Freedom’s Heart

by Amber

Disclaimers.

General: The characters and events portrayed in this story are fictional, and belong to me. This is a uber-Xena story, however, so naturally there are elements of the warrior and bard to be found in the two central characters.

Violence: Yes, there are a few scenes containing fairly graphic violence. Medieval England was a pretty bloody time and place to be alive.

Bad Language: Nothing to write home about.

Love/Sex: This story deals with a romance between two consenting women, and contains (tastefully) graphic scenes in which this love is expressed physically. If you are under 18 years of age, or if you don’t happen to agree with such things, then this is not a story you should read. If such things are illegal where you live, I similarly advise you against reading any further. . . and suggest that perhaps a change of scenery might be in order.

Rape/Non-Consensual Sex Disclaimer: This story deals in part with the issue of physical and sexual abuse in the context of the barbaric and inhuman practice of slavery, which was still prevalent during the Middle Ages . . . although it had died off a lot as feudalism replaced slavery with serfdom. This topic is, of course, quite a sensitive and emotional one, and I did not include it without serious consideration. It is, however, an important aspect of one of the characters, so I will advise against anyone reading this story who is likely to be upset by it’s discussion.

Author’s Note: I’d like to thank my beta-reader, TraggicProse for making sure this story was okay, and for giving me the kind of feedback I needed before I posted my work. I really appreciate it.

This is my first attempt at fanfic, and I’d love to know what people think. Questions, comments and suggestions can be sent to me at amberj8@hotmail.com

Hope you enjoy. . . J

Chapter 1.

Jessica Da’Gran cleared the outer wall of the castle, laughing wildly as she urged the grey mare under her to even greater speed. Behind her, frantic shouts echoed from the castle walls, but she didn’t bother looking back. Leaning forward, the young girl whooped joyously and let the bubble of excitement welling deep in her belly grow. Her horse, Andromeda, caught the rebellious mood and galloped harder still away from the stables and the shadow of castle Da’Gran, thrilled at the wild race.

The winter air was bitingly cold despite the midday hour, making every breath the young woman took sharp and painful. Still, Jessica reveled in the chill, knowing today’s work would warm her blood quickly enough. Tendrils of long blonde hair pulled free from their braid and whipped about her face as she galloped down the road, Andromeda’s hooves kicking up mud and snow along their path. Squinting against the tears that were squeezed from her jade-colored eyes by the icy wind, Jessica grinned madly as she made out the line of mounted figures she was swiftly gaining on.

Within moments, the group of riders realized they were being followed and their procession halted. Drawing back on the reins, Jessica slowed Andromeda to a trot before stopping in front of the man at the head of the column, her breath coming in short, hard gasps. The man eyed her speculatively, his features stern and grim. With an effort, Jessica wiped the excited grin off her face and returned her fathers steady appraisal calmly.

Sir Richard Da’Gran - lord knight of the castle that bore his family’s name - was dressed in sturdy, functional plate-armor designed to offer maximum protection while allowing enough mobility to fight. His greying hair was partially hidden by a chain-mail headpiece, but the open face of the coif allowed his thick beard to flow freely over his chest. A beautifully crafted broadsword was sheathed at his side, and a short lance rested in a stirrup cup, its tip aimed proudly at the overcast skies. Though in his late fifties, Sir Richard still cut an imposing figure; strong, intelligent, and bearing his mantle of responsibility with dauntless courage.

Jessica felt the weight of intense grey eyes as they flicked over her. Sir Richard’s weathered features tightened as his mouth drew into a firm line and his thick eyebrows lowered in a scowl.

"Jessica." He nodded a gruff welcome. "I thought your mother was keeping you busy." His voice was deep and rumbling, yet at the same time cultured and carrying a hint of a Scottish accent.

"I guess she got distracted," Jessica said once she’d caught her breath from the wild ride. Her grin somehow escaped and flashed across her face before she subdued it once more. Still, her laughing eyes betrayed her merriment, and together with her flushed features, Jessica’s excitement was obvious over her attempt at somberness.

"Mmhmm." He grunted, turning away and signaling to the others that they were continuing on. "You’ll be wanting to join us I expect. Just be sure to keep your head on your shoulders and your wits about you. I’m not wasting my time protecting your neck if you’ve a mind to be risking it." With a gruff wave, he ordered his daughter to his side.

Now she couldn’t help but grin as she took her place, nodding a greeting to her father’s second in command, Sir Miles Elirist, who returned it with a solemn bow. Her father’s gruff words didn’t bother her — she understood the pride and love that stood behind them.

Jessica had first followed her father into battle when she was twelve years old, and ever since then she rarely missed a chance to join him. Her mother usually tried to keep her busy in the castle, but Jessica always managed to slip away. Sir Richard pretended to be displeased at having to put up with his daughter’s company, but Jess knew his surliness was all an act. This conversation was one they had every time he rode out to deal with the roving bands of thugs and ruffians who plagued his lands. She knew his next words before he spoke them.

"You didn’t hurt her, did you?"

Always the same. Jess shook her head. "Not this time," she grinned.

"Good." He glanced at her and smiled a little, his usually somber eyes twinkling a little in amusement. His expression vanished, however, as he appraised her outfit. "Think maybe next time you can find something more appropriate to wear, girl?" He gestured to the soldiers around them. "This is a battle you know, not a picnic."

"I know that," she said angrily. Her green eyes flared a little, but she flushed as she glanced down. Her short, muscular frame was covered by a simple white shirt and brown trousers more commonly worn by the peasant men. In the fight they would give her no protection at all — especially since she’d torn the sleeves off the shirt, exposing her smooth, tightly muscled arms, covered in a few scars and gooseflesh from the winter chill. "I didn’t have time to get my gear."

This was true. Her mother had been harder than usual to elude, and her armor was still arranged neatly in her room back at the castle. "I got this, though." She patted the slender, elegant rapier sheathed at her side, the scabbard hanging below the flare of her hips from a length of course rope wrapped loosely about her waist. Meeting her fathers steady gaze, she said firmly, "It’s all the protection I’ll need."

Sir Richard grunted. He knew his daughter was a capable fighter. Hell, she’s more than capable, he corrected himself. The darn girl can already outfight almost every soldier in the bloody garrison. And she’s got more than her fair share of battle experience, too. The clothes may not look fancy, but her skill can back her up. Still . . .

Jessica watched her father closely, trying to judge his mood. "I want to fight," she said, a gentle lilt catching in her voice as it slipped into the accented speech she’d adopted from the soldiers, who’d spent many years in Ireland fighting in blood feuds. She only spoke like this when outside the presence of her mother; the older woman would have been shocked to hear her daughter speaking in such uncultured tones. "I can handle myself . . ."

"I know that," he interrupted her gently. "I’m not questioning your ability, girl, but you need to be better prepared next time." He paused, then added, "This fight won’t take much; just a few bandits camped too close to the village for comfort. The men can do most of the work, okay Jess?" His voice was soft with understanding, and he ignored the angry look he was faced with. "If I wanted a baby-sitter, I’d have stayed back at the castle," the young blonde muttered angrily. She glared around her at the other soldiers, none of whom would meet her gaze. She knew that many of the men were uneasy about a woman fighting with them, even after all these years. Her talent and dedication had earned her their respect, though it was often given reluctantly.

She felt her former elation starting to drain away, replaced by a sullen anger she didn’t like. It made her feel she was behaving like a spoilt brat, and she hated that feeling. She was a fighter, and nothing her mother or anyone else could do would ever change that. It was the path she had chosen long ago.

Sir Miles leaned over from his massive and flighty war-horse to squeeze her shoulder with his left hand; his right had been taken from him in a fight during his youth. "We’re not here to baby-sit ye," he growled. "This ain’t no competition. Ye wanna fight . . . fine. We all know ye can." He gestured to the soldiers riding behind them. "Not one among ‘em would dare to question yer courage, Jess. But ye gotta be smart." He patted her arm and drew back. "You’ll be more use if ye stay on the outside ‘a this fight, girl."

Jessica studied the man intently. Sir Miles was a man she respected above all others . . . except her father, of course. He had been her friend and confidant since she’d been a child, and had been responsible for her training in combat and woodcraft. Despite the loss of his right hand, Miles was the best fighter among her fathers men, and his wisdom was extensive.

Her emerald eyed narrowed. "What do you mean?" she asked suspiciously.

"These bandit’s we’re after are hidin’ in the woods," he explained. "No way to move a war-horse through them trees all that fast — that’s why we’re gonna try’n surround ‘em and strike before they kin form a defence. But in the confusion, a few of ‘em’ll surely try to bolt. If ye’re waiting on the outside, ye can chase ‘em down on that quick beast ‘a yours." He pointed to Andromeda. "She’ll move fast through the woods. Ye can stop ‘em from gettin’ away, can’t ye?"

Jessica considered the idea and nodded slowly. "I guess . . ." She knew Andromeda could maneuver through the woods at great speed; the mare was nimble and light, unlike the heavier war-horses the soldiers rode, which were bred for strength and endurance over speed and agility. She frowned and glared at the older man. So . . . they get the fun stuff, and I’m stuck with mopping up the cowards who decide to flee? "You expect me to clean up the stragglers, huh?"

"Gods above, girl . . . you’ll not be happy till we say ye can get in the thick of it, will ya!?"

Jessica shrugged and patted a nervous Andromeda. "All I want is to be allowed to jump in where I feel like it!"

Sir Miles grinned and chuckled. "Aye lass," he agreed. "And nothin’ we kin say’ll stop ye, will it?"

"Nope."

"Fine then," he agreed, his smile vanishing as his tone grew harder. "But remember . . . before ye go in arse first, keep in mind that any a them ruffians get away and harm the common people, it’ll be on yer head, child." He fixed her with his most serious glare. "Ye’ve got yer job to do, same as the rest of us. See that it’s done."

Jessica swallowed and nodded earnestly. "Yes, Miles." Trust the man to say the one thing that’d get me to behave, she scowled.

Miles glanced at Sir Richard, who nodded his thanks for settling his stubborn child. Damn girl just had to have her way, he chuckled silently.

Her mood restored somewhat, Jessica grinned again and faced into the stiff breeze that had picked up. A familiar tingle raced up and down her skin making her shiver a little as her heart beat faster. The thrill of anticipation was high today. It made her blood sing in her veins and made everything in the world seem fresh and new. The daughter of a noble knight, Jessica had lived among steel and sweat all her life. The prospect of battle was nothing new to the young woman . . . yet something about today’s adventure seemed different. More thrilling, somehow.

There was deep portent in the air. She remembered that description from one of the books she’d read. It seemed to fit well the energy she felt crackling about her as they neared the woods. ‘Deep portent in the air’. Like before a thunderstorm. She flicked her blonde hair over her shoulder and rested a hand reassuringly on the ornate hilt of her sword, reveling in the strange sensation that made her feel like God himself was watching her with more than passing interest.

She had a feeling this was going to be an interesting fight.

Kaleah had watched the group of rough men at their camp for over an hour now, her breath fogging in the winter air. Her muscles were growing stiff and cramped from holding the same position so long, and beyond that, she was just plain getting impatient. Still, it was better to take precautions when approaching strangers. She knew from bitter experience what could happen when she didn’t keep a chain on her patience and just charged in without watching first.

There were about thirty-odd men in the camp — a fair number. They were gathered around three small camp-fires set in a triangle, rubbing their hands together and trying to ward off the bitter chill. Even from where she sat hidden, Kaleah could smell the scent of roasting pheasant, and her stomach growled to remind her how unsuccessful her own hunting efforts had been of late. All the men were armed, though she noticed with a professional eye that their weapons were ill-maintained. Much of the metal was rusted, and their blades were of poor craftsmanship. The armor they wore was all leather, though a few had added squares of chain-mail to the hides . . . no doubt scrounged from battlefields. A few lookouts armed with bows were posted in the trees, so she had to be careful. All in all, Kaleah thought the group looked to be made up of thieves and bandits of a very common stock.

Thieves and bandits who’re still able to feed themselves, she reminded herself. That’s more than you can say for yourself.

Scowling, she rose slowly, letting her aching muscles adjust to movement again. Keeping her hands to her sides and away from the Spanish blade hanging prominently at her side, Kaleah started walking slowly towards the camp.

She hated doing this, but knew she would starve if she didn’t. A stranger in this land, Kaleah had little experience with weather this cold, having lived most of her life in cities or on the coast. The animals had seemingly vanished, and her efforts at lighting fires gleaned only sporadic success. These men - though doubtless outlaws and misfits - were experienced with the land enough to provide for themselves. If Kaleah wanted to survive this harsh, frozen season, she would have to mingle with other people . . . as hateful as it was to her.

A look-out quickly saw her coming and yelled a warning to the other men. Kaleah continued her approach undaunted, holding out her sturdy bow in a way that made it clear she meant no threat. The sentinels perched high in the trees trained their own bows on her, ready to cut her down if she made any hostile move.

The bandits reacted quickly to the warning of the look-out, scurrying to grab their weapons and form a defense. Seeing that only a single person was approaching, not an army, they relaxed slightly but continued to eye her warily.

"Ho!" Kaleah hailed the man who appeared to be the leader of the group — if they could be said to have a leader. "I come in peace!"

The man — a tall, grizzled individual with a scarred and rough looking face - pointed at her bow with his sword. "Put the bow on the ground," he ordered.

Kaleah did so slowly, laying the length of strung wood on the thin, crisp snow, maintaining eye contact all the time.

"Whadaya want?" the man demanded once she’d stepped away.

Kaleah cast her eyes towards the fire. "I’m cold," she said, "and hungry. I just wanted to share the fire with you, if I could. And maybe some of your food." Her voice carried a distinct accent with it . . . part Spanish, part something more exotic but indefinable. She understood that most people found it quite pleasant, though it marked her as a foreigner in this country.

The grizzled man scowled. "We ain’t no charity, woman! We don’t give handouts."

"I can pay you," Kaleah assured him, moving a hand slowly to reach into a pouch hanging at her side. She pulled out a few coins and held them up, glad to see the man’s scowl disappear, replaced by a quickly muffled look of greed. "I won’t stay long . . . I just want something to eat and a moment to warm myself, that’s all."

The man eyed her a long while, his sharp eyes shrewdly taking in the well-kept leather-and-chain-mail armor she wore, and the fine sword at her side. Kaleah held herself upright under his scrutiny, knowing others were often impressed by her appearance. She was tall for a woman, and from experience she understood that her clear blue eyes contrasted with her dark hair and bronze skin in a way that many found attractive for some reason. She had often cursed her appearance, hating the good looks that drew the attention of the worst kind of men . . .

She shook her head mentally. You don’t have to remember that, she told herself. It’s the past. You’re not a slave anymore . . . you’re a free woman!

But Kaleah knew the marks of her years in servitude were not easily erased. Even as she acknowledged this, she felt the man’s eyes pause on her face and knew he was studying one of those same marks even now. The scar that cut diagonally across both her lips was not long, but it was extremely prominent. It marred her otherwise perfect features and served as a constant reminder of the pain that had been a part of her life since as far back as she could remember.

"Alright then," the man allowed, his inspection complete. "But you’ll have to give up that fancy sword first." He eyed the beautiful weapon hungrily.

Kaleah shook her head. "No deal," she said firmly. She’d die before handing over the weapon. "I promise not to use it, but I won’t come unarmed into a strange camp."

Some of the men laughed and nodded their understanding, knowing she was justified in her desire to keep the blade. Their leader also grinned and nodded agreeably, waving her forward. "Fine then," he allowed, seeing she was as much a veteran as she appeared. "Come on."

She tossed him the coins as she passed and headed straight for the nearest fire, breathing a sigh of relief as the warmth permeated the thick numbness that stiffened her fingers and limbs. The cold tended to settle deepest in the joints of her fingers and along the worst of her scars. She was wet and cold from crouching in the snow all that time. Kneeling down to be closer to the blaze, she rubbed her hands together and groaned with pleasure.

The bandit leader and several of his men gathered near her. She ignored their curious looks. When one handed her a hunk of slightly blackened meat, she bit into it hungrily, not caring what it was. The men noticed and chuckled at her obvious hunger.

"Been by yerself a while, I’d be thinking," said the leader, holding out his hand. "I’m called Pete."

Kaleah hesitated, never liking physical contact, even a simple clasping of hands. Still, she knew what was expected and returned his gesture. "My name’s Kaleah," she said softly. "And yes, it’s been a while since I had company."

Pete grinned, showing slightly yellowed teeth. "New to the area, then?"

Kaleah just nodded as she tore at the meat, her stomach rumbling it’s appreciation and willingly overlooking the fact that the food was burnt.

"Ye running from someone?"

This was one of the reasons she avoided all contact with others — with company came the need for conversation and interaction. Kaleah hated company, and she hated talking. Still, these men were sharing their food and their fire; if the least they asked for was a few words in return, she could indulge them.

"Not running," she said around a full mouth. "Just wandering."

"Aye," he grinned, suspecting otherwise. "Well, we’re not ones to judge." His men nodded and poked at the fire, stirring it to greater heat.

Kaleah could feel her body start to uncoil as it warmed. "Neither am I." True enough. Let them go their way, and I’ll go mine.

Pete laughed and slapped her on the arm. Kaleah tensed, but restrained the impulse to retaliate, knowing the gesture to be one of acceptance and camaraderie. Though somewhat limited in experience dealing with people, she knew enough to get by and was learning more all the time.

"Regardless, ye’ll probably want to be avoiding the local lord of these parts," Pete said. "He does a better job than most with people like us."

"Oh?"

"Aye. His men’re damn good, I’ll tell ya that. Well trained ‘n’ smart to boot." He tore a hunk of meat from the carcass over the fire and bit into it, giving her a thoughtful look. "Doubt they’d bother you much," he added. "Don’t see to many women dressed in that get-up."

Kaleah had observed as much in her travels, which had covered much of the region between here and Spain. It seemed there were few females who took up arms in this land. She just nodded. "If his men are so good, why come here?" she asked. "There must be easier pickings elsewhere."

"Aye," he agreed. "Easier, but not near as ripe."

"Ripe?" She knew the word, but not the context.

"These lands are rich. The people — even the peasants — all have a bit of money put aside. So long as we keep hidden and move about often, the soldiers ain’t too much of a problem." He shrugged. "We do okay, even now it’s winter." He paused, thinking, before adding, "There’s rumors of other reasons to be here, too."

Kaleah heard the conspiratorial hint in his words. She didn’t much care about rumors; curiosity had brought her a lot of pain as a slave. Still, she knew she’d be expected to show interest in his secret, whatever it was, so she politely asked, "What rumors?"

Pete grinned. "I heard talk someone’s getting an army ready hereabouts," he whispered to her. "Work for us if it’s true. Dunno who they’d be attacking, but I don’t really care . . . loot’s loot, ya know."

Kaleah nodded and went back to her meal, eating slower now and relishing the food. She knew it might be a while before she ate meat again. She could sense the steady scrutiny of the bandit leader but ignored it. She didn’t care about joining an army, though the information would be useful if she were forced to turn to mercenary work — this winter would be hard, and she had no idea what might happen.

Pete pointed with the bone of meat he held to her side. "You any good with that there fancy sword?" he asked. "Or is it just for show?"

Kaleah froze in her meal. She turned her pale blue eyes on the bandit and was satisfied to see him shrink back a little, startled by their intensity. "I can use my blade," she assured him, her voice calm and steady.

He nodded and swallowed in reflex. Damn, this woman’s got a glare that’d scare the Devil himself! "Just askin’" he said, glad when she turned back to her meal. She must be some kinda mercenary . . . either that or a criminal on the run, he pondered. The look about her and the way she spoke told him the strange woman was foreign, and the scar on her face and the way she moved suggested she had some talent. But there was something about her . . . something he could feel but not define, that told him not to offer her shelter or alliance as he had been about to do. She positively radiated tension and power, like the taut string of a loaded crossbow.

This woman was dangerous . . . plain and simple.

"Well," he coughed to cover his discomfort. "I’d still avoid the soldiers, if I were you."

Kaleah had every intention of doing just that. "Aren’t you afraid they’ll come get you here," she asked. "These fires are smoking enough that anyone could find your camp."

Pete laughed. "They won’t enter the woods," he said confidently. "And they don’t know where we are."

Suddenly, one of the look-outs gave a piercing cry and fell from his lofty roost. Kaleah and the bandits sprung away from the fire, startled. Even before the man had hit the ground Kaleah saw the wooden shaft firmly embedded in his chest. Her hand went instantly to the hilt of her sword, but she looked around before she drew it, unsure of the direction of the threat. Another look-out fell from his post, similarly slain.

The bandits reacted with the same speed they had displayed earlier, only now Pete was shouting orders, realizing his last words to Kaleah weren’t as true as he might have wished. The men had just managed to form a loose ring facing outwards when the forest erupted with sound and movement. Over a dozen mounted figures charged into the clearing from all directions at once, yelling war-cries and lowering lances as they came.

Still, Kaleah didn’t move. She crouched low, hand ready to draw her weapon. She was in the middle of the bandit ring and not that eager to die for these men. Several of the bandits were struck down by the lances, then chaos broke out as the battle was joined.

Crouched seemingly calmly in the center of the fighting, Kaleah looked around for an escape route. A few of the men chose to flee but were cut down by the mounted cavalry. She saw Pete and another grimy outlaw manage to yank one of the soldiers from his horse, but the armored knight proved just as dangerous on the ground as off it, slicing the chest of one man before clashing blades with the bandit leader.

It was then Kaleah noticed she wasn’t the only one holding back from the fight and simply watching. Just outside the clearing, a young woman with golden-blonde hair mounted on a grey horse surveyed the writhing field of combat with intense interest. The woman wore men’s clothes and carried a sword, but even at a distance Kaleah could make out her curvaceous, muscular figure. She looked like a peasant, but her calm appraisal of the bloody battle made it clear she was something more.

Perhaps sensing the scrutiny, the figure suddenly turned her head, and their eyes locked.

Time seemed to stop.

The sound of the fight around her disappeared.

The breath suddenly left Kaleah’s body and her heart skipped several beats as the intensity from the young woman’s gaze struck her an almost physical blow. Kaleah realized she could clearly make out every feature of the woman’s eyes even though they were some way away. She could tell they were a brilliant, clear green color, like wet emeralds . . . but more than that, somehow she could see the tiny flecks of gold that sparkled in their depths. She could see the hint of merriment and joy that caught the suns feeble rays through the forest canopy. For an instant she was gripped by a sense of recognition so powerful it froze her mind and scrambled her thoughts, making the battle fade away and become a distant thing of no consequence.

In that instant, something powerful and ancient inside Kaleah stirred for the first time in a lifetime. She felt a gentle presence engulf her senses . . .

. . . then settle into her soul as though reclaiming long-familiar territory.

The battle intruded on the moment, however. Though her mind and soul were otherwise occupied in this bizarre dance of emotions, Kaleah’s body was still tuned to the fight raging about her. One of the armored soldiers - apparently having lost his mount - saw her unmoving form and figured on an easy target.

Even before his sword was raised, Kaleah erupted into motion. Her seemingly paralyzed arm drew the slender blade from her side, the steel singing in pure delight at finally being released. Sidestepping a professionally executed stroke from the knight, Kaleah twisted gracefully and sent the tip of her weapon arcing towards one of the gaps in the plate armor behind the man’s knee. She felt the steel blade tear into flesh, then quickly pulled back and spun away, her defenses raised.

With a cry of pain, the man spun around, his discipline slipping instantly with the pain of his injury. Kaleah ducked a few wild swings, knowing she didn’t have the strength to lock blades with the knight. When another gap appeared in his defenses, the dark woman pounced with another lightening strike, this time to his right shoulder. Unbalanced, the knight went down easily when she whirled again, lashing out with her leg to trip him.

Her enemy subdued, Kaleah turned back to the mounted woman, her heart beating strangely fast as though eager to make up for the moment it had stopped doing what it was supposed to do.

The young woman was grinning now, emerald eyes dancing playfully. Her smile was infectious and Kaleah found herself returning it unconsciously. The battle was at it’s fever pitch however, and she knew if she was going to make good her escape, now was the time to do it. Effecting a courtly salute to the young woman, Kaleah tore her eyes away and, quickly finding an opening, made a break for the denser parts of the forest.

As she ran, Kaleah wondered idly why she felt like she should be headed in the other direction.

Jessica watched with a grin as the dark-haired stranger raced off into the woods. The young woman was still a moment as she tried to analyze the waves of feeling that had swept over her when she met the stranger’s gaze. It was that portent thing again, she was sure of it. Those piercing blue eyes framed by fine, arching dark brows had sent shivers through Jessica’s body unlike anything she’d ever felt before. Checking briefly to make sure her father and his men were doing okay - which, of course, they were - the blonde woman guided Andromeda around the clearing and began to give chase.

Jessica thought she should feel disappointed — she hadn’t had the opportunity to fight anyone yet. The blue-eyed stranger and that weird but powerful sensation had stopped her just as she’d been about to jump into the fray. But she knew the bandits were all of poor skill, no challenge to her at all. Her prey now was something much more special.

The dark woman’s skill was obvious in her poise and the professional way she had moved. Her father’s men were the finest warriors in the region, yet the stranger had defeated one of them with only a few accurate hits, and none of them lethal. An armored knight was difficult to bring down . . . Jess knew from experience. The almost casual way this woman had done it was amazing.

Eyes brimming with glee and heart racing excitedly, Jessica weaved her horse through the thicker trees as she angled slightly away from her prey . . . she wanted to head the woman off.

This one quarry was worth all the other bandits combined, and Jessica was determined to catch her.

Kaleah ran as long as she thought was prudent, not wanting to tire herself out in case she needed her strength. Still, when she eventually paused in a small clearing, her breath came in short, painful gasps and a stitch burned in her side.

The battlefield was a fair way behind her, though she heard a few cries as the last of the bandits were defeated. She felt no shame in running away - pride was something that had been beaten out of her at a young age, and while it had started to return with her freedom it wasn’t nearly strong enough to make her want to fight to the death for a bunch of low-life’s and ne’er-do-wells she’d just met.

Looking around, Kaleah tried to get her bearings. She’d lost her bow thanks to this encounter, and she swore softly to herself in Spanish. Hunting would be harder now, she knew. Without the bow . . . well, she’d just have to get another one. Having caught her breath, the dark-haired woman started wondering which direction she should head.

A polite cough from her right interrupted her thoughts. Kaleah whirled about, sword raised and ready . . . and was startled to find laughing green eyes gazing back at her.

The girl was barely ten feet away, sitting calmly on a fallen log as though she’d been waiting for Kaleah to arrive. This close, Kaleah could see that the woman was younger than she first thought . . . eighteen or so at most. She had long blonde hair that was tied loosely in a braid, and her features were fresh and beautiful, with a mouth that seemed to smile easily and high, rounded cheek-bones. The torn sleeves of her shirt exposed smoothly muscled arms, and as she rose to her feet Kaleah acknowledged that, although only short of stature, the girl moved with a feline grace expressive of carefully controlled power.

The girl eyed her with an expression of curious amusement, and Kaleah flushed at the frank and open perusal.

"Were you going somewhere?" the blonde asked lightly. Kaleah noticed her voice carried a slight hint of the sing-song accent she’d heard in this country from time to time. She also noticed - somewhat uncomfortably - that the girl’s hand rested with a cool familiarity on the fine rapier sword that dangled from a rope at her side.

"I was just leaving," Kaleah answered shortly, her eyes narrowing suspiciously over the hilt of her own sword. "This fight has nothing to do with me."

"Really?" The blonde seemed a little surprised. "You were with those men, weren’t you?"

"I just stopped to share the fire and a little food," she corrected. "I wasn’t with them."

The blonde shrugged. "I only have your word on that," she said, taking a step forward. "Maybe you’re lying . . . if I let you go and you hurt someone, it’ll be my fault for not stopping you."

Kaleah gave a feral grin. "It’s not like you have any choice, girl," she said, waving the tip of her sword in tight figure-eight’s. "I’m not going to come peacefully, and I doubt you’ll be able to force me, so . . ."

She stopped as the young woman drew the rapier, performed a formal salute, and assumed an en guard position with fluid skill.

One eyebrow arched in disbelief. "You must be joking?"

The girl shook her head and smiled, her eyes dancing playfully. "I’m taking you back to my father," she said firmly. "I can’t let you get away."

"This is not a game, little girl," Kaleah threatened carefully. "I won’t be captured."

The blonde advanced in a practiced motion that made it clear she knew what she was doing. "I’m not playing a game."

"I don’t want to hurt you." Kaleah backed up a step.

"Don’t worry." The girl’s lips quirked into an almost smile. "You won’t."

Kaleah scowled, not liking where this was going. She genuinely didn’t want to hurt this young woman who had affected her so strangely back at the bandit camp. Even now she could feel her stomach tighten as those intense green eyes bore into her own blue ones. But capture was not an option. She’d sworn never to submit to the collar of servitude ever again when she was granted her freedom.

Assuming an en guard stance herself, Kaleah waited grimly for the girl to make the first move.

The attack was sudden and flawlessly executed. Kaleah defended it with barely a thought, however, then instantly pressed in against the young blonde. She feinted high, performed a dazzling spin then thrust the tip of her sword at her enemy’s thigh. She wanted to disable, not kill . . . and she wanted to do it quickly so she could get away. Unfortunately, her adversary was more canny than she thought. Ignoring the feint, the girl easily defeated the attack and stepped back, smiling confidently.

Kaleah frowned, then let fly a few testing jabs just to see how quick the girl really was. Every thrust was foiled with ease, but Kaleah didn’t have time to grow worried before the blonde apparently decided it was time to take the offensive. Kaleah’s blade flashed about her in a defensive cage, watching for any feints and realizing the young woman was feeling her out. . . testing her skill and speed.

Kaleah let the play continue for a few minutes before, without any warning, she launched herself into a blindingly intricate routine that had never failed to bring down an enemy. Her Spanish blade whipped through the air in a flashing silver arc, twisting suddenly in mid-flight along a confusing and unpredictable path. Steel rang against steel as the girl fell back under the furious onslaught, her own blade weaving somewhat desperately to defeat the unexpectedly swift routine. Kaleah fully expected to at least disarm the girl; she was disconcerted when she broke off the intricate attack to find her adversary still armed and barely breathing hard. The slight smile on her face told the former slave the young blonde was actually enjoying this fight . . . before the girl launched herself forward with an answering attack of her own.

Kaleah managed to keep away from the flashing blade — barely. She was tired from her run; her vision was starting to go a little strange. And this scrap of a girl was proving to be a better fighter than she’d anticipated.

As the duel wore on, Kaleah’s concern grew stronger. This girl was good . . . very good. Too good to be just another common soldier, and much too good to be the peasant she appeared to be from her attire. Thinking for the first time that she might actually loose, seeing again the horrors of her life as a slave, Kaleah pressed her assault with savage skill and speed, her discipline starting to slip.

The attack was vicious and would have cut any ordinary soldier off at the knees. As it was, when the blonde girl leapt away trying to break from the furious assault she was breathing heavily. Kaleah saw a look of curious wonder cross the young woman’s face and she followed green eyes to her enemy’s arm. Kaleah’s sword had managed to hit at least something; a deep cut was etched across the young blonde’s thick bicep muscle. The wound didn’t seem to bother her, Kaleah noticed with annoyance. She just smiled and saluted again.

"First blood is yours, it seems," the girl said, flushed but still grinning. Then without further comment, she dove back into the fight.

Now Kaleah was getting more than worried. Her opponent was fast and strong, and possessed a greater endurance than she’d expected. Kaleah was no fool. Although a talented swordswoman herself, she recognized that this slip of a girl was far her superior. Real fear began to flow like ice through her veins.

She was going to lose!

Her hold on her temper - never strong to begin with - finally snapped. With a cry of anguish and hatred, Kaleah lunged at her enemy blindly, desperately, now striking with the intent to kill.

She felt the blow across her thigh as her attack failed and she was struck. Her armor prevented blood from being drawn, but it still hurt. In a rage now she leapt forward again, hoping to overpower by sheer force of will.

Again the blow was defeated, and this time she watched as the hilt of the young woman’s sword slammed with dizzying speed into her temple. The world exploded in blinding pain and Kaleah lost all sense of balance. She fell to the ground, fighting the blackness that rose to swallow her, willing her limbs to continue fighting. Dimly she heard a voice yelling at her to stay down but she ignored it. Stumbling, she rose again and staggered forward, determined to kill, her blue eyes blazing.

The next hit knocked her to her knees . . . the one after it brought the darkness over her like the soothing waves of the ocean.

Jessica knelt beside the dark woman’s still form, her expression thoughtful. She checked for a pulse and found it strong and beginning to even out. Good. She didn’t want this stranger dead — just a little more manageable.

Carefully, she reached out and removed the sword from her fallen opponent’s grasp. Inspecting it with a professional eye, she realized it was of surpassingly fine quality. The blade was forged of rare Spanish steel and polished to a high finish. The hilt was ornate, layered in sparkling gold leaf and crafted to resemble a string of roses. Jessica admired it a moment before laying it gently at her side, wondering how the woman had come by such a rare and valuable weapon.

Wiping the blood from her captive’s face with the back of her hand, Jessica felt a pang of guilt over the bruises that were rising quickly. The damn woman just wouldn’t stay down! Even when she’d clearly lost, she kept trying to fight on. Jessica frowned and wished she hadn’t been forced to resort to such measures to subdue this spitfire.

Now free to allow a more intimate inspection, Jessica let her fingers linger over the scar that slashed across the woman’s lips, cupping the woman’s cheek with her hand while running her thumb over the old wound. From there, her fingers swept across high, sharply defined cheek-bones to trace the elegant, sweeping eye-brows. A smile tugged at her lips as she remembered that feeling of familiarity that had washed over her, acknowledging that it only increased her interest in this strange, exotic woman. Physical contact seemed to renew the feeling a little, and Jessica - always a touch sensitive person - allowed her hands to linger longer than she knew was proper.

The woman wore fine armor that had clearly been made especially for her. The single-piece leather-and-mail suit fit over her slender form well, allowing her to move, but protecting her from edged weapons. It also, she acknowledged privately, showed off the woman’s curvaceous figure to maximum effect. Soft doe-skin trousers hugged her shapely legs in a similarly provocative but practical design. The chain-mail was oiled and clean, and the leather was fresh and dyed deep green and brown to blend in with the woodland. Again, this didn’t make sense if the woman was a bandit. The average thug didn’t have coin to spend on tailored armor or fancy, foreign swords. The mystery grew a little deeper.

Looking at the deep bronze skin revealed by the cut of the armor, Jessica saw many scars on the woman’s arms and chest . . . scars she could not identify as having been inflicted by conventional weapons. They looked almost like the wounds that might be sustained from a severe beating. Perhaps the woman was an escaped slave, she thought. That would probably explain her desperation to avoid capture. But still, where did she get the armor and the sword . . . not to mention the skill with which she wielded the blade?

"Who are you?" she muttered to herself as she stroked her fingers again over the slashing scar on the stranger’s face, the gesture already seeming familiar.

Thinking quickly, Jessica considered what to do next. The woman fascinated her and she wanted very much to know her better. She realized a large part of this desire stemmed from the fact that she hoped to relive or explain that extraordinary sensation the dark woman had created before — the sensation that still tingled through her soul. But she knew that her father - while he would never dream of hanging a woman - would likely sentence her to a term of indenture, probably in the garrison with the soldiers, functioning as a cook or servant. She frowned. That wouldn’t do at all. No. Jessica wanted custody of the woman all to herself.

The fact that she was the one to apprehend her would add weight to her plea. Her father loved her, and would probably be easily swayed. Her mother, however, was a different story altogether. A devoutly religious woman who felt only the nobility were of any worth, Lady Rose would be shocked and appalled at the thought of her daughter’s desire to keep company with this barbaric creature.

Jessica frowned. I’ll cross that bridge when I come to it.

Hoof-beats sounded suddenly behind her, drawing closer. She turned and saw Sir Miles approaching on his massive war-horse. Andromeda nickered a welcome to her stable-mate.

"What happened?" he asked as he leapt from the saddle, noticing quickly the slashing cut across her arm.

Jessica glanced down at her bloodied arm. "It’s nothing. Look, the bleeding’s already stopped." She waved him away with a negligent gesture, her attention on the fallen woman.

"That’ll need stitches," he observed, insisting on checking the injury.

Jessica submitted to the inspection with ill grace. "We can do that back at Da’Gran," she said. "Can you help me get her on your horse?"

Miles glanced at the dark-haired, blood-stained figure on the forest floor. "My horse!? Why do I have to be the one to carry the blasted woman?"

"Andromeda can’t carry both of us," Jessica pointed out calmly. "It’s okay . . . she’ll be out for a while, I think."

Sir Miles examined the bruises. "Hit ‘er pretty hard, did ye?"

"She wouldn’t stay down," Jess explained regretfully. "I had to."

"Aye." Miles knew she wouldn’t inflict violence without need. "We takin’ ‘er back with us then, huh?"

Jess nodded. "She put up a hell of a fight . . . she’s someone special."

"Oh?"

"Just look at her sword . . . and the armor she’s wearing." Jessica pointed, her hands straying quickly over the woman. "She’s no common bandit, that’s for sure."

"I guess. Perhaps she stole ‘em."

Jess gave him an amused look. "You know better than that, Miles," she said. "That armor’s custom made . . . I wonder who gave it to her . . ."

Miles saw the expression on his young protege’s face and recognized it instantly. He rolled his eyes and groaned.

"What?" Jess looked at him, puzzled.

Miles smiled a little. "Reckon ye’ve found another damn bird with a broken wing, girl," he said softly, ruffling her hair with his good hand.

Jessica blushed. "It’s not like that . . ." She knew what he was talking about. Ever since she was a little girl, Jessica had been bringing home every wretched creature she found that needed care or shelter . . . much to the exasperation of her parents. She looked at the unconscious woman as she stirred, then settled, remembering the feeling she had experienced again. "But she’s mine. I caught her, and I get to decide what to do with her." The look in her eyes and the possessive tone in her voice made it clear she was serious.

Miles could only sigh and shake his head. Damn girl’ll get ‘er way in this, if she’ll get it in anything. "Okay . . . let’s get ‘er up, then."

Together, they lifted the unconscious woman onto Sir Miles’ great stead, who snorted in nervous excitement. The war-horse was still keyed up from the battle and the scent of blood. Miles mounted behind his passenger and wrapped a protective arm around her waist.

"We lost a man," he told Jess as she mounted Andromeda. "A few were injured, but we got ‘em all in the end."

They started back to rejoin the others, moving slowly in consideration for the injured and encumbered. "Captured . . . or dead?"

"They wanted to go down fightin’," Miles said grimly. "Only seven surrendered, and we knocked out three . . . they’ll be taken back and tried later."

Jess nodded. "Well," she said, "This one won’t have to wait. I want her for myself."

As they rode off, Jessica smiled to herself. I was right, she thought happily as they reached the others. It has turned out to be a very interesting day.

Chapter 2.

Built four generations ago by Jessica’s great-great grandfather, Castle Da’Gran stood proudly on a slight rise of land overlooking a patchwork of fields and forests. It’s archetecture, though stern and practical as befitted a bastion of war, was still graceful and pleasing to the eye. Consisting of a massive walled foundation guarding a central, mutlileveled keep, Da’Gran was a sprawling complex of rooms and passages that often proved confusing to strangers. Four turrets framed the castle walls, one at each of the cardinal points, and a towering lookout tower rose from the center of the keep itself, affording a magnificent view of the land for miles around.

Da’Gran had been Jessica’s home all her life, and she loved every stone of the mighty castle.

It was also home to hundreds of servants, knights and men-at-arms, all of whom served Sir Richard and assisted in the rule of the lands that formed his vassal. Besides the central keep, there were dozens of smaller buildings protected by the thick stone walls, including several barracks, a large stables, archery range, jousting pavilion and blacksmith. And although winter had brought most trading to a halt, the warmer months of Spring and Summer would bring dozens of traders from all over England and the rest of the world flocking to barter their goods. The commerce in turn attracted the peasants and common-folk, who journeyed the short distance to where the merchants set up within the castle, all gathering under the safety afforded by the presence of Sir Richard and his men.

Jessica looked forward to the coming season as she walked through the corridor toward her father’s audience hall. She loved having so many interesting strangers around, all bartering and squabling happily. During the months of trading, Jess would often wander among the stalls quietly, listening to and watching the merchants in fascination, ignoring her mother who always told her to keep away from the commoners.

As she neared the audience hall, Jessica’s footsteps slowed nervously. Her father had summoned her early that morning, and she knew he wanted to dicuss the request she’d made for custody of the dark-haired stranger. Jess had lain awake most of the night wondering what she should tell her father to explain her interest, and she took a moment now to calm her mind and organise her thoughts.

The mysterious woman had woken up, Jess knew. The jailer had sent a messenger to inform her at her request, and she’d been told the prisoner was now conscious and starting to make a nuisance of herself. Jess smiled. That seemed right.

Looking around, trying to distract her mind from the coming meeting, Jessica spent a moment just admiring the view through the archery slits of the stone keep.

Jessica had explored Da’Gran since she was a child, her curiosity insatiable. She’d solved every mystery it held . . . even the ones that no-one else — not even her father or Sir Miles — knew about. Mysteries only a young girl with many lonely hours to kill would ever think to look for. She knew that although the castle appeared to be just another bastion of war, it’s design was far more ingenious and subtle than first impressions might suggest.

Through the walls and between the various levels ran dozens of secret passage-ways, hidden and concealed, that accessed almost every room in the castle. Jessica had stumbled upon an entrance to them in her bedroom when she was a child, and had spent days exploring them thoroughly. In a hidden chamber she discovered the original plans to the fortress, and with them had unearthed all Da’Gran’s many secrets. She knew about the underground torture chambers, the hidden escape tunnel that led out into the woods, the access too and from the dungeons. She even knew about the peep-hole that looked into the bathing chamber . . . though she’d never used it, of course.

The secret passageways had given Jessica the ability to watch everything that went on in the castle; had given her access into the lives of servant and soldier alike. Because her mother discouraged her from making friend’s with anyone beneath her station, Jessica was often lonely. By spying on others, by listening to and watching them as they went about their lives, the spirited girl found solace and companionship . . . of a sort, anyway.

Still, the spying games only eased Jessica’s loneliness a little and she often wished for more. Besides her father, Sir Miles was about her only real friend . . . and he was a lot older than she was. She hated her pompous ass of a brother, and her mother disapproved of her consorting with the servants for any length of time, which meant that Jessica had never had any real contact with young women her own age. In fact, she hadn’t had any exposure to much of anything, really. Filled with curiosity and wonder, Jessica’s mind sought constantly to wander off into the wide world . . . preferably dragging her body along for the ride.

That was why the vivacious young blonde spent so much time in the secret rooms she had discovered, head buried in books about lands far away, where everything was different. Lands where Emperors ruled over vast regions, and where heroic men fought overwhelming odds to rescue beautiful maidens from evil warlords. These books, bought from the traders in secret and read alone, were Jessica’s closest and most treasured friends. She kept the books hidden from everyone. The Church disapproved of much of what she read, and if she were ever discovered with the books, Jessica knew she’d be in a lot of trouble. There were strict rules that dictated what texts were appropriate for the faithful, and the books Jess read did not fit in with the doctrines of the Church. As one of the nobility, it was her duty to obey and uphold the moral principals that God had set forth.

Of course, Jessica was unsure exactly why her books were considered so evil. Many of the sermons Father Grahem gave confused the young girl with their seemingly blind condemnations, but she found it easy enough to simply ignore the more intolerant preachings. She loved God, afterall, and believed in the power of His goodness. But she wasn’t prepared to give up something that meant so much to her, and she didn’t think God would mind her reading her books. What harm was there in learning about different places, or different cultures and ways of life? Or even different expressions of love?

Privately, Jessica had admitted this was one reason she wanted custody of the stranger . . . she’d be someone close to her own age to talk too, and it was clear from her exotic features and strange accent that she wasn’t from anywhere in the British Isles. Jessica was sure they could be great friends if the other woman were given into her care. The chance for someone to talk to, someone who had perhaps lived an exciting or adventurous life . . . for that, Jessica was prepared to go to any lengths.

Before she quite realized it, Jessica had reached the huge oak doors that led into the audience room. She nodded to the two guards standing at attention outside the great portal. They smiled and greeted her cheerfully.

"Not in trouble again, are ye, Jess?" asked one.

She laughed and waved her hand dismissively. "No . . . not yet."

They chuckled and rapped loudly on the doors with their spear butts to announce her before swinging open the doors and allowing her to enter.

Jessica walked into the audience room, blinking to get her eyes to adjust to the change in light from outside to in. The room was expansive, with high stone walls and impressive tapestries covering everything. A long table took up the center of the great hall, mounted with candelabra that struggled to illuminate the massive room. The windows were narrow and tall, designed to make it easy to defend and difficult to attack. A few hunting dogs skulked about in the shadows. They wagged their tails when they saw her and looked hopefully at her empty hands, begging for a treat. Jess patted them. "Sorry, nothing here." She let them lick her hands. "Maybe next time."

Looking up, she saw her parents sitting at the far end of the table. Sir Miles stood a few paces from them, hands clasped behind his back. Sir Richard was listening to the words of an elderly, wizened man dressed in comfortable velvet robes dyed fanciful colors who leant on a long, twisted stick. The man, Eric Grace, had been her father’s chief adviser since as far back as Jess could remember, and he also functioned in the capacity of an alchemist and sometime healer. He was smart, she admitted, but something about him had always made her uncomfortable. Maybe it was his eyes . . . they had a habit of staring through a person, rather that at him. At his side was his young apprentice, Senigma Wright. She didn’t mind the young man too much; he was polite to a fault, and could be amusing and rather charming when he put his mind to it.

Also at the table, Jess noted with a scowl, was her younger brother, Steven. The little bastard was sitting next to her mother, as always. He wore rich clothes and an expression of perpetual boredom and disinterest.

Jessica hated her brother. As firstborn son he was her father’s heir, and she had a bad feeling that when he came to power, everything was going to go straight too Hell. The young man had no interest in the lives of those he considered ‘beneath’ him; in that - and in almost every other regard - he took after his mother. He was soft and weak, preferring the comforts of a life at court to the hardships of the battlefield, and though intelligent he had no idea what running a castle was all about. For these reasons and more, Jessica had always despised him, and he returned the sentiment whole-heartedly.

The people at the table glanced up as she approached, and her father gestured for her to take a seat. When she’d done so, she waited nervously for her father to speak.

Her father folded his hands on the table. "Sir Miles has informed me of your desire to retain custody of the young woman you apprehended yesterday," he said, settling his steely eyes on her. "I had planned to sentence her to the soldiers for a year of indentured service, but I’ve rethought the decision in light of your desire . . . after all, you were the one to catch her."

Jessica held her breath. "Does this mean you’re letting me keep her?"

Sir Richard smiled. Her mother and brother frowned. She sounded like she was asking to keep some stray dog she’d picked up. Jessica ignored them and allowed her bright green eyes to flare with hope, knowing her father could never resist her charm.

"This isn’t some stray you found wandering in the garbage, Jessica," he father said sternly, trying to ignore her expression. "It’s a grown woman . . . and from what you tell me, an seasoned fighter." He glanced pointedly at her injury.

Jess scratched at her arm, where the cut she’d sustained was already starting to itch. The wound had taken five stitches, but it would be worth it if she could keep the mystery woman. "I still beat her," she muttered, hoping her father didn’t think less of her for the injury.

He smiled. "That you did . . . but I want to be sure of your intentions before I release such a dangerous individual into your care."

"I think you’re a fool for even considering her idiot idea," her mother put in, unable to stay silent. "The woman’s a menace . . . a bandit, for God’s sake! Jessica has no business associating with such ungodly people."

Her father waved his wife silent with a gesture. "Enough." He paused, gripping the edge of the oak table and leaning closer, his expression frank and genuinely interested. "What exactly is it you want to do with her?" he asked softly.

Jessica had expected such a question, and she ignored her mother’s outburst, having expected it as well. "I want to employ her as my hand-maiden," she told her father, considering her words carefully, unsure if he would understand or approve. She adopted the cultured tones her mother expected, rather than the ‘crude’ accented speech she normally used. "And I want to teach her to fight."

"What!?" Her mother erupted with incredulous rage. "You want to teach her to fight better!? Why? So she can kill more of the soldiers when she decides to rebel?" She glared at her husband. "Tell me you’re not considering this ridiculous idea!?"

Her father was silent, but she could tell by his frown he was concerned. "She has a point," he allowed. "The woman is already a danger . . . she managed to draw your blood, after all." Sir Richard was well aware of his daughter’s skill. "Teaching her further would increase the threat she poses significantly." His eyes narrowed shrewdly, suspecting something more. "What are you thinking?"

Lady Rose threw her arms in the air and fumed. Steven glanced at her with mild disgust, and brushed a speck of dust from his shoulder. Jess continued to ignore them. "She has great spirit, father," she said softly. "I can feel it . . . she’s not just a common bandit. She moves with the grace of a noble woman" She threw a glare at her mother, who fell back a little. "She’s something special."

Her father nodded. "Sir Miles said you thought as much," he said, gesturing to his old friend. "And he has told me he believes this means a lot to you."

Jessica nodded. "It means a great deal to me, father, yes."

"Mmmm." Her father thought a moment, then turned to Sir Miles. "Would you be prepared to instruct this woman, Miles . . . under my daughter’s supervision?"

Sir Miles took a step forward. "Aye, Milord, I would," he answered simply. "Jessica’s me best pupil. Anyone who can break through her defenses must be talented to start with. This woman, if she kin be convinced this is to ‘er benefit, could be a valuable fighter."

Sir Richard eyed his daughter, seeing her expression of barely contained excitement. "Very well," he said at last. "You can offer her the choice, then. She can serve her term of indenture with the soldiers, or with you."

Jessica threw her arms around her father’s neck and hugged him enthusiastically. "Thank you, thank you thank you!" she cried.

He blushed and pushed her away. "There now . . . no reason to go all mushy now girl." His tone was gruff but she could tell from his smile he didn’t mind the affectionate gesture. "Just be sure I don’t regret this later, huh?"

"You won’t," she promised. "You’ll see."

Her mother stormed over. "You’re both crazy," she yelled. "Jessica’s already enough of a misfit without this to encourage her behavior."

"There’s nothing wrong with my behavior, mother," Jessica said, her voice cold and soft. "Just because I don’t sit around dressed in fancy clothes drinking fine wine and expensive food, doesn’t mean I’m doing the wrong thing."

"You’re a young lady!" her mother fumed. "You’re not a soldier . . . you’re a woman, and you should act in a manner reflective of your breeding! It’s unnatural and against God’s desire for you to conduct yourself the way you do!"

Jessica calmed herself with an effort. She wanted to strangle the woman sometimes. Her mother had tried to rear her to the life of the courts, wanting to establish her as the perfect gentle-woman. But ever since she was a small child, Jessica had taken after her father. When Sir Richard realized her natural vocation - after watching her slicing up her dolls with a kitchen knife in a methodical and enthusiastic manner - he entrusted her to the care of Sir Miles. Under the old knight’s training Jessica had bloomed into a beautiful yet deadly flower, her skill surpassing that of all but a few of the veteran soldiers. But despite everything, Lady Rose had never been able to let go completely, trying desperately to wean her away from such unbecoming things as swordplay and warfare.

Her mother had more success with her brother, Steven, however. The young man saw the warrior arts as barbaric and pointless. Sir Richard paid him little attention, except to try to teach the slothful young man how to manage the affairs of state which would be his inheritance. Steven cared not at all for the lessons, but submitted himself to them with great reluctance . . . when he had to.

Now Jessica, content with her victory, simply glared at her mother and shrugged. "I’m getting married, aren’t I?" she demanded. "Isn’t that enough?"

"It might be if you’d set a date for your wedding," Lady Rose retorted angrily. "You’ve been putting it off for four years now . . . at this rate, it’ll never happen."

We can only hope, thought Jessica wryly. "Charles understands," she said, knowing it was true. Her betrothed did indeed understand her quite clearly . . . knew she didn’t love him as anything more than a friend. And she knew he felt the same. Still, they were expected to marry.

"You’re just lucky he’s still interested in you," her mother fumed. Then, grabbing Steven by the arm, Lady Rose glared one last time at her husband and stormed out of the hall, dragging her son behind her.

Jessica rolled her eyes and shared a mischievous grin with her father as the doors slammed shut. "I guess you’re gonna be hearing about this later," she said, letting the accent back now they were alone.

Sir Richard sighed and shrugged. He was accustomed to dealing with his wife and knew she would settle down eventually. "Just don’t let this be something I regret letting you do, Jess."

"I won’t," she promised dutifully, giving him a quick kiss on the cheek.

He blushed and shooed her away. "Go on now," he growled. "You’ve got an angry woman to go see, girl — one who’s probably getting tired of that dungeon by now."

"Then I’d better go let her out, hadn’t I." She turned and smiled at Sir Miles. "Thank you."

He grinned. "Just let me know when ye want to start ‘er trainin’," he said. "Should be interestin’, I expect." His eyes flashed with amusement.

With a slight bow to her father, Jessica left the audience hall and headed for the dungeons. Her broad grin spoke of her excitement at the prospect of seeing the strange, dark-haired woman again. She just knew they’d be great friends, once they got to know each other.

In the audience hall, Sir Richard sighed and rubbed his forehead wearily. "Are you sure about this?"

Miles grinned and patted his friend on the shoulder. "That girl’s growin’ up fast, Richard," he said gruffly. "Ain’t right to be keepin’ ‘er away from people."

"He’s right, milord," Grace agreed. "Lady Jessica needs a friend . . . someone her own age to talk too. Perhaps having this woman around will help to keep her out of trouble."

Richard smiled at that. "We can but hope, I suppose."

"Yer doing the right thing," Miles assured him. "This is just what Jess is needin’."

Sir Richard sighed again. "I pray you’re right, Miles," he said softly. "I really do."

Kaleah had emerged from the darkness some time ago to find herself thrust back into the hell that had been her life for almost ten years.

The prison cell was dry, ill-lit and musty. She was it’s only occupant, though she could hear the sounds of others being held in cells further down the corridor outside. The bars were solid iron, rusted and unyielding. All in all, the prison was depressing but she’d seen far worse. Still, this nightmare brought back memories of her years of captivity; there was nothing more terrifying to Kaleah than the knowledge that now ran through her mind over and over, beating against her skull with depressing rhythm.

You’re a slave again.

Filled with typical restless energy now fueled further by anger and despair, Kaleah paced back and forth around the cell. She’d been pacing for hours. Her knuckles were split and bleeding from where she’d bashed them against the bars in desperation, but that pain was negligible compared to the throbbing in her head. Her throat was sore from screaming at the smug jailer, who had ignored her threats and pleas indifferently. Furthermore she was freezing cold, her armor having been stripped from her body, replaced with a simple coarse shift that did little to ward off the chill emanating from the stone walls, floor and ceiling. And over and over, the grim words rolled through her head.

You’re a slave again.

That damn little blonde! It was all her fault, Kaleah decided. The bitch just couldn’t let me get away, could she. When I get out of here, I’m gonna find that witch and . . . and . . .

Kaleah sighed. Lot of good such thoughts would do her in here. The girl had beaten her soundly. There was nothing she could do. She wanted to lie down on the thin pallet that served as a bed, but her rage and frustration wouldn’t let her. Anyway, the odds of her seeing that green-eyed demon again were slim at best. She must be someone important to have acquired so great a talent with a blade. It wasn’t too likely she’d ever wander down here . . .

"You planning on pacing like that all day?" asked a soft, now-familiar voice.

Kaleah looked up in shock to find those laughing green eyes watching her again. Damn, this girl moved quietly! She was standing outside under a burning torch, a cheeky grin tugging at her lips.

"You look cold."

Kaleah scowled angrily, judging whether she could reach the girl through the bars and strangle her to death before the jailer got to her. Probably not.

"What do you want?" The reminder from the girl had caused her to start shivering.

The girl shrugged. "I’m here to give you a choice," she said softly. "My father is the lord of this castle. He’s given me permission to make you an offer."

"Let me go," Kaleah demanded. "I haven’t done anything."

"Like I told you, I’ve only your word on that," the girl said, her tone maddeningly calm. "You were in the company of those bandits . . . you fought beside them -"

"I did no such thing!" Kaleah protested angrily. "I defended myself when attacked. You saw me . . . you were watching."

Kaleah was surprised to see the girl blush a little at her words. Had she felt that strange feeling of connection as well? Interesting . . .

Shaking her head, she concentrated on more important things . . . like getting out of here.

"It doesn’t matter," said the girl gently, her flush fading quickly. "I still captured you, and you’re still being held as a criminal. Would you like to hear the choices you’re being given? I can come back later if you’d prefer to stay here and rot for a while longer."

Kaleah had it in mind to tell the green-eyed imp exactly what she could do with her choices, but with a supreme effort managed to control the desire. She’d suddenly noticed the girl was holding a ring of keys in one hand. Licking dry lips, trying to keep calm, Kaleah gestured for her to continue.

"My father was going to simply sentence you to a term of indentured service with the garrison-"

"I’ll not be a slave!" Kaleah growled fiercely.

"There’s a difference between indentured service and slavery," the girl said.

"Not from where I’m standing. I’ve tried that life . . . and I didn’t like it."

The green eyes flicked over her body and Kaleah held still. She knew that many of the scars of her captivity could be seen in the spare shift, and she hated revealing them to this young woman. She felt somehow she’d already revealed too much, though they didn’t even know each other’s names.

"I didn’t like the idea of you being wasted on the soldiers," the girl continued after her assessment.

"That makes two of us."

"Right." The girl smiled even more radiantly. "That’s why I appealed on your behalf."

Kaleah eyed her warily. "You’re letting me go?" she asked hesitantly.

The girl laughed. "No . . . but I have an alternative to my father’s sentence."

Kaleah fell back, glaring. "And what’s that?"

Now the girl stepped closer and held up the keys. "I want you to come with me," she said softly.

"With you? What do you mean?"

Green eyes held her seriously. "You can fight good," said the girl, holding her arm up so Kaleah could see the neatly stitched cut she vaguely remembered inflicting. "I can make you better. You’re a stranger in this land. You clearly have little wealth to your name. My guess is you’re just a wandering mercenary or something . . . perhaps an escaped slave trying to survive."

Kaleah crossed her arms defiantly, annoyed at being read so easily. "So?"

"So . . . I’m offering to teach you things you’ll never have the opportunity to learn elsewhere."

Kaleah held back, cautious. "Like what?"

The girl shrugged. "Can you read?"

"A little." In truth, very little.

"Well I can teach you more." The girl jangled the keys temptingly. "I can make you everything you can be . . . teach you to survive better then you obviously were if you had to live with those bandits."

Kaleah considered the girl’s proposal, her eyes still hungrily resting on the ring of keys. "What’s in it for you?" she demanded.

The girl rested her hand on the cell bars, seemingly confidant she had Kaleah’s attention. "Why does there have to be something in it for me?"

"That’s how things work," she said angrily, trying to stay calm enough not to jump at the girl and break her neck.

"Alright . . . if that’s how you want it, I’ll tell you what I want." The girl held her gaze. "I want you to spend some time with me . . . just talking and stuff." She lowered her face, her messy blonde hair falling forward to hide her expression. "I don’t get a lot of company . . . at least not with women my own age. And certainly not with anyone like you." She glanced up and smiled through her golden locks. "You’re foreign, right?"

Kaleah nodded slightly.

"I love foreign cultures and stuff," the girl said, her enthusiasm obvious. "I read about them in books the traders have sometimes. You could tell me about all the places you’ve been . . . and what they’re like."

Kaleah eyed her warily, not much liking the idea of relating her life story. "And you want to teach me to fight?"

"Sure. You’d be brilliant . . . hell, you are brilliant, but you could be even better."

"And you’ll let me go after how long?"

"A year," the girl said sincerely. "And you can leave better equipped to live, knowing you won’t be captured so easily again. I’ll even give you money, if you want . . . you know, to help you get started."

Well, she’d had worse offers, that was for sure. "Where would I sleep?"

The girl clearly sensed victory. "I have a room next to mine," she said. "It’s nice — a big bed, a fireplace. You’ll be more comfortable there than outside in the snow."

"A room of my own?" She couldn’t believe this. "You’ll trust I won’t run?"

The girl shrugged. "There are guards on the walls . . . they’d shoot you if you could make it out onto the flats around the castle. Besides, where would you go? Surely it’s better to stay here and take what I’m offering than go out and die in the winter forests." She paused, then added thoughtfully, "Better than being the servant for the guards, too; I doubt they’d treat you as well as I would."

Kaleah considered that. What the girl said had some merit, she admitted. She hadn’t been doing well in this unbelievable weather. She had no experience with it, no idea how to survive in cold like this. Of course, the idea of spending most of her time in the company of others was unappealing; particularly the company of this intense young woman who, for some reason, made her feel things that she’d never felt before but which made her extremely uncomfortable.

"I’m not really the companionable type," she said quietly. "I . . . I can’t be around people for too long. . . makes me nervous."

"That’s okay," the girl allowed. "You don’t have to be with me all the time. You can just go into your room, or onto the parapets, or the library. There’s lots of places to go to be alone here." Something in her tone made Kaleah believe she spoke from experience.

"I want my armor back. I don’t have anything else to wear"

"Of course, they’re just being cleaned. And I’ll give you other clothes if you want."

Kaleah turned away. "I won’t be a slave," she said quietly, her voice thick with passion. "I’d rather die."

"I won’t treat you as a slave," the blonde said. "I just want to help you . . . in return for some company. It’s more like a . . . a business transaction, really. We both get something out of it." She held up the keys, her eyes twinkling. "Do we have a deal?"

Kaleah sighed. "I guess I don’t have much choice," she muttered.

"Nope." The girl laughed, selecting one of the keys and twisting it into the lock. With a scrape of metal and the rasp of the hinges, the cell door swung open. The girl held out her hand. "My name is Jessica Da’Gran."

Kaleah hesitated, but stepped forward and accepted the girls introduction. "You can call me Kaleah," she said softly. The young woman’s grip was surprisingly strong, and she ended the handshake as quickly as she could, feeling uncomfortable with the contact.

"Kaleah . . ." The girl - Jessica - rolled the name around her mouth as though sampling it’s flavor. "I’ve never heard that name before . . . it sounds strange."

"Humph." Kaleah just grunted, still determined not to like this young woman. "Which way’s out?"

"This way." Jessica led the way down the right path, taking them past several other mostly empty cells to a solid steel-braced door guarded by a bald, muscular man who bowed to the blonde respectfully before opening it.

Kaleah followed Jessica up a winding flight of steps that brought them out into the light and the blessed fresh air. Free from the dungeon, Kaleah spread her arms wide and took a deep breath, grateful to be out in the open again . . . even if it was cursedly cold in her simple shift. Stretching, she saw Jessica watching her with amusement.

"Come on," offered the lively blonde happily. "I’ll show you around, and then take you somewhere you can clean up." She grinned and Kaleah noticed for the first time that her nose developed a cute little crinkle when she did so. "You could use a wash."

Kaleah gingerly touched the crusted blood on her forehead. "You’re right."

Jessica saw her expression and her smile vanished. "I’m sorry I had to do that," she apologized. "You just wouldn’t stay down."

"Didn’t want to be captured."

Jessica reached out and tentatively touched her on the shoulder. "It won’t be so bad," she promised softly, and Kaleah was aware again of just how intense those green eyes could be. "If you just give this a chance, you’ll see."

Turning, she led the way along an open pathway that gave a view of the castle courtyard, currently filled with various people going about their business. Kaleah followed, looking around carefully, paying attention to the number and location of the guards. She admitted privately that they were well placed and alert . . . not much chance of an escape. Shrugging, she hurried up, noticing that for some reason she could still feel a warm tingling sensation on her arm where Jessica had touched her.

Kaleah spent the next hour or so being led around the castle. She grudgingly admitted that the place was nice — sort of. The granite stone was cold, but not as bad as it was in the woods, and there were tapestries everywhere depicting great battle scenes or intricate, interlocking patterns Jessica told her came from an island to the west she called ‘Ireland.’

The room Jessica told her would be hers during her stay was luxurious beyond anything the former slave had ever known. She’d had to blink several times before she believed her own eyes.

"It’s alright." Jessica had been delighted and amused at her reaction. "You’ll get used to it. And that door there leads right into my room, so if you want anything you can just come and ask, okay?"

Kaleah had nodded, still bewildered at this strange turn of events. Still, she kept up a litany in her mind, I will not be a slave, I will not be a slave, repeating it to keep alive the dislike she was determined to maintain for her unwanted new friend.

Jessica kept up a constant chatter, telling her about this and that. Kaleah got the impression the girl was a little nervous. For her own part, the dark woman was content to be led about, letting her companion’s words flow over her without really paying them much mind. She was still looking for a break in the defenses of the castle. As soon as she found it, Kaleah decided she would leave — regardless of the comforts, this felt too much like servitude for her tastes.

"And this," Jessica said, stopping at a set of carved doors depicting some kind of aquatic animals, "is the bathing chamber. Um . . . I’ll leave you hear so you can get cleaned up, okay?" She opened the doors and they entered the steamy atmosphere beyond.

Kaleah gasped. The room was huge, adorned with amazingly detailed marble sculptures of beautiful men and women bathing. Light streamed from a ceiling crafted from multi-colored stained glass panels that must have cost a fortune. There were ferns hanging from pots all over the place, making the place seem lush and alive. Most of the room was filled with a great pool of clear, deep water, in the center of which was a raised island made from a series of steps and platforms. The pool had been designed to appear very natural, with parts left rough and others polished smooth for comfortable sitting. The steam rising from the water gave testament to it’s warmth, though she was at a loss to explain how. Kaleah had never seen anything so magnificent.

Jessica watched her reaction and smiled happily. "The water gets heated from the fires in the kitchen," she explained. "It cycles through a system of pipes every day, so it’s always clean." She turned to leave, giving the dark woman some privacy. "I’ll go get your armor while you wash up . . . there’re robes over there," she pointed to a small room off to the side. "You can lock the door once I’m gone, but not too many people come into this part of the castle . . . just me. I can’t imagine why not, but hey . . . I’m not complaining either! I’ll be back in about half an hour."

The door closed behind the blonde woman and Kaleah was alone. She spent a moment just looking at the amazing chamber, not quite believing she was here. Then, realizing just how dirty she was, she figured to get down to business.

After carefully locking the door — noting as she did that the latch wasn’t particularly strong - Kaleah stripped out of the course and uncomfortable shift gladly. Tossing it over a nearby rock, the former slave waded out into the deep, luxurious water until it came to her chin. A guttural sigh escaped her lips as she felt her body start to relax. She quietly cleaned the blood and grime from her lithe figure, running her hands over the many scars that marred her skin and feeling the warmth of the water seep into the old wounds that tended to ache in the cold. Her long dark hair fanned out around her and she scrubbed it roughly to work out weeks of accumulated filth. It would be tangled, but she was sure her new friend would lend her a brush.

Thinking of Jessica, Kaleah allowed her mind to ponder the young woman. When Kaleah had mentioned that she’d seen her watching her during the fight, the girl had blushed. She had gone out of her way to snare her into this arrangement . . . she was being friendly and generous. And, Kaleah had to admit, she seemed very genuine in her desire for friendship.

Strange, she considered. She would have thought a beautiful young noble woman like Jessica would have a lot of friends. Why would she need to force someone into being her companion? It was very odd.

Putting the matter aside for later consideration, Kaleah waded over to examine one of the statues more closely. She recognized the work of a skilled artisan, having spent some time learning the art of carving herself from her last master before he released her. The statue was of a beautiful woman with long, flowing hair, full breasts and a curvaceous figure. Kaleah felt herself blush a little, noting that the carver had paid a lot of attention to detail. Running a finger along the glistening marble sculpture, she couldn’t help but marvel at the beauty of her surroundings. This place — this room — was about the most magnificent thing she’d ever seen.

Remembering that Jessica would return shortly, Kaleah finished up quickly and retrieved one of the comfortable robes she found in the adjoining room. Wrapping it tightly around her body, she unlocked the door and sat on a convenient wooden bench until the blonde knocked.

"Come in," she called, standing up.

Jessica poked her head around the door, smiling. "Feeling better?"

Kaleah grunted non-commitedly. "Where’s my armor?"

"Here." Jessica held out a large bundle wrapped in white cloth. "I also brought this . . ." She held out Kaleah’s sword, sheathed in its ornate scabbard.

Kaleah eyed the offered weapon skeptically. "You’re letting me keep my sword?"

Jessica just shrugged. "I’m giving you a little credit," she said simply. "I think you’re probably pretty smart . . . smart enough to realize there’s not much point in trying anything like taking me hostage and making a break for it. Right?"

Kaleah realized this was true. The girl wasn’t taking much of a risk. She grunted and took the sword.

Jessica smiled. "I thought so. Besides, how can you learn to fight better if you don’t have your sword. Oh, and I brought this, too . . ." She reached into a pocket and pulled out a fine wooden flute. She studied it a moment, then held it out to Kaleah. The dark woman’s eyes flared hungrily when she saw the instrument. "They found this in your armor . . . I thought you might want it back."

Kaleah snatched the flute and clasped it to her breast possessively. "Thank you."

Jessica did not miss the reaction. "Do you play?"

"Sometimes."

"Maybe you could play something for me," Jessica suggested. "If you feel like it, of course."

Kaleah frowned. She’d never played for anyone other than herself. Her music was private, but, she mused, there was no point antagonizing the young blonde. "Perhaps."

"Great! I’d love that." She gestured to the adjoining room. "Well, get changed and I’ll show you around some more."

Kaleah eyed her for a moment, annoyed at how this woman seemed perpetually cheerful. She wondered what it might take to really make her mad, recalling that even when she’d been wounded in their fight, the young blonde maintained her calm and good humor. Turning, she went into the privacy of the nearby room to change.

As the dark woman walked away from her, Jessica let her eyes roam more thoroughly over her figure, not really trying to stop them from lingering here and there. There was no harm in admiring Kaleah, she thought . . . and there was certainly a lot there to admire. Her smile turned a little more feral and her eyes twinkled with daring. Despite her betrothal, Jessica had always been intrigued by the stories she’d read involving romances between women. More than any other stories they were hard to come by, what with the power of the Church deeming them ‘evil’, but Jessica had several traders who kept their eyes open for her, knowing she could pay them well for their discretion. She felt no guilt in just looking. . . Kaleah was certainly beautiful. She was just appreciating the good Lord’s handiwork, that’s all. Jessica had never had much opportunity to explore her interest in other women. . . but she’d felt a strong connection to her new friend from the moment they locked eyes. It would be nice to have a female friend to talk with, no matter what came of it.

"You know," Jessica continued talking just to fill the quiet, "I couldn’t help but notice the quality of the work on your blade . . . that Spanish steel’s rare nowadays."

"Yeah. So?" Kaleah was struggling into her figure-hugging armor, reluctantly appreciating the fine job someone had done cleaning the outfit.

"Did you steal it?"

"Of course not." Kaleah was a little offended the blonde had so little regard for her morality.

"I didn’t think so," Jessica told her gently. "I looked at the blade; I can imagine, from your height and reach, that your sword was custom made for you . . . just like your armor, huh?"

"Not exactly." Kaleah adjusted the last buckle, and strapped the sword around her waist, setting it to rest just below the flare of her hips. Stepping out of the room, she caught Jessica’s eyes. "I made them myself."

Green eyes widened. "You did!?" Jessica was clearly surprised. "But . . . how could you . . ."

Pleased to have shocked the little blonde woman so, Kaleah grinned fully, showing her even white teeth. "My former master was a Spanish weapon-smith named Constantine De’Livier. He taught me as his apprentice for over a year," she explained briefly. "He helped me to design my armor and weapon, and he taught me to use them. When I was ready, he released me from his service." She watched Jessica closely for a reaction. "My freedom was the greatest gift he ever gave me."

Jessica lowered her eyes. "And you think I’ve taken it away, is that it?"

Kaleah looked around. "This place may be fancy . . . but it’s a prison just as much as the dungeon was." Her posture became aggressive and tense. It felt good to fan the flames of her anger, to justify it in the face of Jessica’s kindness. "You can keep me here, but don’t fool yourself into thinking it’s what I want."

Jessica frowned and looked up through lowered lashes. She could feel her eyes starting to water. "I’m trying to help you." Why couldn’t this woman understand that all this was going to be good for her?

Kaleah strode past her towards the exit. "No-one has ever tried to help me in my whole life. . . except for De’Livier," she said as she passed, her voice husky and bitter. "I doubt you’ll be any different."

Jessica watched her go, trying to steady her breathing. The barbed words hurt — they’d meant to hurt, she knew. Kaleah wouldn’t accept this passively, as she’d hoped. The woman was abrasive and filled with a quick and restless energy. Her emotional armor was strong and doubtless well made to protect her from a harsh life. But Jessica was determined . . . no matter the obstacles, she would persevere. With kindness and caring her tools, she would chip away until she won the dark woman over.

"This will be different," she promised the departed woman quietly. "I’ll make it different."

That night as Kaleah lay in the bed that Jessica had given her, she thought back on her day and wondered. She couldn’t get to sleep; the softness of the down-filled mattress was strange to her, the silky texture of the sheets against her bare skin seemed uncomfortably luxurious. From outside she heard the footsteps of the soldiers as they walked along the battlements. But worse than the newness of her surroundings, everytime Kaleah closed her eyes and tried to drift off, Jessica’s laughing eyes and perpetually smiling face appeared in the darkness — taunting, tempting.

The former slave had maintained her icy demeanor for the rest of the day, determined to make this as hard for her unwanted companion as she could. But Jessica had apparently chosen to ignore her scowling face and petulant attitude, smiling and chattering on about anything that popped into her head as she led Kaleah around. As the day wore on, Kaleah found it harder to maintain her dislike for the vivacious blonde. The young woman gave so freely of herself . . . seemed so filled with life and vigor, and yet at the same time appeared so calm and in control. Kaleah admitted to herself that the captivating blonde had her completely at a loss as to how to behave. Jessica repaid her dour looks with cheerful ones, her words of hatred with ones of friendship. A part of Kaleah wanted desperately to just give in and smile and laugh along with her, but she clamped it down whenever it tried to escape.

Now, laying in the darkness and trying to uncoil her tense body, Kaleah frowned and squirmed uncomfortably. There was an ache deep in her gut that she’d never felt before . . . an emptiness she hadn’t known existed until it had been illuminated by the vibrant emerald eyes of the young blonde. There was something about Jessica that called to Kaleah, made her wish she could just bask in this warmth and life forever, let it wash away the darkness and pain of her former life. But at the same time there was something about her that made Kaleah want to hold on to the hatred and anger all the more fiercly.

Whenever those incredible eyes pierced her own, Kaleah felt a stab of dull pain twist into her soul . . . and she saw for the first time just how empty that soul really was. Every word Jessica spoke sounded strange as it echoed in that dark void, and suddenly, for the first time since she’d been made a slave, Kaleah felt lonely. Felt vulnerable. The isolation that once seemed to protect her now seemed cold and barren.

It was not a feeling she liked, nor wanted to cultivate.

Sighing, Kaleah snuggled deeper into her bed and rearranged her cushions, pushing away her dismal musings. Jessica was clearly determined to be her friend whether she wanted her to be or not . . . but that didn’t mean Kaleah was going to make it easy for her. Remembering her words in the bathing chamber, the dark-haired woman nodded to herself. If she had to stay in this cursed place, she was going to make it clear that it was under sufferance — that no matter how Jessica tried to justify it, this captivity was unwanted.

Besides, she added silently. I’ll be out of here soon enough. Every castle has a chink in the defenses . . . it’s just a matter of finding it and using it. As long as the damn girl doesn’t put me in irons, it’s only a question of time before I can escape.

Closing her eyes, satisfied she had everything under control, Kaleah relaxed and let sleep overtake her . . . stubbornly ignoring the part of her that was still trying to point out just how nice it was not to be sleeping in some freezing cave in the middle of the snow-covered forest.

In her room next door, Jessica’s thoughts were also on her new companion, and the day they had shared.

Jessica thought the blue-eyed woman was fascinating. Absolutely enchanting. She possessed some inaliable quality that drew Jessica in and held her fast. Some kind of aura, like Eric, her father’s adviser, sometimes spoke of when espousing his alchemy hocus-pocus.

Part of it, Jess admitted, was simply her physical presence. The woman was uncommonly tall, slender yet powerfully built. She moved as though she were constantly tense and alert. . . or ready to bolt at a moments notice. Her clear blue eyes never seemed to soften - they were intense and magnetic, a sharp contrast to her long, inky black hair and bronze skin. Her features were hard and somewhat angular, finely sculptured and beautiful in an alluring, exotic fashion that made Jessica’s stomach twist and her hands start to sweat. Even the livid scar across her mouth did nothing to detract from her appearance . . . rather, it enhanced the sensuous lips by drawing the eye towards them.

But there was more to it than just her physicality. There was a force she couldn’t define about Kaleah, something exciting and fresh . . . dangerous, even. Something that made her want to reach out and touch the dark woman, like she’d always wanted to reach out and touch the burning candles as a child.

The woman had been stiff and thorny during their first day together, but Jessica had caught her almost smiling a few times during their rather one-sided conversation. It was almost as though she wanted to enjoy herself but was determined not to. This gave Jessica hope as she snuggled into her bed, smiling a wicked little smile.

She was going to make Kaleah her friend . . . even if it killed one of them.

There was pain. Pain so fierce it almost blinded her, almost brought her crashing to the floor. But she fought against the dizziness, focused on the cool, smooth wooden hilt of the dagger she clutched with desperate strength in her right hand. Slowly, every step an exercise in torment, she made her way across the room to the chamber beyond.

A thin smile pulled at her bloody lips as ice-blue eyes found her target. The man was bathing in a large tub, his back turned to her, oblivious to any danger. She stalked forward, fighting not to gasp at the agony that lanced through her body, knowing she’d only get one chance. Finally, she stood over the man as he washed. The broad expanse of his back was open to her, defenceless. The dagger gleamed hungrily in the candle-light, and she hesitated just long enough to savour the moment before she let it feed.

The man screamed at the first thrust, swinging about wildly to confront her. Before he could move to attack her she struck again, feeling a dark, powerful surge of energy wash over her as the crimson blade descended again and again. The man fell to the tiled floor but Kaleah didn’t stop. The dagger rose and fell unendingly, dragging screams from the man that soon grew weaker. Dimly she heard a pounding from outside and idly realized the guards were coming. They would kill her, she knew, but that didn’t matter now. Her eyes were exultant; the pain was gone. A dark and evil strength flowed through her blood, offering to wash away the fear and end her suffering. She smiled for the first time in many years, welcoming the numbing oblivion the darkness held out like a token.

The smile faltered when she looked up and found haunting emerald eyes regarding her sadly.

"Is this all you want?" Jessica asked softly, her voice so achingly beautiful it forced the darkness to receed. Kaleah looked at her hand, confused now at the uncomfortable weight of the dagger. She dropped it and studied the bloody aftermath of her frenzied attack.

Jessica stepped forward, her expression one of sorrow, not pity. Kaleah shivered and drew away from her radience.

"I can help you," Jessica said gently. "I can save you from the pain. Save you from the darkness." A hand reached out to her, and Kaleah felt her soul long for something it had never had. Jessica smiled sadly. "I can save you from yourself, Kaleah . . . if you let me."

Kaleah jerked awake suddenly, gasping for breath, her blood rising quickly with panic. It took her a second to realize where she was, and when she did the dark woman fell back on the damp mattress with a relieved sigh. Her body was covered in a thin layer of sweat and the chill of the night made her shiver a little and pull the blankets closer about her.

It had been a long time since she’d had a nightmare — a long time since she’d let herself think back on the horrors she’d experienced as a slave. This dream had been different from the others, however; never had the present intruded on her memories of the past. Jessica seemed to light the darkness inside her, illuminating all those terrors again.

Kaleah scowled as she struggled to calm her body down. "Just another reason not to like her," she whispered to herself. "Just another reason to get as far away from this place as I can."

She lay awake through the rest of the night, knowing from experience not to fall asleep when the night-demons were so ready to torture her with ancient hurts.

A soft knocking at the door pulled Kaleah from a light sleep. Sitting up dazedly, the dark woman looked around the neatly-decorated room and scowled. She was tired and cranky, and the prospect of having to face Jessica’s constant cheerfulness wasn’t appealing.

The knock came again a little louder, and the door that lead into the coridor outside opened a crack. A strange young woman poked her face into the room cautiously. "Hello?"

"What do you want?" Kaleah demanded, pulling her sheets tighter about her body.

The woman’s eyes widened a little nervously at her angry tone, but she slid into the room anyway and held out a tray of food. "Lady Jessica asked me to bring you breakfast," she explained shyly.

Kaleah studied the tray, her stomach growling. Wordlessly, she gestured the woman forward and accepted the offering. The woman regarded her with timid curiosity, her hands plucking at the hem of her apron. Kaleah regarded her coldly for a moment, then asked, "Are you Jessica’s slave as well?"

"Slave?" The woman looked at her strangely, perplexed by the question, then laughed a little. "Sir Richard would never allow slavery on his lands. I’m one of the kitchen-maids."

Kaleah’s dark brows contracted thoughtfully. "But you do serve Jessica, right?"

The woman shrugged. "I serve the castle," she said simply. "Sir Richard gives me a room to sleep in and warm meals, and he pays me with silver every few months. It’s a good way to earn a living."

"So . . . you could leave here if you wanted to?"

"Aye." The woman gave a quick look around, then sidled closer and lowered her voice. "I heard from the cook that Jessica’s taken a fancy to you. She’s not usually allowed to play with us commoners — you’re very lucky."

"Lucky?" Kaleah snorted. "How’s that?"

"Well . . . Lady Jessica’s about the nicest person you could hope to meet," the serving-girl gushed. "She’s funny and smart, and she’s always kind to everybody. But like I said, we don’t get to say much to her. She keeps pretty much to herself." Curious eyes regarded Kaleah a little enviously. "She must think you’re something special for her to defy her mother."

Kaleah was silent, absorbing this information, then her eyes hardened. "Thank you for the food," she said shortly, effectively dismissing her guest, who bobbed her head and turned to leave.

"Oh, and Jessica said to tell you she’d be out in the courtyard when you’re finished," the serving-girl said before she closed the door behind her and left Kaleah in peace to eat her meal.

"And this," Jessica said with a flourish, "is the lookout tower." She smiled at her dour companion as they reached the top of the winding stairwell that led up to the great spire. The height of the tower afforded a magnificent view of snow-covered fields and woodland, though it was windy and numbingly cold. "There’s usually a guard up here," Jess added, looking around the empty parapet curiously. "I guess it must be a bit nippy for them."

Jessica studied the dark woman a little nervously. For the last hour or so she’d continued to show Kaleah around the castle and introduce her to the people, talking all the while just to fill the silence. Her questions were answered with sullen glares or occasional grunts, but Jessica maintained her determination to win the intriguing woman over. Studying Kaleah now as they looked out on the majestic vista before them, Jessica saw the first glimmer of interest she’d seen in the dark woman all morning. Sapphire eyes gazed around everywhere, focused mostly on the castle itself.

"It’s beautiful, isn’t it?" she said softly, stepping closer to Kaleah.

The former slave was silent for a long time, her eyes moving slowly over the castle grounds. Then she whispered, "Four walls."

"Excuse me?"

"Four walls," Kaleah said clearly. "That’s all I see."

Jessica found herself suddenly caught in the Kaleah’s intense, cold gaze. She shuffled uncomfortably. "I don’t understand."

Kaleah gestured with one hand at the castle battlements. "This is a cage, Princess," she spat. "You can call yourself my friend, but all you really are is my jailor."

Jessica’s eyes flared with a fire of their own. "Don’t call me ‘princess,’" she ordered. "My father’s not a king. And this castle’s only as much of a cage as you want it to be. Maybe things wouldn’t seem so bad if you just started thinking of this place as your home."

"My home!?" Kaleah laughed mirthlessly. "I don’t have a home, Princess! I’ve never had a home, but I’ve lived in enough cages to know one when I see it." She pointed again to the castle below. "Four walls that mark a boundary you say I can’t cross! Four walls that say I’m not free!" She glared at Jessica with a cold fury, then stalked toward the stairwell. "Does that sound like a home to you, princess?"

Jessica almost let the dark woman go, but the angry words stung her. She was trying to help Kaleah here, but all Kaleah wanted to do was wallow in self pity. Exasperated, Jessica grabbed the dark woman as she brushed past her and spun her around. Furious sapphires pinned her instantly as Kaleah jerked away from her touch, but Jessica stood firm and glared right back.

"I’m not here to hurt you, Kaleah," she said sternly. "Why can’t you see that?"

Kaleah’s body was rigid and trembling, the dark energy building inside her. "I didn’t ask for a friend," she hissed through grit teeth.

"Fine. Maybe you didn’t ask for one, but you’ve got one whether you want it or not." Jessica set her hands on her hips, her jaw set stubbornly. "Now you can either spend the next twelve months mopping about this ‘cage’ feeling sorry for yourself and making my life difficult, or you can stop being such an ass and make the most of an opportunity you’re not likely to get ever again in your whole life!" She paused to catch her breath. "I’ll teach you to fight, Kaleah. I’ll teach you to read and write and hunt and anything else you want to learn! In twelve months, you can leave this castle with enough gold and enough skills to start a new life doing anything you want to do! I can’t force you to go along with anything Kaleah . . . but if you let me, I’ll help you become everything you can be." Jessica stared hard at the former slave till the sapphire eyes broke away. Then she nodded to herself and started walking back down the stairs. "I’ll give you some time to think about it," she called over her shoulder. "The choice is yours."

They each spent the rest of the day alone.

Chapter 3.

The next day did not go well.

After sharing a hearty breakfast of eggs and porridge - which Kaleah stubbornly refused to acknowledge was far better than anything she could have made herself - Jessica carefully suggested a little light sparring.

"I usually train a few hours everyday either with the soldiers or Sir Miles," Jessica told Kaleah after they’d eaten. "You don’t have to do anything if you don’t want too, but Miles and I were planning on a lesson anyway, so if you want to just watch, that’s fine-"

"I’ll fight," Kaleah interrupted.

"You will?" Emerald eyes lit with pleasure, and the dark woman tried hard not to let them affect her. She nodded. Jess beamed a smile at her that made her heart ache. "That’s great! You’ll like Miles, I promise. He’s a great fighter — even better than my father. It’ll be fun."

Kaleah didn’t say anything after that, but her eyes were cold as chips of ice. The strange dreams had returned last night, plauging her with haunting images of the blonde-haired girl with laughing green eyes, robbing her of sleep. The emotions the young noblewoman raised in her were strong and alien; she had no defense against their insistent call, and that only increased her confusion. So now as they sat together in Jessica’s room, the former slave was feeling frustrated and irritable, her temper on a low boil and rapidly heating.

A few hours later two young women stood in the open courtyard with Sir Miles, ready to fight. Jessica’s armor was similar in design to Kaleah’s, molded to fit her feminine curves tightly, while still allowing her a great range of movement. Sir Miles wore only light padding — a fact Kaleah instantly decided made him seem arrogant. Jessica made polite introductions, and the training began.

After only a few minutes watching the man warm up with Jessica, Kaleah had to admit Miles knew what he was doing. The loss of his right hand didn’t hamper his style at all. The old warrior was quick, accurate and powerful. Kaleah moved forward when they were finished to take her own turn at the man, eager to prove she wasn’t in need of training at all.

Grinning ferally, Kaleah assumed the en guard position as De’Livier had taught her. Sir Miles noticed the formal stance and mirrored it.

"Spanish school, are ya?" he muttered, seeing the eager glint in her steely eyes and recognizing it for what it was. "Always thought ‘em a bit pompous meself."

Kaleah growled, rising quickly to the bait. On the sidelines, Jessica watched as the dark-haired woman attacked Sir Miles with lightening speed, her anger obvious. She smiled to herself. If her new friend hoped to overcome the knight with simple aggression, she was going to learn the same lesson she’d learned in the forest.

Miles fell back willingly under the tempest of fury, effortlessly defeating Kaleah’s furious assault. He’d trained hundreds in his lifetime and knew this rage needed purging before a fighter could be made truly great. A level head always defeated a clouded one.

"If’n I didn’t know better, I’d say ye was tryin’ to best me, girl," he rumbled, his old eyes twinkling as he enjoyed Kaleah’s confounded expression when she stopped to catch her breath. He pointed to Jessica with the stump that had been his right hand. "That there green-eyed devil bested ye before. If I were you, I’d be making sure I could take on the pupil a’fore I tried for the teacher, eh?"

Kaleah felt her vision start to blur with a familiar crimson heat as her temper escaped her often tenuous hold. All the anger, confusion and fear she had experienced in the last few days suddenly came to a head and erupted like a storm inside her. Screaming in hatred and anguish, her features twisted with pain, the dark woman launched herself at Sir Miles, the tip of her sword leading the way.

Watching, Jessica was stunned by the expression on Kaleah’s face. She almost cried out as Kaleah sprang forward, fearing the woman would harm herself or the old knight, such was the power of her rage.

She needn’t have worried. Sir Miles coolly defeated every blow, giving ground without concern and waiting till his opponent grew tired. It didn’t take long, and when Kaleah slipped on the icy ground and fell, he swept the sword from her grasp with a graceful motion and held the edge of his blade across her throat.

Blue eyes glared up at him, thick with hatred, her breathing shallow. He smiled a little sadly. "Ye need to get a handle on yer temper, lass," he told her softly, wondering if she was clear-headed enough to understand him. "Ye can’t beat anyone if ye can’t even master yerself."

He pulled the razor-sharp edge away from her skin and sheathed the weapon casually. Kaleah broke from his gaze and hugged herself, collapsing into a huddled form, trying to suppress the shudders and sobs that fought for release. Looking up, Miles met concerned green eyes and sighed wearily. Walking past the huddled, shivering form, he patted Jessica on the arm.

"Will she be okay?" asked the young woman, eyeing her collapsed friend with deep concern.

"Aye, lass," he assured her softly. "She’ll be fine. Give her a few minutes though."

"You didn’t need to provoke her like that," Jessica said reproachingly.

Miles shrugged. "Believe me, girl . . . it’s best to get this outta her system now. Longer it stays inside, more harm it’s gonna do her."

Jessica considered that, then nodded slightly. "I suppose."

"Listen, lass . . ." Miles hesitated, not wanting to poke his head where it wasn’t wanted. "Are ye sure you know what yer doin’ with this woman?"

Jessica saw the concern in his eyes and smiled sincerely. "Not really," she admitted. "But I’m sure I’ll figure it out . . . sooner or later."

"Aye . . . well." Miles patted her arm again. "When ye’re ready for another session — when she’s ready — you let me know, huh?"

"I will."

"Good lass." He smiled fondly at her, then turned and walked away towards the garrison.

Sighing, Jessica slowly approached the curled up form huddled in the snow and mud. "Are . . . are you okay?" she asked tentatively, wanting to offer physical comfort but certain it wouldn’t be appreciated.

"Go away," came the reply, the words muffled but thick with emotion.

Jessica didn’t want to leave the dark woman in so vulnerable a position. Many of the soldiers walking about were eyeing them curiously. "Would you like to go back to your room?" she suggested gently.

Kaleah didn’t even move. "Go away."

Jessica took an unconscious step forward. She wanted so much to help, to ease the pain that was so obvious in the dark woman. She reached out a hesitant hand, but pulled it back before it could touch the huddled form. "You know . . . sometimes it helps to talk about things." Her voice was so soft it was barely audible. "Pain can poison the soul if you don’t let it go . . ."

Kaleah looked up then and Jessica fell back at what she saw. The beautiful face was cold, emotionless, the mask firmly in place. No tears ran down the cheeks. Her eyes were not puffy or red. But looking into those clear blue gems, Jessica saw the most overwhelming agony she had ever seen. Kaleah’s eyes held all the feelings she kept from her face and for a moment, Jessica doubted she had the strength to offer comfort to this woman; wondered if she had the courage to be the friend she wanted to be, knowing that to continue to offer her hand in friendship meant that, if it was accepted, she would take this pain into her own soul as well.

"Leave. Me. Alone." Every word sounded dead. The blue eyes held her for a moment, then broke away as Kaleah curled into a ball once more, the discussion over.

Jessica nodded and ran a hand through her hair shakily. "Okay," she said softly. "I’ll, uh . . . I’ll be in my room if you . . . want to talk, or anything."

There was no response, so, with every muscle in her body wanting desperately to kneel beside the huddled form and take her in her arms to comfort and protect her, Jessica left. When she looked over her shoulder, Kaleah hadn’t moved at all.

Maybe this wasn’t such a great idea, she thought as she turned away and went back to her bedroom to think.

Alone, Kaleah struggled to get a handle on her emotions. She succeeded, but it was hard. Now more than ever she knew she had to get out of this castle. She could feel the walls crushing her, and her temper was becoming dangerously short. Her thick defences were crumbling under the assault of those bright green eyes.

Kaleah felt no shame for her attack on Sir Miles; the man had deliberately antagonized her from the start. But his last words still rang annoyingly in her head . . . and she didn’t like what they told her.

Always quick to anger, Kaleah knew her rage often unbalanced her. Her fight with Jessica demonstrated that clearly. It was one reason among many that she chose to live alone. A life in slavery had stunted her growth emotionally and as a person. She knew that. De’Livier had tried to teach her to fit in, but one could only learn so much in a year; not nearly enough to make up for a lifetime of social denial and abuse. Now Jessica expected her to just move into this castle and like it? Well, it wasn’t going to happen. She had to get away — and soon.

Jessica would be hurt when she ran . . . maybe even angry. Shivering on the ground, Kaleah was surprised to find the thought of hurting the girl caused her fists to clench and her eyes to burn with tears. Jessica had offered nothing but kindness to her. . . and this was how she planned to repay her?

Frustrated at these unwanted emotions, Kaleah growled and tried to stamp them out. Yes! This is for the best and you know it! Jessica forced you into this . . . and you’re going to escape this prison. That’s what this place is: a prison. Just because there’s lots of food, a comfortable bed and no bars on the windows, doesn’t change that fact. You’re a prisoner . . . and you’re going to escape.

Kaleah sighed as the words did nothing to make her feel better. They seemed to mean less and less every time she thought them.

Jessica left Kaleah to herself for the rest of the day. She heard her friend return to her room but resisted the urge to join her there, knowing she could easily make things worse. The dark woman needed space and some time to herself. Jessica was still determined to make this work — the sense of connection she felt for Kaleah was still strong, and she cried a little herself in private sympathy for the other woman.

They ate separately, each in her own room, divided by a solid stone wall and carved oak door. Neither ventured outside — it had started snowing just after midday and the cold was penetrating.

Kaleah fell asleep quickly at night, emotionally exhausted as her heart warred with her mind, struggling to reconcile the kindness Jessica showed with the fear of vulnerability that a friendship would bring. Her dreams were thankfully quiet that night, and she awoke refreshed in the morning, reluctantly reveling in the simple ability to snuggle into warm blankets and soft cushions.

For her part, Jessica slept poorly. The next morning, she rapped softly on Kaleah’s door before opening it and peering in.

"Kaleah? Can I come in?"

Kaleah startled a little and pulled the sheets tighter around her naked body. Normally she sleep fully clothed, but she had found that sleeping in her armor on the bed was pointless and uncomfortable. "I suppose so," she allowed, grateful the room was still fairly dark in the early morning light. Outside she could hear the winds blowing fiercely, lashing the walls with sleet. She was grateful not to be out there.

Jessica tip-toed in and found a seat. She eyed the disheveled head that poked itself out of the thick blankets and couldn’t fight the smile.

"What?" Kaleah demanded, seeing her amusement.

"I’m sorry," she said, trying unsuccessfully to get a hold of her laughter. "You just . . . you just look kinda cute like that, that’s all."

Hands emerged to flatten unruly hair. "Like what?"

"Just . . . all disheveled and stuff." Jessica was glad that Kaleah seemed somewhat recovered from her anger yesterday. "It’s nothing, don’t worry."

"Humph."

"I just wanted to see if you’re, you know . . . feeling any better?"

Kaleah tried to stoke the coals of simmering anger that had blazed the day before, but found them severely dampened by the true concern in the wet emerald eyes now regarding her. "I’m fine," she answered shortly. "I just . . ." She struggled to explain, then decided there was nothing she could say, and shrugged. "Never mind."

"Do you feel like doing something today?" Jessica asked tentatively. "It doesn’t have to be much. Do you know how to play chess?"

Kaleah shook her head. A particularly violent squall thudded against the thick wooden shutters of the bedroom, and she eyed it with misgivings. "Not much chance of going outside, is there?" she observed wryly.

"Nope," the blonde confirmed. "There’s a bad storm out there and the winds are like ice. I feel sorry for anyone trapped in weather like this."

"Oh?" A sudden idea formed in Kaleah’s head, and she ignored the part of her that urged it to shut up. "What about the men standing guard out there? They must be freezing."

Jessica laughed a little, the sound fresh and joyful. "My father wouldn’t do that to them," she said lightly. "The soldiers are all inside the barracks, trying to keep warm. No point keeping the guard out in this weather. It’s not like anyone could attack during a storm like this."

"I suppose not." Hmmmm. No guards . . . the cover of a storm . . . everyone staying inside. Kaleah smiled a little. This was going to be almost too easy.

"So," Jessica continued, not noticing the look on her companions face, "you want to play some chess? I could teach you."

"I, um. I think, maybe, if it’s alright with you I’d prefer to just be by myself for a while," Kaleah told her softly. "Maybe we could play this . . . ‘chess’ later tonight?"

Pleased to have gotten even that much, and sensing that she was making progress with her reluctant friend, Jessica nodded enthusiastically. "Sure. That’d be fine . . . I understand. Um, I’ll have the kitchen send you up some breakfast, if you’d like?"

"Thanks."
"Okay." Jessica got up and walked back to her room. "I’ll see you tonight then. Just knock when you’re ready."

"Fine."

Kaleah grinned fully as the door shut behind the blonde woman. Quietly getting out of bed - somewhat reluctant to leave the warmth - she hastly donned her armor, strapped on her sword, and tucked her flute into its concealed pocket. Then she scanned the room quickly for anything that might be useful. She selected a small but very thick blanket and wrapped it into a tight ball. She pocketed a flint and striker from above the fireplace, and a few of the hard sweet candies that sat in a bowl on a table. She decided not to take any of the ornaments, even though some of them were doubtless quite valuable. She wouldn’t steal from someone who had been as kind to her as Jessica had been.

She waited until her breakfast was brought, and devoured it quickly. It would be best to leave with a full stomach, she thought. She figured to have at least four hours or so before anyone noticed she wasn’t there, and with a little luck no-one would be able to follow her until the storm died down. By the time they were organized enough to mount a serious expedition to recapture her - and Kaleah thought it unlikely even Jessica could convince them to - she would be long gone. She could hole up in a cave for a while, then continue her journey north.

Wrapping the blanket about her shoulders as a cloak, Kaleah softly opened the door and slipped out into the ill-lit corridor beyond, careful not to make a sound. Creeping outside, she was momentarily stunned by the freezing wind that blasted right through her, piercing to the very marrow of her bones. Shivering but undaunted by the challenge of the storm, Kaleah struggled her way out into the castle courtyard and across to the gateway and portcullis. Thankfully, the impressive iron gateway had been left open a little; the bottom teeth of the metal grid-work were suspended about three feet from the ground. Crawling under, Kaleah got to her feet on the other side and looked about with a hard smile.

She was free again.

Smiling grimly into the wind, she bowed her head and wrapped the blanket about her tighter. Blinking into the driving sleet, she started walking as fast as she could towards the distant forest and the caves she knew she’d find there. The thick blanket of snow and ice made for slow going. Her feet were already starting to go numb even with the protection of her boots. Snarling, she pressed forward despite the sense of unease stirring in her guts.

As she continued, the former slave wondered idly how long these storms lasted . . . and hoped it wouldn’t get any worse before she reached the safety of shelter.

As soon as Jessica entered Kaleah’s room late that afternoon, she knew even without looking that the woman was gone.

A quick glance showed her Kaleah had taken the flint and the blanket in addition to her armor and sword. Her mind worked instantly through what had happened, figuring that by now the dark woman was probably several hours into the worsening storm, no doubt headed for the safety of the caves in the deep forest.

"Damn!" Turning, Jessica ran quickly to search for Sir Miles, grabbing her sword as she left.

"What’s the matter, lass?" the old knight asked when she beat at his door, instantly reading her tension and fear.

"Kaleah’s gone," she reported breathlessly.

"Gone? Gone where?"

"Probably into the woods . . . but that’s just a guess."

"Hell!" Sir Miles covered his eyes in disbelief. "How long’s she been gone?"

Jessica shrugged. "Hours . . . since this morning I’d say. But again, I can’t be sure."

"And she went in this weather? She daft or somethin’?"

Jessica shook her head. "She’s probably never seen a storm like this," she explained. "I’m pretty sure she’s only been in the country a little while . . . this must be new to her. She wouldn’t know how dangerous it is."

Miles shook his head, thinking fast. "What can we do?"

Jessica fixed him with her most determined look. "I’m going after her," she said firmly.

"Jess, ye can’t just up ‘n’ go into a . . ." He saw the stubborn glint in her emerald eyes and sighed. "She could be dead by now . . . ye know that, don’t ye?"

"I know. But I’ve got to try and find her. There’s a chance she’s still alive. . . she’ll need my help."

"Aye." He could see there was going to be no dissuading her. He put his thoughts to helping her. "I kin come with ye. It’ll just take me a second-"

"No!" Jessica’s tone was stern. "I’ll go alone."

"Jess, don’t be stupid-"

"I’m not," she said calmly. "I can find her alone just as well as I can with you — there’s no sense risking both of us."

"Then I’ll go. Yer father’d kill me if he knew I let ye go alone."

She shook her head. "How would Kaleah react to you hunting her down?" she asked sensibly. "After yesterday, she’d fight you all the way. I need to do this alone. If I can find her . . ." She trailed off. "I don’t know what I’ll do, but I need to deal with it alone."

Sir Miles was reluctant to agree, but knew he had little choice. He loved Jessica like a daughter. He had never denied her anything. Recognizing the look in her eyes now, he nodded slowly. "Aye, lass. I guess I’d only be makin’ it worse, huh?"

She nodded. "I’m sorry."

He shrugged. "Ye’ll be needing a few things then, I guess."

"Aye."

"Well, come in then," he opened the door to his room invitingly. "I’ll get ye fixed up and ye can head out."

"Thank you, Miles," she smiled at him. "I appreciate this."

"Aye, ye better," he growled. "Now. . . let’s see what we need. . ."

She was on her way out into the freezing wind and blinding sleet only a few minutes later, prepared for her expedition. Sir Miles had supplied her with two heavy skin coats, a flask of whiskey and another of lamp oil, a coil of rope, a pair of wide-soled snow boots, several rolls of tough, salty trail meat, and a bundle of oil-skins to keep her things from getting soaked through. The old knight said he would inform her father once she’d set out. . . just to make sure he didn’t try to stop her going.

All in all, Jessica knew she stood a better chance than Kaleah ever would have, and she turned her foot-steps toward the woods, hoping against hope that she would not be too late.

Chapter 4.

Only after hours of fruitless searching, trudging through the forest on legs that felt more like frozen blocks of ice than living flesh, did Jessica finally find what she’d been looking for. Seeing the irregular lump leaning against the trunk of a massive oak, Jessica let an ecstatic cry escape her throat, although it sounded more like a garbled croak after her ordeal. Her steps, previously heavy with her exhaustion, now gained new strength as she struggled against the dimly filtered wind toward the snow-covered figure.

The trip had been grueling and had drained her energy faster than Jessica had ever imagined it would. Though experienced in surviving such storms as these, she understood it was only a matter of luck that had allowed her to find Kaleah. These woods were almost as familiar to her as Castle Da’Gran, but the weather made the place seem alien and strange. She knew where she was, and where to find shelter though . . . it was enough to give her at least a chance at survival.

"Kaleah!" she cried hoarsely as she approached. She was worried when the name did not elicit a response. "Kaleah?" Reaching the cloaked figure, she reached out a shaking hand and checked for a pulse before she noticed the woman shaking violently.

Kaleah’s blue eyes were fixed and staring, her lips blue and her bronze features bloodless and pale. The bruises on her face that were healing well stood out in an ugly purple shade. Ice had formed thickly across her dark eye-brows and down from her nose. Still, Jessica was relieved to note her teeth chattering, and her fingers clenching and unclenching as she tried to breath warmth into their joints. She saw the woman’s lips moving around the twitching spasms, and heard Kaleah speaking strange, foreign words in some kind of chant. The woman was still alive, and the fact that she still felt the cold meant she stood a good chance of making it through this. But Jessica knew they had to act quickly.

"Kaleah? It’s me, Jessica." She waved her hand in front of vacant eyes, trying to get the dazed woman’s attention. "Come on, snap out of it!"

Blue orbs focused reluctantly, and Jessica smiled encouragingly. "Are you okay? Can you walk? We need to keep going . . . do you think you can walk with me?"

Kaleah looked at her, finally understanding who this person was and what she wanted. Her mind seemed to have chilled and stopped working along with her limbs. She had never experienced cold such as this! Had never imagined such cold could exist! She couldn’t feel her feet, and her fingers were stiff and riddled with sharp pain. The wind was like a knife, stabbing at her mercilessly, freezing her blood and driving the sleet and snow that much harder against her. The shivering robbed her of her strength, and it had been a wonder she had made it even this far. But she had enough strength now to recognize Jessica . . . and to understand why she must be here.

"You w-w-w-won’t t-t-t-take me b-b-back there," she stammered, her teeth chattering helplessly. Her jaw ached from the constant motion. She pushed away from the densely coated blonde, summoning strength from her determination not to be recaptured.

Jessica shook her head, the danger of the storm more immediate than her concern over taking the woman back with her. "You don’t have to come back with me," she promised, "but we have to find a cave." She pointed deeper into the woods. "I know where we can shelter . . . a few hundred feet that way, I think. But we have to move now! Can you walk?"

Kaleah eyed her warily, and nodded. "I-I-I-I’m s-s-s-ssssoooo c-c-cold," she stammered, rubbing her hands together spasmodically.

"I know," Jessica said, trying to help the tall woman by wrapping one of her arms around her waist to aid her steps. "We can warm up if you can walk."

"I don’t n-n-n-need your h-h-help," Kaleah insisted with what anger she could muster, pushing the girl away and almost collapsing as she struggled to master walking on legs she couldn’t feel or control.

"Oh, sure. I can see that. Come on . . ." Wrapping her arms about the woman and guiding her faltering steps. "Just put your arm around my shoulder, and we’ll get there that much faster, okay?"

"I’m f-f-f-fine," Kaleah growled, frustration mounting again. Again she tried to push Jessica away, this time falling into the ice-slicked ground face-first.

Jessica’s patience was being tested. "I’m trying to help you, you idiot!"

"And I said I d-don’t n-n-need your h-h-help," Kaleah managed, her body weaker now than ever as she struggled to get up.

Jessica eyed her pathetic efforts with her hands on her hips. Kaleah’s eyes were sharp with rebellion and watched her sullenly as she tried to rise. The trees in the forest were bent over double in the storm winds, and she was sick and tired of this whole situation. "You want me to leave you here, is that it?" she yelled, her face now flushed with her frustration. "I can, you know! Just walk away and let you freeze to death out here!"

"I’m not asking you to stay!" Kaleah yelled back, her anger overcoming her chattering teeth.

Jessica threw up her hands in exasperation. "Why are you being so god-damned stubborn about this!?" she demanded. "I wanted to be your friend! I wanted to make your life better! Can’t you see that!?"

Kaleah finally got to her feet, never breaking eye-contact, and stood on shaky legs. Jessica was clearly at the end of her patience. She remembered wondering back in the dungeon what it would take to make this young woman truly mad . . . well, now she knew.

"My life was just fine before you came along," she said, glaring at the woman who, she kept telling herself, wanted to chain her to another year of servitude. It wasn’t easy though; her body was numb in a very painful way, leaking her resolution quickly. "I won’t be your slave," she said, trying to keep her anger alive, "no matter how nice you make the prison. I’m a free woman!"

"You think you’re free!?" Jessica demanded. She spread her arms to indicate the storm-gripped forest. "This is your freedom!? Great! That’s just fine with me!" She bent and scooped up a handful of snow, then hurled it at Kaleah in frustration. The dark woman tried to dodge, failed, and fell to the ground again. Jessica glared down at her. "You can stay here for all I care! You’re free to die in the ice and the snow, and no-one will remember you because no-one cares about you, least of all yourself!"

Kaleah looked up at her, shivering, hugging herself. It was obvious she was too weak to stand, but her eyes still held to the last vestiges of her rage. Jessica shook her head, struggling to get a hold of her frustration. She crouched next to Kaleah, who drew away.

"You may think you’re free, Kaleah," Jessica said, her voice barely audible over the wind, "but you’re not." She held the other woman’s gaze, her eyes intense and hard, daring Kaleah to look away. "You’re still a slave, because you still think and act like one. I wanted to teach you how to live your life-"

"I was surviving just fine," Kaleah scowled.

Jessica glared her down. "Is that all you want? Just to survive? To get through each day, not really going anywhere?" She shook her head. "If that’s true, then maybe I read you all wrong. I thought you were more than that. I thought you were someone worth the effort to try and save." She sighed. "Maybe I was wrong after all."

Jessica got to her feet, her anger exhausted. Kaleah watched her with a strange mix of anger, fear, and reflection. "I’m not going to fight with you, Kaleah. Now’s not the time," she said. "We need to find shelter or we’ll both die." She held out her hand in offering, not command. "Are you coming, or staying?" From her tone, it seemed she didn’t much care one way or the other.

‘You’re still a slave because you still think and act like one.’ The words burned in Kaleah’s mind. She realized they were true. She lived in the woods, shunning all contact unless she grew desperate. She still flinched whenever anyone held up a hand, always expecting the blow that never came. And she still couldn’t take care of herself . . . as much as she hated to admit it. Half a lifetime of slavery and servitude couldn’t be erased in just a few months.

Shivering, her body weak from the wrenching spasms of cold, Kaleah struggled and finally managed to reach out and clasp the offered hand.

Jessica hauled her up with surprising strength. "Do you need help walking?"

Kaleah shook her head. "I’ll b-b-be f-f-fine." The stutter was back as her anger dwindled and her teeth started chattering. Still, when she tried to take a step, her legs buckled and she fell forward. Jessica caught her and, ignoring her threats and attempts to get free, forced her arm over her own shoulder to assist. Kaleah, drained after a moment of struggling, gave up and let her.

The next few moments were filled only with the harsh breathing and stuttered remarks of the two women as they helped each other through the woods in the direction Jess hoped would take them to shelter. The journey seemed to take eons, but in fact took only a few dozen minutes, before Jessica finally spied the dark mouth of a cave that - thankfully - faced away from the storm.

"Almost there," she told her companion, indicating with her arm. Kaleah looked up and doubled her efforts as new life surged through her limbs.

Jessica half-dragged the taller woman into the cave and dumped her unceremoniously on the rocky floor. Moving with fixed precision, knowing time was slipping away, Jessica moved quickly to the back of the cave. As she had hoped, she found a stack of dead, dry tree limbs left by those last forced to shelter in the woods. Soaking a few of the smaller pieces of wood in the oil she’d brought, it was only a matter of moments before a healthy spark from the flint and striker resulted in the flickering glow of a small fire. Jessica carefully nurtured the life-giving warmth, occasionally glancing at her reluctant companion with some concern.

Kaleah sat where she’d been dropped, curled about herself and struggling to hold onto the blanket wrapped around her shoulders. She looked up in shock when light from the fire drenched the interior of the cave, then hungrily watched the crimson flickering as it grew. When Jessica looked at her she hastily found somewhere else to set her eyes, unwilling to admit she needed this help.

Jessica just smiled. The dark woman couldn’t be feeling too bad if she still had enough energy to be stubborn and proud.

Once she was satisfied the fire was okay for a time - and that the smoke from it was flowing out of the cave and wasn’t likely to suffocate them both - Jessica tossed her oil-skin bundle to the ground and, keeping in mind it was a life-or-death situation while trying to ignore her natural sense of modesty, stripped down to her underwear as quickly as she could. She lay her sodden clothes out on the ground as near the fire as she dared, then curled up on them and huddled close to the blessed warmth, pulling one of the thick, dry cloaks she’d brought over her shoulders.

Near the entrance to the cave, Kaleah watched her in shock, quickly and thoroughly stamping down her gut-level reaction to Jessica’s exposed body. She realized suddenly what the young blonde was doing, noticing that, while her armor and the blanket had provided much needed relief from the bite of the storm while she’d been in the midst of it, the soaked clothing was now keeping the icy cold pressed against her skin.

"If you want to make it through the night, I suggest you get your gear off," Jessica said to her from across the flames. She kept her tone carefully modulated, determined not to loose her temper again. Reaching over to her oil-skin bundle, she pulled out the flask of whiskey and took a long, shivering pull from the fiery liquid. Jessica was unused to alcohol of any kind - though she occasionally drank wine during festivals - and the harsh drink burned down her throat making her gag. "God . . . that’s nasty stuff," she gasped. "How can people drink this?" A moment later she felt the fiery liquid spread a pleasant warmth through her belly, so she took another swallow then glanced at Kaleah with a raised eyebrow. "Want some?"

Kaleah stared at her suspiciously. Jessica nodded and shook the flask invitingly. "It’ll help to warm you from the inside."

Kaleah thought of refusing but realized it was pointless. She was just too tired and, frankly, too scared to care about holding on to her sour mood. Her body was starting to experience sharp pain as the blood began to circulate again, and she couldn’t stand. Crawling shakily across the dirty stone ground she reached out and grabbed for the flask, thankfully drinking as much as she could handle. Tears sprang from her eyes, but she smiled a little.

"Thank you," she muttered.

"You’re welcome." Jessica allowed herself to smile a little in return. She watched Kaleah huddle down over the fire, putting her hands so close she was sure they’d burn. "Are you okay now?"

Kaleah nodded, her body still wracked with convulsions and sharp pain. But she’d be damned if she’d let this woman see her weakness. "I’ll be fine," she muttered, her breath misting in the air. Outside, the storm raged on and she glanced to the entrance of the cave nervously. "It’s cold."

"Bet you didn’t expect this when you ran, huh?" Jessica smiled wryly as she studied her shivering companion.

Kaleah glared at her. She was starting to hate that smile. "I-I thought I’d make it here quicker," she admitted. This cold was terrifying. She had no idea that a bit of snow could kill so quickly. "I’ll be fine once I’ve warmed up."

"Well you’re not going to get very warm if you don’t strip out of those wet clothes," Jessica informed her. Her corset and breeches were sodden but she wasn’t prepared to take them off — they weren’t exactly concealing, but she felt better for what little cover they provided. "You want some help with your armor?"

"NO!" Kaleah quickly drew back from Jessica’s already advancing hands. When she noticed the look of hurt on the young woman’s face, she scolded herself mentally. She was only trying to help, you idiot. "No," she said, gently this time. "I . . . I can manage it."

Jessica shrugged. "Fine."

Turning away, Kaleah reluctantly began to undo the buckles on her armor with stiff fingers. They were iced together and hard to get undone, but she persevered. She hated to expose herself like this; not for the sake of modesty — a slave couldn’t afford to be modest. But she knew the looks she would receive from Jessica when the young woman saw her body; she remembered the looks De’Livier had worn the first time he’d seen. Steeling herself, she shucked her armor and placed it on the ground near the fire to dry as Jessica had done, returning to the warmth of the flames in nothing but a pair of thin breeches. She dragged her long dark hair over her shoulders to cover her breasts somewhat. Looking at herself, she saw the flickering light cast the scars that covered her figure into vivid life, showing them stark white against the bronze of her skin. She was unhealthily thin from the starvation diet she lived on, her ribs standing out clearly in the firelight under lean muscle.

After a while, hearing nothing from her companion, she raised her eyes shyly.

Jessica was watching her with an expression of silent sympathy, tears running unchecked down her cheeks. Kaleah swallowed and shrugged, looking again at the marks of a thousand beatings . . . the evidence of a life lived in slavery.

"I’m so sorry," Jessica whispered, her voice barely audible over the howling of the storm outside.

Kaleah shrugged. "It’s not your fault," she said quietly, trying to remember the last time someone had cried for her . . . and realizing that no-one ever had. It felt surprisingly good, she marvled, to have someone care about you. She huddled nearer the fire. "But I won’t ever be treated like a slave again."

Jessica nodded in sympathy if not understanding. "The storm should die down by morning," she said. "If we can last the night, my father’s men should find us then. They won’t be sent out till dawn at the earliest."

Kaleah was a little surprised. "Won’t he send someone as soon as he knows you’ve come after me?"

Jessica shook her head and added another log to the fire. "He knows it’s too dangerous. He’ll trust I can take care of myself . . . that I’ll find shelter and wait till he can come get me. If we survive the night-"

"If?"

"We’re not out of danger yet. It’ll get colder as night falls. And if the storm lets up before the sun rises, there’s a chance wild dogs might come hunting. If they find us . . . well. Nothing either one of us could do would save our lives."

Kaleah eyed the storm outside nervously and started shivering all over again. It had been a long time since she’d been this scared. "I-I didn’t know it would be so dangerous," she admitted softly.

"I know." Jessica met the crystal blue eyes of her companion and smiled. "When they get here," she continued, "you can take the cloaks and equipment I brought and leave . . . if that’s what you want. I won’t make you come back to Da’Gran. Not against your will."

Kaleah frowned. "You’ll let me go?"

Jessica nodded.

"Then . . . why did you come after me?" asked Kaleah, shifting closer. "If not to drag me back there . . . why risk yourself in the storm?"

Jessica smiled. "You’d have died if I hadn’t. I knew that."

"So? Why would you care?"

A simple shrug. "I don’t know why," the blonde girl said softly. "I just do."

Kaleah studied her companion, trying to understand. "I don’t understand you," she stated quietly after a moment. "You hardly know me. Why would you go to so much trouble to save me, then just let me go free?"

"I want to be your friend," Jess explained patiently. "If being your friend means caring enough to let you go, then so be it. That’s what I’ll do." Green eyes settled on the flames. "I’m sorry I tried to force you into this whole thing," she said quietly. "Sometimes I get carried away and think everything’ll work out if I just want it to badly enough — like in the stories I read where there’s always a happy ending." A sigh. "I guess that’s pretty naïve, but it’s just how I am sometimes."

Kaleah struggled to grasp such selflessness. She’d never met anyone like Jessica before, had certainly never had another person risk their life to save her. Friendship was a concept she’d never experienced before, one that confused and puzzled her. Unwanted and unrewarded, the thing Jessica offered - no, insisted on giving - was something Kaleah wasn’t sure she knew how to return, something strange and against her nature. Yet her heart cried out with longing for such acceptance, even as her mind recoiled in fear.

And Kaleah knew eventually, her heart was going to win.

Suddenly the former slave recalled the strange experience she’d had the first time she’d seen Jessica; that bizarre connection that felt exhilarating and frightening at the same time. And she remembered Jessica’s blush when she mentioned that first direct eye contact.

"When . . . when we first met . . ."

"Yes?"

Those emerald eyes bore into her with quiet intensity, and Kaleah lowered her gaze, trying to find something else to look at. "Nothing." She couldn’t ask. "Never mind."

Jessica smiled and rubbed her hands together, feeling the pain start to dwindle in her extremities. "Were you going to ask about that weird thing that happened when we looked at each other for the first time?"

The look on Kaleah’s face at this made her laugh; the woman’s mouth hung open and her eyes were so wide they looked unnatural. "What’s the matter? You think you’re the only one who feel it?"

"I-I didn’t really . . . I mean, I wasn’t sure." Kaleah stammered. "I didn’t know what it was."

Jessica watched her closely, wondering. "Neither did I," she said. "I’ve never felt anything like it before. But it was one of the reasons I chased you down . . . one of the reasons why I wanted to get to know you better." She sighed and took another sip of whiskey. "Maybe I should have just left things well enough alone."

Hearing her tone, Kaleah felt a pang of guilt for causing the young woman to regret her kindness. "I’m sorry," she said softly. "I . . . I shouldn’t have acted the way I did. I just thought-"

"I know what you thought," Jessica said. "And I understand now why you thought it." Her eyes drifted over the scars on the dark woman’s body, trying hard not to notice how the firelight made her bronze skin almost glow . . . and failing miserably. The tall woman’s long, dark hair hung over her firm breasts, covering them but revealing enough to tantalize the eye. Her lean body was tense from the cold, and was covered in gooseflesh. This was the first time Jessica had seen another woman’s body so completely, and her heart started beating strangely fast.

Noting that Kaleah was watching her appraisal, Jessica quickly prevented her mind from wandering further down the road it had been about to travel . . . a road paved with the many stories she’d read of what women could share with one another. "I guess it’s hard to trust anyone when you’ve been through . . . this." She gestured to the scars as though she’s been studying them all along.

Kaleah squirmed, hating her marked body for it’s legacy of pain. "It is." She couldn’t meet the intensity of Jessica’s gaze and looked away. "I’m not used to people wanting to be my friend. You’re about the first person who’s ever really tried."

Jess grinned a little. "Sorry it didn’t work out." Her eyes wanted to continue their wandering, but she forced them to behave. "I really wish things had gone better between us." Her smile was gentle, but sad.

Kaleah allowed herself a slight smile in return. She could see the sincerity in Jessica’s green eyes and in the tears that tracked down her cheeks. Her heart was yelling at her frantically to surrender to this feeling she could feel growing inside her, and since her mind was still frozen by the storm, it managed to gain the upper hand before she could rally any arguments against it.

"If . . ." she started, then paused. "If I did come back to the castle with you . . . would I be allowed outside?"

Jessica stared at her, trying to keep her dawning hope from being too obvious. "I-I guess so," she stammered quickly, sitting up a little straighter. "I mean, sure, if you wanted too."

Kaleah pursed her lips thoughtfully. "If I wanted to leave, would you let me go without question?"

Jess nodded frantically. "Absolutely!"

Seeing the young girl’s barely contained excitement made Kaleah’s smile widen. "In that case . . . maybe we could give this thing another try. If you want to, that is."

Jessica’s grin took in her whole face and made her eyes dance. "You mean it?"

Kaleah nodded. "As long as we take it slowly. I’m not really sure how to do a friendship thing, you know?"

Jessica bobbed her head happily in assent. "Of course," she laughed. "No pressure . . . just somewhere nice to stay and company when you want it. At your own pace . . . no problem."

They shared a smile together, basking in a mutual understanding and common ground finally reached. Then, each growing a little too aware of how long they’d been staring, their eyes returned to studying the flickering fire with great interest.

Eventually however, Kaleah’s eyes were irresistably drawn back to her companion. The young woman lay half on her side, hands stretched over the fire to warm them. She was apparently intent on watching the flames dancing about, so Kaleah let her eyes wander a little, trying not to appreciate the fact that her new friend was clad only in her breeches and a rather sheer and wet corset which did little to hide her full breasts. Flushing, she looked away, wondering how the small fire was able to warm the cave so swiftly. Her eyes darted back from time to time — of their own accord, of course — and Kaleah noticed that her companion’s body carried it’s own weight of scars.

"Something the matter?"

Kaleah looked up and, from the playful and amused look on Jessica’s face, realized she’d been staring. "Oh. Uh, I-I was just noticing that you, uh . . . you have a few scars of you own there," she stammered, thankful her darker complexion did something to hide her blush.

Jessica examined herself and shrugged. "I’ve been fighting since I was old enough to hold a knife," she explained. "I participated in my first battle when I was twelve, and I’ve trained almost every day for the last ten years or so. These are the marks of a soldier . . . I’m proud of them. They show that I survived in spite of the pain." She picked at the stitches in her arm. "You’re the first person in over a year to contribute to the cause."

Kaleah looked away and smiled a little. "Sorry." Looking at her own body, her face dropped. "My scars aren’t like that," she said softly, unsure why she wanted to tell Jessica this. "They’re the marks of a slave — the only good thing about them is that they made me less desirable as a whore. At least they did after I gained enough of them." She rubbed a finger along the line that crossed her lips. "Especially this one. I remember I thanked God the day I was given this . . . I knew it would make me ugly so fewer people would want me."

"That’s not true," Jessica protested, sidling closer. "I think it makes you look even more beautiful."

Kaleah eyed her suspiciously. "You do?"

"Of course." Jessica’s hand wandered of it’s own volition up to gently caress Kaleah’s cheek, running her thumb slowly over the white scar and looking deep into sapphire eyes. "It draws attention to your lips . . . and makes your features stand out more." Unconsciously she rubbed Kaleah’s lips tenderly. "Nothing could make you ugly."

Suddenly, she noticed that Kaleah’s whole body was tense and coiled, frozen and unmoving. Her eyes held an expression that was half fear, half panic. Realizing the cause, Jessica quickly pulled her hand away.

"You don’t like to be touched, do you?" she noted with gentle curiosity, waiting till her companion relaxed a little. She made a mental note to continue the physical contact so Kaleah could get used to the idea that another person could touch you without wanting to hurt you.

Kaleah shivered a little and shook her head. "I learned to fear contact," she admitted softly. "People touch you . . . and this is what happens . . ." she pointed to one of the more viscous scars on her lean but muscular abdomen.

Jessica nodded, then, eyeing the oil-skin bundle she’d brought, she grinned. "Well if you don’t like physical contact," she said with her eyes laughing merrily, "you’re really not gonna like tonight’s sleeping arrangements."

Following her gaze, Kaleah wondered what she meant. Sleeping arrangements? What was she talking about? From her companion’s teasing grin, though, she had a feeling her night in the cave would be anything but restful.

The storm blew itself out by morning, it’s demise almost as sudden as it’s birth. One minute the gale was threatening seriously to uproot every tree in the whole forest, then, as though tiring of the sport, it settled down and all was quiet once more. The snows stopped, and while the sky remained thick with clouds, they no longer seemed dangerous or ominous in the least, but rather weary and nonchalant.

The two women rose with the sun, neither of them particularly anxious to sleep in . . . as enjoyable as the activity might have been.

Kaleah had almost refused point blank to allow the sleeping arrangement Jessica insisted on using, entailing as it did that they sleep curled up together under the two thick cloaks the young blonde had brought with her. After a half-hour of pointing out that sharing body heat was the only way they could survive the night once the cold really set in, Jessica had finally managed to convince her dark companion to let her snuggle up against her back beneath the furs.

Of necessity, the fire had burned down to little more than glowing embers once they retired, and the chill was every bit as deadly as Jessica foretold. Even with the two blankets and their shared body warmth, both women shivered through most of the night. The fact that they were both far too conscious of the other’s nearness for comfort only made things that much more unbearable. By the time the storm died and the sun reluctantly reclaimed the sky, both women were feeling irritable, exhausted and freezing cold . . . but determined not to spend another moment under the blankets.

They each struggled quickly into still damp armor, facing away from each other for privacy. Their clothing wasn’t particularly comfortable, but it beat waiting around in the icy cold in their meager underwear. They shared a joyless breakfast of trail meat and some of the boiled sweets Kaleah had taken, eating in silence that wasn’t noticeably uncomfortable, before turning their attention to the outside world.

"How long do you think they’ll be?" asked Kaleah, standing at the mouth of the cave and looking out at the peaceful forest, trying to reconcile the serene image that lay before her with the violence she remembered from last night.

Jessica joined her, squinting into the light. "Don’t know," she said. "Shouldn’t be too long though . . . they’ll know where the caves are and come to this area first."

Kaleah looked at the young woman, her eyes suddenly nervous. "What will you tell your father," she asked hesitantly. ". . . about me, I mean?"

Jessica looked up into her eyes and saw the apprehension there. She’d considered that problem herself during the long night. "Don’t worry," she said, reaching out and patting the taller woman on the shoulder, noticing her tense up and smiling at the response. She was going to make sure to keep up with the physical contact . . . get her used to it. "I’ll tell him you were worried about a friend you know out here and wanted to make sure they’d be alright in the storm."

Kaleah frowned, ignoring the tingling sensation her companion’s touch stirred up. "That doesn’t sound particularly convincing," she observed. "You’re father knows I’m not from around here."

Jessica laughed. "Oh, he’ll see through it in a second," she grinned. "But since we’re both here, alive and well — and since you’re coming back with us — he’ll just figure we had a few things to sort out between us, and now we have." She watched the roiling grey clouds for a moment. "My father trusts me. He’ll understand."

"If you say so." Kaleah was still nervous, then another thought occured. "What would you have told him if I’d decided not to come back with you?"

Jessica met her curious look and smiled. "I’d have told him the truth," she said softly.

"And what’s that?"

Green eyes held blue for a moment longer. "That you weren’t ready to let me help you . . . and that I didn’t want to force you to accept something you didn’t want."

Looking into those wet emeralds, Kaleah experienced the almost frightening sensation that she was falling into them and hastily averted her gaze, coughing a little to cover her nervousness.

"This friendship thing takes a while to get to used to, I suppose," Jessica smiled, seeing her discomfort. "Believe it or not, it’s hard for me too."

Kaleah looked at her in disbelief. "Y-you find this difficult?"

Jessica nodded.

"But you’re so, you know . . . outgoing."

The blonde laughed. "I guess I am, huh," she thought aloud. "I never really thought about it." She looked up at Kaleah seriously. "Still . . . you’ll be the first friend I’ve ever had who’s close to my own age, and who’s the same sex as me."

"Really?"

"Uh huh. There aren’t any female nobles around this area . . . at least none my parents are allied with. And my mother tears me down whenever I talk to the serving girls, so . . . this is new for me, too."

Kaleah remembered what the kitchen-maid had told her a few days ago, and it suddenly clicked in her mind that Jessica was lonely. The idea that the energetic, gregarious young blonde was just as much a stranger to this stuff as she was made Kaleah feel a lot more comfortable. It was nice to know she wasn’t the only one feeling awkward and unbalanced. The playful grin on Jessica’s face made her smile a little in return. "You know you could have picked someone a lot easier than me to try this out on."

Jessica giggled. "Maybe someone a bit less stubborn? But I would have missed out on this happy little excursion into the woods . . . that would have been a shame."

Kaleah couldn’t help herself and let out her own little chuckle. She wasn’t used to laughing, and tried to hide her face by letting her long dark hair fall forward. Jessica saw what she was doing, however, and reached out to pull the ebony locks away. Meeting clear blue eyes that seemed to sparkle with happiness for perhaps the first time, she smiled at the shy expression on Kaleah’s face.

"You should laugh more often," she said softly. "It’s good for the soul."

At that moment, the clear sound of a hunting horn rang out through the forest, it’s tone sharp and bold. Looking towards the sound they both realized the search party was some way away into the woods. The horn had been to attract their attention if they were in the area.

Jessica looked at Kaleah and shrugged. "Guess we better go meet them, huh."

"Yeah. I’ll, um . . . I’ll get the gear."

"Okay."
The dark woman retrieved the bundle of coats and equipment from inside the cave, then joined Jessica just outside the entrance. Handing over one of the coats to her companion, she donned the other and they started into the freezing, snow-covered forest.

"You really think this thing is going to work out?" Kaleah asked as they shuffled through the high snow.

"What thing?"

Kaleah gestured between the two of them. "You know . . . us. Being friends?"

"Oh, that." Jessica threw her a rakish grin. "Absolutely."

Together, the two continued on in companionable silence towards the sound of the still ringing horn, both aware of the subtle changes that had occurred between them. The first tender bonds of a lasting connection began to take firmer hold, and neither Jessica nor Kaleah felt any inclination to stop them.

Sir Richard met his daughter with little outward sign of relief, even though everyone knew how dangerous a threat the storm had been. With his typical lack of fanfare he greeted her return with a gruff "Mornin’ Jessica," before handing her the reins to Andromeda and turning his attention to her dark-haired companion.

"We didn’t bring a horse for you, young lady," he apolagized gruffly. "But I guess we can’t have you walking all the way back through the snow . . . you’ll catch your death of cold. Come here . . ." He reached down an arm to offer her. "You can ride behind me."

Kaleah eyed the offered arm, then the massive war-horse with trepidation. "I-I’ve never ridden a horse before," she admitted quietly. She glanced at Jessica as she mounted the smaller and nimbler Andromeda, envying her casual grace as she effortlessly controlled the beast. The grey mare seemed much less intimidating than the lord knight’s great steed. "I’d prefer to ride with Jessica," she said, hoping the knight wouldn’t take offense.

"I’m sure you would," Sir Richard smiled kindly. "But Andromeda can’t carry both of you safely in this snow. She sets her foot in a rabbit hole that might be hidden by the fall and it’d be the end of her. Don’t worry, lass. You’ll be safe enough with me. Just give me your arm and I’ll hoist you up."

Kaleah reluctantly did as instructed, and was roughly but not unkindly lifted onto the back of the war-horse behind Jessica’s father.

"Put your arms about my waist," Sir Richard instructed. "There you go . . . now, just grip with your legs and hold on to me. You’ll be fine."

"We’re not going to go too fast, right?"

"Aye, lass," he smiled, patting her hands that were clenched about his middle. "We’ll go slowly, have no fear."

Nodding her head and trying valiantly to quell the trembling in her body that being on the seemingly mountain-sized horse had sparked in her, Kaleah glanced back and was greeted by the sparkling eyes of her companion, who was trying hard not to laugh at her expression.

"So . . ." Sir Richard turned the small retinue of men that formed the search party back towards the castle, "what compelled you two to end up in the storm like this?" He glanced at Miles, who rode beside his daughter. "I’m afraid Sir Miles was a little vague . . ."

Jessica grinned at the old knight, knowing he could always be relied on to keep her secrets. He’d never betrayed her confidence, not since she’d been a child and he caught her stealing cookies from the kitchen. "We had something to do," she said, telling him the story she had formulated about Kaleah’s concern for her friend in the woods.

"Oh, aye?" Sir Richard raised an eyebrow at his daughter. "I trust they were alright?"

"Fine," Jess smiled, seeing from his expression that he didn’t believe a word of her story. "Everything was fine. We were on our way back to Da’Gran when we were forced to take shelter in the caves. Lucky we came prepared or it might have been worse." She looked at Kaleah, reminding her how completely unprepared she’d been for the savageness of the storm.

"Aye, well . . . if you’re smart you’ll think twice before going off like this again," Sir Richard grumbled. "I don’t want to be pulling your neck out of any more nooses you tie yourself . . . you’re getting too old to be needing my help so much."

Jessica settled down and gave her best impression of a meek and obedient daughter. "Yes father." Glancing at Sir Miles out of the corner of her eye, she saw him trying to restrain his laughter at her dutiful tones. She scowled at him playfully, then patted Andromeda. "I doubt we’ll be needing you to rescue us any more . . . right Kaleah?"

Kaleah, who was holding on for dear life and concentrating on not noticing how much she hated her position, could only nod her head. She’d be damned if she’d ever test the fury of a winter storm again — even her formidable will was no match against it’s power.

Freedom’s Heart Part 2.

Chapter 5

They spent the rest of the day in Jessica’s room, lying contentedly on her enormous bed and eating from a huge platter of food the servants brought them. Both had bathed and changed clothes, Jessica procuring a pair of trousers and a simple shirt and vest from the soldier’s barracks for her dark companion. The outfit was masculine and not particularly extravagant, but Kaleah insisted she preferred it to the dresses Jessica had offered to find; dresses she noticed the young woman didn’t seem too fond of herself.

Jessica’s bedroom was quite a bit larger than Kaleah’s, and was filled with rugs and tapestries, pieces of armor and various weapons, couches and cushions and tables and chairs. There were strategic maps of battle plans laid out next to glass vials of perfume, and neatly folded, elegant dresses sitting beside rumpled and torn peasant rags. Looking at the whole chaotic arrangement, Kaleah thought the room seemed almost at odds with itself, unable to decide if it belonged to a hard-as-nails warrior or a soft-and-sweet noble maiden.

It was, she decided, a good reflection of the woman who owned it.

The far wall was dominated by a huge granite fireplace framed by magnificently carved angels, each holding a double-edged sword pointing towards the ground. The room was lit now by the fire that had been laid within it, as well as the light of many mounted sconces. When Kaleah breathed in deeply, she could detect the perfume of vanilla and something her mind identified as being her young companion’s own particular scent; a musky combination of sweat and youth that was almost intoxicating.

Jessica did most of the talking, rattling off a few of the stories she’d read in her precious books, munching on the cheese, bread and meat that lay between them. For her part, Kaleah was content to just lie back and listen to the soothing tones of the young woman’s lilting voice, reflecting how nice this was after their ordeal.

Jessica finished the story she was telling and glanced at her companion. "Kaleah?"

"Hmmm?"

"I was wondering. . ?"

"Yeah?" Blue eyes opened her and regarded her lazily.

"Would you like to learn to ride?"

"Ride?" The dark woman sat up, curious. "You mean ride a horse?"

"Sure. I could teach you if you’d like."

Kaleah thought about it. "I don’t know . . ." She wasn’t sure she could handle one of the beautiful, noble creatures, yet at the same time was envious of the ease and grace with which Jessica rode Andromeda.

"It’d be a good skill to pick up," Jessica went on. "You could go wherever you wanted to go outside the castle. We could even go on rides together, you know. Into the forests and stuff."

Kaleah smiled at that, quite liking the idea of being out in the wilderness with the young woman. Maybe it would be good.

"I guess," she allowed.

"Great!" Jessica bounced up and down on the bed gleefully. "We can start whenever you want to . . . maybe tomorrow?"

"Sure, sounds good." She regarded the cheerful blonde seriously. "Do you still want to teach me to fight?"

Jessica saw her expression and calmed herself. "Only if you want to learn," she said quietly. "I’m really sorry about Sir Miles . . . he was only trying to help-"

"That’s okay," Kaleah interrupted. "What he said . . . about me controlling myself. He was right."

Jessica raised an eyebrow. "Really?"

Kaleah nodded. "I seem to have kind of a short fuse," she admitted softly. "When things go wrong, I loose my temper and lash out."

Jessica had noticed that about her new friend. She’d seen how Kaleah fought against the knight back in the bandit camp, had been impressed by her controlled, considered actions which downed the armored, skilled warrior without him coming close to even touching her. But while the older woman had started out controlled when they’d fought each other in the clearing, she had lost her patience as the duel went on and saw she was going to loose. And her fight against Sir Miles . . . well, she hadn’t even tried to keep her cool, lashing out viciously, her intent to kill stemming from her frustrations and feelings of powerlessness.

"I can understand that," Jess said, wanting to be compassionate. "And you’ve always been like that? Even before, when you were . . ?" Jessica let the sentence hang.

The dark haired woman shrugged. "Sometimes, yes, even when I was a slave — at least for a while." She smiled sadly. "It was something that got me into very bad trouble a few times, but I learned to deal with it. With freedom, it apparently came back. So Miles was right . . . I do have a lot to learn."

"I’m sure he’d be happy to continue the lessons if you’d like-"

Kaleah shook her head. "Not just now," she said quietly. "Would it be okay if . . . if just the two of us practiced together? Alone?"

Jessica grinned, her eyes dancing. This was more than she’d hoped for from the dark woman. "Of course," she said enthusiastically. "I’d love that."

Kaleah smiled herself, glad that her request had been so well received. "We could do some archery too, if you like?"

"Archery?" Jessica frowned. "I doubt I could teach you much about using a bow," she admitted easily. "Never really was my strong suite, if you know what I mean. I focused on the sword and knife."

"Really?"

"Uh huh."

Kaleah allowed her smile to turn into a rakish grin. "Well, maybe if you like I could give you a few lessons, huh?"

Jessica returned the grin with one of her own, reaching out and grabbing another slice of ham from the platter that lay between them. "That’d be nice," she said, lying back and looking up at the ceiling, which had been painted by skilled artisans into a now long-familiar scene of some religious event she’d never found out the story behind. She sighed happily, feeling her companion shift as she too lay back to regard the mural. "See," she said. "This isn’t so bad, is it?"

"I guess not," Kaleah allowed. She could feel herself quickly growing to like Jessica more and more now that she allowed herself to listen to her heart instead of her mind. It was a pleasant warmth that seeped into her blood and left her feeling relaxed and happy for the first time in a lifetime. "If I have to put up with someone’s company . . . you’re not such a bad choice."

Jessica laughed and slapped her playfully on the shoulder. "You just wait till you get to know me," she threatened with a chuckle, waving the meat around in the air. "I’ll wager there are soldiers in the barracks right now placing bets on how long it takes me to get us both in more trouble than we can handle."

"Oh? You seem harmless enough to me."

Jessica chewed on the ham and giggled. "This from the woman still bruised from our last encounter."

"Maybe I was having an off day," Kaleah growled, rubbing the still-tender marks on her forehead and face.

"Maybe."

They lapsed into silence for a moment, just enjoying the company and the filling meal after a night of hardship. Kaleah particularly enjoyed the various tastes her palette had never sampled as a slave, and she hummed as she bit into a piece of sweetmeat with relish.

"So," Jessica broke the silence and looked over at her dark haired friend. "You want to start tomorrow?"

Kaleah nodded, licking her fingers happily and not seeing the look that passed across Jessica’s face as she watched the unintentionally sensuous actions before dragging her eyes away, blushing furiously. "Provided the weather’s okay, sure."

"Great." Jessica steadied her suddenly racing heart-beat and closed her eyes. What is going on with me? she wondered. She knew about women who preferred the company of other women rather than men. She had even admitted privately that she found the idea rather intriguing . . . especially when she considered the fact that her wedding night — if it ever came about — wasn’t going to go as tradition might desire. But still, she had only known Kaleah a few days, and her mind seemed to constantly meander onto these strange, enticing pathways. Frankly, it was getting a little annoying.

Sure, the woman was spectacularly beautiful, and sure there was probably no harm in just looking; but the sermons Jessica had listened to since she was a little girl made it clear that any physical relationship between people of the same gender was a sin. Of course, Jessica had never really listened to these type of sermons — they seemed to say that God punished some kinds of love just because of a few physical differences. The line between right and wrong seemed awful blurry. So it wasn’t for the sake of her faith that she was worried by these thoughts . . . thoughts she’d had for a while now, but which had suddenly found a focus of attention. It was the fact that she wanted to be Kaleah’s friend. And just because she was trying to be friendly to the dark woman didn’t mean she wanted to be that friendly!

But still, the images of Kaleah that ran through Jessica’s mind even now continued to do everything they could to fan the flames that raced through her young body.

"Great," she repeated, smiling at Kaleah to cover her nervousness. "Tomorrow it is then."
Ho, boy! Jessica groaned silently. This friendship might be harder than I thought.

"No . . . come in low and then twist round to the right so you aim for the neck, like this, see?" Jessica went through the motions slowly, demonstrating the rather advanced attack routine for her attentive sparring partner. "You got it?"

"Sure."

They squared off and Kaleah attacked as instructed, hitting Jessica’s defense and then spinning around to strike high. She went slowly, getting a feel for the pattern, and was pleased when it went as intended.

"Excellent!" Jessica applauded. "You’ve got it perfectly."

Kaleah grinned at the praise. "Again?"

Jessica nodded and they continued the routine, making it familiar and testing it in combination with other patterns, some of which they had developed just between the two of them, finding what suited their particular styles of fighting.

It had been over a week, nearly two, since their return from the storm, and both women were pleased to find their friendship had grown stronger as time went by. Now that Kaleah no longer saw herself as a helpless captive, she allowed herself to enjoy the castle and it’s comforts. Jessica enjoyed playing host to the dark woman, showing her more of the great fortress and making sure she felt at home.

During the day, they practiced fighting or riding, sometimes reading or just watching the soldiers train . . . though Kaleah had not yet started instructing her young friend on the use of the bow. From time to time, Sir Miles would come by and watch them spar, though the elder knight seemed content to wait for them to ask for his suggestions or invite his participation.

Sometimes, they would sit in Jessica’s room and play chess for hours. Kaleah had proven to be a quick study of the game, learning its intricacies with ease. Jessica recognized the sharp mind and keen intellect behind her friend’s intense blue eyes, and knew she had been right about Kaleah being a smart woman. But more than simple intelligence, the former slave seemed to possess an innate understanding of all manner of things; she played chess using complex strategies that left even Jessica baffled. She noticed minor things that others would miss. And she learned new fighting moves so quickly it was like she’d been born with a sword in her hand.

The dark woman adjusted well to castle life. Usually restless and filled with an animal energy, Kaleah was surprised to find that she didn’t feel trapped in her new home anymore. And although she had always preferred solitude after her release from slavery, Kaleah found herself feeling lonely whenever Jessica was not by her side. The young woman was lively and spirited; the people loved her and she gave of herself willingly . . . mostly to Kaleah herself. Though hesitant about trusting her undeveloped social abilities, Kaleah found that she was quite capable of enjoying spending her time with the vibrant blonde.

Kaleah also spent much of her time in the castle’s smithy. Jessica had introduced her to Sutton, the master smith, a short man with the unusually muscular arms of those who worked with forge fires all day, lifting the heavy hammers to pound out the red-hot metal into it’s desired shape. Although Sutton was an expert at his craft, Kaleah had learned weapon-smithing techniques from a man who’d spent his entire life perfecting one specific field of metal working; the art of forging swords. While Sutton may have been talented in all areas, De’Livier had been an artist, and Kaleah an attentive pupil. The dark woman made sure to spend a few hours whenever she could with the smith, showing him a few of the advanced techniques she had learned. Amazed to find so skilled a tutor, Sutton was only too happy to absorb all he could.

Of course, at times Kaleah still felt the need to distance herself from the other inhabitants of the castle. There were times when the constant presence of people around her raised the dark and ugly memories from her past. During these times, she generally sought out the heights of the lookout parapet. Far above even the castle walls, Kaleah would sit in her lofty perch and look out onto the surrounding land, enjoying the peace and freedom that such height afforded her. Sometimes at night, she could look out to the north and see the lights of the village that lay just a few short miles from the castle; close enough that the peasants could seek sanctuary within the great fortress should an enemy attack, yet far enough away to retain their autonomy and space.

When Kaleah asked Jessica about the village, the young woman explained that she’d never really been there that often — just when passing through on the way to somewhere else. She knew there were a few dozen families in the village . . . a few hundred people in all, mostly workers and farmers. Beyond that, her only contact with the peasants was when they journeyed to Da’Gran in the quest for justice.

Kaleah had learned from Jessica that every Saturday, Sir Richard, as reigning lord of a large area of land called a ‘vassal,’ held court within his audience hall. Any and all who dwelt on the lands under his protection could come and petition him for aid in whatever problems they were having. Sometimes, they asked for protection from roving packs of bandits like the one Kaleah had been with when she’d been taken. Sometimes they asked for Sir Richard’s judgement on a dispute or when a crime had been committed. And sometimes they came seeking the help of the lord knight and his soldiers for such things as the training of men for a militia, or the building of a protecting wall for their village. Jessica had informed Kaleah that her father ruled over some seven fair-sized villages . . . all in the name of the King of England, of course.

The day following this judgment, Sunday, was a traditional day of rest and observance of religious activities. Born in a land far distant and then abducted as a child by Godless slavers, Kaleah knew little and cared less for such matters. She had rarely prayed to or thanked any God for the life that had been thrust upon her — such deities rarely listened to her words. She was a little surprised when Jessica informed her that she did believe in God, and spent a few hours every Sunday thanking him for his bounty, and asking for continued good health and fortune for herself, her family and the common people everywhere.

The practical side of Sunday, as far as Kaleah was concerned, was that no work was permitted during this time. This meant a day of relaxation and enjoying the company of her young friend.

Jessica taught Kaleah to read more than she had ever known before, and they spent a bit of time looking through the books of history and lore of England and the nearby lands of Scotland, Ireland and Wales. From her reading, Kaleah gained a greater understanding about exactly what Sir Richard did in his service to the King. She learned about the way the land was divided among the noble lords, barons and earls who, in exchange for the lands and power they were given, were expected to maintain the lives of the common peasants and also provide soldiers for the seemingly constant string of wars this land fought. These caretaker’s were generally free to fight amongst themselves as they saw fit, feuding and allying back and forth, occasionally launching serious assaults, but rarely actually gaining any tremendous degree of power. As long as the lands were safe and his armies supplied, the King seemed content to look the other way.

Thinking now as she continued to fence almost playfully with Jessica, Kaleah identified that today was Thursday. The thought brought a frown to her face. Thursday nights Jessica was expected to attend dinner with her family, the leading knights and the captain of the guards in the audience hall. That meant Kaleah would be alone tonight, which instantly made her feel depressed. She enjoyed eating her meals with Jessica, relaxing in the young girl’s company where she felt safe and protected. She hated Thursday nights.

Seeing her partner’s concentration wavering, Jessica pulled back. "What’s wrong?"

Kaleah shook her head. "Nothing," she replied, trying to think of something fun to do to revive her spirits. "Hey, you want to head over to the archery field? You’ve been putting me off long enough, I think."

Jessica smiled and wiped sweat from her brow. "I guess so," she agreed cheerfully, sheathing her rapier. "But I warn you, I’m not very good."

Kaleah dusted herself off and returned her own weapon to the scabbard at her side. "Don’t worry. I’ll show you what to do."

"Hey there, young lady!" called a deep voice from the wall of the inner keep. Looking up, the two fencing partners saw Sir Richard leaning against a stone pillar, watching them.

"Hello, father," Jessica called, waving.

Kaleah, remembering she was a commoner in the presence of nobility, effected a graceful curtsey with deep sincerity. In the last week, she had grown to rather like the lord knight, who treated her respectfully and with an almost fatherly sense of familiarity that Jessica found particularly entertaining.

"Good morning, Milord," she said.

Sir Richard waved her gesture away as he walked down the flight of steps that led to the courtyard from the wall. His sharp eyes took in their sweaty faces and the disheveled looks earned from over an hour of practice.

"I’ve been watching you girls all morning," he said, fixing his gaze on Kaleah. "I must say, young lady, you’re every bit as formidable as my daughter led me to believe."

"Thank you, Milord." Kaleah felt herself flush with the praise. It meant almost as much to her as Jessica’s words of encouragement.

"Aye . . . aye." Sir Richard seemed to think for a moment, before he continued. "You’re from a Spanish school of training, aren’t you?"

Kaleah was a little taken aback. "Y-yes, milord. My former master was a teacher in the fencing academy for a time. He trained me."

"Aye, I recognized your style." He eyed her thoughtfully, taking in her fine armor, confidant stance, and finally the beautiful Spanish blade hung comfortably below the line of her hips.

"She’s a quick learner, father," Jessica jumped in, happy to talk with her father about her friend. "A natural fighter. She’ll surpass my skill before the year is out."

Sir Richard raised an eyebrow at this. "Oh, will she?" he asked, noticing the excitement in his daughter’s expression. "Well, I trust you won’t make it easy for her, will you?"

Jessica laughed. Kaleah could only blush at this praise. She knew she had a long way to go before she was in the same league as her younger friend. "I believe your daughter flatters me overmuch, Milord," she smiled.

"Oh, I wouldn’t be so sure," he mused, rubbing his bearded chin in consideration. "I watched you just now; you could go a long way."

Sir Richard was a sharp man, and he was proud of the fine young woman his daughter was growing into. In the last few years, however, he had seen Jessica grow more and more desperate for someone to talk to besides the soldiers and knights. She wanted — needed — a friend, so Richard had granted her request for custody of the dark-haired foreigner.

At first, things had seemed to go poorly. While Miles would not comment on the incident that occurred during their first training session, the lord knight picked up bits and pieces from other soldiers who had witnessed the fight. He had suspected dire things when his old friend came to him and told him of Jessica’s flight into the deadly storm, but had trusted his daughter to be smart enough to get through the night in one piece. He had expected the tall, scarred woman to be gone by the morning, but had seen immediately that the two young women had apparently sorted things out between themselves.

Now, Sir Richard could see for himself that he had made the right decision. Jessica and the barbarian woman sparred with a cheerful, almost playful comraderie, their styles different but somehow complementary. His wife had argued long and hard against allowing Jessica anywhere near this ‘heathen savage’, but Sir Richard was pleased to see his beloved daughter so happy with her new friend.

That in mind now, he decided it was time to get to know this ‘Kaleah’ a little better . . . if for no other reason than the fact his interest seemed to please his emerald-eyed child.

"Anyway, that’s not the reason I came out here. Jessica, tonight’s our dinner night . . ." He smiled at her muffled look of dismay. "Come now," he said gruffly. "We hardly see you anymore at meals. Don’t deny your father one night a week of your company."

"I know," she said softly, looking at her feet. "It’s just . . . Mother makes things difficult." Lady Rose was pushing about the damned marriage again.

"I understand," Sir Richard patted his daughter’s shoulder, knowing she’d been scrambling for another plausible excuse to delay her wedding . . . again. "But I was wondering if tonight maybe you might like to invite your friend here to join us." He indicated Kaleah, smiling at the shocked look on her face. "I’m sure she’d be a welcome addition to the table."

Jessica stared at her father in disbelief, wondering if she’d heard right. "You want Kaleah to come to dinner?"

"Certainly." He raised an eyebrow at the dark woman. "What do you say, young lady?"

Kaleah could only nod dumbly, she was so shocked. "Of course, Milord. I would be honored."

"Good then. It’s settled." He clapped his hands together in satisfaction and smiled at the two stunned women. "Should be an interesting night, eh, Jess?" He winked at his daughter, then turned and ambled away back up the stairs and into the keep.

Jessica and Kaleah just stared at each other. Seeing their own look of shock reflected in the others face, they burst out laughing — something Kaleah had found herself doing a lot more of lately.

Calming herself, Jessica could only shake her head. "I believe we were discussing a trip to the archery range?"

Kaleah wiped a tear from her eye and nodded. "That we were," she agreed. They started off again. "Are you okay with me coming tonight?" she asked, not wanting to intrude on Jessica’s time with her family.

The blonde looked at her in disbelief. "Are you kidding? It’ll be great! I could use another friend at that table."

Kaleah grinned, happy. "I think you overdid things a little there . . . saying I’d be as good as you within the year."

"I was perfectly serious," Jessica said firmly.

"You were?"

"Of course." She looked the taller woman up and down. "I’ve trained as a fighter my whole life to be as good as I am, right?"

"Uh huh."

"How long have you been training?"

Kaleah considered for a moment, then shrugged. "I don’t know . . . maybe a year, give or take a few months."

"There you go." Jessica grinned and patted her on the arm. "In a year, you’ve learned enough that you could lay a blade on me in a serious fight." She held up her arm, where the stitches had been removed from the wound and the scar showed to be healing nicely. "You’re a natural fighter, Kaleah. You have a talent for this stuff I don’t. Frankly, I’ve never seen anyone learn as fast as you are — it’s kinda spooky how quick you pick up new moves."

Kaleah frowned, her dark brows contracting thoughtfully. "You really think that?"

Jessica threw her hands up. "God, you don’t take praise very well, do you?" She laughed as her companion blushed. "Yes, I really think so. I’ve learned to fight since I was a little girl because I had more of my father’s blood in me than my mother’s. But it doesn’t come naturally to me like it does for you. Trust me, in a year, you’ll be more than my equal."

"So . . ." Kaleah’s brow wrinkled in thought, "your father saw how good I am, and now he’s a little more interested in me, is that it?"

"I suppose so." Jessica considered a moment, then continued. "That wasn’t why he offered the invitation, though."

"It wasn’t?"

"Uh uh." She locked her eyes with her companions. "He was accepting that you and I are friends," she said. "He was letting me know that he approves of us spending so much time together . . . and that he likes you."

"He was?" With a simple dinner invitation?

"Sure. You see," she explained, "I usually spend most of my time alone, or training with the soldiers. But we’ve been spending a lot of time together the past week or so, and that’s unusual. People have probably been wondering who you are and why you’re suddenly a guest in the castle ever since you got here."

Kaleah was confused. "Why don’t they just ask?"

"Because it’s not their place to ask questions," Jess said patiently. "I’m nobility, and they’re just commoners." From her tone, it was clear Jess thought little of this notion. "My father invited you to dinner because he wants to show my mother and the important people in the castle that you’re not just here as a servant, you’re here as my companion." She paused, considering. "And he’s probably doing it also because he figures it’ll make him more popular with me," she grinned. "And he’s right."

"What do you mean?"

Jessica patted her on the shoulder. "He figures I’ll appreciate it if he makes an effort to get to know you . . . to be kind to you."

"Your father’s already nice to me, Jessica."

"I know that, but that’s just because he’s nice to almost everyone. This is his way of accepting you as a part of my life." She continued on a few steps before she realized Kaleah wasn’t following. Puzzled, she stopped and turned around. "What’s wrong?"

Kaleah’s expression was shy and vulnerable, her sapphire eyes startlingly open as they peered out from under dark bangs. "Do you mean that?" she asked softly.

"Do I mean what?"

Kaleah hesitated, seeing her companion’s brow crinkle in confusion. "Th-that I’m a part of your life?"

Jessica watched the instant of fear in Kaleah’s sapphire eyes, and for a moment she was filled with rage at the people who had put such fear into this woman. People who had made Kaleah hesitate every time she reached out to accept something offered to her, for fear it would be snatched away. Made her flinch whenever someone reached out to touch her. And in an instant of insight, Jess realized that this fear would always be a part of Kaleah. It was permanent. No matter how much kindness she showed her friend, no matter how often she told her she cared, a part of Kaleah would always be waiting — expecting — this friendship to be taken away.

For that moment, Jessica felt her hatred for the slavers flare, and she knew there was nothing she could do except try to make Kaleah understand that, though the past could never be erased or forgotten, it couldn’t hurt her anymore. So she smiled and nodded, reaching out and squeezing the dark woman’s arm. "You’re a very important part of my life now, Kaleah," she said sincerely. "A part that means a great deal to me. I mean that."

Kaleah nodded, relishing the physical contact that would have caused her to shy away just a week ago. "Thank you," she whispered.

Jessica squeezed Kaleah’s arm then released her. "Come on," she said, smiling again to relieve the seriousness of the moment. "We have an archery range to get too."

Grinning and happy once more, the two young women headed off once more towards their appointment with a bow and a quiver of arrows.

Tired and aching after their practice at the archery field, the two women headed back to Jessica’s room to prepare for the dinner just as the sun began to disappear over the distant horizon. The day had turned out to be quite pleasant for them both, with Jessica enjoying the lessons more than she should have; Kaleah had found it necessary to mould their bodies together as she demonstrated correct form and stance to the young blonde. Jessica found the delicious contact highly distracting, unable to prevent herself from taking guilty pleasure in the feeling of Kaleah’s body pressed tightly against her own.

Beyond that, Jessica’s shoulders, arms and back were now stiff and sore from the unusual exercise, and she stretched herself as she and her companion entered her room, shutting the door behind them.

"Uhgh . . ." She groaned, rolling her neck from side to side, trying to ease the tension. "I’m not looking forward to tomorrow."

"Oh?" Kaleah just grinned at her happily. "A few hours of archery and you’re ready to quit already? Some tough warrior maiden you are."

Jessica laughed and threw a cushion at her playfully. "See if I ever agree to another lesson like that," she threatened under her breath, knowing full well her friend would hear her. She’d noticed Kaleah had remarkable hearing.

"What was wrong with my lesson?" asked the dark woman, seating herself on the enormous bed. "I think I did quite well, considering what I had to work with."

"Hmph!" Jess frowned and pretended to grumble as she began sorting through her wardrobe for something presentable to wear to the dinner. From the corner of her eye, however, she watched her new friend and had to grin, feeling a bubble of happiness stir deep inside.

Over the past week, Kaleah had started to shed a lot of her stiff and stony shell as she allowed herself to enjoy life more and more. At times, she could actually be quite playful and cheeky. Their conversations still tended to be rather one sided, but Kaleah was starting to say more. She still didn’t laugh very much, and when she did she tended to hide her face behind her long dark hair, but it was a good start. They were comfortable together, and the friendship that had taken root in the harsh chill of the storm was now strong — and growing stronger every day. This dinner would be an interesting step for them both, Jessica knew. It would show Kaleah more of what her life was like, and would also demonstrate to her family that the dark-haired woman was here to stay.

"It would have been nice to get a bath in," she commented, smelling her armpit and wrinkling her nose a little. She grabbed a bottle of French purfume from the dresser and used it to cover the smell of sweat that clung to her body, then handed it to Kaleah.

Kaleah watched the young blonde a little nervously as she selected a long, beautiful green dress and held it against her body thoughtfully. "Wh-what should I wear?" she asked shyly, looking at her muddy, sweat-stained clothes.

Jessica glanced at her and saw the look on her face. "Well . . . I doubt you’ll fit into anything I have. I could go borrow a dress from one of the servants, if you’d like."

Kaleah eyed the rich garment the blonde held and shook her head. "I don’t like dresses," she said softly. Dark images rose from the depths of her mind from the days of her slavery, and she shuddered. "I’d prefer to wear trousers and a shirt, if I could. I don’t suppose I could just wear my armor . . ?"

Jessica shook her head. "It’s a formal dinner. But I guess if you don’t want to wear a dress, you could just change into another outfit like what you’re wearing now."

"These are men’s clothes," Kaleah pointed out. "From what you’ve told me of your mother, I doubt she’ll like me wearing them."

Jessica shrugged and started stripping out of her sweaty armor, turning away from Kaleah, who blushed a little and found something interesting on the wall to study intently. "My mother won’t like you no matter what you wear," Jess said, her voice noticeably frosty. "If you wore a fancy dress, she’d say you were trying to act above your station in life. If you wore a smelly deerskin, she’d say you were just as barbaric as she thought you were, and should be sent outside to be with the animals." She started to struggle into the folds of the dress. "Wear whatever you’re comfortable with. No-one will mind."

Kaleah frowned and played with the covers of the bed idly as she waited for Jessica to finish getting dressed. "Will everyone feel the same as your mother?" she asked tentatively. She was used to being mistreated, ignored and abused, but outright hatred for no reason was something she had rarely experienced.

"Not everyone," Jessica assured her, reaching back and trying unsuccessfully to tie the laces at the back of the dress. "Could you help me with this?"

Kaleah glanced up and saw her problem. "Sure." She got up and started to tighten the cord with deft, sure fingers. "It sounds like you and your father are the only ones who want me at this dinner."

Jessica swept her hair over her shoulder and held it out of the way. "My mother and brother won’t like you," she said, "but Sir Miles thinks you’re okay."

"He does?" She finished lacing the cord, and tied it off with a simple bow. "Even after I . . ."

"Tried to take his head off?" Jessica turned around and face her taller friend, smiling. "He understands you were angry and frustrated. Believe me, I’ve done the same thing once or twice myself." She thought for a moment. "The captain of the castle guard probably won’t care one way or the other about you; in fact, he’ll probably be pleased you’re keeping me out of mischief. He doesn’t like me all that much — thinks I’m too good a fighter for a woman. I think Eric Grace, my father’s advisor, thinks you’re quite a good thing for me. His apprentice will be there, too. His name’s Senigma, and he’s a rather quiet sort. Very polite. He’s about your age, though, so he’ll probably be happy to have another pretty face to look at for the night."

Kaleah flushed and lowered her face to hide it. "What about the others?"

Jessica thought. "There’ll be a few of the veteran knights there," she said, "and Father Grahem the minister, who’ll either think it’s great that we’re doing our Godly duty to help the foreign heathen, or else will want you banished from the castle forever. I’d bet on the first one, though." She put her hands on Kaleah’s shoulders and looked her in the eyes seriously. "I’ll be there," she said softly. "The people who won’t like you will be the same people who don’t like me. Just ignore them . . . they’re no better than you are, no matter what they think or say."

"You really think so?" Kaleah asked shyly.

"I thought so the first moment I laid eyes on you," Jessica whispered. "You’re someone special, Kaleah. Even if you don’t believe it, you’re something worth more than all of them combined." She smiled and patted the dark woman. "Go get changed," she nodded to the door that led to Kaleah’s room. "I’ll wait here till you’re ready, then we’ll go."

Kaleah smiled and nodded. Just as she reached the door, though, she turned around. "Jessica?"

"Hmmm?" The blonde head looked up from a critical self-appraisal.

"Thank you."

Jessica smiled radiantly, an expression that shot straight to Kaleah’s heart and spread a slow burn through the rest of her body. "You’re welcome," the blonde said softly. "Now hurry up or we’ll be late."

Smiling, feeling better about herself and the coming dinner than she had before, Kaleah opened the door and went to get changed . . . wishing as she did so that they hadn’t spent quite so long at the archery range. Jessica was certainly right about that, she grinned to herself.

A bath was, indeed, requisite.

Kaleah had been to the audience hall before with Jessica, but never like this. She tried to quell the butterflies that started fluttering in her stomach, swallowing nervously. The restless energy that marked so many of her more irrational tendencies started to simmer.

Jessica noticed her jumpiness and reached out to squeeze her hand. "Relax," she whispered as the doors were swung open by the ever-present guards. "Just hold your head up and act like you own the place. Remember, if you look confidant and in control, they’ll be put off balance. You’re better than they are. Just keep thinking that and you’ll do fine."

Kaleah nodded and straightened her posture according Jessica’s instructions. She let a mask of confidence fall over her face, adding a slight smile she thought would make her appear haughty and amused by the proceedings. Her muscles tensed and she let her inner strength and power radiate from her — something she had learnt not to do as a slave.

Inside the great hall, the huge oak table was laden with platters of food: roast boar, venison, and pheasant, along with fruits, breads and cheeses of every shape and variety that Kaleah could imagine . . . and several that she was sure she could not have. A group of musicians were gathered in one corner of the room, playing a soft but cheerful melody, and hunting dogs lounged about under and around the table, waiting to clean up any scrapes that might fall to the ground. The rest of the people had already assembled, and they rose to their feet as the two young women entered, most bowing slightly to Jessica.

A servant pulled out their seats, and they took their places at the table. It was strange to be on the receiving end of such service, and remembering her roots, Kaleah made certain to smile and offer her thanks to the servants. She was grateful to find herself seated with her friend at her right hand side, and a young man about her age on the left whom she assumed was Senigma. She nodded to him slightly and he smiled.

"Nice of you to join us, Jessica," Sir Richard said from his place at the head of the table. "Perhaps next time you could drag yourself away from your training a little earlier so as to arrive at the same time as everyone else?"

Jessica just beamed a crooked smile at her father and nodded agreeably. "Certainly father. I apologize."

Kaleah had to concentrate hard not to let her mouth hang open in surprise; her friend’s voice had changed completely! Where before there had been the lilting accent she had heard among many of the soldiers, now there were the cultured and demure tones of a true noble maiden. She should have known it was odd the way Jessica spoke in such a common manner, but in truth, had never really thought about it.

Glancing to the head of the table, Kaleah found she was being studied by a woman sitting to Sir Richard’s right. The woman looked familiar, and she realized this must be Jessica’s mother - the Lady Rose Da’Gran.

The woman was taller than Jessica, with blonde hair that looked much redder than her daughter’s. Her features were classic and beautiful, even though she looked to be near her fortieth year. Her eyes, Kaleah could see, were green, but not the same vibrant green of wet emeralds that Jessica’s were, but rather a dull and lack-luster green that didn’t seem likely to sparkle or shine. Her expression as she studied Kaleah was one of haughty disdain. Kaleah, refusing to back down and repeating over and over in her head the words, They’re not better than you. They’re not better than you, returned the look with one of her own.

She broke away from Lady Rose’s glare when a plate was placed in front of her, already laden with food. She smiled a thanks to the servant, then, seeing that everyone else had already started eating, picked up the knife and fork that came with her meal and somewhat clumsily cut into a succulent looking side of venison. These people were obviously accustomed to using the cutlery, which Jessica informed her were a recent addition that had come into use in the courts of France.

As she ate, Kaleah listened to the conversations going on around her. True to her breeding, Jessica was acting the part of interested listener to the man seated at her right, who, Kaleah decided, must be the castle’s minister. The conversation seemed to be about her, she realized, hearing the man mention that Jessica was doing a "truly noble and generous thing, taking in a savage heathen like her (a general gesture). . . an act befitting one of true faith and sure to be looked on with favor by the Almighty." Jessica, for her part, was smiling and agreeing with the man. For a moment, she turned to glance at the "heathen" in question, and Kaleah saw her wink slightly, grinning cheekily. Kaleah grinned a little herself, before returning to her meal.

The former slave could feel many sets of eyes watching her with intense curiosity, like she was some rare and possibly dangerous animal, brought here this evening as an entertaining spectacle. Some eyed her with outright hostility — Jessica’s mother and the young man she assumed was her friend’s younger brother being chief among the enemy ranks. Sir Richard, who was talking with Sir Miles on his left, occasionally glanced her way and nodded with a friendly smile, but he was too far from her to initiate much small talk.

Reaching for her cup, Kaleah took a long sip to settle her nerves, pleased to find it was filled with nothing more potent than cold water. As she set it back down, she saw her hands were shaking slightly. She could feel the nervous energy building under the scrutiny of these people. Kaleah had never liked crowds, never liked the feeling of being judged. A life in slavery had taught her the value of being inconspicuous — being seen and discarded from thought quickly was better than being singled out. The sudden familiar need to escape twisted her guts. Her throat started to tighten up, her muscles tensed for action.

Then a hand reached out and rested reassuringly on her knee, squeezing gently. Looking to her right, Kaleah locked eyes momentarily with Jessica. Her young friend had clearly sensed the panic rising, and reached out to comfort her. The soft, understanding expression in those wet emeralds held a quiet sense of compassion that instantly settled Kaleah’s nerves. It only lasted a moment before Jessica turned back to her conversation with the holy-man, but her hand remained on the dark woman’s knee, soothing her.

Kaleah closed her eyes, blocking out the rest of the world, and concentrated on the comfort she found in the touch of her friend. Taking several deep breaths to steady herself, the former slave patted Jessica’s hand to indicate she was alright now. The hand gave a final squeeze, then retreated.

Calm once more, Kaleah looked about and found the young man to her left smiling at her slightly, his eyes interested and friendly.

The young man . . . what was his name? Senigma? Yes, that was it . . . leaned closer in conspiracy. "Like watching a pack of hungry lions, isn’t it?" he whispered to her, nodding towards the other guests who were still appraising the dark stranger at their table.

Kaleah nodded, casting her eyes over to the head of the table where Lady Rose continued to eye both her and Jessica with malice. "I get the feeling I’m not the most popular person at the table," she replied softly, aware for the first time in a long time how her own accent separated her from other people in this land, marked her as different.

Senigma smiled, and Kaleah took a more detailed inspection of him. He was slender for a man, with a pale look that identified him as more a scholar than a fighter. His features were a little too narrow and foxish to be considered truly handsome, but he was not unattractive. He had a refined air about him, and a rather stiff and formal way of moving, as though he considered every action carefully before committing himself to it. His voice was the same, clipped but smooth, every word carefully enunciated and clear. His eyes were light hazel, and carried a calculating intelligence that told Kaleah instantly he was wiser than his years would indicate.

"You’re Kaleah, aren’t you?" Senigma had performed his own brief scrutiny, and was now smiling a little wider.

She nodded.

"I’ve seen you about the castle with Jessica," he said, looking her up and down swiftly. "I must say, you’re not half the demon that some have made you out to be."

Kaleah couldn’t help but grin mischievously. "Just wait till you get to know me."

Senigma rested his fork on the table and held out his hand in greeting. "I’m Senigma Wright," he said as they shook hands. "A pleasure to meet you."

"You’re the apprentice to Sir Richard’s adviser, aren’t you?"

Senigma lowered his head in modest confirmation. "Apprentice adviser, alchemist and occasional healer . . . in a clinch," he said. "Though my main interest is more in the alchemy side of study. I still like to have a clear understanding of law and politics . . . one never knows when such knowledge might come in handy."

"Right." Kaleah, who had no interest in any such things just agreed to be friendly. No point alienating someone who was being nice to her, she thought.

"You’re Jessica’s . . . guest, are you not?" Senigma inquired pleasantly.

"Something like that."

He smiled and nodded a little in understanding. "She’s quite a remarkable young woman," he said, glancing past Kaleah to where Jessica was still engaged in listening to the minister. "Frankly," he leaned forward even closer, his tone dropping to a more conspiratorial whisper, "she’d make the better successor to her father . . . her brother, Steven, is a less than useless fop." They glanced as one over to where the young man sat eating his meal delicately, with practiced poise. "It’s a shame Sir Richard cannot name her as his heir, but she holds no rights to such a claim, being a woman. Her skills count for little in the eyes of this system." He frowned, considering. "If . . . I mean when, Steven inherits Da’Gran, I fear the land will fall easily to some enemy or other."

Kaleah had no knowledge whatsoever of court intrigue, but she was smart enough to realize that this young man was testing water’s. She thought carefully before she responded.

"I’m sure her brother will learn as he must, when his time comes."

"Perhaps." Senigma rested his chin on his hands thoughtfully. "But there are many who are deeply concerned what will become of Da’Gran when Sir Richard is gone . . . not the least of whom is Sir Richard himself. He has shared his concerns with my master a great many times, but no clear solution can be found."

Kaleah shrugged, and effected a look of disinterest. "I dare say they will find one," she said, returning to her meal. "It’s no concern of mine; I’m just Jessica’s guest here, after all."

Senigma smiled at that, and returned to his own meal. "Perhaps."

The sudden clear, sharp sound of Sir Richard banging his empty mug on the table drew the attention of everyone to the lord knight.

"Attention," he called out, waiting for the musicians to stop playing before he rose to his feet and addressed the gathering. "I have an announcement to make."

Kaleah put down her knife and fork along with everyone else, giving Sir Richard her undivided attention.

"Thank you." The lord knight looked around and smiled at his dinner guests. "I have this day received word from our neighbor to the west, Sir William Lancaster."

At this, a whispered hush went round the table swiftly, and Kaleah bent her head to Jessica, who leaned over to whisper in her ear. "He’s attacked us three times in the last five years . . . never successfully. This could mean trouble."

Sir Richard waved his hands and waited for the mutterings to die down before he continued. "I know what you’re all thinking, but it seems that Sir William wishes to discuss a possible arrangement for a treaty. A temporary one, at least. This could mean an end to our conflict."

Many of the people around the table shook their heads. Sir Miles and Eric Grace were silent, but they clearly supported Sir Richard’s views. Kaleah figured they had already been consulted on this matter; Lady Rose, too, though from appearances she wasn’t as happy with the situation as the other two.

"Sir William has requested a meeting, and is prepared to discuss the treaty proposal here, in Da’Gran. This act of good faith indicates he is willing to trust us, and I have returned his messenger with an agreement that he may have safe passage through our lands, along with a retinue of guards for protection from the bandits who have been raiding us this season. I have set the appointment for eleven days from today . . . time enough to make any preparations that may be required."

A few people still frowned, but most grudgingly seemed supportive. Watching her friend, Kaleah thought the young blonde was in agreement with her father, but the crease in her forehead told Kaleah that she still had a few misgivings.

"You shall all be expected to attend the dinner welcoming Sir William. In addition, I sent a runner to the north, to request the presence of Charles Renault." He turned his attention to Jessica, who smiled broadly. "I feel if we can show the evidence of our solid alliance with his father, the Earl, Sir William might be more easily swayed to join us."

Kaleah could clearly see her friend was happy with this news, and she raised her eyebrow in question. Jessica just grinned and mouthed the word, "Later."

"Perhaps," the Lady Rose chimed in, "this will be a good opportunity for Jessica to set down a solid date for something she has delayed for far too long." She cast her narrowed gaze towards her daughter, who, at her words, lost her smile and looked away. Kaleah wondered what that was all about.

Sir Richard evidently noticed his daughter’s distress, for he came to her rescue. "Perhaps. Though I feel we should focus our attention on the problem of Sir William. Some things can wait."

Jessica smiled her thanks to her, and Kaleah wondered who this Charles was to her young friend.

"Some things have been waiting for four years," Lady Rose muttered.

"Enough. We will not discuss it here."

Lady Rose scowled and glared at her daughter, before focusing her malicious gaze on Kaleah, who once again smiled and refused to meet her eyes.

"Eleven days," Sir Richard concluded. "Charles should arrive a few days sooner, which will give him time to settle in and be appraised of the situation. This could be the start of a firm alliance, which will bring us peace for years to come." There were grim smiles all round the table; Kaleah thought some of the elder knights looked as if this talk of peace was sticking in their throats. Even the minister, who, by good rights should have considered such a proposal to be a heaven-send, appeared somewhat unconvinced. She didn’t have time to ponder this, however, because Sir Richard had suddenly turned his attention in her direction.

"Treaties aside, we have a new guest with us this evening." He gestured to Kaleah, who suddenly found all eyes on her and had to struggle to maintain her calm composure. "As I’m sure most of you are aware, my daughter has been spending much of her time with her new friend, Kaleah. Kaleah has come to us from the Spanish fighting schools, is that not so?"

For a moment, Kaleah could only sit, frozen solid by fear and confusion. A gentle nudge from Jessica got her mouth moving, however, and she managed to stammer out an answer.

"It is, my lord." Her accent sounded barbaric and uncultured even to her ears, and she winced internally. She realized that Sir Richard was deliberately leaving out the part about her being captured as a bandit, and that she had her roots as a slave — a fact she was sure he had realized from her scarred and bone-thin body, not to mention the way she had bolted into the storm. In a way, this story was true though. And it gave her a legitimate and respectable position at the table.

"Kaleah was passing through the region, and was nice enough to offer to share her talents with my daughter, who is in turn demonstrating our English fighting style to her." He raised his mug to her. "I am most grateful that young Jessica has someone to spend her time with," he smiled, "and I hope you will enjoy our hospitality a long while, Kaleah."

Kaleah could only smile and bob her head slightly. "Th-thank you, my lord," she stammered. "Your daughter has been a most gracious host, and very pleasant company."

From his place at Sir Richard’s left, Sir Miles grinned and raised his mug in salute. "And we’re all grateful to ye fer keepin’ her attention on somethin’ else besides the trouble she can git into."

There was quiet laughter round the table, and the gathered guests raised their drinks in a toast. Kaleah noticed a few did not share the gesture, however. Lady Rose and Steven looked at her with disgust and disdain. Smiling and raising her own mug, she ignored them and swallowed the cool water. Let them hate me, she decided. Jessica’s right. I am as good as they are.

Looking to her right, she met the laughing green eyes of her companion, who was grinning like a Cheshire cat. She poked her tongue out slightly, and cheerfully went back to enjoying her meal. Listening to the lilting sound of the musicians as they resumed their playing, and the conversations that started up again all around, she smiled and relaxed.

The rest of the dinner was thoroughly enjoyable.

Chapter 6.

"Well," Jessica said as she struggled to get out of her dress. "What did you think?"

They had returned to Jessica’s room, making a quick detour to the bathing chamber, taking turns to use the huge pool to wash their sweaty bodies. The dinner had just ended quite pleasantly, and both women felt a good deal better being clean again; the vanilla perfume Jessica was fond of became somewhat cloying after long periods of exposure.

Kaleah came over and helped her friend with the hard-too-reach lacings. "It was nice," she admitted. "I felt a little out of place, though. Everyone was looking at me kind of strangely; I’m not used to being the center of attention." Slaves tended to stay in the background.

Jessica shrugged the dress off her shoulders casually, letting it pool at her feet before retrieving a more comfortable shirt from her wardrobe. "That was just because you’re so new around here. They’ll get used to you." She groaned as she slipped into the shirt, her aching muscles stiffening up after the extended period on the archery field.

"You okay?" asked Kaleah, hearing her.

"Sure. I’m fine." Jessica smiled at her, ruffling her blonde tresses into some degree of order. "Just a little sore. I’m not used to pulling a bow, that’s all."

"Your shoulder’s stiff?"

"Uh huh."

"Mine too." Kaleah thought for a moment, then, reaching a decision, she caught a hold of her friend’s arm and pulled her over to the bed. "Sit."

Jessica did as told, eyeing the dark woman suspiciously. Kaleah got on the bed behind her, kneeling with her knees spread wide apart. "Could you hold your hair out of the way?" she asked. Jessica pulled her blonde locks over her shoulder. Kaleah reached down and hitched up Jessica’s shirt, running her hands underneath it flat over the smooth skin beneath, up the young woman’s back to her tense shoulders, taking the shirt with her.

Jessica froze, uncertain. "What are you doing?"

"Trust me," Kaleah said softly. "This’ll help."

Reaching Jessica’s shoulders, she ran her fingers over the muscles, feeling them jump and stretch. Probing, she found the tightest areas and began to massage them gently. This earned her a groan from the young blonde.

"This okay?"

"Ugh." Jessica’s head lolled forward, and Kaleah felt her muscles start to relax as she realized what was happening. "That feels great."

"Good." Kaleah smiled, and set her long, powerful fingers to work on another area. She was about to ask Jessica to take the shirt off to make things easier, but before she could, her friend figured it out for herself and pulled the loose garment over her head, tossing it onto the bed behind them.

"Thanks."

"Sure."

Now Jessica’s whole back exposed to her, and she eagerly sent her fingers exploring the map of muscle and tendon. She stroked gently over the smooth surface of her friends body, stopping wherever she found tension to attack gently but relentlessly until it was relieved.

Jessica was sighing in ecstasy. She had never felt anything this wonderful . . . although her mind was eager to discuss with her a few other places those hands could roam that might feel even better. She closed her eyes and firmly refused to listen to it. "Where did you learn this?" she asked.

The hands paused their explorations. "A slave learns many things," Kaleah answered shortly, before she continued the massage.

"Oh." Jessica was silent for a moment. "I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to bring up bad memories."

Kaleah shrugged. "That’s alright," she said softly. "They’re there always, in the back of my mind. This is just one of the things I had to do to serve my masters."

She brought her hands down along the line of Jessica’s spine, her thumbs pressing firmly with long practiced motions along the vertebrae, rubbing into the tight muscles and feeling them relax and loosen as if by magic. When she was satisfied, she let her fingers flare out to mark along the crease of her friend’s lower ribs. Jessica’s skin was warm and smooth, marked here and there with scars which she made sure to massage thoroughly. Kaleah knew from personal experience how the muscles tended to ache around old wounds.

"You don’t have to do this if it makes you uncomfortable," Jessica said softly, even as she prayed for the wonderful contact to continue.

Kaleah shook her head. "You’re not forcing me to do this," she said. "I’m doing it because you’re my friend, and I want to help you."

"You sure?"

"Of course." Kaleah tilted her head as she lost herself in the subtle play of muscles running under Jessica’s skin. "It feels good to be using the things I learned from that time to help someone I care about," she whispered. "Just relax . . . enjoy it."

Jessica smiled softly and resolved to do just that, letting her shoulders slump and her back hunch forward. Kaleah pressed deeper into her muscles, working up and down, then back up again. The dark woman could smell the scent of Jessica’s freshly scrubbed body and the lingering perfume of vanilla, and she inhaled deeply without even thinking about it.

"So, who’s Charles?" she asked as she worked.

Jessica twirled a lock of her hair around her middle finger idly. "Charles is the son of James Adam Renault, an Earl who holds the lands to the north of us," she explained. "His father and mine have been working on a permanent treaty for many years, and have pretty much agreed on everything." She paused, then added, "As part of the treaty, Charles is my betrothed."

Kaleah’s hands stopped completely, and Jessica turned to glance back at her, laughing when she saw the look of surprise in the clear blue eyes of her companion. "What’s the matter?"

"N-nothing." Kaleah forced her hands to continue, ignoring the sick feeling that suddenly clenched her stomach. "I didn’t realize, that’s all." She coughed a little. "So, that’s what your mother was talking about at dinner tonight . . . the marriage?"

"Mmmhmm." Jessica sighed. "I’ve managed to make an excuse up every time she’s raised the issue in the past. It’s getting harder, though. I’ve been putting it off for four years now."

Kaleah’s brow furrowed in confusion. "Why?"

Jess shrugged. "Charles is a wonderful man," she said softly. "He’s intelligent, and handsome, and kind . . . and about a million other things as well. We have a great time when we’re together . . . which isn’t very often, mind you. He’s always busy doing his things, it doesn’t leave much room for fun."

"But?"

"But . . . I don’t love him."

"You don’t?" Kaleah felt relieved for some reason, and realized with shock that the sudden sick feeling she’d had to the news of her friend’s betrothal had been caused by jealousy! Why would she be jealous? She didn’t have time to figure out the answer as Jessica shook her head and continued.

"Charles is great, but . . . I don’t know. He’s just not someone I love in . . . that way. You know?"

"I-I guess so." She didn’t for a moment, then suddenly it hit her. She rolled her eyes and smiled. "So he doesn’t . . . ring any bells for you?" she asked teasingly, feeling Jessica’s blush warm the skin under her hands.

"No," the embarrased girl mumbled. "And it’s not like he’s not good-looking — he is. He’s just . . . not the one."

"Does he know how you feel?"

"Oh, sure," Jess laughed. "I don’t exactly make a secret of it. He knows, and he feels the same way. We like each other, but just as friends. And since we hardly ever see each other, we don’t even have that much very often. He’s just as awkward about it as I am. But the treaty is so important, and we don’t really get a say in the matter." She sighed. "Even my father agrees on this one — though it hasn’t stopped him from letting me put the blasted wedding day off for four years."

Kaleah remembered the look on Lady Rose’s face during the discussion at dinner. "You’re mother didn’t look too pleased about it."

Jessica shook with suppressed laughter. "Oh, she’s not, I assure you. But she’ll just have to wait till I’m good and ready, which isn’t looking to be anytime soon." She groaned as Kaleah’s hands skirted along the underside of her ribs, along her sides where they stopped, hesitantly, before tracing upwards, the fingertips drawing tantalizingly close to the outsides of her breasts. Jessica’s body flushed with heat as her nipples hardened slightly in unconscious reaction, and it became suddenly that much harder to ignore the images her mind was still intent on providing her.

With an effort, the young girl controlled her body’s response and evened her breathing once more. She sorted through her scattered thoughts to locate what they’d been talking about. Her mother. Right.

"I haven’t thought of a plausible excuse to throw her off this time," she continued. "Who knows, maybe Sir William will attack afterall, and I’ll be let off the hook for a while longer."

Unaware of the effect her touch was having on the younger woman — though very much aware of the soft, smooth skin over which her hands were gliding and stroking — Kaleah smiled. "You think that’s likely?"

Jessica snorted. "He’s tried it before and never got too far," she said. "He has more men than my father, but they’re not half as good fighters. Sir William is a manipulative, cowardly schemer who’d rather win with trickery and foul play than with honor. He’s probably realized he can’t defeat us, so now he’s decided to see what he can gain from an alliance."

Kaleah finished rubbing Jessica’s shoulder’s, and reluctantly drew her hands away. "Okay . . . you’re done I think." She smiled as the young blonde smiled her thanks, and reclaimed her shirt. "You should feel fine in the morning."

"Thanks," Jessica said, somewhat disappointed that the massage had ended, but at the same time grateful. It wasn’t easy ignoring her body’s persistent encouragement to pursue these exciting and mysterious lines of thought . . . and in spite of her best efforts, she couldn’t stop herself from asking, "You want me to return the favor?"

Kaleah was sure her blush was visible even through her bronze-toned skin. She looked away. "You don’t have to do that," she muttered, though a part of her was shouting that it was only fair, afterall.

"I don’t mind," Jessica smiled. "I saw you stretching your shoulders before. You probably need it as much as I did."

"I don’t know . . ." Kaleah still hated to reveal her marked body to anyone.

Jessica read her thoughts. "It’s okay," she said gently. "You don’t have to be ashamed of the scars, Kaleah. Maybe you should even be proud of them, a little."

"Proud?" Kaleah’s brow furrowed.

"Sure. They show others that you’re strong enough to survive, no matter what." Jessica looked at her own scars. "I know people who think they’re the greatest, toughest men in the whole world, and I doubt they could have lived through a half of what you must have gone through."

Kaleah swallowed. She hated discussing this, but could admit that Jessica was probably right. A lot of hardened people would never have been able to survive slavery. Thinking back, she remembered; a lot of the slaves she’d known hadn’t survived. "I guess so," she mumbled, after a pause. "But still . . ."

"They don’t bother me. Not one bit." Jessica’s smile turned teasing. "Come on, it’s not as though I haven’t seen you topless. Believe me, you’ve got nothing to be ashamed of." She waggled her eyebrows.

Kaleah didn’t trust herself to reply, but she reluctantly removed her shirt and turned around, offering her back to her friend. Her muscles were sore. What could it hurt?

Jessica cracked her knuckles and moved closer. "I’m not sure I’ll be able to do this quite as good as you did," she said. "But I’ll try."

Kaleah pulled her hair out of the way and just grunted.

Jessica stopped and stared at her friend’s back, hands frozen inches from her skin. She’d expected the patchwork of scars that meshed across the bronze skin — but on Kaleah’s back, just below her neck, was tattooed an intricate design in black ink.

"What’s this?" She stroked the tattoo reverently with one hand. Jess had heard of the practice of marking the skin like this. Her mother said it was a barbaric practice of heathen cultures. She had never seen a design this detailed, however. The mark was in the shape of a circle, and looked as though it were comprised of a strange, stylized writing. The thought occurred that this was some type of slave mark, and she wondered if Kaleah would refrain from answering.

The dark woman turned to face her, curious. "What’s what?"

"This mark on your back." Her fingers continued to trace the pattern. "It’s beautiful."

"Oh. That." Kaleah turned away. "It’s a tattoo. I’ve had it since I was a child . . . before the slavers came."

"Does it have a meaning? It looks like some kind of writing."

Kaleah shrugged. "I don’t know. The slavers thought it was writing, too. But none of my masters could read it, and neither can I. I don’t know anything about it."

Jessica paused. "You don’t remember it being done? From what I’ve heard, these things have to be made with a great big needle, and they hurt like all the fires of Hell. How could you not remember it being done?"

Kaleah shrugged again. "I can’t really remember anything from before the slavers came," she said softly. "They went to a lot of trouble beating the memories of my family and my homeland out of me . . . making it so I had nothing to go back too. Those things are hard to hold onto through the pain and the humiliation of being a slave."

Jessica berated herself silently for causing her friend pain again, and swore privately to think things through before she said anything. Now, she let her hands move tentatively out to gently knead Kaleah’s shoulders. "I’m sorry."

"Stop apologizing," Kaleah said. "I keep telling you, it’s not your fault." She was silent a moment, just absorbing the warm feel of her friend’s hands stroking at her aching flesh. "You’ve nothing to be sorry for," she said after a moment. "I think you’ve done more for me than just about anyone in my whole life has ever done."

"Really?" Jessica grinned, her face literally glowing with happiness at this. "What about that Spanish guy; De’Livier?"

"He helped me," Kaleah said thoughtfully. "He taught me a trade, and how to protect myself. And he tried to teach me how to fit in with other people. But it was still sort of . . . I don’t know. Business-like, I guess."

"What do you mean?"

"He treated me like an apprentice, rather than a servant. He paid me money, and he trained me well. He was a fine teacher. But he never really tried to be my friend . . . not like you have." She felt Jessica’s hands still their soothing motion, and she turned to face the young blonde behind her. "You’re not expecting to get anything out of this," she explained softly. "You were kind to me from the start, and even when I tried not to like you, it was hard. You gave to me, knowing I wasn’t likely to give anything back. It didn’t matter to you." She saw tears start to form at the corner’s of Jessica’s eyes, and she brushed them away, smiling. "Don’t go getting all emotional on me, Jessica." she laughed, trying to force some levity into the moment.

Jessica smiled a little, but couldn’t help the tears. "I’m sorry," she mumbled, wiping them away. "It’s just, that’s about the nicest thing you’ve said to me to date. Kind of surprised me."

"But it’s true," Kaleah insisted. "You’ve taught me what it’s like to have a friend. That’s something I never would have found out about without you."

"Oh, come on." Jessica tried to turn her around. "I’m sure someone-"

"No. I mean it." Kaleah refused to turn around. It felt surprisingly good to be saying these things. She realized the reason it felt good was because she could see how much these words meant to the young blonde. "Do you remember what you told me in the forest, when we were out in the storm. You told me I was still a slave because I still thought and acted like a slave."

"I didn’t mean-"

"Yes," Kaleah smiled. "You meant it. And you were right. Without you, I would have wandered off and just kept wandering. I’d have survived alright, probably. But I’d never have really lived my life." She held Jessica’s gaze for a moment, before she turned around to offer her back to her friend once more. "You can stop apologizing, Jessica. You’ve nothing to be sorry for."

Jessica was silent and still for a long moment, just soaking in the words of her companion, who waited patiently for the massage to continue. This was probably the most they had talked since the storm — really talked, that is. She smiled happily, and went back to the task at hand. Kaleah was certainly making a lot of progress, she thought.

"Thank you," she said softly.

Kaleah grunted and let her head roll forward, inviting Jessica to send her wonderful fingers up to her upper neck, where the tension was stiffest. The blonde was only too happy to accept. Kaleah let the silence go on for a few minutes, before her mind recalled the dinner again.

"That holy man you were talking to at dinner tonight seemed happy to have me in the castle," she said.

Jessica had let her mind completely focus on the texture of the flesh that rolled beneath her fingers, and had to pull her mind quickly away from it’s pondering of just how nice it felt to be ‘helping’ her friend like this before she could answer.

"Um . . . yeah. He seemed okay with the situation." Her brain kicked in gear a little more. "I think it has more to do with the chance of bringing you into the ‘knowledge of a true God’ than it has with him actually liking you, though."

"Mmmm. I figured as much." Kaleah snorted. "Not much chance of that happening."

"I know." They’d already discussed the subject of religion, and Jessica could understand Kaleah’s point of view. It must be hard to believe in God when all life had given you was pain and suffering. She smiled. "What were you and Senigma talking about? It looked like you were getting along quite well there." Her tone was teasing and playful.

Kaleah felt Jessica’s hands roam down her back to her tailbone, and suppressed a shiver. "Actually, we were talking about you."

"Me?"

"Mmmhmm. You."

"And what was so interesting about me, pray tell?"

Kaleah grinned. "Oh, I don’t know. What do you think a young man like Senigma would find interesting about a lovely young lady such as yourself?"

Jessica blushed, and smacked Kaleah lightly on the shoulder. "Yeah, right," she chuckled. "He’d know better than that. Seriously, what were you talking about?"

"Honestly, we were talking about you," Kaleah insisted, ". . . and about your brother."

The hands paused in their delicious exploration fractionally, but Kaleah noticed. "Oh." Jessica began to push her thumbs gently along Kaleah’s prominent spine, her fingers tracing the valleys of her rib-cage. "I can imagine what he had to say about that."

"He said your father’s worried about what will happen when your brother takes over the castle," Kaleah said bluntly. "He seemed to think that many considered you the better choice for the inheritance . . . including your father’s adviser."

"He did?"

"Yes."

"Hmmm." Jessica was interested in this. "I always wondered what Grace had to say on the matter. Interesting." She had always figured the old sage disapproved of her; apparently, such was not the case. Still, she didn’t like him.

Kaleah relaxed and just absorbed the feeling of her friend’s fingers as they absently roamed along her sides, upwards and around, close to her breasts, where they paused a moment, before retreating back up to her neck. A part of her - a part that was getting louder and more insistent - sighed with longing, wishing the hands had just kept going where they were headed.

"I don’t suppose there’s much chance that your father will decide to name you his heir?"

"No," Jessica sighed. "Running a castle and ruling land in the King’s name is man’s work." Her tone was sarcastic. "At least that’s what everyone thinks. Just because I’d make the better ruler doesn’t even figure into the matter . . . just like I don’t get a say in my betrothal." She rolled the muscles of Kaleah’s shoulders with her finger’s, earning a groan. "You okay?"

"Fine," Kaleah grunted. "You’re good at this."

Jessica grinned. "I’m a fast learner."

"Mmmhmm. I can see that." Kaleah tore her mind from considering other things the young blonde might be willing to learn. "It doesn’t make sense," she said. "The soldiers would follow you. I’ve seen the respect most of them have for you. What does it matter that you’re a woman?"

Jessica shrugged. "It shouldn’t matter . . . but it does."

"That’s stupid," Kaleah stated simply.

"Maybe. But I’m not going to be able to change the system. I already have more freedom in my life than most young women; my father’s pretty damn lenient about what I can and can’t do." She pondered a moment. "I’m very lucky."

"Yeah, I guess." Kaleah fidgeted with her hair. "Besides . . . how bad can your brother possibly be, huh?"

Jessica scowled darkly as her hands worked over scarred flesh. "He has all the makings of a tyrant," she said darkly. "He’s self-centered and self-reighteous. If he were simply indifferent towards the peasants it might not be so bad, but for some reason he seems to actually hate them." She paused thoughtfully, hands idly fingering one of Kaleah’s scarrs. "I wouldn’t be surprised if Steven ruins everything my father’s spent his life building." Jess shook her head, clearing away thoughts of what she couldn’t change. "Anyway, enough about that. I was thinking maybe we could go out for a ride on Saturday. There’s an old monastary a few miles out, buried in the woods. I go there sometimes when I want to think about stuff. You’d like it."

"What’s a monastary?"

"You don’t know?"

Kaleah shrugged. "I’ve never heard the word."

"Well, a monastary’s like a church, only it’s a place where monks live in the service of God. This one was ruined a long time ago, but it has a sense of peace about it still."

Kaleah turned a little to glance at Jess. "A holy place?"

"Aye." She grinned, knowing how Kaleah felt about the notion of God. "Trust me, it’s nice."

Kaleah rolled her eyes. "Fine, I’ll come. But I don’t see the point."

"Wait and see," Jessica said, her expression playful. She raised her hands and wriggled her fingers. "You had enough?"

"What? Oh, yeah. That was great, thanks."

"No problem." Jessica thought she had probably enjoyed giving the massage as much as she had enjoyed receiving hers. She watched from the corner of her eye as her dark companion pulled her shirt back on, considering. "You know something?"

"Hmmm?" Curious blue eyes turned in question.

"You sure have changed a lot from the person who flinched away from me everytime I reached out to touch you. I guess a lot can happen in a week, huh?"

Kaleah flushed a little. "I haven’t changed as much as you think," she said softly. "I still don’t like people touching me — I think maybe I just got used to it from you."

Jessica smiled fondly. "Is that okay?"

Kaleah thought about it for a moment, then nodded slowly. "I-I don’t mind it," she admitted. "It’s actually kind of nice, you know? Having someone reach out to me . . . and knowing I don’t have to be afraid."

Jessica couldn’t help herself, and reached out to cup the dark woman’s cheek, running her thumb along the scar that crossed her lips. The gesture had become somewhat familiar to them both over the past week; Jessica didn’t know why she did it, but Kaleah didn’t freeze up anymore, like she had during the storm. She looked deep into the sapphire eyes of her companion and smiled gently.

"You never have to be afraid of me, Kaleah," she said softly, her voice little more than a caress. "I’d never hurt you."

Kaleah reached up and placed her own hand over Jessica’s. Her smile twisted the scar that the blonde was stroking. "I know," she whispered.

For an instant, the two just sat and basked in the peace and comfort of the moment, looking into each other’s eyes and enjoying the contact where their hands joined. They could feel the sparks flying between them, were each aware how deep their friendship had grown in such a short space of time. For both of them, this was something new — a friendship Kaleah had never been offered or known could exist, and that Jessica had never been allowed to have.

"It’s kinda weird, isn’t it?" Jessica said softly after the long silence. "How much you can come to trust someone and care for them after only a few days?"

Kaleah nodded, feeling herself start to drown in the deep green waters of Jessica’s eyes and knowing that a part of her wanted nothing more than to sink into their comforting embrace. "But it doesn’t feel like only a few days," she whispered. "It feels like . . . forever. Doesn’t it?"

"Yeah." Jessica smiled a little, her eyes sparkling in the light of the candelabra. "I felt like that from the moment we first saw each other in the bandit’s camp. Remember?"

"Yeah." The memory was still vivid. "I felt, I don’t know. Like maybe we were connected somehow. When I ran away from the fight, I could feel your eyes pulling me back. But I was too scared to deal with what I felt." It felt strange to admit it, but in a good way.

"Is that why you ran? During the storm?"

Kaleah nodded. "I knew I had to get out of here," she said softly, pulling their hands away from her face but maintaining the comforting contact. "I felt trapped. My temper was getting . . . too much for me to handle, you know?" She sighed. "I didn’t understand what you wanted from me. No-one ever just wanted me as a friend."

"I know what you mean. I didn’t understand why you couldn’t see that I was only trying to help you. That I just wanted to get to know you. Bring out all the wonderful things I could see were inside you . . . give you a chance that no-one else would."

Kaleah pulled her eyes away from the intense gaze of the young blonde. "Thanks," she said, suddenly feeling the restless energy that had been dormant for so long spring to life in her nerves. She looked around, seeking an escape from the things that were getting too close to the surface again.

Jessica smiled at her skittish friend and patted her on the shoulder. "My pleasure," she said, studying Kaleah’s angular features, seeing the nervousness there. "It’s alright," she whispered. "I know it’s strange how quickly we’ve become friends like this. I had a feeling we were going to get along, but this is more than I ever expected after only a few weeks. But it’s not a bad thing, right?"

"Of course not," Kaleah mumbled, meeting Jessica’s eyes briefly, then looking away. "I’m just . . . you know. Not used to it."

Jessica nodded. "Neither am I. But I like it. It’s nice having someone to do things with, isn’t it?"

Looking deep into the young blonde’s intense green eyes, Kaleah swallowed and nodded. "Yeah." She coughed and slapped her thighs, offering a shaky smile. It was time to get out of here, she decided. She needed to settle her mind. "So . . . we’ll go out to this holy place of yours Saturday, right?"

Jessica smiled inwardly, acknowledging that the dark woman had apparently decided to move past the difficult and emotional conversation and happy enough to let her get away — for now, at least.

"Sure," she agreed. "It’s not as nice out there now as it will be in Spring, but it’s still very peaceful."

"Right." Kaleah got off the bed, and ran slightly trembling fingers through her long, dark hair to settle it. "I guess I’d better get some rest."

"Yeah. Me too." Jessica smiled and shifted on the now empty bed. "You want to do some more archery tomorrow? Or maybe we could go for a ride . . ?"

Kaleah shuffled nervously. She felt something warm and frightening stir in her heart, clenching painfully as she regarded her friend. She needed some space, some time to herself . . . for more than just a few hours. "Actually," she mumbled, "I was kinda thinking I might spend the day by myself tomorrow, if that’s okay?"

"Oh." Jessica tried to hide her disappointment, looking away and picking at her shirt. "Sure. I-if that’s . . . what you want." Even she could hear the hurt in her voice, and she knew Kaleah could, too.

Blue eyes regarded her sincerely. "I just need a little time alone," Kaleah said softly, hoping Jessica would understand. "Really. It’s not that I don’t want to be around you . . . I just . . . " She sighed. "I need to adjust. Do you understand?"

Jessica thought about it for a moment seriously, then nodded. "I do," she said.

Kaleah searched her eyes for a moment. She could see that Jessica was a little hurt by this, but she could also see that she did, at some level, understand.

"Good. Thank you." She turned and headed to the door that led to her own room. She opened it and looked back at her friend, who was watching her a little nervously. "I’ll see you on Saturday," she said softly.

Jessica waved a little. "Saturday."

Kaleah smiled and went through the door, closing it softly behind her. Breathing deep, she closed her eyes and leaned her head back against the solid oak door. "Damn."

The news that she wanted to be alone had hurt Jessica, she could tell. But Kaleah knew it was necessary. She needed a little space, some time to center herself. Some time to more deeply bury the thoughts and feelings that kept cropping up in her head and her heart regarding her young friend.

She understood them — most of them, at least. Her physical reaction to the attractive blonde was, she considered, somewhat natural. A life of slavery had introduced Kaleah to every kind of sexual act human beings were capable of. She had figured her exposure to — and involvement in — such a harsh and sickening world had long since killed any ability she might have had to feel physical desire for another person. Apparently, she reflected, feeling again the callused hands of her companion tracing tantalizingly close to her breasts . . . apparently, such was not the case.

She could accept that she was physically attracted to the young woman. Kaleah had preferred women to men since she had first been introduced to the concept. As a slave, her body had been used and abused in every conceivable way — mostly by men, but certainly not exclusively. Still, she had always preferred being ordered to provide for the pleasures of other women rather than men . . . and not just because they tended to treat her better, although that was a part of it. She actually liked the way a woman felt, and sounded. And tasted. No man had ever cared for how she felt during the act. Their concern was only for themselves. But many of the women she had served seemed to gain as much satisfaction from her pleasure as they had from their own. She had actually enjoyed herself at times like these, fleeting as they were. She would even have said that she went to such women willingly, of her own volition, for the small comfort they offered in her bleak and painful existence.

Such acts of consensual sex were rare during the ten or so years she had been a slave . . . though Kaleah had learned early on that if she was compliant, her torment would be over with that much sooner and she was less likely to be beaten.

Still, it was a little uncomfortable to have these stirrings of desire appear for her young friend. They clouded her mind with erotic images of the many things she knew she could introduce to the beautiful girl; things she didn’t want to think about. Sure, Jessica was breath-takingly beautiful. She was innocent and playful and full of life. And she was one of very few people in Kaleah’s life who had only ever shown her kindness. This in mind, the dark woman could accept that there was a valid justification for her physical response to Jessica.

Kaleah sighed, and flopped bonelessly onto her bed, staring up at the ceiling. But that was only a part of it, she knew. Being around Jessica stirred up feelings inside her that she had no understanding of how to deal with. Desire was one thing; she could put that behind her, knowing she would never risk the friendship that had developed just for the chance of a few moments of pleasure. It was the way her heart ached whenever Jessica touched her that made Kaleah want to take a step back and regroup. The way she could feel her soul start to loose itself whenever she looked deeply into the emerald eyes of her younger companion. The way her smile seemed to light up the whole world . . . and the way her words of gentle kindness worked like a soothing balm to ease the pain of ancient hurts.

Kaleah had her suspicions about what these feelings were . . . and she didn’t much like them. She was smart enough to realize that her reaction of jealously to the news of Jessica’s betrothal — and her relief when she heard that the young woman didn’t love the man — were a clear indication that this was something more than a simple physical attraction. That thought frankly terrified her. Kaleah wasn’t sure she could handle these emotions, was uncertain her battered heart and soul could ever deal with such a powerful feeling as love.

Kaleah scoffed as that word appeared in her mind. "You are not in love with her," she told herself firmly. "It’s just a reaction you’re having to being emotionally close to someone after having no-one for so long. That’s all it is. Really."

She sighed. The words didn’t help to ease the ache in her heart, didn’t serve to explain the way Jessica’s presence had seemed to wrap itself around her soul from the very second they had locked eyes with each other. It seemed the more time she spent with the young woman, the more she hurt inside; hurt for all the things she had never even known she could have in life.

Things she was starting to want with a painful desperation.

Kaleah blinked her eyes, feeling tears start to form. With an effort, she forced them down. She had spent so many years locking her emotions away, never crying because once she started, she feared she’d never be able to stop. The innocent and selfless way that Jessica gave of herself was breaking open those locked boxes of feelings . . . and it was frightening how much Kaleah wanted to let it happen.

It was going to take a lot of self-lecturing tomorrow to convince herself that her feelings were just a natural reaction to Jessica’s kindness. And in all honesty, Kaleah wasn’t sure whether it was going to work at all.

Kaleah would have been surprised to know that, left alone in her room, Jessica’s thoughts were running along quite a similar track to her own.

The young blonde sighed as she slumped back down on her bed, spreading her arms and legs as far as they would go, trying to touch the edges of the enormous bed. She failed by at least a foot on all sides.

The massage had caused new and interesting sensations to erupt throughout her body. Her skin felt unusually sensitive, and it tingled everywhere Kaleah had run her fingers. The muscles in her groin seemed to be curling in upon themselves, seeming to invite a massage of their own. Her blood felt like liquid fire in her veins, just waiting for something to make it erupt. Her nipples were hard and she could feel them pushing against the course material of her shirt, straining for an intimate caress. Jessica had never been so aware of every part of her body before, and although she’d never experienced these feelings quite so strongly, she recognized them as the stirrings of desire.

For whatever reason, the simple massage had aroused her like nothing before.

Jessica had felt these things a few times in the past, certainly, but never like this. She felt a pleasant tingling whenever she read the stories of female love that were secreted away in her hidden room. And, she admitted, when she had admired Kaleah’s body when it was revealed more than usual, or those few times when she had caressed the scar across the dark woman’s lips with her thumb. But the feeling of the Kaleah’s powerful fingers working against her flesh had sparked the sensations more than anything else.

She liked the way Kaleah looked, and sounded. She even liked the way she smelled. Jess had known she was attracted to the dark woman right from the start, but before it had been just a harmless bit of admiration. There was nothing wrong with looking. But the thoughts that kept creeping into her head — thoughts that had at first been a mild annoyance — were getting stronger all the time. She could no longer ignore them. They were inappropriate in such a friendship, and she knew she had to deal with them once and for all.

"Okay," Jess told herself, deciding it might help to talk the problem out. "Let’s look at this objectively . . ."

Being alone so much of her life, Jessica often found she was the only person around to discuss things with. It had never bothered her before . . . although she had heard that talking to oneself was the first sign of madness. She had always scoffed at this notion. She’d had many very interesting conversations with her own mind, which often seemed at odds with her on what she thought she should do about some things. Her mind was now sitting up and paying close attention to the situation at hand as Jessica continued.

"So, Kaleah is . . . extremely attractive. And okay, so you’re having thoughts of what it might be like to be more friendly with her than you ought to be. It’s really not so strange." She waved her hands to emphasis her points.

It’s not? Her mind raised a metaphysical eyebrow in question.

"It’s not," she insisted to herself. "Think about it; you’ve been reading about this sort of thing for years now, and you always found it . . . interesting. But you’ve never had any female friends that you could spend any real time with . . . no close ones, anyway. So, along comes Kaleah. She’s beautiful, she’s exotic, she’s wonderful and interesting, and she’s. . ." Jess sighed. "Well, she’s about the sexiest thing that’s ever crossed into your field of vision, let’s face it."

Her mental mind nodded to show it understood, and gestured metaphysically for her to continue.

"So . . . all of a sudden you have someone in your life who you’re able to think about in this way. Your body has a natural reaction to the presence of an attractive woman, and all the things you’ve read about suddenly take on a new form. You can picture what they might be like with her involved . . . it’s as simple as that!"

Both metaphysical eyebrows raised doubtfully as her mental mind gave her an amused look of patient indulgence.

"Well, it is!"

Her metaphysical mind just smiled knowingly.

"Bah, what would you know anyway?" Jessica waved her hands dismissively, and huffed to herself. "Let’s face it," she continued petulantly, "Nineteen years is a long time to wait for. . . this sort of thing. Just because Charles isn’t your type, doesn’t mean there aren’t going to be stirrings and rumblings down below at some point or another. Especially if you’re going to be filling your head with those blasted stories, which, I think it’s safe to say, you should avoid for the time being!" She sighed and ran her fingers through her hair absently. "No point adding fuel to the fire when you’re trying to put it out."

Jessica spent a moment reflecting. She and Kaleah were growing closer to each other rapidly. The dark woman was obviously feeling a little unsettled by the speed at which their friendship was developing — hence the day of solitude tomorrow. Taking a deep breath and letting it out slowly, Jessica considered this and finally had to admit that a little time alone was exactly what she needed.

"You can spend tomorrow getting this stuff back under control," she told herself firmly. "No more being distracted by those sapphire eyes. You’ll deal with the situation, and remember that she’s trusting you enough to be her friend. You’re not going to jeopardize that trust by suggesting — or even thinking — anything the least bit inappropriate, like . . . like-"

Her imagination helpfully provided a colorful illustration of what might be considered inappropriate behavior.

"Yeah . . . just like that." Jess closed her eyes and tried to get her breathing under control, letting the images continue for a few delicious moments while her body screamed for something it had never experienced but could well imagine.

After those few moments of tantalizing thoughts, however, she forced her eyes open. "Ugh!" Rolling over she buried her face under a cushion in frustration. "This is gonna be hard," she mumbled into the pillow. "Very, very hard."

Neither woman slept very well that night.

Chapter 7.

The next day passed slowly for both of them.

Jessica heard that Sir Miles was leading a hunt into the forests, and invited herself along. She didn’t actually like hunting all that much; it tended to require skill with a bow rather than a blade, and while she had killed men in the heat of battle, Jessica could never bring herself to slay the gentle deer the hunters usually stalked. Still, it was better than staying in Da’Gran with Kaleah, where she would constantly be reminded of the dark-haired woman’s absence.

Kaleah chose to spend her day alone in her customary roost. Before dawn, she went for a long run in the hope that she could exhaust the animal energy coursing through her body. When she returned, she took a quick bath then wandered into the heart of Da’Gran castle, where she offered to relieve the guard stationed in the lookout tower. The young soldier, knowing that Kaleah was Jessica’s friend, had gratefully accepted, giving up the lonely post with no regret. The dark woman stared forlornly out across the rolling fields for long moments, before reaching into her pocket and pulling out her treasured wooden flute.

The instrument had been given to Kaleah by a fellow slave, and she had kept it hidden during the long years of her captivity from those who would deprive her of even the small pleasure she could gain from her music. It had taken months to learn how to play the flute, but Kaleah had a natural ear for melodies. She only ever played when she was alone, and her tunes were always melancholy and sad.

High above the castle walls in a place that was cold, silent and very much appropriate to her mood, Kaleah put the flute to her lips and blew softly. The gentle strains of music filtered through the still air, molded by the dark-haired woman’s long, swift fingers. She changed the tempo and tone smoothly as her mind allowed itself to develop a rhythm and melody.

The two friends did not see each other once during the day. Jessica didn’t return until near sundown, and Kaleah only abandoned her post when the cold of the night forced her to retire. Neither woman felt the desire for food. Jessica didn’t talk to anyone, though Sir Miles watched her carefully with worried eyes all day. Kaleah scarcely even moved, except for her fingers which danced up and down along the holes of the flute.

By the end of the day, both Jessica and Kaleah felt somewhat better despite the misery their separation had caused. Both spent the day carefully searching for ways to rationalize the strength of the feelings they were having for the other, and by the time the sun went down, both women felt they had succeeded.

Jessica had managed to convince herself that her feelings were, indeed, quite natural, and was confidant that, given a few days, they would work themselves out of her system and Kaleah need never know about them.

For her part, Kaleah had eventually managed to drill it into her head that the feelings she was having for Jessica were simply a reaction to the renewal of emotional intimacy that her friendship with the young woman allowed her. It was understandable that her mind and her body were trying to make up for a lifetime of such emotional denial. This wasn’t romantic love — it was just some kind of temporary infatuation that would pass as she got used to feeling these things like trust and caring again.

Still, neither woman slept well that night . . . again. Each was very much aware of the nearness of the other. Kaleah didn’t come down from the look-out till after she felt Jessica would have drifted off, but the moment she entered her own room, she knew for certain her friend was still awake. It flashed through her mind to go across to the young woman’s room and see her, but she decided not to after a moment of inner discussion. She had only just gotten her defenses in place; it was a little early to start testing them already.

With a sigh, Kaleah got undressed and slipped beneath the covers of her bed thankfully. It had been deadly cold up in the high tower, and this savage winter still frightened her. The warmth of the soft blankets and softer mattress were very welcome indeed, and Kaleah smiled as she realized just how accustomed she had grown to this lifestyle.

"Fancy food, a warm bed, a beautiful, intelligent and funny friend . . . a whole castle and everything you could want," she muttered to herself, grinning ironically and feeling the scar across her lips tighten. "Funny how life works out."

Smiling to herself, she rolled over, closed her eyes, and settled down to wait for sleep to claim her. She knew she would be waiting a long time.

The next morning, Jessica awoke after finally stealing a few hours rest from the night. She was still tired, but her fatigue did little to sink her spirits. She just knew today was going to be a good day. Afterall, she thought as she got out of bed and threw on a simple shirt and trousers, she would be spending it with her friend. That had to beat yesterday.

Quickly dragging a soft brush through her perpetually-rumpled hair, the young blonde wondered if it was too early to wake her neighbor. Would Kaleah want a little time to herself this morning? Jessica gnawed on her lower lip in indecision, at last deciding to just knock on the door and find out.

A muffled, "Yeah?" greeted her sharp rapping, and she opened the door and poked her head into the dim light of the room.

"Can I come in?" she asked hesitantly.

Kaleah was still in bed, looking a little dazed. She rubbed sleep from her eyes and waved her hand. "Sure."

Jessica grinned and stepped into her friend’s bedroom, shutting the door behind her. She claimed a sitting chair and studied the dark-haired woman who was busy drawing the covers tighter about her body.

"Have a good day yesterday?" she inquired casually.

Kaleah shrugged, studying the design on the blankets rather than meeting the blonde’s gaze. "I guess." She glanced up, then away quickly when she saw the quiet and slightly concerned appraisal in the green eyes of her friend. "I just had to get my head around this," she said softly, not really knowing why she felt compelled to explain. "It’s not something I’m used to."

"I told you I understood," Jessica said gently. "And I do. It’s alright."

Kaleah nodded shyly, feeling a little silly. "So . . . you went out on the hunt?" She hadn’t seen her friend leave the castle, but a guard who came at midday to see if she wanted something to eat had informed her of the young woman’s departure.

Jessica nodded. "Yeah. Thought it would be something to do with the day." She smiled a little wryly. "You know, before you came along, I spent most of my time alone, except when I was training. Never even had to give a thought about what to do with myself. Now, when you’re not with me, I feel so . . . lost."

Blue eyes finally met hers directly, and in that instant, all the walls she had spent yesterday building . . . all the explanations and rationalizations . . . everything . . . all came down to nothing. She looked into the clear sapphire gaze of her friend, and was lost all over again.

Kaleah, too, felt the barriers that had taken hours to build being shattered in just a moment of contact with her friend’s intense gaze. She swallowed, and mentally berated herself. Get a grip, will you!? A pair of pretty eyes and you turn to mush!? She’s your friend, that’s all! In a few days, you’ll be over this stupid infatuation, and things’ll be fine.

Jessica just smiled a little. "Funny how you can come to depend on something so quickly, huh?"

Kaleah struggled for a moment, breaking the eye-contact thankfully, then nodded. "I, uh. I was just thinking the same thing last night," she stammered, plucking at the blankets. "I’ve never slept in a bed half as comfortable as this one, but now, after only a fortnight, I can’t imagine what I’d do without it."

"Not like I’m gonna take it away from you anytime soon."

"I know."

"So," Jessica slapped her thighs, deciding to get this show on the road. "I believe we discussed a ride out to the woods. You wanna wait while I take a quick bath before we leave — it’ll help me wake up."

"Sure." Kaleah ran long fingers through disheveled hair. "I’ll see if I can get the horses ready."

"Great. Just ask one of the stable-hands for help if you’re not sure of something. I’ll be down in a few minutes." Jess stood up and headed for the door. "And don’t forget to dress warm," she added. "It’s cold out there.

"Sure."

"Great. I’ll see you in the courtyard."

"Right."

Jessica shut the door as she left and, grabbing her leather and mail armor, headed for the bathing chamber. When she arrived, she opened the huge, intricately carved doors and entered the sultry, steamy warmth beyond.

Inside, the young woman quickly stripped out of her clothes and laid them over a relatively dry rock a few feet from the huge pool. Retrieving a hand-towel from the small room in back, she slipped gratefully into the clear warm waters with a deep, throaty groan.

After ducking her head under the water, Jessica threw her wet hair over her shoulder and proceeded to gently scrub her body. Closing her eyes and relaxing in the calm and soothing environment, her mind quickly turned to it’s current favorite realm of contemplation: Kaleah.

Yesterday’s deliberations had apparently been for naught; one look into those deep blue eyes and the thoughts she had carefully contained leapt free once more. Sighing, she realized there was only one thing she could do; just accept the thoughts and try to ignore them as best she could. Hopefully, they would leave of their own volition once she was over this infatuation.

Suddenly, her imaginative mind remembered something she rarely ever thought of. Opening her eyes, Jess was helpless to stop the rakish grin that creased her mouth as she glanced over towards the wall to the left of the great oak doors. She searched for and quickly found the small hole in the intricate carvings of the wall . . . a hole invisible to all but those who knew where to look.

The peep-hole.

Jessica had discovered the secret spy-hole in the course of her explorations of Da’Gran, and she knew that many of the previous castle rulers had no doubt used it for their lascivious pleasures, watching those bathing within the chamber. Of course, she’d never used it herself, but the young woman’s creative mind had little trouble picturing the wonderful, exciting visions she might behold if she were to make use of the secret hole.

Jessica’s body instantly applauded the idea expressed by her mind, and she shivered a little at the heat that ran suddenly through her blood. The muscles in her groin tightened and curled upon themselves, and her breathing grew shallow.

Closing her eyes, Jessica attempted to gain control of the situation. "That’s enough," she commanded, deciding her body was more likely to respond to verbal orders than non-verbal ones. "You are not doing any spying of any kind!"

Her body protested its displeasure.

"I mean it," she insisted, squeezing her eyes shut tighter and making fists. "You’ve never sunk so low as to use the spy-hole . . . Never! And you’re not gonna start now!"

Ah, but there was never anyone like Kaleah worth spying on, her mind quickly pointed out to her. And it’s not as though you haven’t spied on everyone else in the castle at some point or another . . . just not quite like this.

Jessica felt herself flush as she realized this was true. She had watched the people in Da’Gran as they went about their business, using the secret passageways to allow her access into the lives of everyone from servant to soldier. "That’s not the same thing," she told herself firmly. "This would be a betrayal of Kaleah’s trust." Her heart ached just thinking of such a thing, and her body began to settle — albeit reluctantly.

She doesn’t need to know, her mind continued pursuasively, unwilling to give up. It won’t hurt your friendship at all. Don’t you want to watch her?

"No," she growled through clenched teeth. "It would just be encouraging these thoughts, and you’ll be over them in a few days. That kind of encouragement is only going to make it take longer to get over this infatuation."

But what if it’s not just an infatuation? inquired her mind rather pointedly. What if it’s more?

Jessica screwed up her face and wished for a moment she weren’t so good at debating; it would make this type of conversation so much easier. "It’s not," she insisted. Opening her eyes, she glared down at her reflection in the water. "I am in charge here, and I say that this is just a natural reaction that you will have forgotten about in a couple of days! And if I say that’s all it is, than so help me God, that’s all it is!" She stopped and eyed herself narrowly. "Am I understood?"

Her reflection nodded somewhat petulantly through the distortion of the rippling waters.

"Good." Flicking her hair over her shoulder, she quickly finished washing herself and exited the pool. Finding a towel in the back room, she dried off and slipped into her armor.

As she was about to leave, Jessica turned back to the room and studied the left wall thoughtfully. "Maybe I should just cover up that damn peep-hole once and for all," she threatened herself. "Remove the temptation." She turned and left, sealing the chamber as she went.

Her mind refused to rise to the bait, knowing full well the threat was a hollow one. There was a part of Jessica — a part she didn’t even know existed yet — that knew her feelings for her dark friend were not going to go away . . . and it counciled patience to the rest of her.

Patience.

Sooner or later, that part within the depths of her soul counciled . . . sooner or later, love has a habit of figuring itself out.

No matter how thick-headed a person might be.

The ancient remains of the once-great monastary lay in a wide clearing, even the trees appearing to respect the holy ground by not encroaching . A crisp layer of fresh snow blanketed the ruins, and as Kaleah looked around she had to admit her friend was right — there was a sense of quiet peace about the place that settled even her restless spirit.

Watching her dark-haired companion’s lips twitch into a reluctant smile, Jessica grinned and nudged her cheerfully. "See, I told you it was nice."

Kaleah nodded, breathing in the cold winter air and releasing a sigh. "Yeah, you did." She wandered slowly through the clearing, stopping to brush away ice from a half-buried brass bell. "How long has it been like this?"

"Don’t know," Jess said. "Probably since my grandfather’s time." Her voice became quieter. "I’ve been coming here since I was forteen years old . . . I needed to feel closer to God then more than ever."

Something in Jessica’s voice made Kaleah look up curiously, just in time to catch a fleeting look of pain cross through expressive emerald eyes. "Why?"

Jess shrugged a little. "That was when I took my first life."

"Oh." Kaleah’s eyes flicked away uncomfortably. "I’m sorry."

"It’s alright. It’s just something I’ve had to come to terms with. Something I had to face when I decided to walk this path."

Kaleah was silent in thought, considering the strange dichotomy of the woman she was loosing her heart too. Jessica possessed an aura of such warmth and light and compassion, it was difficult for Kaleah to reconcile that with the image of the young girl as a fighter. Even when they were sparring, Jessica smiled and seemed so playful. After a time, sapphire eyes glanced up. "Why do you do this?"

"Do what?"

"This?" Kaleah gestured meaningfully to the rapier at Jessica’s side, then to the armor she wore. "You have the strength and the skill of a warrior, Jessica . . . but your heart wasn’t born for the battlefield." Suddenly realising what she’d said, Kaleah flushed and turned away again. "I’m sorry. It’s not my place to say that to you."

"No, that’s alright." Jess smiled a little, flicking her hair out of her face. "You’re right; a part of me isn’t really cut out to be a fighter . . . at least not a soldier. But it’s what I want to be, so I just have to take the good with the bad and try to accept the things I can’t change."

Dark brows arched thoughtfully, and Jessica sat on the curve of the giant church bell. "When I was just a little girl," the blonde explained, "my mother was the one who raised me mostly. She tried to teach me that because I was born a noble, God held me in higher regard than he did the commoners. It was my place to rule, and their place to serve, because we were better than everyone else." She frowned. "I was confused by her explanation, so I went to my father.

"My father told me a different story. He believed that God favoured no man over another, but valued all of us equally. He said we’re all born with different strengths and thus different purposes in life, but we all serve each other in one way or another." Jess paused, watching Kaleah’s attentive expression before she continued. "He told me God gives farmers the skills they need to work the land, gives priests the skills to minister to the people, merchants the skills to trade, and so on. God made him a warrior, he said, and he was meant to use his gifts to protect those who couldn’t protect themselves." She smiled, remembering. "I asked him what God wanted me to be, and do you know what he said?"

"What?"

"He told me that every now and again — not very often — God makes a special person; a person who can do and be anything they want, who can follow any path in life they choose and be successful." She smiled fully, her nose crinkling delightfully. "He said that I was one of God’s special people, and I would have to decide for myself how I should use his gift."

"So you chose to become a warrior?"

Jess shrugged. "I looked at how much my mother was doing to make the world a better place, and then I looked at my father and decided he was helping more." She paused, thinking. "I was very independent, even then. I guess what really decided me was the fact that my mother wanted me to follow in her footsteps — my father wanted me to walk in my own.

"After that, I watched the soldiers every chance I got, and started mimicking their actions. My father saw what I was doing, and he gave me over to Miles’ tutorship." She grinned, thinking back on that time. "I was headstrong and stubborn, and lost my temper more than a few times with my teacher. But Miles was patient, and over the years I got better. When I was twelve, I followed my father to my first battle. When I was forteen, I killed for the first time."

The sadness in her face touched Kaleah strongly, and the dark woman could see her friend was still affected even after many years. She could understand that.

"It hurt," the young blonde said softly. "I came to this place then because I felt closer to God here than in the chapel at Da’Gran. For many days I struggled to deal with the fact that I’d taken a life. I was angry at myself . . . at God. But in the end, I realised that if I was going to commit myself to being a warrior, I had to accept the burden that came with such a life. And I did. I threw myself into my lessons with greater enthusiasm. I wanted to become good enough that I could outfight an opponent without killing him, and that’s pretty much what I did." She smiled proudly. "I haven’t taken a life in over two years."

Kaleah processed this, considering. "So, you fight to protect the commoners?"

"I live my life for the betterment of others, yes," Jess nodded. "Of course, one of the worst things about being high-born is that I don’t get to bask in a lot of praise all that often. It’s a struggle sometimes just to convince some of the knights that I have a right to participate in a fight at all. It’d be nice to be able to just go among the commoners now and then without my mother telling me off."

"Mmm." Kaleah stood up and offered Jessica a hand. "You wanna show me the rest of this place?"

Jess accepted the hand and pulled herself to her feet, grinning. "Absolutely. There’s an old herb garden over here that still grows sage and rosemary during the Spring. Come on, I’ll show you."

The young girl pulled the taller woman after her enthusiastically, Kaleah’s expression thoughtful.

"So," Kaleah said as they left the stable and headed across the courtyard toward the keep. "Would you really like to be able to spend more time with the commoners?"

Jess flashed her a playful smirk. "I’m spending time with you, aren’t I?"

"Ha ha." Kaleah swatted at the girl with mock indignation. "I’m serious. If you could, would you want to?"

"Of course. But I’m a noble; everytime I try to make friends with one of the peasants I get yelled at by my mother." She gestured to Kaleah. "Except you, of course, and that’s only because we have unusual circumstances going on."

"Wellll . . ." Kaleah raised an eyebrow rakishly. "We could always sneak out of the castle after dark and wander over to the village."

"Oh, no!" Jessica raised her hands as if to fend of the suggestion. "Nononono, NO!" She started walking quickly away from Kaleah, shaking her head. The dark woman jogged after her and dragged her to a halt.

"I’m not interested," the young blonde insisted, covering her ears and shutting her eyes.

With a smile, Kaleah gently removed her friends hands from her ears and brought her face up. "What’s the matter? Worried we’ll get caught?"

Green eyes narrowed. "No," she said petulantly. "I’m not allowed to go into the village, that’s all. Even my father told me it’s too dangerous."

Kaleah snorted and waved her hand dismisively. "He only told you that to keep you out of mischief," she scoffed. "I’ve been to a few villages myself when I was forced to by circumstances; there’s nothing especially dangerous about them."

"Really?" Jessica now appeared dubious, but interested.

"Really," she confirmed. "As long as you don’t go looking for trouble, that is. We can bring our swords just in case, if you like. Believe me, no-one in town will be even close to a match for either of us."

The young blonde considered this knew revelation. "But my father told me it wasn’t safe for young girls to go wandering about the village unescorted. He wouldn’t have said that if he didn’t have a good reason for wanting me to stay away from the town."

Kaleah grinned. "Come on, Jessica," she said. "From the stories I’ve overheard about you, your father’s fears are likely less for your sake than for the peasants."

Those green eyes narrowed threateningly. "What’s that supposed to mean?" Jessica demanded, poking Kaleah in the chest.

Kaleah raised her hands defensively and backed away a step. "Nothing, nothing. But let’s face it, you do have a reputation as something of a mischief-maker." She grinned, remembering some of the stories she had overheard from the soldiers. "Is it true that you were kidnapped by an enemy wanting to hold you for ransom, but they gave you back after only a week because they thought you were bad luck?"

Jessica’s face flushed, and she lowered her head, letting her hair fall forward to cover her face. She gave a slight nod. "They couldn’t figure out any other reason for why they were suddenly being plagued by sickness, fires and vanishing underwear." She stifled a giggle. "It never occurred to them that they should have tied me more securely then they did."

Kaleah chuckled. "Your father’s probably afraid you’ll go off and cause trouble."

"I guess. . ."

"And then again," Kaleah went on, "he is right to worry about you wandering out there alone for another reason."

"Why? I thought it was safe."

"Weellll," Kaleah hesitated, unsure whether her somewhat sheltered companion would understand the dangers she was thinking of. "You’re a very pretty young woman, Jessica. And there’s always the chance there could be bandits in the village — especially the tavern. If one of them saw you, they might figure to . . . you know . . ."

Jessica’s brow furrowed. "Abduct me for ransom?"

"Nnooo, not quite what I was getting at." Kaleah blushed a little. "You’re very beautiful, you know. Very . . . pure . . . ?"

Jessica’s face developed a crimson hue. "You really think so?"

Kaleah struggled for a moment as she started to loose herself in the eyes that were regarding her with genuine interest. "Sure," she said, trying to sound casual. She decided to try a more direct approach. Resting her hands on her friend’s shoulders, Kaleah adopted her best serious face. "Do you know what outlawed men might do to a young girl like you?" she asked quietly. "To someone who’s never . . . been with a man?"

Jessica studied her a minute, before understanding swept across her features. "Ohhhh," she said, "You mean like rape?"

Kaleah nodded, relieved that her friend at least knew about such things. "Yes, like rape." She felt her throat close up a little as she remembered some of her darker experiences as a slave.

Jessica saw the sad, haunted look that entered her friend’s crystal blue eyes, and wondered at it briefly. Had Kaleah gone through such things during her captivity? She remembered what the dark woman had said during their night together in the cave, about the scar that disfigured her face and how it made her less desirable to men. The realization of what she meant made the young blonde ache for the pain that Kaleah must have gone through . . . the pain she must carry with her always.

She had never really thought about such things before, but was serious now as she considered the grim danger. "You mean someone in the village might try to . . . do that . . . to me?"

"None of the peasants would, I’m sure," Kaleah said. "But it’s always a possibility. Your father’s warning isn’t unjustified. You shouldn’t wander the village by yourself. But if I was with you, and we were both armed . . . " She grinned a little, letting the dark memories raised by the topic fade away. "I’m sure we can handle ourselves, right?"

Jessica nodded reluctantly. "But the guards on the wall would stop us. How would we . . .?"

"Oh come on, Jessica," Kaleah gave her a knowing look. "You’ve lived in this castle all your life; you must know every inch of the place."

"Maybe." Jessica swallowed as she remembered her thoughts of the peep-hole that morning. She knew more about Da’Gran than anybody.

"I’m sure you know a way to get past the soldiers without them knowing it," Kaleah said. "Any place this big has to have at least one blind spot in it’s defenses, right?"

Jessica nodded reluctantly. She did indeed know of many such blind-spots. She had even considered using them to venture into the village she had only ever seen in passing, but her father’s stern warnings had always kept her from going.

"But how would we -"

"Excuse me . . . Lady Jessica?"

They turned and saw one of the guards standing there, his face solemn and apologetic.

"Yes?"

The guard glanced at both women curiously. "Forgive me for interrupting, Lady Jessica, but your mother has requested Kaleah’s company at once, in the anteroom."

Kaleah was shocked, but no more so than her companion. "My mother wants to see Kaleah?"

The guard nodded, shuffling nervously. "Alone," he added ominously.

Jessica’s eyes widened further. "Are you sure?"

"The Lady Rose was quite explicit," he assured her, his expression making it clear he was aware how strange such a summons was.

Jessica turned to look at Kaleah. The dark woman shrugged. "Maybe she wants to get to know me," she said with an optimism she didn’t actually feel. "Like your father."

"Maybe." Jessica’s tone was doubtful. "More likely she wants to stick a knife in your back."

Kaleah forced a little laugh, but her eyes stayed cold. "I can take care of myself," she assured her friend. "Why don’t you go wait in the courtyard. I’ll be out shortly. We can do some training and . . . continue our discussion. Alright?"

Jessica hesitated. "You sure you don’t want me to come?"

"Your mother said she wants me alone -"

"I know what she said, and I don’t give a damn! If you want me to come, I’ll come, and she can take it or leave it." Jessica put her hands on her hips and glared a second at the guard, who, being familiar with the young blonde’s feisty attitude, was struggling to conceal his grin. "You are my guest in this castle, and are not at my mother’s beck and call."

Kaleah felt her heart warm at the somewhat possessive quality in Jessica’s tone. She had heard others talk of her in a similar way, but never with this kind of genuine care and protectiveness. "I’ll be fine," she assured her friend, patting her shoulder somewhat awkwardly. "Just wait for me in the courtyard, okay?"

For a moment, it seemed Jessica would refuse and insist on coming anyhow. But after a moment where rebellion flashed through angry green eyes, she huffed to herself and agreed. "Alright." Her shoulders slumped and she ran her fingers through her hair in a gesture Kaleah recognized as meaning she was concerned or nervous. "But if you’re not out in a few minutes, I’m coming to get you."

"Thanks." Kaleah could only smile at her friend and marvel at how good it felt to have someone like Jessica who was truly concerned for her well-being. The affection she had felt in her heart for the young woman grew even deeper, and she thought she might explode from the intense feelings of love she had for her friend.

Turning to the guard before her emotions overcame her common sense and made her do something she knew she’d regret, Kaleah gestured for him to lead on. As they left Jessica behind, Kaleah felt her stomach flip-flop with another feeling; fear. What did Jessica’s mother want with her?

She had a feeling that whatever it was, it wouldn’t be anything good.

Kaleah was led into an ante chamber that branched off from the audience hall. The room was small and tastefully decorated with tapestries and a few bookshelves. The guard led her inside, bowed once to the tall, slender woman waiting for them, then swiftly departed, closing the door as he left.

The Lady Rose smiled coldly at Kaleah, her eyes running up and down her form slowly. It was clear from her expression that she thought very little of what she saw.

Remembering that this was a woman of the nobility, Kaleah lowered her defiant eyes and performed a stiff bow. She knew she was supposed to curtsey, but chose not to; she would not offer a false gesture of respect, only an acknowledgement that the older woman held a noble title.

"You wished to speak with me, Milady?"

Lady Rose’s smile grew wider. She understood the unspoken message behind Kaleah’s actions, just as she heard the emptiness in her words.

"Yes." The woman walked slowly forward, her steps measured and graceful. "I thought it was time we had a little talk . . . Kaleah, isn’t it?"

Kaleah nodded. The older woman had a way of saying her name that made it sound almost insulting. She stood still, forcing down her edgy temper as the Lady Rose walked around her, looking her up and down like she was a piece of meat at auction. Kaleah had some experience with that particular feeling. She gave Jessica’s mother a quick inspection of her own.

Lady Rose was not overly tall, though she was certainly far from being a model for her more diminutive daughter. Her hair was a reddish-blonde, and she wore it pulled into an intricate braid held in place with fanciful and doubtless expensive hair-clips. She wore a long, sweeping dress which was cinched at her extremely slender waist, and a glitteringly elegant necklace of gold and flashing cut stones. Her features held a similar cast of beauty to that of her children, marked only slightly by the imperfections brought on by her additional years.

Still, while there was a definite resemblance between mother and daughter, Kaleah had the impression that Lady Rose had never held the same inner beauty as Jessica did. The young blonde fairly shone with the glow of her warm and friendly nature — a beauty made more perfect by the fact that Jessica seemed so unaware of it, living in the castoff clothes of the soldiers and almost always messy and covered in dirt. So very unlike her mother.

Lady Rose finished her inspection and clasped her hands in front of her. Every action, every move the woman made was made with an air of calm and refined elegance that spoke of a lifetime spent learning proper etiquette and social graces. Standing stiff and erect under that scrutiny, Kaleah couldn’t help but feel like exactly what this woman thought she was; a barbarian savage from a Godless country.

Lady Rose smiled thinly again. "I understand you speak English fluently . . .?"

"Yes, Milady." Kaleah was slightly insulted.

"Good." Lady Rose regarded her with a cocked head. "I have noticed my daughter has been spending her time almost exclusively in your company," she said, her tones cultured and aristocratic.

Kaleah nodded again. "She has, Milady." She almost winced at how her accent, which she never noticed around Jessica, suddenly stood out like a bloodstain on white linen. "I am honored to have been of service to her." She kept her tone polite, but the older woman continued to eye her with an air of mild curiosity overpowered by disdain.

"When I first heard that Jessica had captured a heathen barbarian woman on her latest escapade, and had requested that she be allowed custody of her, I was . . . disappointed." Lady Rose turned and walked over to one of the tapestries hanging on the wall, one depicting scenes of an apparently religious nature. "Disappointed, but not greatly surprised."

She turned back to observe Kaleah again, fixing her with eyes that carried at least a measure of the intensity her daughter’s were capable of. "Jessica has a habit of dragging home every stray she comes across," Lady Rose continued. "Homeless dogs, orphaned fox-cubs, birds with broken wings . . . you name it. Any helpless animal she’s ever found, she’s brought it to the castle and tried to nurse it back to health."

Kaleah struggled to stop her lip from curling into a snarl, not missing the scarcely veiled insult.

Lady Rose sighed, spreading her hands in a gesture of weary patience. "Fortunately, she usually gets bored with them after a few days, and let’s them go again." She fixed Kaleah with an expression of annoyance. "I had hoped that such would be the case with you, Kaleah. But apparently, Jessica’s interest in you has proven to be more than simply . . . transient. For whatever reason, you have maintained her interest more than anything else ever has." She paused for effect. "Frankly, I am becoming concerned with this continued relationship."

Kaleah let an eyebrow raise into her bangs. "No disrespect, Milady," she said slowly, "but my company does not harm your daughter. Our relationship — such as it is — seems . . ." She struggled to find the right word. ". . .beneficial, for us both."

"Oh really?" Lady Rose raised an eyebrow in perfect immitiation of the way Jessica did. "I would have thought a woman with your history would have preferred a life without such servitude."

Kaleah recognized that she was being baited, and felt again the years of practicing to remain calm and controlled surge forward to stop her from simply jumping forward and ringing this woman’s neck. "I guess old habits die hard," she said softly, with thinly veiled malice.

"I understand my daughter gave you your freedom," Lady Rose continued. "And yet you remain here. I was thinking that perhaps, with your freedom restored to you, it might be time to consider moving on. My daughter will tire of you eventually, believe me. It’s only a matter of time. If I may be frank with you . . ." her eyes lost a great deal of their polite facade, ". . . you are no different than the wandering beasts that Jessica tries to care for. My daughter is a young lady of noble birth and breeding. You are beneath her, and I do not believe it to be appropriate for you to remain here as her guest." Her voice had taken on a cold and sharp edge, which was reflected in her gaze. "Do you understand me?"

Kaleah regarded her with a frozen expression for long moments. She considered the older woman’s words carefully, and then nodded once, slowly. "I understand you," she said very softly. "But with all due respect, the decision isn’t yours to make. Jessica has told me I am her guest, not yours. Sir Richard, your husband, has given his approval for my presence. These things taken into consideration, you do not have the right to order me from the castle."

"I know that," Lady Rose acknowledged. "I’m not ordering you out — just giving you my considered advice." She smiled very coldly. "As a friend."

"I see."

Lady Rose turned away and effected to study the tapestry on the wall with great interest. "You know . . ." she said casually, "I heard one of the kitchen maids was injured quite severely a few nights ago. An oil fire broke out in the kitchens, or so I heard. She was badly burned. Quite a terrible accident."

Kaleah’s eyes narrowed, wondering if Lady Rose was going to attempt to link her with the event. "What’s your point?"

"My point?" Dull green eyes regarded her mildly. "I’m merely pointing out that accidents happen. It’s a big castle, after all. It can be a dangerous place for those who are, shall we say, unaccustomed to it’s workings. If you’re going to stay here, you should know that bad things could happen to you as a result."

Ice blue eyes narrowed. "You threaten me?"

"Threaten? Me?" Lady Rose effected a look of offended shock. "Of course not, my dear. I am sincere in my desire to keep you safe from any harm — and my daughter safe from elements that might be . . . undesirable."

Kaleah was still for long moments, her face a carefully blank mask. "Are we done here?"

Lady Rose nodded. "I think you understand me," she said softly.

"Oh, I understand you, Milady," Kaleah whispered in a voice thick with suppressed emotion. "But before I go, I will say this; in my life, I have met some of the most vicious, evil and twisted creatures ever to take human form. I have been exposed to their cruelties and have suffered much at their hands." She let the snarl come now as she let the full weight of her presence fill the room, enjoying a moment of intense satisfaction as the Lady Rose took a hesitant step back.

"Wh-what’s your point?" she stammered, her face less certain now.

Kaleah smiled a feral smile that twisted the scar on her lips in a strange and ugly way. "My point is that, compared to them, anything you could dream up would seem like a minor annoyance to me at worst."

Giving Jessica’s mother a stiff bow that held not a trace of respect, Kaleah turned and stalked out of the ante chamber without looking back. She had more important things to do than waste her time listening to pointless threats. Jessica was her friend. Her only friend. After living so many years with no-one else to share her life, Kaleah wasn’t about to give up the first honest friendship she’d ever known. She had endured pain and torment at the hands of cruel men all her life, and gained nothing in return but a legacy of scars that never healed. She was more than prepared to risk anything to stay with Jessica, and nothing that Lady Rose could do would make her think otherwise.

Lady Rose stood silent and unmoving for several minutes after the barbarian woman left. She had expected the dark-haired savage to be somewhat more amenable to her suggestion; it had not occurred to her that Kaleah would be so loyal to her daughter.

In truth, she admitted to herself, there was something about the savage that frightened her a little. The dark woman possessed a core of animal strength that reeked of violence, an inner power that had slipped away from her momentarily at the end of their conversation. Lady Rose had felt it and been impressed . . . and somewhat intimidated. But if this heathen believed for one minute that she had won, she was mistaken. Lady Rose would not stand idly by as this Godless savage filled her young daughter’s impressionable head with her barbaric ideals. No, there was no doubt about it. Kaleah was a dangerous companion for Jessica, and the more time they spent together, the worse the damage would be. If she would not leave voluntarily, then Lady Rose would just have to convince her.

Still, Kaleah had raised a point that she had not considered. The former slave was not likely to be a soft target. Her body gave silent testimony to the pain she had endured and survived. Lady Rose would never have dreamed of trying to physically intimidate or harm the dark woman herself . . . but that didn’t mean she was above using others to do so.

Considering her plan carefully for a moment — making sure it wasn’t likely to draw the attention of her intelligent daughter in her direction — Lady Rose decided it would do nicely. At the very least, it would let Kaleah know she was serious. Smiling coldly, her eyes mere slits, Lady Rose summoned a soldier and asked him to send for the captain of the guard.

Out in the courtyard, Jessica sat waiting for Kaleah as patiently as she could. To a casual observer, the young blonde might have seemed quite relaxed. She sat on a resting bench, her hands folded in her lap, apparently calm and tranquil. However, to the soldiers who had known her all her life, it was clear that she was nervous and on edge. Her green eyes were constantly moving, and she would often run her fingers through her long hair to sweep it out of her face. Her expression was stormy and troubled, not content, and she tapped her left foot from time to time on the cobble-stone ground.

Should it be taking this long? she wondered, fighting the urge to fidget. Why would her mother want to talk to Kaleah anyway? It was pretty damn obvious she didn’t like the woman. Jessica hated not knowing, hated the feeling that Kaleah might be in trouble, knowing she couldn’t help her friend.

She waited several more minutes. Then, just as she was about to go and retrieve her dark companion, mother or no mother, her roving eyes saw the woman striding toward her down the stone steps. Jessica smiled and rushed over to her.

"Well, what did she want?" she demanded. Kaleah’s expression was hard to read. She had adopted a look of obviously forced nonchalance, but the smile she gave Jessica was genuine enough and warmed the young woman’s heart instantly, making butterflies dance in her stomach.

Kaleah shrugged. "Nothing really," she said casually. "Just wanted to chat."

Jessica narrowed her eyes and stood directly in Kaleah’s path, hands on her hips. "Yeah, right. What did she say?"

Kaleah groaned inwardly, and rolled her eyes. "Honestly, it was nothing-" The expression in the young woman’s eyes stopped her. It was clear she was going to have to give Jessica something plausible, and she knew her friend was sharp enough to spot an outright lie. But that didn’t mean she had to tell her everything. "Okay," she sighed. "Your mother told me she didn’t approve of us spending so much time together."

"And?"

"And, thought it was time I moved on, and left her precious, high-born daughter alone."

Jessica snorted in a most unladylike fashion, and Kaleah grinned. "What did you tell her?"

"That I was your guest, and that since your father approved of my being here, I wasn’t going anywhere for the time being."

Jessica’s smile touched Kaleah’s soul and wrapped around it tightly. "You actually said that?"

"Yes. She didn’t seem happy about it, but she admitted there wasn’t a lot she could do. It’s not like she can run me off if I don’t want to go."

"That’s right," Jessica grinned and gave her tall companion a quick, shy hug that was not rejected. "Not while I’m around."

Kaleah coughed and decided it was time to change the subject. "Well . . . before we were interrupted, I believe we were talking about our trip into the village tonight."

Jessica’s smile faltered. "I’m still not really sure we should . . ."

"Oh come on." Kaleah slapped the blonde playfully. "With all the stories I’ve heard about you, I’d have thought you’d be the one dragging me into town."

"I’m not that bad." Jessica protested half-heartedly.

"Riiiight." A dark eyebrow raised in delicious challenge. "You know, if you’re too scared I could just go by myself."

"Scared!?" Jessica’s eyes flared. She knew what her friend was doing, but couldn’t stop the competitive fires from bursting to life within her. She had always felt compelled to prove herself to those people whose opinions mattered to her. Before there had only ever really been her father and Sir Miles, but now she knew she wanted Kaleah’s respect and admiration as well. She glared at the dark woman. "Alright," she growled through clenched teeth. "We’ll go."

"Great!" Kaleah clapped her hands once, and started dragging her shorter companion back to their rooms.

"Wait! I thought we were going to do some training."

"We’ll come back, if there’s time," Kaleah told her. "Right now, we have to plan exactly what we’re going to do. We have to organize our disguises, and how we get in and out of the castle, and things like that. How much money do you have?"

"Why?" Jessica let herself be dragged along.

"Because we’ll need money to buy food and something to drink," Kaleah explained. "It’s a tavern, afterall. They won’t let us just sit there in the warmth unless we buy something. Oh, and we’ll need to make sure the kitchen doesn’t send our dinner up to us like they usually do; we’ll be gone as soon as it gets dark."

Jessica sighed. And I thought I was bad. She had a feeling this plan was going to lead to nothing but trouble.

Chapter 8.

It turned out that Jessica’s feeling of trepidation and concern lasted about as long as it took for Kaleah to take them both back to the younger woman’s bedroom. Kaleah continued to talk, pointing out various things to be considered for their little expedition that Jessica ceased listening too after a while. The more the young blonde thought about this, the more excited she became. Just think. . . she would be going into the peasant village disguised as one of them! It was certain to be quite an experience.

They left as soon as the sun went down. Jessica procured a couple of outfits from the kitchen servants that were ragged but still warm enough to combat the bite from winter’s jaws of ice and snow. They made sure their clothes came complete with hoods; as Kaleah pointed out, Jessica’s fair and beautiful features had nobility written all over them.

Although the village was only a few miles from the castle and they could easily walk the distance, Jessica insisted that they ride. Kaleah protested that none of the peasants would own horses except for a few heavy work animals, but Jessica was adamant.

"We can leave them tied up just outside of town," she argued. "No-one will bother them, and we’ll pick them up on the way back. There’s no way I’m walking miles through the cold night so I can sit in some dirty tavern. We ride, or we don’t go at all."

So in the end, of course, they rode.

The ride was bitterly cold. A wind had sprung up out of nowhere, and it cut through their ragged garb as though it wasn’t even there. They stopped a few hundred feet from the edge of the village, tying off the horses outside an abandoned barn a short way from the rutted track that continued into town. Then they walked the remaining distance, stopping as they reached the first thatched building that served as a home for a peasant family. From deeper inside the village boisterous music played, and the two friends smiled at one another.

Jessica was about to continue on when Kaleah grabbed her arm and pulled her back. "Wait!"

"What?"

Kaleah pushed the hood from her friends face and scowled. The full moon illuminated Jessica’s clean, soft features clearly. "We can’t go in with you looking like that," she said.

"Why not?"

"Because you look as though you’ve bathed in the last three days."

Blonde brows furrowed. "That’s because I have," Jessica observed wryly.

"Exactly. No peasant can afford such a luxury, Jessica. They’d spot you in an instant as nobility. Here . . ." She reached down and scooped up a small handful of mud. "This’ll do the trick . . ."

Jessica pulled away and glared at her companion. "You’re not serious!?"

Kaleah nodded. "If it makes you feel any better, you get to do the same thing to me."

Jess considered this, and a slow smile crept across her face. "Okay," she allowed, leaning forward to let Kaleah rub the dirt and mud gently into her face. "I guess that’s worth it."

Kaleah grinned, trying to be as gentle as possible. When she was done, she studied her friend’s now not-so-clean face in the moonlight. "Not perfect, but it’ll do." The young woman was still painfully beautiful even with the additional grime. Kaleah knew that no amount of mud could ever make Jessica look like just another peasant. "Better keep your face covered up, though," she added as an afterthought as Jessica reached out with her own handful of mud, her expression perhaps a little too eager for Kaleah’s tastes.

"My turn," the blonde said with a grin as she began to enthusiastically cover the dark woman’s face liberally.

"Easy." Kaleah warned. "Don’t get any in my eyes."

"Sorry." Jessica slowed down, not wanting to hurt her friend. She unconsciously cupped Kaleah’s cheek as she finished, stroking the scar on her lips slowly. She had no idea why she liked doing that so much, but the gesture somehow made her feel more connected to the dark woman.

When she realized what she was doing, Jessica quickly drew her hand away, avoiding the blue eyes that regarded her with gentle intensity. She reprimanded herself mentally, but knew she couldn’t help it. The chemistry between her and the dark woman was growing stronger, drawing them together like two lodestones. "I, uh. I think you’re done."

Kaleah studied her young friend a moment longer. She liked the feeling of intimacy that Jessica’s repeated gesture brought, and for a split second, it was on the tip of her tongue to ask her to continue. When she realized what she was thinking, Kaleah scolded herself. Better lay off the drink tonight, she noted. You don’t want to go loosing your inhibitions while you’re feeling like this.

Once Kaleah had herself back under control, she smiled and patted Jessica on the arm. "Okay. Let’s go." They stood up and headed slowly towards the source of the music. "You brought money, right?"

Jessica patted the fat pouch tied at her hip, just next to the short slender blade she’d chosen to carry for protection. Her own sword was too long and conspicuous for this adventure, but she was adept with any edged weapon, and felt safer being armed.

Kaleah nodded when she heard the clink of the coins. "Good. Just remember; we go in, I’ll find us a table, and we sit down. Don’t stare at anything, just be casual. Try not to say too much. If we stay in the background and don’t attract any attention, we can listen to everyone, right?"

Jessica nodded. Her body was tense and thrumming with excitement. Her green eyes darted everywhere, taking it all in. She had only ever seen this place in passing, and she tried to remember every detail.

After a minute or two, they finally came to the source of the lively music. Jessica studied the large building with avid curiosity. It was bigger than most of the other structures in the village. The wooden shutters on the windows were open, and light and sound poured from within. Smoke rose from a central chimney, writhing into the chilly night sky like phantom demons. Jess smiled and tried to calm herself down, taking her cue from Kaleah. Even though she was sure the dark woman was typically nervous — as she always was when anticipating company — Kaleah still managed to appear bored and unimpressed by her surroundings.

Jessica pulled her hood about her face and caught up her friends larger hand. Meeting the dark woman’s eyes, which had turned a deep purple shade in the moonlight, she grinned playfully. "Shall we . . .?"

Kaleah returned the grin and nodded, bracing herself mentally for the challenge of being around so many people.

"This should be fun," she heard the young blonde say as she led them into the village tavern.

The inside of the tavern was smoky, loud, and very, very warm. Jessica, unprepared for the heat radiating from a fireplace in the center of the large common-room, blinked in surprise and stopped completely in her tracks. Kaleah promptly bumped into her.

The place was fairly full of people, but there were a few tables still unattended. A group of peasants were playing their music from a small, raised stage at the back of the room, and everyone appeared to be happy and friendly. And apparently, she added, quite talkative, too.

That made sense, she supposed. Winter was a time when the peasants stayed largely indoors. The crops had been harvested last season, and planting would not begin till spring, which left the dreary, cold months of winter for such activities as weaving, sewing, and trying to stay alive. Firewood had to be gathered from time to time, but apart from that, Jessica realized the peasants would likely see little of each other during the winter apart from such social gathering as this. It was understandable, therefore, that they would want to make the most of their time together.

Kaleah pointed to a far wall. "Over there," she said, speaking directly into Jessica’s ear to be heard over the din of dozens of people all talking and arguing. Jessica looked, and saw an empty table that sat in an area of relative shadow.

She nodded approvingly. "Looks good." A few people gave them curious looks as they moved through the tavern, but nothing more. They were, after all, just another couple of strangers. And being women, they weren’t likely to be dangerous . . . not like the mercenaries or bandits who would stop by sometimes.

They sat down and studied the room together. While Jessica’s eyes were filled with innocent curiosity, her companion’s were not so naive. Kaleah scanned quickly for anyone who would be likely to cause them trouble, and immediately noticed a group of three rough looking men sitting at the other end of the room. By their dress and the weapons they carried prominently, she recognized them as fighting men. Not bandits, she decided — their equipment was too well-kept. Mercenaries, then. They hadn’t noticed her and Jessica yet, but it was only a matter of time. She made a mental note to keep an eye on them.

It wasn’t long before a barmaid came over and gave them both an appraising glance. "What can I get you?" she asked.

Kaleah ordered stew and bread for both of them, and a couple of ale’s. She gestured for Jessica to pay the woman, which she did, handing over the requisite coins with a shy smile and a "Thank you." The barmaid returned the smile and left, but Kaleah noticed with some amusement that her eyes lingered over Jessica’s face and figure for a long moment.

Apparently I’m not the only one in town with an appreciation of such things.

"You ordered ale?" Jessica asked when the barmaid left.

"Sure. Is that a problem?"

Jessica blushed a little. She didn’t want to seem like a child in front of Kaleah, but she wasn’t going to pretend to be any more worldly than she actually was. "I’ve just . . . well, I’ve never . . . you know?"

Kaleah caught on and smiled in understanding. "Not a big drinker, huh?"

Jessica’s blush deepened. "Not really," she said. "I have wine during festivals, but . . ."

"Don’t worry," Kaleah reassured her. "I’m not much for the stuff myself. But a few drinks will take the edge off the cold on the ride home. We might as well enjoy ourselves, since we’re here." She produced a full, dazzling grin which her younger friend returned a little nervously. "So. . . what do you think so far?"

Jessica studied the room and the people in it. The atmosphere was friendly and relaxed. There wasn’t even a hint of danger in the air. There were people of all ages, not just adults, as she had thought there would be, but a few children and quite a number of women, too. Everyone was laughing and having a good time. She smiled, her eyes twinkling merrily in the flickering firelight. "I can’t believe I let my father’s warning keep me from doing this for so long," she said. "This place is great!"

"Uh huh. Just make sure you keep your wits about you," Kaleah warned her, nodding once toward the group of mercenaries. Jessica followed her glance and frowned. "Don’t worry," Kaleah said, sitting back and getting comfortable. "They probably won’t do anything, but it’s good to be sure you know where the danger is, just in case. Okay?"

Jessica understood clearly, and nodded. The place may indeed be friendly, but her friend’s warning reminded her that they weren’t in Da’Gran anymore. There weren’t soldiers at every wall, waiting to protect her if anything should happen. This wasn’t even a battlefield, where her father and his men would always be close by if she got herself in trouble. Here, if she were forced into a confrontation, she had only herself and Kaleah to depend on. And if she got hurt, no-one in Da’Gran knew she was here. She straightened her posture and ordered herself to be more alert.

The waitress returned in short order with their drinks and two bowls of steaming stew. "Here you go." She laid them on the table and gave Jessica a long, appreciative once over. "And if you need anything else . . ." her eyes took on a seductive hue, ". . . anything at all . . . just give me a call."

Jessica just smiled innocently at her from under her hood. "Sure, we will."

Kaleah grinned as the waitress returned the smile and left, her hips swaying a little more than necessary.

Jessica, completely oblivious to the lustful intentions of the attractive bar-maid, tore her stick of bread apart and used it to soak up the thick lamb stew. There were no spoons used here, but she had expected that. Jessica prided herself on being able to survive without the trappings of her nobility, enjoyed the knowledge that she didn’t need all the expensive luxuries that her high birth had given her. Although, she thought, it might be tough to have to live without baths. Even the rich smells from the kitchen in back and the burning wood from the fire couldn’t quite mask the odor of unwashed bodies.

The stew was actually rather good, and Jessica took a hesitant sip of her ale, hoping it would also be agreeable with her. As she tasted the warm, sweet liquid, she smiled in surprise.

Kaleah regarded her with amusement. "Good?"

"Mmmm." She nodded, and took a larger mouthful. It slid down her throat leaving a pleasant sparkly feeling behind. "Nice. Much better than that God-awful whiskey Miles gave me when I went to save you from the storm. I like it."

"I’m glad." Kaleah took a long sip of her own drink, then waited for her friend to follow suit before she mentioned, quite casually, "You know, the barmaid is flirting with you."

Jessica’s ale flew out her mouth and nose as her eyes widened. "What!?"

Kaleah grinned and gave her an innocent look. "You didn’t know?" she asked in mock surprise. Reaching out, she mopped up some of the spat out ale from the table and continued eating her stew. "I thought it was pretty obvious."

"What do you mean, she’s flirting with me?"

"Is flirted the right word?" Kaleah asked, looking as puzzled as she could. "I’m sorry, I sometimes get difficult words confused. I mean she’s . . . attracted to you, and was expressing her interest."

Jessica’s bright green eyes were wide, and her mouth hung open as she looked about the room wildly. No-one was close enough to be able to hear them, and none of the peasants seemed interested in them much at all. "What are you talking about?" she demanded in a hiss, keeping her voice down anyway.

Kaleah sighed and pointed to where the bar-maid was serving a table on the other side of the room. "I’m talking about her," she said. "She likes you, and she was flirting with you."

Jessica’s face was blank and confused. "When?"

"Just before, when she brought our food."

"I didn’t see anything."

"Oh? Well she was checking you out, and from the look on her face, I’d say she liked what she saw." Kaleah’s grin turned rakish. "’If there’s anything at all I can do for you, just call me . . .’" she mimicked the husky, seductive tones of the barmaid, and batted her eyelashes teasingly at the now furiously blushing blonde.

Jessica looked at the barmaid in disbelief. When the girl saw her looking, she threw the young blonde a smile and winked.

It was true!

"Oh my God!"

Kaleah chuckled. "What’s the matter?" she asked, patting her friend on the hand. "She’s right, you’re very pretty. This can’t be the first time someone’s looked at you like that."

"Well . . . sure, but um, you know, it’s not . . . she’s a -"

"A woman?"

Jessica nodded, feeling very flustered and embarrassed by the now suddenly obvious attention of the barmaid.

Kaleah just grinned, though her friend’s reaction wasn’t quite what she might have wanted. "It’s just a preference," she said softly, deciding it wouldn’t do to tease the young woman too much. "Bet you don’t get to hear about that sort of thing locked up in Da’Gran, huh princess?" Her smile was still playful.

"No, it’s not that," Jessica blurted, taking another long sip of ale while trying to get her blush to go away. Her eyes watered a little as the amber liquid slid down her throat. "I’ve heard about that sort of thing. I just never realized . . . you know. I didn’t think that anyone so close would be . . . well . . ."

Kaleah’s eyes widened in surprise. "You know that women can be intimate with other women?"

Jessica shrugged. "Sure," she said off-handedly. "I told you, I read a lot. There were a few things about women like that in one or two of the stories I bought." She decided Kaleah didn’t need to know that she deliberately sought out such tales, or that ‘one or two’ was actually twenty or thirty. Such details were unimportant.

Kaleah could only nod. "Oh." She supposed she should have known.

"I’ve never had a woman actually say anything to me," Jessica continued. "Of course, I’ve never really been around other women outside the castle." She gave Kaleah a helpless, lost look. "What should I do?"

Kaleah shrugged. "Just be polite, and when she asks if she can do anything else for you, just say thanks, but you’ll be fine. She’ll see you’re not interested, and accept it." She paused for a long moment, then added with a saucy grin, "Unless, of course, you’re interested in getting more of an education tonight than we planned on." Jessica’s face was a picture of embarrassed shock, and Kaleah enjoyed her expression thoroughly. "In which case, all you have to do is say, yes, you’re interested in what her duties are after the tavern closes down for the night, and maybe she could-"

"I am not interested," Jessica hissed, the blush back in full force.

"Well fine." Kaleah smiled innocently. "She’s not going to bite your head off just because you reject her advances."

"But . . . I don’t know how to." Jessica gave her best impression of a lost puppy.

Kaleah sighed, and drank from her mug. "Would you like me to deal with it?" she asked.

Jessica’s face lit up. "Would you?"

"Sure. I think I know just the way to send her the right message."

"Thank you." Jessica looked almost comically relieved. Throwing the still watching barmaid a nervous smile, she returned to her stew and tried to concentrate on the conversations going on around them.

Unfortunately, Jessica quickly found that it was hard to listen to the people. There were so many voices all talking at once, it was impossible to catch more than fleeting snippets of their conversations. And what she did hear was nothing she didn’t already know.

The topic most of the people seemed to be discussing wasn’t the situation at Da’Gran; the young girl realized quickly the peasants had more immediate concerns than the politics of their rulers. The bandits that tended to raid Sir Richard’s lands were worse than usual this winter, congregating in dangerously large numbers. The peasants knew Da’Gran soldiers were doing the best they could, but from what Jessica made out the patrols weren’t enough to stem the danger.

Kaleah, who had stopped her teasing and was listening too, leaned closer. "Is this sort of thing normal?"

Jess shrugged. "Bandits are nothing new, no. I guess you know we try to deal with them quickly." She smirked at her friend. "But we usually manage to keep things under control." Her expression grew a little more serious. "I knew there were more raiders than we typically get. . . but it sounds pretty bad."

Soon, the two friends finished their drinks and Kaleah gestured for the barmaid to bring another round. Since the girl was keeping one eye fixed enticingly on Jessica, it was easy to get her attention and she returned quickly with two full mugs. Setting them on the table, she gave the young blonde — who was blushing furiously and trying unsuccessfully to keep her eyes from staring at the barmaid’s more well displayed attributes — a radiant smile.

"Will that be all?" the buxom girl asked. Seeing where Jessica’s gaze was fixed, she placed her hands on her hips and thrust herself even further forward.

Kaleah just smiled, then reaching over, she put her hand firmly over her friends and leaned closer into Jessica, her posture protective. "We’ll be fine for the time being," she said, forcing the barmaid to take her eyes off the young blonde. Her tone was unmistakably possessive, and she saw the girl falter for a moment.

The barmaid studied them, her eyes going from their clasped hands to the defensive way Kaleah was leaning against her friend. Then, she gave a little shrug, her smile returning as she transferred her attention to Kaleah. "No problem." Her tone was still husky. "If you think of anything later, I’ll be here all night." Her eyes became hooded as she regarded them both with a sensual smile. "Once everyone leaves, it usually takes me an hour or so to clean up. I could always use a little company . . . the more the merrier . . ."

Kaleah didn’t even blink. Not quite what I had in mind, but . . . "Some other time, perhaps," she said, letting a slight smile play across her lips and giving the girl a wink she was sure Jessica wouldn’t see. Hell, there was no point burning bridges, especially if she was going to be staying at Da’Gran for a long time. Her feelings for her young friend were getting stronger, and her body was starting to get more anxious about a few things. Just because she couldn’t proposition Jessica didn’t mean she had to go the rest of her life without physical companionship, even if it wasn’t with the person she wanted.

The barmaid, reading the hidden promise in her gesture, smiled even broader and wandered off to continue with her duties. Kaleah gave herself a mental pat on the back, and picked up her mug. When she turned to Jessica, she found the young woman staring at her, mouth hanging open.

"What?"

"What was all that about!?" Jessica demanded, still blushing.

Kaleah shrugged. "You said you wanted me to handle it, right? Well, I doubt she’ll be bothering you anymore. What’s the problem?"

Jessica tried to say something, but for several moments found she could not produce words. Eventually, she managed to figure out a sentence. "Now she thinks that we’re . . . we’re . . ."

"Lovers? So what?"

Jessica tried to say something, but it was impossible to argue with the dark eyebrow that raised deliciously, daring her to challenge the fact that the idea had worked — in a roundabout way. After a long moment of struggling, she just snorted at her friend, and took another sip of her ale.

Kaleah studied the girl carefully for long moments, trying to gauge her reaction. Jessica didn’t seem offended by the idea of women being together with other women. Rather, she seemed embarrassed about the topic. That made sense, she supposed. Although she might be worldly about some matters, Jessica was still painfully innocent in a great many ways. At least she didn’t seem to have been infected with the vicious hatred the religion in this country encouraged against such people. That in itself was pretty surprising, though very characteristic of the young woman.

Finishing the last of her stew, she regarded the young blonde seriously. "Does it bother you that I let her think that?"

Jessica met her steady gaze for a moment, then looked away. "I guess not. I mean, not really," she said quietly. "I just thought you were going to discourage her a little differently. Like I said, I know about that stuff, and it doesn’t bother me. You just surprised me, that’s all."

Kaleah smiled. Jessica wasn’t upset about her little joke. "Sorry. I didn’t mean to," she lied. "I gotta say, it didn’t work like I thought it would. Now she seems interested in both of us."

"Yeah, what’re you planning to do about that?"

Kaleah grinned mysteriously and shrugged. "No harm in letting her be interested," she said, her eyes studying the girl now serving a group of peasants in the far corner of the common-room. "She’s pretty enough, afterall, and I’m not likely to get a better offer any time soon."

Jessica stared at her, her mug frozen half-way to her mouth. "Are you serious?"

"Only half," she allowed. Jessica didn’t need to know she was actually considering a future rendezvous with the serving girl. "She is attractive, afterall. If I was in the market — which I’m not particularly — I could do a lot worse." She saw the open-mouthed expression of surprise on Jess’s face, and smiled wryly. "Shut your mouth if you’re not going to drink."

Jessica shut her mouth with an audible snap, but continued staring at Kaleah as the dark woman sipped her ale slowly. The young blonde could hardly believe what she was hearing! Was Kaleah saying that she was . . . interested in women? In that way? It sure sounded like it. Before her mind could begin to lay the groundwork for any of the pictures it wanted to draw for her, Jessica reminded herself firmly that, even if Kaleah did like women in that way, it didn’t change the fact that the dark woman had never expressed any interest in her.

Kaleah noticed her still staring, and raised an eyebrow. "What now?"

She shook herself away from her rather bitter contemplation’s of what might — but could never — be. "N-nothing," she stammered, taking a drink to cover her nervousness. Silence reined for a few minutes before she could stand it no longer and simply asked, "So, you’re saying that . . . she’s," she indicated the barmaid, "the sort of person you might be attracted to? If you were looking for someone?"

Kaleah took her time considering exactly how much to say. She regarded Jessica seriously, holding her eyes and not letting go. "She might be," she replied quietly. "On a strictly physical level . . . maybe."

Jessica thought that through, and nodded slowly. "So . . . you like women? Sexually?"

"I thought you said you weren’t bothered by the idea," Kaleah observed, her eyes maintaining their intense hold on Jessica.

"I’m not," Jessica said quickly. "I just didn’t know. And before you go saying it’s none of my business, I know that too. But you have to admit . . ." she smiled a little, ". . . it’s kind of a surprise to find out about." The blonde saw fear and apprehension flash across Kaleah’s face for a second, recognized it for what it was.

"This . . . doesn’t change anything, does it?" Kaleah asked softly. "I mean, we’re still friends, right?"

Jessica looked faintly insulted. "Of course," she said. "Why wouldn’t we be?"

Kaleah shrugged and looked away, drinking half her mug of ale in one swallow. "I just thought . . . The Church here-"

"You thought I might suddenly figure you were a sick, sinful barbarian afterall, and banish you forever, huh?" Jessica grinned playfully and mock-punched the dark woman gently in the arm. "You may be a barbarian, Kaleah, but if I was gonna banish you because of that, I’d have done it a long time ago. Could’ve saved myself a lot of trouble, saving your butt from the storm and all."

Kaleah laughed lightly and finished off her second ale. "I guess so." She was glad Jessica didn’t mind about her preference. Still, she reminded herself and the rising desire that ran through her loins, that didn’t mean the girl shared her tastes. It might be harmless to fantasize, but anything else would be inappropriate, and could destroy the only friendship she’d ever had in her life.

Sitting the mug down on the table, the former slave decided she’d had enough ale for one evening. While Kaleah had had little experience with alcohol, she’d had enough to know her limits. Although she was tall, she was thin, and lightly muscled. Intoxicants went right to her head, and the ale was rather strong. Anymore, and she might be tipsy enough to say or do something to give away her feelings.

A sudden crude comment shouted from across the room drew her attention to another reason to stop drinking. The three mercenaries had apparently noticed the presence of the two young women, and one of them had just called out his suggestion of a possible evenings entertainment. Kaleah felt her blood start to rise in anger, her vision dull. Taking a deep breath, she stilled her natural instinct to rush over and kill the men where they sat laughing. Jessica, sensing the energy that thrummed through her tense body, reached over and laid a restraining hand on her arm.

"They’re just words," the young blonde said reassuringly. "They can’t hurt us."

Kaleah struggled with her temper, and managed to gain a firm grip on it. "The words might not hurt us," she whispered, "but what if they take it further because I don’t stop it now." She met the clear green eyes of her companion as she gently removed the hand that was now rubbing her arm soothingly. "Better to deal with it before the ale makes them bolder."

"You don’t have to." Jessica’s eyes beseeched her to stay calm.

"I do." She smiled as she got to her feet. The comments and hollering from the drunk mercenaries increased as the men saw her rise. She patted Jessica on the shoulder. "It’s okay, I’ll stay calm. I don’t always loose control, you know. Relax." She fixed the men with an icy stare that was colder and more dangerous than the winter chill outside. "Be back in a minute."

Striding over, aware that most of the conversation in the common-room had died down and the music stopped, Kaleah planted herself in front of the largest and most imposing of the grinning men. Using her height to good advantage, she looked down at him, a thin smile on her lips, her eyes like steel.

"Something you wanted?" she asked, setting her hands on her hips and serupticously sliding a hand under her peasant robes, wrapping long fingers around the hilt of a hidden dagger. She could feel the nervous eyes watching her and cursed inwardly. Damn! They were trying to keep this low-key. But it couldn’t be helped. These men were drinking hard, and would make more trouble later if they weren’t cut down to size now.

The big mercenary looked up at her with bleary, bloodshot eyes, a dull grin on his face revealing surprisingly even teeth. "Well, you’d be a fine start for now," he leered, licking his lips disgustingly. "We can get to your friend over there later . . . if she don’t mind waiting, that is. We’ll try be quick for her."

His companions laughed and slapped him on the back, adding a few comments of their own. Kaleah ignored them and focused on keeping her temper down. The man was too stupid to be aware of the coiled tension pulsing through the object of his lustful desires. He didn’t notice the cold, steady and utterly fearless expression on the face of the former slave. His drunk mind barely registered the flash of movement as Kaleah’s right hand shot out from her side in a fluid motion as swift as a diving falcon.

. . . But he wasn’t so drunk that he didn’t feel the press of cold steel against his neck, nor fail to recognize what it portended.

"You’d want to quicker than me then, wouldn’t you," Kaleah whispered softly, her eyes darting to the man’s companions as they realized what was happening and reached belatedly for their weapons. She stepped behind the man and twisted the dagger menacingly, drawing a single drop of blood. "He’ll be dead before you can save him," she promised coldly. "And you’ll be close behind. Hand’s on the table, or I end this badly for you right now."

The men studied her for a moment, gauging her ability to carry out the threat. Seeing her strong stance and confidant expression, they snarled and did as she ordered, placing their hands slowly on the table top, fingers spread open, palms down. The man she held swallowed in fear, the blade biting into his skin.

Kaleah nodded. "Good. Now, what do you say we deal with this as adults? I don’t want to hurt you, and you don’t either. Am I right?"

They nodded, watching her suspiciously. Their slightly addled brains were still trying to figure out who she was. She looked like a peasant, but no peasant was this fast or skilled. They recognized now that it was too late how dangerous she was, and each man wished momentarily they’d picked a softer target for their sport.

Kaleah was well aware of the thoughts that were passing through their minds, and she grinned. "My friend and I were trying to enjoy a peaceful dinner and the chance to escape from the cold," she said softly, keeping her voice low and carefully even. "We don’t take kindly to having our evening interrupted by the likes of you gentlemen. I’m certain you can appreciate that."

The men nodded.

"Good." She gave them a cold smile and cast a swift glance over to Jessica. The blonde was watching with a look of concern on her face. It was probably best to wrap this up quickly and quietly, before she attracted even more attention.

"We don’t want any trouble, but we’re quite ready to deal with any that finds us, as you can see." She twisted the knife a little, drawing a gasp from the frozen mercenary. "I’m certain that now you’ve had the time to consider everything more thoroughly, you realize that you don’t particularly have any interest in either myself or my friend over there . . . right?"

Again, the men bobbed their heads in mute agreement.

"Excellent," Kaleah purred. "Then I think we can forget this whole incident ever took place." She slowly released the man from the paralyzing touch of the dagger, which vanished as quickly as it had appeared. Free once more, the big mercenary moved quickly away from her and ran his hand thankfully across his neck, making sure it was still there. He scowled when he saw the blood on his fingers, but made no move to attack her.

Kaleah gave the men a confidant smile and a slight bow. "I’m glad we understand each other," she said softly, before turning and walking with feline grace back to her companion. Taking her seat, she patted Jessica on the shoulder reassuringly, and stared intently at nothing until the people in the tavern resumed their conversations.

"You alright?" asked Jessica nervously, reaching out to touch her friend, seeking contact to reassure herself.

Kaleah smiled and nodded. "Fine," she said. "I told you, I can be calm when I want to be. They were no problem." She looked around and saw a few curious inspections coming from the peasants. "I think we may have lost a bit of our inconspicuous cover though," she sighed. "I hope you’re not disappointed."

"Are you kidding? This was great! I’ve never done anything like this before." Jessica grinned and finished her second ale, giving a hearty belch after a moment of intense concentration. She giggled. "We can always come back another night, right?"

"Sure." Kaleah gave her friend a teasing grin. "And the night wasn’t a total waste. We found out that at least one of the commoners likes you just fine." She waggled her eyebrows and nodded to the barmaid as she passed them, noting the girl was still smiling invitingly.

Jessica saw her look, blushed, then laughed shyly. She was enjoying the night thoroughly, despite the recent unpleasantness. There was a wonderful tingle going through her body that she suspected had something to do with the ale, and she rather liked the way it was making her feel. She had learned something very interesting about her dark friend — something her mind was going to have fun playing with later on, she was sure — and she was sharing the lives of the common-people, if only for a moment. All in all, Jess was having way too much fun to think of heading back to Da’Gran just yet.

Smiling at her companion, she studied her empty mug and said, "I think I’ll have another drink. You want one?"

Oh, yes. The night was still young.

Three hours and five stout mugs later, Jessica was feeling more than just a little tipsy. The room had developed a rather fuzzy quality that perfectly complemented the pleasant lethargy now permeating her whole body, and she was finding it increasingly difficult to stop staring at her friend. With her defenses down, Jessica’s imagination had no trouble at all drawing the erotic pictures it came up with across her mind.

Kaleah had urged the young woman to slow down, but Jessica seemed to have taken a definite liking to ale, and after a while the dark woman gave up trying to discourage her friend. The mercenaries had left soon after their little encounter, and she thought it unlikely there’d be any trouble, so Jessica would be fairly safe. Besides, she smiled to herself. Jessica made about the cutest damn drunk she’d ever seen.

Kaleah nursed her single mug as she watched her blonde companion race ahead, an increasingly silly grin plastered on her beautiful face. The intoxicated girl spent most of the remainder of the evening telling stories to Kaleah . . . which was fine except the tales grew less coherent as the night wore on, and eventually seemed to interconnect and overlap to such a degree that the former slave had no idea what her friend was talking about.

". . . And that was why the princess couldn’t find the ring!" Jessica finished her current story with a flourish, then waited for her friend to give the proper surprised reaction.

Kaleah, who was still trying to figure out when the evil dragon in the story had suddenly morphed into a fair and radiant princess, just smiled and said, "Really? Um . . . great story."

Jessica grinned happily, her whole face lighting up with pleasure, so Kaleah assumed her response had been satisfactory. It was just as well the girl didn’t slur her words too much, Kaleah thought to herself; her stories were hard enough to follow as it was.

"Want to hear another?" Jessica offered enthusiastically. "Wait, I’ll order another drink. . ." Bleary eyes looked around for the barmaid.

Kaleah quickly captured the young woman’s face and forced her eyes back around. "I think you’ve had enough," she said wryly. "It’s late. We should head back to Da’Gran."

Jessica just waved her hands and snorted. "What’re you talking about? The night’s still young."

"The night was young two hours ago, Jess. Almost everyone else has gone home. I think we should . . . too." She trailed off as she realized Jessica was staring at her with an expression of tearful joy. "What?"

"You called me ‘Jess!’" the young blonde cried, throwing herself forward and giving Kaleah an ecstatic hug. "You’ve never called me ‘Jess’ before, only ‘Jessica!’"

Kaleah pried her friend away. "So what?"

Jessica wiped bleary eyes and sniffled a little. "It’s just nice is all," she said softly. She looked around and noticed for the first time that the tavern had emptied significantly. "Everyone went home?"

"Uh huh. And that’s where we’re going as well. Come on." She wrapped an arm around the shorter woman and helped her to her feet. "Can you walk okay?"

Jessica staggered a little, but remained upright. "Of course I can. Why wouldn’t I be able to walk?"

"Never mind. Let’s go." Kaleah leant her a supportive arm and started guiding them towards the tavern door. The barmaid saw her and quickly came over to help. Together, they got Jessica over to the exit and leaned her against the wall.

"Will she be okay?" the serving girl asked, running her eyes over Jessica’s shrouded figure with an expression that was half genuine concern, half uninhibited lust.

"She’ll be fine," Kaleah assured her. "She’s just a little drunk."

Green eyes appeared from under tousled blonde hair, looking quite surprised. "I am?"

Kaleah sighed. "It’s okay, Jess. We’ll get you home, and you can sleep it off. Don’t worry about it." She shifted her weight to better support the shorter woman, grunting a little. Jessica was small, but she was damned heavy.

"You know, you could always stay here the night," the barmaid offered happily. "You could sleep on the floor near the fire, or . . ." her eyes became hooded, "I could offer you a bed in my room, if you like."

Kaleah smiled, but shook her head. "Thanks, but I think she’d be better off if we head out." She noticed slightly unfocused green eyes looking up at her, and a teasing grin that told her Jessica was still sober enough to know what was being offered.

The barmaid shrugged, and ran a hand lingeringly over Kaleah’s arm. "Some other time, maybe?" A suggestively raised eyebrow.

Kaleah tried not to blush, and mostly succeeded. "Sure, maybe."

The girl left with a final seductive smile, returning to her duties. Kaleah got a better grip on Jessica and together they headed back into the icy chill of the outside world.

The wind had died down a little, but was still piercingly cold. All the houses were dark, the people asleep. In the distance, Kaleah heard a hunting dog barking at something, followed by it’s owner yelling at it to shut up. The moon was largely hidden by a bank of clouds, but it was still light enough to see clearly. Taking a moment to get her bearings, the dark woman swiftly figured out which way they needed to go to get back to the horses and they set off.

Jessica pushed her friend away after a few steps. "I can . . . I can walk okay," she said haltingly, her footsteps staggering quite a bit but holding her on a true course.

Kaleah shrugged and let her go. "Suit yourself."

Jessica gave her a rakish look. "What was that last bit you said back there . . . about some other time, maybe?" she asked playfully. "Thought you said you weren’t in the market."

Kaleah flushed. "I was just being polite."

"Oh, is that what you call it? Bet she would’ve liked to find out just how ‘polite’ you could be, huh?" So would you, her mind informed her pointedly.

Kaleah saw by her expression that the young blonde was just teasing, and smiled in return. "Guess so." She shivered in the chill and pulled her shawl closer about her, wishing it were Spring already. The warmer season was apparently only a week or two away, or so Jessica had told her. Kaleah would be happy to see it’s arrival.

"Glad you insisted on us riding out here," she said. "I’d hate to have to walk all the way home. You staggering the way you are, it’d take us all night to get back."

Jessica concentrated hard on her walking and realized she was a little off-kilter. It suddenly occurred to her that she was feeling rather odd, now that she was up and about. The world seemed decidedly skewed. She performed a quick assessment of her body and feelings, and came to the conclusion that she was indeed quite drunk. That realization brought her to an abrupt halt.

"I’m really drunk, aren’t I?" She sounded rather surprised.

Kaleah stopped alongside her, rolling her eyes. "Yes, you are. Come on, the horses are just up ahead. We’ll get you back to Da’Gran and you can sleep it off."

Jessica was looking about herself with an expression of mingled curiosity and trepidation. "My father always told me being drunk was bad," she said, giving Kaleah a confused look. "The soldiers are always complaining about headaches and . . ." she waved her arms about as she searched for a word, "and . . . stuff. But I feel really great. It’s not even cold!"

Kaleah sighed, and tried to get them moving again. "You feel good now," she informed the inebriated girl. "In the morning, you’ll get to feel all the headaches you want, okay? But we have to get back to the castle. Just cause you can’t feel the cold, doesn’t mean it’s not there. Come on."

She managed to prod Jessica back into motion, helping the young woman who was still looking around with detached interest and an expression on her face that Kaleah couldn’t help but find particularly adorable. After a few more minutes of walking, they made it back to the place where they’d left the two horses. Kaleah left Jessica standing on the dirt road while she retrieved the animals, admonishing her friend to stay exactly where she was and not wander off. Thankfully, Jessica adhered to her instructions with drunken intensity, smiling proudly when the dark woman returned leading Andromeda and her own stead.

"I stayed here!" Jessica seemed quite pleased with her simple feat. "Can I move now?"

Kaleah groaned inwardly and made a mental note not to take the young woman drinking too often. She was cute, but apparently required a lot of maintenance. "Sure," she allowed. "Do you think you can ride?"

"Umm . . ." Jessica swayed on her feet and eyed Andromeda doubtfully. The grey mare wandered over and sniffed at her mistress, snorting as she detected the unfamiliar scent of peasant garb and ale. "I, uh . . . I don’t know."

Figuring that meant no, Kaleah brought her own gelding over and stood him next to her friend. "Here, I’ll give you a hand up. You can ride in front of me, and I’ll hold onto you. Andromeda can be led. Okay?" Though she’d never tried riding like this when she had to be the one in control, Kaleah figured it was the only way they’d get back to Da’Gran safely.

Jessica saw what she intended, and nodded. It took a bit to get her mounted, but they managed after a brief struggle with gravity which almost put Jessica back on the ground on the other side of the horse. When she was sure her friend wasn’t going to fall off, Kaleah put her foot in the stirrup and threw a leg over the horse’s broad back just like she’d been practicing all week. The animal jumped a little at the unaccustomed weight, but quickly settled. After a moment to gather up the reins and secure an arm about the waist of the now giggling blonde, Kaleah set off slowly along the road, leading a placid Andromeda behind.

Jessica’s mirth petered out after a while, and she sighed. "I had a really great time tonight," she said, turning to look up at Kaleah. "Thank you for suggesting we come out here."

Kaleah smiled complacently. "No problem. Just don’t drink so much next time. If your father found out about this, he’d have my hide."

Jessica almost made the comment that she could understand why . . . it was a hide worth having, but thankfully the guard in her mind who made sure she didn’t blurt out stupid things finally woke up after a long nap and ordered the words back down her throat before they could escape. Instead, she just said, "I’d have talked him out of doing anything bad to you." She was starting to feel a little drowsy now. The rhythm of the horse’s gait and the warmth of the arm wrapped securely about her waist made her eyelids droop. She fought against the sleepiness. A sudden realization came to her, and she twisted in the saddle.

"How come you’re not feeling like me?" she asked the dark woman accusingly. "You were drinking too."

Kaleah grinned. "I stopped at three," she said wryly. "You just kept going."

"Oh." Jessica considered that for a moment, then snuggled back into the comforting warmth of the woman behind her. "Well, maybe next time we come out here, you could join me."

Kaleah’s grin widened. "We’d never get home in that case," she joked, drawing a chuckle from her companion.

"From the looks that barmaid was giving us, I think she’d be more than happy with that arrangement," the blonde observed through her laughter.

Kaleah blushed and tightened her grip on her squirming friend. "I’m sure she would be," she muttered under her breath. The wind changed direction suddenly, blowing the shawl off Jessica’s head and causing the young woman’s hair to fly back into her face. She fought a sneeze as the blonde tresses tickled her nose. Dropping the reins, she gathered up the hair and twisted it into a coil, handing it to her friend over the young woman’s shoulder. "Hold this."

Jessica stopped laughing and grabbed her hair. "Sorry. Is it bothering you?"

"Not if you keep it out of my face, it isn’t."

Jessica smiled and twisted so she could look up into her friend’s face. Kaleah looked down at her just as the moon appeared from behind the clouds, illuminating both their features in it’s pale silver glow, each to the other.

Jessica was instantly caught and held by the deep purple color Kaleah’s eyes had become. A curious dizzy sensation that had nothing to do with the ale swept over her, making her light-headed and causing her heart to double the tempo of its suddenly loud drumming. She felt herself drawing closer to the dark woman holding her, felt herself almost becoming one with her where they touched. It lasted a long moment, then slowly faded, leaving her with a desperate desire to rekindle the sparks it had sent through her somewhat numb body.

A deliciously raised eyebrow brought her back to the real world, however, and she blushed, realizing she’d been staring.

"Sorry," she mumbled, trying to turn away. The arm around her waist held tight, wouldn’t let her. Dark eyes drew her back to their depths, and she saw a wondering, slightly amused but curious expression on Kaleah’s face. "I didn’t mean to stare, it’s just . . ." Jessica gazed into the wine-colored orbs that twinkled above her, catching the light of the moon and dancing in it’s glow. For a moment she was lost again, but she dragged herself back. She offered a shy, helpless smile and shrugged. "Your eyes turn purple in the moonlight," she finished softly. "They look . . . really pretty. That’s all."

Kaleah studied her for a long moment, then she smiled. "Thanks. Your eyes turn almost clear in the dark." She let her friend turn around, and nuzzled her hair, smelling lavender and vanilla. "They look pretty, too."

Jessica smiled and settled herself back again into the softness of Kaleah’s body, sighing comfortably. "I’m awful tired," she murmered sleepily. "Tomorrow’s Sunday, so we can rest which is good. Maybe we could go exploring."

"Maybe," Kaleah said with a knowing smile. She doubted very much that the young blonde would be in the mood to do a whole lot of anything in the morning, but at least it would make her think twice about ordering another drink next time they wandered into the village.

Chuckling silently, the dark woman led the horses quietly around to the rear side of the great castle and, finding the gap that would allow them access, silently snuck back inside. All in all, she reflected, it had been a good — and rather interesting — night.

She hoped the morning would be equally entertaining.

Freedom’s Heart Part 3.

Chapter 9.

The next morning, Kaleah slept late and woke feeling a good deal more refreshed after their night in the village. Running long fingers through her hair to settle it, she dressed quickly and knocked on the door to Jessica’s room.

A muffled groan was all that greeted her. Grinning in understanding and a little sympathy — though not too much — she knocked again.

A slurred voice answered through the door. "Hurt! Lemme ‘lone."

Kaleah cracked open the door and peered inside. "Jess?"

The tangled pile of sheets and pillows on the bed squirmed and wriggled. "Go ‘way."

The dark-haired woman ignored this and entered anyway, tip-toeing over and quietly taking a seat beside the bed. Her grin broadened as hands clawed their way out from the tangled sheets and bleary, red-rimmed eyes appeared, set in a pain-filled face framed by messy blonde hair.

"You feel okay?" she joked, keeping her voice low.

Jessica scowled. "I feel like I’d be better off dead," she groaned. "My head hurts."

"I know." Kaleah decided teasing the poor girl probably wouldn’t win her any points, so she settled on sympathy. "I could get you some water, if you like. It’ll help to make the headache go away."

Jessica groaned again and squirmed pathetically. "It’s not going away. Not before it kills me."

"Oh, come on. It’s just a hangover. Give it a few hours, some food in your stomach, and you’ll feel much better." She put a hand on the blankets and gave the huddled figure a soothing pat, receiving a grunt of appreciation for the gesture. "You can stay in bed all day, if you want too."

"My father will expect me to be at the sermon," a muffled voice said.

"I’ll send a servant to tell him you’re sick. It’s true, in a way."

The blankets parted again, and Jessica emerged more fully, blinking and putting a hand to her throbbing temple. The young woman looked positively wretched this morning, but she still managed to give the dark woman an accusing glare. "You knew this would happen," she said menacingly. "Why didn’t you stop me?"

Kaleah couldn’t help but grin affectionately. "You wanted to keep drinking, Jess. I couldn’t say no to you." She reached out and ruffled the disheveled golden tresses. "Besides, you were so damn cute when you got drunk . . . it seemed a shame to stop you."

Jessica blushed shyly. She had a clear memory of the night before, and her mind, though thick and filled with a throbbing pain, was still active enough to want to read more into this gently affectionate gesture than she knew was there. "Next time, I’ll be more careful," she said softly, rubbing her head. "How can something that tastes so good and makes you feel so wonderful be responsible for such an awful feeling as this?"

"Wiser heads than yours have asked that same question. If you’re going to enjoy the highs, you have to expect there to be lows as well. It’s the way life is." Kaleah wondered as a side note whether her blooming friendship with Jessica was perhaps some weird balance against the hurt and suffering of her life as a slave. If it were, she mused, then it was only fair that it last the rest of her life. That thought made her smile inside, and her heart explode with a warm and sweet burning.

Tearing herself away from her contemplation’s, Kaleah saw that Jessica was regarding her with curious eyes and realized she’d been thinking in distraction long enough to be noticeable. "Sorry," she said sheepishly. "Kind of drifted off there a little."

Jessica smiled in understanding. "That’s okay. I do it all the time." She lay back on the bed, trying to get comfortable in the messed-up bed. "What’re your plans for today?"

Kaleah shrugged. "I thought I’d take a bath and find some clean clothes first, then maybe I can come back here and we can play some chess. Or maybe you could teach me that draughts game you talked about?"

Jessica’s mind instantly cleared a lot of it’s fuzziness at the mention of her friend taking a bath, painting a quick picture of the peep-hole to remind her of the possibilities. She snapped back to reality, stamping down the naughty thoughts when she realized Kaleah was looking at her expectantly. What had she been asking about? Oh, right. Draughts.

"Um, sure. That’d be fine. It’s not a hard game really." She smiled and rubbed her head, which was suddenly feeling much better now that it had a goal in mind which would need her full support. "It’s not too likely to make my headache any worse."

"Great." Kaleah got up and headed back to her own room. "I’ll go clean up and be back in a while." She grinned. "After last night, I think a nice long soak is in order."

Jessica could only nod dumbly, her mind having no trouble at all picturing the dark woman as she lay naked in the water, her hands stroking that long, bronzed body. She shook her head to clear the thoughts just as the door to Kaleah’s room shut, taking her friend away. Groaning, Jess closed her eyes and tried desperately to resurrect the splitting headache her body had abandoned for more interesting pursuits.

It would be sooo easy, her mind purred. The entry to the passages is just over there; a few minutes, and you can let your eyes wander without fear she’ll catch you looking.

"It’s wrong," she insisted aloud. "She’s your friend. This is just an infatuation."

Her mind didn’t even bother answering. It just raised a metaphysical eyebrow at her and adopted a ‘whatever you say’ expression.

Jessica sighed, and looked into her heart. She could no longer deny the truth . . . not to herself. It had become too obvious now, and she could no longer even say that this whole attraction was just a product of her romantic nature. No. This was no simple infatuation that would pass in time. This wasn’t even so much in her heart, her body or her mind. This was something she could feel down in the very depths of her soul. And it was never going to go away.

"Alright," she admitted aloud, finally giving voice to her acceptance. "You’re falling in love with her."

The metaphysical brow raised a little higher.

She sighed. "I’m . . . falling in love with her."

Her mind nodded, satisfied with the confession.

"But that doesn’t mean she has any similar feelings for me," Jessica continued. "She likes me as a friend, nothing more."

But how do you know that? asked her mind. She told you she likes the company of other women over men, so that’s a pretty good start. At least she’s fishing in the same river as you are.

"She could be fishing in the damn ocean for all I care," Jessica scowled. "She hasn’t given any indication that she’s attracted to me, and that’s all there is too it!"

Like you’d know the signals even if she was giving them, her mind scoffed. You’re completely out of your depths here and you know it.

"I am not," she protested with a pout. "I’m a grown woman."

Yeah, right! You didn’t even notice that barmaid was coming on to you until Kaleah pointed it out. She’d have to be lying on your bed buck naked and begging before you’d catch on!

Her imagination quickly provided a helpful illustration. Jessica blushed, and tried to come up with a counter-argument, but failed. She had to admit, her mind was right; she was an innocent . . . at least in the experience department. Her imagination had more than enough experience, though. She’d been imagining what it would be like to fall in love for years now, had been deliberately putting off her marriage in hopes that someone would come along and steal her heart. How ironic that when it happened, the thief was a woman.

You always knew you liked women, too, her mind put in. You just never had the chance to do anything about it. Well now you do.

"That doesn’t mean it’s right to spy on her in a moment of privacy," she protested, still unwilling to give in.

You’ve been spying on everyone all your life. Maybe it wasn’t okay to do it when you thought it was just an infatuation, but now you know it’s more than that.

She was silent, considering. Her mind took that as a positive sign, and pressed on.

This isn’t going to go away, you know. If she lives here for a long time — and it certainly seems she wants too, from what she said she told your mother — you’re going to have to come up with a way to deal with your feelings eventually. Do you really think you can live with this temptation for years and not do anything about it?

Jessica frowned miserably. "My mother would hate this," she sighed.

Your mother hates everything you do anyway, her mind pointed out. What do you care?

Green eyes wet with unshed tears regarded the mural above her bed sadly. "My father would hate this."

Her mind was silent for long moments as it considered this. Look, it said after a long period of thought, it doesn’t matter what anyone thinks. Not really. No-one except Kaleah. If she felt the same way for you, would you let the opinions of everyone else stand in the way?

"No."

Then they don’t matter now. I think you should spend a little time trying to figure out whether there’s even the slightest chance Kaleah could feel the same way for you. Maybe, in time, she could come to love you. And if that’s true, then you’re going to need to be patient to win her over, right?

"Right." The tears were drying as Jessica considered this new mission. Maybe she could win the heart of the dark woman. She’d been doing pretty well so far. Kaleah had opened up to her a lot in the last few weeks they’d been together. "It’s frightening," she whispered. "I care for her so much, yet I’ve known her less than a month. How can that happen?"

Maybe it was meant to be, her mind suggested softly inside her head. You’ve read the stories of love . . . how it all happens so quickly because the two people are destined to be together. Maybe this is what God always intended for you.

Jessica scowled, remembering another person who’d be shocked to learn of her feelings for Kaleah: the minister. "Some people would call that sacrilege," she said.

Some people would condemn love because of a few physical attributes, her mind told her gently. But no God worth the faith of his followers ever would.

Jessica sighed again, and nodded. "I know that." She had always doubted the preachings that forbade so many of the things she enjoyed. Her secret books were against the edicts of the Church . . . and not just the ones about female romances. Foreign cultures were condemned if they did not accept the practices of the Church. The ancient legends of the Celtic gods that had been around long before the one God were outlawed as blasphemous. Jessica had ignored such things in the past. She had every intention of ignoring them now, and in the future.

"So, I should test the waters?" she asked herself. "How do I do that?"

Her mind threw up metaphysical arms in exasperation. If you don’t know, then how am I supposed to!? it demanded reasonably. You’ll think of something. In the mean time, there’s a spy-hole to the bathing chamber that you ought to be getting to pretty soon if you want to catch the show!

Jessica blushed. "I don’t know . . ."

Her mind swore fluently for a minute at her stubbornness, before it gained control once more. It’s reeeal simple, it explained slowly. You love her. You want to watch her. You’re going to watch her — if not now, then some other day. You can worry about how she feels later on. This is a victimless crime! If you figure she doesn’t love you, you never tell her. If you find out she does, then you can tell her and she’ll probably be flattered.

"So I should . . ?"

Get your blasted butt down there before she finishes up!

Jessica considered this for a moment, her imagination lending a hand to the argument by drawing pictures and her body quickly coming to life with the first flushes of desire.

It was a swift victory.

Getting out of bed and hastily throwing on a shirt and trousers, Jessica dashed over to the empty fireplace and reached behind the sword held by the carved angel on the right-hand side. Finding the hidden catch there, she pushed it down and heard the quiet rumbling as the whole fireplace rotated on a concealed pinion.

Ducking her head, she slipped into the darkness of the passageway beyond, closing the entrance behind her and lighting a torch that hung conveniently on the wall. With a smile on her face and a spring in her steps, Jessica set off for the corridor that led to the bathing chamber, and the wonderful spy-hole.

Kaleah arrived at the bathing chamber not a moment before Jessica arrived at the spy-hole. Entering the misty room and closing the door behind her, the dark woman slipped casually out of her simple clothes and tossed them over a statue of a bathing man. She had brought a clean shirt, trousers and underwear, which she placed on a moderately dry rock. After retrieving a wash-cloth from the side room, she waded out into the deepest part of the huge pool and let her body relax.

The water reached almost to the tops of her breasts, and she sighed blissfully as the warmth eased away the aches in her body. Kaleah closed her eyes and lay back in the water, letting it support her body. She was totally oblivious to the green eyes watching her avidly from the concealed corridor behind the wall.

Jessica thought her heart would burst through her chest so hard did it start beating as her friend slid the thin breeches down over her hips and bent to retrieve them. The young girl broke out in a sweat and her breathing accelerated dangerously as she let her eyes roam as they pleased over the long, supple form of the dark woman, not blinking for fear of breaking the magnificent spell. Her mouth hung open and she shut it again only when she bashfully realized she had started to drool.

She’d seen Kaleah’s body before, but never like this. Never so fully, so detailed, in such an uninhibited forum. Jess let herself stare at the woman’s full, firm breasts, before her gaze dropped inevitably lower, past her hips, to linger at that most intimate of places she had never glimpsed before.

She was surprised to see that the dark thatch of hair which hid Kaleah’s sex was neatly trimmed into a slender arrow design, drawing Jessica’s eyes lower still. She had never heard of such an intimate level of grooming, and her eyes grew dark with desire as she imagined what it might feel like to caress the dark woman in the ways she had read of in some of her books.

Jessica’s body responded to the view with a stronger reaction than she had ever known before. Her groin itched, ached; her blood burned with the unknowing innocent passion of youth. As Kaleah floated peacefully on the surface of the pool, Jessica swallowed hard and wished now, more than ever, that she could win the love of her friend.

Floating in languid luxury, unaware of the hooded regard of her friend, Kaleah’s mind had turned to considering once more her feelings for the young blonde.

Last night, she had felt her affection for Jessica deepen further. She may have been completely unfamiliar with emotions of this nature, but Kaleah wasn’t stupid. The ache in her heart and the longing in her soul told her she was feeling a lot more than simple friendship for the young woman. She had never loved anyone before in her life — never seriously, at least — but that didn’t stop Kaleah from realizing that she was falling in love with Jessica; completely, hopelessly, and without any chance of reprieve.

"What should I do?" she mumbled to herself as she let her hands gently scrub her body. "Should I tell her? She said this kind of thing doesn’t bother her, but I guess it might be different if she suddenly had another woman pursuing her seriously."

Kaleah thought back to how Jessica had reacted to the overtures of the barmaid last night. The young blonde hadn’t seemed the least bit offended by the attention. Embarrassed, sure. Maybe a little flattered even, once she’d accepted it. But at no point had she seemed actually interested.

Kaleah sighed. No, she thought. Jessica had not expressed any interest in women. Only an acceptance of the concept — of Kaleah, once she’d learned her friend was that way inclined. There wasn’t much hope the young blonde could ever return her feelings.

Shaking her head, feeling a wave of depression sweep over her, Kaleah swam over to the central island and hoisted her body out of the water with a grunt. The watching eyes widened as every inch of bronzed, radiant skin was exhibited. The thick walls of the bathing chamber prevented Kaleah from hearing the awed gasp that escaped her voyeur as she stretched her loose muscles in an unconsciously sensual display. Laying back, the dark woman closed her eyes, relaxed on the stone and let herself sink deeper into self pity.

Suddenly, blue eyes flared open as another memory came to mind: the way Jessica had looked into her eyes on their ride home. She’d held the gaze a long while; deeply, searching, lost. When she’d snapped out of it, the young girl had been embarrassed, had turned away.

Kaleah remembered the words her friend had said to her. "Your eyes turn purple in the dark . . . They look really pretty . . ?" Dark brows contracted, wondering. Thinking back through the night, along the path of her friends increasing intoxication, Kaleah remembered now that Jessica had been staring at her an awful lot. She had blushed a lot too, come to think of it.

Hmmm. Kaleah considered everything she’d ever seen of Jessica, every day of their last few weeks together. The young woman was charming, playful and gracious, but she was also unconsciously beautiful, innocently shy and had a habit of blushing a great deal whenever they drew close to anything approximating an intimate conversation. The young woman had wanted a friend, and had found it in Kaleah. Had she, perhaps, found something more? Did she realize, and was she too embarrassed and shy to come to terms with it?

Kaleah snorted. "Jessica’s a noble woman," she told herself. "Believing you have a chance with her is just wishful thinking. If you made a pass at her, she’d be so embarrassed she’d probably never want to talk to you again. You’ve got a good thing going here with her. She’s the first friend you’ve ever had . . . there’s no way you’re risking that for a maybe."

Besides, there were things other than simple uncertainty that kept Kaleah from revealing her desire and affection to the young blonde . . . things that had been a part of her life since as far back as she could remember.

Things like fear.

These emotions were so intense they frightened her . . . badly. Was it even possible for her to feel the kinds of feelings that were were now welling up inside? Was there any love left in her battered spirit? Or had a life of slavery — of constant suffering from and exposure to the darker side of human nature — robbed her of the capacity to bask in the warmth of such a simple and unselfish thing as pure love? Could she ever trust someone the way she wanted to trust Jessica?

Sighing, Kaleah acknowledged that answers to such questions were unlikely to present themselves soon. Only time would tell if she was capable of handling such powerful emotions. She would watch Jessica closely, however, for any sign that the girl might be interested in something deeper than the friendship they shared. If things progressed as they had been and the two grew closer still, Kaleah would deal with it when it happened. For the time being, she had a hung-over friend to distract from her day-after misery.

Grinning, happy to let her emotions pass for the moment, Kaleah rolled back into the water and half walked, half swam over to the edge. Stepping out with some reluctance, water sheeting from her slender figure, the former slave wandered over to the adjacent room and retrieved a dry towel. She rubbed herself dry and changed into the clean outfit she’d brought with her, then headed out the door.

Jessica watched her leave, the dazed, awe-stricken expression still fixed on her furiously blushing face. "My God!" she squeaked after several moments. Her brain struggled hard to fight it’s way through her lust so it could inform her that Kaleah had left now, and she should really be getting back to her room right away if she intended to make it there before the dark woman.

"Right. Gotta . . . get back." Her limbs were still numb, her body felt like it had been struck by a bolt of lightening it was tingling so much . . . some places moreso than others. She could feel a liquid warmth between her legs she had never experienced before, but she knew what it was; her desire spreading from her center, inviting satisfaction. Struggling to her feet, Jessica stumbled her way back through the passageway towards her bedroom.

On the way, her mind gave her a very smug mental look. There. Now wasn’t that worth a little moral indiscretion?

Jess nodded blankly, her imagination replaying the way the water had run down her friend’s bronze body, rivulets coursing down off her breasts, over her taut stomach and between her slender legs . . . She stopped a moment, realizing she was drooling again.

"How am I supposed to look at her again with a straight face," she groaned, the images of what she might do with that gorgeous naked body flashing uncontrollably through her mind, fed by a willing imagination. She shook her head, trying unsuccessfully to dislodge the pictures. "This is gonna make this even harder!"

Not wanting to ruin a good thing, her imagination decided to behave itself and stopped the picture show obediently. Grateful, Jessica continued on, settling the raging fire that blazed through her young body as best she could on the way. She blushed furiously as she realized her underwear was soaked with the evidence of her desire.

"God, I wish I knew what she’d been talking about back there," Jessica thought aloud. The peep-hole may have allowed her to watch her friend, but the thick walls prevented her from listening. "She looked troubled." A sudden thought occurred to her. "You don’t suppose she’s caught on, do you? I mean, you were drunk last night — maybe you said something you don’t remember."

Her mind cast back quickly, went over everything that had happened last night. There had been several instances where Jessica had given away her attraction to the dark woman, but it was never in any particularly overbearing or obvious way. No, her mind assured her after a moment. She couldn’t know. It must be something else that’s bothering her.

"Maybe it was something my mother said to her," she considered. "Maybe she didn’t tell me everything."

Possibly. You can think about it later. Get back in your bed before she gets there and finds you missing. And for God’s sake, try to look at least a little pathetically wretched! You’re supposed to be hung-over, remember.

"Right . . . hung-over. Whatever happened to my head-ache, anyway?"

It went away quite naturally, her mind informed her. All by itself.

"Really? I thought it was going to last all day."

A slight pain crept into her temples. There, her mind said snappily. You have a headache again. Happy?

Jessica rubbed her temples and sighed. "No need to get testy," she muttered. "I’m moving." She opened the concealed doorway and closed it behind her before jumping back into bed. "You know, you’re not exactly the easiest person to live with."

Her mind could do nothing but agree complacently.

The rest of that day was passed quietly with Jessica teaching Kaleah how to play draughts, which the dark woman took to with natural skill. Jessica managed to do quite a passable impression of hung-over misery, especially when she saw that it earned her sympathy from her dark friend. She spent so much time bemoaning her aching skull in such a convincing fashion that Kaleah gave her head a gentle massage, which she thoroughly enjoyed.

The feel of those long, supple fingers running through her hair, pressing gently but firmly into her scalp, relaxed Jessica so much she almost fell asleep. It was very different from the last massage she’d received from her dark friend. This time, her body did not respond with heated desire, but rather it opened up to absorb the soothing caress. Her imagination remained dutifully silent, allowing her to simply enjoy the warm touch of her friend as Kaleah attempted to ease her suffering away.

Jessica had noticed instantly that Kaleah was acting a little differently — which was funny, because that was exactly the same thing Kaleah noticed about her. She wondered at the cause, but decided it was probably not related to anything she was hoping for. Watching the dark woman out of the corner of her eye, Jess tried hard to spot any indication that Kaleah might be at least physically attracted to her. Unfortunately, Kaleah was watching her with exactly the same intent, which resulted in neither of them noticing the guarded glances of the other.

It was only after Kaleah had retired for the day and the young blonde was left alone once more that her imagination roared forth and replayed the images it had captured of the dark woman bathing. The pictures were seared into her mind now, and her body readily accepted and responded to them. Jess was getting used to the physical reactions her body had to desire; she recognized them from descriptions she’d read in some of the more detailed of her romantic stories. The problem was, she mused, she had absolutely no way of dealing with them . . . and that was starting to make her very, very frustrated.

Lying in her bed, the sun long since departed, leaving her room in darkness filled only with the images of her friend, Jessica growled a little and tried to make her restless, unsatisfied body go to sleep. But it was hopeless. Whatever fire burned in her veins wasn’t going to loosen it’s grip without a fight. Scowling at the ceiling, Jessica decided to place the blame for her situation squarely on her mind and her imagination.

"You just had to go watch her, didn’t you?" she said through gritted teeth. "Now look what’s happened!"

Wasn’t like you had much choice in the matter, her mind argued quickly. The temptation was just too great. It would have happened sooner or later. It paused, the added with a grin, You could always sneak into town and let that barmaid show you how to relieve the ache . . .

"Humph! Don’t even think about that," Jessica told herself sternly. "If Kaleah doesn’t like you in that way, then you’re just going to have to get used to feeling like this . . . at least until you can figure out a way of getting rid of it by yourself."

That thought did little to help her mood. Accustomed to being calm and in control of any situation, Jessica didn’t like this chaotic feeling of indecision and worry. It made her feel helpless and adrift. She liked to think she was mature enough to handle anything, that she was not a child and that all the gifts life had given her weren’t as important as her own will and strength. But she admitted that there was nothing she could do about this new emotion.

Confessing to herself that she was falling in love with Kaleah made the formally nebulous, cloudy feeling suddenly so real and intense. Everytime she was around the dark woman, Jess knew she was going to have trouble concealing the depth of her affection. It was only a matter of time before their continued company led to something being said.

In a way, Jessica was already looking forward to that time. Keeping secrets from her friend was hardly a positive way to start out. It meant she didn’t trust Kaleah enough to tell her the truth.

Well, her mind put in. Do you trust her?

"Of course I trust her," she scoffed. "I’m just not sure I’m ready to tell her how I feel. If she doesn’t return my feelings, that’s fine, but I don’t want to drive her away. She might . . . I don’t know, take it weird or something. I don’t want to wreck the special thing we have going here. If we’re meant to be together, time will tell."

Sure, that’s fine to say. But if you really trust her, why haven’t you shown her all the secrets that you haven’t shown anyone else?

"Like what?"

Her mind directed her eyes over to the fireplace — the concealed entrance to the hidden passageways. To the secret rooms that had known only her presence in decades.

"You mean . . ?"

A mental nod.

Green eyes widened, then narrowed after a moment of reflection. If she meant what she said about trusting her friend, surely she should tell Kaleah about the secrets of Da’Gran.

Unless you’re lying to yourself about how much you love her, her mind taunted. Show her you trust her enough to keep your secrets. If she sees that, maybe she’ll offer up some of her own.

"That’s true." Looking around, Jessica wondered what time it was. It couldn’t be too late; she hadn’t been lying here waiting to fall asleep that long. Would Kaleah still be awake?

"Only one way to find out," she muttered, getting out of bed and throwing on some simple clothes to ward against the chill that was noticeably less dire than it had been a week ago. Spring was coming, she idly acknowledged as she knocked on the door to her friend’s room.

"Kaleah? Are you awake?"

There was a long pause before the door was opened by Kaleah, looking bleary-eyed and tousled, but quite awake. She was wearing her simple shirt and trousers, the clothing rumpled and obviously thrown on hastily.

"What is it?" she demanded, rubbing her eyes.

"Were you sleeping?"

"Not in any serious way," the dark woman groused. In fact, she’d been doing much the same thing her neighbor had been doing: trying to quell the burning desire in her loins. The only difference was, where Jessica was unfamiliar with sexual frustration, Kaleah knew exactly how to satisfy her body’s ache. The dark woman had been doing everything in her power to keep her hands from wandering where they wanted to, unwilling to seek solitary pleasure over lustful thoughts of her friend.

Unaware of any of this, Jessica just smiled and accepted the dark woman’s grumpiness, attributing it to being woken up. "I have something I want to show you," she said in a loud whisper.

"Why’re you whispering?"

Jessica looked around and gestured for Kaleah to join her in her room. "It’s a secret."

Kaleah closed the door behind her and folded her arms across her chest. "These walls are solid stone, Jess. No-one could hear you even if you screamed." Oooh, wrong thing to say, she thought, picturing a few of the ways she could make the young blonde scream . . . ways she was sure her friend would enjoy if she could experience them.

"I know, it’s just . . . Well, it’s a secret." Suddenly feeling a little foolish, Jessica decided it would be safe enough if she spoke normally. "Okay, it doesn’t matter. There’s just something I wanted to show you."

"Can’t it wait till morning?"

"I couldn’t sleep," Jessica apologized. "Sorry. I just started thinking about this, and I couldn’t wait."

"Okay, what did you want to show me?" Kaleah assumed a patient look and prepared to be politely surprised or impressed by whatever the young woman had decided to exhibit.

Jessica grabbed her arm. "Come on." She led the dark woman over to the fireplace and looked up into her deep blue eyes seriously. "Promise you won’t tell anyone what I’m about to show you?"

Seeing the sincere expression in her friend’s face, Kaleah nodded solemnly. "Of course, I promise."

Jessica held her gaze a moment longer, trying to convey the importance of this gesture. Certain her tall friend understood, she turned around and reached behind the stone sword of the angel, finding the hidden release and pressing it down firmly.

Kaleah stepped back apprehensively as the fireplace swung on it’s axis, making only a slight grinding sound of stone rubbing against stone. She eyed the dark passage that was revealed with astonishment, then looked into the expectant eyes of her friend.

"Wh-what is it?"

"It’s a secret passageway," Jessica told her, pleased with her reaction. She held out her hand. "Come on, I’ll show you."

Kaleah reflexively took hold of the offered hand and was led into the darkness of the hidden corridor. Jessica paused to strike a flint to stone; a moment later, light from a torch filled the corridor. The young blonde tugged Kaleah along, guiding them with the sure feet of one familiar and comfortable with the path they tread.

Kaleah could only look around her in amazement. The passage was narrow, but surprisingly clean. There was no sign of rodent life, as she might have expected, and only minimal dust stirred at their passage. Bright green eyes, flickering in the torchlight, regarded her happily.

"These passageways go right through the castle," Jessica explained, enjoying the feeling of sharing a secret she had kept to herself her whole life. "They can take you anywhere you want to go. There are whole rooms down below that no-one else knows about. Come on, I’ll show you . . ."

Kaleah was dumbfounded, stunned, impressed. They walked for some time, down stairs and along stretches of passageways that were at times wide enough that three men could walk abreast. "This is amazing," she breathed when she could find her voice at last.

Jessica grinned. "The best is yet to come. Look at this."

They had come to a door; solid and compact, made of pitted steel marked with age. There was no handle, but Jessica reached confidently for a hidden latch and the door swung open on silent hinges.

Jessica led Kaleah through the door into a chamber that was larger than her bedroom and neatly furnished. A table set with chairs took up the center of the room, while shelves occupied much of the far end. A number of pictures hung from the walls; scenes of the forest and the castle drawn mostly in charcoal by an obviously talented hand; a hand that could only be Jessica’s. There were comfortable looking, over-stuffed seats next to one wall, and as the young blonde went around lighting candelabra and wall-mounted torches, Kaleah realized with a start that the entire place had a very lived in feel to it. She regarded her friend with surprise.

"You did all this?"

Jessica blushed a little and nodded. "This is where I used to spend most of my time," she explained. "I found the entrance to the passages when I was a child. I explored them, and found the original plans to the castle. They showed me everything, and I found all the secrets built into Da’Gran." She surveyed the room with pride, pointing to the shelves of books. "A lot of the stuff I read is forbidden by the Church," she said. "Stuff about other cultures and religions . . . different ways of thought and practices of living. If my mother ever found them, I’d be in trouble. So I bring everything down here, where no-one will ever find out about it. Where no-one can take it away."

Blue eyes looked around in awe. "You mean . . . no-one else knows about all this?"

"Uh uh."

"Not your father . . . not Sir Miles?"

Jessica gave her a shy smile. "Just me . . . and now you."

Kaleah was speechless for several moments as she absorbed the gift that Jessica was giving her. The young woman was showing her the one thing she had never shown anyone else, was trusting her as she had never trusted anyone. By bringing her here, Jessica was allowing her access into her most private and secret sanctuary. Kaleah saw the shy, hopeful smile on her friend’s face, and felt tears creep into her eyes.

"Thank you," she whispered after long moments, unable to fully express how much this meant to her. "Thank you." It was all she could think of to say.

Jessica’s smile grew a little wider, her eyes dancing. "It means a lot to me . . . showing you this place, I mean."

"I know." Hoping the young woman would see that she was aware of the depth of this sacrifice.

Jess nodded. "I can see you understand." She walked over and wiped away the unshed tears that sparkled in her friend’s blue eyes. "You’re the first friend I ever had, Kaleah. The first person I ever wanted to show this place too. My father or Sir Miles would have seen it only as a tactical strength; would have invaded the only place I could come too to be myself. To really be myself, I mean. This is where I keep the things I love the most." She stroked Kaleah’s face, her thumb sliding intimately over the scar that creased her lips. "I wanted you to see it."

Kaleah smiled, touched beyond words at the trust Jessica was showing her. The feel of her friend’s thumb on her lips almost made her swoon, and she restrained the urge to take that thumb into her mouth and taste it, to run her tongue along it. Blushing and looking around to cover her lapse into fantasy, Kaleah didn’t see the fleeting look of wonder that passed across her friend’s face.

"This place is amazing," the dark woman said, talking to cover her nervousness. She studied a few of the books on the shelves, not really seeing them. "I, uh. I’ve never had a friend like you before either," she said softly, hearing Jessica draw nearer, sensing her presence close behind her but not turning around. "I’ve never had someone trust me like you are. And I’ve never trusted anyone the way I trust you."

Jessica froze as she was about to reach out and touch her friend. For a second there, looking into Kaleah’s sapphire gaze, Jessica had been certain she recognized the emotional kindred of her own love. For a moment, she was sure passion had darkened those gems with the flames of desire. But just as she was about to make a move, just as she was about to test her belief, those words called her back.

I’ve never trusted anyone the way I trust you.

Jessica drew her hand away before it did something stupid. Kaleah was learning to trust again. The young blonde had befriended this woman in the hopes that she could help her. Help her to recover from the pain she so obviously bore. Help her to accept the nobility of spirit that a life in chains had buried. Help her to trust, to care and to think as a human, not just as an animal, seeking only to survive a day at a time. Her hopes were being recognized now, she could see clearly. Just because she’d fallen in love with the dark woman did not mean she could jeopardize Kaleah’s future because she thought she’d seen something that might not have even existed. No. She would be strong, would wait. Kaleah trusted her, and she would not do anything to make her question that trust . . . not unless she was absolutely certain her friend felt the same way.

The young blonde settled for a gentle pat on the shoulder; friendly, platonic. "I’m glad you like it."

Kaleah turned and favored her with one of her rare full smiles; the ones that took in the whole of her face and lit up her eyes like beacons in the night. "I do." Her eyes roamed around the room, taking in the neatly arranged items and the comfortable furniture, seeing this amazing young woman’s touch in everything about the place. "Maybe one day . . ." She paused, considering. Jessica waited patiently till she managed to finish. "Maybe one day . . . I’ll be able to do the same thing for you as you’ve done for me." Blue eyes sank into green. "Some day, I’ll let you into my private places."

Jessica smiled warmly up at the taller woman. "There’s no hurry," she said softly. "You’ll tell me when you’re ready. I’m not going anywhere." She took Kaleah’s hand and tugged her on towards another door set opposite the one they’d entered from. "Come on, there’s a whole lot more to see down here. I can show you how to get out of dungeons, if you like."

But, her mind put in silently, it’d probably be for the best if you stay away from the peep-hole. No need to raise suspicions, is there?

Thankful that Jessica had apparently understood the words that were so painful for her to speak, Kaleah let herself be led meekly by her younger companion. Jessica had shown her this secret that was so obviously private, so personal that not even her own father knew of it. The dark woman resolved there and then that she would somehow work up the courage to share a few of her own dark secrets with her friend; to return this trust and to prove — for herself, if for no-one else — that she was capable of offering and accepting the kind of relationship she wanted from the spirited blonde.

Love, it seemed, was going to require a lot of work.

Chapter 10.

The next day, the two women slept late again and woke just a few hours before midday, having spent the previous night exploring the complex of hidden rooms and passages that ran throughout the castle. Jessica had been overjoyed at the opportunity to finally share her secret, and Kaleah quickly caught her excitement and willingly gave up a restless night of thinking about the young woman in favor of a night spent in her physical company. By the time they returned, exhausted, to their respective beds, it was early morning; both fell asleep with little effort.

The day was surprisingly fine, with only a few scattered clouds blanketing an otherwise clear sky, and Jessica suggested they enjoy a few hours sparring practice in the courtyard. Kaleah readily agreed, thinking as she did that she probably would have agreed with the young woman had she suggested they spend the glorious day mucking out the stables — so long as it meant they were together.

Their practice was light and playful, though they tried to maintain at least a sense of seriousness, aware of the soldiers watching them. They would fight until the sun grew too warm and they tired, then they would stop and rest in the shade of the castle walls for a few minutes before returning to their fun.

It was not until early afternoon that Kaleah called a halt to their energetic sparring. Raising a hand, she smiled at her heavily-breathing, sweaty friend.

"Enough," she gasped, wiping her soaked hair from her face and trying to catch her breath. Their last bout had been fast-paced and vigorous, and she felt a stitch coming on. "I need a break."

Jessica laughed easily and sheathed her sword. "Me too," she admitted. A loud rumble came from her stomach, and she blushed a little at her partner’s grin. "I think I could use a bite to eat, too."

"We did skip breakfast," Kaleah acknowledged.

"Only because we slept so late."

"We only slept late because we were up all night. Not that I’m complaining, of course. I would have traded a lifetime of sleep for last night, and considered it a good deal." She gave her friend a warm smile. "Thank you so much for showing me."

Jessica blushed. "You’re welcome." Her stomach rumbled again, louder. Her face grew even redder. "Um, I think we missed lunch by a good few hours, but maybe if I go to the kitchen and ask nicely, the cook will make us something."

"I’m sure you could charm her into anything," Kaleah laughed. "I’ll wait over there . . ." She pointed to a the stairs that led up onto one of the walkways that rambled about the castle walls. "It’s such a nice day, we should make the most of it."

"Great. I’ll be back in a minute," Jess promised, turning and jogging with casual grace into the main part of the fortress.

Kaleah watched her go, letting her eyes linger on the young woman’s body, which was well displayed by the revealing-yet-practical cut of her armor. She felt a familiar flush run through her body and shivered a little, reveling in the warm sensation that clutched at her heart and made her insides feel like honey.

A slow, sensuous smile pulled at her lips, and she let it form as her eyes narrowed. Just because she was unsure of Jessica’s feelings towards her didn’t mean she couldn’t enjoy the wonderful feeling that first love ignited in her.

Wandering over to the stairs, Kaleah found them nicely warmed by the sun and sat down, resting her sword at her feet. A few people in the castle still gave her curious looks, but an equal number gave her little nods of acknowledgment and acceptance, too. Not bad, she reflected, considering how she’d come to be in Da’Gran initially. Her skill — both with a blade and with the forge-fires — had earned her the respect of many of the castle’s soldiers, and her obvious friendship with the lord knight’s much-loved daughter had strengthened it.

Kaleah sighed happily and closed her eyes, content to just bask in the light of the sun and ponder the changes in herself since she had first met the young noble woman. Able to look back from her current position, Kaleah recognized that before her encounter with Jessica, she had been living as an animal, as a slave on the run. Avoiding contact with others, hunting for food when she could, content to starve when she couldn’t, Kaleah had lived her life as a solitary nomad, never stopping long enough to develop any kind of attachment. A life in slavery had shown her the fickle nature of attachment; whatever one held dear would inevitably die, or be destroyed.

Now, she mused, she had found something worth risking herself for. She had grown attached to Jessica in a way more powerful than she had ever known could exist. Not only that, but she had come to regard Da’Gran as a home; a place of safety and protection. Remembering what she had been taught happened when one came to care for something, Kaleah saw now what she had never seen before; that some things were worth the risk.

She knew that one day, Jessica might be hurt. Might die. That she herself might be driven from Da’Gran . . . possibly. Just thinking of such a loss hurt inside, but she knew that nothing could stop her from feeling the way she felt for Jessica. Their friendship gave her so much joy —more joy than she could remember feeling in her whole life. To flee from such an attachment — to run away because you might actually start to care — was the act of a coward. Life might hurt less, but would be empty and shiftless. Squandered.

Kaleah smiled and opened her eyes, blinking as she looked about at the bustle of happy people milling about the castle on whatever business they had. No, she thought. She wouldn’t give up her life with Jessica for anything . . . and no-one could make her.

So wrapped up was Kaleah in her own happiness, she did not notice the captain of the castle guard studying her from one of the castle parapets. The captain — a veteran of many battles — studied the resting woman for many long moments, his face thoughtful. Eyeing the crowd of people bustling about, he shook his head and mumbled to himself before turning his attention back to his look-out duties.

Jessica reached the kitchen only to find it empty. No cook, no servants, nothing. Sighing, she was just about to try her own hand at making lunch — wondering whether she was hungry enough to subject her stomach to whatever she could concoct herself and thinking that, in any event, she didn’t want to poison Kaleah — when a large, callused and battle-scared hand suddenly clasped her by the shoulder.

"Hey!" growled a voice behind her.

Spinning around, startled, her hand going instantly to her sword hilt, Jessica came face to face with the lined and friendly visage of Sir Miles. The old knight held up his one good arm to show it was empty, and gave her an apologetic look.

Jess took her hand from her sword and glared at her friend. "You frightened the bejeezers out of me!" she accused, still shaken.

"Sorry," he said, patting her on the shoulder. "Didn’t think ye’d take up so. Ye reflexes look mighty good, though."

Jessica ran her fingers through her hair and concentrated on slowing her racing heart. "I’m sorry, I thought I was alone."

"Come fer some lunch then, have ye?"

"Yeah, but . . ." she gestured about the empty kitchen, "no-one’s down here." She eyed him wickedly. "Think I can make my own food?"

"Not if’n ye be thinkin to feed it to ye tall, dark and deadly friend out in the courtyard, I don’t," he grinned. "Doubt she’d take too kindly to bein’ poisoned."

Jessica laughed. "I was thinking the same thing myself."

"Ye want me to fix ye something?" the old knight offered. "Can’t do nothin’ fancy, but me one hand works just fine."

"Sure." Jess nodded agreeably. "Anything you can make has gotta be better than what I could do."

Sir Miles wandered over to the large central preparation bench and began to bustle about, looking quite at home in the kitchen. He retrieved bread from a cupboard and started fixing up a tray of various things. As he worked, he cast his eyes over to where Jessica leaned against a table, watching.

"How’ve ye been lately?" he asked casually, slicing meat deftly and with more skill than might be expected from a man encumbered with his disability. "Don’t see ye too much now ye’ve got ye dark friend about."

Jessica smiled, hearing the teasing tone in his voice. "I guess you don’t, huh?" she mused. "But I went hunting with you the other day . . ."

"Aye, and spent every minute bein’ about as moody as I’ve ever seen ye." He grinned at her slyly. "Heard ye wasn’t feeling too good yesterday?"

She nodded. "I was sick."

"Aye . . . found yer sickness in the bottom of an ale mug, I wager."

Jessica’s mouth opened, but no words came out. He laughed at her surprised expression. "Ah saw the two a ya leave out the side gate. Thought somethin’ was up when ye canceled yer supper." He paused in his work. "Ye went to the village, aye?"

She nodded. "Kaleah told me it would be safe," she explained hastily. "I just wanted to see what the peasants were like when they were doing what they usually do. Nothing bad happened."

"Aye?" He grinned broadly, showing a few missing teeth. "Saw ye come back, too; the way ye was walking, looked like ye were lucky ye had yer friend with ya."

The mention of Kaleah brought an instant visible response from the young blonde. Sir Miles studied her carefully, noting every line of her posture, and every nuance of her expression. She saw his careful appraisal and narrowed her eyes.

"What?"

He assumed a fatherly expression. "Known ye all yer life, Jess," he said gently. "Ah kin tell when somethin’s givin’ ye troublin’ thoughts."

Jessica was silent for many moments, but at last she nodded. "I’ve had a lot to think about lately," she admitted hesitantly, unwilling to discuss the nature of her problems.

Sir Miles smiled and put down the knife, giving his friend the benefit of his full attention. "These thinkin’s wouldn’t by any chance involve ye blue-eyed friend, would they?"

Jess shrugged. "Maybe . . ."

Miles sighed and regarded her fondly. "Don’t wanna talk ‘bout it, huh?"

"Not really."

The old knight was silent in consideration for long moments. He didn’t want to push his friend, but he could tell there was something she wanted to talk about, even if she didn’t realize it herself. How far should he go to encourage her to discuss her troubles?

"D’ye remember when ye was just a wee babe, and I caught ye down here stealin’ biscuits from the jar?"

Jess smiled and nodded, recalling the incident clearly. "I said I’d share the cookies with you if you promised not to tell my father," she giggled.

"Aye." Miles looked at her with a fatherly, loving expression. "Ah never told ye Daddy ‘bout that," he said quietly. "Ye know that, don’t ye?"

She nodded.

"D’ye remember the first day ye bled as a woman?" he asked. She nodded again. "Ye came to me fer help . . . and I gave it, best as I was able." He watched her face flush a little. "All ye life, Jess, ye’ve always come to me with yer secrets . . . with yer problems. Ah’ve never turned ye away, and I’ve never told another livin’ soul what ye told me in confidence."

"I know."

He raised a bushy grey eyebrow and nodded. "If ye don’t wanna talk to me, I understand. Just remember, I’m here if ye change yer mind." He turned back to his slicing, letting her think about it by herself.

Jessica considered Miles’ words, and realized she did want to tell the old knight about her attraction to Kaleah. Her love was burning away inside her. It needed some kind of an outlet. Maybe it would help to discuss it with someone she knew she could trust not to tell. The only question was, would Miles be sympathetic about her attraction to another woman . . . or would he be offended and repulsed.

After a long moment of consideration, she pulled herself up onto the table and sat with her legs dangling over it’s edge, hands folded in her lap. "I, uh . . . I have sort of been wanting to talk to someone," she said quietly. "It’s kinda . . . well . . . it’s complicated-"

Sir Miles turned to her again and gave her his full attention. "Aye?"

"Well, you see, I’ve uh . . . I’ve been thinking about a few things lately." She lowered her face and let her hair fall forward as she always did when she was nervous or embarrassed. ". . . About Kaleah."

"Ye’ve been good fer the lass," Miles commented. "I’ve seen the changes in her lately; ye done more than I ever thought ye’d be able to do."

"Yeah. She’s really great. I uh . . . I like her a lot." She could feel her face grow hot. She’d never really been too good at talking about this sort of thing with others — although she talked about it often enough with herself. "Have you heard the sermons that Father Graehm gives sometimes?" she asked quietly after a moment. "The ones about the people of Sodem?"

Sir Miles thought a moment, then nodded his head slowly. "Ah believe I know the ones yer thinkin’ of," he said. "What about them?"

"Do you agree with the things Father Graehm says?" she asked frankly, her eyes hopeful.

Sir Miles cocked his head, considering. "Not all of them," he said carefully. "Ye know I believe in God, Jess, but I’ve been a fightin’ man all mah life. Some things in the good book don’t take to me right." He regarded her solemnly for a long minute. "What bits exactly be ye talkin’ about?"

Jessica found that her blush was fading a little, her face was serious. "Do you think it’s a sin for women to be intimate with other women?" she asked bluntly.

Sir Miles’ eyes widened only a little in surprise, but he held her gaze without faltering. "Is that yer problem?" he asked softly. "Ye having . . . thoughts . . . about yer tall friend out there?"

Jessica nodded. "I’ve fallen in love with her," she told him quietly. It felt so good to say it out loud to another person, and even as her heart feared that Miles would condemn her love, it swelled with joy at finally giving voice to her pent up feelings in the presence of another. Somehow, it made the emotions more real.

Sir Miles just regarded her a long moment, before he nodded and turned back to his slicing. "Ah see." He looked at her as he worked. "She know?"

Jess shook her head. "I can’t tell her. I just, well. I’m not ready yet. I want to know if she’ll react badly, that’s all."

Miles nodded understandingly. "Aye. And yer sure ye love ‘er? It’s not just some kinda . . . passing thing, is it?"

"No," Jessica was certain of that. "It’s real."

Sir Miles regarded her shrewdly, one bushy brow raised. "Ah know ye, Jess. Ah know ye feel with yer heart all too often, fillin’ yer head with all them stories of mush and such. Can ye be sure ye ain’t just hopin’ fer somethin’ to distract ye from yer weddin’ to Charles?"

Jessica returned his look confidently, searching her mind for the words to express how she felt. "I know the difference," she said quietly. "This is love." She closed her eyes and sighed. "When I wake up in the morning," she said slowly, her voice soft and gentle, "she’s the first thought in my mind, and I feel so happy because I know that I’m going to see her soon. And every night when the door closes behind her, the only thing that keeps my heart from breaking is the knowledge that when I fall asleep, she’ll be in my dreams . . . and I can tell her how I feel . . . and show her how much I love her."

Her eyes opened and she smiled a little sadly at Miles, who remained silent. "She makes me feel things I’ve never felt before, things that are so wonderful and so frightening all at once sometimes they make my head spin. Everytime she looks at me, I feel like I’m standing on the top parapet with nothing below me but a hundred-foot drop. And it scares me so much because a part of me wants to fall into her so badly it hurts. She smiles, and my heart can’t decide if it wants to speed up or stop altogether. And when we touch . . . it’s like . . ." Jessica blushed a little. "It’s like liquid fire spreading through my blood, and all I want to do is let it burn me."

Miles saw the certainty in her face and heard the conviction in her words. It was clear the young woman was not just suffering from a simple infatuation. He had never seen this look in her eyes before, but he knew what it meant; passion and love and tenderness all at once.

The old knight coughed a little awkwardly, thrown off balance. "She uh . . . shown any interest?"

Jessica shrugged. "I don’t know." She was pleased this was going well. Miles didn’t seem offended. He was being objective and helpful as he could be. "She told me she . . . likes women more than men. And I thought I saw her look at me in a . . . more than friendly way, I guess you could say. But I don’t know how to tell."

Miles raised an eyebrow. "She told ye she prefers women, did she?"

Jess nodded. "In the tavern, when we were having dinner."

The old knight chuckled. "I’d like to know how that conversation came up."

Jessica blushed. "It wasn’t like that. There was this barmaid, you see, and she was . . ." The young woman saw the teasing, curious look in Miles eye and waved a hand. "Forget it. The point is, she told me."

"And what did ye say?"

"I said I was okay with it," Jess shrugged. Seeing Miles smile at her, she threw him an exasperated look. "I was surprised, it was lucky I said anything!"

"Aye." The old man was obviously trying hard to conceal his amusement. Seeing that Jessica was getting flustered and uncomfortable, he cleared his throat and adopted a serious expression. "So, what is it ye plan to do, exactly?"

Jessica shrugged helplessly. "I have no idea. What do you think I should do?"

"Ye wanting to be with her? As a woman?"

Jessica blushed furiously and nodded. "I’ve been thinking about it a fair bit, these past few nights," she admitted sheepishly.

"Heh. I bet. She’s a looker, that one. Ye got good taste, I’ll give ye that."

Jessica’s blush deepened.

Miles regarded her seriously. "I can’t really help ye much, lass," he told her softly. "I ain’t got much experience in these matters; I’m just a simple fightin’ man. But if it helps ye any, I’ll say this; if’n that girl’s got a likin’ fer other women ‘stead a men, she’d have to be blind, deaf and stupid to boot not to fall head over heels for ye." He smiled at her affectionately. "Yer about the cutest damned thing I ever saw, Jess."

"Thanks." Jessica gave him a warm smile, grateful not only for his words but for his acceptance. "So you’re not too surprised about me feeling this way?"

"Surprised? Aye, maybe." He added a few pieces of dried fruit to the tray and finished it off with a flourish. "Ye always seemed too bloody innocent for yer own good, no matter how good ye may be with a blade. Didn’t think ye even knew ‘bout stuff like that." He handed the platter to her and gave her a pat on the shoulder once she’d taken it. "But if yer askin’ me if I think any less a ye for it . . . I’d be hopin’ ye had more regard for me than that."

"But what about what the Church . . ?"

He smiled and squeezed her shoulder with his meaty hand. "Love is love, Jess," he interrupted her gently. "I have faith in the good Lord . . . and I believe every word he ever spoke is truth. But that don’t mean I believe in the faulty way a man reads his words. Ye think God’s gonna care that ye love another woman? No, lass." He patted his chest. "It’s what’s in our heart’s that he looks at . . . and what’s in our souls." He smiled. "Don’t let anyone tell ye otherwise."

Jessica grinned and nodded. "I won’t." Suddenly realizing that Kaleah was probably wondering where she was, she said, "I better be getting back. She’ll be waiting."

"Aye, lass. Off ye go then."

As she was about the head out the door, she stopped and turned back into the kitchen. "Miles?"

"Aye?"

She gave him a final smile. "Thank you. It felt good to talk about all this."

He returned her smile. "Any time, lass," he said. "And Jess . . . You be careful. Don’t wanna see ya get yer hopes up ‘bout this and be crushed when ye finds out things aren’t as you wish they were."

She blushed. "I’ll be careful." She turned and left the kitchen with her platter of food, feeling happier then she had when she entered. What Miles said was true, she told herself. It’s what’s in the heart that counts, and what’s in the soul. And if that was the case . . . well, she was sure that eventually, somehow, her love for Kaleah could only be a blessing for them both. Regardless of whether the dark woman could return her feelings in the way she was thinking of.

Chapter 11.

Wednesday morning, Jessica and Kaleah were outside in the courtyard, practicing a few moves that the dark-haired woman thought were frankly beyond her grasp but was attempting anyway in order to please her younger companion, when the clear, cutting sound of a horn pierced the still air.

"What’s that?" asked Kaleah, her body instantly tensing at the sound, easily roused by the clarion call that was still used to summon warriors to battle.

Jessica’s eyes went instantly to the highest pinnacle of the castle; the central parapet. "Relax," she said, patting her friend soothingly while at the same time admiring the lightning-quick reflexes the dark woman displayed, the instant readiness to take either to flight or to fight. She pointed. "It’s the look-out horn. Someone’s coming to pay us a visit."

Kaleah let go of the tension that coiled her muscles and eyed the distant watchman perched on the look-out tower. "How come I’ve never heard it before?"

"Well they only ever use it when someone important is approaching, or when an army’s been spotted. That hasn’t happened since you arrived." The young blonde watched as the soldiers started running about, curious and tense, then added, "Besides, even if they had, you can’t hear the horn so well inside the castle. It’s mainly to alert the guards on the wall and to send a runner to tell my father what’s happening." She grabbed her friend and started dragging her excitedly across to the nearest stairs that led onto the walls. "Come on, let’s take a look and see who it is."

Reaching the top of the wall, the two women found all the guards looking eagerly outside, their expressions relaxed and cheerful, not stern and serious as they would be if an enemy rode for Da’Gran. The top of the wall was designed in the typical style of a fortress of war, with gaps spaced along it at regular intervals to provide access for archers and look-outs. One of the guards saw Jessica and helpfully moved aside with a smile to give her room.

"Looks like your friend came early, Jess." he told her, pointing out the brightly colored caravan and its retinue of mounted figures approaching at a leisurely pace. "Guess we caught him during a quiet time. I didn’t expect him to get here till Friday."

Jessica studied the caravan and instantly recognized the raised standard of Earl James — Charles’ father. She looked at Kaleah, who regarded her questioningly.

"It’s Charles," she told her friend with a broad smile.

Kaleah couldn’t help but smile in return, catching the young woman’s enthusiasm. In truth, she reflected, she was rather looking forward to meeting this man Jessica liked so much. The young blonde was a good judge of people she had seen, and there was little doubt in her mind that Charles must be someone special.

They watched as the caravan drew nearer. Kaleah could make out the lead figure; a man mounted on a dark-brown horse draped with finery and the trappings of nobility she would have expected of Jessica, but had never seen the young woman indulge in. The entourage that followed behind numbered a few dozen, including many mounted soldiers baring lances and shields, as well as numerous foot-soldiers armed with halberds, several unarmed servants, and of course the wagon that likely carried their supplies.

Kaleah’s sharp eyes, accustomed to watching for danger, were drawn quickly to the man riding about fifteen paces behind the lead figure of Charles. This man rode a massive black destrier charger and wore heavy plate armor sporting numerous blades. He was obviously a big man, strong and powerful as those who donned such weighty armor had to be. As the procession drew nearer, Kaleah watched him more curiously, impressed by the clear display of formidable power.

She pointed him out to her friend. "Who’s that?"

Jessica looked where she indicated. "The big man with the black horse? That’s Damon Cook. He’s Charles’ body-guard; they’re almost always together."

"Body-guard?" Kaleah was familiar with such people . . . most of her former masters had employed protection of some kind. A dark memory rose unwanted in her mind, and she crushed it down. "Is he okay?"

Jessica shrugged, unaware of the change in her friend’s tone. "He’s kinda quiet, but he’s a damn good fighter. Very loyal to Charles and his father, which is what’s important in a body-guard, I suppose."

The sudden arrival of Sir Richard drew their attention away from the approaching caravan. The lord knight marched across the courtyard, Sir Miles and Eric Grace trailing close behind.

"Come on," said Jess, patting her hair down and straightening her rather rumpled shirt. "Let’s go down and greet them."

The two joined Sir Richard at the raised portcullis. Jessica’s father gave them both a slight smile of acknowledgement, but shook his head a little at the ragged attire of his daughter. Jess just shrugged a little sheepishly and grinned at Kaleah.

The group of riders approached quickly, the lead figure waving cheerfully before he dismounted and strode forward to greet Sir Richard. Jessica and Kaleah held back as the two men embraced warmly and exchanged a few low words of welcome and thanks. When they parted, Sir Richard drew the man forward and gestured towards his daughter, who grinned and hugged him happily.

"It’s so good to see you again, Charles," Jessica said as they separated. "I’ve missed you." Kaleah noticed that her friend adopted her cultured tones once more, and recognized it as an indication that this was a somewhat formal occasion. The dark woman marveled how Jessica managed to slip into her role as a noble lady so quickly and easily. The sudden changes in her accent, expression and body language were almost disturbing.

Charles ran a gloved hand through his hair and grinned. "I came as soon as I could," he said. "I’m glad for these talks . . . it’s been too long since we were together, hasn’t it?" He cast his eyes over her dirty peasant clothes and his grin grew wider. "I see some things have changed little."

"More than you might think," she replied cryptically, playfully punching his arm.

Charles’ eyes wandered from her and immediately fixed on Kaleah, who had watched the exchange intently and with only a small feeling of jealousy at the obvious closeness between the two. The young nobleman raised a curious eyebrow at Jessica, who eagerly gestured her friend forward.

"Charles, I’d like you to meet my new friend, Kaleah." She put a hand on the tall woman’s arm and drew her closer. "She was passing through the region and I um. . . invited her to stay here for a while. She’s been a wonderful sparring partner, and we’ve become the best of friends."

Kaleah couldn’t help but smile at the young woman’s words. She bowed slightly to show respect for the young noble. "A pleasure to meet you, my lord," she said quietly, aware as always how her barbaric accent made her sound strange among these people . . . except, of course, around Jessica.

Charles studied her with intelligent brown eyes that held much the same spark of mischief as Jessica’s, taking in her tall, athletic form displayed nicely by the soft leather and chain-mail armor she wore. He smiled warmly. "The pleasure is all mine, I’m sure." Kaleah relaxed a little when she recognized his interest as friendly and inviting, and allowed herself a moment to study him in return.

Charles was almost as tall as she was, and much broader across the shoulders and chest. He wore clothes that were obviously expensive, and a decorative sword hung from the belt that cinched about his trim waist. His ash-blonde hair was wavy and fell evenly to within a few inches of his shoulders. His face was gentle and kind, with a soft goatee framing a mouth that smiled easily. Kaleah acknowledged that Jessica was right; the young man was quite handsome, with an air of quiet nobility that was enhanced by his wardrobe, not based upon it. She smiled unconsciously, and relaxed more.

Charles finished his own appraisal and his smile grew warmer. "I look forward to getting to know you better," he said, his voice smooth and refined. He winked at Jessica. "And to hearing how you two met up."

"Certainly." The young blonde nodded agreeably.

Sir Richard laid a hand on Charles’ shoulder. "You can talk later, Jessica," he said firmly. "Charles is here for the treaty talks, not to keep you entertained. Miles? Would you see to the horses and have the men allocated to the barracks? Come, Charles. We have much to discuss." He guided the young man towards the central keep, turning only to gesture for the hulking form of Damon to follow them. Sir Miles quickly took control of the rest of Charles’ entourage, and Jessica drew Kaleah over to the castle walls where the sun was warmest.

"He seems . . . nice," Kaleah said as they sat down on the rough stones, dangling their legs over the edge.

"He is. I’m glad you think so."

The young blonde couldn’t help but smile, recognizing by her friend’s words that the dark woman was comfortable with Charles being around. She had, in all honesty, been a bit worried. Afterall, Kaleah hadn’t taken to Sir Miles very well at all. Her reactions to other people when they tried to get close were usually defensive, sometimes aggressive, and highly unpredictable. She really wanted Charles to get along with her new friend, and was relieved that their initial introduction had gone okay.

"I saw his sword," Kaleah mentioned. "It looked very . . . pretty. Can he use it?"

Jessica grinned, knowing her friend’s expert eyes had recognized that Charles’ weapon was too flashy to be the tool of a hard soldier. "He can fight a little," she said. "But not nearly as well as most. Charles is a scholar and a diplomat; that’s probably a part of why my father wanted him here for the talks with Sir William."

"So he’s not much of a fighter?"

Jessica shook her head.

"Is that the reason for the body-guard?"

Jessica shrugged, swinging her legs a little over the drop. "Most nobles have body-guards when they travel," she said. "Charles is an important man. His father is very rich. Any thug with a few men would be only too happy to take a chance at grabbing him for ransom."

Kaleah nodded, understanding. "So he has to travel with a small army everywhere he goes?"

"I guess."

Kaleah eyed her friend. "You don’t."

"That’s different."

Kaleah turned to regard her friend more closely. "How? You’re a noble woman. I’m sure your father would pay any ransom demanded of him if you were kidnapped."

"He never has before," the blonde laughed. "My father expects me to be resourcful enough to get myself out of most trouble."

"Has he ever offered to get you a body-guard?"

Jessica’s eyes flashed with emerald fire. "He knows better than to even suggest such a thing. There are three basic reasons why I don’t have a body-guard." She ticked them off on her fingers. "One, I rarely ever go outside the castle walls unless it’s riding with my father. Two, there are only a few men in the castle who can fight better than I can, and apart from Sir Miles, none of them surpass my skills by all that much. And third . . ." She grinned. "My father knows full and well what I’d do if he tried to stick me with a body-guard."

Kaleah considered this, and it suddenly occurred to her just how very different Jessica was from the rest of the nobility. She glanced at Jessica and found the young woman gazing at her with a slight smile and a wondering expression. Her eyes were soft and carried a gentle but undeniable force — the power of compassion and care. She couldn’t hold their gaze for more than a moment before the beating of her heart became so overwhelming that she had to look away, her blood rising.

"Something wrong?" the blonde asked.

She shook her head. "I was just thinking . . ."

"About what?"

"About just how unique and special you really are." The words were out before she had the time to close her mouth around them. Her blue eyes widened and she cursed herself silently. "I mean, um . . . compared to the, uh, the other nobles." She risked a glance at her companion, and was relieved when she saw only that same gentle, comfortable smile and the warmth and affection in her eyes.

"I’m no better or worse than anyone else, Kaleah," the young blonde said softly.

"Yes you are," the dark woman insisted.

"Oh?" Jessica gave her an amused and playful look. "And just what makes me so special?"

"Welll . . ." she thought for a moment. "Take Charles, for example. He’s a fairly typical noble, right?"

"I suppose."

"And like a typical noble, he wears fine clothes and jewels, he has body-guards and an army wherever he goes. His hair was perfect . . . his teeth were perfect . . . he speaks well."

"Sure . . . so?"

Kaleah smiled. "I’ve only ever seen you wear something other than peasant rags or fighting garb once or twice," she said. "You’re almost always covered in sweat and mud, unless you’ve just taken a bath, of course. You talk like the soldiers unless your mother’s around, and whenever you brush your hair, it only ever seems to stay brushed for about five minutes before it’s a tangled mess again." She grinned at her friend’s rather shocked expression. "You fight like a soldier, you can curse like a sailor, and if I had to find a single word to describe you, it would probably be ‘scruffy.’"

Jessica’s mouth hung open a little at this rather blunt appraisal, and she quickly snapped it shut. Okay, her mind said, rather deflated. So she doesn’t find you all that attractive physically. You can work on that. Maybe dress up a little more . . . get her to notice you. You could even let your mother do your hair or something . . .

"What’s your point?" She couldn’t help but sound a little depressed.

Kaleah’s eyes twinkled, hearing the tone in the young woman’s voice. "That is my point," she said quietly.

"Huh?"

Kaleah drew her long legs up and crossed them under her. "You act like just another regular person," she said. "You’re more than just the title you were born with. All the little things that everyone else thinks are so important — the fancy clothes, the jewels, the servants — they don’t matter to you." She grinned. "I can’t really picture Charles rolling around in the mud like we do when we’re sparring."

Jessica absorbed these words a moment, and a slow smile crept across her face. "So, what you’re saying essentially . . . is that I’m special because I usually walk around dressed in sweaty peasant rags, matted hair and covered in mud?"

Kaleah couldn’t help but chuckle. "That’s a pretty grim assessment, but it’s not far off the mark."

"Gee, thanks," Jessica snorted. "You know, next time you want to boost my ego by telling me how damn special I am, maybe you could think of something a little more flattering than, ‘Jess, you look like a ragged peasant. Keep it up!’"

The dark-haired woman smiled a slightly shy but honest smile. "Okay," she whispered. "How about this; you’re a beautiful, amazing young woman with the most generous heart I’ve ever seen . . . and you’ve made my life better than I ever thought it could be."

Jessica flushed hotly, her playfulness vanishing as she saw the sincerity in her companions sparkling cerulean eyes. "Thank you," she said softly. "You’re pretty special yourself."

The women held each other’s gaze a few more moments before their individual emotions grew too much, then looked back into the castle courtyard, where the troops Charles had brought were mingling happily with the soldiers of Da’Gran. Jessica cleared her throat and swung her legs against the stone wall, happy to just sit and enjoy the silent company of her friend and revel in what she could feel growing between them.

She thinks you’re beautiful, her mind observed happily, and she felt the ball of joy in her stomach grow. Maybe she goes for the scruffy type. I guess that means you can forget about dressing up nice . . . just stay messy and unkempt for her. I mean, I’m not saying you should stop bathing, but this is definitely a step in the right direction.

"So, want to go and practice at the archery field?"

Kaleah shrugged, grateful her friend was going to let the emotional and rather revealing conversation drop. "Sure, why not."

They got up and wandered slowly over to the target range. On the way, Jessica waved one of the guards over and asked him to inform Charles where they would be as soon as he got out of his talks with Sir Richard, and would he like to join them. Glancing at Kaleah from time to time as they walked, Jessica recalled the dark woman’s words and couldn’t fight the smile that settled permanently on her face.

Charles joined them at the archery range about an hour later, just as the two young women were beginning another round of shooting after a brief rest.

"Thought you didn’t like archery, Jess," he observed with a grin as he meandered over, seeing the vibrant blonde take the bow from her partner.

"Well, it’s starting to grow on me," she replied, giving him a warm smile. Jessica nocked an arrow and drew back, sighting carefully along the shaft towards the large bullseye at the far end of the field. Exhaling slowly, she calmed her mind as Kaleah had instructed her before she released the taut string, sending the arrow speeding through the air.

Charles grinned broadly when the missile embedded itself — not very firmly — into the outer-most ring of the target. "Not growing too fast, I see," he teased, earning him a light slap.

"Better than anything you could do, I’d wager." She handed the bow over to Kaleah, grinning at the dark woman and adding, "He’s worse with a bow than he is with a blade."

Charles watched Kaleah swiftly nock an arrow, noting the casually professional way she stood. "And how about you, Kaleah?" he inquired in a friendly, interested tone. "Can you shoot?"

Kaleah gave him a slightly self-deprecating smile, faced the target, and in a single smooth, almost liquid motion, she drew, sighted and released the arrow, sending it deep into the middle ring of the bullseye, only an inch or two from the very center.

"Who do you think’s teaching Jessica?"

Charles clapped his hands and laughed, finding himself liking this strange woman instantly. "Very good," he applauded as Jessica took the bow again. "You must be an excellent teacher . . . the last time I saw Jess try to shoot the target, she couldn’t get within thirty feet of it."

Jess scowled and took another shot, this time hitting another ring closer to the center. "Just wait," she promised with a pout. "By the time Kaleah’s finished with me, I’ll be as good as she is." She raised an eyebrow curiously at him. "How’d the meeting go?"

"Fine," he said, waving the issue aside. "If Lancaster is sincere in his desire for a treaty, it could mean great good for us all."

"Humph!" Jessica snorted as she took a second shot, unfazed when the arrow only nicked the edge of the target and caromed away. Charles laughed, but she just shrugged. "It takes a lot of practice. I’m getting better."

"Today’s been your best effort so far," Kaleah agreed, taking the bow from her. She regarded Charles a little shyly, sensing that he was still observing her closely. She did as Jessica had told her to do in such situations; stood firm and strong, displaying a confidence that used to be fake, but which she was now beginning to believe in herself. "Jessica’s told me Sir William has been your mutual enemy for many years. Perhaps his desire to talk peace is a ruse. Maybe he’s planning to attack . . ." She remembered that Charles was of noble birth, and quickly added, "milord," as she knew commoners like her were expected to use the title when they addressed their social betters.

Charles just laughed easily and waved the formal appellation away. "Please, Kaleah, no need for that. Just call me Charles," he insisted. "Any friend of Jessica’s is a friend of mine . . . and my friends are my equals, not my servants." He smoothed his fingers through his thin beard, considering her question seriously. "Sir William has more men than Jessica’s father, it’s true, and he’s attacked many times in the past. But the troops in Da’Gran are far better fighters then his own soldiers, and with the new alliance between Sir Richard and my own father solidified, he would be foolish indeed to attack. Da’Gran is a solid fortress; it wouldn’t be likely he’d attempt an assault."

"He could hire mercenaries." Kaleah remembered hearing somewhere that mercenaries were gathering in the region, but she couldn’t recall where or when she had heard it.

Jessica snorted again as Kaleah nocked another arrow. "And pay them with what? Lancaster is a greedy old fool. He might have dreamed of taking these lands once, but he can’t be stupid enough to try again." She patted her friend on the back just as the dark woman was taking another shot. Jessica laughed when the arrow missed the target completely. "Ha! Looks like the teacher needs a little more practice herself!"

Kaleah flushed. "You distracted me."

"Oh, boo! I just patted you on the back," Jess teased. "Maybe I should be more creative next time . . . no telling how much you might miss by if I actually put my mind to distracting you."

Kaleah snorted and turned away, grateful her dark complexion hid the color in her cheeks. "Don’t even think about it," she groused, wondering if her words were meant for Jessica . . . or for herself, as she pondered a few ways the young girl might distract her.

Charles watched the interaction between the two women, recognizing instantly the close bond that had been forged between them. Jessica looked happier and healthier than he’d ever seen her before; the glow in her smile was more radiant than the sun. Every other time he’d visited Da’Gran, the young woman had been almost pathetically glad for his company. When it came time for him to leave, she always wept. Charles knew how lonely she was, how her mother kept her away from people she considered beneath their noble station. How had the Lady Rose been swayed to allow this friendship to ever develop? Come to think of it . . . how had Kaleah been swayed?

Charles was experienced at reading people; this tall, dark-haired woman with the piercing blue eyes didn’t seem the type to make friends with someone like Jessica. Studying Kaleah, recognizing a solitary and silent soul, he wondered how she had become a part of the young blonde’s life — and how she had worked such changes in his friend. Jessica’s simple explanation that the dark woman had just been passing through was obviously not the truth . . . or not all the truth. He could see the numerous scars on the woman’s body and the one that marred the beauty of her face. She moved with an almost savage, animal grace, her motions restless and tense. She certainly wasn’t someone he would have expected would make friends with the vibrant, spirited Jessica, and vice versa. His curiosity grew.

"Sooo . . . you wanna tell me how you two got together?" he asked.

Jessica grinned. "Right to the point, huh Charles?"

"That’s what works best with you, isn’t it?"

The blonde laughed and nodded. "I guess so." She looked at her dark-haired friend, who smiled and shrugged, letting her know she didn’t mind the nobleman knowing the truth. "Kaleah and I met about a month ago," she explained simply. "She was with a group of bandits my father arrested in the woods. In the fight, I saw she was good with a sword, so when she ran away, I chased her and . . . caught her."

"She knocked me out," Kaleah corrected.

"Only ‘cause you wouldn’t stay down," Jess argued. "And it’s not like I got away without a scratch." She displayed the still vivid scar on her right arm to Charles, who regarded Kaleah with new respect.

"Jess is quite a fighter," he said, studying her with greater interest. "You must be pretty good yourself to get past her defenses."

Kaleah waved him away, but the young blonde quickly jumped in. "She’s brilliant. We’ve been training together only a few weeks, but she picks up new moves faster than anyone I’ve ever seen."

Kaleah blushed and quickly loosed another arrow into the heart of the target. "Jessica likes to give too much credit."

Charles grinned. "Only where it’s due," he said. "So, you got caught. How’d you go from being a captured bandit to being Jessica’s friend?"

The dark woman shrugged. "She offered me a nice place to sleep and the chance to be a better fighter. All she wanted was a little company. It was either that or be sentenced to the barracks as a servant, so I accepted her offer."

"I see." Charles sensed more, but didn’t have to prod since Jessica was happy to fill in the blanks.

"Yeah, she accepted my offer, then took off as soon as a storm hit," the blonde explained. "It was lucky we didn’t both die out there in the snow."

"You went out alone into a winter storm?" Charles eyes were wide with surprise.

Kaleah shuffled her feet a little. "I, uh. . . I didn’t know how bad it would be."

"Kaleah hasn’t seen many winter’s like this," Jessica explained gently. "She’s only been free for less than a year."

Aahhhh, Charles thought, studying Kaleah’s suddenly guarded expression. That explains a lot. "You were a slave." A statement, not a question.

Kaleah nodded once, shortly. "For most of my life. My last master taught me to fight and to make weapons before he released me . . . that was late last Spring. I was wandering around, just trying to survive in the months before Jessica found me."

"We reached an understanding after a few initial problems," Jess said softly, patting her tall friend on the arm comfortingly. "We’ve really gotten along well since then. Kaleah’s been a wonderful companion. I can’t even remember what I did before she came along."

Charles didn’t miss the softening in Kaleah’s expression at the young woman’s caring words, nor the unconscious, lingering way Jessica patted and stroked the former slave’s arm. These two cared about each other a great deal, that much was obvious. He gave Kaleah a friendly, compassionate smile. "Well, I’m glad you found each other," he said gently. "Slavery is an inhuman trade. I’ve seen many lives destroyed by it. It does my heart good to see that you, at least, have been given another chance at life."

Kaleah flushed a little, hearing the sincerity in his words. "Thank you."

Charles let the moment continue a little longer, then clapped his hands and smiled, dispelling the serious atmosphere with the skill of a true diplomat; one accustomed to setting others at ease. "Could I interest you ladies in a mid-day ride?" he asked. "I’m sure my men don’t want to strain your father’s supplies anymore than we must, Jessica. A hunt would do them the world of good."

Jess agreed readily when Kaleah nodded her acceptance, the dark woman pointing out she had never been on a real hunt before. Together, the three left to gather Damon and the rest of Charles’ men for the chase.

The sun had started to set by the time the hunters returned, bearing the carcasses of two deer and a brace of pheasants. Jessica, never much for killing the forest animals, had been happy to sit back and let her friends participate while she enjoyed the last days of the winters magic. A dozen or so men agreed to come along, and the group had been in high spirits as they searched the woodlands for prints. Kaleah proved to be at best a mediocre tracker, but her aim was perfect, felling the graceful deer with a single shot. Jessica, seeing the look of intense concentration on the dark woman’s face as she lost herself in the chase, had allowed her imagination full rein as she let her eyes roam where they would.

Charles, ever an astute observer, did not miss the unusual amount of time his betrothed spent watching the former slave . . . nor did he fail to see the rakish smile that lit her face. He couldn’t help but grin, figuring this might explain at least some of the changes in the young woman. Still, he thought, admiring for a moment Kaleah’s admittedly appealing figure, it was probably better to learn the exact nature of what was going on before he started teasing the girl — which he quickly put at the top of his ‘things to do’ list.

Watching closely to see if Kaleah was reciprocating the interest, the nobleman was at first disappointed. Kaleah’s focus was all for the hunt, and the few glances she threw Jessica did not hold the same desire that was being directed her way. Charles was just beginning to worry that his friend was heading for heartache when, as they were headed home, the dark woman drew alongside him at the head of the column and said, in a suspiciously casual way, "So, Jessica tells me you two are betrothed."

And we have a winner, the young man thought, quickly masking his amusement. "That’s right, for about four or so years now." He glanced behind to where Jessica was riding, figuring the blonde had opted to ride back a ways so she might watch her tall companion without fear — a suspicion confirmed when he saw her green eyes quickly dart away to study the surrounding woodland with great interest as she realized he was looking at her.

"Four years? Why so long?"

Now he couldn’t help but grin as he regarded her with a raised eyebrow. "Come on, Kaleah," he ribbed her. "Jess doesn’t make a secret of it, and neither do I."

Kaleah had the sense to blush a little and stammer an apology. "I uh . . . wasn’t sure if . . ."

"I felt the same way?"

The dark head nodded. "I mean, she told me you didn’t love her as anything more than a friend, but . . . you know. Maybe you were just saying that to make her feel more comfortable."

Charles shook his head. "Jessica’s a romantic heart," he told her softly. "She wants to wait till she falls in love with the right person, and that person isn’t me. I understand that, because I feel pretty much the same way."

Was Kaleah the right person? he wondered, studying her classic dark features. She obviously cared for Jessica, but Charles knew slaves rarely escaped their captivity without carrying dark emotions with them. Jessica deserved someone who would trust her and love her completely. Would someone like Kaleah — someone who had learned not to trust — be able to give herself over to such intimate reliance?

"So," Kaleah’s voice drew him back from his considerations, "you’re not in love with her?"

"I love Jess as a friend," he assured her. "She’s very dear to me, and she’s a very special person. But no, I have no interest in anything deeper."

Kaleah’s brow furrowed. "Then why must you be married? Neither of you wants it. Why would they force you to do something you don’t want?"

"The marriage will solidify the treaty between her father and mine," he explained. "It’s a bond that other lords will recognize and respect, and will work to ensure they don’t launch attacks against either of out lands." He sighed a little and shifted the decorative sword at his side, for a moment envying the ease and familiarity with which the soldiers bore their weapons. The damn thing pinched him uncomfortably. "Jessica’s been quite creative finding new ways to delay the wedding, and I’ve supported her all I can. But unless something happens to change things in the next year or so, I think we’re both going to run out of road."

Kaleah absorbed this with a thoughtful expression, then asked, "If you don’t love each other, how will you handle being married? Won’t you be expected to . . . you know? Have children?"

Charles shook his head. "The marriage is political. We won’t have to have children if we don’t want them. Jessica and I discussed the issue of sex, and we both agreed. Neither of us would be comfortable in such a relationship." He shivered a little, glancing back at the watching blonde. "She’s like my sister, for God’s sake!"

"I see."

Kaleah turned away, her eyes thoughtful. Charles, letting her slip away, could feel the presence she projected even when her mind was occupied. He could understand how Jessica could get swallowed up by that intense magnetism. It was clear the two women, having developed a solid friendship, were now hurtling quickly towards something more.

Charles’ father, who had traveled a great deal in his youth and developed a very liberated mind along the way, had raised his son to respect the ways of other people, no matter what they were. That was one of the many things he appreciated about Jessica; she rarely passed judgement on others . . . although, he had to admit, it was a little surprising the vibrant blonde had apparently fallen for another woman. He’d certainly never seen that one coming. But if it made her happy, then he would support and nurture it as best he could; as a friend. This budding attraction which, it appeared, had yet to be consummated, was an unexpected though welcome discovery for the young lord. If he could nudge the two closer . . . well, it might be a way to escape his and Jessica’s forced betrothal. Now, if he could just figure out a way to get Jessica to admit to it without embarrassing her . . .

Clucking to his horse as the party neared the imposing walls of castle Da’Gran, the young nobleman grinned to himself. He predicted this was going to be an unusually interesting visit.

Once the horses were stabled and the soldiers had returned to their barracks after preparing the meat they brought in, Jessica claimed the day had worn her out a little, and decided to retire to her room for a late supper.

"You want to join me?" she offered, including both but looking at Kaleah.

Charles declined. "I’ve been on the road the last few days," he reminded his friend, stretching worn muscles. "My rooms are prepared; I’ve been looking forward to getting a good night’s rest. Sorry, Jess. We’ll do something fun tomorrow though, huh? The three of us?"

Jess nodded and hugged him goodnight before he disappeared into the keep. She raised an eyebrow at her friend. "Hungry?"

Kaleah was tempted, but she shook her head. "Actually I uh . . . I was planning on taking over the tower watch tonight," she explained quietly. Seeing the surprised look on her companions face, she reached out and patted the younger woman on the arm. "I just . . . I need a little space again, that’s all." Her words sounded hollow even to her own ears.

Jessica searched her friend’s face for a moment, unable to hide her disappointment and regret. It’s been a while since she last wanted to be alone, she thought. I suppose it was a little too much to hope that she was past all that. After a moment, she nodded. "I understand," she whispered, covering the hand that held her arm and stroking it comfortingly. "You’ll join us tomorrow though, won’t you?"

Kaleah nodded and smiled warmly at the slight note of desperation that crept into her friend’s voice. For a moment, the need to reassure the young woman that she would always be needed became so overwhelming Kaleah almost bent down and pressed her scarred lips against the softer ones below. With an effort though, she leashed her desires and locked them again in the cage of her heart.

"Of course," she promised. "Charles is great, I like him already. It’s just . . ." she struggled to find words to make Jessica understand she wasn’t drawing away from her. "I just have a few things I need to think about, that’s all. Nothing bad," she quickly added, seeing the concern on Jessica’s face. "Just regular stuff. Okay?"

The blonde nodded. "Sure."

"Alright then. I’ll see you in the morning, bright and early, okay?’

"Bright and early."

Kaleah ruffled her messy blonde hair in a now familiar gesture, gave her a little grin, and headed away into the gathering shadows. Just before she vanished from sight, Jess called out to her; "Kaleah?"

"Yeah?" Blue eyes shone even in the darkness.

Jess smiled. "Promise me you’ll get at least a little sleep?"

Teeth flashed white as the former slave grinned fully. "I promise," she said, before turning away. Her footsteps grew dimmer, and she was gone.

Jessica sighed. Her appetite had disappeared.

Kaleah climbed slowly up the winding, narrow staircase that led to the top of the lookout turret, her thoughts tangled and weighing down her feet. Reaching the summit, she relieved the grateful soldier on night watch and settled down to watch as the lights from the nearby village were lit, creating a distant glow.

Sighing deeply, the dark woman picked up a cloak left behind by the guard and wrapped it round her shoulders to ward off the night’s chill. Shivering only a little, she let her mind ponder her relationship with Jessica.

Kaleah hadn’t served as a whore for so many of her slave years without learning to recognize the signs people gave when they were interested in her. The way a person looked, or sounded, or even smelled could tell her quickly if someone wanted to bed her. However, that only made what was happening now all the more confusing.

Jessica wasn’t like anyone she had ever known. Before, the people who came to the any of the brothels her masters had owned came because they wanted something; they wanted pleasure. Their desires were plain and based purely on the physical. This connection with Jessica was emotional as well . . . and maybe even deeper than that. She could feel the girl’s presence in the very depths of her soul.

Kaleah had no idea if the signals the young woman was sending were just normal signals that passed between normal friends, or if they were something more. Maybe Jessica just blushed a lot naturally, she thought. Maybe she gave everyone those sidelong glances. She certainly liked to touch people a lot when she was near them — that one was assuredly not unique to their interactions. But the rest? How could she know for sure?

One thing was clear, however; Jessica was aware that something was going on between them. Kaleah had seen the curious, wondering expression in her friend’s eyes from time to time. Sensitive to other people, the young blonde had to have realized they were growing even closer to each other as time wore on. She seemed happy with it, but maybe that was because she hadn’t even considered a physical dimension to their relationship. Would the young woman draw away if she found out about the thoughts Kaleah had been having?

A sudden, nearly silent footstep drew Kaleah away from her ponderings. Her hand went instantly to the Spanish blade she still carried at her side . . . but it was too late.

As Kaleah turned to see who it was, something struck her across the face with dazzling force. The dark of the night exploded suddenly with white and flashing stars. She had a vague impression of three figures carrying stout wooden sticks, dressed in black, faces concealed by cloth wrappings, but another blow sent her to the ground before she could get her weapon free. Her hand dropped from the hilt of the sword to break her fall, and pain lanced from her wrist up her arm from the impact.

"Look’s like yer settlin’ in alright, slave bitch," snarled a voice, slightly muffled by the wrappings. A booted foot slammed into her stomach, and Kaleah croaked out an involuntary sound as the air left her lungs. Doubled over in agony, she barely heard the men. "May be that ye’ve outstayed yer welcome." Something hit her in the small of her back, causing her body to arch up. "Time to be movin’ on, I reckon. Da’Gran’s not the place fer you." Before she could cry out, one of her attackers kicked her in the head, sending her flopping to the stone, clinging to consciousness, her body exposed and defenseless.

For a moment, she struggled through the rising darkness to summon the anger and rage that always lay so close to the surface, trying to draw strength to stand and fight. She wished for the breath to give a battlecry, but it was all she could do to spit out the blood that welled in her mouth. She’d been beaten before as a slave, and she called on her experience to push through the pain.

You were beaten as a slave, her mind screamed at her. But you’re not a slave anymore! Get up! Fight!

Snarling, she closed a shaking hand over the hilt of her sword and tried to pull it free. One of the men quickly struck her sword arm . . . hard. Kaleah cried out as fire ripped through the damaged limb.

Her fury managed to get her back up to her knees, but before she could go further successive blows rained down on her as her assailants moved in to complete the punishment. Kaleah felt real fear for the first time in weeks; it flowed through her blood like ice, weakening her further. Dark memories rose of the times she’d been punished by her masters, and she was engulfed by the same feeling of powerlessness that had pervaded her life for as far back as she could remember. As the men struck again and again, Kaleah, knowing there was nothing she could do, curled into a protective ball and tried to shield her face.

Eventually, after what seemed to her pain-filled mind to be several hours but was probably only a few minutes, the shower of agony halted and she relaxed a little, groaning weakly and struggling to hold back the darkness that wanted to spare her the pain. A large, rough hand grabbed her by the hair and jerked her face up. Two eyes were all she could see of the man; his face was carefully masked to conceal his identity.

"This is just a warnin’, slave," the man growled, raising his fist. "Get outta this castle while ye still got legs to walk on. Next time . . . we won’t be such gentlemen."

The man’s fist slammed into her face, and dark oblivion became the whole world.

Chapter 12.

The dream was warm and fuzzy, filled with gentle images of bronze skin and flashing blue eyes. She felt the strong arms of an ethereal lover wrap protectively around her middle and released a sigh of utter bliss and contentment. Wonderfully soft pleasure coursed through her naked body, not urgent or rushed, but slow and teasing, drawing guttural moans from deep in her belly. She heard her name whispered by the woman loving her, and she smiled and snuggled deeper into the seductive embrace that blocked out the rest of the world and made her feel so very special.

"Jess . . ." the voice called, sounding more urgent as she turned and wetly kissed what skin she could reach. "Jess!"

"Kaleah?"

"Jess, it’s me . . . Charles." Someone was shaking her lightly. . . someone real. "Come on Jess, wake up."

Reluctantly letting the dream slip away, Jessica opened bleary eyes and looked up to find Charles sitting on the bed next to her. "Alright, I’m up," she grumbled crankily, a little miffed at having the wonderful dream interrupted. Fuzzily she looked at the window, rubbing her eyes. She scowled. "For God’s sake, Charles, it’s still dark outside!" she slapped his arm lightly — but not too lightly. "I was in the middle of a dream that . . ." She suddenly noticed the tension in the young lords face. "What is it? Is something wrong?"

He nodded. "Kaleah’s been hurt."

Green eyes widened and Jess’s hand went to her mouth. "Hurt? What do you mean hurt? I-is she okay? Where is she?"

Jessica started to get up but Charles put his hands firmly on her shoulders, holding her back before she could leap out of the bed. "Calm down," he insisted softly. "She’s okay, Jess. Eric Grace is with her now, seeing to her injuries. Get some clothes on and I’ll take you too her." He released her when he felt her relax a little.

Worried green eyes bore into him. "What happened?"

Charles got up and turned around to give her some privacy as she dressed. "We don’t know. She wasn’t all that coherent when the guards found her."

"Wasn’t coherent? What do you mean? How . . . how bad is she?"

He sighed. "She’s pretty bruised and battered, but Grace says nothing’s broken. She uh . . . she did ask for you though."

"She did?" He couldn’t help but hear her slight smile. "When did they find her? She told me she was taking the night-watch in the lookout turret."

"One of the guards went to bring her some food near midnight. He found her lying about half-way down the stairs and went to get help. Grace has been working on her since they carried her down."

"Midnight?" He turned around to see the young woman dressed in her ragged soldier’s uniform, hands on her hips, expression stormy. "Why didn’t anyone come and get me?"

"You were sleeping. She was barely conscious. You couldn’t have done anything, and Grace said you would have gotten in his way." He raised his hands to forestall the anger that the small blonde was getting ready to unleash. "Jess, you needed your rest," he argued preemptively. "She’s going to need you now more than she did during the night."

Jessica considered this and realized it was true. "Someone still should have told me," she said, her voice breaking a little. "I could have at least . . . been there for her. Where is she?"

"The infirmary. Come, I’ll take you to her."

The two headed down the corridor, Jessica’s long, almost masculine strides forcing Charles to lengthen his own in order to keep up. Opening the door into the infirmary, Jessica rushed inside and came to a sudden stop when she saw her friend.

"Oh my God!" Her voice caught in her throat. She covered her mouth as tears sprang into her eyes.

Kaleah was lying on a padded bench, her eyes closed, her chest rising and falling evenly. She wore a simple, loose-fitting shift, but most of her body was wrapped in bandages. Her face was badly bruised; one eye was swollen black and blue, and had been covered with a greenish-brown poultice Jessica knew was used to help broken skin heal. Her right arm was wrapped in a splint, and what patches of skin were showing were all darkened by bruises.

Eric Grace looked up from where he was finishing with the last of the bandages. "Aahhh, Lady Jessica. Excellent, you’re here. Your friend was asking for you." The old man nodded a greeting to Charles as he came in after her.

"Is she . . ?"

"Her condition is quite stable." He saw the expression of fear and grief in her eyes and gestured for her to come closer. "It’s not as bad as it looks," he assured her, the cold detachment in his voice chilling her for some reason as she stepped forward and reached out to reassure herself with physical contact that Kaleah was okay. She stopped, thinking she might accidentally hurt her friend further. Forcing down the tears and trying to dislodge the lump in her throat, she studied the dark woman’s battered features.

"Kaleah?" No response. She looked up to see Grace moving about his equipment, cleaning up. "Why is she still unconscious?"

"Not unconscious; sedated," he corrected her. "She was asking for you and being rather uncooperative. I was worried she might do herself more damage so I gave her something to put her to sleep. It’s quite alright, milady, I assure you."

Jessica pulled a nearby stool closer and sat down. Unable to stand not touching her friend, she gently took the dark woman’s hand and stroked it soothingly. "How long will she be out?"

Grace gave the matter consideration, studying his patient’s slumbering form. "Hard to say," he admitted. "She’s thin, but strong. She should be coming round shortly, though she’ll be a bit groggy for a while."

"How did this happen? She was only supposed to be taking guard duty. Who would do this to her?"

Grace shrugged and patted her shoulder. "She told me she tripped and fell down the stairs."

Jessica’s brow furrowed as she regarded the extent and nature of the damage. "Do you believe that’s what happened?"

"Can’t say for sure. I suppose she might have taken a nasty tumble. Her injuries are fairly consistent with what I’d expect of such an accident. Still . . ." He indicated the poultice-covered gash on her face. "That looks almost like she was kicked in the face by someone wearing a boot," he observed with clinical interest.

That was exactly what Jessica thought. But . . ."Who would do that? She hasn’t given anyone a reason to hurt her."

Grace shrugged. "However it happened, she’s gonna be pretty sore for the next few days. I assume you’ll want to take care of her yourself . . ?"

She nodded. "When can she come back to her room? I think she’d be more comfortable there."

Eric nodded. "I anticipated as much. Give her till tonight, then I’ll have some of the servants carry her up." He gathered the bag that held his various herbs and medicines and tucked it under his arm. "Her injuries are cleaned, and the worst of the bruises are wrapped. I’m afraid that’s about all I can do for her, and I have other duties to attend to with your father. I trust you’ll want to stay here with her?"

She nodded.

"Fine. When she wakes up, just try to keep her from moving around too much. Nothing’s broken, but everything will be awful tender." He opened the door. "Remember, Lady Jessica, the best thing for your friend right now is plenty of rest. Her body needs time to heal. I’ll send Senigma in to check on her around noon."

"Fine. Thank you, Eric."

The old man started to leave, then suddenly turned back. "Oh, one last thing, Lady Jessica," he said. "While I was treating the young woman, I couldn’t help but notice the mark she has on her back . . . just below her neck. Have you seen it?"

"The tattoo? I’ve seen it, yes. Why?"

"Well, I must say it fascinated me," Grace said eagerly. "The mark seems to be formed from some type of ancient writing. I’ve never seen anything like it before, and I’ve made quite a study of such things. I uh, took a quick tracing while she was unconscious. I apologize if it was forward of me, but I was very much hoping to study the design further . . . if it were agreeable with you, my lady."

Jessica considered Grace’s request, and nodded. "I see no harm in it. Kaleah has no idea what the mark means; I doubt she’d mind you looking into it."

Grace smiled broadly and bowed, his velvet robes shuffling about him. "Thank you, Lady Jessica."

"And Grace?"

"Yes, Lady Jessica?"

"If you do find anything about it, I’d like to be informed."

"Of course. My pleasure, Lady Jessica."

The door closed behind him and she suddenly found it too hard to hold back her tears. "Oh, Kaleah . . ." She reached up with her free hand and cupped the sedated woman’s cheek, stroking the scar that slashed across the swollen lips with her thumb in a gesture that instantly brought her a measure of comfort. "I’m so sorry."

Charles stepped up behind her, putting his arms on her shoulders and giving her a squeeze. "You couldn’t have done anything," he told her softly. "It was an accident-"

"This was no accident," she said firmly. "She was attacked."

"How can you be sure? Eric said. . ."

"Someone beat her. She wouldn’t have fallen down the stairs. I know she wouldn’t have."

Charles was puzzled. "But you said it yourself; who’d want to hurt her?"

"I don’t know." The blonde continued to gently caress Kaleah’s lips with her thumb . . . a gesture that was so unconsciously intimate and caring Charles couldn’t help but notice. "But someone did. When she wakes up, I’ll find out who." Anger lit fires in her emerald eyes as she studied the bruises. "I’ll find whoever it was . . . and they’ll be sorry when I get my hands on them."

Deciding it was probably best not to argue with his friend when she was in such an emotional state, Charles just sighed and pulled another stool over next to hers. He sat down and patted her arm. "You two have become pretty close, huh?"

Jess nodded. "She’s the best friend I’ve ever had," she whispered, almost to herself. "I can’t believe this happened! She’s suffered enough already in her life . . . sh-she doesn’t deserve this . . . she-" The tears started to flow.

Seeing the young woman loosing hold of her emotions, Charles reached out and pulled her into a gentle hug. "Ssshhhh, it’s okay, Jess," he soothed, stroking her head as she started to sob. "She’ll be fine in a few days. Everything’s alright."

Jessica let herself cry, the shock of seeing Kaleah like this becoming too much. Her body was wracked with deep shudders as she clutched Charles close, letting him comfort her. After many moments, her tears began to taper off and she slowly brought herself back under control.

"I-I’m sorry," she stammered, drawing away from Charles’ embrace. "It’s just . . ." she turned back to the slumbering woman. "It hurts so much to see her like this, you know?"

"I understand." He patted her on the shoulder and gave her a kind smile. "You, uh . . ." He didn’t know if this was the most appropriate time, but thought that it might help the young woman to share her feelings. "You really like her, don’t you?"

Jessica didn’t look up at him as she returned to stroking the scarred lips, but she nodded slowly with a small, secret smile. "You have no idea how much," she whispered.

He grinned a little. "Oh, I don’t know about that," he argued playfully. "I think I could take a pretty good guess . . . based on how much time you spent yesterday with your eyes glued to her butt."

"What!?"

He couldn’t help but laugh as she spun around, her green eyes wide, mouth hanging open. "Come on, Jess, you didn’t stop staring at her all day," he teased good-naturedly. "The look in your eyes was making me blush!"

"I-I, uh . . . I was just . . ." Jessica stammered helplessly, trying to come up with an explanation. Charles just regarded her patiently with a raised eyebrow. Eventually, running out of breath, the young woman just blushed and looked at her feet. "I wasn’t really being that obvious, was I?" She peeked up at him shyly from under sleep-mussed blonde hair.

"I’m afraid so," he nodded. "But don’t worry. No-one else was paying any attention. And Kaleah was focused mostly on the hunt, so I think you got away with it." He grinned and folded his arms across his chest.

"Oh God." Jessica ran her fingers through her hair and blushed furiously. She couldn’t help but chuckle at herself a little. "I guess I should be more careful next time, huh?"

"Maybe you should be more obvious," he suggested quietly. "She doesn’t know how you feel about her, does she?"

"Welll, not exactly, no." Jess took Kaleah’s hand again and rubbed it soothingly. "She knows how much I care for her . . . kind of. And I guess she must be aware that our friendship’s still growing stronger. But she doesn’t know some of the things I’ve been thinking about lately, if you know what I mean." She glanced at him questioningly. "You, uh, don’t mind about it, do you?"

He shook his head fondly. "You’re my friend, Jess. If this is something that makes you happy, then it makes me happy, too." He studied the dark woman. "She is attractive, I guess, in a . . . primal kind of way.’’

"I know." A rather sexy smile twisted her lips. "And her eyes are the most amazing blue . . ." She sighed. "I’m still trying to figure out how to tell her. I’ve never had to do anything like this before. But I can’t keep it inside me much longer. It’s getting too hard not to touch her, to be closer to her."

"How do you think she feels?" Charles had already figured Kaleah was just as interested in his young friend as she was in her, but it was not his place to tell another’s secrets, regardless of the happiness it might bring them both.

"I have no idea. I can’t tell." Even now, just looking at her sleeping friend made her feel all warm inside, no matter how grim the circumstances. "Sometimes, she looks at me a funny way, and I’m sure she’s thinking . . . you know . . . those kinds of thoughts about me. And sometimes, she says something that makes me wonder if she’s trying to figure out if I’m interested in her." She sighed again. "But then she pulls away, or changes the subject, and I have to let her go. She’s learning to trust me, and no matter what my feelings are, I won’t risk destroying what it’s taken me so long to build."

Suddenly, Kaleah groaned and her eyes flickered. Jessica stood up excitedly as the dark woman began to move her head from side to side, mumbling.

"She’s coming round." She stood up and moved around the padded bench excitedly, pressing a palm to Kaleah’s forehead to sooth the beaten woman’s uneasy motions. She threw Charles a threatening look. "Not a word of this to her, promise me."

He instantly raised his hand. "I swear, Jess. Your secret’s safe with me."

She smiled and went back to easing her friend into wakefulness.

"Jess . . ?" An eye cracked open, then the other, revealing cerulean orbs fuzzy with confusion.

"I’m here, Kaleah," the young woman reassured softly. "You’re safe, just lie back. You should try to stay still."

Kaleah groaned and tried — not very successfully — to sit up. She looked around, disoriented. "Where . . ?"

"The infirmary," Jess explained. "A guard found you and called for help. You shouldn’t move for a while. You’re awful bruised."

"Urgh" Kaleah lay back and took stock of the damage to her body. Jess was right, she assessed. Everything felt sore. She ran her tongue along the inside of her cheek, feeling the skin torn and tender from where her flesh had been smashed against her teeth. She knew she was lucky not to have lost a tooth. Her right arm was splinted, but she suspected it was more to keep it stable than because the bone was broken. All in all, she considered herself fairly lucky. The beating had been professional and effective, meant to deliver injuries that were painful but which would heal quickly. She had a feeling her attackers hadn’t wanted to do anything that might necessitate a prolonged recovery.

She looked up and was instantly captured by the compassion and concern in her friend’s expression. With a slight groan, she managed a smile she hoped was reassuring. "I’m okay," she whispered, wincing when talking hurt her cheeks.

"You’re a very long way from okay, Kaleah," Jessica insisted.

"I’ve had worse."

Jessica ran her fingers through the dark woman’s hair, smoothing it. "I know you have," she said softly. "But you should be safe from this sort of thing in Da’Gran. What happened?"

"I fell . . . down . . ." She trailed off when she saw the stern look in Jessica’s face. Sighing, she admitted to herself that if anyone deserved the truth, it was her young friend. "Three men. They came from behind while I was on watch. I didn’t hear them coming, and they knocked me down before I could get my sword out."

"Did you see what they looked like?" asked Charles.

She shook her head. "They wore masks."

"Did they say anything? Could you recognize a voice if you heard it again?"

"They said-" She stopped, suddenly realizing that if she told Jessica what her attackers had said, the young woman’s sharp mind would assuredly make the same connection she herself had made. The men wanted her out of Da’Gran . . . just like the Lady Rose. This attack was obviously the noble woman’s way of making sure Kaleah understood she was serious. Jessica didn’t need to know about any of that. "They said something, but I-I can’t remember what it was. They sounded like any of the soldiers. I don’t think I’d recognize them again. I’m afraid they all sound the same to me." True enough. The accent was too common to distinguish one man from another.

Jessica frowned. "Do you have any idea why they attacked you?"

Kaleah shook her head. Lady Rose was pushing her harder, but she’d known there might be consequences to her continued involvement with her blonde companion. This was something she would deal with in her own way. She had no desire to pit Jessica against her own mother.

Jessica wasn’t happy, but decided now was not the time to vent her frustration. "Nevermind," she said gently, feeling Kaleah move into her fingers encouragingly as she stroked her face. "We can talk about it later if you want. You need to rest."

Kaleah shifted a little and grumbled; the bench she lay on wasn’t very comfortable. "I’d rather be in my bed."

"I know. We’ll get you moved to your room later on tonight. For now, you should stay here and keep still . . . let your body recover."

From years of dealing with worse injuries than this, Kaleah knew well the wisdom in her companion’s advice. She smiled and relaxed, letting Jessica’s touch ease away the shadows that this experience had raised from the depths of her memory.

Da’Gran had become a home to her; a place of safety after years spent living in constant fear. Now, that sense of peace had been called into question. She felt the walls that had crumbled under the care and company of the young noble woman start to rebuild, instinctively trying to protect her. With an effort, she stopped them. Lying back and relaxing into the tender caress of her friend, she knew that Jessica would protect her. Closing her eyes, basking in the warmth of the care being lavished on her, the dark woman closed her eyes and let the pain fade away.

Yes, she thought sleepily as her mind drifted off. Jessica will protect me. All I have to do . . . is lie back and let her.

Kaleah slept for most of the day, the sedative Grace had given her working to keep her still and also aiding her body’s natural healing properties. Charles regretfully was called away from the infirmary by his duties, but Jessica remained at her friend’s side. Whenever Kaleah woke from her restful slumber, the first thing she saw when she opened her eyes was the young woman smiling down at her reassuringly, her hands gently caressing her face or her hair.

"Have you had anything to eat today?" she asked drowsily during one of her periods of wakefulness.

Jessica smiled. "I’m not hungry. Maybe I’ll send for something later . . . do you feel up to some soup?"

The dark woman’s eyes warmed, and she basked in the simple pleasure of knowing someone cared for her; a pleasure she’d been a stranger to most of her life. She regarded her friend openly, unable to stop the sweet smile from forming as she thought again how beautiful Jessica was. "Maybe later." She felt the medicine start to pull her back into darkness, and grasped the blonde woman’s hand tightly as she closed her eyes. "D-do you . . . have anything you . . . have to do today?"

Jessica read the hidden question easily, and squeezed her hand. "I’ll be here when you wake up," she promised in a whisper. "I’m not going to leave you."

Consciousness slipped away, but Kaleah smiled happily and sighed. "Not going to . . . leave you either," she breathed as she drifted away. "Never leave . . ."

Jessica smiled and felt her heart ache with the love it held for this woman.

Around noon, Senigma stopped by and gave a sleeping Kaleah a brief once-over before reporting to Jessica the reassuring news that the patient was doing well and would likely be fully repaired in a few weeks, depending on her how fast her body healed.

Early afternoon rolled on, and as the sedative began to wear off Kaleah spent more time awake. Feeling how weak her muscles were, she asked for something to eat and Jessica called for a servant to bring them some soup and bread. They ate the meal in companionable silence, each occasionally stealing glances at the other. When they were done, the former slave found her energy somewhat recovered and managed to sit up further.

"Be careful," Jessica scolded with concern when she heard the sharp intake of breath as Kaleah stood on shaky legs.

"It’s okay . . ." The dark woman winced, but had decided it was time to move around. She didn’t like to feel herself being restrained — by her injuries, or by anything else. "I just need to get up and ease my muscles, that’s all."

"Do you want to go back to your room?"

Kaleah nodded. "I think I can walk that far."

"Don’t be silly. I’ll get some servants to help . . . we can carry you there on the stretcher-"

"Jess, wait!" Kaleah reached out to stop the young woman as she was about to head out the door. "I don’t need the help. I can make it by myself."

"But-"

"Please . . ?"

Seeing the desperate look in her friend’s expression, Jessica sighed, realizing Kaleah didn’t want to appear helpless. She didn’t want to be laid out on a stretcher and carried everywhere like an invalid. Jess knew the dark woman well enough to understand her restless spirit, and the pride the former slave took in every freedom she could lay her hands on. But, like it or not, Kaleah needed to understand that she was hurt; she had to take things easy.

"Will you at least let me help you?" she asked softly, sensing it was probably the most her friend would accept. After a brief internal debate, Kaleah nodded and Jessica wrapped her splinted arm around her neck and accepted as much of the taller woman’s weight as she could.

The two took it slowly, with Jessica insisting they stop and rest frequently along the way. Kaleah, recovering her energy as the medicine wore off, would have protested but for the dull ache that was spreading through her body. The few soldiers and servants who passed them by gave slight nods of genuine sympathy to the dark woman, but recognized that any offer of help would not be welcomed.

It took them over an hour to reach the hallway where their rooms were located, and by then Kaleah’s body was throbbing in agony. Jessica sensed her companion’s pain. Her room was closer than Kaleah’s, so when they reached it she directed the groaning woman inside.

"Wait, this is-"

"You can stay in my room tonight, Kaleah," she said shortly. "It’s closer."

"But where-" Kaleah hissed as pain shot down her arm. "Where will you sleep?"

Jessica shrugged. "It’s a big bed," she replied simply.

Kaleah was in too much pain to argue. "Uurgh!" She groaned loudly as she collapsed into the welcoming softness of the mattress and still-rumpled blankets that bore the distinct scent of her young friend. She lay still for a while, letting the pain fade away to a dull ache she could ignore. Then, rolling over, she looked up at Jessica and grinned a little. "After lying on that damned board all day, this feels soooo good!"

"I bet." Jessica smiled and lay down next to her friend, careful not to bounce her too much. After resting a moment she looked to the window, where shadows were gathering outside. "It’s going to be dark soon; want me to set a fire?"

"I’m not going to try to stop you, if you have your heart set on it," Kaleah replied playfully. The injuries were feeling much better already, now that she wasn’t moving so much. Her eyes danced, unable to feel bad in the company of the young blonde.

Jessica gave her a strange, slightly amused look before she got off the bed. "You’re in a surprisingly good mood," she observed wryly as she laid out the kindling in the fireplace.

Kaleah smiled at her, then wrestled with a blanket and managed to pull it over herself at least part-way. "Yeah, well maybe that’s because I feel pretty good . . . considering," she said cheerfully.

The room was suddenly lit with flickering, crimson light as Jessica ignited the pile of dry kindling with a skillful hand. Kaleah’s heart almost stopped beating as she watched her young friend brush her hands off and turn around. In the firelight, Jessica’s perpetually rumpled blonde hair looked iridescent; the shadows framing half her face highlighted every perfect angle, and her emerald eyes sparkled with her youth and life. When the young woman smiled, Kaleah knew she wanted nothing more from her life than to make that smile appear as often as possible.

Jessica studied Kaleah, the teasing words that had been about to spill from her lips vanishing as she saw the strange look in the dark woman’s eyes. She smiled almost shyly, suddenly a little self-conscious for no reason she could identify. Standing under that quiet, intense gaze, she felt heat rise in her face. When the cerulean eyes dropped away from her face and flickered over her body — if only for a second — she could feel the familiar sensations of desire wash over her, filling her stomach with butterflies and turning her blood to liquid fire that spread outwards from her groin and almost stopped her heart with it’s power.

Eventually, the young blonde cleared her throat and broke the intensity of the moment, afraid she’d do something she might regret if it continued. "Are you still hungry?" she asked quietly. "I could ask the kitchen to send up some dinner."

Kaleah nodded, casting her eyes elsewhere in the room, aware she’d been staring. "Sure. I think I need something more than that soup we had if I’m going to recover my strength." She suddenly realized it was Thursday. "Aren’t you supposed to attend the dinner with your parents in the great hall tonight?"

Jess shrugged. "I sent word earlier I wouldn’t be there. You need me a lot more than they do right now."

Kaleah flushed with happy warmth, still surprised somehow by every kind act this amazing woman displayed so effortlessly. "Thank you."

"No problem." The young blonde grinned cheekily. "If it gets me out of my mother’s not-so-subtle mentions of the wedding, so much the better. I’ll send someone down to get some food."

Before long a servant knocked on the door bearing two plates of meat and vegetables. The two lay on the huge bed, eating quietly and using the time to contemplate the nature of what had passed between them. By the time they were done, both had reached about the same conclusion; that something stronger than friendship was building here . . . and that they were both aware of it.

Neither were prepared to grasp the possibility that what they had seen in the eyes of the other was desire, or even romantic interest. But deep down, the seeds that had been planted some time ago were nourished by the moment . . . and began to grow into a love that was more confidant and sure of itself.

They talked awhile about nothing in particular, and Jessica suddenly realized their conversations were no longer as one-sided as they used to be. Kaleah talked quite a bit when they were together now, willing to respond with more than the single sentences or — at times — grunts which had characterized most of her repertoire not so long ago. The young woman smiled at the change, then muffled a yawn, realizing it was getting late.

She smiled at Kaleah regretfully, not wanting the evening to end. "I should probably let you get some rest. I know what I said before about it being a big bed, but you probably need a bit of space. I can stay in your room, if you like." she said. She started to get up, but was stopped by the shy touch of her friend.

"Please . . . don’t go." Kaleah’s voice was so quiet she almost missed her words. Turning, she found open blue eyes beseeching her, filled with something that was not quite fear, but very similar. The dark woman squeezed her arm, refusing to let go. "I-I don’t want to be alone right now." Blue eyes implored her shyly. "W-would you . . . please stay? Just for tonight?"

Jessica could only smile reassuringly and nod her head. "Of course," she whispered, patting the hand that held her. "If you want me to, I’ll stay."

Relief washed over Kaleah’s face and she eagerly pulled the covers off the bed and moved over to allow her friend to join her in the warmth. Jessica looked at her ragged clothes and frowned. "Will you be alright if I wear these? I could take them off?" She reached to pull the shirt off.

"NO! Um . . . they’re fine, don’t . . . don’t worry about them."

Jessica hid her grin, wondering not for the first time if maybe Kaleah was thinking the same things she was. Shrugging casually, she slipped under the covers and into the welcoming warmth.

For a moment, both women lay there in silence, staring up at the mural on the ceiling and just enjoying the comfort of the others nearness. There was about a hand-span of space between them, but Jessica soon gave in to the temptation to snuggle closer. Already a touchy-feely person, it was too much to expect her to keep her hands to herself.

"I-is this alright?" she asked tentatively as she drew closer, wanting more but also willing to back off if it made Kaleah uncomfortable. To Jessica’s relief, the dark woman tensed only for a moment — possibly from pain — then turned slightly to better accommodate her companion’s embrace.

"It’s fine," she heard whispered in the darkness, Kaleah’s voice sounding oddly strained. "Thank you."

She smiled. "You’re welcome." And you’d be welcome to sooo much more, her mind put in with a metaphysical grin. She silently ordered it to shut up.

Holding the tall woman in a gentle embrace with her head resting lightly on the dark woman’s breast, Jessica felt Kaleah’s body trembling in her arms. She drew back and studied her friend’s face. "Are you cold? Am I hurting you?"

Kaleah shook her head. "You’re fine," she whispered. "It’s just . . ." She struggled a moment to put her feelings into words, but gave up. It was just too hard to express the emotions the young woman’s touch inspired in her . . . emotions that went so far beyond mere physical desire she was afraid they would tear her apart from the inside. Seeing the genuine concern in Jessica’s verdant gaze, she smiled reassuringly and pulled the girl closer to her. Jessica, confidant she wasn’t causing the woman any pain, snuggled deeper into her warmth.

"You tell me if I start to hurt you, alright?"

"I will."

They lay together for some time, just soaking in the sensation of being so close. Kaleah eventually got her body settled down, and the trembling subsided. Thinking of what her life had been like during the months before she met Jessica, the dark woman couldn’t hold back a slight chuckle.

Puzzled eyes glanced up at her. "Are you laughing?"

She nodded, her teeth flashing in the dim light as she grinned.

"What’s so funny?"

"Nothing, I was just . . . just thinking about things."

"Like what?"

She shrugged. "Like how things have changed since I met you . . . and how they’ve stayed the same." Her smile grew softer as she looked up at Jessica. "I always hated to be touched," she whispered. "I hated having to talk to anyone, and I hated having to put up with company."

Jessica grinned. "I guess that has changed a bit, hasn’t it?" she said, pointedly regarding their bodies pressed together.

"Not really," Kaleah replied. "I still don’t like it when people try to touch me. I still can’t hold up a decent conversation, and I don’t like it when there are too many people around . . ." Her expression grew softer as she studied her friend’s face, which had become a little guarded. "Except when I’m with you," she continued. "Remember when we had to sleep like this that night in the storm? How much I didn’t want to be anywhere near you?"

"You flinched everytime I tried to reach out to you." Jessica grinned. "I remember."

"Exactly. And I still feel the same way about everyone . . . except you. When you touch me . . . I feel safe, because I know you’d never hurt me. I’ve never . . . been touched like that before." It was a simple admission, an acceptance of what had grown between then, nothing more. She studied the soft lines of the young woman’s face, her expression open and unguarded. A hand reached up involuntarily to trace the smooth planes of Jessica’s cheeks. The young woman’s eyes closed as she leaned into the gentle caress, and Kaleah smiled at the sigh that escaped her lips. "You’re the best thing that’s ever happened to me, Jessica," she whispered, gently drawing her hand away before it could consider wandering further. Green eyes, shy and uncertain, opened and looked down at her wonderingly.

They were silent for long moments, just enjoying the feelings that ran between them. Eventually, however, Jessica smiled as she felt the intensity start to ebb away . . . as she knew it always did. She ran a single finger across her companion’s lips, tracing the scar there as she always did. "I think you’re the best thing that’s ever happened to me, too, Kaleah," she said quietly. "I, um . . . I’m glad this . . . whole thing worked out so well. For both of us."

"Me, too."

Smiling, Jessica nodded a slight nod and lay back, resting her head on her companion’s breast.

This is getting ridiculous! her mind screamed at her. You should have just kissed the damn woman! She wouldn’t have stopped you . . . can’t you see that? Are you stupid or something!? This is starting to get out of hand . . . I mean, are you ever planning to make a move, or are you just going to go on having these soul-searching moments that nearly stop your heart and then disappear!? Cos if this keeps going on, you’re going to wind up with a serious heart condition . . . I mean it. What are you waiting for!?

Jessica silently ordered her mind to shut up. She knew what she was waiting for; the Right Moment. Kaleah was clearly aware of the strength of the emotions between them, but maybe the former slave wasn’t ready for anything more. And for that matter, maybe she wasn’t ready herself. Her body was definitely ready for more . . . but that didn’t mean her heart was. Jessica was a patient person, usually. She had spent her whole life waiting to find true love, and now that she had, she wasn’t going to rush into anything. When they were both ready, there would come a time when it would be Right . . . when the intensity of the moment would spark into flames, not fade away and leave this sweet ache behind.

When the time was right . . . this love would outshine everything else in the world.

Freedom’s Heart Part 4.

Chapter 13.

Kaleah lay on the bed, one arm wrapped loosely around her companion, feeling the solid, comforting weight of the young woman’s head resting on her chest. In truth, the numerous bruises across her body were starting to hurt, but she would have endured a thousand times worse pain just to feel this kind of peace.

Never before had Kaleah felt so protected, so loved. Never before had she trusted another person so completely that she could just let them be so near her. Always before, the barriers had slammed down to protect her from harm. But this, this simple, wonderful thing that had built between her and the young woman she held in her arms — this was something she could believe in. Something she wanted so badly that she would die before she let it go.

Kaleah had never known a person like Jessica, someone who could give so freely of herself and demand nothing in return. Someone who would let Kaleah be whoever she wanted to be, and would always support her. Jessica had shown her how empty her life had been — how empty her freedom had been — by showing her a life she had never known she was capable of living. The young woman had trusted Kaleah with her most treasured secret, invited her into her private, personal places, and had never asked for anything in return except the chance to be her friend.

Perhaps, she pondered, it was time to show the same faith in return.

"Jess?" she whispered, struggling to keep her voice from breaking. "Are you asleep?"

The young woman wriggled. "No . . . but you should be. You need to rest, Kaleah. Your body needs to heal-"

"I’ve been sleeping all day," Kaleah pointed out. "I’m really not tired. A-are you?"

Jessica yawned, but shook her head. "No, I’m alright. I’ll stay awake and keep you company, if you like."

Kaleah lay quietly, eyes open but unseeing. She knew she needed to do this, knew this obstacle had to be overcome before she could ever consider herself worthy of this young woman’s love. But for long moment’s, her throat closed up and refused to let any words form. Her mind tried desperately to shut down, to block out the memories that were filled with so much pain it still hurt, all these years later. But with an effort, the former slave slowly controlled herself, relaxing her muscles. Summoning a calm, detached tone that shielded her from her own words, Kaleah started to speak in a voice so quiet, it fell into the silence like raindrops falling on a lake.

"It’s funny, the things the mind chooses to remember. I remember the day the slavers came," she whispered, feeling Jessica tense against her. "I can’t remember how I felt. I can’t remember the faces of my family . . . I don’t even know if they were there. But I can remember that the sun was shining in the sky. I can remember the smell of the wildflowers that I’d tied into a chain and hung around my neck. And I can even remember that a moment before the men grabbed me, a hawk flying overhead gave a piercing cry. So many things that don’t really matter . . . but for some reason, I can remember them perfectly instead of the things I want to be able to."

Realizing where this was going, Jessica looked up, her eyes gentle and sad. "You don’t have to do this," she whispered.

"I know. But I need to." Kaleah struggled for a moment, wanting her friend to understand. "Do you remember when you showed me the secret passages through the castle? You let me see the places you keep hidden from everyone else. I told you that some day . . . I’d do the same for you."

"But there’s no hurry. If you’re not ready-"

"I am," she interrupted gently. "I want you to hear." She gave a little, sad smile. "My secrets aren’t as nice as yours are, I’m afraid. But I need to be able to show you . . . to show you that I trust you."

"Oh, Kaleah!" Jess reached out and stroked her face. "I know you trust me. You don’t need to prove yourself to me."

"I know that," Kaleah breathed. "But I need to prove it to myself." She looked deeply into the wet emerald gaze of her friend. "Do you understand?"

Jessica was silent a long moment, then nodded slowly and lay back on her friend. "I understand," she whispered.

"Thank you." Kaleah sighed and, after a moment to get comfortable, she looked up at the ceiling, her eyes not seeing the beauty of the mural above the bed, but instead looking back into a past she had tried hard to forget.

"I know I lived on the coast," she whispered, "because the slavers came from the sea. They had two ships . . . but I can’t remember much about them. I know they took others, but I didn’t know anybody else. They took me onto one of the ships, chained me in the galley, and left me.

"When I was finally allowed on the deck, we were already far out to sea. I couldn’t have escaped at that point if I’d tried. I was young. . . ten years old or so, at most. I couldn’t understand what was happening to me. Where were they taking me? Where were my parents? I guess I must have been terrified, but . . . but I can’t remember. The slavers spoke a language I didn’t understand, and it took a while for me to learn enough to get by. Since I was too young to be of any use at hard labor, they put me to work in the kitchens . . . cooking meals, cleaning up. The work never seemed to end. I was in a stupor . . . like everything around me wasn’t quite real. The only time I let myself feel anything was when they beat me. I couldn’t block out the pain of the lash, however hard I tried."

She was quiet again for a minute or two, just remembering. Then, breathing deeply, she continued. "I served on the ship for a long time. I guess I sort of got used to my life after a while. Compared to what came later, those years weren’t so bad, really. I was just a child, and they had little interest in the children as long as we worked hard, and did as we were told." She sighed. "But things had to change eventually. My body grew up . . . and after a while, the slavers decided the gold they could get from selling me on the stocks was worth more to them than my services as a kitchen-hand could ever be." Her voice was dead, her eyes vacant as they stared into a time long since past. "So they took me to a city . . . and they auctioned my innocence to the highest bidder."

Jessica listened in horror, her heart breaking at the lifeless tone in her friend’s voice. She tried to imagine what it must have been like for Kaleah; to be so young, and to have something so personal and intimate be regarded as little more than sales incentive. She couldn’t do it. Her mind just wouldn’t wrap itself around such a barbaric, hideous concept. Jessica knew she had lived a charmed life compared to her friend . . . she was only now starting to realize just how terrible Kaleah’s life had been.

She tried to think of a way to comfort the dark woman . . . to come up with a way she could make this pain go away. But she knew now as she had known all along that there was nothing she could say or do to erase the past. "I’m so sorry," she whispered, her voice strained with emotion. The words sounded so weak against the brutality of Kaleah’s story . . . but she felt she had to say something.

Kaleah gave her a sad smile, and shrugged a little. "I know."

Jessica saw the lost look in the dark woman’s face, and tears sprang from her eyes, flowing unchecked down her cheeks. On a deep, almost primitive level, she understood that this pain — Kaleah’s pain — was being made her pain as well. The love that bound her to this woman was helplessly seeking to take on the past’s heavy burden the only way it could . . . by making it a part of her. She wept silently, wanting to stop Kaleah’s story and the anguish it brought to them both, but knowing in her soul that she had to hear this. There was healing to be found in the sharing of suffering . . . she had leaned that herself on the battlefield.

"The . . . first time was . . . painful," Kaleah continued, her voice almost breaking. "I had no knowledge of sex . . . I was terrified by the experience. I felt . . . violated, in a way that nothing the slaver’s had done had ever made me feel. The next few weeks were very bad, but some of the other women my master owned tried to help me as best they could. They showed me how to take my mind away from the pain . . . how to cope with the humiliation. Eventually, I learned that if I was compliant, the ordeal would be over with sooner. A few months later, my master sold me to a man who owned a whore-house. I was . . . not as lucky as some others. Men considered me attractive because I had blue eyes with dark features. There were few women like me in that land, so I became the star of my new master’s business.

"Over time, I was trained further in how to pleasure my master’s clients. I was punished if I did not . . . perform, well." She spat the word out, still hating the taste of it. "Some beatings were worse than others . . . but I almost preferred the pain of a few bruises to some of the alternatives. I never got used to my life, but I learned how to make myself numb to what was happening to me. I pretended that none of it was real, that it was happening to some other person, and I was just observing. But at night . . ." Her voice cracked a little, and she cleared her throat. ". . .At night . . . I couldn’t stop it from hurting.

"Over the next few years, I was passed from one place to another . . . mostly whore-houses, but not all. Some of my owners were . . . very bad, but some of them were alright. Some actually treated me like a human being . . . simple things like being fed properly, being allowed to sleep in peace. But there weren’t many like that, and I was never with them for long."

"Didn’t you ever . . . you know . . . try to escape?" Jessica asked quietly.

Kaleah gave a short, sharp bark of laughter, her eyes flaring with sudden anger. "That’s what most people ask," she said bitterly, softening her words by stroking Jessica’s rumpled blonde hair. "’Why didn’t you get away?’ Most people think that’s what they’d do if anyone ever tried to make them into a slave." She snorted. "It’s not quite that simple," she whispered. "I was taught to believe I was worthless. It was beaten into my head until it seemed like the truth. But still, during those first six years or so, no matter how much they did to me . . . no matter how bad it got . . . there was always a part of me, deep down inside, that they could never touch. A part that wanted to be free."

"So . . . you did try to escape?"

Kaleah nodded, her eye vacant again. "I tried all the time," she remembered. "Everytime I changed hands, I’d always make an attempt to run for it . . . to escape."

"It never worked?" Jessica couldn’t believe someone as intelligent and resourceful as Kaleah couldn’t figure out a way to break free.

"Of course it never worked," Kaleah said harshly. "My masters weren’t stupid or foolish . . . they knew every trick there was, and they were ready for anything." She smiled coldly. "The smart ones would actually encourage new girls to try and escape, just so they could show them how impossible it was. And so they could teach them what would happen the next time. Once I’d been a slave for a while, I became more picky about my plans to get away. Still, they never worked. I was beaten and raped every time I tried . . . but despite the punishments, it wasn’t until after many years had gone by that I finally stopped trying to get away."

Jessica shuddered as she heard a subtle change in her companion’s voice . . . a coldness. She looked at the sharp, angular features of Kaleah’s face, and saw for the first time an ugliness there that frightened her. Almost afraid to know, but helpless to stop this, she asked in a voice so low she wondered if it were hers at all, "What happened?"

"There was a man," Kaleah said, her voice like ice with dead hatred. "He bought me and took me as a . . ." She struggled a moment. "I think the word is, ‘concubine?’"

Jessica nodded to show she understood.

"He was bad . . . far worse than any of the others." Kaleah’s face was hard and stony as the grave. "The things he did to me . . . and the things he made me do." Her body started to tremble. "He was not a man. He was something more evil than a man can be. I knew I would never escape him alive, knew he’d never let me go. And the thought of having to live out the rest of my life . . . as his slave . . . I couldn’t do it. I knew I would rather die, but when I sought to end my life, I found it harder than I had thought it would be. The guards were watchful, and we were never left alone. There was nothing sharp ever left with the slave girls, and nothing to tie a noose from. I soon realized that I would not even be allowed to escape into death.

"Then, one night, I had my chance. My master had left me on his bed — unconscious, or so he thought — and had gone to bathe in the next room. I was weak from . . ." Her voice cracked, then hardened. ". . .from what he’d done to me, but I regained my strength when I saw he’d left a dagger he’d been using on me on the table by the bed. I took the knife in my hands and was about to use it on myself, when suddenly I had a thought; if I was going to die . . . why not take my tormentor with me?"

Jessica gasped. Seeing something glacial and heartless burn suddenly in her friend’s eyes, she drew back slightly, uncomfortable and frightened by the person now laying so near her. The Kaleah she knew and loved was still there . . . but the animal fury she had only ever glimpsed fleetingly was in control. The young girl knew this primal darkness was a part of her friend’s soul . . . and she knew she had to accept it as such if they were going to continue along the road they were traveling.

"My master was naked and unarmed," Kaleah continued in a detached monotone, but her body was thrumming with energy. "I went into the room where he was bathing . . . and I thrust the knife into his back. He screamed . . . and I did it again . . . and again." A cruel smile curved her lips, twisting the scar in a hideous way. "I was disappointed when he stopped screaming," she breathed, "but I kept stabbing him anyway until his guards broke the door down and dragged me away.

"I knew they would torture me to death. But I didn’t care." She grinned fully now, her teeth flashing bone-white in the dim light. "They couldn’t take away from me that sense of power I’d felt. They couldn’t make me their slave anymore. Even though I was going to die . . . I felt invincible. The man who had used me as a plaything for his perverse will was just as mortal as I was. His life was as frail as mine . . . and I — someone he had considered less than an animal — I had taken it from him." She breathed a sigh of pure bliss. "In that moment . . . I felt free for the first time in an eternity."

The dark woman glanced at her friend and suddenly saw the apprehension and fear in the emerald eyes staring back. The darkness conjured by these evil memories vanished instantly, and she reached out. "Hey . . . " she whispered soothingly. "It’s okay . . . I’m still here." She tried to give a smile, but couldn’t manage one. But Jessica saw the coldness let go her face, and drew nearer once more. "I’m sorry," Kaleah whispered as she held the young woman close. "It’s hard to remember these things."

Jessica snuffled a little and embraced her friend. "You scared me. For a minute there, you looked . . ."

"I know." Kaleah stroked the long blonde hair, as much to comfort herself as to comfort Jessica. She stared at nothing, feeling nauseous from the memories of that evil power. "It’s a scary thing," she breathed softly, "to know the darkest part of yourself. And to wish with all your heart you could know it better."

Jessica recovered her composure and gently pulled away from her companion. "Why didn’t the guards kill you? Did you get away?"

Kaleah shook her head. "No. I thought I’d be executed, but the guards knew that if they killed me . . . I would have gotten off lightly. They couldn’t let me win like that. So they took me to a room . . ." Her eyes became unfocused, slightly puzzled. "It was a room I’d never been to before, in a part of the house I’d never seen. They took me in there . . . and . . . and they . . ." Her words faded as her brows knit in apparent confusion.

Jessica leaned forward in dread anticipation. "What did they do?"

Kaleah’s eyes focused on her, and she shrugged with a helpless expression. "I don’t know."

Jessica sighed inwardly. "It’s alright," she said gently, letting her eyes drop away to the sheets. She couldn’t help but feel a little hurt that Kaleah didn’t trust her with this one secret. "You don’t have to tell me if you don’t want to-"

Kaleah smiled a little and pulled her face back up to meet hers. "I would tell you if I could, Jessica. Believe me. But that’s the simple truth of it . . . I don’t know what happened to me in that room because I can’t remember."

Jessica eyebrows furrowed in confusion. "What do you mean you can’t remember? How can you-"

Kaleah shrugged again. "I don’t know. But when I look back into that part of my mind . . . the memories just aren’t there anymore. It’s like there’s a hole in my past . . . when they took away from me the power and strength I’d just discovered." She sighed and lay back on the bed. "I don’t know how long I was in that room, but I can remember I spent many months in a cell recovering. My body was broken and twisted . . . but worse than that, they’d gone into my head and killed whatever will of my own I still possessed. It took me weeks to recover my sanity; to find myself again in all the pain." She rubbed at one of the bandages, the cloth itching her skin. "After that . . . I never tried to escape again," she concluded simply. "The desire just wasn’t there anymore."

Jessica looked searchingly into Kaleah’s eyes, overwhelmed with sorrow. She ran her finger along the vivid scar that crossed the woman’s oh-so-soft lips. "Is that when you got this?" she asked.

Kaleah shook her head, repressing the desire to take the exploring fingers into her mouth. "That came after. The guards who served with the man I killed knew they’d have to sell off the slave girls, including me. Damaging the face of a slave makes it harder to sell them into the sex market," the dark woman explained matter-of-factly. "After . . . whatever they did to me, things get kind of blurry in my head. I was sold to another man, and then to another. I was in a fog . . . unable to care about anything anymore. It took a few years for me to recover to the point where I could even think again. By that time, I had passed from one owner to another, and ended up with a man who ran a brothel using exotic girls from all over the world."

"Is that . . ." Jessica blushed a little. "Is that what most of your master’s . . . used you for?"

Kaleah nodded. "Mostly. As I said, I was considered beautiful, and they usually preferred to leave any physical labor to male slaves. Still," she smiled a little, "this man was much better than most. He wasn’t so much interested in his slaves as he was in the money they made him. A pure businessman; I’d learned they were the best masters to get. He didn’t believe in beating his slaves, because he knew it would cost him money while they recovered. He fed us all well, and he let us sleep as much as we needed too. As long as we were compliant, he pretty much left us alone . . . even going so far as to order his guards to protect us from any clients who got . . . carried away."

"So how did you get this scar?" Jessica asked, touching the mark.

Kaleah gave her a slightly amused look. "Are you sure you want to know?"

Jessica nodded. "You’ve told me so much already . . . might as well get it all out." She paused, wondering at the sudden almost playful look Kaleah was giving her. "Unless you don’t want to tell me, of course-"

"No, I’ll tell you." Kaleah let the darker memories fade away as she cast her mind back to the time that had marked the beginning of a better life for her. She grinned a little. "But remember . . . you wanted to hear it."

Settling back, she rested her splinted arm on her chest and wished for a moment her body didn’t hurt so much. Then, seeing Jessica waiting, she went on with her story.

"A woman came to the brothel my master owned," she said. "She was the wife of a wealthy merchant, a man who had more interest in profits than he had in satisfying the desires of his wife. Since her husband traveled so much, the woman figured she should seek pleasure in the arms of another; but she didn’t want to have an affair with anyone in the city who might report her infidelity to her husband. So, she sought the advice of a friend, who happened to be a client of my master’s and, furthermore, a client of mine." She grinned, watching Jessica’s reaction carefully. "Her friend recommended me and, being eager to explore all avenues of physical pleasure, the woman came to my master and requested my services."

The dark woman saw the slight blush on Jessica’s face, and could tell from her wide eyes the girl was hanging onto every word. "Anyway," she continued, still studying her friend’s reaction, "by this time I had been exposed to every sexual act possible . . . another woman was nothing new to me. I had been trained how to provide for anything a client might desire, so when the woman requested that I show her everything I knew . . ." She grinned dazzlingly and waggled her eyebrows at a gaping Jessica. ". . . I knew I’d be seeing a lot more of her."

Jessica suddenly realized her mouth was hanging open, and she snapped it shut with a slight cough of embarrassment. She knew she was blushing, but couldn’t help it. She just hoped Kaleah would interpret her reaction as stemming from her innocence . . . not from the images that were running rampant through her mind. "So, um . . ." She coughed again nervously, cool blue eyes regarding her with amusement. "So did you . . . prefer women even then, or-"

"Yes," Kaleah answered honestly. "At first, I was shocked by the idea of being intimate with another woman, but I soon realized that was only because I’d never considered the notion. When I got used to it, I realized I preferred providing service for a woman more than I did for a man. And not just because they tended to be . . . less rough with me, although that was more often the case." She frowned. "Not always, of course. Some of the worst times were with women . . . just because they knew my body enough to know exactly what would hurt the most. But generally speaking, women were less likely to beat me or hurt me then the men were. That wasn’t the only reason I preferred them, though." She smiled a quiet, reflective smile "I liked the way they sounded . . . the way they felt, and how they tasted. And I liked the way that sometimes — quite often, in fact — they would insist on returning the favor."

Jessica swallowed . . . hard. "You mean they . . ."

Kaleah nodded. "Every man who ever took me — ever raped me — never gave a thought to anything other than his own desires. I was just a body . . . and I doubt they even cared for anything beyond those few parts they needed. The first time I ever felt anything but pain during the act was when another woman pleasured me." Her smile widened. "It was a hell of a surprise for me, and something that I rarely got to experience. But there were women, from time to time, who took great satisfaction in making sure I enjoyed myself as much as they did. And while they didn’t come along too often, the comfort I found in the pleasure they gave me kept me sane in that hell when I thought I’d otherwise go mad."

Jessica digested this information slowly. "So . . . the merchant’s wife was someone you . . ."

"Enjoyed being with?"

Jess nodded.

"Yes." Kaleah grinned rakishly, her blue eyes glinting in the moonlight. "During the months her husband was gone, she proved to be a very . . . eager, student." She couldn’t help but laugh at the blush that tore across Jessica’s face. "Is it hot in here or something? You look a little flushed."

Jessica pouted and slapped her gently on one of the less bruised patches of skin. "Don’t tease," she growled, "or I’ll rough you up even worse than you already are."

Kaleah just chuckled and swatted her away. "Sorry. It’s just so easy, that’s all. And it’s fun, too."

"Hmph." Jessica assumed a very cross look and glared at her friend. "Just be careful it doesn’t come back and bite you on the arse someday," she threatened in a playful voice.

Kaleah’s eyes twinkled. "It can bite me anywhere it wants to," she said with a wink, pleased when Jessica’s flush deepened. "You want me to keep going with the story? Or will you go up in flames if you hear anymore?"

Jessica growled at her, but gestured for her to go on. "I can’t wait to hear how you managed to get cut. Did she get a little enthusiastic or something?"

"No." Kaleah wriggled deeper into the blankets, the night air turning cold. "She wasn’t the one who did it. She became what I suppose you’d call my lover for almost three months. As I said, I’d had very few experiences sexually where I can honestly say I was a willing participant. She was definitely one of them." Seeing the suddenly guarded mask drop over Jessica’s face, she quickly went on. "She provided a physical satisfaction and relief that I appreciated . . . but that’s really all it was: physical. We both understood there was nothing more to it. We each filled a void in the other’s life, if only for a moment." She regarded the green eyes that watched her with perfect openness. "I’ve never experienced the kind of . . . emotional, connection I feel with you," she admitted quietly.

Jessica smiled warmly. "Me neither . . . with you, I mean."

Kaleah nodded, and continued. "Of course, like everything else that was good in my life, the affair didn’t last long. Her husband returned from his trip and, within a few short days had heard rumors that his wife had been frequenting with a whore. He was outraged, and with his money and power behind him it wasn’t long before he found out exactly which whore his wife had been with.

"He came to the brothel when my master was away. He asked that I be brought before him, and the guards, not knowing any better, did as instructed. When I was kneeling on the ground in front of him, the merchant pulled a knife from his belt and went straight for my throat, seeking to avenge himself."

Jessica gasped. "How did you . . .? What happened?"

Kaleah shrugged. "The guards saw what he intended and they knocked him down. I tried to duck away from the blade, but it still slashed across my face," she touched her fingers across the white line that marred her lips, "cutting deep. I tasted blood. My master returned just then and was furious at the merchant. With my face disfigured — even so slightly — my value as a whore was severely reduced. He demanded . . . a fee, I suppose you’d call it. He said the word . . . ‘rest . . .restit-"

"Restitution?"

Kaleah nodded. "Yes. The merchant had to pay, or risk trouble with the law and public disgrace. Still my master decided I was useless to him, and he sold me as soon as he could."

Jessica was silent, trying to understand this harsh and cruel world her friend spoke of. "What . . . what happened with the woman?"

Kaleah turned her penetrating blue eyes on the young woman, wondering. Is that envy I detect, Jess? she mused. Or am I just hearing what my heart wants to hear?

"The merchant’s wife came to me the night after I was cut," she explained. "She wanted to say good-bye, I suppose, and share a final night of pleasure with me. Before she left, she tried to apologize for her husband’s actions, but I stopped her. I said that what he’d done was probably the kindest thing anyone had ever done for me since I became a slave."

Blonde brows furrowed in confusion. "But . . . he hurt you."

Kaleah smiled. "He made me less desirable as a whore. After that, I had a few more owners, and while they sometimes used my body for their own pleasures, I was never used as a sex slave again. Mostly, I was put to work in the kitchens and in the fields. Over time, I started to rediscover some of what had been taken from me. I could no longer hope that one day I might be free, but I started to come to life once more as I was exposed to less of the evil’s of the darker slave world. It was during that time that another slave introduced me to music by giving me a reed flute she had. I practiced a long time in secret, and found that music helped me to settle my mind. After a while, I was taken across the sea, and eventually was put up for auction in a new land I’d never been to. The man who bought me was a nobleman named Constantine De’Livier."

"The man who let you go?" Jessica smiled, liking him already.

The dark woman nodded. "I didn’t know it at the time, but De’Livier was unlike any master I’d ever had. He thought slavery was a cruel trade, and bought me because he knew my life would be safer in his hands than someone else’s. At first I was puzzled by the way he treated me; asking me my name, where I was from, how old I was. No-one had ever cared about such things before." She shrugged. "I’d forgotten everything about who I was . . . even my real name. De’Livier decided to call me by the name of some foreign queen he’d heard somewhere; Nerukaleah . . . Kaleah for short."

"So . . . Kaleah’s not your birth name?"

"No. De’Livier guessed I was probably about nineteen or twenty year old, but he had no idea where my accent came from; probably because I’d been traded across half the world, and had to learn bits and pieces of so many different languages. I’d never been to Spain before, but De’Livier spoke English, which was my strongest language . . . so we communicated with no problems. I didn’t expect him to be any different from any of my other masters, so I was very surprised by what he told me when we arrived at his home.

"De’Livier explained that he was a weaponsmith . . . one of the finest in the world. He forged blades for kings and generals, soldiers and mercenaries, and he had taught in the Spanish fighting schools during his youth. He told me straight out that he didn’t want a slave — what he needed was an apprentice. Someone to help him with the grueling and demanding work of the forges . . . someone who would learn the art quickly and be able to assist with things like finishing hilts and guards and pommels. He expected me to work hard . . . very hard. But in exchange for my labor, he would teach me an ancient and respected tradition that I could use in my life. He would give me good food, and a warm place to sleep in the hay-loft. He even said he would pay me money, and would allow me to sell anything of value I made, once I’d gained sufficient skill."

Kaleah grinned and chuckled a little. "I didn’t even understand what he was talking about at first," she mused. "I was a slave. I worked for nothing, and in exchange would not be beaten. That’s all I expected. I couldn’t grasp a concept like equal trade or mutual benefit. It took the poor man days to make me understand what he was offering, and when at last it sunk in . . ." She sighed, closing her eyes and just remembering the feeling. "I felt more human than I had in nearly ten years."

"He sounds very special," Jessica whispered.

"He was." She thought a moment, then chuckled. "Of course, when he told me the work would be hard, he meant it. For the first fortnight or so, I woke each morning with muscles in agony, and fell asleep each night the moment my head hit the hay. Working the forge fires made the labor I was used too seem like mild exercise. I sweat gallons and my hands were covered in blisters, but I was determined to stay with De’Livier, so I never complained. Eventually, my muscles grew stronger, and my hands toughened. I got used to the heat, and began to actually enjoy learning from a true master. De’Livier was well pleased with my efforts, and when he saw my skills rapidly increasing, he offered to teach me to fight. I was eager to learn anything I could by then, and agreed quickly.

"I took to the blade with ease, and learned the basics of swordsmanship in a matter of a few weeks. De’Livier was impressed, and started teaching me more advanced moves. Soon, my skills were growing rapidly from day to day." She grinned. "De’Livier was amazed."

"I’m not surprised," Jessica said. "You are amazing. You learn new moves in seconds. The way you fight . . . it’s like you were born with a sword in your hands."

"That’s pretty much what De’Livier said. And when he realized how great the changes in me had become, he knew he had no right to keep me. He decided to prepare me for freedom."

"I bet that came as a shock."

"Actually, he didn’t tell me his plans to release me for a long time," Kaleah said. "I’d been a slave almost my entire life; the concept of freedom was impossible for me to accept. De’Livier knew this, so he started out very slowly, at first just asking me questions like, what would I like to do tomorrow, what did I think about this or that — things that would get me to make up my own mind about what I thought, rather than just following instructions. Before long, he was wanting to know what my dreams were . . . what I wanted out of life. The questions confused me at first, but when I actually considered them, I started to . . . to change."

"In what ways?"

Kaleah thought back to that time and shrugged. "I started to get restless," she explained. "I hated to stand still for any length of time. I wanted to move, to go somewhere. I went for runs every morning, but I could feel amazing amounts of energy coursing through my blood. My fighting lessons became more heated as my temper became more edgy. De’Livier started taking me into social settings with him more often, trying to teach me how to interact with other people as equals. It was quite a change from what I was used to, and I never really liked being around others very much. When I had the choice, I would work alone at the forge, just enjoying the way I could shape and mould the metal to any form I chose. It gave me a sense of control and power I liked.

"Then, one day, De’Livier came to me and told me to design a weapon and a suit of armor for myself. I did so, and when I was finished we discussed the designs and made a few alterations. Then, De’Livier put me to work at the forge, making what I had drawn on paper into real life. It took me many weeks . . . months, even, but when I was finished I had crafted the armor and sword I still carry today. I was very proud of myself . . . but no moreso than De’Livier was. He told me the armor and weapon were mine to keep, and that he could teach me no more. I was dumbfounded when he told me I had served him well, and had earned my freedom."

Jessica smiled warmly at her friend. The story was terrible but at least it had something of a happy ending. "It must have been wonderful."

"It was," Kaleah breathed, returning the young woman’s expression. "I stayed a little while longer, learning something of the lands that lay near Spain so I would understand where I was better. When I left, I promised De’Livier I would never forget the kindness he had shown me. He told me it was enough of a reward just to know that he had helped someone to escape such a dreadful existence. I headed north, following the coast. I smuggled aboard a ship that carried me to this country, and just took to the woods for a long time. I avoided people, hunting for my food." She saw Jessica grin broadly at this.

"You must have gone hungry a lot," Jessica joked, poking her clearly defined ribcage. "You’re not exactly the greatest tracker I’ve ever seen."

Kaleah lowered her eyes. "I know. But I was used to going without food. I was fine . . . until the winter came, that is.

"I’d never experienced such weather before. The animals vanished, and I was forced to seek out others if I wanted to survive. I ate at taverns, or with bandit camps, using the coin De’Livier gave me to buy food and drink." She grinned. "The first night I discovered the effects of alcohol was an interesting one. Still, I never stayed in one place for too long; I moved always to the north. A few times, bandits tried to rob me, but my skills were more than enough to beat them back." Her expression fell into a frown. "I lived in caves, and avoided people unless I was desperate. I was starting to forget all the things De’Livier had taught me. I could feel myself becoming less and less human every day. Then, starving, I found the bandits camp where we first met." She smiled and sighed. "I guess you know how the story goes from there. I met a beautiful young girl who took me back to her father’s castle and showed me there was more to life than just being free. There were things like friendship and trust . . . and warm beds." She grinned. "You showed me all the things I never knew I could have . . . and you gave them to me."

Jessica’s face reddened with pleasure. "You’re very welcome," she said shyly. Laying back against her friend slowly, careful not to hurt her bruises, she rested her head on Kaleah’s chest and sighed. The dark woman’s scent flooded her senses, almost making her dizzy. "Thank you . . . for trusting me enough to tell me those things." She studied the dark woman’s face. "Do you feel any better?"

Kaleah thought for a minute. In truth, she realized, she did feel better . . . lighter, somehow. A slow smile brightened her face. "Yeah. I do, actually." She leaned down and placed a gentle, only slightly lingering kiss on the blonde’s forehead. "Thank you for listening," she breathed, missing the look of joy in her companion’s face. "I think maybe you were right . . . it does help to talk about things."

Jessica recovered from the feeling of Kaleah’s lips on her heated skin, tucking the sensations away to be revealed in later, when she was alone. "You’ve spent your whole life keeping everything bottled up, Kaleah. That’s not good for anyone. You need to let things out into the open, to share them with someone you can trust." She wrapped her arms lightly around the dark woman’s slender waist and nestled closer, pleased when Kaleah didn’t tense up. "I think I understand you a little better now," she whispered. "I thought I had a fairly good idea what you must have gone through . . . and maybe I did. But it’s so different to hear it all." Tears leaked from her eyes. "I really did handle you all wrong at first, didn’t I?"

"Yes," Kaleah’s voice replied. "But you did what you did because you cared, and good came of it eventually."

"Still, I’m sorry for the way I treated you when we first met." She yawned and let her eyes slip closed. "It’s pretty late," she observed. "Are you tired now?"

Kaleah shook her head. "No, but you go ahead and sleep if you want to." She stroked the blonde head soothingly, hearing a soft, happy moan escape the young woman. She was silent for several minutes, just thinking about the wonderful changes in her life since she had met her companion. "Jessica?"

"Hmmm?"

Silence. Then, "Don’t ever leave me."

Jessica’s eyes opened. She heard the naked vulnerability and quiet desperation in Kaleah’s voice, and again felt her anger rise at the cruel men who had done so much evil to the dark woman. She squeezed her arms tighter about Kaleah’s waist. "I’ll never leave you, Kaleah," she promised for the second time that day. She smiled a little. "After the effort I put into getting you here . . . you’d need a pry-bar to get rid of me."

There was a moment of silence, then she felt Kaleah’s body shake with a light chuckle. "Get some sleep, Jess."

"Mmmph." She snuggled deeper into the body of her companion, relaxing and letting her mind slip past the dark story of Kaleah’s life to the promise of a brighter tomorrow. As consciousness fell away, her last thought was a mild concern that with the object of her desires so near at hand, the dreams she had been encouraging of late might make her say something inappropriate in her sleep. But the thought was a fleeting one, and was quickly followed with a quiet reassurance from her mind that, if she was lucky, Kaleah wouldn’t mind one bit.

Chapter 14.

The next morning, Jessica woke late to find the woman she’d been using as a pillow now fast asleep, and looking to stay that way for some time. Rubbing her eyes and stretching, she studied the relaxed curves of the dark woman’s face curiously, a smile touching her lips at how young Kaleah looked without the stern lines that so characterized her features. The smile faded as she studied the nasty bruises and the split skin over Kaleah’s eyes. She wondered how late her friend had stayed up. From the looks of things, sharing the burdens of her past had eased Kaleah’s pain quite a bit. Jessica was happy she could be a part of that.

Easing away from the bruised woman gently, careful not to wake her, Jessica yawned and scratched her midrift absently. A rather loud rumbling from her stomach alerted to the fact that she was hungry, so she called for a servant and asked for some breakfast. As an afterthought, she asked the serving girl to find Eric Grace and ask if he had any more of the medicine Kaleah had been given yesterday. Jess knew her friend needed rest, even if she didn’t necessarily want it.

When the food arrived, Kaleah was quickly roused by the smell of fried bacon and oatmeal, and the two sat happily on the bed eating until they were full.

"What’s this?" Kaleah asked, picking up the small leather pouch that had arrived with their breakfast.

"Just some herbs and stuff I asked for," the blonde replied. "Medicine to help you get better."

Kaleah’s eyes narrowed as she opened the drawstring pouch and took a suspicious sniff. "You want me to eat these?"

Jessica nodded. "They’ll help to take the swelling down in your bruises," she explained. "Believe me, they make a big difference. I’ve had to take them everytime I got hurt. They’re not so bad, really."

The dark woman licked a finger and dipped it into the pouch, regarding the flakes of brown and green dried herb that clung to her saliva dubiously. "Is this the same stuff Grace gave me yesterday?"

"Aye, pretty much." Jessica saw Kaleah’s face harden, and quickly continued. "Look, Kaleah, I know you don’t want to take it, but please-"

"This’ll make me sleep, won’t it?" the dark woman interrupted.

Jessica sighed, but gave a little nod. "I know you hate having to stay still . . . really, I do. But you need to get better." She reached out and patted the woman’s arm. "I’ll stay with you, I promise. We can just hang out in here." She smiled a little. "Let’s face it, Kaleah, it’s not like you could really do a whole lot today anyway, is it? You’re hurting-"

"It’s not that bad."

"Oh really?" Jessica regarded her friend sternly.

"I’ve had far worse."

Jess sighed. "But you’re not a slave anymore, Kaleah," she said softly. "You don’t have to hide from the pain . . . you can accept it, and let me help you get better. Please?"

Kaleah scowled at the pouch, then looked up at her friend’s imploring gaze. There wasn’t anything she could do against the onslaught of those caring green eyes. "Alright," she conceded grumpily, trying to ignore the smile that lit Jessica’s face. "But tomorrow, I’m getting up whether you like it or not."

"Of course." Jessica didn’t bother arguing further. "I’ll get you some water to take those with."

"Thanks." Kaleah tipped the dry herbs into her mouth, chewed them a few times then swallowed with a grimace. They were bitter-tasting, and she gladly chased them down with the mug of water her companion held out for her. Then she wriggled into the soft mattress and patted the empty space next to her in invitation for Jessica to join her. The young woman happily did so.

As the herbs started to take effect, Kaleah listened as Jessica told her another story; some ancient legend about the old Gods this land once worshiped. The gentle lilt of the young woman’s accent was very soothing, and she let her eyes fall shut as the words eased her mind away from the pain of her injuries. Before long, she was sleeping peacefully, her lips forming a soft smile of utter peace.

Jessica stayed as she was long after Kaleah passed out. With one hand, she smoothed the long, midnight-black hair away from the woman’s face, smiling when Kaleah moaned a little and wriggled closer to her. Her heart ached with the unbearable strength of her love, and she swallowed a little as she remembered the feel of Kaleah’s soft lips against her forehead. Warmth flared in her blood, and she instantly recognized desire stirring.

"Don’t even think about it," she growled quietly to herself, knowing her imagination was just about to start a nice little picture show.

Oh, come on, her mind argued. She’s out like a light . . . no harm in just thinking about these things.

"Not . . . now!" she rumbled low in her throat.

Why not? It’s not like she’s gonna care, is it? Her mind gave her a metaphysical grin. Last night wasn’t exactly what you had in mind for your first night together in the same bed, but it certainly brought you closer together. She knows the relationship is still getting stronger . . . maybe she wants the same thing you do afterall.

"Maybe," Jess conceded.

So where’s the harm in thinking about her this way? I mean, she said it herself, she’s an . . . experienced, lover. Just imagine what she could do with those lips-

"That’s enough!" Jessica wasn’t going to let her libido get out of hand, not while Kaleah was so near to her and in such a vulnerable state. "You can think about it latter, when you’re alone. Now’s really not a good time."

But can’t you just-

The semi-conversation was interrupted — thankfully, Jessica thought — by a firm, bold knock at the door. Jessica instantly recognized it wasn’t one of the servants, who tended to knock softly and almost hesitantly. Gently easing herself away from Kaleah’s embrace, she wandered over and opened the door. Her eyes widened in surprise when she found Sir Richard standing in the hallway outside.

"Father?"

"Mornin’ Jess," the lord knight greeted her somewhat awkwardly. "I was, uh, hoping I might have a word with you, if that’s alright."

"Of course." Jessica opened the door wider and gestured for him to enter. "C-come in." She looked around the room and briefly wished she didn’t keep it in quite so chaotic a state, refusing to let the servants clean it. "I’m, uh, sorry about the mess. It’s usually much neater," she lied.

Sir Richard was a man who led his men into battle fearlessly and with dauntless courage, but he entered his daughter’s bedroom with a hesitancy no bravery could deny. Da’Gran may have been Jessica’s home, but this room was where she really lived. Almost every hour not spent in training or being schooled by either Eric or the Lady Rose, Jessica would spend alone in here. This room — in fact this whole section of the castle, pretty much — was Jessica’s domain; her sanctuary. He may have been her father, and the ruler of Da’Gran, but this was an invasion, nonetheless.

It had been some years since Richard had last come here, and that had only been because his young girl had been badly injured during a battle many years ago. That had been a very different time, when Jessica had been struggling to adjust to the changes adolescence was causing in her growing body. He remembered the room then still bore the last marks of a child — a child determined to grow up fast. Awkward but curious, he looked around the disorderly room now with mild amusement.

Jessica kicked a pair of undergarments beneath the bed quickly. "I’ve uh, been a-a little busy lately," she stammered. "It’s hard to find time to clean up."

He smiled slightly, the expression showing as little more than a twitching of his mustaches. "You should ask the servants to do it," he said gruffly. "That’s what we pay them for."

Jess nodded agreeably. "I-I’ll be sure to do that," she promised obediently.

Sir Richard grunted. Independent and head-strong, he knew Jessica would never expect someone else to do her dirty-work for her. The damned girl insisted she could do everything herself. Knowing not to push the issue, however, Richard went back to studying his daughter’s habitat.

The room had changed quite a bit since the last time he’d seen it. There was a new maturity that had not been present some years ago. Peasant clothes were scattered about alongside fancy silk dresses, neither preference given any more care or interest than the other. Swords and pieces of armor the young woman was cleaning or just playing with were cluttered all over the place, some serving as weights to hold down sheaf’s of paper with detailed and not-so-detailed scribbles all over them. The air smelled of steel and leather and polish, but also carried the vanilla scent of perfume and silk and lace. The contrast was a little disorienting, but overall bore Jessica’s personal stamp clearly. The lord knight’s eyes widened only slightly when they fell on the slumbering figure resting on the rumpled blankets and cushions of the bed.

Jessica closed the door and turned, catching her father’s curious look at Kaleah. "She, uh . . . she was hurt, so I thought it might be best if she stayed in my room," she explained quickly. "She didn’t want to be alone last night."

Sir Richard’s lips drew firm into a slight smile and he put his hands behind his back. "I see."

Jessica stood awkwardly for a moment, thrown off balance by her father’s presence in her room. Then she remembered her manners. "Um . . . would you like to sit down? I can just . . . move some of this stuff . . . " She gathered a pile of maps and drawings off the largest table and, after looking helplessly around for somewhere suitable to put them, decided there wasn’t anywhere and just dumped them on another — already crowded — table nearby.

Sir Richard smiled at his daughter’s nervousness, glad he wasn’t the only one. While he was perfectly comfortable around his beloved child whenever they were together at any other time, he couldn’t help but feel uncomfortable intruding into Jessica’s private sanctuary; just as he knew Jessica would have felt if she were asked to come into his. But he needed to talk with her, and while he could have just sent someone to bring her to the great hall, he knew she wouldn’t come. He could see Jessica would never leave Kaleah’s side, even while the dark woman slept.

Taking a seat at the table, coughing to clear his throat, he folded his hands in front of him as Jessica sat down opposite.

"So," the young woman asked curiously, "what brings you all the way into this part of the castle?"

He smiled gruffly at his daughter’s bluntness, and cast grey eyes back at Kaleah’s slumbering form. "Actually, I came because of your dark-haired friend over there," he answered quietly, not wanting to rouse the resting woman. "Charles and Grace have both informed me of the unfortunate injuries she suffered. I thought I should come and discuss it with you."

"I see." Jessica considered this, knowing her father would not have come here if he wasn’t truly concerned about something. It seemed a little odd that Kaleah’s beating would warrant that kind of attention, but then again . . . "How much did they tell you?"

"Only that the young woman had sustained some serious bruises while she was on the night-watch," he replied. "Grace gave me his medical opinion that the injuries were deliberate." His eyes narrowed. "That Kaleah was beaten. Charles was reluctant to discuss the matter, but he concurred with that assessment." An eyebrow raised questioningly. "Is that what happened?"

Jessica nodded. "A group of men attacked her from behind . . . like cowards. She told me there were three of them, and she never saw them coming. All were masked, and she couldn’t recognize them again — or so she says."

"You don’t believe her?"

Jessica shrugged. "She’s holding something back, I can tell. Maybe she doesn’t want to worry me." She sighed. "She didn’t even have a chance to fight back. If she had’ve got her sword free, it might have been a different story."

"I see." Sir Richard sat back and frowned, studying his daughter. "Do you have any idea why they attacked her?"

She shook her head. "She’s done nothing to warrant such a beating. She’s with me almost all the time, and she hardly ever talks to anyone else — except Sutton."

"That’s what I thought." Sir Richard stroked his fingers through his thick beard absently. "That being the case, I don’t need to tell you how serious this is," he said tensely. "Someone beat Kaleah . . . someone living in this castle. And you know what that could mean, right?"

Jessica suddenly realized what her father was getting at, and she scolded herself for not thinking of this sooner. "We could have disloyalty among the soldiers . . . maybe even a traitor," she wondered aloud. Frowning, she shook her head. "But that makes no sense. Why would they attack Kaleah?"

"Perhaps she wasn’t the real target," Sir Richard explained gently. "Maybe whoever attacked her did so in order to hurt you."

"Me!?"

"Calm down, Jess," he said firmly. "Just think about it for a moment, okay. Kaleah has no enemies, but you’ve managed to piss off more people in the last five years or so than most people manage too in their whole lives. There are plenty of people out there who would pay dearly to make you suffer."

Jessica settled down and considered her father’s words. With a sigh, she realized he was absolutely correct. In addition to the dozens of men she had defeated and captured in battle, there were others in more powerful positions who disliked her for her hard-won skills and for the popularity she had among the commoners. "It’s not my fault I’m good at what I do," she said angrily.

"I know that, Jess. But we have to consider the possibility that whoever attacked Kaleah did it because it was the easiest way to hurt you. You’ve made no secret of how much you care for her."

Jessica felt her blood start to rise in anger. "So . . . she might have been hurt because of me?"

"It would explain why she’d be a target." He spread his hands. "Whatever the case, this incident has serious ramifications. I can’t afford to have dissention among the men, not at a time like this, with Sir William arriving in just a few days."

Jessica understood that. If Lancaster saw any hint of weakness in her father or his men, he would never agree to a treaty. Da’Gran had stood strong for so long in this harsh land because of unity, common purpose. Under the strong leadership of Sir Richard and his father before him, the castle had withstood siege and assault many times because the men were loyal and proud of their rulers. Desention meant unrest, and she had read tales of many great rulers brought down from within because they had failed to hear the warning bells of an uprising.

"What do you plan to do?" she asked. "We don’t know who attacked Kaleah, or if there are more than just those three. And we have no idea who’s behind the attack."

Sir Richard frowned and stood up, indicating he was about to leave. "I’ll have Sir Miles look into it," he said thoughtfully. "Maybe someone overheard something about the incident, or maybe someone wasn’t on duty when they should have been. In the mean time, I think you should keep an eye out, just in case." He looked at Kaleah’s slumbering figure. "And not just for your friend there, Jess. Until we know more, you watch out for yourself as well."

"I will, Father," she promised, giving him an awkward hug. "Let me know if you find anything, alright?"

"Of course." The lord knight opened the door and was about to leave when another thought occurred to him. He turned back. "Oh, and Jess?’

"Hmmm?"

"Why don’t you bring Kaleah to the welcoming dinner on Monday? I’m sure you could use another friend at the table."

Jessica looked at the dark woman, then back to her father. "You want Kaleah there? Are you sure?"

"Certainly."

Green eyes narrowed. "Why?"

Sir Richard shrugged gruffly. "Why not? She makes quite an impression when she enters a room, don’t you think? I’m sure Sir William won’t know what to make of her." He studied the sleeping woman. "She has a presence about her that really captures the attention."

Jessica relaxed and smiled, looking at Kaleah as well. "I know what you mean," she agreed softly. "She’s like a bolt of lightening that doesn’t just flash and die away, but stays there and continues burning. She has that kind of raw, elemental power . . . and she barely even knows about it." She frowned. "Maybe that’s why someone targeted her," she mused aloud, "because she stands out so much against everyone else, because she doesn’t really fit in here."

Sir Richard considered that, and admitted it might be true. "Perhaps," he said. "Regardless, she’d be more than welcome to attend the dinner, if only to keep you company."

"Alright . . . I’ll ask her if she wants to come."

"Fine. I’ll see you at Church on Sunday?" A question, she noted, not a statement.

She nodded. "Sure. I missed it last week what with being so sick. I’ll be there."

Sir Richard grunted his acceptance and left, shutting the door quietly behind him.

Alone with Kaleah again, Jessica returned to the bed and resumed her position carefully, not wanting to disrupt her friend’s rest. Releasing a tense breath, she thought about what her father had suggested . . . and she didn’t much like her conclusions.

It was indeed possible the attack on Kaleah had been aimed at her, not the dark woman. Jessica had earned quite a reputation as a fighter in the last few years. She was sure there were many who would revel in her suffering. Maybe the common bandits she had taken down over the years weren’t so subtle as to orchestrate such a plan, but there were plenty who were. And the thought that Kaleah had been hurt because of the friendship they had formed . . . well, the cold, empty feeling it brought to her heart hurt with a dull ache.

Suddenly, as she considered this new possibility, something else occurred to her. There was one person in Da’Gran who hated Kaleah, she realized. One person with enough power to direct such an attack, no matter the loyalty of the men. But surely . . .

"She wouldn’t be that foolish," Jessica thought, green fire starting to burn in her eyes as she wondered. She looked at Kaleah’s battered face and scowled. "She’d never sink to something so base . . . would she?"

Sighing, letting her anger wash away, Jessica lay back and relaxed. She had a lot to think about while her friend slept, and while her thoughts weren’t very pleasant ones, at least they kept her mind away from other considerations . . . things she promised her sulking mind she would examine in greater detail later.

Her mind reluctantly agreed not to push the issue.

Friday came and went peacefully, with Kaleah sleeping through most of the day, holding drowsy conversation with her constant companion when she was awake. Charles stopped by to see how the injured woman was doing, and stayed a while talking about the attack with Jessica. He had considered briefly the possibility that his own men might have been responsible, but a quick check had assured him such a thing was impossible. The troops who made up his escort had been celebrating the hunt that night . . . all had been accounted for by more than three others at the time the assault took place. Although Jessica wanted to question Kaleah further on the attack, her hesitant queries were met with defensive silence. It was clear Kaleah didn’t want to discuss things yet, so Jessica reluctantly let it go.

The next day, Kaleah woke feeling much better. The swelling had gone down considerably, her own innate healing powers helped along by the medicinal herbs. After so much time spent lying still, the former slave insisted she was healthy enough to have the bandages removed and to move around. Her energy was reaching a dangerous level, and she needed to do something to burn it off.

Unwrapping the bandages, Jessica was surprised and relieved to find some of the bruises already faded away, while the more severe had turned from an aggressive dark blue to a lighter purple tone. The splint was no longer required, and Kaleah groaned in relief when it was removed, stretching her arm thankfully. Inspecting everything thoroughly, Jessica smiled. It seemed her friend would be as good as new in another few days.

"You heal awful fast," she remarked as she examined the healing gash over Kaleah’s eye.

The dark woman winced as her companion prodded the area with firm but gently fingers. "I’ve always been like that," she said. "Broken bones take me a while, but anything on the surface goes away real quick." She scratched at one of the scars on her arm. "They usually leave a bit of a mark, though."

Jessica finished her inspection by spreading a clear liquid salve over the wound. "Do you think this will scar?" she asked.

"Probably not," Kaleah replied, shooing her away when she’d finished. "It’s not that deep m. . . and with all the stuff you’re putting on it, I’d be surprised if it’s still visible in another week."

Jessica chuckled and backed off, letting the dark woman stand up. She couldn’t help but stare in admiration as Kaleah stretched long and hard, waking her dormant muscles. Standing behind her friend, the young blonde’s eyes feasted on the image of rippling, tight sinew under bronzed skin revealed all-too-well by the loose-fitting shift. Her eyes widened as they stored the image away in the back of her mind . . . which was starting to get a little crowded by now.

"What should we do today?"

Kaleah’s question snapped Jessica out of her lustful appraisal just as the dark woman turned around. The blonde assumed an air of casual indifference and shrugged. "I’m not picky . . . as long as it’s not too strenuous," she said. "You still need to take it easy."

Kaleah gave an exaggerated groan and rolled her eyes. "Fine . . . how about we go for a bit of a walk out to the monastery." She had found the ancient ruins strangely fascinating when Jessica had taken her there last week.

"Okay, but are you sure you want to walk all that way? I mean, the spring thaw’s started . . . everything’s pretty damn muddy."

Kaleah grinned. "So I’ll take a bath when we get back instead of before we leave."

Jess couldn’t argue against that . . . she’d watched the dark woman bathe several times since last week. The fact that Kaleah seemed to like being clean had provided a great deal of inspiration for the young blonde’s strengthening desire. "Alright," she agreed. "But if you get too sore, we’re turning back."

"Okay. Wait here, I have to get changed into something warmer." Kaleah headed for the door to her own bedroom, trying not to think about the fact that she probably wouldn’t be sleeping with Jessica anymore after last night. Afterall, there wasn’t any reason now that she was feeling better. Sighing as she slipped into the emptiness of her bedroom, she decided to just enjoy the day.

The two decided to ask Charles to come along with them, and he happily agreed.

"I should go get Damon," he said as they were about to head out, but Jessica waved the suggestion away.

"Oh, come on, Charles," she said, laughing. "We’re only going to the abbey . . . what bandit’s gonna set up camp that close to the castle? Besides," she patted the rapier at her side, "if anything does happen, Kaleah and I can protect you."

Charles gave her a look of mock insult. "Are you saying I’m not man enough to protect myself?" he demanded with a playfully lofty air.

Jess grinned and arched a blonde eyebrow cheekily. "No . . . are you?"

Charles was unable to help himself from rising to challenge. "Of course not," he grumbled, relaxing. He wondered briefly how come whenever he visited Da’Gran, Jessica always managed to lure him into some kind of trouble.

Jess clapped and linked arms with her two friends. "Alright then. Let’s go."

"Just remember, Jess, if we get into any trouble because of this, I’m gonna say it was all your fault and I was just trying to make sure you were safe."

The young blonde snorted inelegantly. "Yeah . . . like anyone’d believe that." Nevertheless, she decided it would be for the best if they used the side entrance . . . just in case anyone was watching.

Kaleah flopped down on Jessica’s bed and gave a long, guttural sigh of absolute bliss. Closing her eyes, she savored the warm ache in her muscles from the long day of exploring in the woods and basked in the simple pleasure of being clean again after tracking through the mud of spring thaw.

"Mmmm," she moaned, opening her eyes to find Jessica smiling down at her. "You know, I think I love that bathing pool more everytime I go in there. If I had to choose a favorite room in this whole castle, that’d be it."

Jess joined the dark woman on the bed, leaning back against the headboard. "I definitely agree," she said. "It’s one luxury of being high-born that I truly wonder if I could live without." And, she added silently, it had become doubly attractive now that Kaleah was here. Her body was still aflame with desire from watching her companion wash up.

Kaleah rolled over and ran fingers through her still-wet hair. "I had a lot of fun today," she said. "Charles is great. I, uh . . . I haven’t met too many people I feel that comfortable with so quickly."

Jess smiled, genuinely pleased. "I’m glad you like him. And it was a good day, wasn’t it? You didn’t get sore or anything, did you?"

"Are you kidding? After spending so long lying down, I could have run the whole way and thought nothing of it. I really needed to get rid of some of that energy." She rubbed gently at the wound on her eye. It was starting to itch.

"Hey! Don’t pick at that, or it will leave a scar."

"It itches."

"I don’t care. You don’t need any more marks on your face, so leave it alone." The young blonde swatted Kaleah’s hands away from her face. Kaleah growled playfully. Jess raised an eyebrow threateningly. "Keep it up, Miss Difficult and I’ll make you eat those sleeping herbs again."

"Try it and see how far you get," Kaleah returned, her eyes sparkling.

Jessica just laughed and sat back again. She loved it when Kaleah relaxed so completely like this . . . when she let herself be playful and fun. It was happening more and more often, especially when they were alone, and she found herself trying harder to bring a smile to the former slave’s face.

Watching as the dark woman ran long, elegant fingers through her tangled wet hair, gently sorting through the knots until it was even and neat, Jessica decided maybe now was a good time to bring up the welcoming dinner on Monday.

"Kaleah?"

"Hmmm?" Blue eyes looked up and regarded her openly.

"My father was wondering if . . . maybe you’d like to come along to the formal dinner we’re having for Sir William on Monday." She saw the surprise in Kaleah’s face and went on. "I-I was kind of hoping you’d say yes . . . I mean, it’d be nice to have some company there. I have to go, and you’d be alone anyway so, if you don’t mind putting up with people looking at you, I’d really like it if-"

"I’ll come."

Jessica trailed off and stared at Kaleah. "You will?"

"Sure." Kaleah went back to unravelling her hair. She glanced up at her friend. "If you want me there, of course I’ll come."

The words were spoken in a casual, off-hand manner, but they sent shivers down Jessica’s spine. "Thank you," she said, watching the older woman smile at her and turn away. She giggled nervously. "You know, I didn’t think it’d be quite that easy to convince you," she admitted.

"Why not?"

She shrugged. "Welll . . . there’ll be a lot of people around, you know. Everything very formal. And let’s face it Kaleah, you’re not really much of a one for socializing, are you."

Kaleah turned those amazing eyes on her and added a dazzling smile to it. "I don’t care so much about that stuff anymore," she said softly. "It doesn’t matter how many people are around . . . as long as I’m with you."

Jessica wanted to wave the comment away, but was captured by the look in Kaleah’s eyes. She swallowed the lump that suddenly leapt into her throat. Her body was still thrumming with sexual heat from watching Kaleah bathe, and it took a physical effort to stop herself from just . . leaning forward and . . . and . . . Well, from doing something that she wasn’t entirely sure she knew how to do. She smiled shyly and looked away, wondering if Kaleah had noticed how much she seemed to be blushing lately.

Seeing the young woman’s nervousness, Kaleah gave a little chuckle. "So," she continued, turning away to give Jessica a chance to regain her composure, "what should I wear to the dinner? I don’t suppose I can get away with just wearing my armor?"

Jessica cleared her throat, trying to get rid of the large lump in it she suspected was her heart. "Um . . . no. It’s formal. We’re trying to really impress Sir William . . . it’s one of those stupid little games we nobles have to play all the time." She rolled her eyes. "A polite demonstration of how civilized and well-bred we are here in Da’Gran, so we can show Lancaster how much better off he’d be if he made a formal alliance with us." She regarded Kaleah who was now lying flat on her stomach. "I think you should probably wear a dress," she said thoughtfully. "I’m sure I can rummage up something really nice for you . . . maybe blue silk, to match your . . .eyes . . ." She trailed off, seeing the guarded look in Kaleah’s expressive blue eyes. "Is something wrong?"

"I, uh . . . I don’t like dresses," Kaleah explained shyly.

Jessica looked puzzled. "I’m sure we can arrange something nice," she said, confused by her friend’s reaction. "I don’t like them all that much myself, but they’re not so bad . . ." She remembered the dark woman had preferred men’s clothes the last time she’d suggested something more feminine. What was so bad about wearing a dress?

"Can’t I just wear trousers?" Kaleah pleaded. "Dresses just . . . make me uncomfortable."

Jessica could see Kaleah was genuinely unnerved by the idea of having to wear a dress. "Why?" she asked softly.

"They just . . ." Kaleah felt the gentle concern in Jessica’s eyes, and decided it would be best if she just explained. Afterall, she had already told the young woman her basic life story . . . she’d understand.

"When I was a slave," she explained quietly, "the clothes I was given would always tell me what I’d be doing for a new master. If I was to be a worker, I’d be given trousers and a shirt. A dress always meant I was going to be a whore." She cast her eyes to the bedsheets, still feeling the shame of that life. "Dresses gave . . . easier access," she finished in a whisper.

Jessica absorbed this, understanding. "Oh. I see." She was silent a moment, then reached out to pat Kaleah’s shoulder, offering what comfort she could. "I didn’t. . . I didn’t understand. But you know Kaleah, you don’t have to do anything that makes you uncomfortable. I’d never want to make you feel that way." She smiled as the dark woman raised her head hopefully. "I’m sure I can find some silk trousers . . . if I look for them."

Kaleah nodded gratefully. "Thank you. I’d really prefer that, if it’s okay."

"Sure." Jessica sat back and gave the tall woman a quick perusal. "It’s a shame though," she mused, knawing on her lower lip.

"What is?"

"Well . . . I was kinda looking forward to seeing you all dressed up." Jessica grinned rakishly, unable to stop the image forming in her mind. "I bet you’d look really beautiful in a full-length dress . . . something that showed off your figure, you know?"

Kaleah blushed and studied herself critically. "Y-you really think so?"

"Oh yeah." Jess nodded enthusiastically. "I’d kill to have a body like yours." Her mind almost made a sarcastic comment, but she anticipated it and silently ordered it to shut up. "You’d be stunning."

"Well . . . maybe."

Jessica couldn’t help but smile broadly at the thoughtful expression on Kaleah’s face as the dark woman headed off to her own room later that night. And it came as no surprise when the former slave brought the subject up again the next morning when she returned from the service in the castle chapel. Kaleah said she’d thought about it, and decided a dress probably would be a good idea, afterall. At least it couldn’t hurt to give it a try . . . could it?

Chapter 15.

Monday morning, Jessica and Kaleah watched from the south-west parapet as a large contingent of men approached Da’Gran slowly. The day was clear and almost warm, with spring thaw well under way. What few patches of snow and ice still remained would likely be gone in a day or so, which meant that everything would be very muddy until the new grass began to shoot. Sunlight glinted off armor and steel in the distance as Kaleah squinted to make out the group of dim figures more clearly. The warning horn was still sounding from the central look-out, summoning Sir Richard to greet the arrival of Sir William.

The former slave saw there were a lot more men in this escort than Charles had brought with him . . . maybe three times as many, in fact. The troops rode in disciplined lines around a covered wagon, and despite having to keep formation they managed to move quite quickly. The knights were mostly armed with lance and sword, and all carried heavy shields. As they got closer, Kaleah studied the brightly colored banners which depicted two crossed arrows in red over a white field. Jessica had been teaching her a bit about heraldry, and she knew this was the design used by Lancaster.

"There are a lot of them, huh?" she said.

Jessica frowned, but nodded. "Aye."

"I-is that normal?"

"More or less. Sir William is a lord knight . . . and my father has been his enemy for a long time. Meeting like this to discuss a treaty, I suppose he’d want to bring a fair amount of muscle just in case we decided to be less-than-honorable about it." The young woman squinted to make out details. "A contingent of guards that large would need some pretty heavy support . . . squires, cooks, that sort of thing."

Kaleah studied the group, but saw only mounted knights. "So where are they?"

"I don’t know." Kaleah heard a faint suspicious tone in her friend’s voice. "Maybe they left them at a camp in the woods. But wherever they are, the fact that Lancaster didn’t bring them with him means he doesn’t intend to stay long . . . probably just tonight."

"And what does that mean?"

Jessica shrugged. "If you were serious about a peace treaty — even a temporary one — how much time would you give to discussing it with your enemy?"

Kaleah considered that and realized what the young woman was driving at. "You think maybe Lancaster has no real intention of signing a treaty? But . . . why would he go to all this trouble?"

Jessica’s brow furrowed. "I don’t know," she whispered. "Maybe it’s nothing . . . Lancaster might just want to get everything out of the way as quick as he can. That makes sense too; he can’t be comfortable about meeting on enemy ground. But still . . ." She frowned as the men hailed the guards at the gate, stating their business. "Something about this whole thing doesn’t feel right."

Sir Richard arrived in the courtyard, dressed in full ceremonial armor with Sir Miles and Charles flanking him. A score of other knights fell into step behind as honor guard, and they marched with stiff dignity to the gates just as they were opened to admit the visitors.

"Should we go down there?" Kaleah asked, watching Sir Richard clasp hands formally with a large, similarly armored man; apparently Sir William.

Jessica laughed. "Dressed like this? Are you kidding?" She held out her arms, displaying the simple, rumpled tunic and trousers.

"Not appropriate, huh?" Kaleah smiled, thinking the young woman would look beautiful if she was wearing torn rags and mud.

"My father would kill me if I presented myself like this before an enemy lord during a formal peace meeting." Jessica laughed again. "This whole thing is all about show," she explained. "We have to present a strong, civilized face or else Sir William will be at an advantage."

Kaleah gave her a blank look. "But if you already are strong, why does it matter? Surely Sir William knows it’s all just an act."

"Of course he knows. And he’ll know tonight at the dinner that, no matter how fancy I may have dressed up, I usually dress like a man and wave a sword around my head." She grinned, and added, "And I’ll know that underneath all his shiny armor, he’s still just a brutal, treacherous bastard."

Kaleah shook her head. "I don’t get it. Why the whole performance if you both know none of it’s real?"

Jessica sighed, wondering how to explain something she didn’t fully understand herself. "It’s what most nobles do," she said after a moment. "We try to look nice, and speak politely to one another . . . but underneath, we have all the same faults as anyone else. It’s all just a big game . . . like chess. And like in chess, the best way to play it is with subtlety. If you make a mistake . . . a word out of place, an incorrect gesture . . . you give your enemy the upper hand. And while it may look more civilized, believe me, these games can be just as bloody and violent as a real life battle."

Kaleah turned back to watch Sir Richard greet his guest, noting now the stiff and practiced way he held himself, the considered actions. "Are you sure I should be attending this dinner then?" she asked. "I don’t know anything about such things."

Jessica patted her on the shoulder and chuckled. "That won’t matter, Kaleah. Believe me."

Blue eyes looked at her in question. "Oh?"

Jessica took the taller woman’s arm and led her back down the stairs, ignoring the curious, amused looks the soldiers gave them. "My father knows you have no training in court intrigue, but he wants you at the dinner anyway," she told her friend.

"Why?"

"Because Sir William won’t know what to make of you," she said, grinning. Seeing the blank look on Kaleah’s face, she continued. "You have a powerful presence Kaleah, whether you realize it or not. Sir William will notice you immediately . . . and your presence at such an important function will tell him you’re an important part of Da’Gran. You’ll become an important game-piece . . . someone he doesn’t know and therefore can’t predict."

"But I don’t have anything to do with any of this stuff!" Kaleah argued, not much liking the idea of being treated like some pawn.

"That doesn’t matter," Jessica assured her. "Sir William doesn’t know that. But you’ll be a force my father can use to his advantage simply by including you in the dinner. That’s a big part of court negotiations . . . knowing how to gain something from nothing, and making the most of what you have available."

Kaleah suddenly jerked away from her, her eyes flashing angrily. "I don’t like being made into a puppet!" she growled.

Jessica’s smile disappeared when she realized how Kaleah had taken this explanation. "Hey . . ." she said soothingly. "It’s not like that." She reached out, but Kaleah drew back. She sighed. "My father would never force you to attend the dinner Kaleah. You’re a free agent in this castle . . . not one of his subjects. But if you do come, you’d be an asset to him, that’s all." She smiled tentatively, seeing her friend relax a little. "If it’s any consolation, I’m no different."

"You’re not?"

She shook her head. "My father will put me on display because he knows I’m one of his strongest game-pieces. And unlike you, I have no choice about attending." She smiled a little more. "He’ll present me as his daughter all wrapped in lace and perfume . . . all the while knowing Sir William can see the steel underneath." When she reached out again, Kaleah did not pull away. "I want you with me," she said, linking their arms once more. "You’re my friend . . . and if you don’t mind me saying so, I’m quite looking forward to showing you off."

Kaleah let go her sudden anger easily, letting the warmth of the young woman’s touch melt it away. She grinned down at the proud look on Jessica’s face and snorted. "Not much to show off, I’m afraid," she said. "Unless you think they’ll be impressed by a foreign barbarian."

Jessica returned the grin mischievously and patted her hand over Kaleah’s arm. "We’ll see," she said mysteriously. "I think you might be surprised." Grinning ear to ear, she led them back to their rooms. There was a lot to do before the dinner that night.

Jessica spoke with a servant as soon as they arrived back in the familiar part of the castle that housed their chambers. Though Kaleah had her doubts about all this, she couldn’t deny that she enjoyed the excitement her young friend was displaying. If Jessica wanted to see her all dressed up in fancy clothes, she wouldn’t deny her such a simple pleasure . . . no matter if it made her uncomfortable.

The two sat and talked a few minutes before there was a knock at the door. Jessica opened it and waved in the group of women standing in the hallway. She gestured to her friend and made introductions.

"Kaleah, this is June." She indicated a tall, heavy-set woman of advancing years who stepped forward with a beaming smile. Kaleah bobbed her head uncertainly. "She’s my mother’s seamstress and general hand-maiden."

"Ach, get on with ye, child!" the elderly woman laughed, smacking Jessica lightly. "I’m many years past bein’ called a maiden!" She turned clear, intelligent eyes to Kaleah, studying her curiously. "So, yer the one what’s been causin’ my lady so much heat?" She grinned and nodded, as though pleased, then nudged Jessica slyly. "Ye mother’s none too pleased with ye ‘bout this affair, Jess."

The young woman returned her grin and shrugged. "Since when has that stopped me?"

"Aye, well . . ." She looked Kaleah up and down. "We’ll see if we can’t surprise her tonight, shall we?"

Jessica nodded while Kaleah gave her a puzzled, slightly wary look. She saw the dark woman’s trepidation and reassured her quickly. "Kaleah, I asked June here to find something for you to wear at the dinner. She’s going to fix you up so you look as much like a true noble-woman as my own mother."

June bit her lip as her eyes fell on Kaleah’s bruises and the scar across her lips. "Gonna be tough to hide those marks, Jess."

"Just do what you can for the bruises," Jessica told her. "Forget the scars. We don’t want to mask them."

"If ye say so." June did not appear convinced, but she smiled at Kaleah reassuringly. "My, girl, but don’t you just have the prettiest eyes. And hair like midnight . . ." She reached out to touch the raven tresses, but Kaleah pulled back. The old woman nodded as if she’d expected it, and drew her hand away. "Touchy as I’ve heard, too."

Jessica stepped up and took Kaleah by the hands. "It’s alright, Kaleah. June won’t hurt you, she just wants to measure your body so she can fit the dress to you right. Then later on, she’ll fix your hair and stuff like that."

Kaleah swallowed nervously. "I-I thought . . . you’d be doing all that for me," she whispered hopefully.

Jessica shook her head sadly. "I can’t. I don’t know how. She’ll be doing the same thing for me when you’re finished though, and she’s really very gentle. You’ll be fine."

"I don’t like to be touched." Kaleah’s voice was strained and so low only Jessica could hear her.

The blonde gave her a warm hug then smiled. "I know," she replied softly. "But I’ll be here while they measure you . . . and it’ll only take a few minutes to get your hair fixed up. Please Kaleah?" She gazed imploringly into deep blue eyes. "Could you do this for me?"

Feeling those glowing wet emeralds burning into her soul, Kaleah could only swallow and nod. "Okay," she choked. She knew she would do anything Jessica asked at that moment. "But that look’s gonna start loosing it’s effect if you use it too often." She offered a shaky grin and Jessica returned it, planting a soft kiss on the back of her wrist as they separated. Kaleah suppressed an involuntary groan. The friendly kiss burned her skin like liquid fire.

For the next half-hour, Kaleah posed as June directed her while the other women took measurements that she didn’t understand. It took a great deal of effort for the former slave to keep her body still as so many hands invaded her personal space. Her blood felt like lightening was coursing through it, and she felt suffocated and desperate for the ordeal to be done with. The only thing that kept her from simply shoving the women away was the calm young woman standing next to her, occasionally reaching out to pat her arm whenever it felt like things were getting too much. Jessica’s presence distracted Kaleah from the measuring. Her touch soothed her fevered spirit like nothing else ever had.

Eventually, after what seemed like forever, the women had collected whatever information it was they wanted and departed. June promised the dress would be ready by that afternoon, and she would return to prepare the two of them a few hours before the dinner was due to start.

Kaleah sighed as the door closed and she was alone again with her friend. She sat down on the bed, her muscles uncoiling slowly. "I didn’t like that," she said quietly.

"I know. But you did really good Kaleah. Really good. When you first came to Da’Gran, you wouldn’t have been able to sit still like that. But now you can."

"Because of you." The dark woman’s blue eyes shyly gazed up at the young blonde. "You won’t be with me when they do . . . whatever it is they’ll do to me tonight, will you?"

Jessica shook her head. "But it won’t take long," she promised. "And June is very gentle. You can trust her not to hurt you."

Kaleah sighed and flopped back onto the stuffed mattress, resting an arm over her face. She closed her eyes. "I guess I’ll be okay," she said. An eye cracked open and turned to Jessica. "You hungry?"

"Sure. My father and Charles will both be busy with Sir William for the rest of the day. I’ll get someone to bring us some food."

"I don’t suppose we’ll be doing any training today, huh?"

"Not likely," Jessica agreed. "We’d best keep a low profile with Lancaster’s men about." The young woman summoned a servant who went to fetch them some late breakfast. Then she joined her friend on the bed. "Tonight should be fun. We should aim to arrive a little late . . . I want to make a good entrance."

Kaleah smiled, noticing the heightened flush in Jessica’s face, and the sparkle of excitement in her eyes. "You really enjoy this stuff, don’t you?"

Jessica gave her a roguish grin. "You should see me right before a battle," she said with a wink. "This is the first time we’ve had a real formal dinner in a long time. I may like to dress and behave like a warrior most of the time . . . but that doesn’t mean I don’t know how to be a lady when the occasion calls for it."

"I know. Your whole body changes when you slip into that role. Even your voice sounds different."

Jessica waved her hands and blew a bit of hair out of her face. "I usually only do that when my mother’s around. The people in Da’Gran are used to me looking a mess . . . and you along with me. But tonight," Kaleah could hear the smile in her voice, "tonight . . . we get the chance to show everyone just how civilized we barbarian’s can be."

With a slight sigh, Jessica turned her back on the door to Kaleah’s room and studied herself in the mirror for the tenth time in as many minutes. The servants had completed their work on her some time ago, and now she was waiting for June to finish up with her friend in the next room.

It was some time since Kaleah had returned from her bath (which Jessica had watched once more, reveling in the delightful ache her voyeurism generated in her loins), only to be led away by a very gentle June for her preparations. The young blonde knew Kaleah must be getting flighty by now. The urge to go in there and rescue her was strong, but she knew June wouldn’t stand for her barging in. So she sat as calmly as she could and studied her reflected appearance while trying not to dart anxious glances at the door behind her.

A slight smile touched Jessica’s lips as she admitted to herself the women had done a very good job. Her hair — usually wild and free — had been tamed with gentle persistence into a series of intricate braids, which had then been curled into an elaborate coif design that rather suited the soft lines of her face. Her eyes had been very lightly accented with dyed coal, as had her full lips. The dress she wore clung to her muscular figure, and she couldn’t help but blush a little at the low neckline which revealed more cleavage than she might have liked.

Still, she assessed critically, she certainly had nothing to be embarrassed about. Her body was attractive; firm and toned from hours of training, unlike most women of the nobility who tended towards slender lines with narrow legs and arms. Her breasts were full and firm, and she filled out the soft green dress very nicely. But still . . . she wasn’t accustomed to displaying herself in quite so feminine a manner. The elegant silver necklace that hung at her throat felt constricting, and she kept rubbing at the rings and bracelets that adorned her fingers and wrists. Despite the discomfort, she couldn’t help but grin a little as she wondered if Kaleah would like the way she looked.

She hoped so.

At last, the door to Kaleah’s room creaked open and Jessica stood up, turning to greet her friend. Her excited smile vanished, however, when her jaw dropped at the sight before her.

Jessica had thought Kaleah’s exotic features attractive before, but she found the vision of her now to be almost overwhelming. The dark woman was dressed in a full-length, royal blue dress which displayed her slender, athletic body even better than her armor did. Delicate shoes adorned her feet, and though Jessica knew her friend didn’t like jewelry, June had somehow managed to convince her to wear a simple, elegant silver pendant about her neck. Kaleah’s long, sable tresses had been braided with pieces of colorful string, then gathered back into an incredibly intricate coif that highlighted her sweeping, angular features. The bruises that still marred her face were almost indistinguishable, but June had left the slashing scar across the dark woman’s sensuous lips alone. As Jessica had suspected, the vivid white scar stood out in stark contrast against the red of her lips, drawing the eye and highlighting the perfection of Kaleah’s face, not detracting from it.

Jessica eyes widened further and her heart almost stopped when she at last met her friend’s shy gaze. June had highlighted Kaleah’s most striking feature with dark lines of finely-ground coal dust, making the dazzling orbs seem amazingly bright and intense. The lines drew out to the very tips of her eye-brows in a style Jessica knew would be thought of as scandalous among the nobility. But the overall effect was stunning, and the young blonde understood and applauded what June had set out to achieve.

Kaleah could never blend in with the other attendees. The primal aura surrounding her was simply too powerful . . . she would stand out no matter how she dressed. So rather than try to hide Kaleah’s features, the talented hand-maiden had decided instead to flaunt them. The dark woman looked like some kind of barbarian Goddess; exotic and radiant, with an untamable strength that seemed to flow from her in sensuous waves of energy.

Jessica eventually managed to get her jaw off the ground and back into working order, noting with relief that Kaleah was too busy staring at her to notice her reaction. She smiled when the dark woman finished looking and gave her a shy smile of her own.

"You look amazing," the young blonde breathed, stepping closer and reaching out a hand to touch the braided hair.

Kaleah flushed and shuffled her feet nervously "You, too."

June entered the room, closing the door behind her. She beamed at Jessica’s awe-struck reaction. "She scrubbed up real nice," she said proudly, giving Jess a once over and nodding in approval. "Ye’ll knock ‘em dead, ye will. I wish I could be there to see the look on yer mother’s face when you walk into that hall!"

Jess grinned. "Thank you, Rose. You did a wonderful job."

"Aye, well, it’s easy when I’ve got something so nice to work with," the old woman said warmly, patting Kaleah on the arm gently. The former slave only tensed slightly, but submitted to the affectionate gesture. "I’ve got to go finish with my lady now, Jess." She gave the young blonde a quick hug. "I’ll see ye later, okay?"

"Fine."

The two companions stood awkwardly a few moments after June left, just letting their eyes roam over the other slowly. When their eyes met, they both laughed a little at the expression in the other’s eyes.

"I can’t believe how beautiful you look," Jessica said, shaking her head in amazement. "I mean . . . wow!"

Kaleah lowered her head, pleased at the response but shy. "Thanks." She looked at herself in a nearby mirror and smiled a little. It was hard to reconcile the image of her reflection with what she was accustomed to. "I never thought I could look like this," she whispered almost to herself. Her fingers rose to play with the pendant about her neck.

"Do you like it?"

Kaleah nodded. "It’s just so . . . unexpected. I mean, I’ve lived my whole life hating the fact that men found me attractive. My beauty was a curse. But now . . ." She gazed into Jessica’s verdant eyes, feeling her stomach flip-flop as she felt herself falling. "You’re the first person who really made me want to be beautiful," she whispered.

Jessica just smiled. "Well, I think you look beautiful no matter what you’re wearing," she said, noticing with interest the blush that her words inspired. "You’ll do fine tonight, Kaleah. I know you will."

"I hope so." The dark woman went back to regarding her reflection in amazement. "I may look a lot fancier . . . but I can’t pretend to sound cultured like you can. And I don’t know court manners like you do."

"That’s not important," Jess argued. "You have a power inside you that puts you on their level. Just remember; for people like my mother and Sir William, the nobility they have is just a veil to hide their weaknesses and true intentions. What you have inside is worth so much more . . . because it comes from the soul." The young blonde patted Kaleah on the shoulder and gave her a serious look. "If you want them to see and believe in the power you have within . . . all you have to do is believe in it yourself."

Kaleah nodded and swallowed a lump in her throat. Before Jessica had come along, she had believed herself to be strong; a life in chains killed those who were anything but. Now, having seen herself as she had been through more mature eyes, Kaleah knew she had not been as strong as she thought. She had made herself numb to her life . . . had let the pain and suffering beat her down to the level of dumb beast. Jessica had shown her how strong she could be . . . had become her source of hope and light. Kaleah had grown stronger than she had ever been before; strong enough to have a friend. Strong enough to fall in love.

Maybe, if she believed in the power of her love enough, she could make Jessica believe in it, too.

But not tonight, Kaleah reminded herself. Tonight, she had to curb her natural fears and focus on the task at hand. She was starting to admit to herself — albeit with great trepidation — that Jessica did indeed seem to be giving her signals of interest; but now was not the time to explore the subject more fully. Tonight was about pretending to be something she wasn’t, not about revealing the truths that were in her heart.

Drawing strength from the young woman still gazing up at her, Kaleah let her confidence grow as she saw the faith her friend had in her. "I can believe in myself Jess," she said softly, "because you do." She offered a slight, happy smile, her eyes twinkling against the dark of her make-up at the surprised look on the blonde’s face. She turned away and let the comment sink in. "Want to play a game of chess before the dinner starts? Might as well let me beat you again."

Jessica managed to hear the dark woman over the pounding of her heart, and nodded. "Sure," she said, coughing a little to clear away the lump in her throat. She grinned at Kaleah, who sat down at the chess table and began to arrange the pieces. "And I don’t let you beat me, my friend. You win fair and square." She rubbed her hands together and sat opposite the dark-haired woman. "Don’t think that’s gonna happen tonight though. I’ve figured out your strategy . . . you’re lucky streak is over."

Kaleah snorted. "Yeah, right. If you’re going to go easy on me, you should at least make it less obvious. Nobody’s stupid enough to make some of those moves you were making — Hey!"

Jessica slapped her playfully. "Don’t call my moves stupid then," she growled. "I was just testing to see what worked."

Kaleah rubbed her arm in an exaggerated way and gave the young woman a hurt look. "Well it was obvious they wouldn’t work," she said, moving a pawn forward. "And they were stupid," she muttered under her breath.

"What was that?"

"Nothing," she said innocently. "Your move."

Several hours passed before Jessica decided it was time for them to head off. As they made their way with dignified grace to the audience hall, Jessica enjoyed the shocked reactions they received from the servants and guards they passed. She knew the people had seen her dressed up like this before, but Kaleah was a different story. Glancing to her side, Jess smiled proudly at her friend’s regal bearings and strong, confidant poise.

She knew Kaleah was nervous on the inside, but the former slave was covering her fears with this illusion of power. Walking up to the imposing doors of the audience hall, Jessica could feel the waves of animal energy radiating from the dark woman. She grinned a little as she wondered what kind of impact Kaleah would make.

The two guards stationed at the double doors could only stare at the two women for a long moment, before Jessica cleared her throat and gave them a playful wink. They immediately blushed and bowed at the waist in respect to the young noble-woman, before throwing open the great doors. A wave of heat, music and conversation engulfed them before one of the guards banged his halberd on the floor and announced their arrival to the already assembled guests.

The noise stopped as the gathered people rose from their seats to welcome the two women. Jessica stepped forward and held herself proudly under the eyes of so many people, accustomed to being put on display. While she had not been greatly interested in her mother’s lessons on etiquette, she had learned the social graces well despite her disinterest. She sensed Kaleah enter behind her, and saw everyone’s attention shift instantly to her captivating companion. The young woman didn’t need to glance backwards to know that Kaleah was uncomfortable with the attention, but from the low murmurings her appearance generated through the room, she could tell that the people were impressed by what they saw.

Glancing about quickly, Jessica took in the layout of the room. A dozen or so tables had been arranged in a large rectangle, with Sir Richard, Sir Miles and the members of Da’Gran’s court seated down one side, and Sir William and his most trusted men filling out the other. A small group of musicians played in the background, and several servants hovered about with jugs of mead or platters of food, ready to provide whatever was desired for the guests. Jessica also noticed a few figures holding back in the shadows, and recognized them as being Eric Grace and Damon Cook. No doubt the two were here to watch out for their respective lord.

Finishing her swift appraisal which lasted only a heartbeat, Jessica smiled radiantly and bowed a little to her father. She noticed Kaleah doing the same out the corner of her eye. "Forgive out lateness, father," she said, her voice clear and cultured. "Our preparations ran over-long."

That was obviously a lie, and the slight smile on Sir Richard’s face told her he knew it. Jessica had planned on their tardiness to make a better, more dramatic entrance. From the looks on the people’s faces, she had succeeded well.

Sir Richard nodded and gestured to the two empty places at his table. "Quite alright, Jessica," he rumbled. "Won’t you join us."

"Thank you, father."

The guests resumed their seats as Jessica led Kaleah around to their places. Her seat was to the right of Charles, as befitted their betrothed status, and he in turn was seated next to the Lady Rose. She gave him a mischievous smile when she saw his eyes drift to Kaleah in awe, before allowing a servant to assist her into her chair with refined dignity. Kaleah did the same, sitting with a controlled grace to her right.

The dark woman’s outward expression was calm and serene, but when their eyes met for a brief moment, Jessica could see the tension in Kaleah’s eyes. She gave her friend a reassuring smile, which was returned timidly. A plate of food was set before her, and another for Kaleah. The musicians started to play again, and after a moment, the conversation followed. Giving her father a quick grin, she signaled a servant to fill her mug and then cast her eyes to the opposite table to study their guests.

Sir William had changed little since the last time she’d seen him. Dressed in full ceremonial armor just like her father, the lord knight cut a pretty impressive figure. Short but muscular, Lancaster had thick dark hair just running to grey, and long, braided mustaches that gave him a perpetually frowning expression. His shrewd, calculating eyes were fixed on Kaleah, but they quickly snapped to her when he realized he was being watched. Jessica gave the enemy lord a slight nod and smile, then raised a mug in salute. He returned it, his eyes narrowing suspiciously.

Looking around the table, Jessica saw that many people were looking at her friend curiously, and not just their guests. While Kaleah may have become an accepted presence about the castle lately, no-one had seen her dressed like this before. Most of the men were looking at the former slave with simple amazement, while the women regarded her with expressions of jealously and trepidation. Glancing to the left, Jessica saw that none were more surprised by the dark woman’s appearance than her mother. The expression of shock on Lady Rose’s face gave Jessica a rather vicious sense of satisfaction.

Look at your barbarian peasant now, mother, she snarled silently. She may be a savage, but she can play the part of nobility just fine. And if I find out you had anything to do with her beating, I’ll make sure you learn firsthand just how savage I can be!

Jessica was distracted from her thoughts when Kaleah leaned closer to her and whispered, "I take it that’s Sir William?" nodding to where the knight was watching with interest.

She nodded. "That’s him, alright,"

Kaleah smiled a little and nodded to the man, who returned the gesture after a moment of confusion. "He’s paying a lot of attention to me, considering he’s never seen me before in his life."

"He’s trying to figure out who you are, just like I said he would," Jessica explained.

"But why should he care?"

Jessica smiled and delicately took a bite of food from her plate. "I told you," she whispered back, "you have a real presence, Kaleah. He can feel the power in you . . . and he wants to understand it. He’s unsure of your position in the castle. You could be a threat to him, or possibly an ally."

They watched the lord knight as he watched them, seeing his brow crease in thought. Apparently concluding that a direct approach would work best, Lancaster raised his voice and addressed Jessica’s father.

"Sir Richard, I see an unfamiliar face at the table." He smiled and nodded towards Kaleah. All eyes turned to regard the former slave curiously. "Might you not introduce me to this young woman keeping company with your charming daughter?"

Sir Richard smiled and nodded. "Of course, Sir William." He stood and gestured to Kaleah. "I would be delighted to introduce to you Kaleah . . . a young woman recently come to our castle from Spain. My daughter, Jessica, met her but a few months ago and the two found they shared much in common. She has been our guest since then, and they have become firm friends." He smiled fondly at Kaleah, who fought to maintain her calm and detached mask. "I am most grateful that my daughter has found such pleasant company."

The Lady Rose scowled. Jessica’s sharp eyes noticed, and again she wondered to what lengths her mother might go to break apart this friendship.

Sir William smiled pleasantly at Kaleah. "I am most pleased to make your acquaintance . . . Kaleah, is it?"

Kaleah nodded. "Yes . . . thank you, lordship," she said, not even trying to hide her accent. "The pleasure is surely mine."

"Of course." Sir William stroked his mustaches thoughtfully as he studied the two women. An eyebrow raised in question. "I am curious to know what common interests you have found with young Jessica here," he pondered aloud. He could feel a dangerous energy emanating from this strange woman, and recognized an unstable force when he saw one. He turned his attention to the vivacious blonde. "Perhaps your focus has shifted since last we met, Jessica?"

The young noble gave him a thin smile. "Not particularly, Sir William," she replied coolly. She could feel her father’s eyes on her, watching to see how she dealt with the situation. "My studies have merely advanced . . . not shifted. Kaleah has proven to be the perfect companion for me . . . she has been of great assistance to my education."

"Truly?" Sir William’s brow raised further as he assessed the dark woman in light of this. Clearly then, she was a warrior of some sort. Her features were barbaric, and her accent most peculiar. She seemed a strange companion for his rival’s daughter. He smiled at Jessica. "I still remember our last meeting," he said, his tone carefully polite but his eyes cold. "It was, if I recall correctly, one of the most interesting encounters I’ve ever had."

Jessica took a sip of her water and gave him a soft, coy smile. "Indeed?"

"Yes, very much so. In fact, I think you taught me better than anyone the folly of judging a person on appearances alone." Sir William raised his mug to her in a toast. "A valuable lesson, to be sure."

Jessica batted her eyelids in innocently. "One well learned, I trust?"

He nodded, grinning in an unpleasant way. "Oh, very well learned, I assure you."

Jessica smiled, and returned to her meal. Glancing serupticiously at her father, she saw a slight frown on his face which she simply returned with a shrug. What did you expect me to do? she asked silently. He was baiting me.

Kaleah was a little confused by this exchange. She took a few bites of food from her plate as elegantly as she could, though in truth her stomach was churning with stress. Only the calming presence of Jessica beside her kept her from making a hasty departure. She raised an eyebrow at her young friend, who leaned closer to explain.

"He wanted to find out if you’re a fighter like me," Jess explained quietly. "Did you notice the way he didn’t refer to me as a warrior?"

Kaleah nodded.

"That’s because it would be a social blunder for him to suggest that a young lady of the nobility such as myself would engage in such a violent pursuit. So he dances around the words, and uses insinuations to ask his questions."

Kaleah absorbed this, starting to gain a slightly better comprehension of this intricate world of court intrigue. "What was that last bit about?"

"About me teaching him a valuable lesson?" Jess hid a smile by taking a sip of water. "The last time Sir William attacked us, he managed to actually get his army close to the castle itself. My father led a charge against him before he could raze the village. I went with him, and during the fight I had a run in with Sir William himself."

Kaleah’s eyes widened at the thought. She knew from her talks with Jessica that a lord knight would receive the highest standard in training. She had little doubt Sir William was a formidable fighter. "What happened?"

Jessica smiled and speared a baby carrot from her plate. "He’d never met me before, so he thought I was some foolish peasant girl who got caught in the crossfire," she said, taking a bite and chewing happily. "Imagine his surprise when he attacked me only to discover he was taking on one of Da’Gran’s finest warriors."

"You beat him?"

Green eyes sparkled in the torchlight as Jess nodded. "Disarmed him before he knew what was going on. I know I would have lost if he’d known who I was . . . but the surprise was enough to let me win." She cast the rival lord a charming look. "Of course, with my sword at his neck Sir William was forced to call a retreat. I let him go, and he pulled his men out of our lands . . . albeit reluctantly."

Kaleah frowned. "He must hate you."

"I’m sure he does," Jessica agreed. "Being beaten by a scrap of a girl half your size can’t do much for a man’s ego. Still . . . he wants an alliance. There’s not much he can do about his anger if he expects this to work."

Kaleah nodded in understanding and went back to eating her meal. She took her time, noticing that everyone else seemed to be dragging the dinner out. The food was probably delicious, but it tasted all the same to the nervous woman. As she ate, Kaleah let her eyes wander about and tuned her ears to the conversations going on around her.

There were still many people watching her with various expressions of interest, and it dawned on her suddenly that Jessica was right. These people seemed to be in awe of her for some reason. Kaleah was used to men giving her looks of lust, certainly . . . but most of these men seemed timid in their appraisals. Like she was something beautiful but unattainable; a radiant star to be admired but never touched. It was, she mused, very different to what she was accustomed.

Feeling her confidence grow as she realized the power she apparently had, Kaleah sat up straighter and slowly swept the room with her heavily accentuated eyes. A smile quirked her lips when everyone watching her looked away rather than meet her steady gaze. This was almost fun, she thought, before reminding herself what Jessica had said. It was important to watch everything that was going on around her.

Adjusting her mind, Kaleah noticed quickly how formally everyone talked. Just like Jessica had explained, the people seemed to be taking extra care about what they said and how they said it. She also noticed quickly that there was little verbal communication going on between Sir Richard’s side of the table and Sir William’s. But while nothing much was being said out loud, the former slave could sense the subtle exchanges that were happening behind what Jessica had referred to as the ‘veil of civility.’ Paying close attention, she watched every nuance of expression in the visiting lord’s face and body. What she saw made her instantly uneasy.

Jessica was currently engaged in conversation with Charles, and Kaleah noticed immediately that the two were very openly holding hands. A brief surge of jealousy hit her in the gut before she realized it was just a show for the benefit of Sir William. Still, the display of affection made her wish again that she could show the young woman how she felt . . . that they could share such intimate contact with such ease.

Kaleah nudged Jessica under the table to get her attention, and leaned closer when green eyes turned towards her. "I think you were right this morning when you said there was something not right about this whole treaty talk," she whispered when Jessica turned to listen to her. She blinked her eyes in Sir William’s direction. "He doesn’t look like a man come to ask for an end to conflict."

Jessica nodded. She too had been watching the lord knight closely while holding idle conversation with her betrothed. She was pleased Kaleah had been paying attention as well. "His body language is defiant . . . cocky, even," she agreed. "It’s like this whole thing means nothing to him."

"But like you said, if it means nothing then why the big show? Why come all the way out here if he doesn’t care about the treaty talks?"

Jessica chewed a mouthful of potato thoughtfully. "I don’t know," she admitted after a moment. "But look at the way he’s looking around."

"He looks . . . confidant." Kaleah’s eyes darkened. "He looks the same way I must have looked that first time we met and fought in the woods," she whispered. "Like he’s already won the fight before it’s even started."

Jessica frowned. She had to admit, Sir William did indeed have the same expression on his face as Kaleah had when they’d first met. The thought was not a pleasant one. "But there is no fight," she insisted. "He hasn’t the men to attack my father’s lands . . . and certainly not enough to lay siege to the castle." She watched as Sir William glanced at her, a cold smile on his face. The look in his eyes sent shivers down her spine. "What could he be planning?"

Kaleah shrugged. "I don’t know, but watch his men, too." She inclined her head towards the other guests. "Look at the way they’re smiling."

The young blonde did so, and her concern deepened. "They’re treating this as a joke," she observed. "If they were serious about this treaty, they’d all be stiff and at attention . . . but they look quite relaxed."

"Mmmhmm. Just polite enough to keep the game alive," Kaleah noted, touching her lips with her napkin and swallowing a sip of water. "If this were a game of chess . . . I’d be getting pretty damned worried right about now." She raised a dark, highlighted eyebrow at her friend. "Should you say something to your father?"

Jessica considered, glancing at Sir Richard. "No," she said, seeing the stern, disciplined expression on his face. "He already knows something’s wrong. And besides, Grace is watching everything, too." She gestured subtly behind them to the advisor who stood in the shadows, easily overlooked. "He may be a bit of a ghoul, but he has a lot of experience at this sort of thing."

"So we just sit back and do nothing?" Kaleah didn’t like the idea of just letting everything go when she knew there was something wrong. She caught the playful look in Jessica’s green eyes and the roguish smile that was quickly banished. She managed to muffle a slight chuckle behind her hand. "I guess not, huh?"

Jessica waggled her eyebrows. "You should know me better than that by now, my friend," she said softly, her smile quickly returning to what one would expect of an innocent and well-bred young maiden.

Kaleah smirked. "So what do we do then?"

Jessica just gave her a mysterious, playful look and turned back to her meal. "First thing . . . we finish our dinner like the perfect young lady’s we are." She gave her companion a crooked smile as she took a dainty bite of carrot and chewed happily. "Then . . . I think I’d like to hear exactly what our arrogant visitor has to say for himself."

Kaleah’s brow furrowed in confusion. "I thought you said you weren’t allowed to be a part of the treaty discussion, Jess."

The young blonde gave her a quick wink. "Like you said when you carted me off to the village, Kaleah . . . my father doesn’t need to know about everything we do. Does he?"

Kaleah could only shake her head and hope her young friend wasn’t going to get them into trouble.

"Now remember," Jessica told her companion again in a low voice, "we have to be very quiet or they’ll hear us."

Kaleah sighed and promised dutifully to remain silent . . . for the tenth time.

The dinner had ended an hour ago, quite pleasantly but with a tension coiling below the surface that spoke of something nasty brewing. Returning to their rooms, the two women had changed quickly out of their formal dresses into more comfortable clothes. Then, joining Jessica in her friend’s room, Kaleah had watched her open the hidden fireplace entrance and lead the way into the darkness beyond.

A long, very winding journey through the concealed passageways had brought them here . . . wherever here was. Kaleah had never really had too good a sense of direction, and without the presence of her young friend would have been completely lost. Jessica had doused the torch and left it behind a while ago, and they were going mostly by touch alone.

"How can you tell where we are?" she had asked at one point.

"I’ve explored every inch of these catacombs," Jessica had replied softly. "Once you get used to them, they’re not that confusing really."

"Have you ever gotten lost down here?"

She had heard the grin in her companion’s voice even though she couldn’t see it. "A few times, sure. I remember once it took me more than a day to find my way out. And it’s not really ‘down’ here, Kaleah. More than half the passages are above ground, just like the rest of the castle."

Kaleah had scowled. These passageways were dark and confusing, they smelled of earth and dust and gave the impression of being deep underground. That’s all she needed to feel justified referring to them as being ‘down’ here.

A few moments latter, Kaleah — who had been walking with one hand on her companion’s back so she didn’t bump into anything — realized the tunnels were getting a little lighter. She found she could make out the details of her companions face and figure. Jessica moved forward more confidently, putting a finger to her lips to remind Kaleah that silence was called for. The former slave rolled her eyes and joined the younger woman at the source of the faint light.

It was a metal grill set into the side of the tunnel. Peering through, Kaleah saw what looked confusingly like a narrow, vertical tunnel leading straight up. It was only when her nostrils detected the strong scent of coal-dust and ashes that she realized she was looking at the inside of a chimney. To her surprise, she could also hear voices coming from below, the sound echoing strangely in the stony darkness.

Jessica leant very close and breathed in her ear, "The chimney leads to the fireplace in my father’s formal chambers. That’s where they’ll be having the discussions. We can hear what they say, but if we talk too loud, they’ll hear us, too. Just listen."

Kaleah felt her knees go weak from Jessica’s nearness, and she filed away the sensation of warm breath trickling through her hair for later enjoyment. The two were sitting very close together in the cramped passage, and Kaleah had to take a moment to focus her attention away from the distracting smell of Jessica’s perfume in order to make sense of the dim words being filtered to them via the fireplace.

She could recognize the voices of Jessica’s father, Sir William, Charles and Eric Grace, but there were a few she couldn’t place. She decided they must belong to Sir William’s advisors. Breathing quietly, the two young women crouched together with ears pricked as they listened to the conversation taking place.

Kaleah frowned as she took everything in. From what she heard, it seemed the roving bands of raiders and bandits that Jessica said had been preying off the peasants and merchants in Sir Richard’s lands had been causing even more trouble to Sir William. The neighboring lord claimed his men were hard pressed to deal with the situation, and thus he was asking for aid from his old rival. In exchange for Sir Richard’s assistance, Sir William was offering to sign a formal treaty that would prevent him from launching any kind of hostile attacks against his neighbor for an undecided length of time. Kaleah knew from Jessica that if the treaty were broken, the King himself would ensure that justice was carried out. Therefore, the former slave understood that such an agreement could be of great benefit to her friend’s father.

On the surface, the proposal seemed simple enough; rational, reasonable and not too hard to swallow. But there was something about the way Lancaster and his men were talking that made Kaleah choke on what was being offered. And by the look on Jessica’s face, she could tell her young companion felt the same way.

They listened for a few more minutes as the men continued to discuss the matter, learning that Sir William intended to leave early in the morning. He claimed he could not be gone long from his lands, but promised he would send a messenger to finalize the arrangements if everything was alright by Sir Richard. When they had heard as much as they needed to hear, Jessica signaled to Kaleah and led them away from the grill.

They walked for a few minutes in silence, Kaleah taking Jessica’s hand as the light faded and they were plunged back into the inky darkness. Before long, the young blonde found the torch she had left behind and lit it again, filling the passageway with flickering, dancing light.

"What did you think?" she asked her tall, rapidly blinking companion.

Kaleah shook her head as she adjusted from the darkness. "It sounded good," she admitted, "but like everything else, something about the whole thing doesn’t sit right."

Jessica nodded in agreement. "The bandits would have to be hitting pretty hard for Sir William to make such an offer." They started walking back towards the more familiar passages they had explored last time they’d been down here. "But if it’s all a big ruse . . . what’s he really after?"

"An attack?" Kaleah guessed.

"It’d be suicide, like I said," Jessica disagreed. "He hasn’t the men for a frontal assault." Her sharp, military mind worked quickly through the possibilities, but there wasn’t anything she could think of that fit the scenario.

"Perhaps he’s trying for something more subtle," Kaleah suggested. "Maybe he came here to see if he could find any weaknesses."

"An attack from within?" Jessica started to run her fingers through her hair absently, only to realize it was still braided into the intricate coif. She cursed mildly, hearing her companion chuckle at her strong words. She growled playfully, then considered the suggestion. "It’s possible," she admitted, "but what weakness is there to take advantage of? Da’Gran is strong . . . the men are loyal . . ." She remembered her conversation with her father from a few days ago and frowned. "If Lancaster wants to take the castle, he’ll find it difficult to say the least."

"Still," Kaleah mused, "this could all be simply a scouting mission."

"Reconnaissance?" Jessica shrugged and sighed. "It’s the best idea we’ve got so far."

"What’s rec . . . recon . . ."

"Reconnaissance?" Kaleah mustn’t have heard the word before. "It means to go ahead to look around in new territory . . . like what you said. Scout the place for weaknesses and strengths. Stuff like that."

"Oh." Kaleah filed the word away in her mind, repeating it to memorize it thoroughly so she wouldn’t forget. "Will your father agree with his proposal?"

"I don’t know," Jessica said. They finally reached the hidden door that led to her bedroom, and she opened it and slipped through into the light beyond. Kaleah followed before she carefully sealed it behind them. "He’ll probably stall until he knows for sure that Sir William is sincere . . . but after that, I can’t be sure. Such an agreement would be of too great a benefit to ignore, no matter how suspicious my father may be."

"I guess this is one of those things where we just have to wait and see, huh?"

"Yeah." Jessica watched with a smile as Kaleah flopped happily onto her bed. "Comfortable?"

Kaleah flashed her one of her playful grins that took in her whole face and nodded. The dark coal-dust around her eyes made them appear luminescent. "Very."

"Humph. You know you have your own bed, right?"

"I know. But yours is right here . . . and it’s sooo soft." She wriggled back onto the bed more fully. She nodded towards the fireplace and the catacombs beyond. "Are there many places like that one in the passages?"

"Like what?"

"You know? Places where you can spy on what everyone’s doing?" Kaleah waggled her eyebrows. "Anyone ever tell you it’s not nice to eavesdrop?"

Jessica couldn’t help but blush, thinking of her more recent secret activities at the peep-hole. "Um . . . I know that. But no-one gets hurt. There are lots of places like that in the castle. I only use them to watch the servants and soldiers."

"I see." Kaleah flashed her a wicked grin, her eyes sparkling. "I guess that explains how you know what everyone in the castle’s doing all the time, huh?"

Jess nodded, quickly trying to settle her blood. "I used to have a lot of time on my hands," she explained. "Since my mother wouldn’t let me be friends with any of the servants, watching the people in secret was the best way I had to keep myself busy." She shrugged. "Even if they didn’t know I was there . . . it still made me feel less lonely."

Kaleah’s smile faltered as she heard the sadness in her friend’s voice. It was so easy to forget that Jessica had been so alone before she had come along. "Well," she said after a moment, "I’m here now. You’re not lonely anymore, are you?"

Jess shook her head. "That’s why I haven’t been spying on anyone lately. There’s been no need."

Kaleah’s smile returned. "Maybe we can go people-watching some time together, huh?"

"Sure, if you like." Best to stay faaar away from the bathing chamber, though, her mind put in. She doesn’t need to know about that. The young blonde tried to run her fingers through her hair again, but scowled when she remembered she couldn’t. "Could I get you to take my hair out for me?" Jessica indicated her braids.

"Only if you’ll do mine."

"Sure." The young blonde sat on the bed while her companion got behind her and, with slow, gentle fingers, began to undo the tight braids. Closing her eyes, Jessica let herself concentrate wholly on the magical hands that worked with infinite tenderness on her hair. Even though they weren’t physically touching, she could feel the heat radiating from the former slave’s body . . . could sense every motion behind her.

"You did really well at the dinner tonight," she said, thinking if she didn’t occupy her mouth with talking she’d start whimpering in pleasure at the simple contact.

"Thanks." She could hear the smile on Kaleah’s face. "I think you might be right about what you said. You know . . . about me having that inner power? The people seemed pretty impressed by us."

"Mmmm. Well, I’m sure the clothes helped."

"Yeah . . ." There was something like surprise in Kaleah’s voice. "I felt . . . kinda good tonight."

"You looked kinda good tonight." Jess grinned, knowing she’d be replaying the image of her friend in the form-fitting blue dress and exotic make-up later that night.

"I guess I did." Kaleah’s deft fingers worked for many moments in silence. "I, uh . . . I noticed some of the men watching me," she said softly, running her fingers through her friend’s thick hair that was almost all loose.

Jessica turned and waggled her eyebrows. "I’m not surprised." She was pleased with the flush that rose in Kaleah’s bronzed skin.

The dark woman giggled shyly and turned to let Jessica start on her hair. "I was."

"Really? I wouldn’t have thought it’d be something new for you." The young woman eagerly started to sort through the midnight braids, carefully working to remove the colored string from the silken hair.

"It’s not. I mean . . . I’m used to men looking at me, just . . . not like that."

"Like what?"

Kaleah was quiet for a moment thinking. "Like . . . I was beautiful, not just desirable," she said softly. "The people at the dinner looked at me like I was . . . something they could admire, but never touch. Something with a beauty that wasn’t necessarily sexual." She fiddled with a lock of hair that Jessica had unraveled, feeling her friend pause in her efforts. "I’m . . . not really used to that."

"Oh." Jessica was still another moment, then let her hands continue their enjoyable task. "Does it bother you when people think of you sexually? I mean, you didn’t seem too upset when it was the barmaid in the village." She couldn’t help but grin. "I’m pretty sure she thought you looked fully touchable."

Kaleah grinned as well, wondering what prompted the question. She thought she had a fair idea, but was still fearful of what might happen if she was reading the signals all wrong. "I don’t care usually," she said, not wanting to discourage her friend if she wanted to have such thoughts. "It was just . . . different for me."

"Well, I for one thought you looked magnificent tonight," Jess said. She ran her fingers through the last tangles and giggled at the effect the braids had had on Kaleah’s hair.

Curious blue eyes turned to look at her and she laughed harder. A slight smile touched Kaleah’s lips. "What’s so funny?"

Jessica struggled and managed to get her mirth under control. "I-It’s just your hair," she chuckled. "It’s all frizzy." She covered her mouth as Kaleah went to look in the mirror, laughing herself when she saw her reflection.

"I look like I haven’t brushed it in weeks."

"Well . . ." Jessica took a lock of her own hair and studied it. "Mine’s not much better."

"Yeah, but your hair looks messy all the time," Kaleah teased. "I can hardly tell the difference."

"Hey!" Jessica grabbed a pillow and threw it at her friend hard. "Be nice."

Kaleah threw the pillow back and returned to the bed. She was amazed at how comfortable she felt in her friend’s bedroom now. The place was cozy and relaxed, and she probably spent more time in here than she did in her own room. Sighing, Kaleah glanced outside at the darkness that had spread across the land.

"I should probably get some rest," she observed regretfully. It was getting harder every day to leave Jessica’s company.

"I guess so." Jessica looked almost as disappointed as she did. "It’s been a busy day."

"Yeah." Kaleah lay for a minute in silence, delaying her departure. "Sir William said he’d be leaving in the morning, right?"

"Uh huh."

"You feel up to a little training once he’s gone? We haven’t done a lot the last few days."

"I don’t know . . ." Jessica regarded the bruises that were now showing through the fading make-up on Kaleah’s face. "Are you sure you’re alright for that."

Kaleah waved her away. "I’m fine," she said somewhat testily. She liked it that Jessica cared, but was quickly learning she could only enjoy being fussed over for short periods at a time. "My arm still aches a bit, but everything else is okay. I could really use a little exercise . . . help my muscles to stretch out a bit."

Jessica held the dark woman’s gaze for a long moment, then nodded. "Okay then, I guess we can do some sparring tomorrow." Kaleah did seem to have recovered from the beating very well, and it had been a while since they’d practiced. She really enjoyed their sessions together . . . it would be nice to get back into that.

Kaleah got up, stretching to relieve a kink in her neck. "Great." She groaned as an audible crick sounded. "I’ll, uh, see you tomorrow then."

"Fine."

Once the dark woman was gone, Jessica fell back on the bed and gave a sound that was half-groan, half-sigh, and wholly frustrated. Every minute spent in Kaleah’s presence made the ache in her body grow stronger. And every minute spent alone made her heart yearn to share this secret attraction and satisfy these rampant desires.

"I don’t know if I can survive much more of this," she muttered to herself as her memory started sifting through captured images of the stunning woman.

I wouldn’t worry too much, her mind chimed in. Something’s bound to snap sooner or later. Either this ‘Right Moment’ thingy you’re still pining for will come along . . . or else your desire will just drive you crazy.

"That’s not very reassuring," the young blonde muttered, rolling over onto her stomach and feeling the tension build between her legs. She frowned and shifted position again, trying to find one that didn’t remind her how sensitive everything was right now. "Of course I am sitting here in an empty room talking to myself," she mused. A blonde brow raised in self-question. "Do you think Kaleah would find insanity attractive?"

Bah! her mind scoffed at her. Right now, I’m the only person around giving you any decent advice at all.

"And what, pray tell, is your advice?"

Her mind was silent.

Okaay, it admitted after a long moment. So I don't have a whole lot to offer right now. Ask me again tomorrow and maybe I’ll have something.

Jessica grinned. "You’re not so damn smart afterall, huh?"

No, you’re not, her mind agreed with a smug grin.

She frowned. "Humph."

Hey . . . give yourself a chance. Her mind apparently decided a little pep talk was in order. This isn’t easy like planning a war or commanding an army. This is love. You really don’t want to screw up this chance. Kaleah and you are meant to be together, remember?

She nodded.

She’s giving you some signals that could very well be signals of interest, right?

She nodded again.

Well then . . . just take everything a day at a time.

Jessica considered this and smiled. "Not too bad. If your advice could get rid of this damn throbbing down below, it’d actually make this whole situation interesting, not just frustrating."

Patience, her mind admonished. I’ve got a good feeling about tomorrow . . . trust me.

Deciding to do just that, Jessica quickly threw her clothes off and scrambled under the covers, letting the initial chill of the mattress bring her temperature down a few notches. Still, with her imagination painting vivid pictures of erotic scenarios and fantasies, fueled further by the recent memories of Kaleah as she bathed and stretched, it was several hours before exhaustion finally carried her into a world of soft, wonderful dreams. And even then, she moaned in her sleep as the dark woman followed her, and promptly proceeded to fulfill her every desire.

The night was tauntingly enjoyable . . . even if it wasn’t particularly restful.

While the rest of the castle slept, a heavily cloaked figure crept silently through the darkened hallways, keeping to the shadows and avoiding the guards who were especially vigilant tonight due to Sir William’s presence. The figure made it’s way patiently through the castle, eventually reaching the rooms used by visiting dignitaries. Glancing about a final time, the figure knocked softly on the heavy oak in a rapid, complex pattern. A moment later, the door opened a crack and a suspicious eye glared out.

"Yes?"

The cloaked figure bowed respectfully. "I believe Sir William is expecting me."

The eye looked the figure up and down, then, reluctantly, the door opened wider and allowed entry.

Stepping past the guard into the chamber, the figure looked around and found Sir William sitting at a beautifully carved cedar table, apparently waiting. The burly lord knight glowered at the newcomer angrily.

"You’re late."

"Forgive me, my lord, but I had to take extra precautions. Sir Richard has doubled the watch and the guards are nervous. I came as fast as I could."

Sir William just scowled darkly and gestured impatiently for the figure to be seated. "I trust all is in readiness for the attack?"

"Of course, my lord." A slender hand reached into a hidden pocket and drew forth a slender vial filled with clear liquid. Holding it up to the light, hidden eyes flashed proudly. "When the time is right, Da’Gran will be struck down and the castle will be yours." A pause. "I risk much with my treachery."

Lancaster’s eyes gleamed. "You will gain much when victory is achieved." He folded his arms across his stout chest and glared at his guest. "What of the barbarian woman sitting with Jessica tonight? The one named Kaleah?"

The figure secreted the vial away again and shrugged. "She’s just some bandit the girl captured a month or so ago; a talented fighter from what I’ve seen, but hardly a threat to your plans. She and Jessica have been thick as thieves lately."

Lancaster’s lip curled into a snarl. "That girl could be a problem," he said angrily. "She should be dealt with before she can make trouble."

"That could be difficult," the figure argued hesitantly. "Jessica’s a very private person, my lord, and she’s rarely alone since the foreigner moved in. It wouldn’t be easy to take her out of the picture."

"No, perhaps not," Lancaster admitted. "But if an opportunity should arise-"

"It shall be taken advantage of, my lord," the figure assured.

"Good." Lancaster smiled contentedly, seeing everything falling perfectly into place. "The advance troops are already in place. Another week and they’ll be ready to strike."

"Da’Gran’s men are skilled," the figure pointed out. "If something goes wrong, they could cause much damage-"

"Nothing will go wrong," Lancaster snapped. "My commander is more than capable of keeping an army of raiders in line. And by the time any of these fools realise what’s going on, it’ll be too late for them to rally a defense." He grinned, narrow eyes exultant. "The army will attack from without, while you take away their hope and strength from within. In another month, I shall be lord of this castle, and Sir Richard and his bitch daughter will be rotting in their own dungeons."

The cloaked figure smiled, confidant his services would be well rewarded so long as he pleased his new lord. The balance of power was about to shift.

Chapter 16.

Sweating profusely, Kaleah watched the trajectory of her friend’s slender rapier as it swept diagonally towards her throat. When she was sure the bold move wasn’t just a feint to hide something more subtle, the former slave performed a lightening fast spin which brought her own blade up to block the descending steel an inch from her skin. With a competitive grin, she braced herself and reversed her body’s direction, launching a measured series of sweeping cuts so suddenly that Jessica was forced to hop back desperately to avoid the attack.

Breathing hard but smiling, Jessica held up her hand before Kaleah could advance.

"Enough," she gasped, holding a slight stitch that was tightening her stomach. "I need a break."

Kaleah grinned and threw herself into a dazzlingly fast sequence of twists and turns, her slender Spanish blade cutting about her body like a cage of steel before she ended the flashy maneuver and sheathed her weapon. Sapphire eyes glinted in the late afternoon sun, sparkling with vigorous joy. "Wore ya out, huh?"

Jess laughed, seeing Charles and Damon standing nearby watching their sword-play with much appreciation. "I think you’re just showing off."

Kaleah gave a devastatingly innocent look and pointed to her chest. "Me? Never."

Sheathing her own sword, Jessica laughed again and, taking a deep breath to steady her racing heart, she joined the dark woman as she headed over to their audience.

Charles beamed at the tall, dark haired woman as she approached, clapping his hands. "You’re amazing," he applauded. "I’ve seen few warriors move so fast."

"Thanks." Kaleah ran fingers through her damp hair, patting down a few errant strands. Her face was a little flushed from their energetic sparring, but the warm ache that spread through her muscles was very welcome. "Jessica makes a great teacher."

The young blonde slapped her on the back and grinned. "I didn’t teach you that last move," she said.

Kaleah shrugged. "It was pretty good, huh?"

Jessica nodded. The former slave’s skill with a blade was growing at a phenomenal rate. Their sparring was still playful and fun, but with so much freedom to explore new ideas, Kaleah was developing an incredibly fluid, sweeping style that made Jessica dizzy to watch. These new moves and attack patterns were devastatingly effective in battle. If the unpredictable woman could manage to control her temper, Jessica knew she would quickly become an even more spectacular warrior than she already was.

Charles sat down on a bench and the two women joined him. Damon remained standing to the side, but he smiled warmly at Kaleah. "You fight well," he said, his voice surprisingly soft and gentle for such a gigantic man. "I’m most impressed."

Kaleah thanked him and returned the smile. She’d been a little suspicious of Damon since the first time she’d seen him, but now realized her reaction was unfounded. Even without his plate armor and helm, the body-guard was massive. Kaleah was easily six feet tall, but he topped her by head and shoulders. His shoulders were broad and his chest bulged with muscles. But despite his imposing stature, Damon was actually very kind and rather shy. After she’d gotten over her initial apprehensiveness, Kaleah found the contrast rather charming.

Kaleah and Jessica had spent the early morning in the lookout parapet, watching as Sir William and his entourage packed up and left. Neither were sorry to see the lord knight and his men disappear down the road. The day was cloudy early on, but they had warmed up with a few hours of light practice in the courtyard, before Charles wandered over and asked if they’d like to join him and Damon for a ride out into the woods. They both happily agreed, and the four companions enjoyed a picnic lunch out by a nearby river watching the last of Winter’s ice succumb to Spring thaw.

Returning to the castle, Kaleah found her energy still burning high and challenged Jessica to another session of sparring. The young blonde agreed, although her muscles were still sore from their earlier play. She figured privately that if she moaned about it enough, Kaleah might feel guilty and give her another back-rub.

The fighting had been vigorous and fast-paced, though still playful and inventive. Jessica found herself hard-pressed to match the sudden energy of her friend. Still, she couldn’t deny Kaleah’s insistence that she had recovered from the beating . . . if she recovered any more, Jess thought, it might be dangerous.

Laughing with her friends now, stealing glances at Kaleah every now and then, Jessica thought she had never been so happy in all her life. Certainly, she’d never had this many people around to talk too. Before Kaleah had arrived, she had been isolated and lonely most of the time, with only the soldiers and Sir Miles to keep her company. Watching the beautiful woman who had made her life so much more interesting, Jessica felt almost giddy with joy.

Pleasantly relaxed after the energetic day, her usual edgy temper mellowed by so much exercise, Kaleah breathed deeply and closed her eyes. She could smell the changes in the weather coming. Spring had wrested control of the land from winter’s icy grasp, and the renewed sense of life and energy was infectious. Breathing again, she detected something not quite so pleasant in the air, and took a sniff of her armor. Her companions laughed at her expression of distaste.

"I think I need to wash up," she admitted with a grin.

"You and me both," Jess agreed, scraping a crust of mud off her leather trousers with a finger.

"You wanna use the bathing room first, or should I?"

"You can," the young woman hastily allowed. "I, uh . . . I don’t mind waiting."

"You sure?"

She nodded vigorously. "Absolutely sure. You go ahead. I’ll be, uh, in my room when you’re done."

Kaleah shrugged her shoulders. "I won’t argue with that." Standing up, she bowed to Charles and Damon. "Gentlemen," she said, trying to imitate Jessica’s cultured tones, "I have enjoyed your company very much. Thank you for a wonderful day." They all chuckled at the strange effect her accent had on the imitation, but bid farewell before she winked at Jessica and departed for the main keep.

Charles didn’t miss the flush that darkened Jessica’s face at the saucy glint in Kaleah’s eye, nor the way her eyes fixed on the dark woman’s swaggering hips as she left. He gently cuffed her on the arm.

"Hey!?" She glared at him.

He just grinned. "You’ve got quite the wandering eye on you, Jess," he chuckled. "If you’re not careful, she’s gonna catch you staring one day."

Jessica’s flush deepened, and she cast Damon and nervous look. "Shutup," she hissed.

Charles glanced at his enormous body-guard and laughed. "Don’t worry about Damon. He’s not blind . . . he can see how much you care for Kaleah."

Damon grinned and shrugged when her eyes widened and pinned him anxiously. "Sorry, Jess," he apologized bashfully. "It’s pretty obvious. But don’t worry, I’d never tell anyone."

Jessica calmed herself and growled, "You better not," before she suddenly realized she had somewhere to be. "Oh, damn!" She slapped her forehead. "I just remembered something I, um. I have to do," she said, standing up.

"Oh? What?"

Spy on my friend while she bathes.

Jessica ignored her mind, and stammered, "I-I was, um, planning to clean up in my room . . . and I have to uh, get a few things Kaleah wanted from . . . somewhere." She waved her hand in a vague direction, seeing raised eyebrows and confused smiles on her friend’s faces.

Oh, that’s reeeaal casual, her mind ridiculed.

"I’ll, uh . . . see you tomorrow, okay?"

Charles nodded. "Sure. Good luck with your room."

"Yeah. Th-thanks." She turned and quickly followed Kaleah back into the castle proper.

Charles and Damon exchanged amused looks. The young nobleman shrugged and stroked his goatee. "Wonder what that’s about."

Neither noticed the other eyes that watched the departure of both women with interest from the castle wall. The watcher smiled cruelly and nodded to himself. This was an opportunity too good to miss out on . . . and he hurried away to find his companions.

The barbarian bitch had had her chance. It was time to increase the pressure.

Taking a short cut via the passages, Jessica managed to arrive at her destination a few moments before Kaleah reached hers. Settling down in front of the peep-hole, she watched eagerly as the dark woman slipped into the warm, sultry mist of the bathing chamber. The spying had become a ritual over the last few weeks, but Jessica knew no matter how many times she watched her friend as she bathed, she would never tire of the sight.

Licking dry lips in anticipation, Jessica smiled wickedly as Kaleah unbuckled her armor and carefully laid it out on a rock along with her beautiful sword. Hungry eyes skipped up and down the lithe, toned body of her friend as it was revealed. She delighted in the way the light refracted through the stained-glass ceiling to play across the bronzed, smooth skin, throwing shadows across the hollows of her ribs and the dip of her hips. The few bruises that still marred Kaleah’s body were barely noticeable anymore. The tall woman had healed amazingly fast.

After retrieving a wash-cloth from the adjoining room, Kaleah entered the water slowly. Jessica watched as her eyes closed and her mouth opened, and not for the first time she wished the walls didn’t prevent her from listening to her friend. She wanted to hear the obviously contented moan Kaleah released as she strode deeper into the pool.

The young blonde stared as she watched Kaleah begin to scrub herself clean. Her green eyes fought not to blink as she tried desperately to commit every inch of perfect flesh to memory, just as she always did. Her hands clenched into fists, itching to touch the object of her desire and affection. Her body, innocent to the ways of true passion, thrummed with the strength of fully awakened desire. Wetness bloomed between her legs and she blushed unconsciously, her nose detecting the scent of her arousal even over the smell of sweat and mud. She knew from experience it was best to let Kaleah use the bath chamber first; it gave her a chance to wash away the musky scent afterwards.

Much to Jessica’s delight, Kaleah took her time bathing. As she usually did, the dark woman lay for a period on the central island, her wet hair clinging to her body like ink, flowing over her shoulders and across her breasts in liquid waves. The rippling muscles of Kaleah’s body had the most amazing way of remaining tense even when she was relaxing, and Jessica wished so very much she could trace their delicious curves with her hands and fingers. The young blonde’s breath became shallow as her imagination replayed one of her current favorite fantasies, aided by the vision of her friend’s naked, wet body lying so close before her . . . yet so far away.

After another quick dip in the pool and a final scrub, Kaleah apparently decided she was clean and left the water. This was one of Jessica’s favorite parts; she loved the way the steam rose from the dark woman’s body . . . the way the water dripped from her soaking hair down over the ridges and valley’s of her hard muscles, finally descending past her hips and her oh-so-long legs to the stone floor. With her shimmering bronze skin and firm body, Kaleah looked to her admirer like some dark Goddess risen from the water . . . ready to ignite the world with passion’s flame.

The young woman was so engrossed in her voyeurism that she didn’t notice the three men as they slipped into the chamber just as Kaleah began toweling herself dry. It took several moments for Jessica to acknowledge their intrusion, and a few more before she realized what their grim presence portended.

The three men were all clothed alike in concealing black cloaks, their features hidden by cloth strips wrapped around their heads. Each had a sword carried in a scabbard at his side, but they carried stout wooden clubs in preference to the deadlier weapons. It took Jessica’s lust-fogged mind a second to realize these must be the three who had beaten her friend the night Charles arrived. As this thought struck, her green eyes flared with terrible fires and her mind clouded with rage.

Kaleah hadn’t noticed the men yet as they spread out to flank her and prevent escape. One man — the leader, probably — moved stealthily forward and retrieved the unsuspecting woman’s sword from where it rested. Kaleah was defenseless.

Jessica’s mind quickly processed the situation. Tearing herself away from the spy-hole, she ran as fast as was safe through the narrow corridor, thinking quickly to figure out the swiftest route to the bathing chamber. All she could think of was that Kaleah was in danger . . . and she had to protect her. Stalking through the secret passages, Jessica let the fire grow inside her, all lustful thoughts overridden by the need to save her friend.

Kaleah’s attackers had made a mistake by targeting her friend — she intended to make certain they paid dearly for it.

Kaleah didn’t realize she had company until she heard someone clearing their throat right behind her.

Whirling about, her hand dropping the towel and reaching for her sword in reflex, Kaleah found herself confronted by three cloaked and masked men. At the same instant she realized she didn’t have her sword, she noticed one of the men holding the precious weapon, inspecting it casually. That thought was quickly followed by the knowledge that she was in trouble. Naked, defenseless and facing three men who had threatened to do worse than beat her.

Yeah, she thought, swallowing hard and trying not to give in to a rising fear. Big trouble.

The man holding her sword looked up at her, his head tilted in contemplation. "We told you ta leave Da’Gran," he said calmly. Shaking his head, he tossed the weapon carelessly behind him. "Ye should’ve taken our advice."

Kaleah backed away, her eyes darting frantically between the three slowly approaching men, searching for the weakest link and not finding much. "I have every right to be here," she said harshly. Her muscles coiled when she noticed the clubs they carried. It crossed her mind to yell for help, but she knew the castle walls were too thick for sound to penetrate far. Besides, she cursed, few people ever ventured into Jessica’s part of the castle.

The largest man shook his head. "Not everyone wants you here, bitch. In fact, some are quite insistent that ye go back where ye came from."

Kaleah decided it was time to stand her ground. Assuming a fighting stance, she raised her hands and glared at the intruders, unashamed of her nakedness. The men looked at her for a moment, then laughed.

"Even without a sword, I can still do damage," she scowled. She’d been training all day, however, and the energy that had sparked during her sparring with Jessica was mostly gone. Her body was tired . . . and from the amused look in the men’s eyes, they knew it.

"Make it easy on yerself, girl," one of the men advised. "Ye shoulda left after last time, but nooo . . . ye had to stay."

"This is my home now," she argued. "I’m not leaving it and I’m not leaving Jessica."

"Oh, you’ll leave, alright," the third man said. "Jessica don’t be needin’ the likes a you around ‘er. But since ye wouldn’t listen to a beatin’ . . ."

". . . Maybe ye’ll listen to something a little more . . . personal," the apparent leader finished, his cruel eyes raking her body lecherously.

Rape.

The word flashed through Kaleah’s mind, and her knees went weak. They’re going to rape you, her brain informed her. She suddenly felt her body begin to shut itself down on instinct, preparing itself to deal with what was certain to follow. She fought against the numbness that swept through her limbs, willing herself to fight. It was hard, though. For so many years, she had trained herself to close everything down in order to cope with repeated abuse. It was almost second nature to her.

No! she screamed at herself, shaking her head to clear the fog. You’ll fight, damn it! You’re not a slave anymore, you’re a human being! If they want to do this, they’ll have to fight you for it! You’re not just going to lie there and take it! Fight them!

The men started forward, closing the circle on her. Muscles still aching from overuse tensed, ready to strike, when suddenly a calm, low voice cut through the mist like an arrow.

"I’d think twice before taking another step, boys."

The three surprised men turned to face the speaker, clubs raised . . . and were confronted by a small blonde-haired girl with flashing green eyes holding Kaleah’s very sharp sword.

"Jessica?!" the leader of the men gasped, his voice strangled.

Kaleah’s brain struggled to acknowledge the sudden appearance of her friend, but her body was still functioning enough to catch the sword that Jessica tossed to her. Instantly, the former slave moved with smooth skill into a defensive stance, the blade in her hand restoring a sense of security. Kaleah watched as Jessica drew her own weapon and smiled very coldly at the three stunned men who were now backing away from the new threat.

They may not have taken Kaleah seriously . . . but it was clear they understood the danger of Jessica’s presence all too well.

Jessica regarded the three men with eyes of emerald fire. Rage poured through her body, but unlike Kaleah — who tended to fall into quick violence when enraged - the anger only served to center Jessica’s mind and hone her reflexes to a finer point. She had arrived just in time to hear the last part of conversation. These men had been about to rape her friend. That knowledge made her knees weak with blinding fury.

Taking a deep breath through her nose, the young woman tried to calm the unbelievable tempest of emotions that swept through her blood. She wanted to unleash her wrath upon these men; she wanted to kill. But the stronger, more rational part her mind knew this was not the time to loose control. She needed to deal with this sensibly, and remember she had a responsibility to her father and his title, not just to her friend.

She suddenly noticed Kaleah shift, and saw the dark, animal passion take charge of the former slave. Sudden ugliness twisted the woman’s features in a terrifying, primal way; the look in her steel-blue eyes spelled death to the men whose focus was split between the two women. Kaleah was about to attack.

Just as the dark woman slipped forward, Jessica managed to catch her eye. A dark brow lifted, and Jessica shook her head subtly. Blue eyes still raw with anger glared at her, and for a moment the young blonde thought her friend would strike anyway. But with a visible effort, Kaleah relaxed and stepped back, her eyes still turgid but trusting her friend to handle the situation.

The man in the middle looked from Jessica to the door behind her, judging his chances. Jessica smiled coldly. "You’re not going anywhere," she said, her voice calm and low.

The man raised his club. "I don’t wanna hurt you, Lady Jessica," he hissed, fear evident in his tone.

Her smile widened, showing teeth. "That’s right. You don’t." She took a step forward, pleased when the three men drew away.

"I will if I have too."

She shook her head. "I doubt you’d be that stupid." The slender blade of her rapier traced lazy figure eight’s in the air. "My father would do worse than kill you if you laid so much as a hand on me."

Even though the man was masked, Jessica could see him swallow. The two other men were obviously waiting for some kind of order, but their panic was rising. It was obvious they knew what fate awaited them if Sir Richard ever learned they had threatened his beloved daughter.

"If you surrender now," Jessica said quietly, "I might let you walk away from this with most of your body parts intact."

"Surrender?" The leader scoffed. "So you can turn us in to your daddy?"

Jess shook her head, glancing at Kaleah who was still trembling with suppressed fury, her nakedness forgotten in her anger. "I think we’d all prefer to keep this little incident from my father," she said. "His involvement would raise many nasty questions . . . like who it was that ordered you to attack my friend, for instance."

It took a moment, but a look of understanding suddenly appeared in the man’s eyes. His stance shifted, and he cocked his head thoughtfully.

Jessica knew exactly what he was thinking. This attack had obviously been instigated by Jessica’s mother, the Lady Rose. She was the only one with the power to order Da’Gran soldiers on such a cruel assignment, and she was the only one with sufficient motivation to do so. If Sir Richard discovered what his wife had done, it would mean a lot of trouble for everyone. Jessica, whose independent spirit was well known in the castle, would obviously want to deal with the situation by herself. That being the case . . . The man eyed her shrewdly.

That being the case, maybe there was a chance to escape this mess alive.

"W-we can walk away from this, Jess," he offered hopefully. "Just forget the whole thing."

She shook her head, the smile vanishing. "You beat my friend . . . and now you tried to rape her." Her tone was chilling in it’s intensity. "Be thankful I’m even offering you your stinkin’ lives."

The man glanced at her, his guard high. "What’re yer terms?"

She indicated the club the man still carried. "Drop your weapons," she ordered, "and remove the masks. I want to see who was stupid enough to dare attack Kaleah."

The man considered this, and shook his head. "Can’t do that, Lady Jessica." He eyed his companions. "I don’t fancy bein’ thrown from Da’Gran into the cruel world."

"You’ll be lucky if you can crawl your way from the castle," Jessica snarled, her eyes narrowing. "It’s not like you have much choice in this matter."

The man considered this, and shook his head again. He dropped the club, but reached instantly for his sword. Drawing the weapon, he motioned for his men to stay back, then faced off against Jessica. "Think I’ll take me chances with Sir Richard," he growled. "As long as he don’t know who hurt you . . . I figure he can’t exact much vengeance."

Jessica stepped back, giving herself plenty of room. The smile on her face was cold, and her green eyes stormy. "I think you might be surprised," she said quietly. "No hole you could find would be deep enough to hide you from my father. Beat me, and he’d hunt you down and kill you if it takes him a hundred years." She assumed an en guard stance, her blade flashing in the now-fading light. "And that’s assuming you can beat me."

The masked man shrugged, stepping closer. "I know yer reputation, Jess. ‘N I’ve seen ye fight." His simple longsword waved back and forth slightly. "Maybe it’s time we find out just how good you really are."

She grinned wickedly, relishing the opportunity to vent her anger. When the man attacked, it was with the professionalism she would expect from a true soldier of Da’Gran. Her defense was swifter than thought, however, and the counter that followed forced the man back several feet as he fought to keep the sharp tip of the rapier from tearing out his throat.

The man was desperate, and his fear leant him strength and speed; but not nearly as much as Jessica’s rage leant her. After a few second’s dizzying sword-play, Jessica saw an opening and exploited it fully. Her sword curved with graceful skill upwards and under her opponents blade, slashing across his face, the tip cutting deep into his left eye and ripping half the mask away.

A cry of furious pain escaped the man’s throat. He dropped his sword and turned away, a hand coming up to cover his face. Jess let him step back, her stance calm and waiting. She saw a few drops of blood splash onto the stone floor through the man’s fingers, and couldn’t help but feel a warm satisfaction. The young blonde didn’t like to hurt others, but her attack had been vicious, intended to maim.

"Your stupidity just cost you an eye," she observed simply. A blond eyebrow rose curiously as she studied him over her sword. "Care to try again?"

"You bitch!" The man’s ferocious snarl was almost incoherent.

She smiled coldly and eyed the two men who were watching her with awed terror. "How about you? You know there’s nothing I’d enjoy more right now than to take you guys apart piece by piece. Would you like to give me the excuse?"

The two men shook their heads desperately.

"Then drop the clubs and remove your swords."

The men did so quickly.

"Now," Jessica studied the three men, only looking away when Kaleah, standing to the side, knelt to retrieve her towel and wrap it about her lithe figure. "How about we remove the masks, hmmm?"

Darting glances at their still cursing leader, the two men reluctantly did as ordered. Jessica frowned, recognizing both as men she had lived with and fought beside for many years. When the injured man finally straightened and tore his mask away angrily, her eyes grew even more sharp.

"Captain Brian," she snarled. The man had been her father’s captain of the guard since she had been a child. "I would have expected better from a man in your trusted position." Then again, she thought, Captain Brian had been cozying up to the Lady Rose in more recent years. This certainly explained how the noble lady had been able to keep her husband in the dark.

Captain Brian glared at her with his remaining eye. Blood ran freely from the savage cut that Jessica had inflicted down the left side of his face, and his left eye was closed tightly, dripping clear fluid. Jessica knew he would never recover his sight in that eye again, but felt nothing but satisfaction at having been responsible. Afterall, this man would have raped the woman she loved.

The captain’s sword lay at his feet where he’d dropped it, but he made no move to retrieve the weapon. He studied Jessica’s quiet, calm face and his lip curled into a snarl. "I was only followin’ orders, Lady Jessica."

"Well you followed the wrong ones, didn’t you?"

He frowned. "I’ll leave the castle then."

She nodded. "Within the hour." Her voice was cool and dispassionate. "Take no weapons, and you leave on foot. And if you are still within sight of Da’Gran’s walls by the end of the hour, I will personally order you hunted down and executed. Understood?"

He nodded stiffly, then almost headed for the door before she raised the sword and stopped him.

"There’s one more thing we have to settle before I let you leave," Jessica said, little more than a whisper.

"What?"

The young girl calmly stepped over to a stained wooden bench nearby, intended for those who simply wished to enjoy the warm, tranquil atmosphere of the bathing chamber without making use of the huge pool. With elaborate motions, Jessica replaced her sword in its scabbard and drew a large, sturdy knife from her boot.

"Kindly step over here." She gestured him closer with the blade.

Cautious, Captain Brian approached.

Jessica indicated the bench. She could feel Kaleah’s eyes watching her curiously. "Put your right hand on the seat . . . fingers spread."

Captain Brian’s one good eye widened, and he drew away, clutching his right hand protectively to his chest. Jessica smiled at his reaction.

"You can’t be serious!"

Her steady green eyes held him fast. "I most certainly am."

"You can’t-"

"I can," she interrupted softly. Her gaze was merciless. "You can accept my justice, or that of my father. The choice is yours." She tapped the knife on the bench.

Captain Brian trembled, but, after a moment of very serious consideration, he stepped forward and grimly placed his right hand on the smooth wood, fingers well apart.

Jessica nodded. "A wise decision." She stepped forward, forcing her body to move calmly, feeling Kaleah’s eyes on her the whole time. With deliberate care, the young woman set the tip of the knife down between Captain Brian’s thumb and first finger. She saw him swallow, felt understanding dawn in the appraisal of her friend. Then, with sudden strength she chopped down, forcing the knife through flesh, hearing the sickening crunch as the bone gave way to the power in her arm.

Captain Brian bit his lip, but couldn’t contain the scream that burst forth from deep within. His features paled immediately as Jessica pushed the knife through the final few layers of skin, severing his thumb completely. Blood poured freely as Brian clutched his disfigured hand to his chest, glaring up at her. She returned the look without pity or reason, before turning her attention to the other men.

"Next."

With ruthless efficiency, Jessica repeated the grisly task on Brian’s trembling accomplices. The first tried desperately to plead for mercy, but she gave none.

"You attempt to rape my friend and expect charity in return?" she asked coldly. "Be thankful I don’t take your whole hand."

When the work was complete, Jessica wiped the blade of the knife clean on one of the men’s masks, then returned it to her boot. "You have one hour," she said, regarding the three soldier’s with eyes still glowing with anger. "I suggest you make good use of that time."

Captain Brian nodded, still regarding her with anger but weak from pain. As he was about to exit the chamber after his companions, he turned back and gestured to Kaleah. His hazel eyes bore into Jessica. "I only did what I was told," he said. "And I followed me orders cos I agreed with ‘em. Yer a noble lady, Jessica. Barbaric heathen like ‘er ain’t no suitable company fer you to be keepin’."

Jessica shrugged. "It’s not for you to say whose company I keep, is it ‘Captain?’"

He held her gaze another moment, then snarled and left.

Jessica stood a few moments in silence after the door closed behind the men, taking the time to settle her stomach. She tried hard not to cast her eyes towards the three bloody digits still sitting on the bench, but couldn’t help herself. Bile rose to the back of her throat, but she forced it down before turning her attention to Kaleah.

The tall woman stood, her eyes a violent mix of fear and fury, clutching the towel to her chest with a trembling hand.

"A-are you okay?"

Kaleah swallowed, some of the tension leaving her body, but not much. She shook her head, the shock of the last few minutes catching up to her suddenly as adrenaline drained away. Her body started to shake.

Jessica saw the tremors and quickly moved in to offer what comfort she could. Wrapping her arms around Kaleah’s body, she pulled her head closer and softly stroked the long, wet hair.

"It’s okay," she soothed, feeling the former slave’s body vibrate with tension. "They won’t hurt you again. I promise. It’s gonna be okay."

Kaleah let herself be comforted for several long moments while she struggled to regain control of her body and mind. The incident had brought the hideous shadows of her past to terrible life. For the first time in years, she had felt the fear of such a personal violation. Only this time was different . . . worse, somehow.

Exposure to freedom — to life — had restored so much of Kaleah’s sense of self. As a slave, rape had been nothing unusual . . . a part of day to day life. This was the first time she had been threatened with rape in years. The terror . . . the fear . . . It felt like she was experiencing all those nightmares for the very first time.

Only this time . . . with the fear had come anger.

She recognized the violence that the incident had raised within her. It’s darkness had been a part of her since she had murdered her master all those years ago. But as a slave, that darkness had been subdued by numerous beatings, suppressed until it no longer seemed to even exist. With the gift of freedom restored, Kaleah had felt it emerge once more, taking the form of the restless energy that so plagued her. The soldiers had not attacked a helpless slave. They had attacked a warrior . . . someone who would kill to defend.

And she had wanted to kill the men. She wanted to make them pay for making her feel so scared. The sword had been in her hand . . . she had only needed to step forward and use it.

She still wasn’t sure what had stopped her. All she knew was that, just as she’d been about to attack, Jessica’s simple look had stayed her hand. In that look, her friend had asked her to trust her to deal with the situation. Kaleah had agreed before she was even aware of it. That trust which had once seemed so alien was now something she gave without conscious thought.

She trusted Jessica with every fibre of her being.

After a while, Kaleah forced herself to draw away from her young friend. Meeting green eyes filled with deep concern, she offered a shaky smile, nervously clutching the towel tighter to her chest.

"Thank you," she said softly, her voice almost breaking.

Jessica smiled and rubbed her on the arm. "You’re very welcome. I’m just sorry it all happened." Emerald fire flared in her eyes, but only for a moment. "I promise it won’t happen again, though."

Kaleah nodded, then looked down at herself. "I, uh. I should probably . . . get dressed."

"Yeah. I guess. I’ll . . . wait outside if you like-"

"No." Kaleah stopped her as she was about to leave. "I . . . I’d rather you stayed." The young woman’s presence made her feel protected and safe. With the fear still running high in her blood, she didn’t want to be left alone.

Jessica didn’t ask for an explanation. She could see how shaken up the dark woman was.

"Okay," she said, giving a final reassuring pat on the shoulder. "I’ll turn around . . . give you some privacy." She did so, waiting patiently.

Kaleah moved over to her armor, laying down the sword reluctantly and pulling on her underwear and leather trousers quickly. The rest proved more difficult, however. Her fingers were still shaking, and her head felt thick and foggy. The intricate buckles were impossible to navigate.

"I . . . I could use a little help," she admitted, realizing she’d never figure it out by herself.

Smiling with gentle sympathy, Jessica turned and helped her, calmly arranging the leather straps with the skill of one long-accustomed to wearing armor.

"Thanks." Kaleah flushed, embarrassed at her weakness. "I-I don’t know why but . . . I can’t stop shaking."

"Hey . . . it’s nothing to be ashamed of." Jessica took her friend’s hands and clasped them gently in her own. The trembling instantly subsided, and the young woman smiled. "I’d be shaking, too."

Kaleah lowered her head, then gave a little nod. "Can we go back to your room now? Please?"

"Sure. Just let me get one thing first."

Kaleah watched her friend quickly collect the cloth strips the soldiers had used as masks, then use them to gather up the three severed thumbs. Wiping away the last drops of blood as best she could, Jessica pocketed the grisly bundle and gave a grim smile at Kaleah’s raised brow.

"Best to clean up after ourselves, right?"

Kaleah just nodded, and together, the two friends quickly made their way back to Jessica’s room.

As soon as she was back in the familiar environment of her friend’s bedroom, Kaleah sighed and hugged herself. The tension in her body vanished almost entirely as she breathed in the smell of leather and perfume; smells that comforted her in a way she couldn’t explain but wasn’t about to argue with. Smiling at Jessica, she sat on the bed and let the sense of safety and well-being wash away the fear.

Jessica watched her a moment, then joined her, quickly leaving the cloth bundle she carried on a reasonably clear table. Sitting on the bed, she regarded Kaleah with concern.

"Are you okay?"

Kaleah sighed again and smiled somewhat more confidently. "I am now," she whispered.

Jessica wasn’t sure, but the fear in the dark woman’s blue eyes had dissipated greatly. "I-it’s okay that you were scared," she said softly. "I was scared too. If you . . . feel like talking about it. . ?"

Kaleah nodded, her face hardening. She was silent for a long time before she spoke very softly.

"I wanted to kill them."

Jessica folded her hands in her lap and regarded them seriously. "I know. I saw the look in your eyes." She sighed. "I’m glad you didn’t, though. A big part of me wanted to kill them, too. But their deaths would have raised all sorts of nasty questions."

Kaleah accepted that, amazed at the sincerity in the young woman’s words. She knew Jessica did not like to take the life of any living creature, and recalled their conversation about how that ideal clashed with many aspects of her life.

"You surprised me back there," she admitted quietly, her eyes going to the blood-stained bundle on the table. "What you did was so . . ." she hesitated. "Ruthless."

Jess considered this, and nodded. "I still feel a little sick, to tell the truth." She ran fingers through her hair nervously, swallowing hard. "I like to fight . . . but that’s the first time I’ve ever felt that kind of . . . enjoyment from inflicting harm."

Blue eyes studied her carefully, and Kaleah saw for the first time that the ordeal had been just as terrible for Jessica as it had been for her. Perhaps in a different way, but the young blonde had been shaken badly as well. She reached out and patted her arm in gratitude. "You did what you had to do," she reasoned, but Jessica shook her head.

"I could have done it without taking his eye."

Knowing the young woman’s skill all too well, Kaleah couldn’t argue with that. "Do you regret doing it?"

Jessica thought about it, then whispered, "No. He got what he deserved. I only wish I could have done more."

"Well . . ." Kaleah gave the cloth bundle a pointed look. "You did do more." She raised an eyebrow curiously. "Why exactly did you do that? It seemed . . . calculated."

"It was." Jessica shrugged and looked away. "It’s a punishment sometimes given to enemy soldiers captured during war. I’ve seen my father order it done a few times. A soldier without his thumb can’t wield a sword. His value as a combatant is reduced, but he can still live a fruitful life. Captain Brian and his friends might learn to use their other hand to fight, or they might learn to use a different weapon . . . but they’ll never be as proficient as they were."

Kaleah listened to this and realized her friend was right. With such a disability, few men would ever find work as a fighter. "So . . . basically, you crippled them?"

Jessica met her gaze, and nodded. "Crippled and banished. With such a mark against them, those men will likely be forced to take up common labor just to survive." Her lips drew into a grim line. "I figured if I couldn’t kill them . . . I could at least take as much of their lives as possible for what they tried to do."

Her face was calm, but Kaleah could see the pain beneath the surface. She reached out and took Jessica’s hand, smiling. "I’m sorry you had to do that," she said sincerely.

Jess shrugged again and gave a lopsided smile. "Hey . . . it’s just part of the territory. I chose to be a warrior; it wasn’t forced upon me. And part of being a warrior is taking the good with the bad, just like I told you. I accept my responsibility . . . and it felt good to be able to use my skills to help protect you."

"Thanks. I . . . feel a lot safer now." She gave her armor a dirty look. "Safer, but not a whole lot cleaner for someone who just took a bath. I think I’m gonna need to clean these leathers." She rubbed at a mud stain with her fingernail. "I guess I should get changed into something more comfortable." She was growing accustomed to wearing softer clothes, she knew. The sense of protection the armor gave her didn’t seem as necessary around her blonde companion.

Jessica studied her own grimy, armored figure and grinned. "I know what you mean. And I still need a bath, too." She suppressed a flush, detecting the lingering scent of her arousal still clinging to her. She just hoped Kaleah didn’t notice it. "Would you be alright if I take a few minutes to get cleaned up?"

Kaleah felt a moment of panic. She didn’t want to be alone. But, she realized, the doors to Jess’s room were thick and could be locked securely. The bolt on the door to the bathing chamber was meant to simply indicate that it was in use; it wasn’t actually intended to seriously stop an intruder. She would be safe in here until Jessica returned . . . and it would give her a few minutes to calm her shattered nerves and regain some of her composure.

"I guess," she allowed after thinking. "But . . . don’t take too long. And be careful."

Jessica understood her concern, and nodded. "Don’t worry. Captain Brian’s not stupid enough to test his luck further. My guess is he’ll get out of Da’Gran as quickly and as quietly as he can manage it. If my father or Sir Miles sees him with that eye, they’ll ask questions. Right now, that’s the last thing those men want." She scowled, her anger at the attack still dangerously strong. "I doubt they’ll even risk reporting back to my mother."

Kaleah gave her a startled look, her eyes widening. "How did you-" She stopped, realizing that Jessica wasn’t a fool. She was certainly smart enough to figure out who must have ordered the attack. Green eyes regarded her calmly, a blonde brow raised in question.

"You knew?"

Kaleah struggled a moment, but eventually nodded. She could do nothing but tell the truth with that intense, calm gaze resting on her. "She warned me to leave you alone."

Jessica was silent, absorbing this information. So Kaleah had known the whole time? She felt a stab of betrayal. "Why didn’t you tell me?" she asked softly, unable to hide the hurt in her voice.

Kaleah lowered her head, letting her hair fall forward to hide her face. "I just . . . I couldn’t . . ."

"You didn’t trust me?"

Her head instantly shot up, and she saw the sting in Jessica’s open features. "No," she said, shaking her head. "I-I didn’t want . . . to make you choose, that’s all." Her eyes closed as she lowered her head again.

Blonde brows contracted in confusion. "Choose? You mean choose sides?"

A nod.

"Kaleah?"

Unusually timid blue eyes raised.

Jessica stepped forward and gently cupped the dark woman’s face. "Kaleah, my mother has been trying to control my life since I was born," she said softly. "Because of her, I’ve never been able to experience something like the friendship we have. She’s always tried to make sure no-one she thinks of as ‘beneath me’ gets close enough to be my friend. You’re the first that ever stuck around long enough . . . and I would never ask you to leave me just because my mother doesn’t like you."

Kaleah absorbed this silently, then said, "I just didn’t want to pit you against her, that’s all."

Jessica smiled. "You haven’t. She’s been against nearly everything I’ve ever done since I first took up arms." Her smile turned into a scowl. "But if she thinks she’s gonna threaten you, she’s got another thing coming."

Kaleah heard the suppressed rage in her friend’s voice. "You won’t hurt her, will you?"

Kaleah grinned. "My father asks me that everytime I ride into battle with him and have to get away from her," she said, then shook her head. "I won’t hurt her. Not physically. But I will make sure she understands that you’re not going anywhere you don’t want to go."

Kaleah smiled, letting the pleasant knowledge that Jessica would always protect her ease the fear away further. "Thanks. I’m . . . sorry I didn’t tell you immediately, Jess. I just thought I should deal with it myself."

"I understand. Just let me know next time, okay? I’m a part of this friendship, too, you know. I should have a say in what happens." She let her fingers gently stroke the fading bruise above Kaleah’s eye. "And the idea that you got hurt because of . . . our friendship . . . it makes me feel bad."

"I know. Don’t worry about it." Kaleah waved her away, rubbing the itchy mark. "No permanent damage was done."

"No damage should have been done at all," Jessica countered, "permanent or otherwise. This is your home for as long as you want it to be. And I plan to make sure my mother understands that."

Kaleah smiled warmly. "Thank you." Her nose crinkled, and she pinched it closed. "Now go take that bath before you drive me out of here with that stench."

Jessica laughed and slapped her playfully. "Fine. Get changed and wait here, I won’t be too long." She rummaged around and found a clean pair of trousers, underwear and a soft tunic. "I’ll bring us back some dinner, and I have a few other things to take care of quickly. But lock the door behind me just in case."

"I will. And be careful."

"Sure." Jess patted her sword and smiled. "I’ll be fine."

Sighing as the door closed behind her friend, Kaleah ran fingers through her hair absently and figured she should get out of her armor. Looking around, she found a pair of Jessica’s clothes that looked like they’d fit her and, figuring the young woman wouldn’t mind, she quickly stripped off her leather and chain-mail and donned the trousers and shirt. A smile touched her lips as she inhaled deeply, catching Jessica’s scent from the clothes.

Tossing the armor in a corner, figuring to deal with it later, Kaleah locked the door before happily falling back on the bed. After a brief wrestling match, she finally won her way under the covers and got comfortable while she waited for her friend to return.

As Kaleah waited, she replayed the events of the evening over in her mind. The attack had been frightening, and the fear was still fresh in her mind, but on reflection things could have been much worse. Jessica had protected her, just as she had promised. The men hadn’t raped her, and their threat had been effectively dealt with. There was little doubt in Kaleah’s mind that Jessica could handle her mother. In all, this night had removed two big concerns that had been plaguing Kaleah for some time, and she felt much lighter without their shadows hanging over her. Of course, if Jessica hadn’t shown up when she had . . .

"Wait a second . . ."

Kaleah sat up as a new thought occurred. In the bathing chamber, she hadn’t screamed for help when the men had come for her. There hadn’t seemed to be any point. Jessica had said she was going to return to her rooms to wait . . . but the bathing chamber was quite a way off the path back to their rooms. Kaleah’s brows dropped, her eyes narrowed, and she chewed her lip as she asked the question.

"How did Jessica know I was in trouble?"

It took Jessica almost an hour to return to Kaleah, although she washed up as quick as she could. Putting the unpleasant events of the evening behind her for the moment, Jessica set her mind to the task of damage control; she needed to hide this incident from her father first of all . . . and then make certain it was never repeated. As she bathed, her quick mind planned how to manage that.

By the time she was clean, Jessica had formulated a plan. First, she needed to confirm that Captain Brian and his friends had indeed left the castle. A quick and casual tour of the castle wall assured her the three men had left together without explanation some time ago. The guards she spoke too were curious, but didn’t question the actions of their superior. Once she was certain Brian was gone, Jessica immediately set off in search of Sir Miles.

She knew the absence of Captain Brian and his accomplices would be reported back to her father before dawn; Da’Gran was well-organized and disciplined if nothing else. A single man out of place did not go unnoticed. If Sir Richard learned the true circumstances of their sudden departure, Jessica knew ugly questions would be raised; questions that would lead the lord knight to his own wife. She needed an explanation that didn’t involve either herself or Kaleah . . . and Sir Miles was the perfect person to give it.

Finding the elderly knight already retired in his chambers, Jessica quickly explained her situation, skillfully avoiding any direct description of the incident in the bathing chamber. As she expected, Miles wasn’t happy about the situation, but after a while, he agreed to tell Sir Richard that he had dismissed the long-standing Captain for a serious breach of duty.

"He won’t be pleased with me, Jess," he had told her grumpily. "Ah kin tell ye that."

"Better he hear it from you than from me," she replied. "If he learns I was involved, he’ll be suspicious and could take it into his head to track Brian down."

"Aye, well . . . I won’t ask questions, Jess, cos I know ye won’t answer ‘em. But I don’t like lying to me own lord." He scowled at her. "Hope ye appreciate this."

"I do. And don’t worry, I’ll take care of the situation. All you have to do is make sure my father doesn’t look any further into the Captain’s dismissal. Alright?"

He agreed, as she knew he would. Sir Miles had been like another father to her since she’d been given into his care and training as a child. In all those years, he had never denied her anything. This was stretching his limits, she knew, but it was important that Sir Richard not hear of the attack. His reaction to a threat against his daughter would be dangerous.

After her visit with Sir Miles, Jessica made one more stop before she returned to her waiting friend. It was quite a walk to where Charles was staying; all the way on the other side of the castle in fact, in a section used to house visiting dignitaries and such. She rarely ever ventured into this area, and it took her a few tries before she found his rooms.

Her visit was brief since she didn’t want to leave Kaleah for too long, but she quickly informed the young lord of what had transpired that evening, leaving out only the truth of how she had come to rescue her friend. Charles was shocked, naturally, but he understood quickly the plan that Jessica laid out that would prevent any further attacks. He knew how much Lady Rose’s meddling had cost his young friend and betrothed, and he agreed immediately to give what small assistance Jessica asked of him.

"It seems simple enough," he admitted when she’d finished her explanation of the plan. "Maybe a little too simple. Are you sure this will work?"

Jess just grinned. "It’ll work. Trust me on this. But I need this done by tomorrow. Can you manage that?"

Charles looked at the letter she had dictated to him and nodded. "Damon’s good at this sort of thing," he assured her. "It’ll be ready by morning. I’ll send a servant with the finished copy once it’s done."

"Fine." She gave him a quick hug and a friendly kiss on the cheek. "Thank you. This’ll insure Kaleah’s safety for as long as she stays here."

Her duties done, Jessica hurried back to her bedroom making a quick detour to the kitchen on the way. When she knocked on the door, Kaleah quickly opened it for her and smiled in welcome.

"What took you so long?"

"I had a few things to take care of, like I said," she replied. "They just took a little longer than I expected them too, that’s all. But I brought us dinner . . ." She held up the tray of food she’d collected from the kitchen as she entered her room, "and you’ll be happy to know that Captain Brian is long gone. I’ve arranged things so my father won’t ever hear of what happened."

Kaleah nodded, but Jessica saw her lock the door anyway. "That’s good. I guess if he ever found out your mother was behind the attack . . ."

"He’d be furious," Jess stated, frowning. "I don’t know what he’d do to her, but it would surely be something that would cause great upheaval in the castle. If an enemy got wind of the dissention, they could attack us, figuring my father would be weaker for the stress." She sighed. "Better to keep this quiet, and deal with it directly. I may not care much for my mother or her politics, but I don’t want the people to suffer from her actions any more than they must."

Kaleah returned to her friend’s bed. "Your father loves you, but he doesn’t seem like the type to over-react. If anything, he seems over-casual about your life."

"He just expects me to be able to take care of myself, that’s all." Jessica put the tray on the bed, then dragged off her boots before joining her friend. "When I get hurt though, he can be unpredictable. I remember once in battle, I took a dagger in the side . . ." She slipped her trousers down a little and displayed a clear white scar just above her right hip. "My father went crazy for a second. He hacked the man to death right in front of me." She shuddered a little and reached for a slice of ham.

"Wow." Kaleah was a little surprised. Sir Richard seemed so level-headed, this description was at odds with what she had observed of the man. "I guess he just hides his temper well . . . the same as you do."

"Tell that to the former Captain Brian," Jess grinned, chewing contentedly.

The two ate in silence for a time, just enjoying the excellent food and the feeling of being safe and warm after such a shocking experience. As they ate, however, Jessica caught Kaleah looking at her with a strange expression in her eyes; something like curiosity, but with a gentle hint of something deeper. A slightly raised eyebrow and half-smile made the look doubly mysterious. Eventually, Jessica couldn’t stand it anymore.

"What?"

Kaleah’s smile just grew a little more crooked. "What, what?"

Jessica threw down the food she’d been eating and glared at her friend. "Don’t be smart, Kaleah. You know what I’m talking about. What’s with the weird look?"

Kaleah just held her steady gaze a moment before she asked calmly, "How did you know I was in trouble tonight?"

Azure eyes watched Jessica’s expression closely, and Kaleah had to admit the young woman did a good job of acting casual as she replied.

"I was heading back to my room when I saw the three soldiers walking down the corridor to the bathing room," Jess said easily. She had already formulated the explanation, anticipating this question after her meeting with Charles. "They were dressed suspiciously, so I followed them. By the time I got there, the last of them was slipping into the chamber, and I knew they were the ones who attacked you." She offered an easy smile. "Lucky I was there, huh?"

Kaleah’s gaze didn’t waver, but her smile grew a little wider. "Yeah. Very lucky." Slender fingers brought a slice of carrot to her lips and she sucked it slowly, still watching her friend. Her lips twitched when Jessica looked away first.

In the time Kaleah had spent with Jessica, she had seen many facets to the young girl’s personality. Sometimes, it seemed the blonde’s emotions ran right under her skin, easily visible to anyone who looked. At other times, the mask of sophistication and nobility hid the truth well. Watching her as she gave the explanation, Kaleah almost missed the subtle tells she was searching for.

Almost, but not quite.

A slight flush, an almost imperceptible moment when Jess’s eyes had looked away, and the quickly masked quaver in her voice told the dark woman all she needed to know.

Jessica’s story may have been entirely plausible . . . but it was a lie, nonetheless.

Kaleah’s eyes sparkled with delighted interest as her razor-sharp mind worked quickly to determine why her friend was lying. And perhaps more curiously, she wondered, what was the truth? How had Jessica known of the danger unless . . . Kaleah’s heart skipped a beat.

. . . Unless she’d been watching.

Recalling last night’s foray into the secret passages, Kaleah silently considered this possibility as she finished eating. Jessica had said there were other places she used to spy on people. Was it possible she’d been using one to observe Kaleah as she bathed? Kaleah grinned to herself. Yes, she realized. It was possible . . . and moreso, it seemed almost probable, when everything was looked at closely. And if that were true . . .

Well, Kaleah thought to herself as she watched the young woman finish off the last of the food. If it were true, perhaps Jessica’s thoughts were following a path not dissimilar to her own. And perhaps she wasn’t as unaware of them as Kaleah might have expected of someone so innocent.

"Are you done?"

"Huh?" Jessica’s question snapped her out of her lascivious ponderings. She realized her companion was talking about dinner, and nodded. "Sure. I couldn’t eat another bite."

"Great." The young blonde got up and set the tray on a cluttered table, where it balanced precariously on a stack of rough charcoal drawings she’d been working on. Returning to the bed, she settled back against the headboard and sighed. "Quite a day, huh?"

"That it was," Kaleah agreed. Suddenly, she realized she’d have to return to her own room soon, and against all reason she felt the fear start to rise again. "Um . . . Jessica?"

"Hmmm?"
"Could . . . would it be alright if I stayed with you tonight?" she asked hesitantly. "I’d . . . really rather not be alone right now."

Jessica saw the anxious, shy expression in her friend’s face and quickly nodded. "Sure. If you like. I mean . . . I guess you’re still probably shaken up, huh? I know I am." She pulled back the covers and invited the dark woman to join her.

Kaleah accepted readily, not even thinking until she was safely wrapped in the warmth of the blankets about the fact that Jessica might share her attraction. By the time she did, her friend had already snuggled up to her and she could feel her usually tense body melt against the warmth of the young woman.

"Did you want to go to sleep right now?" Jess asked quietly.

Kaleah shrugged. "I am sorta tired." She wriggled around a little, her body molding to fit against Jessica’s smaller frame better. Her companion sighed and wrapped her arms about her waist. The warm contact sent shivers down Kaleah’s body, but somehow she sensed that Jessica intended nothing more than affection in the gesture. Regardless of how deep the young woman’s feeling’s ran, there was nothing more than friendship in this closeness.

"Do you want me to snuff out the candles?" She felt the warm breath against her side and couldn’t help but shiver again.

"No . . . this is nice," she managed to mumble without choking. "We can let them burn out, right?"

"Sure." Jessica pressed herself deeper into Kaleah’s body with a smile. "Kaleah?"

"Hmmm?"

A long pause. "I’m really sorry about this whole thing with my mother. But I promise that after tomorrow . . . you’ll be safe here."

Kaleah smiled and brought a hand out to stroke the glowing blonde hair that flowed across her friend’s shoulder. "I know. And thank you . . . for protecting me like you said you would." She closed her eyes and concentrated on the softness around her fingertips. "You know I trust you with my life, right?"

The smile in the green eyes that lifted to regard her warmed the dark woman’s soul faster than the strongest flame. "And you know I do the same for you." Jessica yawned, feeling the long day catch up to her all of a sudden. She shifted her shoulder and grimaced.

Kaleah grinned and rubbed the young woman’s arm, feeling the muscles tense. "I guess we worked a little too hard today, huh?"

Jessica grunted. "It’s more than I’m used to, that’s for sure."

"Well . . . tomorrow if you ask really nice, maybe I’ll give you a massage." Kaleah couldn’t help but smile when she felt Jessica’s heart skip a beat, then speed it’s rhythm against her chest.

"Um . . . that’d be great." Jessica’s voice sounded a little strained. Kaleah’s smile turned into a grin. "I’d be happy to return the favor, you know."

"I know," she said softly, closing her eyes and settling back. "Remind me in case I forget."

"I will."

Kaleah relaxed fully, and let her mind drift. There were a thousand different thoughts filling her head as she lay in her friend’s embrace, but it had been a very long and wearing day, both physically and emotionally. Even as she struggled to decide on a course of action to take with Jessica, sleep swiftly mounted it’s assault. Before long, her breathing had evened out and the warm fog of dreams overrode the more pressing concerns.

Just as she succumbed to the seductive depths of unconsciousness, Kaleah smiled, feeling the cadence of Jessica’s heartbeat matched perfectly with her own.

Some distance away from the castle — many miles, in fact - three figures trudged slowly down the muddy road, looking for a suitable place to set up camp.

Brian Hadrick, former Captain of the guard, snarled at the throbbing pain in his eye. He had tied a crude bandage around the open, seeping wound, but it didn’t help to ease his suffering. Worse than the injury, of course — worse even than the absent thumb on his right hand — was the knowledge that he was helpless to avenge himself. The damn bitch had taken his eye and crippled his ability, and there wasn’t a damn thing he could do about it!

The three men had been walking for hours, and had made good distance considering. They were far from the walls of Da’Gran now . . . far from the village and the safety it provided. The great forest now surrounded the road on all sides, filled with the eerie sounds of birds and night critters out hunting the darkness for prey. This was the wild now, Brian knew. Still, as dangerous as he knew such a place could be, he wasn’t too concerned. Bandits would likely have packed up for the day; they tended to attack at dusk, or during the more heavily traveled hours of the day.

"D’ya see anywhere good yet, Duncan?" he demanded sharply. His friend glanced at him nervously and shook his head.

"Could’ve stayed at the bloody village, sir," he pointed out.

"Bah! With our luck, Sir Richard’ll figure out wha happened and be after us ‘fore dawn. Ya wanna make it easy fer ‘im?"

Duncan shook his head again. Even though he no longer technically served under this man, he was accustomed to following orders. Besides, Brian had a point. The Lady Jessica had ordered them to leave the lands of Da’Gran that night. Staying at the village would have put them uncomfortably close to the castle.

"We’ll find somewhere soon," he said hopefully.

"Aye . . . or we’ll walk through the night." The former Captain glanced at the heavens, where stars were winking brightly in the dark sky. He breathed deeply, wincing and rubbing at the stump on his right hand. "I guess things can’t really get much worse, at least."

A sudden, sharp pressure struck Brian with shocking force in the chest. It was followed immediately by several more stunning blows that knocked him back a step. He heard a slight gasp from one of his colleagues, followed by a thud. Looking down, staggering a little, the former Captain found himself staring with his one good eye at four feathered shafts jutting oddly from his chest.

His brow furrowed in confusion. "That’s not right," he mumbled, feeling no pain but a peculiar numbness instead. However, by the time the unfortunate man realized he’d been shot . . . he was dead.

Dozens of stealthy figures moved out from the woods, surrounding the three slain men cautiously. A few lit torches and approached while others kept watch, cross-bows loaded and ready.

Three men knelt beside the dead Captain, studying him curiously. One waved the torch over his face, then down to his uniform and armor.

"Some of Da’Gran’s men, sir," he reported to a tall man standing behind him.

The man, who was dressed in soft leather armor reinforced with steel plates, raised a dark brown eyebrow and stepped closer. "A patrol? Seems an odd time and place for Sir Richard to be sending his men out." His voice was calm, with a hint of refinement that seemed at odds with his hardened features.

"No patrol, I think, sir," the man kneeling beside Brian corrected. "Lookit this." He lifted the dead man’s right arm, displaying the disfigurement for his superior, who smiled thinly.

"Aahh." He rubbed his hands together in interest. "Exiles? How curious." Intelligent hazel eyes studied the man’s face, taking in the terrible wound with the detachment of one accustomed to such injuries. "And the others? Are they the same?"

"Aye, sir," a man near Duncan reported.

"Well. It appears Sir Richard has had some trouble with his soldiers. A pity we killed them so quickly. They might have been willing to talk."

"Aye, a pity." The man by Brian stood up and wiped his hands on his worn armor. "Still . . . better safe than sorry, right sir?"

"I suppose." The leader of the men waved his hand towards the bodies, then at the woods. "Get these three buried, then back to your places. Hurry."

His men leaped instantly to do as instructed, removing the three bodies into the dense, dark forest and sweeping away all traces of their passage. The man watched, his hands on his hips, a satisfied smile on his face. When all was complete and his men back in place, he turned to his second in command.

"A good night’s work, even if it could have been better, don’t you think, Rennard?"

"Aye, sir," Rennard agreed. "None’ll be reportin’ back our presence so close to the castle. That’s all we be needin’"

"Indeed." The man turned his head and looked down the road where he knew Da’Gran lay but a few hours march away. "And when the real work begins . . . we’ll have three less soldiers to worry about." He grinned and patted his second on the back as they headed back into the woods. They vanished as silently as they had appeared.

Freedom’s Heart Part 5.

Chapter 17.

The sun was a low ball of fire hanging a handspan above the horizon when Jessica reluctantly allowed herself to part with her dreams. Opening fuzzy green eyes, the young woman groaned as she shifted against the warm body she was wrapped around. Her muscles were stiff after yesterday’s unusually vigorous sparring, and she stretched painfully under the blankets.

Yawning languidly, Jess scratched at her neck and smiled. Sitting up a little and musing just how much she enjoyed waking up like this, the young blonde studied her still sleeping bed-mate. Kaleah’s face looked so beautiful as she rested; the gentle, innocent expression warmed Jessica’s heart and reminded her again that the dark woman was only a few years older than she was. The hard lines carved by slavery’s heavy chisel were gone, revealing Kaleah’s true youth.

Jessica had woke twice during the night when she heard her companion muttering in her sleep. At first, the young blonde thought Kaleah was having a nightmare, but that thought was dispelled by the slight smile on the sleeping woman’s face. Whatever dreams Kaleah was experiencing appeared to be anything but unpleasant.

Watching now, Jessica couldn’t stop her hand as it reached out to gently stroke Kaleah’s smiling lips, drawn by a force far greater than her will. Kaleah’s smile widened and she sighed happily, leaning into the caress. Sleepy blue eyes fluttered open and looked up, meeting Jessica’s dancing emerald gaze.

"Mornin’," Kaleah greeted as Jessica removed her hand.

"Good morning. Did you sleep well?"

Kaleah stretched, and Jessica felt her powerful, long body coil and tense against her. The sensation of such animal force so close sent a shiver over her skin. "I slept great, thank you." Kaleah groaned. "I think I might want to take things easy today, though. My body feels like it’s been run over by a cart."

Jessica grinned. "Mine, too. Remember, you promised a massage later tonight, right?"

Kaleah nodded, her eyes growing hooded as she remembered last night’s ponderings. "Absolutely," she agreed, already looking forward to it. Rolling her neck to loosen the muscles a bit, she sighed happily.

Jessica watched her friend stretch herself awake. "Did you know you talk in your sleep?" she asked.

Kaleah stopped her activities and raised an eyebrow at her. "Really?"

"Uh huh." Jess nodded sincerely. "You woke me up a few times."

"Oh. I’m sorry." Kaleah returned to trying to ease the stiffness in her joints. "Wh-what was I saying?" she asked, wondering if she wanted to know. A flash of memory from a dream came to mind, and she hoped she hadn’t said anything too revealing.

But Jessica just shrugged. "I don’t know. You weren’t speaking English or French, and it didn’t sound Spanish. I couldn’t understand the words . . . but it sounded kinda nice."

"Really." Kaleah thought for a moment. "Did it sound like this . . ." She rattled off a quick sentence in a guttural, throaty dialect.

"Yeah, that’s it!" Jessica grinned. "What language is that?"

Kaleah shrugged. "It’s the language of my people . . . from before the slavers came," she explained simply. "I may have forgotten most everything else about that time. . . but I never forgot the language. I guess there are some things you never really forget, huh?"

Jessica nodded. "I like it," she said after a moment. "I’ve never heard it before though."

"That’s not surprising. I’ve never met anyone who knew where it came from." Kaleah finished her stretching and lay back. "I guess it’s probably not a common tongue . . . maybe my people were tribal, I don’t know."

A soft knock at the door interrupted the conversation, and Jessica smiled. "Time to get up, I guess." Struggling out of the warm blankets — which Kaleah quickly pulled back around her — the young blonde shuffled over and unlocked the door before opening it. She was greeted by a serving girl a few years younger than herself.

"Yes?"

The girl bobbed her head. "Milady . . . Lord Charles asked me to deliver this . . ." She held out a neatly capped redwood scroll case.

Jessica smiled warmly. She’d never met this girl before, and assumed she was new to Da’Gran. Servants came and went in the castle, though they generally stayed for many years. "You can call me Jessica, please," she said kindly. "What was your name?"

The girl blushed deeply. "Um . . . it’s Heather."

"Thank you, Heather." Jessica took the scroll-case and gave the young girl a friendly nod of gratitude. "Please thank Charles for me, and tell him his assistance is greatly appreciated."

The girl bowed shyly and nodded. "I will, mil-. . . Jessica."

Thanking her again, Jessica closed the door and turned back to find Kaleah regarding her curiously.

"What’s that?" the dark woman asked, pointing to the cylindrical wooden case.

Jessica grinned and opened the case, drawing out the worn piece of parchment it contained. "This?" She inspected the flowing script that covered the paper and nodded in satisfaction. "This is a weapon."

A dark brow raised dubiously. "A weapon?"

"Mmmhmm. A very powerful weapon that will insure your protection from my mothers interference." Her smile turned unpleasant. "If you don’t mind, I have to go have a little chat with her for a while."

Kaleah shook her head. "No, I don’t mind at all." She smiled, a plan forming in her mind. "How long will it take?"

Jess shrugged, walking over to the blood-soaked bundle of cloth wrappings that sat on the nearby table. "Hard to say. It depends on how much of a fight she wants to put up. It could take an hour or so."

Kaleah considered that, and nodded with a satisfied smile. "Fine." She watched as her friend rummaged around till she found a small, finely decorated jewelry box which was, of course, empty. With a look of disgust, the young blonde unwrapped the gristly items and laid them in the box, snapping it shut quickly.

"I’ll be as quick as I can, Kaleah, but I want to make sure she gets the message."

"Well, that’ll do it." Kaleah gestured to the box, figuring she had a fair idea what her friend had in mind, but wondering how the mysterious piece of paper figured into the plan. "I’ll wait here for you, okay?"

"Sure." Jessica dragged a brush quickly through her disheveled blonde hair, managing to bring it to at least a temporary state of order. Grimacing at her clothes, she shrugged. "I’ll bring us back some breakfast . . . I’m starving."

Kaleah nodded agreeably and watched the young woman open the door and leave. As the heavy oak door closed firmly, the dark woman grinned fully, her dazzling eyes wandering instantly to the stone fireplace . . . and the secret passages beyond.

"Well," she stated happily, clapping her hands and tossing off the blankets regretfully, "I’m not going to argue with this kind of good luck."

Searching quickly on one of the tables, Kaleah located a piece of charcoal her friend had been using to draw with. Then, wandering over to the fireplace, she searched for and quickly found the hidden catch. Pressing down on the lever behind the angel’s sword, Kaleah stepped back as the whole thing shifted, rolling on the concealed pinion and opening into the darkness beyond. Kaleah’s eyes twinkled and her grin turned feral.

"Time to do a little exploring, I think," she whispered, before ducking her head and slipping into the hidden corridor.

Jessica found her mother in one of the more luxuriously appointed rooms of the castle, sitting with her brother Steven. The two were obviously engaged in some deep conversation, but that ended as soon as she entered the room. Her brother glared at her, but she just glared right back.

"Jessica." Her mother smiled a little, but didn’t seem particularly surprised to see her. Standing, the woman regarded her first-born child somewhat condescendingly, frowning at her simple clothes. "How nice to see you."

"I doubt that," Jessica said politely, standing stiffly. Her lip curled as she saw Steven sniff at her presence. "I was wondering if I might have a word with you, mother." Her green eyes bore into her brother with unrelenting malice. "In private."

Steven was about to say something, but the Lady Rose silenced him with a calm look. "Now, Steven. What have I told you about base insults? The true gentleman does not resort to such things." Her eyes returned to her daughter. "Even Jessica here can understand common manners." She smiled thinly, and gestured for Steven to leave. "I’m sure this won’t take long."

As soon as the boy was gone, Lady Rose waved Jessica forward. "Would you care to sit?"

"Thank you." Jessica sat stiffly but with an undeniable grace, folding her hands primly in her lap. Her mother took the seat opposite her and smiled.

"I so rarely see you of late," she remarked, and Jessica thought she heard genuine regret in her mother’s tone. "I’ve missed the time we spent together. I wanted to tell you I was proud of you on Monday. You presented yourself as a true lady for Sir William."

Jessica accepted the praise with a nod. "Kaleah and I did our best."

Lady Rose’s smile faltered. "Yesss. Your ‘friend’ made quite an impression." She was silent in thought for a moment, then regarded her daughter pleasantly. "So . . . what brings you here?"

"I thought it was time we had a little discussion," Jessica said simply, ". . . about Kaleah."

Rose frowned and cocked her head. "I see." She shook her head. "I don’t know what there is to say, really. You know how I feel about your association with that . . . woman."

"And you know I don’t much care how you feel about Kaleah . . . at least I don’t so long as you leave us alone." Jessica placed the small jewelry box on the table between them and pushed it towards her mother. "It has been brought to my attention that such is not the case, however."

Lady Rose reached out and took the box, opening it. Her features paled when she realized what the contents were, and she glanced at her daughter somewhat uneasily. Jessica just smiled coldly.

"Captain Brian and his lackey’s decided to move on from Da’Gran last night," the young woman said quietly. "After the . . . discussion I had with them regarding their recent actions, they seemed quite anxious to be gone." She cocked her head and nodded to the box. "I think the fact that they were missing their thumbs might have had something to do with their hasty departure."

Lady Rose swallowed a lump in her throat at the icy tone in her daughter’s voice. Calmly returning the box to the table, she shifted uncomfortably under Jessica’s unwavering gaze. "What has this to do with me."

Jessica didn’t answer for a long moment, but just continued to regard her mother coldly. "I’m not a fool, mother," she said finally. "I don’t expect you to take responsibility, but we both know full well who directed the attack against Kaleah." Green eyes narrowed dangerously. "I’m here to tell you that it all stops now. Leave . . . Kaleah . . . alone."

Lady Rose smiled weakly. "You always did have the subtlety of a sledge-hammer, Jessica," she said, sitting back and studying her daughter curiously. "Do you really expect me to sit back and do nothing?" she asked after a long contemplation. "You are my daughter, Jessica. It’s my duty to protect you."

"Protect me? From what?"

"From yourself! From this . . . Godless savage you’ve become so attached too!" The lady’s eyes flared angrily for the first time. "You are a child of the nobility, Jessica! You should associate with people of your own class. This heathen has no place at your side! No matter how nicely you dress her up, or how well you teach her the social graces, you can’t hide the fact that Kaleah is nothing more than a barbarian!"

Jessica leaned forward suddenly, her presence filling the room with suppressed rage. "I’ve never tried to hide Kaleah’s heritage, mother!" she hissed. "She may not worship any god, and she may be a savage, yes. But she has more loyalty and nobility in her big toe than you’ll ever have in your whole life!"

"Loyalty!?" Lady Rose rolled her eyes. "She’s an escaped slave, Jessica! A creature like her cares only for itself. Trust me . . . she’d leave you in a heartbeat and think nothing of it if she thought for one second she’d gain something by deserting you."

Jessica smiled and settled back, reining in her temper. "That sounds very much like what she tells me you told her about me, mother," she observed. "Believe me . . . you don’t know anything about Kaleah. She’s here to stay for as long as she chooses . . . it’s time you accepted that."

"Never!" Lady Rose gestured sharply with her hand. "Nothing you can do will ever make me stop trying to rid this castle of that demon who has bewitched you!" She glared at her daughter angrily. "Maybe one day, you’ll realize I’m doing this for your own good, Jessica. I love you . . . and I’ll do whatever it takes to keep you safe from the influence of that woman."

Jessica considered that a long moment, holding her mother’s eyes and seeing the determined conviction there. Apparently, her mother wasn’t going to make this easy. So be it. She had anticipated such would be the case . . . and had come prepared. A slow, self-assured smile tugged at her lips and she nodded.

"Very well then. I can see you’re not prepared to play this game my way." Reaching into belt, she pulled out the redwood scroll-case and offered it to her mother. "I guess we’ll have to play it yours."

Lady Rose eyes the scroll-case skeptically. "What’s this?"

"Take it."

She did so, albeit reluctantly. Jessica watched her mother open the case and remove the parchment from within. When she gave her a curious look, the young blonde just smiled and gestured for her to read. Intelligent eyes scanned the writing swiftly, then narrowed in confusion.

Lady Rose looked at her daughter sharply. "What is this?"

Jessica shrugged. "It is exactly what it appears to be," she said softly. "A letter from Lord Patrick Terrace to my father, dated, as you can see, a few months before you married him." The smile held a sense of quiet triumph as she sat back and studied her mother. "The details are a little vague, of course . . . but the general message is quite clear. Lord Terrace writes of his concern for my father’s betrothal . . . it seems he doesn’t approve of his friend’s plan to marry a common whore."

Lady Rose had turned very pale, but she looked again at the letter. "This is ridiculous!" she breathed. "Lord Terrace never wrote this. This letter is a complete lie!"

"Yes, it is," Jess agreed easily. "I dictated the letter myself and had it copied into quite a believable forgery. But you were the one who taught me, mother, that a lie can be the most effective weapon on earth . . . if properly used." Jessica saw a hint of comprehension dawn in her mother’s eyes.

"No-one will believe this," Lady Rose said.

"Won’t they?" Jessica reached forward and took the letter from her mother’s limp hand. She reread a part of it and shook her head. "I would think that the servant who conveniently finds this letter will be only too happy to believe such a juicy story. And what’s more . . . I’d bet my right foot that the first thing they’d want to do is share the information with a friend."

Jessica leaned forward and grinned fully. "Imagine it, mother," she whispered. "The rumors would spread faster than wildfire, faster than you could ever hope to stop. I’m sure you could present the people with the truth . . . but would they listen? You were the one who taught me the first rule of court intrigue is that people will always believe an interesting lie rather than the boring truth. If word gets out that Sir Richard Da’Gran’s noble wife is little more than a whore who blackmailed him into marriage, well . . ." She shrugged dramatically. "You’re reputation would be shattered beyond your capacity to repair."

Lady Rose listened in silence, her breathing noticeably shallow. She looked from her daughter’s intense green eyes to the fraudulent letter, then back. "You wouldn’t dare release such information," she said softly after a moment. "Your father-"

"My father is a fighting man," Jessica interrupted. "He cares nothing for court intrigue or rumor, so long as his people are protected." She waved the letter. "This does him no harm . . . only you."

Rose scowled darkly. "And you would do this to your own mother?"

Jessica shrugged. "You attacked that which I care deepest for," she said simply. "Don’t think for a second I’d hesitate to do the same in return." Carefully, she rerolled the letter and replaced it in the scroll-case. Standing, she gave her mother a triumphant look. "Kaleah will be left in peace . . . and in return, so will your reputation and dignity. Do we understand one another?"

Lady Rose was silent, then she nodded. "You leave me little choice."

Jess smiled coldly. "That’s the idea."

Turning to leave, Jessica was almost out the door when her mother called out to her. She turned back, arching an eyebrow.

"Yes?"

Lady Rose hesitated, then offered a strange smile. "Well done," she said quietly.

Jessica was confused. "Huh?"

"I’m pleased to see all the time I put into trying to teach you about court life hasn’t been for nothing," her mother said. "Strange as it may sound . . . it makes me proud that you could outmaneuver me so easily." She shrugged. "You were always so busy pursuing your foolish swordplay . . . I never thought you were paying any attention to the things I said."

Jessica regarded her mother silently, wondering what to say. She had never particularly liked the time she’d been forced to endure with her mother, always preferring the lessons with Sir Miles and even Eric Grace. There’d never been much in common between the two women . . . and Jessica had always resented the way Rose kept her from befriending any of the servants. Still . . . she had won for now. She supposed she could be gracious.

Smiling a little at her mother, Jess shrugged. "You shouldn’t mistake disinterest for inability," she said quietly. "I learned everything you ever taught me . . . I just chose not to use it."

Then she turned and left, shutting the door behind her and heading for the kitchen. The unpleasantness of the meeting couldn’t quell her hunger, and she was glad the whole thing was settled. All in all, with her most pressing chore taken care of, the day was looking to be a good one. Kaleah’s safety was assured . . . and she had a massage to look forward to later on that night.

With a spring in her step, the young blonde quickened her pace as she headed through the stone hallway deeper into the keep.

While Jessica was busy dealing with the problem of her mother, Kaleah was off on a mission of her own.

The secret passages were a confusing labyrinth to Kaleah, who’d never been good in such directionless places. Without her friend’s guiding presence the dark woman was nervous in the stale, musty darkness. Taking extreme precautions, however, she used the charcoal stick she’d taken to mark every turn she took, and didn’t rush her search. The former slave knew it would cost her time if she got herself lost.

The bathing chamber was located not terribly far from Jessica’s room, down a few hallways and around a few corners. As Kaleah neared the area she figured must be fairly close to the chamber, she slowed even further. Casting the light from the torch she carried over the walls, her sharp eyes began to search for anything out of the ordinary in the stonework.

It only took a minute for her to find what she was looking for; the hole was small, but it’s smooth gold edges stood out clearly from the rough-hewn granite. Grinning in triumph, Kaleah put her eye to the peep-hole and found herself looking into the bathing chamber . . . just as she had suspected.

"My, oh my," she whispered to herself. "Jessica, my friend . . . it would seem you’re not quite the innocent you appear to be."

The spy hole gave a surprisingly unrestricted view of most of the room beyond, considering how small it was. From here, Kaleah realized a person would be able to see just about everything that went on in the bathing chamber — realized Jessica had had the perfect view of her as she washed up.

"It’s not nice to spy on people, Jessica," she admonished to her absent friend softly, remembering the way Jessica had blushed when she’d admitted to using the secrets of Da’Gran to watch the servants and soldiers. "How long have you been doing this?"

Her suspicion confirmed, Kaleah smiled and decided she’d best get back to Jessica’s room before the girl returned and found her missing. As she drew away from the secret hole and started back along the narrow passage, the former slave pondered the ramifications of her discovery.

There was little doubt in her mind but that Jessica had been watching her through the spy-hole as she bathed. It was the best — and pretty much only — explanation for how the young woman had known she was in danger last night. And to Kaleah’s mind, there was only one possible reason why Jessica would be indulging in such voyeurism: she was interested in more than just friendship.

With the bond between the two of them growing markedly stronger every day, Kaleah had been noticing Jessica’s shy looks more and more. The stolen glances . . . the constant blushes . . . the lingering touches and increasing affection. Kaleah grinned. It all told her Jessica felt the same way she did — told her the young woman felt an attraction as strong as her own. And the fact that the young woman had been watching Kaleah bathe indicated she was not only comfortable with being attracted to another woman . . . she was embracing it wholeheartedly.

But even as her heart leapt with desperate joy at the knowledge her love did not go unrequited, Kaleah forced herself to be rational. She reveled for a moment in the intense emotions that flooded her brain, then set her mind to figuring out the next step. She knew Jessica had deeper feelings for her . . . but what was she supposed to do with this information now?

Kaleah had no idea what was normal or appropriate in this type of situation. Sure, she’d had a lot of experience providing sexual pleasure for her masters and their clients . . . but this love she felt was so far removed from anything in the sordid world of slavery she could scarcely draw inspiration from that well. Not that she didn’t want to use her knowledge of physical pleasure as well; she most certainly did. But there was a lot she had to do beforehand. This was the woman she loved, not some callous stranger to be dealt with as quickly as possible and then escaped. She wanted to do this right . . . take things slowly. But what did normal people do?

Kaleah had a vague understanding that perhaps she was supposed to court Jessica somehow, but she had no idea how to go about such an endeavor. According to a few of the romantic stories Jessica had told her, flowers were often considered a suitable gift. But considering the idea, she scoffed.

"Winter only just ended . . . there aren’t any flowers around yet. And somehow, I doubt such a gift would get the message across."

Okay, so that was out. Maybe she should try the truth.

"Oh, yeah. I can just see that. ‘Hey, Jess, I found your little spy-hole and I know you’ve been watching me get naked and wet . . . Maybe you could join me next time, huh?’" Kaleah laughed to herself and shook her head. Then she smiled wickedly and cocked her head. "On the other hand . . . maybe she’d agree . . ."

Shaking away the licentious thoughts for the moment, she tried to come up with something else. Thinking of what she knew of Jessica’s personality didn’t help much. She knew the girl was a romantic; she loved stories of handsome knights rescuing helpless maidens and such . . . but at the same time, there was a core of calm pragmatism to her as well. A sense of economy and grounded wisdom that clashed with her idealism.

"Maybe Charles could help me," she pondered aloud as she finally reached the entrance back to Jess’s room and opened it. She liked the young nobleman; he had always been friendly and seemed worthy of trust. She knew he wouldn’t tell Jessica a secret like this, and he could very well have some good advice on matters of courtship. She grinned at the twisted irony of that plan.

"Go to the man Jess is supposed to marry and ask his advice on how I should tell his betrothed that I’m in love with her." She sighed and slipped into the bedroom, dusting herself off and closing the fireplace behind her. "I wonder how many people have ever thought that would be a good idea."

Kicking off her boots, the dark-haired woman scrambled back into bed, propping herself against the bedboard and closing her eyes. There had to be something she could do to let Jessica know of her interest. Courtship was all well and good, but from what little she understood of the process, it seemed awfully complicated. Her love was simple; she had faith in it’s power and she knew now that it was reciprocated. Surely there was a more direct way to get the ball rolling.

Suddenly, her eyes snapped open and a slow grin twisted the scar on her lips. There was indeed a more direct approach than courtship, she realized . . . and it’s name was seduction.

Admittedly, Kaleah acknowledged, she had almost the same level of experience with the art of seduction as she had with courtship . . . but the principle idea was much more to her liking. All she really had to do, she figured, was let her desires closer to the surface where her companion could see them. The basic foundation of a good seduction seemed largely composed of a conscious display of one’s attraction. Plus, she thought with a grin, it meant she got to tease the young woman to frustration. She’d never really put a lot of thought into flirting with anyone before, but she very much liked the idea of flirting with her friend.

Confidant that Jessica had been entertaining lustful thoughts of her, the dark-haired woman wasn’t afraid she’d make a fool of herself. And, as she considered the mechanics of her plan, she realized with some surprise that a lot of useful foundations had already been laid. The massage she had promised Jessica came quickly to mind.

Chuckling to herself gleefully, Kaleah crossed her arms over her chest and settled back to wait for her friend’s return. She was already looking forward to the next few days.

Juggling a tray bearing two bowls of honeyed oatmeal, a stack of buttered toast and some gently steaming eggs, Jessica struggled a moment but eventually managed to work the door-handle. Kicking the door open, she entered her bedroom, smiling quickly at Kaleah who was still sitting in bed.

"Hey," she said, pushing the door closed behind her with a hip thrust. "You planning on staying like that all day?"

"Maybe," the dark woman replied with a strange grin. "You bringing me breakfast in bed isn’t exactly making me want to get up."

Jessica handed her the tray and, after removing her boots, joined her on the huge, comfortable, and still warm mattress. "Well . . . I ran into Charles and Damon on the way to the kitchen," she told her friend, taking one of the bowls and stirring the sweet honey into the oatmeal with a spoon. "They were wondering if we might like to join them for a walk. It’s a little cloudy outside, but not too bad. What d’ya think?"

"Sure. Sounds good."

"Great." Jessica started eating with enthusiasm, feeling very happy. She was half-way through the oatmeal and had finished off two pieces of toast before she realized that Kaleah hadn’t taken her eyes off her even while she ate her own breakfast. Stopping mid-chew, she looked at her friend curiously. "What’s wrong?"

Kaleah just smiled at her in a rather mysterious way and said, "Nothing." But her intense blue eyes didn’t stop staring.

"Do I have something on my face?" She wiped at her chin, thinking perhaps she’d smeared honey on herself.

Kaleah’s smile grew a fraction wider. "No." She slowly devoured a spoonful of honeyed porridge, her eyes never breaking their magnetic contact. Jessica swallowed as her friend very deliberately licked the spoon clean, the smile never wavering.

Feeling a flush rise in her face for some reason she couldn’t identify, Jessica pulled away from the intense regard of those eyes and tried to concentrate on eating. When she quickly glanced back at Kaleah, the dark woman was still watching her, smiling her strange, quiet smile.

There was something about the expression on Kaleah’s face — something in her smile — that was sending shivers across Jessica’s skin. The look was partly like the one Kaleah wore when she was in a playful mood . . . but there was some new, mysterious ingredient Jessica had never seen before. Something that hadn’t been there when she’d left to confront her mother.

"Did you sort everything out?"

"Huh?" Kaleah’s question snapped her out of her contemplation.

"With your mother," the dark woman clarified. "Is everything alright?"

"What? Oh, right. My mother." Jessica blushed. "Yeah . . . it’s all fine now. Well . . . maybe fine’s too strong a word, but . . . I don’t think we’ll have any more trouble from her."

"Good." Kaleah chewed very slowly on a bite of toasted bread, licking her fingers when she’d finished. "Where are we going to go for our walk?"

Jessica felt butterflies start to flutter in her stomach and for some reason felt very unbalanced. "Um . . . I don’t know. Maybe just out to the woods or somewhere like that. Not too far."

Kaleah nodded agreeably. "Great. After yesterday, my muscles could use a good stretch." Jessica watched the woman flex her whole body with a sensuous, feline grace. She looked away a little nervously.

"Me too."

Jess suddenly realized that something had changed in Kaleah’s voice. The dark woman was talking very softly . . . much lower and throatier than she usually did. The exotic accent that Jessica had grown accustomed too had become huskier, more noticeable. In fact, her whole body language was different. Watching from the corner of her eyes, Jessica noticed the primal, animal tension that usually gripped Kaleah’s body was largely gone . . . replaced with an almost languid, supine relaxation that seemed strangely . . . inviting.

"When did you want to leave?"

Kaleah almost purred the words, and suddenly Jessica’s eyes widened in shock. She felt a moment of pure panic and stared into her friend’s hooded eyes, momentarily struck dumb. The deep, husky tones her friend was using . . . the peculiar expression and body language . . . She had seen them before.

The barmaid in the village had behaved just like this.

Jessica’s brain put everything together and suddenly, she realized what was going on.

Kaleah was flirting with her!

A deliciously raised brow called attention to the fact that she’d been asked a question, but for a long, frightening moment Jessica couldn’t get her mouth to work. It opened and closed, but no words came out. Feeling heat in Kaleah’s playfully amused regard, she flushed and cleared her throat. Thankfully, she managed to get out a strangled reply.

"Um . . . I-I guess . . . anytime would be fine." She saw the smile on Kaleah’s face turn into a flashing grin. A fever ran through her body and she hastily broke away from the intensity of the dark woman’s gaze. "Maybe after breakfast . . ." she added.

"Great."

OH MY GOD!! Jessica’s mind recovered enough to start working again. She’s flirting with you!! Is it possible!? Maybe it’s a mistake. Maybe she’s just catching a cold or something and it’s making her voice go all husky. Maybe the stress from last night’s doing weird things to her mind. Maybe . . .

"Are you feeling alright?"

Kaleah’s voice intruded; she sounded very pleased with herself. Jessica looked up and saw those blue eyes sparkling playfully . . . saw an open, very clear invitation for her to join the game.

Maybe she’s flirting with you, her mind admitted in awe. I don’t know what the hell happened while you were gone, but something clearly did. God-damn it . . . look at her eyes! They could melt lead!.

Jessica managed a somewhat shaky smile, and nodded. "I’m fine . . . thanks." Her voice sounded strange in her ears, but Kaleah grinned.

"Good." The dark woman finally released Jessica from her magnetic gaze and focused on finishing off the rest of the food that Jessica had apparently abandoned. The young blonde breathed a silent sigh of relief, understanding that her friend was giving her a little space to figure this out . . . to grow comfortable with what was happening.

Taking the opportunity to calm her racing heart, Jessica wondered what she was supposed to do now. What had started out as just another, entirely pleasant day had suddenly taken an almost dreamlike turn into uncharted territory. She’d known the last few days had brought her closer to the dark woman . . . had even started to entertain serious thoughts that Kaleah might possibly be romantically interested in her. Certainly, she’d been aware of things getting stronger. . . more binding between them. But this still seemed surprisingly sudden.

Perhaps she just decided she didn’t want to wait any longer, her mind suggested. You’ve been getting pretty damn frustrated lately. If she feels the same — which it’s pretty clear she does — things can’t have been much better for her. Maybe she just figured it was time to make the first move.

That made sense, she knew. Kaleah had probably realized Jessica wasn’t likely to feel comfortable initiating a deeper, more physical relationship . . . which, from the heat in those scorching blue eyes, it certainly seemed was what Kaleah was bucking for. Whatever had prompted the sudden shift, Jessica wasn’t going to argue with it.

She felt her breath catch in her throat as the information finally sunk in; Kaleah desired her. And as she let herself get caught for a heartbeat once more in the magnetic depths of the dark woman’s eyes, she recognized the gentle, patient affection that lay behind the desire . . . Kaleah’s love was the mirror of her own.

A delighted, excited rush flooded through her blood, generating in her heart and spreading outward till even her fingertips tingled. In the split second before she broke the eye-contact, Jessica felt that same intense sensation of recognition, of soul-shattering destiny that had not occurred since the day they’d met. The crooked, roguish smile that tugged at Kaleah’s lips told her the dark woman experienced the same thing, before they mutually looked away.

Suddenly, Jessica was sorry she’d promised Charles they would join him for the walk. She wanted nothing more than to stay here and revel in this exquisite new feeling; to bask in the warm rush and giddy joy she now felt as her heart and soul wrapped themselves in the knowledge that the love they’d nurtured and cared for the past few weeks was not in vain.

Oh well, she thought with a little grin as Kaleah scrapped up the last of the breakfast she’d brought. There was always tonight . . . and the massage she’d been promised.

Chapter 18.

Later that afternoon, as the sun sank ever closer to the distant horizon, Kaleah stood watching her friend from the castle wall, her back braced comfortably against the battlements. Jessica sat in the courtyard below, close enough that Kaleah could make out every detail of her expression as she chatted animatedly with Charles. The former slave knew her friend was aware she was being watched; every now and then, shy green eyes would glance in her direction and a slight flush would color her fair skin. Kaleah was happy to give Jess her space for now, knowing the innocent girl was in need of a little time to adjust.

Grinning quietly to herself, Kaleah sighed contentedly, reflecting on how the day had gone so far.

After breakfast, she and Jessica had found Charles and Damon outside the keep with Sir Miles. Though they had invited him to join them, Miles had begged off, saying he had duties to attend to. So, wishing him a pleasant day, the four friends had hiked out a few miles to the woods, where they spent several hours just exploring through the thick undergrowth. As they wandered about, Kaleah had taken every opportunity to brush up against the young blonde . . . and after a while, Jessica had started to timidly return the contact.

Kaleah had enjoyed Jessica’s reaction to her gentle flirtations. At breakfast, she’d clearly been surprised . . . but that had soon changed to an almost dazed comprehension which, as the young woman grew more comfortable as the day wore on, changed again into a hesitant reciprocation which Kaleah encouraged with warm smiles.

In the company of Charles and Damon, Kaleah had decided not to be too suggestive about her advances. Still, the heated looks she threw Jessica from time to time, and the quiet, inviting smile she adopted proved more than effective. Jessica had spent so much time blushing and stumbling distractedly over every fallen branch that crossed her path that eventually Charles had asked her if she was feeling okay. Jessica’s mumbled, embarrassed response to that had been followed by a warning glare at Kaleah, who had simply smirked and shrugged slightly.

On the return trip, Kaleah had allowed herself to drift back a few paces, falling into stride just behind and a little to the left of her blonde friend. In that position, she’d been free to let her admiring eyes wander further over the young woman’s body. At one point, Jessica had turned just in time to ‘catch’ Kaleah with her eyes fixed firmly on her backside. Kaleah had grinned at Jessica’s expression, and at the subtle ‘not now’ gesture she’d thrown with a nod at Charles and his body-guard. Still, the former slave hadn’t missed the sudden, enticing swagger Jessica’s stride developed for the rest of the walk.

Once back at the castle, Damon had left them to join Sir Miles, who was training with the soldiers on the jousting field, but Jessica asked Charles to remain with them. Kaleah had frowned at this . . . before she caught the sly, teasing smile the girl threw her. Apparently, Jess had decided to play the game, too.

They had just finished a light lunch together in the courtyard, watching the bustle of soldiers, servants and commoners as they went about their business; or at least, Charles had watched the bustle, while Jessica watched with extremely wide eyes as Kaleah set about finding the most suggestive way possible to devour a chicken drumstick. Then, deciding it was probably time to give her companion a break, Kaleah had made up an excuse and left the two alone, coming up here where she could continue to watch her friend . . . but where she was far enough away that the young woman had the privacy to talk with Charles.

All in all, Kaleah judged the day to be a good start. And of course, there was still more to come. She wondered if Jessica would start to feel uneasy once they were alone again. The young blonde had started to return the looks Kaleah gave with ones of her own . . . had shyly encouraged the dark woman’s advances. Kaleah hoped that would continue later on.

"Ye found a comfy roost here, I see."

The voice startled her, and she spun about to find Sir Miles standing calmly not ten feet away. "Oh . . . it’s you." Her body released some of it’s surprised tension . . . but not all. She suppressed a frown of displeasure. "I thought you were at the jousting field."

The old knight shrugged. "Damon took over," he explained. He watched her with knowing eyes, seeing the wary posture. "Ye have a nice walk?"

"Fine, thank you." She stared at him a moment longer, then turned back to watching her friend, dousing the fires in her eyes. She hoped Sir Miles would take the hint and leave, but instead he stepped closer and joined her observation.

She had not really spoken to Miles since their fight when she’d first come to Da’Gran. While he sometimes watched her sparring sessions with Jessica, the elder knight had not approached her directly since that day. In truth, Kaleah felt a little embarrassed about her behavior . . . about the way she’d reacted to him at first. But it was hard for her to offer an apology, so she’d just avoided him. As he joined her now on the wall, she wondered if he was going to take the first step for her.

"Been watching you," he said after a long period of very awkward silence. He nodded towards Jessica. "Ye look at that girl with fire in your eyes."

The words took Kaleah by surprise. Her head snapped around and she stared at him. "What’s that supposed to mean?" she demanded angrily.

He just smiled into his beard and raised a bushy eyebrow. "Ah think ye know what I mean, lass," he said softly. "The way ye been watchin’ Jess these last few weeks . . . ain’t hard to tell what ye been thinkin’ about her."

She stared at him for several seconds, seeing calm, unwavering certainty in his eyes. Then, knowing he wasn’t going to look away first, she shrugged and went back to watching Jessica. "So what?"

Miles folded his arms over his broad chest, cupping the stump of his right arm with his left hand. "I ain’t one to pass judgement," he said after a moment of silence. He picked his words carefully. "But I care a lot fer that girl."

"So do I."

"Aye . . . I kin see that. And I’m sure you prob’ly know I want only what’s good fer Jessica."

Kaleah’s eyes narrowed dangerously, and she turned their force against him. "Are you suggesting that I’m not good for Jessica?" she asked, her voice very soft. "Because if that’s why you’re here, you’re wasting your breath."

Miles held his hand up in peace. "I’m not here to suggest any such thing, lass," he assured her. "Since you came to Da’Gran, Jess’s been happier than I’ve ever seen ‘er in her whole life."

Kaleah heard the sincerity in his tone, and felt her anger evaporate quickly. "Really?"

"Aye, really. And I know her better than most folk ‘round here." He gave Kaleah a warm smile. "Ye been very good for ‘er, lass."

Kaleah’s mind stumbled for a moment, then she returned the smile with one of her own. "Then . . . what’s your point?"

Miles regarded her seriously. "Ye got a mind to be tellin’ Jess how ye feel?" he asked.

She nodded. "She deserves to know."

"Aye . . . that she does." He looked at the young woman below them fondly, then back to Kaleah. "But from the way you was lookin’ at her just now . . . I’d say yer thoughts were takin’ a pretty serious path."

Kaleah frowned. "I love Jessica," she stated firmly. "There’s nothing wrong with the way I think about her. I’d never force my desires on anyone . . . and certainly not on her." She paused. "I’ve been on the receiving end of that too many times myself."

Miles heard the quiet sadness in her voice and nodded in understanding. "Aye . . . I’ve no doubt if Jess said she weren’t interested, you’d leave the matter to rest. But it’s what happens if she is interested that brings me up here."

Something in his tone set off bells in Kaleah’s mind. She studied Miles’ face carefully. "Has she . . . said anything to you?"

Miles laughed and stroked his beard. "If’n she had . . . d’ya think I’d be betrayin’ her words to you?"

Kaleah considered that and smiled. "I guess not." It didn’t really matter, she supposed. It was clear to her now that Jessica returned her feelings. But still, it was nice to think the young woman had been sure of her heart enough to share things with another person. "Regardless . . . I’m letting her know how I feel."

"Aye, I kin see. Yer eyes looked like hot coals just now when ye was lookin’ at her." His face became serious again. "I don’t want to be seein’ Jess get burned by those coals . . . if ye understand me?"

Kaleah frowned. "You think I’d hurt her?"

"Nay . . . at least not knowingly." Miles took a second to phrase his concerns, wanting Kaleah to understand, but not wanting to aggravate her volatile defenses. "But ye have to understand that Jessica’s . . . just a child in a lot of ways," he said carefully. "She may talk and think and fight like a veteran soldier . . . and in a lot of ways she’s older than most. But in other ways — in the ways ye’ve clearly been thinkin’ of her — she’s still just a child."

Kaleah listened carefully, and realized what Miles was getting at. "I know Jessica’s a virgin," she said bluntly. "I’m not stupid. And I know she’s probably got only a vague idea of . . . what goes on in the bedroom. But with all due respect, Sir Miles . . ." she grinned, "just because she’s inexperienced doesn’t mean she’s innocent of desire. Believe me . . . I’m sure she’s had thoughts that are anything but those of a child."

"Oh, aye?" Miles sensed Kaleah spoke from some kind of secret knowledge, and he wondered what it was. "So ye think to be winnin’ her over, eh?"

Kaleah smiled confidently, and nodded. "I can feel her inside my soul," she said with absolute certainty. "I know she can feel me in hers." Her expression grew serious as she looked at Miles, and she appreciated that he had come to her with his concern. "You needn’t fear my desire for Jessica, Sir Miles," she assured him. "I’ve never known anyone as special as she is . . . and I’m not taking this situation lightly. There’s no way I’m going to rush into anything or do anything that she might regret afterwards." She smiled. "Slow and easy . . . that’s my plan."

Miles nodded slowly, remembering what Jessica had said about feeling Kaleah in her soul. Those words almost matched the ones he heard now, and he thought maybe Jessica was right afterall; perhaps they were meant to be together.

"Well . . . Good then." He smiled at her and cast a last fond glance at Jessica. "I hope ye realize just how great a gift that girl’s love is," he said softly.

Kaleah watched her friend as she sat, talking with Charles. "I do."

Giving Kaleah a final, gruff pat on the arm, Miles grunted and headed back along the wall towards the stairs. Kaleah bit her lip, unsure for a moment, then rolled her eyes at herself. What the hell.

"Miles?"

The knight stopped and half-turned. "Aye?"

"Maybe next time Jess and I are training . . . if you’re not busy, you could . . . you know, join us. I mean, if you wanted to." Kaleah winced at how awkward she sounded, even to her own ears. But Miles just smiled warmly at her, nodding slightly.

"Aye . . . that’d be nice." He gave her a quick once over and winked. "You’ve been gettin’ better with yer temper, I’ve noticed. Be interestin’ to see just how far ye’ve come." Then he turned and left her alone with her thoughts again, disappearing back in the direction of the jousting field.

Kaleah returned her attention back to Jessica, who gave her a curious look. Obviously, she’d noticed the exchange, and was wondering what it had been about. The dark woman gave her a reassuring smile to let her know everything was okay, then let her regard turn sultry again. Jessica instantly turned back to her conversation with Charles, her blush visible even from the battlement.

Kaleah grinned. This seduction thing was definitely the way to go.

"So . . ." Kaleah folded her hands behind her head and leaned back against the headboard on Jessica’s bed, wriggling her toes. "Did you enjoy today?"

Jessica shut the door behind her and nodded. "Yeah. I-it was great. Charles told me my father’s not sure about Sir William’s sincerity, just like we figured . . . and apparently Damon’s joining a group of soldiers heading to the village tomorrow. It seems there was a fire there the other night; the commoners asked for help doing some rebuilding. I thought maybe I’d go with them." She smiled a little shyly. "You feel like coming with me?"

Kaleah shook her head regretfully. "I’d love to, but I already promised Sutton I’d help him at the forge." She hadn’t been putting in much time at the anvil lately, and the blacksmith had been asking for a little assistance with a new cache of swords Sir Richard wanted. "I think he could really use another pair of hands, and besides . . ." Her voice took on a husky tone. ". . . I’m a big believer in keeping important skills . . . . fresh in ones mind."

Jessica flushed, marveling how the dark woman could make even the simplest statement sound incredibly erotic. It’s gotta be the accent, her mind decided. Still, she was disappointed.

"That’s too bad," she said, kicking off one boot, then struggling with the other. "I was looking forward to spending the day with you. I’ve never gone on one of these volunteer things before . . . I thought it would be interesting."

Kaleah watched her friend eventually wrestle the stubborn boot off her foot, then toss it next to its mate. "Sounds like we’ll both be working hard tomorrow, huh?"

Jessica grunted, hesitating a moment before she joined the dark woman on the bed. For Gods sake, her mind chuckled. You’ve been dreaming of this kind of situation for weeks, and now all of a sudden you get nervous? It’s not like she’s gonna jump on you . . . she’s just flirting! Relax and enjoy it.

Deciding that was good advice, Jessica let go of the nervous excitement that had plagued her all day and allowed her body to sink into the soft blankets with a sigh.

She really had enjoyed her companions not-so-subtle advances. The way Kaleah had been looking at her all day — the way her eyes had roamed across her body — made her feel giddy and almost light-headed. She’d always found the dark woman mesmerisingly beautiful and sexually alluring . . . but now that Kaleah was deliberately working at being seductive, the young blonde was discovering a whole new level of arousal; one that had settled over the day into a delicious ache that pulled low in her gut, and made her whole body amazingly responsive to even the slightest contact.

It seemed strange how suddenly things had changed. When she’d woken up this morning, everything had been normal; her feelings had been under control . . . her love growing steadily but still safely hidden. Now, just a few hours later, her relationship with Kaleah had changed in the most wonderful way. The changes had occurred on a subtle level, too, without the need for words. Kaleah had made her affection and desire obvious in her looks and her body language . . . nothing had been said directly.

It was a little weird trying to adjust to the new dimension . . . to the idea that she could be a bit more obvious in her own attraction and not have to fear being discovered. And it was strange having Kaleah suddenly looking at her with uninhibited appreciation and desire. Strange, she thought, but rather flattering, too.

Considering things as she closed her eyes and felt Kaleah’s eyes roaming again down her body, Jess acknowledged that even though the relationship was changing, the most important things remained just as they’d always been. Kaleah was the still the same person she’d been last night when they’d fallen asleep in each other’s arms. Maybe she was behaving a little differently . . . but it was a good difference. When she thought about it that way, Jessica realized there was no real reason to be nervous — or even shy — about this stuff. Kaleah was still her friend . . . still the same woman she’d always been. And even though the circumstances were new, Jessica trusted the woman not to push things.

There was nothing to fear.

Opening her eyes, she glanced up at Kaleah. "Are you hungry?" Her own stomach was growling a little.

Kaleah eyes grew hooded, their cerulean depths darkening visibly. "Oh, I’m very hungry . . ." she purred, waggling her eyebrows.

Jessica felt her face start to blush again, but she forced her rising blood down. It was about time she gave Kaleah a little of her own medicine, she figured, so instead of looking away, she just raised an eyebrow and assumed a look of perfect innocence. "I could get us some dinner, if you like."

Kaleah smiled. "Yeah . . . dinner’d be nice, too." She paused, then added, "Nothing too heavy, though. I’m still pretty full from lunch."

Jessica grinned. "You certainly did seem to enjoy the chicken," she said wryly, remembering the dark woman’s erotic lunch-time display.

Kaleah’s voice dropped a full octave. "Well . . . there’s nothing like a nice, succulent, tender drumstick to satisfy ones appetite." She licked her lips enticingly, but Jessica didn’t even flinch now. She just smiled her best naïve-young-maiden smile.

"I thought it was a little oily, myself." A raised eyebrow invited Kaleah to take the bait, which she happy did.

"It wasn’t oily, Jessica . . . it was juicy." Kaleah leaned forward. "And there’s nothing quite so tasty as fresh young meat cooked in it’s own sweet juices . . ."

They looked at each other a moment, sparks flying between them, before Jessica couldn’t help herself and broke into a grin, which quickly turned into laughter. The sexually charged tension broke, and Kaleah joined her mirth.

When the chuckles subsided, Jessica wiped her eyes and rolled off the bed. "Wait here," she smiled, tugging her boots back on. "I’ll be back in a minute. I think soup should be pretty safe."

Kaleah grinned wickedly. "Wanna bet?"

Twenty minutes later, Jessica was feeling very relieved she hadn’t accepted the wager.

Kaleah set her empty bowl back on the tray Jessica had brought, and sat back with a very contented sigh. From under half-closed lids, she watched her friend hastily finish off her own soup, pleased at how successful she’d been at distracting the young woman . . . though it had been a challenge to figure out a suggestive way to consume soup.

"That was nice," she said throatily as Jessica set her bowl on the tray and set the tray on the table just next to the bed. With her hands folded over a satisfyingly full belly, Kaleah muffled a belch and let her body recline lower against the headboard.

"Yeah." Jessica smiled, thinking ‘nice’ wasn’t exactly the way she’d choose to describe her companions eating style. I never thought eating soup could pass as a method of seduction, she thought as she lay across the length of her bed. I guess maybe Kaleah’s just more creative than most. She wondered with a shiver if the dark woman’s creativity would extend beyond this playful teasing . . .

Probably.

Glancing at the window, Jessica frowned. "It’s getting dark," she observed. She’d lit a few candles when she returned with their meal, but the chill was rising as the sun disappeared. "Should I light a fire?"

"If you like." The dark woman’s voice took on a very sexy tone that caused a tightening in Jessica’s stomach. "But if you’re cold . . . I’m sure I could warm you up . . ."

Jess repressed the part of her that wanted to ask Kaleah just how she planned to do that; she wasn’t ready to call the dark woman on that step just yet. So she settled on a mildly amused but coy look, and a half smile. "Another time, maybe."

Kaleah grinned at that, and sat back contentedly to watch as her blonde counterpart got up and set about the task of building the fire. Already hooded lids dropped lower still as she let desire-soaked eyes roam at will across Jessica’s body. Kaleah admired the firm, toned muscle that was evident even under the simple shirt, and let herself grow lost in the young woman’s enticing curves. When Jessica sat up a little straighter and froze for a second, she smiled, knowing the girl could feel the heat of her appraisal without even having to turn around.

Bent over the fireplace, feeling the force of her companions eyes on her body, Jessica gave a mental shrug and very deliberately leant over her work further than was really necessary. As the daughter of a lord knight, Jessica was used to being put on display. But as she tensed her body and arched her back a little, giving her audience a better view of her more interesting attributes, the young woman couldn’t help but blush a little at her own behavior.

For someone who’s lived a chaste and modest existence, her mind grinned, you sure can act like a hussy when you’ve got the right incentive.

Sneaking a glance behind her, seeing Kaleah’s amused but very attentive regard, Jessica grinned. She was really starting to enjoy this teasing game . . . especially now that she was loosening up a little.

Quickly finishing her task, Jessica expertly struck flint to striker and coaxed the resulting spark into a small flame. Blowing gently, she managed to get the light wood burning nicely, and spent a few minutes making sure the fire was okay before standing up. Aware of the eyes still watching her, she gave a slow, languorous stretch, groaning dramatically.

"Urgh . . . I’m still a little stiff from yesterday," she groaned, turning around and fixing emerald eyes on her friend. She rubbed her neck. "I hope I’m not too sore tomorrow . . . the work in the village’ll probably be pretty strenuous."

Kaleah grinned, knowing full well what the young woman was driving at. She sat up a fraction, more than happy to play along. "Well, we don’t want the princess to be sore, now do we?"

"Uh uh."

"And I believe I promised you a massage tonight, didn’t I?"

Jessica cocked her head thoughtfully. "Come to think of it, I do seem to recall something like that being offered, yeah." She smiled what she hoped was a sexy smile. "Does it still stand?"

"Of course . . . anything you want." Kaleah sat up and got off the bed. "I want you to be happy, Jessica," she said in silky tones as she stepped closer to the young woman. When she was only a foot or two away, she stopped and gazed down into the suddenly shy eyes of her friend. "Would a massage make you happy?"

Jessica swallowed the lump that had suddenly formed in her throat, but managed a nod.

"Fine." Kaleah broke the eye contact and stepped past the young woman. "Take your shirt off and lie down on your stomach." She started sifting through the items on one of the dresser drawers, searching for something.

Jessica shook her head to clear it of the fuzziness it had developed, then glanced back a little nervously. Her fingers toyed with the edges of the shirt, but she hesitated to remove it. She’d been topless around Kaleah before . . . but things were different now. Touches that had been innocent before that morning took on a greater depth and significance in light of the new sexual chemistry that had developed.

Kaleah continued to rummage through the vials of perfume and oils on the dresser, her back turned. Jessica realized the dark woman was giving her the time and privacy to undress and get on the bed, and the simple gesture brought a measure of reassurance. Kaleah wasn’t going any faster than Jessica could handle . . . and the innocent blonde appreciated that.

Turning, she quickly pulled the shirt over her head and tossed it on the bed, running her fingers through her hair to settle it. Half-turning, she silently thanked Kaleah for being so considerate . . . only to blush deeply and hastily lie down on the mattress when she saw that the dark woman was watching her with great interest in the mirrors, which gave her a very clear view of everything.

"That was low," she mumbled as she settled herself and tried to get her face to stop glowing. Kaleah had excellent hearing . . . Jess knew she heard the comment and could almost see the cheeky grin that flashed across the dark woman’s face. Turning a little, keeping her breasts covered, she glanced back her friend. "What are you looking for?"

Kaleah finished her rummaging and held up a clear glass vial filled with a thick, slightly purple liquid. "This."

Jessica recognized the vial and her eyes narrowed. "That’s scented burning oil," she said. "Why would you want that?"

Kaleah smiled mysteriously. "For your massage, of course. You don’t have any proper oils . . . but this’ll do fine."

Jess’s eyes widened. "You’re going to rub that into my skin? Kaleah, that stuff came from France! It cost a fortune!"

"So?" The dark woman removed the small stopper and took a sniff. She smiled. "Do you ever use it?"

Jessica’s eyes flickered and dropped. "Sometimes."

"Uh huh . . . like when?" When the young blonde didn’t answer, Kaleah just nodded. From what she’d seen of Jessica, it was clear the girl collected things like the oil — things that other nobles would consider essential — but rarely ever actually used them. She seemed to just like having them around for display; if something wasn’t actually useful, she tended to ignore it. "Trust me . . you’ll get your money’s worth better this way than you ever will from burning it."

Jessica regarded her skeptically for a moment, then turned back so she was lying flat. "Fine."

Kaleah grinned and stepped up onto the bed. Very slowly, making sure the young woman understood what she was doing, Kaleah stood over the horizontal body and lowered herself gently until she was straddling the girl’s buttocks. Keeping her thigh muscles tense to absorb most of her weight, she settled herself lightly onto the young blonde.

"Is this okay?"

Jessica swallowed audibly, but managed to croak out a "Yes."

Kaleah gathered up the blonde hair into a tail and pushed it over the girls shoulders. Settling her hands reassuringly on tense shoulders, she admired the exposed flesh, noticing every tiny scar and freckle. "I’m not too heavy for you, am I?"

"No . . . th-that’s fine."

Jessica could feel Kaleah’s primal strength radiating outward, felt it surround and embrace her half-naked body in a way that was not smothering or forceful . . . but rather, gentle and protective. The hands on her shoulders squeezed slightly, then disappeared. She sensed motion above her, then felt their warmth return and begin to move over her back. Powerful fingers slid with sensual, liquid ease over tight muscle, slowly but with profound intensity. The sharp smell of jasmine reached her nostrils, and she detected an erotic friction between her body and those magic hands. With a throaty moan of surprised pleasure, she realized the dark woman was spreading the scented oil over her skin.

After a few minutes spent just soaking in the sensations Kaleah’s touch inspired, Jessica had to admit the idea of using the oil was a good one. She’d never cared enough to burn the expensive oils . . . but she was gaining a new appreciation for their use as they allowed Kaleah’s hands to glide with silken, smooth motions over her body.

"Feel good?" She heard the smile in the low voice above her, and realized little sounds of pleasure were escaping her throat.

"It . . ." She cleared her throat. "It’s very nice. Thank you." The hands slid in perfect accord along her rib-cage, running with teasing patience ever lower. Jessica couldn’t hold back the gasp that escaped her as she felt the electric light touch of fingers against the sides of her breasts.

"Ooops . . . Sorry about that." The hands retreated to the safer region of her shoulders and neck, their movements slow and very attentive.

Jessica didn’t trust herself to speak; if she opened her mouth, she wasn’t sure she’d be able to stop herself from asking that the hands continue the tantalizing journey they’d only just hinted at.

Although it wasn’t the first time Kaleah had given her a massage, Jessica knew this was different to the experience of weeks before. Then, Kaleah’s hands had been firm and strong, searching out and relieving the tension in her muscles. Now, however, the touch was softer and more sensuous. Kaleah wasn’t trying to ease discomfort, Jessica realized . . . she was seeking to arouse . . . to stimulate.

And, the young blonde thought with a flush, she was succeeding admirably.

Jessica’s body felt like it was on fire; every nerve ending was alive and eagerly receptive to the hands that slid over her sensitive skin. Her heart was racing; she felt lightheaded . . . probably because most of the blood in her body was going to more needful places than her brain. The coiling tension in her gut was overwhelmed by the steady, pulsing pressure that settled between her legs, it’s relentless ache crying out to be satisfied. And although Jessica was innocent to the demands of such sexual arousal, her body knew enough to want to start pushing those sensitive areas into the mattress beneath her.

With the gentle weight of Kaleah’s body settled squarely on her butt, Jessica could feel the wetness starting to build. And thinking about exactly what part of Kaleah’s body was pressing the hardest against her didn’t help to stem the flow of her desire.

Jessica whimpered quietly. She had never in her whole life felt so stimulated. Had never in her life wanted anything so badly as she now wanted to just roll over and beg Kaleah to let her hands finish the job.

The young woman was so wrapped up in her own twisting, intense arousal that she was completely unaware of the fire building slowly in the woman providing this pleasure.

Kaleah’s eyes feasted with fixed, unblinking awe on the subtle shift and motion of her beloved’s back. Her hands moved with a will of their own over Jessica’s skin, spreading the liquid oil over every inch, making the young woman’s body glow like rich gold in the dancing light of the candles and fire. Her brain struggled to comprehend the intimate contact . . . to accept the emotions caused by the depth of her love and desire.

In all her life, the former slave had never wanted anything with this kind of passionate intensity. She couldn’t even remember wanting her freedom as much as she now wanted simply to be allowed to love Jessica. It was hard to get used to these new, incredibly powerful feelings; the need to protect and care for this wonderful young woman . . . the trust she now gave without effort or will. Everything was all so new . . . but in some strange way Kaleah couldn’t explain, it was also as ancient and timeless as the earth itself.

On some deep, intangible level . . . Kaleah knew she had always felt this way.

And knew she always would.

When she let her hands roam down and caress the outer curve of Jessica’s breasts, Kaleah smiled at the young woman’s swift response. As a slave, she had been taught the art of sensual massage and the body’s natural pleasure centers . . . and it wasn’t long before the effect of using those skills on the woman she loved started to take it’s inevitable toll on her own hyper-sensitive body.

While her hands applied a slow, gentle pressure to every sensitive part of the young woman’s back, Kaleah felt her breathing grow shallow and strained. Sapphire eyes darkened to the color of the midnight sky, and a light sweat broke out across her forehead. But it was only when she realized that her hips had started to slowly and erotically grind her center against Jessica’s backside that Kaleah took a deep, shaky breath and realized she needed to slow down; not just for Jessica’s sake, but for her own.

Shaking her head a little, trying to regain control of a desire so strong it was frightening, Kaleah focused her attention and managed to stop the rocking of her hips. She couldn’t tell if Jessica had noticed, but thought it unlikely. The young woman was very quietly whimpering, seemingly lost in the sensations Kaleah suspected were very new to her. The scent of the jasmine oil thankfully overwhelmed the musky scent of her arousal, and Kaleah gave herself a stern reprimand for getting carried away.

Take it slowly, remember, she told herself. She likes what you’re doing to her . . . don’t spoil that by giving more than she’s ready to take. So much of your life has been awful and cruel. You want this one thing to be perfect . . . for both of you.

Calm again, though her body still screamed for satisfaction, Kaleah smiled as she felt more than heard the soft, pleasured sounds coming from the body moving slightly under her fingertips. Knowing the effect she was having on the young woman almost made her start that slow grind once more. Her sex was heated and slick with arousal . . . she had never wanted release more in her whole life! And the knowledge that she wasn’t going to get it just made the ache more intense.

But at the same time . . . it also made her want to drag this sweet torture out for as long as she possibly could.

Sweeping her hands down very low over Jessica’s back, Kaleah let her thumbs press into the young woman’s tail-bone. The action earned her a deep moan, and she smiled. Leaning down carefully, the dark woman brought her lips closer to Jess’s ear.

"I like the way you sound," she breathed softly. Another whimper. "Are you enjoying this?"

Jessica struggled visibly with herself, but words seemed beyond her. Kaleah’s smile grew wider.

"Would you like me to stop?" Her hands stilled their movements.

Instantly, Jessica shook her head violently. "N-no . ." she pleaded. "Please . . . keep going."

Kaleah’s hands resumed their explorations, dipping down several times to wander teasingly close to Jessica’s breasts. When the young woman lifted herself slightly, inviting them to roam further, the former slave pulled them back to more familiar ground. Jessica groaned quietly, but settled back down.

"You know," Kaleah said conversationally, "when I was a slave, I was taught every possible way there is to arouse a person . . . every way to give pleasure."

Jessica closed her eyes and tried very hard not to concentrate on the feel of the dark woman’s body pressing her deeper into the mattress. She had a feeling she was pushing the limits of her endurance with this glorious torment . . . but she didn’t want it to stop just yet. Kaleah’s voice continued.

"I always hated the lessons they gave me . . . and I hated even more having to use the skills I acquired. But right now . . ." Her fingertips caressed the faint scars that marred the perfect body under her. ". . . Right now . . . I’m almost grateful for everything I was taught." She leaned down again and breathed into Jessica’s left ear. "You’ve given me back my life, Jessica. It feels good knowing that I can thank you like this . . . Knowing that I can give you this pleasure."

Jessica’s body was starting to tremble, the overwhelming strain of suppressing her desire becoming too much for the inexperienced girl. Kaleah felt her own need reaching a dangerous level, and decided it was time to end the massage. If it went on any longer, she feared she might not be able to stop herself from taking it too far.

Letting her hands slow, Kaleah finally withdrew them from Jessica’s back. She heard the young woman stop breathing, anticipating their return, but regretfully, she lifted a leg and rolled off her friend. Her heated center cried out at the lost contact, but she ignored it. Taking a deep breath, she tried to calm the fire in her blood.

"I think that’s enough . . ."

Green eyes dark with desire pinned her instantly as a hand shot out in desperation, latching onto her arm. Jessica sat up a little, forgetting her modesty in the quest to get those hands to resume their delicious stimulation.

"Please," she begged, her eyes imploring. "C-can you keep going . . . just for a few minutes?"

Kaleah looked away, knowing if Jessica insisted she could never deny her. "I . . . really think we should stop," she whispered.

"Why?"

Gently taking the hand that clutched at her, Kaleah gazed into the desperate eyes of her friend. She didn’t want to hurt Jessica, but she had to make the girl understand. Taking a deep breath and releasing it slowly, the dark woman held her friend’s hand.

"I want to make you happy-"

"You were!" Tears of frustration appeared in Jessica’s eyes, and Kaleah scolded herself.

"I shouldn’t have taken it so far-"

"I liked it . . . Please? Don’t stop . . ."

Kaleah was tempted, but only for a moment. She shook her head. "I’m sorry. But if I keep going . . . I don’t know if I could . . ." She trailed off, searching for a sign of understanding in Jessica’s eyes.

After a moment, she found it. Jessica reluctantly let go her death-grip and nodded slightly. "Okay," she said very softly. Reaching out, the young woman grabbed her shirt and held it to her chest as she sat up. Taking a shaky, tremulous breath, she couldn’t help but grin a little sheepishly. "Guess I got a little carried away, huh?"

Kaleah returned her smile, glad that her friend could understand. "I think we both did."

A blonde brow raised hopefully. "You want me to . . . return the favor?"

Kaleah shook her head, and Jessica’s expression turned from hopeful to disappointed.

"Why not? It’s only fair, after all."

Kaleah’s face turned a darker shade of bronze as she blushed. "Maybe tomorrow, huh? I don’t think now’s a very good time."

Jessica’s brow furrowed in confusion. "It’s not?"

"No." Kaleah gave her friend a roguish smile and tried to find the words that would explain her situation to the sweetly naïve girl. "I’m kinda . . . on the edge, if you know what I mean . . ?" She wasn’t sure how much Jessica knew about sex.

When the green eyes suddenly widened and the young woman gasped, however, Kaleah was grateful to whatever God had saved her from having to explain her situation more fully.

Jessica stared at Kaleah for a long moment, just absorbing the information. "You mean . . . you . . ."

Kaleah nodded.

Jessica’s mouth hung open. "Oh."

You never even touched her . . . Her mind struggled to figure out the mechanics of an act she had only a very vague comprehension of, and she eventually concluded that there was obviously more to this sex thing than she was aware.

A slow smile appeared on her face. "I guess that means you . . . enjoyed the massage as well, huh?"

Kaleah grinned bashfully. "You could say that," she admitted. "But I’m not forgetting this. You owe me, alright?"

"Sure. Anytime you want." Jessica hesitated, letting her head fall forward so her long hair hid the color in her cheeks "I . . . really enjoyed myself, too." Her undergarments were soaked, but thankfully all she could smell was the scented oil. Tomorrow, you’re gonna need to take a bath before you leave the castle, her mind noted for her. To bad you can’t make it a cold one.

The fire crackled loudly just then, and Jessica glanced at the dying flames. "Should I put more wood on that?"

Kaleah shook her head. "I think the fire’s burned hot enough for tonight . . . don’t you?"

Jessica nodded, understanding the real message. "Yeah . . . I guess so." She yawned suddenly, and grinned. "I don’t know how much sleep I’m gonna get after that massage . . . but I’m kind of tired."

"Mmm." Kaleah was feeling the effects of a very busy day herself. "We’ll both be working hard tomorrow. We should probably get what rest we can." A dark brow lifted. "You mind if I . . . ?" She pulled back the covers.

Jessica shook her head. "Not at all. You’re probably still a little nervous after the attack, naturally."

Kaleah grinned and got under the blankets. "Right . . . The attack."

Jessica considered a moment, wondering if she should be going to bed without washing off the oil. Did she want to be sleeping with the smell of jasmine for the next week?

Kaleah read her hesitation and said, "Don’t worry about it. Just put the shirt on and leave it till tomorrow." A pause. "I think it smells nice, anyway."

That clinched it. Jessica turned away while she quickly dragged the simple tunic over her head, tugging her hair free and ruffling it into messy order before getting up to snuff the few candles that lit the room. When all was dark again, she joined her companion in the warm bed.

At first, Jess was unsure if she should initiate the same level of contact as she had the night before. In light of the new dimension to their relationship, was it appropriate to get that close? How would her touch affect Kaleah? Or maybe more importantly, how might it affect her?

Her uncertainly was made redundant, however, when Kaleah swiftly wrapped long arms and legs about her body and pulled her close into an embrace. She felt the entire length of the tall woman’s body curl about her, trapping her in a soft cocoon of comfort and safety. She sighed.

"Just relax," said the deep voice, Kaleah’s breath tickling her ear. "I just want to hold you . . . okay?"

"Sure." Jessica snuggled back, enjoying the contact that was no longer trying to stimulate, but seemed only loving and affectionate. Still, her body wasn’t going to forget the massage so soon, and the teasing ache was still strong.

Not going to get a lot of rest tonight, I’m afraid, her mind told her.

Wrapped in the darkness, feeling frustrated but very happy, Jessica’s mind turned it’s consideration quite naturally to the amazing new developments the day had brought.

It was sudden, she thought . . . but somehow felt perfectly right. The love she had worked so hard to hide was now free to shine in the company of the dark woman, and the knowledge that Kaleah returned her feelings made her feel like she was caught up in one of the romantic stories she so loved to read. Only this was all real . . . even if it was strange.

That thought reminded her of something, and she decided now was as good a time as any to ask the question that had plagued her all day.

"Kaleah?"

"Hmm?"

"Can I ask you a question?"

A moment of amused silence. "If I say no . . . will you ask it anyway?"

She grinned. "Probably."

"I guess you might as well go ahead then. What’s the question?"

She considered a moment, then asked, "Did something happen this morning that I don’t know about?"

There was no answer for a long time, and she felt Kaleah’s body shift. "Why do you ask?"

"Well . . . I’m just trying to figure some stuff out, that’s all," she explained. "When I got back from talking to my mother, you started acting . . ." She searched for an appropriate word. ". . . strangely."

"Did I?"

"Yes . . . And you can wipe that grin off your face, Kaleah. You know what I’m talking about."

"You can’t see me grinning."

"No, but I can hear it."

A pause. "It’s not bothering you, is it? The way I’m acting?" The smile was gone in the voice, and Jessica knew Kaleah was asking seriously. "I mean . . . I didn’t think you minded."

"No," she said quickly.

"If it’s making you uncomfortable . . . you can just tell me. I’ll stop if you want."

"No . . . I don’t mind the way you’re acting at all."

Jessica realized suddenly that this was the first time they had actually talked about what was going on. She had accepted the playful flirting and the lust-filled looks that had grown more serious as the day wore on, and she knew Kaleah wouldn’t have continued them if she had discouraged her. But still, the dark woman was ready to stop if she said the word. It made Jessica feel more in control . . . reassured her that she really was safe.

The arms wrapped around her squeezed a little, hugging her to the body behind. "I didn’t think so. You know . . . I’d never do anything you didn’t want me to, Jessica." The words were spoken very softly, very sincerely.

She smiled. "I know you wouldn’t," she whispered. "And you know I’d never hurt you . . . or leave you."

A long stretch of silence. "I know."

"So . . ?"

"So . . . what?"

"Answer the question."

"What was the question again?"

Jessica growled and felt a chuckle vibrate through her bed-mate. "You think you’re funny?"

"No. I think you sound cute when you get frustrated and make that noise."

"’Frustrated’ is a polite word for what I am, Kaleah . . . thanks to you."

She heard the grin again. "Glad to do whatever I can." The voice turned sultry. "But you know, Jess . . . there’s nothing wrong with being frustrated."

She snorted. "Tell that to my . . ." She blushed and stopped. "Nevermind."

She felt the chuckle again. "Frustration’s just your body’s way of saying it want’s more," the low, sensuous voice said. "And the greater the frustration . . . the more enjoyable it is when you eventually get what you want."

Jessica considered this seriously. "I hope you don’t expect this frustration to get too much worse then," she said after a moment. A hand went to her hair and caressed her cheek slowly.

"We’re only just getting started," promised the dark voice.

She groaned. "Can you at least answer the question? Did something happen this morning that I’m not aware of?"

There was no answer for several seconds, then one word. "Maybe."

"Does that mean yes?"

"Maybe." This time with a definite grin.

Jessica considered, certain now that something had happened that had somehow given Kaleah the confidence to initiate the seductive advances. "Will you tell me what it was?"

The hand stroked her hair lightly. "Not tonight."

Jessica sighed. "Tomorrow?"

"Maybe." Silence. "Does it really matter though?"

Jess shrugged as much as she could. "It . . . doesn’t change things, if that’s what you’re asking. But I’d like to know, that’s all."

"Alright. I promise I’ll let you know when I’m ready to tell you. Okay?"

"Okay."

Jessica closed her eyes and relaxed into the warmth of her friend’s embrace. Having spent her whole life sleeping alone in the big bed, it was amazing how wonderful it felt to have someone holding her close; to know that someone loved her with a purity and strength that would last forever. They hadn’t had any declarations of love as yet, true . . . but then again, at this point they didn’t need them. This love was so obvious and so deeply ingrained it needed no words to make it real. Her soul bore the dark woman’s brand clearly . . . and she knew Kaleah’s bore hers.

Once her body had let go it’s coiled tension, Jessica felt her heartbeat start to even out and concentrated on matching her breathing to Kaleah’s. Soon, they were perfectly harmonized, and the young woman smiled.

"Jess?"

"Hmm?"

"Sweet dreams."

She grinned. "After that massage, they’d damn well better be."

Kaleah chuckled and planted a soft kiss on the back of her head. "’Night."

"Mmm."

Sleep came to Jessica surprisingly quickly . . . and her dreams were just as enjoyable as she expected them to be.

Chapter 19.

Jessica finished hammering the roughly-cut board onto the solid frame and stepped back, breathing heavily. The front of her simple tunic was soaked with sweat, and the coarse material scratched her neck and chest. She wiped at her forehead with the back of her arm, knowing she looked like a mess and not minding in the slightest. A sharp ache had developed in her biceps from the hours of hard labor, but it was a satisfying discomfort. The young woman had tied her long hair back into a loose tail to stop it getting in her face, but a few damp, golden strands had pulled free. She flicked them away, patting them down absently as she surveyed the half-completed house in front of her.

Living in a castle with all the luxuries of nobility, Jessica had never actually seen much of the dwellings used by the common-folk. Of course, she knew they were simple structures, designed to be cheap and easy to build; in a land where an attack could come at any time, few things were built to be permanent. The house that Jessica was helping to build was replacing one that had been lost to fire just the other night; constructed from highly combustible materials, peasant houses were often destroyed during winter, when a kitchen fire could easily turn into a blazing inferno.

Consisting of a single room for living, a single room for sleeping, and another smaller room for cooking, Jessica couldn’t help but wonder how anyone could stand such cramped accommodations. She had always thought she could live without all the trappings of her noble blood . . . but realized now just how accustomed she had grown to living in the vast, secure castle of Da’Gran.

She knew the villagers here lived good lives. From stories Sir Miles had told her, some peasants in other vassals were treated by their lords as little more than slaves or playthings. The lands of Da’Gran were wealthy, and Jessica’s father made sure everyone under his protection benefited from that fact, never hoarding his riches away like many lords did. Sir Richard offered the services of his own men to assist his people when things got hard for them, doing all he could to make their lives a little bit easier. The people in the village had asked for aid to rebuild the destroyed house, and the volunteer’s had left Da’Gran that morning when the sun was still low on the horizon, led by Damon Cook.

Jessica had never been allowed to join such an expedition before; Lady Rose had always insisted her daughter stay away from such demeaning manual labor. But with the changes she had made to her life recently, Jessica figured her mother wouldn’t be able to stop her this time. And since Damon was in charge, she at least had a friend to keep her company.

Stepping back now to study the progress that had been made, Jessica smiled, feeling rather proud that she had played a part in the project. The house was about half-way to completion. It had taken most of the morning to build the frame-work, which was now raised and secured. Under the supervision of the village headman, the small army of volunteer’s from Da’Gran were now working on cutting and then nailing long, rough-edged boards to the structure. After that would come the thatching on the roof, and the house would be largely completed. The final touches would be done by the villagers themselves. The building was nothing fancy, but to Jessica’s eyes, it looked as majestic as the great fortress that was her home.

Hands on her hips, the young woman nodded to herself, pleased with her efforts. It was hard work. Even Jessica, who was extremely fit from endless hours of training, found the work exhausting. Exhausting, but very satisfying. It felt damn good to know that she was really helping the common people, to know that they could actually see her trying to make a difference.

Though she was dressed in the same manner as the other volunteers, Jessica had never entertained thoughts that she might be able to blend in. For starters, everyone else was a lot taller than she was, and with her long, flowing golden-blonde hair and delicate features, it was impossible to hide herself among the rugged, mostly bearded men. No woman in Da’Gran looked even remotely like she did . . . her nobility was stamped on her face clearly, and no amount of sweat and grime could hope to mask it. Even the giant Damon wasn’t getting as many stares as she was. Jessica knew the villagers standing nearby watching, and the ones who were working side by side with the soldiers, knew exactly who it was that walked among them. Thankfully, no-one seemed to recognise her from the night she’d spent at the tavern with Kaleah.

In truth, Jessica found all the awed attention rather amusing. The village headman who was given command of the men from the castle hadn’t known what to make of the situation, and had obviously been extremely nervous about ordering Sir Richard’s own daughter around. At first, he offered her small, token jobs, figuring such a delicate flower wouldn’t be willing to get her hands dirty with real work. As the day wore on, however, Jessica pitched in more and more, proving herself to be just as tough and hard a worker as any of the men. When she’d hit her thumb with a hammer and let loose a string of colorful curses, the headman realized he was mistaken in his thoughts of her. After that, Jessica was given more challenging, physical tasks which she threw herself into happily. Now, most of the villagers were accustomed to her presence and treated her no differently than the other soldiers . . . although they still seemed hesitant about getting too close to her.

The sound of a horse approaching drew the young woman’s attention from the house. Turning, Jessica smiled when she recognized Charles’ elegantly-appointed stead cantering toward her with graceful, considered strides. She waved as her friend drew the dark-brown gelding to a halt next to her.

"Morning, Charles," she greeted happily, before gesturing grandly towards the house. "What d’ya think?"

Charles tilted his head thoughtfully and surveyed the work. "Looks good. Not that I know much about building a house, of course, but it doesn’t look like it’s going to fall down anytime soon. That’s certainly a good start."

Jess grinned. "What brings you out here? Planning on getting off your horse and joining the fun?"

He grimaced and eyed her sweaty form with distaste. "I’d say you were enjoying the fun enough for both of us, Jess. No, I just came out to see how you were doing. Things were a bit dull at the castle." He looked around. "I see Kaleah decided not to come, huh?"

Jess flushed a little, the memory of last night still fresh in her mind. "No, she, uh, decided to stay back at Da’Gran. She had some work to do."

"Oh?"

"Yeah. She’s working at the smithy all day, I think. Sutton asked for some help."

"From Kaleah?"

Jess shrugged. "Sure. She was trained as a weaponsmith by her last master. I don’t know one end of an anvil from the other, but to hear Sutton talk about her, you’d think she had steel in her veins instead of blood."

"Really?" Charles cocked an eyebrow. "I never pictured her doing something like that. Smith’s are usually so big and muscular . . . like Sutton, you know? Kaleah’s more . . . athletic."

"Yeah, she is, isn’t she. But you know, she’s also a lot stronger than she looks." Jessica tried to sound casual, telling herself not to think of how that ‘athletic’ body had pressed against her own last night. She almost succeeded.

Charles grinned and dismounted. "I’ve seen that." Stepping closer, he gave her a serious look for a moment. "So . . . you two are still okay then?"

Jessica raised an eyebrow at the question. "Of course we are." She shuffled a little, thinking of just how very okay they were. "Why would you ask that?"

He shrugged a little. "Well . . . it’s just that yesterday you seemed a little out of sorts, that’s all. I thought I felt some tension going on between the two of you." He smiled when she blushed and nervously glanced away. "What’s going on?"

"Nothing."

"Uh huh." Charles’ put his hands on his hips sternly, but his tone became playful. "Then why are you turning such a lovely shade of crimson? You were doing that a lot yesterday, too, if I recall correctly."

Jessica stammered for an explanation for a few seconds, then looked up at her friend shyly. "She was, uh . . . she was . . . kinda . . flirting with me, that’s all."

Both Charles’ eyebrow’s shot up at that, and his mouth fell open a little. "She was what!?"

The young blonde shrugged. "She was flirting with me. Just since yesterday morning." Jessica turned away, wishing she could hide behind her hair like she usually did. She felt embarrassed talking about this stuff when she was still getting used to it herself.

Charles took her arm gently and turned her back to face him. "Hey . . . it’s okay. I knew you liked her. Isn’t this good news?"

She cocked her head. "Yeah, it is. It’s just . . . a little new, that’s all."

Charles tilted her face up gently, forcing her to meet his eyes. "You know you can talk to me about it, Jess. Just because we’re engaged doesn’t mean I don’t want you to be happy."

Jessica couldn’t help but grin at that. "Thanks." She chuckled shortly. "Frankly I’m surprised you didn’t spot it yesterday. She was being pretty damn obvious about it."

"Well . . . I just thought she was still shaken up about the attack, that’s all. I didn’t want to read anything into the way she was acting." He regarded her seriously a moment. He knew the young blonde had no experience in this kind of arena, and he also knew she was prone to idealism and romantic flights of fancy. He had to ask. "Are you sure she was really flirting with you? I mean, maybe you’re just seeing what you want to see."

She grinned fully, her eyes dancing in the sunlight. "Oh, I’m sure, alright. Believe me, Charles." She remembered the feel of Kaleah’s hands as they flitted tantalizingly close to her breasts, and was unable to repress a shiver at the memory. "We haven’t really talked about it too much yet, but she’s made her feelings very clear!"

Charles held her eyes a long moment, seeing the conviction there. "I see. So, you think this is going to be getting . . . serious, huh?"

Her eyes glinted with shy mischief and she smiled coyly. "I certainly hope so."

The young lord nodded slowly, considering this development gravely. "Well, if that happens — if she likes you the same as you like her — where does that leave us?" The question was asked very quietly and gently, and Jessica had to take a few seconds to think.

"I don’t really know," she admitted after a pause. "You . . . know how I feel-"

"And you know I feel the same way. You’re my friend, and I want you to be happy. If Kaleah’s the one you’ve been waiting for these last four years, than I’m glad you’ve finally found her. But we’ve both been trying to find some way to call off this wedding for a long time now . . ." He hesitated, but knew they’d have to deal with the problems this could cause sooner or later. "I don’t think the fact that you’ve fallen in love with another woman is going to be an acceptable excuse, Jess." he told her gently.

Jessica considered this, realizing she’d been so swept up in the glorious knowledge that her love was returned to even think about the ramifications. After a second, however, she shrugged. "I don’t care," she said, jutting her chin out stubbornly. "If people can’t deal with it, that’s their problem."

"And the treaty?"

"The treaty’s already firm. Let them ratify it some other way!"

"Jessica . . ." Charles put his hand on the young woman’s shoulder to calm her. His soft eyes locked with hers and refused to let go. "We both live our lives for the betterment of others . . . that’s what you’ve always told me, anyway. We have to make sacrifices-"

"I’m not giving this up, Charles!" Jessica snapped angrily, suppressing the urge to pull away when she felt the eyes of the villagers watching them with interest. With an effort, she calmed herself. "If they won’t accept that I’m in love with Kaleah, then we’ll just have to make up some other excuse." Her emerald eyes flashed defiantly. "I’ve sacrificed a lot already, and you know it!"

"You’ve been given a lot, too, Jess," Charles pointed out softly.

She nodded. "And every gift I was given was used to help others. I’ve taken little for myself, Charles . . . but I’m keeping this one thing, and nobody’s going to stop me!"

Charles had rarely seen Jessica look so fierce, and against the look in her flashing eyes he knew he had no recourse but to admit defeat. With a sigh, he turned away a little, running a hand through his wavy hair. "Fine," he conceded. "I guess we’ll think of something." He turned back to face her. "Is this . . . situation . . likely to get more serious any time soon?"

Jessica glared at him. "The ‘situation’, as you put it, could very well get more serious pretty damn soon if I have any choice in it!"

"Hey!" Charles raised his hands defensively. "I’m on your side, remember? But if you want to make everything work out without loosing a whole lot, you’re going to have to be a bit careful!"

The young blonde took a steadying breath. She didn’t like being angry, especially at Charles. Everything was so out of control, and it was a scary feeling for someone so accustomed to discipline and order. "I’m sorry," she apologized. "It’s just . . . I hadn’t even thought of all that stuff yet."

"I know, but you better start thinking about it soon." Charles lowered his voice and stepped closer. "Your mother already hates Kaleah — imagine if she finds out what’s really going on?" He saw that sink in when Jessica’s eyes darkened. "She’d crucify you both, and the Church would support her all the way, no matter how much everyone loves you."

Jess nodded slowly. "You’re right."

"That’s why you have to be careful. The people watch you a lot, Jessica, and they can’t help but watch Kaleah, too. A public display could mean a whole world of trouble for both of you."

"The Church could try her for treason . . . or even condemn her as a witch!" she thought out loud in growing horror.

"It’s not going to come to that. At least it won’t if you’re smart." He patted her reassuringly on the shoulder. "Just don’t let things get out of hand, Jess. Please?" She nodded. "We’ll think of some viable reason to call off the marriage . . . and then we’ll deal with everything else." A sudden shout from Damon ended the conversation, the huge warrior calling out to his lord to join him. Charles gave her a swift hug. "Be careful, okay?"

She sighed. "I will." They parted and she gave him a dour look. "I’m not saying I’m going to stop things from moving at all with Kaleah, because I can’t do that. But I’ll be sure to keep it in private."

Charles patted her shoulder and smiled teasingly. "Do you even know what you’re doing with her?"

She blushed a little, but her eyes sparkled. "I’m sure I’ll figure it out. And besides . . ." She winked saucily, ". . . I’ll bet she’d be happy to give me instructions if I get lost."

He laughed. "I daresay she will be." Damon called again, and he waved to him. "I’ll see you later, huh, Jess? We’ll talk more about this."

"Sure."

The young lord turned away, heading over to where Damon and most of the workers were gathered to eat a quick meal. Left alone again, Jessica stepped away from the house and considered these problems.

Having waited all her life to find true love, Jessica wasn’t prepared to loose it now that it had come along. And there was no doubt in her mind that Kaleah was the one she was meant to be with. She had felt it the moment they’d laid eyes on one another . . . although it had taken her a while to figure out the true meaning of those strange sensations and feelings that had been sparked by their meeting. All her life, Jess had never considered that falling in love would raise so many damned problems; she’d always kind of assumed it would work itself out.

Apparently, she mused, that wasn’t going to be the case.

The biggest problem, of course, was the fact that Kaleah was a woman. The Church condemned all such relationships — if her mother found out, the best Kaleah could hope for would be banishment. Then there was the fact that the former slave was a heathen savage. Jessica knew there were a lot of ways to sugar-coat that fact — Kaleah was noble and courageous and loyal — but when all was said and done, she couldn’t deny her own heritage. For Jessica, it wasn’t a problem; in fact, she found the savage, animal aura Kaleah radiated exciting, and rather sexy. But among the nobility, such qualities were scorned. It wasn’t likely that Jessica could ever openly reveal her relationship with the dark woman . . . but she didn’t mind that too much. The difficulty was going to be finding a way to get out of her betrothal to Charles.

In the last four years, she had connoted and discarded dozens of plans to achieve this, and Charles had done the same. So far, the best they’d been able to do was delay the actual wedding. But after four years, the ideas were running out, and it was growing clear that a permanent solution was required. But what?

Sighing, Jessica sat down on a thick log that was waiting to be cut into wooden boards and started idly tearing up pieces of bark. The grim realities of this whole affair were starting to sink in with Charles’ words. She felt the elation of last night and this morning dwindle, replaced by a niggling depression.

You can’t let it worry you, her mind advised. Kaleah loves you, and you said yourself that if you ever found out she felt that way, it wouldn’t matter what everyone else thinks. If you let a few problems stop you from enjoying one of the greatest experiences of your life, then you don’t deserve her love!

Jess scowled. She was just about to reply when she heard someone approaching. Looking up, expecting it to be Charles or Damon, she was a little surprised to find an elderly woman coming closer, carrying a wooden mug and a chunk of bread. Immediately, the young blonde let go her thoughts and smiled in welcome.

The old woman seemed hesitant about interrupting Jessica’s thoughts, but the smile gave her courage and she stepped nearer. "My Lady . . . I was thinking you might be likin’ somethin’ to eat." She held out the bread and cup shyly.

Jessica flashed her a dazzling grin. "Thank you. You’re most kind." She accepted the offering happily, only now remembering that she’d skipped breakfast that morning in favor of staying wrapped in the embrace of her still-sleeping bed-mate. There had been little time to talk once Kaleah did wake up, since Damon had summoned his volunteers early, impatient to get started on the work.

The peasant woman flushed a little. "It’s not much, I’m afraid, my Lady . . . but it’s freshly baked . . ."

"It’s fine. And you can call me Jessica, if you like." She bit into the bread hungrily, finding it soft and still warm from the oven. She chewed happily a moment, then turned her green eyes back to the woman. "What was your name?"

"Um . . . it’s Mary."

"Mary. What a lovely name."

The woman’s flush grew deeper with pleasure. "Thank you."

Jessica glanced over at the group of gathered workers, who were watching her curiously. "They seem a little nervous with me here, don’t they Mary?"

"Well . . . we don’t get too many young women like you turnin’ a hand to common work, my La . . " Jessica raised a brow, and the peasant blushed. ". . . Jessica."

Jess smiled and nodded. She didn’t like her noble title . . . it seemed to separate her from everyone else, and being alone so much, she had come to detest things that made her feel even more isolated like that. "I’m happy to be able to help."

The woman stepped closer shyly. "I-I’ve seen you a few times, you know," she said, "when you was . . riding out to some battle or other. And a few time when I went to the castle for the Spring festival. If I may say so, Lady Jessica, it’s a real honor to be able to meet you in person."

Jessica flashed her eyes at the woman and saw her smile almost on reflex. "Thank you. You’re very kind." She nodded to the other villagers and saw them all look away hastily. "They look at me as though I had a second head or something," she chuckled in amusement.

"They’re . . . just a little surprised, is all."

"Of what? Of the fact that Sir Richard’s daughter would get down in the mud with them and let herself be seen as a normal person?" She saw Mary flush and glance away. "I thought I had a reputation better than that."

"Aye, you do," the grey-haired old woman said hastily. "But . . . it’s one thing fer you to be off soldierin’ and the like. It’s quite another fer you to be workin’ right beside us."

Jessica tore another mouthful from the bread and chewed thoughtfully. "Well," she said when she’d swallowed, "maybe after today, you’ll be seeing me around here more often."

Mary smiled and nodded. "That’d be real nice, Lady Jessica. I’m sure we’d all like to see more of you than we gets to now." She bobbed her head. "Enjoy your lunch."

Jessica nodded. "Thank you, Mary. It was nice to meet you." She watched the woman return to her fellow peasants, shaking her head a little in amusement when several other women flocked about her, clearly asking excited questions. "Guess I know who’s gonna be the topic of conversation tonight around here," she chuckled, before returning her attention back to feeding her impatient stomach.

It was dusk, and the sun was vanished from the sky leaving behind only a last fading light by the time Jessica returned to the castle. She went immediately to the open shelter that made up the blacksmith’s workshop, her steps slowing and a smile forming on her lips when she made out the distinctive form of her dark-haired friend pounding away with measured blows at a red-hot length of blackened steel. Kaleah was wearing a light tunic and trousers covered by a protective leather apron, and her back was facing Jessica as she approached. Coming closer, the young blonde let her eyes run up and down Kaleah’s tall, slender figure, stopping to appreciate the rippling muscles across her sweat-slicked shoulders and back. With her midnight-black hair tied in a loose tail, every inch of glistening, bronzed skin was exposed, even the intricate lines of the strange tattoo which twisted with every flex. Jessica licked her lips unconsciously.

By God, she’s magnificent! Her eyes narrowed. And she’s all mine!

When she got close enough, Kaleah sensed her presence and turned around, a smile already on her face. "Hey," the dark woman greeted, thrusting the length of metal into a trough of water, where it hissed and let off a cloud of steam. Turning back to Jessica, she wiped her hands on her apron. "How’d it go with the building?"

"Fine. It was hard work, but I enjoyed it." She smiled at Kaleah’s face, which was dripping with sweat from the heat of the forges. "You look hot."

"Thanks." Kaleah’s eyes darkened and her smile took on an instantly seductive twist. "You’re not so bad yourself."

Jessica couldn’t help but blush. She’d let herself forget the true effect of those sparkling sapphire eyes when they turned on her in desire. "Thank you."

Kaleah grinned, pleased at the response. She turned away a second to dunk her head in the trough, letting the cool water take the edge off the heat in her skin. Surfacing, she shook herself, splattering Jessica.

"Hey!" The young blonde shielded her face from the water. "You’re getting me all wet!"

Kaleah waggled her eyebrows suggestively. "I didn’t hear you complaining about it last night." Her voice was very throaty, and it took Jess’ innocent mind a moment to realize what Kaleah meant. When she did, however, she flushed and glanced away.

"You . . . had a busy day, huh?" Jessica observed when she’d got her face to assume it’s normal coloring. She pointed to a rack of rough, still unfinished blades sitting off to the side. "Bet you’re tired."

"Yeah." Kaleah flexed her arms and shoulders, grimacing slightly. "Hard work."

"Doesn’t help when you don’t be takin’ a break, either," came a deep voice from behind the still-glowing forge pit. Sutton stepped out and nodded in greeting to Jessica. Then he glared good-naturedly at Kaleah. "Told ye to take a rest, girl. Ye’re gonna feel like you been run down by a wagon tomorrow, I promise ye that."

Jessica stared at Kaleah. "You’ve been doing this all day without a rest!? Kaleah, you must be exhausted! This is . . .You should . . ."

Kaleah shrugged and gave her a mischievous wink. "I guess I had a little extra energy to burn off after last night," she said. "That’s not my fault. And I did take several breaks, thank you, Sutton." She glared at the master smith. "They just weren’t very long ones, that’s all."

"Aye, maybe so," he allowed. "But I still don’t know how ye be lifting that hammer all day with those skinny arms a’ yours." He flexed his own fire-scarred, bulging muscles. "Got me enough trouble doing it with these."

Jessica grinned and poked Kaleah’s arm playfully. "Yeah. I couldn’t do this work for more than an hour before I’d collapse, and you’re not as strong as I am."

Kaleah shooed her away. "How can you possibly know that until you’ve tried it." She offered the hammer, but Jessica backed away. "Come on . . . give it a try. It’s fun."

"Uh uh. No way. I don’t consider getting hot and sweaty to be ‘fun’, unless I’m holding a sword."

"Oh really?" Kaleah’s voice grew low and husky, and she took a step closer. "I know a few extremely pleasurable activities that chiefly involve getting quite . . . hot and sweaty." Her smile was rakish as she arched an eyebrow. "I’d be happy to show you . . . if you’re interested . . ?"

Jessica swallowed, fearing for a moment her brain was going to just melt out of her ears under the heated assault of those dark gems. Eventually, she managed to get control of her rebellious voice. "Um . . . sh-sure." She cleared her throat and glanced at Sutton, reassured when she saw the huge smith inspecting some piece of rather dangerous looking equipment. Standing straighter, she managed to meet Kaleah’s gaze without faltering and smiled playfully. "Maybe we can discuss these . . . activities . . . later on tonight?"

"Maybe we could." Kaleah smiled seductively. "But if I recall correctly, you have a family dinner to go too right about now, don’t you?"

Jessica rolled her eyes and cursed herself for forgetting. "God, you’re right. I’m gonna be late if I don’t move it." She scowled, then gave Kaleah a hopeful look. "You wanna come keep me company?"

Kaleah shook her head, seeing the hopeful look turn to a disappointed pout. "Sorry . . . but I really want to finish up here first." Her voice raised. "Another hour or two and we’ll be done, right Sutton?"

"Aye, another hour should do it."

"See."

"But . . . can’t you put it off?" Green eyes pleaded soulfully in a look Kaleah knew the young woman had cultivated just for these situations. Still, she shook her head.

"If I get this done today, then I’ll have a lot of free time on my hands tomorrow." Her voice lowered again. "Free time I was thinking maybe we could fill in together . . ."

Jessica absorbed the meaning there and reluctantly dropped the pleading look. "Okay . . . I guess. So . . . I’ll see you back in my room when you’re done?"

"Sure. I’ll grab something to eat from the kitchen and be up there after that. But I think I should probably take a bath first." She scowled at her arms, which were covered in steaks of black grime . . . except her hands, which were protected by thick leather gloves. "I doubt you want me getting dust on everything." Kaleah didn’t miss the quickly masked expression of delighted interest that flitted across her friend’s face at the mention of a bath, and she smiled.

"Sure. I’d, uh . . . better be getting cleaned up myself before dinner. And Kaleah . . ." Jessica gave the dark woman a last enticing grin. ". . . You really do look hot."

Kaleah just rolled her eyes and watched Jess saunter off, her hips swaying a little more than was normal. She grinned.

"Hey!" Sutton’s voice called her back to the task at hand as he lefted a piece of red-hot steel from the forge fire. "You ready fer this?"

"Sure . . hand it here." Kaleah took the metal rod in her gloved hands and laid it on the solid surface of the anvil. While Sutton returned to the bellows, she lifted a heavy hammer and struck with rhythmic, practiced blows, further flattening the steel length and slowly tapering the end into a point. When the red glow faded, she thrust it back into the embers of the forge and waited for it to gather heat again.

As she worked, Kaleah’s mind drifted, lulled into a state of relaxation by the repetitive ringing of the hammer blows. Her lips bowed into a quiet smile as she considered the night that lay ahead . . . particularly, her thoughts focused on the bath she planned to take. Her smile grew wider even as her arms ached from the day of constant work.

Yeah, she thought idly as she formed the steel into the shape of a sword. A nice long bath . . . and maybe a massage to follow it. Her eyes glinted happily. I’m sure Jess’d enjoy that as much as I would!

Jessica’s heart skipped a beat in anticipation at the knock from the door to Kaleah’s room. She smiled when the door opened, admitting her tall, dark-haired friend. Kaleah closed the door behind her and smiled.

"How was dinner?"

Jess waved her hand in a ‘so-so’ motion. "Mixed bag, really. On the one hand, I had to listen to my mother’s snarky disapproval of what I was off doing today, as well as a few insinuations about the wedding. But on the other hand, she didn’t say anything about you, and my father said something about the number of bandits in the area dropping off. Apparently, the patrols are turning up nothing, so . . . maybe they all decided to move on."

"That’s good news." Kaleah hesitated a long moment, her eyes nervous. "Wh-what did you tell your mother . . . about the wedding?"

Jessica smiled, hearing more than idle curiosity in the question. "I told her what I usually tell her; that it’s not a good time right now. My father backed me up on that one . . . the treaty with Sir William’s making him a bit nervous, I think." Her verdant eyes held Kaleah’s. "Charles and I are trying to think of a way to end the betrothal more permanently."

Kaleah nodded slowly. "I see. So . . . does this mean that you and I can . . ." She trailed off, but Jessica read the question clearly enough.

"It sure does," she nodded. "But Charles reminded me that we should be a bit careful about things, you know?"

"Charles? Does he . . . know about . . ." Kaleah waved between them. ". . . this?"

"He asked me, so I told him," Jess said simply, watching her reaction carefully and hoping she didn’t mind. "We don’t keep secrets from each other . . . and besides, he figured most of it out all by himself when he first got here." She grinned. "I guess he’s just good at reading people."

"Yeah." Kaleah smiled to show she was okay with Charles knowing about them. "Well . . . I just finished eating and was looking forward to a good long soak after working so long." She held up a bundle of clean clothes she was holding. "I’ll be back in a while, okay?"

"Sure. Take your time. Relax." Jessica’s tone was carefully casual, but her eyes were lit from within by an unmistakable excitement. Kaleah grinned fully, her teeth flashing, before she retreated back into her own room, heading for the bathing chamber.

As soon as the door closed behind the dark woman, Jessica let her eyes drift shut as her imagination ran a quick but extremely heated picture show across her mind. Since yesterday, the young woman’s thoughts of being intimate with Kaleah had taken on a much more serious aspect. She already had a fairly good idea of how two women might make love just from reading so many stories on the subject . . . but now her young body was growing ever more eager to explore the full depth of this love that burned in her blood. When her eyes finally opened, Jessica’s attention went instantly to the secret entrance.

"You probably shouldn’t go and watch her," she told herself. Already she could feel arousal washing through her body, and she suspected Kaleah would only fan the flames of her desire when she returned. "If you see her getting all wet and naked in the bathing room, you’ll only make things worse for yourself."

Oh, come on! her mind mocked. How can you even think about not watching her!?! She got to see you topless last night, remember? Looking in the mirrors? If she gets to see you, it’s only fair you get to see her, right?

Jessica felt her breathing start to quicken, and her mouth grow dry. She swallowed. "It’s nothing you haven’t already seen," she argued. "Watching her now’ll just make you even more frustrated when she’s wrapped around you tonight."

Unless . . .

"Unless?"

. . . Well . . . maybe when she gets back, she’ll want to do more than just talk, her mind suggested hopefully. She did say she’d like to show you . . . more, didn’t she?

"Yeeessss . . . but last night she didn’t sound like she wanted to move too fast."

Her mind considered that and sighed metaphorically. You’re right. It was silent a moment. Let’s face it, though . . . you’re going to be restless tonight whether you watch her or not. And you know how much you like to watch her, right?

Jessica smiled as her ever-helpful imagination provided a picture of Kaleah’s naked figure. "Yeah . . ."

So why not do it?

Jessica hesitated.

Okay, let me put it another way, her mind pressed. Would you prefer to watch her bathe and be done with it . . . or watch whatever your imagination can come up with later on? A few images of sweat-soaked, naked bodies twisting together in an erotic display flashed across her mind, and Jessica knew her rebellious senses had won.

"Fine . . . I’ll go." Heaving a sigh, she rolled off the bed and stepped quickly over to the fireplace where she opened the doorway to the passages beyond. "Just don’t bitch to me about all this later on tonight when you feel like you’ll burst into flames if she doesn’t touch you, okay?"

Her mind refused to agree to any such thing.

Chapter 20.

Kaleah stripped down quickly and waded out into the deeper parts of the great pool, letting the warm water ease the aches from her joints and muscles. With her senses on full alert, the dark woman knew she would be able to feel Jessica’s presence if it was there . . . but she didn’t feel anything. Ducking her head under the water a moment and slicking her long, sable hair back from her face, Kaleah felt a moment of disappointment.

Maybe she’s not coming, she worried. Maybe she doesn’t want to tempt herself. She must be getting pretty damned frustrated by now . . . could she have decided to avoid making it worse?

Kaleah puzzled on that a moment, then shook her head. No . . . the desire in Jessica’s eyes had been from anticipation. She would come to watch, no matter how much worse it would be for her. Taking the wash cloth she’d collected from the side-room, Kaleah began to slowly wash her arms and chest, every nerve alive as she waited.

It wasn’t long before a sudden delicious wave of awareness swept through Kaleah’s body, her senses screaming that someone was watching her. An instinct buried bone-deep recognized Jessica’s presence, and the former slave wondered for a moment how she’d not sensed the young woman’s voyeurism earlier. Probably because I was so busy trying to convince myself she didn’t like me that way, I guess.

Kaleah smiled to herself and turned a little so she half-faced the well-concealed peep-hole, setting her body to a better angle for her admirer. She could feel the heat of emerald eyes as they burned into her naked body . . . could feel them even as they moved up and down to take in every part of her. Unable to resist, she stepped into a shallower section of water, exposing herself down to the waist. With gentle, slow movements, she brought the wash-cloth up to her breasts and caressed them slowly, more interested in teasing the young woman watching her than in actually getting clean. Her nipples hardened under her attentive actions, and Kaleah groaned throatily at the pleasure that raced straight to her groin, lighting fires along the way.

For several minutes, the dark woman continued to slowly wash herself. Trying not to be too obvious, she made sure her young voyeur got the best possible view of all her activities. It was hard for Kaleah not to look directly at the peep-hole itself, but with new restraint she managed to avoid the temptation. It was amazing, but she could swear she could sense Jessica’s rising excitement . . . could tell exactly where the young woman’s eyes were fixed. Before long, the combination of her own caresses and the heated appraisal from beyond the wall took their inevitable toll on Kaleah’s body. Without really intending for it to happen, the dark woman had managed to work her body into a start of extreme arousal. Her breathing was growing shallow, her skin more sensitized. A pressure had built between her legs . . . and it started to pulse maddeningly, demanding satisfaction. When Kaleah moved the cloth down her body and ran it lightly over the apex of her thighs, the pleasure zinged through her center and caused her legs to almost buckle. Unable to resist, she stroked herself again, groaning deeply at the incredible sensations.

With an effort, the dark woman stopped and took a deep breath, trying to clear her head. It was no good. The build-up of the last few weeks — and particularly the last few days — was just too powerful, her need too great. Kaleah could never hope to quell the storm that raged within her. There was no way she could return to Jessica in this condition . . . and she knew there was only one way to deal with this situation.

She needed release . . . and she needed it now!

Considering the matter quickly, her body thrumming with excitement and anticipation as it sensed victory, Kaleah felt the emerald eyes boring into her and wondered how this might affect Jessica. Would she be disgusted? Kaleah grinned a little. Not likely.

This wasn’t exactly what I had in mind when I said I’d be happy to show her some pleasurable activities, she thought, but it works well, just the same. In fact . . . this works very well indeed!

Kaleah grinned. She could satisfy her own raging desires . . . and bring Jessica to an even greater level of need at the same time.

Quickly pulling herself out of the water onto the central stone island in the middle of the pool, Kaleah found a smooth, polished area that would be perfect for her plan. The rock had been carved into a gentle, curving slope that Kaleah lay back into, letting the rock support her in a semi-reclined position. Checking her position, the former slave smiled, satisfied that her hidden admirer had an unobstructed, direct view of everything she was about to do.

Well, Jessica . . . I hope you’re ready for this! She grinned as her hands began to slowly slide up her taut, dripping body, teasing the edges of her ribcage with feathery touches. You’re about to get an education!

From the other side of the wall, Jessica watched with unblinking eyes and open mouth as Kaleah lay back on the island and began to run her hands along her bronzed skin. The young woman swallowed hard and stared as her dark friend finally cupped her own breasts and let her head fall back, eyes closed in obvious pleasure.

"What the hell is she doing?" Jess breathed, her eyes widening. She almost stopped breathing when Kaleah’s fingers sought out hardened nipples and began to pinch and roll them lightly. The young woman felt dizzy and her mouth went suddenly dry as all the moisture in her body headed south. When Kaleah’s legs drifted apart and exposed glistening pink folds to her heated appraisal, Jessica gasped as understanding dawned. "Sh-she’s not going to . . ." She struggled to get the thought to form properly, her mind unable to process the notion it wanted to. When Kaleah’s right hand slowly wandered down her tight stomach to between her own legs and gently began to stroke back and forth, Jessica thought for sure she was going to burst into flames right then and there. "She can’t . . . can she!?"

Her mind was too stunned by what was happening to give an answer, however. Awed, her senses reeling at the erotic vision unfolding in the next room, Jessica watched the show, unable and unwilling to tear herself away.

Kaleah sighed deeply as her fingers parted smooth, slippery folds and began to stroke gently. With her left hand, she continued to fondle her breasts while her fingertips slid with fluid ease along the length of her highly sensitized sex. Oh God, but she needed this! Never in her life had she felt this level of need . . . this strong an arousal! The fingers working between her legs were instantly soaked in the sweet juices that flowed from her desire, and with a groan she let them drift a little higher to find the hardened bundle of nerves that screamed for attention. At first contact, her hips thrust forward, desperately seeking greater pressure, but Kaleah forced herself to slow down. If she wasn’t careful, this would all be over too soon . . . and she wanted to give Jessica a good show!

With great restraint, Kaleah spread her legs wider and ran two fingers teasingly across her swollen clitoris, drawing out the pleasure slowly, determined to make it last. Her sex was dripping with true wetness as she dragged her fingernails through the neatly trimmed hairs above her most sensitive area, reveling in the delicious sparks that shot through her groin. Her left hand started to squeeze harder on the nipple it was tending to, and she groaned in ecstasy. Unable to resist any longer, she ran her flat palm down and pressed against herself, gasping for air at the tremendous pleasure. She could feel the burning emerald eyes of her unseen admirer following her every move, and the knowledge that she was being watched only served to heighten her arousal further. Her hips began thrusting against the pressure of her palm, and she slowly increased the pace until her need grew too strong. When she could stand it no longer, Kaleah finally drew back and, making absolutely certain her audience could see everything she was doing, she very slowly speared two fingers and pushed them into her molten depths.

Jessica watched, lightheaded and hardly breathing, as Kaleah penetrated herself. No story she had ever read had detailed the actions she was now witnessing. . . and even though a small part of her knew that she shouldn’t be spying on such a private moment, it was drowned out by the pulsing emanating from between her legs. Her breeches were soaked through with her arousal, and even just the pressure of the coarse material against her sensitive folds made her yearn for something more solid to grind against. Squeezing her legs together brought a sharp stab of blissful pleasure . . . but it couldn’t satisfy this fire, could only make her more aware of how great her need had become. Her brain was still frozen, lost somewhere as it struggled to comprehend the fact that she was watching her friend make love to herself.

Kaleah’s head shot forward as her fingers gradually pushed deeper, feeling her inner walls tighten in delight against the welcome invasion. What started as a slow, steady rhythm quickly sped up as her heart beat faster in her chest and her body thrust against her fingers. Gasping for breath, Kaleah’s left hand abandoned the breast it was working on to join it’s mate between her legs. With long-practiced ease, two fingers parted over her clit and started to stroke and lightly pinch the engorged nub. When she pushed a third finger into her dripping core, Kaleah’s hips bucked hard and she couldn’t suppress a slight scream of joy. Tears crept into her tightly shut eyes as her pace increased, bringing stars to her vision. She was rapidly loosing control.

"Oh, God . . . yesssss," she hissed as her fingers found a sensitive spot inside and pressed against it repeatedly on every thrust. The combined stimulation was bringing her to the peak faster than she might have liked, but there was nothing she could do to slow down. This had been building too long, and for a moment, the dark woman almost feared her rapidly approaching climax, wondering if she could survive its intensity. She had never experienced this level of pleasure — by her own hand, or any other. Just knowing that Jessica was watching her made everything seem so much more real . . . so much more fulfilling.

Her arms were getting cramped, but they continued to move at a blinding speed both inside and against her clit. Kaleah felt her legs shaking, but focused on the wave that was building to a crest inside her. "Yes! Oh, God, please . . ." Her inner walls began to spasm as her wrist strained to keep up the pace. It started slow, but as she thrust deeper still, orgasm ripped through her body in pulsing, blinding white waves of ecstasy, so strong she thought for sure they would tear her apart. "Jeess-i-caaaa!!!" The name burst from her throat, and a part of her dimly realized she was trying to share the intense feelings with the woman at the heart of their creation. Her fingers continued their movements, dragging out the climax for as long as possible as her essence flooded out of her, dripping down her wrist. Eventually, however, she slowed down and opened her eyes. Her chest rose and fell quickly, trying to draw needed air into her lungs. Breathing heavily, Kaleah collapsed back onto the slick rock surface and let the last few pulses wash over her.

After a moment, her strength returned and Kaleah smiled lazily. A pleasant lethargy settled over her body in the afterglow of pleasure, and she exhaled. "Wow!" Slowly, the dark woman drew her fingers from their wet, tight glove, her inner walls pulsing a little in memory, desire stirring again. Ignoring the temptation to just start the ride a second time, she brought her soaked hand up to her lips without thought. Licking absently at the sweet, tangy honey, Kaleah grinned when she realized what she was doing . . . and remembered her audience. Feeling Jessica’s eyes still fixed on her, she deliberately ran her tongue up her wrist, collecting the juices there before sucking seductively on each finger in turn, humming happily to herself.

I hope you enjoyed that as much as I did! She wondered what must be going on in her young friend’s head. Sighing as she swallowed the last of her flavor, contented for the moment, Kaleah closed her eyes and relaxed fully, just enjoying the warmth that filled her soul and the wonderful tingles that still ran up and down her body. She decided to wait a while before she finished washing up and returned to the bedroom. Jessica would probably need a little time to collect herself . . . and to deal with her own arousal. Kaleah smiled, feeling very pleased with herself.

Maybe it’s time we talked about this stuff seriously, huh Jess? She frowned, thinking for the first time of how this whole situation might affect her young friend and would-be lover. With her lust sated — at least for now — her mind was clear to comprehend some things she’d not considered before.

If Jessica wanted to be with her, Kaleah was more than happy to give her everything she wanted; but she didn’t want to young, innocent girl to rush into a situation like this without being fully aware of what the consequences of her actions might be. Jessica deserved to be treated right; if things went badly down the track, the young girl could easily be hurt. As Kaleah lay back and let her mind drift, she realized it was time for her to make sure the young woman fully understood what she was getting into . . . and to give her a way out, if she needed it.

On the other side of the wall, Jessica crouched with her legs locked in position, unable to move as she watched her friend recover. She had read enough about sex to know what had just happened . . . recognized her friend’s climax for what it was. Though the thick walls prevented her from hearing Kaleah’s cries, she recognized her own name as it was formed on the older woman’s lips just as her body was apparently overwhelmed by her self-induced pleasuring. Realizing that Kaleah’s thoughts were centered on her at such a moment made Jessica’s heart ache. When she saw the dark woman begin to lick herself clean, Jessica’s mouth hung open and she would have drooled in envy were it not for the fact that every drop of moisture in her body had congregated in a lower portion of her body. She had never seen such a display of sheer eroticism . . . and the effect of the vision on her inexperienced body was stunning. It took several minutes for her mind to start working again . . . and several more before she could finally tear herself away from the spy-hole.

Sitting back on very shaky legs, Jessica concentrated on just taking slow, deep breaths, trying to get the blood flowing back to her limbs again. The smell of her arousal was thick in the air, and she could feel that her undergarments were completely soaked through. Swallowing, the young blonde ran a trembling hand through her hair, trying to collect her thoughts.

"She just . . . made love to herself." Somehow, saying it out loud made the idea seem clearer, easier to grasp. "She just made love to herself . . . and she was thinking about me while she did it!"

Taking a quick peek back into the room, she saw that Kaleah had settled back against the rock and was apparently resting. It looked like she was going to stay there for a while. Reassured that she had time, Jessica struggled for a second but managed to get to her feet.

She’ll be coming back to your room when she recovers, her mind observed when it recovered a little. You’re going to have to get yourself cleaned up, or she’s gonna know something strange is going on just from the way you smell!

Carefully, with shaky steps, Jess made her way through the passage back towards her room, trusting long years of walking these paths not to get her lost as her memory replayed the images of Kaleah pleasuring herself. She was still in shock, her mind fuzzy and dazed, but she navigated her way back to her room as quickly as she could.

Once back in the familiar, candle-lit warmth, Jessica turned her mind to setting things right so Kaleah wouldn’t suspect what had happened. Stripping out of her trousers and underwear, noting with a deep blush that her essence had soaked both articles of clothing, she hid them behind a large bookshelf in the back of the room. "Clean those tomorrow," she told herself sternly.

Next, Jessica filled a wide bowl with water from a pitcher and found a clean rag. Wetting the rag, she ran it between her legs, gasping when the cool contact brought an instant rush of pure pleasure to her heated center. Curious, the image of Kaleah’s somewhat frenzied activities still in mind, Jessica used the cloth to gently clean away the dew that slicked her inner thighs. When she applied cautious pressure to her swollen sex, her eyes shot wide open in amazement at the sensations the touch produced. She felt the urge to press more firmly against herself, but, remembering a few of the things her mother had told her about a woman’s ‘first time’, she reluctantly backed away. Still extremely sensitive, Jessica dried herself off as best she could and washed her hands, then found a clean set of clothes and hastily pulled them on.

Still operating largely without conscious thought, Jessica sat back on her bed and stared at the walls, not really seeing anything but the memory of what Kaleah had just done.

"How the hell am I supposed to act when Kaleah gets back?" she asked herself. "I won’t even be able to look at her without seeing . . ." She waved vaguely. ". . . all that stuff she just did!" Frustrated and worried, Jess lay back and groaned, covering her face with her arms. "The way I feel right now, if she doesn’t take the initiative with this relationship soon, I’ll bloody well do it myself!"

L-let’s not be rash here, her mind stammered, trying to regain a little equilibrium again. You can’t very well just . . . pounce on the woman and demand her to . . . to . . .

"To ravish me right here, right now? You wanna bet?" Jessica’s passion was growing to ridiculous levels, and her inexperience gave her no idea of how to deal with a hunger like this. She had imagined falling in love before, and had accepted her attraction to the dark woman with relative ease. She knew she wanted a physical relationship with the former slave . . . but this raw desire for Kaleah’s touch was so much stronger and more intense than she could ever have anticipated! Jessica had never thought herself capable of feeling this kind of animal lust . . . and it was only her innocence and shy nature that made her reluctant to make the first move. But now she was getting desperate.

"I want her . . . and I know she wants me. She screamed my name when she . . ." Jessica groaned and slammed her fists into the mattress in frustration. "Why couldn’t she have just asked me to do that for her!?! I’d have been more than happy to touch her like that . . . if she’d just show me how!" Her eyes grew hooded, and her voice deepened. "And then she could touch me . . . and I could touch her again . . ."

Snap out of it! For God’s sake, you’re a chaste, innocent virgin who’s never even been kissed before!! When Kaleah’s ready to take that step with you — and she will be in good time — then she’ll come to you on her own. Remember what she’s been through . . . You jump her, and you could easily scare her off for who knows how long!

Jessica considered this, and realized her mind was right. Kaleah had been a slave all her life; had been abused in so many ways it hurt Jessica just to think about. She might be hesitant about starting a sexual relationship that was based on an emotional connection like this.

"Maybe that’s why she did that then," Jess mused thoughtfully. "Maybe she just needed some relief. . . but she wants to take it slowly. ." She sighed. "I guess I have to go slowly too, then, don’t I?"

Just . . . don’t push her, that’s all, her mind counseled. She’s made it very clear she wants you . . . let her go at her own pace.

"Okay." Jess pouted. "But what am I supposed to do when she comes back? How can . . . I’m not gonna be able to look at her without blushing! What do I say to her!?"

How about . . . ‘Did you enjoy your bath?’

Jessica groaned.

Kaleah waited some time in the bathing chamber, wanting to give Jess plenty of time to get her head on straight and taking a moment to relax and think about her next course of action. Once she’d settled on a plan, the former slave quickly finished her wash and left the pool, returning to her friend’s room with a spring in her steps.

When she opened the door, Kaleah found her young friend sitting rather stiffly on the bed. Her eyes roamed down Jessica’s body quickly, taking in the tension that was apparent in her posture and not missing the fact that she’d changed clothes. She saw the girl swallow, and her eyes flit away. It was clear to her that Jess was still highly charged with excitement after her display. "Hey."

"Hey." A pause. "So . . . did you . . enjoy your bath?" Jessica almost rolled her eyes at herself. Just seeing Kaleah brought her blood right back to the boil. The dark woman’s posture was so languid and sensuous, her eyes so dark and hooded, Jessica wanted more than anything to just tear off her clothes and beg for a relief she knew only her friend could give her.

Kaleah just smiled at the question. "It was wonderful, thank you." She hugged herself a little. "Very . . . relaxing."

Jessica swallowed even harder, and managed to squeak "Great."

Kaleah stepped closer. "Could I get you to do me a favor? My hair was getting to me today. Could you maybe, I don’t know . . . tie it into a plait or something? Nothing fancy, just to keep it out of my face."

"Umm . . sure, I guess."

"Thanks." Kaleah handed the young blonde a soft hairbrush she found on a dresser and sat down on the bed, turning away so her friend could get to her still-wet sable tresses. There was a long moment of hesitation before she felt Jessica tentatively reach out and run the brush through her tangles. She smiled a quiet smile, enjoying her secret knowledge. She could detect a slight musky scent still clinging to Jessica, and it made her mouth water as the girl gently brushed her hair. "You have very gentle hands," she said softly.

There was a long pause before Jessica whispered, "Thank you."

"I thought about you a lot today." She felt the hands holding the brush tremble slightly, then continue. "While I was working, I just looked forward to tonight . . . when I’d be able to relax with you."

"Are-" Jessica cleared her throat. "Are you sore? You must be after smithing all day."

"I was, yeah. Especially across the shoulders."

"Well . . . you know I do owe you a massage, so if you wanted, I could. . ."

Kaleah grinned at the excited, hopeful expression in the young woman’s voice. "That’s alright. My bath really took the edge off the ache." She could almost sense her friend’s disappointment. "Maybe tomorrow."

A very quiet "Okay," before Jess fell silent.

Kaleah let the quiet continue for a while, closing her eyes and feeling Jessica patiently begin to divide her hair into sections and tie it into a simple braid. After a while, she finally asked, "Is there something wrong?" The hands behind her froze instantly.

"Of course not." Jessica’s voice trembled a little. "W-why would you think there was something wrong?"

"You’re just acting kind of nervous, that’s all." Kaleah turned around and faced her friend, letting her hair go unfinished. When she looked Jessica in the eye, the girl couldn’t meet her gaze and glanced away. She smiled, knowing exactly what the problem was. "I was worried maybe I’d. . . done something you didn’t like . . ."

Jessica’s eyes instantly widened and she shook her head. "No! You . . . you haven’t done anything wrong! It’s not that, it’s just . . ." She trailed off, her eyes dropping.

Kaleah smiled. Her voice became very soft and gentle. "Is it because of what you saw me doing in the bathing room?"

The look on Jessica’s face was such a twisted mix of shock, fear and surprise that Kaleah couldn’t help but laugh. The young girl’s mouth opened and closed several times before she managed to start stammering. "How did . . I didn’t . . .y-you-" Kaleah placed two fingers over Jessica’s lips and stopped her babbling.

"Ssshhh. It’s alright." She smiled reassuringly, then took a deep breath. "You wanted to know if something happened yesterday morning, right? Well, after the attack, I started wondering how you’d known I was in trouble."

"I told you-"

"Uh uh." Kaleah pressed her fingers more firmly against the soft lips. "Just hear me out. What you told me was a lie, I could tell. It was very convincing, but it didn’t fool me. And the only other way I could think of for you to have known what was happening was for you to have been watching me. So, while you were busy dealing with your mother yesterday, I did a little exploring." She smiled. "When I found the spy-hole, well. . . it answered a lot of the questions I’d been asking myself for a long time now." She took her fingers away slowly. "It told me I wasn’t crazy to hope that what I saw in your eyes was more than just friendship. And it gave me the courage to start showing you just how much I really care for you."

Jessica just stared at Kaleah for a long moment, trying to process this. It wasn’t easy . . . especially when she remembered what the fingers pressed against her lips had just been doing. Her nostrils flared when she caught the hint of a musky aroma still clinging to the digits, and her mind went blank for a frightening moment. But the warmth in her friend’s sapphire gaze quickly banished her fears and concerns, and she gave a tentative smile.

"So . . . that’s why you started . . . flirting with me, huh?"

Kaleah nodded. "Once I knew you were okay with the idea, I wanted to let you know that I was interested in you. Really interested, I mean." She cocked her head to the side, her eyes glinting playfully. "I was wondering, though, just how long you’ve been playing this little ‘spy-on-Kaleah-while-she’s-taking-a-bath’ game?"

Jessica saw the look and smiled coquettishly. "A while," she said evasively.

"Uh huh. Would that be ‘a while’ as in a week or so, or ‘a while’ as in just once or twice?"

Jess shrugged. "Actually, it’s ‘a while’ as in since that morning when I had a hangover after we went out to the village," she admitted with a blush. "And I was thinking about it even before that."

A dark eyebrow rose curiously. "So . . . that means you’ve been having these kind of thoughts about me for a while then, doesn’t it?"

The young blonde nodded, feeling a little shy suddenly. "H-have you?"

Kaleah considered a moment, then nodded. "From the moment I met you, you made me feel things I’ve never felt before. For as far back as I can remember, all I ever felt was pain, hatred and anger . . . and it scared me at first; all these new emotions I didn’t know how to deal with." She smiled and let her hand caress Jessica’s cheek. "It took a while to get used to everything, but when I did, I quickly figured out I was attracted to you as more than just a friend. I didn’t say anything because I didn’t want to frighten you . . . and I could feel things growing more . . intense between us everyday."

Jessica nodded, letting her eyes slip away shyly. Her hands fidgeted a moment. "So . . .does this mean you’re not mad at me? For spying on you, I mean."

Kaleah grinned fully and she waggled her eyebrows. "If I was mad at you, do you think I would have done what I just did?"

Jessica blushed deep crimson, her eyes widening. "Wait! You knew all along, didn’t you!?" Kaleah nodded. "You mean you did . . . that, even though you knew I was watching you!?"

"Not exactly." Kaleah’s voice dropped lower. "I did it largely because I knew you were watching." Jessica just stared at her, mouth gaping. "I could feel your eyes on me the whole time I was washing myself and I guess . . . knowing you were there got me a little too hot. I needed release . . . and I didn’t think you’d mind the show, so I decided to make the best of things." Her blue eyes turned violet with desire. "Did you . . . like what you saw me doing?"

Jessica looked down at her nervously twisting hands, letting her hair fall forward to hide her furious blush. "Yes," she admitted very softly.

Kaleah smiled, and her voice became throaty as she leaned closer. "Did it . . . excite you?"

Verdant eyes glanced up through the blonde curtain of hair, then quickly looked away. "Yes."

"I thought so." Kaleah’s voice was just a breath that whispered close to Jessica’s ear. "I can tell how excited you are just from the way you smell . . . and from the way you’re breathing." A fingertip gently drew a lock of golden hair behind Jessica’s ear. "I imagined it was your hands touching me, Jessica. Knowing you were there made everything feel sooo much better." Kaleah almost purred. "I screamed your name when I climaxed."

Jessica whimpered, the low voice assaulting her highly-charged senses. "I-I know. I saw you." Her voice trembled with the strength of her re-ignited arousal. She swallowed, soaking in the incredible sexual aura that surrounded her dark friend, knowing she was going to die if the woman didn’t take her right now!

Kaleah could feel the energy thrumming through the young girl’s body, and she licked her lips as she felt her own passion begin to tighten in her groin. "Did you even know that what I did to myself was possible?" she asked softly. Jessica’s head shook very slightly. Kaleah grinned. "Have you ever thought about touching me like that?" Jessica could only groan. "Is that a yes?"

"Yesss." Jessica’s head snapped up suddenly, and Kaleah drew back a little when she felt the intense heat in the young girl’s emerald gaze, surprised at the raw lust revealed in her friend’s eyes. Uh oh. Jessica leaned forward, her hands surging up to pull Kaleah closer. "I want to do that to you! Please!"

"Wait!" Kaleah realized her seduction plan had worked a little too well; the predator had become the prey.

"I don’t want to wait, Kaleah! Please!! I need you!" Jessica pressed nearer, her lips descending, but Kaleah grabbed her by the shoulders and held her back, amazed at the passion she’d unleashed. Jessica moaned, her pupils dilated and barely focused but burning with need. She pressed against Kaleah, but the dark woman was firm.

"We can’t."

"Why not?" With courage born of desperation, Jessica grabbed Kaleah’s right hand and forced it to release her shoulder. She slid her friend’s hand down her body and guided it to her breast, groaning at the delicious contact.

Kaleah struggled to regain control of the situation. She had wanted to tease Jessica, yes, but only so the girl understood the gravity of her actions. She wasn’t expecting this sudden turn of events, but the feel of Jessica’s firm breast pressing into her palm was making it hard to concentrate. She could feel the young woman’s rock-hard nipple through the thin material of her simple shirt, and she couldn’t stop herself from massaging the ripe flesh being offered. Sensing victory, Jessica pressed forward again, her lips seeking Kaleah’s. The dark woman felt her move, and shook her head to dispel the desire to just let this happen.

No! You need to slow down, or Jessica’s going to get hurt!

Kaleah tore her hand away from her friend’s chest and pushed her back. "Jessica . . . please, stop."

"Why?" The green eyes pleaded. "I . . . I want you to touch me."

"I know, and I want that too."

Jessica’s breathing was ragged, but she finally quit fighting. "Then why do we have to stop? I’m ready-"

"Jessica, I-" Kaleah took her hands off Jessica’s shoulders when she saw the girl relax a little, and she sat back on the bed, putting some distance between herself and the amorous blonde.

"You’re not ready?"

Kaleah sighed, the speech she’d figured out in the bathing chamber flying from her head under the emerald assault of her friend’s eyes. "It’s not that. I just. . ." She considered her words carefully, wanting Jessica to understand. "I need to be sure that . . . this is really what you want."

Relief flooded through Jessica’s face and she smiled. "It is, Kaleah. This . . . you . . . I want us to be together." She started to move forward again, but Kaleah stopped her with a raised hand.

"No! Just . . . listen." Jessica sat back with a slight pout. Kaleah shook her head. "Jessica, I’ve never felt this way about anyone before. You. . . you fill all the empty places inside me that I never even knew were there before we met. You make me feel complete for the first time in my life. Nothing would make me happier than to make love with you—I’m not finished!" Jessica froze as she’d been about to launch herself bodily at Kaleah. "I do want to be with you, believe me! But I don’t want you to regret later what we do in a moment of passion. I don’t want you to get hurt by this."

Jessica listened, realizing she was going to have to come up with a way to reassure Kaleah before she could get what she wanted. The dark woman’s insistence on making sure she was comfortable with everything was only making her love burn stronger. "I know you won’t hurt me, Kaleah. And I know you’re taking this seriously. So am I."

"I know. But I want you to consider — and I mean really consider — how this is going to affect your life." She stared at her friend and would-be lover seriously until she finally saw a glimmer of understanding dispel some of the fuzziness in the young woman’s eyes. She sighed in relief. "You’re an important person in this land, Jessica. You told me yourself how your life is dedicated to helping to protect others. If we do this — if we become lovers — it’s going to affect your reputation and your life."

"It doesn’t have to," Jessica argued, sitting back on her legs and struggling to bring her raging desire back under control. "Charles and I will figure out a way to call off the wedding . . and we don’t need to let anyone else know about us-"

"And how long will that work for? A week? A month? Maybe we can keep it a secret for a year, even. But you know better than I do that in a castle like this, nothing stays hidden forever. It would only be a matter of time before a servant or a guard catches us in an embrace . . . or sees us looking at each other with more than just friendship. Hell, the rumors could start even without that much!" She saw Jessica look away and knew she understood. "Sooner or later, everyone would know about us."

"I don’t care!" Jessica snapped.

"Don’t you?" Kaleah shook her head sadly, knowing she was making Jessica frustrated but needing to be sure. "Maybe you don’t care what your mother thinks of you . . . or your brother. And maybe some people won’t care about what our relationship is. But what about your father?" Jessica’s face dropped. "You’re his only daughter. How will he feel if he learns you’ve taken a barbarian woman as a lover?"

Jessica fidgeted. "My father loves me," she said quietly. "He’s never judged me for anything I’ve ever done, and he’s always respected my right to make my own decisions. If this is what I want, he’ll understand."

Kaleah considered that and nodded slowly. "Okay, maybe he will. But what about the soldiers? The commoners? All the people who love you and respect what you do? Will they be so understanding?" She saw Jessica swallow nervously. "You know they won’t be. The religion in this land would condemn us both. If we go forward with this, your faith will cast you out."

Tears crept into Jessica’s eyes and she gazed imploringly at Kaleah. "Are you saying we can’t do this? Is that it?" She sniffled. "This was just a big tease-"

"NO! That’s not what I’m saying at all! I just need you to be aware of all the things that this could cost you, Jessica. Because if you come to regret anything I do to you . . . I couldn’t live with myself knowing I might have prevented it." She smiled a little. "If you want me . . . it’s forever, Jess."

Jessica nodded vigorously. "That’s what I want to! Please . . . I need you."

Kaleah closed her eyes and wiped her face with her hands. "And I need you to think about this carefully."

Jessica watched, stunned, as Kaleah got off the bed and stepped back, suddenly realizing the dark woman was going to leave. "What- Where are you going!?"

"I’m taking the night watch in the look-out," Kaleah said gently.

"Y-you’re leaving me!?! But-"

"Jessica, you need time to settle down and consider this alone."

"But . . .I know I want you!"

"Your heart says this is what you want because of how you feel for me," Kaleah said, "and your body says the same thing because you’re aroused. But I need you to stop listening to them . . . and listen instead to your head." She pulled her boots on and grabbed her sword. "Consider this logically; consider how this could change things not just for you, but for those around you. For those who need you to serve them. This decision will affect the rest of your life, Jessica. You can’t make it with me around to distract you."

"I see." Jessica swallowed her tears, trying to repress her emotions but finding it hard. "And what if tomorrow, I still want to be with you?"

Kaleah smiled warmly. "If you think about everything carefully tonight, and you decide that you’re willing to continue . . . then we will." Light lit the wet emerald eyes of the young blonde, and she quickly continued. "But you have to be sure, Jess! This is too important to just breeze past, okay?" She stepped closer and reached out a hand, letting her fingertips trace the curve of her friend’s cheek and along her full lips. When Jessica shuddered, she pulled away. "I’m serious. Do you promise you’ll think about it carefully?"

Jessica smiled up at her. "I promise . . . but only if you promise that if I decide it’s what I want, you won’t argue with me. Okay?

Kaleah nodded, then turned around. "Come find me in the morning," she said as she opened the door. "I’ll be in the look-out." Her piercing eyes locked onto Jessica’s. "This is your last chance to stop this thing. Don’t waste it."

"I won’t."

Kaleah was about to step through the door when Jessica called her name. She glanced back. The young woman grinned.

"Try to get at least some sleep, won’t you?"

She just smirked and winked. "I’ll have a better chance of sleeping then you will, Jess. G’night." She stepping out into the hall and closed the door gently behind her with a sigh.

It was going to be a long night.

Freedom’s Heart Part 6 (Conclusion).

Chapter 21.

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

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

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

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

"Sleep well?" she asked.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Tonight? You’re sure?"

Kaleah nodded sincerely.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jess just grinned playfully and flicked another piece.

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

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

"You don’t want to know, princess."

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

"That’s it!"

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"We surrender."

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"You’re a mercenary."

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chapter 22.

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

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

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

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

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

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

"That’s not possible!"

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

"I don’t believe it."

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

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

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

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

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

"You can’t-"

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Milord, it is my duty-"

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Kaleah, no!"

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Humph."

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

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

"Aye."

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

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

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

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

Sir Richard had been struck down by a fever.

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

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

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

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

"What are we going to do?"

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Oh, really?"

"Mmmhmmm." Kaleah waggled her eyebrows.

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

Kaleah answered by flopping bonelessly down beside her.

"Good."

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

"I love you."

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

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

J,

Miles said to tell you he’s called a meeting in the war-room — wherever that is. He wants you there as soon as you’re ready. I volunteered to work with Sutton at the forge . . . we need more arrows, and weapons for the peasants. I guess it’s going to be a busy day for us both.

K

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Lady Jessica?"

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chapter 23.

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

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

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

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

Kaleah,

We need to talk. I’m waiting for you in the bathing chamber. Come at once.

Jessica.

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

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

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

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

"What took you so long?"

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Take them off. Please."

Kaleah grinned. "As you wish, Princess."

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

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

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

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

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

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

"You like that?"

"Uh huh."

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jess gasped for air. "Oh yeah."

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

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

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

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

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

Jess managed a frantic nod.

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

"Uugh."

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

"Is this okay?"

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

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

"Oh, my!"

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

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

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

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

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

"You mean —"

"Uh huh."

"With your mouth . . ."

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

"Y-yes."

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Yes?"

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"I was?"

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

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

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

"Still feeling frisky I see."

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

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

"So you feel okay?" she asked uncertainly.

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

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

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

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

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

"It’s just the truth."

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

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

"Umm."

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"You like that, don’t you?"

"Yesss."

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

"Am I doing this right?"

"Uh huh. Can’t you tell?"

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

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

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

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

Jessica frowned. More?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Miles."

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chapter 24.

Kaleah and Jessica watched from the southern battlement as the ring of campfires sprang up around the castle, lighting the enemy lines as the sun vanished. There were no guards walking the watch here; Jessica had relieved them, wanting to be alone with her friend. The dark woman held her in a warm embrace as they silently surveyed the field beyond.

Jessica hummed tunelessly to herself, a contented smile turning the corners of her lips and lighting her eyes, her features radient after their love-making. It was hard for the young woman to feel any kind of fear or sense of danger, so caught up was she in the whirlwind of new and wonderful emotions that came with the consummation of her love with Kaleah. She was a little sore still, and a little tired from their afternoon of gentle but passionate love-making, but Jessica knew she had never been so happy in all her life as she was at this moment.

"I feel like I’m floating among the clouds," she sighed, her eyes half-lidded and lazy. Then she chuckled and petted the scarred arm that encircled her waist. "I don’t think I’m ever going to get tired of doing that."

Kaleah grinned. The young blonde had proven to be an energetic and vigorous lover, mixing passion with tenderness in a way that robed Kaleah of thought and reason, making her wish she could spend every waking hour paying homage to this wonderful love. "I know how you feel, but if we don’t get any rest we’re never going to break this siege."

Jess grunted, glaring at the campfires as though her ire alone could remove them. "Stupid bandits," she growled. "We could have been doing this for days now if it weren’t for that idiot Lancaster and his pet mercenary."

"Well you can’t say you’re being distracted by your desire anymore," Kaleah teased playfully. "Now that your appetite’s been sated, you can focus your energy on saving your people from this invasion."

Jess turned about and looked up into glowing sapphire eyes with a smirk. "What makes you think I’m sated?" One hand crept up under Kaleah’s shirt and roamed eagerly over still-sensitive skin, making the dark woman’s muscles twitch. "I still have quite a strong ‘appetite’, Kaleah . . . there’s no way we can fit a week’s worth of missed opportunities into one afternoon." Her fingers played along the underside of a firm breast and Kaleah gasped. Jess just raised an eyebrow. "But we can certainly try."

"Uh uh. No more of that." Kaleah gently stopped the young blonde’s explorations before they went any further. "You’re going to be sore in the morning as it is, Jess. We keep going and you won’t be able to walk properly tomorrow."

Jess pouted. "I could still do things to you," she suggested hopefully. Kaleah’s expression softened a little and she pressed her advantage. "You liked what I was doing before, didn’t you?"

"Oh, you know I did." Kaleah shivered in memory.

Nimble fingers started moving again. "Maybe you could teach me something new," the amorous blonde suggested huskily. "I’m a quick learner . . . and it’s always a good idea to practice . . . lots."

Kaleah’s desire surged anew, but she was still a little tender from the previous ravishings her young lover had subjected her too. She firmly stopped Jessica’s hands as they were about to journey into more sensitive territory, ignoring the adorable expression of thwarted lust on her partner’s face. "We can ‘practice’ all you want as soon as we defeat Gosford and his army."

Jessica sighed, but withdrew her hands from their warm nest. "Fine," she huffed, turning back around and watching the fires. "I guess play-time’s over . . . for now." She felt the vibration in the body pressed against her as Kaleah laughed a little.

"Amazing how quickly you can drop that innocent, naïve young maiden act when you want too, isn’t it?"

Jess poked the dark woman in the side. "Don’t tease," she scolded. "This is new for me . . . it’s understandable that I want to explore it more fully."

"I know." Kaleah kissed her lover’s disheveled hair affectionately. "And I want us to have more time together . . . time for both of us to get used to everything that’s happened. But first, we have to figure out how to break the siege."

Jess sighed and nodded. "You’re right." Taking a deep breath, Jessica assumed a determined expression and concentrated on the task at hand. It was a lot easier to focus now that her body wasn’t demanding satisfaction, and she studied the enemy fires for a long moment in silence.

"Gosford’s greatest weakness is also his greatest strength," she mused aloud, intelligent eyes lighting up as her quicksilver mind attacked the problem wholeheartedly for the first time. "He’s placed all his hopes on the bandits he’s recruited through the winter."

"You said we can’t fight against his numbers," Kaleah reminded her.

"True, we can’t. But even though Gosford’s army is big, it lacks discipline. Bandits have short attention spans; he must have promised to pay them with loot from the castle and villages once they help him win. If he doesn’t deliver that loot fairly soon, the raiders are bound to get restless and start making trouble." She cocked her head thoughtfully. "Lancaster obviously gave him a few dozen of his own cavalry troops to help keep everyone in line, but I wonder how long he can maintain his authority."

"Why isn’t he just attacking the castle directly?"

Jess shook her head. "We hold a strong position here," she explained. "Our archers would cut them to pieces, and it would take a heavily shielded battering ram to even make a dent in the portcullis. Easier to wait us out . . . we haven’t enough food to last long."

"And with your father no longer leading them, the soldier’s are demoralized."

"Exactly." Jessica’s eyes narrowed suddenly as a new thought occurred. "Kaleah, do you remember when Gosford sent his terms for surrender?"

"Umm . . . sure, why?"

"Do you remember who he addressed those terms too?"

"Yeah, they were for your . . . father." Kaleah realized what her friend was getting at. "Why would Gosford address negotiations to your father if he knew Sir Richard was poisoned?"

"Unless he didn’t know." Jess scowled darkly. "For that matter, why would he kidnap me?"

"You think maybe your father’s sickness is just a coincidence?"

Jess considered for a moment, then shook her head. "Grace said the fever isn’t natural. My father was poisoned alright . . . but I’m not so sure Gosford’s the man behind it."

"Then who?"

Jess shrugged. "It’s just the sort of dirty trick Sir William would pull to give him an edge." She recalled her observations of Gosford carefully. From what she’d seen, the mercenary seemed an honorable man, hardly the type to stoop to petty assassinations. "Perhaps Lancaster’s keeping his commander in the dark about some things," she mused. "Maybe he hasn’t told Gosford about poisoning my father."

"Mmmm." Kaleah’s eyes narrowed thoughtfully. "Makes you wonder what else he’s keeping secret."

Jessica considered this new possibility for a moment, then shrugged. "It makes little difference," she concluded. "By now, Gosford must know that I’ve taken command, and from that he’d realize there was something wrong with my father. I still think our best chance to win is if we can somehow cause dissent among the bandits themselves."

Kaleah’s brows knit in confusion. "How?"

Jess shrugged. "I don’t know." An irritated sigh. "I need to know what’s going on out there. I need to know how committed the raiders are to this campaign, and how well Gosford’s keeping them in line." Her emerald eyes twinkled as a sudden thought occurred. She grinned. "I need some reconnaissance."

Kaleah saw the mischievous look in her friend’s face and, knowing Jess all too well, quickly saw where this line of thought was headed. "No," she stated firmly. "No Jess, you are not going out there!"

"You’re right." Jessica’s grin grew wider. "We’re going out there."

"Jessica, you can’t-"

"Of course I can." Jessica escaped her lover’s arms and started tugging the tall woman after her. "We’ll use the escape tunnel in the stables. It’ll bring us out to the forest and from there we can do some exploring."

"No!"

"Oh, come on!" Jess pouted. "If we’re careful we won’t be in that much danger. And we’re the only one’s who can do this; no-one else knows about the escape tunnel. This is important, Kaleah. Please?"

Kaleah tried to remain stern, but the look on Jessica’s face knocked over her defenses easily. She sighed. "Fine. But we can’t go dressed like this."

Jess gave her a quick kiss of thanks and nodded happily. "You’re absolutely right. We’ll find some old armor, and we’ll wear helmets to hide our faces. With all the people out there, no-one’ll notice a couple of strangers. The guards will be set up to stop people getting out of the castle, they won’t even be looking for spies coming from the woods. It’ll be easy."

Kaleah let herself be dragged away from the battlement by her energetic lover, smiling to herself a little.

Neither of them noticed the dull green eyes that had been watching their loving interactions with disgust from a window high in the castle. As soon as the two women disappeared into the darkness, the unseen observer turned angrily away back into her chamber, considering the best way to deal with this latest information.

Less than an hour later, Kaleah and Jessica were meandering through the encampment of their enemy, looking for all the world like just another couple of ragged bandits. Jessica managed to rummage up some old pieces of armor and a couple of helms, the mis-matched pieces of leather and mail allowing them to blend in with the other raiders perfectly.

Up close, Jessica was pleased to find that for all his skill, Gosford was having a hard time keeping his bandit army in disciplined order. It appeared the men had got hold of ale or wine at some point, and doubtless Gosford recognized it was better to let them drink than try to stop them. The raiders were split into groups that gathered around the campfires, cavalry riding between them from time to time. Drunken arguments and bawdy songs could be heard clearly as the two women made their way towards the largest tent on the field, though Jess noticed that more than half the men seemed sober and watchful.

As they neared the tent Jess assumed was Gosford’s central command post, she frowned grimly, seeing guards posted at the entrance. Tugging at Kaleah’s arm, she nodded her head. "Come on. We can sneak around there, to the back."

Kaleah was alert and cautious as they moved silently around to the rear of the tent where there were no guards. She watched Jess hunker down beside the canvas wall and use her dagger to slice a small hole in the cloth. Taking a final quick look around to make sure no-one was watching them, the dark woman knelt beside her friend and they listened to the voices inside.

Inside the command tent, Frederick Gosford paced angrily back and forth, glaring at the man standing stiffly before him. The man, dressed in the livery of a messenger and bearing the heraldry of Sir William, watched the mercenary with an expression of weary indulgence.

"I don’t understand why this upsets you so, sir." His tone was best described as respectfully condescending. "Surely Sir William’s actions have only made your job easier."

Gosford stopped pacing and fixed the messenger with a withering look. "I do not like surprises," he snarled. "Sir William should have consulted with me before he had Richard poisoned. Now, from what I hear, Lady Jessica has assumed command of Da’Gran’s troops!"

"So? You should be pleased! Instead of facing an experienced knight, you face a mere slip of a girl barely past her nineteenth year. I could probably best the wench!"

Now Gosford smiled thinly. "Be thankful you’ll never have the chance to test your boast," he whispered. "By poisoning Sir Richard, Lancaster has removed a dangerous but well-known and understood commander from the game-board, and replaced him with an unknown, but equally dangerous one!"

"She’s just a girl!" the messenger scoffed.

"She’s a skilled warrior who’s been fighting since she was old enough to hold a sword," Gosford snapped. "And her tutor was Sir Miles Elirist — one of the most talented knights in the whole damn country! Where Sir Richard might have seen the wisdom of surrender, Lady Jessica will not. She’s young and headstrong. She won’t be willing to give up without a fight."

"So you’ll loose a few men . . . no problem." The messenger shrugged dismisively.

Gosford snarled angrily. "The problem, you fool, is that I have no idea what Jessica is capable of. While it’s not likely, it is still possible that she could figure out a way to even the odds." His tone grew milder. "I’m not saying she can win . . . but she could make it a lot harder for us to take the castle." He stared at the messenger with sharp hazel eyes. "Return to Sir William and inform him that in future, I would like to be appraised of any action he takes that could affect what I do here."

"Yes sir." The messenger paused. "Sir, what about our man on the inside? Do you have any orders for him?"

Gosford waved his hand. "Have him removed from the castle," he ordered absently. "His presence will not be required."

"But sir-" The messenger hesitated at Gosford’s dangerously raised eyebrow. "A-are you certain that’s wise? I mean, Sir William has expended considerable effort to acquire such a valuable resource." He paused. "A traitor is a terrible thing to waste."

Gosford was adamant. "I will win this siege without such deception," he said sternly. "By now, Da’Gran’s supplies will be running low. Jessica must make her move within the next few days or her men will be too weak to fight. It’s a good thing, too; these raiders we’ve recruited have little patience for waiting." He gestured to the tent doors. "You may return to your lord."

The messenger held the gaze of the mercenary commander for a long moment, then sighed and left the tent. Gosford returned to studying his maps . . . not noticing the small hole in the back of the tent, nor the twin shadows that retreated furtively back into the night.

"A traitor in the castle! So that’s how my father was poisoned!" Jessica’s quicksilver mind hurriedly processed this new information, then set to work trying to determine how she might make use of it.

"Who could it be?" Kaleah asked, her long legs struggling a little to match the excited pace her companion set as they headed back to the forest. "Your father’s men seem so loyal."

"Mmm . . . I’d have thought so too, but most men can be bought for the right price." Jessica considered for a moment, then sighed. "It could be anyone. Most of the common soldiers could have slipped him poison with little trouble."

"And if Gosford’s pulling the man out anyway, I don’t suppose we have much chance of catching whoever it is, huh?"

Jess shook her head regretfully. "I guess not."

They reached the cleverly concealed entrance to the escape tunnel and slipped into the cool, moist darkness, lighting a small torch to guide their way. Kaleah smiled a little. "At least Gosford respects your abilities," she remarked teasingly. "That’s a point in his favor."

"But against us," Jess observed. "I’d rather he thought I was stupid and ignorant — he’d be more likely to underestimate me and make a mistake. Now I have to defeat an enemy who’ll be watchful and wary."

"Hmmm, I hadn’t thought of it that way." Kaleah frowned. "So . . . we know how your father was poisoned, and we know that Gosford wasn’t a part of it. We know the raiders are getting bored and want to end this thing quickly." She studied her friend in the dim light of the torch. "How do we use this information to win?"

Jessica sighed heavily. "I don’t know," she admitted. "But I need a plan in the next day or two, or like Gosford says, the men will be too weak to be of any use."

Kaleah was silent, considering things a moment. "Jess?"

"Hmm?"

"You said before that Gosford would have promised to pay the raiders with loot from the castle, right?"

"Aye, most likely. Lancaster hasn’t the wealth to pay them in advance."

"Right. So, what happens after that? I mean, assuming for the moment that Gosford takes the castle-" She ignored the indignant look Jessica shot her. "-what will he do with the raiders?"

"I guess he’d pay them from my father’s treasury, then divide them up and use them to subjugate the rest of the villages." She caught Kaleah’s puzzled expression and clarified. "Take them over."

"Mmm." Kaleah’s brows furrowed in thought. "Who’d stay in the castle then?"

Jess shrugged. "Probably the men Sir William sent to serve with Gosford. Then once everything was secured, Lancaster himself would probably pay a visit and install one of his sons as the new ruler."

Kaleah smirked wryly. "Too bad we can’t just skip ahead to that part right now, huh? With the army all split up like that, I’m sure you’d be able to take them out one by one."

Jessica stopped dead in her tracks, her eyes lighting up suddenly. Kaleah paused to look at her, seeing an extremely wicked glint in the sparkling emeralds that was mirrored in the evil grin that spread across the young woman’s face. Jess took a shivering breath. "Kaleah, you’re a genius!"

"I am?"

The radiant blonde planted a quick, searing kiss on her lovers lips. "Yes, you are. You just gave me an idea."

"I did?" The dark woman was thoroughly confused, but Jessica’s excitement was palpable. She raised an eyebrow. "And what idea might that be?"

Jess started marching rapidly down the tunnel. "Gosford has an army that we can’t defeat as things stand. We’re running out of food, and we’re running out of time. We can’t possibly hope to win this battle."

"So?"

Jess gave her a mischievous, sparkling smile. "Gosford wants this castle? Fine. We’ll give it too him." She chuckled darkly. "And then we’ll find out if he has the strength of hold on to it."

Thirty minutes and a change of clothes later, Kaleah sat on the edge of Jessica’s bed regarding the expectant blonde seriously. Jess had explained her plan quickly, and the dark woman had questioned a few points and added her own suggestions. Now she considered it carefully.

"You realize this plan could cost many peasants their lives," she said quietly. "They’ll be the ones at greatest risk."

Jess nodded. "I know that. But we can’t hope to win this without loosing a few lives. At least this way, casualties should be minimal."

"Uh huh." Kaleah paused and watched her friend’s face carefully. "You’ll be giving up a lot, too, Jess," she whispered.

Jessica smiled a little sadly. "A small sacrifice."

"It’s not a small sacrifice for you, and you know it," Kaleah protested. "Those passages have been your secret all your life, Jess. They mean a lot to you. Don’t belittle this."

The young woman sighed. "A leader must be willing to give up anything for the sake of the people. And I am." She appreciated the understanding she saw in Kaleah’s eyes, and gave the dark woman’s shoulder a squeeze. "We should go find Miles and tell him-"

"Oh, no you don’t." Kaleah grabbed the diminutive blonde and pulled her firmly into an embrace. "That can wait till morning. You need your rest if you’re going to pull this off."

"But we can-"

"Rest," Kaleah growled into a shapely ear, smiling when she felt a shiver rush through her lover’s body. "We’ll start getting everyone ready tomorrow. Right now, we sleep." Nimble fingers started pulling off Jessica’s simple tunic. "I’ve missed holding you in my arms at night."

"Mmm." Jessica moaned as the dark woman slowly undressed her, feeling fires ignite in her groin. She quickly conceded to Kaleah’s wishes and began to return the favor. Within moments the two women were wrapped around each other comfortably under the thick blankets, exchanging gentle touches and light kisses.

Jessica ran her fingers down Kaleah’s spine, smiling at the low rumble her touch inspired. "Can we . . ?"

Kaleah smiled at her lover’s eagerness but shook her head. "Like I said before, Jess, you’ll be sore in the morning as it is, and we really do need as much sleep as we can get. We’re going to be very busy tomorrow."

Jessica pouted but stilled her explorations obediently. In truth, she was a little tender in certain places. It was just that everything was so new and felt so wonderful . . . she wanted to experience the incredible pleasure of Kaleah’s love as much as possible. But for now, she admitted it was probably a better idea to behave herself. Rolling over, Jess pulled her lover’s arms around her and relaxed in the safe cocoon of the dark woman’s embrace. Taking a deep, calming breath, she couldn’t help but grin wickedly as she caught the scent that clung to the sheets. "I can still smell us," she giggled.

Kaleah smiled. "Just try not to think about it."

Jess giggled again. "That’s not easy when we’re both naked and surrounded by the scent of our lovemaking." She settled down and planted a soft kiss on Kaleah’s arm. "G’night, Kaleah."

"Mmm, night, Jess."

Overwhelmed by the long and busy day, both women were soon seduced by their exhaustion into a land of warm, vaguely sensuous dreams, content and relaxed as they held each other for the first time in many days.

The next day, Gosford watched curiously as the routine of the defenders in Da’Gran changed drastically. Where before the men had lined the walls at even spaces, now there were few soldiers visible, and those that were in sight seemed distracted and excited. Observing through a small eyeglass used more commonly by sailors than soldiers, the mercenary wondered what this change might mean.

"Something’s going on," he mused aloud to Rennard. "I don’t like this."

"Mayhap they plan to attack," the officer suggested.

Gosford considered but shook his head. "Lady Jessica knows she wouldn’t stand a chance against us. She’s not stupid enough for a frontal assault," he said firmly. His lips drew into a grim line. "Still . . . it never pays to be overprepared. Have the men ready themselves for defense, just in case."

"Aye, sir." Rennard quickly marched off, spreading the word up and down the line to the raiders, who had already noticed the strange behavior of the defenders and were talking in low, excited voices.

But no attack was launched that day. As the hours wore on, the bandit army started to get restless. Fights broke out between groups of men, and Gosford was quick to discipline his men. By sun-down, even the few soldiers who had manned the battlements of the castle had vanished. The mercenary grew more suspicious, unable to figure out what his enemy had planned. As dark fell, he ordered a double watch, and all the men slept with their weapons nearby.

Gosford was rudely awakened an hour before dawn by loud, earth-shaking explosions. For a moment he thought his assessment of Jessica was wrong; the girl had launched some kind of an attack afterall. But when he rushed outside and found his own army looking at the castle in wonder and awe he realized the truth: the explosions were coming from inside the castle walls. From where he stood, the mercenary could see plumes of orange and green smoke curling up above the unmanned battlement, lit from beyond by devilish lights. His eyes narrowed suspiciously.

"What in hell is she up too?" he pondered aloud.

The explosions lasted a few minutes, then all was still and silent in the pre-dawn darkness. Rennard joined his leader, gazing curiously at the castle. "What d’ye think that was, sir?"

Gosford shrugged. "I have no idea . . . though I rather suspect we’ll find out come light."

Rennard glanced at the bandits, who were fingering their weapons nervously and muttering among themselves. The words ‘devil-child’ and ‘sorcery’ could be heard whispered back and forth. Gosford exchanged meaningful glances with his second. "Superstitious fools," he muttered angrily, seeing fear in the faces of his troops. These bandits were savage men who were eager for battle . . . but he knew they’d run away in terror at the thought they faced an otherworldly foe. "If she hopes to scare us off with a light show," he said loudly, "that girl’s in for a rude surprise."

The men laughed at his humor, but their eyes were still turgid and troubled. Gosford gestured to the bandits. "Send word for everyone to get moving," he ordered. "We’re all awake now . . . we might as well be ready for whatever she’s got planned." He glanced at the last clouds of strange smoke. "We’ll find out more when the sun’s up."

What the light revealed, however, was about the furthest thing from what Gosford had expected.

The solid, spiked portcullis that could easily have held against the sturdiest battering ram was raised; the castle gates swung open. No defenders manned the walls or the towers. No sounds of life could be heard. Gosford and his muttering troops besieged what now appeared to be an empty castle.

"It’s a trick," the mercenary immediately concluded. "An obvious trick at that. She’s got the soldiers and knights all lying in ambush, just waiting for us to walk in." He smiled a little. "I would have expected more from the daughter of Sir Richard Da’Gran."

"What’ll we do, sir?" asked Rennard. He pointed to the bandits who were already mobilizing, anticipating that they would be attacking the castle. "We gonna take the bait?"

Gosford considered a moment, not liking this. "I would have preferred a more bloodless end to this affair, but it seems that’s not to be the case." He sighed. "So be it. The men are restless; they need to fight, and with our way now clear we can easily overwhelm whatever pitiful defenses she might have devised." He waved his hand. "Have the men assemble and prepare for close-quarter combat. When they’re in position, we take the castle. And remember . . . I want Jessica and her family taken alive if at all possible."

Rennard left and the orders were swiftly carried out, the only trouble being that none of the bandits wanted to miss out on the fun, and so fought for the front positions. When they were eventually readied, Gosford gave the command and the bandit army surged toward the open entrance, yelling war-cries and waving swords hungry for blood.

They were to be disappointed, however.

The castle was deserted. The bandits spread out immediately and searched everywhere, but while an unlucky few discovered lethal booby-traps, the only living creatures they found were the stabled horses.

In the courtyard, however, Gosford and his men discovered something strange. A gigantic, arcane symbol had been burned deeply into the earth. The acrid stench of sulfur filled the air, and a few of the men made signs of warding against evil, sensing witchcraft had been worked.

"The girl’s a devil-child!" one of the bandits shouted, pointing at the strange, mystical rune. "She magicked ‘em all away! This castle be cursed!"

Gosford snarled as many of the bandits nodded agreement, spitting on the symbol and glancing about suspiciously. "Lady Jessica is no witch!" he told them sternly. "She couldn’t have escaped past our siege!" He looked around him carefully and his voice lowered. "She’s here somewhere. She’s just hiding."

"Her and a few hundred others?" someone demanded.

Gosford’s eyes narrowed. "Damn girl’s smarter than I thought," he mused aloud. "But she’s not smart enough to hide forever! Search every room and hallway in this castle until you find them!" The men grudgingly did as ordered, glaring at the mercenary balefully. They searched every place in the fortress, from the dungeons to the look-out turret. Finding nothing, Gosford ordered a search for hidden rooms or tunnels, and after an hour was rewarded. His men discovered an ill-concealed trapdoor in one of the stables, which opened to reveal a wide escape tunnel.

Gosford glared at the mouth of the tunnel furiously a long moment, then concluded through grit teeth, "They escaped."

The mercenary took over the great hall as his command center and began to issue orders. The bandits were disgruntled; he had promised them bloodshed and loot, but so far all he had been able to give them was a pittance reward. Apparently the defenders had taken most of Sir Richard’s wealth with them. For the time being, Gosford ordered large groups of men to comb the forests in search of the vanished troops and to hunt for food. A messenger was sent back to Lancaster to tell him the castle was secured. Gosford also set up a guard along the battlements to watch for any surprises, knowing victory wasn’t likely to come without some kind of trouble. As a precaution, he collapsed the escape tunnel to prevent Jessica from using it to get back inside the fortress.

"In the morning, we divide our forces to take the other villages," he told Rennard and the main leaders of the raiding bandits. "It’s most likely Jessica will try to rally the peasants to fight with her, so expect resistance. We’ll search the forests, too. An army that size can’t stay hidden forever."

A few of the bandit leaders grumbled, and Gosford eyed them angrily. "Is there a problem?"

The bandits exchanged sullen glances before one stepped forward. "We joined this campaign cos ye promised us riches," he said angrily. "Ye promised we’d get to kill the Da’Gran soldiers!"

"And?" Gosford faced the angry man calmly. "We will find them in time. And when you have taken the villages you will have all the plunder you desire."

"No!" The man shook his head viciously. "My people grow tired of waiting! You pay us now!"

The mercenary cocked his head thoughtfully. "You’re welcome to search the castle yourself for gold, but you won’t find any," he said quietly. "I cannot pay you what I don’t have."

"Then we’re leaving this accursed castle!" the man shouted. "My men and I won’t fight fer nothin’!"

Hazel eyes narrowed and the mercenary stepped closer to the furious bandits. "You wish to be rewarded for your efforts?"

"Aye!"

A slender dagger flashed through the air in a silver arc and the bandit clutched suddenly at his throat. Blood welled between his fingers as he coughed, choked, grasping for the mercenary with feeble hands before he collapsed. The other men stepped back, eyeing their commander nervously.

Gosford wiped his dagger clean and sheathed it. His eyes studied the bandit leaders calmly. "Do any of you wish a similar reward?"

Several heads shook desperately.

"Then do as I command." Gosford nudged the dead man with his foot. "Follow my orders, and I will deliver that which was promised. Now go."

The bandits left as quickly as they could, leaving Rennard and his commander alone in the great hall.

Gosford closed his eyes and took a calming breath. He was frustrated and annoyed because of it. That slip of a girl had managed to escape him! But something wasn’t right here. He had a feeling he was missing something, he just didn’t know what it was. Jessica’s little stunt of false magic had convinced many of the gullible bandits that the castle was now somehow cursed; a simple yet effective trick. Still, it seemed strange that she would give up her position so readily.

"That girl’s not finished with this yet," he whispered half to himself, half to his second. "We may have taken the castle, but she’s out there somewhere. I can sense it." He took a deep breath and frowned. "I want her found before she has a chance to make trouble."

"I’ll order more men into the woods, sir," Rennard offered.

"Excellent. And Rennard?"

"Sir?"

Gosford gestured to the body of the raider on the floor. "Have our uncooperative friend here removed. We don’t want bloodstains marring the stonework."

"Of course, sir."

Far, far below, beneath the very foundation of castle Da’Gran, Jessica stood next to Kaleah in a vast, cavernous room filled with nervous, curious people. The great room was lit by several torches that burned in wall-mounted sconces, but the light couldn’t take away the knowledge of a hundred tones of earth and rock that hung above their heads. All the knights of her fathers court were here, along with most of the lesser soldiers, gathered around a large, rectangular table that was covered in dust and dirt. Her mother and brother stood to one side, both regarding her with sullen anger. Jess winced a little when she saw the expressions worn by Miles and Charles, knowing she had a lot of explaining to do. There was one notable absence among the gathering: Eric Grace. She knew she was going to have to explain that to the people, too. The last day and night had been wearing on the young woman; she was tired and in little mood for this talk. But she knew she couldn’t rest just yet.

As she stepped forward to address her audience, Jessica assumed what Kaleah called her ‘leader face’ — the expression and stance she modeled after her father.

"I know you all probably have a lot of questions right now," she said, her gentle yet mesmerizing voice bringing instant silence to the muttering crowd, "but before I answer them I want to thank you all for your patience. I understand that I asked a lot of you — I expected you to follow orders without taking the time to explain things. For that I’m sorry."

The young woman took a deep breath. "I know you all want to know about these hidden passages and rooms, first of all." She saw many nods from the knights who were puzzled at these mysterious secret places in their home. "I discovered them many years ago, and I suppose you could say I used them to play in. The passages run through and under the castle, and can access almost any part of Da’Gran we want to go too. There’s enough room for us all to live here comfortably for as long as we need too." She paused, her tone growing a little harder. "As for why I kept these passages a secret . . ." She glanced at Miles and Charles. ". . . I can only say that I had my reasons. I’m not going to justify myself to you people, and you don’t have the right to expect me too." Her voice dropped slightly. "My secret harmed no-one."

Lady Rose stepped forward now, eyes stormy. "And what other secrets have you kept from us, Jessica?" she demanded loudly. "What else don’t you want us to know about?"

Jessica glared at her mother coldly. "Whatever my secrets are, mother, they are mine to keep." Her eyes swept the assembly of soldiers. "I’m sure we all have things we keep private . . . things we share only with those closest too us. I don’t expect anyone here to divulge every hidden thought and feeling to me, and vice versa." Most of the knights reluctantly nodded their agreement, willing to accept this explanation for now.

Lady Rose wasn’t to be discouraged so easily. "Pretty words, Jess, but how do you think these people would feel if they did know the truth about you?"

Jessica paused now, her back stiffening. Rose was questioning her authority in front of the people she had to lead. She couldn’t let that stand. "Do you have something you wish to say, mother?" she demanded, her soft tone at odds with the steel in her eyes.

Lady Rose sniffed at her daughter in disgust. "I know all about you, Jessica," she hissed. "I know all about the things you’ve been doing with that heathen bitch!" She pointed accusingly at Kaleah. "I saw the two of you up on the battlements the other night — you with your hands all over her!"

The silence in the room suddenly grew breathless. Lady Rose smirked malevolently as Jessica’s face went deathly pale and her eyes widened. She stepped closer, enjoying the look on her daughter’s face. "I should have expected as much from you, you disgusting harlot! Whoring yourself to some foreign devil-woman! It makes me sick to think a creature like you ever came from my body!" Rose’s hand snapped up quickly, intent on delivering a hard slap to her daughter’s face.

She did not realize just how dangerous the young girl’s reflexes were.

Jessica caught her mother’s hand before it even got near her face and, with seemingly no effort at all, twisted the older woman’s body around, throwing her hard against the surface of the oak table. Rose gave a surprised squeak as Jessica slammed her hand down on the tables dusty surface — a sound which changed to a shocked cry of pain as the furious young blonde drew a dagger and, without thinking twice, drove it through her hand, pinning it to the table.

"Jessica!" Miles stepped forward to intercede, but cold green eyes froze him before he got the chance.

"NO!" Jessica’s gaze swept the room, the stunned people falling back from the fury in her gaze. When she looked at Kaleah, however, her expression softened at the look of sadness on her dark lover’s face. Jess turned back to her gasping mother, releasing her grip on the dagger and clutching for her throat. Terrified green eyes widened.

"The next time you speak a single word of malice against Kaleah," the girl whispered, "I swear I’ll find my dagger a home in your heart." She stared at her mother a long moment, unblinking. "Do you understand me?"

"You can’t-" Powerful fingers cut off her words as they tightened about her throat.

"Try me." Jessica leaned in closer. "When you try to hurt Kaleah, you hurt me. And I will defend myself with every power at my disposal, mother. Now if you have any sense at all in your head, you’ll say ‘I understand, Jessica,’ and get out of my sight."

Lady Rose swallowed hard, gasping at the fire that burned from her hand. She saw for the first time just how strong her daughter had become — how dangerous. The force of power the small girl projected was unbelievable, and there was nothing she could do against it. "I understand, Jessica," she repeated dutifully.

"Very good." Jessica released her grip on her mother’s throat and unceremoniously plucked the dagger from her hand. The older woman fell back, clutching her wounded hand to her chest. Father Grahem stepped forward with Steven and they managed to lead Lady Rose from the chamber, the minister glaring at Jessica with disgust and making the sign of the cross before he departed.

When they were gone, Jessica turned back to the faces watching her, their expressions ranging from sympathy to concern to distaste. There was no way she could deny her mother’s accusation now. She hadn’t wanted it to be this way, but had accepted long ago that loving Kaleah would eventually lead to this. She smiled a little when Kaleah stepped closer to her, offering comfort. The silence grew uncomfortable, and the young blonde faced the gathered soldiers with dignity and pride; she would never let herself feel shame for her love.

"What Kaleah and I do in private is between the two of us alone," she said softly. "Does any person here wish to dispute that?"

There was silence; a few men shook their heads.

Jessica nodded. "Good." She felt a hand reach out for her own and gratefully accepted the contact with her lover. "I don’t expect any of you to understand this, or even to agree with it. And I’m certainly not going to ask for your sanction. You can hate me, if that’s what you want. You can be disgusted by me." Her eyes hardened. "But I do expect you to follow my orders until my father has recovered strength enough to take back command." She met each man’s gaze steadily. "If any of you think that’s going to be a problem, speak now."

Another silence. No-one stepped forward.

Jess smiled a small, tired smile. "Thank you. Now, if we’re done questioning my love life" - There were a few nervous chuckles - "we can continue."

Releasing Kaleah’s hand, Jessica stepped into her role as leader easily. "The last twenty-four hours have been confusing for you all, since I haven’t had time to explain my plan in it’s entirety. The situation stands thusly: the bandit army lead by Lancaster’s mercenary commander, Frederick Gosford, has taken control of the castle." There were a few low mutterings at this point, but they ended when Jess raised her hand for silence. "I know this wasn’t the most popular decision I’ve made, but like it or not, we didn’t have a hope of defeating Gosford. Our supplies were running low, and we hadn’t the numbers to break the siege." She saw reluctant acknowledgement of the facts. "By now, Gosford will have discovered the escape tunnel that was built below the stable." She grinned. "He will have concluded that we retreated from the castle, and that the castle is his."

"If there’s an escape tunnel, why haven’t we sent for help?" demanded one of the younger knights.

"Runners were sent early yesterday morning," Jess replied. "With the head-start they have, I have every confidence that Charles’ father will hear of our plight and send reinforcements. However, they’ll take time to get here, and we must use that time as best we can.

"Gosford will almost certainly assume we have pulled back to the other villages, hoping to rally greater numbers from the peasants. That being the case, I believe he will divide his army into smaller groups and send them out to sweep away any resistance quickly. He can’t keep the raiders in the castle; they’re too unruly and hard to control. And besides, thanks to Kaleah’s idea of marking the courtyard with arcane symbols, most of them will have little desire to remain in the castle, believing it to be cursed." She smiled a thanks to her lover. "Within the next two days, the enemy will be divided into a dozen smaller groups, and the castle will be defended only by a small garrison of Lancaster’s own men."

Comprehension suddenly dawned in the faces of the gathered knights, and many of them nodded slowly, smiling when they saw where this was going. "Ye plan to wait fer that to happen, then defeat then one by one," Miles guessed.

Jess nodded. "We sent runners to warn the villagers what’s happening — with luck, they’ll be able to hold out till we can send aid. The Earl’s men will help us to mop up the stragglers, and victory will be ours." She planted her hands on her hips proudly. "All we have to do is wait a few days, and watch for our opportunity." She flashed the men a charismatic grin. "Any questions?"

There was a few moments of silence, then one of the elder knights raised his hand almost timidly. "Um . . . I heard that Sir Richard was poisoned by a traitor . . . and that the traitor is dead. Is that true?"

Jess sighed and nodded grimly. "When Kaleah and I were rigging our little magic display, we went to Eric Grace for assistance with the chemical components. We found him dead in his laboratory, apparently killed by his own hand." She pulled a scrap of parchment from her belt and held it up. "This was on the body. It reads simply, ‘I can live no longer with my betrayal. God will be my judge.’" Jessica scowled darkly, still feeling that something about Grace’s suicide seemed off. "From all appearances, my father will recover. His fever has broken, and he has been wakeful for brief periods." The relief was obvious in her tone, knowing her father was now resting comfortably in one of the hidden rooms above. She could see the men shared her relief.

"So what do we do now?" asked a soldier. "Just wait?"

She shrugged. "Patience is our greatest ally at the moment," she said. "I’ve shown Miles and Damon where to find the largest rooms. They’ll assign you a space to sleep and we’ll start a guard to watch the movements of the enemy." A full grin lit her face. "When we attack, they won’t know what hit them." She paused, waiting for any further questions. When none were forthcoming, she waved her hand. "I’ll leave you to get organized. Miles? Take over."

Taking Kaleah’s hand, Jess turned and led them from the cavernous room, sighing the minute they were out of sight.

Kaleah felt the tension drain from her young friend’s small frame and gathered her up in her arms quickly. "You alright?"

Jess shrugged. Her emotions were raw; she wasn’t sure how she felt right now. "I wasn’t expecting my mother to hit me with that," she breathed. Tears pricked the corners of her eyes, but they were born of stress more than despair. "I guess we’ll just have to wait and see what happens."

Kaleah sighed, feeling her lover’s pain. "I’m sorry you have to hurt because of how you feel for me."

Jess turned and smiled up at her crookedly. "It’s a small price to pay, Kaleah. I love you . . . and I knew all along that a lot of people would never accept that." A little light entered her eyes. "At least no-one’s going to try to hang either of us for the time being," she observed. "Like it or not, this plan is going to save us from almost certain defeat. Even my mother and Father Grahem couldn’t incite the people against us."

The dark woman smiled and laid a soft kiss on rumbled blonde hair. "Come on, Princess," she said. "You can show me some of these intriguing stories I’ve heard so much about."

Jess giggled, her eyes sparkling. "Mmm . . . are you sure you wanna do that? I mean, reading a bunch of erotic love stories could get me kinda worked up."

Kaleah grinned roguishly. "Oh, I’m counting on it."

The next few days dragged by slowly for the people hidden in the secret rooms. Jess knew rumors about her and Kaleah had spread quickly among the people, but she chose to ignore them. It wasn’t difficult; afterall, Jess had lived her whole life being the center of controversy. She’d never been one to go by the rules of others, her independent spirit earning her admiration from some, disapproval from others. It seemed her love for the dark barbarian woman would prove no different than every other decision she’d ever made.

Jess paused a moment as she entered her special room — the room that housed her pictures and her secret books. She and Kaleah had claimed it as their quarters for the time being, and the young blonde smiled as she found her lover lying full-length on the over-stuffed couch, her eyes closed peacefully.

Jessica took the opportunity to let her eyes linger over the long, slender body of her friend. In the last few days, this room had offered the luxury of privacy to the two women, and Jess found herself growing ever more comfortable with the intense physical dynamic their relationship had developed. Her hunger and passion for Kaleah had only grown stronger as she enthusiastically explored new ways of expressing her love and desire. Kaleah had encouraged Jessica to fully share her dreams and fantasies, helping the innocent girl to accept and understand her burgeoning sexuality. As their level of intimacy increased, so did their love, and watching her dark lover now in a rare moment of relaxation, Jessica knew their love would give them both strength in whatever future they faced.

As Jess suspected, Kaleah soon sensed her presence and sleeping azure eyes blinked open. A smile twitched the scarred lips as the former slave sat up a little and stretched. "Hey," she greeted drowsily. "Everything okay?"

"Mmhmm." Jess strolled over and straddled Kaleah’s lap happily, kissing her lover long and slowly. "Everything’s absolutely perfect."

Kaleah grinned and pulled the blonde tighter against her. "Everything?" A dark brow raised doubtfully.

Jess giggled. "Well, okay, not everything. But Gosford’s moved out nearly all the raiders and we’re about ready to attack him, my mother’s keeping out of sight, and . . ." She grinned mischievously. ". . . I’ve had a few rather timid comments from a couple of the soldiers and servants complementing my taste in women."

Sapphire eyes widened in surprise. "Really?" Knowing hands skirted playfully along the young woman’s ribcage, thumbs playing close to full breasts. "Were there any comments about the noises coming from this room late in the evenings?" she teased.

Jessica’s nostrils flared as her body quickly wakened to her lover’s touch. Still, she poked the dark woman with mock outrage. "I’m not that loud," she argued. Kaleah’s eyebrow lifted higher, and Jess blushed. "I’m not."

Kaleah smirked. "Whatever you say, Princess." In truth, the young woman was proving to be as vocal as she was energetic during their love-making; a fact Kaleah found thoroughly endearing. She decided to change the subject. "So, how’s your father doing?"

Jess shrugged. She had just been to visit her father, who she’d found sleeping comfortably. "He’s okay, I guess." She blew her bangs out of her eyes wearily, considering again the strange events surrounding his sickness.

Kaleah instantly recognized Jess was holding something back. "Is anything wrong?"

"No, it’s just . . ." Jess trailed off, not knowing how to explain her disquiet. "I just can’t understand why Grace would do something like that. It seems so . . . so illogical."

"I thought you said you never really liked him to begin with."

"I didn’t." Jess frowned. "But just cos he gave me the willies doesn’t mean it’s easy picturing him as a traitor. Something about it doesn’t seem right. Doesn’t fit."

Kaleah sat up a little straighter, pulling Jess along with her. "Like what?"

"Well . . ." Jess pondered the matter a moment. "For starters, Grace has served my family all his life. He was my grandfather’s advisor and alchemist before my father came to power. If he'd wanted to betray us, he could have picked a hundred better opportunities than this one."

"Maybe no-one ever made him a generous enough offer," Kaleah suggested.

"Maybe. But why now? He was old. He wouldn’t have had a lot of time to enjoy his rewards anyway. And Grace never seemed to care much for money or wealth. His only interest was serving my father well and working on whatever it was he worked on in his laboratory." She paused. "He was a good advisor and fair healer, even if he was a bit of a ghoul. It’s so hard to believe he could have betrayed my father."

Kaleah kissed the vexed girl gently. "Just be happy he’s gone," she said quietly. "When this is over, we can investigate things a little more if you want . . . maybe find out why he did it." Another gentle kiss, a little lower, and Kaleah grinned, feeling Jess melt against her. "When are you planning to attack Gosford and his remaining troops?"

"Uh . . . attack?" Jess quickly lost her train of thought as Kaleah set to work on her neck and chest. "Oh . . . um, I don’t — uh, don’t stop!"

Kaleah grinned. "That soon, huh?" She suckled a wildly humming pulse-point happily. "Maybe you should rethink that."

Jessica tangled her fingers in Kaleah’s dark hair, moaning. "We attack tomorrow evening," she gasped quickly, her senses focused fully on the dark woman’s sensual assault. "Kaleah?"

"Mmm?"

"I don’t really make that much noise . . . do I?"

Kaleah grinned rakishly. "Let’s find out."

Scarred lips returned to feast on fevered skin, descending along a path that quickly convinced Jess she really didn’t care one way or the other how loud she was.

Chapter 25.

Jessica listened intently to the voices she could hear echoing up through the chimney from her father’s chambers, recognizing them as belonging to Gosford and his lieutenant. She was alone in the cramped tunnel, waiting with calm excitement for the attack to begin. The grate that sealed off the chimney had been removed, and when things started to happen, Jess would have to move quickly to secure the room and take the mercenary captive. If Gosford managed to rally a defense, Jess knew her men would suffer greater casualties.

Miles had protested her wanting to take on the mercenary by herself, but Jessica had been adamant. Kaleah was positioned nearby, waiting to take out the guards to the chamber, so if Jess ran into trouble help was close at hand. One way or another, she wanted Gosford for herself.

The plan was fairly simple. Lancaster’s men were now distributed throughout the castle, their numbers few. Against Da’Gran’s better-trained and more numerous troops, they didn’t stand a chance. The trick would be making sure none of them managed to escape the castle and rally support from the divided bandit army. Therefore, Miles would lead a contingent of men too the gatehouse to take control of the portcullis, closing it and preventing escape. While the soldiers wiped out the invaders, the servants and peasants of Da’Gran would remain safely hidden in the catacombs, waiting till everything was secure. Since Lancaster’s men believed their enemy to be many miles away, Jessica had every confidence that victory would be swift and decisive.

After what seemed like hours of breathless anticipation, Jess finally heard what she’d been waiting for. The sound of a door flying open, then a panicked voice. "Sir! Forgive the interruption sir, but . . . we're under attack!"

"Attack!?" Gosford’s voice was understandable incredulous. "By who?"

"Sir Richard’s men, sir! They’ve-"

"That’s impossible!" In the darkness, Jess grinned at the disbelieving tone in the mercenary’s voice. "Lady Jessica wouldn’t be foolish enough to attack the castle."

"She’s already inside the castle, sir!" the guard reported hastily.

"What!?!" There was a sound of mail and leather rustling, then a startled squeak. "How is that possible? Where are the men?"

"The men are trying to hold them back, b-but they’re everywhere!" came the strangled voice of the guard, and now Jessica could make out the sounds of battle coming from beyond the room. The familiar tingle of adrenaline and excitement flooded through her blood, heightening her senses and making her feel dangerously alive. She took a deep breath and counseled patience, fingers toying with the pommel of her sword.

Below, Gosford cursed angrily for a moment, then apparently regained his composure. "Fine," he said softly. "Jessica may be clever, but we’ll win this still. Rennard?"

"Yessir?"

"Go find some runners if you can. We need to recall the bandits. If we’re lucky they won’t have traveled too far."

"Of course sir."

"I’ll take care of this whelp one way or another. Try to get the men to fall back to the central keep. We can defend ourselves better if we’re not out in the open."

"I’ll do what I can, sir, but you’d best hurry." Footsteps faded quickly away as Rennard and the soldier left. Jess crept forward soundlessly and slipped into the chimney, holding herself poised over the drop, waiting. A few heartbeats later came the sound of fierce fighting from just outside the room, Gosford’s started shout, and then the echo as the doors to the chamber slammed shut forcefully. Kaleah had done her job well, cutting off this section of rooms and leaving Jessica to confront Gosford in peace.

Confidant that she would not be interrupted, Jessica dropped stealthily down into the fireplace, her soft-soled boots crunching only a little in the ashes. Moving quickly, she ducked under the stone mantle and stepped into her father’s chamber, glancing about warily.

Gosford stood in front of the solid oak door, pounding on it and trying unsuccessfully to get it open. Jess grinned fully and shuffled closer, noiselessly drawing her slender rapier. When she was only a few feet away, Gosford finally sensed her presence and turned angrily, his hand flying to the hilt of his own longsword.

His eyes widened when he found the tip of Jessica’s sword flirting with the skin under his throat. Her eyes were dancing and strangely playful, and suddenly Gosford understood how this girl had gained such a formidable reputation at such a young age; her skill was matched only by her charm.

Jess smiled at the stunned expression on the mercenary’s face. "We meet again, master Gosford." Her eyes flicked warningly to where his hand still gripped his sword hilt. "You wish to test my resolve, perhaps?" A blonde brow raised curiously, her expression not at all afraid.

Gosford removed his hand and raised it away from his side.

"How did you get back into the castle?" he demanded. "We collapsed the tunnel."

"A lady can’t reveal all her secrets, master Gosford . . . can she?" Outside, the sounds of fighting could still be heard, though they were muffled by the door. "Your men are the ones outnumbered now," she observed. "We will take back my father’s castle and then destroy your ragtag bandit armies one by one."

"Impossible. Your haven’t the men." From his tone, Gosford didn’t seem convinced of his own words. Jessica’s smile never faltered.

"Maybe not right now," she agreed complacently, "but as soon as the messenger I sent to the Earl gets through, the reinforcements he sends will be more than enough to even the odds. I think when word reaches the bandits, most of them will run for the hills anyway." She eyes sparkled. "You are beaten, master Gosford. Accept it gracefully."

Suddenly, Jessica felt the hairs at the nape of her neck tingle in warning, and she sensed another presence in the room; a presence she could tell immediately did not belong to her lover.

"We’ve not lost yet," said a vaguely familiar voice. "Release the mercenary, Lady Jessica, or I’ll be forced to kill you."

Jessica struggled a moment, unable to identify the voice but knowing the threat was real. Unwilling to pull back the rapier and accept defeat, she twisted her body so she could face the intruder without releasing Gosford.

Green eyes widened in shock, and for a moment Jessica cursed herself for her own stupidity. Of course! It’s so obvious! How could I have forgotten about him! Everything fell into place as she stared past the glinting bolt of the crossbow to the intelligent, unassuming face of Senigma Wright.

Miles easily dodged the fierce but simple attack of the man facing him, then sprang forward with sudden speed and plunged his sword through the chainmail and into the soldier’s heart. Around him, Da’Gran’s warriors were pressing quickly through the enemy ranks. The attack had been unbelievably successful, beyond even what Jessica had promised, and by now Lancaster’s men were beginning to panic.

And that meant they’d be looking for a way out.

"Too the gatehouse!" Miles shouted fiercely, urging his men to move quickly on their mission, ignoring those who sought to flee so they could press on.

Their path cleared quickly and Miles lead the way across the courtyard, raising his shield to catch the few arrows that were being fired by the desperate enemy. A few of Lancaster’s men had managed to get outside the castle walls, but glancing up Miles saw Da’Gran archers taking careful aim from the battlements, dropping them before they could run far.

When they reached the gatehouse that housed the controls for raising and lowering the massive portcullis, Miles was flustered to encounter the first signs of organized resistance since the attack first started. A group of footsoldiers armed with pikes had taken up a defensive stance outside the gatehouse, their position protected by several archers armed mostly with longbows and a few crossbows. Miles saw the man beside him fall to the deadly accuracy of the archers, and he raised his sword to stop the advance.

"Down!" he called. "Find cover!"

Somewhat reluctantly the soldiers did so, breaking apart and hiding behind what small shelter there was in the open courtyard. Miles scowled at the enemy defense, searching with experienced eyes for a weakness.

"We can’t charge them, Sir Miles," observed a younger soldier. "They’ll cut us to pieces."

"Aye, but we gotta get that portcullis down." He turned and saw a few of Lancaster’s men charge into the courtyard, seeking to escape. His own men dispatched them quickly, then returned to their cover. "If the bandits’re rallied, we’ll have lost everything . . . and they won’t be fooled a second time." He frowned as he looked around, searching for anything that might help. His eyes lit up suddenly when he spied what he wanted.

"There." He pointed to the far end of the courtyard. "We use that."

The young soldier gave him a confused look. "A wagon, sir?"

"Aye." Miles grinned and began retreating, using his shield as protection. "You three . . ." He picked out three men. "Yer comin’ with us. The rest of ye stay here and keep the enemy from escapin’."

Miles led his group over to the large straw-filled wagon and inspected it briefly. "Perfect," he concluded. "You two, get on that side and start pushin’. We gotta get this lined up with the gatehouse."

The men did as ordered, not understanding but trusting to Miles’ wisdom. With some straining, they managed to maneuver the heavy wagon over to the rest of their group, who sought shelter behind it immediately.

"I need a flint ‘n a striker." Miles gestured impatiently until one of the soldier’s produced the requested items and handed them over. The old knight spared a glance towards the enemy, who appeared confused and wary of his actions. "Get behind the wagon," he ordered. "When it starts burnin’, push it hard." A few of the soldiers grinned as they realized what he was planning.

The men quickly did as ordered, and Miles expertly struck a spark into the tinder-dry straw. A flame obediently sprang to life, spreading quickly as the soldiers put their heads down and started pushing. By the time the wagon was half-way to the gatehouse it was fully ablaze and moving at unstoppable speed. The enemy, seeing the fiery destruction that hurtled towards them, broke ranks and tried to escape.

The wagon ploughed into the wooden gatehouse and instantly crashed against the stone wall behind it, causing a ball of fire to erupt outwards in a wave of heat. The wagon also managed to hit the mechanism controling the portcullis directly, smashing it to pieces and freeing the thick chain that held the gate open. With a piercing squeal of protest and a sharp crash, the heavy spiked grill slammed down, almost impaling one man who was trying to escape.

Miles and his group attacked quickly, cutting down the lightly-armored archers easily then turning to confront the tougher pikemen. Seeing that escape was now impossible and their cause was lost, the pikemen dropped their weapons and raised their arms in defeat.

"We surrender."

Miles smiled and gestured to some of his men. "Strip their weapons and armor," he ordered, "and lock ‘em somewhere they won’t make trouble." He turned to the rest of his group. "The rats won’t be fleeing this sinkin’ ship," he grinned, then held his bloody sword out. "Let’s go find us some more fun, huh?"

The soldiers cheered, and they dashed off to join their fellows in the last stages of the battle, leaving behind the blazing remains of the destroyed gatehouse.

Senigma smiled foxishly at the expression on Jessica’s face, his hands holding the crossbow a little awkwardly but steady. Jessica stepped away from Gosford, rapier still poised but now uncertain who to attack.

"I can see you’re a little surprised," the apprentice advisor observed. "I imagine at this point you’re probably kicking yourself you didn’t notice I was missing from those you managed to hide away, but don’t feel too bad. I’m upset I left Da’Gran before I got a chance to see how you pulled off such a wonderful piece of trickery."

Jessica quickly masked her shock and assumed a confidant expression. She nodded at the crossbow. "You’re not a warrior, Senigma. You haven’t the skill to use that thing."

Senigma’s smile grew wider. "From this range, Lady Jessica, even I can’t miss. Now, release the mercenary and surrender."

"You shoot me and I’ll still have the strength to kill him," Jessica stated, pressing the tip of her sword against Gosford’s throat. Her momentary fear was gone, and she almost found herself enjoying this challenging addition. "Do you really think you can command Lancaster’s men? Do you think you can give them victory?"

Senigma hesitated, uncertain, clearly not expecting this resistance. "The bandits will-"

"The bandits will run in terror when the Earl’s men arrive," Jess interrupted. "Killing me won’t change a thing." She caught a sudden movement from the corner of her eye and smiled to herself as a shadow emerged from the fireplace. Green eyes twinkled daringly as she turned back to Gosford, who seemed unprepared to make a move while his life hung in the balance. "What did Lancaster offer you for the death of my father, Senigma? Why would you betray the position of trust you stood to inherit?"

Senigma shrugged. "The winds of power were shifting, Jessica. By the time Grace had passed away, your brother would likely have risen to power." He gripped the crossbow tighter. "Do you really think an idiot like Steven could hold these lands for long? Lancaster offered wealth and the position of chief advisor and alchemist to me as soon as Da’Gran was his. I could either rise along with him, or watch as your brother ruined everything — including my future. The decision wasn’t difficult to make."

Jessica processed this explanation silently. "So you poisoned my father and killed your own teacher because you feared the future?"

"That’s right. You may be a worthy successor to your father, Lady Jessica, but unfortunately you’ll never be permitted to rule here. Only the strong or the wise survive in this world, and while you may be both, Steven is neither. I’m smart enough to see that Da’Gran must fall . . . and that — regrettably — you must die if I’m to earn the trust of my new lord."

Jessica smiled charmingly. "You’re not as smart as you think you are, Senigma."

"No?" His grip tightened on the crossbow. "I’m not the one about to be shot."

"That remains to be seen." The shadow behind Senigma stepped closer, and Jessica’s eyes narrowed. "You really think you can stop my father’s entire army? Bah! You couldn’t even kill my father when you tried to. And even if you did have some clever plan to rally the bandits again, you’re overlooking one very important thing."

"And what might that be?"

Steel flashed suddenly and Senigma felt the cold, sharp edge of a sword press firmly against his neck. A low growl came from behind him and he felt a powerful presence suddenly fill the room. Jessica’s green eyes sparkled challengingly.

"If you kill me, you’ll die too," she said very softly, winking at the angry sapphire eyes now hovering menacingly over Senigma’s shoulder. "Nice of you to join us, Kaleah."

"My pleasure," the dark woman purred.

Senigma swallowed fearfully, seeing his carefully nurtured plans suddenly falling to pieces in a matter of moments. Jessica faced Gosford again, making sure he didn’t take advantage of the distraction to make a move. "I believe we are at an impasse, Senigma. And since I hold a greater advantage than you do, I suggest you do the smart thing and surrender without a fuss."

The young man’s eyes flittered nervously to Gosford, asking for help. The mercenary shrugged, helpless with the tip of Jessica’s blade forcing his compliance. The hands that gripped the crossbow quavered. "If you harm me," he warned Kaleah, "I’ll kill her."

"What makes you think you’ll die slow enough to get that chance?"

Jess glanced back at her lover, eyes communicating a warning to be ready. Kaleah nodded her head fractionally, her sword pulling back in preparation. Senigma would act rashly in a moment; he was nervous and desperate.

Suddenly, several things happened in the space of a heartbeat: Jessica turned fully to face Senigma, her sword breaking the hold it had on Gosford, who instantly reached for his own weapon. Surprised by the sudden fearful confrontation, Senigma stumbled backward and pulled frantically at the trigger of the crossbow. Kaleah’s sword was already descending, however, ignoring flesh and blood to slice neatly through the taut string that waited to propel the bolt forward. The steel head of the crossbow snapped forward ineffectively and Senigma had just enough time to figure out his weapon was useless before Jessica slammed the ornate hilt of her sword into his temple. He crumpled to the ground like a sack of wheat, and the two women turned as one to face Gosford.

The mercenary’s eyes twitched back and forth, evaluating his options. Jessica waved her sword in tight figure-eight’s, her stance wary but confidant. "Surrender," she ordered.

"On what terms?"

A blonde brow raised. "You kidnapped me, attacked my people, and would have handed us all over to that savage brute Lancaster, and you expect terms?"

"I expect nothing I did not offer you." Gosford glanced at Kaleah, then back. "I can still do damage," he observed pointedly. "You care for this woman . . . are you prepared to risk her safety — and your own — for the sake of your pride?"

Jessica considered this and admitted Gosford had a point. If Kaleah were injured in a fight with the formidable mercenary and she could have prevented, Jess knew she’d never forgive herself. Besides, she reminded herself, Gosford had acted with honor and as a gentleman. To do otherwise in return was to behave as a barbarian. She nodded and stepped back a foot.

"Very well. These are my terms: surrender yourself peacefully and you will be held under arrest until the raiders you recruited have been dealt with and no longer pose a threat to my people. I will guarantee your well-being until that time, and then you shall be released — without your armor or weapons — outside my father’s land. You can do as you please from then, so long as you never return to Da’Gran land, or the lands of our allies." She paused. "Do you accept?"

Gosford considered a long moment. "What about him?" He pointed to Senigma.

Jess frowned. "He will be tried and executed for treason," she said. "His life is not negotiable."

Gosford shrugged. "And you swear I’ll not be harmed?"

"I swear," she promised.

"Then I agree to your terms." He flipped the sword over in his hand and held it out to her, hilt first. She took it from him, then motioned for him to raise his hands over his head.

"Kaleah, cut the rope from that crossbow and bind his hands," she instructed. Outside, the sound of fighting was dying off, and she grinned at Gosford as Kaleah roughly tied his arms behind his back. "I believe the day is ours," she said, feeling rather proud of herself. She had outwitted an enemy more experienced than herself, and she doubted that casualties would be high. "Let’s go congratulate the men, then get things moving. We still have a lot of work to do."

Kaleah grinned. "We can’t use the door," she reminded her companion. "I blocked it. Want me to go remove the chocks?"

Jess nodded. "The sooner we get out of here, the sooner we can finish up for the day."

"Great. Wait here, I’ll be back in a minute." Kaleah darted over to fireplace and pulled herself up into the chimney. Jess watched her leave with a smile, then turned back to Gosford, who had suddenly gained an insight into how his enemy had evaded him. She shrugged at his curious expression.

"Simple," she said with a smile, "but it worked."

Gosford’s lips twitched into a reluctant smile, and he shook his head ruefully. "I shall never be so quick to judge things by what they appear to be," he said. "People or places."

Jess grinned dazzlingly. "That’s what most people say after meeting me."

The next fortnight was a busy one for the inhabitants of Da’Gran castle. As soon as the castle was secured and all prisoners were locked safely in the dungeons, Jessica and Kaleah led a small army of men out to start the process of wiping out the divided bandit armies. The battles were fought mostly as a series of skirmishes, and by the time the Earl’s reinforcements arrived Jessica had secured the safety of nearly half the endangered villages.

Soon, the enemy was broken and Jessica returned with Kaleah to Da’Gran, leaving the simple clean-up task to the other knights. There was much work to be done in the castle itself and in the nearby village, before the peasants could return to their lives.

Sir Richard’s strength recovered quickly, though he did not step in and take over from his daughter. As Miles pointed out to him, this campaign was hers, and she deserved to finish what she’d started. It didn’t take long for Sir Richard to learn what had happened during his sickness, or for rumors of his beloved daughter’s ‘sordid affair’ with the heathen barbarian woman to reach his ears. Jessica did not visit him often, preferring to work on rebuilding the village rather than confront her father about her relationship with Kaleah. Besides, as the days passed, Jessica discovered another thing to worry over.

Kaleah’s behavior started to change. Though the dark woman was as loving and affectionate as ever, the restlessness which so plagued her when she first came to Da’Gran returned now, and she frequently sought out the solitude of the look-out tower. Jessica suspected the changes were a reaction in part to the whispered remarks that flew among the soldiers and servants regarding their relationship. While the young blonde was accustomed to being a focus for gossip, Kaleah was not, and the rumors clearly upset her. But Jessica knew that was only part of the problem, and as the days passed she slowly realized the nature of her friend’s discomfort.

Kaleah was feeling trapped. And Jessica knew there was only one solution.

She found the dark woman sitting in her usual haunt, looking out from the central tower at the patchwork of fields and forest, playing an idle tune on her flute. An unconscious smile touched Jessica’s lips as she listened to the stirring music, and she paused a moment just to enjoy the sight of her lover as she played. She didn’t have much time, however, before Kaleah sensed her presence and turned around, already smiling.

"Hey." The dark woman pocketed the flute and held out her arms. Jessica grinned and eagerly stepped into the embrace. "I saw the messenger arrive. Word from the army?"

Jess nodded and kissed her lover. "Mmmhmm. The last of the raider armies broke apart. Most of them ran for the hills, but a few weren’t fast enough. The soldiers are pulling back, and the Earl’s men are heading home as well." She paused and let herself savor the victory a moment. "It’s over now."

"Mmm. You did a good job." Kaleah curled long fingers through strawberry-blonde hair. "This leader stuff suits you."

Jess flushed with pleasure. "Thanks." Freeing herself from Kaleah’s arms, she looked up into sapphire eyes seriously. "How are you feeling?"

Kaleah stiffened a little, then shrugged. "Fine, I guess. Why?"

The young blonde smiled knowingly and shook her head. "I’ve seen you lately," she said gently. "You’re not fine. You’re getting fidgety, like you were when we first met."

Kaleah cocked her head and grinned lasciviously, her eyes darkening. "We’re doing a lot of things now that we certainly didn’t do when we first met," she purred.

Jess shivered a little in reaction to her lover’s expression, but knew she had to stay focused. "You know what I mean Kaleah." She paused. "Do you want to talk about what’s wrong?"

For a moment, Kaleah looked almost frightened, then she shrugged. "There’s nothing to talk about."

"Oh really?"

"Really."

"Mmm." Jess pouted adorably, then gave a coy smile. "Okay. You don’t have to say it if you don’t want to. Besides, I already know what’s wrong."

A dark brow raised playfully. "Oh? Do tell."

Jessica’s small hand raised to cup Kaleah’s face tenderly, her thumb caressing the scar that marred her lips. She looked deep into melting sapphires and smiled quietly. "You want to leave this place, but you’re afraid I wouldn’t come with you."

Kaleah’s eyes widened, caught off-guard but the absolute certainty in the young woman’s voice. Then she shrugged a little and turned away. "I told you before I’d never leave you, Jess, and I meant it."

"I know that." Jess smiled. "If I wanted to stay in Da’Gran forever, you’d be by my side everyday, even though it meant being miserable for the rest of your life."

Kaleah frowned and crossed her arms over her chest. "Who said I’m miserable? I’m with you, and that’s all that matters."

"That’s not all that matters, Kaleah, and you know it." Jessica stepped closer, seeing the tension rolling off her lover as the dark woman’s defensive nature kicked in. "Do you think I could be happy knowing that staying with me in this castle made you feel uncomfortable?"

"I’m not asking you to leave this place," Kaleah snapped.

"And I’m not offering." Jessica’s eyes warmed and her nose crinkled. "We’ll leave at first light."

"Jess-"

"No." Jessica pressed a hand over her partner’s mouth, effectively silencing her. "This is what I want. I love you Kaleah. Like it or not, God made you a restless spirit; he never meant for you to be caged. If you stay here you’ll never be happy, and neither will I." She removed her hand and smiled up at her companion. "Any questions?"

Kaleah regarded the stubborn set of the young woman’s jaw and sighed. "I can’t ask you to leave your family . . . your home."

"You’re my home, Kaleah. Da’Gran is just a place of stone and wood. I’ve always dreamed of traveling too new places and meeting new people . . . I just never had the strength or the reason to leave." She took Kaleah’s hand in her own and squeezed it. "We can see the world together now."

"But what about the people here, Jess? You said you’re purpose in life is to help others."

A blonde brow raised challengingly. "Are you saying there aren’t people in need of help elsewhere in the world?" She snorted inelegantly. "The peasants here have my father and his army to take care of them. I’m sure there are plenty of others in greater need everywhere else." She grinned. "We can help them together."

Kaleah opened her mouth to argue further, then saw the playful glint in Jessica’s eyes and snapped it shut. No doubt the girl had an answer to anything she might say. Besides, when she paused to consider things, the thought of making a life with Jessica away from the judgement and condemnation of Lady Rose and those like her was suddenly very appealing. Maybe they could travel south to Spain and see De’Livier again. She could show him she had used his gift of freedom to make a worthwhile life for herself.

Jessica saw Kaleah’s expression change slightly and quickly wrapped her arms around the dark woman’s waist. "I knew you’d see things my way," she said, her voice muffled by her lover’s chest as they embraced. They pulled apart and Jessica looked up to find tears trekking down Kaleah’s cheeks. "What’s wrong?"

Kaleah shook her head. "Nothing." She sniffled a little and wiped angrily at her face. "I was just thinking how lucky I am that I found you."

Jess grinned and pulled the dark woman down for a soft, tender kiss. "If you really want too, you can thank me properly later on tonight," she growled seductively, earning a deep chuckle from her companion. Jess grabbed Kaleah’s hand and started tugging her towards the stairs. "Come on," she said. "We’ve got a lot of packing to do before tomorrow. We’ll need money, and blankets, and warm clothes . . . Oh, and we should take bows, too, if we’re going to be hunting our own food. How far is it too the ocean, anyway — I’ve always wanted to see it. Can we get the horses on a ship, cos I don’t want to be walking everywhere. And deserts, too . . . can we go to a desert? I think we should . . ."

Kaleah grinned as the excited blonde girl prattled on and on about their plans, shaking her head a little in wonder but obediently letting herself be led away.

Sir Richard looked up from his conversation with Sir Miles to find his daughter standing somewhat timidly just inside the door, seemingly reluctant to enter the great hall. He smiled immediately and waved her forward, flicking a glance behind her where Kaleah hovered like a protective shadow.

"Jessica! Nice of you to visit me." He grinned and pulled her into a fatherly embrace. "Miles was just telling me the news about the army. Congratulations are in order, child . . . you’ve won your first serious campaign." Jessica offered a slight smile, but her eyes were nervous. Sir Richard pulled back seeing his daughter’s expression, and his smile vanished as he interpreted it’s meaning. Clearing his throat he glanced again at Kaleah, who seemed unsure of how welcome she was. "You’re leaving?"

Jessica swallowed, her eyes already tearing up, but she nodded. "In the morning . . . come first light." Her voice broke a little. "I’m sorry-"

He waved her away. "No need to apologize, Jess," he said gruffly. "I’ve heard the things your mother and Father Grahem have been saying about you." He scowled darkly. "Though I suppose you knew the consequences when you first" — he motioned vaguely between the two women — "went into this thing."

Jess snuffled a little, but nodded. "And I wouldn’t change a thing I did had I known it would lead to this," she said softly. "Are . . . are you mad at me?"

Sir Richard couldn’t help but smile, hearing for the first time in many years the uncertain, childish tremor in his daughter’s voice — fear that she had disappointed him. He shook his head and patted Jessica’s disheveled blonde hair affectionately. "Never, child. I’m proud as I ever was to have you as my daughter." He cocked his head thoughtfully and studied his beloved daughter’s face seriously. "I taught you to live by your heart, Jess, and I’d never love you less just because some things aren’t as I might prefer them to be."

Jessica glanced back at Kaleah and motioned her forward. Taking the dark woman’s hand, she faced her father and Miles resolutely. "I’ve found someone who loves me, and who I love in return. What more could you want for me?"

Sir Richard blushed a little seeing Jessica’s open affection for the dark woman in the simple gesture. "Well . . . grandchildren might have been nice."

Jess grinned mischievously and nudged Kaleah. "We’re trying our hardest, but I wouldn’t hold your breath waiting." Her father’s blush grew deeper and she couldn’t help but laugh at his mortified expression.

Miles laughed as well and clapped Sir Richard on the back. "Guess she couldn’t stay a child forever, could she?"

Richard coughed, regaining his composure. "I suppose not." He grew serous. "Where will you go?"

Jess shrugged. "Everywhere. There’s a lot of world out there to see."

"Will you . . ." Sir Richard hesitated. "Will you ever come back?"

"I don’t know," she admitted softly, not wanting to offer false hope. "I’d like to."

Richard nodded, understanding. "You’ll at least send word when you get the chance, won’t you? Just so I know you’re alright?"

She nodded. "I’m sure we’ll settle someplace for awhile," she said. "I’ll let you know how we’re doing."

"I’d like that." Richard turned to Kaleah. He had to admit, the former slave was an impressive figure. It was understandable that Jessica had been drawn to her. She had a sense of overwhelming presence much like his daughter possessed — only more savage, untamed. "You make sure you take care of her, child," he growled. "Keep her safe."

"I’ll guard her life with my own, my lord," she promised solemnly.

Jessica turned to Miles, unable to stop her tears from falling. The old knight smiled warmly at the sadness in her eyes and wrapped his arms around her. "I’ll miss ye, lass," he said softly.

"And I you." She choked back a sob, not wanting to ruin the moment. "I’ll never forget everything you taught me, Miles."

"I know, lass." He lifted her chin and gently wiped away her tears. Jessica had been as much his child as she had ever been Richard’s, and his heart ached thinking how empty the castle would seem without her. "Don’t cry, Jess. Ah always knew this day would come."

"You did?"

"Aye." He smiled shakily. "Yer one a God’s special people, lass. It’s a selfish thing to keep ye locked away from the world. The time’s come for you to share yer light with others . . . so ye kin touch their lives and make ‘em better." He ruffled her hair teasingly. "It’s what ye were born for, Jess: to make the world a better place for everyone." He paused, grey eyes warm with love. "You’ve made me a proud man, just to watch ye grow into the woman ye’ve become."

Jessica blushed under his praise. "Thank you."

He turned to Kaleah. "And you . . ." He grinned crookedly. "Ah doubt I could’ve picked a better mate fer Jessica. My only regret is that I won’t get to see ye become the creature I know you’ll grow into." He shook his head ruefully. "Given a year or two, Kaleah, I reckon yer skill with a blade’ll be a wonder to behold."

Kaleah smiled shyly. "Thank you, Miles." She stepped forward and offered him her hand. He clasped it solemnly. "And thank you for everything you’ve done for Jessica."

Sir Richard cleared his throat and Jessica turned to him. "Do you want me to tell your mother," he asked hesitantly, "or do you . . ."

She shook her head, her eyes hardening. "No," she said firmly. "I need to do it myself."

Leaving Kaleah in her room to finish packing, Jessica went in search of her mother. She found Lady Rose in her sitting room, Steven in attendance as usual. Rose scowled darkly when Jessica entered the elegantly appointed suite, not even trying to hide her disgust. Steven’s expression was almost a mirror image of his mother’s.

"What do you want?"

Jessica braced herself mentally, not wanting to be hurt by her mothers disapproval but feeling the sting of rejection nonetheless. It was a pain that quickly raised her anger, however, and she faced the older woman without shame.

"Kaleah and I will be leaving Da’Gran at first light," she stated calmly.

Lady Rose sniffed disdainfully. "Good riddance." Her dull green eyes were cold and venomous, though Jessica could see the slight fear that lurked deep within. "If you expect me to say I’ll be sorry to see you gone, you’re wasting your time coming here. As far as I’m concerned, you and that barbarian whore belong out in the wilds with the rest of the savages."

Jessica’s eyes flared instantly. "Be careful, mother," she said softly. "You’re forgetting my warning very quickly." She glanced pointedly to Rose’s still-bandaged hand. Rose glared back at her, but was clearly daunted. Steven, however, had not the intelligence to remain silent.

"Get out," the young man snapped, planting himself boldly in front of his mother. "You don’t belong here among decent people!"

Jessica’s eyes narrowed hatefully and she took a step closer, using her height to good advantage over her younger sibling. "Decent people like you?" she asked, her lip curling in a sneer. "I’d rather keep company with the lowest peasant than with people as stupid as you, brother."

Steven glared back at her, undaunted. "This castle will be better without you fouling it with your perversion."

Emerald eyes blazed warningly and Jessica fingered her dagger, tempted to teach her brother some manners. "You’re a fool."

"Bah! I’m not afraid of you, Jessica."

The young blonde’s hand snapped up suddenly and grabbed Steven about the throat. He gave a startled squeak and clawed futilely at her fingers, but Jessica was far stronger than he would ever be. She brought his face close to her own and whispered, "Some day, brother, I may return. And when I do, you’d better pray I find these lands and their people are healthy and well. If I don’t . . ." She smiled wickedly. "If I don’t, you can be sure I’ll teach you to fear me."

Releasing him suddenly, Jess gave her brother a little push and sent him falling backward into one of the sitting chairs. Steven gasped and rubbed his throat, but was smart enough to realize it would be stupid to retaliate. Jessica glared at her family for a moment, then sighed. "By this time tomorrow," she said softly, "Kaleah and I will be far away from you and all your simple-minded ignorance and selfish bigotry. I’ll be glad to be rid of you."

With that, Jessica turned her back on them and left, closing the door quietly behind her.

Epilogue.

Word somehow spread through the castle that Jessica was leaving, and in the morning there were many present to watch her departure. From among the soldiers, the servants and the common people, the walls of Da’Gran were filled with those either wanting to bid farewell to the two women, or making certain they were gone for good.

Jessica accepted hugs and kisses on the cheek from dozens of well-wishers, stoically ignoring the few eyes that watched her with scorn. The display of gratitude and love touched the sensitive young woman deeply, and she promised she would try to return some day, if only for a visit.

By the time she was done with her farewells, the sun had well and truly cleared the horizon and Jessica mounted Andromeda gracefully, settling herself somewhat awkwardly over the supplies she had packed. Kaleah rode the chestnut gelding she’d been practicing on, her horse similarly weighed down with provisions. With many backward glances, the two rode out through the repaired gateway, Jessica’s face streaked with tears but smiling through the sorrow.

When the castle was just a distant grey shape far behind them Kaleah reached out to her lover, stroking her thigh soothingly. "You don’t have to do this," she whispered.

Jessica snuffled a little and wiped at her eyes. "I told you, Kaleah, this is what I want to do." She smiled radiantly and took a deep breath. "It’s just a little hard to say goodbye to my father and Miles."

Kaleah nodded, understanding. "We’ll be stopping to visit Charles," she observed. They had decided to pay a visit to the young lord since it was on their way. "We can spend a few days there if you like."

"I’d like that," Jess said. "But not too long, huh? I want to see the ocean, remember?"

Kaleah chuckled. "I know." Jessica’s excitement was contagious, and the dark woman was easily caught up in her enthusiasm. She cocked an eyebrow curiously. "Just how far have you actually been from Da’Gran?"

Jess shrugged. "I’ve visited Charles twice," she said, "and I’ve been through a few of the other villages on my father’s land when we were fighting near the borders but . . . that’s about it."

Kaleah’s eyes widened. "You’re joking?"

"Nope." Jess grinned sheepishly. "All the traveling I’ve ever done has been through the stories I’ve read." She frowned a little sadly. "I’m gonna miss all my books and scrolls." There hadn’t been a way to carry them with her, so most of her treasured possessions had remained at the castle. Sir Richard had promised never to throw them away.

Kaleah patted the young blonde on the shoulder. "We’ll get to hear all kinds of stories on the road," she promised. "There are places in cities where people go to listen to tales and songs all the time."

Jessica’s face lightened immediately. "Really?" She considered that and grinned. "That sounds like fun. Although," she chuckled, "I’m sure gonna miss that bathing chamber."

Kaleah’s eyes darkened with desire. "Me, too."

They held each other’s eyes a moment longer, then laughed. Suddenly Jessica grinned again and started rummaging through one of the sacks tied to Andromeda’s saddle. "Oh, I almost forgot!" She pulled out a thick piece of dark parchment and handed it to Kaleah. "I was going through Grace’s things the other day and I found this."

Kaleah unrolled the parchment and studied it curiously. Her eyes widened. "That looks like my tattoo!" she gasped.

"Uh huh. I let Grace take a copy of it — he said he wanted to study its design." She reached over and pointed out a scrawl of notes on the parchment. "See here . . . Grace thinks the tattoo is some kind of writing used in the far South — though he couldn’t find anything quite like what you’re marked with. It seems that particular writing style was lost hundreds of years ago." She smiled excitedly. "Makes me kinda curious as to how you ended up with such a design."

Kaleah slowly read through Grace’s neatly scrawled comments, her lips sounding out the letters silently. She glanced up when she was done. "You think . . . maybe we could journey south?"

Jess grinned. "Of course. I thought we’d find a boat to take over too France, and we can travel down into Spain first — I want to meet the wonderful man who set you free. Then, if things look okay, we can keep going south and try to find where you came from." She paused a little, watching Kaleah’s face carefully. "We could look for your homeland."

Kaleah considered this idea. She could barely remember anything about her life as a child; knew nothing of her origins. But now, she suddenly realized that she very much wanted to know more . . . to perhaps reclaim a part of her heritage that had been stripped away so long ago.

"I’d like that," she said softly. "We can look together."

Jess grinned, her eyes flashing in the early-morning light like twin emeralds, her tears already forgotten.

"Together."

Smiling and laughing, the two women rode side-by-side down the rutted, meandering track, discussing their plans excitedly as they left behind the fields of Da’Gran, heading into an uncertain future they knew they would face as one.

THE END.

Well, that’s that. I hope you’ve enjoyed my story, and I thank those who have taken the time to email me with feedback. It’s very much appreciated. Will there be a sequel? I think so. I’ve got a few ideas for one that I’m still tossing around in my head. . . but I’m afraid it might be a while. I’ve already started writing two other Uber stories, and there’re so many other characters I’ve had living in my head for so long now that I want to take the time to let them out. Still, if there’s anything you can think of that you’d like to see in Jessica and Kaleah’s future, please don’t hesitate to tell me about it. I could always use a few extra suggestions.

I think the last time I counted, I had about ten story ideas for new Ubers…I figure that should keep me going a while. Look for more of my work in the future.

Thanks a lot for taking the journey.

Amber.