Tallusian Nights [Xihirian Shifters 2] (Siren Publishing Classic) by Ciara Lake Page A

Vegetation stood out of the water, making it look less deep. This swampy area was surrounded by a large foreboding forest.
    “This is our Tallaria Forest.” Zalora moaned.
    “Is there something wrong with the Tallaria forest? Besides our ship crashing into it.” He carefully looked her over. “How do you know what forest this is?”
    “There are trees here with amber leaves. See.” She pointed toward the forest’s edge. “They’re called Tallaria trees.”
    “So the amber leaves tell you it is your Tallaria forest?”
    “Yes.” She nodded. “These trees only grow here. Good news, their leaves are edible. I’m told they’re very good for you. They can be delicious.”
    “So we have a food source.” He looked out toward the forest.
    “Yes, they’re a great food source. But this forest has so many predators like saraguys.”
    “Are they in the water?” He frowned.
    “No, we don’t have aquatic predators.”
    “Good news to me.” He looked over the side into the murky water. “What are saraguys?” The wind picked up, blowing her hair about her head. She brushed it back, wishing for her hair band. “Put your hood up.” He pointed to her coat. “Can we eat the saraguys?”
    “They’re four-legged medium-sized animals. They run in packs.” She closed her hood. “They eat meat. They may eat us. They’re known to be vicious. They’ll probably find us delicious.”
    “Well, I’m a bigger predator. Plus, I have weapons. I’m vicious, too.” Val smiled revealing sharp canines, which magically seemed to appear. “At least when I have to be.” He put his gun on his back. “Stay here.” He climbed up onto the side of the ship then jumped down. He landed loudly in the water. It splashed all around him, stirring up an unpleasant musty scent.
    “Val.” Zalora looked further over the side. He looked up at her. He was standing waist-deep in the stinky water.
    “Zalora, throw me down the two red bags. They’re our survival bags.”
    “Okay.” She tossed one over. He caught it. Then she tossed the second one.
    “Now, climb up onto the side of the ship to slide down. I’ll catch you.”
    “No.” She shook her head. Defiance filled her with resolution. “No. I’m not going to slide down.” She shook her head again. “I’m not coming down from this height into swamp water.”
    “No?” He stared up at her. “You have to. I can’t leave you here. I won’t.”
    “I can’t come down.”
    “Why the f—” He paused. “Why not, Zalora?”
    “I’m scared.” She leaned over the side, trying to estimate her situation. “I’ll just stay here. I’ll be okay.”
    “Hmm, I understand.” He shook his head as he put his hands on his hips. He looked up at her. She could see his irritation. “Unfortunately I can’t let you stay here. There isn’t much choice for you. You have to overcome your fear. Quickly! I don’t like water. I can’t see what’s in it with me. Plus it smells like shit. Now listen up. All will be well. Slide down. I’m here.” He motioned to her to come down. Zalora hesitated. “It’s safe. I’m here.” Zalora stared down at him for several moments.
    “I guess so.” After fighting with her inner fears, she eased her way onto the outside of the ship.
    “You can slide down the ship. It’s smooth. I’ll be at the bottom to catch you. I promise.” He hung his weapon on his back. He held his arms up.
    “You better keep all your promises to me.”
    “I’ll always keep my promises to you.” He smiled up at her. “Now come on down. The water’s freezing me.” His complaint of being cold seemed to push her to move faster.
    “You’re making a big promise to me.” She made sure she had all she needed as she mustered up her nerve. “I’m going to keep you at your word, Val…what’s your full name? I don’t even know.”
    “Steval Kael Braeden.” He gazed up at her. “Pleasure to know you, Zalora Aria Zimbali. Despite all of this.” He motioned