An Imitator

At breaking dawn, the Prince awoke and rolled over to check on his wife. Izabella hadn't woken up yet. He paused to take in her stunning appearance and could hardly believe she was his. There was a sad truth that followed the excitement of acquisition. He realized it was his responsibility to watch out for her even though she didn't require his protection.

The thought of losing her during the week she was on that jet. He was unable to see her on his radar watch sent a shiver of ancient horror up his spine, making him feel as though he were already dead. He was aware of his wife's courage, but he found that she became naive around court intrigue. Since the surrounding planet had learned of her, and a conflict between the Grisean and the Khrall was imminent, he reminded himself to give her a tour of the palace and teach her to deal with intrigue. And, of course, he promised to show her how to pilot the ship in case of an emergency attack.

His wife was right; she needed to learn even the