of anything physical.

Sim had olive skin, black hair, and dark-brown eyes. His personality leaned to being somewhat reserved and very intellectual.

Damien had dark skin, reddish hair, and green eyes. Damien would do anything that Hec asked.

These hombres knew what true friendship was. Three of them were always with Cam to help with the unwanted feelings for this wanted female.

Cam saw the lovely vision and remembered the feeling of sadness of losing a great friendship. He was the one to pull away from her. She was not in his social class.

His father's wrath would be severe if he knew she was here.

She did not fit.

Why couldn't he forget her?

He was angry at himself. He could not have her here and not want her, in more than one way.

Hec knew his secret obsession with Diane. All his friends did. Hec eagerly volunteered to take care of her and solemnly promised that Cam would not see her at the party again. He hadn't seen her at all. Hec must have had her removed from the palace. Cam hoped they had been gentle with her.

It was a relief not to have her here. He could drink, party, dance, and find a female to warm his bed. Being emporet, there was no lack of eager females for his company. The physical contact with all these women was every male's dream, and Cam was living it at the sweet age of eighteen years old.

It was good to be emporet!

As he finished yet another drink, he needed another. GOZU! He really enjoyed alcohol. It let him forget about his father, the emperor and his master. His father lorded over him and rigidly demanded Cam take his responsibilities and emporet duties seriously. His father desperately wanted Cam to grow up and stop acting like a spoiled little brat.

Yes, alcohol relieved him of his pain-in-the-ass royal duties. What has ever happened while he indulged in the spirited liquid? Nothing except pleasure, enjoyment, and extreme fun. Why would anyone give up the partaking? No, there was no reason to stop imbibing.

Since he had an empty glass in his hand, he needed to scout out another. He knew where to go. He might trip over his own two feet. Smiling at the fact he felt a little inebriated, and he truly loved it.

His friends weren't hanging around like they usually did at his fabulous parties. Maybe they were scouting out honeys for themselves. Which sounded like a wonderful idea for him. Cam took a deep breath and climbed onto a chair to survey the young crowd for possible lovely females to bed tonight since it was getting late.

Then he spied her standing among the other teens, next to his cousin Camella. She was glorious, laughing with no care in the empire, except if his father saw her or knew she was here, she would be executed.

Why was she here?

Cam immediately vaulted from the chair, rushing through the young crowd to get to her. He needed to hide her from the guards and soldiers around the palace. Many of the teens spilled their beverages as Cam pushed his frantic way through the teens. No one dared to complain once they realized it was the emporet barging through.

Once Cam finally reached the very happy partygoer Diane, he forcefully grabbed her by her soft arm, swinging her around, utterly surprising her.

What's happening? Diane had asked.

Camella put her skinny arm around Cam's shoulders and said, Happy equinox, cuz!

Cam brushed off Camella's arm. What have you done? Are you crazy? Cam switched his blue eyes from his smug cousin to a very confused beautiful girl.

We are just delivering what you wanted most, and here she is. Camella evilly smiled.

Cam knew it didn't matter what they—didn't know who they were—did. It mattered he needed to hide Diane now. He firmly took Diane's perfect hand. Follow me.

Cam swiftly raced to his bedroom to conceal Diane and think what he should do next. His father couldn't know she was here. He couldn't lose her. Once inside his bedroom, Cam felt better, but he instantly started to pace as he was thinking what he could do to get Diane out of the palace without being seen.

Diane had no idea what was going on. She stepped in Cam's anxious path, disrupting his vital thinking. What is going on? Why are you acting so crazed? Diane asked Cameron directly.

Cam gazed at the lovely, voluptuous girl. My father has proclaimed you were not welcome where I am, which included parties of any kind. My cousins knew that. If you are found, you will be executed. I am never to have anything to do with you.

Diane was baffled by Cam's words. But I received a royal invitation. I was invited! She pulled the beautiful blue invitation from her pouch, showing Cam. She also took care of the Emporette Candi. Why was she banned from any contact with Cam?

Cam was truly surprised she had an invitation, but then again, why else would Diane come to the equinox celebration. Someone had taken one and sent it to her, drawing her into a dangerous trap. Of course Camella and some of the others so-called friends. He would find out, and they would be punished for betraying him. They did not care if Diane was killed.

So this is how they tricked you into coming. Someone else sent it for I did not. I wish I could, but I cannot—never could, Cam sadly explained.

Diane tightly hugged Cam. I'm so sorry. I came here tonight to have a good time and talk to you about your friend choices. I see I am too late.

Cam was really enjoying holding Diane, and she smelled so good too. He held on, putting his face in her sweet neck, and his hands were roaming over her soft, wonderful body. Diane hadn't been this close in years.

What are you doing, Cameron? Diane quietly inquired.

I never imagined having you here in my bedroom and being so close. They stopped letting us be close about five years ago, and how I have missed touching you. I have had to hold my feelings in or my father would punish both of us and you more extremely, Cam openly confessed.

I suppose we are safe here. What would you like to do to me now that I'm here? Diane asked as if she was out of breath.

Cam drew back and peered straight into Diane's gorgeous green eyes. I want to make love to you. Cam was honest and sincere. There wasn't anything devious or any subterfuge coming from this gorgeous young male.

Diane smiled tenderly at Cameron, shyly saying, That sounds nice.

Cam was shocked for a moment, but then he seductively smiled as he put his hand along Diane's face with a soft caress. He pulled her close, kissing her like he had never kissed anyone before. The tenderness and passion he put into the kiss was something even he was not aware he could do.

Diane pulled away from Cameron in order to breathe. She didn't know kissing could be so exotic, and she was so turned on. Cameron continued to kiss Diane along her amazing neck and shoulders. Diane was a novice and was not sure what to do.

Cam couldn't believe he was with the one he secretly loved. He pulled back to remove his special party tunic, hoping it would give Diane the idea of removing some of her clothing.

Diane saw Cameron's amazing muscular body. How about we utilize this awesome sizeable bed? she sweetly suggested, hoping to cover herself with sheets and blankets.

Cam totally realized Diane was shy, so he took her hand, slowly leading her to the side of the large four-poster bed, pulling down the blankets and sheets, making it welcoming for them. He kissed her slowly and softly to make her more relaxed. And it worked.

Diane sighed deeply as she pulled away from Cameron's mouth. Maybe you could assist me with this gown and its closure. She still whispered bashfully.

Cam was more than happy to help Diane. He kissed her again as his nimble fingers found the back of her dress, undoing the closure. He didn't stop kissing her as he slipped the straps over her shoulders, letting the gown pool at her feet. He kissed his way to her ear. Are you okay?

Yes. You can remove my half-slip if you want. Diane remained shy of her big body.

My privilege. Cam glanced down to see the slip was on only by a single drawstring. He continued to kiss her jaw and neck as his hands pulled the string to untie the bow to the drawstring. His hands loosened the band around the slip, letting it fall on top of the gown. Diane shivered. Cam held her tight against him.

Diane didn't expect to be naked with anyone, and she had on an old ugly pair of white granny panties. How embarrassing. And in front of the emporet. Can we get into bed? Diane asked as she thought, Before I died of embarrassment.

Cam took Diane's hand like she might be walking down some steps so she could step out of her purple gown and slip. Cam picked up the beautiful gown and laid it over the back of a nearby padded chair. He knew Diane had forgotten about her shoes and was frantically trying to take them off. He sat beside her on the bed, stopping her busy hands, and kissed her again. He caressed her legs down to her feet to the shoes, where he quickly unstrapped them. Then he kissed Diane again.

Diane was amazed by Cameron's skills and how gentle he was with her. She desperately wanted to crawl under the covers of the bed with him. She still had her strapless bra and her unsightly granny panties on. She knew they could come off later when the time came for the intimate act.

Cam understood how Diane wanted the lovemaking to go even though she had nothing to be embarrassed about. Cam stood, snatching the blankets so Diane could move into the bed. Cam removed all his clothes with his back to Diane before sitting and rolling into bed next to her. He put his strong arms around her, holding her tight, and kissed her like there was no other female in the world or universe.

Diane knew she was in heaven as Cameron kissed her senseless. His hands roamed around her back and other smooth skin. He didn't go anywhere private yet. She didn't know kissing could take your breath away so easily. She had to break the kiss to breathe. Cameron continued kissing her face, jawline, neck, and shoulders. She was loving the special attention.

Cam gazed into Diane's lovely green eyes, seeing her sweet, innocent trust she was placing in him. He was in awe of her generous heart. Cam tenderly smiled at Diane. May I remove your bra? Cam could see the reluctance but also the courage in this beautiful girl.

Yes, please.

Cam gently reached behind Diane's back and undid her bra. It fell away easily. Cam took ahold of it, throwing it out of the bed. Diane giggled at the thought of it. Cam slowly caressed Diane's shoulder while still looking into Diane's gorgeous eyes. He moved his hand down to her breast and tenderly took hold of it. He then gently started to massage and play with the breast along with the nipple.

Diane couldn't believe how wonderful Cameron's touch felt and how her body was responding. She was feeling warm and wet between her legs, which never happened before. She couldn't stop herself from making pleasant, appreciative sounds. She hoped Cameron didn't think she was weird.

Cam had started kissing her again. Diane was enjoying herself so far. I'm going to use my mouth on you. Cam didn't give Diane a choice to say no. He just informed her what was coming next. He kissed his happy way down Diane's creamy body to her breast, then kissed, licked, and sucked on her. It drove her mad. She arched her back as if she couldn't get enough. She was out of control.

Diane had never experienced any feelings like this before. She felt so alive. Was it like this for everyone? She couldn't stop from jerking off the bed. Cameron seemed to be very talented.

I'm going to put my hand inside your underpants. It's okay. Cam gently warned Diane. Cam slid his hand down Diane's smooth body to her undies. He lifted the band of the panties and felt Diane tense up. Everything is okay. I promise, Cam said to reassure her. He continued moving his talented fingers under the panties to the warm, damp folds. He found the little nub to play with, sending Diane shooting straight off the bed.

Diane had never felt such ecstasy shooting through her. Cameron was doing things to her that was exquisite. The feelings were building more and more. She didn't know what to do with it. She peered down at Cameron, who seemed to be enjoying himself. She couldn't contain the feeling anymore. She just exploded with intense pleasure. It went on and on as Cameron continued to love her.

Cam watched Diane blow apart. He knew she had never experienced that before. He smiled to himself for he was the one to give her it. He was getting anxious about being inside her. He was hard as a rock. May I please remove your panties? he sweetly asked with all sincerity.

Diane was nervous, but she trusted her Cameron. He would never betray her. Yes, please was all she said.

Cam quickly removed the panties, leaving them somewhere in the bed. He went back to kissing Diane's perfect mouth. He broke the kiss. You ready? The rest was implied as Cam stared into Diane's green eyes. She just slowly nodded and lovingly smiled. He went back to kissing and touching her again, getting her building toward another orgasm.

Cameron rolled on top of Diane, spreading her chubby legs. He placed his large manhood at her core, pushing it into her warm body. Diane felt pain instead of pleasure. Why was Cameron hurting her? Something was wrong. She had to stop him before he did serious damage. She pushed against him, trying to get him to stop.

Cam was halfway in when Diane started to panic over something. Cam held Diane tightly. "What's wrong?

It hurts, Diane whimpered.

I forgot it could be like that the first time. Tell me when you have adjusted to me, Cam said apologetically as he kissed her cheeks then her lovely lips. He played with her breast and nipple to give her a pleasant sensation. Before long, Diane was ready to start again. This time Cam was going super slow.

Diane let the pleasure of what Cameron was doing with his hands and mouth counter the pain she felt. Cameron stopped and peered at her. Did she do something wrong? He gave her the most brilliant smile. It was worth the day of summer. He captured her mouth again in another amazing kiss.

Cam was seated to the hilt inside of Diane, and she didn't seem to be having any more pain. He carefully pulled out and in again without Diane wincing or stopping the action. Cam did it again and again while giving Diane other stimulation on her breasts. This was so magnificent. She was so gloriously tight. He started to go faster as he arched up from the bed, looking down at his beautiful Diane.

Diane felt a little vulnerable uncovered, but Cameron's eyes told her she had nothing to worry about. He liked what he beheld in his sight. Then Cameron shouted to the ceiling as he was climaxing. He looked magnificent as only an emporet could.

Cam dropped forward, putting his forehead to Diane's. He couldn't catch his breath, but he was smiling larger than ever. He grabbed Diane, rolling her to the side so they were facing each other. You okay?

Diane was still being shy but squeaked out, Yes. Can we have covers now?

Of course, anything for my lady. Cam heard something quickly covering Diane up, and he looked strangely at Diane. She heard it too. It was coming from the balcony. Cam snatched his fluffy bathrobe, putting it on immediately. No one was allowed in his chambers without him, and the guards would have stopped intruders.

As he got closer, he feared for Diane's life. He could probably protect himself since he had been trained by the guards, but Diane could get seriously hurt. He turned the balcony illumination on to reveal his cousin Hec and his buddy Damien. They were trying not to laugh out loud. They had a padlet in their hands and were watching something.

What are you guys doing out here? How did you get out here? What are you doing with that padlet? Cam loudly demanded and got louder and angrier with each question.

Don't get so mad, Hec said to Cam while walking toward him from the shadows of the balcony. We are working on getting you your present. It is what you always wanted—a recording of you having sex. We put a recorder above your bed. We got great shots. Hec and Damien laughed.

Should I call for security? Diane called from the other room.

Cam, Hec, and Damien emerged from the balcony with Hec still carrying the padlet. Diane had wrapped a blanket around her unclothed body and was sitting on the edge of the bed. Hec saw her. Is that a pig in a blanket? Hec and Damien belted out laughing.

Shut up! Cam yelled. They disregarded Cam as if he never spoke.

Meanwhile, Diane had found her granny panties and put them on while still hiding behind the blanket. She found where her strapless bra had landed and had gotten it on as well. What had she gotten herself into? Cameron's friends were on the balcony the whole time watching and laughing. How could Cameron do that to her?

Oh, little emporet, you belong to me now, Hec wickedly declared. You will do what I want when I want or this little recording of you doing the whale will be empire-wide broadcast. Don't worry. It's going to be fun.

Just then Ben and Sim came crashing into the bedroom. They saw Diane on the bed shaking and the others starting to fight. Ben yelled What's going on here? as he raced over to the other males. Sim went over to Diane's lovely gown, taking it to Diane, who was in massive tears. He held up a blanket to give Diane privacy while donning the gown.

More teens came in the bedroom, Camella, Tiffanee, and Mandhee. Camella shrieked, Did it work, Hec?

Cam gaped at Camella. How could you do this to me? What have I done to you for you to hate me, cousin?

It was something you secretly wanted. We just gave it to you. I just don't understand why. Look at her. Eww. I actually had to be nice and spend time with that. I think I went above and beyond to get you what you wanted, Camella stated pompously by way of insulting Diane.

Diane had her gown on. Sim had joined the others with their frantic quarreling. Diane felt dirty and humiliated. Cameron had set her up by his sick desires. She would soon be the laughingstock of Apex City, if not the entire Imperial Empire. What could she do? First was to get out of here. She didn't want to bother with her shoes. Her pouch was still on the credenza where she left it. She would grab it and be gone. All she wanted was to get out of there immediately.

Cameron and the others were screaming at each other, and Cameron was trying to hit Hecthor. Diane stood straight up, facing the enraged group. She padded toward the door, trying to pass them quickly and quietly, hoping no one would notice. She was noticed, and everyone froze like statues.

Cam reached out to her. His voice was tight with sorrowful regret. Diane… She jerked back, putting her hand up to ward off the gesture.

No one was going to touch her again.

Diane peered straight into Cameron's blue eyes. The only way you will get me back in your bed is if you tie me to it. She continued through the open door to freedom from this heinous, horrid place. She walked barefoot to the huge hallway to escape this never-ending nightmare, leaving this miserable place behind her forever.

As she glanced back down the hall, she saw Cameron's younger sister, Emporette Candace. Diane had felt like a big sister to Candi, but now Diane felt nothing. Candi was only going to be a distant memory.

Diane walked out of the great palace and disappeared.

Chapter 1

Seven years later

I wonder what the forefathers were thinking when they landed on this planet. Some say they crash-landed. I suppose it is a moot point since we are here. It had been over a millennium ago.

I wonder why they called this planet Linnea. It had been said it was named after the first child born after landing. Who knows or cares?

The forefathers came here with hundreds of people and great wonders in technology. They surveyed the lands, categorizing plants and animals. Then they created the world they envisioned by using the DNA they brought with them. The plants were the first item they integrated here within the existing thriving ecosystem. After they stabilized the integration, the animals were next to be manipulated into Linnea's world. I have to say it turned out pretty darn good.

I would have been content with that. The forefathers were not. They felt the need to manipulate us. Males were built to be six feet to six feet five, inches tall. They all needed to have broad muscular shoulders to be able to haul heavy weights and to endure harsh climates if needed. No one was created without manipulation.

The females were equally designed to the forefathers' specific wishes. The women were created to be five feet, eight inches to six feet in height. They made them with breasts suited for nursing and of course hips designed for having offspring.

I suppose they had good intentions, but playing God is something no one should do.

Besides the extensive technology, the forefathers brought culture and their civilization. They had every book ever written, which of course included millions of stories showing their previous way of life and experiences, both real and imaginary. They brought the entire music collection from every style. It was a wondrous gift to this new planet.

The forefathers included all styles of magnificent art in the numerous files. There were certain talented individuals commissioned to recreate the most desired masterpieces. Other works of art were completed as requested. I myself have recreations by Vincent Van Gogh. Something about his work I seem to relate to.

The last of what I enjoy from their extensive collection of their planet was the entertaining recordings which I believe they referred to as movies. As the royal family, we have a multitude of every variety of the recordings. I can be thrilled, soothed, and enlightened within hours.

It probably took about a hundred years to complete all the start-up for the planet and finally get settled. They had not figured they would start having political issues. Everyone thought he or she knew the best way to run Linnea. The tempers flared, and the fighting began. The Ruler Wars were a real bloody engagement. It took them hundreds of years to settle into an agreement that was acceptable to all parties. Some of their advanced technologies were lost during this very extensive troubling time period.

But as all things go, acceptable does not translate to happy or content. The planet lands and waters were divided into twelve sections. The twelve divisions of Linnea still to this day fight over beliefs, opinions, land, and many more trivial things.

We are greatly fortunate here in the Imperial Empire for we have tremendous natural borders to keep us safe. The Polar Mast of devastating cold ice is to the north, being impossible to navigate across. To the east are the very tall Durgess Mountains and the Badgert Barrier, difficult to climb for a surprise attack. We have the Austral Pole to the south, which is a desolate barren snow and ice terrain. Finally, we are privileged to have the massive Sprain Ocean to the west. We still need to protect our borders for our citizens; however, Mother Nature has been a big help.

Now we have what the forefathers brought us to, this point where someone like me can rule part of this planet. How did I ever become the emperor? Me, Emperor Cameron Derek Leedon of the Imperial Empire. How am I supposed to handle being emperor over everyone's lives? I thought I would have many years to learn the lessons my father wanted to teach me. But seven years isn't enough time. How could my father die in a hovercraft crash half a year ago? I wish I could go back and start listening to my father when I was younger. I hadn't really paid attention until I was eighteen years old.

My father's tragic death should have brought me closer to my little sister. Why had it seemed to have torn us further apart? I love Candi. She seems not to want anything to do with me. Maybe I could make her part of my council. Is sixteen old enough to be on the Empire Council? What can I do to get back our closeness?

* * *

Cam heard solid footsteps behind him. He was on the palace balcony off his office. The sun was coming over the horizon. He enjoyed the quiet of the early morning before all the requests came demanding everything from him. He felt he should just open a vein for them since it was like being drained of blood anyway. The heavy steps were closing in.

What are you doing, sire? Chief Officer Benjamin Boldt said behind him. The chief officer was dressed for combat with his protective gear and extensive weaponry. Ben was in charge of Cam's entire security. Cam often wondered why Ben needed that much artillery in the palace.

Cam turned around and casually smiled at his longtime friend. How many times have I asked you just to call me Cam, like you used to do?

Ben looked stern, but you could see his affection for his friend. You are now the emperor. It is not appropriate. However, if it would make you feel better, I will endeavor to call you Cam when we are alone. So what are you doing, Cam?

Thank you, Ben. I would appreciate your effort. Cam turned back to view the spacious palace grounds and the lovely city. I was contemplating life, the forefathers, and how I got here.

Such philosophical thoughts so early in the morning. Shouldn't that be done late at night with Voktum in your hand?

Yes. However, I find the mornings are the best time for such soul-searching. Also I am required to give a speech at this year's candidate graduation commencement. I was thinking of things I could say to this new impressionable group. Cam had his padlet in his hands, capturing his thoughts. Cam looked at his friend, wondering why he was here. What brings you here? Please tell me you have good news this fine morning.

Depends on what you consider ‘good news'? The Federated Commonwealth ambassador has agreed to meet and discuss possible trade agreements. He would like to meet in approximately three weeks.

That should work. I wonder why they are interested now when we have been asking for this for years? Cam remarked, pondering the change. Work with the social scheduler. Besides the conference, we should have a celebration in his honor. Heather will be beyond excited. She adores parties.

Heather Stoneton was the royal family's event planner, and she excelled at her job. The more time she was given the, more extravagant was the