Terran Times 02 - Deal with a Dhemon (25 page)

Her husband by contrast, was just as masculine as his wife was feminine. His skin was the color of blued steel, black horns rising a few inches out of his skull. His eyes were black, no light escaped from those orbs. He stood lightly on the step, with his little daughter in his arms.

She was his miniature in coloring, but her mother’s mirror in feature. Her tiny, pouting mouth, played host to her thumb.

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Deal with a Dhemon

Samantha gave her a warm smile, comforted in the similarities of human children to this little Dhemon. Maybe this wouldn’t be so bad after all.

“Ambassador Valnal, Lady Safra, this is Samantha Vorning. Late of the Alliance protectorate of Terra.” Etion executed a bow for all of the members of the introduction.

“Thank you Etion. Samantha, this way please.”

With nary a turn of expression from the bland interest that had marked her face as Sam approached, Safra led her into the cool darkness of the house.

Samantha did not know what to do, but Etion’s hand on her back pushing her into the house gave her an idea. She followed in silence, marking the pillars in her mind, drawing herself a map that would let her navigate on her own. The architecture was fantastic.

Safra led her to her new chambers, opening the door and standing aside. “Your luggage will arrive in a few hours. Please, be welcome, this is now your home.” A polite smile that did not reach her eyes drifted across her perfect features.

“You will be called for dinner in four hours. I will give you a tour of the house and grounds afterwards.” Safra closed the door behind her and left Sam alone.

The room was beautiful. The same soaring pillars that marked the rest of the house made an 59

Viola Grace

appearance in her bedchamber. It was decorated in blues and creams, but the most spectacular feature was a window that looked out on the ocean.

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