---
She hesitated only long enough to lean in once more and kiss him like a signature on a letter already sent. Then she set her feet and tested her balance. He moved at her pace, one hand near her shoulder, not because she was fragile from the mating, but because he was showing his gentleman nature.
The path down into Monarch Mountain curved in wide arcs, lit by ribs of bioluminescent moss that glowed a patient green. Kai walked at Naaro's side with one arm around her human shoulders, his other hand steady at the hard seam where her torso met the sleek power of her four ant legs. The glow in her lower abdomen pulsed in small, even waves beneath his cloak, coloring the stone with a soft aureate shimmer as they moved.
"Slow," he said softly.
"I am steady," Naaro replied, and it was true. Pride lengthened her spine. Her steps were measured. The radiance under her skin looked like a lantern cupped in both palms so it would not go out.
