To The Princess Bound (52 page)

Lion gave the Emp a long look.  “Medical tourism.”

“From this day forth, Mercy will grant amnesty to all mutagenic anomalies who seek refuge in our system.  Put out a notice to the other Adjudicators.  We offer open arms and will pay the delivery costs plus processing fees to all DNA-based exiles facing certain extermination in other areas of the Imperium.”

Lion continued to scowl at Dragomir for another long moment, then seemingly shook herself and grunted.  “As you command, milady.  I will draft the orders this afternoon.”

Victory glanced up at Dragomir, who was watching the conversation with tense interest.  “Further, the Adjudicator has the right to choose her mate.”  She put her hand on the homespun tunic hiding Dragomir’s chiseled chest and smiled up at him.  “And, since he has been chosen, his seed already planted, it will please me to know that my children will be able to serve this planet in my passing.”

Lion’s eyes widened, but she lowered her head in a salute, fist-to-chest.  “Shall I write another edict, milady?”

“Write two,” Victory said.  “The first, stating that Mercerian genetic mutations are to be registered as First Generation Royals and those who survived my father’s extermination squads will be given special compensation for stepping forward—I’m certain that it will take some time to convince them of our good intentions, considering the persecution they were subjected to, but perhaps my brother could help.  He seems to have created a list of survivors.”

“And the other, milady?” Lion asked.

“A wedding,” Victory said.  “Invite the court—those that were not arrested with my father—and the entire village of Sodstone.  Shuttle service provided.” 

Lion frowned.  “An entire
village
, milady?”

“Give them guest quarters in the east wing.”  Then Victory caught Dragomir’s gaze, bathing in the love she found there.  She smiled.  “And if Mrs. Cooper and her boys have troubles attending due to prior engagements, hire someone to watch her chickens.  We have a
special
surprise for her, after the ceremony.”