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Category: Science Fiction/Fantasy
Description: In an attempt to clear himself of the charges for which he was exiled, Aric kan Ingan returns to Arcanis and immediate arrest. After he's saved from execution by his cousin and former betrothed Pallas, he's faced with a heartbreaking choice. Marrying Pallas means giving up his beloved Susan, but it also means regaining what he lost--the Throne of Arcanis--as well getting revenge against TAS and best friend Eby, now TAS right-hand man. Aric must choose to give up his happiness to protect his Margravine and the Throne, or return to Susan and leave his cousin to TAS vengeance.
eBook Publisher: Double Dragon Publishing/Double Dragon eBooks, 2012 Double Dragon Publishing
eBookwise Release Date: July 2012

Available eBook Formats: OEBFF Format (IMP) [357 KB]
Words: 76904
Reading time: 219-307 min.

Chapter 1

Arcanis, Mother-Planet...I've come back to you, at last...

It was an azure ball floating in darkness, partially obscured by translucent white clouds clustered above its oceaned surface, a gauzy blue jewel in the star-picked void.

Aric had come by himself to the observation deck, wishing to be alone for his first view of home after so long. He'd never expected to see it again. How many times, while I lay in Susan's arms, did I dream of this? But that was all they had been...dreams...

And now, unbelievably, he was here.

He realized he was gripping the railing, knuckles white with pressure, and the emotion he felt was startling, and confusing. He wanted to shout...and weep. It's so beautiful! He could stand there for hours, letting the sight of the planet fill his eyes and dazzle his senses...wanting it to seep into every pore and cell, inundate his brain with that welcome image.

Hearing a step behind him, he shifted his gaze from the planet to the inner wall of the viewport and the reflection of the young man standing there, the darkness outside acting on the glassine surface like the backing on a mirror. Aric wrenched himself away from Arcanis, avoiding Miles' eyes, not wanting his friend to see how the sight of the planet affected him.

It didn't work.

"I know just how you feel, pal." Miles touched his shoulder, drawing him away from the railing.

Damn, can't fool the kid

"We've four hours before we dock. How about a drink?" Miles gestured toward the hatch leading back inside the companionway.

With a sigh, Aric nodded agreement but as Miles walked away, he looked over his shoulder, continuing to watch Arcanis grow larger as the cruiser neared the curved arm of the docking station where the shuttles were moored.

As if he sensed Aric's thoughts, Miles pulled him into the corridor. "Come on. You'll have plenty of time to look at it after we land." With a final glance at the clouds now covering the planet, Aric allowed himself to be led away.