Oh, no... Johannes! I wish I could grab hold of him and keep him safe from the cow.
The ball was brilliant, though, and the descriptions were amazing. There is more and more to this universe (and to this story) all the time. I really enjoyed seeing him follow Kala's instructions, but damn that was nervewracking too.
Also, you did a great job with the description around Johannes himself. Without jolting me out of the story, I saw him, and he looked stunning in that dress. I'm really not surprised others couldn't keep their hands off.
I am loving this, but I really need to find out that Johannes is okay in the next one... *gulps*
Parts 12 and 13
I'm sure I told you when I read these parts before, but what Kala does to honour Chantal makes so much sense for the character, and it's so well done. As is Johannes shock and misunderstanding. But really, if he'd stopped to think for even a moment... she's not the kind of person to self-harm - no matter what might happen.
I sense that her background is important, and I'm so curious about her and how exactly she became an exile. I wonder if she will ever embrace the title of Princess, and what might change when she does.
14
No!!! For the first part of the chapter, I was so happy, because I was sure then I was right, and it was all going to be okay somehow.
Then, I felt just as Kala did.
Really clever writing. You took me right there! But man, is Kala going to be on some kind of mission now. I am not sure the universe is safe.
to 22
Ok, I am completely in love with Johannes right now. I love that Kala teases him about humanity and their problems... but it isn't Johannes that has the problem, is it?
So, what is going to happen next? I've got to admit, I am longing to see Kala beat this sister of hers into the damned ground. Then, with the Fortune and its crew protected, they can finally figure out just what they sacrificed so much to steal. I may have my own ideas, but I'll wait to see if that's what happens...
You've created a rich tapestry with the Straxi and their culture. It's amazing, and so rare to come across such depth of detail outside of a published work. It reads like a novel, and I am sitting here wishing it was something I got off amazon, then I wouldn't have to wait for you to write it to find out the ending. If, ultimately, despite everything, you don't find success with 'Come Hell or High Water' you really should consider submitting this.
Please hurry and update! :)
Part 9 - 11
I don't believe Chantal is dead, even if Kala does. It's just too awful, though I completely understand them leaving her - on her order. Better to lose one than lose all, but damn....
This thing they've picked up had better be worth it. I don't think they should just hand it over. Whatever it is, it's clearly important, and if Chantal is still alive, this thing might help to get her back.
I know... but I'm hoping... :)
Parts 1 - 5
It's all very intriguing, and I really like the characters. You've got that sense of them all sharing close quarters and yet still somehow managing not to kill each other. This feels a little like Firefly at times, and I wonder at all the various reasons the crew have for being part of this.
The fictional language adds realism, and the little descriptive touches of the aliens are great! I love the engineer already. Actually couldn't help picturing the Orion woman from Star Trek TOS for Kala, but that's a good thing. ;)
The sex was hot, if a little eye-watering! I wonder to what extent Kala's physiology effects Chantal. I guess it means she can take it and still walk, lol. But it was great fun. I only wish it lasted a little longer.
Aside from that, I'm sure they all know it's some kind of trap, but they're hoping to get out of it. Though I do wonder why Chantal expects the other Captain to keep her word about the pay (if they do somehow manage to pull it off).
Thank you for sharing this story :)
Part 6
Chantal is cool and capable here, but I am loving the snark between Kala and Hranik with Chantal as referee and the only adult in the room, lol.
But what now? Are they discovered? I kind of thought there really was a mission, and that the other capt intended to get them later, once they'd performed their task.
Part Seven
So... Kala is the "Queen in exile"? That's interesting... what is she running away from??
I don't like this head of the military, but I have a strong feeling Kala can't do anything to him. I hope she's going to be okay. :(
Part Eight
Never easy, indeed, but since there are so many more chapters to go, I can be confident it doesn't end here. I was worried for Kala then, especially at this point: “I thought Straxians loved pain!” It's that attitude. Of course, there's much more to it than that, but this guy doesn't really care.
I wonder how they're going to get out of there.
Just stumbled on your stories I think they are great I read the whole of blood prize in 2 sittings it's fantastic couldn't put it down keep up the good work can't wait for more installments