An Enigma

By M. H. Keplar

He had expected to endure with stoicism whatever acts would be inflicted on him over the night. But the puzzle was that first his body and then his whole self embraced the degradation and pain. Surrender was everything.

• Language: English
• Publisher: M. H. Keplar
• Release date: Jun 10, 2022
• ISBN: 9781005037949

M. H. Keplar

I've written two books. Both are records of fantasies as contrasted with a book authored to appeal to a particular market. I didn't expect to write another one, but a few months after the publication of Twelve Maxbridge Street, I experienced two more fantasies that I published together as Naked and The Recurrence. Please read the Afterward of Twelve Maxbridge Street for the rather unusual details of the genesis of the first book.I find that I make changes now and then. If you like the book, you might download it again before re-reading.

Book preview

An Enigma

A short story by M. H. Keplar

Smashwords Edition

Copyright © 2022 by M. H. Keplar

All Rights Reserved.

Version 5

FORWARD

This story was inspired by a small section from The Outlander by Diana Gabaldon.

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This story begins with Jamie Fraser and Claire Beauchamp in a prison somewhere in Europe. Claire has been apprehended trying to free Jamie. The time is the eighteenth century. Jamie is awaiting execution the next morning and Randall, his captor, is threatening to have Claire executed as well, but he says to Jamie, Unless you have a suggestion?

I have. You want me. The cool Scottish voice was matter-of-fact. Let the woman go, and ye can have me. Do what ye wish to me. I'll not struggle, though I'll allow you to bind me if ye think it needful. And I'll not speak of it, come tomorrow. But first you'll see the woman safe from the prison.

You'll give me your word?

Jamie's eyes were like blue matchflames in the parchment of his face. After a moment, he