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Under Centaurian Protection

By: AMY_Monaco



Author's Note: Hey there, I was wondering...is anyone tired of reading these centaur stories yet? I only ask because I have one or two more lined up and I plan on writing them. The matter of my posting them all hangs on if you the reader wish more of these mythical creatures. 

If your answer is yes, do post your answers along with any comments/etc on the comment board or through email. So without further ado, here is the last part of the trilogy: Soren's story.

Thanks and remember to vote!

*** 

Last winter had proved to be a trial on Julia. Her skill with hunting was passable at best, so the meat in her pantry this season had been minimum. But with a prosperous spring and summer, her garden had grown with no problems. Harvesting time was one of the busiest. 

"Mama," Haley called. "Look, there's a horse! A big one!" 

"Is there?" Julia gathered harvest carrots and cucumbers into a basket for tomorrow, with the intention of picking them later. There was a lot of work to be done with only one adult around and a child to care for. Food was getting low, wood needed to be chopped, the house was a mess and all other chores needed to be done before it was time to prepare dinner. 

She was tired, but she smiled as her little girl jumped down from the bed. Haley tugged on Julia's skirts and pointed at the window. 

"Come see, mama. There's a horse and isn't Willie." Willie was their aging horse. 

"All right," Julia said. Haley wasn't going to stop until Julia looked. 

"There's nothing out there." Julia frowned, there was no horse in sight, but there was something gray lying on the ground. It looked like a dead animal. 

"Stay here, Haley. Don't come out." Julia grabbed her bow and opened the front door. Her eyes searched the scattered trees, but everything else that surrounded her was flat land and hills. She looked back toward the house. Haley was at the window again and waved, smiling happily. 

Julia suddenly felt as if something were watching her. A wild animal? A wolf? But she shook it off to focus on what laid on the ground. Her first guess had been correct and she found two dead rabbits. She touched the fur and still felt warmth. Freshly killed. Strange.

Still, it was food on the table. Carefully, she lifted the rabbits by the ears and turned back, unable to shake off the feeling of being watched. 

"Hey there!" 

Julia looked up and saw Paul riding toward her, two riders trailing behind him. She dismissed her earlier feelings. It was probably Paul all along and she didn't know whether to feel relieved to think it was only his eyes she felt on her a minute ago, or to feel slightly irritated. 

Paul was a big, strapping man with a barrel chest and not an ounce of fat on him. His trim mustache twitched into a smile as he came forward and dismounted. 

He was a powerful man, his wealth as a trader and breeder of horses gave him power not only in the town he resided in, but elsewhere. He always had men tagging along, there to do his heavy lifting and act as his guards. 

"Hello!" Haley shouted from the doorway. 

"Well, hello Haley." 

Julia watched Paul lift a small pouch from his pocket and hand it to her daughter. From the look on Haley's face, the pouch probably contained candy. If one thing was certain, it seemed Paul did seem to like the child. 

"Hi, Julia." He came to greet her. 

She gave him a brief smile. "Paul. What are you doing here?"

"I came to check on you, make sure you and Haley are all right." He did that sometimes, and lately, quite often -- with a proposal attached with each visit. 

"We're doing fine. We're going to be busy, with planting season in now." 

"You don't have to do this alone, Julia. I could send one of the boys here to help you if you'd let me." Paul said, glancing at the two riders. They dismounted and stood quietly talking. "Or if you'd marry me, I could move you into my big home. Haley could have a father."

"Paul," she began. Her fingers tightened around the rabbit ears. It was a good offer, one any woman would be fool to refuse. Yet... "I couldn't do that."

Paul frowned deeply. "I do not like seeing you toiling away on some small farm. This house is in the middle of nowhere. You need male protection. What if something happened to you? Marry me and you'll be safe from harm."

"Your reasons are the same the last time you came to visit and the same before that. I appreciate your concern, but I really cannot marry you."

"People have been talking," He leaned in close, lowering his voice. "Evil creatures out there in the trees. Awhile back, two men disappeared and were never seen again."

Julia shivered. "Men disappear all the time. These forests are full of wild animals and --"

"Not just any animals, Julia. There's whispers about evil creatures, centaurs who torture humans, sacrificing them to their gods."

"Stop it, Paul. I don't want you saying anything like that to Haley."

Paul grabbed her arm before she could walk away. "Then think about Haley. Those centaurs not only kidnap women, but they take our children and do unspeakable things to them."

"Enough, Paul, please." She shook him off. "If you came here to scare me..."

"I hope I am scaring you. These lands are full of 'em as I've heard. Your best chance for safety is marrying me. They are moving closer to your home, you know. I even heard a couple men say they've spotted some, just past those hills there." 

Julia followed his finger to the thick of trees past the hills and mountains. Odd, but that was the direction she could've sworn she felt someone watching her from. 

"Centaurs, if they exist are grotesque and heartless. If you get captured by one, you'll never live to see another day." The hate in his voice for those creatures was evident and it gave Julia pause. 

"I'll think about it, Paul."

He said nothing. Instead, he glanced down. "Where did you get those? I didn't know you could shoot rabbit."

Julia glanced down at the fresh meat in her hands, blinked. There it was again, that odd feeling. 

*** 

Paul waited a good distance before he spoke to his men. Liam and Roy were as loyal to him as any criminals could be and Pail appreciated that. When you earned a convict's loyalty, they worked for you until their death. 

Paul liked that in his men. 

"Doesn't seem like she will accept my proposal." Paul said. Liam was a tall, lanky man with a sharp eye for detail and a face marked by scars. He looked up. 

"What do you want us to do?"

"Julia will be more accepting if something happened to her little girl..." Paul thought, staring off into the horizon. 

"You want us to take the girl?"

"Just kidnap her, hold her for a few days. If you harm her, I'll have your head."

"It will be done." Said Roy, a chubbier man with a full beard. 

"Plan it for the day after next. I want Julia as my bride as soon as possible." 

*** 

What centaurs were taught early on in life were two things: how to handle a simple blade and how to set a trap to capture small animals. 

It took Soren barely a handful of minutes to catch the tiny squirrel. He lifted the cage up and stared into the frightened black eyes of the tiny animal. He tossed a handful of small nuts into the cage and the squirrel snatched at one hungrily, eyes still on his captor. 

Soren grabbed the rest of his kill and started for camp.

"What are you doing with a squirrel?" Callum asked, eyeing the cage. "Aren't you past the age of catching those things? Only colts do it now."

Soren smirked. "I have my reasons. How is Lila?"

The smile on Callum's hair-roughened face reached his eyes. "She is very well. Breeding has made her glow."

Seeing his brother so happy made Soren grin. "Do you hope for a daughter, as well?" 

Callum shrugged. "I don't care if it is a daughter or son. But Lila is sure it will be a son." He sent his younger brother a look. "She hopes you will join us for the evening meal."

"My apologies, but I cannot." Soren glanced down at the cage. "I have some things that must be done."

"I have been watching you lately. You seem restless, Soren. Has this anything to do with the woman you spoke of?"

Soren nodded, but didn't look up. "Aye."

"Will you bring her here soon?"

"I want to."

"You want to." Callum said thoughtfully. The warm weather brought everyone outdoors. Callum stood a few feet away from his longhouse, building a table. He turned back to his work. "Is there something wrong with the maiden?"

"Nothing wrong. But...there is a problem bringing her here. Polonius will not like it."

Now Callum frowned. "It must be serious if Polonius will not approve. What is wrong with the maiden?"

If Soren was going to bring her here, they were bound to know. He looked up. "She isn't a maiden."

"She has lovers?"

"Had." Soren wanted to make it clear. He'd been watching the woman for some time, checking on her occasionally throughout the winter months, ensuring her and the child's protection. 

Then yesterday, he'd seen several men ride up to her home. The memory made him frown. Was the man her current lover? He already knew that the sight of the man was a bad omen. "The woman is a widow."

"I see." His brother nodded carefully. "You have not informed the Elders yet?"

"No. I don't plan to until I bring her here."

"You will have a problem when they discover she isn't a maiden, brother."

"I know." 

*** 

Lila smiled at Callum when he took the heavy basket from her. Inside their longhouse, Lila rubbed her lower back. She'd grown very large in the last few months as the child grew stronger each day. Her skin glowed with motherhood, but the weight proved to be a bit much for someone as small as her. 

"We can eat later, Lila." He murmured, lifting her easily onto the bed. "Get some rest."

She nodded. "I just feel so tired all the time now." Within minutes, she was asleep. 

Callum ran the back of one finger over her soft cheek, then his hand trail down to the swell of her belly. Very soon a child would be here with them. The very thought made him smile. Tenderly, he covered her belly. He missed the sound of a child's laughter and their ever-curious nature. 

He felt the kick of his child and chuckled softly. Lila was so tired, she didn't even stir. 

"Be calm, my son...or daughter. Your mother needs rest." Callum whispered, leaning down to kiss Lila's belly. "You will arrive when the time is right."

Then he went over to one of the cupboards. With a knife and a half-work on piece of wood, he started on another toy for the child. He'd already carved out two miniature centaurs and was slowly working on a mountain lion. 

He thought of what it would be like a few months from now, his home filled with the sounds of their child, Lila's humming and it warmed his heart. He was anxious for the day his child to arrive. 

*** Soren went back to check on the woman and child two days later, this time as the sun was just setting. The woman was just carrying in a handful of wood. He could tell the load was heavy, she heaved and paused several times to shift the weight in her arms. 

His eyes shifted over to the child, a tiny little thing dressed in a faded blue frock. She walked obediently behind her mother, singing a nonsensical song to herself. The image made Soren smile. They were fine. 

It seemed in the past months since he discovered their existence, checking on them relieved his mind and worries. Seeing them without protection brought out a certain need inside of him to care for them. 

Satisfied that they were well, he turned and started back to camp. Suddenly he heard faint voices in the distance. Then a loud commotion. Soren's attention snapped to the house below. The woman's scream cut through the air. A child's cry followed and it tore through Soren as if he were physically wounded. 

"If you follow us, the child dies." Said one man, another struggling to keep a hold on the squirming girl in his arms.

"Mama!" The child cried.

"Haley!" The woman was held back, tears staining her face. Soren was already galloping down the jagged rocks that covered the hill, readying his bow. Not a second later, he aimed it at the man who was struggling with the child. As he'd expected, the arrow pierced the man side, rendering him in so much pain, he was forced to let go of the child. 

"Run, Haley. Run away!" The woman urged. The child did so, only to be caught by a third man. 

"Got you, you little scamp." The man said with a crooked, satisfied smile. The child cried. "We have to leave. Something's out there." 

Soren tucked his bow over shoulder and charged forward, fury coursing through his veins; it changed his face. Sober, he looked intense with his piercing eyes and hard mouth. In anger, his expression was menacing. He exhaled loudly, a sound that indicated the wrath of a centaur. 

Out of the corner of his eye, he could see the other man holding the woman down, but his face was that of shock at seeing Soren. 

Soren grabbed the man who held the child and gripped his neck. 

"Let the child go." He said ominously into the man's ear. When he didn't, Soren's fingers dug into the man's throat. Instantly, the man dropped the child. Not a minute later, the man's limp figure fell to the ground. 

Without hesitation, Soren grabbed the crying child and he locked eyes with the woman for a long second, as if conveying to her in silence that she need not fear for the child. 

With that, he started for the shadows of the trees. It was obvious the men wanted the child, not the woman, so she was in no danger. Yet. 

His thoughts analyzed the situation as he sped through the woods. He would need to go back for the woman soon. 

The child's tiny fists pounded at him as she cried loudly. 

"I want mama!" 

Soren laid a soothing hand over the girl's head, stroking her hair as he ran. 

"Shh, little one. We will go back to save your mother very soon."

The girl sobbed louder. He held her tightly. "You are safe with me, little one. No need to fear me." He continued with these words, murmuring them to the girl until she finally stopped crying. But her eyes still watered and she sniffled in his arms. 

"I want my mama." She said, her voice wobbly with fear. 

They were soon to reach camp. 

"I will bring her to you. You have my word." He paused. "Your mother called you Haley, is that your name?"

The girl nodded, burying her damp face into his shoulder. 

"I am Soren."

"Our horse Willie doesn't talk. How come you can?"

This made him chuckle. The edge of camp came into view and he trotted forward. "I am no horse, little one. I am a centaur."

Torches lit the camp; many were still out finishing chores or returning from their tasks to home. 

He noticed several turned their heads at the sight of the child, but Soren said nothing. He hurried to his home and finally let Haley down. 

"This is your new home, little one." Soren said. He was a little unsure of what to say to a child, especially one who was separated from her mother. 

"I miss mama, I want to go home, Soren." She looked up at him, her bottom lip sticking out as if she was about to cry all over again. He leaned down to touch her cheek. 

"Your mother will live here, too. Now come, are you hungry?"

She nodded. 

He fixed her a plate, settled her into a spot of soft cushions and furs, telling her to sleep when she felt the need to. Now occupied, Soren left his home to seek his brothers. 

"What do you mean you brought a human child into the camp?" Thayer demanded. They spoke in low voices outside Thayer's home. Callum also turned to his younger brother, though he said nothing and waited patiently for an answer. 

"The woman I want as my mate is a widow. Tonight as I was there to make sure she and the child were safe, men were there about to kidnap the girl."

"But they intended to leave the woman behind?" Callum asked. Soren nodded. 

"It makes no sense. The men work for another and were to bring the child to him tonight. I had to bring her here for safety. I go back tomorrow for the woman."

"You have risked much bringing the child here." Thayer said, though there was no censure in his tone. "The man you alive has seen you and the direction you traveled."

Soren squared his shoulders. "If the man were intelligent, he would not pursue the camp. But if he does, he deserves punishment for even thinking of taking the child." He shook his head, his mind so filled with thoughts of Haley and the woman. "I will tell Polonius in the morning."

"The child, she fares well?"

"She is scared and wants her mother. But I have her eating and hope she will sleep peacefully tonight." 

Thayer nodded. "Rose and Lila will help with the child when you are unable to watch her. Those men you spoke of, I will inform the others to keep watch."

"Thank you, brothers." Soren said. Callum laid his hand on Soren's shoulder and they parted. 

By the time Soren reached his home, Haley was crying again, quietly this time. She clutched the thick fur to herself. 

"What is wrong, little one?" Soren settled down beside the girl. 

"Is mama safe?" A tiny fist wiped at a tear that wet her cheek. "That bad man was hitting her."

"No, he was not hitting her. That man was only holding her down. But she will be safe. I will make sure of it. Now go to sleep, little one. You are tired."

"Will mama be here in the morning?"

"She will be here soon. I will be here and my sisters will help care for you." He gently tucked her in, stroking her soft hair. It was the same shade of red as her mother's and it looked beautiful in the firelight. 

Longing to see the woman filled him. But then he thought of the men who tried hurting her and felt vengeance replace worry. Those men will regret what they've done. 

*** 

Haley slept through the night, much to Soren's relief. When the girl woke, she pushed herself up and looked around at her strange surroundings. When there was no sight of her mother, her mouth pouted.

"Mama?" 

The flap lifted and Soren came in. He picked her up. 

"Where is mama, Soren?"

"She is not here yet. Do not worry, Haley. I promised I will bring her here and nothing will stop me until she is with you." 

Haley thought about this for a moment. "All right." 

He chuckled. "Come, we dine with my brother and his mate."

Haley was shy and buried her face into Soren's shoulder when she was introduced. But soon the knowledge of other humans around seemed to bring Haley out of her shell and she let Rose take her hand. 

Soren took this opportunity to speak with Polonius. 

"I would bring my daughter here, but it would upset her if she is to adjust to seeing so many new faces."

Polonius arched an eyebrow. "Your daughter?"

"She is mine, as is the woman who is the girl's mother."

"No centaur has brought a touched woman into the camps for centuries now, Soren. You know this."

"Aye, I do, Polonius." 

"What many do not know is that it was possible, at a time when centaurs did kidnap impure women, one or two had carried with them a disease. As a different breed centaurs were not able to fight off this disease and it had tainted our blood, rendering us unable to give our mates daughters."

"But you see Thayer with a daughter. Our blood has healed and thickened."

"Aye, Sonja was a gift from the gods. A rare gift. But, you must understand, we cannot risk tainting our blood again."

Soren felt his hands clench at his sides. "I know what I am doing. I battled with myself for wanting her, watching her from a distance for nearly a year. It is something I cannot fight. I want her and she will be my mate."

"The child -- your daughter -- will she be a threat?" 

"Haley is as innocent as Sonja. She still fears because we are unfamiliar, but she is slowly learning to trust me. When her mother is brought here, Haley will be well. There will be no threat to our camp."


Under Centaurian Protection Ch. 02



Author's Note: Once again, your comments and encouragement have been wonderful. I hope this was worth the wait!

***

"Mama!" 

Julia opened her arms and embraced Haley tightly, breathing in her daughter's scent. Every muscle in her body began to relax. Haley was safe, but it didn't stop the tears from welling in Julia's eyes. Her voice shook she asked, 

"Are you well? Are your hurt, Haley?" 

Haley shook her head. "Soren gave me a squirrel! Look!" 

Haley moved out her mother's arms and pulled her toward the cage that sat on the ground outside Rose and Thayer's longhouse. 

"Do you believe me now?" Soren asked. Julia nodded slowly. Her eyes darted to those around her, centaurs as powerful looking as Soren, the women who moved freely within the camp in their comfortable, happy manners. 

"Come, Haley, we must leave now." Haley made a sound of protest. 

Soren frowned. "You will go nowhere."

"I'm going home -- "

"That man will find you there. Is that your wish?" He moved closer to her. "He was determined to take you with his men watching. There is no security with him around."

"There is no security here, either."

Soren lifted Haley into his arms easily, as if he'd done so since her birth. His other hand carried the squirrel cage. 

"Unlike that man, we cherish our women and children. You and Haley are mine now." 

Julia arched an eyebrow at such an arrogant statement, but she had no choice but to follow. She watched Haley go on talking in her lyrical voice, describing to Soren what the squirrel did and the centaur listened intently. 

They entered a longhouse, where Soren set Haley and the cage down. 

"Keep away from the fire, little one. I must speak to your mother outside."

"You cannot mean to keep me here." Julia crossed her arms over her chest. Everything was happening too fast. She'd traded one man for a domineering centaur in mere minutes. How did this happen?

"Escape will be useless if you try, Julia. I brought you here as my mate."

"I don't even know what that means!" Julia threw her hands up in the air. "I don't know you! You take my child, then me and claim to protect us from Paul and -- "

He grabbed her by the arms and silenced her with a hard kiss. Her body instinctively reacted to him and she melted into his embrace. The power of his mouth fused with her yearning, as if drawing energy from that. Shocked, she looked up at him when he finally broke the kiss. Their breathing was uneven and she could tell that he was just as affected by the kiss as she. 

"Your body knows me." He murmured. "As my mate, you will be my companion, my bride...my lover."

Julia shook her head. "I will not expose my daughter to -- "

"To a centaur?" He asked curtly. 

"No, to someone who will treat her badly and leave us -- "

"Speak no more, Julia." Soren frowned deeply, looking as if she'd insulted him. "I do not like your accusations. Haley is my daughter now and you are my mate. Accept it." 

Soren knew it was all too much for her. So he reluctantly let her go, holding her away at arm's length. 

"The midday meal approaches. My sisters will share their meals with us until you adjust to this life. This is your home now. You will grow to like it here."

*** 

Julia played with the torn bit of cloth on her dress as she sat amongst the furs. The stillness of the night didn't help her nerves. She couldn't believe she was here with a centaur! She thought they were only myths. Then she saw him taking Haley away...myth turned into nightmare. And now? 

She didn't know what to think. 

Her eyes settled on the sleeping form of Haley, the caged squirrel was nearby, curled into a ball in its own slumber. She seemed content to be here, trusting in Soren's words of protection and love. Could Julia trust so easily?

She was unable to sleep, so instead, she hugged her bent knees and stared into the fire. Soren was settled nearby, watching her. 

"I've heard tales of centaurs taking women. Everybody has." Julia said, glancing at him. "But I didn't think they were true."

His soft chuckle warmed the inside of her body. 

"Centaurs do a lot more than just take women, Julia. But for now, I will not tell you." Soren lifted an iron poker and stuck it through the fire, shifting the wood. "Were you happy?"

"Happy?"

"With your first mate?"

"You mean my husband?" Julia thought for a moment. "I suppose I was. I liked him."

"What took his life?"

"A wood chopping accident. He bled to death hours before I found him."

Soren returned the poker from where it was and looked at her. "Centaurs are not easily killed. You won't have to fear my early demise."

Julia broke their eye contact. There was something about his gaze that made her uneasy. He was always looking at her with such intensity that it was as if he could see into her soul. It was something the three brothers shared. 

Yet Soren had none of Callum's brooding looks or Thayer's arrogance, at least not when he wasn't telling Julia to accept life here. In fact, Soren seemed easy-going and openly warm, ready to smile at anyone. She nearly rolled her eyes at this thought. Just because he was handsome and kind to her didn't mean she should fall for him just like that. 

"What if I don't want to be your mate?" Soren chuckled again and moved closer to her. "You are a stubborn one. Though, I think all maidens are when they are brought here."

This time, she blushed. "I'm not a maiden. You know that." She pulled a blanket over herself and settled into the bed. A minute later, he did the same and laid down facing her. 

His hand came out to touch her, causing her to jump at first. But the soft caress on her face, then moving lower to her aching breasts made her breath unsteady. The material of her dress was thin and her nipples jutted out for his hands to cup. He did so slowly, molding his large hand over her shape. Julia made a little sound, encouraging him and not knowing why she was. 

His hand then descended to her shapely hips and thighs underneath the furs. He pulled the dress up, exploring the sensitive flesh hidden beneath. He kissed her as his hands parted her thighs. 

"What ways of pleasure have you learned from your first mate, Julia?" He whispered, nibbling playfully at her bottom lip. 

"I..." She gasped when his fingers parted the thatch of hair covering her sex. "He only took me as I lay on my back."

He kissed her deeper. "How...uncreative." 

His fingers traced the lines of her nether lips lightly, back and forth, again and again until she thrust her hips at him. He did this at a leisurely pace. 

"Did he touch you like this?" 

Her dew clung to his fingers and with each new caress, she grew wetter and more impatient. With one large finger, he slipped into her dripping warmth. 

Her inner muscles tightened around his thick finger. "Soren, that feels so good."

"Imagine it is my cock that is taking you, Julia." He murmured. Her eyes were closed, her damp mouth parted in pleasure. By the gods, how he wished he could take her right now. He could easily muffle her cries of pleasure with his mouth so not to wake Haley. Even now, his erection was painful and straining. 

Soren suddenly went still. His ears strained, and he muttered something when he heard the warning being signaled outside. It was a series of soft drumbeats. 

"Soren?" Julia looked up, her eyes heavy with unfulfilled desire. He was reluctant to leave.

"I am needed." He took deep breaths, trying to cool his arousal. "The drums, they signify the male centaurs to gather. They must have spotted intruders on our land."

She looked so touchable, lying there with her body opened to him. Standing, he could see the reality slowly seep into her eyes. Before he knew it, she was holding the blankets to her tightly. 

"I will return as soon as possible." They both looked up when Haley began to stir from the noise. 

"Go settle her down. This should not take long." 

Outside, about eleven centaurs gathered. Based on their skill and agility, each centaur had each three sets of drum rhythms to memorize as colts. Each of these drum rhythms signified the severity of their summons. Soren stood with his brothers before Polonius, having heard the one that indicated intruders that have crossed far into Centaurian land. 

"Ten armed men. And they are no wanderers." One informed. 

"The man is after Julia and Haley." Soren shook his head. "Elders, I am sorry for this. One of them had seen me take off with my daughter."

"It is not your blame, brother." Callum said from behind them.

"Let us hunt them this night." 

Agreement was heard amongst them.

"I will have the prisoner's longhouse prepared." 

"Punishment will be determined once they are here." Said another Elder. This brought a drone of protests from the centaurs. 

"We leave in ten minutes." 

*** 

About a mile before they reached them, Thayer signaled for them to break off in several directions, so that once they closed in, the humans would be surrounded. Soren took off with two others, leading them off with his bow at the ready. 

His hearing picked up the slightest sounds the human made. One of them was mumbling something, another was adjusting a buckle. The centaurs slowed down, moving through the thick trees silently. 

The humans rode in pairs, following a large man at the front, darkness obscuring his face. But by the way he carried himself, Soren and the others could tell he was the leader. 

The trees were endless, Paul thought to himself, hearing an owl overhead. He much preferred to be in town amongst other people, of being in the center of celebration and drink. The sooner he found Julia and Haley, the better. 

An owl calls answered the first. 

"Damn owls." Muttered one of his men. "What I would do to kill one right now."

"Patience, my friend." Paul said. "It's just a bird."

"I think I see something." Said one loudly. "Off to the right." 

Several drew out their blades, searching the thick bushes and trees for movement. Paul felt the hairs on his arm rise, sensing a strong presence surround them. As the feeling grew stronger, their horses became restless, shifting under them and neighing. 

Paul slid his own sword out from its scabbard. A sound, a rustle made the horses move.

"There!"

He swung his head around and went pale. A large centaur came forward slowly, his bow aimed straight at Paul's chest. The creature stared at him fiercely, his presence all the more menacing in the moonlight. Several others came forward, until Paul realized they were completely surrounded. 

"Lay down your weapons, humans." 

None of the men did. Suddenly a centaur let fly an arrow and Paul saw it pierce through one of his men's right arm. His man let out a sound of pain, dropping his weapon. 

"Come quietly or face consequences, humans." 

"All right!" Exasperated and nervous at the same time, Paul dropped his sword to the ground, wincing as the metal scratched against a stone. This was the first time he had ever seen a centaur. Hate started to run through him as he thought of one of them touching Julia. 

"Dismount your horses." 

One of the men refused. Frowning, one of the centaurs came forward and repeated the command. 

"Do as he says, man." Paul called out. But the man only snarled in response, abruptly pulling a dagger out and sinking it into an unsuspecting centaur's shoulder. The centaur grunted in pain and pulled the blade out, then lifting the human from his saddle. He was killed instantly, his body collapsing to the ground twisted and broken. The other captors winced. 

Witnessing this unmerciful act, the humans complied with having their hands bound. 

The capture was too easy, Soren thought, as they headed back to camp. He kept an eye on the humans, frowning particularly at the one who led them off. This was the man who tried to force Julia. The memory of it sent fury through every cell in Soren's body. His hands fisted at his side. 

He trotted to the human's side, enjoying the fact that the man jumped when he heard Soren's hoof beats. Lifting a hand, Soren smacked the man on the back of the head, rending a cry of pain from the human. 

He had promised the Elders that punishment would be withheld, but one little strike of pain wouldn't be so bad. 

The human was going to be sorry he ever stepped foot on Centaurian ground. Soon, the human was going to realize he was a fool to lay a hand on a centaur's mate and child.

*** 

Their human possessions were abandoned in the forest. Paul seethed with anger, particularly the one who hit him on the head for no reason. He kept quiet, didn't he? He was walking in a line tied together with his men, the way these animals wanted him to. 

It seemed like the night went on forever, just miles of ground and trees. They had to climb up jagged hills and wade through a shallow creek. The animals were probably making this trek difficult on purpose. 

It was nearly dawn when they finally reached their destination. Instead of cabins and shops, there were longhouses; dozens of them built in a primitive looking design. Everything was quiet. 

A dead deer hung from its legs on a tree nearby, and several small furry animals hung on the higher branches. There were fenced in areas built like a battling rink and small patches of gardens. 

They crossed over to a stage like area and what looked to be a large stone well. Faint sounds were already heard from the forge.

"They think they're bloody civilized." Muttered one of his men from behind. His grunt of pain followed that comment. 

"Quiet, human." 

The prisoners were divided into two groups, and then led into two longhouses where they were forced to their knees and bound to large wooden poles. The entrance was left open, but the centaurs did nothing else but leave them alone.

"We're right where we need to be." Paul said, once the animals were well away. 

"You mean you meant us to be tied up like this?" Asked a man named Fred. "You're bloody mad."

"I meant that they have brought us here to their camp. All we need is an escape plan."

"I'd like to know that myself." Grunted Jack. "These filthy animals think they're so civilized with their little village. Think they have women here?" 

"'Course they do."

"Julia's here." Paul said. "I know she is. When we escape, we grab her and run for it."

"Not the kid?"

Paul thought for a moment. "If we can't get to Haley, leave her."

He hadn't worked out how they were going to get out of here. He needed time to think. And at the moment, bound to a pole with three other men, it was the perfect time to do so. 

*** 

Julia knew the instant she was awake that Haley was not with her. Julia sat up in bed, her eyes flying to where Haley slept. The small bed was empty and Soren was gone. She strained to hear any voices outside and heard only Soren's. 

She hurried out and felt relief when she saw Soren watching a bunch of young colts playing with Haley. The girl was listening to the colts as they shared stories about catching animals. Squirrels were too easy, Julia heard them say. At their age, they had moved on to creatures like fox and rabbit. 

"I want to catch one." Haley announced. "I want a squirrel. Pika needs a friend."

"Who is Pika?" Julia asked. Soren turned to her with a grin on his face. 

"Pika is her squirrel."

"I won't have her going around yielding a knife as I see those boys doing."

Many of the colts had small blades strapped to their belts. Soren glanced at her. 

"You must understand that Haley is to be raised Centaurian now that she lives here. But you are right; Haley will not be using a blade for some time. At least not to hunt. She will be taught the ways of Centaurian women." He went over to Haley.

"Come, little one." He lifted her easily into his arms. "We are going to visit your uncles and aunts again"

"But, I want to catch squirrels." Haley wrapped her tiny arms around his neck and looked back at the colts, staring longingly at their freedom to hunt. Then there was a tremble in her voice as she asked, "I'm not living with you any more?" 

Soren saw Julia head back into the longhouse, presumably to wash up. He turned back to Haley. 

"You will always live with me and your mother. At least, until you mate."

"Are you my new papa?"

She had her bottom lip stuck out and her big bright eyes were staring at him. Haley was going to lead those colts back there on a merry chase in the future, he found himself thinking. Already, he felt such protectiveness over this little girl. His little girl. 

"Do you want to call me papa? It is what I will be, now that your mother and I will be mated."

The little girl thought for a moment. "Does mated mean married?"

"Aye, Haley."

She nodded. "Okay, papa. But I still want to catch squirrels."

He smiled and started inside. "You won't have to catch them, little one. Those colts will be doing that for you, trust me."

*** 

As Soren predicted, a young colt was waiting at his longhouse when they returned from visiting with his brothers and cousin. 

"Young Rhamnes, what do you do here?" Soren asked. "You should be training with the other lads."

Haley was already squirming in his arms, anxious to go play. Rhamnes was only a few years older than Haley, and already showed signs of a worthy centaur. But right now, the colt shifted restlessly and then stepped aside to reveal a cage. 

"I brought Haley a gift." Rhamnes announced proudly. Haley squealed in delight. Soren laughed. 

"You see, little one. No need to hunt when you have this strong lad to do the dirty work for you." 

He put her down and watched her run to the cage. The children were lost in their chatter as Rhamnes described the process of luring such a tiny animal into the trap. 

It was good to see her daughter playing with others. Living in that cabin had been a lonely life and Julia knew this. Seeing Haley now, talking away, Julia was able to see the benefits of raising her amongst those her age. 

"My sisters adjusted to life here quickly, so shall you." Soren said, going inside. Then he grabbed her by the wrist and pulled her to him. His eyes grew heavy as he looked into hers. "And I will help you adjust to being the mate of a centaur."

Julia shook her head, pushing at him. "No, we shouldn't, Haley might come in." 

"She is busy playing. Let her be, hmm?" He lowered his head and she felt the warmth of his mouth. "My sisters have offered to watch over Haley some days. We could sneak off into the woods."

His lips emphasized his temptation as he licked at her skin, skimming his teeth over her until she shivered in his arms. 

"By the gods, I need to know when this examination will be." Soren broken away suddenly, holding her at arms length. She blinked, still unfocused, then pulled away. Her hunger to feel him against her equaled the confusion she still felt over all this. 

Her mind cleared enough to register his words. 

"Examination?"

Soren hesitated. "Since you are not a maiden, you must be examined to make sure you carry no disease that may taint our blood." 

He shook his head when she went pale. "No, Julia. We do not mean that in offense. It is only a precaution."

"Well, there's no need for it." 

He chose to ignore that comment. "I will go speak with the Elders about this examination."

"And this mating business." Julia turned away, shaking her head. "I-I don't think I can go through with it. I really cannot subject Haley to someone who might leave her. She has already lost one father."

"I told you centaurs are not easily killed. Males are trained as warriors from birth. And I will have you as my mate no matter what."

Julia wanted to believe that. Living on her own with a child to care for had been so hard. For once, she wanted security with someone she completely trusted. 




Under Centaurian Protection Ch. 02



Soren shrugged and started for the door. "Do not worry about Rhamnes with Haley. Colts are taught early on to protect. It is Centaurian code." Then he was quiet for a moment, before he said, "Think on that."

*** 

"The Elders have chosen the day after next for the examination."

Soren frowned at Polonius. "Why in two days time?"

"A woman's womb is drawn to each full moon. Our calendar deems that day the right one for the examination."

Two more days of not making love to Julia. His expression must have been obvious, for one of the Elders chuckled. 

"We know you are anxious to take your woman, but it must be done."

Polonius cleared his throat. "The examination will be performed by one of the Elders."

Soren shook his head now. "No. I will not have another centaur touching my mate."

Another Elder held his hand up, beseeching the younger to remain calm. 

"We follow the old ways in this. Our scrolls show records of the Elders performing these examinations. It must be if you wants her."

Soren made a sound akin to a riled horse and moved restlessly. He knew the Elders would not dishonor him or Julia, but the thought of one of them touching her intimately had him on edge. 

"I do not like this, Elders."

Polonius came forward. "We understand your ire, Soren. Any centaur in your position would feel the same. But these things are woven into our culture. The examination will be as it was."

"Know the Elder will not take pleasure from it, lad." Spoke another Elder. "Centaurian males have honor. Remember that. We would not defile another's woman." 

*** 

Soren was breathing deeply as he made his way through camp, stalking towards his home. His heart thumped wildly inside his chest and his eyes took on a strange light. He pushed at the flap of the entrance, the abrupt sound causing Julia to jump. She stood at the fire, stirring something. 

"Oh, Soren." She breathed. "I thought something was wrong." 

"Where is Haley?" Soren asked, his face expressionless. 

"She is playing with Rhamnes and the other children. Why?"

He grabbed her hand and practically dragged her out of the longhouse. 

"What is wrong, Soren?" 

He swept her into his arms and started galloping into the woods. He did stop until they were a long distance away from the camp. 

He then shifted her body so that she straddled him and pushed her against one of the tree trunks for support. Lifted from the ground, she was face to face with him. 

His demanding kiss left her breathless and she moaned in protest and wanting. 

"What has gotten into you, Soren?" She managed to ask. Then she felt him shove her skirts up, lips curving when he found she wore no under-things. 

His cock rose from the hairs that covered his body and it nudged urgently against her parted thighs. He took her mouth again, kissing her so deeply, he could hardly think. His fingers worked the soft skin of her buttocks, kneading her and parting those pale globes. 

Julia moaned loudly and arched her body towards him. "Soren,"

"Aye, Julia." Her name slipped from his lips so easily. She was meant to be his. "Do you crave this, my love?" He plunged two fingers into her waiting slit. He exhaled, finding her dripping wet, so ready for him. His other hand continued to mold her buttocks, pressing her closer to him. 

"Do you want me inside you, Julia?" He asked, pumping his hand. Then he stopped. Julia clawed at him, moaning in frustration.

He shifted her weight, his hands taking hold on her thighs. He teased her with the head of his staff. All he had to do was thrust in. 

But Soren's sense of honor was carved too deeply into his mind. Almost blindly, he let the length of his cock rub past her wet opening. Her moist heat running over his straining sex. 

He groaned and allowed his head to fall on her shoulder. She felt good. She would feel even better if only he could bury himself inside her. 

But he gave his word to the Elders.

So, he repeatedly rubbed the length of himself against her dripping pussy without penetrating. Julia was trembling from unfulfilled need, yet moaning from the buildup of this pleasure. It started torturously slow. His hands altered to holding her by her bottom, spreading her cheeks so he could squeeze them together as he moved against her. 

She whimpered with each tightening of her buttocks; feeling the tip of his cock rub at her anus, wanting him to one day fill her there, too. She balanced her weight on his shoulders with her hands. 

They locked eyes, sharing in this sweet punishment together. He exhaled loudly and nostrils flaring, quickening his pace. His eyes grew darker with that strange glow. Every thrust bumped against her erect clit and she moved with him. 

"Cry out, Julia." He urged hoarsely. "I want to hear you."

She couldn't control her cries if she tried. He wasn't fully taking her, yet the constant rubbing of his thick cock was driving her closer to the edge. She felt the flood of her release and moaned. 

Soren followed after, and she could vaguely feel his warm seed spurt against her buttocks. Panting, he kept her against the tree. With a gentle hand, he smoothed away her flame-red hair and kissed her damp forehead. 

"You will be examined in two days time." He said, as if it were explanation enough for his behavior. Julia had to admit she didn't mind what his excuse was. 

"Forgive me, my love, if I have been too rough." 

Julia lazily shook her head and touched his cheek. It felt so good to be in a man's arms again. "You weren't too rough at all, Soren."

The side of his mouth curved. "Be prepared to be taken suddenly, until I can properly make love to you. We will have Rose or Lila tend our daughter tomorrow afternoon."

"Our daughter?" Julia felt her heart skip. 

Soren looked at her as if it were the most obvious thing. "I am her father now. Unless...you object to this idea."

She shook her head. "No," she whispered. "No, I don't object." 

He nodded approvingly. "Now I must leave, I'm afraid. The men who were after you...they were brought into camp early this morning."

Her entire body went tense. "What? 

"They are held prisoner in the empty longhouse near across the forge as we speak." 

She grabbed his arm. "You do not know Paul. He is ruthless. He won't hesitate to kill you or the others."

His face hardened. 

"I will not hesitate to kill if he so much as raises a weapon to me. Remember, a centaur is not easily felled. And as I said, he is being held prisoner." 

She shook her head. "No, that's not going to stop him. His men, they are all...they've done unspeakable things."

Soren narrowed his eyes. "Why did you ever associate yourself with such a human?"

Julia's felt the cold seep over her and it wasn't from the wind. 

"Tell me, Julia. If you knew his character, why were you speaking to him."

She looked away. 

"It's always better to be with them than become their enemy. And I had a child to consider." 

Soren looked angry suddenly. He took a few steps toward her, his height more intimidating than before with his fierce eyes and tense mouth. 

"My child now. Remember that. So do not do something foolish like help them escape. Those who are a threat to the camp will be shown no pity." 

He meant it. Julia could tell by the deadly flash in his eyes, right before he turned away and started back to camp. Feeling unsteady on her feet, she leaned back against the tree trunk, the same one Soren had just made love to her on. 

Her world before this in her tiny house between the hills had been unsure, but safe enough. Now she was thrust into a world where Paul was prisoner to centaurs, creatures she knew nothing about. For all she knew, they could be like the stories made them out to be -- unmerciful animals who tortured their prisoners. 

She shivered, trying to imagine Soren's laughing face pulled taut in a detached manner. Did the centaurs plan to kill Paul and his men? She had to see Paul. She had to see him and warn him. No matter that he tried to rape her...before that, he'd been kind to her and in the long run, he and his men were innocent. She couldn't let them be killed.



Under Centaurian Protection Ch. 03



Julia was able to find her way back to the camp. She felt as if everyone was aware that Soren had taken her in the woods and blushed profusely when several women sent her smiles and knowing looks. She noted that she would need a bath, feeling her thighs still slick from moments ago. 

"Mama!" 

Haley was running toward her holding out something in her hand. 

"Uncle Callum said I could have it." She thrust out a small rabbit carved out of wood. The detail was amazing and so accurate. Julia picked her up, examining the toy. 

"Did you thank him?" 

Haley nodded. "He said he carves a lot and he's carving them all for his babe. Aunt Lila's belly is so big!"

Julia smiled and kissed her daughter on the cheek. 

"Of course, she is. All women who are about to give birth look like that."

"Will you get big too? Soren is my papa now." 

Julia paused. The mere thought of having Soren's child made her tingle all over. 

"Perhaps." Haley seemed to drop the subject quickly and asked to be let down so she could go play again. Julia took this opportunity to go visit with Lila. 

She found Lila sitting inside, sewing together a blanket. The afternoon had grown chilly quickly and they warmed themselves by the fire. 

"Oh, don't get up. Let me get the tea." Julia offered. Lila smiled at her gratefully. 

"Is carrying always like this?" Lila asked. She looked down at her huge belly, patted it gently. "Callum says it is normal for me to be so big, but I have to say I have never seen a woman grow so round carrying a human child."

Julia smiled. "No, you're right. You probably are carrying a colt."

Lila set aside her sewing. "I hope so much for a son. Partly because I know he'll resemble Callum."

The love in Lila's eyes was so apparent; it gave Julia reason to think about her own circumstances. Would there be a day that she herself would look so much in love with Soren?

When tea was ready, Julia settled down next to Lila, who gave her a curious look. 

"You look like a woman who's just been made love to."

Julia nearly choked on her tea. Lila laughed. 

"Oh, don't look so embarrassed. You will soon get used to the fact that it's a part of our lives. Centaurs are lusty creatures." Lila glanced down at her swelling belly to drive her point home. "And Soren is so nice. He deserves to be happy."

"Yes, well." Julia had no other answer. She needed to change the subject. "He said Paul and his men were brought here." 

Lila nodded. "Centaurs are careful to keep our camp unknown to the humans."

"Why do you refer to them as humans?" She asked. "You and I are, too."

Callum's mate shook her head. "We're Centaurian now. At least you will be officially when you are mated with Soren."

"You really like it here, don't you?"

"I couldn't imagine living anywhere else. Before I came here, I had an abusive, evil fiancée. Here, I am safe."

Safe. Was there no place else in this world that was considered safe, also? She'd been safe in her cabin since her marriage to her first husband. But his death had shaken their security. She had at first thought Paul to be a person to offer security, and look at what he'd done. Now Soren offered her not only protection, but friends, his family and his heart. 

"Haley seems to get on well." 

Lila's words brought Julia out of her deep thought and she responded with a nod. 

"She doesn't seem to be scared of anyone here."

"Children have an intuition about these things, I guess. Soren will be a great father to her."

Hearing someone voice that statement made Julia's mouth curve. "Yes, I think he will be."

"And you must admit that it will be nice for her to grow up with other children."

She nodded. She had seen the way Haley's eyes lit up when she saw the colts and she talked nonstop about her squirrels. 

Lila left Julia with those thoughts and waved wearily to her new friend. By the fire, Lila draped another blanket around her belly. She'd grown so big and the extra weight had become too much for her. She was constantly tired and her feet were swollen. 

She glanced at the ingredients she'd left on the chopping board and thought to start with dinner. Sighing, she hauled herself out of the chair and slowly made her way to the table. There, she glanced at the small basket slowly filling up with carved animals. 

Her mouth curving into a smile, she lifted one up, admiring Callum's skills. Her heart filled with such love for the centaur. Could a person love so deeply as she did? She replaced the toy and returned to preparing the meal. 

*** 

The prisoners were led out to the poles located at the center of the camp. As the afternoon went on, the winds grew colder. Once they were bound, forced to kneel with all the camp's residents to see them, buckets of cold water were thrown onto them. 

Paul sputtered, gasped for air as another bucket was thrown on him. What was the purpose of the water? 

He understood a second later when a gust of wind blew their way. 

"Filthy animals." Paul heard one of his men mutter. He shared those sentiments as he watched the centaurs move away. Others that passed by stared at them. 

"What's your plan, then eh Paul?" One of his men, Rick demanded. "Saw us tied to a pole, freezing to death, did you?"

"Shut up." Paul hissed. "We will speak of this at night."

"Sure." One drawled, a man named Todd. "Thought you said -- "

"Paul!" 

Paul's head shot up when he saw a small figure run toward him. he soon recognized the red hair and smiled. Perfect. 

"Haley." 

A young colt pulled Haley back by her arm. She protested.

"He's my friend." Haley said, pouting. Paul felt his anger rise. That animal was touching her. Centaurs weren't fit to touch humans. 

"He is an enemy." The colt said, frowning. He kept a firm grip on her upper arm. 

"Let her go, you filthy -- "

A rock struck him on cheek, cutting off his insult. Looking up, he glared at several other colts that'd come to join their audience.

"Quiet, human." Said the colt who held Haley. 

Paul could discern the age of the colt, but the colt held himself in a way a warrior would, disciplined and precise. He turned back to Haley. "Stay away from these men. They seek to harm us."

Haley turned her big eyes to Paul.

"I wouldn't hurt you, Haley." Paul said. He meant it. He would do all in his power to save Haley. But his first priority was Julia.

"He lies." The colt said. 

"But Rham -- "

"He will harm you."

The little girl was caught between two worlds. Those of the humans and those of her new friends, the centaurs. 

"Come, little one." 

The centaur that had led them here picked Haley up into his arms. Paul sneered at the sight of such fatherly behavior. 

Soren sent a hard look at the prisoners and turned away. He heard the younger colts tease and throw rocks at the humans. 

"Why is Paul tied up, papa?"

"Haley, remember those men who tried to take you and your mother that night?"

Slowly, the girl nodded, wrapping her arms around his neck. 

"Paul is with those men. Do not go near him ever again, do you hear me?"

She hesitated. Soren could see that she didn't comprehend the situation and chose not to elaborate on why she should stay away. For now, his warning was enough. He would make sure to keep an eye on her in the future.

*** 

That night, Soren waited until Haley was fast asleep before he pulled Julia toward the woods again. 

"Julia," he whispered. They had little privacy during the daytime with Haley around. At night, they had only stolen moments. As he kissed her, he had to admit, it made the few moments they had alone all the more precious. 

Eyes darkened, he cupped her cheek, deepening the kiss. Their breath misted in the cold night air, but he knew well that she shivered not from the cold, but from the way his hands roamed over her body. She was gasping for breath by the time he broke away. His fingers threaded into her hair and he pushed her down onto the soft ground until she knelt before him. 

His hand circled his hardening cock and he moved it over himself, breathing deeply. 

"Take me into your mouth." He instructed. "Use your tongue and hands."

He pushed the tip toward her parted mouth. Julia looked up and met his eyes, watched the way his chest rose and his hand clench at his side. Tentatively, she stuck her tongue out and licked at the tip of his cock, heard him inhale. More boldly, she opened her mouth and took him inside her slowly. She had to stretch her mouth to fit his thickness and moaned when she tasted him. His musky scent made her grow wetter by the minute. 

Gently, he rested his hand on the back of her head and showed her how to move over his length. Her hands went to circle the veiny base of him, moving it in time with her mouth. 

"That's it," he said. He watched half his cock disappear into her hot, wet mouth. He pushed in deeper, giving her time to adjust. 

"Take it deeper." He instructed and she tried. He felt the tip hit the back of her throat and he grunted. The tightening of her throat was heaven, and her pleasurable moan vibrated through his stiff organ, resonating throughout his entire body. "Ah..."

She pulled her mouth off and with a sensual smile, suckled the swollen head of his thick cock. He bucked at the sensitivity she was causing and grunted louder. Her hands closed tightly around him and pumped harder as she moved her mouth deeper, then in shallow strokes, alternating between this until he was panting. He took one of her hands to the heavy sacks below his cock, showed her how to massage them. Her sweet touch had him moving restlessly, but she held firm. 

Then she suddenly took him into her mouth and let it slide as deep as it would go. Gods, he felt like was going to explode as he saw her throat stretch to accommodate his size. He didn't want to hurt her, yet the blood rushed through his head, numbing his focus. He pumped harder into her mouth, holding her head in place. At first, she was protesting his roughness, but when he looked down, she had her eyes closed in wanting. 

All at once, he exploded into her mouth. As the first spurt came forth, he thrust in so her throat sheathed the tip. 

Julia felt her throat convulse around him, drinking him in with each surge that racked his body. His load started to flood her mouth as he continued to pump in and out of her and it slid down the corners of her lips, landing onto the soft contours of her breasts. 

Breathing hard, he pulled her up and lifted her into his arms. He lowered his head and licked the come that dripped onto her chest. Then he let his hot breath trail up her skin before tasting himself on her mouth. 

Julia moaned and he pushed her onto a large, flat-surfaced boulder, using it to put her at level with him. She felt him spread her legs, exposing her to the night air. Her arousal slicked her inner thighs and matted the hair that covered her sex. 

As he knelt down before her, he parted the hair non-too gently and pushed his tongue into her. Julia gasped out loud and arched. As her legs rested on his shoulders, he thrust his tongue deeper, the rough texture pressing into her tender inner flesh. The walls of her pussy closed around him. He pulled out, and ran his tongue over her wet slit, down lower until she was squirming. 

Moving up again, he replaced his tongue with his fingers, sliding them in and out, coating his hand with her wetness. Julia was throwing her head left and right, lost in this wildness. At last, he suckled her engorged clit, teasing it with his teeth, circling it with the tip of his tongue. He then lapped at it leisurely, slowing his fingers down at the same time. 

This drew a frustrated cry from her. She wanted him to finish her quickly. Her mind was clouded with thoughts of ecstasy and could only moan his name over and over again as he continued to assault her with his mouth. 

Finally, he showed mercy and quickened his tongue on her clit, pumping his fingers into her until she was brought to a shattering climax. 

*** 

Julia lay on her back in the empty longhouse. Nerves racked her body as she waited. She heard voices outside, but the words were muffled by the closed entrance. A fireplace provided light at the center and several tools lay on a wooden table nearby. Strange, undecipherable tools she didn't even want to begin pondering their uses. 

Suddenly the flap was lifted and a centaur entered. Like the other males, he was built of strong muscle and large hands. He must have been one of the younger of the Elders, for gray only started to color at his temples. 

"Julia," he spoke. His voice was smooth. "My name is Panthus. Be at ease, for the examination will be very simple."

"Then what are all those instruments for?"

Panthus dipped his hands into a bowl of water and then patted them dry. 

"Do not worry yourself over these things. They are here if I need them."

"Is Soren outside?"

Panthus looked at her. "It is always best the intended mate is away. Such things could disturb his mind."

Julia remained silent, heart racing. Besides her first husband and Soren, no other man had ever touched her. She thought of Soren now, and how much he'd already changed in her life. Was it possible to love someone in only two days of knowing him? Yet to love Soren was such a simple thing to do. He cared for Haley as a true father would. 

And the way he made love...the memories of last night made her blush.

At the same time, she couldn't agree to this punishment given to Paul and his men. In the two days since they've been brought to camp, she had yet to find her nerve to approach Paul. She found that she wasn't ready to face the man who had tried to rape her. 

Panthus lifted the hem of her dress and folded it over he stomach, exposing her legs. Julia went tense. He firmly separated them, and then had her bend them so the soles of her feet rested on the table surface. 

"I will have to remove your hair, so when you feel the coolness of the blade, do not make sudden movements. I could cut you."

"Blade?"

"Aye. To remove your hair so I can examine you." He answered patiently. 

A minute later, she felt something cold smooth over her. She gasped quietly at the feel of the blade trimming her hair down below. He did this for a while, shaving away all that covered her. Wiping her clean, he tossed away the towel and set down his instruments. 

Panthus suddenly cleared his throat and looked a little embarrassed himself. "Julia, I think it is best if you...think of Soren."

"I am thinking of him." Julia said. She was staring at the ceiling and trying her hardest to think of him. 

"I mean...I need you to become aroused."

She started to panic. "Aroused? Why?"

"So when I examine you it will be more...comfortable for you. You see, I cannot arouse you myself, that would be considered dishonorable. I need you to do that yourself."

Reason sunk in. "Couldn't you use some sort of oil?"

"The condition of your wetness also determines if you carry disease."

"Oh." 

"Just think of your mate."

She conjured up what he did to her when he found out he couldn't touch her until the examination, of when he took her up against the tree. With her eyes closed, she brought back those sweet, taunting memories of his enlarged staff sliding against her dripping pussy. She remembering the way he spread her buttocks so he could glide the tip of himself against her. 

Panthus slipped two fingers inside her and stretched her open. Julia made a sound, her breathing not so steady. With her mound shaved, she felt even more sensitive and the feeling of Panthus touching her was strange. He slid them in as deep as he could and with his other hand, dipped two more fingers inside her to feel around her. 

Julia repeated Soren's name silently and continued to think of what they shared, of what they will share when this was over. But she was curious and lifted her head slightly to see what Panthus was doing. 

He kept his eyes on his task, his face expressionless. 

One hand's fingers slipped out of her, but he kept the other two fingers still inside of her, he bent them facing up. His free hand came to press gently down on her lower stomach. 

"Think of your mate, Julia." Panthus repeated. As she did, she became more aroused, its effects coating her sex. He used this to coat his fingers well then slowly, with his middle finger pushed into her anus. 

Julia made a sound of protest. "Panthus," She said, panicking. "Soren hasn't touched me there yet."

"But I must confirm no other man has either." 

Her muscles were tight there as he continued to push in, using her arousal to make his entrance smoother. 

Suddenly, he pulled his finger out and he straightened his back. 

"We are finished, Julia." He announced. He moved back to the table and began to wash his hands. Hands dry, he came to Julia's side as she quickly threw down her skirts. 

"Am I well, then?"

"Aye, you are." Panthus nodded. "I knew the minute you were shaved, but I had to be sure. The Elders require the examination to be fully completed in order to allow you to stay as Soren's mate. You are healthy."

Julia smiled shyly. "I am glad. Where is Soren?"

"He is in the forest, probably pacing."

They could finally make love. Julia's heart beat faster and her body felt flushed both from the examination and from anticipation. She didn't think she would be this excited. 

"Go to your mate." Panthus said. "I will speak to the Elders." 

She nodded, exiting the longhouse quickly. She instinctively knew where to find him, deep in the woods where he had first touched her. He was there pacing, but as soon as she reached him, his head shot up. He let out a restless breath of energy and stalked toward her. 

Willingly, she wrapped her arms around his neck, letting him lift her into his arms. She straddled him as he quickly pushed at her skirts. 

"I would take you in our home, but..." His voice trailed off when his mouth fused with hers. 

"Here." She whispered, raking her fingers through his hair, clawing his back as she felt the tip of his cock tease her slit. "Here, Soren." She pleaded. 

"Soren!" 

Soren's ears strained for the voice calling him, regretting that it wasn't Julia's. Groaning, he cursed out loud, breathing hard against her throat for a moment. His entire body was wound up, ready to explode. He could hear the leaves crackling and boughs being rustled as someone approached. 

Quickly, but reluctantly, he set Julia down, hearing her confused whispers. 

Xavier approached. If he noticed Julia's flushed face and Soren's aroused state, he made no indication. Instead, he said, "It is Lila. She is having difficulty with the babe."

This cooled Soren's ardor immediately. "What is wrong?"

Xavier shook his head. "Laura is with her now, and the midwife. But she hopes that since you have carried a child, you may be of some help."

"Me?" Julia asked, nodded. "Yes, of course. I'll help as I can."

"Quickly. Laura said it is urgent."

Xavier didn't wait for another response and only turned to gallop back to camp. 

Soren had Julia mount his back, taking her to camp in record time. 

Callum was standing over the bed where Lila laid, the only sign of anxiety shown only in his eyes. She was panting, clutching her large belly. Laura, Rose and the midwife were there, boiling water and preparing for the babe to arrive. 

"It should be nothing." The midwife assured Callum. "A mother birthing her first colt usually has some difficulty."

Lila's cry of pain cut through him. He would do anything to take away her pain. His frown deepened when he saw her face flushed and covered in sweat as she winced again. He laid his palm over her swollen belly, felt the movement of his child. 

"The babe should arrive soon with her contractions so close. Get the clean cloths." The midwife instructed Rose. 




Under Centaurian Protection Ch. 03



Lila shook her head, and Callum wrapped his arm around her shoulders for support. He saw the tears glimmer at her eyes. 

"I am here, my love." He murmured. With another contraction, she squeezed his hand so tightly; even he had to admit it was painful. 

"Push, Lila."

The midwife repeated this, encouraging the young woman to listen to her body. 

"Callum, I-I cannot do this anymore -- " Lila said weakly, after two hours. Her dark hair clung to her damp forehead and she was tired, so exhausted from this pain. 

Her head rested on her mate's shoulder. If only he could give her his strength, Callum thought. 

He whispered encouragement to her, held her hands as they sought support and leverage. 

"Push again, Lila. I see the child." The midwife announced happily. 

Lila pushed. Callum held his breath every time she did this. And then his heart swelled when he heard the cries of his child fill the longhouse. Lila slumped into his arms, exhausted. 

The midwife lifted the swaddled child to the table to be cleaned, but from where he stood he could tell he had a son. 

"My love." He said, looking down on his mate, wanting to inform her of their son. Her eyes were half open, almost dazed. Her face had grown incredibly pale. Too pale. He looked down at the rest of her, and knew something was wrong. 

"Why does she bleed so much still?" He demanded loudly. 

The midwife turned, but already Laura was grabbing clean sheets and trying to stop the blood flow. Julia too grabbed for more cloth to stop the bleeding. As Rose stayed with the babe, the midwife gently touched Lila's stomach, muttering something to herself. 

"The child must have been too big for her."

Coldness ran through Callum's veins as he held his mate tighter. He had known from the beginning she was too small. During her pregnancy, he had often wondered how such a small woman would be able to give birth, but he hadn't thought...

"Lila," he said loudly, trying to get his mate's attention. He felt her stir. "Lila, look at me."

Around him, the other women exchanged words, one ran to the entrance to call out to someone outside. But all Callum could see was his mate, lying so pale and weak in his arms.

"Stop her bleeding!" He demanded harshly. 

Lila lifted her gaze slowly to his. 

"Callum," she whispered.

"Lila, stay with me, my love." His throat tightened with emotion. She was still bleeding so much. Gods, so much blood. It soaked through the bed, the sheets, all the cloth that Laura and Julia were using to stop it. He shook his head. By the gods... 

"She needs horsetail or grape leaves." Callum heard the midwife call out. But the voices around him grew distant as realization started to hit him. 

"Lila, stay with me." He demanded. He glanced down at the blood, then back up into her pale face. Even her lips had gone so pale. By the gods, Lila was his mate. He just found her. He couldn't lose her now. 

Callum's throat clogged and for the second time in his life, he was blinking back tears. 

"Lila," he murmured. Her hands were cold and he wrapped his large ones around them, hoping to warm her. He touched his lips to her damp skin, murmuring her name. 

"Do not leave me, my love." He kept whispering. "Do not leave our son."

It would kill him. He could hear his son's lusty cries and it only made the tears spill from his eyes. A life for a life. He couldn't lose his mate. Not Lila.

He couldn't let her go. Her breathing was growing weaker and her eyes started to close. 

"Help her!" He ordered desperately.



Under Centaurian Protection Ch. 04



The last two hours of Callum's life had been unbearable. The midwife had ushered him out of his own home and he was forced to stare at the entrance blankly, fear eating away at his very soul. Inside, he heard female voices spoken in short manner. His brothers tried to offer comfort, but Callum could barely hear them. 

His hands fisted at his sides; by the gods, he wanted to do something, do damage, shout, cry. He wanted Lila. He wanted to take away her pain. Or perhaps the gods had granted his wish and even now sought to take her life from this earth. 

The very thought sent fear through his every nerve anew. 

By the time the women came out, Callum was pacing restlessly. His heart stopped when the midwife's face was drawn tautly. With slow, deep breaths, he tried to speak, but the words would not come out. He waited for one of them to speak. His sisters and cousin sent him sympathetic looks and soon walked away, only the midwife stood before him. 

Why would she not speak? 

For a brief moment, he looked up at the skies, prayed that his mate still lived. He could feel the dampness at his eyes. 

"Is she...will she be well?" He asked, his voice hoarse. 

The midwife's lips thinned. "Aye. She lives." 

Exhaling, he brushed past her. 

Callum's hands shook as he approached his mate. Knowing not what to do, he adjusted the blankets around her. She no longer bled.

Lila lay so pale on the bed, so still. Unsteadily, he let out a breath, closing his eyes for a moment. Everything was quiet now, his home empty; his son was fast asleep. 

That next hour or so, he stood in vigil. He allowed no one to go near her. 

"Callum." She whispered, touching his large, calloused hand. He swallowed, still wounded by the fact he had come so close to losing her. 

"Sleep, my love." He said, his voice rough with emotion. "You need rest." 

Some color had returned to her cheeks and the herbal broth the midwife brought her would help with the healing. 

Her eyes opened and she smiled. "I want to see our son."

He could deny her nothing. Their son lay asleep near the fire and he lifted the small bundle to her. Her eyes lit up from love and fascination as the babe mewled. 

"He is so small." She said, touching a finger to his cheek. Callum nodded silently. "Laura says the father names the son." She looked up, her eyes glowing with love. He brushed a wayward lock of hair from her cheek. 

"You may name him, if you wish." He replied indulgently. 

She shook her head. "No, I want you to."

"Hector, then. It is a strong name."

"Hector...son of Callum and Lila." 

He could tell she was still too weak, so he wordlessly lifted their son from her arms and settled him back in his bed.

"Callum, I want you to lie with me. Just hold me." She called out quietly. He met her eyes. 

"Lila," he began. All he could do was shake his head. He had known she was too small for him, but he let his need for her control him. He had thoughtlessly got her with child. It was his fault she had gone through so much pain.

"Don't blame yourself for what happened, Callum." 

He shook his head. "You lost of a lot of blood. Carrying a babe is too much for your size." 

Her hand covered his and he looked down at the paleness of her hand against his tanned skin. His one hand encased both hers easily. 

"The midwife said I would be able to have more children."

"Out of the question, Lila. I will not..." He swallowed again. "I won't let you go through that again." He couldn't through that again. 

She pulled him down for a sensual, deep kiss. 

"I love you, Callum. And we will have more children." Her promise ignited a fire inside of him and he slanted his head to kiss her more thoroughly, pouring his love into that single kiss. 

*** 

After Julia returned from helping Lila, she'd become distant. She said she needed air and took a walk around the camp. 

Soren could understand that all this was new to his mate, but could she not also accept his love? Or perhaps she needed it voiced everyday as his brother Callum and Thayer did with their women. 

Soren had seen the way Callum withdraw into himself after the relief of finding Lila out of danger. Callum spent all his time caring for her himself. 

Soren was grateful to the gods for sparing Lila's life. It would have killed Callum and Soren would have hated to lose a beloved sister. 

Which turned Soren's thoughts back to Julia. His love for his family should only endear him to Julia and yet...she was still cautious. What had happened between the hours of her examination and the birthing? Julia had been willing in his arms, urging him to fill her at last. 

After witnessing the difficult birth, she became quiet. Did she fear this happening to her in the future? Though Soren had no experience, he had heard from many women that giving birth to centaur babes was difficult, but they had survived. 

So many questions ran through his mind, but he willed his attention to his daughter. Haley was playing quietly near the trees planted by the training area. He was showing her how to tie string around her squirrels' necks to form collars. 

"You must let them roam free sometimes, little one." He said. "They are after all wild animals."

With their collars in place, Pika and Gury scampered about amongst the grass and leaves, running as far as the length of the string would allow them. Haley watched with delight as they nibbled and played. 

"What sort of name is Gury anyway?" He asked, amused that she would name her second squirrel such. 

"Rham named him." The girl said of her new friend, Rhamnes, the one who'd gifted her the second animal. Momentarily, her attention was drawn to the lads training behind the fence. "I want to train, too."

"You aren't old enough." 

She thought for a moment. "I'll be older in the spring. Can I start training after that?"

He chuckled. "You cannot, little one. Only Centaurian males are allowed to train and in this, they learn to hunt, protect and provide, as well as gain skills that benefit the camp."

"What will I do?" Haley looked up from where she sat, tilting her head innocently. Her long flame colored hair, so much like her mother's fell over her dainty shoulder. Even darker lashed framed those big green eyes of hers and they stared back at him innocently. 

"For now, you will just play with the other children. Then when you are old enough, you will mate."

The answer seemed to satisfy his daughter for now and she went back to playing with her squirrels. Thayer suddenly appeared. 

"Uncle, look! I have another squirrel." Haley greeted, pointing to Gury. 

Thayer leaned down to ruffle the girl's hair. "And how did you come to have another? Did your father catch it for you?"

Haley shook her head. "No, a boy named Rham caught Gury for me." 

Soren grinned. "We do not call young ones like Rhamnes a boy, little one. They are colts."

One of Thayer's eyebrows lifted, murmuring, "Gury? A strange name." 

Soren shrugged in agreement.

His older brother pulled him aside. 

"One of the prisoners tried to escape."

"What has been done?" Soren frowned, hoping it was Paul so he would have more reason to punish the man.

"His attempt got himself killed." Thayer answered in a low voice. "When he saw he could not get away as he thought, he ran himself into the sword Corwin was holding."

"Suicide." Soren said. 

"We have taken the men back inside, but the Elders think it wise to isolate the leader."

"Good." Soren didn't want any plans for escape to hatch, nor did he want that man thinking himself safe enough with his men around. "I will see to him later."

*** 

Meanwhile, Julia's walk took her to the longhouses containing the prisoners. She hesitated before going in, not sure if she was ready to see Paul. Forcing her legs forward, she walked in. The dimness had eyes adjusting slowly to the interior, but she recognized his voice when he called her name. 

"Paul." She said calmly. She kept her arms at her side, looking down at the man who was tied kneeling down next to a heavy wooden pole. He looked terrible, his clothes damp and stained, his face showing several ugly bruises. 

He looked genuinely relieved to see her. "You look well." He said. "At least they do not harm you. And Haley?"

Confused by his concern, she answered, "She is well."

He nodded slowly. Then he grimaced. "How can you live with them?"

"I did not come here to talk about my life here." 

His eyes narrowed, showing an impression of his powerful temper. "Then why did you come here?" She took a deep breath. "I came here to warn you that these centaurs mean to kill you if you do not do as they say."

"I'm tied to a pole, aren't I?" He demanded. "I take their beatings and have buckets of water thrown on me in this approaching winter. What do they want from me?"

"To leave them alone. Go away and never come back."

"I don't think I am free to just leave." He muttered sarcastically. 

"If I can convince them to free you, will you never return?"

"I came here to bring you back to safety."

"There's no need for that."

"You cannot mean to want to live here!" He asked loudly. "To live here with those animals."

She shook her head, repeating to herself once again why she was here to help him. "Paul, you must do as I say. If I can convince them to let you and your men go, you must promise to never return or to do us any more harm."

He shook his head. "They have cast a spell on you. They worship evil things and they have made you think you are safe here when you are not. Listen to me, Julia. You and Haley are nothing to them but a sacrifice to their gods. They will hurt you."

"You have seen the women and children. They are happy here."

"Lies. All lies. Do not fall for their evil, Julia." Paul implored strongly. 

Julia shook her head. It was no use. She had thought to do a good deed, but it seemed Paul could see nothing but his own prejudices. 

"I came here to warn you, to help you." 

"Why?"

"Because there were times you had helped me and I wished to return the favor."

"Your favor is ill chosen. They intend to kill us."

"Not if I can convince them to let you go."

"Not bloody likely." 

Realizing that convincing him was wasted breath, she turned to leave. "You shouldn't have pursued me, Paul. You should have stayed where you were."

He was silent. So she left him alone. 

*** 

She returned in time to start on the evening meal. With Haley playing quietly with her new toys near the fire, Julia worked on a roast hare and dough for bread. She didn't mind the work, really. With Lila recovering from the birth, and Rose busy with her daughter Sonja, Julia was actually glad to have something to do, even though new mates were exempt from chores. 

Julia had to admit that she was sort of avoiding Soren. Something changed while Lila was in danger during her birthing...

Suddenly she had seen how short life really was; it had brought back memories of her own husband, found dead so suddenly one day. Coming to grips with her feelings, her growing love for Soren had become such a reality; she knew not how to handle it. She wanted nothing more than to move forward and be Soren's mate, but her previous life -- Paul -- was intruding. She felt that as long as he was here, he was endangering her happiness. 

"Mama?" 

"Yes?" She looked up at her daughter. 

"Why is Paul all tied up?"

Julia's hands froze on the dough she'd been kneading. She stared blankly at her hands, then at her daughter. "He broke a rule, Haley. He trespassed on our land."

"Papa says Paul is a bad man."

She could hear the confusion in Haley's voice. 

"It's much more complicated than that. Only know that Paul and his men are different from the centaurs."

"Is he going to stay tied up?"

Julia shook her head. "I don't know. We will find out soon, I think."

"When is papa going to be home?"

"Did you miss me, little one?" Soren had come in without a sound and he went to pick Haley up. The little girl planted a big kiss on her father's cheek, giggling when Soren tickled her. Julia met Soren's eyes and felt a frisson of heat run through her body. She quickly looked away, concentrated on kneading the bread dough. 

That night, their meal was eaten with the adults lending most of their attention to Haley, though Julie locked eyes with Soren more than once. Once Haley was put to sleep, Julie donned her coat and wordlessly followed Soren out into the woods. 

Arms crossed over her chest, her breath puffing in the air, she watched as Soren paced before her before turning his full attention to her. 

"I know you spoke to Paul." He said. 

Her chin lifted. "I did."

"What was said between you two?" He demanded, his brows drawing close together. 

"I only warned him. I told him that he must leave this place."

Soren smirked. "That, I believe, is up to me."

She shook her head. "Can you not just let them go? They have done nothing really harmful to the camp."

Soren said nothing for a moment, the darkness shielding his expressive eyes from her. "Why is it your loyalties are still to that man?" He asked quietly. He stepped closer to her. "Why do you help them?"

She could feel the heat radiate from his body; it made breathing a bit more difficult for her. Not only had her love for him grown stronger each day, but also her desire to make love with him had blossom equally strong. She could smell the familiar musk that clung to his skin, and it made her think of the moments she'd spent in his arms in these very woods, where he pleasured her with his hands and mouth and tongue. 

"That is where you are wrong, Soren." She whispered. "I don't have loyalties to him. I just don't want to see him killed."

"They all must die sometime, Julia. If not by my hand, then by someone else's. They are criminals."

"Haley is asking questions now." She said in a slightly louder voice. "If she knows you will kill them..."

"Such things will be concealed from her." He insisted. 

"No." Julia tried to back away, but he grabbed her by her shoulders, brought her up against him hard. 

"I think it is time I claimed you." He crushed his mouth to hers, muffling any protest she might have. His kiss was relentless, kissing her deeply until they were both out of breath. Quickly, his hands began to unbutton first her coat, then her dress. 

Naked and shivering in his arms, he lifted her up. Breaking away from the kiss, he took one hardened nipple into his mouth and suckled, using his teeth to elicit a loud cry from Julia's lips. 

With one arm securely around her, he let the other roam over her soft skin. He trailed it down her back slowly, as he paid tribute to her other breast. Her cupped her bottom, knowingly traced his fingers between her parted thighs and dipped them into her wet, waiting warmth. 

How perfect she was, with her head thrown back in pleasure and moaning softly as he thrust his hand against her. His cock stood in hard attention. He felt it brush against her inner thigh and grunted. He waited too long to have her. 

Soren knew he shouldn't be taking her like this, with questions still unanswered and the burning need to know if she cared for him. 

His mind went blank when he slid his cock into her, felt her muscles stretch over his great length. She wrapped her legs around him and he felt himself sink deeper. 

"Remember the day I took you against the tree?" He whispered, pushing in until he was buried to the hilt. She felt so good wrapped around him. He bent his head to kiss her before trailing his lips down her breasts again. 

"Yes," she moaned. 

His lips curled at the corners and he began thrusting into her harder. "This feels much better." 

The humor in his voice was lost to Julia, for the way he stretched her and thrust so deeply inside of her had her panting and moaning. She could think of nothing but the feel of Soren inside of her. 

"You are my mate, Julia." He groaned, his cock already pulsing for release. His hand slipped between them to rub her engorged clitoris. 

"I need...I need you to come." He demanded. She let out a loud cry against his shoulder, her fingernails digging into his flesh as her inner muscles quivered around him. This pushed him over the edge and he felt his staff swell and explode. 

He retained enough strength to hold her up. 

"I love you." She whispered, her mind still in a daze. But she wasn't too dazed to feel Soren's arms tightened around her. 

He wanted to shout with triumph, yet he was too sated to do nothing more than cup the back of her head and kiss her. 

"That is all I wanted." He replied quietly.