Chapter 21.

Kaleah looked out at the sweeping view from the majestic height of the look-out tower, watching the sun as it cleared the horizon and made it’s way into the sky. There were a few puffy clouds here and there, but the former slave could feel a new warmth in the air that told her Spring had arrived fully, and the icy hand of Winter had released its hold on the land. Everything looked green and golden and wonderful . . . but Kaleah felt a weight in her heart that couldn’t be dispelled even by the inspiring view. By now, Jessica would have made her decision, and even though Kaleah felt sure the young woman would decide to continue the relationship, regardless of the risks or consequences, a small part of her – the part that had learned that all good things would eventually be stripped away – was bracing itself for rejection.

Kaleah had slept a little during the night, but the memory of Jessica’s hungry expression and eagerly offered body were not conducive to rest. Through the dark hours, she made plans for the day; plans that were neutral in regards to Jessica’s decision. When the soldiers began to move around, the former slave headed for the kitchen and grabbed a bite to eat . . . more to distract her mind from what might come later than because she was actually hungry.

Now she stood, leaning against the huge brass signal horn that was mounted here to warn of someone approaching the castle, staring out at the distant horizon and trying to find some measure of comfort by watching the birth of a new and beautiful day.

She didn’t hear the quiet, soft footsteps coming up the stairs behind her, or the slight rustle of leather and cloth. But she sensed the arrival of another person, and without even turning she recognized the calm power in the new presence.

"Sleep well?" she asked.

"Not really," came the musical reply, and Kaleah could hear the slight smile in Jessica’s voice. She felt her friend come closer. "Did you?"

She shrugged. "Just a few hours," she said. "It was enough." There was a long period of silence before Kaleah turned to study the profile of the young woman. Jessica looked tired and still a little hazy . . . but there was a calm about her now that answered Kaleah’s next question before she asked it. "Did you think about everything?"

Jess nodded. "For most of the night, yes." She turned to face Kaleah, and smiled a little. "I gotta say, it took me a while to calm down so I could think about anything except . . . you know?" She waggled her eyebrows suggestively, and Kaleah grinned. "But after an hour or so, I got myself under control and I did what you wanted me to do; I thought about this whole thing in a rational, logical way . . . and about what it might mean to me and the life I live."

Kaleah put her hands on the stone battlement in front of her and turned out to look at the tapestry of fields and forest. "And?"

Jessica smiled quietly. "Well . . . I considered everything very carefully, just like you said to do. And I think you’re right, Kaleah . . . there are a lot of risks to us being together." She took a deep breath. "My mother would never stand for it . . . and with the power of the Church behind her she could probably overturn anything my father might do to protect me. Maybe we could appeal a death sentence, but you’d be banished for sure, and God knows what they’d do to me. A lot of the soldiers and knights would probably refuse to ever ride with me again, and the commoners would likely start whispering about how I’d been seduced by a witch. I could loose in an instant everything I’ve spent my whole life struggling to build; the respect of the other warriors, the love of the peasants, and maybe even my home and my family." She looked at Kaleah’s stony expression. "And against all that I have a savage, heathen barbarian still bearing the scars of a life spent in slavery and torment."

Kaleah’s face was a careful mask, but she couldn’t stop her fists from clenching into the hard granite, knuckles turning white. She swallowed, tasting bitter bile in her throat. "So . . ." Her voice trembled. "I guess that means you . . made your decision."

A warm hand reached out and strong but gentle fingers twined themselves with her own. Kaleah glanced down into the slightly amused but loving eyes of her smiling friend. "There wasn’t really any decision to make," Jessica said softly.

Kaleah’s mouth opened and closed a few times as her companion’s words sunk in. "Y-you mean . . . you-" Jessica put her hand over Kaleah’s mouth and stopped her.

"No," she said. "You had your chance to talk last night. Now it’s my turn." She took a deep breath and closed her eyes, opening them when she felt Kaleah smile against her hand. Looking up into the cerulean gaze of the older woman, Jessica let her heart speak.

"When we first saw each other, something happened between us. Something we both felt, but didn’t understand." Kaleah nodded very slightly. "Well, I think I understand what it was now," Jess whispered. "It was the feeling of God’s hand binding our two souls together. When I looked into your eyes . . . it felt like I was seeing the color blue for the first time in my life. I couldn’t stop myself from following you when you ran from the battle, and I couldn’t stop myself from following when you tried to escape into the storm." She stepped closer, pressing herself against the dark woman’s powerful body. "Even if I wanted to stop loving you – which I don’t – I couldn’t do it. You’re a part of me Kaleah. I don’t have a choice in this . . . we’re just meant to be together, that’s all." She took her hand away, smiling at the look of relief and love in Kaleah’s expression. Eager hands wrapped around the tall woman’s waist, and Jessica squeezed her close. "I love you."

Kaleah’s hands went automatically around the young woman pressed against her, and she placed a tender kiss on the blonde head resting on her chest. "I love you too, Jess," she whispered, her heart pounding so hard she worried it might burst. A feeling of well-being and relief flooded through her so strong it made her light-headed, and it was only after several long minutes just holding Jessica that she managed to convince herself this was real.

They stood like that for a long time, just enjoying each other’s warmth, before Kaleah finally drew away and looked down into mist-green eyes. "What about your mother-"

"Sshhh." Jessica grinned. "Whatever happens, Kaleah, happens to both of us together. You trust me, right?" Kaleah nodded without even thinking. "Then trust that I’ll be able to handle the consequences of being with you. When the time comes, we’ll deal with whatever problems come along." Her eyes darkened and a slow, sexy smile spread across her face. "Did you . . . have anything planned for today?" she asked in a voice so low she barely recognized it as her own.

Kaleah shuddered, seeing that Jessica’s passion still burned just as strong as it had last night. She smiled and nodded. "As a matter of fact I did," she breathed seductively.

Jessica’s eyes sparkled and she raised a blonde brow invitingly. "Do your plans involve me?"

Kaleah nodded again and bent down very slowly, licking her lips. "How would you . . ."

Jessica’s breathing accelerated as she leant forward eagerly. "Yesss?"

"Feel about . . ." Kaleah’s lips descended as Jessica’s eyes drifted shut, the young girl’s head tilting to the side. The dark woman stopped just before their lips met, and she grinned. ". . . a picnic in the woods?"

"What!?!" Jessica’s eyes shot open and glared at Kaleah, who couldn’t help but chuckle at the thwarted look on her face. "You’d better find a God and start praying if you’re serious, Kaleah," she growled, pulling the dark woman even tighter against her.

"What’s wrong?" Kaleah grinned. "You had something else in mind?"

Jade eyes narrowed. "Damn right I did!" Her hips forward and Kaleah felt heat against her thigh. "Something involving you, me, and a nice big bed!"

Kaleah blinked her eyes in innocent confusion. "You wanted to sleep in?" Jessica growled, and Kaleah laughed. "I like that noise," she whispered, using her free hand to brush a strand of Jessica’s hair back over her ear. Her eyes grew hooded. "I wonder what other noises I can get you to make . . ."

"I guess that’ll depend on what you do to me," Jess replied, her hips unconsciously grinding against Kaleah as the ache inside grew stronger. "And I doubt you’ll get much opportunity to do a whole lot if we go on a picnic . . . unless you’re planning on us going alone, in which case you might be able to twist my arm."

Kaleah raised an eyebrow. "You know, Jessica, for someone so patient and in control of herself – not to mention so sweet and innocent – you sure are in an awful hurry about some things."

"A hurry!?" Jess’ eyes widened. "You call waiting nineteen years a hurry? And after all the stuff you’ve been doing the last few days, I think I’m being positively saintly about this stuff!" She growled again. "I’ve waited long enough!"

"Well, I’m really sorry, Jess, but you’re gonna be waiting just a little longer," Kaleah said with a grin. "There’s a patrol leaving in an hour, and we’re going with it."

Jessica’s smile disappeared and she took a step back. "You are joking, right?"

"Nope. I already had the kitchen make up a basket of food for us . . . and I thought we’d ask Charles and Damon if they’d like to come, too."

Jessica stared at her, hands on her hips, totally incredulous. "We’re going on a picnic?" she hissed. Kaleah bit her lower lip and nodded. Jessica’s eyes narrowed dangerously. "Now!?"

"Uh huh." Kaleah fought to contain a grin, but couldn’t.

Jessica stalked forward and poked her in the chest. "You get me all worked up and then you force me to wait all night . . . and now you’re telling me we can’t do anything because you want to go on a blasted picnic!?!"

Kaleah shrugged sheepishly. "Um . . . that’s how it looks, yeah."

Jessica took a deep breath and turned around, collecting herself. She was getting tired of having to drag her rampaging libido back everytime it leapt forward. After a moment, she faced Kaleah again. "And when, exactly, are you going to let me be with you?"

Kaleah smiled crookedly. "Tonight . . . after we’ve enjoyed this beautiful day."

"Tonight? You’re sure?"

Kaleah nodded sincerely.

Jess sighed and ran her fingers through her hair. "Okay . . . fine. I think I can wait that long." The smile on Kaleah’s face made her chuckle at herself a little. "But no more stalling, you hear me?"

"Loud and clear." Kaleah stepped closer and ran a single finger down Jessica’s face, past her chin and between her breasts which were clearly defined through the thin shirt she wore. The dark woman smiled when she heard Jessica’s breath catch, and she boldly let her finger continue it’s southward journey, eventually finding the heat at the juncture of her leather-clad thighs. "Like I told you . . . the best part about being frustrated is when you finally get what you want." Jessica whimpered when Kaleah pressed her finger firmly against sensitized flesh, and her hips began to move of their own volition, trying to increase the pressure. When she felt that, Kaleah pulled away, causing Jessica to glare at her. She smiled. "Tonight, my love . . . I’ll give you everything you ask of me."

Jessica held her eyes a moment longer, then swallowed. "You damn well better," she said breathlessly, "or you’re gonna find out just how dangerous nineteen years of chastity and virtue can be!"

Kaleah grinned and patted the young blonde on the head. "Come on then," she said, linking their arms and feeling her happiness spread through her blood like an intoxicant. "Let’s go find Charles and get the horses ready. I’m looking forward to a nice long ride."

Jessica gave her a sultry grin and winked as they headed down the stairs. "So am I," she purred, "but I can wait till tonight."

Kaleah blushed a little, but laughed, amazed at how the young blonde could be shy and innocent, and at the same time so forward and bold.

Inside the dark woman’s heart, the small part of her that had grown accustomed to being deprived of everything except pain and sadness and grief finally realized that after a lifetime of abuse, something wonderful and light had come along . . . and this time, it wasn’t going to be taken away. As Kaleah basked in the simple pleasure of this young woman’s love and life, the former slave felt the dark shadows of her past recede . . . and she knew that for the first time, the pain of those terrible years couldn’t hurt her anymore. Jessica’s love and understanding shielded her from that darkness like a blanket of light.

Kaleah smiled as she and her young companion walked quickly down through the tower, looking forward to what she was determined would be the best day of her whole life.

Charles and Damon were delighted by the proposed picnic, and happily agreed to accompany the two women and the patrol of soldiers. Jessica saddled Andromeda herself, then helped the still somewhat clumsy Kaleah saddle her large chestnut gelding. The dark woman sent a servant to bring the basket she’d had prepared from the kitchen, and less than an hour later they assembled with the group of twenty soldiers just outside the castle walls. Charles and Damon were already there, waiting, and Jess saw the massive body-guard had decided to wear his heavy, dark plate armor and the demonic-looking helm. She chuckled.

"We’re going on a picnic, Damon, not riding off to war. You’re gonna be sweating a river in that stuff."

The burly man raised a mailed hand and flipped the visor on the helm up, flashing her a grin. "This is a patrol, still," he argued sensibly. "I must be ready to protect my lord."

"You take things too seriously," the young blonde laughed, but she admired his dedication. For Damon, being Charles’ protector was a job he took very seriously indeed.

Charles’ horse skitted nervously under him, but he soothed the beast easily. "It’s a wonderful day for this," he observed, looking up at the nearly-clear sky. "The first few days of Spring are my favorite time of year, I think."

"Mine too," Jess agreed. She had to admit that this was a nice idea . . . no matter how intriguing the alternatives were. She gave Kaleah a smile that said she wasn’t too mad at her, then hastily looked away when the dark woman ran her eyes openly down her body, not being shy about where she focused her attention.

If she keeps this up, by the time you get her back to your room you’re going to explode the instant she touches you, her mind informed her. Jess decided it was a risk she’d just have to take.

Watching the interaction between the two women, Charles groaned inwardly and rolled his eyes. Apparently, Kaleah wasn’t the subtle type; the look she gave the young blonde was enough to make even the open-minded young lord blush. But when he glanced at the soldiers, Charles was relieved to see that none of them seemed to be paying any attention to the two women. They gave Jessica courteous nods, and mostly the same to Kaleah, but other than that, they seemed blind to the sexual tension that charged between the two.

Strange, he thought to himself. Or then again, maybe not so strange. Afterall, these people must be used to Jess and Kaleah being together all the time. They’ve seen it everyday for the past few weeks. Why would they bother looking twice to see something that wasn’t there before?

The thought was somewhat comforting for Charles; he knew what could happen if Jessica’s romance with her dark friend was seen by the wrong people. He didn’t want her getting hurt because of her love.

The patrol set off from the castle at a leisurely pace, even the soldiers willing to enjoy the pleasant warmth. The men laughed and joked with each other, relaxed but still watchful as they neared the trail that led into the woods. The bandits in the region were showing up less and less recently; the last few days, patrols hadn’t found a single camp, nor evidence that raiders had passed through. Still, despite their high spirits, the soldiers of Da’Gran were disciplined and ready for anything . . . especially considering they were riding escort for their lords daughter.

The patrol rode a few hours out, not in any hurry, the men letting Jessica set the pace. The young woman rode next to Kaleah, casting her secret, sidelong glances every now and then, the sultry smile never leaving her face. Kaleah returned the looks with ones of own; looks that promised mysterious delights that would be explored later that night, and that sent shivers through Jessica’s ardent young body.

If we get attacked, her mind observed pointedly, you’re going to be the last one to notice, and the first one to die! Stop giving the damn woman ‘come-take-me’ looks and keep at least one eye on the bloody forest!

Jessica told her mind to shut up. She was enjoying herself . . . and was actually enjoying the slowly building sense of anticipation, too. She leaned closer to Kaleah.

"This wasn’t such a bad idea, you know," she said quietly. "I’m sorry I was a little . . . overzealous before."

Kaleah didn’t know what ‘overzealous’ meant, but she could take a good guess. "That’s okay," she said calmly. "Later on, you can be as . . . ‘over zee-lus’. . . as you like."

Jessica giggled at her strange pronunciation of the new word, and explained, "It means, um . . . extreme. Really enthusiastic." She waggled her eyebrows, and whispered, "I think it sums up my feelings quite well right now."

Kaleah grinned. "You want to look for a place to stop for our picnic? You didn’t have breakfast, afterall."

"Sure. I’ll tell the men." The young woman rode forward to the head of the column and informed the patrol leader they wanted to break for an early lunch. The man agreed amicably; this patrol was just a close-range scout, intended to discourage anyone from setting up too close to the castle. There was no hurry in their assignment, and when a suitable clearing came along, he called a halt and the men happily dismounted and stretched out the stiffness in their limbs.

While the soldiers settled themselves in groups and unpacked their own food, Jessica and her three friends opened their picnic basket and inspected it’s contents. Jessica pulled out cloth-wrapped bundles containing everything from roast pheasant and honey-sweetened pork, to fragrant bread rolls filled with dried fruit. There were even a few slices of freshly-baked butter cake, of which Jessica quickly claimed the largest piece.

The four friends settled themselves down under the sweeping branches of an aspen tree and ate contentedly. Kaleah couldn’t resist tormenting her young friend a little more, and began to eat her food in a suggestive and rather enjoyable manner. Jessica tried to ignore her at first, but found her eyes straying to the dark woman of their own accord. Glaring at Kaleah didn’t make her stop, nor did the furtive, subtle nods towards their companions. Eventually, her interest in food rapidly disappearing, Jessica decided it might be time to find somewhere a bit more private to continue this seduction . . . and she knew just how to convince Kaleah to come with her.

Her eyes glinting with mischief, Jessica took a large piece of sweet cake and, looking Kaleah straight in the eyes, flicked it at the dark woman’s chest.

"Hey?!" Kaleah glared at her. "What was that for?"

Jess just grinned playfully and flicked another piece.

Kaleah growled as Charles and Damon glanced at each other, amused and curious. "Cut it out." The young woman just shook her head and repeated her actions. This time, Kaleah sat up on all fours, her eyes narrowing dangerously. Her voice was a low, intense rumble. "I’m warning you, Jess . . . don’t start with me-" A well-aimed crumb landed right in her cleavage, and Jess giggled.

"What’re you going to do, Kaleah?" the blonde taunted playfully.

"You don’t want to know, princess."

"Oh, don’t I?" Jessica considered a moment, then very deliberately took the last piece of her cake and tossed it at the dark woman.

"That’s it!"

Jessica squealed and had only a second to get her legs under her as Kaleah sprang forward, her hands reaching for a hold. The young blonde heard a curse behind her, but bolted for the woods as fast as she could, knowing Kaleah was right on her heels. Most of the soldiers laughed or rolled their eyes, accustomed to the lively antics of the spirited girl, but the patrol leader called out a quick warning for her not to go too far. Jessica put her head down and pumped her legs hard.

She couldn’t keep her pace going for long, however, and against the long-legged strides of her pursuer, the chase only lasted a few minutes before Jessica heard Kaleah’s harsh breathing right behind her. She heard the dark woman grunt, "Gotcha," right before long arms wrapped around her waist and dragged her back. The dark woman’s body overbalanced her and Jessica crashed to the soft ground, giggling as she struggled to get free. Kaleah quickly pinned her down with her long body, holding her arms down firmly, her face just an inch above her own, breathing hard. Jessica struggled a moment longer, but melted when Kaleah inserted a muscled thigh between her legs and applied a gentle, very welcome pressure where she wanted it most.

Dark blue eyes gazed down at her, the predatory smile on the dark woman’s face sending shivers down Jessica’s spine. "You caught me," she breathed.

"Yes I did." Kaleah eyes wandered over her face and she pushed forward a fraction with her thigh. "The question is . . . what am I gonna do with you now?"

Jessica felt daring and brave, the weight of the dark woman pressing against her in all the right places making her blood burn. Green eyes sparkled invitingly. "Whatever you’re gonna do, you should hurry," she said softly. "If the soldiers decide to follow us and catch us like this, they might think you’re trying to attack me." Her eyes sparkled. "They could kill you before I could stop them."

Kaleah considered a moment, seeing the playfulness in Jess’s face, but also aware of the serious invitation she was making. The dark woman decided she’d teased the girl enough, and her smile turned sensuous. "Well . . . if I’m going to risk my life . . . I might as well get something worth dying for while I’m here." Slowly – slower than either woman thought she could stand – Kaleah’s lips descended and brushed lightly over Jessica’s.

Jessica’s eyes drifted shut as her lips pursed slightly and she tilted her head to accept the slow kiss. Kaleah’s lips were so soft against her own, and the young woman let the rest of the world fade away as she gave herself over to the incredible sensations. When Kaleah released her hands, Jess quickly buried her fingers in the dark woman’s thick hair, pulling her closer and deepening the contact. Kaleah used one hand to support her weight, and ran the other lightly down Jessica’s body, stopping at the curve of her hip.

Kaleah let the kiss last several moments before she eased off, but Jessica quickly pulled her head back down, moaning at the loss. Feeling the young woman’s passion burning fiercely, Kaleah let her tongue glide forth to gently stroke against the soft lips under hers. Jessica’s response was a low, rumbling growl, and her lips parted in open encouragement. Slowly, Kaleah let her tongue venture into the young woman’s mouth, ready to retreat at the slightest hint that she was moving too fast. But Jess accepted the invasion eagerly, her own tongue welcoming the company.

Jessica felt light-headed at the feeling and taste of Kaleah’s mouth and tongue, and her body began to rock against the leather-clad thigh that pinned her down. With her fingers combing restlessly through Kaleah’s long, sable tresses, the young woman refused to let the kiss end even when her lungs began to cry for air. Breaking contact for a second to gasp in a quick breath, Jessica felt Kaleah’s tongue retreat and she followed it instantly with her own. For long moments she explored the dark woman’s mouth, tracing her sharp teeth and the inner contours of her cheek, feeling there the still slightly torn flesh from Kaleah’s beating. When Kaleah’s lips closed over her tongue and sucked forcefully, Jessica felt a powerful tightening sensation in her groin and pushed herself harder against the body that covered her.

A moment later, the two woman drew apart by unspoken agreement, their breathing shallow and harsh. Jessica opened her eyes and gazed up into the somewhat unfocused eyes of her friend. She smiled dreamily, and Kaleah flashed her a dazzling grin.

"Are you okay?" the dark woman asked softly, letting her hand wander lightly over the young woman’s body.

Jess nodded. "Fine." She gave a slightly shy giggle. "I feel a little dizzy," she admitted with a blush.

Kaleah’s grin widened. "Me, too." She glanced down meaningfully at where her thigh was pressed against the young blonde’s still-grinding center. "You know, you should probably stop that or we’re going to get carried away."

Jess followed her eyes and saw how she was moving, and her blush deepened. She couldn’t seem to control the rhythm of her own body, but with the sensations coursing through her, she wasn’t sure she wanted to. She raised an eyebrow and smiled as she deliberately thrust harder. "Getting carried away sounds really nice right about now," she panted breathlessly.

Kaleah smiled, but pulled her leg away. Jessica moaned at the loss and pouted, but the dark woman ended any protests with another searing kiss, which quickly turned into another long session of gentle explorations. When they parted again, Jessica’s eyes were dazed and fuzzy. She smiled a silly smile.

"I’ve been wanting to kiss you like that for so long," the young blonde whispered. "All my life, I’ve read stories where people share kisses so intense they make everything else disappear. I’ve never . . . actually kissed anyone that way before, though." She gnawed her lower lip shyly as she gazed into sapphire pools. "You make me feel like I’m living in a fairy tale . . . I have to keep reminding myself this is real."

"It’s real," Kaleah assured her, kissing her gently on the cheek. "And it only gets better from here." She gazed seriously into dark green eyes. "I love you, Jess."

Jessica smiled. "I love you, too." Her eyes grew darker still. "And I really want to show you just how much I love you." She pulled Kaleah’s body down onto hers more firmly, enjoying the feel of so much contact but wishing she could get rid of the leather armor that kept her from touching the bronzed skin that lay beneath. The young blonde was inexperienced at all this, but she wasn’t about to let that get in her way.

Kaleah found herself helpless against the strength of her young love, and she buried her face against Jessica’s neck, breathing in the intoxicating scent of vanilla and sweat. Her lips pressed against soft skin, and she nipped lightly with her teeth, causing the blonde to yelp, then groan. "I want to make love with you, Jess," she whispered into her ear, smiling when she felt a shudder run through the body pressed so close against her own. "But I want it to be perfect for both of us." She drew back a little. "As much as I’d like to continue this right now . . . we really have to stop."

Jessica pouted. "This is perfect, Kaleah," she insisted.

"How perfect will it be if the soldiers catch us?" Kaleah saw that register in the young woman, who sighed and nodded her understanding. "I promise I’ll make the wait worthwhile."

Jess smiled shyly. "Can we . . . kiss again?" she asked. "Just once, before we head back?"

Kaleah grinned and nodded, then claimed the young woman’s lips. She let her passion show in the kiss, making it a promise of things to come. Time drifted away as they explored each other at a leisurely pace, quickly becoming lost in the soft sensations and the warmth of their love. But when the sound of a twig snapping just a few feet away broke the silence of the forest, blue eyes opened instantly and locked with startled green. The spell of the kiss broken, they sensed the presence of others in the clearing. Adrenaline dispelled the fog of desire, and both women moved with dazzling speed.

Kaleah was on her feet and turning a fraction of a second before Jessica rolled to the side and crouched low. It was a struggle to make the transition from a moment of intimacy to one of danger . . . and with her defenses lowered, Kaleah felt the dark and wild beast that crouched inside her easily shake off it’s leash and spring forward. She tried desperately to regain control, but it was hopeless. The sudden interruption brought all her deepest and most primitive instincts to the fore, and Kaleah was helpless to drag the darkness back.

It took a heartbeat to identify that the intruders were not part of their patrol, and the passionate fury focused her vision, giving her a single-minded goal; to protect Jessica. Somewhere inside, Kaleah paused a second to marvel at this. Even the darkest part of me feels nothing but love for her.

Steel flashed as a dagger appeared in the dark woman’s hand so swiftly it was almost magical, and a feral grin twisted the scar on her lips. The darkness that caught her in it’s powerful grip didn’t even think to regret that her sword was still back in the clearing with Charles and Damon; the shorter blade was just as deadly. She stepped forward as one of the roughly-armored men charged her, swinging an iron-shod mace at her shoulder.

Kaleah ducked the straight-forward attack and struck with lethal skill. The dagger swept upwards, ignoring the mans armored chest to plunge into his unprotected throat, angled to penetrate his brain. He was dead instantly, but Kaleah was advancing on the next man before his body had crumpled to the ground. Through the fog of rage that blinded her, Kaleah watched her own hand strike him down with the same ruthless efficiency, unable to cage the darkness that had been loosed.

Stepping back as more men moved forward, Kaleah saw Jessica behind her. The girl was still crouched, a slender dirk in her hand, but she hadn’t moved to fight yet. Wide green eyes set in a pale face stared at her uncertainly, but Kaleah turned away coldly, her focus on the advancing intruders. The dark woman guessed there were about fifteen men surrounding them now, but the darkness made her numb to any fear. Bending down, she picked up the sword from her most recent kill and spun it a few times, getting the balance. The weapon was heavier than her own blade, but she didn’t care. Rage fueled her body with fearsome strength, and even through the haze of blood-lust and darkness, her thoughts went instantly to her young love. She had to protect Jessica . . . and she knew that Jessica would protect her.

Facing the men, Kaleah took a step forward, sword raised, but she stopped when several of the intruders raised new weapons. "Drop the sword!" one man ordered sharply. The former slave had seen a few cross-bows in her life, and recognized the danger as gleaming bolts were trained on her. Still, she hesitated only a moment before she stepped forward again, fearless of pain or death.

"No, Kaleah!!" Desperate hands grabbed her and pulled her back. She snarled and tried to pull free, but Jessica was strong. Glaring down at the smaller woman, it took a moment for her to understand the look in Jess’s emerald eyes. The darkness receded a little, and Kaleah held still, struggling against the urge to continue the fight. Jessica’s hands relaxed a little and her eyes flitted nervously to the cautious men who were waiting. Her expression was full of fear . . . not for herself, but for Kaleah. "They’ll kill us both!" she whispered frantically. "We can’t fight this. Please."

Even the animal rage in Kaleah was helpless against this soft plea. Reluctantly, the red mist dissipated and the former slave took a long, shaky breath before nodding her understanding. "Okay." Numb fingers released the sword, which thudded to the forest floor. The dagger followed, and Jessica sighed with relief, tossing her own weapon away. Kaleah glared at the men and their deadly bows with cold, malevolent eyes, but she held herself still. Jessica raised her hands to show they were empty as the men stepped forward more boldly now.

"We surrender."

Jessica watched the group of men as they tightened their circle, cross-bows never wavering. Her eyes flickered briefly to the two men Kaleah had killed, then she glanced at her dark friend quickly, trying to judge how her volatile temperament might affect their chances of getting out of this. The young woman knew she could yell for help and the nearby patrol would probably hear her . . . but by the time help arrived, it would certainly be too late. Against the glinting danger of the cross-bows, there was nothing even her swift reflexes could do.

"My, but this is an unexpected encounter," came a rich, cultured voice from behind. Jessica whirled about to find a tall, slender man with short, dark-brown hair and refined features step through the ring of men. He wore reinforced leather armor and his motions were calm and considered. Intelligent hazel eyes looked her up and down, and a slight smile washed over his handsome face. "A young woman with so beautiful and noble a bearing can be no other than the daughter of Sir Richard himself," he mused, studying her. "Am I correct to assume I have the honor to stand before the Lady Jessica Da’Gran?"

Jessica held herself steady under his inspection. She was surprised to find his tone was not sarcastic, but held only a sincere respect. Glaring at him, she nodded warily. "You do."

The man clapped his hands once, his smile widening. "What a strange piece of fortune this is," he said, offering a slight bow. "Permit me to introduce myself, my lady. I am Frederick Gosford . . . though I don’t suppose that name means anything to you." His eyes were curious, and his tone said he was testing her.

Jessica searched her mind for the name, but came up empty. "Should it?"

Gosford shrugged. "Perhaps. In some circles, I am quite well-known. Having heard your reputation, I thought it possible you might have heard mine."

She shook her head, considering the man carefully. Gosford wore no crest or heraldic symbol, yet his armor was of excellent quality, and the long-sword at his side was worn with casual grace that spoke of great familiarity. His accent and manner of speech indicated he was educated and well-bred, but from his rugged features, Jessica guessed the man held no title. Studying him in comparison to the other men, Jess suddenly understood what was going on.

"You’re a mercenary."

Gosford smiled and inclined his head, accepting the title. "One of the best, my lady . . . and one of the most expensive. After so many failed attempts to take Da’Gran land by force, it is understandable that Sir William would spare no expense for his latest endeavor."

Green eyes widened. "You’re working for Lancaster!?"

"Indeed I am, my lady. His lordship hired me at great cost to lead the expedition against your father . . . his own strategies weren’t working."

"This is impossible." Jessica struggled to comprehend the situation, realizing she was in more danger than if these men were simply an itinerant band of raiders. "You can’t think to take the castle with Lancaster’s men. Even if he gave you every man in his army, you’d never win against Da’Gran troops. And Sir William hasn’t the wealth to hire a mercenary army of any decent size."

"Of course not, my lady," Gosford agreed amicably. "Sir William has kept the greater part of his forces at home . . . but I don’t need his men to win." His hazel eyes were unnervingly calm and slightly amused; Jessica didn’t like his confidence. "Even as we speak, an army of rouges, thieves and bandits marches through the woods towards your father’s castle. They outnumber his forces four to one, and by tomorrow evening, they will lay siege to the fortress." He smiled at the stunned expression on her face. "We have been recruiting for this campaign since before the start of winter. The raiders may not be the greatest fighters in the world . . . but they’re cheap, expendable, and best of all, numerous. With a capable commander, they make an unstoppable force."

Jessica saw the conviction in Gosford’s eyes, and knew the man spoke the truth. This explained how the bandit groups had seemingly vanished recently, and the strange behavior of Sir William during his visit. The magnitude of the threat hit her hard, but Jess managed to conceal her fear from the carefully watching mercenary.

"And what are your plans for me?" she demanded coldly.

"Can you not guess?" Gosford smiled in amusement. "Sir Richard’s love for his daughter is well known. Finding you out here like this is great fortune. You will be a powerful tool against him in the coming days."

"If you know anything of my father, than you must know he holds the lives of his people above all else . . . even my life. He’d never agree to a ransom."

"Oh, I beg to differ." Gosford’s expression became serious. "Believe it or not, Lady Jessica, I want this conquest to be as bloodless as I can make it. I have a great respect for your father, and indeed for you yourself. My terms for surrender will be more than fair. In time, Sir Richard will see sense." His eyes went to the two dead bodies lying on the forest floor, then to Kaleah, who stood stiffly next to Jessica. "Sir William made mention of a strange woman keeping company with Jessica," he mused speculatively. "He worried you might be an extra thorn in our side, and I see he was not entirely unjustified in his concern." He chuckled, his hazel eyes sparkling. "Still, I am certain he will be most amused to hear that the ‘handmaiden’ he troubled over is little more than Lady Jessica’s whore!"

Gosford’s laughter died suddenly as Jessica’s fist slammed into his face with a speed that was blinding. Kaleah instantly moved to place herself between her young love and the men holding the crossbows as they stepped forward, their fingers tightening on triggers. They halted at a raised hand from the mercenary leader.

Jessica’s green eyes were filled with venom and her body trembled with rage. "If you speak another word like that against Kaleah, I’ll rip your throat out," she hissed. One of the men reversed his bow and moved to deliver a stern reprisal.

"No!" Gosford halted the man. "She’s right. My words were crude and unwarranted against a lady of the nobility." He rubbed his jaw, wincing a little before offering a slight bow to Kaleah, then one to Jessica. "I apologize to you both, but you must understand that it is something of a shock to stumble upon the two of you in so intimate a circumstance. I should not have displayed such disrespect, however, and I am sorry for it." He motioned with his right hand, and the bandit soldiers reluctantly backed away.

Jessica eyed him a moment, suspecting he was taunting her, but realized quickly that his regret was sincere. She nodded her acceptance of the apology, and he smiled.

Who was this Gosford? The bandits obviously held him in great regard, but he was unlike any of the mercenaries Jessica had encountered before. He spoke with great eloquence, and held himself with an almost regal bearing. Sir Miles had once told her that the more brutal and cruel an enemy was, the more flaws and weaknesses he was trying to cover. She could tell that Gosford’s behavior was not an act; he could afford to be magnanimous because he was confident of his abilities.

Beneath the charm, Jesica knew, lay a dangerous man.

Gosford looked around the woods, searching. "We are close to Da’Gran," he muttered. A sharp eye trapped Jessica. "Are the two of you alone out here?"

Jessica hesitated. She didn’t want this man to know that help was close by, and she judged him quickly to surmise the best way to keep him unsuspecting. Swallowing, she shook her head. "There’s a whole patrol with us," she said, pitching her voice deliberately high. "They’re not far away."

Gosford considered this, his head cocked to the side. "Far enough that you didn’t bother calling for help, I see," he pondered. "Far enough that you felt safe to engage in private acts with your ‘friend’ here." He gestured to Kaleah. "I think it more likely that you are alone, my lady," he smiled, "and that you came here to steal some time away from the eyes of the castle with your companion." Jessica looked away briefly, her features paling, and Gosford’s smile widened, fooled completely by the guilty expression. "We must return to camp quickly before a real patrol comes by."

Gosford turned his attention back to Kaleah, who still hovered protectively close to the young blonde. "I have a use for you besides ransom," he said. "I want you to inform Sir Richard that we have his daughter. In twenty-four hours, his castle will be under siege. He has that time to evacuate the villagers behind Da’Gran’s walls and to make what preparations he will. Inform him that I will make terms for surrender as soon as my men are in position. Can you remember all that?"

Kaleah looked to Jessica, not wanting to be separated, but the young woman nodded and gave her a reassuring pat on the arm. She glared at Gosford and nodded.

"Excellent. And to be sure you don’t take it into your head to follow your mistress . . ." His eyes flickered beyond her, and Kaleah turned just in time to receive a sharp smack to the temple from the oak stock of a crossbow.

"Kaleah!?!" Jessica cried out as the dark woman slid bonelessly to the ground.

"She’ll be fine when she comes too," Gosford said, signaling for his men to grab her. "Be gentle," he reprimanded them when they pulled Jessica roughly away from her friend. "Keep in mind that you are escorting a lady of the nobility."

Jess glared at him angrily, a tear escaping her eye. "You didn’t have to do that!"

He shrugged. "I’ll not risk that she’ll try to be a hero and rescue her lover," he said firmly. "By the time she’s in any condition to follow us, our trail will be covered. Come now, it’s a short walk to the horses, then another hour ride back to camp." He gestured to the two men Kaleah had killed. "We take them with us. Go!" The bandits moved quickly to follow orders.

The men guided the young blonde out of the clearing and back into the deeper parts of the forest, their actions firm but not rough. Jessica looked over her shoulder and felt her throat tighten at the sight of Kaleah’s unconscious figure. "Be safe," she whispered, before the men insisted she turn and continue.

What had started out to be the most wonderful day of her life had taken a suddenly dark turn. Her home was in great danger . . . worse than it had ever been during her life. Jessica wished for Kaleah’s company but was thankful that her friend would at least be safe for the time being. All she could do now was hope that her father and Sir Miles would figure out a way to save Da’Gran – and hopefully her as well – before it was too late.

Chapter 22.

Kaleah didn’t have enough time to duck the blow from the butt of the crossbow, but her swift reflexes did allow her to roll away a little, reducing the force of the impact. Everything went black for a frightening moment as she fell limply to the ground, but she managed to struggle against the seductive pull of the darkness for a few moments . . . just long enough for her to mark firmly in her mind the direction the men took her beloved Jessica. Then, her eyes fluttered closed and the pain vanished.

A familiar voice, urgent and worried, called her back seemingly a moment later. Opening her eyes, Kaleah found Charles bent over her, calling her name. His relief was obvious when she shook her head a little, and he helped her sit up.

"What happened?" he questioned anxiously. "Where’s Jessica?"

Kaleah looked around groggily to find several Da’Gran soldiers from the patrol watching her. A few were bent over the ground studying something. She groaned and put a hand to her throbbing head. "Men," she said shakily. "They attacked us. I-I killed two of them but . . . they had crossbows and Jessica . . ." She shook her head. "They took Jessica."

"Who were they?" demanded the patrol leader. "Bandits?"

Kaleah shrugged and tried to stand, but a wave of dizziness overtook her. "I think so, but their leader was a mercenary. He said his name was . . . Gosford, I think. And he said he had an army." She saw the patrol leader’s eyes widen and quickly told him what Gosford had said about the planned attack on Da’Gran.

"That’s not possible!"

"It is," Kaleah insisted. "The army will be here in a day."

"I don’t believe it."

Kaleah saw in his face that he did. "Jessica took his threat seriously," she observed, and after a moment he sighed and nodded.

"Sir Richard must be informed," he said. "We need to get back to Da’Gran as quickly as possible."

Kaleah’s eyes widened. "What about Jessica?"

"There’s little we can do," Charles told her. "They’re long gone by now."

Kaleah struggled against him and managed to get to her feet. "I’m not leaving her with that man," she hissed angrily. "I’ll go alone if I have to, but I’m getting her back."

"You can’t-"

"I can, and I will," she insisted, shrugging off his attempts to restrain her. Her sapphire eyes bore into his. "Don’t even think of trying to stop me, Charles."

"Jessica’s smart," he argued persuasively. "She’s been in hostage situations before. She knows how to handle it."

Kaleah didn’t move a muscle. "I’m getting her back," she said slowly and calmly. Her voice pitched lower so only Charles would hear. "You know what she means to me. Do you honestly expect me to stand and watch peacefully while she’s ripped away from me?"

He was silent a long moment, then he sighed. "You’ll never get her back if you go alone. I’ll come with you."

"Milord, I must insist you return to Da’Gran." The patrol leader had heard those last words and moved instantly to intervene. "We cannot risk handing over another hostage . . . especially one as valuable as yourself."

"He’s right," Damon agreed. "I cannot in good conscious allow you to go."

Charles considered this a moment. "Very well. Damon, you will go in my place."

"Milord, it is my duty-"

"It is your duty to follow orders," Charles interrupted. "There are enough men to escort me safely back to the castle. Kaleah will need your help more than I."

"I can spare a few men to go with you as well," the patrol leader agreed readily. "If it is at all possible to rescue Lady Jessica, we must at least try."

Kaleah smiled and nodded. "Thank you. I saw which way they headed, but I’m not a great tracker. We must hurry."

With the discipline of veteran soldiers, the men quickly organized themselves into two groups, one to return to the castle, one to go with Kaleah. In only a few minutes, the dark woman was leading her somber group through the forest, her cold eyes focused and intense.

"You’ll never win. You know my father will fight to the death for his people." Jessica glared at the man studying a pile of detailed maps laid out on a table a few feet away. Gosford glanced at her, smiling his quiet, confidant smile.

"Against my numbers, Lady Jessica, even a soldier of Sir Richard’s experience cannot stand." His eyes returned to the maps. "We have everything in place, and every possible avenue covered. Da’Gran will fall, one way or another."

Jessica snarled and pulled uselessly at the ropes that bound her hands behind her back. This was Gosford’s own private tent, the largest of the three structures that made up the center of the small encampment. The other two she had seen likely housed supplies or weapons, with the common soldiers sleeping outside. She knew the mercenary had had her brought here mostly so he could personally ensure she behaved herself, but from the hard look he gave some of the bandits earlier, she suspected there was another reason also. Jessica had a reputation among the bandits, and it was entirely possible they might seek retribution once they were away from the stern eyes of their commander. The young blonde had heard a few of the crude comments and suggestions from the men about her and Kaleah. She was grateful to Gosford for the courtesy of his protection.

The camp numbered several dozen from what Jessica had seen, and they were reasonably well-equipped. There had even been a few soldiers wearing the heraldry of Sir William. Jess prayed that Kaleah would be sensible and return to the safety of Da’Gran, but knowing the unpredictable woman as she did, it was impossible to rule out a rescue attempt.

This wasn’t the first time Jessica had been in a hostage situation, and she was less frightened than she was angry. Her home was about to be attacked, and instead of preparing to fight, she was tied up and helpless, about to be used as a bargaining chip in Gosford’s terms for surrender. She was a fighter; her skills would be wasted if she stayed like this. Although she hoped fervently that Kaleah would be safe and go back to Da’Gran, Jessica was more than ready to escape if the opportunity presented itself.

Assuming a relaxed and slightly haughty expression, Jessica eyed the mercenary a little calmer. "You think a rag-tag army of bandits can defeat Da’Gran troops?" She snorted. "Any one of my fathers men is worth ten of yours. The castle is strong and gives the advantage of a secure position. Numbers will avail you little against it."

Gosford shrugged. "I have more than simple numbers on my side, my lady . . . I have timing and preparation. You’ve a sound understanding of warfare and tactics; eventually, you will come to understand the many pieces that will give me victory."

Jessica was considering a response when a sudden shout came from outside, followed instantly by the clash of weaponry. Gosford’s sharp eyes leapt up and held her for a moment, then he turned towards the covered entrance looking outside. A loud, bellowing battlecry rang through the camp, and he turned back, eyes cautious but angry.

"Perhaps your father moves faster than I had thought," he growled, standing over her. "Still, if he hopes to have you rescued, the task will prove more difficult than he anticipates."

"Is that so?" purred a low voice behind him.

Gosford’s eyes widened and his sword leapt from its scabbard as he whirled about, only to be confronted by two menacing eyes as hard and cold as chips of ice. Before he could even register the presence of the dark-haired specter that had risen behind him however, the ornate hilt of Kaleah’s Spanish sword slammed into his face and he fell back, dropping his weapon. Kaleah advanced and snarled as Gosford shook his head, trying vainly to focus his dimming vision. "Maybe you’re not as good at this stuff as you think you are." Steel flashed in her hand as she leveled the tip of her sword under his throat. She smiled ferally. "Maybe you won’t live to learn any better."

"Kaleah, no!"

Sapphire eyes lifted and regarded Jessica quickly, softening instantly then returning to Gosford. The sword withdrew a fraction. "You don’t deserve the second chance she’s giving you," Kaleah whispered angrily. Her hand reversed and delivered a second mighty blow, this time knocking the mercenary out cold. "There won’t be another."

Kaleah turned quickly and rushed over to Jessica, throwing her arms around the young woman and clutching her fiercely to her chest. Tears welled up behind her tightly closed eyes and she swallowed the lump in her throat. "I’m sorry," she whispered, her voice catching. "I got here as soon as I could."

Jessica struggled to balance without the use of her hands. "I’m okay," she assured the dark woman quickly, accepting a desperate kiss. "You should have gone back to the castle. You would have been safe there."

Kaleah pulled back and wiped at her eyes. She smiled wryly. "If our positions were reversed, would you have gone back without me?" Jessica’s head fell forward, and the former slave nodded. "I’d do anything you ever asked of me, Jess," she said softly, "but never expect me to stay behind when you’re in danger."

Jessica met her eyes again and nodded. "Okay. Now quickly . . . we have to get out of here. Untie my hands."

Kaleah cut the thick ropes and helped her young love to her feet. "Damon and the others can’t hold the soldiers long," she said urgently, guiding them over to the slit she’d made in the back of the tent. "As soon as they form an organized defense, they’ll have to pull back and retreat. This is just a distraction." Even as she spoke, they heard the sounds of the skirmish die down, replaced by cries of alarm and shouts of "Fire!!". Jessica cast her tall companion a curious look and was met by an evil smirk and a raised eyebrow. "That’ll be the supply tents."

Jess chuckled, then ducked outside. Looking around, she found the camp in a state of confusion, men running in all directions. Some seemed to want to give chase to the figures she saw retreating back into the forest, while others were more concerned with the now roaring blaze that was consuming the two tents. A firm hand gripped her shoulder. "This way." She allowed Kaleah to guide her swiftly into the welcome cover of the denser trees.

The sounds of the camp died away quickly as they ran as fast as they safely could, and it wasn’t long before they reached a clearing. Jessica grinned when she saw the gathering there, hugging Damon’s armored figure briefly and nodding her thanks to the others. Several of the men bore minor injuries, but their hit-and-run tactic had worked well and they had escaped lightly.

"We have to get back to Da’Gran quickly, Lady Jessica," one of the soldiers stated. "Your father will be relieved when he hears you are safe."

Kaleah brought Andromeda forward and handed Jessica the reins. "Charles returned with the others to warn everyone about what’s happening," she said quietly. "The villagers will have time to evacuate."

"Good." Jessica mounted the nervous mare smoothly and smiled at the men who followed suit. "Thank you all for risking yourselves to save me."

"Was Kaleah’s only thought when we found her," Damon said. "She refused to return to the castle without you."

"Is that so?" Jessica flashed her friend a quick grin, her eyes twinkling. Now that she was free again her excitement was difficult to contain. "Well I’ll be sure to thank her properly when I have the time," she said playfully. Kaleah returned her grin knowingly, then urged her own horse forward.

They set a brisk pace through the forest, knowing that pursuit was almost certain. Only when they were trailing along the familiar paths that laced the woods close to the castle did they slow down and give their tired horses a break. Kaleah rode next to her young love, needing to be close to her. Jessica reached out and patted her thigh reassuringly.

"It’s okay," she said softly. "I’m safe now and we’re together. That’s all that matters."

Kaleah smiled a little and nodded. Then her features hardened. "Why didn’t you let me kill him?"

Seeing that Kaleah was furious at Gosford for the abduction Jessica considered her answer carefully. "Gosford’s not an evil man," she said slowly. "He’s just being paid to fight against us. He treated me with respect, and I know he’ll be an honorable opponent against my father." She paused. "Killing him wouldn’t stop the army. Someone else would just take over, and we could be fighting against a real monster." She watched Kaleah’s face and saw the tense lines relax a little in understanding. "Whatever else he may be, Gosford’s no petty butcher. Whatever happens, I know he’ll deal with us fairly."

Kaleah nodded, her expression grim. She faced Jessica seriously. "We’re in a lot of trouble, aren’t we?"

Jess was silent a moment, then whispered, "Aye, we are." A slight smile appeared then, and she patted Kaleah on the leg intimately. "But at least we’re together . . . so it’s not all bad, huh?"

Kaleah nodded, reaching down and pulling Jessica’s hand to her lips. The kiss was brief and gentle, but it managed to convey her love and affection nonetheless. They smiled at one another, then parted as a call from ahead called their attention to the fact that they’d reached the edge of the forest. Da’Gran castle came into view in the distance.

Jessica sighed, feeling a little tired at the events of the busy day and knowing she wasn’t likely to find rest any time soon. "I guess this means we have to postpone our plans for this evening again, doesn’t it?"

Kaleah couldn’t help but grin at the hoarse tone of her friend’s voice. "Yep."

"Humph."

Emerald eyes scanned back and forth slowly, taking in the grim view with weary despair. Jessica’s heart felt heavy in her chest, but she was too tired to cry. She couldn’t remember wanting sleep so badly in all her life. Turning, the young blonde looked up into the warm sapphire eyes that were watching with her and smiled sadly, glad for Kaleah’s support through the last hours. Her gaze shifted to Sir Miles. The old knight’s face was drawn with fatigue and sorrow, but his stance was strong. He sighed as his shrewd eyes looked out from the battlement to the field.

"He’s no fool, to be sure," was his simple assessment.

"Aye."

It was approaching dusk, and the bandit army had been in position for almost a day now. It had taken that long for Gosford to get his men settled and secure. The mercenary established himself in a wide perimeter that encircled Da’Gran completely, his troops just out of range of Sir Richard’s archers. At that distance, of course, he hadn’t the men to surround the castle entirely, but had settled for secure pockets of men spaced evenly every thirty paces. A troop of cavalry rode back and forth along the lines, making sure the gaps in the siege were clear and keeping the unruly bandits from doing anything stupid. Now, as the sun began to vanish over the horizon, a ring of campfires sprang to life, their flickering glow forming an evil faery-ring around Da’Gran, and serving to keep the defenders mindful of the enemy at the gate.

Jessica had returned to the castle to find everything in a state of disciplined chaos. Charles led a group of soldiers and knights out to the village and ordered an evacuation. A tent city sprung up in the jousting and training fields, and the common people took what they could carry and moved behind the walls of Da’Gran. After much debate, the village itself was razed to prevent the enemy from plundering the materials for siege engines. The smoke from the smoldering remains choked the air, increasing everyone’s despair.

Sir Miles had passed weapons out among the peasants, who held them clumsily as they would a shovel or a hoe. Still, they were prepared to fight to defend their lord and their lives, and Sir Miles called for volunteers from the garrison to train them as best they could.

Jessica’s safe return was met with subdued cheer, but it was quickly apparent to the young woman that something was wrong. When she didn’t see the face of her father among those welcoming her back, she feared she knew why. A glance to Sir Miles’ drawn face had confirmed her intuition for the general air of desolation that seemed to flow over the people, and the grey knight drew her and Kaleah aside to explain.

Sir Richard had been struck down by a fever.

The sickness had started early that morning, Miles reported, with Sir Richard complaining of nausea and cramps. He had waved it off at first as unimportant, but it worsened quickly, developing into a high fever and painful spasms that brought the strong lord to his bed. Eric Grace and his apprentice had been unable to remedy the illness, but by the timing and nature of it, Grace suggested grimly that Sir Richard may well have been poisoned somehow.

Jessica had visited her father, but he had drifted into a delirious sleep and she was reluctant to rouse him. She’d cried briefly then, and Kaleah had held her close, stroking her hair soothingly and repeating that everything would be alright. Then, composing herself, the young blonde had set herself to the task of protecting her people and her home.

When the bandit army emerged from the forest, the people continued their preparations with stoic disregard. Jessica answered a messenger from Gosford who delivered terms for surrender with a calm no, then returned to the work at hand. She knew the people were heartened by her presence, and she spoke to everyone gratefully, boosting their moral. Jess knew that that would be the first thing to be threatened in a siege, when the long hours of waiting could bring crippling depression and despondence to defenders in a matter of days.

Finally, her body aching from exhaustion and sorrow, the young woman allowed herself to study the enemy in greater detail. It was now, with the siege upon them, that she began to understand just how well Gosford had planned all this.

"What are we going to do?"

Kaleah wrapped a long arm around her waist and pulled her into an embrace. "His men are spread thin," she observed. "We could break through easily and sweep along his line."

She shook her head, smiling a little at the blunt strategy that was so characteristic of her companion. "His army outnumbers us too greatly. Our troops would be exhausted before half the enemy were slain. And then, the castle would fall easily."

Kaleah considered. "I don’t suppose we can just wait him out?"

"No. He’s planned this well. The castle supplies are at their lowest right now; we’ve been relying on them through the winter, and we’ve not yet planted the spring crops. He’s forced us to evacuate a whole village so we’ll run through the supplies faster still. Even with rationing, we won’t last more than a week or two before we have to fight."

"And that’s if the water’s still pure," Sir Miles added with a scowl. "Grace still can’t say fer sure what sickened yer daddy."

Jessica sniffled a little. Without her father, the people were relying on her and Miles for leadership. Lady Rose was less than useless, and had already retreated into her rooms with Steven in tow.

"What about Charles’ father?" Kaleah suggested. "Surely he’ll figure something’s wrong when his son doesn’t return on time."

Jessica gripped Kaleah’s arm and pulled it tighter about herself, needing physical contact with the dark woman now more than ever. She didn’t care if someone saw. "That’s the most clever and daring part of Gosford’s strategy," she said softly. "He had Lancaster offer to attend a treaty discussion in Da’Gran, and my father brought in Charles to demonstrate our alliance and its strength. Now he attacks, and traps Charles here. Once he takes the castle, he’ll capture Charles and hold him as a hostage against the Earl moving in his troops." She sighed, blinking her eyes rapidly as the flickering lights of the many fires started to swim in her vision. "I don’t know if he had a hand in my fathers illness, but regardless, it bodes well for him and poor for us. Our figurehead is gone, and the people’s resolve will be weakened." She rubbed her eyes wearily.

"Let’s be takin’ this a day at a time, lass," Miles rumbled. "Gosford don’t look to be goin’ anyplace fer the time being. Let ‘im get comfy fer a while ‘fore we make a move. Those bandits ain’t known fer their patience."

"You’re right." Jessica studied the army outside curiously. "Give it a week and their discipline could start to slip. Then we could-"

"Wait ‘n see what happens ‘fore ye go gettin’ excited. It’s been a long few days, Jess. You’ll be no use to the people as a leader if ye don’t get some rest." His eyes shifted to Kaleah, who wasn’t any better than the young blonde. "That goes fer you, too."

Kaleah smiled and nodded. "Let’s go," she whispered, kissing Jess’s head softly. "Thing’s might look better in the daylight." With a final glance at the circle of fire, the former slave guided her unresisting friend down the stairs and back to Jessica’s room.

The dark woman stood her numb friend up and gently removed the armor she was wearing, laying each piece neatly on a frame nearby. Jessica smiled as she was undressed, enjoying the simple, undemanding pleasure of Kaleah’s light touches. She obediently slipped into a clean shirt and trousers, the cloth feeling almost sensual to her after the hours spent in her leathers. When soft lips caressed her shoulder, Jess giggled and pulled her tall companion into an embrace.

"You know, I should be too tired to feel anything," she mumbled as she began to return the favor, her hands lingering over every inch of bronzed skin revealed. "But now that we’re alone . . . I’m feeling rather energetic." She felt a deep rumble pass through the body pressed tight against her.

"We neither of us have the energy to do anything tonight," the dark woman purred, though her hands combed eagerly through Jessica’s blonde locks. "No matter how much we might want to."

Jess pouted and tossed a piece of leather aside. Her eyes twinkled playfully even through her fatigue. "Are you so sure of that?"

Kaleah grinned. "Believe me, princess," she rumbled, "you’re gonna need to be well rested before you start getting frisky with me."

"Oh, really?"

"Mmmhmmm." Kaleah waggled her eyebrows.

Jess blushed a little, but pulled away from the dark woman long enough to find her a shirt and pants to change into. She watched with hooded eyes as Kaleah donned the simple garments. "Well . . . I wouldn’t want to fall asleep in the middle of something." She grinned, then lay back on her bed with a sigh of contentment. "You’ll still sleep in here though, right?"

Kaleah answered by flopping bonelessly down beside her.

"Good."

They dragged the covers over them and, as before, Jessica found herself entangled in a warm and safe cocoon of powerful arms and legs as Kaleah spooned her body around her. Her eyes closed instantly, and the tension from the last few days drifted away. She could set aside the troubles of the outside world and simply enjoy the gift of this haven of love and peace. Kaleah’s breath washed away her fears of tomorrow, of her father’s safety, of everything else. Jess sighed in contentment, feeling a gentle kiss against her shoulder. As she drifted away into the misty world of dreams, she heard a low voice ruffle the hairs at the base of her neck.

"I love you."

The smell of bacon and freshly baked bread roused Jessica from slumber early the next morning. Before she even opened her eyes she sensed the absence of her bedmate. The room was empty. Groaning mildly and wishing circumstances would allow a few more hours sleep, Jess looked around and quickly found the tray of breakfast resting on the bedside table. She smiled and eagerly grabbed it.

There was a folded note resting under the plate, and the hungry young blonde opened it and scanned the somewhat clumsy writing as she happily shoveled food into her mouth.

J,

Jess smiled fondly, then noticed an additional scrawl on the back of the note. She flipped it over.

I know we were both looking forward to some time alone together and we didn’t ask for this to happen, but I think we have to focus our energy now on saving the castle and your people. Remember I love you . . . but we can’t let passion distract us.

Green eyes narrowed. "I don’t think I like the sound of that," Jessica murmured cautiously. "Not let passion distract us? Does that mean what I think it means? Cos I’ve been waiting for a little ‘passionate distraction’ with you for too long already, Kaleah." She reread the brief note, then shook her head. "We’re going to be talking about this later," she told her absent friend sternly. "Just as soon as I get finished with Miles."

Quickly scarfing down the rest of her breakfast – remembering that the castle supplies would need to be rationed if they were going to survive the siege – Jessica donned her armor and strode through the halls to her fathers war-room – a hallowed place she had only ever visited once or twice before in her whole life. A guard stationed outside nodded in greeting, then opened the door and announced her to the gathered knights within. Whatever discussion had been going on died quickly as the men turned to face her.

Sir Miles smiled. "Come in, Jess. We were just about to get started."

Stepping into the room, Jessica found herself unconsciously mimicking the posture and attitude she had seen her father assume during times of crisis. She coolly met each set of serious, troubled eyes in the room, pleased to find no hint of challenge at her presence. Being a woman, Jessica had no official right to be attending this council; indeed, some of these same knights had argued for her removal from battlefields in the past, despite her skills. She didn’t want to have to fight her case again when there were more important issues to deal with.

From his position at the head of the round oak table, Sir Miles watched his finest student with pride, smiling a little at her familiar, masculine stance. Jess was short, her features almost angelically innocent, and even though she was muscular she was dwarfed by the burly gathering of knights. But the confidant, unwavering gleam in her emerald gaze gave her a force of presence that filled the room and swept away any doubts about her right to be here. She had been born to the duties of leadership, had trained tirelessly to earn the right to be a part of this world of sweat and steel, and every man recognized in her the same innate nobility and strength of spirit that had made Sir Richard such a commanding lord. Seeing this scrap of a girl step forward into a room of men twice her size and three times her experience, the old knight could only marvel silently at the gentle but irresistible power of her charm.

"Right . . ." Jess rested a hand on the hilt of her sword, taking charge of the meeting as she knew her father would have done. "We’ve an enemy at the gates, a low food supply, and no reinforcements to save us." Her lips tightened into a grim line. "Let’s hear some suggestions."

The meeting lasted several hours, but it was productive. Jess didn’t ask for permission to take her father’s place as commander; she just took it. No-one was foolish enough to question her authority – especially with Sir Miles, Eric Grace and Charles giving her their full support.

Grace reported that his tests had proven the castle water to be free from any toxins. His tests of the grain and meat stores were the same. While he still believed Sir Richard’s sickness to be no accident, he was certain the poison had not originated from the general supplies. Jess considered again Sir William’s visit, aware that such a devious method of attack was well within his moral boundaries.

Jessica was relieved to hear that her father’s condition had stabilized during the last twenty-four hours, but was concerned there had been no visible improvement.

"Whatever grips Sir Richard is beyond my ability to heal," the old sage stated calmly. "I have tried every remedy I know of, but cannot break the fever fully. From what I can see, however, Sir Richard’s body is fighting the sickness on it’s own, and is winning . . . albeit slowly." He stroked his beard thoughtfully, then added, "I believe that in time, he will recover fully."

"But not soon enough to lead us," one of the knights concluded grimly, giving Jessica a meaningful glance.

The young blonde swallowed and said softly, "We’ll just have to do this without him then."

Hearing from each of the assembly in turn, Jessica quickly gained a clear view of the situation. Gosford was apparently settling in for a long wait. The bandit army had not started building siege engines; no battering rams or catapults or climbing ladders. They had fortified their position with trenches to stop cavalry and simple walls to shelter archers, but were making no move to attack the castle directly. That suggested Gosford planned to wait for their food and water to run low and their strength to diminish before he attacked.

"Which means we have to do something before the soldiers grow demoralized and too weak to fight," Jess stated.

One of the younger knights snorted. "We don’t stand a chance against those numbers. We leave the castle and they’ll cut us to ribbons."

"No army is perfect, regardless of it’s virtues." she shot back, her eyes flashing. "We just have to figure out what Gosford’s weakness is, and how we can exploit it."

The council suggested a variety of strategies and possible weakness’, but Jessica calmly discounted each in turn, observing the flaws that would defeat them. Eventually, when it became apparent that they weren’t going to figure anything out then and there, Jessica ended the discussion.

"We’ll just have to wait and see what the next few days bring," she stated finally. "We don’t know how strong a hold Gosford has over the raiders. Obviously, he’s using the few dozen troops Sir William gave him to maintain order . . . but how long will that last. If we’re patient, and watchful, an opportunity might arise." Her eyes narrowed. "If that happens, I want us to be ready to take advantage of it."

From there, the council turned it’s attention to organizing the training of the commoners, the rationing of supplies, and general issues of restructuring the way of life in the castle to deal with the siege. Jessica listened to the advice she was given, and acted on the wisdom of the more experienced warriors. She had only an abstract knowledge of siege warfare, and was smart enough to admit it. Throughout the council Miles stood at her right, supporting and guiding her decisions, and glowering at any of those who seemed to want to take issue with the young blonde’s leadership.

As soon as the council ended, Jessica excused herself and left quickly to search for her dark-haired friend. She was glad to shed the stiff shell of leadership, feeling for the first time in her life the full weight of her position settle uncomfortably on her shoulders. Jessica loved combat. She loved the thrill of battle, and the excitement of knowing that the only thing saving her from a painful death was her talent. But in every battle she had ever been in, her father’s reassuring presence had been closeby, ready to defend her from both the enemy and those who disliked having a young woman fighting beside them. That was gone now. Her father was sick, and even with Miles, Charles, and the others who liked her, she felt the burden of leadership dragging her down.

Shaking her head to clear the unwanted thoughts, Jess redirected her focus to the next task at hand – the task she was, in truth, much more interested in pursuing; finding a certain tall, dark and delicious warrior who needed a stern talking too.

Unfortunately, Kaleah was nowhere to be found at the smithy. Sutton told her the dark woman was taking a break after a hard morning of work. Jess checked the central look-out, the bathing chamber, and their respective bedrooms, all without success. Frustrated, Jessica started to get the feeling that Kaleah was avoiding her deliberately.

"Is this your way of making sure we don’t get ‘distracted by our passion?’" she ground out under her breath. She blew her bangs out of her eyes angrily. "Well . . . there’re only so many places you can hide, Kaleah – and I know them all . . ."

"Lady Jessica?"

"Huh?" Turning, she found a soldier standing nervously a few feet behind her. "Yes?"

"Sir Miles sent me to find you. He’s running drills at the archery range and he wants you to join him there."

Jess glared at him a second, seriously considering ignoring the summons to continue her search for Kaleah. Then she took a deep breath and nodded to him. "I’ll be right there." She took a final careful look around, knowing it was possible her friend was watching her, then followed the soldier.

The day moved slowly by and Kaleah did not make an appearance. It was an effort for Jessica to focus on her duties, her mind and her imagination conspiring once again to tempt her with interesting visions of what the night might hold once she got her dark friend alone in her room. When darkness fell and she was able to at last retire, hungry and worn out but still eager to bring her imaginings to life, Jessica found her bedroom depressingly vacant. In Kaleah’s place was a simple note which read, A leader needs to be well rested. Get some sleep while you can.

Frustrated, Jessica crumpled the note and stormed over to investigate Kaleah’s room. It was empty. The former slave had clearly found some other place to sleep. Emerald eyes glowed with thwarted desire.

"You can’t avoid me forever Kaleah," she muttered, trying without much success to convince her body to accept that it wasn’t going to get what it craved that night. Returning to her own room, she grumpily shucked her armor and slipped naked into bed. Sighing, Jessica tried to summon up some kind of fatigue.

"This is so unfair," she groaned, stretching out fully on the bed that now seemed depressingly vast. Jessica had slept alone in here since she was old enough and headstrong enough to convince her father she deserved a place of her own. In all those years, she’d never felt so lonely as she did now. After only a few nights she had grown so accustomed to Kaleah’s presence that her absence made sleep impossible. Even without this newly-awakened, lustful hunger, Jessica wished her friend beside her, needing her comforting warmth so badly she ached inside.

Closing her eyes, Jess curled herself into a ball and called to mind the wonderful sensation of Kaleah’s long, lean figure wrapping itself around her lovingly. The memory made her smile, and she settled down to what she knew would be a long, empty night.

Chapter 23.

Kaleah was feeling rather proud of herself. For the last two days, she had successfully avoided the searching emerald eyes of her young love without shirking her duties at the smithy. Although she knew full well that Jessica was eager to explore a physical relationship with her, Kaleah was willing to postpone that so the young woman’s attention would not be sidetracked. The gesture was, to her way of thinking, rather noble . . . although she was quite sure Jessica didn’t see it that way. Kaleah grinned. With her eyes flashing like lightening and her posture tense and angry, the young blonde had everyone in the castle scrambling to stay out of her way.

The former slave had been sleeping in a room she’d discovered via the secret passages. She had, at first, pondered whether the passages could be useful against the enemy, but quickly came to the same conclusion she knew Jessica would have reached. The passages were only useful if they planned to give up the castle. From the determined set of Jess’s face, Kaleah figured that wasn’t going to happen.

Tonight would be the third night in a row she’d slept alone, and Kaleah was sorely tempted to give in to her desire and bed with her friend. But she was taking the role of suffering martyr quite seriously, and had written another note of devotion and solace to be left in Jessica’s room; a poor substitute for her own presence, she knew, but, like Jess had told her long ago, the people’s lives must come first in a true leader’s heart.

When she reached Jessica’s room however, Kaleah was surprised to find a note already pinned to the oak door. She pulled it down and opened it, recognizing the fluid, elegant penmanship of her friend.

Kaleah,

Kaleah sighed. The note was brief and clearly indicated this was more a summons than a suggestion. "Still," she mused aloud, "I could just pretend I never found the letter. She’d never know-"

That thought died quickly when she saw the additional scrawl on the back of the note: Don’t even think about it, or I’ll send the guards to track you down. I want you here NOW!

Slipping the note into her leathers, Kaleah turned and headed for the bathing chamber, head bowed penitently. She suspected she was in for a stern lecture from her young companion . . . but couldn’t repress the shiver that ran through her body at the thought of what Jess might consider an appropriate form of apology.

Reaching her destination, the dark woman hesitantly pushed the door open and stepped into the thick, warm air of the chamber. "Jess?"

"What took you so long?"

Kaleah turned. "I was just- ulp!" Her jaw dropped and lost the words when she saw the vision before her.

Jess stepped out from behind a statue of a woman bathing. She wore a sheer black robe made from a silky material that clung to her curves in shimmering waves, accentuating her muscular figure. The simple robe fell to mid-thigh and was tied loosely in front with a sash, only barely able to cover the swell of the young woman’s breasts. From the amount of bare skin on display, Kaleah suspected Jessica was naked beneath the robe. Her blonde hair was loose and damp, and her eyes sparkled wetly. When Kaleah managed to drag her eyes up from their feast, she found the young woman regarding her with a sultry, pleased look. As Jess came closer, her body undulating in a consciously sensual display, Kaleah swallowed hard.

"You’ve been avoiding me." The tone was playful, with only a hint of rebuke.

It took a moment for Kaleah to get her jaw working. "I just – I thought . . . since you needed to be doing leadership stuff, maybe it wasn’t a good idea to-"

"Distract me?" Jess grinned fully, noting the way Kaleah seemed to be having difficulty keeping her eyes from wandering. She stopped a few feet from the dark woman, setting her hands on her hips and pulling the fabric taut across her body. She gave the dark woman a long, lingering once over, and Kaleah’s nostrils flared. "Did you really think that I’d stop thinking about you just because you weren’t beside me?"

Kaleah flushed, feeling a jolt of pure arousal hit her low in the gut from the sexual timbre in Jess’s voice. "I-I thought it best for you to focus on the people . . . that’s all."

"Do you know how hard it is for me to focus on the people when all I can think of is you?" She paused, then corrected, "Us?"

Kaleah shrugged helplessly. She hadn’t thought of it that way, had assumed Jess would be able to put her desire aside while her duties called for her attention. It was hard to summon any justification for her actions with the young woman tempting her a few feet away. Her eyes tried to find other things in the room to focus on, the urge to ravish the blonde maiden growing stronger.

Jessica saw the struggle in the dark woman’s face, saw the way her eyes refused to settle on her for more than a second. A warm rush of pleasure swept through her from seeing the effect she had on her friend. Smiling coyly, Jess slowly ran a hand up from her hip and lazily drew a finger down her well-displayed cleavage. "You can look at me if you want to."

Kaleah’s wide eyes fixed on her hand instantly, her breath coming fast. Jess smiled, a tightening sensation clutching at her stomach from the heat in those azure jewels. "Do you like me?" Her finger tracked lower, pulling the robe open a fraction and earning a desperate nod from the dark woman. It was an exciting, daring feeling that flowed in her blood, and she would have laughed at her own wanton behavior but for the fact that her seduction was in earnest. She took a step closer, hips swaying, eyes yearning.

"If I could take back the last few days and make it so this siege never happened, I would," Jess whispered. "But I can’t. I know you want everything to be perfect for us . . ." She gazed into sapphire eyes that held the perfect mix of lust, fear, and utter devotion, knowing they were a mirror to her own. "But the world isn’t a perfect place. I won’t stop loving you and wanting you just because things aren’t as good as they could be." Her body pressed against Kaleah’s armored form. "I love you with all my heart and my soul, Kaleah. And now I want to be able to love you with my body as well." Her hands reached out and she ran her thumb over the scar the marred the former slave’s trembling lips. She felt the taller woman’s body shudder and reveled in the knowledge that she was the cause. Stepping on tip-toes, she claimed a brief, gentle kiss. "Please. . . will you let me?"

"Yesss." The surrender – though against her nature generally – seemed the most natural thing Kaleah had ever done.

"Good." Jess stepped back, her eyes hooded and irresistible. Finding a smooth granite rock behind her the young woman sat gracefully, crossing her legs at the knee. The silky robe rode up her thigh, exposing her almost to the hip. Beyond aroused, Kaleah released a shuddering breath. Jess smiled. "Take off the armor."

Normally calm fingers hastened to comply at once, shaking but eventually winning out over the buckles and laces that held the leather and mail together. Kaleah tossed the armor away and faced the look of hunger from her partner, her nakedness only fanning the fire in her blood.

Jessica let her eyes roam slowly down Kaleah’s body, her lust apparent as she took in the firm breasts, lean muscle and bronzed skin lashed with vivid white scars. The ache inside her grew stronger when she settled her attention lower still, and she shivered in anticipation when a flash from one of her dreams skipped teasingly across her mind.

"You are magnificent." The words slipped out of their own volition, and Kaleah flushed self-consciously.

Jessica stood and, very slowly, pulled the knot from the sash that held the robe closed. The silky cloth fell from her shoulders and pooled on the floor, allowing the sunlight that trickled through the stained-glass ceiling to cast interesting shadows over her exposed body. The young blonde wore only a pair of thin breeches under the robe, and Kaleah spent a long moment captivated by the play of light over her lover’s muscular form.

Green eyes met blue then, and Kaleah saw a hint of shyness touch the emerald depths regarding her. Jessica smiled a little nervously, and Kaleah understood. She stepped closer and caressed Jessica’s cheek with an almost reverent touch, letting her love and passion show in her face.

"There’s no need to be shy," she whispered breathily. "You’re beautiful."

Jess smiled shakily and captured the stroking hand, bringing it to her lips and placing a wet kiss on the palm. Her heart hammered loudly in her ears, craving more. "I want to be beautiful for you, Kaleah. As beautiful as you are to me."

Kaleah’s hand escaped and her fingers tangled in Jessica’s hair. The young woman was pulled willingly into an electric embrace, and they both gasped as skin met skin. Kaleah bent down and gently brushed her lips against those waiting to be claimed. The kiss was soft and intense, sweeping away all apprehension and doubt. Jessica quickly let her tongue enter the dance, deepening the contact and eagerly exploring her partner’s mouth when Kaleah accepted her unspoken request immediately.

The intimacy of the moment shook Kaleah to her very soul. She had never been so willing to surrender to the touch of another person . . . had never wanted to be claimed like this before. Jessica’s hands roaming up and down her back were eager and excited, but at the same time seemed undemanding and gentle. The kiss was equally tender as it was passionate; the young woman clearly understood that this experience was something new to both of them.

After long moments of breathless exploration, Kaleah felt Jessica grasp her left hand and gently guide it lower down her body, eventually pressing her fingers against her hip. The young blonde pulled away, gasping a little. Her eyes were smoldering as she glanced down meaningfully at her undergarments.

"Take them off. Please."

Kaleah grinned. "As you wish, Princess."

Trailing a line of wet kisses down Jessica’s chest, deliberately by-passing the tempting swell of the young woman’s breasts, Kaleah knelt before her love. She looked up at Jessica’s face seriously as she slid her fingers into the waistband and slowly tugged downwards, her hands caressing lightly down the length of the young woman’s legs. Jess couldn’t help but blush as she was exposed fully to the thick, sultry air of the bathing chamber. Sapphire eyes dark with desire released her and she felt their gaze rest hotly on her most intimate places. As she stepped out of the breeches Jess gnawed her lower lip, knowing Kaleah couldn’t help but notice how excited she was.

The dark woman took in the heady scent of her lover’s arousal, almost dizzy with longing. She wanted to take Jessica right there, to taste her essence and ravish her body till she was quaking and blind to all but her touch. But she restrained herself. After waiting so long for this moment, she was determined to go slowly . . . or at least, as slowly as she could manage.

Standing, Kaleah took Jessica’s hand and smiled down at the furiously blushing girl. "Join me for a bath?"

"Sure." The haste of her response earned a wickedly raised eyebrow from Kaleah, and she blushed. After watching the dark woman bathe for so long, Jessica had enough fantasies about getting naked and wet with her friend to sink a fair-sized ship. The young blonde happily let herself be pulled into the steaming waters.

Kaleah waded out to the island where the water lapped just below the underside of her breasts, then turned and pulled Jessica to her. The young woman smiled shyly, reaching out hesitantly to caress Kaleah’s face with trembling hands. Her touches wandered lower, down the dark woman’s neck where they paused. Sensing her lover’s uncertainty, Kaleah reached up and gently guided Jess onwards, her breath catching when the feather-light caresses moved over her breasts.

Jessica gently ran her hands over the wet skin, eyes wide. "So soft," she murmured, awed by the incredible sensations that touching Kaleah evoked in her. Hearing Kaleah’s breathing go ragged she grew bolder, lightly dragging blunt nails over pebble-hard nipples. Kaleah hissed, and a smile tugged at the young blonde’s lips as she studied her lover’s expression. Curious, she pinched lightly, eliciting a sharp intake of breath.

"You like that?"

"Uh huh."

"Good." Standing on tip-toes, Jessica claimed eager lips, exploring the dark woman’s mouth with her tongue as her hands roamed happily over the ridges and valleys of Kaleah’s body. Long arms wrapped around her waist and pulled her hips forward. Jess growled when dexterous fingers ran the length of her spine, sending bolts of desire straight to her groin. When Kaleah’s hands gripped her buttocks and lifted her upwards, Jessica immediately wrapped powerful legs around the dark woman’s waist and pulled their bodies closer. The move gave her sufficient leverage to take control of the kiss, and also pressed her heated center against the taut muscles of Kaleah’s abdomen. She moaned and flexed her thighs, starting an unconscious grind.

Kaleah let herself become lost in the dizzying warmth of Jessica’s mouth, only pulling away when the need to learn more of her lover’s body became too strong. Pulling the young woman up higher still, the former slave trailed her lips down Jess’s throat, sucking at her pulse-point eagerly before nibbling her way lower till she reached her lover’s breasts. She hesitated just long enough to grin seductively at the expectant, barely breathing woman, then descended. Her lips teased only a moment or two before she couldn’t stand it anymore and found the hardened points of her lover’s nipples.

"Oh, GOD!" Jessica’s eyes shot open and her fingers clutched desperately at Kaleah’s head, pulling her closer. "Don’t stop!" The sensation was more powerful than she would have believed possible. She’d never thought her breasts to be especially sensitive before, but the bolts of intense pleasure that were shooting straight to her center forced a re-evaluation of that notion. When Kaleah’s teeth nibbled at the stiff nub, Jessica gasped harshly for breath, whimpering helplessly.

Kaleah switched her attention to the breast she was neglecting, feeling the heat of her lover’s sex pressing firmly against her stomach. With one hand she supported Jessica’s weight as best she could, while with the other she massaged the young woman’s left breast, lightly pinching and rolling the nipple between her thumb and forefinger.

Jessica was burning up, her skin felt feverish as the dark woman blazed a trail over her body with her lips, teeth and tongue. Her brain struggled to process the incredible sensations that rocked through her, but coherent thought eluded her. The ache in her belly was growing unbearable, weeks of pent-up desire and frustration finally being satisfied.

Kaleah pulled away from her enjoyable feast and gazed into the sparkling depths of Jessica’s excited eyes. "Enjoying yourself?"

Jess gasped for air. "Oh yeah."

"And we’re only just getting started, too." Kaleah kissed her briefly, nibbling on her lower lip and causing a muffled groan. "The best is yet to come."

Jess blushed at the promise in Kaleah’s eyes. "Wh-what are we going to do?"

A lone finger trailed down between the blushing girl’s breasts, descending into the water to toy with her navel then slipping lower with a feathery touch. "You’re the one who had this whole thing planned. What would you like to do?"

Jess shivered, her hips bucking forward against her will, trying to increase the delicious contact against her liquid center.

Kaleah withdrew her teasing finger and raised an eyebrow. "You want more?" she purred. The breathless girl whimpered, unable to form words. "Would you like me to keep touching you like that?"

Jess managed a frantic nod.

Kaleah flashed her a toothy grin. "Here . . . I want to be able to see all of you." Flexing her biceps, the former slave lifted her lover up and onto the stone island behind them, then pulled herself out of the water to join her. The slick rock was smooth and polished. Jessica lay back, shivering half from the chill surface, half from desire as Kaleah positioned her body half over her own. Their lips met and enjoyed several moments of leisurely, gentle exploration. Kaleah ran her hands lightly down her partner’s trembling body, the water creating a tantalizing friction between them. Soon, her lips followed the path her hands had trailed, lingering here and there to nip at Jessica’s more sensitive areas. The young blonde writhed and panted uncontrollably, then froze when Kaleah’s hand came to rest against her slick center.

"Uugh."

The dark woman paused, stroking very slightly with her palm and giving the innocent girl time to adjust to having someone touch her so intimately. She suckled at Jessica’s breast, her eyes fixed on the emerald orbs watching her with shy passion.

"Is this okay?"

Jess nodded shakily. "Um . . . Yeah."

Kaleah smiled as her lover’s thighs spread a little wider to accommodate her explorations. The heat against her fingers was intense. Two fingers drew playfully through passion-slicked folds and the scent of the young woman’s arousal made her nostrils flare hungrily. Kaleah placed a string of feathery kisses across Jessica’s collarbone while her fingers sought out and began to tease the swollen nub of her lover’s clitoris. A startled squeak escaped Jess as she fell back weakly, her eyes rolling back in bliss as she absorbed this new sensation.

"Oh, my!"

Kaleah licked the moisture from Jessica’s throat as she stroked slowly with her fingers, tasting sweat and salt. "I can feel how excited you are," she breathed. "You feel ssoooo good."

Jessica’s hips began to move now, pushing against the welcome stimulation. Overwhelming sensations of pleasure were buffeting the young blonde as her body frantically tried to increase the pace. She struggled to regain control of herself, but her body understood her needs better than she did, and ignored her half-hearted orders to slow down. Only when she felt Kaleah’s lips start to trail a path down from her breasts did Jessica freeze, uncertain.

The kisses stopped and Kaleah glanced up, sensing her apprehension. Jessica’s breathing was ragged.

"Wh-what -- Where are you . . ?"

Kaleah smiled reassuringly and glanced down suggestively to where her fingers were still moving. She licked her lips and Jessica’s face turned deep crimson.

"You mean –"

"Uh huh."

"With your mouth . . ."

"Mmhmm." Kaleah brought the fingers that were exploring the young woman to her lips and licked at the clear nectar that coated them, watching the stunned expression on Jessica’s face. She smiled and moaned a little, savoring the spicy, slightly sweet flavor that only made her want more. Jessica whimpered. "You liked what I was doing, didn’t you?"

"Y-yes."

"Well I can make it feel even better." Kaleah’s fingers slipped down and combed through soft blonde curls, damp with desire. "Can you feel a pressure building? Like a fire in your blood?"

Jess panted and closed her eyes blissfully as the fingers slid along the length of her sex, teasing her. "Yessss." Her hips started pushing forward again.

The dark woman grinned, not surprised that her lover was so responsive after so many days of restraint. "Your body won’t last much longer," she purred. "I want to taste you . . ." She kissed at Jessica’s sternum, licking the scars there and causing a deep moan. "I want to savor every inch of you . . . to pleasure you till all you can feel is my love for you." She kissed lower and smiled when Jessica lay back and spread her legs wider in invitation. The young girl tangled her fingers in Kaleah’s dark hair and pushed her closer to the center of her need.

Jessica grit her teeth, trying to steady her breathing as Kaleah settled her body between her legs and planted wet kisses on her inner thighs. She blushed, knowing just how open and exposed she was to her lover’s gaze. She squirmed a little, feeling a deep throbbing in her groin that only increased when scarred lips softly nuzzled her. Jess looked up at the stained-glass ceiling with unseeing eyes, her focus trained solely on the sensations Kaleah was causing.

The dark woman inhaled the scent of her lover’s passion deeply, using her fingers to gently part Jessica’s nether lips. Her tongue slid out and tasted the young woman’s essence, dragging upwards along the full length of her burning sex.

"OH, my God!" Jessica’s head shot up in shock as she felt the warm, wet muscle slide against her, swirling in intricate and evocative patterns through her wetness. Wide green eyes stared down disbelievingly as Kaleah smiled up at her wickedly and blew softly onto her clit. "Kaleah?"

"Yes?"

Jessica’s expression was one of utter trust. "M-more . . . please, more."

Kaleah lashed the hard bundle of nerves quickly and grinned. "Whatever you desire, Princess." Her lips descended and she applied herself to her task with religious fervor, watching the look of surprise on her lover’s face change quickly to one of ecstasy. Emerald orbs rolled upwards and Jess fell back against the polished stone weakly, low, moaning sounds escaping her throat.

Spasms of almost painful pleasure twisted through Jessica’s body as Kaleah continued to do amazing things with her fingers, lips and tongue. She had never dreamed that feelings like this could exist; the tension building in her lower abdomen felt like a ball of fire, hot and consuming. She wasn’t sure how much she could stand before that liquid heat consumed her.

Kaleah could feel the climax building in her lover’s tense body; felt it in the muscles that twitched against her fingers and in the powerful thighs that framed her. She could feel tears falling from her eyes, the joy of being able to love Jessica so perfectly overwhelming her untried emotions. She wanted to feel every moment of her lover’s orgasm when it came; wanted so much to be inside the young woman. Jessica was a virgin, however, and Kaleah remembered well the pain of her own first experience. She didn’t want there to be any pain for her innocent love.

It wasn’t long before Kaleah sensed a change in the rhythm of Jessica’s breathing and the motion of her hips became more desperate. Recognizing the signs, the dark woman increased her attentions, her tongue moving everywhere as Jessica panted and made small, pleading sounds. Kaleah rested the tips of two fingers against the entrance to the young woman’s core, feeling the first pulses of climax as she pushed forward slightly. As her lover tightened around her fingertips and cried out her climax, Kaleah clamped her lips down on the hard nub and sucked forcefully, lashing the swollen bundle of nerves rapidly with her tongue.

Jess screamed and bucked her hips forcefully as waves of searing pleasure ripped through her. Kaleah immediately pushed her two fingers smoothly into the thrashing woman, tearing past the thin membrane and into her untouched depths. The swift stab of pain was lost in the overwhelming pleasure, and a second orgasm claimed Jess before the first had subsided. Kaleah pumped smoothly with her fingers as she continued to suckle the throbbing clit, dragging out Jessica’s pleasure for as long as she could, reveling in the contractions that clamped down on her penetration.

Eventually Jessica’s body could give no more and she collapsed bonelessly against the granite supporting her. Kaleah withdrew from her depths and gathered the gasping young blonde into a tight embrace, rocking her gently as she recovered.

"Thank you," Jess sobbed as her breathing returned to something close to normal. "Thank you."

Kaleah nuzzled her disheveled blonde hair lovingly. "You’re welcome." She smiled when she saw her exhausted young lover blink rapidly, and she held the sweat-slicked body close against her. "Rest now. You need to recover your strength."

Jess grinned dopily and snuggled deeper into the warmth of her partner. "You were right," she murmured huskily, her throat strained from crying out.

"I was?"

"Mmm. Frustration did make getting what I wanted more enjoyable."

Kaleah felt the young woman’s body relax as her eyes closed, and a warm smile twisted the scar on her lips. "So did love," she whispered to herself.

Kaleah felt the body in her arms stir a short time later. She grinned as Jess wriggled a little, then chuckled when pearly-white teeth nibbled lightly at her neck.

"Still feeling frisky I see."

Green eyes filled with love and a healthy splash of playfulness turned towards her and Jess grinned. "Just a little." Her hands wandered idly over Kaleah’s stomach and she watched the muscles flex under her touch. "I can’t believe . . . I mean, I’ve read about this stuff but still . . ." She glanced up into clear blue eyes and blushed modestly, wishing she could find words to express how wonderful Kaleah had made her feel. "That was the most incredible thing I’ve ever experienced."

Kaleah lowered her eyes shyly at the complement. Her emotions were still a bit jangled from making love to the young woman, and she suspected it would be some time before she got used to the intensity of these new feelings.

"So you feel okay?" she asked uncertainly.

Jess shifted a little and gave her body a once over. "I’m a little sore," she admitted. "But it’s a nice sore." She shivered a little in memory. "God, it’s like I can still feel you inside me." She blew damp bangs out of her eyes and gazed at her lover. "Thank you."

"Anytime." Kaleah grinned, then ducked her head down to kiss the sweet lips that beckoned her. She granted access to the seeking tongue that wanted deeper contact, then froze when suddenly Jessica stiffened slightly in her arms. Kaleah immediately pulled away and searched the young woman’s face, worried she’d done something wrong. That notion vanished when she saw the look of shy wonder in her lover’s expression, and realized that her mouth still held the flavor of Jessica’s essence.

The young blonde met the curious eyes of her companion and offered a nervous giggle. "I ahh . . . I just-"

"You taste incredible." Kaleah licked her lips theatrically, causing Jess to blush. "I could spend a thousand years exploring you like that and never tire of your flavor."

Jess grinned and licked the dark woman’s nose quickly, earning an indignant snort. "Flattery will get you everywhere, huh?"

"It’s just the truth."

"Mmm, well . . ." Jess considered for a moment, her hands continuing their wanderings. She glanced down and noticed for the first time the heat Kaleah’s body was generating. Her attention drawn to it, the young blonde also detected the strong musky scent of the dark woman’s arousal. Her hands paused. "Do you, um . . ." She blinked shyly. "Do you taste like that?"

White teeth flashed an extremely playful grin at the young woman, and Kaleah raised a dark brow rakishly. "I guess there’s only one way to find out, isn’t there?"

"Umm."

"Here." Kaleah took Jessica’s right hand in her left and gently guided her touch lower. "Let me show you."

Together, their hands explored the dark woman’s body, trailing over ridged muscle and scars down until fingers combed through neatly-groomed curls damp with desire. Jessica gasped a little as Kaleah pressed her fingers into slick flesh, amazed at the heat and the incredible velvet texture. She stroked her fingers and smiled. "You’re so soft," she breathed.

"Uh huh." Kaleah gripped her lover’s hand and urged her lower still. "Two fingers . . . lower," she croaked. "Like this." Gently she took two of Jessica’s fingers and speared them slowly into her depths. Jessica gasped at the sensation of being inside her lover. She could feel Kaleah’s inner muscles pulsing around her buried digits and she stroked back and forth curiously, still a little uncertain. Kaleah was hot and incredibly wet, however, and Jessica flushed when she realized she was the cause of such arousal.

"I guess I’m not the only one who’s enjoying this so far, huh?"

Kaleah let her inquisitive lover explore a few moments more before she pulled the digits from her core. Fixing Jessica with seductive eyes, she brought the young woman’s fingers to her lips and licked her own essence from them. Jessica swallowed hard, her eyes fixed and staring. The sensation of Kaleah’s tongue wrapping around her fingers was incredibly erotic, and the fire so recently sated in her loins begin to stir once more.

Kaleah coated her lips with the thick nectar, then lowered her face to deliver a light kiss to the hungry blonde. Lust over-rode all sense of modesty in the young woman, and she eagerly savored the dark woman’s taste, searching every part of Kaleah’s mouth till she was sure none had escaped her. When she pulled back, breathless, she licked her lips and grinned. "You’re different," she noted, considering thoughtfully. "More . . . I don’t know how to describe it. But I like it."

Kaleah took hold of her hand and guided two fingers back to her center. "Well there’s a lot more where that came from," she breathed raggedly. "You just have to go get it."

The blonde wasted no time accepting the invitation, returning to the liquid heat with renewed confidence. Kaleah grunted, then stifled a cry as Jessica pushed fully into her, the young woman’s thumb brushing against her engorged clit. Jess froze a moment uncertainly, then grinned when she saw the reaction was not one of pain but of pleasure. Experimentally, she drew her fingers out and pushed them in again, pleased when Kaleah’s hips bucked involuntarily against her, seeking a rhythm.

"You like that, don’t you?"

"Yesss."

Jess spied a tasty looking nipple and quickly brought her mouth into play, suckling the dark woman as her fingers continued their slow but purposeful motions. Kaleah’s breathing went ragged as her innocent lover set to work exploring her body with teeth and tongue, searching out sensitive areas and plundering them for every ounce of pleasure she could draw. As she roamed across a field of scarred flesh and toned muscle, Jessica made happy little sounds of contentment, reveling in the ability to make her lover truly feel the depths of her desire and passion. She paused to glance up at her panting lover.

"Am I doing this right?"

"Uh huh. Can’t you tell?"

"I guess so." Jess grinned, her fingers sliding effortlessly into velvet warmth that was slick with arousal. "You feel so good," she murmured, stroking against the inner walls that clenched around her in rhythmic pulses. She studied the petal-like folds of Kaleah’s sex, still amazed that she was being permitted such an intimate touch. The dark woman was so open to her, so vulnerable and trusting. Jessica wanted to reward that trust with the same mind-shattering pleasure she had just experienced. Licking her lips, she trailed a line of quick, wet kisses down the taut abdomen and past the dark hair that shielded Kaleah’s center. Kaleah’s body went stiff the moment she realized where this was headed, and she closed her eyes and spread herself wider for her young lover.

The first touch of Jessica’s tentative tongue against her clit almost sent Kaleah soaring over the edge, but with an effort she fought her climax, wanting to give the inquisitive blonde time to fully explore this new world. The muscles strained across her neck as Kaleah grit her teeth to keep from screaming out as Jessica lapped at her gently, all the while maintaining a steady rhythm with her hand. Though her lover was not as worldly and talented as others had been, Kaleah could sense the strength of her approaching orgasm already, and knew every other experience paled against it. Never before had she been able to let go the fear and tension that gripped her during such moments of intimacy. Never had she been able to trust that the next touch would not bring pain. The way she trusted Jessica was almost frightening, but at the same time promised a haven of gentle love and open affection that she was helpless to ignore. She could feel Jessica’s love for her in every gesture she made . . . in the tender touches and the passionate but almost hesitant looks of lust. No one else in her life had ever touched Kaleah that way . . . and the power of that love brought tears to her eyes.

The dark woman struggled hard to prolong the delicious torment, but Jessica’s explorations grew bolder as the young woman learned swiftly what actions elicited the strongest response. Kaleah couldn't hope to hold out against her lover’s determined assault, and she cried out as the first inevitable waves crashed over her.

"More!" she begged breathlessly. "Please . . more!"

Jessica frowned. More?

"I . . . I don’t . . know what you want-"

"Another finger," Kaleah gasped. "Please!"

"Oh!" Jessica suddenly understood and carefully pushed a third finger into Kaleah’s pulsing heat. "Like that?"

"Uh huh!" Kaleah’s eyes squeezed shut as tears ran down her cheeks, the stunning bolts of pleasure coursing through her blood and over her skin. Jessica felt the muscles clutching at her fingers suddenly grip tightly at the invasion and realized she had achieved her goal. Quickly the young girl lowered her mouth back to Kaleah’s dripping sex, drawing out the sensations for as long as she could. A moment later Jess smiled as she felt a second powerful climax grip Kaleah’s body, and heard the dark woman scream out strange words in her native language. She recognized her own name among them.

Jess continued her gentle ministrations until Kaleah finally collapsed back on the polished rock and weakly grabbed her hand. "No more," the dark woman gasped. "Please . . . just . . . hold me."

"Sure." Jessica pulled out of her lover slowly, drawing a final shudder from her body, then wrapped herself contentedly in the arms that reached out for her. A fuzzy, soft glow of happiness and fulfillment settled in her body, and she nuzzled at Kaleah’s neck like a cat, smelling sweat and her lover’s own indefinable scent. Her own arousal was fully awakened once more, but she ignored it for the time being. "So . . ." Green eyes flecked with mischievous gold regarded sated blue. "How was that?"

Kaleah chuckled a little and pulled the muscular body closer. "That was amazing," she whispered happily.

"Really?" A cute crinkle formed at the top of Jessica’s nose as she grinned fully.

"Really." Scarred, elegant fingers combed through disheveled blonde tresses absently. "I’ve never felt so . . . loved . . . before."

"Well, maybe that’s because no one’s ever loved you like I do." Jessica relaxed and idly caressed the toned body under her. She was silent for long moments, just soaking in the wonderful, new emotions that were rocking against her soul. "You know Kaleah," she whispered, "no matter what happens here . . . no matter how this whole siege turns out . . ." She paused. "No matter how my father or my mother or anyone else feels about it . . . I’ll always love you." Emerald eyes caught and held Kaleah, startling her with their openness. "If I have to give up everything just to be with you . . . I will."

Kaleah was still a moment, a little stunned, then she cupped Jessica’s cheek lovingly. "I hope it doesn’t ever come to that," she breathed. "I don’t want you to have to choose between me and everything here."

Jess kissed her palm lightly and smiled. "Like I told you before . . . there really isn’t any choice to make." She held the dark woman’s gaze for long moments, reveling in the power of what she could feel between them, before she grinned playfully. "What do you say we dry off and head back to my room. There’re a few things I’ve been dreaming about doing on that nice big bed for a while now."

Kaleah grinned lasciviously. "Still feeling frisky are we, Princess?"

Jess bounced to her feet and raised a blonde brow challengingly. "Catch me, and you can find out." With a giggle, the young blonde dived into the deep, steaming water and swam quickly away.

Kaleah watched her a moment, appreciating the view as her lover hurriedly donned a robe and escaped the chamber before she stood up shakily. "Looks like it’s going to be a long night."

Sir Miles looked down at the face of the man who had been his lord and best friend for most of his life, a frown dragging his moustaches into a firm line. Sir Richard was pale from his sickness, his features drawn and pained from the spasms of agony that still gripped him from time to time. Though not a young man, Richard was strong. Miles knew that, given time, his friend would eventually recover from this fever and be none the worse for it. The elder knight intended to make sure nothing happened to jeopardize his recovery.

Hovering over his patient, Grace fussed with his potions and medicines busily, paying no mind to his visitor at all. He glanced up only when the door to the bedchamber opened to admit another intruder, smiling politely to the Lady Rose before turning back to his work.

Lady Rose paused when she saw Miles, then lifted her head and approached the bed where her husband lay. Miles bowed a slight greeting. "M’Lady."

"Miles."

The old knight’s bushy brows drew low over his eyes in a scowl. "Sir Richard’s fever is improving," he reported shortly. "Expect he’ll be fine in a few weeks."

"Indeed . . . providing you’ve managed to hold off these barbarian invaders for that long." Lady Rose sniffed. "Frankly, I have little confidence that such will be the case."

Miles grunted. "Everything that can be done is bein’ done, M’Lady. I suggest you let the people most able to deal with the situation do so." The old knight had little patience for the interference of non-combatants.

Dull green eyes flicked over Miles hautily. "And who might those people be? Hmm? My daughter? Bah!"

Miles stood and leveled an even glare at Lady Rose. "Jessica’s taken to ‘er duties well, M’Lady. Ye should be proud of her."

"She has no right to take command of the men," Rose scoffed angrily. "She is a child and a lady of noble birth. It is not her place to be cavorting around playing soldier with the commoners!"

"With all due respect, M’Lady, Jessica has every right to take ‘er daddy’s place in his absence. She has experience and wisdom in these matters, despite that ye may be wishin’ otherwise." His tone grew milder. "Like it or no, Jess is the only one who can lead. There ain’t no-one else the people’d follow."

"Oh really? What about Charles? He’s a fine young man, and his blood-line is pure."

"Charles is no fighter, ma’am. He’d barely be a match fer the worst of those raiders outside."

Lady Rose waved her hand dismissively. "Then you should take command," she insisted. "You have seniority among the knights. My husband trusts you above all others. It is your right and your duty to lead the men."

Miles shook his head. "Ah’m no leader. The commoners barely know who I am, and they’d never follow me into battle. But Jessica . . ." He smiled. "Everyone knows yer daughter well, Lady. They love ‘er . . . and they’d follow ‘er to the gates of Hell if she asked ‘em to."

Rose frowned and shrugged. "The commoners mean nothing. They can’t fight. All they do is drain our supplies."

"We canna win without their numbers. They’ll fight when they must . . . but they won’t fight fer me."

Rose sighed a long-suffering sigh. "Jessica is making a fool of herself, demeaning her station in front of the people with this foolishness. How can she degrade herself like this . . . running around with that barbaric slave, playing in the mud like a filthy pig!" She scowled. "No-one will have any respect for her or for her bloodline with such debasement!"

Miles snorted angrily. "Yer daughter’s earning more respect from the people than she ever would staying locked up in the castle all covered in silk and lace. The commoner’s love that girl, and if ye had eyes to see ye’d know she’s the only thing what’s holding the people together right now!" His eyes were hard grey slates as he glared at the noble lady. "Ye have no idea just how blessed you are by yer daughter. She gives without thought of reward, and loves even when it hurts her to do so." He took a calming breath and turned to away. "God don’t make a person like Jess everyday, M’Lady. It amazes me that he’d deliver such a gift to a selfish, self-righteous creature as yerself."

With that, Miles strode angrily from the room, slamming the door behind him.

Lady Rose cleared her throat and turned back to her husband and the curious eyes of Eric Grace. She smiled shakily. "Well . . . I suppose we must expect such a lack of decorum from the soldiers."

Grace shrugged non-commitedly. "I suppose we must," he muttered, then turned back to his work, dismissing the entire confrontation to focus on restoring his lord to health.

Continued