Lake, Ciara - Xihirah [Xihiran Shifters 1] (Siren Publishing Classic) by Ciara Lake

I’m in charge, not him. Is that understood, Ms. Stayvel? You should have attended me as requested. I’m extremely disappointed in you, Ms. Stayvel. You came with admirable credentials and references. This makes me more disappointed in your insolent behavior. When I tell you to do something, you do it. Now, tell me what I need to know so we can leave.” Saleeya cringed as his tirade ended. Saleeya saw that Jarvin and Mia closely watched her while the Minister unjustly chastised her. Vitalion had summarily blamed her misplacing his frustrations onto her. Both Jarvin and Mia looked uneasy as they shifted back and forth on their feet. For sure, she was about to tell Vitalion exactly what he needed to know.
    “As you wish, Minister,” Saleeya began, her tone much too sedate for those gathered. Out of the corner of her eyes, she could see Mia and Jarvin tense further. They fidgeted more and more.
    “Yes, I wish, be quick about it,” Vitalion snapped back.
    “I’ll be happy to tell you what you need to know.” Saleeya paused.
    “I’m waiting, Ms. Stayvel.” Vitalion tapped his feet impatiently.
    “With respect, Minister Vitalion, don’t speak to me in that tone. I’ve done nothing wrong. I’m not some simple-minded clerk. I’m a doctor of languages and cultures.”
    “I couldn’t care less about you. Tell me what I need to know.”
    “I’m here to assist the Council members. I was hired to do that. You’re merely one of the Council members. Kriton hired me on behalf of the Council of Planets, not you.”
    “Is that what you think?”
    “That’s what I know. I’m due a certain level of respect. I tried to motion to you to be silent when you were going on and on about the Admoncor. You’re insulting to them. You’ve made a big mistake.” Vitalion’s eyes blazed with fury. “I told you that the Xihirian’s hearing was superior. Yet, you persist in forgetting that critical point. Perhaps you simply don’t listen.”
    “How dare you talk to me like this?” Vitalion snarled, his body vibrating with rage.
    “Well, I’m not done. In the future, if you have a valid reason to be disappointed in my services, I’d appreciate it if you would address me in private rather than in an open hallway in front of everyone.” Saleeya glared at the red-faced politician.
    “Miss Stayvel, we’ll discuss the continuance of your assistance after the midday meal. Brief me now on any etiquette I need to know regarding dining with the Sovereign and the other Xihirian diplomats,” Vitalion demanded furiously.
    “Are you going to listen this time? It’s essential that you do.”
    “Ms. Stayvel, I’m warning you.” Vitalion pointed his bony finger in her direction.
    “First of all, avoid insulting any of their women. They don’t take kindly to that. Don’t take your seat before the females sit. Let the Sovereign take his seat before you do. The food must be blessed before we start dining.”
    “Blessed? These animals have deities?”
    Saleeya ignored his narrow-minded, insulting comment. “The Sovereign should start to eat first. Always be complimentary toward the food offered. And don’t insult the Xihirian military leader or any other members of the Sovereign’s family.” Saleeya finished her instructions, turned, and left without Vitalion’s dismissal. As Saleeya rounded the corner entering the atrium, she saw Kael. She was certain by his expression that he had overheard everything. Saleeya stopped to face him, “Admoncor.” Saleeya paused in front of him. “Kael, please let’s move past this unpleasant episode. Let’s go to the dining hall. I’m hungry.” Kael studied her face. After a brief pause, he simply nodded his head. He looked over her head to see Vitalion with his group fast approaching. Motioning them to follow, he began to lead the way. “Saleeya, please walk with me.”

Chapter Six

    The Palace was immense, magnificent, and the incorporation of the natural beauty made it even more