Read Here She Rules: The Chronicles of Erla: Book 1 for Free Online Page A

without an ounce of dignity or compassion amongst them.” Nera’s lips compressed. “You should see what they do to pleasure slaves.” She did not elaborate, and Cassie felt sure she didn’t really want her to if the automatic shuddering of a passing slave in response to the Queen’s words was any indication of the nature of the horrors which had been committed.
    “The men in our country are, by nature, very passive and submissive. They do not need to be forced or treated cruelly.” The next words she spoke quietly, “It is my belief that Mika’s former Mistress was of Trevian blood. Brunga was very different from my other warriors and had always been so.” Nera eased back and took a sip of her Jul.
    “I did wonder how and why the men could be as happy as they seem to be in their roles here,” Cassie said cautiously. “So, are all of the men of this world submissive?”
    “No. There are regions where the men are very different in temperament. We do have peaceful relations with those countries even though our philosophies are so vastly different. We trade and hold the occasional summit, but, I have to tell you . . . It is difficult for me to speak to a man as an equal during occasions such as those.” Nera laughed as if the whole idea was comical.
    “There has not been a summit since I was very young and my mother was still the Queen. It may be getting close to that time again. It is just so hard to summon the desire to mingle with those countries when there is peace, though.” Nera shrugged and took another sip of her Jul as her eyes came to rest upon a handsome blond slave, who approached with more of the delightful beverage.
    From his seat nearby, Mika watched his Lady carefully. He saw the heat in her eyes and the flush which spread from her face, down her neck and onto her chest. All of Cassie’s slaves knew well the effects of Jul on a woman, and they knew what would be required of them when their Lady was ready; they were all very much looking forward to the experience with their new Mistress.
    Seeing her arousal fed Mika’s, and he moved closer to her leg, boldly running his hand down her calf. At his touch, Cassie found his eyes and smiled, putting her hand atop his head, luxuriating in his silky tresses as Mika practically purred in his happiness.
    She took a sweetmeat from a tray on the table and ran the sticky confection across his full lower lip before placing it in his mouth. His beautiful golden eyes closed in the bliss from both her attention and the delicious treat she fed him.
    Cassie took a deep drink of her Jul and continued to pet Mika’s hair as she looked about the room.
    “Cassandra,” the Queen spoke, “I was most certain I was going to meet my end when you appeared this morning. I cannot thank you enough for entering the fight and saving my life. Those wretched beasts would have taken great pleasure in ending the life of the Queen of Erla.” She heaved a sigh. “The thought of my beloved Danai being left to rule at so young an age is terrifying to me. She is my only child, and I look forward to when the two of you will meet. She is five cycles now, and I believe you will be an excellent role model for her.”
    “Thank you, Your Highness. I look forward to it also,” Cassie replied.
    The party was in full swing, and the Jul was working its magic on the attendees. Inhibitions were dwindling, and the circulating slaves were receiving a great deal of attention—especially from the warriors.
    Pleasure slaves as fine as the ones chosen to serve at the Queen’s parties were a special treat to the lower warriors who were honored with an invitation. It was a chance to sample some of the finest men to be had, and they were clearly taking full advantage of the opportunity.
    Nera clapped her hands to call for attention, and the room slowly quieted.
    “Lady Cassandra, will you have your men dance for us?” Cassie’s eyebrows rose in surprise.
    “Of course, Your Highness,”