Page 53 of The Alien Warrior's Vow

The Healer clasped his hands behind his back. “You and Lans are not the first human and alien couple to mate.”

She blushed as she thought of the three couples waiting at the hideout. “Trust me, I know.”

“A long time ago, Plutonians intermingled with humans. The bloodline still exists on your planet.” He pointed to her hand. “Their ancient blood runs through your veins.”

She pulled her wrist back. “I already know that. It’s why we can connect to the zaptens. The machines recognize our faint Plutonian blood.”

“You have done your research.” The Healer looked impressed.

“No. I just happen to be surrounded by women who can’t get enough of these Plutonians.”

“And you?” The Healer arched an eyebrow. “You run from your feelings?”

“I have no feelings.”

“And yet you cry over Lans’s wounds.”

“I—” She snapped her mouth closed.

“He needs a reason to stay, Eema.”

“Fine. I’ll kiss him and see if he wakes up.” Her heart thundered at the prospect, but it wasn’t all that different than waving her hands over him and hopingreally hardthat he’d wake up. She could kiss him and more if she really thought that would work.

“Skinship is not what I am referring to.”

“But you said—”

The Healer shook his head.

“Wait. So… you’re not talking about True Love’s Kiss here? Then how do you expect me to give him a reason?”

The Healer stepped closer and gently lifted her hand. “Because of my time in the lakes, my sensitivity to smell has increased.” He inhaled. “Humans with Plutonian blood have a peculiar smell. It was how I spotted you right away.”

“Look, Mr. Healer, sir, what exactly are you suggesting? I’m kind of tired of talking in vague circles. Lans is in there dying. He’s… barely breathing. We need to do somethingnow.”

“We will.” He gestured to her. “Come with me.”

They returned to the cavern where Clavas was outside the lake waiting.

The Healer beckoned him. “Clavas, carry him to the recovery quarters.”

Clavas did as he was instructed.

Emma hung back, watching as the Healer deftly clamped a tube around Lans’s wrist and then held up a wicked looking needle attached to the other end of the tube. He motioned for her to sit.

“What are you going to do?” Emma asked, her voice trembling.

“I will give you an opportunity to plead your case.” He stuck the needle in her arm without warning.

Emma hissed. “Ow!”

A whirring sound competed with the thud of her beating heart. In the tube, blood oozed from her veins and travelled to Lans.

Clavas gasped. “Healer.”

“You were connected to Lans’s zapten, which means you are connected to him.” He pressed both hands on either side of her head. “Go, Eema. Bring him home.”

A moment later, a bright light exploded in her vision.

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