Queen's Man: Karma

By AnnaMarieAlt

LaHeeka, Ancient Conjurah, forewarns: Through choices of act and word, we send undulations into the great infinity residing beyond mortal understanding, which waves eventually flow back. Good begets good; evil begets evil. It is called Karma, and will destroy or reward. Karma takes no prisoners.

Despite this ominous warning, Great Queen Tabarana forges ahead with arrogance and rudeness in her conference with powerful, intolerant Mainland rulers. Knowing she imperils the island of Kriiscon, Rejeena and Aarvan intervene to disrupt her perilous plans and avert disaster. Will they succeed, or will Karma intercede?

Aarvan encounters destiny when he travels to Silicara to discover his mother’s fate. Is she alive or long dead? He must confront vile persons from his past, including the father who sold him like a shoat for slaughter. Will he emerge the winner, with a mother and happiness, or the loser, burdened with more misery?

Meanwhile, Rejeena faces her own Karmic moment when she hears the tale of Ethan, Queen Dorothy’s man—an innocent man tortured even as he saves the quarter from a devastating drought. That tale of horror, and a voice she believes to be LaSheena, causes Rejeena’s mindset to reverse. Can she switch her island away from cruelty and slavery, leading to a better future for all? Or will forces of traditional evil crush her efforts?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Oct 7, 2019
• ISBN: 9781796055085

AnnaMarieAlt

AnnaMarieAlt enjoys a passion for writing romantic fantasy fiction, building otherworldly realms. Her two careers, the military followed by civil service, exposed her to varied cultures, races, religions, and beliefs stateside and abroad—England, Continental Europe, the Far East, the South, North, Southeast, Hawaii and Kentucky, where she now resides. This exposure granted her a rounded view of the world and a host of invaluable knowledge that she now brings to her fantasy creations. These experiences, earning a college degree, while surviving and supporting the Women’s Liberation Movement launched her understanding of herself as a woman and a writer. She writes to convey her myriad experiences, because she cannot not write—to share the legacy of a lifetime and accept that we are all human. AnnaMarie has written the Queen’s Man series, an adventurous, romantic fantasy, about the island of Kriiscon, where women rule and men are slaves. The series encompasses the struggle between a domineering but curse-haunted queen and a mysterious, audacious Mainland man, the twisted struggle between women and men for supremacy, culminating in the battle of star-crossed empires. Her words expose the ugly underbelly of the human race and illumine the power of virtue, while following the grinding agony of a culture in the throes of change. Life’s ambition: Fully grown, AnnaMarie wants to be just like Granny Clampett.

Book preview

Queen’s Man:

Karma

AnnaMarieAlt

Copyright © 2019 by AnnaMarieAlt.

Library of Congress Control Number:   2019912680

ISBN:       Hardcover       978-1-7960-5510-8

                 Softcover         978-1-7960-5509-2

                 eBook              978-1-7960-5508-5

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

This is a work of fiction. All of the characters, names, incidents, organizations, and dialogue in this novel are either the products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously.

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Getty Images are models, and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Getty Images.

Rev. date: 10/02/2019

Xlibris

1-888-795-4274

www.Xlibris.com

797905

CONTENTS

Glossary of Terms for Queen’s Man Series (Alphabetical)

About the Author

The Queen’s Man Series:

A twisted, epic tale of the struggle between woman and man for supremacy, and the battle between opposing life creeds.

1. Queen’s Man: Into The Inferno (Available Now)

2. Queen’s Man: Beyond The Corridor (Available Now)

3. Queen’s Man: Conflict (Available Now)

4. Queen’s Man: Enter The Caana (Available Now)

5. Queen’s Man: Treachery (Available Now)

6. Queen’s Man: Decision (Available Now)

7. Queen’s Man: Paaerta Hunt (Available Now)

8. Queen’s Man: Discovery (Available Now)

9. Queen’s Man: Of Glaalet Kind (Available Now)

10. Queen’s Man: Karma (Available Now)

11. Queen’s Man: Noxious Negotiations (Coming Soon)

Twelve Books in Series

Website: www.annamariealt.com

Women rule on the island of Kriiscon and hold all men as slaves. On the opposite shore, men rule the Mainland and treat women as mere chattel.

A decade-long curse denies haughty Queen Rejeena of Kriiscon the greatest gift from their goddess, the gift of daughters. Coupled with the threat of assassination from her outlaw cousin, Rejeena’s very existence and happiness hang steeped in jeopardy.

The queen’s life changes forever when a Mainland man, Aarvan, plagued with no memory, awakens on Kriiscon. Rejeena claims him as her queen’s man. The island’s way of life infuriates and repels Aarvan, yet a potent, exotic attraction binds Queen Rejeena and him together. Even as conflicts rage, both their own and those of outside forces, their passion deepens.

The island is plagued with conflict—assassination efforts; posses of men battling for independence; more powerful, lustful queens; developing disloyalty within the queen’s guard ranks. Aarvan and Rejeena must battle all foes, who seek to separate and destroy them—emanating from both the Mainland, with vast numbers and superior weapons, and Kriiscon itself.

Ultimately, queen and queen’s man must confront each other, seek to overcome cruelty, intolerance and injustice as they build a bridge to harmony and love—a long journey fraught with adventure, intrigue and mortal danger. All the while, standing together, they must strive to gratify the Mainland, unite the raging forces upon the island, and control the destiny of Kriiscon.

Is such a harmony of feats even possible?

Exhausted, dismounting from her wooden, green-trimmed traveling carriage, both arms clutched about baby Grace, Queen Rejeena tossed her auburn hair as a factious horse and leaned against her queen’s man. What a trip, Aarvan! So much to absorb. So many menaces—the crush of coming winter, the snow slide obstructing our forward trek. Threatened by those glaalet things, believing ourselves doomed. Nearly more than your queen could endure.

Aarvan gripped her gently by the shoulders. My queen is strong; she can endure more than snow and glaalets.

She clutched Grace until the child whimpered, then puffed out her breath and loosened her grip. And the trip was not needed, the whole effort engendered by Tab … Great Queen Tabarana’s demand for a pointless meeting—wasting the time and laborious travel of all those women. She had already determined the path she intended to tread. Her husky voice rose as she spoke, anger tingeing the words.

He pulled her into an embrace, though pain shot through his glaalet-marked arm and battered chest. We survived, My Queen. Sometimes survival is the best we can hope for. I know everyone’s tired, even the horses, but we are safe, back in Rejeena’s Towne. He smiled. We did manage to commune with glaalets. That has got to be distinctive advancement for the island. Discovering for a certainty they do exist, there are many of them, with structured society, rules and mores, rather like people. They don’t seem bad sorts—certainly more human than animal.

She pushed away, and handed Grace to her naapa, Pelcaat. A frown creased the queen’s forehead, and hands plopped to hips. Not bad sorts? Aarvan, they intended to kill all of us—thirty-five persons and a tiny baby—merely to keep their existence secret. Their fear of discovery based solely upon occurrences in the deep past, hundreds of season turnings ago. The frown morphed to a full glare, causing her brows to scrunch toward her nose. They stand hairy, contemptible monsters—certainly not human! LaSheena alone may know how many of People Kind over the seasons they slaughtered to maintain their anonymity. A long-fingered hand waved the air as though pushing the glaalets away. Aarvan, they so admitted. Were you not listening?

Yes, My Queen, he said, I listened, and I feel sorrow for those lives lost. However, had the entire situation, from the time of LaSheena until now, been reversed, I’m not sure women would have acted any different. The glaalets found a way to endure and prosper while keeping their species safe from predation by people. Seems reasonable to me.

Rejeena shook her head. My Queen’s Man, you can be so exasperating. Always, you consider how others may feel, rather than remain attuned to the needs of … your group, your species … your queen.

I stand guilty. Many groups and species exist, all with varied needs and wants. If we are to live and flourish, avoid war and mayhem, we have to learn to get along. Don’t you agree?

She spurted a long puff of breath from her lungs. Yes, but all must do the same. Her glare reasserted. Those hideous,—her nose wrinkled—smelly creatures intended to execute us—as pesky, biting flies or spiders that build irritating webs. Our lives held no value. We stood as naught.

Hmmm, kinda like holdees to you women.

Aarvan! I will not have it! It is not the same.

Only because women, too, stood in danger of dying. He pushed his limits again, but one must take opportunities when presented.

Should you inspire me to strike your sore chest, you would greatly rue it.

He lowered his voice to a whisper. I’d hate to have to spank you again—in full daylight on Mainway in front of all your faithful subjects. Your bare bottom glaring, your queen’s dignity blown away forever.

The green eyes narrowed, emitting fury, then slowly softened. Her shoulders heaved in a shrug. She cast a furtive, sorry-but-truth-must-out glance at Locin who stood nearby—they had formerly agreed not to boost his self-appreciation by admitting his pivotal affect upon their safe release by the glaalets—and the queen’s voice warmed. Aarvan, had it not been for your actions moons ago, saving the young glaalet, this Toorg, from the loose men, we would all dance upon the four winds. Skoorn, prevar or whatever he is, would have placed Grace out on the snowpack in hopes of the other groups finding her before a flesh-consuming predator. Her glare reasserted. His outlook toward our lives and our tiny daughter does not anger you?

Yes, My Queen, and I would have killed them all—had I been able and it became necessary—to save Grace, and you and everyone. Doesn’t mean I can’t understand their point of view.

You stand beyond reason and sensibility, she huffed. I have not time to argue. There remains much function before we rejoin Great Queen Tabarana at the Port of Fiiaara’s Towne. She squeezed her eyes shut then reopened them. I do not foresee profound success sailing to the Mainland to negotiate—with Tabarana as chief arbitrator—concerning these outrageous and inescapable but irritatingly unconscionable demands of the Mainlanders. Her entire face pursed into a frown, toe tapping the cobbled way. How dare these men of the Mainland attempt to dictate to us our way of life? Disenhold all men, indeed!

The queen waved a dismissive hand at the members of her travel group, signaling them to go about their business. The entire troupe dispersed quickly, every woman to greet lineage awaiting her. Then each must perform her portion of the preparations and travel arrangements for their coming foray.

Rejeena and Aarvan took Grace, put aside their differences, and hurried to the house to visit their daughters, Agaalea and Aheeka. After reconnecting with the twins, Aarvan left to check the progress of his hand-to-hand combat students, though he would not be teaching until he recovered from the rough mauling he received from the cudgels of the glaalets. Rejeena departed to her function room to face queenly responsibilities.

* * *

Dahl, with no duties, repaired to his room in the queen’s house to bathe and change. When he returned from the bathing room, he discovered Savaara sitting naked on his skindown.

The black-eyed guard rose, a seductive smile etching her comely features.

His gaze caressed her body, the sleek womanly curves, breasts thrusting proudly, unfettered dark hair flowing in soft waves halfway down her back. A prize plum for a man to claim.

She grabbed the robe he had wrapped around him, staring into his bright blue orbs. You will not require covering, Dahlwith Wicker. Pushing it from his shoulders, she dropped it to the floor. Her perusal traveled his tall, muscled frame. As before, Songbird, I like what I see. She grasped his manhood and stroked it. This is all you will needs utilize for a while.

Feeling himself hardening, he pressed into her touch. Oh, I like your style.

With a chuckle, she used his member as a handle and tugged him to the side of the skindown. Hooking a leg behind his knee, shoving his chest, she spilled him backwards onto it. Savaara leaped, landed with her hips spread across his.

I will have you. She stared into his eyes, both hands fondling him.

Stiffening almost out of control, he grabbed her wrists and held them for a moment. Hold up a bit, woman. Why didn’t you come on the trip? I spent nights alone.

Captain Locin did not assign me. She pulled back, jerked her wrists free, resuming her ministrations upon him. You best have spent the nights alone. I will tolerate no other woman’s hands upon you. You belong only to me, Dahlwith Wicker.

Now I belong to … Ooohhhh, yes, he moaned as she lowered herself to encase him. He seized her fanny, pulled her down. Then nothing mattered but pushing, shoving, frenzied plunges into her hot depth, fire dancing along his nerve endings, tingling and need, finally culminating in ecstasy as he emptied into her. She crumpled onto his chest. Panting but satiated, they lay entwined.

When able to speak, he groaned, Woman, you do come on strong.

She rose to gaze down, still in a steeple position over him. Women must claim what they want.

And men?

She grinned. Men take what they can get.

Is that so? Let’s see what I can get. He grabbed her hips, pulled her forward over his head. He plunged his tongue into her womancenter, laving and flicking.

Oh … Oh … Oh, she cried, grasping the headboard with both hands. None has ever … She pressed down. Oh, more …

He plundered her until he hardened again. Then he flipped her over, landed on top and drove into her. Her legs wrapped around him and they prodded at each other like two savage beasts, rammed and shoved, panted and sweated. When they climaxed again, they collapsed side by side. For long minutes they lay, basking in their mutual satisfaction.

She spoke first. Did you achieve satisfaction, Songbird Wicker?

He grinned though still gasping. Yes, Ma’am … at least for the moment. Have you more to offer?

Yes, much more. We merely begin.

A knock sounded on the door. She rose, slipped into his robe and retrieved a tray of food, which a servant thrust through the opening.

Dinner? Dahl asked.

She tossed her dark hair as she spread the food on a small table. I ordered it. She ogled him with a slow, wicked smile, and threw him another robe. Cover yourself, so I may keep my hands from you long enough to eat. You shall require nourishment to sustain my intentions toward you this night.

He donned the cover. And exactly what are your intentions?

She stepped close, reached between the sides of the wrap and grasped his manhood again. I intend to employ this frequently and forcibly, so upon the morrow it may be but a nubbin.

I don’t think it works that way, he whispered.

She giggled, released him and strolled to the table to pour wine. By morning we shall know, My Songbird.

* * *

In the meantime, Locin, having made a brief foray to her home to greet her mother and daughters, entered her function room and looked around. No one was there. The captain hung her weapon belt on a peg.

When she approached her desk, its emptiness yawned, and a wide smile curved her lips. Her decision to retain Chief Patea as a record keeper proved invaluable. Formerly, the captain would have faced a pile of barks needing attention—supply orders, duty rosters to make and post, requests for replacement of broken or worn weaponry, settling minor disputes among the guards, and assigning women to assist towne polleet with their needs. As well, the assignment of Patea allowed Locin’s long-time friend to perform needed service for the queen and maintain the chief’s dignity and self-respect, despite the devastating injury which disallowed her to swing a sword, continue in the normal, accepted role of a queen’s guard. Locin could now concentrate upon the functions a guard captain should—begin plans to maintain life surety on the trip to Fiiaara’s Towne, review procedures, read and assess comments both praising and denigrating current and proposed measures.

She responded to a rap on the door. Come in.

Farron strolled into the room, a huge smile wreathing a face she realized to be handsome in a large, cocky way.

What may I do for you, big man?

He crossed the room, placed his great bulk close enough to violate her personal comfort zone. Well, if you really want to know, Captain, you can slip out of that black leather, lie back over your desk and give me what I’ve been wanting since I laid eyes on you.

And suppose I do not so wish? You men ever place a mystique—

He silenced her with an index finger against her lips. No mystique to it. You misunderstand, Captain. I don’t want just a roll and a hump for amusement. I want you for my woman.

She arched a brow, not moving when the finger curled with its mates into a palm, which then gently cupped her chin.

Been looking for a long time. His gaze skimmed her. Never thought I’d find the right one. Found her now. You’re a woman of war, hard, efficient, self-reliant, know what you want and go after it. Got good solid principles, know when to follow the rules, when to ignore and break them. On the side of goodness and decency. Again, his eyes scrutinized her, lingering. Built like a woman. Got all the fittin’ curves in all the fittin’ places. And—he grasped her butt cheek, squeezing—plenty enough of you to fill my big hands.

The squeeze of his hand radiated a welter of heat. A jolt of static electricity shot through her fanny. She swayed toward him, his face so close she could see tiny flecks of dark brown in the lighter eye irises. What am I thinking? His touch made her want to take this man between her thighs. Could this be as the queen feels when the queen’s man touches her? What causes this feeling? LaSheena help me, I want this man … and I care naught of his rate.

The hand on her chin dropped, and he patted himself between the legs. Got a lot to offer down here. Met women couldn’t handle it all. Think you can, Captain?

His knuckles brushed her between the legs. Fire and tremors to match those from the rear joined and spurted upward, warming her whole body. Her breath stilled, then sped up.

Locin, not being a woman inclined to long, drawn-out decisions, allowed a seductive leer. You seem quite substantial, Farron. She grabbed his hand, turned and pressed it against her womancenter. Would you grant me liaison, big man?

Liaison? If that is another way of terming hot, sweaty rutting, you betcha, Captain. Where and when? Both his hands now squeezed, front and rear.

She motioned toward the backroom. There is a skindown. And my name is Locin.

Locin or captain … I’ll take you any way I can get you. He refused to release her, walking her backwards, hands caressing, staring into her eyes. They staggered awkwardly through the door. She shot the bolt on the inside.

Remove your hands from me, you great lout, she said.

You won’t back out on me?

No.

He released her and stepped away.

Shuck your clothing, she said. Let us view this member of which you declare such pride.

Without a word, he shrugged from his shirt, kicked off his boots and slid from his pants.

What is that? She pointed to a white, cottony-looking garment under his trousers.

He glanced down. Under drawers, of course. You’ve never seen under drawers?

I have never heard of such. Why do you wear these?

It’s what Mainlanders do. Reckon keeps down chafing. He pulled them off, and grasped his generous endowment, holding it as though for her inspection. Still think T. S. stands for tiny schlong, woman?

Locin reined in a gasp. The size of his manhood matched the man. Great Goddess LaSheena, what happens when it grows?

He stepped toward her. Your turn. Let’s see black leather hit the floor.

Silently, she stepped from her uniform bottoms and boots. She stood, chin cocked sideways, eyes watching him from their corners.

He frowned. The top, too. My woman ain’t gonna be one of those afraid to show all of her.

She took a deep breath and abandoned that tradition. If he will strip for me, then I shall strip for him. She unfastened her top and let it fall.

Her full breasts sprang into view, and he whistled softly. I knew I picked right. He grinned and patted his manhood again. Just the sight of you got him jumping.

He closed the space between them, large hands sliding onto her back, pulling her tight against him. His mouth sought hers. When he tried to enter her mouth, she clamped her lips. He pulled back. Have you ever kissed?

No, she gasped.

He chuckled. Then follow my lead. His tongue flashed, pushed between her lips. She opened her mouth and began to duel with him. Heat rolled. He broke away with a groan, dropped his head to capture a nipple. His fingertips fondled the other. More heat rolled, swirling in waves, firing her blood, pulsing from the inside out and the outside in.

He lifted her and laid her onto the skindown. He dropped between her legs, wiggling his big hips to force himself down.

She lay flat on her back, legs splayed far apart. He is so huge, so heavy. I am conquered, lie at his mercy. Ah, but by the breath of the goddess, it feels so apt … so licit. Never before had she felt the urge to grant a man complete control.

She grasped his giant schlong, already hard and thrusting against her; she rubbed and caressed. It lengthened and widened even more. Gracious glory!

Slow down, woman, he growled.

She chuckled in his ear, stroking vigorously. You brag, big man. Now demonstrate.

He groaned, pushed her hand aside and rammed into her.

She released a low-pitched shriek—part surrender, part terror, part astonishment—all pure delight, as his member penetrated her. It persisted on and on as it slid inside her, rubbed along the nerve endings, sent spears and tendrils of pleasure shooting through her abdomen and upper legs.

She clutched at his taut rear end, pulled him deeper. Never had a man so pierced her, breached her defenses, lanced through to the fiery core deep inside her. He fills me—fulfills me. What pleasure. What fire. More. Please LaSheena, more … more.

She wrapped him in her arms and legs, met him push for push, shove for shove, lunging, riding and being ridden. Sweated. Panted. Absorbed and welcomed the tingling spikes of ice and fire.

He lunged and prodded, and she hung onto sanity with desperation. I shall not let the big bastard win. Plunging, driving. Finally, he began to pulse. She released herself and they came together in a crashing climax. Both collapsed, limp and gasping.

They lay for a long time as their breathing evened, sweat dried and hearts slowed.

He pushed to his elbow and stared down. One finger circled her belly button. Woman, did I ever pick right. You give as good as you get. I want you in my bed for the rest of my life.

I do not know about the rest of your life, you behemoth. Her voice sounded hoarse, even to her ears. But I am yours for this trip when my queen does not require me.

He dropped his face into the cleft between her breasts. You took all I have and pushed me over an edge I’ve never fell over before … and I liked the crash at the end. He lifted his head and gazed into her gray eyes. If you think you’ll escape now, Captain, you’re badly mistaken. You’re my woman.

Agreement of two is required, big man, she quibbled.

A knock sounded at the door.

Go away, Locin yelled.

Patea’s laugh rang. Good night, Captain. See you in the morning. The lilt of her voice suggested she guessed exactly what occurred behind the bolted door.

Neither Locin nor Farron worried about dinner. Sometime in the wee hours of the morning, after coupling again and again, they fell asleep.

At dawn, ashamed of ignoring mother and daughters through her indulgence with Farron, Locin departed to join them. Good day, behemoth, she said, as he preceded her out the door.

Farron slapped her rear lightly as she passed him. He sauntered back to the queen’s house where he had been assigned a sleeping area, a satisfied if exhausted smile on his face.

* * *

Farron joined Dahl at the breakfast table in the queen’s kitchen. Aarvan sat with him having coffee.

Dahl frowned at Farron. Some bodyguard you are. Haven’t seen you since late yesterday. Suppose some wild backway group decided to snatch me?

Farron grunted. As many women as you bed, they’d let you go when you satisfied them all.

Aarvan chuckled. Quit grouching, Wick. He was doing the same thing you were, different location, different partner.

How the hell you think you know what we were doing? Farron asked.

I’ve noted the way you ogle Captain Locin, and I know a satisfied smirk when I see one, Aarvan said. "Never mind all that. I’m riding out to the mountains today to check on the Peganate soldiers and how well they’re training the women to shoot guns. Who knows what the women might be teaching them. His gaze flicked between his companions. Either of you want to come?"

Guess I have to go where Wicker goes, Farron said. I am supposed to be his bodyguard.

What’re you trying to do? Dahl scowled at Aarvan. You can’t rut your woman right now, so you want to mess up our deals?

Just asking, Wick. You can stay or go. Suit yourself.

Well, it would look kind of peculiar if we didn’t go, since I claim to be visiting your smarmy arse.

Aarvan grinned. Life’s rough sometimes.

Dahl said, Let’s make it quick.

I have to do a short trip, Aarvan said. Need to get back before my queen leaves for Fiiaara’s Towne.

The three men visited the training site deep in the mountains, determined the headway to be excellent—at least the official shooting instruction. Returning to report to Rejeena, they found Land Leader Tameera and her favored holdee Dick with the queen.

This, My Queen, Tameera said, seems a wonderful opportunity. I wish to accompany you with Richard. I would learn all I can glean concerning the mores and practices of Mainland persons and countries. Richard may be able to visit his country of origin, Guthaland.

Rejeena considered, then smiled. Our travel party has grown so large already, Tameera, two more can make little difference.

How big is the travel group, My Queen? Aarvan asked.

There will be you, me, she said, accompanying advisors, guards, a host of naapae for the daughters—

We’re taking all our daughters?

Yes, Aarvan. We will be gone much time. I do not wish to be away from them so long. The twins have suffered copious ignoring of late with all these needful journeys.

That’s true, he agreed. It will be an interesting trip. Anyone else?

Alea with her assistants.

The giggly ones, Taera and Shaala?

Yes. Also, now we have Tameera and Richard. The queen gestured to the other two men. As well, Mr. Wicker and Mr. Farron.

Is the great queen aware of the size of ship she’ll need for all of them and all of us?

Rejeena flipped her red hair. If one ship stands not sufficient, she shall needs gain tenancy on two, or as many as required. The expense shall fall upon the great queen’s kruet coffers, not mine.

They managed, through efforts from all involved, to depart Rejeena’s Towne on time, arriving in Fiiaara’s Towne the day before the one established to sail to the Mainland. Great Queen Tabarana’s women had anticipated their needs. Three ships rode the harbor waters in readiness.

The queens, queens’ men, daughters, naapae, chief healers as well as certain guards all would sail on one ship, Annannear, recently renamed for the former great queen. The ship was an oddity, thrice the size of a normal sailing vessel, with the below deck area for persons of lesser importance, a full deck above the water line for seegarpt, and a small area for steering and shipboard function perched on top. Persons not needing continuous access to the queens would fill the other two ships. Rejeena, by pure stubborn refusal to be denied, acquired berths on the Annannear for Dahl, Farron, Tameera and Dick.

Upon noting the other persons to people their ship, Aarvan groaned.

What’s the problem? Dahl asked. Farron looked inquisitively over his shoulder at the queen’s man.

The problem is Henry, Aarvan said, standing there wearing great queen’s man pants. And that cretin with him, Maalicon, Queen Mascaanra’s man now.

Take it you don’t like them?

More a situation of them not caring for me. I find it necessary to return the favor. I’d like nothing better than to be able to disregard them.

Dahl grinned. Any reason they don’t consider you a fine specimen?

Aarvan shrugged. Henry because I don’t bow and scrape to him since he’s great queen’s man. Maalicon? Who knows? Ask them. They’re nasty weasels.

Tough guys? Farron asked. Saw them in the great queen’s towne when we were there. Wasn’t introduced. Guess me and Dahl ain’t that important.

They like to think they’re tough, but are more bent to sneakiness. The kind you don’t want to turn your back on.

We can help keep an eye on them, the big bodyguard said.

Great Queen Tabarana strolled to meet Rejeena’s group. It is good to see you have arrived, Rejeena. She frowned, seeing the naapae and daughters. Did you find it needful to bring your entire lineage? Her lip lifted as her gaze skimmed Grace.

Yes, I did, O Great Queen. I brought sufficient naapae so their presence will not interfere with my duties. Rejeena’s chin lifted, eyes cool.

Very well, Rejeena. Tabarana’s avaricious perusal swept Aarvan, pausing at his double buttons. We will needs depart as early as possible tomorrow. It would be good for all to acquire a full night’s sleep.

By that look, Dahl whispered into Aarvan’s ear, if she could get you into her skindown, neither one of you would get a night’s sleep.

Aarvan jabbed him in the ribs with an elbow.

Ouch, Dahl said. When you didn’t know me, you didn’t poke me. Times like this, your memory return isn’t such a good thing.

Your mouth never was a good thing, Aarvan retorted.

Dahl smirked. At least my nighttime romp is with us this time, even assigned to our ship. How long yet until yours is available?

None of your blasted business, Aarvan growled.

Too bad your daughter was born so recently. Dahl eyed Rejeena. Still discoursing with the great queen, she stood at a small distance, red hair flowing below her shoulders, slim, muscular body straight and tall, the breeze pushing her skirt to outline her legs and rounded buttocks. Bet keeping your hands off that is a tough chore.

Keep running your mouth, I’ll be putting my hands on you—not quite the same way, though.

I should hope not, Dahl said. He lapsed into silence as the queen and Captain Locin turned, strolling to join them.

The queens’ parties split up, retiring to their separate sleeping accommodations to rest.

The morning proved a hustle to rise, eat, gather belongings and board ships. Almost before the passengers were prepared, the seafarers unfurled the sails into the wind; the ships glided out through the small bay into open ocean.

Aarvan, standing at the rail, holding Grace, smiled at Rejeena. We’re on our way, My Queen, ready or not.

Rejeena, the chubby hand of a twin gripped on each side of her, gave a mirthless grimace. I do not hold much optimism for this venture, Aarvan. These Mainlanders will demand what we stand not willing to give. The great queen does not offer incentive. I do not visualize how the women of Kriiscon may triumph.

Maybe the men of Kriiscon are meant to win this one.

She scowled. Were you not holding the baby, I would kick you. You well know we women do not intend to relinquish holdee status.

I guess, for the sake of my shinbones, I’ll have to carry Grace everywhere I go. You already know how I feel about holdee status, so we don’t have to reiterate.

Indeed, and I do not wish to do so. She glared with a toss of head. Your entire function is to grant congenial liaison with the Empelaar of Pegana due to your past affinity.

Exactly when, My Queen, have you ever known me to hold to my women-dictated function?

"Indeed, you had best clutch that baby close, Aarvan. She may allow your continued breathing on this journey." Rejeena took the twins and flounced away toward the ship’s companionway, which led to their seegarpt cabin amidships.

His chuckle stalked her.

* * *

The second evening into their voyage, Aarvan and Dick leaned against the deck rail watching the ocean. Annannear rocked, creaking beneath their feet, swaying with the movement of the ocean swells upon which she rode. The two smaller ships glided behind, one on each side, at a safe distance.

The sun, a white-gold brilliance through shadowy clouds, hung low over the water. Stretching to meet the horizon, dark waves lapped and surged below, tapping against the side of the ship. Bright rays from the sinking sun painted a golden glow across the expanse of sea, a solid line at the horizon, shifting and changing with the movement of the wave crests near the ship. A tiny white reflection, the moon, glowed in pale splendor amidst a murky recess to the side of the setting sun.

Been a while since I seen anythin’ that beautiful, Dick said.

Mesmerizing. Aarvan breathed in the briny ocean aroma.

Think these women gonna get anythin’ of value done on the Mainland?

Don’t know. Honestly, Dick, I think they’re living in a whirl of fantasy. Power allows persons to demand and expect to get what they want. Some of these Mainlanders hold a lot of power, and they want the end of slavery on Kriiscon. The women don’t seem inclined to accommodate them. Finding a middle ground, which will satisfy everyone and prevent a devastating war, appears to be a monumental chore.

Yeah. Kinda what I felt, too. Dick shook his head.

The two men stood silent for a moment.

A peculiar tingle, Aarvan’s warning system, raced through his back muscles. Two persons cowered behind them in the companionway. He sensed tendrils of hostile intent. Felt the hidden bodies hurtle forward. Shoved Dick aside. Spun. Kicked. Caught an onrushing aggressor. Lifted and launched him over the rail, into the sea. The other slammed into the rail where Dick had stood. Aarvan recognized Henry.

Dick grabbed Henry, muttered, Sumbitch, and hurled him over the rail.

Two splashes erupted from the water below.

Henry and Maalicon bobbed to the surface, both screeching for help.

Dick and Aarvan leaned against the rail again, gazing down.

Think they can swim? Aarvan asked.

Dunno. Don’t care, Dick growled. Intended to knock us in, didn’t they?

That’s how I read it.

From the control deck above, a feminine scream ratcheted through the air. Voyager asea! Voyager asea! Life boats, women.

Seafarers began to furl the sails. The helmswoman spun the wheel, slewing the ship against the wind, slowing it. Others lowered lifeboats.

Well, blast, Dick grumbled. They gonna stop and save ’em.

Henry is great queen’s man, Aarvan said. Maybe they feel they ought to.

Mebbe there’s a shark, mebbe get’em first. Dick glanced around at the dark sea. Nope, no sharks. Lucky for ’em they ain’t no Miscreants followin’ us.

Miscreants?

Yeah, type of shark, travel in groups, follow ships. Gobble up garbage and table scraps the seamen—and seawomen—throw into the ocean.

Gobble up garage? Sounds fitting. Eat anything else?

Sometimes mebbe. Heard stories ’bout how ole time captains tossed unruly sailors over the side to ’em. Dunno. Never seen it nor heard of it happenin’ for sure.

Aarvan smirked at the two men floundering below, sliding aft as the ship’s momentum pushed it forward and around. Not sure those two would have to worry. Probably make the poor sharks sick.

Likely. Dick chuckled.

The two men watched with interest as the sailors lowered lifeboats then followed down rope ladders to board them. The wind not being strong, they chanced the windward side to retrieve the men quickly. Piling into the boats, six women in each, they paddled toward the yelling queens’ men. As the ship continued at a slowed speed, the hovering evening darkness blanketed the area.

Maalicon and Henry’s terrified yelps and screeches continued unabated, giving the boats an aiming point even in the gloom.

With luck, Dick said, mebbe they’ll miss ’em in the dark.

The way they’re yelling, persons on the other ships could find them. Amusement hummed in Aarvan’s voice.

Accompanied by Great Queen Tabarana, Queens Rejeena and Mascaanra rushed from the interior of the ship.

What has happened, Aarvan? Rejeena asked. We heard someone had gone overboard.

Yes, My Queen. It appears Henry and Maalicon were thirsty, Aarvan said.

Thirsty? Mascaanra demanded. Whatever do you mean, Queen’s Man?

What did you do, Aarvan? Tabarana asked.

He faced her. Your great queen’s man and Maalicon came running out of the companionway, trying to push us over the rail. He waved a hand toward the ongoing rescue. We were the quicker, O Great Queen.

That sounds most ridiculous, Queen’s Man. Mascaanra smacked a hand onto the rail, frowning. Tell the truth!

I did, O Queen.

Why would they do that? the young queen asked.

Aarvan pointed to where a boat maneuvered back toward the ship with Maalicon and Henry crouched among the seawomen, illuminated by lantern light from the ship. Maybe you could ask them, O Queen. They have both been found.

Mascaanra glared at Aarvan and Dick, but waited until the two queens’ men climbed aboard. What is the story here? she queried of Maalicon. What occurred?

Henry answered, speaking to Tabarana. Shivering, dripping