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Lions of Parnatha Ch. 01

By: Medievna



It was a moment I had hoped would never come, one I had dreaded for years. In my mind there was no greater threat, not pain of death or facing the wrath of the gods themselves, nothing at all that could bear such fear within my soul. In that moment, all dreams became delusions and all hope was lost. In that moment, my fate, a life of servitude to the will of another, was sealed. I remember well the feeling of despair that welled within my stomach as the eunuch handed me my declaration, gilt in gold filigree and sealed in wax. I was chosen, the newest bride of the rich and powerful who ruled Parnatha.

I am the youngest child of a minor nobleman, and the only daughter of my family. My father was once an officer in Parnatha's legion, long before age had taken from him the vigor of life. I never knew my mother; she died when I was but three years old. My brothers and I were doted upon by my father, who, for all his best intentions, knew little about rearing children. We were often left to our own devices, and our imaginations ran wild with stories and play. I made a wonderful son, following my brothers on their adventures around my family's little pavilion compound, and I was rarely seen without dirt or scraped skin somewhere on my body. Anyone else would have been scandalized at the sight of me. Girls in Parnatha are to be seen and never heard, soft and delicate and skilled in the art of pleasing their husbands and raising their families. And while other girls my age were learning to dance or sing or sew fine veils, I learned to fight and wield a sword and scrub the dirt and rust from armor.

My education was not entirely barbaric, however. My father was fond of the written word, and I would spend endless hours entrenched in his vast library, surrounded by works on philosophy and history and warfare, all subjects considered too exciting and complicated for a girl. I valued those hours, those years, left to nothing but my own devices and the limits of my mind. I never realized just how valuable my freedom was until just before my thirteenth birthday, however.

My father grew ill, and his younger sister, Terlitha, came to live with us. My brothers were already gone, enrolled in the war academies and making their own fortunes as the gods saw fit. In desperate need of assistance as his health failed him, my father enlisted his sister's aide on a temporary basis. I recall well the day she arrived, prim and disapproving, swathed in deep gold and ebony robes. She looked down her nose at the unkempt, skinny girl that I was and sniffed.

Days passed into weeks, which turned into a year, and then, on a dreary winter morning, Terlitha would never leave. My father's lungs finally failed him, and our family home passed into her care. I was almost immediately ejected from the premises, told that I was "of age" and needed proper schooling before I was ready to be "selected". My meager belongings were packed into a few trunks and I was loaded into a carriage and driven away from my home and my family. I thought it likely I would never see Terlitha, or our estate, again.

I didn't understand what was meant by "of age" and "selected" until a week later, when I arrived at Parnatha's capital city, the grand seat of the empire: Arthos. It was early morning when we rolled through the heavily fortified gates and down the narrow dirt streets of the city's outskirts. I had never been anywhere like Arthos. Even at dawn the streets were already bustling with activity, servants and merchants hurrying about their business, weaving between the tall whitewashed stone buildings. It was a kaleidoscope of sound and color and smell, and the sight reminded me of a brightly colored beehive. I was simultaneously enthralled and petrified.

My journey ended at the gates of an expansive compound, over which hung a wooden sign painted with the words "Clotha's Home for Maidens". I could have screamed in agony as the carriage passed through the gates and into the smartly manicured lawn. When I refused to exit the carriage, I was forcibly removed and then taken to my assigned quarters, where I spent two days in isolation as I rejected all attempts at contact. Instead I remained on my bed, huddled beneath my coverlets, my only consolation the few belongings I had brought with me from my father's house.

The Empire of Parlathan has a long and proud tradition of matchmaking. No one that I know of, or was ever told about, married another for something like love, or even mutual attraction. Instead, parents sought help to make a suitable match for their children, both in temperament and social standing, often hoping to elevate their own statuses. Nobility, or anyone who could afford it, preferred to send their children, more specifically their daughters, to a schooling home to be selected for marriage by a powerful, and often rich, man. There, girls were taught everything they would need to know to be the wife of a politician or nobleman or high-ranking legionaire, if they didn't know it already. Needless to say, my arrival at this particular establishment was a shock, both to my system and those who would tend to and teach me.

I resisted at first, doing everything I could to disrupt my lessons and make the lives of those around me a general living hell. I succeeded quite well, and was severely disliked by nearly everyone around me. I was content to live this way for almost a year, until, after the Home's headmistress, a particularly unpleasant woman named Germeta, tried to expel me and return me home, I was told that I was going to stay where I was and that I had better cease dishonoring my father's memory or I would be very sorry. My rebellion was quickly quenched, and I resigned myself to waging small infractions against my tutors.

I did manage to make a few friends, mostly in the eunuchs and servants that tended to us. They would sneak things for me from the kitchens or the markets, for our movements were strictly monitored and we were never allowed outside the compound's gates. I in turn would regale them with stories I had memorized from my father's books, often acting out the scenes in whatever dramatic flair I could manage. The few other friends I had in my fellow captives, as I called us, became extremely close and dear, and after time my little world that I staunchly defended from outside invaders became my refuge. Like all things, however, it was not meant to last.

I remember clearly my first encounter with the fate to which I would eventually succumb. A dear friend of mine, a quiet, elegant woman named Ionisa, was called to a viewing one morning. A viewing is exactly what it sounds like, a gathering of eligible women of the maiden's home for the express purpose of being selected. They are instructed to perform talents or serve wine and fruit to one another, all the while being examined by visiting men looking for a wife of good breeding and standing. Their profiles, detailing their heritage, their education, their personalities, and, most importantly, their dowries, are provided to each man who calls on the home for assistance in a match, and that combined with the viewing and assistance with a priest of Helanos, is what helps a man select his bride. Ionisa was strangely at peace with her selection when she was given her declaration, and she quietly prepared herself for her wedding ceremony. I, on the other hand, was outright terrified, and I vowed to myself that I would never allow myself to be selected, as if I were nothing more than a horse or a piece of furniture. From that day forward, I did everything I could to make myself as unappealing as possible to any potential callers.

I succeeded for a few years after I was deemed of an eligible age, and I enjoyed a precious, if tenuous, freedom within the home. And so it was of no consequence to me when I was informed one morning, a month after my nineteenth birthday, that I was to attend yet another viewing that afternoon. The caller, however, would prove to be my greatest adversary, and the instrument of my life's destruction.

Gaius Remulus Artigro was an extremely successful man. Blessed enough to be the nephew of the reigning emporer of Parlathan, he was also a lieutenant general in the Parlathan legion and what many considered to be one of the most influential political minds of his generation. He was born the only child to his family in a royal household, given the best of every luxury his parents could afford, and treated to some of the most ingenious schooling the scholars of Parlathan could offer. He proved to be gifted in matters of philosophy, science, and history, and his sharp eye and quick wit won him the favor of politicians and nobility alike. Seemingly following in his father's footsteps, he enrolled in the Arthos University to study law and history, and many thought he would someday lead the Grand Forum as its majority speaker.

Fate, however, has a fickle hand, and Gaius found his career derailed by a sudden and devastating war with the neighboring Ka'almir tribesmen. Withdrawing from the University, a young Gaius found himself thrust to the forefront of the business of war, where he was commissioned as a lieutenant. His eye for strategy and energetic charisma won him the favor of his superiors, and he quickly rose through the ranks to command the legion as a brigadier general. His decisive victories, several of which helped secure ultimate victory for the Empire, earned him a hero's welcome upon his return to Arthos, and he was granted the rank of lieutenant general as a reward. He was twenty-nine years old.

This golden child of the Emporer's bloodline arrived at Clotha's Home for Maidens on a bright and cheery spring morning. The servants and eunuchs had been up well before dawn, preparing the grounds and dressing the women participating in the viewing. Fanfare had never been Gaius Remulus Artigro's delight, and Mistress Germeta was somewhat crestfallen when only five men rode through her font gates.

Bowing from where she stood, flanked by her eunuchs and administrators and decked in stately blue robes, Germeta spread her arms in a warm welcome. "My dear lord, welcome to my humble establishment. I have taken all appropriate actions to prepare for your visit." She watched with some surprise and distaste as she watched the young war hero dismount his horse.

Gaius Remulus Artigro was dressed in simple attire, a linen kilt and shirt, a deep blue linen toga the only hint at his high social status. A simple iron short sword hung at his side. He eyed the stately grounds as his fellows dismounted, a few trusted friends and advisers in this delicate matter, and nodded at the headmistress. "I appreciate it."

"Ah, yes. Of course. If you will please follow me, my lord, we have prepared a meal for you before the proceedings...proceed..." Mistress Germeta found herself at a loss for words by this most unorthodox calling party, something I would have given an entire bag of imperial heads to see. "If you will follow me, then."

The entire home was abuzz with activity by this time, of course. News traveled particularly fast in this cloistered world, and word of a nobleman, one of royal blood at that, having arrived traveled like wildfire. The girls who were selected for the viewing were practically panicking with excitement when Romus, the head eunuch, announced that there would be a change in plan.

"There will be no formal performances this afternoon," he informed us, his thin face somewhat flustered. Waving his hands to calm the chorus of voices that had risen in confusion, he added, "His Lordship has requested that the viewing be...informal."

I could not help but snort a laugh as a servant did her best to curl and pin my untidy hair. I was considered largely unattractive by Parlathan standards. Women were expected to be fair, flawless, well built, with dark hair and soulful eyes. I, on the other hand, was thin, tanned and freckled from too much sun, an often unruly mess of pale blond hair hanging limply about my shoulders.

Romus shot me a warning glance as he continued. "You will all be fetched at the appropriate times, and you are to stay in your designated areas." As the din of gossip rose in the air again, I heard him add under his breath, "Don't know what the man could possibly be thinking... Completely out of the ordinary."

"Romus--" I began, but I was silenced by a stern look.

"And YOU will remember your manners this time. If I hear of so much as one lewd joke or inappropriate sound coming from that mouth of yours, I swear I will tan your hide from here to eternity."

I laughed at this; Romus had been threatening to tan my hide for over five years. "I still don't understand why the last one didn't appreciate that joke, it was rather funny. Even YOU laughed, when you heard it." Smirking, the eunuch shook his head. "My personal tastes aside, I expect you to operate with some sense of decorum this afternoon. I honestly cannot even imagine where you heard such a joke as that..."

I rolled my eyes. "You and I both know how this is going to end for me, so we may as well save ourselves the trouble of pretending like I'm going to cooperate." Romus began to argue, but I held up my hand and continued. "Put me in the rear courtyard. I'll play nice there and no one will even notice me. I doubt that painted peacock will even get that far, what with all these other curvy young women to leer at."

Romus rubbed his eyes, groaning. "Fine, I'll arrange it. But you will promise me you will stay there and not wander."

"You have my solemn oath, oh dearest keeper," I said sagely, performing a sweeping bow.

Shaking his head, the eunuch left the maiden's quarters, throwing over his shoulder, "May the gods find favor in you. You're going to need it."

"You have no idea," I muttered in return as a servant began rouging my cheeks.

Gaius Remulus Artigro found the proceedings leading to the viewing mostly distasteful. He managed to nod and smile his way through the meal with the headmistress as she regaled him with details of the accomplishments of the young women in her care. "They are quite skilled in every kind of pleasant task imaginable: singing, sewing, entertaining guests, calligraphy..." The list had droned on, until the nobleman had finally excused himself from the meal and gone in search of solitude.

He was standing on a balcony overlooking the street outside the maiden's home, mulling over the wisdom of his decision to book this particular appointment when he was joined by a man I hated almost immediately. Aurus Calpernon was a boisterous, rude, scandalous man who had stood by Gaius's side through most of his many battles in the Ka'almir, and one of his best friends. I honestly should have liked him; Aurus was the type of human being I gravitated towards.

"Why the long face?" Aurus asked as he took a swig of wine from a decanter he had pilfered. "You're about to go pick you a wife. And there are so many little beauties to choose from..." he added with a leering glance back toward the inner courtyards.

Gaius smirked, then shrugged. "It wasn't exactly my idea, Aurus, and you know it."

"What, old Emporer Crustypants made you?"

"It's expected."

Aurus quirked an eyebrow. "Last I checked, you made your reputation from doing the unexpected, Gaius. Surely your uncle's little speech about "tradition" and "culture" and "duty" didn't lodge up your ass." Taking another swig of wine, Aurus wiped his mouth on his sleeve. "Besides, what's so bad about being married anyhow? You pick the prettiest one with the nicest tits and ass, and you fuck her brains out." This was punctuated by a loud belch.

"And if I choose incorrectly, and we end up hating each other?"

"Put her in a nice house somewhere and get yourself a mistress. No one gets married because they like each other, Gaius. Hell, my mother hated my old man." Leaning in conspiratorily, Aurus added, "She tried to kill him in bed more than once, you know."

"Thank you, Aurus. That was incredibly reassuring."

"Look, Gaius, all I'm saying is you're reading too much into this. What does it matter what goes on between her ears if it's not sucking your cock? All these girls are the same anyway! They're all trained to say and do exactly what they are supposed to at the right time."

Gaius opened his mouth to argue, but was interrupted when an eunuch came out onto the balcony. "Master Artigro, the viewing is ready to begin at your pleasure, sir." He waited patiently for the lieutenant general to respond.

"Time for the show, my brother," Aurus said with a lascivious grin.

Gaius nodded and moved to follow the eunuch. As an afterthought, he turned and added to his companion, pointing a finger at him for emphasis, "Do NOT fuck any of these girls. I will not have your appetites ruin the traditions of this establishment."

Aurus looked hurt and sullen, but nodded slowly. "What about the servants?" he asked hopefully.

Gaius rolled his eyes and sighed resignedly. "Just don't get caught."

The women selected for the viewing were already in place when the caller and his companions were shown into the courtyards. Some danced, some sat and made pleasant conversation amongst themselves, and a few played instruments. The men wandered among them, commenting on them and occasionally engaging in conversation with them. It quickly became apparent that it was difficult to tell which was the caller, as they were all dressed similarly and did not offer their names.

Gaius wandered quietly, observing the women being offered to him. They were all very pleasant, both in character and in form, and each seemed eager to catch his eye. They were like butterflies dancing around a garden, ornamented and bejeweled to enhance all of their best attributes. As he made his way from courtyard to courtyard, a feeling of dejection grew within him. Even in this finely manicured world of perfection, he felt little attraction to anyone. Despondent, he made his way down an open corridor lined with stone columns. There was a smaller courtyard beyond, one that appeared to be empty, and a respite from the formalities appealed to Gaius. He needed time to think and consider. As the courtyard unfolded before him, he realized it was indeed occupied, and the sight within transfixed him.

I never heard him approach, the sneaky bastard. If I had I would have been certain to roll in the grass and dirty myself or do something equally unappealing. Instead, I was busy cavorting around the yard. My brothers had taught me the moves they learned from the gladiators they watched when they went to the arenas, and I often amused myself by practicing the martial arts I could remember. I was ill-dressed for such antics, but I was concentrating so intently on my form and movements that I had little care if my robes became rumpled or my carefully curled and upswept hair came undone.

A thin sheen of sweat coated my face and chest, which was heaving from exertion. I rammed my palms into the air at the throats of invisible opponents, grunting with the force of my blows and making little threatening noises, when I was brought to a terrified standstill when the sound of clapping filled the courtyard. All color drained from my flushed face and I turned quickly to see who had invaded my privacy, awkwardly running my hands over my hair and robes.

The man who leaned against a column smirked at my distress, which immediately angered me. "You are quite spirited in your practice. Is it entirely proper for a young lady to know such things, I wonder?"

Huffing, I threw my shoulders back and lifted my chin imperiously. "Likely as proper as it is for someone to be invading her privacy," I shot back hotly.

This elicited a laugh from the man, who shoved himself from the column. He was simply dressed, his leather sandals worn and his kilt and shirt unadorned. He didn't look anything like the noblemen I had seen before, but as his face was new to me, I surmised he was a companion of the caller, likely a guard.


Lions of Parnatha Ch. 01



"I was unaware this courtyard was private property," he said in amusement.

"You were spying on me."

"Was I?" Slowly, he walked toward me. In the sunlight I could see that his body was lithe and muscular. His black hair was shaggy looking, rebellious despite obvious attempts at care. As he neared, I could see that his eyes were light blue, much like the small blue flowers that grew on the vines that climbed the walls of the compound. His gaze never left me as he moved, and I had the sensation that his eyes were looking into me, examining me. I shivered involuntarily.

"Well, what would you call it then?"

"Observation. I found what you were doing rather interesting." He stopped a few feet from me, his arms at his side. "What are you doing in this back courtyard? I was led to understand that the headmistress kept the ineligible women inside."

I snorted, which elicited an eyebrow to loft, and shook my head. "I'm not ineligible," I said curtly.

The man knit his eyebrows in confusion. "Were you hiding here, then? You are not with the other women in the viewing."

Smirking, I nodded, replacing a piece of my pale hair behind my ear. "Yes."

The guard looked somewhere between amused and incredulous. "Why in the name of Rion would you do that?" he exclaimed.

I shrugged. "Because I hate the viewings," I said simply. When he did not answer, I said with a grin, "Are you shocked?"

"Yes, I am," he sputtered. "Why would you hate them? I thought young women enjoyed being ornamented and showing their talents."

I began to stroll around the courtyard, and the man followed, his gaze still fixed on me. "Yes, I'm sure most girls enjoy being dressed up like dolls and paraded before the eyes of men who will never love or respect them like horses being bought for show," I said, far more bitterly than I intended. I was honestly shocked that those words had managed to escape my lips, and I shot a quick look at the guard, waiting for his reaction. I was used to making callers and their companions angry or disgusted, but my usual motif was to be lewd or unattractive. Saying something so radical would surely cause quite a stir amongst my keepers.

Surprisingly, the man was grinning. I stopped walking in shock.

"You are a very unique young woman," he said with a small laugh.

"That is probably not the word the headmistress would use to describe me," I said with a smirk.

"I gather not." He took a moment to appraise me. "You are clearly ornamented, but you hide back here to avoid being paraded. I take it you do not wish to be chosen by the caller?"

"Absolutely not!" I exclaimed. "Can you imagine? I'd rather have my teeth ripped out than be forced to marry some disgusting, pompous braggart who doesn't deserve the station he's in." "Disgusting? I hear the lieutenant general is rather handsome actually."

I crossed my arms, lofting an eyebrow. "You hear? You work for him, do you not? You wear the imperial colors." I motioned to his deep blue toga with my chin. Tiny bells tinkled from where they hung from my ears.

A fleeting look of panic crossed the man's face before he sighed and closed his eyes. "Yes, I do. I am caught, my lady." He smiled at my triumphant expression.

"Examining the pickings, then?" I inquired.

"Ah, yes, something to that effect."

"I hope you tell your master very horrible things about me," I said loftily as I began to stroll again.

This time the man did not follow me. "Why would you want me to do that?" he asked. I turned slightly to regard him over my shoulder, and saw he looked both confused and concerned.

"There is little else in this world I can imagine being worse than being forced into a life of servitude," I said quietly. "I am surrounded by walls here, but at least my mind and my time are still my own. I don't ever wish to submit myself or my body to the tastes of someone who doesn't deserve it." They were strong words, extremely strong coming from a woman in my position. "I don't want your master to pick me."

The guard slowly followed me, remaining silent for a long time. When he finally spoke again, he asked me about myself, about what I found interesting and how I passed my time. I was irritated at first, but he was amicable and put me strangely at ease. He asked me about my family and I asked him about being a soldier. We laughed and joked and poked fun at the headmistress and the politicians and talked about the university's library and the arenas. I had hardly noticed the passage of time when an eunuch appeared in the courtyard.

"There you are! We have been looking all over--" A look of horror passed over his face as he realized exactly who I was, and he looked ready to faint.

"Ah, yes, it must be near time for the viewing to end, sir," my companion quickly interjected. "I imagine the lieutenant general is ready to retire and consider his options."

"Ah..yes, of course. He must be. I was just coming to inform you of that..sir," the eunuch stammered in response. I knitted my eyebrows, suspicious of his response.

"My lady," my companion said as he turned to me, "thank you for your time. It was enjoyable."

"Yes, it was," I answered distractedly. Something important was happening, but it was so far over my head that it was impossible for me to see what it was.

"I will take your suggestion of Treton's plays into advisement when next I visit the library, if my master ever allows me the time," the guard said with a smile, and I nodded happily. His expression was strange, almost nervous, as he appraised me again. The way his gaze lingered on me made my pulse quicken slightly, and I crossed my arms to hide my nervousness. "I never did ask your name," he continued.

"Lithana Vitalis, sir," I said as steadily as I could. "Remember not to speak it to your master."

My words were met with a smile and I watched in amazement as he bowed before me. No one had ever done such a thing before. "I would never dare," he said softly. He smiled and turned, leaving the courtyard at a resolute pace. I watched him go and then looked at the eunuch, who was sighing and shaking his head.

"Go and join the others," he said solemnly. "The viewing is over."

I walked through the courtyard and down a corridor in a haze. Who had that man been? A soldier clearly, someone who worked for the lieutenant general certainly. Was he a spy? A trusted companion of his master? Whoever he was, I had enjoyed my time with him. He was intelligent, well read, amusing, and extremely handsome, I finally decided. The shiver I felt when he looked at me flew through my body again, and I smiled slightly. I believed him when he said he would not give my name to his master.

As I rounded a corner an odd noise met my ears. In a small alcove off to the right I could make out two bodies. One was a female servant, the other a tall, muscular man with dirty blond hair. He was dressed quite similarly to the guard I had just met, and I noticed quite suddenly that his kilt was hiked up around his hips. The servant woman's shift was also hiked up around her hips, and the front was pulled down to expose her ample breasts, which were striking the wall she leaned against with a slow rhythm. I watched in fascination as her round buttocks slapped against the man's thighs, and saw his hard shaft as he thrust in and out of her. Her mouth was open in a silent groan as he fucked her, one of his hands gripping her shoulder and the other her hip. Every now and again a moan or small noise would escape one of them, a vocalization of the ecstasy they felt.

I must have stood staring at them for a long time, because quite suddenly the man looked up at me. He grinned and winked in such a roguish way that I was shocked out of my fascination. I felt my entire body grow warm with embarrassment and I quickly hurried my way down the rest of the corridor.

The rest of my day passed slowly, as I was forced to listen to the girls regale each other with tales of their romantic attempts. I tried to ignore their gossip, but I could not help but overhear them discussing the fact that none of them knew what the lieutenant general actually looked like. None of the men present had introduced themselves, and none of them wore the official looking finery they had expected a man of such high status to wear. Perhaps the man I'd met was indeed spying, then. Perhaps the lieutenant general hadn't come at all, but sent others he trusted in his place to make the decision for him. It would certainly have explained all the questions the man had asked me, at least. I didn't trouble myself on the subject long, and instead found a quiet corner to absorb myself with a book in. It would all turn out fine for me in the end. It always did.



Lions of Parnatha Ch. 02



Gaius Remulus Artigro rubbed his eyes as he gazed detachedly at the files on his desk. He had been staring at them for hours, at the insistence of his advisers, and now had a massive headache. Looking up, he watched as his friend Aurus Calpernon idly twirled a metal diagram of the planets and moons. The large blond man eyed him back, shrugging.

"Dunno what you want from me, my brother. You already said you made your choice."

"Yes, and apparently it's the wrong one. Herrad insists I reconsider. Apparently the girl has a ridiculous reputation."

Aurus shrugged again. "So? You already know that, you said you talked to her. Hell, you talked to her more than any of the others." He smirked as a thought struck him. "Her tits must be glorious. I can't imagine anything else about her would hold your interest so well. Did you fuck her?"

Gaius sighed in exasperation. "No, Aurus, I did not have her. We talked, as I have said many times. I hear you got on rather well with the servants, though." Shifting through the papers on his desk again, Gaius finally stood and grabbed a bottle of port from a small table near his desk. Marching to the window, he leaned against its frame and watched the flickering lights of the city of Arthos. The sun had been set for a few hours now, and the twin moons Ula and Veros were already rising high in the cloudless sky. Sighing, he took a long swig of port.

Aurus watched him and then let out a slow, low whistle. "Rion's balls, Gaius. This one actually got to you, didn't she. You're actually taken with her."

"She's different from any of them, all of them. She's... She's intelligent, daring. She had more life in her little finger than all of those other girls combined."

Aurus belched. "Sounds like she'd make an awful wife," he commented dryly.

"Perhaps," Gaius said softly as he examined the wooden window frame. "Still, I'm willing to take that chance with this one. I want the challenge."

"You always did walk on the wild side," Aurus noted sarcastically. "So fuck Herrad. Marry the wench. It's your fucking life, Gaius. Do what you want. Your uncle will bless you either way." Gaius nodded thoughtfully, and Aurus asked, "What's this one's name, anyway?"

"Lithana Vitalis," Gaius answered with a smile. Somewhere out in the night, I had the feeling I had made a terrible mistake.

The few weeks following the viewing passed uneventfully. I concentrated on tormenting my keepers enough to earn their ire but not their punishment, and found a new hobby in reading the plays I had discussed with the guard I had met. I was reading one such play on a rather lovely spring afternoon when I was interrupted by the sound of many feet walking across the stone floor of the sitting room. I glanced up to see Romus, the head eunuch, and a small band of his fellows striding quickly in my direction. I rolled my eyes and closed my book. Obviously I had done something to upset someone again, and I stood in a huff as I prepared for a barrage of admonishment.

Romus stopped before me and nodded his head slightly, which was a very peculiar way to begin a lecture. His face was a mixture of confusion and terror, and he seemed extremely nervous, which immediately put me on edge. I stood in silent unease as I watched the eunuch shift his weight before me. Finally he withdrew a folded piece of paper from his robes and handed it to me with a pale, trembling hand.

I took it gingerly, holding it as though it would bite me. I was confused at first, and as I turned it over in my hands and saw the deep red wax and the seal of the headmistress I thought for a moment that I was being expelled from the house. I slid my finger beneath the seal and opened what I could now tell what a letter of some kind. It was ornate, the edges engraved in gold ink in intricate patterns that wove like vines around the page. I knit my brows and began to read.

IT IS DECLARED that on this day in the season of Evinistra that HIS LORDSHIP GAIUS REMULUS ARTIGRO of the royal house of THE DIVINE CASERO ASTERIA THE EIGHTH has accepted betrothal to the lady LITHANA VITALIS of the house of BALTUS VITALIS ERGRIGIO. May the lady Evinistra and her handmaids bless this union. May the Empire live eternally.

The bottom of the declaration was signed by the headmistress Germeta and her advisers, as well as someone from the household of the lieutenant general. As my eyes passed over their names I felt my knees fail me, and I fell to the floor with a gasping cry. More cries and roars erupted unbidden from my throat as I held the declaration in my shaking hands, my eyes transfixed by the sight of it. Suddenly the sitting room was filled with people as women and servants and eunuchs rushed in to find the source of the noise. I felt hands grab my arms and haul me to my feet, dragging me away. The declaration was taken from me as I was led from the room, blinded by tears, rage, and despair.

I raged for days, rejecting food and comfort alike, and had to be locked in my quarters. When I finally calmed down enough to be released, I was in a state of numb apathy. The congratulations of the other girls were met with sneers, and when one of my friends told me that I acted as though I was going to be executed, I asked her if it was an option. The eunuchs began the difficult task of preparing me for my wedding, but I didn't care. I was empty, cold, and unresponsive to their pleas for input. In the end, I never made a single decision about my wedding.

I waited for two long and anxiety ridden months for my wedding, which I often referred to as my death sentence. The day that it came, I was woken early in the morning to begin my preparation. The ceremony would be held in the early afternoon, and the reception party in the early evening.

I cannot say that the experience of preparation was entirely horrible. Had it been under different circumstances I would even have enjoyed myself. I was first washed, a lengthy process that involved cleaning every inch of my body with fine soaps and thoroughly washing my unruly hair. I was then rubbed in oils and my hair was combed and perfumed. My wedding gown was next, several layers of silk and linen and thin, gauzy fabrics that hugged my frame in conspicuous areas. My face was painted and my hair and extremities were adorned with ornaments and bangles. In all, I managed to cut a picture of divine beauty, an outcome that surprised everyone, myself included.

As I sat in front of a polished silver mirror, staring at the beautiful stranger in its reflection, I was suddenly aware of another presence. I turned slightly to glance over my shoulder, and smiled slightly as the eunuch Romus cleared his throat.

"Come to gloat?" I asked bitterly.

"No, Lithana," he said softly, and walking stiffly, he came toward me. He stopped a foot from me as I turned to face him, and held out a small, dark wooden box. I quirked a curious eyebrow and took the box from him. Seeing my questioning look, Romus said, "I'm delivering a part of your dowry."

I lifted the lid of the box and felt my eyes go wide. Nestled on a bed of silk was a fine necklace. The chain was bronzed with age in places, and I surmised that it must be very old. As I lifted it from the box to examine the intricate designs and encrusted emeralds and sapphires, Romus explained, "Your father left us very explicit instructions for your dowry, it seems. This was to be given to you on the eve of your wedding. His letter says it belonged to your mother, and that she wore it at her wedding."

Tears leaped to my eyes as I looked from the necklace to the eunuch, who was smiling kindly at me. "Thank you," I croaked. Still smiling, the eunuch placed the necklace around my neck and then, bowing slightly, left me alone to my thoughts.

I was transported to one of the imperial villas in a carriage an hour later. My transport was given an escort of armed guards, which amused me, and half of me wished I would actually be kidnapped. The windows were draped in linen curtains, but I lifted a corner and snuck a peek as we entered the grounds of the villa. It was grandiose, far more so than my father's estate or the maiden's home, with several stories and buildings and terraces. Gardens were interspersed amongst open courtyards and towering columned causeways. The buildings were decked in brightly colored banners and garlands, and somewhere I could hear a quintet playing for a very large group of people.

As the carriage pulled to a stop I felt my pulse rise and feared I would throw up on myself. I then thought that may very well be a good idea, that perhaps the sight of a vomit covered bride may change the lieutenant general's mind at the last moment, but I was unable to act on my plan as the door to the carriage swung open. Bright afternoon sunlight assaulted my eyes, and I was helped to the ground and quickly ushered into one of the smaller adjoining buildings.

There were people everywhere. Handmaids fluttered about me, commenting on how exquisite I looked and trying to feed me fruit and wine. I almost took a swat at one of them, but I was suddenly set upon by a priest who tried in vain to make me memorize the ceremony. I was again primped and perfumed, and when everyone was satisfied that I was the epitome of perfection, a veil was placed over my head and I was led to the temple.

The temple of Arthos was the primary priesthood in Parnatha. There were many smaller devotions to the individual gods, or groups of gods, but only the temples of Arthos paid homage to the pantheon as it was meant to be: a cohesive, single unit. As such, the temples were always extravagant and enormous, meant to house thousands and be the incarnate of perfect worship. As I entered this villa's own private temple, I could hear the shuffling of many feet and the chanting of priests and their acolytes. The little foyer in which I stood was my last refuge before I was thrust unwilling into the waiting world beyond.

Beside me I heard others approach, and I saw from the corner of my eye a man decked in fine metal armor. Realizing that this was my future husband, I sniffed and turned my eyes resolutely forward.

The man sighed and shifted his weight as he came to rest beside me. "I hope you are not that truly disappointed, my lady," he said softly, the hint of a smirk resting in his tone.

The voice was instantaneously familiar, and as realization dawned on me, I turned to face him with my mouth agape.

"It was YOU?!" I hissed incredulously. Indeed, now that I looked on him properly, the man before me was the same man I had met in the courtyard at the viewing. He looked considerably more regal, however, in glowing ceremonial armor. A long, deep blue cloak was cinched at his shoulders, and an ornate sword was strapped to his side. If I hadn't been so enraged, I would have been impressed. I pointed a shaky, manicured finger at him.

"You look surprised," he replied, trying to hide a smile.

"Well you bet your ass I am!" I yelled back. I was met with hostile, disapproving stares, and the man's face looked suddenly bewildered.

"Please lower your voice, Lithana," he said in a low tone.

"I can't believe you did this to me! I told you how I felt about this whole arrangement, and you agreed with me. I even told you not to tell...well...you! And then you go and choose me? What the hell is your problem?" I managed to control my volume, but my tone was venomous.

"You intrigued me," he answered, his expression souring. He seemed taken aback by my outburst, as though it was completely unexpected, and he was unsure of how to respond. Eying me for a moment, he nodded his approval. "You do look strikingly beautiful. I am lieutenant general Gaius Remulus Artigro, and I will be your new husband this afternoon."

I felt rage seethe throughout my body, but as I was unable to act on it, all I wanted to do was cry. "Go boil your head," was my only response. Gaius grunted and placed my hand over his, and the two of us made a stately walk into the temple.

The ceremony lasted hours. We were made to stand and kneel, then stand again, then kneel. I recited my oaths mechanically, my voice quavering at times. I kept noticing the lieutenant general give me quick looks, his brow knit in what looked like concern, but I was so absorbed in my misery that I couldn't be sure. When he recited his oaths, his voice was smooth and baritone, with the clarity of one accustomed to speaking with authority. I noted that, despite the careful grooming he had undergone, his hair was still shaggy. It brought a small smirk to my lips.

After the ceremony we retired to separate quarters. I was undressed, the majority of my adornments removed, and redressed in a simpler, more casual gown and slippers. I was given a few moments to rest before I was then led from the rooms and through the sprawling grounds to a very large banquet hall. The walls were naught but soaring columns draped in curtains of silk and organza. Tiny lanterns were strung across the hall, already filled with oil in preparation for a very long evening. Low tables were arranged in careful patterns on tiled floors, accenting fine mosaics and fountains. It was an extremely lavish, extremely intimidating affair.

I was joined shortly after by the lieutenant general, who had redressed as well and was now wearing a fine kilt and shirt underneath an intricately stitched toga. He smiled awkwardly at me and nodded, as though we had just finished a business transaction and were now having dinner as an afterthought. Behind him were several other men, one of whom I immediately recognized as the tall blond I had seen fucking the servant girl. He winked again at me, and I flushed deeply.

"I hope you have calmed enough to at least enjoy the banquet," he commented softly as he took my hand.

"I doubt it. I might even throw up all over the table," I shot back with a sneer. This caused the men behind him to laugh.

"Oh, you're right about this one, Gaius," the blond one said. "She sure is a challenge, alright."

"You chose me because you think I'm a challenge?" I hissed in anger, glaring at my new husband.

Gaius, who was busy glaring angrily at his friend, suddenly grabbed my upper arm at pulled me close to him. "Look, my lady," he said in a low, even tone that sounded vaguely threatening. "I do not begrudge your anger, but your manner is frankly childish and unacceptable. If you wish me to be forced to punish you on our wedding night in front of our guests, I will do so. Do not test my will where decorum is concerned, especially not tonight. Do you understand me?" His light blue eyes pierced into me, and I fidgeted uncomfortably in his grasp.

"Will you whip me in public, master?" I spat sarcastically, and my remark was met by several snickers. I blanched slightly when the look on his face said yes.

Sighing, Gaius shook his head and lightened his grip on my arm. "You can scream at me in private after this is over, if you wish."

"If it pleases you, master," I replied. Gaius frowned and then led me into the hall to resounding applause.

I sat stiffly on the edge of my bed, my hands folded in my lap as I apprehensively watched the entrance to my chambers. After the banquet, which had been decidedly awkward for both myself and my new husband, I had been ushered to the private apartments that we would be using for the next few days. Servant girls had dressed me in a provocative, gauzy shift and had perfumed my skin, preparing me for my wedding night. Around me were lit candles and garlands of musky scented flowers. The scene, one that should have excited the blood of a virgin bride, made me sick to my stomach.

I had at first determined that there would not in fact be a wedding night, that I would simply harangue Gaius until he got fed up with me and left. A thought had then crept into my mind as I recalled the grip on my arm and the threat in his voice. What if I resisted, but it didn't matter? What if, despite what I had thought about Gaius before I knew who he was, he would simply take what, for all legal and spiritual purposes, now belonged to him? The idea set fear into my heart, and had made me oddly complacent. And now I waited for him from where I sat on the edge of my bed, practically trembling.

There was suddenly a knock on the door frame outside, and the silk curtains were lifted aside at one corner. Lieutenant General Gaius Remulus Artigro stepped stiffly through the doorway, letting the curtain fall closed behind him. He was still dressed in his kilt and toga from the banquet, and he looked decidedly tired and grim. He looked me over momentarily, an slightly pained expression on his face, and slowly entered the room. I stood as he neared me, and ran a hand over the front of my shift. The air was so thick with tension that anyone watching may well have thought the scene would go wonderfully in some Parnathan play.

Gaius stopped a few feet from me and continued to stare at me, as though he was unsure what to say and trying to impart his ideas remotely. I crossed my arms and decided that there was little other choice but to launch into what was weighing on my mind.

"I told you I didn't wish to be married."

He nodded stiffly, his jaw set. "You did, yes. You said you didn't want to sign yourself over to someone who doesn't deserve you."

"And you agreed with me."

"Yes."

I eyed him with a raised eyebrow. "And do you think you deserve me, lieutenant general?"

"I hope to," he replied simply.

I blinked a few times, shocked by his soft, honest reply and unsure of how to continue my little tirade. All I could think of to say was, "Why did you pick me? Tell me the truth, was it for sport? Did you think perhaps you could break a strong-willed woman--"

"I chose you," Gaius interrupted, "because I had never met another woman like you. You were exactly opposite those other pretty butterflies who flitted around that viewing. You had, have, life, fire, a scary amount of intelligence."

"You chose me because I scare you?" I couldn't help but be amused, and it showed in my face.

"I respect you, Lithana." He sighed and ran a hand through his shaggy black hair, his eyes looking tired. "When this decision to choose a wife was thrust upon me, I determined that, as I was unable to fight it, I would make absolutely certain that whomever I picked would be of quality mind and heart. I went to the viewing looking for something kindred, and I found you." Slowly, he raised a hand and ran his fingers along my shoulder and upper arm. I shivered involuntarily.

"Wait, are you saying that you didn't want to marry either?" I was floored by the idea that, like me, he had been forced into accepting the will of another.

"Yes, I suppose. No. I don't know." His hand traveled slowly down my arm, causing the skin to raise up the little fine hairs that covered it. "I had always wanted to marry, but at this particular juncture in my life I was...unprepared. It wasn't at the forefront of my mind." His hand had now reached mine, and he took it and raised it to his lips, kissing my fingers. "I apologize for deceiving you, my lady, but had I told you who I was, I doubt you would have said another word to me." This he said with a smirk.

I was almost certain he could see me shifting slightly, as he brushed my fingertips with his lips. I had never been touched like that before, and certainly never kissed. The other girls in the maiden's home would sometimes pleasure each other, or with the servants, and sometimes a eunuch would involve himself. I never participated in their antics and orgies, however; frankly the idea of intimacy intimidated me, though I'd never admit it.

I felt myself blushing as I was suddenly aware that Gaius was letting his gaze appraise me. The shift I wore didn't leave much to the imagination. My small breasts were framed by the draping fabric, my small pink nipples clearly visible against the sheer fabric. The curve of my hips and my thighs was visible in the flickering candlelight, and I felt extremely naked.




Lions of Parnatha Ch. 02



"I...feel a bit foolish, then..." I stammered, but it wasn't much of a response. I was honestly unsure of what to say to him, especially while he was busy with my fingers. I wanted desperately to be angry with him, to hate him, to believe that everything he said was just a lie and an attempt to bed me without a fuss.

"You needn't feel that way, Lithana," he said softly. "I knew you would be angry with me. I wasn't aware of just how angry, but I knew what I was going up against." Using my hand to draw me to him, he put his other hand on my cheek and leaned toward me slightly. My breathing was coming hard and fast, and I could feel a warmth growing in my chest. "May I kiss you?" he asked.

I felt myself nod, and watched as his mouth slowly descended on mine. His lips were warm and soft, and he tasted of wine. I felt his tongue flick against my lips, and on reflex opened my mouth to admit him. The kiss suddenly dove into something long and deep, as his tongue swept over mine and his lips locked to me. I felt his hands slide around my waist, drawing me very close to him so that my breasts were pressed against his chest and my hips were nestled against his. I dug my fingers into his upper arms, not entirely sure what I should be doing. The feeling that was flowing through me was delicious and terrifying, and I wanted so much more of it. I leaned further into him and inhaled deeply, letting the scent of him fill my nostrils.

Gaius suddenly lifted me, and I wrapped my legs around his waist to avoid falling. One hand clenching my ass, the other my back, he walked us to my bed and we collapsed onto it. His weight pressed down on me, holding me in place as his hands now roamed over my frame. He seemed to be feeling every inch of me, exploring me. I sucked in a sharp breath when his hands cupped my breasts, gently squeezing them. My nipples rested between his fingers, and he rubbed them slowly, sending an electric thrill from my chest to between my legs. I felt a sharp gasp escape my mouth as my back arched, my hips shifting in slight rhythm beneath him. I was completely overwhelmed with sensations I had never experienced before, and my head was swimming. I almost didn't feel the hem of my shift lift above my hips and Gaius' hand begin a slow traverse to my inner thigh.

Suddenly aware of what was happening, I struggled beneath him and managed to slide from beneath him. My chest was heaving and my face was very flushed, and I eyed Gaius with wild suspicion from where I crouched on the bed.

For his part, the man looked confused and frustrated as he watched me scoot away from him, his piercing blue eyes bright in the candlelight. He huffed a sigh and ran a hand through his hair. "Did I hurt you, Lithana?"

"N-no, you didn't," I stammered in response, looking everywhere but at him. "I just, well I-I haven't ever done this before...and...well I d-don't know if I want to...at all." I glanced quickly at him and saw his brow furrow.

"Lithana, I'm not going to hurt you. I didn't figure you would know what to do, but I am not concerned with that." Sliding toward me, Gaius gently stroked my cheek and jaw, his eyes once again roving over my body. "I have the knowledge for both of us."

The sight of him lying on the bed, his face lustful and his touch seductive, drove me to distraction. His statement, however, about having experience enough for the both of us, struck a chord in me. I watched him continue to slide very near to me for a moment before I spoke my mind.

"Do you have sex with women you don't love very often?" There was an accusation in my tone, and I silently added, 'Because I don't wish to become one of them'.

Gaius paused, hesitating, before he continued to stroke my neck and arms. "Whatever are you talking about?"

"You said you had the knowledge for both of us. I imagine that, given your celebrity status in the Empire, you've been able to bed many women." I eyed him pointedly at this.

Gaius frowned. "That is an awfully unfair statement, Lithana. Frankly my life before you isn't any of your concern."

I was suddenly livid, and I sat up on my heels and glared down at him. "So you don't deny it, then. Well, you'll pardon me if I have no desire to share in your knowledge. I don't want to be another of your meaningless conquests."

Gaius practically gaped at me, confusion clearly written on his face. He obviously had no idea what had happened to suddenly cause my mind to revolt in the face of his advances, but whatever had happened had set me against him. Sitting up as well, he exclaimed, "Lithana, you are my wife!"

"In name only, Master Artigro."

Gaius sputtered as he stared at me, speechless. Then he rose off the bed and stalked from the room, his angry footfalls retreating quickly down the hallway. I watched the doorway for a long time, part of me victorious for having successfully repelled his attempts at seducing me into compliance, but a slightly larger part feeling miserably guilty and wishing he would return. After a while I pulled one of the bed's satiny covers over my shoulders, bunched up a pillow beneath my head, and cried myself to sleep.

Gaius Artigro moaned in pleasure as he rammed himself into the plump ass before him. The sharp, staccato yelps of the servant woman impaled around his cock enhanced his pleasure, and he drove into her with gusto as he neared his climax. Ecstasy coursed through him as he came, and he groaned as his entire body convulsed, his hands gripping the servant's hips flush to his abdomen. Panting heavily, he slid slowly from her and collapsed back onto his bed, letting a light breeze from the open balcony window cool his sweat soaked skin. The servant woman watched him momentarily, her eyes hungry for more, but when he did not move it became clear that his use for her was over. Quietly, she gathered her clothing and left her master's quarters.

The lull of post orgasm bliss quickly faded, and Gaius found his mind once again replaying the scene that had happened earlier in the evening. No matter how many times he tried to make sense of the conversation and events, he was left with nothing but a headache. Rising, he wrapped a linen toga around his waist and left his quarters in search of other company.

He found Aurus still in the banquet hall, surrounded by four naked servant women. He was dozing idly on a chaise, a bottle of port in one hand and a bare ass in the other. Gaius smirked in amusement; the man was truly incorrigible in his appetites, but at least he was easy to please.

Aurus lazily opened one eye and regarded his friend. "Done fucking your new wife already, brother? Surely she was a better lay than that."

"I never made it that far," Gaius said with a sigh, pouring himself a cup of wine from one of the ravaged banquet tables and sitting on a cushion near his friend.

Aurus suddenly sat up, slapped each servant woman on her ass, and told them all to clear out before he decided to fuck them all again until they couldn't walk. They trotted quickly from the hall. Fishing around for another bottle of port, the blond man eyed Gaius with concern.

"What do you mean, you didn't get that far? What did she do, jump out the window or something?"

Gaius shook his head and took a long swig of wine. "I don't know what happened, brother. She seemed apprehensive when I arrived in her chambers, but I expected that. I explained to her that I respect her," this earned a snort of laughter from Aurus, who dribbled port onto his chin, "and that I hoped our arrangement would be, well, a happy one. And then I kissed her, and she..."

"She what? Tried to stab you?"

"No, no. She responded WELL. I thought that she wanted me, she gave every indication of it. But when I tried to touch her, to go further, she panicked and started accusing me of being some lecher who was just using her as another notch in my belt."

Aurus laughed and pointed the bottle of port at Gaius. "Well, you did say you wanted the challenge. Fuck, you'll probably never get laid. Better go find yourself a mistress."

Gaius frowned and sulked, downing the rest of his wine. "It's not really that funny, Aurus. My own wife wants nothing to do with me, in any capacity. I even told her that she was more than just some servant slut, that she was my wife, and do you know what she said? She said, 'In name only'."

Aurus grunted. "So just go back in there and take it. She's not exactly a gladiator, Gaius. Go assert yourself. Hell, your first mistake was telling the wench that you respect her. You stupid prick, you don't tell women things like that. Then they get all these ideas about equality and their feelings and shit." He took a long pull from his bottle of port and belched. "Nope, best to just tell them their place up front and avoid that whole thing."

"If I'd wanted a mindless slave, I'd have picked one of those other spoiled wenches," Gaius growled angrily. "I want a companion, not a warm body."

Aurus considered his friend for a moment before shrugging. "I got no advice for you then, brother. You've clearly misplaced your balls. Look at you, you're lieutenant general of one of the most feared military forces in the known world and you're letting a woman, a TINY one at that, intimidate you and run you ragged."

"I don't know why I bother to talk to you," Gaius muttered sourly. Aurus only laughed.

"Maybe you're looking at it the wrong way." Waiting until he was certain he had piqued his friend's interest, Aurus continued. "If you can't reason with the girl, conquer her. Pull in some of that military genius shit."

"I really don't think--"

"She rebelled against you, right? She claimed you were using her, yeah? So she's probably guarding herself against you, building up her defenses and whatnot." Gaius nodded in agreement, and Aurus continued. "She thinks she can win this battle, that her defenses will hold. So, lay siege to her. Break down her foundations and find her weaknesses. Flank and infiltrate her. And when the moment is right, BAM!" the blond man exclaimed while pounding his fist into his hand, "you conquer her."

Gaius stared at Aurus for a long moment before sighing and shaking his head with a small grin. "How is it I can't get this kind of advice from you unless you're drunk?"

Aurus shrugged. "Just lucky like that, I guess."

I didn't see much of my new husband in the few weeks that followed. We did not stay long at the royal villa, and soon returned to the estate Gaius Artigro rented from his uncle, the Emporer Casero Asteria the Eighth. It was grand and opulent, much like everything else the Empire owned, and I found myself foreign among its columns and servants. I was given a few apartments at one end of the compound, as well as my own staff of servants to attend to my needs. Gaius spent his days elsewhere, and we spoke barely ten sentences to each other.

I spent my time perusing the estate's library and walking the grounds, trying to familiarize myself with my new home. It was, overall, a lonely existence. Gaius did not deign to visit me in my chambers again, nor did he call on me.

I awoke grogily late one night to the sound of feet shuffling across the floor of my room. My eyes were bleary from sleep, and the only light was from whatever drifted in through the windows. Sitting up slightly, I scanned the room as best I could. Nothing seemed out of place, however, so I rolled over and clutched a pillow tightly in my arms.

As I snuggled down into my blankets, a shadow passed between the bed and the light from the window. I gasped and looked up to see a figure standing over me, the glint of a short sword visible in the meager light. There was a flash of silvery steel and the whir of metal cutting through air as the blade descended on me. I screamed and rolled away across the bed and onto the floor, scraping my knee as I landed. I heard my attacker mount the bed, and I scrambled to my feet in terror. Metal whirred through air again, and I felt my night shift catch on the blade as it narrowly missed my shoulders and back. Sprinting, I tore through the curtain that separated my room from the outside sitting room, screaming bloody murder.

There were a few lanterns still lit, and in their light I could finally get my bearings. I heard the curtain behind me open and spun around in time to see a figure clothed in black follow me through the opening. It was obviously a man by his build, and his entire body save for his eyes and cheeks were swathed in black. I saw his eyes glint and knew he was grinning as he began to pace the room, slowly circling me.

I stepped carefully as the attacker hunted me, watching him for signs of readiness to attack again while casting my gaze about for something with which to defend myself. A bowl of fruit sat on one of the low tables, and I stopped behind it, readying myself.

My attacker suddenly charged forward, leaping over a chaise and slashing in a wide arc at my middle. I was ready, however, and I grabbed the shallow ceramic fruit bowl and brought it up to meet the attack. There was a high pitched PING as the sword hit the bowl, and I saw a crack form in the middle; my makeshift shield would not last much longer. This time, the attacker reversed his arm and brought the sword down in a hard arch, intending to catch me in the chest. I brought the bowl up again and felt it crack in two as I stumbled backward. I struggled to catch my footing, but not before throwing both halves of the bowl into the face of my attacker. The first half was easily batted away, but the second half caught him in the brow. He staggered back and shook his head, grunting.

It created enough of a diversion, and I turned and fled from the sitting room down the hallway.

As I ran, I heard sounds of battle from elsewhere in the compound. As I rounded a corner and came out into a courtyard, I saw several guards engaged in a vicious sword fight with several other black-clothed intruders. So we were under attack then, I thought.

Something grabbed my arm, and I screamed and whirled, striking out with my fist. Strong hands stopped me, and I heard a familiar voice yell, "My lady, enough!" I ceased struggling and recognized the hands and their owner as Palos, the captain of the guard at the estate. I could have cried from happiness at seeing him.

"I was attacked!" I exclaimed as he held my hands in his. "Man in black! Sword...tried to kill me!" Somewhere in the back of my mind I realized I was being hysterical, but I was unable to control myself.

"Yes, the entire estate is under attack. Whoever they are, they infiltrated the compound right under our noses--" He stopped suddenly at shoved me aside, almost knocking me to the floor. With a flourish he drew his short sword and drove it forward. The blade sunk into the black clothed man who had attacked me almost up to the hilt. Grunting, he yanked the sword back again, and the attacker fell backward to the floor, a bright spurt of blood shooting from his chest. I felt my stomach turn and leaned against a column to avoid passing out.

There were other guards joining us now, some bloody from battle, and all reporting attacks from all areas of the estate. I listened detachedly to Palos as he began issuing orders, trying to compose myself; I had read about battle and death many times, but I suddenly found it much different from anything that had been described when seen up close. I heard my name, and looked up at the group of guards.

"And take Lady Artigro to the gatehouse. We will fortify our position there and wait for reinforcements--"

"Captain Palos! Captain sir!" A servant came streaking across the courtyard toward us, the front of his shirt streaked with blood. He skidded to a stop before us and panted heavily, trying to speak. "Ambush...! Outnumbered...in the great hall!...Master Artigro is there!"

"Rion's balls!" Palos swore. "That's all the way on the other side of the estate. We can't get there in time to-- My lady, wait!"

Upon hearing that Gaius was outnumbered, something in my mind gave way to insanity. Grabbing the sword of the dead attacker at my feet, I took off across the courtyard toward the kitchens and the great hall, all reason leaving my mind. I saw several servants flee past me, some of them calling my name, but I didn't register them as I tore blindly across the length of the estate.

As I neared the great hall I could hear the furious sound of steel on steel and the curses of men in battle. Whatever was happening was happening fast, and I would need to operate with as much speed as I could muster. I skidded to a halt as I entered the hall, where I saw several black figures battling three men. I quickly counted the combatants; the men were outnumbered by three to seven. One of them was bleeding profusely from a wound on his side, and I recognized him as Gaius.

Gaius Artigro held his short sword up defensively as he, Aurus, and a guard were slowly backed up against a short wall. His eyes looked desperate as he winced in pain, well aware of the blood that was quickly staining his shirt and kilt. This wouldn't be much of a fight much longer.

The attackers suddenly advanced, and there was once again the deadly music of battle in the air. Aurus managed to cut down two of the black figures as the guard wounded a third, giving them some breathing room. Gaius beat back another two with furious sword strokes, giving one of them a fatal slash across the throat. He rounded on the second, not seeing one of the remaining attackers flank him and raise his sword, ready for a fatal blow.

The blow never came, however, and the would-be assassin croaked in surprised pain, looking down to see a sword sticking out through his middle. He slumped to the floor and died, nearly taking the sword's hilt out of my hand. I braced my foot against his body and tugged the blade free as Gaius whirled around to face me, his eyes going wide in shock.

"You should watch your peripherals," was all I could say to him, and he nodded to me, dumbfounded. I heard Aurus laugh, and the remaining attackers were quickly dispatched. I heard guards begin to pour into the hall, and I dropped my borrowed sword, suddenly aware that I was covered in the blood of two dead men. I hugged myself, my stomach souring and nausea swimming through me.

Gaius wiped his blade on one of the black figures and sheathed it, striding over to me. He grabbed my arms and turned me toward him, his face very close to mine. "Are you okay?" he exclaimed, his blue eyes still wild with the adrenaline of battle. "Are you injured?"

"N-no, I'm fine," I mumbled, trying desperately to keep control of my head and ignore the carnage around me. "But you aren't," I added, pointing at the deep slash on Gaius' side. He looked down at it and shrugged, saying something about having had worse.

"Master Artigro, they are routed," came a call from the end of the hall, and a cheer went up amongst the guard.

Gaius grinned and nodded slightly before turning to face Aurus and Palos. "Send word to the garrison about the attack; I want a detachment and an investigator here as soon as possible. And clear out these bodies, they can be laid out in the gatehouse. Make sure they are not touched before the investigator arrives." Turning to me again, he motioned for two guards and told them to take me back to my chambers, instructing them not to leave me alone.

I watched Gaius continue to issue orders and organize the guards as I was led away. Part of me wanted to stay and help, to find out who had tried to assassinate us and make them pay. A much larger part of me craved a bath however, and I was grateful to be rid of the death scene that had spread throughout the estate.

I sat on my bed, staring numbly at the spot where my would-be assassin had stood just a few hours earlier. My hair was still wet from the bath I had taken, causing the back of my night shift to be damp and stick to my skin. As the excitement of the night had left my blood, the realization that I had nearly been killed sunk in, leaving me cold and listless. I wanted to be terrified, or angry, to feel something other than the apathy that had settled into my mind.




Lions of Parnatha Ch. 02



I didn't hear the curtain to my room lift, nor the sound of footsteps as someone came across the floor, stopping a foot from my bed. "The garrison has arrived," a tired voice said. "The investigation will begin officially in the morning." It was Gaius.

I shifted around to look at him. He was wearing only a linen kilt and sandals; a wide bandage had been applied to his side. There were dark circles under his eyes, and his unruly hair was far more rebellious than usual. All in all, he looked very tired.

I rose slowly and came around the bed to stand in front of him, examining the bandage on his side. "Were you badly hurt?" I asked softly.

"It was nothing a doctor could not handle," he replied, raising one hand to touch my arm. He stopped himself, however, and let his arm fall back to his side. "I'm well on the mend."

I watched Gaius with apprehension. He had stopped himself from touching me, something that should have pleased me. In truth, however, I wanted him to touch me. I wanted him to wrap me in his arms and tell me that he would protect me, that nothing would ever try to hurt me again. Instead, I asked, "Do you know who sent those men to attack you?"

Gaius shook his head. "I have enemies in the forum, and a few in the legion. Tonight's action was a bold, risky move, however. Whomever hired those men expected the job to be complete." His eyes glinting, Gaius growled, "When I find out who bought them, I'm going to have them publicly executed after exacting my own private revenge."

I shuddered reflexively and turned my head as scenes of the carnage sprang unbidden to my mind. "I just don't ever want to see them again..." I murmured, forcing back tears.

Gaius knit his brows in concern and gently placed his hands on my shoulders. "What are you talking about, Lithana?"

"Those men, they..." I suddenly erupted in emotion, tears spilling down my cheeks. "They tried to kill me! They wanted us dead! Why would anyone want to do that? And there was so much blood!"

Gaius drew me to him as I sobbed, holding me tightly against him despite the wound on his side. "I know, Lithana, I know. I don't know who is responsible...yet. But I will, and they will pay dearly." Taking my face in his hands, he forced me to look up at him. "I will not let anyone harm you. I promise you that." I nodded and he kissed my forehead, smiling. "You have my word."

I smiled slightly, and then I kissed him. It was a purely reflexive move, one I had not pondered or planned. My lips pressed fully against his, the tip of my tongue seeking his own, and I found myself running my hands up his chest and over his shoulders to link around his neck as my body leaned into his. I felt his hands on my sides and hips, his fingertips tasting the curve of my skin through my nightshift as they slid around to my back. His fingers wound into my hair, holding my head steady against his as he returned my kiss, and for a moment I felt a heat rise from my abdomen into my throat, filling me with a rapidly increasing, primal lust.

And then, just as quickly as it had escalated, it was gone. Gaius pulled away from me, his face stoic and his lips set. Only his bright blue eyes betrayed the heat of his lust for me, and his gaze devoured mine as he took a few steps backward from me.

"You should get some rest," he said in a soft, throaty voice, and I nodded slightly.

I watched him bow and then leave, perplexed and frustrated. My brows knit, I did as he had suggested, and crawled into bed to fall into a fitful sleep.



Lions of Parnatha Ch. 03



***Thank you all for the responses! I took suggestions for indications of change in perspective into consideration and implemented tildes (~) for your enjoyment (originally it had just been spacing, but that didn't translate well when I uploaded the stories). All comments, criticisms, and suggestions are more than welcome!***

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The investigation lasted for days. The estate was crawling with soldiers and politicians from the forum, and the worst of it was that I was not left alone for a moment. Gaius was convinced that whomever had launched such a bold attack against him and his family would surely strike again, though in a more subtle fashion. I had argued with him at length that I was more than capable of taking care of myself, I had killed one of the intruders after all, but my words fell on deaf ears. I was escorted everywhere I went, and I was thoroughly miserable.

By the end of the week, when it became clear that the crowd would not clear out any time soon and I would inevitably go mad from such restriction, Gaius agreed to send me to one of his cousins' villas. His cousin, Alethea, was a niece of the Emperor, a girl with a fiery temper and a wild personality who was very well known for throwing gaudy, and often times hedonistic, parties. 

"You will likely enjoy her," Gaius had remarked with a laugh as I sulked. The idea of being kept by a spoiled princess didn't appeal to me, but I admitted to myself that it was a far better alternative considering the current events.

I arrived at Alethea's grand villa in the late afternoon. The alabaster walls and columns were decked in airy fabrics and flowers, and a good number of servants and porters were moving around the compound like ants, busy with their tasks and oblivious to the nobles in their midst. From the look of the wines and food being ushered to the kitchen, a grand feast was planned.

Aurus uttered a low whistle from where he stood beside me, admiring the view. Gaius had insisted that the big blond man accompany me, which had greatly irked him until he found out where he would be going. Apparently the idea of fucking Alethea and her friends was too good to pass up.

"I guess she's having a party," I said quietly as a trunk was removed from our carriage and brought inside.

"I HOPE she's having a party," Aurus grinned. His eyes had fixated on a young servant girl with broad hips, and he excused himself with a grunt and made straight for her. I shook my head and continued to gaze around me in breathless wonder. Lady Alethea's estate was grandiose and spirited in design. An effigy of the goddess Hastra, deity of pleasure and celebration, rose out of the grand front courtyard, her naked body surrounded in flowers and vines. It was clear that Alethea's reputation was not exaggerated, and I felt trepidation settle into my stomach.

"My dear cousin!" I heard a woman cry, and I turned to see a stunningly beautiful woman walking quickly toward me. She had a voluptuous figure, her pale skin and fine curves accentuated by the dark red fabric she wore. Her chestnut hair was wrapped in curls around the crown of her head, and her eyes were painted in gold. In all, she cut an impressive figure, and I felt myself gape at her as she approached.

Evidently my 'cousin' Alethea did not stand on ceremony, for when she reached me she took hold of my face in her hands and kissed me squarely on the mouth. Her delicate scent of orchids and lavender filled my nose, and I blushed wildly as she grinned at me and laughed.

"My cousin Gaius said you were a bit of a stiff when it came to social niceties," she giggled as she looped my arm in hers, leading me toward the main buildings of her home. "Don't worry, though, we'll have you feeling quite at home in no time."

I wanted to ask her what she meant by Gaius' comment, but was unable to as I was suddenly bombarded with information. Alethea was quite proud of her villa, and made a point of giving me a proper tour of the residence. I was led through the grand halls and common rooms, all architectural detail pointed out to me in detail, from the marbled floors to the soaring columns to the ornate mosaics; the villa was, on a whole, thoroughly impressive.

Alethea ended her tour at my room, which was situated opposite a private sitting room bordering a sparkling water garden. "I've taken the liberty of having the baths prepared for you, and your effects are all placed in your quarters. I'm having a small gathering this evening, my dear, and I would very much like for you and your attendants to be there." Her eyes glinted mischievously as she said this, and I felt myself nod solemnly in response; her statement sounded less like a request than a declaration that I would, in fact, attend her party. She kissed me again, this time her lips lingering on mine, and then turned and left me alone with a smirk.

I stared after her as she disappeared down the hallway, one hand going unbidden to my lips. I had seen the girls at Clotha's Home kiss occasionally, but had never kissed one myself, let alone one who was, for all practical purposes, family. What would Gaius say, if he knew? Shrugging in confusion, I wandered through my quarters to the private bath. The water was already drawn, and I could see steam wafting from it even in the waning afternoon light. Lotus petals were floating on the water's surface, and the heady smell of flowers and musk filled the air. Smiling dreamily, I disrobed and slipped into the bath. I soaked away the pains of travel for a long while until I was interrupted by a servant, who informed me that she had taken the liberty of laying out clothing for the evening's festivities. I thanked her and reluctantly left the bewitching bath.

The robe that had been selected was a faint gold color, filmy material stitched with dark blue silk thread. I donned it and then twisted my hair into a simple bun at the nape of my neck, adorning it with a tiara made of gilt ivy and pearls. As I inspected myself in my burnished mirror, I could hear the sounds of revelry beginning elsewhere in the estate.

Aurus was waiting for me in the sitting room, and he grinned rudely at me as I exited my quarters. "No wonder my brother picked you," he commented with a sly grin.

I lofted an eyebrow. "How about you save your debauchery for the guests, hm?"

"If you insist, my lady," the big blond man laughed in response, offering me his arm.

I hated crowded events like these, but if it would please my hostess I would make a show of appreciation, I decided, and, summoning my courage and mental fortitude, I allowed myself to be escorted to the banquet hall.

The banquet hall was ablaze with color and light in the dying daylight. Delicious smells and sounds wafted through the air, and the servants, all similarly dressed in cream colored shifts, wove their way through the throngs of guests with trays of food and decanters filled with dark red wine.

"Is this really Alethea's idea of a 'small gathering'?" I whispered to Aurus.

He grinned suddenly, and his eyes lit up as his gaze caught hold of someone on the other side of the hall. "I don't see a problem with it, my lady, in fact, I'm looking forward to it." His grin grew wider as Alethea approached us, her arms spread wide.

"My dear cousin! And Aurus Calpernon, you dog! I welcome you both to the Garden of the Gods!" Kissing the two of us soundly, our hostess led us into the hall and to our designated tables. Food was placed before us, our cups were filled to brimming with wine, and the party began.

I had, to date, never experienced anything like it in my life. An offering was made to a large statue of the goddess Hastra, an impassioned plea for unrivaled pleasure and enjoyment, and then musicians struck a lively tune while dancers wheeled and cavorted through the hall. The sights and sounds and food were intoxicating, and before long I found myself, for the very first time in my life, drunk out of my mind. I laughed and grinned like a fool at absolutely nothing as the guests indulged themselves in mindless entertainment.

I was busy trying to pour myself yet another glass of wine when I glanced around and noticed something that struck me as odd. Quite a few of the guests had taken to pleasuring each other, and they were draped around each other, lips locked to lips and hands groping and fondling with abandonment. As I stared in amazement at one particular duo, I noticed that more and more of them were similarly engaged. Suddenly extremely self-aware, I threw my gaze around the room to see if anyone else had noticed what these people were doing.

No one else did notice, however, for nearly everyone was falling all over everyone else in a sudden wild and passionate abandonment. To my left, even, Aurus had his arms around two young women at once, his mouth occupied by one while his hands searched the curves of the other. I wanted desperately to tear my gaze from the scene as embarrassment rose in my throat, but I was completely enthralled. Before my eyes Aurus sat one of the girls on his lap, and her mouth fell open in a small cry as she lowered herself onto him, her hips moving slowly up and down. The other girl pulled down the front of her friend's robes to expose her breasts and began to kiss and suck on her nipples, grinning as her companion moaned in pleasure while she rode Aurus' hard cock. She bounced faster and faster, her breasts moving in tandem, and Aurus gritted his teeth in ecstasy while gripping her ass and hips, forcing her down harder and harder on his shaft. The other girl began to gently stroke herself, one hand cupping one of her breasts as the other slid between her legs and over her clit, which were wide open and in full view for Aurus' enjoyment. Her fingers stroked harder as Aurus fucked her friend, and suddenly the three of them erupted in orgasm in rapid succession. The girls clambered from each other and took turns kissing and licking the blond man's slowly softening cock, which he watched with mild amusement.

All around me I heard similar engagements, people fucking and moaning and kissing, the sound of flesh slapping against flesh and pleasure rocketing through bodies. My head began to swim, and I rose unsteadily to find refuge. Nearly tripping over the mostly naked, writhing bodies around me, I stumbled to the edge of the hall where I leaned heavily against a column to balance myself. As I watched the floor start to spin, someone slid a hand over the small of my back and around my waist, pulling me flush against them. Orchids suddenly filled my nose, and I felt soft lips brush against my neck and shoulders, traveling slowly to my ear.

"I do hope you aren't leaving," a female voice said, husky with drink and lust. I turned slightly and, through bleary eyes, saw Alethea smiling at me. In my drunken haze she looked spectacularly beautiful, her skin and hair glowing in the lantern light. She spun me slowly to face her, letting me lean on her for balance, and kissed me deeply while exploring the front of my robe with deft fingers. I felt the sweat-dampened fabric peel away from my skin as she exposed my small breasts, flicking my nipples with her fingers. "I want to show you the finer parts of my villa," she whispered to me, the corners of her mouth quirked in a smirk.

I wanted to pull away from her, to stumble back to my quarters and fall into a deep slumber. I was embarrassed and mortified by what I had seen. Worse yet, what would Gaius possibly think of this, his own cousin seducing me? As my mind reeled with panic, I felt a heat begin to emanate from my abdomen outward, a familiar feeling from the few times I had experienced it with Gaius, and my hips began to grind slowly against Alethea in an uneven rhythm. My own reaction, my own budding lust in the face of my hostess's seduction, shocked and bemused me so much that all I could do was allow her to continue her slow assault on my sensibilities.

Alethea left a trail of kisses down my neck and collar bone to my breasts, which she licked and nibbled affectionately. My nipples she paid special attention to, nipping and teasing them until they were hard and erect, aching for more. "Touch me," she commanded, and I did, my hands gliding clumsily over her shoulders and hips, up her sides to her ample breasts. I wasn't entirely certain what I should do, so I copied her motions, exposing her and teasing her with my fingers. She let out a breathy moan and pulled me closer to her; clearly I had done something correct. The room had begun to take on a definite spin as her hands lifted my robe to my thighs, searching slowly for my stomach and I can only assume everything below that. I say that I can only assume because I suddenly found my vision fading in and out, and I thought I should mention that I needed to sit down. I felt hands grip my shoulders as my knees gave out from under me, and I believe I hit the floor as consciousness left me, shutting out all noise and light and sound and lulling me into a formless calm.

I groaned and tried to roll over, surprised to find the ground so soft and pleasantly scented. Slowly opening one eye, I realized that I was not lying on the ground, but in bed, sheets and pillows clustered haphazardly around me. It was also no longer dark outside, but rather quite bright; it was likely past high noon, I surmised. Pushing myself up, I immediately winced as my head suddenly pounded rhythmically with the pulse of my heart, and feeling my stomach turn, I reached over the edge of the bed for my chamber pot. Huddled over the pot, my stomach emptied itself and I groaned miserably. What in the name of Rion had happened to me?

The sound of soft footfalls caught my attention, and I glanced up to see Alethea's smiling face. She was dressed in a subdued cream colored robe, her dark hair no longer pulled back.

"What happened?" I mumbled, still hunched over the chamber pot.

Alethea giggled sympathetically and dipped a rag into a bowl of water, ringing it out before applying it to my head and neck. "You took a bit of a spill at the party, dear. Was that your first time drinking?"

I nodded slightly, trying not to aggravate my pounding head, and retched again. "I fell down?" I managed to ask between gasps for air.

"You blacked out, dear. You drank entirely too much and the excitement of... Well, your poor little body had to take a break from the revelry." Rubbing my back, Alethea said thoughtfully, "I forget sometimes that people cannot handle their drink. I will have to be more careful next time."

I screwed up my nose, half at her comment and half at the smell of the chamber pot, and turned my head to look at her through squinted eyes. "I remember people having sex with each other... Did that actually happen?"

Alethea giggled again, an enthralling sound, and nodded. "Yes, dear cousin, it did. I take it that was your first orgy as well."

I hadn't known what it was called, but I nodded slowly. "Does it happen often? People just get drunk and fall all over each other like that?" The memory of it came back to me in pieces, and I felt my cheeks and neck grow warm in embarrassment.

"At my parties it does. Not everyone indulges in that, but my guests know they can abandon themselves to my mother's will and enjoy what the gods created for them." She continued to stroke my hair and back as I stared at her in confusion.

"Your mother?"

"Don't trouble yourself, my dear cousin. Here, let me have this emptied for you," she said taking the chamber pot from my hands. "You just lay back down and get some more rest. You'll feel better if you do."

I gladly complied, my headache abating a bit as I lay back down and drifted into a strange and fascinating sleep.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Aurus Calpernon stretched languidly from where he lounged on a chaise, running a hand through his hair. He watched in complacency as Gaius Artigro paced angrily around Alethea's sitting room, one hand clenched tightly around the hilt of his short sword. Alethea herself was sitting primly on a low stool, her fingers gently brushing the strings of a small harp, the music climbing the hot afternoon air and creating a drowzy atmosphere.

"And you are certain he was a Hashir?" Gaius growled, pausing before a bust of the Divine Emperor Casero Asteria the Third, whom glared disapprovingly back at him. "You know this for fact?"

Alethea nodded slightly, her eyes leaving the harp to settle on her cousin. "There is no doubt in my mind what he was."

"How could you possibly know that?" Aurus asked lazily, scratching at his stomach.

"I have my ways," Alethea responded with a wink. "My sources are never false."

Gaius swore and ran his hands through his hair. "I thought you said that no one would dare make a move in your home, knowing your connections."

"I had thought as much, Gaius," the woman responded, this time solemnly. "I thought they might be so bold as to send spies, but to send a Hashir?" Frowning, Alethea set down her harp. "Someone wants you very, very dead, cousin. The price of an assassin of that caliber is not light."

"Yes, I'd noticed as much." There was a tense silence amongst the three as Gaius resumed his pacing, his usually rebellious hair particularly disheveled. From the look of his wan features and the circles under his eyes, he hadn't been sleeping well. "You don't think anyone in the forum would dare hire a Hashir, do you?" the man queried to no one in particular.

Aurus and Alethea both shrugged, and Gaius grunted.

"He was particularly interested in your wife," Alethea said quietly after another tense moment.

Gaius stopped pacing and growled, his already tight grip around his sword hilt becoming iron. "Why didn't you kill him?!" he roared.

"Calm down, Gaius. I cannot do that and you know it. It isn't my place. Besides, I protected her from him in the best way that I possibly could." This last bit she said with a sly wink.

Gaius raised an eyebrow in confusion, and Aurus, suddenly remembering that particular event, sat up in excited animation, a grin spread across his face. "Yeah, fuck Gaius! That was the... the... it was fucking hot!"

Gaius turned an unamused glare on Alethea, who smiled brightly. "Your wife is quite the little seductress herself, my dear cousin. I think you will be quite pleased when you finally bed her."

"Alethea!" the blue-eyed man sputtered, his mouth falling open in shock. "You promised me you wouldn't!"

Alethea only shrugged. "It was the most practical way to keep the Hashir away from her. She was trying to leave the party, and I couldn't keep an eye on her if she wandered away from me. Besides," she added, "I didn't get very far with her before she was overcome by all the wine she had. The poor thing cannot hold her drink at all."

Gaius sputtered in exasperation as Aurus laughed and commented on my sloppy performance. Glaring at both his cousin and his friend, he did his best to ignore their mirth. "Will you go to your mother with this information?" he finally asked Alethea.

Pursing her lips, Alethea shook her head. "I don't know yet, Gaius. I hate to involve her if I don't have to. I'll have my contacts in the temples put on alert, perhaps someone will hear something of note. I take it you've already bought ears and tongues in the forum and the university?"

"You really do have a way of making reconnaissance sound absolutely degrading, do you know that?" Gaius sighed and nodded. "Yes, I've already made inquiries. If it's a Hashir, though, I don't know who could possibly afford that kind of service. Or who would have those kinds of connections."

"Don't worry, Gaius, you will whet your appetite yet," Alethea said with a knowing smile. "The winds of fate are resolute."

Aurus quirked a brow at the woman, frowning. "She's awfully creepy when she talks like that, isn't she?"




Lions of Parnatha Ch. 03



~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

It took a few days, but I did slowly recover from my encounter with vice and debauchery. I didn't ask my hostess about our encounter, and she didn't bring it up, so I decided the topic would likely lie buried. I was grateful for this, for I had not the faintest idea how I would explain myself to Gaius. We remained at Alethea's villa for another week before departing and heading home. Before we left, our hostess gifted me with a finely wrought medallion depicting the twin gods Uros and Heter, deities of protection and strength.

"For good luck," she had said, kissing my cheek.

Home was, thankfully, clear of investigators when I arrived. The extra presence of guards from the royal garrison was noticeable, but they kept clear of the main buildings and made little noise. Gaius was often gone during the day, busy with official business and royal duties, which left me rather alone much of the time. Boredom quickly set in, and I found myself gazing in frequent longing at the gates and the city beyond.

I finally decided I'd had enough sitting around like a good doting wife and took it upon myself to explore the city, and so one afternoon I dressed myself in a plain robe and informed the guard captain, Palos, that I was going out.

"But, my lady, you cannot," he stammered uncomfortably.

"Oh?" I asked, crossing my arms. "And why not?"

"Lieutenant general Artigro has ordered that you are not to leave the estate grounds--"

I felt my blood boil at this. How dare that man try and keep me locked up in this damn house! Who did he think he was? Husband or not, I was not servant or slave to his will, and I refused to be treated as such. Snorting, I glared at poor Palos and interrupted him. "Look," I growled, "I'm going to go out into that city before I go mad from boredom, and I will leave either through the front gate or I will climb over the walls. Either way, I will not be kept captive in this oppressive house. Now, Captain, which would you prefer: gate or walls?"

In the end, I compromised and allowed two of the house guards to accompany me into the city. Palos insisted that he would be in copious amounts of trouble for allowing me out, to which I responded that, if it would ease his mind, he could tell Gaius that I held a dagger to his throat. Oddly enough he didn't seem amused by my suggestion.

Arthos was bustling in the bright heat of the early afternoon sun. Summer was settling over the Empire, and the heat of the day was oppressive, causing most of its denizens to flit from shade to shade. I wove through the throngs in the streets as I made my way toward the market district, enjoying the myriad sights and sounds and smells of the city.

The market district cut a large swath through the city, extending from the northern neighborhoods down toward the southern gates, and it was filled with everything one could possibly imagine. Fruit vendors vied with bakers for customers. Jewelers and tailors hawked their wares to the passing crowds, and potters and tanners worked diligently in their shops, ignoring most of the din. In this gathering of humanity I was completely anonymous, and I enjoyed the freedom that resulted.

Stopping to admire finely woven cloth at a merchant's stall, I suddenly noticed that my two guards were nowhere to be seen. As clandestinely as I could I surveyed the crowd around me, but to no avail; I was alone. I suddenly felt extremely exposed and vulnerable, and I didn't really know where I was; none of the surrounding buildings were familiar. Panic began to rise in my throat, and I made an attempt at backtracking through the market. As I hurried through the street, dark, fleeting shapes began to make themselves visible in my peripheral vision, disappearing from view whenever I tried to catch sight of them directly. Sweat beaded on my forehead, and panic turned to fear. I felt I was being hunted.

Turning down a narrow corridor between two tall buildings, I pressed my back against the wall in an attempt to hide from whoever, or whatever, was following me. My attention was so absorbed by the passing crowds that I didn't notice the presence of others until it was too late. Someone clapped a hand over my mouth and grabbed my arms, dragging me kicking and bucking further into the dingy corridor.

~~~~~~~~~~

Gaius Remulus Artigro sighed dejectedly, running his hands through his hair in irritation. It was well after sunset, and there was still no sign of his wife, even with half the garrison spread throughout the city. Thus far no one had found so much as a small indication of my possible whereabouts, and the search was beginning to take on a desperate note. Every time a patrol returned Gaius' heart would leap hopefully, only to fall as heads shook and the guards indicated that there was still nothing to report.

Behind him he could hear Captain Palos speaking with the most recently returned search party, and from their tone they had found nothing new. For his part, the poor captain had accepted full responsibility for my disappearance, though his cautious stance indicated he wasn't looking forward to whatever punishment lay in store for him once the situation was resolved. Though Gaius was certainly angry enough with the man, he was now more concerned with finding me alive and well than punishing his guard captain.

"Still nothing?" Aurus asked as he slumped into a chair in his friend's makeshift command center. Gaius had tasked the big blond man with loosening tongues in the seedier parts of Arthos, and from the looks of the fresh bruises and a thin cut over his eyebrow, he'd been doing just that.

Gaius shook his head, rubbing the bridge of his nose. "Yes, brother, still nothing. No one saw a thing." Sitting as well, he leaned back in his chair wearily. "It's as though she disappeared completely."

Aurus grunted; he didn't have anything useful to add, and instead picked up a bottle of port and uncorked it, drinking deeply. "Think she's still alive?" he asked grimly after a moment.

"Of course she is," Gaius said firmly, a statement that earned another grunt from Aurus. "Lithana isn't weak, and she's trained in at least some fighting styles." The affirmation was left hanging in the heavy night air, and Gaius refused to expand on possibilities. Keeping faith in my ability to defend myself, physically or otherwise, was paramount to him. He would not visit alternative outcomes.

Standing suddenly, Gaius strapped his sword and belt around his waist and cinched his cloak to his shoulders. "I'm going back out," he said shortly.

Aurus nodded and stood as well. "Might as well go along," he said with a weary grin. "Gods know you can't fight for shit."

~~~~~~~~~~~

I awoke to the feeling of rope rubbing against my wrists. Attempting to shift, I realized that my hands were bound behind my back. My eyes flew open to survey my surroundings: I was in a mostly dark room with a straw-covered floor, a guttering torch in a far corner the only source of light. I could hear the sounds of people somewhere outside the room, but there were no windows in my line of vision. Painfully, I tried to push myself up on my elbows.

"It's best to lie still," a soft voice said from nearby, and I craned my neck to see who was speaking.

It was a woman, not much older than myself. She was similarly bound, and dressed in the simple shift of a commoner. Her red hair lay about her shoulders, and her thin face was dirty, one eye swollen and bruised. She looked as though she had been through quite an ordeal.

Ignoring her advice, I managed to rock myself up into a sitting position. "Where am I?"

"Keep your voice down," she shushed, looking worriedly at what I could now see was a decrepit wooden door. "If they know you're awake you'll be in for it."

"In for what? What the hell's going on?" I was terrified, but fear couldn't keep the creeping rage out of my mind.

"They captured you and brought you here," the red-haired woman explained quietly. "They're... the men who took you, us, they deal in slaves."

I blinked in confusion. "But I'm not a slave." I wasn't. I was nobly born, not some chattel from the streets born into servitude.

The woman shrugged. "You are as long as someone else says you are." There was a loud crash and raucous laughter from beyond the door, and she cringed.

"Who are you? Did they take you as well?"

"My name is Vienes," she said in a strained voice. "I'm from the colonies, near the mountains. I've been here, with them, for a while."

"The colonies..." I was completely floored. Vienes was abducted, just the same as I was, and from the sight of her, clearly no one had tried to find her. "But... I still don't understand. Why did they take us? Surely it's easier to find slaves for labor in the small villages and outskirts of town. Slavers don't just go and abduct nobility."

"We aren't that kind of slave," Vienes whispered.

"What other kind of slave is there?"

Sighing, Vienes shook her head. "They're going to sell us for sex, miss. Men will pay to bed us as many times as they wish, and they will sell us again and again." It was such a simple, straightforward answer that I felt my jaw drop in shock. "They take us themselves, if they wish," she added almost offhandedly.

I was truly terrified now as I stared in shock at the red-haired woman. From the look of her, everything she'd said was true, and she didn't have the will to fight it anymore. Seeming to read my mind, she offered a small smile. "It's easier to bear if you just let them have what they want and don't fight it. They like to punish you if you resist."

My heart was pounding and my head swam as I looked desperately around the room. There was nothing there, nothing save for the torch and the door. My binding was tight and cut into my skin if I struggled too much. How could I escape from this? How could I fight?

My answer was not long in coming, for the wooden door flew open with gusto and two dirty looking men strode into the room. Vienes jumped in fright and immediately lowered her eyes to the floor, seeming to shrink back against the wall. The paid her little mind, instead focusing on me, and they advanced like hungry dogs stalking prey.

"So, the new one's awake, eh?"

"Pretty li'l thing, she'll get a good price."

"Eh, dunno," one shrugged, examining me as I glared at him. "She's kinda scrawny, her tits is too small."

The other laughed and squatted down in front of me, leering. "Don't matter what her tits look like long as her cunt's tight," he grinned.

Unable to help myself, I launched into a tirade. "Who the fuck do you think you are, you disgusting piece of filth? Do you have any idea who I am? When I get out of here I'm going to remove your balls, if you have any, and tie them around your necks after stringing you up so all of Parnatha will see what pathetic, impotent, filthy ruffians you are!"

I was rewarded with a hard smack across the face, which sent me flying sideways to the ground. My head reeled and my vision swam as the skin around my cheek and eye began to burn hotly.

"This little one's got a temper. She's gonna need some training." Grabbing me by my arm, the one who had hit me hauled me up to face him. Despite my aching face and the tears welling in my eyes, I stared him down defiantly. He sneered and hit me again, this time on the other side of my face.

"Don't muss her up too much, she won't sell if her face is all busted."

I was dropped, unceremoniously, to the ground, where I lay still, trying to recollect my thoughts and stop the room from spinning. The two men then turned toward Vienes, who whimpered slightly.

"This one knows her place," one of the men grinned, and he grabbed her by the hair and hauled her out the door. "C'mon, bitch, our little party needs some entertainment." The door slammed shut behind them, and I was left alone in the meager light of the room with nothing but my aching face and Vienes' muffled cries in the room beyond. Tears coming to my eyes, I rolled onto my back and suddenly gasped as my fingers brushed against something. It was hard and had several sharp edges, likely a piece of rubble or a small rock. Resolve settling into my stomach, I managed to position it in such a way that I could rub it against the ropes that bound my hands. It was slow going, sawing through the fibers, but then again, every laugh of my captors and the cries from the poor girl in their midst was all the motivation I needed. 

I squinted as light from the doorway flooded into the room, realizing that I had fallen asleep at some point. I watched warily as a man entered with a battered and exhausted Vienes, one hand gripped tightly around her arm. He pushed her to the ground with little care, ignoring her whimpers, and stood over her momentarily, his face indecisive. I watched thoughts swirl through his thick head, my hands testing the ropes that bound them; I had been working most of the night and was nearly through them. The rock still in my fingers, I quietly resumed my work.

The man finally stooped down over Vienes, his face taking on a cruel visage. "They took all their turns and I didn't get to have no fun," he murmured as he pressed her into the ground, one leg between her thighs. His hands ran roughly over her body, squeezing her breasts painfully and lifting the edge of her shift around her waist. Vienes shut her eyes tight and turned her face from him, and the man grinned wickedly. Ripping open the front of her shift, his mouth descended on her nipples while his fingers thrust up inside her, causing her to arch her back in pain. I felt my jaw tighten as I watched him, and I saw from the bulge under his kilt that he was very close to raping her in front of me. Narrowing my eyes, I decided that I wouldn't let that happen.

The man was busy thrusting his fat fingers in and out of his victim, his other hand stroking his hard cock when suddenly a length of rope looped around his neck. He gagged and bucked backward, his hands flying to the rope in a desperate attempt to dislodge it. I nearly lost my balance, but managed to keep my footing as I pulled back and up with all my strength on the rope. He thrashed violently for what seemed forever before collapsing on the ground, dead. I stood over him, my chest heaving from the exertion, and looked at a terrified Vienes.

"You-you killed him!" she exclaimed softly, her eyes wide with horrified wonder.

"And I'll kill whoever else gets in our way," I stated as I grabbed a crude looking short sword and dagger from the dead man at my feet. "We're getting out of here."

Helping the woman up, we crept to the door and listened intently. It was very quiet, and I surmised that no one had heard the struggle. Opening it just enough to peek through, I saw that the small room beyond was mostly deserted, save for two brigands who were slumped over, fast asleep on a low table. Motioning for Vienes to follow me, I stepped gingerly into the room, my sword at the ready.

Tense moments crept by as we tip-toed through the room toward a darkened hallway beyond, and we were filled with relief as we slipped into the welcome shadows and slid along one of the walls. I thought that, impossibly, we might be in luck and not be discovered for a long while, but luck was clearly not on our side that evening. As we crept further into the darkness, there was an angry cry behind us, echoed by more cries and the sound of rushing feet.

"Run!" I yelled to Vienes, and I sprinted down the hallway. Being as it was extremely dark, I wasn't sure where I was going, and I almost barreled face first into a wall. My companion tripped over me and fell as I skidded to a halt, and I grimaced as the hallway was suddenly flooded with torchlight. Spinning quickly and readying my sword, I met the first slaver who entered our bend.

He was thoroughly unprepared for my assault, and unable to ready a response as I feinted and lunged. My blade sank into his stomach, and he dropped to the floor in a screaming heap. Unfortunately it meant that I no longer possessed the element of surprise, and the next two to round the corner were prepared for me, their weapons already drawn. I swallowed as they advanced on me, unsure I would be able to take the both of them, but I was given little choice.

Steel rang on steel as I parried desperately, trying to gain an equal footing. They were larger and much stronger than I was, but I was by far the fastest in this fight, and I used that to my advantage, dancing around their slashing blades with ease. They were hardly what one could call trained, their swings wild and uncontrolled. That lack of control, however, could be dangerous and unpredictable, and I was reminded of this as I whirled to avoid a thrust that suddenly caught me on the edge of my arm. Crying out in pain, I ducked and shifted my weight, trying to collect myself.

Our deadly dance continued, and I don't know how long it lasted. My arm began to ache, and I didn't know how much longer I would be able to defend us against them. I faintly heard the sounds of fighting elsewhere, but I was too absorbed to pay it much mind. As I wove between my opponents a chance opening appeared, and I drove my blade into one of the slaver's kidneys. He screamed in pain and fell writhing to the floor, taking my sword with him, and I panicked as I tried to tug it free. I felt a sharp sting on the small of my back and a blow to my knee, and fell to my hands on the floor. Looking quickly behind me, I saw the other slaver raise his sword to deliver a fatal blow before roaring in anger and pain, his sword clattering to the floor. Behind him, Vienes had grabbed my fallen dagger and driven it into the man's thigh up to the hilt. She wrenched it free, and a pulsing spurt of blood covered the floor.

Smiling slightly, I pulled my sword from the dead slaver and crawled over to her, panting in exhaustion. I was about to comment on her luck when more running feet met my ears, and I scrambled to my feet and raised my blade in time to block the blow of a man who rounded the hallway's corner. I prepared myself for another battle, gritting my teeth, when recognition struck me in the stomach.

"Gaius!"

My husband stood before me, his own blade flush against mine and his face a mask of deadly rage. His eyes flashed with blood lust, and it took him a moment to realize what was happening.

"Lithana?"

I nodded fervently, trembling. Behind Gaius, Aurus and Captain Palos appeared with a detachment of the garrison, all of them looking thoroughly worn from battle. Aurus mumbled something about clearing the rooms ahead and led the detachment around us and down the hallway. Nodding in bemused appreciation, I dropped my sword as Gaius sheathed his sword and approached me.

His expression was one of astonishment and relief, and he took my face gingerly in his hands. "Are you alright? Are you hurt?"

I shook my head, feeling tears well in my eyes. "I'm fine, nothing that won't heal." I took a moment to savor his touch and calm myself; adrenaline was leaving my body, and I could feel emotion threatening to overwhelm me. "How did you find me?" I asked softly.

"Luck," Gaius responded simply. "I was patrolling the market near the Grand Row and overheard some men discussing brothels they had been to recently. There had been cases of kidnappings connected to slavers who sell to brothels, so on a hunch I ordered raids of known hideouts and whore houses." Smiling slightly, Gaius shook his head. "I honestly didn't expect to find you in one."

I managed to smile, and kissed him lightly. "I'm grateful for it."

Aurus and Captain Palos returned to inform us that the building, which was little more than a series of small shacks connected by wooden corridors, was clear of any remaining slavers. They hadn't found anyone else, and pointed curiously at Vienes, who was still trembling on the floor. I informed them that she was a victim, the same as I, and that she was under my protection. Gaius agreed with me, more out of relief from my recovery than anything else, and with my arm set protectively around the woman, we were escorted to freedom.



Lions of Parnatha Ch. 04



A big thanks to ALL the comments I've received. Some I agreed with, some I did not, but overall your comments help make me a better writer. On the subject of the perspective, I conceded and agreed to transition completely between first and third person. I also agreed that the last chapter was rather rushed, so I took quite a bit more time with this one. It's not as all inclusive as I would have liked, but with major work stuff coming up in the next two weeks, this is probably the last chance I'll get to post for a little bit.

This story is ultimately being written for my own benefit, but I've enjoyed it and want to share it with all of you who bother to read it. Whether yo like it or hate it, please feel free to comment and rate it. ;D 

*

It was nearly a week before I was able to sleep through the night again. I greatly feared going to bed, knowing what awaited me: horrible nightmares full of pain and terror, and a helplessness I had never experienced before. All night I was beset by faceless menaces that would beat me into submission, clawing at my clothes and skin, and abusing my body in ways only the creative subconscious could fathom. I would wake with a start, my body shivering and my skin cold and clammy with sweat, my heart always pounding in my ears as it raced me away from the threats that plagued me in my dreams. I would cry and curse, angry and confused at what I couldn't control or fight.

My mood, as a result, was thoroughly sour, and I detached myself from everyone around me, often secluding myself in my chambers. The only other person in my household who understood, and who I trusted, was the woman I had inadvertently rescued, Vienes. I had taken her on as my handmaid, an action for which she repeatedly expressed her utmost appreciation, and I came to rely on her for comfort as I battled this new found fear and vulnerability. I had never been unable to assert and defend myself before, and I had certainly never been close to death, but in that little complex of buildings I had been a prisoner, alone and at the mercy of cruel masters. Had Gaius not arrived when he did, I would very likely be dead. It was a thought that frightened me greatly. Vienes, however, did not dwell on her experience, instead choosing to absorb this new life I had given her. Her strength helped buoy my own, even if I secretly envied it.

For his part, Gaius did his best to comfort me while not hovering over me. He knew I hated to be micromanaged, I had made that infinitely clear on more than one occasion, but the event had put even his steely nerves on high alert. He would check on my several times a day, concern and frustration radiating from his eyes.

I admit I was short with him, most of the time. Already frightened and angry by this new sense of vulnerability, his attention only reinforced the idea that I was incapable of taking care of myself, and I lashed out at him more than once. He weathered my temper and my insults with a grim stoicism, always returning to me with a hopeful smile on his face, a smile I was more than prepared to erase.

One afternoon, after a particularly nasty argument with Gaius, Vienes decided she had had enough of my attitude and self-pity. I sat fuming on the chaise in my sitting room, going over every little insulting thing the man had said and done, as Vienes slowly combed my hair.

"How long do you intend to keep doing that to him, my lady?" she asked quietly.

"Do what to him?" I mumbled, confused.

"You have done nothing but scream at him since he rescued us, and yet he insists on returning to you. I think he hopes to find some affection from you, yet you continue to refuse him and drive him away from you." She paused, considering me as she toyed with possibilities for my hair. "If you continue to drive him away," she said softly, "he may stop returning to you."

I knit my brows and looked over my shoulder at her. "What do you mean?"

"A man in his position, a powerful man, can have any woman he wants, married or not. His devotion to you is certainly a rare thing, my lady, especially given that you do not reciprocate it. Most Parnathan men would just take a mistress and be done with it."

I blinked and frowned. Gaius had always been concerned for my well being, considerate of me despite my determination to relegate him to enemy status. Were his continued attempts at affection really that out of the ordinary for a nobleman, or any man?

Vienes must have read my mind, or seen my thoughts written all over my face. "Didn't you know that?" she asked, tilting her head. "I thought you were chosen from a maiden's home."

"I was," I said softly, "but I didn't really ever think about how... I never wanted to marry. I was so concerned with keeping my freedom that I didn't pay attention to the world I would become a part of if I was ever forced into it. I just rejected all of it."

I suddenly felt extremely foolish. This world, this pristine, manicured, choreographed, deadly world in which I now existed was as completely foreign to me as a far flung land would be, and my ignorance was of my own design. I hadn't the faintest idea how to dress, how to act, how to read the intentions of others as they smiled to my face and plotted behind my back. The games played by Parnatha's elite were high stakes, and I was the ultimate rookie, with everything to lose. Internally chastising myself, I sulked on the chaise as Vienes continued to comb and arrange my hair. Was all this fighting tooth and nail for something I had obviously already lost really worth it? Was I destined to give up on precious freedom? And, more importantly, would Gaius really set me aside for something more attainable and agreeable if I did continue to fight? The thought made me nauseous.

Why should I care if he sets me aside? I screamed in my mind. I hate him! I hate that he betrayed my trust and thrust me into a role I have no desire to play! I hate that he wants me to love him!

"I never wanted any of this," I muttered sullenly.

"The gods decide our fates, not us," Vienes commented. "All we can do is make do with what we have."

"That isn't good enough for me," I said, shaking my head. "I refuse to be anything other than what I am just to play a part in some cosmic entertainment for the gods. I won't be a mild-mannered, silent wife-servant. I won't."

Vienes frowned. "I don't think my lord expects you to be. I believe he just wants you to trust and respect him, and he's obviously willing to go to great lengths to win that from you." Gathering a good portion of my hair, she twisted it and wound it into a bun at the crown of my head. "But even the most patient, loving man has his limits. If you continue to fight him on principle, those limits will be reached." She emphasised her words with the metallic click of a clip being pinned into my hair.

I resolved to remain stalwart in my defenses, nodding slightly in confirmation to myself. A small, nagging doubt had built a fortress in the back of my mind, however, and it was asking me if I still knew what it was I was fighting for.

Vienes had managed to calm my temper, however, and I didn't verbally assail Gaius anymore when he came to visit me. Not that my cold indifference was any better, but it was a start.

A few days after my conversation with my handmaid, I was given an opportunity to see just how ignorant I was of Parnathan social politics. I was absorbed in a volume of modern Parnathan philosophy by a hermit called Yagos, still dressed in my night shift and house robe and the remnants of my breakfast spread around the table before me, when I was interrupted by Gaius clearing his throat. I turned to regard him, surprised that I hadn't even heard him enter the room. He was standing a few feet from me, dressed in a very white kilt and shirt with a toga in the typical deep blue of the royal house set neatly over one shoulder. He was also holding a small box in one hand.

"I am required to attend a convergence at the forum today," he said somewhat stiffly, and I garnered that he wasn't terribly happy about it. "I will likely be there for most of the day."

"Oh." I didn't really have a response, nor did I really care. "Enjoy yourself."

"I want you to come with me, Lithana." He stepped forward a few paces, until he was but a foot from where I sat.

I blinked up at him in surprise. "You what?"

"I want you to come with me. There is a library there that I think you would enjoy, and you will be able to see more of the city." Kneeling down, Gaius ran his fingers over my forearm. His touch was hesitant, waiting for a reaction. And though I bristled at his touch, a rather large part of me wanted him to continue. "I also want you to get out of the estate," he added, his bright blue eyes watching me carefully. "A change of scenery would be good for you."

I was strongly tempted to scream at him for daring to think he knew anything about what I needed, but Vienes' warning played in the back of my mind. Instead, I held my tongue and nodded slightly. "I suppose I will need to get dressed then," I said sullenly.

Gaius nodded, presenting the small box he had brought with him. "Yes, I'm afraid your sleeping clothes would not be tolerated. I thought you might like to wear this, as well."

I opened the lid to the box and felt my eyes go wide with wonder. Nestled on a bed of silk was a wrought diagram of the solar system, all represented by precious jewels and glinting silver. It had a hinged clasp at the back, so it could be pinned in its owner's hair. I caressed it gently, marveling at the intricate detail, and saw that Gaius was smiling. It was the first genuinely simple smile I had seen from him in some time, and I felt myself smile in return.

"It is beautiful, Gaius, thank you." I considered his gift, along with what Vienes had said, and a blush crept into my cheeks. Her remarks about Gaius and his willingness to put up with my abuse in hopes of something better were true, it seemed. "Gaius I'm... I..." My words faltered and I found myself staring silently at his face.

"You what, Lithana?"

I have so much to say and I don't know how to say it! I flustered inwardly. I wanted to apologize for the war I was waging against him, to ask him if he was being honest with me, to find out if any of his affection was real, but all I could manage to say in the face of his blue eyes and kind smile was, "Later. We can talk later."

Gaius considered me a moment, then nodded and stood. "I will be waiting for you in the courtyard," he said, and then he bowed and left. He always bowed, I noted, and the flush in my cheeks deepened. Setting down my book and the box, I called for Vienes and set about finding something suitable to wear to the Grand Forum of Arthos.

The Grand Forum of Arthos was the seat of the Empire's power. All decisions, no matter how great or small, were made within its soaring domes and spires. The men and women who resided there, dignitaries, nobility, scholars, and of course the magistrates and senators, were tasked with the impossible: managing the vast expanse of the Parnathan Empire, and they did it well. For centuries this broad swath of gardens and palaces and halls had been a beacon of learned leadership and iron doctrine, an extension of the divine and absolute power wielded by the imperial family of Asteria. Legend held that Asteria, the first Emperor, the man who had united the independent Parlathian kingdoms, was a descendant of the god-king Rion, and thus his children and their children had retained the divine right to rule. It was he who had named the Empire Parnatha, the Immortal Lion. The Forum and its buildings had been built as a complex around the imperial palace, another physical declaration of its might and servitude. It stood as a reminder that even the learned men who toiled within its walls were subject to the might of the Emperor. He, like his palace, was always at the center of everything.

I marvelled at the exquisite beauty around me as Gaius and his entourage led me across the grounds. Spectacular statues carved from the purest granite and marble dotted the lawns, which were arranged and manicured into intricate designs. People hurried from building to building, some senators and some their scribes, all terribly busy with the business of the Empire. They made way for us, however, not daring to block the path of one of the legion's commanding officers, and I couldn't help but smile with a bit of pride. Gaius had never struck me as a particularly powerful man, especially in his own home, but the influence he wielded here, among the Empire's elite, managed to impress me.

Climbing the alabaster steps to the forum's Prime Hall, I felt a gasp escape my mouth. The columns that lined the entryway were the largest I had ever seen, well over three stories high, and the carved designs at their crests were inlaid with gold and fine green stones. Silk curtains and standards lined the walls and windows, each representing the districts and governings of the Empire, and stoic legionaires stood guard in pairs at every entrance, their polished ceremonial armor glowing in the sunlight.

As we crossed the shiny tile floor of the foyer, I looked up to see a spectacular mosaic of Asteria inlaid on the ceiling. His face was angular, his strong jaw set in what looked more like a scowl than anything else. His eyes, however, struck me as odd. Everything else about him was dark, from his hair to his skin, but his eyes were the brightest blue I had ever seen depicted in stone and tile. As I gazed at him, awestruck and confused, I began to wonder if in fact his man, this legend who had built these massive dedications to his power, really was in fact a demi-god. He certainly looked the part.

I was so preoccupied with staring at the ceiling that I didn't notice when Gaius stopped in front of me, and I walked straight into him, treading on his deep blue cloak. He grunted and turned to face me, one eyebrow quirked.

"I'm sorry," I said sheepishly. "The ceiling, I got distracted."

Gaius looked up at the mosaic, nodding slightly as he examined it, and then looked back at me. "Yes, I forgot this was your first trip here." A small smile flitted across his lips, the kind I had seen when I had first met him, and I felt my pulse quicken. "I've seen it so much I forget it's even there, now. But it really is impressive. All of it." Gaius gestured with one hand toward the rest of the Prime Hall, and I found my eyes wandering hungrily as I devoured the beauty before me.

"How could you?" I gasped as my eyes rested on the balconies and book cases that lined the perimeter of the hall. "I could look at all of this for a thousand years and I would still find something new."

Gaius laughed. "I admire your heart, Lithana, I really do. I wish I still possessed that kind of innocence."

I sniffed, lifting my chin imperiously. "I wouldn't mistake admiration of beauty for naivete, were I you, Gaius," I said with a playful edge. "Perhaps I just see better than you can."

Gaius lifted one hand to stroke my arm fondly, and it struck me as odd that I recognized his touch as being a fond one. "My nose is usually buried in paper. Perhaps I should look up more."

Suddenly feeling bold, I took a step forward and brought my face close to his. "Perhaps you should do a lot of things more," I said softly. I could smell leather and steel and vanilla, and I bit my lower lip as excitement coursed through me.

Gaius lofted his eyebrows and tilted his head. He opened his mouth to speak, but was interrupted when an older man with very little hair dressed in a flowing white toga came into view. "Gaius Artigro!" he bellowed, his arms spread wide and his face glowing with a smile.

Gaius turned to face him, also grinning, and spread his arms in a similar manner. "Domo Camron Liperion!"

I watched in fascination as the two men embraced each other. I didn't know very much about social intricacies. My brothers and I had never stood on ceremony, and I had dutifully ignored my tutors at the maiden's home when they had tried to teach me about tradition and etiquette. Now, seeing Gaius and what must have been a friend greet each other, I found I couldn't help but watch their exchange. Gaius and the man embraced fondly, patting each other twice on the shoulder before taking a step backward, their hands around each other's forearms.

"I didn't expect you to have returned from the islands already, Liperion," Gaius was saying. "I had heard the pirates were holding siege to the Norian ports."

Domo Camron Liperion scoffed, shaking his head. "Those flea-bitten mongrels are hardly worthy of such a distinguished title as pirate, Gaius," the older man said, sounding disgusted. "Their vessels are hardly sea worthy, their seamanship is laughable, and their battle training is atrocious. I've seen a whore do better. The only reason they're able to hold their ground, so to speak, is that the imperial fleet's new captain is as fresh as a priestess' cunt during a new moon."

Gaius laughed, running a hand awkwardly through his hair as he threw a glance in my direction. I briefly assumed that I should have been offended, but I wasn't. In fact I was staring at both men with rapt attention, my eyes wide and my lips slightly parted in eagerness.

Domo Liperion cleared his throat, releasing Gaius' arms and bowing slightly to me. "Forgive me, my lady, I did not know you were there."

"Oh, it's fine," I laughed, waving away his apology. "I've said worse myself. Did you say there were pirates in the islands? Real pirates?"

Liperion stared at me in disbelief as Gaius stifled a chuckle. "Er, yes, my lady. Real pirates indeed. The kind that would happily murder you for that pretty pearl necklace you wear, and would probably eat your entrails afterward," he added with a wink.

Catching onto his game, I grinned and retaliated. "My entrails, you say? Poor form. A proper scoundrel would surely skin me alive first and then butcher me. What would they dry my flesh with? Salt from the sea?"

Domo Liperion roared with laughter and bowed deeply to me, taking my hand and kissing my knuckles. "My my, what a fiery little thing you are! Gaius, who is this delightful creature? Surely not another cousin? I thought I had finally memorized the members of your uncle's family."

Gaius shook his head, still grinning. "Sadly, no, my dear Domo. May I present my wife, the lady Lithana Vitalis Artigro."

"Your wife? Well now, Gaius, I'm offended that I didn't merit an invitation to this most auspicious of occasions."

"You were under siege in the islands, old friend, remember?"

"Yes, well, surely you could have sent a note. Wherever did you find her?"

"I'm a nymph, sir," I chimed in, giggling. "He lured me from my forested home with a song and dance."

Domo Liperion laughed again, and I couldn't help but laugh along with him. I was terribly pleased to have met someone in the forum who wasn't a stiff upper lip, and I wasn't going to pass up on the opportunity to have a little fun with it.

"A song and dance, my dear lady?" the old man asked, his eyes twinkling. "Did he perform it properly, the way our ancient ancestors might?"

"Of course, sir, he was naked as a babe the entire time. I wouldn't have given him a moment's thought had he not been putting forth maximum effort."

As Domo Liperion nearly collapsed from a fit of laughter, I looked at Gaius and saw that he was blushing deeply, despite his lopsided, awkward grin. "I fear I had better find my dear wife something else to do, Liperion, before she starts telling you truly unsavory tales about me."

Gaius took my arm, and our little group made its way through the foyer and into an adjoining room. This one was also quite large, with several levels of balconies and catwalks that criss-crossed the ceiling above me. Large windows situated just below the dome allowed the afternoon sunlight to filter down over the balconies, which were filled with row upon row of shelves, each tightly packed with books and scrolls. On the ground floor were many long tables, which were occupied by scribes and scholars, all hunched over scrolls and volumes of written work.




Lions of Parnatha Ch. 04



"Welcome to the library of the Prime Hall, my lady," Domo Liperion said with a grin, indicating the room with a sweep of his arm.

I sucked in a breath of excitement and bit my lip. The room smelled and tasted like dust and wood and paper, and it thrilled me.

Turning on my heels, I grinned at Gaius, who nodded. "Please don't wander from here without an escort, Lithana. The forum is only mostly safe."

"Do you really think someone would try and kill me here of all places, and in broad daylight?" I asked doubtfully.

Gaius only shrugged. "It has happened before. And I don't worry so much that someone might try and kill you so much as..." Gaius pursed his lips, weighing his words. "You would be better served with an escort," he finally said, nodding slightly with finality. I knew there was little use in arguing with him over it.

I watched the two men depart, talking amiably, and then turned my attention to the soaring walls before me. My eyes traveled up over the books and scrolls, and I felt my stomach jump in anticipation.

I spent the better part of my afternoon browsing the library's resources. I found an impressive collection of prophecies by the priestess Hylara, a slave who had won the heart of a magistrate and converted to the cult of the snake goddess Ulmis, as well as an immaculate copy of Treton's first plays, which I devoured with gusto. The scholars and scribes left me to my own devices, and so long as I didn't bother them or get in the way of their work, we coexisted quite well.

Boredom did manage to eventually set in, and I found my mind wandering from the books in my hands. I didn't really wonder about what Gaius was doing in the forum, nor did I really care. I had always found politics to be dry and dull, and I knew from eavesdropping on his conversations with Aurus that Gaius generally felt much the same. They were a necessary drudgery to achieving greatness, he had said. Instead I found myself staring out the arrow slit windows at the gardens just outside, watching the ant-like people below go about their business. What kinds of lives did they live? I wondered. I knew that most politicians were constantly playing games of intrigue and propaganda for advantage and control over their peers; is this where those games took place? Or was there somewhere else, somewhere hidden, that housed such tournaments? What secrets did this vast hive of human activity hide?

"I am certain you would have a better view of the gardens from a larger window," a voice behind me quipped. I spun around on the bench I was sitting on to face the speaker, one eyebrow piqued.

He was a large man, with dark skin and eyes. There was a headscarf of some kind over his hair, and his clothing was dun colored, like sand. He was standing against one of the tall bookshelves, his arms crossed over his chest and his expression amused.

"There aren't any large windows in here," I said a bit coldly, which was unintended, but I had been startled and immediately set on edge.

"Then you should go outside."

"I... would prefer to stay here," I said slowly, watching him. He was perfectly still, and I was briefly amused by the idea that he would make an excellent statue.

"You aren't a very good liar, my lady."

Something about his voice, the cold, steely tone, made my stomach drop, and I tensed where I sat. "What makes you assume I am lying? I am perfectly content where I am."

The man smirked at me and shook his head. "The length of time you spent staring out the window suggests otherwise."

"You- you've been watching me? For how long?" An uncomfortable tightness had begun to form in my chest, and I was having trouble breathing. I felt stifled, and I desperately wanted to run away from this man.

"Long enough."

I stood slowly, clutching a volume of poetry to my chest. "That isn't proper. My husband will hear of this."

"Oh? Then perhaps you should go tell him."

Oh, I wanted to. This intruder, however, was standing between me and the staircase that led down from this particular balcony. I hesitated, my eyes darting from him and the narrow space I could pass through to escape from him.

"Go ahead, go find your husband," the man said innocuously as he continued to lean against a book case.

I walked slowly toward the dark man, the book I had been holding still clutched tightly to my chest. He turned sideways, allowing me passage, and I squeezed between him and the book case. My shoulder brushed against his chest, and I could feel something very hard beneath his sand colored shirt. My stomach was caught in my throat as I passed him, and I half expected to be dead by the time I reach the balcony's railing.

I was not dead, however, and I blinked in surprise, glancing over my shoulder. The man was still standing where he had been, his gaze boring into me, and I turned and walked quickly down the stairs to the main room. He was still watching me as I deposited my book on an arbitrary table and swept from the library, my heart pounding in my ears.

I didn't stop as I entered the foyer and made straight for the inner courtyard. I silently cursed to myself that I had left without an escort, and that Gaius would certainly be cross. Surely he'll understand the circumstances, I consoled myself. If I had felt threatened, which I certainly had, he would want me to defend myself or get away from the situation.

The courtyard and its gardens were spectacularly well kept, and I slowed my pace as I entered them. A wide fountain bubbled in the center of a very green lawn, and I made my way toward it cautiously, frequently looking over my shoulder for signs of pursuit from the dark man I had met in the library. I was doing exactly this when I suddenly ran into someone, nearly knocking the two of us over. I managed to catch myself as I stammered an apology, glancing up to see who I had almost run over.

There were two aged men before me, both wearing the robes of senators, and they looked rather irritated by my sudden intrusion. I grinned awkwardly as I straightened my robes.

"If I had eyes in the back of my head this probably wouldn't have happened," I quipped, trying to diffuse the situation.

One of the men raised an eyebrow and looked at his fellow, who took a moment to appraise me. His expression was one of barely concealed disgust.

"Are you lost?"

"Er, yes, I am, a bit, sir. I was in the library and then I... Well I'm looking for someone."

"And that would be?" the other man asked coldly.

"Lieutenant general Gaius Artigro," I answered with a cool tone of my own. I didn't take kindly to being treated poorly by anyone, especially people of influence. "Do you know him, or where I may find him?"

"Commander Artigro? I wasn't aware he was in the forum today," one of the men said thoughtfully, looking at his companion. "I also didn't know he was entertaining today," he added with a sly, sideways glance in my direction.

I knit my brow in confusion as the other nodded in agreement. "Indeed, it's rather bold of him actually, bringing someone of your profession to the forum. It isn't really in good taste."

"Of my...profession? What are you talking about?"

"A courtesan," the first man said, looking me over. "I gather the more reputable ones were busy today."

I felt my jaw drop as realization hit me, and my face flushed a bright, angry red. "Are you calling me a whore?"

"No, not at all, that word doesn't apply to what a courtesan does." There was a shared smirk between the men, and I felt my blood begin to boil.

"I'm not a courtesan, sir," I spat between bared teeth. "I am Lady Artigro."

Both men looked momentarily stunned, and they exchanged an awkward expression as I stood fuming at them.

"And I'll have you know," I added angrily, "that courtesan or no, your manner is no better than a pair of drunken sailor assholes on shore leave. It's rather shameful."

"My Lady Artigro," one of the men started, becoming flustered, "while our mistake is regrettable, I find your tone to be hardly appropriate."

"Indeed," the other added. "I wonder what your husband would say about a woman in your position who uses such language."

"He would probably agree with me," I smirked. "I doubt he's worried about the opinions of two wrinkled, saggy old dogs."

Both men went red in the face at that, and after sputtering their outrage over my behavior, they stalked away from me toward another area of the forum.

I chuckled proudly to myself, amused and victorious, until I caught sight of Gaius hurrying toward me from the direction in which the two senators had gone. His face was pale, and his blue eyes were angry.

Steeling myself, I crossed my arms resolutely and lifted my chin, prepared to weather a rebuke.

"What are you doing out here?" he panted as he neared me. "You left the library."

"I had to, there was--"

"And you insulted those two Domo," he interrupted, pointing at the retreating backs of the senators. "Lithana, what were you thinking?"

"I was THINKING, Gaius," I growled loudly, "that I was offended over being called a whore sent here to entertain you, and that those men needed to be put in their place."

Gaius shook his head, running his hands through his hair in frustration. "I understand, Lithana, believe me. They were wrong to call you that, and they were probably just trying to get under your skin. But you cannot speak to a senator like that."

"I'll speak to those pompous jackasses however I please, Gaius. I don't need your permission to defend myself."

Gaius frowned and knit his brows, his face darkening. He stepped very close to me and lowered his voice so that only the two of us could hear. "I don't want to do this in public, Lithana, so I am warning you: do not disobey me again."

As the word 'disobey' rang in my ears, I felt all sense leave me and my rage hit the roof. I took a step back from Gaius, my hands on my hips, and commenced screaming at him. I called him every awful name I could think of, some of them in other languages I had learned from my brothers and the maiden's home, and railed against him in the worst possible way. I was so absorbed in my tirade that I didn't notice people begin to gather in the courtyard, wondering what was happening.

Gaius, however, did notice, and his face grew redder and redder the louder I ranted. I was reaching a feverish pitch when he suddenly roared, "ENOUGH!", stunning me into silence. Grabbing my arm, he pulled me to him and, motioning to the gathering crowd with his chin, growled, "I will not have you disrespect me like this in front of the entire forum."

"Are you angry with your little wife?" I taunted, trying to pull away from him.

"Yes, Lithana. But I am mostly ashamed for you."

He let me go then, and I stumbled backward a few feet as I stared at him. All anger had suddenly faded from me as shock made its presence known in my mind. I continued to stare at Gaius as he took a few steps away from me, his face a mixture of rage and sadness. Setting his jaw, he turned and walked away from me toward a smaller building. I watched him go for a moment before following him. I didn't look left or right, but I didn't need to; I could feel the eyes of spectators devouring me.

Gaius didn't turn to face me when I entered the smaller building after him. He paused for a long moment, his gaze fixed resolutely ahead of him. When he finally did speak, he sounded defeated. "I don't know what to do anymore," he said quietly after a long while. "Everything I have done for you is to protect you from a world you hardly know."

"Gaius...I--"

"This isn't a fantasy," Gaius continued, turning to face me. "This is all real. This place is real. The Empire is real. People's lives are gambled with here. One foolish step can cost you everything you have. I cannot afford to look like a fool here." I stayed quiet; I didn't know what to say to that.

"What do you want from me, Lithana?" Gaius asked, his voice strained. "Is living with me so horrible? Do you want your freedom so badly that you'll destroy me to attain it?"

I stared in horrified fascination at him, unable to move or blink. "I didn't know... I didn't think I was being..." I spun in place, my mind racing. What could I possibly say to that question? "I'm not meek, I'm not subservient, I'm not the perfect little wife, Gaius."

"I never asked you to be. I chose you because of what I knew of you, because of who you were in that garden. I chose you because I wanted to fall in love with you."

A lump rose in my throat, and I felt hot tears spring to my eyes. Gaius radiated anguish, as though I had physically injured him, and he shook his head slowly, drawing back from me.

"I had hoped you may be able to do the same," he finally added quietly, not deigning to look at me. "I'm beginning to believe I made a grave mistake."

A mistake? I stumbled backward, clutching my diaphragm and swallowing hard, desperately trying not to vomit. Was I mistake? Had I made his life so miserable that he now regretted his decision to marry me? Vienes' words suddenly sprang to my mind, and I choked back a sob as I realized just exactly what I had done.

You won, a voice in the back of my mind chimed in. You set out to free yourself from him, to fend him off at every turn and make him hate you. And you have done just that. You are getting what you wanted.

Gaius had been watching me as my mind raced, and he asked quietly, "What do you want, Lithana?"

What did I want?

"I don't know, Gaius," I said softly, shaking my head and shrugging my shoulders. "I don't know anymore." I crossed my arms tightly, hugging my torso, and I wanted to crawl into a hole and disappear. "I want to go home," I said, my voice breaking.

"Where is home for you?" Gaius asked.

I stared at him as I felt tears begin to slide down my cheeks and collect on my jaw. He had asked a valid question to which I did not have the answers, and I suddenly felt extremely alone. I could only shrug again, and Gaius nodded.

"We will return to the estate then."

I nodded dully, and followed him from the small building, through the courtyards where people still mingled and whispered, and through the Prime Hall to the waiting driveways beyond. Our carriage was already there, the tethered horses snorting and pawing in boredom. I climbed into the carriage and Gaius followed me, giving the driver the order to leave, and I stared out the small window in silence the entire drive through the city to the estate, my heart torn apart between what I had wanted and what I had done to accomplish it.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"I don't pay you to make social calls. You're a Hashir, so do what they do."

The dark man shook his head, smirking at the smaller Parnathan man in front of him. He was leaning forward on his desk, his elbows propped on the surface and his hands clasped before his face, glaring. This caused the dark man to chuckle; if this pallid offal that called himself a man thought he could intimidate one such as he, then he was sorely mistaken.

"You are paying me to kill my quarry, but you do not have jurisdiction over how I operate," he replied smoothly. "Surely a domo such as yourself can appreciate careful preparation."

The domo snorted, leaning back in his chair. "You have had more than ample opportunities to see this done, and you haven't taken a single one. You even let his little bitch for a wife get away from you."

"Domo Fionus, you are worried about nothing."

"Nothing?!" Springing to his feet, Domo Fionus pounded his fists on his desk. "The longer you stall, the longer we must wait to enact the rest of our plan! And the longer we wait, the greater the chance for discovery! This is an extremely delicate matter, and your fun and games are interfering in our operation!"

"Your operation? You mean your attempted coup to usurp the divine rule of the Emperor?" There was a malicious amusement in the Hashir's voice, and he barked a short laugh as he grinned at the fuming domo. "Do you really think that killing lieutenant general Artigro is going to ensure your chances of success?"

"It will certainly improve them," Domo Fionus growled in response.

"It never occurred to you to use him to your advantage, has it?"

Domo Fionus wrinkled his brow in confused frustration. "Use him to our advantage? He would run us all through if he knew what we have planned." Narrowing his eyes, the aged senator eyed the large dark with suspicion. "What would a Hashir care of our plans so long as he gets paid for his part in them?"

"Your plans are not completely your own," the Hashir responded. "My masters have vested interest in your success."

"And who are they?"

"No one you need concern yourself with, Fionus," a different voice announced, and both the Hashir and domo turned to regard the newcomer.

"D-Domo! I-I wasn't expecting you--"

"Oh bite your tongue, Fionus, you're pathetic and useless. I'm taking your place as the Hashir's liaison, since clearly you lack the mental fortitude to understand just exactly what we are doing." Domo Fionus sputtered in protest, but the newcomer interrupted him by pointing at the door. "The Cleric wants to speak with you. He is in a foul mood, so were I you, I wouldn't make him wait."

The color draining from his face, Domo Fionus nodded, quickly excusing himself from the room. The Hashir watched him leave before turning his attention to the newcomer, who had seated himself at the domo's desk.

"I gather you received my letter then, Domo Liperion."

"I did, and I'm intrigued. You have plans for my dear friend the lieutenant general then?" The Hashir nodded, and Domo Liperion's lips curled into a cruel grin. "I would love to hear them."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I sniffled and wiped my eyes as I paced restlessly in the hallway outside of Gaius' office. He wasn't there, in fact I didn't know where he was, and I was doing my absolute best not to panic.

Upon arriving home, I had rushed to my chambers, where I had fallen into Vienes' arms and sobbed, telling her everything that had happened at the forum. She had been right, I had succeeded in driving Gaius away from me, and now I didn't know what to do. I was hysterical, unable to speak clearly between sobs, and I clung to her desperately as she stroked my hair and back, doing her best to soothe me. She managed to detach herself from me long enough to draw me a bath, and then bade that I soak as long as I needed.

The water had calmed me, and I was finally able to focus on what had happened. I played that afternoon over and over again in my mind as my fingers and toes pruned in the water, trying to decide if I had indeed destroyed everything beyond repair. When I grew frustrated enough and my bath water became lukewarm, I rose and sought the comfort of my bed.

"You must speak with him," Vienes had insisted. "You must tell him what you want."

"I don't know what I want," I mumbled in return. "I thought I did, clearly, but now I'm completely lost." Sniffling miserably, I added, "Why would he want to speak to me anyway, after how I've treated him? I've hurt him."

"Then you must apologize, at the very least. Either way, you must go to him."

She was right, I had grudgingly admitted. I finally dressed myself and, after much self-encouragement, left my quarters in search of Gaius.

And now I paced restlessly before his office, wondering dejectedly where he was and what I was going to do when I finally did speak with him. I didn't even know where to begin.

"...I'm ashamed for you." His words echoed in my mind, and I shook my head fiercely to deter any more tears from springing to my eyes. "I'm ashamed for myself," I murmured quietly.

"Lithana?"

I spun around at the sound of his voice saying my name, and my heart dropped into my stomach at the sight of him. Gaius was dressed in a simple kilt and toga, his skin glistening with sweat and his knuckles reddened and bruising. I recognized the patterns of the redness and knew he had been boxing. I shuddered a sigh as he came toward me and crossed my arms reflexively.




Lions of Parnatha Ch. 04



"What...what are you doing here?"

"I came to speak with you," I stammered awkwardly. "I didn't know where to find you."

"I see." There was a long, tense pause, and Gaius finally sighed as he ran his hands through his hair. "Come in, then?"

I nodded, and he led the way into his office.

I gazed around me as I walked slowly through what was obviously this man's most private space. It was quite cluttered, bookshelves lining the walls where there were not already maps. Books and scrolls were piled haphazardly on tables and chairs, and various technical artifacts and instruments sat in dusty corners, seemingly forgotten.

Gaius walked slowly to his desk, where he made a show of shuffling papers and rearranging the clutter. I watched him for a moment, wondering how I would begin this conversation and what I would say.

Gaius, however, stole any initiative I may have been working up. "Do you want me to release you, Lithana?"

"Do I what?"

"I asked if you want me to release you." He turned to face me and leaned back against his desk, his arms crossed over his chest. "If it is your freedom you desire so strongly, I will not begrudge you that."

I blinked, dumbfounded. Had this proud, noble commander really just offered me a divorce?

"I don't understand," I mumbled, shaking my head.

Gaius shifted, watching me. "You told me the day I met you that you had no wish to marry, that you would fight any match with all your being. I thought at the beginning that I might be able to win your heart, that you and I might..." He shook his head, dropping his gaze to the floor. "I see now how wrong I was."

"No, Gaius, I was wrong," I replied softly. My heart was pounding in my ears, but a kind of clarity had finally found its way into my mind, and I was determined to use it for as long as it remained there. I sighed and cleared my throat, settling my gaze squarely on the man before me.

"When I was given the declaration, I was horrified. I had done everything I could to assure that I would never be chosen, building walls around myself and running from anyone who may have wanted to show me affection. And in the end I failed. I resolved myself to be as absolutely contrary to whatever asshole had dared to enslave me, as I saw it. I didn't realize that it was you." I took a few tentative steps toward Gaius, watching his face closely. His jaw was set, but I continued anyway. "That day, in the garden, meeting you had been a happy accident, I thought. I didn't know you as what you actually are, I only knew you as a man. So when you were revealed to me on the day of the ceremony, I felt betrayed, and I harbored bitterness in my heart. I didn't know how I could possibly trust you, after what you had done to me."

I paused again, trying to gather my thoughts. I didn't want to misspeak or misrepresent what I was trying to tell him, even if I didn't really even know what that was. Gaius just continued to watch me. "You have to understand that I never chose any of this, Gaius. I was forced from my home by someone I hated, and forced to learn to be something I never wanted to be. I was forced into marriage. That bitterness has been deep and wide, and though it is unfair to you, I've directed it at you. And in the beginning, had you let me go then, I probably would have accepted your offer."

Gaius blinked and swallowed, knitting his brows. "And now?"

I shook my head. "I don't know anymore. I don't think I can. I don't want to." I took a few more tentative steps toward him, until I was just a foot from where he leaned against his desk. "I want you to understand that I'm stubborn and short sighted and easily angered, so when I say this, it is not done lightly: I want to stay here with you. I want to redeem myself to you."

Gaius frowned. "Why? What happened to change your mind about me?"

"I was afraid of you, of what you would force me to be," I explained. "But I realize that I have only acted out of fear. I can't keep living like that. I don't want to be afraid anymore."

Gaius uncrossed his arms, placing his hands gently on my shoulders. "I'm only a man, Lithana. Whatever title I carry, whatever my family name, I am and have always been only a man. I only ever wanted you to be happy with me." There was an honest kindness in his eyes, and it brought a hard lump to my throat.

"I'm sorry, Gaius. I'm so sorry..." I sniffled again and rubbed my nose, angry that tears threatened my eyes again.

Gaius raised his hands to my face, running his thumbs over my cheeks and lifting my face to his. He placed a gentle kiss on my forehead, and smiled. "I need you to trust me, Lithana." I opened my mouth to respond, but he placed two fingers on my lips to silence me. "I know you don't think you have any reason to do so, but I promise you that I don't mean you any harm. When I say that I was drawn to you because of who you are, it is the truth. I need you to believe that."

He was right, the idea of throwing off my cloud of suspicion and self-defense made me uneasy. But I knew that, if I wanted to remain here, with him, I would have to learn to trust in him. Nodding slightly, I murmured, "I'll do my best."

Gaius smiled again and kissed me tentatively. His lips lingered on mine, and I kissed him back, my hands running up the length of his arms to his shoulders. His skin was smooth beneath my hands, the muscles of his neck and shoulders solid and defined. My fingers continued their path until they found the nape of his neck, and I tangled them in his hair. I felt his skin shiver beneath my touch, and I grinned slightly, enjoying his reaction.

Gaius was grinning as well, and he slid his arms around my waist, pulling me flush against him. He placed light kisses across my cheeks to my ears, and then down my neck to my shoulders and collar bone, his strong hands running the length of my back. I could feel that familiar heat rising from my abdomen, and I moaned softly at his touch. I could feel his own lust in the tension of his arms and stomach, and it drove me to distraction.

I took a step back from him then, raising my hands to the knot at the back of my neck that held my shift in place on my chest. I fumbled with it awkwardly, finally managing to free the cloth ties as I watched Gaius' face. His expression was somewhere between pained and hungry, and his bright blue eyes stared at me as I lowered the front of my shift to expose my small breasts. Letting go of the ties, I let the shift fall about my waist, standing in awkward shyness as the cool night air chilled my skin and made my nipples stand erect.

Gaius raised a careful hand to my shoulder, tracing the lines of my skin from my upper arm down to the curve of my breast, and then down my stomach and across to my waist and hip. I could see the lust in his eyes, his gaze practically devouring my body, even as he held himself in check. He lowered his mouth to my ear, kissing and nibbling the lobe and my jawline while stroking my torso and back with his hands.

"Is this what you want?" he asked in a heady voice that was thick with desire.

"Yes," I answered breathily, pressing myself against him. "I want this, Gaius. I want you."

That was all the permission he needed. Taking my face in his hands, Gaius captured my mouth with his own. I slid my arms around his neck and held him close to me, even as his hands left my face and found their way around my waist and back. Our lips locked tight, we dueled through that kiss for what seemed like eternity, and when we finally did part for lack of oxygen, Gaius lifted me and carried me to an old chaise in the corner of his office near a window. He lay me on it gently, holding his own body aloft over mine as he crawled over me. I felt one of his hands begin to hike my shift up above my thighs, and my body tensed, doubt rearing its head.

Gaius must have sensed my trepidation, for he kissed me gently and whispered reassurances against my neck as his mouth traveled slowly down to my breasts. He kissed each one lovingly before taking one of my nipples into his mouth, holding it between his teeth. I arched my back and moaned as his tongue began to flick it back and forth, sending shock waves of pleasure coursing through me. I gripped at his hair and shoulders as he worked my nipple, and I could feel heat beginning to emanate from my thighs and center.

Gaius continued to slide my shift up over my thighs as his tongue lavished attention on my breasts, and I trembled when his rough fingers slid over my inner thighs to the mound of hair between my legs. He looked up at me briefly and offered a small smile as he stroked around my pussy, saying softly, "I won't hurt you, Lithana. Do you want me to continue?"

I nodded slightly, unsure if I truly did, but unwilling to sacrifice the ecstasy that was building in my veins. Gaius nodded and pressed his fingers against my clit, rubbing gently. I groaned and threw my head backward, my hands gripping at him and the chaise as he teased me. He chuckled in satisfaction at my reaction and brought his mouth to mine, kissing me deeply as his fingers flicked and rubbed my clit and pussy. I could feel wetness building there, and I tried to squirm away from him in embarrassment.

"What's wrong?" Gaius asked, and I whined about the wetness. He only smiled and said, "I'm glad you're getting wet there. It's supposed to happen."

"It is? Why?" I asked in astonishment. I couldn't fathom any reason why my pussy should be wet at his touch, and I found it disturbing.

"It... It makes sex more pleasurable," Gaius explained slowly, trying to find the right words. "If a woman is dry, sex can be painful."

I felt myself blush at my own ignorance and stammered an apology, but Gaius only laughed and told me not to worry about it. I decided to take his advice and asked him to continue touching me, which he did happily. His mouth and his fingers continued to work me into a frenzy, until my hips were bucking with every stroke and I was arching my back into him. As the pleasure built in me, I realized I could feel his hard length beneath his kilt pressing against my leg. On impulse, I slid my hands under his kilt and wrapped them around it, stroking him in a similar manner.

Gaius shuddered and groaned deeply, a sound which sent a thrill through my body, and I grinned wickedly at his reaction. His fingers began to stroke my clit and pussy harder, and I strengthened my grip around his cock in return, until the two of us were grinding against one another in desperation.

Gaius settled himself between my legs and took his cock in one hand, pressing the tip of it against the wetness of my pussy. I bit my lip and threw my head back, moaning loudly.

"I don't want to make you do--" he was saying, but I interrupted him when I begged him to be inside me. Gaius sucked in a breath and nodded, pressing the tip of his penis harder against my pussy. "This will probably hurt a little," he warned me, and he gently thrust his hips forward.

I was wholly unprepared for the burning sensation that spread throughout my lower body, and I cried out while placing my hands against his chest to stop him. He stopped immediately and kissed my face, apologizing profusely for the pain.

"Is it supposed to hurt like that?" I winced.

Gaius nodded. "For most women, yes, it does hurt like that the first time." He took a moment to consider me as I ran my fingernails over his chest and arms. "We don't have to do this right now."

"No, I-I want to. It's fine." Gaius didn't looked convinced, so I kissed him soundly, one of my hands playing with the head of his cock. "Just be gentle."

He nodded and set himself against my pussy again, slowly thrusting into me. I shut my eyes tightly as the burning sensation intensified, my teeth sinking into my lower lip.

"Try to relax, Lithana," Gaius reassured me while stroking my forehead and placing gentle kisses on my face and neck.

I huffed in a huge breath and let it out slowly, doing as he said. It felt as though someone were impaling me, and I could feel an uncomfortable stretch as he slid himself home inside me. When his cock was fully in, Gaius let it go and braced himself against the chaise. "I'll go slowly," he said softly, and he began to gently pump his hips.

I wanted to cry at first, it was so painful. Every thrust felt like I was being stretched apart, and I struggled to keep my body relaxed and open to him. Gaius lowered one of his hands to my clit again, gently stroking its head as he moved in and out of me, while lowering his mouth to my nipples. Gradually, the pain began to be replaced by a deeper pleasure than I had known was possible, and I abandoned myself to it.

Gaius thrust his hips faster and deeper, his thighs colliding with my own, and I could feel my breasts bouncing up and down with each movement. I wrapped my legs around his waist, allowing him deeper access to me, and bit my lip as he worked in me.

Our bodies writhed against one another, our hips grinding in an awkward unison as we both sought more and more pleasure from each other. I pressed my heels into Gaius' butt and lower back, forcing him harder and harder into me, and he responded with gusto, wrapping one hand around my ass as he drove himself into me. My mouth fell open while little moans and screams erupted from my throat, mingling with Gaius' deep grunts. I could feel an indescribable tingling sensation building in my pussy and radiating outward, and I suddenly cried out as it burst forth through me, seeming to extend past my body and into the room. My pussy pulsated with my orgasm, and I rocked my hips in time with it, riding its waves for as long as I could.

Gaius watched me climax with a grin and then groaned loudly, his grip on my ass tightening as he came. I could feel the pulse of his cock as he shot into me, his sticky wetness mingling with my own, and I closed my eyes in revelry at the sensation.

Gaius shuddered above me and slowly lowered himself onto me, resting his forehead against mine. We were both panting hard, and covered in sweat. The room smelled musky with the scent of lust and sex as it mingled with the dusty smells of books and leather.

Cupping my face in his, Gaius kissed me gently, and I looked up into his face. His bright blue eyes were searching mine, looking for some sign of approval or affection, anything other than the malice I had directed at him for so long.

I smiled broadly and returned his kiss, moving a lock of hair out of his eyes and behind his ear. "Thank you," I said softly.

"For what?" Gaius grinned as he gazed at me, stroking the side of my face.

"For giving me a second chance."

He chuckled. "I figured you deserved one if you desired to give me a chance at all."

I giggled and kissed him deeply, tangling my fingers in his hair. "I'm quite glad that I did."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The dark man stood absolutely still, his chest hardly rising or falling as he breathed. From where he watched in the shadows, he could see his quarry perfectly. The old man and his wife had just come home from a dinner party, and they were laughing and talking happily as they discarded their finery and readied themselves for bed. They had only bothered to light one lamp; it was a boon for him. They had no idea that he was watching them from a corner of their own bedroom.

He waited for them to undress and climb into bed, listening for the sounds of sleep. When their breathing had evened, and he was certain they were asleep, he crept forward, drawing a long scimitar with barely a sound. Towering over them, he offered a quick prayer to Xanara and plunged the scimitar down into the bed one, two, five, ten times. When he was done, he paused to examine the blood left on his blade. It was dark in the moonlight, glistening with inky blackness, and he raised it to his lips, tasting it with his tongue. Smiling in satisfaction, he wiped the remainder of it on the bed's ruined silk coverlet and then removed a small copper medallion from the sash around his waist. Smudging it with blood, he dropped it to the floor, where it rolled a short distance beneath the bed. And then he turned and left the room, his presence as untraceable as the shadows on the walls.



Lions of Parnatha Ch. 05



Okay, chapter 5, finally. My apologies for its tardiness, as I said on my profile page I've had a lot going on in my life the last month and a half. As always, comments, criticisms, and suggestions are welcome. Enjoy!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The early morning sun was filtering softly through the wide, open window of my bedroom, giving the silken sheets of my bed a pleasant warmth. I stretched languidly, enjoying the slight burn as my sore muscles were moved from sleep. I rolled over slowly, yawning a grin as I stroked the bare back of the sleeping man beside me.

Gaius shivered slightly, but did not wake at my touch. I continued to smile fondly at him as my fingertips traced the lines of his muscles and spine, noting in girlish amusement that there were light welts from where my nails had scratched him the night before. Surely someone, most likely his best friend Aurus, would have something to say to him about it later.

After I had acquiesced to him, Gaius and I had spent every night together. Our sleeping hours were filled with raw passion and tender love, and for the first time in my life, I found myself completely immersed in another person. I pined for him when he left during the day, my mind burning with memories of him, and when he returned to me in the evenings, I devoured his attention like a starving animal.

Gaius also enjoyed the intensity of this new found interaction, and I began to see a side of him that was previously veiled by my disgust with him. He became almost wild in the face of my affections, abandoning the decorum that he clung to so tightly in favor of desire and playful lust. The two of us engaged in play and love-making like two love sick adolescents, oblivious to the world outside each other's eyes.

I would often think that if our raucous, marathon sex could be considered prayer, the goddess Hastra would be glowing with pride.

My world had slowly begun to change as well. Gaius had hired me several tutors after I had expressed an interest in finally learning the things the maiden's home had tried to teach me for so many years, and my mornings and afternoons were filled with study and practice. I was learning to act and to speak as the wife of a powerful man should, all the while reading with calculated precision the true intentions of those around me. It was certainly an art, but I was determined that I would survive in this world.

I was also learning how to carry myself as a woman of power. Mistress Bestille, an aged woman with gray hair and a thin, severe frame, was my mentor in all things tradition and courtly. She drilled me incessantly, forever correcting my posture and expression, arranging my hands or my feet or directing me how to stand. Her constant meddling and sharp criticism often prompted rebellion from me, and I sullenly muttered under my breath that I could be the goddess Alphanis herself and the woman would still find something to complain about.

Gaius seemed to think I was making progress, however, for he would often comment on my poise or suddenly quiz me with questions regarding Parnatha's political and social history, questions I was more than prepared to answer. He even remarked, with pride, that I was likely one of the most learned women he had met in recent memory.

"I'm also the most stubborn and easily angered," I had shot back slyly. "Isn't a stubborn, angry, intelligent woman usually considered extremely dangerous?"

Laughing, Gaius kissed my neck and remarked, "Then I had better beware of falling into your disfavor, my lady."

I smiled at the memory, my fingers still tracing the contours of my sleeping lover's back. His skin was marked by faint scars that ran the length of his shoulders and down the middle of his back, remnants of battles past. I had asked Gaius about his time in war once, a query that had made him suddenly closed to me. He had quickly stammered a response about old ghosts left buried, and then changed the subject, but I already knew that he was haunted by those ghosts. I had been woken at night on a few occasions by him, tossing and turning and muttering threats to the nightmares that laid siege to his subconscious. I had kissed him gently, waking him and asking him if he needed anything. His response had been that he needed me, and we had engaged in sleepy love-making.

I lowered my lips to his back, laying a line of kisses up his spine to the nape of his neck, and I felt him stir beneath me. Gaius rolled lazily to his side, smiling through half-lidded eyes.

"You're going to spoil me rotten with good mornings like these," he murmured, sliding one of his arms around my waist and pulling me close to him.

"I'll stop if it's too much for you," I quipped in return. "I wouldn't want to overwhelm you."

"Oh, I believe it's too late for that," Gaius said with a chuckle, and I felt his other hand begin to travel up my stomach to one of my breasts. "I've already been conquered."

"So then I suppose there's nothing to be done."

"I suppose not."

"If you're conquered, that makes you my captive, doesn't it?"

Gaius considered my question while rubbing my nipple with his fingers. "Yes, I believe it does."

I grinned and pressed myself against him. Gods, he was already hard.

"You won't try and escape from me, will you?" I whispered as seductively as I could manage.

"I would never dream of it, my lady," Gaius grinned in return. 

"Good. But just to make doubly sure..."

Disengaging myself from his grasp, I pushed Gaius onto his back with one hand while sliding down the side of his body, the fingers of my other hand teasing his erection. Settling myself between his legs, I smirked up at him before taking him in my hands and licking him from hilt to tip. Gaius sighed as he watched me, relishing in the attention I was paying him. I continued to lick him, swirling my tongue all around his shaft and flicking the underside of his cock just below its head, one of my hands stroking his thighs and testicles. When little groans began to escape him, I licked my lips and plunged his cock into my mouth, sliding it slowly in and out while pumping the base with one hand.

Gaius began to rock his hips in time to my rhythm. I glanced up at him as I continued to lick and suck him, noting that his expression had grown heady with lust. His chest and stomach were taught, and his hands were gripping the sheets. Amused, I giggled as I bobbed down onto him.

"Gods!" Gaius swore, grabbing my head and wrapping his fingers in my hair. Curious, I stopped what I was doing and looked up at him in confusion.

"Did I hurt you?"

"No... Gods, no, you didn't. Do that again."

"Do what?"

"The... that... when you laughed with me in your mouth..."

Smirking slyly, I slowly wrapped my lips around his cock again, sliding him into my mouth. "Li' 'is?" I said when he was near the back of my throat, and I was rewarded with a deep moan and a bucking of hips. I giggled again, which initiated another round of moaning and thrusting, and I continued to hum and moan and make other small sounds as I sucked on his cock.

Gaius finally decided he'd had enough. He sat up and took hold of my shoulders, pulling my face up to his. Kissing me deeply, his fingers found my clit, and he rubbed it teasingly while he positioned me over his lap.

"You'll be a good captive and not try to escape, won't you?" I asked coquettishly.

"I'm as willing a captive as there ever was, my lady," Gaius murmured, his voice gravelly and deep.

I knew how badly he wanted me at that moment, but I wasn't ready to acquiesce yet. Smirking, I snaked away from him and scooted to the other side of the bed, where I sat with my legs partially open to him. I felt powerful before him like that.

"I want you to please me, captive," I said with a grin. "Do this, and I will reward you."

I was hardly prepared for Gaius' reaction. He surged across the bed and grabbed my hips, pulling me roughly toward him. Hovering over me, Gaius captured my mouth with his, his tongue plunging deep between my lips.

"As you desire, my lady," he said with a grin, before lowering his face between my legs. His hot mouth fell on my clit and pussy with ravenous abandon, and I arched my back as a long moan erupted from my throat. His tongue flicked and rolled my clit, sending shock waves of ecstasy throughout my body. My cries for mercy went unheeded, and I was soon bucking my hips, my fingers twined tightly in his hair.

Gaius lifted his face from me as I was about to climax, and I whined and writhed as he grinned at me.

"Are you pleased my lady?"

My teeth sunk into my lower lip, and I nodded fervently.

"And my reward?"

I pulled the man toward me, taking hold of his hard shaft and guiding it toward my waiting sex. Gaius' face flushed with lust, and I could feel his muscles tense in apprehension as he slid slowly home. Moans issued from both our mouths, and I was pressed into the bed as he drove himself into me. The sound of our pleasure and our bodies sliding together filled the room, and I was beside myself as my body began to twitch and throbb; my climax was near.

Gaius lifted his head to watch me as I came, his eyes taking in every detail of my release. He pumped his hips harder, causing me to yelp in short, staccato sounds, and finally found his own release in a series of deep grunts and bellows. Collapsing onto the bed, the two of us fought for breath.

Our skin was covered in a fine sheen of glinting sweat, which was cooling slightly in the morning light. I ran my fingers over the musculature of Gaius' back, and I felt his skin dimple at the touch. He shivered slightly and then buried his face in the crook of my neck.

"I love you, Lithana," he whispered, almost imperceptibly.

All the breath left my lungs at those words, and I was suddenly suspended with shock. He loved me? This man actually loved me? I hesitated, unsure of how to respond. What did one say in a situation like this?

"I know," I responded softly, feeling like a fool. If Gaius had noticed my brief internal battle, he gave no indication of it. He offered a smile and kissed my forehead before clambering off of me, reminding me that he was expected at the forum today. I watched him sponge himself off from where I lay on the bed, my head still swimming from what he said. I did question his sincerity for a moment, but a much larger question was looming in my mind. If he did indeed love me, what did that mean for me? And, more importantly, did I love him in return?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Chief investigator Barrius Honorus was a stout man of middle years. He had a broad face and a prominent brow, which was accented by his receding hairline. Currently his brow was deeply furrowed, the only indication to the troubling thoughts plaguing his mind as his small eyes scanned the documents in his hand. Around him, his deputies watched him in breathless anticipation.

He had been placed at the head of the investigating team called upon to look into the death of a prominent domo and his wife four weeks earlier. The senator had been discovered by his servants in the early morning hours, and it had been a truly gruesome scene: both the politician and his lady wife had been brutally slain, stabbed multiple times in their own beds by an unknown assailant. The private guard for the household had been immediately relieved of their duties and detained for questioning by the Imperial guard, who had assumed command of the investigation. News of the murder had been suppressed, only rumors and snippets of information escaping into the streets of Arthos, deepening the mystery surrounding the domo's sudden and hereto unexplained disappearance. It had been a political and security nightmare for chief investigator Honorus and his team.

Their detaining of suspects and questioning of key witnesses had been largely fruitless for the first week after the discovery of the murder, and Barrius Honorus had grown increasingly frustrated by the seeming total lack of evidence surrounding the crime. Then, a chance breakthrough had been dropped into his lap, and the balding man began to fervently wish he could go back in time to when he had known nothing at all. During yet another sweep of the murdered domo's bedroom, one of the investigators had found a small medallion, smeared with the dried blood of the victims. It was a guard's insignia, indicating which house the blade was under oath to. The name had rocked the investigation to its core.

Now, staring yet again at the reports in his hands, chief investigator Barrius Honorus swallowed hard. The discovery of the medallion had prompted a reconnaissance of the accused, bringing to light more involvement and treachery than Honorus had ever thought possible. He still could not wrap his mind around the situation, disbelief etched deeply into his mind, but the facts were facts and they pointed, irrevocably, at the culprit.

...insignia belonging to the house of Artigro...

The chief investigator's eyes rose as the door to his office opened, and he set his jaw grimly and nodded his greetings.

"Good morning, Domo Liperion," he said quietly.

"Good morning, chief Honorus," Domo Liperion replied smoothly, his brow knit in concern. "I was informed that you have concluded your investigation?"

"Yes, Domo, we have."

"And your report is completed as well?"

"Yes, Domo."

"Let me see it." Taking the documents from the chief investigator, the senator scanned them grimly. "I see. And there is sufficient evidence here to make the arrest?"

"There is, Domo. The warrant has been written and is awaiting delivery."

"Good. Lieutenant General Artigro will be at the Forum this afternoon. Your team will make the arrest there."

Barrius Honorus frowned. "But, with all due respect, Domo, that would bring an undue amount of embarrassment and attention to the lieutenant general and the investigation. Would it not be better to make the arrest at his estate, quietly?"

Domo Camron Liperion smiled slightly, his expression one of sympathetic concern. "It does not please me to do this, chief," he said smoothly. "The man in question is an extremely close friend of mine, and I would prefer to not have to do this at all. However, the depth of his involvement in this crime and the plot discovered against the Forum is of greater concern to me, and it is a burden I must bear. If this corruption infiltrated the likes of Artigro, who knows how far it has gone? No, my friend, we cannot risk the safety and sanctity of the Forum and the Empire herself. Artigro's arrest must be public, an example to those who would threaten the law and order of our nation and a warning against any further disruption."

"Does the...has the Emperor been informed, Domo?"

"Not as of yet, no. A messenger will be dispatched as soon as the arrest is made. I do not wish to alarm the Emperor any more than I have to, especially given the nature of his relationship to the perpetrator."

Chief investigator Honorus nodded solemnly, and Domo Liperion emitted a weary sigh. "I will send a runner to you when it is time to make the arrest."

"Yes, Domo."

As he left the team of guards and investigators to their work, Domo Liperion stalked with a cool confidence from the office, a slight smile quirking the corners of his mouth.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"This is wonderful, my lady," Vienes cooed, her hands swiftly braiding locks of my hair. "To have the devotion of such a man, I do not understand why you are not thrilled."

"Gaius is not a prize, Vienes," I chided in return, "no more than I am. His love is genuine, I can see it in his eyes."

"I'm still failing to see the problem with this development," the red haired woman chuckled, twisting the braids into a loose bun at the nape of my neck.

"I don't know if I feel the same, and I don't want..." I sighed dejectedly, my shoulders slumping as my mood became broody. "I don't want him to get the wrong idea."

Vienes suddenly errupted in laughter, and I turned to regard her, my mouth agape in incredulous shock.

"What's so funny?"

"Can't you just accept the fact that your husband loves you and stop over complicating it? Honestly, you're worse than an adolescent girl."

"I'm not over...!" My words faltered, and I grinned sheepishly. "I don't know what I would do without you, did you know that?"

"Your hair would be an absolute mess," Vienes replied with a fond smile, and I hugged her about her waist as we both laughed.

Vienes' face sobered suddenly, and she came around to stand before me, her eyes searching my face. "I...I must ask you something, my lady," she stammered awkwardly.

I tilted my head, watching her curiously. "Of course, dear, anything."

The red headed woman was wringing her hands, formulating her thoughts. Finally she knelt before me and took my fingers in her own. "I'm afraid I have not been entirely forthcoming with you, my lady," she said quietly.

I knit my brows. "What do you mean?"

"I...I have been...I..."

"Vienes," I said in exasperation, taking the woman's face between my hands. "Whatever it is, just calm down and tell me. I'm sure it's something we can figure out together."

Vienes nodded and sighed, her shoulders relaxing. "I have been seeing a man," she said almost too quietly for me to hear.

I felt one of my eyebrows raise. "Oh?" I was admittedly surprised by her disclosure, but I was more puzzled than anything. Why was her information of such clandestine importance to her? "Okay..."

"You...you aren't angry with me, my lady?"

"What? No! Of course not! Why should I be angry with you?"

Vienes smiled slightly at my naivete. "Most noblewomen consider their servants their property, and control every aspect of their lives, including who they--"

"Dear, if you haven't figured it out by now, let me go ahead and tell you: I am most certainly not most noblewomen."

I grinned broadly as my handmaid's eyes lit up with glee, and clasped her hands in mine. "How long have you been seeing him? Who is he?"

Vienes faltered. "Er, well, I would rather not reveal his identity, just yet, my lady, should our romance not blossom." I nodded in understanding, my expression one of curious encouragement. "We have been meeting for a few weeks now. I would have preferred not to care for him, for he has a reputation as... Well, he was dogged in his determination to catch my attention, and he has treated me so..." Vienes sighed dreamily. "I've never been treated with such care by anyone before, certainly not by a man. And he could have any woman he desires, yet he desires me."

I found myself grinning in rapt girlish attention as Vienes recounted the sweet moments of her blossoming romance to me, and more than once we degraded into fits of giggles. It was an interaction I would have rolled my eyes at had it come from anyone other than my handmaid. My sweet friend had been through so much, and I was so thoroughly ingratiated to her, that she could have told me she was dancing naked in the rain for fun and I would have been thrilled for her. To see her so happy, it warmed that tiny part of me that actually sympathized with others.

The remainder of our morning passed uneventfully, and after lunch I met Gaius in the courtyard to bid him farewell. He was wearing a fine, light blue kilt and shirt beneath the flowing deep blue of his toga, fine leather sandals tied about his feet. The man could cut an impressive figure when he desired.

"If only you'd dress up for me like that," I commented slyly as he kissed my forehead.

"You often prefer me to be undressed, my lady," Gaius responded with a wolfish grin, and I found myself blushing.

"When will you be home?"

Gaius shrugged. "I'm not sure. I was told that there would be a series of meetings throughout the day to discuss the northern borders. I imagine I won't be back before dinner."




Lions of Parnatha Ch. 05



My lower lip jutted in a small pout. "And you're going to leave me here by myself. Wonderful."

"You wouldn't enjoy any of this, Lithana," Gaius countered. "Meeting with domos and dignitaries and other military leaders, a false smile plastered to your face all day. It's not something you like to do, or do well for that matter."

"What's that supposed to mean?" I hissed, my hands flying to my hips.

"You're a terrible liar," Gaius quipped, his voice laced with amusement.

"How would you know? Maybe I'm such a good liar, I've led you to believe that I'm awful at it so you'll let down your guard!"

Gaius only laughed and kissed me again, murmuring something about my unending creativity before mounting his horse and trotting through the gate. I watched him leave fondly, still slightly irate that I was being left behind. I would have to be sure and punish him suitably when he arrived home later. Little did I know that I wouldn't get the chance.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The Grand Forum of Arthos was a bustling hive of activity that afternoon. Gaius found thronging his way through the crowds to be more than a little difficult, and with some luck managed to eventually make his way from the courtyards to the main library. Here he was able to take refuge from the pulsing masses of people as he waited for the later series of meetings he had been summoned to. He busied himself with research and pleasantry, noting several volumes of work that he was certain Lithana would enjoy.

The late afternoon sun began to hang lazily in the sky, and Gaius left the library in search of the Prime Hall. He was talking amicably with his closest compatriot, Aurus Calpernon, when the glint of armor and steely hiss of blades being drawn caught his attention. His hand flying to his own sword pommel, Gaius realized only too late that he was surrounded. The guards that stared him down were all dressed in the crimson of the Forum's regiment. Gaius narrowed his eyes and set his jaw.

"What the fuck's the meaning of this?" Aurus exclaimed, drawing his own sword and taking a position at Gaius' shoulder.

A tall man stepped forward, his expression stoic. "Lieutenant General Gaius Remulus Artigro, you and your house are bound by law. Step down and surrender your arms."

Around them the crowd had stopped, staring in breathless disbelief, and a ripple of whispers and gasps was quickly making its rounds.

Gaius frowned, pursing his lips. His hand did not move from his sword pommel. "This had better be a mistake."

"I assure you, sir, there is no mistake." The squadron's leader stepped closer, lowering his voice. "This is a very grave matter, sir, and an outburst would be most...undesirable. Please, surrender your arms and come with us."

"The fuck we'll surrender our arms you stupid son of a--"

"Aurus, that is enough." There was a finality in Gaius' voice that could brook no argument, and Aurus pursed his lips and snorted. Nodding to the squad leader, Gaius slowly unhooked the clasp to his scabbard and held it outward. "I will not resist this detention, friend."

The tall man sighed in relief, and gave orders to his subordinates. The lieutenant general and his entourage were swiftly relieved of their weapons, and led in a tight formation from the courtyards toward the garrison. As they walked, Gaius caught snippets of conversation and speculation from the crowd. Embarrassment had quickly worked its way to the forefront of his mind, but something more was looming in his thoughts. The squad leader had said that his entire house was bound by law, which meant that, at that moment, there was likely a similar detachment of guards at or very near his estate.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I ran down the steps of the estate two at a time, not caring if I should fall. A skinned knee would likely have only added to the rage that was coursing through me as I sped toward the front courtyard. Ahead I could see them, the invaders. They were swathed in the crimson of the Forum's own regiment, their polished armor and swords glinting brightly in the sunlight. They had rounded up our guards, and had them all standing in a line, their backs to the estate. Several servants were with them, and all had their hands bound behind their backs. I could see Captain Talos speaking urgently with one of them, his expression one of shocked dismay.

Behind me I could hear Vienes, shouting pleas that I not interrupt, that I return to my chambers and wait for word from Gaius. I ignored her.

Talos and the regimental guard turned toward me as I neared them, and I saw two of them move to apprehend me. Ducking fluidly, I avoided their grasp and grabbed Talos' upper arm.

"Just what in the hell do you think you are doing?!" I screamed, trying to undo the bindings about the Captain's wrists and forearms. "Who are you? Do you even know who's house this is?!"

"My lady Artigro," one of the guardsmen growled, grabbing my shoulder roughly. "We are quite well aware of who's house this is, and you would do best not to interfere with this official arrest."

"Arrest..." My head was swimming as I glanced wildly around. "You must have the appropriate documents then. I demand to see them."

One of the guards took a roll of paper from his belt and handed it to me. I stretched it out and let my eyes devour it, my mouth dropping in shock. "Our entire house is under arrest? How can this be?" I turned viciously on the guardsman who had addressed me. "What is it my husband is accused of doing?! Answer me!"

"The lieutenant general has been implicated in a heinous crime, my lady," came an emotionless reply. "He is bound by law, as are all his hired swords. You and your servants are to be imprisoned within your compound until further notification. A detachment of the regiment will be left to guard your estate, to prevent anyone from trying to enter--"

"Or escape," I spat angrily. "This is a terrible mistake you are making, sir, and you will regret it."

The guardsman shrugged. "That is for the Forum to decide, my lady." Nodding to the rest of his fellows, Captain Talos and the rest of our guards were led away through the gates. Outside I could hear the shouts and whispers of a very large crowd.

Behind me I could hear Vienes approaching cautiously, and I turned to face her. "I don't know what's going on, but I have got to find out," I said, keeping my voice low. "I have got to get out of here."



Lions of Parnatha Ch. 06



***I have to thank those who sent me such inspiring feedback regarding this story. I had truthfully thought about putting it down and not picking it up again, but some of you have enjoyed it so much, I had to satiate you. My personal life is filled with a lot of stress and busyness, but I'm hoping I'll be able to post at least once a month, and make the chapters long enough to move the story along.

I also have to thank the lovely J. Stone for her work editing this chapter (and chapters to come!). Her perspective has opened me up to becoming a better writer.

There isn't much sex in this one, rather a boat-load of story progression. Enjoy, and as always, comments and critiques are welcome. Thank you***

*

Gaius lifted his head as footsteps echoed down the dank stone corridor running the length of the cellblock. A faint jingle told him that whoever was approaching was wearing armor and a weapon, and the heavy shuffle suggested he was either tired or inebriated. Probably both, he commented inwardly. A thick shadow fell over him as the figure passed in front of a weakly guttering torch, and the lieutenant general raised his eyes to meet the silhouetted face. 

"Looky here," slurred a gruff voice, and the figure leaned forward to jeer through the iron bars. Gaius could make out a sparse, unkempt beard and a pockmarked face framing rotten teeth. "Li'l princeling's gone an' got hisself all arrested. Thought he could plot against the Empire an' win. Stupid prick." 

Gaius remained silent, refusing to be goaded into a fight he would clearly lose. Instead he stared unblinking at his captor, his bright blue eyes haloed in the flickering torchlight. The jailer continued to grin for a moment, confidence waning, before snorting and continuing onward in search of easier prey. Gaius listened to him leave, and then resumed staring at the wall beyond his cell. A slow sigh billowed from his chest, and he closed his eyes against the surrounding gloom.

The length of his captivity was impossible to determine; no sunlight penetrated the Empire's vast underground prisons. Immediately separated from his entourage upon incarceration, he was held in solitude and treated poorly in light of damning accusations. At first he had hoped that his ordeal would end swiftly; surely someone would come to his aid, decrying the charges and lobbying for his defense. But no one came, no lawyer posted his bail, and a gnawing anxiety now ate away at his mind. Something, or someone, was subverting justice, a justice he had worked his whole life to uphold. Even now he had no idea what evidence denounced him. His jailers whispered of "conspiracies against the Empire". 

Gaius frowned as he ran once again through his already exhausted list of possibilities. Snorting in frustration, he gave up and shivered. Whatever was happening beyond his cell was bigger than anyone knew, and there was little he could do from where he sat.

His mind often drifted to Lithana. Surely his house guards had been apprehended as well; who was defending her? Who was keeping her safe? Though the girl certainly had the fire and spit to hold her own against an assailant, he doubted she would last long against the brutal politics of Arthos. He often worried about what she would do, how she would handle the situation. He took small comfort in the knowledge that, if she did do something remarkably insane, he would likely hear about it.

The steady drip of unseen water droned him into a daze, and Gaius didn't hear a second set of footsteps approach. A new figure stopped before the cell, clearing its throat as it moved in front of the torchlight. Gaius turned his head and cracked open an eye.

"You look thoroughly wretched," said Domo Camron Liperion, frowning sadly. His weathered face looked more deeply lined than ever.

Gaius started in disbelief, and struggled to stand and grasp the bars. "Camron? What—how? When?" Knitting his brow, he fought for self control. "What's happening? Why am I in here?"

Domo Liperion sighed heavily, shaking his head. "The news is terrible, my friend, simply dreadful. I've had great difficulty in coming here, let alone finding someone to hear your case. There is talk they will skip that particular step." He eyed Gaius pointedly from beneath bushy brows. "The evidence seems conclusive."

Gaius grimaced. "What evidence? What am I accused of?"

"Treachery, my friend. Murder most foul. A senator and his wife were stabbed to death in their beds, a crime that proved difficult for investigators, for a time. They found evidence so damning, however, there was little to do but to arrest the culprit."

Gaius's temper flared, and he glared warily at the old man he often called friend. What was he playing at? Why was he withholding such important information?

"What evidence? Who claims I am a murderer?"

"A coin, my friend, a talisman, bearing your house's name. The same worn by your guards." Liperion shook his head, a slow, regretful gesture, before resting a pleading gaze on Gaius. "How could you do it, Gaius? How could you order the assassination of one of your brothers in the Forum? I knew you were keen on securing more power and affluence, but killing an old man in his bed? You went too far, old friend."

"I killed no one!" Gaius roared. "I've been set up! I would never stoop to such vile tactics! I am no murderer, no criminal!" Pressing his face against the bars, Gaius pleaded, "Camron, you must believe me, I am innocent! Whatever they found, it isn't mine. I'm not responsible for this betrayal. Listen, someone has been trying to hurt me, they hired a hash—"

"And then, to have it come to light that you are involved in another, more nefarious, treasonous plot..." The old man clucked his tongue. "I cannot see this ending well for you, Gaius."

Gaius scowled, suspicion gripping his stomach. The corners of Liperion's lips were curled in an ever- so-delicate smile. "What plot would that be, old friend?" he asked through gritted teeth, his voice low and harboring barely controlled rage.

"Why your plans to murder the Emperor, of course. How did you afford the hashir? I suspect you borrowed an inordinate sum from the senators you corrupted." Liperion gazed sadly at the end of the corridor. "How tragic his death was. His entire family, women and children, massacred as they slept. Such a shame we couldn't stop it, but we were unaware that your machinations were coming from behind bars."

"The Emperor... My uncle's dead?"

"Will be, Gaius." Liperion patted the stricken man's white-knuckled fist as it gripped the bars, his face sympathetic. "And the Empire will have you to thank for it. Eleven generations of god-boys finally gone, all because of the power-mongering of a corrupt military mind."

Liperion sneered wickedly as a low growl escaped Gaius' throat. "Don't worry, my boy, your sacrifice is ultimately for the good of all. Though, I do worry about what will become of your household. It will likely be auctioned off, servants and all, after your conspirators are executed of course. And your lady wife, well, we all know what happens to the wives of traitors."

Gaius reacted instinctively and Liperion was wholly unprepared. He gasped and gagged as the younger man's hand surged between the bars and wrapped around his throat, squeezing tight. Clawing desperately, the domo writhed, hoarse screams echoing down the corridor.

There was a rush of running feet, and three guards were on Gaius, striking him on the face and hands through the bars with thick clubs. Gaius stumbled backward, reeling as he hit a wall and sank to the filthy stone floor. 

Liperion coughed raggedly, glaring at the defeated prisoner as he allowed himself to be led away by the guards, ignoring Gaius's roars of rage and desperation. 

Gaius screamed into the darkness, alternating between threatening unholy vengeance and pleading for Lithana's life until his voice left him. Exhausted, he sank sideways to the ground, numbness swarming his mind as dead, dreamless sleep overtook him.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

My heart thundered in my ears, and I worried that someone would hear it. I paused, trying to listen beyond the pounding in my head for sounds of pursuit. Beside me, Vienes did likewise, tightly clenching a sheathed dagger to her chest. I glanced at her, pursing my lips as I noted the uneasiness in her features. I was equally terrified of the path before us, and my imagination conjured horrible images of our fate should we be discovered. I inhaled deeply and steeled myself- one of us needed a cool head.

I remained there for several tense minutes before breathing a sigh of relief; there was no sign of pursuit. With a nod, my handmaid and I continued our desperate flight through Arthos's darkened streets. 

It was unseasonably warm for summer, and the night was thick with heat and stagnant humidity. A fly buzzed near my face, and I resisted the urge to swat it, fervently wishing for a breeze or rain. Pausing in the shadow of a covered vendor's stall, I removed a scrap of paper from the folds of my toga, squinting in the meager light. A crude map was scrawled on its face, landmarks dotting the simple strip streets. I surveyed my surroundings, noting the faded street sign on an adjacent corner; we were close. I met Vienes's eyes, and we were off again.

It had taken a week to design our escape from the estate. After the arrest of our guard, the entire compound was put under house arrest, and a regular garrison of Imperial guards were stationed to ensure that no one went in or out. I spent long, frustrating days poring over architectural plans and maps with little success; our plans seemed futile. My physical reconnaissance of the estate yielded results, and a visit to the cellars led me to stumble upon an old servants' tunnel. It had, at one time, been used to bring supplies into the compound in the event of a riot or uprising. Unfortunately, it was barricaded some twenty feet inward. 

Galvanized, Vienes and I conspired to clear the passage and flee. Three days of night work removed the stout wooden planks, and it seemed our bid for freedom was near. We were almost ready to depart when we received word, a message squirreled away in a wine bottle. Alethea's spidery script was scrawled across a single sheet of paper, pleading for our urgent escape. I responded with details to leave through the servant's tunnel, which met her approval. We were provided with a map and directions to her pavilion, and I promised we would take flight the following night.

Wrapped in sackcloth togas and cloaks and armed with daggers and short swords apiece, we crept into the narrow passage hoping it would lead somewhere recognizable and that there weren't any cave-ins. Our progress was maddeningly slow, putrid water pools and penetrating tree roots impeding our progress. I didn't know the tunnel's length, and as it stretched in endless darkness, I frequently considered turning back. Vienes insisted we maintain our course, however, and bolstered by her courage I pressed onward.

Our resolve was rewarded when the tunnel stopped abruptly in an old warehouse on the outskirts of what was once the Grand District, the old seat of power for Arthos's nobility. I was lost, but Vienes managed to orient herself in short order. I reminded myself to thank her in some spectacular way if we survived our endeavors. Using her good sense and the map, we stole through the city like shades over gravestones. 

Alethea's pavilion was a welcome sight, alabaster construction blazing in the moonlight against a star-marked sky. Vienes and I trotted silently to the gate, where I hesitated to knock, my hand suspended over the wooden gate. 

"What is it?" Vienes whispered urgently. 

"What if it's a trap?" I whined fearfully. "What if she didn't send those missives, and it was someone from the Forum? What if...?"

"Lithana, we don't have time for this!" Vienes flared, and I balked and sputtered at her use of my name. "We're out here, exposed, and this is our only chance. Now, knock on the gate and let's get on with it."

Sufficiently rebuked, I dipped my head and rapped on the gate. The sound was thunderous in the still air, and I cringed in anticipation; I expected armed thugs to leap from the shadows and capture me, or something equally creative.

Soft footsteps drifted from the other side of the wall, and a moment later the latch lifted. A narrow slit appeared in the wood, and a small face gazed at me. 

"I am seeking the blessings of our Lady of the Pure Mount," I said quietly, as instructed. My voice quavered anxiously. 

The face nodded once and stepped away. The gap widened to admit us, and we slipped through, sighing in relief.

The young servant girl who answered our knock beckoned us silently, and we followed as she led us across the courtyard and toward the pavilion proper. The courtyard was soaked in the hedonic fragrance of evening glories and lotuses, and my nerves calmed as I inhaled their scent into my lungs. There were few braziers lit, but the glow from the moonlit walls was ample light to see by.

I admired Alethea's taste as we walked; the woman's eye for beauty and decadence was unparalleled. As we neared the pavilion, our guide made a sudden detour toward a smaller sanctuary, ducking beneath a low-hanging portiere and into the shadows beyond. Gathering our courage, we followed suit.

We shuffled a short distance before coming into a small chamber. A single brazier in its center cast meager light. Vienes and I stopped near the entrance as the servant girl scurried forward to knock softly on the wall. With a light rasp, the wall slid away to reveal another hallway, this time lit with ornately tiled glass lamps. She indicated the hallway with one hand, and we followed.

We entered a much larger, circular chamber. Thick columns stood sentinel on its outskirts, like trees surrounding a secret clearing, and each bore an inward-facing lamp. In the center was the largest effigy of the goddess Hastra I had ever seen; delicate folds of cloth draped her frame, and marble flowers entwined in her hair. She stared at us with gentle, sightless eyes, and, inexplicably, I felt my fear and apprehension abate.

"I was beginning to worry, cousin," said a lilting voice. Alethea was dressed in a plain white toga, strikingly different from the usual gaudy affairs she preferred.

"We encountered a bit of trouble in the tunnel," I said quietly, crossing the room to greet her. We kissed each other lightly on each cheek, and Alethea placed her hands on my shoulders. 

"I am closely watched, I'm afraid; I thought perhaps they saw you approach or enter the pavilion." She sighed heavily, and exhaustion showing in her eyes. "Everything is so complicated."

"Any word from Gaius?" I asked hopefully; I had heard nothing of my husband since our arrests, and I was desperate for news.

Alethea regarded me before flicking her gaze to Vienes. "I think," she said quietly, "that you should have a glass of wine and a seat before I fill you..."

"No, Alethea," I said firmly. Grasping her arms, I eyed her pointedly. "I've been in the dark too long and I'll go mad if I remain for another minute. I need to know what's happening."

Alethea frowned, her face pained, and she shook her head with a sigh. "He is held in the Imperial prison system, though I don't know where."

Vienes gasped behind me, and I turned to stare. One hand covered her mouth and tears stood in her eyes.

"What is this...prison?"

"It is used mostly for political prisoners, or upstarts that the Empire wishes to eradicate. It's a vast system of underground cellblocks, usually located near the garrisons. I believe he is being held near the Forum, as it's heavily fortified. I cannot verify the truth of this, however."

"Political prisoners? What is he accused of, then?" I asked, alarmed. Worry gnawed at me.

"Treason, Lithana. My cousin—Gaius is accused of treason against the Emperor."

"Wh-...How? I don't..." I sputtered, stepping backward as my mind reeled. Treason? Against his own uncle? Was this possible?

"Who is accusing him, someone at the Forum? Where is their proof? Surely anyone can see how ridiculous such accusations are. No one can possibly accuse Gaius of treason and expect to be taken seriously."

"I wish it were that simple, dear," Alethea said somberly. "A very important domo and his wife were murdered on the last full moon. Gaius was implicated in the murder, based on found evidence. They say he was involved in a plot to dismantle and overthrow the Forum, and possibly conspiring to unseat the Emperor, taking power for himself..."

"That's insane!" I screeched, teeth bared. "He hates politics! And he loves his family! He would never, EVER plot against them, let alone murder someone! Surely they can see how ludicrous this is?!"

"I know how preposterous it looks, Lithana," Alethea said softly. Vienes placed her hands on my shoulders as Alethea paced away from us. "He was denied the opportunity to present a case. No lawyer has been called for, and I received word that there isn't even a trial planned. He's been found guilty, and will face capital punishment for the part he supposedly played. Him and those arrested with him."

I stared blankly at the floor, my chest heaving and mind racing. Gaius was as good as dead, and there was nothing I could do to stop it. He was being ripped to pieces in the Forum, and denied fair trial or representation. "Someone is pulling strings," I said darkly.

Alethea nodded. "I agee, but I don't know who. As I said, everything is complicated, and given that I'm so closely watched, my normal immunity matters little and prevents me from gathering information."

"Normal immunity? You mean, being the Emperor's niece?"

Alethea chuckled, and motioned to the statue of Hastra. "Beyond that, I have other duties I fulfill." She looked sidelong at the towering statue, a wistful smile gracing her lips. "Far more important duties than anything the Empire asks of me."

I frowned, thoroughly lost, but behind me Vienes gasped. I turned to see her fall to her knees, her head bent low.

"Vienes, what are you...?"

"She is the Antista Primus, the High Priestess of Hastra," Vienes said quietly, her tone reverential. She kept her head bowed and eyes averted as she addressed a smiling Alethea. "Forgive me, My Lady, I should have recognized—"

Alethea laughed, a delighted sound that reminded me of small bells, and bent to pull my handmaid to her feet. "There is nothing to forgive, my dear," she said kindly, stroking the girl's cheek. "My extracurricular activities are carefully guarded family secrets; some would seek to use me to their advantage were it more common knowledge."

I coughed, my hands on my hips. "Forgive me, cousin, but what in the five hells are you talking about?"

Alethea chuckled, and motioned us to walk with her. "I gather Gaius has not told you much about our family," she said, strolling toward the far side of the chamber. 

"No, he hasn't, not really. I mean, I've read the history, the accomplishments."

"Do you know our lineage?"

"The story about the first Emperor being half-god? I know it."

Alethea looked amused. "It isn't a story, dear cousin."

Skepticism bloomed on my face. "Oh?"

Alethea nodded, her amusement growing. "Indeed. Asteria was indeed the trueborn son of Rion, one of many children the old lecher fathered. Unlike those other children, my ancestor actually realized his potential." 

I blinked, flabbergasted. Alethea was speaking blasphemously but with such easy conviction, as though such information were comfortable history, that I felt my doubt crumble. What secrets did she know?

The woman seemed to be reading my mind, for she smiled broadly. "All difficult to believe, but nonetheless true. The blood of Rion flows through all our veins, to some extent. A few in my family also possess the blood of other gods."




Lions of Parnatha Ch. 06



Doubt rebuilt its fortress. "Right. Of course."

"The legends speak of such things, My Lady," Vienes chimed in. "For your cousin to be Antista Primus, she would have to be a child of the gods."

"One god, in particular," Alethea added.

"And that would be?" I inquired, my voice heavy with sarcasm.

"Oh come now, Lithana, certainly even you can see where this is going."

I lofted an eyebrow. "Not really. Frankly it sounds completely mad."

Alethea smiled and looked at Vienes, who sighed as though a mother to a willful child.

"What? What are you two hiding? Clearly I'm blind, so please, enlighten me!" I exclaimed, my temper flaring. I resented being played and kept in the dark, and I was frankly curious; their little game was increasingly irksome.

Alethea stopped pacing and crossed her arms, her expression patiently amused. "My father was briefly married to my mother and I am the only child of their union. He loved her passionately until the day he died, but she was...unable to reciprocate the way he wanted. It wasn't in her nature."

I stared blankly, trying to remember anything Alethea ever mentioned of her mother. "You said once that people came to your parties to abandon themselves to your mother's will. But I never saw your mother at the party I attended."

"Yes, Lithana, you did."

"Oh? And when was that?" I snapped, pouting. "You never introduced me."

"I introduced everyone, at the beginning of the feast. Perhaps you were not paying attention."

"Oh fie on that, Alethea! I wasn't drunk, yet; I still had my wits about me! The only thing you did before people binged on food and wine and sex was an invocation to Hastra!"

I stood fuming, glaring. Alethea simply smiled, waiting.

And it hit me. "Your invocation to...You mean...That would make Hastra your..." I sputtered and frowned, trying to wrap my head around this bizarre revelation. "But that's absurd! A goddess cannot possibly be your mother!"

Alethea laughed, and I caught Vienes covering her mouth, smiling. "Is it so impossible, Lithana? Knowing what you know about my family's lineage, you still find it unbelievable that I serve my mother as her primus?"

"Oh, I believe you're her high priestess, and I don't care a wit. The rest is delusional! It's all stories! Legends! Asteria said those things to cement his divine right to rule, not because they were true!"

Vienes looked scandalized, but Alethea didn't bat an eye. "Oh my dear, it is all true, truer than any word I have ever spoken in the Forum. Your Emperor is a god-king, and his nephew, your husband, shares his blood. And I, well I share a bit of two gods." 

"This is insane. All of it, insane," I mumbled, bewildered. "I came seeking help, and instead I get the mad ravings of a woman who thinks her mother is a goddess. That's fucking amazing, just terrific. My husband will be put to death—"

"Lithana, enough of this." Alethea sounded annoyed, despite her patient expression. "I am as concerned for your husband's well being as you are, if not more so. I'm revealing this to you because, believe it or not, it's incredibly important and changes the nature of the game we are playing with whoever is behind Gaius's arrest." I regarded her doubtfully as she sat on a low bench. 

"You see, Asteria's line ruled Parnatha because the gods ordained it. The city-states of the Parlathian peninsula were united under one house by fate and protected by my family, and thus the empire of Parnatha exists. And no one dared to threaten it, at least not from inside the Empire, until now. I fully believe that Gaius's arrest is the beginning of a very complicated, very sinister, covin against the Empire."

"You think the Emperor is in danger, too?" I asked, suddenly more receptive to her words.

Alethea nodded grimly. "I do. Our strength has always been in our unity as a family and now someone would see us splintered, dismantled from the inside out. Gaius was a wonderful start; next to the Emperor, he is one of the most powerful men in the Empire. His arrest and the accusations of treason cast doubt on the entire family, and not only from the common man of Parnatha. There have been whispers from family that we are not truly immune to corruption."

"But, who would seek to destroy the Empire? What profit could possibly be gained?" The idea horrified me. Parnatha was strong, impenetrable. Its reputation for greatness was the only thing that stood between it and destruction from the warlords to the east and north.

"That is the question of the hour, dear," Alethea sighed. "And it is a question that remains unanswered."

I sucked on my lower lip, considering everything she told me. "Someone at the Forum must know," I thought aloud. "If it's being orchestrated from the inside, someone there has to know. There isn't any way you can get someone inside?"

"Oh believe me, I have tried. But my movements are under such scrutiny, it is virtually impossible. Anyone who leaves my Pavilion is followed and questioned." She scowled resentfully. "Some have not returned."

"But, if you speak true, and your mother's a goddess, couldn't she swoop down and smite them with divine power or something? Couldn't Rion do something?"

Vienes shook her head emphatically. "The gods do not involve themselves in the affairs of men," she said resolutely.

I snorted. "Vienes, Alethea stated that the gods decided to fuck humans and build Parnatha. How is that uninvolved?"

"That decision came at the end of a very long, costly war, to both the mortal and the divine," Alethea said quietly. "Parnatha is more than a great Empire; it is a guardian. The gods united the Parlathian states to create a fortress, a barrier against..." She trailed off, her eyes distant and head turned in the direction of the statue.

"Against what?" I asked, curiosity burning bright. Despite the doubt that refused to be uprooted, I found the idea of a godly war and some secret destiny for an entire race of people to be fascinating, and more than a little exciting. I stared eagerly at Alethea, urging her to continue.

To my disappointment, she declined. "Enough for tonight, dear cousin," she said quietly. "You must be exhausted, and I insist that you sleep. Tomorrow we'll start fresh."

I frowned, irritated, and glumly acquiesced. "Start fresh with what?"

Alethea rose and looped our arms in hers, leading us through a long tunnel that led to the manor dominating Pavilion. She winked roguishly as we walked, all trace of grim apprehension gone. "Why, our counterintelligence. Between the three of us, we can find a hole in the wall through which to spy. And I doubt Gaius will be having much luck on his own."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Domo Camron Liperion drummed his fingers on his elbows, his eyes narrowed in irritation. He glanced again at the wooden door to his left, his thin lips pursed into a disapproving frown, before resuming his slow pace of his office. His wait stretched on. Domo Liperion deplored waiting, especially when it was for people so far beneath him. He snorted softly, his lips curling into a sneer. The hashir belonged in the dust on his sandals.

Domo Liperion was unhappy with the announcement that the hashir would assist with the plan. This was a game for kings and gods, not lowly savages with no purpose but to kill for coin. He was even more disconsolate upon finally meeting the man their gold bought. He was tall, taller than a Parnathian, with dark skin and hair and eyes that saw everything. The domo's opinion went from contempt to outright hatred, though it was tempered by something far worse: fear. For all his belief in his own power over men, Liperion knew that gold was a temporary contract for a hashir. They owed allegiance to no man, claiming their power through their fervent and absolute devotion to their heathen gods.

Liperion smiled mockingly the first time the hashir spoke of his gods. They were barbaric, barely a shadow of the greatness that was the pantheon of Parnatha, a brutish half-human attempt at idolatry. And yet, as the dark man had continued to explain, to give reason for his easy agreement to be their blade and modus operandi in a bid to overthrow the very foundation of the Empire, Liperion's disdain became peppered by discomfort, and thickened into fear. He was afraid of this dark man, this eccentric devotee of a group of vicious, savage gods who would readily help destroy that which denied them true glory. He was afraid that their carefully prepared stratagem was simply a pawn in a much more global game. And one god in particular took keen interest in the hands they played, a horrible medley of woman and snake: Xanara.

And now, as he paced and waited, his fear curdled in his gut. Although a veteran of intrigue and betrayal, the domo had never before encountered a being that couldn't be bought and sold by zeal or coin. Well, that wasn't true; Gaius Artigro was as much of a devotee to his beliefs. Gaius, however, was an idiot.

There was a sharp rap on the door as it opened slightly. Domo Liperion paused and placed his hands on his hips, near the long dagger he kept hidden in the folds of his toga.

A young man peeped through the doorway, his face worried and nervous as he attempted speech.

Liperion already knew; he nodded curtly, and the page stepped aside, grateful to be rid of his charge. The large hashir strode silently into the room, his dun-colored clothing strikingly drab against the ornate bedizenment of the domo's private suites. He moved with slow grace and purpose, though his eyes never rested. He examined the room entirely before gazing at the pale, thin man before him. Liperion fought the urge to shiver.

"I don't like to be kept waiting," he snapped, hands still placed near his dagger.

"You lack virtue, Domo, so I am not surprised."

There was a tense silence as Domo Liperion bristled and the hashir watched passively, each observing the other.

"The Praefectus wants to know when the second part of the plan will be enacted," Liperion said finally, his expression and tone contemptuous. "If we wait too long, Artigro's people will rally."

The hashir smirked, his arms crossed over his chest. "Your Minister is a very impatient man as well. What makes him think that General Artigro's followers will be able to do anything for him? Is there a flaw in your plan?"

Liperion's face reddened at the suggestion. "Of course not! We have taken great pains to..."

"Then you have nothing to fear." The hashir continued to gaze unblinking at the domo, willing him to divulge the fears and doubts that plagued him and his compatriots.

It worked. Liperion grunted, grudgingly, "There are more than mere mortals on his side. Though the royal family is fractured now, they will regroup and come back with a vengeance."

"You fear their gods." The hashir said, sneering. "Odd, since they are your gods as well. And yet you still wish to murder their children and conquer their stronghold. You do not fear their wrath?"

"Worry about your own gods," Liperion snapped. "When will the second phase be enacted?"

The hashir considered a moment, glancing at the bust of some long-dead domo or philosopher or emperor that sat near a window. "The entire family, yes? Women and children as well?"

"The bloodline of Asteria must be purged completely," Liperion said firmly. "Anyone claiming his ancestry is to be killed."

"It will be a massacre on a grand scale, Domo," the hashir said slowly. "You are prepared to handle the aftermath?"

"Artigro is secured. His downfall will be our meteoric rise to power. Nothing will prevent us from pinning this on him...if we act swiftly."

The hashir nodded. "Then the streets of Arthos will run red with royal blood and tears, and the voices of Parnathan mourners will fill the air in three days."

"Three days? Why must you stall further?!" Liperion exclaimed, relieved of his composure.

"My dear Domo," the hashir said patronizingly, "it takes coordination to plan and execute mass murder. If your prison is secure, and you have taken the precautions you claim, then you have nothing to fear. Your gods cannot stop this from happening any more than mine can ensure its success."

Domo Liperion grumbled, his mood sour. "I will tell the Praefectus three days." He pointed an accusing finger at the hashir, practically spitting his next words. "If you fail, I will destroy you."

The hashir merely smiled before executing a small bow and departing, leaving Liperion alone to stew.

It was irritating, the constant accusations of impending failure and threats of retribution, but the hashir exercised a careful restraint in dealing with the Parnathians. They didn't know, could not know, the reality of their conspiracy against the very fabric of their civilization. It was a selfish bid for power, a desire to rise to glory and be called very rich, very great men, and it would destroy them.

The hashir smiled as he made his way from the domo's suites and out into the city proper. He wove his way through throngs and crowds, a sand-colored shadow amidst an unaware populace; he was the agent of their downfall, and they let him walk freely. The fools.

He turned down a narrow alley and climbed a rickety wooden ladder to a rooftop garden. Taking a moment to survey the city, the dark man leaped from rooftop to rooftop, finally settling on a narrow ledge near a covered market place. Another man, clad in the same dun-colored clothing, waited in still silence. The hashir settled beside him, crouching in a shadow cast by a nearby building.

"The client grows restless," he said softly, his eyes roving the market. A woman dressed in a simple shift was arranging apples. She was bent at the waist, and he could see her ample breasts swaying as she worked.

"They are fools, like little children," the other man said, bored. "They will burn with the rest of their brethren."

"Indeed. Is there any word?"

The companion shook his head. "They bide their time. Like vipers, they will not strike until the mouse is unawares."

"The client wants the sacrifice in three days."

The other man nodded, still sounding bored. "They are impatient. They fear failure."

"They fear death, as they should." The dark man stood, once again surveying the city. From his perch he could see the towering spires of the imperial palace. "Tell them that Morfran has met with the mouse, and that they should strike in three days."

As the other man nodded, hashir Morfran slid from the ledge and out of sight.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

My skin was slick with sweat, and my breath humid and hurried. I clutched his hair and shoulders, willing him into me, desperate for him. Above me Gaius waged his own battle: his tongue tasted my salted skin as his strong thighs thrust down into me, driving him deep. It was a desperate dance of passion and desire, neither of us pausing long enough to consider tenderness or gentle lovemaking; we needed one another, now.

My breaths came more rapidly, punctuated with each staccato slap as Gaius continued thrusting into me. My mouth found his bicep and I bit down, my teeth sinking into his skin as wild warmth spread outward from my pussy. Gaius was grunting, snarling, animal sounds that filled the air and drove me into a frenzy. Sharp cries built in my throat, and I released my lover's bicep to scream as my body abandoned all thought...

"Lithana! Wake up!"

...abandon that was suddenly squashed by an incessant prodding of my shoulder. Cheated of release, I felt my center quiver with unhappy longing, and I sighed dejectedly. Cracking one eye, my vision focused.

"Vienes, what the fuck?"

The girl quailed before blushing deeply. "I'm sorry, My Lady, but Lady Alethea is calling for you. She says you must come immediately."

I groaned and cursed, rolling onto my stomach and pushing myself up. I could see daylight beginning to tint the sky, and I growled as I rolled from the bed, "This couldn't wait until a decent hour?"

Vienes shrugged and helped me into a thin dressing gown. "Your cousin was very insistent. I think it might have something to do with your husband."

My eyes snapped to her face. "She said something about Gaius?"

"Well, not directly. She said that the game had taken a dire turn, and that we needed to act as soon as possible."

Frowning, I slid my feet into a pair of Alethea's borrowed slippers and followed Vienes.

We found Alethea in the same rotunda we met her in only a day ago. She was staring grimly at the statue of Hastra, her arms folded and lips thinly pressed. She managed to smile as we approached, but the concern in her eyes was plain.

"What's wrong?" I demanded.

"I've received word. Gaius is in mortal danger." She held up her hands, interrupting my breakdown. "Listen to me before you speak. I don't know the exact nature of this conspiracy, and I don't know our adversaries. However, I do know where he is being held, and that his life will soon be forfeit if we don't act now."

"Who told you this?" The look on Alethea's face spoke volumes, and I saw her eyes flit to the statue. "Bullshit, Alethea. I refuse to believe that the gods are feeding you information."

"Only one god, as I explained earlier. Lithana, we don't have time for your doubts. We need to formulate a plan."

"Oh, very good, Alethea. What is this plan? Prance naked under the moon while chanting to the goddess of pleasure that we can fuck our way out of this?" I snorted and stalked away. "This is ludicrous. Let me know when you actually have something useful to say."

"There is not a plan, girl. Not yet," said a new voice. It was high and airy, yet commanded my full attention, and it stopped me dead in my tracks as it echoed around the chamber.

I turned to see the speaker, but the only two present beside myself were Alethea, looking strangely triumphant, and Vienes, who was suddenly prostrated on the ground.

"Who is there?" I demanded, nerves prickling. What if we were betrayed? What if Alethea was playing us all along?

"Not who you think, I assure you," the voice answered. It was more localized now, and came from near the statue. "Put aside your doubts, before they undo you."

Bristling, I rejoined, "Then show yourself, if I have nothing to fear."

A tall, slender woman with golden hair and skin as pale as honeyed milk emerged from around the corner of the statue. She was dressed in a simple, cream-colored linen toga, and her gently curling hair was entwined with small blue and white flowers. She smiled and stood alongside Alethea, holding out her hand.

"Come over here so that we may talk, Lithana. I would rather not shout our business for all of Parnatha to hear."

It took me a good long minute of dumbfounded staring to realize what I was looking at, but when my gaze finally shifted to the statue and back, it suddenly struck me. I reeled, barely catching myself as I gawked, a hand clutching my chest. She was a perfect replica, marble given life. She moved with an effortless grace and glistened from an inner light in the darkened chamber.

"It isn't possible."

"You seem fond of impossibilities. You point them out with alarming frequency."

"You..." I looked from the woman to Alethea, who smiled broadly, to my prostrated handmaid, and back to the woman, my mouth still agape. "You're...you can't be...it isn't possible!"

Alethea giggled. "I told you she would do this, though her reaction is better than what I assumed." My cousin took me by the arm, guiding me to where the woman was standing. "Lithana, this is my mother."

I gaped at the goddess Hastra as I approached her. When I was a few feet from her, I collapsed to the floor, pressing my forehead against the stone. I attempted an invocation, a prayer, a greeting, anything that sounded better than gibberish, but found no success.

Hastra and Alethea exchanged amused glances before my cousin helped me up. I was trembling slightly, but managed to find my feet.




Lions of Parnatha Ch. 06



"I'm...I'm..."

"Please, don't apologize, you have done nothing wrong. Most would react the way you did if presented with the opportunity to meet a god. I expected it, frankly." Still smiling, Hastra turned to Vienes and placed a gentle hand on her head. "Rise, girl. There is no need for invocations here."

Vienes did as she was bid, her eyes wide and her frame shaking. I watched her curiously as she continued to stare at the goddess.

"How...how did you recognize her?" I asked quietly. "Why did you believe?"

My handmaid shifted her gaze to me, her expression still full of wonder. "The northern colonies are not like the southern cities, my Lady," she said quietly. "Where southerners have grown jaded with their gods, the colonists rely heavily on the will of the gods for everything from daily life to fending off raiders and bandits. Hastra is more than the mother of wine and sex for us; women across the colonies invoke her wisdom in matters of love, childbirth, and raising their families. She is as dear to us as our own mothers." Her eyes shifted back to the smiling goddess, and she added with a whisper, "I would have known her anywhere."

I frowned slightly, my gaze roaming from Vienes to Hastra and back again. I felt ashamed of myself. For all my education and an intellect I was fiercely proud of, I was remarkably blind. I was never overly religious, or religious at all for that matter, but her devotion and acceptance humbled me.

Hastra laid a gentle hand on the girl's shoulder. "You are blessed, my dear, with far more than you give yourself credit for." She turned to me then, her face suddenly drawn and serious. "But that is not why you were awakened. I'm afraid our time to help my nephew is drawing to a close."

I felt a cold vise grip my heart, and I fought waves of panic. "What do you mean?"

"The Forum is still foregoing a trial," Alethea said as she stood beside her mother. I saw the resemblance so clearly now that I felt foolish for not noticing sooner. "They mean to execute him, and soon."

"Then we must act. We must rescue him," I said, my voice betraying my fear. "Do we know his whereabouts yet?"

Alethea nodded. "Yes, he is indeed held beneath the Forum. Wait, let me finish. The Forum is a vast network of catacombs and prison cells. It could take us weeks to locate him if we go charging in."

"Someone has to know where he is," I growled. "Surely there is someone we can question, or interrogate."

"Oh there are many people, but the problem is reaching them. We are being closely watched, and my servants and maids are well known. Sending one of them would be futile and dangerous."

I pursed my lips and paced, panicking. Why was all of this so impossible? "We need to send someone they don't know, who they would never suspect. Someone who could blend in or..."

"Play a part?" Hastra quipped. "Yes, we discussed that, and I think it could work. Our best hope lies with playing on the weaknesses of men."

I lofted a brow, perplexed. "Weaknesses? What do you have in mind?"

"Men talk when they are comfortable, dear," Alethea said softly. "Certain tonics and draughts can enhance that comfort, and ply secrets from their lips. My mother can supply that much, but we still need a way to get to our target."

"I don't understand."

Alethea sighed and glanced at her mother before fixing me with a sympathetic face. "If we could send someone to one of the jailers, or even the prison warden, then our agent could administer the draught."

"But how would that person get in to see the warden or a jailer? The only outsiders they allow to visit the Forum unescorted are the—" Realization hit me like a sack of rocks, and I blushed sheepishly. "You want to send a courtesan." Hastra and Alethea smiled their affirmation, but I was unconvinced. "But who could we possibly send? I mean, no one here has any training with that kind of thing—"

"It isn't hard to pretend to be a prostitute, Lithana," Alethea said with a smirk. "Our volunteer need only to be acquainted with the possible dangers and how to properly administer the draught."

"But who? You just said that you're being watched."

Now it was Hastra's turn to frown. "That is the catch. It would be a dangerous request, and I am at a loss for possible volunteers."

"I'll do it." The words were spoken so softly they almost didn't register, but as realization dawned I regarded my handmaid questioningly.

"Vienes?"

"I'll do it," she confirmed. "I volunteer."

"But..." I floundered. "Do you know anything about...?"

She smiled ruefully. "I know enough from previous experience. I know how to charm a man, and with my Lady Hastra's guidance, I will know how to loosen his lips."

"Vienes, no, it's too high a price to ask of you. What if something happens?"

The girl was adamant, and waved away my concerns. "I am the most logical choice, My Lady. And I have as much vested interest in seeing the safe return of your lord husband and his men as anyone else." She smiled and placed a gentle hand on my shoulder. "You aren't asking me, My Lady. I do this willingly."

Hastra smiled and embraced us. "You are a brave soul, child. I will do everything I can to prepare you. All that remains is the finality of the plan."

I smiled as I was hugged, but my heart was heavy. What choice did I have but to send my dear friend into the lion's den, if it meant we could rescue Gaius? I dug deep for optimism, longing to embrace the idea, but as Alethea and Hastra schemed, I hoped that, whatever price she paid, it would not be more than she could handle.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Domo Camron Liperion drummed his fingers on his forearms. His glistening forehead gave testimony to nerves, and the old man steeled himself, resisting the urge to mop his brow. It was extremely quiet in the foyer, the only sounds a small, bubbling fountain and his own pounding heart.

When the ornate wooden door to his left finally opened, Domo Liperion was startled. A short, squat man glared at him from the threshold, beckoning him with a shake of his head. Swallowing, Liperion approached him.

The room beyond was dark, backlit by a few high windows near the domed roof. Wide, flat braziers created a narrow walkway that cut down the center, ending at the foot of stone stairs that led to a platform. Liperion stared at the floor as he approached, not daring to raise his gaze higher than that platform. He stopped a foot from the stairs, his trembling hands clenched tightly in his sleeves as he bowed low.

"I hope you come with some good tidings, Domo," said a man. The voice was deep, smooth, charming, and glacial. It reminded Liperion of a finely wrought blade, hypnotic and full of deadly promise. He shuddered and nodded vigorously.

"Indeed, I do, my Lord," the old man responded, hoping his voice dripped confidence.

"Look at me, Domo," the man on the platform said quietly.

Liperion slowly raised his eyes past the stairs and platform, his mouth growing parched as his gaze traveled up. He saw the base of an ornate altar, a pair of silk sandals, the hem of a deep blue linen robe embroidered with silver thread. The robe was cinched with a silver cord around a narrow waist, and a delicate brass collar covered a lanky chest. Liperion rested his eyes on the center of that collar, where an engraved sapphire eye stared through him with knowing accusations. He would not dare look further.

"All of Parnatha's children are welcome in these halls," the man said smoothly. Liperion saw the tip of a black beard dip into his vision as he spoke. "You have no reason to fear me, Domo." There was unspoken expectation in his tone.

Domo Camron Liperion swallowed hard and looked up at the man before him. He was handsome, lithe and youthful despite a few wisps of grey in his black hair. His appearance might have seemed friendly, cordial even, had it not been for his eyes. Liperion had never been able to look him in the eye, afraid of being locked in an electric green gaze that had spelled death and ruin for many.

"Of course, My Lord," was all he could say.

Praefectus Xanathos smiled knowingly, his lips curled in a mockery of kindness. "Now then, what did our foreign friends have to say about our little problem?"

"They assured me that it would be solved in three days' time, My Lord," Liperion stammered. He felt a bead of sweat carve a path down his temple and take hold under his jaw.

Xanathos nodded, his smile broadening. Liperion felt a new shiver of fear traverse his spine.

"Three days? Did they explain their delay?"

"No, M-My Lord. I tried..."

Xanathos frowned, and Liperion fell silent, his thin lips pursed in apprehension. "You do try hard, my dear Domo," the Praefectus said softly. "Tell me, are you 'trying' to see us undone?"

"What? No, My Lord, I would never...!"

"Are you 'trying' to find your way to a sword?"

Liperion stammered, head shaking vigorously and spouting incoherent declarations of devotion and loyalty to the cause.

Xanathos allowed the man to grovel and blubber before raising his hand, silencing him. "I'm pleased to know your fidelity to us, Domo," he said. His tone was venemous, and Liperion feared he might die from poisoning. "If our allies say three days, then three days it shall be. However, I want you to be doubly sure that our own forces are prepared for what is to come. I will not tolerate mistakes."

"There will be none, My Lord," Liperion whispered fervently.

"I needn't remind you then, Domo, that if there are, the wrath of the Empire will be the least of your concerns." Xanathos turned to regard the alter on the platform. "You may go."

Domo Liperion fairly leaped to his feet and fled the room. He did not dare breathe until he was well away from the Magnus Domanus, the pantheon and spiritual home of Parnatha's gods. He had known that the Praefectus, the first priest and protector of the pantheon, would be displeased with the hashir's timeline. Still, he had left the temple alive; that had to account for something.

He made his way across the gardens and to the parade grounds beyond, ignoring passersby. A carriage waited for him at the entrance, and he clambered inside before giving gruff orders to head to the Forum.

The old man didn't know whether to be relieved or terrified, and truthfully he was a bit of both. While it seemed that all of their careful preparations were falling into place, the Praefectus was right; if they failed, the Empire could not make him suffer nearly so much as he would.

As he was borne through the streets of Parnatha, an uneasy feeling settled in his stomach, and the Domo shut his eyes. Whatever was to come had better be worth the impending bloodshed.