Goodie

Hmm that was a bit of a tease. We kind of went off on a wee tangent introducing some new characters but didn't really resolve what happened in the last chapter of book 1, in particular, what happened with Luca??? Sigh, will just have to read more. Still a great story though, nice work.

I think I've mentioned before what a lousy guard I thought Eamon was, although, Meredith was probably a trusted servant and not expected to be a threat. I actually thought the second tray of food might have been poisoned and he would have given it to Eamon to eat thus killing Eamon off. Anyway, hope Luca survives and they send Merediths' head to Ysabel as a present, not that they would know she was behind it but the thought of her failing a second time to have Luca killed, well expect another rampage....everyone hide. Just one glitch in the wedding plans....getting the approval of the others of the thirteen....good luck with that. I loved this story but thought the end a little flat and anti-climactic. At least I can go straight into book 2, the advantages of being so far behind. Thanks for the story and again special credit to you on account of this being your first. Job very well done

For me it's a toss up who's worse. Demon Ysabel is mentally unbalanced and can't really help herself, whereas Jezebel is an evil little witch by choice. I hope she has a really juicy end, nothing too quick as that wouldn't be very satisfying. When they were discussing the absence of Bloodlillies in Tomacia, it just dawned on me that not only are the people of Nabius cruel and horrid but the very land itself is just as bleak and hideous. Why would anyone want to live there?

I assume the demon is going to replace poor Boris with Jezebel. It seems pointless trying to understand the demons' motives considering she massacred her entire household staff back in the capital simply because she could. Ruling with the kind of fear wouldn't instill loyalty. I would imagine noone would lift a hand in her defense if a rival moved to overthrow her. Then again since Nabian psyche is all about strength through fear and intimidation, whereas we may baulk at her actions, her people may see her as a strong leader and respect that kind of thing. Whatever plans Alex has to change and improve Nabian society, he has his work cut out for him. At least hte rift between him and Carl is slowly mending. So glad Carl killed that captain though I still think Alex should have made an example and done it in front of his men. One slightly disturbing point came to mind. How useful would an alliance with Tomacia be if they can't stop a couple of companies of Nabian troops from entering their lands and torturing their citizens.

About all I want to say is that I was kind of hoping Alex had executed that captain on the spot.

Just wanted to make one off beat comment about Eamon. Seems he's not a very effective guard, I don't think he's managed to stop anyone from barging into Lucas' office. Also had another thought, if Darion/Talia were instrumental in removing Pyconne, why didn't Talia claim his lands instead of them being given to the demon. I can't imagine her or her brother played any part in the plot yet they seemed to have reaped the reward. I think Yago believes he can control the demon, I have a feeling he's going to find out otherwise. I'm curious too about the private meeting but will read the next chapter to find the answers.

I agree with Puppilull, Luca has had to wear many masks to satisfy the various clients of the brothel, Many were nobles or high ranked officials, some were dangerous and abusive. Learning to read people and conform to their expectations would have taught him some valuable skills he is able to apply now in his current position. Successfully dealing with Damien then Jezebel proof of his abilities, he will only get better as he gains in confidence and believes in himself. A real test would be having to face a visit from Ysabel. I've seen Alex despatch three men whilst tied to a chair, the plan may sound a bit hokey, but I think they can handle anything that might come up.

I'm not sire but it looked to me like Ysabel has some kind of split personality. Her demon persona is brutal and destructive and I'm guessing she doesn't have much control over it. Just a little hint I picked up from her brother's visits suggests that he may have something to do with implanting this character within her probably to make use of it for his own ends. If so, that would make her something of a victim programmed against her will to act out accordingly. Only mentioned it because if so it would make me look at her a little differently. Only in a society as devoid of compassion as Nabius, where kill stats are celebrated and rewarded, would such a weapon as Ysabel be conceived and probably protected by it's creator, Yago. On a lighter note looks like the team is about to embark on a grand but dangerous adventure, things are starting to ramp up. I too love that Luca has been left to watch over the Manse. It's good, but also bad as it paints a huge target on him from anyone wanting to take advantage of this opportunity to take the province and install themselves as general.

Yes, I was really hoping Alex might want to make some changes. We could all see he was somehow different and seemed to actually care. It looks like he's starting to thaw toward Carl. It may turn out he may actually need Carl and Tomasia to help make the changes he wants, imagine that.

Exciting chapter. If Alex believes Carl is responsible, then he must really hate himself right now for not acting sooner and possibly preventing the death of his father. Can't wait to see what he does now. If anything the way has now been paved for Alex to take over. He may have to face a challenge or two to prove he is the strongest and most suited. I hope he continues with his fathers plans and rules Nabius. Hopefully he can bring about some reforms to alter Nabian society for the better.

I hate to say this but making an allaince with Nabius? They are a horrid people. The other two should be making an alliance to take Nabius down. Even allied to them they could never be trusted, they plot, scheme and murder each other so not good. Carlin, the high prince has effectively betrayed his family and his people. I mentioned previously how much I loathe assassins, I hate traitors even more, unfortunately Carlin is both. Still love the story but not too fond of Carlin right now and frankly don't care what happens to him.

Such a waste. This family acting together instead of against each other could be a truly powerful force in the land. Why is it some people can't see the wood for the trees? Talia is right to hate Jez and I hope she slaps the bitch out of her. Glad Luca is recovering from his ordeal. Something tells me he has a part to play and may prove himself very useful.

I kind of agree with scary. He seems harmless enough but now having killed two guards would kind of change that perception. The brutality of his treatment I kind of get. I find assassins loathsome and dishonorable. Thanks to crazy Ysabel they are woefully misinformed about Luca and with only half the story it would be easy enough to believe her lie. They live under the constant threat of assassination so the shaming and execution may go some way to dissuading others. Most important, Luca was saved in time but damn why couldn't Alex have shown up sooner?

There were still a lot of tasty titbits in here to mkae it an interesting chapter. Crazy Ysabel shows her claws again, to think she might be going home in a couple of months, yikes. And yes, we can't have Luca escape Meko hell, brave demon DC and reach the virtual safety of the DC mansion just to die now. Still a great story.

That was quite an interesting chapter. Firstly, big sigh of relief for Luca. He survived the demon Di Coteau and may yet make it to Alex and hopefully safety. Speaking of, interesting his first thoughts would be to flee to Alex and not try to get back to his own country. I just loved it when Talia greeted Jezebel, not one to mix words I think there's no doubt as to how she feels about her cousin. Finally, with so many graduates from the various academies, to receive a high profile mission first up would be more a bonus than an automatic. There probably wouldn't be that many high value targets to go around so her assignment may seem like a slight but could also be the best available at the time.

Awww so sad. I didn't see it coming and was hoping for a happier outcome but there you are. In life as well as fiction people sadly die and some when we least expect it. He may have only played a small side role but Jack will be missed. I think I too am becoming addicted to this story it's just so good. I really liked this line from a readers' comment.

Agreed, that was very sweet. You made it an intimate and memorable first for Alex. This was an act of love not lust. I hope these feelings can continue and these two find a way to break with tradition and mkae this work. They have a lot of obstacles to overcome, but as someone else mentioned, they may not be completely alone. After this it will be very difficult for them to hide their feelings. Really nice chapter, thanks.

A great story continues. Your meeting a cute guy could make a better story. I know it's a few years now but I'm hoping everything worked well for you. I can imagine Alex being really confused and uncertain of how to deal with what's going on. I'm guessing that any kind of relationship between him and a slave would be frowned upon. His father would be none to happy and the mother is likely to kill both of them. As much as we all want Alex to follow his heart, in this particular society that could be very dangerous. Similarly Luca and Jack are also living in very dangerous times. The constant dread of waiting for the hammer to fall leaves us in suspense and hungry for more. Continuing to enjoy this story, well done.

Hmmmm very bold of Carlin but then again I think he read Alex pretty well. Now not only am I worried about Luca, I now have young Jack to worry about.

Interesting how Alex continues to display traits that are uncharacteristic of Nabians and the way he was likely brought up. Whether he knows or not Carlin is having quite an affect on his thinking and behaviour. He has to be especially careful not to let his guard down in front of others. Seems any show of weakness could prove fatal in this world. Oh, I hope the fact Luca is starting to haunt his conscience, he may go back to the capital and help free him. Lots to hope for.

Alex was really lucky the way things turned out. he successfully dodged an unwanted wedding and now with his newfound celebrity status, hopefully it will deflect his father's anger. Damien may even have to begrudgingly admit that Alex actions probably did more to enhance the Di Coteau name than any arranged marriage. Cousin Jezebel may prove to be a bigger problem. Carlin and Mikhail? So may possible paths you can take us down, looking forward to seeing where you lead us.

Neat chapter. I too was a bit confused and hadn't realised Carlin was straight, I thought there was some tentative flirtung going on with him toward Alex....damn gaydar on the blink as always. Carlin seems more interested in a different Di Coteau, eh good luck with that. Hope Luca is careful and doesn't do anything too rash. I really don't see him as the type that could kill someone whereas meko would have no hesitation if he suspected anything. Really good story, I'm enjoying it.

Thanks for another great chapter, so glad I found this story. The action was awesome. I can imagine the lt. commander practically wetting himself, Ysabel looks and sounds very scary. I do hope you decided to keep Luca, I can think of many ways he could fit nicely into the story. Alex may live in his father's shadow, but after this display, I don't think he will have any problem not being known. Good job.

Good chapter. It's gratifying to see that unlike his compatriots, Alex doesn't use his standing to force himself on others. I'm hoping he somehow finds a way to help Luca escape his captivity. I'm sure Alex will do well in the arena, whether that secures his freedom is uncertain. Mortisse may try to keep him in order to gain more wealth from his winnings. Also hope Carlin survives target practice, Alex needs a good reason to get himself home.

An unexpected predicament for Alex. I'm surprised at the amount of restraint he's shown over his slaves perceived insolence. I'm guessing they will become something more in time but for now he's going to have to get out of his current pickle. This continues to be a good read, I like.