Free Preview of The Prince in the Shadows; Scheduled for released in November by i-universe publishers. The book will be available in all popular E-Book formats and in soft cover. The first seventeen of forty-three Chapters follow:
The Prince
in the Shadows
By: James Monroe
Josephson
First E-Book
Edition
Published By: James
Monroe Josephson at I-universe Publishers
www.TemporairyUnavailable
Copyright © 2013 by
James Monroe Josephson
Your support and respect for the property of this author is
appreciated. Thank you for purchasing this book, it remains the copyrighted
property of the author, and may not be 'e'-reproduced, copied and/or
distributed for commercial or non-commercial purposes. If you enjoyed this
book, please encourage your friends to purchase their own copy.
This book is a work of fiction and any resemblance to
persons, living or dead, or places, events or locales is purely coincidental. There
has been an attempt to portray the City of Richmond Virginia and certain
landmarks as the author has known and loved them. The characters are
productions of the author's imagination and are used fictitiously.
This is adult reading material not intended for readers under
age eighteen; and may be offensive to some adults of any age.
I offer many thanks to my long suffering wife, who encouraged
me to read the book aloud; and offered intelligent comments to improve the flow
of the story. This book is dedicated to her, my darling and the love of my
life.
Please note the back story set in eighty-six anno Domini
contains short direct quotes from old British Manuscripts and it uses the
spelling and grammar of the fifteenth, sixteenth, and seventeenth centuries. Modern
alphabet characters are used through out the quotes.
****
Table of Contents
Prologue:
The Readers
Before the beginning of
the Empire: Eighty and Six Anno Domini
Two-thousand
Anno Domino; The Age of Majority
Chapter 1: Prince James, the Eighteenth Birthday:
The
Official History of the Founding of the Empire
Prince
James recalls his basic education.
Eighty
and Six Anno Domini: The Flight
Chapter 2: Two Thousand Anno Domini:
The Infatuation
Chapter 3: The Princes’
Audience
Chapter 4: Prince James is given stern
lectures by the Emperor and the Patriarch
Chapter 5: A Prince’s Choice
Eighty and Six Anno Domini:
Shelter in a Cave
Seeking
Aniela
Chapter 6: The First Time
Chapter 7: The Imperial Summons
The Ship
The Summons
Chapter 8: James takes two solemn
oaths
Chapter 9: Preparing to Embark
Chapter 10: Orienting to Richmond
Chapter 11: The Grand Tour
Roberta's
Resentment Provokes an Angry Response
Chapter 12: Aniela and James
Spend a Blissful Night
Chapter 13: First Shower
Chapter 14: Alberta’s Secret
Chapter 15: Aniela Learns Her Responsibilities
Chapter 16: Prince James Begins to
Organize His Household
Chapter 17: The Prince of Piedmont’s
First Council of War
Eighty
and Six Anno Domini: The Vain Search for Norse Christian Survivors
Council of War
***
Prologue
The
Readers
Jessie-op-David the
prince of Ulvevstauwf was seated under an olive tree in the garden. The garden location
was in front of a group of carefully maintained buildings; that were located in
the heavily forested mountains of Rohm on the continent of Tyroe. The
semi-retired the prince had spent most of the last two years here on Tyroe; the
third largest land mass on the planet Ulvevstauwf. He had moved here from the
Arch-Ducal palace at Celtsholm after he had returned from the battle of Orion
an invalid.
Prince Jessie hated the last exercise in his
daily routine, he pushed a button on his wrist communicator, “Clara, come and
help me finish my therapy.” The dreaded exercise was the most painful in his
therapy regimen; but he submitted, hoping to recover fully from his war
injuries.
“Harkening and obeying, my lord;” Clara was
careful to speak clearly. She finished checking the dials on the Chronicle an
accurate historical virtual reality device. Clara was a beautiful intelligent
woman; who worked hard at keeping herself attractive as well as fit. Clara had
already borne the prince one daughter. She was his favorite woman, one of three
bondwomen the prince had summonsed to his current residence.
Prince Jessie looked up as Clara approached,
hearing the noise of her labored breathing. He noticed that her face was
flushed; “What's wrong Clara?”
Clara laughed, “Nothing, I just ran down from
the third floor. I was in the library checking the machine that feeds data to the
virtual reality projectors in your suite; when you called for my assistance.”
Clara removed a machine from the small weather
proof table near the lounge. Conscious of her lord’s eyes, she moved with that
deliberate languor; which experience had taught her the prince found seductive.
Prince Jessie always finished his daily therapy
secession by using the pain inducing appliance which Clara now brought to him. She
carefully strapped the appliance to Prince Jessie’s leg; “How does it fit?” she
asked.
Jessie could hear the genuine concern in Clara’s
voice. “You mean this mechanical rack? You always do a great job; especially
with adjusting the length of a piston’s stroke;” Jessie grinned. He was
consciously teasing Clara. Prince Jessie grimaced with discomfort as the
appliance gradually bent his injured leg and then stretched it straight. He saw
his pain mirrored on the face of his bondwoman; and tried manfully to keep a
bland expression.
Physically, the prince was rapidly recovering
from his injuries. Jessie had begun to feel his vigor and stamina approaching
normal. He was even experiencing a stirring of lust mingled with real
affection, as he watched Clara’s graceful movements. Her quite attentiveness in
caring for him had awakened feeling that he thought he had buried with Ursula,
the deceased mother of his only living male heir.
“Soon I will be able to walk and run without any
assistance; physically I should be in top form in just a few more weeks,”
Jessie said.
Clara sensed that something was being left
unsaid. “The movements in your leg muscles are greatly improved; what else is
bothering my lord?”
The Prince’s face betrayed his dismay as he
confided in Clara; "my mind is the cause of my lingering concern. Something
has happened to my thought process; as a result of the terrible head injury
received during the battle of Orison.”
Clara had guessed; this was reason Jessie so
often spoke aloud. Giving her all the details of circumstances he was wrestling
with mentally. “Speaking aloud must be the tool the prince used for working things out
in his own mind;” she thought.
Clara felt sad as she knelt at Jessie's side;
she gently picked up his hand and kissed it. Prince Jessie saw the glint of
tears behind her eyes as she smiled at him. He appreciated this woman's rare
gift: listening and showing sympathy without expressing pity. The Prince of
Ulvevstauwf would not be pitied!
The device continued painfully to stretch and
compress the muscles of his wounded leg. When twenty minutes had passed; Clara
removed the appliance and put it away.
Prince Jessie watched her carefully place the
device back inside its water proof cabinet. “Come and sit with me Clara;”
Jessie said. ”I am content to leave the government of this vast principality in
the hands of my vassal Earl Danguawlf. The Earl rules Ulvevstauwf in close
consultation with my son Paul, the Viscount of Whithorn.”
Clara realized that the prince was repeating the
information; but she replied positively as she mentally reminded herself that
this was a process necessary for Prince Jessie. “The Earl has served you well. I
remember that his ancestors arrived during the latter years of the first
century.”
“I chose him because he was my son's companion
from a very early age. I have no doubt of his loyalty to Paul. He will protect
Paul's interest; until the day that my son ascends the throne of Ulvevstauwf.”
“Clara, it was you that I thought of the most;
when, I almost died at Orison. Your unchanged affection has been most important
to my recovery. I will fill your mind with passion and desire; if God be
pleased to grant that mercy, I will sire more sons to secure the future of the
Dynasty. I still wish to see my subjects continue to be well fed, happy,
prosperous, and above all safe from the Godless foes beyond our frontiers.”
Suddenly, Jessie made one of the jumps in
thought with which Clara had become all too familiar. “I am glad you enjoy the
Ancient Chronicles. Do you know how it is possible to see the past; even events
that were almost two thousand years ago?”
“No my lord; it is all so very real! The Ancient
Chronicles, they are happening before my very eyes. It is strange to be able to
come to know your ancestors, dead these many centuries. Often we can smell the
scents associated with the events; and sometimes we are even privy not only to
the conversation of those long dead; but also their thoughts. Would you please
explain to me how this is possible?”
Jessie had long been impressed with Clara’s
intelligence; and he could not help being flattered by her desire to be taught
by him. “You know that our Assaer Christians see and project to the common mind
of their native city by telepathy. The wonder of their telepathic gift is that
the images, thoughts, and speech are all recorded somewhere in the common mind
of their colonies. About a thousand years ago the engineers of the Emperor’s
Assaer in the city of Sylvania invented a means of retrieving and digitizing
these histories. They are very careful to stick to the facts; but to make the
history more interesting to humans readers, a plot is developed and missing
bits are filled in on the narrative. The parts, those not from the collective
mind, are carefully studied to make sure there is harmony with all the recorded
facts.”
“The Chronicles are all true my lord?” Clara
asked.
“Yes the Assaer are often better Christians than
their human friends. Co-operating in a lie is just not possible to them. Follow
me upstairs and we will watch something recorded by invisible Assaer before my
ancestors even knew that the race existed.”
It is difficult to describe the way that Clara
and Prince Jessie were suddenly in the very midst of smells, conversations, and
actions which had occurred in the year of grace eighty and six. The
descriptions and conversations following are just as they experienced them in
the bedroom of Jessie Prince and Archduke of Ulvevstauwf.
Before the Beginning of
Empire: Eighty and Six Anno Domini
The small horse of
Prince Thomas of
Ulvevstauwf picked its way up the steep hills; the men were approaching the
tiny fortified city of Dumsauwf. His father’s thane-men had taken almost six
days to cover the swampy moors and rocky ridges between Glastonbury and
Dumsauwf. “Will we be in time Alfred?” The prince asked of the broad shouldered
priest militant riding a head of him on the narrow path.
“God only knows,” Alfred answered; “if not in
time to save them; then perhaps to avenge their blood”. He hesitated a moment
wishing to give some comfort to the prince. “Lord Dumsauwf will find some way
to get the princess and your child out safely; if he sees that the place cannot
be held.”
Prince Thomas groaned, “I should have never
allowed Althea to visit her sister. She begged me; Althea was so eager to see
her sister’s new baby. My father could not spare me to go with her. The pagan
blue-dyed hoards are gathering in large numbers just a few miles north of
Callombrae and I was needed to train the raw boys who have answered their
king’s call to defend our homeland. Now my wife and little son are surrounded
by the Danes! The cause of this misfortune is mine. I knew better than to allow
her to go so near the sea.”
The priest was silent for a while; thinking of
his own wife Grace and small daughter Deidre. They had accompanied the princess
on her visit to the wife of Lord Dumsauwf. Everyone had believed the danger to
the ream lay in the north with the gathering hordes of pagans.
The snow and cold had made it necessary to find
shelter each evening for the wiry highland horses; some place with at least some
cover from the biting wind sweeping down from the North. They had traveled as
fast as they could; even now, they were hoping to reach the Christian city
before the pagan Danes forced their way inside. The courage of untrained men, a
shallow moat, and a rough palisade of sharpened logs were the only defensive
armor of the little city of Dumsauwf.
Alfred prayed and silently thought on the
situation facing the Christians of Dumsauwf. He finally spoke knowing that the
same thoughts must be lying heavily on the hearts of all the warriors. The
priest tossed his great battle axe in the air, caught the handle with his right
hand, and called aloud the words from the apostolic litany: “By thy Baptism,
Fasting, Death, and Mighty Resurrection…Lord have mercy upon us!”
Twenty four male voices thundered an importuning
response “Christ have mercy upon us!”
There were only twenty three of these fierce
Thane-men, a young but battle-hardened prince, and a fierce priest-militant to
face the warriors from four long-boats. Alfred the priest declared, “God is
with us; who can stand against us.” The declaration sounded hollow, in Alfred’s
own ears; and it did only a little to heighten the mood of the little band;
they needed a miracle. They all knew that the usual tactic of the Dane was to
attack immediately; then leave quickly with a plunder of valuables and slaves.
Alfred reached the top of the hill; where, he
paused motioning for silence. Prince Thomas rode up and dismounted at his side.
The downward slope of the steep hill had been denuded by a lightning strike. The
area had thoroughly burned over some months earlier during the long drought of
early autumn. The priest was listening intently; suddenly, Prince Thomas also
heard the sound. A mummer carried by the breeze, of several voices chanting the
fifty-ninth Psalm in unison: “…Deliver me from the workers of iniquity and save
me from the bloody men…”
The prince and the priest watched astonished; as
they saw a monk followed by a large group of women and children; emerge from the
forest at the bottom of the hill and start up the slope toward them. Behind the
women and children were a large group of elderly men and women, some leaning on
walking sticks.
The Psalm chanters had made only a few yards of
progress; when, a ragged group of men and boys armed with scythes and
pitchforks emerged. A few of these farmers were carrying thin bronze shields on
their arms, a style favored by the Celts. They were obviously urging the
refugees to greater speed; while forming an irregular guard just behind the
elderly adults. Another group appeared quickly behind them their clothes, made
from finer material was tattered from the briers and brush. In the middle of
this group was a young woman, her head covered with the dyed prayer scarf of a
married gentlewoman. She was carrying a toddler in her arms, a flaxen haired
boy child.
When he caught sight of the woman a ragged sob
burst from the throat of the prince. “Althea and Samuel, May God be praised!”
Prince Thomas cried out; and, before the priest could prevent him, he spurred
the little horse in a half slide, down the steep and twisting trail.
Alfred saw his own wife carrying their daughter;
and the Lady Joan, hurrying after the princess with a small bundle in her arms.
He wished to gallop after the prince; but, remembered his duty. “Form a shield
wall,” he bellowed to the Thane-men. “Stand and prepare to pass the refugees
through the shield line!” The Thane-men formed a solid wall of shields between
two giant boulders which flanked the twisting path at the top of the hill. Everyone
was expecting the giant like figures of bearded Danes to fall on the refugees
momentarily.
The prince of Ulvevstauwf, tears streaming down
his cheeks, leapt from his horse, and swept his wife Althea into his embrace. He
kissed her thoroughly; and then, kissed his son tossing him into the air. Prince
Thomas heard the delighted squeals of his child, Samuel; quickly followed by a
stern bellow of real authority. He looked up to see the Lord of Dumsauwf
accompanied by sixteen men wearing the tartan of his clan each with a long two
handled battle-sword strapped at their side, bronze shield on each left arm,
and each carrying a small but deadly battle axe in his hand.
“There is great danger Prince Thomas, any minute
the Danes will discover that we have fled, leaving an empty city. We can move
no faster than the old folks can walk; thus we may soon be overtaken.”
They quickly moved the people up the hill and
through the shield wall. The prince, the priest, and the twenty-three Thane-men
gave up their horses; on which they mounted the elderly. This enabled them to
make the cave in less than eight hours. This was the cave; where the prince’s
band had sheltered the previous night. They had left the cave only about three
and half hours before meeting the refugees.
Prince Thomas ordered Erick-op-Caleb to scout
about an hour behind the refugee band. “Take the fastest horse. If the Danes
should attempt to follow us, we need to know as soon as possible in order to
prepare for attack. If you see them: try to get an estimate of their number,
and then, withdraw. If possible, you need to return quickly without revealing
your presence to the Danes.”
Prince Thomas watched Erick ride away before
returning to the fire inside the cave. He interrupted his brother-in-law,
Gawain, the Lord of Dumsauwf who was sitting with his wife. Lady Joan was
holding their baby on her lap talking quietly and earnestly with her husband.
“My Lord Dumsauwf, when you can, I need you to
join me. I need you to tell me privately, about the escape from the Danes;” the
prince requested politely.
“Your highness,” Lord Dumsauwf began when they
had walked a distance from the nearest sentry. “There were four long-boats in
the first landing. The Danes disembarked; then they sat up camp on all four
sides of the city. We counted eighty and eight of the tall bearded Danes. All
the farming folk got into the city safely; and they brought plenty of food. We
had three deep wells inside the city; however there was not enough trained men
to mount an effective defense. Most of the people were terrified; because the
average stature of the Danes is almost a foot greater than that of our taller
warriors.”
“There was a growing number who simply wanted to
open the gates and submit to the Danes;” Lord Dumsauwf continued. “That
sentiment might have prevailed had not one of the deacons related what he had
seen last year. The deacon had been to Erstaluf almost immediately after the
Danes sacked it and sailed away; Erstaluf had surrendered but the deacon told how
he arrived to find the bodies of every adult male. All the males had been
murdered and mutilated. The Danes have come to spoil the people: take the women
and children as slaves, steal the food stores and valuables, and slay the
warriors, Christian priests, deacons, and monks.”
Prince Thomas interrupted the narrative,
"How much time did you have to prepare before the Danes arrived?"
“Fortunately for us, the long-boats with their
dragon prowls and sails marked by the witches-claw had been sighted far out at
sea. Before the Danes could beach their boats, the freemen had loaded their
wagons down with: wives, children, food, and treasure. All the country people
hurried to get inside the city’s palisade; but, unfortunately, only a very few
of them have any experience with weapons of war.” Lord Dumsauwf continued; “I
distributed what extra weapons we had to the most likely of the men; before I
sent a carrier dove to the King’s castle outside Glastonbury.” The Lord of
Dumsauwf paused for breath.
“The terror inside the walls continued to build
while everyone prayed to God for a miracle. The Danes were behaving strangely;
and in a manner contrary to their past actions. They did little, at first; but
encircle the city. Then three days after the first four long ships’ arrival;
the watch tower sighted eight more sails on the horizon. This group was made up
of four more long-ships and four wide beam freight ships; they beached their
boats two days later. We
realized then that the Danes were not here to raid, but rather to steal our
lands and make a permanent settlement;” his hands and voice trembled with the
emotions felt by the Lord of Dumsauwf.
“Then we may have gotten our miracle; the Danes
dragged goatskin bladders of mead in great quantities from their ships. They proceeded
to have a drunken naked orgy lying with their wives and slave women in the open
sight of the townspeople while getting roaring drunk. Many fights broke out
between drunken Danes; who for the most part, were fighting over the women. The
only violent deaths so far have been from those fights; and not a few of the fights,
we saw end in blood. About two hours past midnight yesterday there were no
sober Danes; at least not sober enough to be able to walk. None were moving on
the side of the wall nearest the forest. We got everyone together, opened the
postern gate, and ran into the woods. We walked until we encountered you.”
“How many did you have to leave behind?” Prince
Thomas asked.
“Not all of the elderly survived; but everyone
made it to the woods. I suppose even if we are caught and murdered, God did
give us a miracle. Blessed be His Holy Name!” The Lord of Dumsauwf bowed his
head in reverence.
Two-thousand anno Domini; The Age of Majority
Prince James awoke early on the morning of his eighteenth birthday; and rolled
over wanting to enjoy another day of post graduation leisure by sleeping late.
“James wake up!” the wireless speaker over the
bedroom door squalled loudly; the words were immediately followed by the
laughter of his cousins Paul and Samuel. “You have an audience with the
Emperor! He probably needs a new supervisor for the Neptunite Mines on Qualms
Dum! Not much wine, women, or song there on that Penal Colony.” That was
definitely Prince Samuel’s voice. The young Prince of Piedmont jumped from his
bed. Suddenly wide awake, James remembered that this was the day for a most
important appointment. The Prince of Piedmont had been formally summoned to
appear before the Emperor.
Sam suddenly busted through the door, “What kind
of trouble have you got us into?”
Although, James was not sure of the reason for
his summons; he was certain that it had nothing to do with being in any
trouble. “I do not know what manner of difficulty you may be facing. As for
myself, the regency of the church ends this morning in my principality of
Piedmont; perhaps, that is the reason that I have been summonsed. You, on the
other hand, may have flirted with one too many of the Emperor’s serving-girls!”
Paul the other cousin walked into the room. “I
think that the Emperor intends James to enter the Doctorate program and spend
another six years studying to become a professor of applied mathematics in
physics.”
James grimaced at the very thought of more
study; he was tired of school. His main motivation now was a burning desire to
really begin the adventure of life.
At the age of twelve, Prince James had been
brought to the Imperial capital. This was immediately after his mother’s death
and for the last six years, he had been the official ward of his uncle, the
Emperor.
James had worked very hard in school, completing
his studies in far less than the allotted time. He had graduated with honors
from the Imperial War College, just eight days earlier. Most of the young
noblemen in his classes had been in their early twenties. Only one student in
twenty actually succeeded in earning the coveted degree: Master of Military
Science. St. Albert’s Imperial War College is the strictest school in the known
universes; but, James had graduated laurel cum laud just eight days previous.
The two cousins, Sam and Paul have long been
James’ closest friends. They have always treated him as a younger brother. Both
cousins are older, and both graduated together a year ago. One of them, Prince
Samuel, viscount of Dumsauwf, had already assumed many duties as an officer and
chief minister under his father Prince Boaz of Liandudauf.
Prince Paul a full two years older than Samuel
had taken a full five years to complete his degree from S. A. I. W. C. Paul’s
studies had been interrupted several times by his father recalling him to
Ulvevstauwf. An armistice had been in effect for three years; but, the
activities of a Pagan-Assaer alliance continued to threaten the frontier
planets of Ulvevstauwf.
Paul was the only son of Prince Jessie of
Ulvevstauwf. In spite of the difference in their ages the three cousins had
developed a comradeship unique even among their class-mates. During Paul and
Samuel’s last two years, in the evenings after class hours, the three had
gathered to share tall tales, and the adventures of young men coming of age. Although
in the case of Prince Samuel, James figured that the tales he related were a
mixture of a few facts and a lot of fantasy.
The Sylvania Empire has been ruled by the
descendents of the house of David the son of Jessie for almost two thousand
years. It has been one thousand-nine hundred and eleven years of nearly
constant war and expansion. Most of the males born to the Imperial House have
been slain in battle or assassinated. There are few direct descendents living
today and only five are in the direct line of succession to the Emperor. The
five include the brother of Baldwin IV: Prince Jessie of Ulvevstauwf, Jessie’s
son Paul (Viscount of Whithorn), Prince Boaz of Liandudauf (the Emperor’s other
living brother), Boaz’s son Samuel, and Prince James of Piedmont the orphaned
son of Arthur-son of-Joseph-son of-David the deceased former crown prince. There
is a sixth male still living: George, son of-Baldwin-son of-David, has been
convicted of treason and forfeited his right to the purple; so had the three
estates and the Emperor declared his case. No one publicly admitted to any
knowledge of the where-about of that disgraced and exiled prince.
****
Chapter
1: Prince James, the
18th Birthday:
The Official History of the Founding of
the Empire
The last ancestors of the Sylvanian noble
families had been uprooted from Palestine during the year preceding Jerusalem’s
fall to the Roman Titus. They had escaped the encircling Roman armies by hiding
in the Judean hills, before taking ship to Britanie. The apostle Joseph of
Arimathea had landed almost thirty-six years before them, in 34 A.D. St.
Joseph, the cousin of the Virgin Mary, and the missionaries who accompanied him
had established the One Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church beyond the Pillars
of Hercules.
St. Joseph and the missionaries who accompanied
him had preached the resurrection of Jesus Christ among the Jewish Colonist in
Britanie. Britanie included the areas known in later centuries as: Great
Britain, Ireland, Normandy, and Brittany. These new refugees from Judea went
first to where St. Joseph had established a base at a place known in Earth’s
first century after Christ, as Glastonbury. Glastonbury is located at the head
of the Moors. It was from Glastonbury that St Colombo later went to found a
monastery and missionary center in the Holy Isle.
St. Joseph had preached to the Jews; who had
lived for many years in Britanie. Those converted to Christianity became the
nucleus of what scholars would later label the Celtic Catholic Church. St.
Joseph turned to the gentiles; and, soon converted many of the native Celts and
Bretons to Christ.
The first two hundred years after the
establishment of the Celtic Catholic Church was a time of constant danger. The
Christians of Britanie, especially those on the North and the Irish Seas were
under constantly attack by pagan North men. It was during one of these
invasions; that hundreds of people including several priests and their families
were running for their lives into the forest. The local king a descendant of
Joseph-op-David, three of his sons, and the families of two nobles were with
the Bishop of Glastonbury and a number of priests. They were closely pursued by
the pagan Norsemen. The Christians ran or stumbled along a path toward a
fortified town. They were running with difficulty because of a moonless night. Suddenly,
the fleeing Christians found themselves illuminated in a shaft of light. They
quickly found them-selves safely transport, by God’s predestine grace, to a
strange world.
Prince James’ ancestors, along with a number of
priests, a few of the king’s retainers, with their families were transported
together arriving the same place. The world, on which they found themselves,
was one of many worlds, all inhabited by a race of space traveling alien
creatures. Terrified they first supposed these creatures to be demonic because
of their strange appearance. The creatures had no visible skin; instead a hard
outer shell surrounded the soft tissues of their three segmented bodies. Their
heads had a fiercely frightening appearance with two large sharp teeth
protruding like harvest sickles one on each side of their mouth openings. The creatures
are not unlike (in appearance) the earth insects commonly called ants. They
call themselves Assaer; as do their human allies. Unlike the ants of earth,
they walk upright on their two rear-most appendages. The two pairs of
appendages above their abdomens are each equipped with grasping finger like
digits; including one which is an opposing digit. These Assaer live in colonies
or cities with only one mother. Except for the city’s mother, all productive
members of their society are sexually undeveloped females between five and six
feet tall and weighing one-hundred to one hundred-thirty pounds. The very few
males leave the colony of their birth early to find and mate with the mothers
of other cities. The young Assaer-larva, from the time it hatches from its egg,
is fed a diet containing hormones. It is by this means that they develop their
specialized shapes; some for fighting and others for specialty work purposes.
The Assaer have a social consciousness, which
includes a collective mind. They also possess a highly developed self
consciousness. This unlikely combination has produced a race that can think and
reason; while remaining in great need of their telepathic links to each other.
They are very concerned with what we (humans)
call the great questions of life. They are capable of co-operative effort; and,
possess multi- jointed digits at the ends of their four upper arms. These
digits allow them to invent, develop, and manufacture complex machinery
including transporters and space-craft. These machines travel at such high
rates of speed as to seem almost instantaneous, across vast expanses not merely
from star to star, but from universe to universe.
Transporters are first set in place on new
worlds, by advance parties who use space-craft for interplanetary propulsion. Once
assembled, the transporters allow the Empire of Sylvania to move large
quantities’ of goods and persons across the vast fields of space, from one
inhabitable world to another. The Assaer ability to link to the social mind of
the colony has made possible the solving of complex scientific problems in the
fields of physics and mathematics. The pooling and sharing abilities of the
collective mind has enabled them to utilize their knowledge to an extent
impossible to minds that are only ego-centric.
The Assaer perceive human speech and thoughts in
their minds; and, although telepathic, often use mechanical devices to converse
with humans and other intelligent species. They have an innate curiosity about
existence beyond death. Their ancient myths had foretold that mysterious
creatures led by noble beings ‘the sons of David’ would one day bring
them understanding and the key to eternal life. They quickly converted to the
Celtic Catholic Faith of the creatures, who their machines snatched from the
Britannic woods sometime around eighty-nine anno Domini. The Sylvanian Assaer
are now committed Christians, firmly believing that by serving the sons of
David they fulfill the Divine purpose. They have faith in a continual spiritual
growth as they receive the revealed word of God and the Sacraments. This is a
complex relationship between David’s descendants and the Assaer alien race. The
Assaer loyalty is unshakable not to humanity in general; but, to the Imperial
family. This is the reason for the current great concern that a Dynasty, so
reduced by war, could disappear. The disappearance, if it should occur, might
bring to an end over twenty centuries of partnership between the Assaer and the
human race. There was additional information given to the princes and other
human nobility being educated at the military institute. The information
related above is the sanitized official version. The more complete histories
are preserved in the many discs and books of the Imperial Library and the
students at St. Albert’s Imperial War College were all invited to study the
Chronicles for themselves. The sheer volume of Sylvanian history makes such a
task a daunting one.
Prince
James Recalls His Basic Education
Prince James’ cousins left and returned to their
quarters to dress for the Imperial Court. James hurried to shower, shave, and
change into the military dress uniform of a cadet from the Imperial War
College. There were no medals on the chest or chevrons on the shoulders; just,
the simple bar of a cadet officer of the Army of the Sylvania Empire. A simple
crown embroider was on the breast pocket of his shirt.
James turned at the sound of a foot step behind
him. The young woman standing there was a vision of loveliness even in the
rather drab uniform of an imperial domestic. “Sir, please allow me to hold a
mirror for you;” her hair was a blond shade almost brown in the light coming
through the windows. She stopped her cleaning to take a hand mirror from its
hook on the wall; and held it behind James’ head.
Prince James had been raised in the severe
religious atmosphere of the court. He had been shocked to the core; when at age
fourteen; his sixteen year old cousin Sam informed James that babies were not
brought to their parents by the angels.
James then received his early sex education from
listening to Sam. He thought now of Sam’s boasting tales of adventures with
Imperial serving girls; James felt something akin to shame at his own
virginity.
James had to smile as he thought of Paul, his
cousin by blood; but in reality, more like his big brother. Paul, four years
older than James, is both athletic and very intelligent. He is always ready to
answer serious questions; and, quick to reinforce James’ good moral
inclinations. Following the angel conversation with Sam, James asked Paul, “Is
Sam right, well… I know he must be…about angels and babies?”
James’ smile faded, replaced by a blush, as he
remembered with a great deal of embarrassment asking that particular question. Paul
had obviously fought back a grin; but he got himself under control before
replying to James, “You really have led a sheltered life. I see that your
priestly tutors have neglected an important part of your education.”
Over the next few days Paul and the Rev. Roister
tutored James in male—female anatomy, sexually transmitted diseases, the
difference between moral and immoral sexual relations, and even an introduction
to being a responsible parent.
James knew that his cousin, Prince Samuel, was
not irreligious. In his own way, Sam was very devout. Unlike Prince James, Sam
a twenty year old prince was never seen nodding off during the sermons at
morning or evening prayer. James’ smile broadened at the unbidden thought; “my
cousin Sam is just not one to allow anything to get in the way of a good time.”
Sam soon heard about the special tutoring James
was receiving and wished to help. Being a hands-on guy, he thought a practical
demonstration would teach James how the gift of second sight could be used to
stimulate emotional and hormonal responses in others, an especially helpful
aide in seducing women. The previous year, before Sam left for Liandudauf, they
had taken almost a month to test out the unique abilities. Abilities they
shared with the other princes of the House of David. Sam tried to teach James
how to use the gift in a practical way to manipulate the brains of those
whose co-operation was desired or needed.
During a few off duty hours each day they would
set in a shady spot on the courtyard near their barracks. It was a strategic
place, where the heavy foot traffic was composed mostly of the women of the
Imperial Household’s Domestic Staff. The princes would stop the women; those
who spent their days doing the cleaning and refurbishing work, one or two women
at a time. There were literally hundreds of women crossing the court yard; who
performed the tasks necessary to keep the imperial household and military
college, functioning properly.
All ages of women were accosted and engaged in
conversation. It would take only a few minutes for Sam to have any woman
panting, sweating, and sighing with desire. James watched his cousin with awe
as a red flush would spread down each woman’s neck and over the exposed tops of
her breast. Sam could achieve this without doing more than lightly touching a
hand or sometimes just a blouse sleeve while concentrating on reading and
altering the woman’s emotions.
Prince James tried but was not able to achieve
those changes in emotion; and had only very small success in producing any
response. Most of the women James spoke with were polite but clearly annoyed at
being detained. Prince Samuel realized that a more open direct instruction was
needed. However, he was unwilling to risk offending his uncle or incurring his
father Prince Boaz’s wrath. Prince Samuel had to return to Dumsauwf to check
the progress of the regiment Baron Ebert was training from the County Dumsauwf.
The regiment would be the first recruited entirely from the younger sons of
free men. Some of the young men did not wish to be farmers, priest, or
craftsmen; and they were glad to take the coin of Prince Boaz and seek
adventure as Christian warriors.
When Prince Samuel returned from the visit to
his fiefdom of Dumsauwf; it was to answer the Emperor’s summons and to attend
the graduation of James from the St. Albert Imperial War College. He wanted to
surprise James with a more enlightening and entertaining approach to the
ignorance of his cousin.
The first evening on the day of his return to court,
Prince Samuel brought a young woman to James’ room. The girl appeared to be a
few years older than Prince Samuel; she was very pretty. Her auburn hair was
worn loose hanging almost to her waist; but she was obviously ill at ease. “This
is Liana; she is from a tributary planet on the frontier of the Principality of
Liandudauf. Liana is my slave girl; she was a gift to me from the Baron Ebert. The
baron wishes to ingratiate himself with me. He hopes to be allowed to lead an
army of his vassals in the next campaign against the neighboring Hellebore;”
Sam said, speaking in a matter of fact way.
“You and I could get into a lot of trouble for
giving too much attention to any one of the Emperor’s servant-girls; however
Liana is my chattel. I am going to try to teach you how to raise any woman’s
libido and drive away her inhibitions. For the males of our family, there
should be no such thing as a frigid woman. The gift of reading and stimulating
responses is an ability that all of David’s sons possess.”
James carefully followed Sam’s instructions:
Touching the sleeve of Liana’s blouse, he began to withdraw from the
consciousness of his physical surroundings. Prince James focused his mind on
Liana, now sitting, uneasily, between him and Sam on a bench in James’ bedroom.
Sam spoke to Liana, “Allow Prince James to hold your hand.”
“Harkening and obeying, my lord;” Liana obeyed,
reluctantly giving her hand to James.
Suddenly James could see the emotions inside her
mind. They appeared as filaments of color, for the most part, behind her
forehead. “Sam, I see tiny moving squiggly lines, swirls, or pin-wheels of
yellow, green, blue, gray, and several shades of red”; James murmured softly.
“The grey is fear; while the yellow is roughly
the emotion of contentment or peace. The green is lethargy or rest. The blue is
desire and longing. The red colors can be indicative of many extreme emotions”;
Sam said. “The burgundy-red indicates hatred, extreme lust, or the love of
fanatical devotion. You should try to focus on moving that red-burgundy and the
blue swirl right to the front just above her eyes. James, try to think of the
burgundy-red and blue moving to line up with the center of her forehead right
at the top of her nose; that will stimulate the release of hormones raising her
libido.”
Prince James began to imagine that he was gently
bumping the swirls, while thinking of where he wished them to be. The blue and
red-burgundy slowly moved to an alignment just above Liana’s eyes on the axis
of her nose. James began to discern some of her thoughts: including deep
longing sighs, just there in her mind, not audible to his ears. James smelled
the faint scent of perspiration and musk, as a flush of pink spread from her
neck and down her breasts.
Liana squirmed restlessly, looking at Sam with
begging eyes that James could see were full of need. Timidly unable to resist,
she grasped Sam’s right hand; Liana pulled Sam’s hand up and under her skirt to
the inside of her thigh. Sam laughed, “That is just how you do it James; but,
you will have to get your own woman. Liana loves me with a deep devotion. I
have taken carnal knowledge of her. Although you can bring her to a lusty heat;
Liana is a virtuous woman. She transferred the desire you kindled to me, her
lover. Now you understand how to use this gift. You will learn more by using
it. Eventually it will be so natural you will no longer be conscious of the
colors inside the minds of your subjects; and it will become a natural
function, like breathing. The gift will make it possible to cement the
friendship and loyalty of your male vassals as well as the love of your women.”
Sam turned his attention to Liana, “Come with
me, my love, we will soon find love and release in my bedroom. I do not choose
to tempt my cousin with you, any further.”
“Yes, my lord,” she whispered. Liana looked up
at Prince Samuel; James could see that her eyes were shining with anticipation,
love, and desire as she hurriedly rose, following her master through the door,
and away from James’ room.
The
Readers of the Chronicles
Clara marveled again at
the feeling she was living in the history unfolding all around her. She could
even smell the scents of the cave and the evergreen trees on the cold slopes of
the hills in long ago West Marc. Clara risked Jessie's displeasure, pausing the
v-r-reader for a moment; “my lord why is this called a reading rather than a
viewing?”
Prince Jessie was glad for the pause; there was
an ache in his leg from the bending and stretching. “Come here little darling
and rub this lotion on my legs; and I’ll explain.” He handed a container of
camphor, turpentine, cacti, and methanol to Clara.
While she applied the unguent Jessie explained: “My
ancestors were originally Judean Disciples of Jesus Christ. After the
conversion to Christianity of the Celts of Britanie, they desired to conform to
the Holy Scriptures, which originally consisted only of the Old Testament. The
church of the first century, in all places forbade any sexual relations between
men and women with in the degrees of blood. This cannon law was according to
the law God gave in Leviticus. By the end of one hundred and fifty years even
the royal house descended from David was more Celt, Breton, Frank, and Norse
than Judean. The Celts were very strongly influenced by a worship of the
creator through thanksgiving for natural gifts and the beauties of nature. When
things were considered in totality, by Celtic people, the situation was said to
be read. Also when a prophet spoke and revealed hidden things by God’s gift he
was said to be reading the future, the situation, hidden meanings, or the
mystery of faith. When we see the chronicles, we also hear the speech, we hear
the thoughts by Assaer revelation from the telepathic common mind; we perceive
or read. Therefore you and I are today readers of those Chronicles from the
year eighty and six Anno Domini.”
The
Flight from Dumsauwf: Eighty and Six Anno Domini
Erick-op-Caleb returned at first light and
reported to Prince Thomas; “The Danes followed to the top of the hill from
which we first saw the refugees. Danes are seamen and do not very much care to
climb stony hills. I believe they do not like to be any great distance from
their long-boats. When they could not see us from the hill top; they turned
back toward Dumsauwf.”
Prince Thomas dispatched scouts ahead and behind
the refugee band. The threat in the north must be met and his father would need
every man if the kingdom was to be saved. When the Thane-men were sufficiently
rested; the prince sent Roderick-op-Geoff, the second best scout on ahead to
seek additional horses and a litter for an elderly woman who was now unable to
cling to a horse. It was action typical only of Christians, Alfred thought;
this concern and respect for an old woman. The pagans would have thought her a
danger to the clan and deserted her.
The band made only half the distance the next
day. Lord Dumsauwf had been scouting the flank and rode back to where the
Prince was walking with his wife. Only those warriors scouting were riding
horses; all the young and healthy were walking except for Lady Dumsauwf and the
miller’s wife; as they had both recently given birth.
Princess Althea’s feet were blistered. She was
holding on to the wood saddle of her sister Eriona’s mount; her husband Prince
Thomas was carrying their son. Althea listened as her sister’s husband Lord
Dumsauwf spoke to the prince; “Your highness, the light will be gone in an
hour. The scouts have found a cavern just off the trail ahead. There is an
opening inside the narrow entrance which opens into a chamber with an even
larger chamber beyond. The cavern seems to wind much deeper into the mountains.
There is a narrow fissure above the large chamber that will draw smoke away. Should
I have my clansmen begin to gather wood for a fire? Our wives are very weary
and the horses can shelter in that smaller chamber to the front of the main
chamber. The entrance to the cavern is sufficiently wide for the horses to be
led inside; but narrow enough to be easily defended. The cavern is dry; but
there is a spring beyond the large chamber. The spring feeds a small branch
which disappears under a large boulder. The spring water is clear and good.”
Prince Thomas did not hesitate, “The older folk
are about to fall off the horses; and my father’s Thane-men are foot sore. Let’s
stop while day light remains for gathering the wood and grass for the horses. We can build a nice fire, big enough to warm
everyone. The smoke escaping through the fissure should blend with the evening
fog on the mountain top. Hopefully we can get an early start in the morning. Alfred
knows the evening prayer office by heart and can lead us from memory. We need
to thank God for delivering our wives and children from the Danes.”
The meager rations that the Thane-men had
carried with them were exhausted except for a little flour and some salt. Luckily
the scouts had killed a number of hares; and, one small deer had fallen to the
bow of Alfred. There would be enough for a few mouthfuls of meat for everyone
including double portions for Eriona and the Miller’s wife as they each have
babies to nurse.
****
Chapter
2: 2000 Anno Domini: The Infatuation
Prince James heard a beautiful melodious
voice, “You have such a wonderful smile; but you are frowning, now. Is the
mirror I’m holding in a bad position?”
James snapped out of his day dream, and looked
at the young woman holding the mirror. “No, my frown had nothing do with the
mirror; I was lost in a day-dream that had a frustrating ending.” James’ eyes
swept over her; he noticed her clean and pretty face. Blushing he noticed the
outline of her body under her blouse and skirt. This was not his first time to
be aware of an arousal; but, the prince could feel: the warmth, the stiffness,
and swelling in his phallus. James’ heart was fluttering like a butterfly in
his chest. He felt an overwhelming desire to embrace the young woman.
Prince James recalled that earlier, when the
girl had come into the room; she had curtseyed and said, “Your highness, my
name is Aniela, I have been assigned, just this morning, to clean your room and
assist you.”
“Aniela, please put this away,” Prince James
said handing the brush to her. James caught her hand, as she took the brush,
and pulled her close; a bit surprised that she did not seek to escape his
embrace. A second surprise, James could see that a swirl of blue and dark
burgundy-red was already aligned at the center of her mind. “You are very
beautiful,” Prince James murmured; and then he kissed Aniela awkwardly. Before
she could turn away, James caressed her butt.
Prince James was startled, actually shocked,
when Aniela pressed into his kiss and opened her mouth to welcome his probing
tongue. Her kisses were sweet arousing him to heights he had never before
experienced. James pulled Aniela closer; his right hand found the way through
the slit at the left side of her skirt. James’ slid his hand up her leg and
slipped his fingers under her panties, gently stroking the soft curly hair
about her Venus mons. Aniela gave a soft moan, smothered by his kiss, and
shifted slightly, pressing the folds of her vulva against his fingers. Even a
shy awkward young prince knew that Aniela was clearly inviting even more
intimate attention. The scent of her filled him with lust. Blinded by desire,
for the moment, Prince James forgot caution and his appointment with the
emperor; gently drawing her back towards the edge of his bed.
Aniela almost fell; when Prince James suddenly
released her just short of the bed. “Darn!” he exclaimed to Aniela, “You are
the desire of my heart, but my love; it is time… I must report to the Emperor.”
Aniela could sense his sincerity; and she heard the genuine regret in the tone
of his voice.
If the prince left her now, Aniela was afraid;
that Prince James might never return to her. Aniela sensed his inexperience and
instinctively knew what she must do. She moved to James boldly, wrapped her
arms around his neck and kissed him. Gently, Prince James embraced Aniela, and
intimately fondled her again before withdrawing his hand from her skirt. He
slowly stepped back; “Aniela, I must obey the emperor’s summons; will you be
here when I return?”
Blushing, Aniela whispered, “O yes my Prince!” She
had done all a girl could do to show him her desire. Aniela was feeling giddy
with the hope; that somehow, Prince James would find the courage to ask the
Emperor for a gift of one slave girl from Syclic-Orison.
Emperor Baldwin had publicly announced that he
would not undergo another rejuvenation treatment. In the three years since that
announcement the four-hundred plus Imperial bond-women of child bearing age had
been completely ignored by the Emperor. Baldwin spent all of his time with his
wife Princess Margareta of Urbana. The church had given official permission;
and, the Emperor had married all sixty of his childless concubines off to
freemen retiring from military service. There was a myth, circulating among the
bond-women: “the Emperor would give any of his bond-women to any Imperial
Prince asking for them.” Aniela did not know; but in truth, the rumor was
mostly idle gossip. Without several hundred women Baldwin’s stewards would find
it impossible to maintain the Imperial palace. The emperor found it necessary
to keep sufficient women for the efficient operation of the War College
barracks as well as the Imperial Residences.
Aniela did realize that it was extremely
unlikely that she could escape a lonely and loveless life in Imperial Service. She
had begged Rachel, her friend from Syclic-Orison to try and get her an
assignment to the barracks of Prince James of Piedmont.
Rachel had teased her mercilessly, “Aniela is
infatuated with a little boy prince”. Actually everyone knew that today was the
prince’s eighteenth birthday. In the Sylvanian Empire, that made James a legal
adult, old enough to rule his late father’s principality in his own right.
Early that morning, Aniela had jumped for joy,
while writing her reassignment into her day journal. She had been too excited
to eat her breakfast. The duty board roister had revealed that Rachel had
succeeded in getting her friend a three month assignment to clean the suite of
Prince James.
Rachel’s own assignment for the past six months
had been to maintain and clean the Prince’s clothes. She was officially his
valet. Being of a shy disposition Rachel had carefully stayed in the
background.
As a child, Rachel had expected to be married to
some noble near her father’s social station. After the war, she had reluctantly
accepted the impossibility of being anything other than the neglected slave
girl of an elderly and disinterested Emperor. Rachel had come to view the
future with a measure of sadness. She saw only a lonely life; but a life which,
she was determined to live with dignity.
Aniela quickly finished making the bed and
dusting the prince’s suite; and then, she ran to find Rachel. “Rachel! Where
are you Rachel?” She called loudly.
Rachel stepped out of the laundry room where she
had been ironing one of the prince’s uniforms. “Try to slow down Aniela, take a
few deep breaths, and tell me; why you are so excited. I bet you saw the Prince
and your heart went pity-patty-pat-pat!” Rachel smiled at her friend’s
enthusiasm; her smile taking the sting from her teasing.
“Truth to tell you, my heart is skipping,”
Aniela bent close to Rachel’s ear dropping her voice three octaves to avoid
being overheard. “I did more than see him. I held a mirror while he brushed his
hair. Prince James grabbed my hand, pulled me into his embrace and kissed me
thoroughly!” Aniela’s blush was a deep beet red.
Rachel looked at her gravely. “I do not wish to
bust your bubble; but, you are the Emperor’s bond woman. You could be looking
at a package deal that includes: a swift trip to some very cold world and a
marriage to a man old enough to be your grandfather. The man would be some
rough freeman who only bathes for the New Year. There you will be made to work
like a mule. Your husband will bury your poor dead body soon after you give
birth to your fourth baby; which will be born less than five years after your
marriage. Your fourth child will be born only eleven months after the birth of
your third baby.” Rachel’s face betrayed her genuine concern for her younger
friend.
Aniela colored as she remembered the touch of
James’ fingers, the feel of his tongue probing her mouth, the excitement of his
kisses, and the warmth of his embrace. “I could end up spending my life with
the most handsome prince in the Empire;” Aniela snapped at her older friend. She
was clearly hurt by Rachel’s attitude. “But even if everything you suggested
came true; such a short life would be better than growing old, dying a bitter
spinster-virgin, alone with no one to care for me. I will take my chances
friend Rachel. Prince James can have anything in my power to give him
regardless of the consequences!” Aniela burst into tears, “I know…I just
know…Prince James is my destiny,” she sobbed; “either my happy ever after or
the beginning of my worst nightmare.”
Prince James had run from his bachelor quarters;
but quickly slowed; remembering, that he had no desire to appear wet with
perspiration before his uncle. James tried in vain to clear his head of the
vision of Aniela: her eager responses and the feel of her against his body.
When Prince James was not quite twelve years
old, his mother had been killed during a surprise barbarian raid on the capital
of Piedmont. An alarm had been raised too late to save the city; but faithful
Assaer had carried the young prince through an escape tunnel to a transporter
preset to the planet of Sylvanian, the Empire’s capital world.
His mother’s death had come less than a year
after, the death of his father in the final battle of the war with the Syclic
Alliance. That battle had ended in a great victory for the Christian Sylvania
Empire; but, it had come at the great cost of the life of the Empire’s Crown
Prince.
Prince James crossed the lawn in front of the
Imperial Palace. He passed several large groups of Assaer most of them
officers. He hurried past the Assaer on toward the palace’s main gate. James
walked at a brisk pace past the guards on duty. Those guards regardless of rank
saluted a young prince of David’s house. A squad of the Assaer city guards,
double-timed past Prince James; clicking their mandibles as a sign of
recognition as they hurried in the direction of the city armory.
Just ahead James saw his cousins Prince Paul and
Prince Samuel waiting at the steps to the palace’s main entrance. “Are you
ready to begin your doctoral studies?” Prince Samuel asked smiling broadly. Before
James could think of a good reply for Paul and Samuel; an Imperial Assaer
herald summoned them to the throne room.
****
Chapter
3: The Princes’ Audience
All three princes were in military uniforms: Prince
James wore the war college uniform of a graduate cadet officer. Samuel wore the
uniform of a knight commander in the Liandudauf Army; and Paul wore the uniform
of a lord-admiral of the Ulvevstauwf Principality’s Inter-planetary Navy.
The silence was almost oppressive within the
vast hall. There was none of the usual ordered movement, the quite hum of
conversation, and those other normal sounds typical of an Imperial Court
Audience.
His Imperial Majesty Baldwin IV has ordered all
the courtiers and politicians to depart. The princes saw the aged emperor
sitting on a comfortable but simple chair. The emperor's chair was raised six
inches above the floor but below the level of the golden throne on the dais
behind him. On the right hand of the Emperor stood Edward an elderly Christian
Bishop in a simple cassock made of coarse grey cloth.
There is a woman standing at Baldwin’s left
hand; she is poised and strikingly beautiful. Her dress has simple but elegant
lines, and on her head is a tiara of silver. She has a small recording device
pinned to a slash about her waist. Margareta, the princess of Urbana, is the
official recorder of the Imperial Court Chronicles. She is also the only wife
of the Emperor, a confident, and a trusted advisor to Baldwin IV. Margareta is
one of only two persons not of the dynastic blood-line that are permitted to
speak without invitation and to share any thoughts on the business of the
Empire with the Emperor. The other person with such a high privilege is the
Patriarch of the One Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church: Bishop Edward.
The stillness is broken by Baldwin’s voice as he
makes a motion with his hand, “Let the princes’ approach.” Sam, Paul, and James
silently approach their uncle, bending their heads in a reverence. “I have
called you here to prepare each of you to undertake a mission for the Empire
and the One Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church.”
“You will be departing soon for your mission
destinations. Your departures will be no later than sundown tomorrow. Two of
you will be going to a world in danger; where the enemies of truth and the way
of righteousness are attempting to overthrow the local civilization.”
The Emperor paused a few seconds and then
continued, “Each one of you is the eldest surviving son of one of my brothers;
you have been educated and prepared for governing this empire after my decease.
James your late father and my two remaining brothers are true Christians; and
the peace and unity of the Empire has not been broken by covetous princes
struggling for selfish gain during our reign.”
“The Empire of Sylvania is a Christian
Autocracy. Only one man can rule the Empire, but the other princes must help in
carrying forth the manifest destiny of the people of God and the will of
Christ’s one true Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church.” The Emperor paused
before continuing, “Each of you must never forget the primary mission of the
sons of David. That mission is to bring light to the darkened minds of fallen
creatures; and, the commandments of the only Lord God and great Potentate Jesus
Christ to every reasoning creature!”
James struggled to banish the thoughts of
Aniela’s ripe body from his mind; as through a fog, he heard the voice of the
Emperor. “These immediate assignments will show me if you possess the necessary
traits of governance: righteous character, ability, devotion, and courage. All
of these virtues are absolutely necessary to your success; whether you are an
imperial prince ruling a prefecture or an emperor ruling the Empire. You have
been educated in the sciences and the Holy Catholic Religion. You have each
learned to use the special gift which God has given our house. Each one of you
possesses that gift which allows insight into the mind of anyone close-by, of
reading, and of stimulating emotional and hormonal responses in others.”
Prince James tried manfully to tame his
imagination and focus on the voice of his uncle. “I will speak to each of you
alone and then Bishop Edward will give you certain instruction which you are to
follow explicitly. I will begin now with the youngest: James will remain for
his interview. Samuel shall return for his interview in one hour; and, Paul
shall come in two hours. Paul and Samuel are dismissed for now;” the Emperor
raised his hand in dismissal. Paul and Samuel backed to the door; where, they
did an about-face and hurried away from the throne room.
Outside the palace Paul turned to Sam, “I think
a nap is the next thing in-order for me. I am still tired after the trip here
from Moorefield.”
Sam smiled and asked, “How can strapping into a
transporter seat and taking a ten minute nap be tiring?”
Paul gave a sad smile: “Seven months ago, my
lea-woman had another miscarriage. Sahara has lost all four of the children
that we conceived together, all by miscarriage. Now she has gone completely
mad. My father insisted that I take another woman to my bed; but, I only
desired Sahara. My father gave me several stern lectures about my duty to the
dynasty. He recently sent me to Moorefield; with an army and orders to put down
a rebellion. Part of the punishment of the rebel lords was to forfeit
twenty-five percent of their unmarried daughters of child bearing age.”
Paul gave a tired smile, “I took one of the new
slave-girls for my lea-woman. She converted to Christianity; and was baptized. I
gave her the Christian name of Greta. She is very passionate and athletic;
Greta has been wearing me out ever since. I think; that, I may be in love. One
thing is for sure: I am physically and emotionally worn-out. I almost never
think of Sahara anymore. Greta has made obeying my father’s command to
procreate a joy and not a chore.”
Prince Samuel spoke soberly, “I am very sad at
your loss both of the child and Sahara; but I am glad you have a new lea-woman.
I am sure you will shortly find real happiness. The imperial worlds are full of
beautiful women and most of them would love to please a handsome prince like
you, James, or I.”
“My problem is just the opposite;” Sam continued,
“I love all of my women. While you get some rest: I will try manfully to make a
baby with the beautiful Liana; then, get a shower, and be back at court in
under an hour!” Sam said all this with another broad grin.
Paul smiled despite himself at his cousin’s
philosophy. “Good luck on the baby! I hope to see you later this evening after
my interview. Then perhaps, we can compare notes with James.”
Prince Samuel rushed back to his barrack suite;
he entered, calling loudly, “Liana, Liana; where is my beautiful woman?”
“I am here my lord;” Liana called, her voice was
coming from his bedroom. “Did the Emperor have something of interest for you?”
“I’ll know when I report back to court in less
than an hour;” Sam swept a privacy curtain aside and entered the room. Liana
was sitting in the middle of the bed her legs folded, knees together, heels
under her butt, and facing the door.
“You told me to be ready for love when you
returned.” Liana smiled up at Sam; she had on a very short transparent
camisole, that welcoming smile, and nothing else except for the ever present
ankle bracelet engraved with her master’s signet. “How can I serve you my
lord?” her voice was eager; and, her grin had turned positively impish.
Prince Samuel laughed with pleasure, “Are there
any more like you at home? I just told Prince Paul that I was going to try to
make a baby with my beautiful slave-girl, take a shower and be back in court
all in less than an hour.”
Liana giggled, uncurled her legs, changing her
position slowly. Liana carefully watched his reaction as she gave his eyes an
unobstructed view of the curly auburn hair covering her Venus Mons. Liana
licked her index finger and parted the outer folds of her labia while staring
steadily at his arousal. “We can start as soon as you lose the trousers, my
lord!”
****
Chapter
4: Prince James is given stern lectures by the Emperor and the Patriarch
Prince James remained in
a military
at ease position as his cousins departed the throne room. He was surprised at
what he had heard and wondered what task the Emperor would assign. James
wondered how he or his cousins could possibly meet the high expectations of
their uncle. He was only this day eighteen, and not sure if he possessed any
ability. His uncle stood up, “James, you will follow Princess Margareta and the
Patriarch.”
“Yes sir, your majesty” James said coming to
attention and saluting sharply. He followed the princess as the bishop led the
way. They crossed the hall of the throne room; and walked behind the dais,
where James saw a number of doors in the north wall. The Bishop and Princess
Margareta entered a smaller room through the third door from the north-east
corner.
The room was comfortably furnished; it contained
a table in the center. The Emperor’s firm voice belied his age, “Sit down.” When
they were seated the Emperor, who followed James into the room gave him a stern
look. “Bishop Edward, please ask God’s mercy, direction, and divine protection
on my young nephew James’ and wisdom to carry forward his mission.”
Bishop Edward began, “Almighty God, Lord of all
mercies: look upon young James, thy servant. Grant him, most gracious Lord,
that he might be enlightened and endowed with wisdom beyond his years. We ask
your protection, O Lord that James might have good success in the mission now
given him for thy glory. And all of this we ask in the name of thy Son our
Saviour, Jesus the Christ. Amen.”
After the prayer ended, Emperor Baldwin again
looked at his young nephew; “James the mission, you will begin tomorrow
evening, will require a lot of equipment and personnel; most of which is
already staged at your destination. The empire has many properties on earth;
and your destination is one we have owned for many years. You will be
headquartered in one of our properties in Richmond, Virginia. The necessary
supplies, not already there, will soon be dispatched to your base of
operations. A few additional items and personnel will be ready immediately
after Morning Prayer tomorrow.”
“The Imperial Princes are expected to set
examples for their households and inherited subjects. You will do this by
attending on public worship, both daily Morning and Evening Prayer and by
showing a personal diligence to attend on all the means of grace. We hope that
it is in your heart to do so; Piedmont and the Empire of Sylvania will prosper
only to the extent that their princes possess true devotion to God and his One
Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church.”
The Emperor’s voice grew even sterner, “I am
sending you to Earth. Earth is the planet of origin for our family and our
faith. But on Earth for over a century, the agnostics have been undermining the
faith of the people; now the governments totter on the brink of social
collapse. Although this began centuries ago it has now reached a critical
stage. Some of the nations are already ruled by satanic agents from Hellsboro. This
is the reason that many governments are acting contrary to their national
interest and seem to be hell-bent on creating a one world anti-Christian
government. The new order to be created cannot exist without the bloody
suppression of all true Christianity. You will have the necessary knowledge
imprinted in part here and the balance available after you arrive. You will be
housed in a large building. That building is to be, initially, both your home
and base of operations. A friend of Bishop Edward, one of your former tutors,
will accompany you on your mission. In addition you must choose two of our
bond-women from among the Imperial servants to be your domestics. Choose
carefully for these will be your responsibility as well as your property. They
are a part of my birthday gift to you.”
The Emperor paused as if to weigh my emotional
response. “These women will be registered; making you responsible for them for
the rest of their lives. You should choose one about your age and the other
between the ages of twenty-five and thirty-five. When you arrive at your
destination, there will be other bond women already awaiting you; these women
will also be your property and responsibility. James, you will understand the
reason; why, I have given you so many women after talking with the Patriarch.”
The Emperor sighed, “General Rahbat of the
Imperial General Staff will also travel with you; she will remain just a few
days to help you get comfortable in your position as mission commander. The
officers of the Piedmont brigade have sworn to protect your life at any cost. These
officers have experience; almost all having previous deployments into your area
of operation. They will give you a great advantage in dealing with our enemies.
You must quickly adapt to your situation for the success of this mission. You
must be diligent to learn your surroundings; and you must use knowledge,
wisdom, good experienced council, and force, to overthrow the enemies of our
Lord.”
Bishop Edward (Patriarch of the One Holy
Catholic and Apostolic Church) spoke as soon as the Emperor and Princess
Margareta had walked out of the room; “Prince James, all of the words of Holy
Scripture are breathed of God, infallible, and true. All your actions must
begin, continue, and end in them; or the Lord God will not prosper you.”
Bishop Edward paused allowing me time to absorb
the key place of the Holy Scripture relative to our race. “The articles of our
faith declare that the Old and New testaments are of equal weight and
authority.”
“The church is in a difficult place; we are
forced to look to the Old Testament where we find today’s situations mirrored
from every side and in every particular circumstance. This is because the
ancient People of God experienced circumstances and situations; that in many
ways are just like our own today. And remember, the Old Testament was the only
source the Apostles had for instruction and inspiration. Every sermon found in
the New Testament was rooted in text taken from the Old Testament!”
The patriarch chooses his words carefully, “The
promise is to the House of David; and now most of our princes have fallen
during two millennia of wars. The princes who practice the Holy Faith are the
most important warriors not just of the Empire; but for all the People of God. Without
our princes’ righteous leadership, the Assaer would lose heart. They would not
fight or labor for those not of David’s House. They were converted to Christ
because of prophecy, their own ancient prophecy, which stated: ‘the Sons of
David will come to teach the Assaer, more perfectly, the way to Life Eternal’.
The families of the Royal Ark have lived out their faith; thus the Assaer have continued
to accept the teachings of the One Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church. By some
miracle the Assaer know and recognize the sons of David. They cannot be
deceived.”
Bishop Edward paused before continuing, “Your
fore-father David had many women and had children by most of them. Yet the
scripture says, ‘He was a man after God’s own heart’. You have an
obligation not only to the Empire; but, to those women (who belong to you) to
give them children as God enables and opens their wombs. The Empire has been
reduced to five loyal—obedient scions of David; and only three in your
generation are faithful men of David’s blood. This is fact; even though the
dynasty began when David and his son Solomon had hundreds of children. The
royal houses that descended from David on earth have fallen prey to the powers
of evil. One nation’s King-in-waiting has boasted of his intention to refuse to
take the ancient coronation oath to defend the True Holy Catholic Faith. Those
families have rejected God; there is no help for us to be found among the royal
families of earth. Our princes must remain faithful; or, Divine punishments
will overwhelm our peoples. I am sending the Rev. Brother Roister with you. You
may remember him from the military mathematics and tactics class he taught at
St. Albert’s Institute. He has agreed to be the priest of your household; and
is also a happy warrior of the priest-militant. The Rev. Roister is both a
deeply spiritual priest and a gifted-experienced military officer. He will now
go with you to your quarters.”
Brother Roister+ appeared as soon as James and
the Patriarch began to cross the courtyard. “O brother Roister,” the Bishop
called, “Go with our young Prince and get his household ordered for tomorrow.” He
handed the priest a folder; and said, “Inside are the forms for two of the
Emperor’s slave women. The forms are for two women; which, James is commanded
to choose from among the Emperor’s household servants. They are to be made his
chattels and will require a legal registry.”
****
Chapter
5: A Prince’s Choice
Eighty and Six Anno Domini:
Shelter in a Cavern
There was soon a roaring
fire beneath the roof fissure and as they had foreseen the smoke was drawn up
to the roof by the draft created by cooler night air outside the fissure. Althea
noticed her little son, Samuel, pulling his cloak tighter and shivering. She
picked him up and tucked her own cloak around them both. “It will be so warm
soon you may wish to remove your cloak and make a pillow out of it,” she told
him. Althea wanted to call her husband to have him take her hand and make all
of her fears vanish; but, she saw he was busily moving about setting his
father’s Thane-men to various tasks. Prince Thomas dispatched some of those
from Dumsauwf, men and boys that were lightly armed to gather more firewood;
and he ordered them to find materials to get the women and children off the
cold floor of the cave. Somehow Althea knew that Thomas would protect them and
get them all safely to Glastonbury.
There was not much available for making beds for
sleeping; so, branches were cut from near the bottom of the evergreen trees. They
carefully only cut branches from trees growing on the side of the hill furthest
from the trail between Glastonbury and West Marc. The bottom branches were dry
when cut from inside near the bottom of the larger conifers. They made layers
of crisscrossed branches on which to lie down. This would give them some
cushioning from the hard stones of the cold cave floor. The horses were hobbled
and allowed to forge a short distance from the cave for an hour before being
driven inside and given a small quantity of grass. Grass that the women and
children had gathered carefully under the protective gaze of those Thane-men
not engaged in sentry duty.
The meat was cooked on spites cut from the hardy
hard-wood scrub which grew near the cavern. Alfred asked God’s grace and they
carefully divided the food in equal portions between all the folk; no
difference in portions was made between gentlefolk and the freemen farmers and
their families. Only the Lady Eriona and the Miller’s wife, both with new-born
babies to nurse, received double portions. They had used half the remaining
salt in preparing the meager meal. They had at least two days to go at their
current rate of travel. It appeared that there would only be one more meal with
salt, for seasoning any meat; that they were able to procure.
The next morning they were awakened by
Erick-op-Caleb. He had risen before dawn; pushing on toward East-marc. Just an
hour’s ride from the cavern there was a firth which rose among the hills of the
interior. Heading toward Dumsauwf, Prince Thomas and the Thane-men had forded
that stream on the rocky ridge where the firth dropped three feet in a water
fall before continuing toward the North Sea.
They had a stout rope which they planned to tie
to trees on both banks for the elderly to grasp while crossing.
Erick dismounted and strode immediately to where
Prince Thomas and Lord Dumsauwf were standing. He began to speak gesturing with
his hands in great animation; forgetting even to reverence the Prince. “There
is a long-boat beached,” Erick’s voice was barely audible, “just below the
shallow crossing where we had thought to ford. It is the boat of a Norse
Ring-giver; and that boat has a red cross as the device on its sail.”
Prince Thomas spoke quickly upon hearing that the
sail bore a red cross; “the Christian prince of Kent has sent an embassy to the
High King Stephen, lord of the Christian Grouts, to seek an alliance against
the Danes. The ship could be one belonging to the Norse-Grouts.”
Erick spoke, “I rode to the top of the Craig
where the beacon fire is kept laid. I could see three sails coming up the firth
the sails were striped with dye and had a large pagan device in the center. I
could not be certain but I think the device is The Crow’s Claw of the Witch.”
Lord Dumsauwf spoke quickly, “We do not have
enough men to aid the Norse Christians. Yet it is our duty to warn them; let
Erick have a fresh mount and one for me as well. Unless they have a warrior who
speaks the Britannic tongue; I will have to communicate by drawing.”
The prince and Alfred the priest had walked over
to hear the scout’s report; “It is our duty to Christ,” Alfred said nodding
consent to the words of Lord Dumsauwf.
****
Seeking
Aniela: 2000 Anno Domini
Aniela left Rachel with her friend's warning
echoing in her mind; and ran back to Prince James' apartment. She paused in
front of the wall mounted mirror; “Right here,” she said softly, “I did not
dream, he kissed me right here! There hangs the hand mirror that I held.” She
had held a hand mirror behind his head, while the prince was brushing his hair.
“All I really wanted all my life was a man to
love and to be loved by that man. A man who would love, protect me, and
conceive a baby with me. Someone I could love and trust;” Aniela realized
suddenly that she was speaking aloud and crying at the impossibility of
achieving her dreams. She was in love, hopelessly in love, with a nephew of the
Emperor of a thousand worlds. Rachel was right; she needed to dry her eyes and
ask to be reassigned. She could be like Rachel; she would lose herself in her
work. She was the Emperor’s bondwoman; and that would have to be dignity and
life enough.
Aniela walked out the door of the barracks and
went back to her room. She would wash her face; no one would know she had been
crying.
Arriving back at his room with the Rev. Roister,
Prince James saw no sign of Aniela. “There is a young woman working in the
barracks that I wish to choose for my lea-woman;” James told his chaplain.
“I am not surprised;" the priest replied. "You
are certainly of the age to be noticing the charms of the fairer sex. Young
men, of your age, often find themselves strongly attracted to certain specific
young women.”
His new pastor spoke to the domestic supervisor:
“summons all the women who do the household chores. Have them to assemble in
the barracks’ mess hall.”
The prince walked with his chaplain to the mess
hall. The supervisor sent a woman to make them each a cup of tea. It took
several minutes before the women started coming into the room. James could not
drink his tea; his mind raced with excitement as he remembered Aniela’s
response to his kisses. James thought of how she had responded to his more
intimate caresses. She had obviously wanted him to take even more intimate
liberties.
Time seemed to drag for James as they waited;
until the women could be assembled. Finally, the room began to fill up; all of
the women were wearing the same modest imperial household uniform. Because they
had been called unexpectedly from their duties, some of the women were less
presentable than others. The Rev. Roister spoke loudly so that all the women
could hear. “Prince James has been ordered to choose two of you for his
household.”
There was a buzz of excited chatter as the
supervisor told the women to form a line and prepare to pass in front of the
prince. Prince James saw no sign of Aniela. He turned to order the supervisor
of the women, to have Aniela summonsed at once. James had just opened his mouth
to speak to the woman; when Aniela came through the door. When James saw Aniela
his heart filled with happiness and desire. He called out to her over the noisy
chatter, “Aniela, please come to me.”
A startled Prince James saw fear pass like a
cloud over Aniela’s face. She walked to him; but, her lip trembled like she
might cry. “I did not intend to offend you my prince,” she said; “my heart and
immaturity have betrayed me.”
“You have not given offence,” Prince James
replied, “I am to choose two of the Emperor’s serving women for my household. My
choice is made at the Emperor’s command. I have chosen you; is there one of the
other women whose company you enjoy? She must be about twenty-five years of
age.”
James had noticed Aniela talking to a slightly
older but very beautiful woman with jet black hair and blue eyes. He had heard
her call the woman’s name earlier as he was leaving for court. ‘Rachel,’
James remembered, ‘she is the woman who takes care of my wardrobe; and has
the general duties of my valet.’
Aniela’s face lit up as she realized Prince
James had chosen her over of all the other women in the room. “It is not my
place to give advice to my prince,” she spoke softly suddenly shy. When Prince
James nodded encouragement, Aniela asked, “How do you like, Rachel, the woman
who cares for your clothes? We are from the same village and are good friends.”
Prince James saw adoration shinning from
Aniela’s eyes and dominating her mind. Prince James turned to his pastor,
speaking formally, as he had been taught; “Brother Roister, as the Emperor has
commanded me: I wish to register Aniela-of-Syclic and Rachael-of-Syclic as my
lea-women.”
The Rev. Roister opened the folder in his hand
and asked both women to spell their names. When their names had been recorded;
the supervisor of the women and the chaplain signed as witness and Prince James
as their conservator. The prince turned to his women, “Rachael and Aniela go to
your quarters, return quickly with the calendars of your cycles, your
toiletries, clothes, and any other necessary things.”
“Harkening and obedience,” Rachel and Aniela
replied. They ran to their rooms; where both women quickly gathered up their
clothes, day journals and toiletries. They returned quickly, dazzled by their
good fortune; but both were fearful that the young prince might change his
mind.
The Rev. Roister had summonsed a clerk. The
Assaer clerk inventoried and added the women’s clothes and personal care items
to the list of supplies being provided by the Emperor.
The supervisor of the palace women was called
again; “Make the necessary arrangements for Aniela and Rachael to be given the
room in my suite beside my bedroom. Please refurnish that room for my
lea-women's comfort.”
The supervisor curtseyed and left just as the
chimes began to sound the Hour of Eve Song. Prince James remembering the Emperor’s
advise asked the Chaplain, “Sir would you allow us to make our general
confessions and receive the sacrament?”
“Gladly your highness,” the priest raised his
voice and spoke to the entire assembly. “Everyone whose duties permit may come
to the chapel; therefore examine your own heart; so as to worthily receive that
Holy Mystery.” In the chapel across from the barracks The Lord’s Supper was
soon laid upon the Holy Table. His two lea-women sat with Prince James in the
front pew before the communion rail. James was tempted, a bit distracted, as he
repeatedly caught them looking at him from the corners of their eyes. Both
women’s faces were radiant and they could not stop smiling. But Prince James
applied himself to prayer and felt blessed in the Communion.
When Prince James and his lea-women returned to
the barracks, they found that a room had been furnished for Rachael and Aniela.
There were twin beds, a small cooking appliance, and a refrigeration closet
which on inspection had been stocked with a variety of food. Prince James was
suddenly hungry and asked; “Rachael, will you prepare us a light supper?”
“What would you like my lord,” Rachel asked? James
could see that she was delighted to be the first asked to perform a domestic
duty for her new master.
“Something light; perhaps just some sandwiches
and milk,” James replied.
As they ate the sandwiches; Rachel had prepared.
The women and James were equally shy. They were full of curiosity; but for a
time, all three were tongue tied. Prince James, with considerable effort,
overcame his shyness. The prince truly wished to know more of the histories of
Aniela and Rachel.
Prince James took his time, really looking both
women over; noticing the differences in their poise, posture and bodies. His
shyness had kept James from really noticing a lot of detail about either of the
women. The shyness evaporated as James realized that he was in the presence of
two strikingly beautiful women. Two women, who are willing to do anything to
obtain his affection; and women whose life mission was now to please and
interest their young prince.
Rachael is seven years older than James. She is
a stunningly beautiful woman with very white skin, an aristocratic nose, and
beautiful eyes the deep indigo color of sapphires. Rachel is slightly taller
than James’ five foot-ten inches. Her hair is hanging below her shoulders,
slightly curly, and midnight black. She speaks sparingly; and, James senses
that Rachel possesses the stronger measure of maturity, inner confidence, and
peace.
Aniela is beautiful in a different way: her
straight hair is a light brown; her eyes are green with brown flecks. It is
Aniela who speaks first; her voice is just a little louder than a whisper: “I
recently had my eighteenth birthday; which gave me access to my records in the
chancellor's office. I learned; that I was barely three when my parents were
killed. Although they had joined their pagan overlords in the Syclic War, they
died when the pagans panicked and killed their adult Christian retainers. This
happened during the final days of the siege of the Syclic capital world. When
the Sylvania Army captured the planet, all the orphans of rebels were declared
Imperial chattels and were sent to the Emperor. My earliest memories are of
growing up in a beautiful palace where I played with other children at or near
my age. We learned to read, write, the basics of the Christian religion,
English grammar, and mathematics. When I was ten,” Aniela continued, “the
Emperor ordered that his slaves from Syclic-Orion be given a higher technical
education and the women taught practical skills.” Aniela’s voice trailed off
and she seemed lost in memory.
Aniela spoke again after a long pause, “two
weeks ago, on my eighteenth birthday, I finished my school work; and, just last
week the women’s supervisor assigned me to clean and learn the practical skills
for managing the barracks for Assaer and human Cadets at St. Albert’s War
College.” Aniela’s voice was tremulous, uncertain; as if, she were worried and
afraid.
Prince James spoke to them, “Neither of you need
to be afraid; I am responsible for you as long as we live. I will be patient
and kind; but, I trust you know your duty; to be taught of me in religion and
instructed in work. You must give me respect and obey me in all things.”
James felt more certain of Aniela’s feelings; so
he looked directly at Rachel and asked, “How do you feel about your new station
and situation?”
Rachael, her eyes focused on the floor, started
to speak. James placed his right hand beneath her chin and gently tilted her
head back so she was forced to make eye contact. “I am honored to be chosen by
you, my prince. I am a slave because my father rebelled against the Emperor and
conspired with the pagans; he was executed and his wife and children sold. The
court chamberlain reserved me for the emperor’s pleasure. In the ten years
since, he has never sent for me; thus, I have remained a virgin. I will do my
duty as a Christian and prove that I am not tainted by my father’s treason.”
James looked closely at Aniela; she is about
five foot four inches. She has a trim athletic build, a warm smile, and her
eyes beg for his attention. The late evening light shines on her hair; hair
that is a soft brown with simmering golden high-lights. James recalls her
response to his advances earlier in the day. He had to force a cough to hide
the laugh that threatened to burst from his lips as he remembered his fight to
focus on the Emperor’s instructions. He had struggled to clear his head of the
image of the young woman now sitting across from his chair; and she was even
more beautiful, more desirable, and excited him more than he had remembered.
“Some time tomorrow,” James said, “we will be
leaving to go on a mission for our Emperor and the One, Holy, Catholic, and
Apostolic Church. I am going to my room now. We need to prepare for bed; good
night;” the prince said. He felt awkward not sure of what he should do or say;
knowing only that he could not leave Aniela. James saw a disappointed look
cross Aniela’s face; which made him realize, she did not wish him to go. Prince
James kissed Rachael and then Aniela. He embraced Aniela, pulling her close,
and asked her: “Would you like to come with me?”
“Yes my prince,” she said simply. James took her
hand and they walked through the door into the larger room containing his bed,
three chests with domed lids which held his clothes and belongings. There was
also a chair and a closet in which hung two more fatigue uniforms as well as
one additional dress uniform. There was the small sink behind which was the
mirror, and to the left, a peg on which hung the hand mirror; the mirror that
Aniela had held for him earlier that day.
****
Chapter
6: The First Time
“My beloved spake, and
said unto me,
‘Rise up my love, my
fair one, and come away’.”
The Song of Solomon
2:10; Received Text of the Holy Bible.
Aniela is so beautiful; holding her hand, Prince
James easily reads her emotions. He realizes that Aniela is feeling vulnerable,
unsure, even frightened. Prince James uses his gift of inner sight to continue
looking into her mind. James sees a whirl of fear, a fear mingled with
eagerness, curiosity, and longing.
James concentrates and uses the power of his
gift, to release feelings of peace and confidence. The prince can sense peace
envelope her, as, the tremor in her hand ceases. “Look into my eyes,” he said
to her: "Thank you for choosing to be here with me. Aniela! Just being
close to you, I feel things that I have felt only once before in my life. It is
the same feeling; I had, when I kissed you this morning. I feel a longing, a
roaring of my blood, a need, and an emptiness no words can frame”.
Aniela reached up and placed her hands behind
James’ neck. He tilted-up her head to kiss her mouth. She opened to his kiss
and returned it with enthusiasm.
They still have on the chapel clothes from early
evening. Aniela is wearing a white blouse and a royal blue skirt. A slit on the
right side runs to her mid-thigh. James still has on the khaki dress uniform
from his morning audience with the Emperor. Prince James speaks softly his lips
near Aniela’s ear; “You are mine, and the most treasured of all my possessions.
If I were a simple free-holder I would still feel wealthy just to have you.”
Aniela whispered to him, in a breathless voice
between kisses, “My only fear is that you will be displeased with me. I am a
silly girl who dared to dream that you might desire me. I have no words to
express my need for you to possess me! I will do anything to please you, my
lord!”
Prince James allowed the kiss to deepen; as he
ran his right hand down her back, still caressing. James gently caressed her
firm butt. “You have a beautiful body;” he whispered in her ear. Aniela moved
against James; and he held her in a tight embrace. Rising on her toes Aniela
lifted a leg, bending her knee, and pressing her pelvis against his swollen
manhood.
The smoldering fire in the prince’s veins burst
into flames; as, Aniela’s delicate scent filled his nostrils. Passion made
James tongue-tied, awkward—at a loss for words. He continued to kiss and caress
her while he struggled to find the words with which to tell this beautiful girl
what he needed. Finally in a rough-thick voice, James heard himself say, “Help
me get out of these boots, please.” Prince James walked to the end of the bed
and sat down.
Aniela knelt before him, grasping the heel of
the boot. James saw the personification of his adolescent dreams in her: submission,
grace, and beauty. Aniela hesitated unsure of how to proceed; then with an
effort, she grasped the heel more firmly and pulled the Wellington off his left
foot. Aniela bent forward to grasp the right boot. She heard James’ audible
gasp as he gazed into her cleavage. He could see the tops of the pink auroras
around her nipples. Aniela pulled off the right boot; “my socks too,” James
told her. She complied quickly; then, without being told, Aniela unbuckled his
belt, pulling it out of his uniform trouser's belt loops. James stood-up;
taking her hands and tugging upward on her wrists.
Aniela rose gracefully to her feet. Prince James
heard her whisper, “I want to please you; I wish to be yours completely. I’m
not sure of what to do; tell me, please.”
James kissed her neck and ears; all the while,
still feeling overpowered by her beauty. James could barely whisper in her ear,
“You are so beautiful my Aniela. You are doing everything right; you please me
very much!” He moved his right hand to the buttons of her blouse, his fingers
felt like clumsy sausages as he struggled to unfasten the buttons.
James paused a few seconds to gaze down at
Aniela’s closed eyes. He could see she was peeking; but instinctively he
co-operated with her deception. He knew that she wished to give the illusion
that her eyes were closed.
Prince James bent his head and again their lips
brushed. Aniela’s kiss was sweet and tender; and a sensation like an electric
current coursed through James. He unhooked the last button and pushed the
blouse gently off her shoulders. Aniela slipped her hands from its long
sleeves; and James, reached around her back. He quickly managed to loosen the
hooks on her brazier. Aniela took a half-a-step back allowing the bra to drop
from her arms. The bra fell to the floor, and James stared, feasting with his
eyes on the beauty of her high pert breasts.
James reached out his hands shaking, and lightly
brushed her nipples with his thumbs. Aniela shivered at his touch, pulling back
slightly, and looking down. She broke eye contact and blushed. Her blush was a
deep red that spread from her face down over her lovely breasts. Aniela’s
instinct was to cover her breast with her arms; but, she fought off the
impulse; somehow, knowing that it was the worst possible action. Uncertain,
Aniela momentarily dropped her arms to her sides; then quickly, instinctively
knowing: she reached up to encircle her prince’s neck with her arms. The blush
slowly faded; “you are the first man to see my naked breast,” Aniela said. “I
have always thought… please tell me are my breasts too small?” She asked in a
hesitant voice.
Prince James could barely speak, “No! My love they…you
are perfect. Aniela, you are more than lovely, more than beautiful; no-other
woman can possibly compare to you. You have a beautiful face with lips that beg
to be kissed; and your figure is perfect.” James had stammered a little at
first but Aniela could hear the conviction in his voice. He felt compelled to
wax poetic, “your breasts are soft, but with firm peaks, your nipples rise from
perfect little round seas of pink. They fill my soul with hunger, a desire to
kiss, caress, and possess.” James rained kisses on her breasts and licked her
right nipple. He felt it respond by stiffening, and elongating. James drew it
gently into his mouth. He moved his attention to the left nipple kissing and
running his tongue over it. Aniela's prince kissed and licked at her ears;
while he guided her fingers to his own buttons.
Aniela could not control the squirming as she
felt something at her center winding tighter and tighter; she felt a spasm in
her womb each time her prince suckled a nipple. She felt heat surround her
Venus mons and realized her panty was very moist. Aniela was blushing again;
this time she was embarrassed by her body’s arousal. In her innocence, she was
afraid that James might think her wanton.
Aniela stepped closer her voice little more than
a whisper, “I’ve always loved you; and dreamed of this day. I believed against
all logic that you would ask the Emperor for one slave girl from Syclic.” Aniela
shook off her stupor and unbuttoned James’ shirt. The prince shrugged off his
shirt, no longer embarrassed in the least by his own arousal. He pulled Aniela
tight against his body; her nipples, hard and erect, pressed firmly against his
chest.
Prince James kissed her mouth hungrily; holding
her so tight that she gasped for breath. James realized he was crushing her and
relaxed his embrace; he ran his hand between the sides of the slit of her
skirt. Then his fingers were under the damp silk that covered her Venus mons. She
moaned aloud, squirming under his touch; her pubic hair felt soft, silky and
thick to his touch as she pressed eagerly against his fingers. James fumbled
clumsily with the clasp of her skirt and the bows which tied on each side at
the waist of her panty. Aniela loosened the button at the waist of his uniform;
unzipped and pushed down his trousers. She tugged at his briefs. James helped
her get the elastic waist over his engorged phallus. Aniela loosened her skirt,
which fell down around her ankles. Aniela stepped out of the skirt; and her
panty its ties already undone by James, fell settling around her ankles. She
lifted each foot and the tiny garment lay on the floor. James looked into her
mind. He saw again the mixture of emotions with desire now, out weighing her
fear.
Prince James flipped the switch which turned-off
the artificial lights; suddenly the room was dusky, the only lights were coming
from six candles, in wall scones. “Aniela, you are even more beautiful by
candle light;” James declared. The candles cast a flickering light across the
bed. James and Aniela pulled the coverings from the bed and fell together on to
the sheets.
James kissed her lips, her breast, slowly
kissing her navel and probing it with his tongue, gently caressing the inside
of her thighs; skin that felt softer than the finest silk. He kissed her calves
and then the tops of her feet. James kissed his way back-up her body, slowly,
inch by inch his mind making a careful unconscious inventory of her perfect
feminine form.
James drew one of Aniela’s nipples into his
mouth, while his fingers penetrated her genital lips. Aniela writhed beside
James feeling again a contraction below her naval; her hands now clutching at
the hair behind his ears, as she moaned, tugging gently at his face.
When James raised his head--she boldly darted
her tongue into his mouth, franticly kissing him, her breath ragged; as she
made love to him with her tongue.
James’ fingers were still stroking her clitoris.
He pushed a finger deeper inside Aniela, feeling the warm slippery fluid of
arousal, and smelling the scent of her excitement. Aniela rolled onto her back
tugging at James' waist; while he stayed with her kissing and moving his
fingers. Aniela spread her legs wide, pulling him on top. She took his phallus
in her hand, and guided it inside her. Instinct took over as Aniela bent her
knees, her feet flat on the bed. Prince James restrained himself; slowly easing
deeper inside Aniela. Her vagina was tight, smaller than he had expected; but
slippery from her arousal. James pushed deeper until he felt the resistance of
her maidenhead; then, James thrust hard, feeling the tare as he broke through,
and hearing Aniela cry-out, as she physically became a woman. James paused for
a heart-beat struggling between a blinding lust and the desire not to cause
Aniela further pain.
Aniela ended his hesitation as she pulled him to
her; her hands grasping at his buttocks. James pushed deeper into Aniela; he
felt her involuntary squeezing of his phallus as her climax continued. She held
him inside as he ejaculated. James started to withdraw; but, Aniela clutched
him with her hands and sphincter muscles holding him tightly within her vagina.
They moved together until he ejaculated a second time. They both shuddered as
tears ran from Aniela’s eyes and down her cheeks.
“I am sorry for the tears, my prince, but you are
so wonderful. When you took me it was so much more than I had thought it could
be. You are very kind, you have taken my body and my heart,” Aniela said. She
shivered and James heard her give a small sigh as he withdrew.
There were streaks of blood mixed with the
fluids on his penis, Prince James gently pushed Aniela’s legs apart and saw the
blood from her torn hymen mixed with his seed on her inner thighs. There were a
few larger spots on the bed. A sink was near the door and a large basin for
water was sitting on a shelf with cloths for washing. James washed himself;
then, he got a clean washing cloth which he dampened with the tepid water. Prince
James returned to his bed with the cloth and basin. He gently sponged away the
blood from Aniela’s mons veneris and thighs. “I have never seen anything so
lovely;” James murmured to her. His eyes roaming slowly over her naked body, as
he performed the ablutions for her.
Aniela raised sleepy eyes and said, “Thank you
my prince, I love you!”
Prince James laid back-down, took Aniela in his
arms, and held her close. As they drifted into sleep, James felt a sense of
responsibility for someone other than himself for the first time in his life.
Prince James awoke in the early dawn never
before having shared his bed. The candles in the scones on one side of the room
were beginning to sputter; the reflected light outside the window was turning
the barracks courtyard from deep dark to gray. Aniela stirred in her sleep;
James heard a few words and a sob. She began to thrash about; and he could see
the fear centered in Aniela’s mind. Lying down close to her; James used his
gift projecting feelings of warmth and security into her mind. Aniela murmured
softly and settled into peaceful slumber.
Prince James eased from the bed taking care not
to awaken Aniela. He went to the desk at the foot of the bed. Most bond-women
keep a day journal in which they track their work assignments. The more
intelligent women also record their thoughts and aspirations. James had noticed
Aniela placing her day journal on the desk. He picked it up and started to read
back over her entries for yesterday and today. She had written the previous
day, “I badgered Rachel again to get me an assignment near Prince James.” At
the top of the next page, Aniela had written this morning's assignment, “I am
sent to clean the barrack room and assist Prince James.” She had ended the
sentence with a lover’s heart and an underlined exclamation mark. James felt
the thrill of pride and requited love. Aniela had been excited and felt desire
of his notice. She had desired to be his; even before, he had touched her mind
or drawn her into his embrace. Inserted against the next page was (the hand
written copy made for Aniela by the chancellor’s clerk) a certificate for the
conveyance of real property: “By order of Baldwin IV: the female
Aniela of Syclic being our bound servant and property is here with conveyed to
James Prince of Piedmont without recourse in fieth and to his heirs and assigns
in full rights of possession.” It was witnessed by the signature of the
Rev. Roister+, Chaplin to the prince. Embossed thereon was the seal of the
imperial chancellor with a stamped impression of his uncle’s signature.
Prince James turned to the next blank page;
there, he wrote this certification: “I did on this date take Aniela, on or
about 2100 hours to my bed, where having carnal knowledge of her; I found full
proof of her virginity. Authentication
of proof: two witnesses have examined true proofs and signed this certification
of virtue.”
James opened the door to the room where Rachel
was still asleep. She awoke at his touch, “Call for a messenger, asks the Rev.
Roister to come and bring a clerk, tell him that they need to witness a
document for me; and to prepare a copy for the imperial chancellor. When you
have finished; dress for Chapel and awaken Aniela. We all need to dress
quickly; the schedule will be a busy one this morning. Aniela may need your
help; try to befriend her. You are my lea-woman; I need to be able to trust and
rely on you.”
Rachel bent her head slightly, “Yes my lord,”
she said; “Harkening and obedience.”
Prince James’ Chaplain entered with a
chancellor’s clerk, an older woman named Lillian. Prince James wrapped his
knuckles on the wall by the door to his bedroom. “Aniela, come here at once the
chaplain is here;” James demanded. She came out of the bedroom with her damp
hair combed; but otherwise, she was obviously ready for the day. “Bring me your
journal,” James said to her without giving any explanation.
Aniela brought James the journal; which, he opened
and passed to his chaplain. The prince had opened the journal to the page where
he had written the certification of Aniela’s virtue and change.
The chaplain held the book while the prince
signed the document: James-op-David, Prince of Piedmont. “Please go into my
bedroom and note the conditions of the bed; then witness this certification.” They
soon returned and the clerk signed after the Chaplain. When she had signed;
James said, “Lillian, please prepare the necessary copies. The Rev. Roister,
will tell you where to send mine.”
“I will return this journal and your copy,
promptly after the morning service,” Lillian said.
The Rev. Roister noticed Aniela’s puzzled
expression. “This in no way changes your status in the prince’s household. The
purpose is simple. If, you should conceive a child, or already have conceived;
your child will be born both free and royal.”
****
Chapter
7: The Imperial Summons
Eighty and Six Anno Domini:
The Ship
Eriona handed the baby
to Althea, the better to embrace her husband, and kiss him goodbye. Her sister saw the tears glittering behind Eriona’s
brave smile; but Eriona was determined not to breakdown until Gawain had left. Three
of his clansmen and Erick-op-Caleb were already mounted and waited on Lord
Dumsauwf. “May God keep you safe my lord,” she said. Eriona’s voice was
tremulous even to her own ears. She had watched two of her own brothers’ ride
off, while still just a girl, to be slain by the pagans. Life was too
uncertain; but her faith in her Saviour was still bright. Surely, God would not
suffer his elect people to be completely destroyed.
“Alfred, a word with you,” Lord Dumsauwf called
to the priest.
“Yes, my lord,” Alfred hurried over, then asked;
“how may I be of service?”
Lord Dumsauwf lowered his voice so none could
hear except for Alfred and Eriona. “If I should not return, ask that Bishop James
baptize my daughter. At her naming let my daughter’s name be called: Frae-Armetia.
In the old high tongue it means ‘the Fair Grace of God’.” Althea approached and
held the baby up for her brother-in-law to take. Lord Dumsauwf held his little
daughter who grabbed his finger and held on tightly. He kissed the baby on her
forehead before handing her down to her mother.
Erick-op-Caleb interrupted politely, “We need to
leave at once, my lord; or our warning may come too late for the Christian
North men.” At a motion from Lord Dumsauwf, Erick led the way out of the
clearing and toward the Glastonbury trail.
They had ridden steadily along the trail about
an hour with Erick scouting ahead of the group. One of the clansmen was the
first to see it: a thick column of black smoke rising toward the sky about a
mile away. “My lord, it appears that we may be too late;” the clansman said
pointing to the smoke column. The smoke was obviously originating from below
the waterfall.
“Quite! Dismount, and be careful to stay behind
the brushes at the edge of the cliff;” Lord Dumsauwf spoke in a voice just loud
enough to be heard by his men.
They carefully tied their horses behind a screen
of small trees and crept forward peering through the bushes.
At the foot of the ravine they could see a Norse
long-boat in flames. Three long-boats with pagan dragons carved on their prowls
were beached at a safe distance: several hundred yards from the burning
long-boat. They could see a robed pagan priest busily tending to six wounded
warriors. He was assisted by two young boys. A small group of captives made up
only of women and young children were huddled around the prowl of the closest
ship their hands bound and feet shackled. They watched powerless to help as the
Danes came from the woods dragging their wounded enemies and heaved them still
breathing into the roaring fire that had once been a long boat.
“Vengeance is mine saith the LORD; I shall
surely repay,” one of the clansman quoted from the Holy Scripture.
Erick declared in a loud voice, “All I can think
of is my own wife and children. These servants of evil lack any mercy; surely,
these pagans worship the demons.”
It was apparent that everything of value had
been removed from the burning boat before it had been set to fire. The Lord
Dumsauwf and his companions watched silently as the Danes divided the spoils
between the three victorious long-boats. The last spoil to be loaded were the
captives; and then the Dane’s own wounded men were taken aboard. Some of the
captive children, separated from their mothers, could be heard crying; as the
women were divided equally into three groups and bones were cast to determine
which ship owned which group of women. After the women were loaded the Danes
three long boats began to move down the Fifth toward the distant sea; they left
the Norse ship burning on the small beach beside and below the waterfall.
****
The Summons
Prince James, Aniela,
and Rachel
entered the small chapel located across the courtyard from the barracks. There
were about two hundred Assaer warriors already seated for Morning Prayer.
“Look around Aniela, I do not believe that any
of these warriors are Imperial Soldiers;” Rachel whispered. Her voice suggested
that she was not certain whether to be curious or alarmed.
Prince James notices that the Assaer soldiers
all have the insignia of Piedmont under a small Imperial device on the upper
shoulders of their uniforms.
“These are soldiers from my Principality of
Piedmont;” James said, surprise evident in his voice. Except for his three
personal bodyguards, he had never known any soldiers from the Principality to
be in the city of Sylvania.
The priest assigned to the War College Barracks
was waiting for their arrival. “We will sit together in the Princes’ pew,”
James, whispered to his women.
As soon as they are seated; the instruments
stopped playing, and they heard the voice of a priest: “Let us pray”. James
noticed that when the general confession and absolution were pronounced; that,
there were tears on Aniela’s cheeks.
The first reading at Morning Prayer was from
Isaiah 33rd chapter, the 1st to the 23rd verses; the sermon was brief and dealt
with God’s judgment on those nations, which having freely received the true
faith, chose to turn away from the revelation of God and instead rely on human
reasoning.
After the final blessing and recessional hymn,
Prince James thanked the priest for his homily and quickly walked from the chapel.
Prince James pondered the words of Holy Scripture not yet knowing how much the
sermon would harmonize with his mission.
Prince James glanced back at Aniela and Rachel;
noticing for the first time, that while Rachel wore a small white lace scarf
pinned to her hair; that Aniela had covered her still damp hair with a large
dark prayer veil. James smiled as he noticed the contrast between the two
women. He realized that Aniela had not been able to resist flaunting her change
in station. He is pleased to see that Rachel shows no jealousy and seems to be
taking the flaunting in good humor.
It appears that Rachel is intent on being
Aniela’s friend. This despite any resentment she might feel at Aniela, the
younger of the two, being first in their lord’s bed. Rachel whispered to her,
Aniela blushed scarlet; they both laughed together in hushed tones.
A young subaltern of the Piedmont Assaer came up
to the prince and saluted. “Captain James-op-David, your Highness, I have
orders for you.” She (all Assaer soldiers are undeveloped females) held-out a
silver tube with the fingers of her middle left arm.
Prince James returned her salute and unscrewed
the top from the metal carrier, “Who are you?” Prince James asked her.
“I am first lieutenant Sharon Piedmont-Tirano,
of the Prince’s own regiment: City of New Tirano sir,” she replied.
Prince James removed a stiff paper from the
carrier and begin to read, “Captain James-op-David, you are forth-with ordered
to report with your household no later than 1300 hours to the office of the
provost- general of the Fort Albert Garrison,” it was signed with a signet
impressed image of two wood-hawks flying across a mountain rift with the sun in
splendor in the background. James knew at once that the order was from the
Emperor himself. No one else would dare use that signet.
“Aniela,” James called; she stepped forward.
“Yes, my Lord?” She curtsied, “How may I serve
you?”
“Aniela, please inform our chaplain that he is
to assemble my household, ready to depart in thirty minutes, at the office of
the Provost General, Fort Albert.” Aniela bowed her head in a reverence,
turned, and hurried back toward the chapel.
“Lieutenant Sharon,” Prince James turned to the
subaltern who snapped to attention, “Send some trustworthy soldiers to assist
in the movement of my household.”
“Sir, yes sir!” the lieutenant double-timed back
toward the soldiers of Piedmont. Prince James walked rapidly back to the
barrack room; where he grabbed up his personal kit. There was a glass of milk
and two small sandwich halves on the table at the foot of the bed. James ate
quickly and brushed his teeth. He had just finished, when Aniela and Rachel
walked in with Lillian right behind them.
Lillian curtseyed, then handed Prince James
Aniela’s journal, and a portfolio. She said; “Your highness here are the title
papers for the servants given to you by the emperor. The top document is a copy
of the certification of Aniela’s virtue and changed status.”
Prince James handed the journal to Aniela; and
the other papers to the Chaplain who was serving as the temporary chief steward
for his household. “Sir,” James said respectfully, “can you give these back to
me later and remind me to look them over?”
“Your highness, I am glad to assist you in this
and every way. As soon as we arrive at our destination we will find you a
steward so that I can better assume my full time duties as your chaplain and
military advisor;” the Rev. Mr. Roister chided gently. “Perhaps Rachel could be
imprinted with the necessary knowledge; you may also find you have a need of an
office manager in your new assignment.”
“Rachel will be an excellent choice;” Prince
James nodded his consent to the chaplain and quickly turned to hurry across the
parade ground. The barracks where he has been quartered until today are located
inside Fort Albert. James had walked past them and into the classrooms beyond
countless times. They are the buildings where he had recently studied: military
science, mathematics, business, history, religion, economics, and government. James
walked quickly past the Chapel of St. Albans where he had received the
sacrament and attended morning and evening services for the past three years.
The office of the provost-general is located
very close to the main gate of the court yard; and is on the top floor of an
imposing building. General Rahbat Sylvania took James' salute after meeting him
at the lobby door; “Follow me,” she ordered. Instead of proceeding upstairs to
the office; the General led the way through a heavy metal door and down two
flights of steps. They went through another door emerging into a vast hall with
a floor of polished stone. The shine on the floor reflected the lights and
images of those in the hall.
Prince James saw an imperial marshal of first
rank; and, snapped to attention. James stood rigid, holding a salute as the
Marshal walked toward him. The Marshal is followed by Princess Margareta, and a
number of clerks. Behind the clerks are two Royal Princes carrying their
coronets as Viscounts under their arms and wearing their robes of state. They
carry the imperial crown on a cushion of purple velvet. Princess Margareta is
carrying a heavy cloth-of-gold robe.
James recognizes the marshal as his uncle
Baldwin, the Emperor of Sylvania, the Lord of a thousand worlds, and the
defender of the faith. The two Royal Princes are his cousins Prince Samuel and
Prince Paul who have always been more like brothers to James. They have been
his closest-truest friends; and shared many of his childhood and early teen
adventures.
Prince James remained at attention while his household
members, just entering, walk past and circle to the rear of the assembly. James
can easily read the emotions about him, a touch of smug superiority; but mostly
affection and pride in the minds of his cousins. James feels no anxiety; until,
he sees something a kin to horror and fear in the minds of Aniela and Rachel. His
momentary anxiety evaporates when the prince sees the pride in the mind of his
mentor, teacher, and chaplain. James knows better than to look into the mind of
his uncle. His only thought is to assure his uncle of a complete willingness to
carry-out any duty the Emperor may choose to assign.
****
Chapter
8: James takes two solemn oaths
The emperor approached
walking within three feet; where, he stopped facing his nephew. “Prince James,”
Emperor Baldwin spoke directly to him; but the emperor spoke mostly for the
benefit of all those present. “There has seldom been such a time, in the
history of the Empire, as the present. Christian Civilization is again under
fierce attack by Anti-Christ forces. Pagans are massing beyond the borders of
our empire. The Hellebore hoards have over-run neutral worlds on our frontiers;
and yet possibly the most dangerous development: the agnostics are taking
dominance in the once Christian nations of Earth.”
“We are not certain that we shall long bear up
under the strains of our age and this stress;” the Emperor continued. “The last
remaining three loyal princes of your generation are Paul, Samuel and you. You
three have grown up together; and your cousins, individually have sworn to set
aside all personal glory and gain. They have pledged to regard you and each the
other as their own person. They have sworn this for the honor and glory of God,
the evangelization of all creation, and the maintaining of God’s Church and
this Empire.”
“Each of the Royal Princes will this day be
given a mission to test their loyalty and worthiness.” The emperor paused
briefly, “Samuel is going to the edge of the Marc Galaxy to face the forces of
an alien invader. An enemy that is seeking to enslave all Christians both
Assaer and human; these beings are driven by hatred for the one true and living
God. Paul and you are going to Earth where violence and heresies are assailing
the the British Kingdom and the American Republic; and have already overthrown
Ethiopian Kingdom.”
“We have tried to assure your survival,” as the
Emperor spoke those words; he quickly cleared his throat to disguise the quaver
in his voice. “Each of you will have individual responsibility for large
numbers of Imperial Subjects Assaer and human, both bond, and free. You have
learned science, war, and government in the class room. Now you will learn war
from experience; but, also by experience learn the practical application of
management and government. Your actions and the decisions you make, will have
real consequences for your persons, your households, the future of God’s Church,
and this empire;” the Emperor's face was grave.
Emperor Baldwin beckons to Princess Margareta;
she stepped forward and fastened the cloak of State about the Emperor’s
shoulders. The robe is fastened by a great gold imperial seal of state; hoary
with age and heavy with weight. St. Etheral’s Crown of State is placed on
Baldwin’s head by the two Royal-Viscounts; who then don their coronets.
General Rahbat Sylvania stands by holding a
beautiful red leather portfolio; the Arms of the Principality of Piedmont are prominent
on the portfolio’s cover. James had not previously noted the presence of the
Primate; but Bishop Edward, who is rarely far from his Emperor, stepped up to
James. The Patriarch is holding a large Bible reverently in his hands.
Baldwin speaks, “James, Prince of Piedmont, will
you swear friendship, love, and loyalty to your cousins: Prince Samuel viscount
of Dumsauwf and Prince Paul viscount of Whithorn? Do you swear never to raise
your hand against their persons or to challenge their titles or those rights
granted them by the One True, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church?”
Placing his left hand on the Bible and raising
his right hand in witness, Prince James answered: “I, James
Arthur-op-Joseph-op-David so swear without reservation; God being my strength.”
The Emperor next extended his hands, palm facing palm; James knelt before him
and places his hands palm to palm within the Emperor’s; “I, James by God’s
grace Prince of Piedmont, do solemnly sware to bear true faith and allegiance
to Baldwin IV, the Emperor of Sylvania, the Lord of a thousand worlds, anointed
of Holy Church, and the Defender of the faith. I will be his servant faithful
and true as long as he shall live. So help me God!”
When Prince James had taken the ancient oath of
fealty; General Rahbat Sylvania stepped up first saluting the Emperor; then,
making a reverence, she held out the portfolio.
Baldwin took it from her hand; and, opening it
read aloud; his voice echoing through the hall. “I do here by grant and confer
upon James Arthur-op-Joseph-op-David, Prince of Piedmont, the rank of General
(with one star and crown of insignia) in the military of the Sylvania Empire;
and further, I instruct him to take a force of 1000 Piedmontese Assaer to
relieve the present garrison in the city of Richmond, Virginia, in the United
States of America on the planet Earth.”
Fixing a steady gaze on James the Emperor
continues: “Prince James, seek the council of the experienced Assaer officers
who command those troops; and you will have good success. Many of the senior
officers have had several tours in the United States. The mission parameters
and identification documents for your household are also in this portfolio. Your
household Chaplain and two Lea-women shall go with you to Richmond. When you
leave here, you will follow General Rahbat Sylvania to an imprinting room.”
“But first,” the Emperor took the star with crown
shoulder patches and the pins of rank from a pocket under the cloak of state: “I
enjoy pinning my own General Officers and especially my nephews.” Prince James
stood at attention while his uncle pinned the insignia to his uniform. General
James op-David then saluted, about-faced, and marched out into the hall
following the Assaer Five Star General Rahbat Sylvania.
They paused in the hall and waited until Aniela
and Rachel came out. Prince James embraced them both. Rachel responded in a
dignified, but reserved fashion. When James looked into Rachel’s mind he saw
the struggle continuing between pride, and desire mingled with longing; but,
pride was winning out. She was his possession and he kissed her in a passionate
reminder. Rachel returned his kiss without passion in a manner that suggested
her unenthusiastic submission.
But when Rachel spoke; her voice was filled with
quiet loyalty. Her tone ringing with conviction: “You will have good success,
my lord, in your mission. Somehow I am certain that you will earn our Emperor’s
praise.”
Aniela responded much more enthusiastically to
his embrace, “My prince, I am so proud of you.” James saw that within Aniela’s
mind and shining from her eyes were pride, happiness, and lust. James kissed
Aniela deeply, she eagerly pressed into his kiss. The prince gently disengaged
from her embrace. When they separated, James felt the pressure against his
trousers; and realized with embarrassment, there was a significant swelling of
his manhood. Rachel glanced down and choked-off a giggle; Aniela glanced,
giggled, and blushed, a deep beet-red blush. James pulled at his uniform
trousers’ leg trying unsuccessfully to conceal his now obvious arousal.
James tried hard to ignore his predicament; but
he experienced some relief at the distraction provided, upon seeing the Rev.
Roister come through the door. They all moved out following General Rahbat. Prince
James saw the clock at the end of the hall; it was already two hours past noon.
An Assaer soldier opened a door about half way
down the hall for them. They walked through and saw six scanner imprint
machines. These machines are a product of Sylvanian Assaer engineering. A
scanner-imprint machine allows large amounts of knowledge to be written into
the mind. Not unlike a computer storing data to a hard drive.
They were all, (except for General Rahbat and
the Rev. Roister), instructed to lie down on benches connected to separate
machines. A heavy lead apron was placed from their shoulders to over their
feet. Their names and the date were entered and they could each view their name
appearing on the screen in front of their face.
There was a loud pop, followed by a quite hum,
and then James was unconscious. When he awoke; James was on a cot beside the
machine; his lea-women were sitting four feet away on a bench near the wall.
Prince James swung his legs off the cot; just as
someone approached, “Your Highness,” he turned his head and saw an Assaer
engineer in a white lab coat; “My name is Rose Sylvania. The others have been
waiting about thirty minutes; you required almost twice the information to be
imprinted, which took a longer time. You now have knowledge of your cover for
the mission and will know the people you meet when you cross into Richmond,
Virginia. You will know their names and the basic job responsibilities of all
Sylvania subjects working for you in Richmond both human and Assaer.”
“Your women have been imprinted with necessary,
but different, information. Tomorrow you can receive additional imprinting
relative to your mission. It is necessary for at least twelve hours to elapse
between secessions. Imprinting scanners and qualified techs are awaiting you at
your place of deployment. There is a complete lab below the Assaer barracks in
the headquarters building in Richmond; and, a smaller imprinting lab adjacent
to your personal quarters. The Rev. Roister is knowledgeable in the operation
of both transporters and imprinters; he will take your party from here. Your
trunks and other freight have already been placed in your quarters in Richmond;”
Rose hurried away to her next assignment.
Prince James suddenly realized that the
imprinting had included information he had not received in school. He noticed:
Rose Sylvania had a head with protrusions behind her compound eyes swelling out
and narrowing only slightly toward the back of her skull. The scientist and
engineers have heads shaped very different than the heads of their sister
Assaer soldiers who have a large protrusion more to the top of their skulls
allowing their eyes to cover areas behind and to the sides as well as the
front. Those who do ordinary work have smaller more rounded heads with smaller
eyes. James now knew that this was the result of the food formula fed to newly
hatched Assaer grubs. Each specialty was fed a protein diet containing a
different mixture and level of hormones; too much of one mixture would have
resulted in the development into fully female Assaer mothers. The total absence
of one of these hormones would result in the development of the rarer male or
city father whose only duty was to mate with the city mother making the
hundreds of eggs laid daily fertile. Upon maturity, the young males are morphed
into adults with wings and an irresistible drive to take to the air to find a
mate in distant cities.
The Rev. Roister walked-over accompanied by
General Rahbat; they were followed closely by Aniela and Rachel. “Please follow
me to that table, you see ahead, the one near the exit sign,” the chaplain
asked. He handed a small device resembling a ring with a grooved triangular
stone to each of the other humans and took one for himself. “These devices
enable humans to see the Assaer who automatically create a distortion field
around themselves when in earth atmosphere. That field renders them invisible
to all creatures except other Assaer. Wearing and placing a finger in the
groove of these or placing the stone in contact with your naked skin also help
us to avoid accidently occupying their space during transport between worlds.”
“When you arrive you will receive a small triple
function device resembling and functioning as a wrist watch. They will make
humans invisible in earth similar atmospheres by creating a distortion field,
like to the fields created biologically by the Assaer. This function is
activated by pulling out the second watch stem located closest to the number
nine. The third function is that of a communication device which uses wave
lengths not used by earth governments or civilian earth devices. It will activate
to a specific channel monitored by the human or Assaer whose name you have spoken
while touching the face of the watch. It will communicate to the device of the
one named within five miles of your location. Unfortunately, these watches are destroyed by the
transporters. The devices are therefore, of necessity, manufactured on site on
every world with in our spheres of influence. General Rahbat will now take us
to the proper transporter.” The Rev. Roister concluded his explanations, by
waving the rest of his group toward the door, and into the corridor beyond.
“Rev. Roister, wait a minute, please;” Prince
James requested. Everyone paused just outside of the door; the women noticing
the puzzled expression on James’ face. “I was wondering, can one tell their
general field of expertise by just looking at the head of an Assaer? I know the
difference between a soldier, scientist, and ordinary worker are obvious; but
how about the real specialist: medical doctors, engineers, and military experts
like General Rahbat? Is it true this is determined, solely, by hormones in the
food of the developing grubs or babies?”
“Basically the real extreme developmental
difference is between the soldier, scientist-engineer, and the worker builder;”
the Chaplain explained. “The differential development within these three general
groups while relying somewhat on the formula seems more a matter of chance or
divine providence. Thus it is possible to recognize only three general types:
soldier, worker, and scientist-engineer by observation alone.”
James asked quickly, “Assaer, humans, and Vedic
are these the only three reasoning species?”
“There are rumors of other sentient-reasoning
species with a selection process similar to the Assaer. However no living
Sylvanian, to my knowledge, has encountered these beings. Although they are
rumored to inhabit worlds in the far distant regions of Dravidian Empire, Hellsboro
Empire, and beyond; no one knows with any certainty of their existence. Legend
has it that about three thousand years ago another species was supposedly
encountered by Assaer from Sylvania who were trading with the Hellsbore."
"The best know of course are creatures with
whom the worlds nearest the Dravidian Empire are all too familiar. A race of
ape-like erect primates with four arms and four human-like hands. They are believed
to be reasoning beings; but they possess a much lower level of intelligence
than humans possess. That race seems to relish being in an inferior position to
the Dravidians. The relationship seems to be religiously based with these
creatures taking pleasure in serving as junior partners to their Dravidian
Lords.”
The Rev. Roister lapsed into his familiar style of
a college lecturer. “This Assaer type of differential development is common
among the non-auto-centric beings, especially the social insects of the earth
and earth like planets: honey bees, certain wasps, ants, and termites. I
believe it is no accident that God made the Assaer so much like the earth ants
but gave them a self-consciousness or soul. The wonder is that like the bees,
ants, or termites they continue to possess the social or shared mind; even,
while possessing an intelligent and well-developed self-mind;” the Rev.
Roister’s voice trailed away. Prince James noticed that there was a pensive
expression on the face of his chaplain and mentor.
****
Chapter
9: Preparing to Embark
Even many years later
Prince James could remember every detail of the day that he swore his oaths to
the Emperor and the church. Neither oath was necessary; for a man without honor
would never keep such oaths and an honorable man did not need to swear either
friendship or loyalty. Further, he knew that the Emperor could read the minds
of all three of the princes; so, he concluded, upon reflection, that the entire
oath-taking was for the benefit of the Assaer and the human nobles throughout
the empire.
The priest, the general, and Prince James, with
Rachel and Aniela close behind, walked out into the hall; and entered the next
door on their right. James could see down a long hallway with a sign overhead
marked transporters. There was a row of doors; and, an electronic sign above
each. They paused before a computer generated sign that said Richmond, Virginia, USA.
“We may need to wait a few minutes as a major
troop deployment takes a lot of transporter time;” Prince James was showing off
his new knowledge to impress the women. They paused outside the door. The light
emitting diode was flashing red above them; it seemed longer, but in less than
ten minutes the light emitting diodes turned yellow. They waited five minutes
more; and the light emitting diodes turned green. The door opened; they stepped
aside to allow fifty (more or less) Assaer soldiers to pass them. The Assaer
unit paused and formed-up in the hall; Prince James noticed that they were an
elite Imperial Army Unit.
Inside the transporter, a light came on under a
sign saying: enter for Earth transport. James heard the seals hiss and realized
that they were inside an air lock. General Rahbat was the last of their group
to enter; when she was inside, the door to the hall closed with a popping
sound.
Another door in front of them opened and they
moved forward into a larger rectangular room which contained about sixty
heavily padded seats. Once more James heard a hiss of escaping air, followed
now by a feeling of pressure.
A mechanical voice said, “Please take a seat,
adjust the flexible Polaroid shield around your head, and fasten the straps of
the harness around your body.” General Rahbat carefully checked the others’
shields and harnesses; before, fastening her-self into a seat facing a wall
covered with gauges and controls. James noticed that the chaplain was seated on
the opposite side facing a similar bank of controls. The General and Brother
Roister strapped on their own shields and harnesses before going through a
check list. When the checklist was complete; they each turned a separate valve
handle at the same time.
They experienced a sensation of movement, as the
force of acceleration pressed James back against the seat. Then there was only
blackness. Prince James thought that he dreamed. He saw colors unlike anything
he had ever seen. When James awoke there was a sensation of slowing and then
the room was still.
James heard Aniela ask, “Are we alive?”
Rachel replied “Pinch yourself and see; if it
hurts, you are alive!”
Before James could try the advice for himself;
he heard General Rahbat say, “Everyone, you may remove your face shields; but,
please remain seated until Brother Roister and I complete the systems check.”
The prince looked at Rachel and Aniela, they
made eye contact; he gave them a silent thumbs-up. James was pleased to see
their tentative smiles. Their minds were remarkably calm considering what
everyone had just come through: much calmer than James had expected. “Neither
of you seem to be very disturbed by your first intergalactic transporter trip;”
James said to them.
Rachel spoke so quickly that James realized;
that she was speaking spontaneously from her heart. “Why should we be
frightened when our prince is also taking the same risk? We remember your vow
to protect and care for us, the vowel that you made after choosing us for your
lea-women. We know you are an honorable man; who the Emperor has just created a
general.”
Prince James was pleased by his women’s
confidence in his ability to protect them; but, somewhat awed by his
responsibility. General Rahbat and the Chaplain finished their check-list and
then in sync turned the handles back to the off position. There was a hiss of
atmosphere changing and the door to the air lock opened.
“Let’s get unbuckled,” James heard himself say
gruffly in an attempt to hide his emotion. They stepped into the air-lock and
the door closed behind them; there was a hiss of releasing seals, and, an
l.e.d-Screen lit-up: it said, “Welcome to Imperial Command-Richmond, Virginia,
USA.” The door opened and they stepped out into a corridor much like the one
under Fort Albert, in Sylvania City. There appeared to be hundreds of soldiers
in the Imperial Sylvania military uniforms leaning against the walls awaiting
transport.
Prince James glanced back at Rachel and Aniela;
he saw Rachel was back to a cool and reserved demeanor. Aniela caught his eye;
and she made a circle with her lips before giving him a wink. She was clearly
in a flirty mood. Aniela smiled up at James; then her smile morphed into a grin
as she asked a question with an innocent expression. “Is there anything I can
do for you, my Prince?”
James answered Aniela, “First give me your hand;”
he took her left hand with his right and stood gazing intently down at her. “I
can think of many things we could do for each other but not right here and
now.” James appeared to be merely gazing at her intently while holding her
hand; but in reality James was deliberately centering the passion in her mind and
causing her libido to spike.
“Aniela, is that a blush I see spreading down
your neck?” James asked with feigned concern. Aniela silently gazed at him with
begging eyes the expression of need clearly visible to him, shinning from her
eyes.
What Aniela might have done next became a mote
point; as the Assaer general led the way quickly to the end of the hall. They
stepped through a door into a much wider longer hall. There, Prince James saw
hundreds of Assaer Soldiers wearing shoulder patches which identified them as
units from the Principality of Piedmont. A major hurried over to them and
saluted. Prince James returned her salute; and asked, “Are you the duty
officer?”
“Yes Sir,” she responded; “I am Major Sarah
Piedmont Tirano of your Highness’ own regiment, a quarter of the Prince’s own: the
New Tirano brigade.”
****
Chapter
10: Orienting to Richmond
Prince James asked, “Did First Lieutenant Sharon
Piedmont deploy with you, Major Sarah?"
“Yes Sir,” Major Sarah replied; “the Lieutenant
is one of this regiment’s brightest young officers. I am not surprised that she
has come to your attention. Will you be taking the evening report or will
General Rahbat?”
The general will take it today as I am under
special orders from our Emperor; however, I look forward to having all the Richmond
deployed officers of the New Tirano Regiment dine with me at lunch tomorrow. I
will want to meet all the officers and we will have the New Brescia regiment
from the Prince's Own Piedmont Brigade this Thursday.”
James did not tell the major that the special
order was to obey the Instructions of the Patriarch; which as he understood
them was to get at least one lea-woman pregnant as soon as possible. He glanced
at Aniela who was suddenly conscious of the fact; that she was being undressed
by James’ eyes. She squirmed as another wave of heat started in her center and
washed upward ending in a blush that darkened her neck and face. James made no
attempt to hide the naked lust in his eyes; Yes he had an assigned task on
which he intended to enjoy working.
“General Rahbat, will you work out the details
for the New Brescia luncheon?” Prince James asked turning to the Sylvania
General.
“Yes Sir, his imperial majesty’s business
permitting,” the general replied somewhat stiffly.
The Rev. Roister quickly spoke, “I have a
commission and my rank as a knight commander outranks everyone below the rank
of Brigadier. If you, wish your highness I can make the arrangements.”
“Yes, please do, if you do not mind sir;” Prince
James replied. A scripture popped into his mind, “Blessed are the peace
makers for they shall be called the children of God!” He had momentarily
forgotten that the Assaer General was telepathic. Unfortunately once thought,
there was no way to recall any thought.
Prince James wanted to scold himself for his
lack of wisdom; when such things occurred: he felt so inadequate to the task
the Emperor had assigned.
“General Rahbat, I do not seek to give orders to
the Emperor’s chief of staff; but I wish to make a respectful request. I
recognize that you are my superior officer serving as an advisor in my mission
sector of operation. Would you be so-kind as to accompany us to our quarters?”
James asked, “You can supply some of the information; which I do not yet
possess.”
“Yes Sir;” General Rahbat led them to an elevator
where she punched the up button. “This elevator car only goes between the
basement and the top floor,” she explained, “a security concern.” The rise of
the elevator was rapid, the door opened on a long corridor, which had three
widely separated doors. The corridor seemed to run the entire width of the
building. “There are only three large suites occupying the entire top floor;”
the general seemed to be more relaxed in speaking to Prince James.
“The largest suite has an armored door and has
been prepared for your living quarters. Just down the hall at the next door is
the suite for the Chaplain’s family; it also houses three guards from the new
Tirano regiment. Three more guards are always stationed just out-side your
elevator;” and there will be three more Imperial Sylvanian guards sharing my
suite each night while I remain in Richmond.”
James noticed the expressions on the faces of
Rachel and Aniela. He was used to sudden pressure changes from his cadet
officer training on an interplanetary interceptor ship simulator; but even so,
he had felt his stomach arrive at the top floor before his head. “Are you
o.k.?” James addressed both women.
“I am a tiny bit nauseous and Aniela looks just
a little green. That elevator may require a little adjustment time.” Rachel
spoke while Aniela nodded mutely.
General Rahbat seemed to be
taking her responsibility for Prince James’ orientation seriously. “All the
windows in this building, above the first floor, are bullet proof glass of
armor quality. They are made from the same material that is used in your
limousine. The limousine armor is manufactured by the same company supplying
the armor for the limousines of the American President and is manufactured to
the same standard.”
“Let’s go into your suite,” General Rahbat suggested.
When James nodded his consent; she rapped smartly on the metal plated door.
The door was opened by a rather plain woman
appearing to be in her late-twenties wearing a maid’s uniform. She curtseyed;
and, Prince James realized that she was not a part of his imprinted memories.
“Who are you; and what are your duties?” James asked.
“My name is Roberta; I have taken charge of the
house-keeping. I have undertaken to perform the duties of your Butler; I know
those duties thoroughly both by imprinting and experience. I am to tell you
that I am a birthday and house-warming gift from your cousin Prince Samuel. My
documents are on your desk. There was no one managing your lodgings, and since
I have done those duties in the past… I just assumed the job. I am afraid that
only one other woman is helping with the housekeeping at present.”
Prince James noticed immediately that Roberta
had poise and beauty despite her plain face. She had a certain raw sexuality;
not something he could easily put into words. Her figure was classic with
slightly larger than average breast, a flat stomach, slightly wide hips for her
height. She possessed the posture and carriage of an athlete. Roberta was
definitely a woman designed by God for love. James felt a strong attraction to
her. She seemed to have the perfect physical attributes for motherhood. He
touched her hand and was startled to see a mixture of fear, hostility, and
resentment in her mind. “Very well, Roberta, we will see how you work out; and
then determine what help you need. Who is helping you now?” James asked her.
“Her name is Alberta, she is from Ulvevstauwf, a
gift from Prince Paul; and, her papers are also on your desk.” Roberta quickly
added.
"Please call her and then the two of you
can give us the grand tour;” Prince James said.
Prince James turned quickly to the Rev. Roister,
“I thought your children were all grown adults?” He was also thinking that the
chaplain’s wife had been dead for several years.
The Rev Roister hesitated for a moment before
replying. “I have three grown children: my two youngest boys are officers
serving in the army of Liandudauf; the oldest daughter is married to the Bishop
of Mansfield; and they have seven daughters and one son. The Patriarch gave his
permission; and, I recently married the young widow of a chaplain killed in the
Syclic War. I anticipate that my new wife Emma will be joining me in a few
weeks.”
“That is wonderful news! I look forward to
meeting your bride;” Prince James assured his chaplain.
“Your highness,” Roberta spoke hesitantly,
“Alberta should be here momentarily.”
Aniela had sensed something of Prince James
attraction to the housekeeper. She gave Roberta her best fake smile, “Hi, I am
Aniela lea-woman to Prince James. This is my friend Rachel the prince’s other
lea-woman;” she gestured at Rachel.
A shocked Prince James saw Roberta’s mind fill
with rage. “How very nice for you,” Roberta said coldly to the lea-women.
Prince James spoke sharply, “Roberta you will be
civil to my lea-women! Rachel and Aniela have my respect; something you have
not yet had an opportunity to earn.”
“I beg your pardon, my lord. I did not intend to
disrespect you;” Roberta colored but bowed her head.
This one has a temper, James thought; she
could be useful if managed properly. He undressed Roberta with his eyes;
and I know what Sam would say, a delight if tamed and trained!
****
Chapter
11: The Grand Tour
Alberta appeared almost magically from just
beyond the door. James was immediately taken with the attractive redhead. Alberta
had plaited her long hair into a single long braid worn over her shoulder. She
had long legs, a small flat nose, a very white face and arms lightly dusted
with freckles. Despite the freckles she was breath-catching; a truly beautiful
woman. When she curtsied pulling at the hem of her skirt, the prince caught a
glimpse of white lacey panties. She was dressed almost identical to Roberta but
seemed very shy, almost backward.
Prince James touched her hand, looking into her
mind, and carefully reading her emotions. Alberta’s mind was filled with
intense foreboding, indeed near terror, and dominated by a fear of rejection. When
James touched her hand; he found the tiny swirl of yellow behind the fear,
brought it to align in front just above her nose, willing her to be calm and passive.
James was amazed at how easy it was becoming to control the emotions and
responses of his women.
Alberta smiled and spoke for the first time in
the prince’s presence, “Thank you for receiving me my lord. How may I serve
you?” she asked. Alberta's voice was feminine just a tiny bit husky due no
doubt to a bad case of nerves.
“I wish for both you and Roberta to show me the
present plan for my quarters,” Prince James requested.
Roberta and Alberta led the way through a large
common area into a dining room which would accommodate more than a dozen
adults. There were six large bedrooms each with a large walk-in closet. All the
bedrooms have three doors, one of which opens on a common area. The common area
is furnished with enough comfortable furniture to seat more than twenty adults.
Between each bedroom is a full bath. Each bathroom has a large tub and a
separate shower, mirrored-vanity tables, well stocked toiletry-medicine
cabinets, and wall mirrors. The profusion of mirrors make the rooms appear even
larger; than they are in reality. There are three doors one on each side making
it possible to pass through all six bedrooms from end to end without entering
the corridor. The third door from each opens on a hall running the length of
the external building wall.
Prince James was next shown a large room
completely furnished as a nursery. “No doubt the Emperor’s subtle reminder of
the dynasty’s need of progeny;” Prince James said to the Rev. Roister.
“I believe that it was our primate’s suggestion
to the Emperor; however, a suggestion eagerly embraced by his majesty. It would
be a danger to any baby or for a pregnant mother to use the transporters. If
any of your women should become pregnant, the mother and child would need to
remain here until six months after a birth;” the Chaplain replied.
The nursery has three baby beds, cribs, and
dressing tables. There are a great many things that James could recognize
because of the imprinting even though he had never before seen the like in his eighteen
years.
There is a 40 by 200 foot room with a heated
swimming pool. The pool is located at the corner of the suite with huge panes
of glass looking out (on two sides) over the city and the canal below.
There are the necessary amenities, kitchen,
pantries, and an office 200 by 50. The office occupies the corner just opposite
the swimming pool.
Roberta spoke; “your luggage is in the end
bedroom; which has a through door to the office. I hope that is satisfactory. I
had it placed there because it also offers access to a hidden room.” She opened
a sliding pane of dark oak; “right through here, it contains three imprinting
machines of recent manufacture. This room also doubles as an armory with access
through a similar panel in the office. Among the weapons stored here are:
invisibility projectors and a variety of state of the art earth weapons.”
General Rahbat interrupted, “The earth weapons
were purchased through legal United States sources; and duly registered to a
deceased man in Billings, Montana. A man, who continues to vote in United
States' national elections, even though he has been dead for ten years. There
are rifles, pistols, and even a few shoulder fired missile launchers. The
missile launchers were acquired outside this country. The advantage to this
method of acquiring weapon systems is the inability of the United States
Government to trace these items to Davidson Enterprises.”
General Rahbat was repeating information James
had already received in his imprinting secession; but he politely listened as
if hearing the information for the first time. Prince James was more impressed
with Roberta’s knowledge and skill in organizing his household.
In the office the prince opened a small door
concealed below the rows of shelves that occupied the east wall. The door is
located opposite the bedroom door and farthest from the door into the dining
room. Acting on his implanted knowledge; James placed his palm over a flat 10”
sq. screen. He waited for not quite a minute; when a green light came on, he
opened the door. General Rahbat pointed to the round aperture, about four feet
in diameter “that,” said she, “is the entrance to the chute running down
between the inner and outer wall and ending in the basement near the
transporter room. This could be your means of escape from this building in
extremis.”
The Rev. Roister spoke-up; "Your highness,
I need to be excused. The morning office will be in the basement chapel at
seven,” he said. "I need to unpack and look up the scriptures for the
psaltery and lessons.
Prince James also dismissed General Rahbat,
"We all need to rest sir; will you be be prepared to brief me on the
military situation after chapel?"
“God’s will, I’ll see you at Morning Prayers,”
the general said.
Prince James led the four women out of the
office into the area around the large pool. Where they encountered a number of
attractive young women seated. James assumed that they were all Imperial
subjects; although maybe one or two of them were the additional women the
Emperor had told him would be awaiting in Richmond. The majority were probably
Imperial bondwomen working for him for the duration of the mission. James would
sort it all out tomorrow; for now, he was tired and eager to do more than
visually undress Aniela.
“Does everyone know their duties for the rest of
the day?” “James asked. “If you have no task assigned; then go to the rooms
assigned you; chapel services morning and evening are mandatory. I will meet
everyone in the common room an hour before chapel tomorrow.”
James looked at Roberta and wondered again at
the sadness he saw in her mind. James already knew that he liked the skillful
way she had set up his quarters. He could see that beyond her rather
bland-plain face, she was intelligent; and possessed a very desirable body. Roberta’s
desirability was diminished by her hair trigger temper and attitude of injured
dignity. Her legs and arms were well toned and Roberta gave the impression of
robust health. James was puzzled by her rebellious dislike for him. Roberta’s
attitude is critical, judgmental, and hostile toward her master. Not yet sure
of how to handle an intelligent rebellious slave woman, James spoke firmly to
Roberta; “See that breakfast is ready for the whole household by half past six
in the morning.”
“Yes my lord;” Roberta’s answer was barely
audible.
Prince James turned and spoke to Alberta, “If,
the trunks of Rachel and Aniela have been placed elsewhere, make the
arrangements to have them moved: Aniela’s to the room beside mine and Rachel’s
to the room next to Aniela’s room.”
“Yes my lord,” Alberta said. Her mind was filled
with misery: there would be no way to hide the past from her handsome young
master. Alberta would try not to get too used to the pleasant situation in
which she was living. It was only temporary. The shame she had lived with the
past few years felt as fresh as if the events had happened yesterday. She had
been desired even needed for all of one day; then, cast away forgotten like an
unskilled whore by her lover.
Prince James spoke to his lea-women, “Rachel and
Aniela your rooms are next to mine the second and third rooms from the office. We
will be here for several months or longer. You need to unpack and place your
things in the closets and furniture in your rooms.”
Roberta's Resentment
Provokes an Angry Response
Prince James saw Roberta’s quick grimace as his
lea-women obediently hurried to their rooms.
He was furious at the disrespect; and he decided on an immediate
reminder of the nature of their relationship.
Prince James stepped close to Roberta who was standing carefully contemplating
the toes of her shoes. He and grasped
her wrist; pulled her from the common room, and led her to a chair, next to a
low table in his office. James sat down,
“Stand right here and put your right foot on the table, Roberta.”
Prince James spoke firmly; “Roberta: Rachel and Aniela are the only lea-women I
intend to have for a long time. You are
my slave girl and I have given you authority to manage the household. All of my women will show proper respect to
my lea-women. I will tolerate no exceptions!”
Roberta red faced, lifted her eyes to gaze at
her master, “Harkening and obeying;” she said in the same low voice.
Roberta was angry with herself; that she had
betrayed her resentment. She was putting
herself in danger to be sold or shipped off to some vassal living on a
primitive planet. Roberta would not
acknowledge even to herself, her responsibility for the neglect of her former
master.
Prince James pushed a button on his wrist
communicator; "Alberta come into the office immediately." Roberta felt relieved at the distraction
offered by Alberta entering the room.
The prince motioned to Alberta who came and stood beside her lord’s
chair.
Prince James looked carefully at Alberta and
wondered at the fear of rejection lurking in her mind. Alberta was wearing a maid’s uniform with a
white lacey apron over the black dress.
The dress had a very high hem showing off beautiful legs that could only
be attached to a woman who exercised daily.
James can see that Alberta possesses a beautiful face, and female
figure. Alberta is obviously a young
woman with a great deal to offer; and no easily discernible reason to fear
rejection by any man.
Prince James looked at the ankle bracelet around
Roberta’s right ankle. He turned it until he could see the tiny seal with a
burnished ‘v’. “Alberta, you will tell
one of the guards at the door of my suite to call her watch captain. Tell her to have three Assaer soldiers bring
a band cutter and banding kit to my office at once.”
When Alberta left the room, James led Roberta to
the desk chair after closing the office doors.
“Remove all your clothes,” he told her.
She stripped to her bra and panties. After hesitating a moment, and blushing
furiously; Roberta removed her under garments.
James had seated himself on the chair he had placed opposite the office
couch. There was a small foot stool in
front of a chair beside the door to the common room. “Roberta, move that foot stool over here,”
James gestured to a spot beside his left foot.
Roberta was trembling as she obeyed.
James took her wrist in his left hand as she placed the stool according
to his directions.
Prince James tugged her wrist forcing her to
leaned over the stool. “Roberta, your
breasts are lovely and enticing,” he told her staring at her pink aureoles with
their slightly elongated nipples. He
reminded himself of his duty to Aniela.
‘Well,’ he thought, ‘in a few weeks I can have Roberta and
still have a clear conscious. Right now,
I’m going to see what part of being Prince James’ slave girl Roberta does not
understand.’ James kept a firm grip
on her wrist with his left hand. His
right hand stroked the flawless silky skin of her inner thighs. Occasionally he allowed his fingers to
lightly stroke the thick ‘v’ of hair tapering over the labia folds at the
junction of her thighs. He watched the
fear dissipate in her mind as he moved passion to align between her eyes above
her nose.
The fear was back; when Roberta heard the knock
at the door which opened into the common room.
Three Assaer soldiers entered at James’ command. He had two of them lock and take up a post at
each door. The third unrolled a leather
pouch and removed a small hardened steel cutter. Prince James held out his hand for the
cutter. Taking the cutter he quickly cut
the band from Roberta’s right ankle.
“Give me a plain hardened steel slave bracelet
with a Piedmont HRH device;” he requested the Assaer with the tools. The bracelet was fitted just above Roberta's
right ankle. James took care to make the
bracelet fit tight enough not to be slipped off; but loose enough not to cause
any physical discomfort. Prince James
thanked the soldiers who left to return to their assignments.
“Put your foot on the stool, Roberta;” Prince
James briskly commanded. He made a show
of inspecting the bracelet carefully describing what he was looking at to
Roberta. “Now woman, whose device and
bracelet is this on your ankle?”
Roberta seemed more relaxed after the Assaer
left. ‘They did not put me in irons,
whip me, or take me to the transporters for shipment to a Piedmont jail.’ Roberta thought carefully counting her
blessings. ‘I must learn to hide my
feelings; showing my true feelings will only get me deeper in trouble.’ “My lord, the device and bracelet are yours;”
she said in a voice with a slight tremor.
Prince James’ voice was cold; even though his
fingers were gently caressing her vulva’s folds. “Roberta, what is the difference between what
I have placed on you and the bracelet which I have removed?”
Roberta
squirmed; she was beginning to be aroused in spite of her determination to feed
her anger. “The one you had removed
identified the wearer as a virtuous bond-woman bound to your household. The one I am wearing now identifies a
pleasure slave of the lowest order property of the Prince of Piedmont.”
“Put on those undergarments and my household
uniform; then you may return to your duties.
Never allow me to see you act or express disrespect directed at either
of my lea-women. Be certain to address
them as ‘my lady’ or ‘mistress’.”
"Yes my lord,”
Roberta dressed quickly, fighting back tears of rage; until, she could run to
her room.
"Roberta unlock the door to my room and
tell Aniela and Rachel to come into the office;" James' kept his voice
without warmth, bored, and disinterested.
****
Chapter
12: Aniela and James Spend a Blissful Night
“What
imprinting were you given for your duties?” Prince James directed his query to
Rachel and Aniela when they were alone.
“I was taught the use of all state of the art
earth office equipment; office management, and information processing.” Rachel
responded; "also those more personal duties of a lea-woman, how to give
pleasure to my master, and how to nurture a child."
“Let’s go to my room and talk;” James told them.
They entered his bedroom and sat down on the couch. James felt thick headed his
mind diverted into too many directions choking off the free flow of ideas.
“Rachel,” Prince James placed his right hand on
her knee. “I want you to try the position of office manager and household
steward. On my desk you will find three portfolios left for me by the Rev.
Roister. Put all the paper work relative to my women together including the
papers for you, Aniela, Roberta, and Alberta; also, include the other women
chattels which I received from the emperor’s household. When you are done in
the office, please go to your room and unpack your clothes; leave my things
until tomorrow after Morning Prayers.” James told her.
“Harking and obedience, my lord,” Rachel said. She
walked to the door; and paused to drop a graceful curtsey; but her mind was in
a whirl. Rachel lectured herself without speaking aloud: ‘Why did I not open
my legs when James laid his hand on my knee? I do not wish to take anything
from Aniela; she is responsible for me being chosen by our prince. I must not
act so resentful or reserved; Prince James is just as much my happy ever-after
as he is Aniela’s destiny. I must not do anything to jeopardize Aniela’s
friendship; but I must not discourage the desire of our lord to totally possess
me. So why am I behaving like a child deprived of a favorite toy. I will pray
to be a better friend and an obedient lea-woman. I just cannot seem to control
my actions. She hurried away to do the task; which Prince James had given
her.
Prince James was still feeling tired and went
into the bathroom to freshen up. He finished the necessary and washed his face
in cold water. Aniela followed him into the bathroom and stood watching and
waiting behind him.
“Wash your face,” James said. When Aniela had
complied James said; “give me the wash cloth.” James took the wash cloth from
her hand, lifted her hair, and wiped the back of her neck. James kissed her
neck and whispered in her ear, “What color panties are you wearing?”
“White lace,” Aniela said, “on light blue silk.”
“Alone with me, you should not be wearing
anything under that skirt;” James said lust filling his head and thickening his
speech. “Don’t you remember giggling at my arousal this morning? I was
embarrassed, certain that the chaplain would notice. My embarrassment was your
fault; you are supposed to be meeting all my needs.”
Aniela saw the laughter in his eyes; but she
pretended to be frightened. “I’m sorry my lord; but I was a virgin just a few
hours before that incident. I must learn to serve you.”
James ran his hands up her thighs. Under her
skirt Aniela was wearing a silk panty; which had clinch ties dividing the
elastic bands. James untied both sides. “Wiggle that beautiful butt;” he
demanded.
When Aniela wiggled the panty fell down around
her ankles. She kicked it away eagerly, fully aroused feeling a burning need of
her master’s touch. “There,” she said as she kicked the small garment away;
“Now you have no excuse for making me wait!"
James led Aniela to his bed; “My arousal feels
likely to burst my trousers.” He teased, as he turned Aniela so that they are
face to face, and kissed her on the mouth. He pretended to scold her, “I will
finish the job. You will know exactly how much of your beauty I wish to feast
my eyes on when I quit removing your clothes!” James quickly unbuttoned her
blouse, and unhooked her bra; he pulled the garments off impatiently, and
dropped them on the floor.
Prince James held Aniela tightly by her hands
and sat down on the bed; he pulled her closer until she was bending over to
accept his kisses. Her breasts now unrestrained danced above him; and her
nipples grazed lightly against his uniform shirt.
When James released her hands; Aniela took a
step back. Then she bent forward again; her nipples brushing his knees, as she
pulled off his boots. Aniela straightened giving him a great view of her firm
breast her nipples erect. She gave an upward tug on his hands.
Prince James stood up, watching with rapt
attention, as Aniela took a step back, before moving her hands to her waist. She
quickly loosened her skirt's waist button and hidden zipper. Mesmerized, James
watched the skirt settle to the floor, forming a dark blue pool about her
ankles. Aniela’s calves are tight; her knees a little larger than her ankles
and her thighs are works of art. Aniela’s Venus mons tilts slightly forward as
she flexes her knees. She is aware of his intent stare; and deliberately teases
James by giving him a clear view of her vulva’s folds. The creases of her labia
are already wet and glistening from her arousal.
Prince James can not take his eyes from Aniela. Her
pubic hair is beautiful, thick, shiny blond-brown, and curly; just as, he
remembered from last night. James loosened his belt and the waist button of his
uniform pants. Aniela unzipped his fly; giggling when his arousal was fully
revealed. “Just look at what I’ve done;” she laughed.
James groaned aloud, aching with the need to
take her. Aniela is the fire and James the fuel. He pushed his briefs down and
stepped out of them. Aniela gave an involuntary gasp as the size of his arousal
increased before her eyes. “Now laugh at your master’s arousal,” James said in
a husky voice.
Prince James pulled Aniela against his naked
body; she meekly lifted her face for his kiss. Aniela’s lips are warm, soft,
and yielding; hesitantly, she begins gently stroking his engorged phallus with
her fingers. James cups her buttocks with his hands; pulling her body hard
against his, filling her mouth with his tongue. Aniela whimpers expressing her
need, only to change from whimper to moans as James breaks the kiss to run his
tongue over her hard erect nipples; first the right and then the other.
Prince James gently lowers her on the bed,
tapping the inside of her thighs with an impatient hand, holding himself above
her; he reaches down to open the tight lips of her mons veneris, and slowly
enters her.
Aniela is ready for James; her body’s scents of
subtle perfume mingled with the faint musky smell of an aroused woman; the
scents fill his nostrils fueling his lust. Aniela gasps, feeling fresh
excitement, as inner labia part, and she feels him filling her with his
phallus; and then with bated breath, she whispers frantic with desire: “take
me, harder, my lord, ” then in a frantic voice, “deeper!”
Aniela begs between moans, “More!” She is wet,
warm, and her scents overpower him; James is truly mad with his need, and
desire. He withdraws half-way to reach her nipples; he suckles while she bucks
and twists under him. Aniela is mad from her building blind need; she feels the
clenching deep inside and thrashes about beneath James pulling his hips to her,
trying to open wider, to receive more of him inside. James moves faster and
faster until Aniela loses all control. She squalls like a child, then moans,
still begging him to thrust deep.
James is riding a wave of desire; as he pushes
to her limit. Aniela wraps her legs around his hips, locking her ankles behind
his back. James moves faster maintaining a rhythm of motion, and Aniela begins
to move with him; moaning, shuddering, flexing her legs, tightening and
loosening her thighs as she rides the crest of her internal wave, ankles locked
tightly together in the small of James’ back.
Prince James feels his hot seed spurting deep
within Aniela; he trembles from the force of his ejaculation. Aniela rotates
her hips, her vaginal muscles squeezing and relaxing in the spastic movements
of her climax. Her fluids are warm and sticky on James’ shaft dripping from his
sack onto the bed. He remains hard—still aroused after ejaculating. James is
still feeling a gnawing hunger. He feels a burning need, an insistent internal
rumbling, and an indescribable want.
Rolling off Aniela, James wipes her mons veneris
and his penis with the silk undergarment she had dropped on the bed. James
tosses the garment on the floor; rolling her over so that she is face down on
the bed. “Lift your butt,” James demands his voice urgent.
“Harkening and obedience,” Aniela giggled, “I’m
ready for anything.” James enters her vagina from the rear. Thrusting into her
warm wet mound, his pelvis bouncing off her butt, moving faster, thrusting
harder, lengthening his strokes, stopping just short of complete withdraw, and
thrusting into her rhythmically. Aniela is breathing hard and gasping, “yes!
Yes!” With his every thrust they both hear the slapping sound of their bodies
coming together; and feel a rush of adrenalin. They both shake and tremble at
the instant that James ejaculates again.
Prince James is utterly spent, content at last;
he collapses beside Aniela. She rolls over boldly kissing him again and again;
as she murmurs words of love, devotion, and gratitude. Aniela lips are close to
his ear. “I will always love you with everything I possess. My love will never
fade; I will obey you in everything. I will prefer you over everyone; and give
you every pleasure any time any place you desire me.”
Prince James wrapped his arms around her, he
pulled a sheet up over them; and whispered “you were just too good my Aniela!” Aniela
squirms as James tongues her ear: “The things you did were not all instinct,”
James declared. He asked sleepily, “Where did you learn that trick of locking
your ankles behind my back?”
Aniela giggled, “Some of my imprinting was about
pleasing my prince and conceiving his babies.” She snuggled up against James. He
pulled her tight; and they lay together like two spoons in a tray of silver. James
looked deep into her mind and saw there: love and contentment, with a fierce
devoted loyalty. He felt thoroughly loved, content, and sure in the knowledge;
that Aniela was totally and happily his possession. Prince James lifted her
hair to kiss the nape of her neck once more; taking pleasure from the feel of
the shiver vibrating the length of her spine. They fell into a deep sleep,
Aniela still locked in his embrace.
****
Chapter
13: First Shower
The communicator in the corner of the room
beeped insistently; “4:30 a. m. Richmond time,” the mechanical voice announced.
Prince James eased from the bed and hurried to
the bathroom to take care of his necessities and shave. Finished shaving, James
quickly returned to wake Aniela. He pulled the sheet and blanket off her with a
quick tug; and, she sat up quickly looking disheveled, beautiful, and
befuddled.
“Good morning; my delight,” James exclaimed;
“you are so very beautiful, like Venus rising.” The shadow fled from her face
banished by a wide smile.
“Good morning, sweet prince;” Aniela said. James
took her hand, pulled her up, and tossed her a short silk robe.
“Our first appointment is at six a. m.,” Prince
James told her. He led the way to the bathroom. “We need to clean up and get
dressed for assembly, breakfast, and Morning Prayer.”
The grab-bars in the shower’s walls were put to
heavy use; as the randy eighteen year-olds played. “Aniela, give me your left
foot,” Prince James demanded. He began with her toes and slowly soaped his way,
inch by slow inch, up into her pubic hair. She giggled as James made his slow
progress; his back blocking the force of the water and preventing the soap from
rinsing away. James teased her, “Aniela pay attention: I expect you to do this
for me; besides, I wish to be sure that all the places I am going to kiss are
squeaky clean!”
Prince James released her left foot. “Give me
your right foot;” he continued to tease her. James soaped his way to her upper
thighs; while Aniela squirmed and her giggles turn to laughter. He soaped her
pelvis and butt; and while silently marveling at the perfection of her female
body. James watched the way the muscles flexed in Aniela’s abdomen as his hands
moved over her. He turned the two of them in a half circle putting Aniela
between him and the water coming from the shower head. The prince turned his
attention to her front side, they stood face to face while the soap rinsed from
Aniela’s back and legs. James washed her breasts; feasting his eyes on taunt
distended nipples. James restrained himself with difficulty and handed the
soapy cloth to her. “Wash your face, woman;” James demanded with mock severity.
Aniela washed her face. An impatient James took the cloth; and turned her, the
better to scrub her shoulders and upper-back.
Prince James pulled Aniela back against his
body; his manhood, swollen, pressed beneath her buttocks. He touched her labia
with the head of his phallus; then, placing his hands around her waist, James
reached down, sliding his hands over her flat abs, to the top of her genitals.
James slipped his index finger between her folds. He was not disappointed: she
was wet and ready for him.
Aniela gave a mock scream; “Oh no! I’ve aroused
him again!”
James swept Aniela into his arms, marveling at
how much woman could be packed into so slight a frame. He stepped from the
shower with Aniela’s arms encircling his neck; the burning desire in her eyes
mirroring his own need. James knelt and gently lowered Aniela on to a thick
bath towel spread over the bath rug which covered the floor outside the shower
door. James knelt between her knees; lifting her butt with both hands. He
thrust hard into her. “Now…right now!” James demanded.
Aniela giggled at James’ urgency, excited by the
power she held over him. “Harkening and obeying my lord;” she whispered in his
ear. She forced her muscles to relax; allowing James to push deeper into her
vagina. Then, she tightened her pelvic muscles, squeezing him firmly. They both
climaxed almost as soon as she began to move with him. They lay locked together
for several minutes without speaking; lying on the towel covered rug breathing
hard, both of them sated and exhausted.
Prince James finally summoned the strength to
pull her up from the floor; they stepped back into the shower and rinsed off. James
handed Aniela the wash cloth; she began slowly washing him, repeating the
ablutions he had given her. They rinsed off again and toweled each other dry. Aniela
sat down in front of the vanity. Prince James left her there drying her hair;
and finishing those few things necessary to bring out her natural beauty.
James dressed quickly after taking the least
wrinkled military uniform from a trunk. It was the uniform with the insignia of
his new rank already sewn on the shirt. Rachel had already completed both dress
uniform shirts for him. James picked up a wrist communicator and set it to the
household frequency. “Roberta,” he spoke the name.
Almost immediately she replied, “My lord, this
is Roberta speaking."
"Who would be familiar with the location
and names of all the Sylvania Subjects residing in this building?” James asked.
Roberta replied with a question: “Are you
including the Assaer?”
“No, I just need information on the human
subjects,” James answered.
“You will want to speak with Alberta,” she said,
Prince James heard a background snigger and realized Roberta was playing to an
audience.
“Please send Alberta to my room a.s.a.p.!” James
snapped; annoyed at the rebellious hauteur in Roberta’s voice.
“Immediately my lord,” Roberta’s tone revealed
her further attempt to impress the unseen audience.
James’ heart sank; ‘certainly the Emperor
would soon know that he was unable to manage even his own household,’ he
thought. The angry prince smiled entertaining a mental image of publicly
whipping Roberta. The scheduled morning assembly would be the perfect venue;
but, he regretfully pushed the thought aside as an immature-unworthy way for a
prince to respond to a shrewish woman. If he could not solve this problem, the
Emperor would have no choice but to send someone else to carry forward the
mission. It suddenly occurred to Prince James; that if he could discover the
cause of Roberta’s hostility, he might be well on the path to taming her.
****
Chapter
14: Alberta’s secret
Prince James walked into Rachel’s bedroom. She
was sitting quietly on a chair; Rachel wore a silk gown which did not hide very
much of her lovely figure. She held a stocking in one hand; and on her face was
the dazed look of someone still more than half asleep.
“Good morning, lovely Rachel, did you get the
documents organized last evening,” James asked her.
“Yes my lord,” Rachel blushed aware of his gaze
traveling over her body; “they are on the desk in your office.”
Prince James yielded to a sudden impulse; he
gave the slash of the robe a quick tug: the robe fell open. Her blush darkened
and spread down her chest, “Do you like the view?” Rachel asked with a nervous
giggle.
“You are very beautiful,” James answered. “Every part of you
is perfect, just lovely; even, the hair on your Venus mons is the same
beautiful blue-black color as the hair on your head,” James could not keep the
wonder from his voice. "How could I not like the view?"
Prince James saw tears gleaming in Rachel’s eyes; his lea-woman
gave him a sad smile, and her lips trembled as she slowly drew her robe
together. She said, “I would not wish to deny Aniela her seven days; but, I am
yours anytime or any place. You must surely know that I desire you.” Rachel
blushed; “I would never refuse you anything; that, I have in my power to give
you. My chief goal is to lavish my love on you. You rescued me from a loveless
life in the Emperor’s service; a life I never thought I could escape. You
choose me; and pleasing you is my heart’s sincere desire.”
Prince James touched her cheek softly with his
hand; he bent down, and gave her a lingering kiss. “We will meet in the common
room at 600 hours, from there we will all go to breakfast, and then to the
Chapel for Morning Prayers. Keep your communicator on your wrist; please make
that a habit while we are on this planet,” James told Rachel.
Prince James hurried to the office and quickly
visually scanned through the portfolio. In addition to Rachel, Aniela, Roberta,
and Alberta; there were other sets of documents bearing the names of: Crystal,
Linda, Jeanette, Sarah, Mary-Sue, and Wanda. Six in addition to Rachel and
Aniela, eight women conveyed to the prince by Imperial certification; then
adding his cousins' gifts, a total of ten women.
Prince James wondered ‘was this another test
given by his uncle to see if the prince would have enough wisdom and skill to
manage people.'
If so, no doubt it will be a difficult one owing
to the usual issues of womanly jealously. Prince James made a decision; he decided
that it would be necessary to go over each woman’s papers with her. James hoped
such reviews would enable him to begin each relationship from a position of
strength. James wished to make sure that each woman realized that this present
duty was not an assignment; but rather, a destination. The women all needed to
know; that, they would not be returning to their former positions.
Prince James picked up the communicator from his
desk; and said, “Alberta pick up the com.”
She answered immediately, “I am just passing the
office on my way to your room, my lord.”
“Come into the office instead,” James
instructed. She opened the corridor door almost immediately; and, James
motioned to her, “come over to the desk.” He was pleased to see that Alberta
looked alert. She was beautiful in a freshly starched and pressed household
uniform identical to the one she had worn yesterday. The low bodice and short
skirt caught and held James’ attention. Alberta’s striking complexion, hair,
and figure made the uniform very sexy.
Alberta knelt humbly beside Prince James’ chair,
“How may I serve you, my lord?” She asked. James took her hand and looked into
her mind. What he saw made him wondered; there was fear mingled with
uncertainty. Every time they were together; that was what he saw in her mind. “Did
you let all the Sylvanian subjects know; that they are expected in the common
room at 600 hours?” James questioned her.
“Yes my lord,” Alberta replied.
“Thank you,” James said; “now lock the door from
my bedroom. We have some time; I wish to go over your documents with you.” She
walked to the door, obediently turned the latch, and returned to kneel again beside
the desk just in front of his chair.
Prince James picked up the title of ownership
and transfer of property document for Alberta; along with Prince Paul’s card. He
read aloud to her from the card. Prince Paul had written, “I believe Alberta
will be a great help to you. I have included her medical reports which show she
is twenty-seven and in excellent health. She has a gift for managing people and
controlling inventories. Alberta is pretty in her face, fair in complexion,
with beautiful hair; and she has a fine figure. She may be shy; but Alberta has
a great attitude; and is not daunted by challenges. I could not think of a better
gift for your birthday. You should enjoy your opportunities; good luck with
your mission.” It is signed Paul-op-David of Ulvevstauwf, Viscount of Whithorn.
Prince James laid the card aside and taking the
title and property transfer document he began to read it to Alberta: “I,
Paul-op-David, son of the Prince of Ulvevstauwf, certify in the presence of two
witnesses that the woman known as Alberta of Ulvevstauwf, my chattel, was born
my property. Her mother is a slave, who was purchased for me from a proctor of
the imperial army’s sixth division for a weight of three ounces of gold an
exact testimony and copy is attached to this document. Her father was a rebel,
unknown to me, and was executed before her birth. Alberta has never been free,
she is a Christian of good moral virtue, possesses a ready wit, and is of high
intelligence. I do now convey without reserve: to the high and beloved Prince
James of Piedmont, to his heirs, and assigns forever: that real and valuable
property “Alberta of Ulvevstauwf.” The document was witnessed by: Captain
Eleanor of the armed forces of Ulvevstauwf; and by the Rev. Carl Montez. The
seal of Ulvevstauwf was embossed; appearing beneath the signature of
Paul-op-Jessie-op-David, Prince—Viscount of Whithorn.
Prince James showed her three folders. “Here are
the results of three physical examinations all done last year. All signify that
you are a mature female, clean, with nothing to indicate infertility. You are
free of sexually transmittable disease; but, you are not a virgin. Is there
anything you wish to tell me?” Prince James looked into her mind and read fear
and shame.
“It was Prince Paul who took my maiden-head when
I was eighteen; but, he was so smitten with his lea-woman Sahara, that he never
fulfilled my days, or visited me again. I doubt that he even remembers our
encounter. I am certain that he meant no disrespect in giving me to you. While
waiting on Sahara, I have often heard him speak of you with genuine affection.”
Her voice broke as she said, “I am glad to get away. His rejection makes me
feel cheap and dirty; that I am of less worth than other women. I am not wanton
and will serve you faithfully; if, you desire me. I know, you may choose to
send me away…" Prince James saw the tears welling up in her eyes and heard
a tremor in her voice.
Prince James kissed her and said, “I hope you
will be happy in my household. You will send me your calendar.” James began to
calm her replacing the fear with feelings of warmth, love, and security.
“Here is my calendar, lord; my fertility cycles
have been very regular;” Alberta said blushing while taking a folded paper from
a pocket. She handed it to her master with a smile;” I shall obey and always
strive to please you my lord.”
“Alberta, come here and sit on my knee. I wish
to share a riddle with you. What is the difference between a grope and a
caress?” Prince James asked Alberta when she was perched on his knee.
“My lord, I do not know,” Alberta said.
“Here is a clue,” James said; pulling her to him,
James loosened three buttons, and ran his hand inside her blouse. If anyone
other than I were doing this; it would be a grope, if he went no further. I
would have him flogged within an inch of his life.” She giggled aloud; Prince
James took her lips with a hard passionate kiss. “One day soon I’ll come to
your room and we will explore the arts of caress,” he said. “Alberta, you
please me very much. If God wills; we will give each other many hours of
pleasure. I do not doubt that you will give me many healthy children. I will
write Prince Paul and thank him for his excellent gift. I hold you to be
blameless. I will visit you at the time appointed;” Prince James promised her.
****
Chapter
15: Aniela Learns Her Responsibilities
Aniela walked through the door as soon as
Alberta opened it. She had dressed for the chapel service; and was wearing a
dark blue dress. Her high heel shoes were oxblood as was the small clutch purse
she carried. Across her arm, Aniela carried a large dark prayer scarf which
perfectly matched her dress. Her eyes were bright and lively.
“We have about ten minutes before the assembly,”
Prince James said to her. “I’m glad you brought a head scarf; I was going to
ask you to wear one. I will send any imperial women (who come to the assembly)
to breakfast. Only my women will be left. I have ten women in Richmond; eight,
including you and Rachel, are gifts from the emperor. Two of my women, one each
are gifts from the Royal Dukes. Alberta, Rachel, and you have reviewed your
documents with me; the others still must be interviewed.”
“Now, listen very carefully: I am giving you the
most important instructions; that you will ever receive from me. You must try
to gain the friendship of each of the other nine women. They will all be
jealous of you. Aniela, do you know why this is important,” James asked?
“No, my lord;” Aniela said, “I shall find it
hard to like them when you take them to your bed.”
“This is the reason,” Prince James said, “Only
God opens and closes the womb of a woman. It is not unusual for a bond-woman to
bear malice toward the person and-or children born to another of the same or
higher station. You are the first woman; who I have known in the Biblical
sense. I have only granted two of my women the stature of lea-women; and you
are first lea-woman in my household. Therefore, only you can and must make my
household work in harmony. By doing the necessary things, you will protect any
children you bare to your lord. This means you must be kind; and, smooth any
frictions among the others. Remember, you are not the youngest woman; Crystal
is younger than you. I expect maturity and thoughtfulness from you. You can do
this; I know that you can. I love you very much; if I were not a prince of
Sylvania. I would spend my whole life loving you only. The fate of the Empire
and the lives of the Emperor’s billions of subjects depend on the continuation
of the dynasty. I am not at liberty to do everything I wish; and, I will not
lift my head in disobedience to our Emperor as one of my cousins seems to have
done.”
Prince James held Aniela’s hand gazing into her
eyes. James saw the colors in her mind, as he caused the release of peace and
contentment. James concentrated to nudge just a little of the dark burgundy
swirl, the color of devotion, into an alignment in the center between her eyes
on the axis of her nose.
“Aniela, if you obey me in this, for all of your
childbearing years, I will not forsake your bed. When you are too old to
conceive I will show you honor in the presence of the Empire; none shall have
greater honor from me than you. But, if you allow jealousy to control you, I
will punish you so severely, that your treason will be noted and spoken of
throughout the Empire. You must be willing to be humble, when that is
necessary, to keep peace in my household. You must trust me; that I will not
allow any of my women to be abusive to you without punishment,” Prince James
assured her. “I will use the gift of inner sight to know if you lie to me; you
must tell me now. Will you obey me in all things and take the responsibility I
am asking of you?” Prince James asked with the knowledge that the future
stability of the Empire might depend on Aniela realizing and accepting this
responsibility.
Aniela knelt before her prince, her tears were
falling on the floor; as she said, “I love you…And I will find strength and
courage in my love for you. I will never commit treason against you; and God
enabling me, I will not disobey you in any matter great or small. I will make
these women my friends; if God wills.” She sobbed, “Please forgive me; I love
you with complete devotion. But, I fear that I am not wise beyond my years.”
“There is nothing to forgive, my delight;”
Prince James spoke words of reassurance. Holding her hand he spoke firmly;
“Quick, dry your tears. I do not wish the others to see you have been
distressed. We are going to the common room to meet the others. Now, place the
head scarf over your hair. You will walk in on my arm and I will publicly show
you the affection and respect which you richly deserve;” James told her.
They exited the office through the door to the
corridor which was just a few steps from the common room. All the chairs,
except for one, were arranged in a semi-circle. Roberta had placed a straight
back chair for Prince James facing the opening of the assembled chairs. Prince
James arrived, at the chair, which Roberta had placed for him. He half turned
and glanced at the watching women; then the prince took Aniela into his arms,
embraced, and kissed her. James spoke loud enough that all could hear, “My
delight, get a chair from the wall and sit by my side.” Aniela curtseyed and
started for the wall to get a chair.
Alberta called out, “Please wait my lady.” Alberta
brought a chair from the wall for Aniela. Prince James saw no jealousy as he
looked into Alberta’s mind. James knew that Aniela’s position now, as first
among his women was firmly established; unless he removed her.
Aniela was determined to make good on the
promise she had just made to Prince James. Before Aniela took her seat, she
smiled making eye contact with as many of the women as possible. “Our lord,
Prince James, desires that we treat each other as sisters. I will seek only the
good for each one of my sisters as long as God gives me grace. I will not
bicker or quarrel with anyone of you; regardless of which of you the prince may
favor in the future. I hope each of you will speak to me honestly; if I give
you any grounds for offence;” Aniela blushed and sat down. Her hands were
trembling slightly; and her eyes were downcast as she stared modestly at the
floor.
****
Chapter 16: Prince James Begins to Organize His Household
Prince James called-out, “Everyone take a seat;
and listen carefully for your name.” When they were seated the prince opened
the portfolio and read: “Aniela of Syclic, Rachel of Syclic, and Alberta of
Ulvevstauwf, Roberta of Liandudauf, Sarah Baldwin-koign, Mary-Susan
Baldwin-koign, Wanda Baldwin-koign, Jeanette Baldwin-koign, Linda
Baldwin-koign, and Crystal Baldwin-koign. All those whose names have been
called please remain seated.”
“Everyone else go to the kitchen area, where
breakfast will be served by the Assaer wait staff. I expect everyone to attend
the Morning Prayer Service at 7 a. m.”
Prince James turned his attention to the ten
women who remained. “When, I call your name; you will come to me, one at a time
behind that screen across the alcove. It is that small three sided area just
off to your left. Each woman called will review her documents; but it will be
impossible to see everyone today. Going over your registration documents will
enable you to better understand your duty. I will see as many as possible
before breakfast. Those, not called this morning, will be called by
communicator, and told where to go; throughout the weeks ahead, until I have
spoken with each one of you. Aniela has already stated my expectation: that all
of you will cultivate friendly relationships; and, you will behave as sisters
toward each other. I will not tolerate my household becoming a place of
bickering and petty feuds."
Prince James began with the youngest; Crystal
came forward when he called her name.
The screen was across the alcove entrance; upon
entering, James was pleased to see that an Assaer guard stood behind the chair.
The Assaer soldier would send the images and even thoughts of those James
interviewed to a recorder which lay on the small table standing beside a gilded
chair of state. No one except Prince James would be wearing the appliance which
renders Assaer visible in Earth atmosphere. Therefore, the women would not be
frightened or intimidated by the presence of the soldier. Crystal walked behind
the screen; and curtseyed to her master. James showed her the title document
confirming her status as his property. “I see that you were eighteen only last
week. I will see you often through the coming weeks. You will be given an
assignment and will eat at my table with my lea-women; and sit in the Prince’s
pew at chapel. The legal age of competence is usually considered to be
eighteen. Yours could be later depending on the maturity with which you perform
any assigned tasks. When I have reason to believe you have attain the age of
competence; I will make you a woman or give you to some other lord. Your
destiny depends on your character and attitude;” Prince James told her. “You
are my property and will not be returning to the Imperial Service of Baldwin
IV. There is one question that I require you to answer immediately: How do you
feel about being the slave woman of the Prince of Piedmont?”
James asked to gauge her reaction; and, by
looking into her mind, to know whether she was rebellious against the status of
which; she had just been informed.
She merely blushed and whispered meekly, “I am
glad to be yours. I hope some day to be yours in every way. I am happy that you
are my master.”
“Crystal, I am not only your master; you are to
remember that,” James said. “You are to address me as my lord or my prince. I
expect you to show me your submission by inviting my caresses and seeking my
attention.”
“Yes my lord, I truly wish to have your
caresses; I thank you for receiving me.” Crystal gave James a chaste kiss.
Next the prince called Aniela. He was glad to
see her sunny disposition had returned. She greeted Prince James with a smile. “I
have decided to try to do random acts of kindness for my sisters at every
opportunity,” she said.
Aniela had removed her head scarf before coming
into the screened area. “Ah…I am alone again with my beautiful slave-girl,”
James teased her.
Aniela laughed gaily and then asked, “Can you
tell me the color of the panties I have on?”
“Let me see, long navy blue dress, dark blue
head scarf…my guess would be light blue?” James made his answer into a
question.
Aniela laughed again, “so wrong!” She lifted the
hem of her dress and showed James her lovely Venus mons with its lush brush of
thick curly blond-brown hair. “Maybe I can tempt you into skipping breakfast!” She
teased.
Prince James kissed Aniela with passion; and,
she returned his kiss with enthusiasm. James released her with reluctance; and
said, “When you go out send Linda Baldwin-koign to me.”
Sarah stirred uneasily when Linda was called, “I
think I am younger than Linda;” she whispered to Aniela as Linda walked towards
the interview area.
“Rachel would know, she organized the titles for
the prince. She knows all ten of his slave-girls’ ages,” Aniela replied to
Sarah’s question.
“Rachel does our prince think I’m ugly; I wonder
why he called Linda before me?” Sarah asked.
“You are much more attractive than I am,” Aniela
answered quickly. “If he had not chosen me before he saw you, I would probably
not be the first lea-woman. I am determined to make it easy for my lord to do
his duty. I came to realize that the Emperor expects our prince to have more
consorts than just his two lea-women. I then made up my mind that I would keep
a loving, seductive, and enthusiastic attitude toward my love, Prince James. I
am resolved not to nag or rage against the inevitable. Prince James gives every
sign of being in love with me; but I know that in just four more short days he
will take Rachel to his bed. I know that he will enjoy being with Rachel. The
Emperor expects nothing less than many children from the women of our
prince."
Rachel spoke quietly, “You are mistaken about
the age of Linda; Sarah, Linda is two years younger than you. You need to
listen carefully to Aniela, be her true friend, and take her advice. Aniela
will be fair with all the other women. I am having a hard time because the
little devil perched on my shoulder; keeps whispering that our lord should have
taken me first. I have decided to love Aniela and continue to be her faithful
friend. Unless she rebels against our lord, she will always have the first
place in his heart. Always remember, he is the head of his household; and he
will not react kindly to any unfounded complaints from his women.”
Sarah hugged both Aniela and Rachel, “Thank you
for giving me advice and for correcting my false impression.”
Aniela took Rachel’s hand and looked full in her
eyes. “I hope you have forgiven me. I was thoughtless and immature: completely
smitten with Prince James that first night after chapel. Forgive me for not
thinking of the impropriety of being taken first; when I am your younger
sister."
Aniela spoke with such obvious sincerity that
Rachel could not help but respond. “Aniela I feel the affection for you of an
older sister for her younger sister. I will always try to be a real friend. I
understand your actions and recognize that I would not be a lea-woman except
for your friendship.”
Linda entered the alcove and knelt before Prince
James. The hem of her skirt was about three inches short of touching the floor;
and her blouse’s plunging neck line revealed enough cleavage to excite his
interest. James quickly went over her papers. “Is there anything you do not
understand about your position” he asked her?
“No my lord,” Linda responded quickly.
“I will have Roberta assign you some household
duties until I determine how you are gifted. What is your duty to your prince;”
James asked her?
“My lord, my duty is to obey without delay or
question your commands. I am to learn of you in matters of religion. I am bound
to be chaste; and, not to withhold any pleasures lying in my power to give
you;” Linda declared. “I am to cover my head in church with a white scarf until
such a time as you take carnal knowledge of my body. All of these things were
imprinted on my mind in the day I was sent to Richmond to await your arrival;”
Linda said.
“Linda, you are very beautiful and I am very
blessed that the Emperor deigned to give you to me,” Prince James told her. “Now
that I am of age I have two great duties: first, to carry out the missions
assigned me by the Emperor; and, second with God’s enabling, I am to father
children to help secure the dynasty. Further, the Patriarch has given me this
dispensation and commandment. I am not to neglect my women; and, I am to treat
them with kindness and respect. I eagerly anticipate our times together. As you
know, Aniela is in the third day of her seven. I will have no other woman
during her seven days; thus, Aniela and all my women shall be respected.”
Linda handed James her calendar, “Please send
Sarah to me now;” James told her.
Sarah must have been waiting near the opening to
the alcove; she entered quickly, walked toward Prince James, and knelt at the
side of his chair. She had on a long skirt of soft gray material which
complimented her unusual gray eyes. She spoke softly; “Thank you for sending
for me, my lord.”
Prince James took out her title document and
reviewed it quickly with her. “Is there anything that you do not understand he
asked?”
Sarah laughed, “I am your chattel and expect to
be assigned duties in your household. What will happen to me when you have
completed your assignment and return to Piedmont?”
James looked into her mind and saw fear and
dread. He could not see any lust or anticipation. “You have taken the time to
make yourself beautiful; yet, I sense that you are a very unhappy woman. I am a
Christian and a man of honor. You are a beautiful woman, a gift from my uncle
the Emperor of Sylvania. When or if I return to Piedmont my women will go with
me or follow as soon as their safety permits. Sarah, how did you come to be the
Emperor’s chattel?”
“I was too young to remember for myself;"
Sarah hesitated before continuing "but my mother was a menial servant
cleaning the hall of a pagan prince of the Hellsboro. She was stolen with her
mother, that is my grandmother, from Pittsburg on the planet earth. Her mother
was allowed to raise her until she turned thirteen. Then her master sold her to
the King of Mavicia to work in his silk mills. I was born and she was
reassigned as a house slave in the hall of the oldest son of the Mavician King.
This prince sold all his serving women over the age of thirty, and those
children not his get, to a Neptunite dealer who sold me to a Christian merchant
who gave me to the Emperor.”
Prince James saw the pain that accompanied the
review of Sarah’s history. He kept his voice soft, “You are my slave girl. If
you are obedient, and I live, you will remain mine. If you have my children
they will be free and recognized as sons and daughters of the Prince of
Piedmont. I will love and care for you as long as we both live; if, you do not
wish to be mine; or you are rebellious. I will give you to one of my
frontiersmen or a veteran retiring from the armed forces. Do you wish to be a
part of my household?”
Sarah had been looking down at the floor. She
now looked James in the eye, “I wish to be yours,” she said simply. He gazed
deep into her beautiful eyes; then looking into her mind he saw for the first
time a small bit of contentment mingled with the burgundy of devotion.
Prince James stood up and embraced Sarah, “Let’s
return to the others;” he said.
Prince James followed Sarah back to the group. She
was conscious of his eyes on her and moved seductively. James was certain that
she would be happy in his embrace. He glanced at Aniela sitting beside his
empty chair. James smiled at Aniela and then spoke to the entire assembly. “It
is almost 6:30 a.m.; I will call those not yet interviewed one at a time during
opportune times until everyone has been interviewed.”
“Breakfast everyone! Roberta will seat herself
at the table on my left side. Aniela will take the seat on my right; Rachel
will sit next to Aniela. Alberta will ask God’s grace before we begin to eat;”
Prince James told his women. They quickly walked to the kitchen-great room;
where he took a seat at the middle of the table. Aniela and Roberta went to
their seats; Alberta stood at the chair beside Rachel. Alberta waited until
Prince James said loudly, “Let us pray.”
Alberta asked the blessing of Almighty God on
the Emperor, the princes (especially her gracious lord Prince James), then she
asked that the food might be blessed to the health of all, in Jesus name. The
Amen was said by every voice present.
Soldiers from the New Tirano-Piedmont Regiment
served the breakfast table. The women all ate lightly, mindful of the shortness
of time before the office of Morning Prayer. Prince James hurried back to his
room and quickly freshened-up. Upon walking back to the Commons Area, he found
that Aniela, Rachel, Alberta, and Roberta had gathered all of the household
women. They were assembled, waiting for his arrival. The household members and
James walked together to the elevator.
The elevator car seemed to drop from the seventh
floor straight to the basement. When it started down, it took only seconds
before the doors opened; there they found themselves right across from the
chapel’s open doors.
The large chapel was hung with the purple of the
Lenten Season. Prince James and his women entered the chapel and walked down
the aisle to the large box-pew near the Holy table, on the right side, just one
box to the liturgical north of the pulpit. James sat in the middle of the front
bench (there are three benches in the box pew). James took a seat between
Rachel and Aniela. There were several hundred Assaer officers and soldiers
standing when the prince walked down the long aisle to his pew. They sat down
as soon as their prince was seated. The Imperial staff with the women of the
Emperor’s household, about a hundred in all, had already filled the opposite
box pew and part of the left side.
The moving and majestic worship of the Church’s
great choir office swept all up in awe and joined them to the One Holy Catholic
and Apostolic Church of all the ages, as they worshiped. The Old Testament
lesson was the entire fifty-eighth chapter of the Book of Isaiah the Prophet;
the New Testament lesson was from St. Matthew’s gospel the sixth chapter.
Prince James gave himself totally to the
worship; feeling unburdened in the General Confession and renewed in the
absolution. The hymns moved his soul as James realized that for the first time
he sang them on the very planet of our LORD’S passion.
The Rev. Mr. Roister+ pronounced the grace; at
the end of the prayers and sermon, and then made a further announcement: “his
royal highness has commanded the presence of his Chaplain, two of the senior
officers of the Piedmont Regiments along with General Rahbat and a junior
officer: Lt. Sharon Piedmont. These are to attend the prince in the office
adjacent to his quarters; and they will constitute a council to review all
recently received Imperial directives; and make preparation to execute the
same."
After that announcement, we all stood and sang
the Recessional Hymn, knelt to pray the closing prayers, and then exited the
chapel.
****
Chapter
17: The Prince of Piedmont’s First
Council of War
Eighty and Six Anno Domini:
The Vain Search for Norse Christian Survivors
They waited crouched in the brush until the
Danes were mere dots on the water. Lord Dumsauwf looked at Erick, “are you able
to ride on for the horses and help that the women, young children and elderly
need? We cannot be sure that Roderick, the first messenger, was able to pass
the North men without being captured.”
“I am more than able. There is a place about a
mile upstream; where the Prince’s Thane-men forded the horses on their way to
us, just a short two days ago;” Erick replied. Erick did not wait for further
instruction; he left riding his horse upstream toward the ford.
“Three of us should make our way down toward the
beached ship. Just in case, someone was able to escape into the woods.” Lord
Dumsauwf continued; “I would not want to leave any wounded Christian from that
long boat still alive to be food for the wolves.” Lord Dumsauwf spoke to the
third clansman: “Eli, please stay here keep a watch towards the sea; and make
plenty of noise if you see the Danes returning.”
Lord Dumsauwf left the horses tied and led the
way down a steep path toward the smoldering remains of the long boat. Gawain
and his Clansmen searched in vain for any survivors from the Pagan Danes’
attack on the Norse Christians.
It was nearly dark; when they returned to the
refugees. Lord Dumsauwf dismounted; and after handing the reins of his mount to
a Clansman, approached the cavern. The Thane-men had killed three small deer
and the smell of roasting meat was fragrant on the air. One of them had even
found a salt lick, which deer had been using; and, he had chipped out enough of
the hard crystals to provide some seasoning for the venison. Everyone had
enough to eat that night.
Prince Thomas listened to his brother-in-law’s
report on the Danes massacre of the Norse Christians. “I’ll take a turn at guard
tonight so that you and your men can get some rest.” He ignored the half
hearted protest of Lord Dumsauwf. “You and your men are exhausted. The elderly
are in no shape to make the rest of the trip; so, we will wait until noon for
Erick to return with horses and supplies. If he is not here by noon we will
gather everything up and go as far as the water fall. Fortunately the weather
seems to be warming up.”
Council of War
General Rahbat led the
way back to the elevator. “I am curious your highness as to why you have
summonsed Lt. Sharon Piedmont to attend the reading of directives; I know you
are aware that subalterns do not generally sit in on meetings at this level of
command.”
“You are right to question; and I will defer to
your judgment if you think it a bad decision,
general.” Prince James spoke respectfully, “I wish to revive the old custom of
a military orderly-attaché to bounce ideas off, write dispatches, to serve as
courier, and body guard. Lt. Sharon possesses a gift for organizing small parties
to execute on short notice. She has a readiness to act and exercises judgment
without consulting on minor details. I also need someone capable of writing
commendations and imperial dispatches. Further, Lt. Sharon has been out of the
imperial war college for three years; and, she has had at least two hazardous
deployments. I, on the other hand, have almost no experience; after all, I am a
very recent graduate of St. Albert’s War College. Our emperor gave me a command
to seek your guidance, the guidance of good Brother Roister, and the senior
officers of the Piedmont Regiments. You will shortly be returning to Sylvania
to take your rightful place on the Imperial General Staff. Lt. Sharon Piedmont
would be a further check on my acting in rashness; once you are no longer
around to caution me.”
“May I interrupt your highness?” Major Sarah
Tirano had been quietly listening.
“Please speak up Major Tirano;” James said
quickly.
“Sir, she said addressing General Rahbat, “I
believe that our young prince has made a wonderful choice in subalterns. If you
are in agreement with his idea, Lt. Sharon would be the ideal candidate. I have
recommended her for promotion based on the same qualities that Prince James has
noticed.”
Almost a minute passed before General Rahbat replied,
“Thinking it over carefully; I believe that there is a great deal of merit in
the idea, your highness. I hope you will wait on the full implementation,
though, until I am able to make an evaluation of Lt. Sharon based on personal
observation. Until then the subaltern should be excluded from the conferences
on Imperial Directives. Lt. Sharon’s exclusion may be temporary; and otherwise,
I recommend that she start her job immediately as your aide-de-camp.”
“Thank you both for your wise council,” Prince James
said sincerely. “Major Sarah, would you give the orders for Lt. Sharon’s kit to
be moved into one of the rooms in my apartments? She can begin at once to
over-see my personal security.”
“Aniela”, Prince James called to his lea-woman,
“I shall want your personal attention all day. You may go back to the room and
change into something lighter; then, come on into the office. Please tell
Rachel to accompany you; the guards will have orders to admit you.”
Aniela curtseyed, “Harkening and obedience,” she
said; then, she bathed James in the radiance of her smile; before she hurried
off toward the prince’s room.
“Lt. Sharon, get a detail together to provide
security; keep your communicator on my personal channel at all times. I will
call you into the meeting if necessary. When they arrive, Aniela, Rachel, and
Alberta are to be admitted. Alberta will be the official recorder. Aniela is 1st
lea-woman, an astute observer, my general assistant, and valued for her
intelligent opinions. I will want Rachel to assist in the up-coming missions”. Lt
Sharon saluted, made an about-face, and quickly exited the room.
“Alberta, I wish a private word with you;”
Prince James said. He then addressed his Piedmont Assaer Officers and General
Rahbat. “My household supervisor will provide you with any refreshments you
wish before our conference begins. Give me at least ten minutes with my
bondwoman, Alberta, before you come to the office.”
James noticed his household manager standing
nearby: “Roberta, please see to the needs of these brave warriors.”
Alberta followed the prince into the office and
he shut the door behind her. “Alberta,” Prince James said, “you are dressed
very appropriately for a worship service; but, your new assignment is to be the
chronicler to the Prince of Piedmont. You are to wear business dress by which I
mean: suit jacket over a blouse and skirt, or a Jacket over a dress.” Prince
James continued, “Always carry a recorder, a translator, a small clutch purse,
and wear short or no heel shoes comfortable for walking. You have great legs,
so let me see them. You have very nice breast, so show me some cleavage; but
always wear a bra. I want your breast to remain very nice. Go quickly to your
quarters, change, and come back dressed appropriately; prepared to do your job.
If the Assaer or the Chaplain return before you; go straight into the
imprinting room and wait. I will come to get you. I wish to make sure you are
ready to do the job, to which I have assigned you. Now, repeat what I just told
you;” Prince James demanded.
“My new assignment is court chronicler; I am to
dress up for the job. Wear shoes in which I can walk a lot with comfort. I am
to clothe myself in a manner to satisfy your desire to see my legs and tits. I
am to carry a recorder, a translator, and a clutch purse. I am to return
quickly; and see you alone before the beginning of the meeting;” a happily
grinning Alberta summarized quickly.
“You know what to do,” James said; “now hurry!” He
gave Alberta’s firm butt a friendly swat. An appreciative James watched her
beautiful red hair, no longer braided, swirling about her lovely shoulders; as
she hurried away.
Aniela and Alberta passed each other in the
doorway. Prince James motioned Aniela over to his desk. “Look through these
documents. They are in numerical order, keep them in that order, and hand them
to me, one set at a time; when I ask for them. Pay close attention to which set
you’re handing me; you should clue me with a few words when passing them over;”
the prince instructed her. James took notice of the outfit Aniela was wearing:
a lacey low cut blouse over a bra that showed a maximum amount of her high pert
breast, and a very short skirt. Below the skirt’s hem, Aniela’s feet and legs
were bare except for the sandals on her feet. She was adjusting to his bold
eyes and without blushing raised her skirt’s hem.
“You can see, my lord, she grinned, I am a very
proper slave girl!”
Prince James gave a mock groan, “I see you have
still not had enough intimate attention; come here.” James pulled her into his
embrace and kissed her hard on the lips. The prince filled her mouth with his
tongue; while, he squeeze her naked butt with his right hand. Aniela responded
immediately by passionately returning his kiss; while she ground her pelvis
against his uniform fly. James stroked her inner thighs and then her Venus
mons, before gently breaking the embrace.
“Aniela, I am going to ride you this afternoon
until you are too sore to walk straight;” Prince James told her with a wicked
grin. Unafraid Aniela returned his grin boldly. She made a production out of
straightening her skirt. Deciding she had teased James enough; Aniela took the
documents from his hand. She began quickly but carefully to read them; checking
their numerical order as she read.
General Rahbat and Major Sarah Tirano came
through the door with Alberta. Alberta nodded and smiled at James and Aniela as
she walked past without speaking and entered the imprinting or armory room. The
Assaer officers were closely followed by Rachel and Lt. Sharon. The Subaltern quickly
executed her duties: stationing two soldiers from her squad outside the
bathroom door on the inside of the prince’s bedroom. A military detail checked
the imprinting-room and the prince’s aide-de-camp placed two more soldiers
outside the door which opens into the corridor. Lt. Sharon then stationed
herself on the outside of that door to serve as gate keeper. Prince James asked
the staff officers to seat themselves and they all waited for the Rev. Roister.
When Aniela finished organizing the folders; she
sat quietly awaiting the prince’s direction.
“Aniela, go to the kitchen and bring a tray with
a decanter of fermented grasshopper spirits, and one of port wine. Tell Roberta
what you need and bring glasses for all those present; be sure and include Alberta,
Rachel, and yourself;” Prince James directed.
When Aniela had departed James got to his feet
and found Alberta waiting in the imprinting room. Alberta looked impressive in
her red dress with its suit jacket. The dress was cut low in front which showed
her cleavage; cleavage which Prince James found to be beyond beautiful.
Alberta looked at Prince James, made a downward
sweep with both hands palms open, and asked, “Is this is what you wanted my
Lord?”
“Exactly,” Prince James beamed; “for me a
walking menu of available female charms and for everyone else, a no nonsense
businesswoman. Although, if circumstances were different, I’d prefer you buck
naked on that couch or bent over its padded arm.”
Alberta winked, laughed nervously, and arched
her eyebrows: “I’m ready and willing; although I am sure that isn’t really your
wish with Aniela and the Assaer officers waiting for you."
Prince James beckoned to her, “Come here woman!”
Alberta stepped closer and Prince James embraced her; kissed her gently but
passionately. James slowly turned her around; he inspected her firm butt,
well-shaped legs, and noticed the hint of an athlete in the separation at the
top of her well-toned thighs. When he released her, Prince James gave a low
whistle.
“I am struggling to keep my hands off you,
Alberta;” Prince James said. “You are very beautiful; you arouse and excite me.
I promise you that some night very soon: I will open your bedroom door. We will
explore each other’s charms; charms like yours need to be slowly and thoroughly
awakened. You are correct; now is not the time for what I wish to do with you. We
must get to work; please check, be sure your recorder is working properly.” James
watched her straighten her dress and looked her over quickly. “You look like
the perfect Chronicler,” he told her.
“Thank you my lord,” Alberta said to James. “I
desire you; and I am learning to love you. I shall dream of you opening my
bedroom door. I promise the warmest of welcomes when you come to me.”
Alberta kissed James on the mouth; she knelt and
humbly kissed her prince’s hand. She needed no imprinting in the area of how to
seduce her man. Instinctively she knew that manifesting a submissive attitude
was the greatest possible male aphrodisiac.
James walked Alberta back to the office; where
she took a seat just behind the prince’s chair. Prince James had chosen a
comfortable chair; in which, he sat facing the chairs of the assembled military
officers. The Rev. Roister came in and took a seat between the two senior staff
officers; just as, Aniela returned from the kitchen carrying a large tray with
two decanters: one of Port Wine and the other of Fermented Grasshopper Juice
(the only spirits that Assaer drink except for the sacrament of the altar). She
poured the juice-liquor for the Assaer officers; and the Port for the Rev.
Roister and James. Aniela then poured a tiny portion of port for Alberta,
Rachel, and herself. Everyone stood and lifted their glasses: “To His Imperial
Majesty Baldwin IV—Long Life and Felicity,” Prince James solemnly intoned. They
all tossed down the liqueur and sat the glasses back on the tray. Aniela put
the tray on the side board, picked up the directives, and came back to sit on
the floor at Prince James’ feet.
Prince James spoke for the benefit of the
recorder: “It is the two-hundred-fifty-sixth year of the rein of Baldwin IV;
the ninth day of February, a Wednesday; the time is 8 a. m. This is the first
military staff meeting of Prince James of Piedmont; present are: General Rahbat
Sylvania, Major Sharon Tirano, Major Alsace, the Rev. Roister (the Chaplain to
the Prince and a member of the Priest Militant of the Order of Jerusalem), and
General James-op-David. Also present the Chronicler of the Principality of
Piedmont, Alberta of Ulvevstauwf; Rachel of Syclic, lea-woman and office
manager for Prince James; and Aniela of Syclic lea-woman, secretary, and
personal assistant to the Prince."
“Aniela, give me the preface and then the first
directive;” Prince James request. She handed him the preface to the directives.
James read aloud to the staff, “To our beloved James, Prince of Piedmont: His
Imperial Majesty sends you a number of mission directives. You may be receiving
more directives as situations are considered serious enough to warrant a call
to action. Each directive concerns an on-going crime against the elect people
and the property of the Church occurring in the State of Virginia. Choose any
one directive and plan carefully the best way to further the cause of justice. You
must operate from the shadows; and you should take care to disguise your
actions so that the authorities will not suspect the interference (or even the
existence) of the Sylvania Empire. When you have resolved a situation; a
complete report should be attached to the mission directive make a copy to
place in a file for binding and send the original by Courier to the office of
the Imperial Chancellor.”
****
Book is complete in 43 Chapters plus Glossary and Character Descriptions
Status: Waiting for Publisher's Edit and Cover Design
Release Date is targeted for second week of November.
