Quest for the Moon Orb: Orbs of Rathira Read Online Free Page B

only word that came close.
    He had a strong, masculine face with a wide, sensuous mouth, sculpted cheekbones and a bold, straight nose.  Karma’s eyes lingered on his mouth for a long moment, but it was the eyes that really captured her attention.  His golden tan skin and thick black lashes intensified their pale blue color so that they nearly glowed, capturing Karma’s gaze as though hypnotizing her.  It wasn’t until the man lowered himself to one knee before King Rhobar and bowed his head that she realized she’d been staring.
    She jerked her eyes from the man and focused hard on King Rhobar instead, mortified by her reaction.  Fortunately, the man was far too intent on his own business to have noticed Karma at all.
    “Rise, my son,” King Rhobar said as he moved toward the young man.  The man rose to his feet in a graceful and practiced motion and stepped forward to clasp arms with King Rhobar
    “Father, I returned as quickly as I could,” the man said.  “What news of my sister?”
    “None as yet,” King Rhobar replied.  “Bredon leads two Hunter groups in pursuit.”
    “The runner told me that the evil ones used off-world machines that travel at impossible speeds,” the man said with barely controlled anger.  “Bredon has no chance of catching them.”
    “No, he does not,” King Rhobar admitted.  “However, Captain Singer brought shifter men who can fly like birds.  They also hunt.”
    The man’s jaw clenched tightly as he seemed to struggle with himself.  After a moment he turned to face Captain Singer and bowed shortly.  “Your assistance is appreciated,” he said tightly. 
    Captain Singer bowed her head.  “I have done nothing, Prince Zakiel,” she said.  “However, if any can find and return Princess Kapia, the Gryphons can, and will.”
    Karma sensed that the Prince was not altogether pleased, and it wasn’t only because his sister had been kidnapped.  He didn’t seem to like either Captain Singer, or the idea that her help had been needed.
    “I will take my Hunters and follow Bredon,” Prince Zakiel said, turning back to King Rhobar.
    King Rhobar stared at his son for a long moment before replying.  “As you wish,” he said finally.  “Before you go, I would speak with you alone.”
    Prince Zakiel hesitated so briefly that Karma nearly missed it.  Then he raised his left fist to his forehead and bowed.  “As my King commands,” he said.
    “Captain Singer, if you would be so kind as to open the door, Talet will be pleased to show you to the dining hall,” King Rhobar said without taking his eyes off of his son.   
    “Of course, Highness,” Captain Singer said.  She bowed briefly, then gestured silently to Karma before leading the way to the door.  The Sphin stood up and stretched slowly, then glanced at Karma over one shoulder before turning around to follow her out of King Rhobar’s Audience Chamber. 
     

 
     
    Chapter 1
     
     
    Karma sat at a low table in the palace dining room, ignoring the plate of food in front of her for the more interesting view of the room around her.  She felt as though she’d stepped into the pages of a history book, albeit one that was slightly confused as to what culture it depicted.  For the most part, the room reminded her of Ancient Egypt, especially the brightly painted murals on the walls, though there were oddities. 
    There were only a few other people in the informal dining area, mostly guards, attendants, clerks and other palace workers, which suited her fine.  She’d slept poorly the night before, and had awakened just at dawn.  She’d been surprised to see Nikura curled up on a large cushion in the guest room she’d been given to share with Captain Singer.  After dressing quickly and splashing some water on her face from a pitcher and bowl left for that purpose, Karma had quietly left the room, careful not to disturb Captain Singer. 
    Nikura had followed her, but she hadn’t minded.  Especially