City Of Tears by Cyndi Friberg Read Free Book Online Page B

allowed access to simulators when we achieved our objectives.”
    “And if you failed or refused to cooperate?”
    “I was injected with something that … made me unbearably aroused, then vivid images, sexual images, were transmitted across my neurolink. All the while I was strapped to a treatment table, unable to bring myself relief from the burning desire. After several hours, my implants overloaded, so they were forced to abandon the punishment.”
    “Sexual release dispersed the excess energy?”
    She nodded and pushed back from the table, taking her body out of his reach. Drawing her legs up to her chest, she wrapped her arms around her knees. “That’s why my weapon discharged. Can we talk about something else now?”
    “We can talk about anything you like, or we don’t have to talk at all.”
    “Tell me something about —”
    A shrill alarm interrupted her sentence. Lyrik hurried across the room and activated a security screen recessed in the firestone wall.
    “What is that noise?” she shouted above the alarm’s wail.
    “A proximity sensor was triggered.” He navigated through several screens. “Someone is sneaking around out there, but I can’t seem to find them.”
    “Is the storm still raging?”
    “It’s just about blown itself out.” He switched to a different screen and located the intruders. “They’re dressed like miners. They probably spotted my shuttle and trotted over to investigate.”
    “Are we in danger?” She stood and aimed her fists at the entrance.
    “If they have valid identification codes, I’ll talk to them. If not, I’ll arm the external cannons. Either way, they pose no threat to us. Relax.”
    “Why is a storm shelter equipped with external cannons?” She remained at ready, her gaze darting back and forth between the door and Lyrik.
    “Scavengers. Not everyone is interested in stabilizing firestone. In its natural state it’s highly explosive.”
    “How will you know if they are miners or scavengers?”
    “Only the miners have identification codes.” He turned from the screen and looked at her. “If communication has been restored at the mining headquarters, I’d like to send a message back with them. Look me in the eyes, and tell me who you are.”
    She uncurled her fingers and met his gaze. “My name is Saebin.”

Chapter Six
     
    Lyrik accepted her statement with a stiff nod and turned back to the control console. This was her first test. No, it was their first test. He couldn’t return with her to the City of Tears until he was certain she could control her abilities. But first he had to determine if they were dealing with uninvited guests or thieves.
    He activated external audio. “This shelter is in lockdown. Identify yourselves.”
    “By whose authority have you commandeered the shelter?” The taller of the two intruders asked.
    “Validate your identification, and I’ll explain.”
    By turns the miners stepped up to the panel beside the door and stated their alphanumeric code which activated a retinal scanner. “Authorized mining personnel, Fem cet Mintar. Authorized mining personnel, Merseth.” The computer confirmed their identities.

    Lyrik switched on visual, allowing the miners to see him. “Commander Lyrik cet Barrel.”
    “We thought that was your shuttle, sir.” The taller one continued the conversation. “Just wanted to make sure everything was sat. Those damn NRS gophers get hungrier every turn. We’ve had to triple our patrols.”
    “No problems here. Is your com center operational?”
    “Yes, sir.”
    “Notify the overlord that I’ve located our stray and all is well.”
    “Yes, sir.” He glanced at his companion. “Can we be of any assistance?”
    “I have everything under control.”
    “I’ll relay your message.”
    “Barrel out.” Lyrik turned from the console and looked into Saebin’s terrified gaze. “What’s wrong?” He took a step toward her, and she raised her hand, her expression hardening in the