Knollig: A Terraneu Novel ( Book 2) by Stormy McKnight Read Free Book Online Page B

you think about lately is security and training with the men. Do
you know how long it has been since you have laughed?”
    Knaleg smiled, “I just laughed a moment ago.” Kniam
made to protest and it was Knaleg’s turn to hold up his hand, “Yes, I know! I
have been a bit out of control with training and preparation. I am just
determined that we are going to be prepared for the females and any trouble
that might come up. I want everything to be perfect.”
    Amber moved to grasp Knaleg’s hand, “Everything
can’t be perfect. That is a common problem with life on Earth. Sometimes
perfection can never be attained! Then all you will have is disappointment. We
have a thing we called “Murphy’s Law”, anything that can go wrong…will go
wrong.”
    Amber gently hugged him, “Please, try to relax.”
Before Knaleg could protest she hurried to add, “After the first group of
females are here. When things settle down, and your security measures are
successful. Then you can work on finding a mate and relaxing? Please say you
will try?”
    Knaleg returned Ambers hug, “I will try after the
first females are here.” He turned to the Council, a wicked smile crossed his
handsome face, “Now, who thinks that Knollig will make it two days before the
female gets him into bed?”  
    Nobody raised his or her hand, “Who thinks it will
be tonight?” In unison everyone raised their hands, and then they all burst
into laughter.
    ~*~*~*
    Knollig moved his hand from Mairi’s back to take
hold of her hand. She looked surprised, then smiled. Moving a step closer to
him until they were almost touching shoulders.
    “This is the Sorrem holding. They are very docile
pack animals that we use for transportation.” He turned to look around at the
small crowd of men that were following them. Giving the men a glare, he turned
back to Mairi. Walking around the complex and showing Mairi some of the
different features of the industrial domes. She had a lot of questions about
how things were manufactured. He explained that they could replicate anything
as long as they had the base materials and a template. They also did some
woodworking though they limited the amount of lumber they used. There were also
metalworking, and textiles. Finally after the tour was over he was ready to
take her back to her living quarters.
    “Mairi remember, you will need extra time in the
sun. Drink water too…it helps to keep you rejuvenated. The rains will come at
night, they are not heavy though so don’t worry.” He paused at her dome and
waited for her to open her door. “There are animals we use to eat the grass to
keep it short, they are called Gnowlers. They come and go at will during the
night. Amber has managed to nurse one back to health, and it seems to enjoy
visiting with her. The one she calls “Chewy” is the only semi-domesticated
Gnowler I have ever heard of. Do not worry if you come across them, they are
vegetarian and will not harm you. Just keep your front door and balcony door
closed and they won’t come into your space.” Knollig absentmindedly walked into
her living room. “If you hear larger animals making a yowling noise, those are
probably Sacaths. They are what Amber refers to as “prehistoric saber toothed
cat-dogs.” They are pets to some of the residents, and are completely harmless.
Even though they are quite large, and may scare you…don’t be too alarmed if you
see one.” Knollig looked around to find Mairi and was surprised to see her at
her door console.
    “How do I lock the door to make sure nobody can get
in?” Mairi was gazing up at him.
    “From the outside panel the door will only open for
you, unless you program additional authorized parties. From the inside it will
open for any community member already in the system.” Knollig pointed out.
    “What about the balcony in my bedroom?” Mairi asked
as she moved to go through the door into that space. Knollig followed her,
intent on making sure she felt safe in