Blood Of The Ruby Throne — Sultry Summers

Zera, sister to High Lord Enos of Seti-Cronus, refuses to wed High Lord Sarc of the planet Alphxorn, distrustful of their disassociated cousins. But the neighboring worlds face an invasion of space pirates against which only their combined military strength can prevail.
On patrol, Enos and his entourage are killed by pirates despite assistance from two squads of Alphxorn's fighters. Zera assumes the throne of Seti-Cronus.
Sarc, renders Seti-Cronus' military temporarily impotent, marches into Zera's palace as a benevolent conquer, and demands her as his wife. A sword duel between them ensues.
Zera, unbeatable with her heirloom sword, draws first blood fulfilling an ancient prophecy. Her weapon becomes impossible to wield, leaving her disarmed and at Sarc's mercy. How will he acknowledge her, as wife or slave? With both worlds' militaries to command and Zera's love to win, Sarc struggles amid undercurrents of treachery. Can he convince Zera he's guiltless in her brother's death -- can Zera deny the feelings Sarc has awakened in her?