Free CALLEY (RIBUS 7 Book 3) by Shae Mills

would think to look for me there? In addition, you would be fulfilling your mission while adhering to Korba’s directive that I not be put at any risk. By your dropping me off on Earth, I avoid any exposure to battle. And it will serve as my temporary sanctuary. Let the powers that be think I have gone with Zane to Keros or wherever. You take me to Earth. And when you are finished with the Balatesian system, you pick me up.”
    “But, Chelan,” Fremma protested, “Korba would still—”
    “No, he wouldn’t! What’s he going to do, Fremma, lop your head off?”
    “Yes! Or something similar.”
    “No! You are one of his best, and you would not exactly be violating any orders or directives from him. And you would be serving my wishes concurrently.”
    “I would be violating all his orders, and so would Zane!”
    “No, he wants me relocated.”
    “He wants you relocated to Keros .”
    “And you think my plan is without merit?”
    “But you don’t understand—” Fremma suddenly became silent, the ridiculous suggestion instantly transforming into a possibility. Exhilaration ensued, and Fremma felt a rush of adrenalin shoot through him. “There are some flaws surrounding your rather simplistic suggestion, my Lady, and much has to be planned. But what you put forth just may be viable.”
    Chelan sprang at him, throwing her arms about his neck. “Oh, I love you, Fremma! All will be okay. You will see. No one would ever suspect that I am on RIBUS 7. And to the Palace Command, I am off to Keros. Once I am on Earth, no one would be the wiser. It is perfect. I will be safe there. After all, how can anyone scan for one little Earth woman among billions?”
    Fremma held her tight while he tried to tame his raging thoughts. Dropping her off on Calley was the least of a long list of logistical problems. And though he relished the thought of taking her along, getting her beyond Korba’s grip was going to be a nearly insurmountable hurdle. If the Emperor sought immediate retribution for Chelan’s scenic tour to the sanctuary of her choice, Korba could hop a long-range high-speed fighter and catch RIBUS 7 in no time. From that point on, both his and Chelan’s futures would be far from certain. And even if he could get the RIBUS out of range before Chelan’s change in plans was noticed, Fremma still had to face the Emperor at some point. Even though he was essentially following Chelan’s orders, he was disobeying Korba’s, and Fremma knew Korba would hold him solely accountable for all the potential fallout.
    But Fremma closed his eyes against any dismal thoughts. Right now, not only did he have to process all the ramifications of this abrupt change in what was already a chaotic situation, he also came to the sudden realization that he could have the beautiful alien woman in his arms for an unexpected and extended period of time. Right away he knew he would do anything to keep her with him for as long as he dared, and for as long as Korba permitted. All the other problems pertaining to Calley could be worked out during the six-month trip. But even that did not matter at the moment. As far as he was concerned, all that did matter was Chelan and her wishes, and he would grant them all if he could, as long as she was safe.

Chapter 6

    All eight engine rooms roared to life and RIBUS 7 was catapulted from Iceanea’s outer atmosphere. Once the massive battleship was clear of the solar system, the new drive system was engaged, folding both time and space, and she sprang into another dimension.
    Fremma rounded the Bridge one last time, scrutinizing the displays and readouts. The new propulsion system was performing admirably so far, and he took a deep and calming breath.
    Tarn watched his new Commander from under his brows but chose to remain silent for the moment. Finally, Fremma looked to him and spoke. “You have the command, Tarn. I will be in my quarters if you need me.”
    All eyes on the Bridge suddenly landed on Tarn