Tales Of The Dark Lord

[Gibbs505]

I am writing a new book about an all-powerful omnipotent Dark Lord and his Empire. It is sic-fi with fantasy elements. He generally allows his subjects to rule themselves so long as they stay within the rules. But occasionally things go off the rails.
In this case, he has held an 'open da', kind of, and one of the petitioners has provoked him.

This is new and unedited. I would appreciate feed back. It is only a small part of a much larger work, over 100,000 words.

I should add, that the legion are part of the legion that disappeared in the Teutoburg forest. He can travel through time. He calls on them to do his will from time to time.

 

[Gibbs505]

A man came forward in chains, escorted by guards. A rumble ran through the crowd. This was the traitor Darsis de Martis. He who had rebelled against the Dark Lord and the Empire. A rebellion that had been swiftly suppressed. Thousands had died, many innocent of anything except of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Why he had not been executed at the time was beyond most people’s understanding. Few realised that the courts martial that heard his case was bound by his home planets laws that forbade death sentences. So he had been sentenced to life imprisonment on a world designated for that purpose. All this had taken place more than a hundred standard years before.

No appeal had been made to the Dark Lord and he had never spoken on the subject.

“Interesting.” Murmured the Dark Lord. He waved the Steward over. “You really outdid yourself here.”

“Thank you sire. I considered that this was one you would like to deal with.” He bowed.

“You were right.” He smiled. “It will be interesting to see what he has to say.”

The Dark Lord stood, his cloak flowed from his shoulders as he moved to the front of the dais.

“Speak.”

“I have come to beg relief. I have been imprisoned for many years. My record in prison has been exemplary. I have done all that has been asked of me and more. I have caused no disturbances and have assisted the authorities where I could. Many have written, condemning such hard and harsh sentences. These will be known to you. I request that you allow me to return to my home world where I can live out my days in peace.” He smiled and bowed his head.

There was some scattered applause, even some murmured ‘yes.’ Then all turned to the Dark Lord who had been standing impassively listening. Even some of the Ladies seemed to be impressed.

The Dark Lord laughed. “Ah but you were always good for a laugh, never were you at a loss for words.” He wandered back to his chair. Settling back in, he looked de Martis over. “I see that some of the Ladies are impressed, all in all it was an excellent performance.” He smiled. “And here you have put yourself into our hands by your own petition.”

Darsis de Martis was still holding his smile and his composure, but there was a fire building in his eyes. “May I remind you that there exists a treaty between my world and the empire.”

“Of course you may remind me but, in this case, it does not apply. Or perhaps you failed to fully peruse all the conditions prior to submitting your petition?”

“There was nothing in the conditions pertaining to any treaty.”

“True but the first condition explicitly states that I am the sole judge of all matters and I can dispense any judgement I see fit. You acknowledged all conditions before filling out your petition thereby agreeing to them. So here you are and what do we do with you.”

“I have been already tried and convicted in a court. You can’t try me again for the same crimes.” The prisoner was twisting and his true nature was starting to show through.

“Well I could, but for obvious reasons I don’t.” The Dark Lord sighed. “But it doesn’t matter. You see, you committed many other crimes, including murder of several people on your way up, and conspired to kill many more. Steward!”

Ardent Nespot stepped to the throne. He was handed a slim folder. “Here is a breakdown of the people for whom Darsis de Martis directly killed or was responsible for killing. Send it to the First Councillor.” De Martis was snarling now, his façade was crumbling

“I protest. There has been no court and no evidence shown.”

The reply came with preternatural calm. “I am the court and you are the evidence.” He smiled and everyone wondered what sentence would be imposed. “Legate.”

“Legate!”

“Sire?”

“You have plenty of wood?”

“I do sire.” Some of the soldiers who now surrounded De Martis were openly smirking. They already knew.

“Crucify him, in proper form.”

The Legate who had followed all the proceeding with sharp attention grimly nodded. “By your command my Lord” The order was quickly passed. The chains holding De Martis to his prison guards were quickly released and he was marched, struggling impotently, out the doors.

“Next, called the Dark Lord.

Dragged to the same whipping post, he was given the same option its previous occupant had. Believing that he would be getting his clothes back, he complied. The smirking soldier’s knew better.

Quickly he was tied to the whipping post the same way as Rera had been. Two burly soldiers stepped to each side of the condemned man. Leather whips in their hands. Not the light whip used on Rera, these were the flagrum, a whip with a short handle and generally two or three long thick thongs, each weighted at some distance from their extremity with lead balls. The Centurion took his post between the two men and called, “Unum.” <One>, indicating the man to the left.

A sharp scream echoed across the grounds as the thongs lashed across de Martis back.

The Centurion indicated the soldier to his right. “Duo.” <Two>. Another scream rang out. There were no less then thirty eight more calls to make by the Centurion, for so long as he considered de Markus would survive the scourging.

Back in the hall, another Petitioner was quivering before the throne. This one, a women shivered and stuttered as the screams followed each dull thud of the cords.

“Your claim is clear, woman, you have been wronged and the person who has wronged you will pay. But you were also culpable in part so only half of your claim is awarded.” With a nod to the Steward she was sent, together with her supporters, on their way escorted through the wastelands.

Another petitioner was dealt with before the whipping was over. This worthy was a criminal who sought a reduction in his sentence. Already cautious, not a fool, he had taken note of what had happened to the previous individuals. Happy that he had not caused anyone to die, he did not think himself in danger of losing his head. Fully admitting his crimes, he asked for mercy, pledging to do his best to go straight. Harsh commands from the open doors announced the end of the whipping.

The Dark Lord sat and ruminated for a space. Then sat forward. “Very well I will give you mercy but at a price. You will go to a frontier world and stay there. You will also be under sentence of death. Legate!”

“Sire, take this man to where de Martis is suffering. Let him view the manner of his death.”

“As you wish, sire.”

“And you, your sentence is suspended, unless you commit another crime.” With another nod, the man left. Perhaps he would realise now that honesty is the best police.

Semi-conscious, de Martis was released from the whipping post, believing that his ordeal was over. He was mistaken and soon realised it. Dragged across the ground to another set of poles he was thrown onto the ground while a beam was dragged from the pile. Raising himself to his knees he stared uncomprehendingly at the wooden beam in front of him.

One of the solders, wearing only a loin cloth, said something. He was carrying a heavy mallet and holding a spike. The Man who had been ordered to observe, wondered what was going to happen. He didn’t have to wait, the other soldiers flipped de Martis onto his back and pulled his arms across the beam. Knelling the nearly naked soldier placed the point of the nail at the wrist of de Martis, raised the mallet high and drought it down without hesitation. Another scream rang across the ground.

The nail was swiftly driven in and the other wrist was also quickly nailed securely to the accompaniment of more screams. With a grunt, the solders raised themselves up. The nearly naked soldier nodded and spoke a word to the Centurion. Two long poles were produced as the beam was lifted by the solders at the foot of the upright. These poles were placed under the cross beam as it was pushed against the upright. The one who had done the nailing had, in the meantime placed a ladder against the back of the upright and guided a slot in the beam to a corresponding tongue at the top of the upright. A bolt passed through a hole in both secured the beam to the upright.

de Martis hung unconscious from the nails in his wrists and the unwilling observer thought that this was the end of the matter. But the same semi naked soldier had procured another nail. Waving to the remaining solders he approached de Martis again. This time he held the nail, a longer one, to the foot as the legs were bent and the feet positioned. Further blows of the mallet drove the nail through both feet and the solders stepped back to admire their work. The screams this drew from de Martis showed that he was back awake.

The observer felt ill but managed to keep himself from throwing up. The Centurion clapped him on the shoulder and spoke in a heavy accent.

“Good work, he should live for a day at least.” With a laugh he left to report to one of the Tribunes. The observer stood there unwilling to comprehend what he had just witnessed. A soldier came to him. He did not speak but indicated that he was to leave. With one last look at the body of Darsis de Martis writhing on the cross, he left. The lesson now seared into his brain.

 

[Eulalia]

Great start Gibbs, just the kind of tale we love on the Forums,
well told, making me eager for more!

 

[Gibbs505]

Great start Gibbs, just the kind of tale we love on the Forums,
well told, making me eager for more!

From a Poet Laureate, thank you.
If you have any suggestions, let me know.

The Dark Lord also carries out his own beheadings. I will post some of that later. It is in a different book.

 

[Gibbs505]

From the first book ...



Not unexpectedly, the invisible aura of the Dark Lord was also an inhibiting factor. The generally light and somewhat easygoing attitude that he had been showing along with the unexpected promotion of the Fleet Admiral has also contributed to a somewhat festive atmosphere. The more perceptive amongst them however, had noted certain signs. The fear of the prisoners was to be expected, however, a certain nervousness along with glances, whispers and stony looks shared amongst the ladies, was not. A predatory look on the Dark Lords face which appeared and disappeared was also concerning.

The Dark Lord left the ladies followed only by the light browned haired woman. The rest it was noted with disquiet, were moving back and huddling somewhat together. A couple were even moving apart from the group and turning away with an attitude of alertness that the troopers recognised.

A sudden silence fell as the Dark Lord removed his cloak. Holding it for a moment he regarded the pirates where they knelt, waiting to hear the fate of those who had not yet received theirs.

For what seemed a long time the Dark Lord stood, tossing his cloak from one hand to another. Turning suddenly, he tossed it to the woman who had been in the cavern with him. She caught it and retreated. At this there was a sudden upturn in tension. The troopers straightened, all levity left them, the officers feeling it as well. Star Commander Vis Vistricer thought back to the decision that he had heard from Lady Dana which Fastos-of-Connor had made to the Dark Lord. He is going to be executed, came the thought, I wonder how?

“Fastos-of-Connor.” He made a raising motion to the group of pirates. Fastos rose.

“Yes ….. Lord?” The last came slowly, seemly forced out.

“Your decision, you stand by it?”

Fastos straightened, stood erect. “I do.”

“Very well then, advance.” Another motion and the restraints fell to the ground. No one it seemed could tear their eyes away. All wondered what was going to happen. There was no weapon evident on the Dark Lords person.

“Come.” He said, as Fastos walked uncertainly forward. Tension rose to almost unbearable heights. The Dark Lord smiled reassuringly, briefly took the arm of Fastos with his left hand and guided him onto some flat ground, then released him. As he did so he raised his right hand. A sword appeared, gleaming black in the sun and seemed to fall into his hand. It flicked down and out and Fastos head was rolling on the ground. A quick push and the headless body was following it, spouting blood into the earth. The Dark Lord made no sound.

A shocked gasp came from the assembled troops. Mixed looks of horror, grim satisfaction, shock and surprise showed. Most quickly took stern control and composed their features into equally stern immobility. Some took longer, however, there were no new recruits amongst these elite troops and they all had seen hard sights before. The Ladies had made no sound, although it seemed to the officers, especially the Star Commander, that they watched the Dark Lord carefully with an alert air about them. What did they expect? The thought ran through his head.

For a moment the Dark Lord held his sword in front of him. Studying it at leisure. None spoke. To the onlookers, it seemed that a halo or nimbus surrounded the Dark Lord. Again he reached up, this time a scabbard and belt fell into his left hand. For a moment he held the sword high. To those close by it seemed that he was talking to the sword, and even eerier, it seemed to them that the sword was answering. Sliding his sword into the scabbard, he fastened the belt around his waist, taking his time as he did so and completely ignoring the watchers. Finished, he turned back to the group. At this a sigh seemed to pass through the Ladies and some of their tension dissipated. Their postures now showed some relaxation. However they still remained alert.

Returning to the pirates, he looked without smiling at them. “All of you have elected to await your fates in good time. You two of course already know yours.” This last referred to Lista and Jenna. Fear was on all the pirate’s faces, even Jennas. They both said nothing although a look of repressed terror was on Lista’s face

At this the Dark Lord frowned. “I do not break my word lightly Lista.” He scolded her, then turned his attention back to the men. She remained in fear, everyone had liked Fastos even Lista, and his death is such a manner tore something inside her.

Running his eyes over the four males, he regarded them. “If you wish to revise your decision made earlier, now is the time to do so.” He laughed and a ripple ran through everyone. “You see that my sword is sharp and I have not lost my skill.” The pirates remained silent. Mute in their fear. “Why am I not surprised?” he said, musingly.

Professor Denner Venkriller was at the point of collapse. The shocks that had rained in on him had been profound and had shaken him to his core. When the Dark Lord turned his eyes onto him he melted in fear and could not manage anything more than a moan.

“I feel that it would be more merciful to just run you through.” A pause. “But I have spoken and what you elected will be done.” The Dark Lord murmured to the professor. He turned away as if to leave.

“Wait!” The exclamation came from Extsu.

The Dark Lord stopped and turned to the mercenary, a look of interrogation on his face. He waited.

There a struggle of indecision playing on the face on Extsu. He was in the throes of making an awful decision. The Dark Lord stood still, expressionless, making no attempt to influence the decision one way or another.

After what seemed to the onlookers and assembled legionaries to be an eternity, Extsu looked up. “Take me now, in this sun lit place.” Was all he said. A nod came in reply as his guards helped him to his feet.

Standing up, the restraints were removed this time by the guards. Extsu stood uncertainly for a moment. Motioned to by the Dark Lord, he started to move towards the place of Fastos execution but stopped when the Dark Lord held up his hand.

“This way.” He said, indicating another area. A worried look appeared on the condemned man’s face as they took several steps away from the group, legionaries standing nearby fell back in haste.

At “Have no fear, look to the sun,” from the Dark Lord, Extsu brought his head up and a moment later it was falling onto the ground. Another quick push and the lifeless body followed it. As the act was expected this time, there was less shock and the troops remained motionless.

Again the Dark Lord communed with the sword. A murmured “Happy now,” was answered by a low, cold chuckle that chilled those close enough to hear it. The sword slid into its scabbard with a hiss. Turning around, he noted that the assembled troops were now augmented by onlookers anxious to see everything going on and not wanting to miss out on this momentous day. A slight smile touched his lips.

Holding out his hand, he took his cloak back.

“With your permission, Star Commander.”

 

[Gibbs505]

The first page of the first book ......


Part 1

Watchers Rock

Chapter 1



Jenna of Christo's sourly noted the announcement of the space craft's appearance and sneered openly as several of the Companions ran to activate their own defensive positions. Others ran to their particular spacecraft to start the process of preparing the craft for flight, or fight if necessary. Turning she continued her progress into the combined tavern and eatery to join the rest of the crew.

"Will you not come to pilot?" asked one as he ran by. "If this is the Empire...."

"If this was the Empire coming to finish us off, there would be a fleet, not one ship, you fool." she laughed bitterly. "And if they did come in a single craft, it would be well cloaked and undetectable until it was too close to matter."

Another grabbed her, “Then, let’s have a romp! If we ...” There was a crash. Angrily disengaging herself from the arms of the unwashed pirate, Jenna had thrown him onto a table. Smoothly drawing her sword, she swung it over her head and brought it down with lethal force. The pirate screamed as the sword sliced into his raised arm and he slid of the table onto the floor.

Kicking the table aside, Jenna moved forward with deadly intent.

“Touch me you fool!” was spat at the unfortunate individual as he scrambled to his feet and fell back towards the doors. Some remaining pirates and onlookers watched in amusement or indifference while others placed bets on the likely outcome. Such scenes were not uncommon in this nameless tavern. In any case tensions were high and a little bloodletting was considered a release.

Scrambling for his own sword with his good hand, the pirate barely parried the blow aimed at gutting him and swung in desperation at Jenna. Missing with his own blow he aimed a backhand at Jennas head only to feel her sword slice across his wrist. Dropping his sword and screaming, he never saw the blade as it slide into his gut and sliced upwards to his heart. With a hiss, the sword was withdrawn followed by a gout of blood.

Applause sounded as Jenna walked away from the lifeless body of the pirate. At a call she swung around with a glare, sword at the ready. Most of the spectators laughed and loudly admired her skill. Seeing no further danger, Jenna wiped her sword clean before thrusting it into its scabbard.

“Findus sparkling water” Jenna was met by Fastos of Connor at the table where some of her compatriots were sitting. “Your usual.”

Jenna, now somewhat calmer and in any case respectful of Fastos, took the water and slipped into the remaining seat. Glancing back at a sound, she saw that house cleaning droids were taking care of the mess that was the nameless pirate.

 

[Gibbs505]

From my first book, the pirates get frisky!


Jenna was unhappy, she was certain that Ilisa was involved somehow with the artifact but no matter how she tried to nail her down, Ilisa slipped away.

“You say that you have never spoken to Denner Venkriller, our wonderful Professor before, or even seen him before?”

“Indeed I don’t follow the galactic snobs, they bore me.”

“Yet you have heard of him?”

“In my leisure, I watch the comm’s and the vids, read and exercise.” With a dramatic gesture, that was part seduction and part comedic, Ilisa laid back on her bunk and slid her hands down her body. “I also exercise. A women has to take care of herself.” Her eyes stroked Jenna in a half-lidded coquettish manner. Her hands slid up and under her head which had the, no doubt intended effect of stretching her body in the best manner for viewing. For a moment Jenna stood still her mouth half open as she gazed at the beautiful women. She shook her head as if to clear it from a mist.

“You know more than you say, I have watched you.” Jenna paused. “What about the artifact, the carving, whatever you want to call it?”

“Who hasn’t?” Came with another seductive smile. ”Would you like to know me better?” Another smile followed the purring words. “As for the carving, I cannot say.” The smile grew.

Jenna smiled, this was something she had dealt with before. She leaned forward, placed a knee on the bed. “Play this game you will, but be careful, I recall long ago, other young women, and I remember ………….” Her hand went out to touch but stalled and pulled back. “Yes I remember very well. You have travelled well. It is clear that you have known some of us from Christos, have you felt the touch before? Did you think I would forget my lessons?”

The yellow haired women smiled, not at all put out by the revelation. “Yes, you were younger then and that was a different me.” Again a smile, “I am pleased, we must explore this but I fear that we are about to be interrupted.”

The two moved apart, Jenna had a look of consternation mixed with uncertainty and a little fear. Had she met this woman previously?

“Do not fear little one. You have much to do and you were picked for this time of trial long ago.” A gentle finger floated out and touched Jenna’s forehead. Jenna started. Her dark locks floated as she shook her head again.

“But…?”

“What is must be, and what sleeps, will awake. You have been asleep and now you must prepare. The time for your trial approaches as was inoculated in you at the Temple of Dawn. The temple to which you were lead as a child.’

Jenna gaped, none but initiates from her home planet of Christos knew of the rituals alluded to. But this was no member long lost from her planet, this she knew.

“Ask me no more at this time. Your captain approaches.”

 

[Gibbs505]

Then get really frisky


Chapter 29

Startled awake, Jenna reached for her sword. A hand touched hers first and stilled it. “What? Who’s there?” Jenna was fighting towards awareness.

“Shush.” Came a soothing voice.

Swimming up from her confused deep sleep state, Jenna focused all too slowly it seemed, on the figure sitting on the bed beside her. With no feeling of surprise she saw that it was Ilisa. The blond women smiled.

“I told you that we would talk later.”

“Ok, you are here. Now tell me how did you get in?” No one should have been able to get past her security, she had designed it herself.

“You told me.”

“I did?” Doubt showed on Jenna’s face.

“Yes, when I touched you.” A ravishing smile came with the words. Jenna sat up and swung her legs over the edge of the bed, then grabbed the bedding to cover her nudity. A soft laugh sounded.

“No one will see us.” The blankets remained firmly in place. The blond woman stepped back off the bed so as to give the dark one room. Her hands touched her clothes. The blue dress dropped to the floor revealing the naked body of the beautiful woman. “Now we are equal.” She said as she moved forward.

Jenna could not take her eyes of the beautiful woman. She stared at the perfectly shaped breasts, just the size her hands could cup, topped with pink nipples. The soft and sensuous lips. The slender yet curved body, with a delicate forest of blond pubic hair which concealed the treasure inside yet hid nothing. Entranced, she allowed the blankets to drop, revealing her own naked charms. Ilisa reached and stroked Jenna’s breast. “Lovely, just lovely.” She murmured, running her hands over them. With the help of a gentle push, Jenna folded her body back onto the bed, opening herself to the gaze of Ilisa.

With a soft moan, she shuddered at the feel of Ilisa’s hand stroking her breasts, and shuddered as Ilisa climbed onto the bed with her, not stopping with the caresses. As she laid back her arms went out and around Ilisa, pulling the smaller woman onto her, hungry for the contact of naked flesh touching naked flesh.

Soft lips slid over each other, hands sliding up and down made bodies quiver, then shudder as they found secret, moist, openings that brought a fire coursing through their veins.

Gasps grew into moans. Legs tangled and twisted around each other as the fever conquered the two suddenly, strangely, joined lovers. Lips found a pointed nipple on a hot breast that felt suddenly heavier than it had ever been. A tongue quested its way down a body beaded with sweat from feelings it had almost forgotten. Finding its target between long, lean thighs, it wrenched gasps of pleasure from a mouth suddenly bereft of the lips it had been enjoying.

Working her magic on the moist crevice at the junction between Jenna’s thighs, Ilisa began a relentless attack and quickly, too quickly it seemed to Jenna, raised her to ecstasy. The moans increased to cries of mounting pleasure until the pilot twisted and stiffened in the throes of orgasm, finally lying spent on the bed. Ilisa slid up and cradled her, a smile on her lips and in her eyes. “I told you we would talk,” she said.

Jenna gasped out a laugh, “Talk any more like that and I am dead!” She smiled herself, the first time in a long time it seemed.

The two laid in each other’s arms, their breaths slowing and normalising. “Well that was, something indeed.” Jenna finally said. “But not for you.” She smiled shyly, surprising herself, even more surprising, she blushed. “I have not done that in a long, long time.”

“Made love? Had sex?” Ilisa raised an inquiring eyebrow.

“Oh, there has been sex, but,” She paused, “Nothing like this.” Silent for a moment, then “Love, no, not that.”

“You have love to give little one. Your path is not mapped out for you yet.”

“Let us not talk of that.” Came in a low voice. “Not now.”

“We must, this between us was good, but not for this did I take passage with you.”

A sigh, then anger. “What was this then, a tryst, a bit of fun for you?” Jenna grabbed at Ilisa. Her hand stopped in mid stroke, imprisoned in fingers of steel wrapped in flesh. She gasped. Other than her hand Ilisa had not moved.

“I am sorry, but what must be will be. Soon we will be in the tunnels and you must know. You must be ready. It is for this you have been prepared.”

“How can you be so sure? We may not even go in. If Thurgod is not satisfied, he will kill the professor and run.” Other questions tumbled through her mind. The discussion that she had had with Fastos ran through her mind. Just how did Ilisa fit into all this?

“I know what you mean, do not trouble your mind with Thurgod, with treasure in his sight, I doubt that he would turn back now. We are on a course, soon will be the arrival.”

“How do you know all this?” Jenna was fumbling, trying to make sense of this new situation. It was an uncomfortable feeling for her.

A laugh. “I have been a waitress passing drinks and food to you for more than a year now. I need no special talents to know the nature of Thurgod Drista. Nor was the appearance of Professor Denner Venkriller unremarked, even in the chaos of the aftermath of the legions attack. None of this should surprise you.”

“Is the treasure why you came with us? Or something else?”

“Both and more. Yours was the most likely to escape, the best prepared of all the ships and the crew the most reliable. But you were the main reason. You were the reason I was there in the first place.”

Jenna recoiled in shock, sliding out of her bed and gathering her clothes, reaching for her sword.

“Still, you do not remember me little one?” Uncoiling from the bed, she reached out her hand and picked up the dress from the floor. “You have no need of the sword.”

Jenna hesitated but now dressed, Ilisa just sat down and waited. Slowly Jenna straightened dropping the sword to her side then down. Slowly she began dressing herself. “That is better, now I will leave soon and we will not see each other again until we are on the planet. Listen carefully. I do not know all but in the tunnel there are many pitfalls, many dangers. You, and only you must hold the carving which sings. I do not know why it must be you but it is so written. Next you must lead. If any separate from you, let them go, they will find their own doom.” She paused.

“How do you know all this? How am I to arrange this? What about Lista?” All this seemed unreal to Jenna. “What will the carving do?”

“It has been given to me to be your messenger. I was sent for this purpose. They who sent me did not tell me all, so that I could not interfere with events beyond my control.” Ilisa suddenly looked sad. “I too have been in exile, but with trust in each other we may find both our ways to our homes. As for the carving, it is the real guide.”

Stunned by all the revelations, Jenna sat slumped in her chair. A thought crossed her mind. “Did you know of the legion planning their attack?”

Ilisa shook her head no. “I can tell you no more. I do not even know if I will enter the tunnels with you. That knowledge is denied me.” She took a deep breath, then stood. “I must go now, little sister.”

“Again you call ne by that endearment which only is used between those who are close to each other. And you have spoken many times, always to suggest that I should remember you. Where have we met, if indeed we have?”

A soft hand reached out. “The Temple of Desire, little one.” At the name, recognition flared in Jenna’s eyes. Her hand went to her mouth. Then a finger touched her lips.

“We do not speak of it.” A rustle of a dress. The door whispered open and shut. Ilisa was gone. Jenna stumbled back to her bed. Memories arising from the depths of her subconscious.

Another women taking her hand. This was the Temple of Desire She was in her teens, so due to be taught the secrets of a women’s body, something that was forbidden until now. This was the temple that was gossiped about amongst the younger girls after lights were extinguished at night. There was giggling and fanciful tales spread and all sharing the secret fears of the unknown.

Arriving at the temple, the girls, now called youths, were given a personal guide, an older girl as was the usual custom. This was not the teacher, but a guide and a mentor, as she had been mentored before and Jenna would so act in her turn.

A conversation, half remembered, floated to the front of her conscious mind. Not one she was supposed to have witnessed or remembered.

“She is here?” An older women, the senior instructor?

“She is.” A younger women, a junior instructor? She could not remember.

Jenna laid back on her bed. The new memories overwhelming her.

“I am not sure, this is unlike anything our customs would permit.” The older woman seemed to be objecting but afraid, something Jenna never expected from a woman of Christos.

Another women, slim, dark haired but not, to Jennas stunned realisation, a woman of Christos. “This has been decided. It is for this we are here and another of us will take her by her hand. One who has been specially prepared for her.” A voice of authority. Of command. The other two bowed. “Yes my Lady. As you have said.”

The women smiled. “These are not my words, but his. He is the one who has spoken.” She turned and beckoned. Another woman came into view. It was Ilisa.

The realisation flowed over Jenna and overwhelmed her. Clouds filled her mind. She fell into a dreamless sleep.

 

[Gibbs505]

The Last bit I will Publish, Devano and Lista do the dirty!



Chapter 26

Lista was in her own little world. Devano had brought her to one orgasm and she was heading for another. Hovering over her, the powerfully built mercenary grunted and thrust towards his own release. Sweating and slamming into each other the two felt pleasure rise and both gasped.

Devano was first, with a powerful grunt he thrust deeply and poured his essence into Lista’s fertile women hood. As she realised that her lover of the hour had reached his climax, she swore, grabbed his gold chains and bit his shoulder.

“Damn you, couldn’t you wait, hold it off for once.’ She snarled, smacking Devano across the face.

Devano laughed, slapping the furious women back. “You know that I will be good to go again shortly.” He laughed again, thrusting his fingers into her. “Unless you want me to give Extsu a call? I’m sure he would enjoy another go around like you gave him last time!” Again the rough laugh as he continued to thrust his fingers into her. Lista responded by heaving her hips up and down. The thought of inviting another into a threesome did not bother her, all she wanted was release, and now!

“Ha,” came as the erotic thoughts wound her up towards ecstasy. ‘Ahhhh …..” as the magical fingers of her lover gave her what she was searching for!

“At last again.” Laughed Devano. “Now let me relax and I’ll be ready soon.” He reached to his bedside table and picked up a container. “Want something special?” Came with a raised eyebrow.

“What is it?” Having used drugs in the past, they held no mystery for her, but she disliked the loss of control.

“Nothing much, you know what Thurgod, Jenna and Tyrone are like, I am not going to cross any of them.” There had been a problem sometime earlier, a soldier had gotten some drugs onboard and almost caused the loss of the starship when he went psychotic. That individual had been put into a small access hatch and ejected into space naked and alive. The three leaders aboard had made it plain that similar fates would await anyone who did this again, whether they were under the influence or not. “It is just some alcohol from my home planet.” When Lista looked askew, he continued “Come on, Tyrone ok’d it!” And took a swig.

Following her naked lovers lead, Lista took the container and swallowed. “Arrgh, that is foul.” She took another swig and coughed. Devano laughed at the face Lista made.

Smacking his broad chest, Lista launched herself over the virile sergeant. “Will that get you going again?” She panted.

Grunting, Devano, pulled the naked women across him. “So you like to hit, eh?” And landed a hard hand across her rump.

“Owe that hurt!” She protested. That brought more impacts on the exposed posterior.

More cries of protest followed. Followed by more loud smacks. It was obvious to anyone who may have been watching that Devano was hitting hard. It was also obvious that Lista was not at all uncomfortable in the situation, indeed, she was enjoying it.

Moving behind the young, sweaty woman, Devano thrust into her with one hard push. With a grunt, she pushed back to receive his penis. Back and forwards they went, not in lovemaking, this was sex, pure and simple. Even without her past, Lista was not one to fall for a man, any man. She was a user and she was using Devano, pure and simple. Devano, a mercenary since his youth, also had no illusions, he wanted his pleasure and if Lista was willing to give it, good.

“You come this time before me and I will cut it off.” Lista panted.

Devano just grunted, he was too busy slamming himself into her.

“Get ready.” he muttered working himself into a frenzy. Hammering in and out of Lista, they both rushed towards completion. Pulling out, Devano slammed himself back into the licentious woman’s eager receptacle. Repeating this several times, and seeing the signs of Lista’s orgasm cresting, Devano brought her over the peak combining thrusting with a series of hard cracks to her bottom, then having brought her off, gave himself over to his pleasure.

Sated, the two sought a momentary few moments of solace in each other’s arms. Having been enjoying sex with each other for several weeks now, the two had now illusions about the future, this was release, nothing more. Especially after what had happened earlier with the professor.

“You are still going to kill him?”

“Not just kill, I will slice him slowly to pieces. Then, while he still lives, I will cut his member off and shove it in his mouth!”

Devano was using up all his laughs. Sex with Lista was about the only time he laughed, it was the way he liked it. Fast, somewhat brutal and with no limits and no attachments. The same way Lista enjoyed sex.

“Better wait for the signal from Thurgod, you would not want to breathe space, now would you.”

“I can wait. The wait will make it better and I won’t have to rush things then.”

“You like taking your time?”

“When I can.” Stretching herself out, she showed her body off in an unconsciously sultry manner. Devano admired her sleek and curvy lines. “What do you think of where we are going?” Came suddenly from Lista.

Devano looked in surprise. This was unlike Lista. He shrugged. “Who knows, so long as I get my cut I don’t care.” He was silent for a moment. “Did not really pay any attention, except to that stuff about the Dark Lord. That is one warrior I do not want to go up against. Good thing he won’t be there.”

“You sure?” Lista had a small smile, teasing someone like Devano could be dangerous. She liked danger.

“Well, that is what the professor said, he should know.”

“Then what has killed all those fools who went into the tunnels, a snoot?” The last referred to a ridiculous imaginary animal. Lista curved herself up of the bed and made a snarly face, then laughed. She was also getting her laughs out!

Devano frowned, while not an intellectual man, he was not a fool and had survived in a hard school. His hand floated out and his fingers curled around Lista’s slender throat. “You would not be making fun of me now would you?” Came out quietly. Lista smiled, this was sweet. Reaching out herself, she entangled her hands in Devano’s gold chains.

“Of course not, but the professor said the he believes that the Dark Lord was dead. Not that he is dead.” Again she smiled. “And what caused the injuries to that last one, whatever his name was. Also, while I hate her, she is no fool and not a coward. Jenna is afraid.” Devano started. This was a new Lista to him, he looked at her narrowly.

“Yes I pay attention.” Lista looked at her stud lover. “People underestimate me, and that is the way I like it. But I don’t like going in with all these unknown’s. We had a lot of stories about the Dark Lord on my planet. Like you said, I don’t want to go up against him, even if he is weak. Also, there is Ilisa, she is an absolute mystery. I don’t like mysteries and will have a word with her.” She paused, raised her eyebrows and spoke calmly. “Now let me go.”

Silent for a moment Devano released Lista and rolled out of his bunk. Standing up he stood before Lista. Still silent he stood still momentary then turned to her revealing a rampant manhood. Lista smiled again.

“All that talk about killing I guess. Look none of those treasure seekers went in wearing battle armour, carrying plasma rifles and swords. Don’t worry, and if the Dark Lord is there...” He shrugged, then smiled. “I need to wash and rest, want to join me in the shower?”

With a laugh, they headed off to Devano’s private shower.

 

[Gibbs505]

From my latest book:
The dark Lord has returned and faced some traitors. The fate of the latest traitor now rests in her own hands ........


Since her arrest late on the night of the sixteenth Lia Du Passa had not been having a good time.

Kept away from the others, she was the last to have her interview with the security police begin. In prison garb, without a stylist, she felt distinctly put upon. This didn’t help her mood, when she finally was seen on the twentieth Wassas.

“I demand to see my lawyer.” Were her first words to her interrogator. He had anticipated this and simply responded by pushing his comm unit across the table to her. “Read” was his reply.

Glaring but puzzled, Lia looked at the officer then at the unit. Slowly the words sank in. Reading the Dark Lords order, she felt a chill in her bones.

“Yes, it’s real.” The officer, Inspector Tyrel Mastic, smiled. “Now we have talked to the others and there is one thing we need to know, and you have one chance or …” he made a slashing motion across his throat.

“My com unit?” She seemed shaken but still defiant.

“It’s being taken apart by the AI’s right now. They broke past the trip wires easily. There is a lot there that has to be gone through. And a couple of encrypted files. They will get through though, I have no worries.” He smiled.

“You really think they will execute me?”

“Watch.”

Lia sat stupefied as she watched a replay of Legal Chief Riar Pur Catt’s being offered the choice of the Imperial guard or Lady Luca’s sword.

“And you want to give that option to me?”

“Not me, but that is the option you have. Death or talk.” He looked at her. “Choose.”

Lia laughed. “You think to scare me that easy?” The laugh rang out again. “Better try harder next time.”

Mastic didn’t move. He looked sadly at the woman across from him. “It’s not a threat.” He sighed. “It’s an offer, not mine, but the one I am instructed to give you.” He stood. “The method of presentation was left up to me.”

He moved to the door. Looked over his shoulder. “Last chance.”

“Get out!” Came as a snarl.

He shrugged. The door opened. “Did my best.” Floated through the door. “We heard.” Was the response, also drifting through the door. Two uniformed guards came in, one taking her arms urged her soundlessly up.

“Where are we going?” Spat out, got no response.

There was a group waiting outside, including Security Police Chief Rim De Pour, amongst others.

“Let’s go.” Was all he said. Along the corridor they went to the transit shaft. Down to parking. Into different vehicles they got, Lia with her escort got into the third vehicle. “Where are we going?” Got no response.

It soon became obvious, “The palace.” Lia whispered.

In the palace, the Dark Lord looked around.

“All is ready?”

“I am.” Came from Lady Luca.

He looked at the others. “You do not need to be there.”

They looked at each other. Lady Dana spoke. “For Luca.”

A nod of compliance was the reply.

They looked at the doors that lead outside to what lay beyond.

The vehicles arrived. The passengers exited.

“You are really going to a lot of trouble to frighten me, De Pour.” Lia actually smiled.

A imperial guards arrival fore stopped any response. A small bow went to the Security police Chief. Two more guards followed. No one spoke.

The two uniformed policemen marched Lia to the guards. One produced a length of rope. Swiftly her manacles were removed, replaced by the rope binding her hands behind her back.

“That hurts” Lia complained.

“Not for long.” Everyone stared at the grimly spoken response. Lia turned and looked into the emotionless face of the woman guard. A flicker of fear appeared for the first time in her eyes.

The head guardsman, actually a woman, turned to the rest of the group.

“Our Master says that you may follow if you wish. Your presence is not demanded, but suggested. None of you need attend if he or she wishes not to.” She turned without waiting for a response.

Chief De Pour followed without a word, as did Inspector Tyrel Mastic. No one else followed.

 

[Gibbs505]

Next part.


Into the palace they went, turning to the right. Towards the great doors that had stood sealed for so long but were now partly open. Through they stepped, into the Hall of Hearing.

Inside even Lia stared around at the ornate walls and roof. The palace staff had worked hard in the last few days. Garda’s schedule for the repairs had been approved and the timeline accepted. But only the debris of four millennium had been removed. Crews were assessing various parts of the ceiling, walls and floors. All of which showed the effects of lack of care.

The small group did not have any time to study the interior of the hall, as Lia was hurried along to the end, where another set of doors stood open.

By that inexplicable osmosis, the staff of the palace knew what was projected to happen. However there were no sneering of abuse hurled at Lia Du Passa. The staff of the palace did not sink to such depths, instead, they just watched her go by then returned to whatever task absorbed them.

It was a long walk down the hall but all too soon they passed through the far doors. Waiting for them was a small group. Ladies Luca, Dana Andrea, Elizabeth and Sydney.

Also there were five strange men, dressed in strange costumes. They all wore grey coloured helmets, one with a headdress on top. They wore linen tunics, woollen pants, over which they had sheets of metal armour. A leather apron was visible underneath. This armour partly covered the arms and the lower legs. Each had a short sword at their side. All the three looked like tough professional solders from some forgotten era. Behind them was a small mound of covered objects.

Rounding out the group was The Head Steward, the Security Chief along with the Dark Lord and his companion.

Looking around as she was guided up to the small group, Lia noticed a news reporter of to the side. A woman, eyes big. This woman had been plucked from a group that had reported on the meeting between Ferni, Rita and the media. She had been there near the back. Her report was accurate and her scathing comments, at all including the Dark Lord, had given him a laugh when he had heard them.

Held securely by the two guards, Lia moved her eyes to the Dark Lord. “So this is where you are going to kill me.” Two of the five strange men laughed, then fell silent at a command from the leader.

“Execute you, should it comes to that, Lia.” He smiled. “Really, it is up to you.”

“Then you might as well get it done. I won’t betray my brother.”

A soft laugh, shivers rolled down the backs of De Pour and Mastic.

“Neither is it necessary that you should. I received word today that planet Sag XIV B has been found again, and your brother with it.”

“How …” Came out in a strangled whisper as Lia sagged in her guards arms.

“A simple matter. You assistant betrayed you and it was clear from your comm unit where you headed. An analyst found the entry where you were going to SB 14. The legion dispatched a reconnaissance cruiser, heavily disguised to check the system where the base is located out. There was a transport waiting to leave, its jump coordinates were easy to read. Your guards confirmed everything.”

There was a long silence, Lia hung heavily in from her guards hands until the Dark Lord motioned them to let her down. Everyone stayed silent. The solders alternated between watching Lia and looked for a sign from the Dark Lord. The Ladies now all wore looks of distaste. The two policeman kept their faces as blank as the guards’ women. The reporter had gyrated between awe, horror and fascination.

After a fraction. Lia looked up. “What do you want from me now?”

“Your decision, you can ask for my justice now or wait for later. Later means I will consult with the council. The fact is, by your acts of treason alone and not considering other crimes, you are liable for death. I do not say that death will come or not come. But you can accept death now, or likely, later. The choice is yours.”

“So you will cut of my head, just like the pirates on Trilla.”

“A base lie, only two, the rest face the legions justice apart from another two I pardoned.”

The two policemen and the reporter stared at the Dark Lord. They had heard the story but discounted it. The reality shook them, especially the reporter. Lia had more grit. She laughed.

“My brother said that I always lacked patience. Give me death now. My arms hurt.”

“So be it.” The Dark Lord looked at Lady Luca. She regarded Lia. A look of pity passed over Luca’s face and she shook her head. The Dark Lord nodded in agreement.

The five strange soldiers now had a look of grim expectancy on their faces. The leader had eyes only for the Dark Lord, a nod was given.

At a harsh command two of the soldiers turned and moved the covering from a pile of implements. The Dark Lord spoke softly to the guard. One detached herself and went and stood beside the reporter. “Your first execution?” The reporter turned big eyes to the guards’ woman and, unable to speak, just nodded.

The guards’ woman took hold of the reporters arm and spoke just one word. “Steady.”

The cover removed, a log of wood was rolled forward, then stood upright. Two soldiers grasped Lia by her arms and marched her over to the site of execution. By lifting her arms Lias head was forced down to the top of the log. She gasped, her eyes staring. The last soldier had moved to the side and was holding an axe. Without hesitation he swung it over his head and brought it swiftly down with a sickening thud.

Lias head rolled on the ground. She had no time to even cry out. Her body was dropped onto the ground, kicking spasmodically. The reporter made a choking sound and turned away.

The Ladies just looked at the remains, turned and left. The Dark Lord, surveyed the body then spoke to the soldiers.

“You have done well, you are to be commended.”

“Sire!” The leader slapped his chest then held his hand out in a salute. The other four looked pleased at the Dark Lords words as they wrapped the body in a sheet and placed it in a casket. The head was wrapped separately and placed between the legs of the cadaver.

The Dark Lord glanced towards the reporter who was now bent over and making more choking sounds. He turned back to Grada Karkart.

“Head Steward, make sure that the body is properly disposed of. Chief De Pour, you have a contact for the family lawyers?”

“I do sire.”

“Contact them, then pass the information to the Head Steward.”

The two policeman had watched everything with horrified fascination. Both had flinched when the axe came down with a thud. Pale, they exchanged a look but said nothing. Looking to their Master, he gave them a nod, taking this as approval, they left. Chief De Pour was revising his thoughts of earlier in the week when he wanted Lady Luca to take Legal Chief Riar Pur Catt, the traitor, into the garden and execute her.

Reaching their vehicles they nodded to each other boarded and left. The thought was in their minds that there were more executions likely in the future, including the legion officers and the councillors that had been charged with treason.

Two more members of the imperial guard had arrived with a trolley. The casket was loaded onto this and it was removed into temporary storage.

The reporter had somewhat recovered and was now standing up. Seeing this, the Dark Lord turned again to Grada and Ferni.

“Take the young lady in hand and give her a drink. Talk to her and settle her down. This was hard for her.” They nodded and left, walking over to the reporter.

One of the soldiers had taken a shovel and was turning the dirt over where the blood had spurted. With their leader, he then walked over to where the reporter had thrown up. Making a comment which caused some laughter amongst the soldiers, brought them to the reporters’ attention.

“Think it’s funny, do you.”

Ferni took the reporters arm to guide her away. Still glaring at the soldier she resisted for a fraction. The lead soldier, looked with some amusement as the soldier with the shovel worked the soil. The lead soldier looked at the reporter, grasped her shoulder with his rough hand and spoke quietly.

“Multum sanguinem effuderit est hic. Quia bene fecistis primum securi percussi.” <A lot of blood has been spilt here. You did well for your first beheading.>

Giving an encouraging pat, he turned away and followed the soldier with that shovel as they left. The words weren’t understood but the action was.

Looking around, the three saw that they were the last to leave. Everyone else was gone. Still holding the reporters arm, Ferni, Grada and the reporter walked through the large double doors.

As they entered the hall, the doors swung shut behind them.

 

[Gibbs505]

I hope that you enjoy and would like to receive any comments.