Chapter Seven: Release

I’m staring at the discoloured ceiling, trying to imagine that I’m elsewhere, concentrating hard on the stain above me; narrowing my eyes and straining with focus, in hopes that I will somehow leave my body and float away.  But alas I am still present in room seven, and painfully aware of the clammy monk, his weight bearing down on me as he debases me, his grunts are short and hostile in my ear, akin to his thrusting. I dig my nails into his back and moan; he pulls his face from the nape of my neck and stares into my eyes, a vulgar expression plastered across his weasel-like face. He’s a young man, perhaps only several years older than I, but his youth does not compensate for his eerie demeanour, one which makes my skin crawl. He has dyed blue hair cropped short, and studs through both cheeks, both of which are a symbol of his creed. 

He speeds up his thrusting, and I dig my nails in harder. I long to look away, to bury my face in the pillow and pretend this isn’t happening, but I don’t believe that will win me much favour, so instead I wrap my legs around him and push myself upwards to meet his thrusts. ‘Oh yes... don’t stop....’ I gasp in what I hope is a wanton tone. ‘Umm...you feel so good inside me.’ I continue. This appears to have the desired effect, as a satisfied smirk breaks out across his narrow features. I look him straight in the eye and smile back, moaning and groaning at an increased volume; I pray to Freisa that his pleasure will peek soon.  I start to exaggerate my momentum, my body slapping against his thin frame. He’s staring at my face in wonder, my facade a stroke to his ego. I imagine a man as plain as he has often been over looked when it comes to matters of the heart, so if he can derive a few moments of self worth from our encounter then perhaps I have done some good.   

 I twist myself underneath his frame, flipping myself onto my stomach. ‘Make love to me from behind.’ I gasp, wiggling my buttocks at him, I look over my shoulder at his elated face, his expression causing me to laugh. I start to remember what Nila said the first time we met: take what pleasure you can, and own it. I’m beginning to realise how sound her advice was. The monk clamps his soft hands around my waist and pushes his length into me, I whimper as his thighs slam against my buttocks. He withdraws quickly then plunges back in, bleating as he does so. ‘Oh yes..harder..harder.. fuck me harder’ I murmur, rocking backwards on all fours to greet his irregular thrusts. He reaches around me and fumbles at my breast, pawing at it with unskilled hands. At this point I bury my face into the pillow and scream with aggravation, hoping that he mistakes it for enjoyment. He speeds up his pace, panting and moaning with every drive of his hips. I cling onto the bed sheets and keep my face hidden in the pillow, screaming every time he slaps against me. My mind begins to wander and it’s not long before I’m thinking of Captain Reve.

‘Do you like that?’ The monk says feebly between his moans.

  ‘It feels so good.’ I lie ‘You feel so good, please don’t stop!’ I cry out, wrapping the edges of the pillow around my face.

His propulsions begin to regulate, and I move along with him in rhythm. But I’m thinking about the delicious length of Reve’s cock, and how cruel he was to deny me last night. Reve’s expression of pleasure is far more strident than this pitiful monk’s, and I imagine the feel of his dick is far more fulfilling. I can picture his weather beaten face screwed up in ecstasy, I imagine it is his cock inside me, fucking me, and it’s making the situation much more enjoyable. I moan loudly, moving my head from side to side.

‘Harder, harder, harder.’ I chant. To which he happily complies, the hammering I’m taking is causing my head to spin, which is an advantage as it makes my fantasy all the more vivid. So much so that I have to bite my tongue to stop from calling the Captains name. ‘You’re such a big man...fuck me with your great hard cock... fuck me!’ I shriek, half from thrill and half from frustration.

My words appear to tip him over the edge. His body shudders behind me and he lets out a measly yelp, his thrusting slowing down, until he’s stopped, his breathing a ragged mess.  I push myself up onto my hands and look over my shoulder at the sweaty blue haired boy; his eyes are shut tight and his head thrown back, he appears to be reciting something, faintly so I cannot make out the words. I smile at his look of serenity, I feel like patting myself on the back, to celebrate a job well done.

The monk pulls himself from between my sticky legs and rocks back onto his haunches. I can feel his seed trickling down the inside of my thighs, I must remember to get Mara to mix me up a potion. I flip over onto my back and smile, lifting my foot up to his chest and playfully jabbing him, he catches it and kisses my toes. ‘If you satisfy your god half as well as you do a mere mortal, then you my love are destined for greatness.’  I feint in a sing song tone.

He laughs, a strange spluttering sound. ‘You are too kind Rosalyn.’ He looks away from me, his cheeks turning red, he is unaccustomed to flattery.

‘And you are a marvel!’ I cry, laughing at how blatant the lie was. ‘Lunithia must be proud to have such  a fine apostle. I believe you will send the other gods mad with jealousy ’ I hope my mockery is not obvious to him. I have no desire to hurt, but my belief in the gods, beyond a conjecture, is about as strong as my belief in the boy’s sexual prowess.

‘You tease me?’ He questions meekly, a sadness lurking behind his eyes.

‘No, no.’ I push myself up, suddenly feeling cruel, and run my fingers over his slight chest. ‘Please don’t be offended, my knowledge on godly matters is somewhat...limited.’ He looks at me and smiles shyly, then leans forward as if to kiss me. I quickly draw back from his reach.

‘Oh...’ He looks away again, embarrassed. ‘You speak like an unbeliever. The ones who lack faith tend to revert to mockery; it is their way of dealing with a concept greater than themselves.’

‘Greater? There is nothing great about the gods, they have done nothing for me.’ I swallow hard and  draw my knees up to my chest.

‘And why should they? You mock them, and doubt their very existence. How can one expect instant prosperity when you offer nothing in return?’ He hauls himself to the edge of the bed and stands, turning to face me. ‘I have devoted my life to the worship of Lunithia, and look what I’ve been granted.’ He’s stood in front of me naked and waving his arms around, as if in the middle of some mummers play. ‘The great talent of elemental manipulation. Because I am so pious in my devotion she has helped me excel in the art of combustion, so much so that I have been called to The First City to serve Lord Erwin himself!’ Such a change in attitude from the once timid boy, he is obviously confident in his abilities, more so than his love making.

‘Well you’ve converted me.’ I hold my hands up in mock defeat.

His pierced cheeks grow red and anger flashes across his pointy face. ‘You are a whore and I am a man of standing and extreme power. Tell me, who do you think is victorious? The unbeliever or the faithful?’

This would be intimidating if it wasn’t so comical, I glance down at his flaccid phallus and smirk. ‘Well that depends on the game we’re playing; If it’s ‘who can be the most pompous prick in the room’, then you win, hands down.’ I smile broadly, amused by his ire.

‘Such disrespect.’ He says, quietly shaking his head. ‘You will amount to nothing more; I believe your full potential has been reached here, in this brothel.’ He turns his back on me and treads across the room to his crumpled robes, tugging the azure mantle down over his head.

I shunt forward and let my legs hang over the edge of the bed, swinging them like a carefree child. The angry monk reaches into his robes, produces a bullion coin and marches over to the nightstand slamming it down.

‘You are in my debt Ser, by two bullions.’ I nod down at the lone coin and smile.

Flustered, he gropes around in his large pocket, scowling at me as he produces another two coins. ‘You are not worth a bronze coin more!’

I can’t help but laugh at his proclamation; I believe a few minutes ago he would have given me all of Wyran. ‘Now who’s being disrespectful?.... Perhaps you will amount to nothing more than a whoremonger, your sexual potential reached in a brothel; perhaps we are not that dissimilar?’ I finish the jibe with a wide smile. How can he think himself better than I?

His scowl is so theatrical that it does not cause me harm; breathing heavily he turns on his heels and stomps to the door. ‘Good bye Rosalyn, enjoy your life’ He murmurs through gritted teeth.

‘Good bye mighty sorcerer. Oh how I tremble in the wake of your greatness!’ I call as he yanks open the door. He turns around for one last deadly stare and nearly collides with Del, who is stood firm in the doorway, steps aside and holds out his arm for the monk to pass.     

‘You should teach her a thing or two about etiquette; no one likes a cynical whore.’ The monk whines.

‘I am terribly sorry. My good fellow let me offer you a drink, on the house. And I promise I shall chastise the girl within an inch of her life!’ He glances at me as he says this, his eyes sparkling. ‘Mortified, I am positively mortified.’ He sucks air through his teeth and shakes his head as if grief-stricken by my actions.

The monks nods his reply and heads out onto the landing, he does not deign to look back.

Del stands still in the doorway, still shaking his head. ‘Oh Ros, what are we to do with you?’ He moves into the room, softly closing the door behind him.

‘I’m sorry... it was a clash of beliefs, besides I barely said anything.’

‘You declared scepticism about the god’s existence; to a monk...you said this... to a monk. Dear girl, that is just foolish and completely unbefitting.’ He sighs loudly, pressing his palms together and touching them to his forehead.   

‘How long were you listening?’ I ask, surprised.

‘Too long. Although I must say you’ve mastered the fucking, just not the conversation. Perhaps you should pretend to be mute; yes in fact the more I think on it, the more brilliant it seems.’ He’s walked across the room and plonked down next to me on the bed, neither of us bothered by my nakedness.

‘But...my quick wit and flattery are all part of my charm, who wants to rut with a voiceless wench?’ I lean into him, our shoulders touching.

‘Many, if that’s the alternative.’ He grins, his brown eyes flickering momentarily across my breasts, causing me to smile, for it is rare that Del notices my sexuality, following the day we met. ‘Anyway it is of little consequence, for you and I are not long for this place.’ He stares straight ahead, his expression one of sadness.

‘You and I? I ask, even though I know full well what he means, I just haven’t decided how I feel on the matter yet.  

Del chuckles. ‘Reve is in bar asking for you. He was on his way up, but I thought it wise to stop him, best to prevent any embarrassment, what with you both being such delicate flowers.’

I giggle as he pulls his peculiar expression, his lovely mouth forced into a thin grin and his eyes unnaturally wide. ‘That we are...did he say what he wanted?’ I stand and make my way over to the wardrobe, wondering if Del’s eyes are on my bare arse. I pull open the door and look at the meagre contents; it will have to be the plain green gown, for that is all that’s left. I take it from the hanger and spin around to gauge his reaction.

He’s grinning, his eyes not leaving my face. ‘I imagining he either wants to fuck you or converse with you, or if you’re extra lucky...both!’

I sigh heavily, I had hoped it would be news of Kalcha. ‘Very well. But first let me wash away the smell of zealous monk ... I’ll be down shortly.’ I wink at him and head into the bathroom.

The tavern is quiet, there are only a few patrons and a couple of girls lingering, trying to hook a punter for a quick afternoon turnover. There is no sign of the monk; he must have forgone the offer of a free drink.  

Dazzling sunlight nudges its way through the murky windows, shrouding the room in a warm glow, the atmosphere relaxed and inviting, I feel part of me will miss this place. I spy Reve propping up the bar and drinking deeply from his cup. He looks almost smart, dressed in a navy blue waistcoat and matching britches, his hair slicked back and shining, yet his array of visible weapons affirms his lethality. He’s leering at me in the filthy way that he does, my breath catches in my throat but I meet his gaze and smile. Gliding over to him I take the cup from his hand, our eyes fixed on one another, his smirk spreading across his wrinkled face. I lift the cup to my lips and take a drink of the booze; its rum...he has taste. We’re still staring at one another, oblivious to everyone else in the room.

The sound of someone clearing their throat loudly pulls my eyes away from the enigmatic Captain and I notice Bailey for the first time, his handsome face a picture of impatience. I giggle and draw away from Reve, handing him back the cup. Bailey continues. ‘Touching as it is to watch you two eye fuck, we are in fact on a time limit ‘ere, Captain.’  He looks away from the back of Reve’s head and gazes at the half naked Nila as she struts past, she makes sure to give me a withering look, I’m not sure if I should laugh or bawl so I decide not to react.

 I can still feel the Captains eyes on me, studying me. ‘I need you to make a list.’ He growls, and then moves his attention to Mara behind the bar. ‘I need parchment, and a quill, immediately.’ He all but snarls the words at the beautiful woman.

 She is not accustomed to such aggression, for men usually indulge her, so she is visibly shocked by the abrupt order, but she coos. ‘Certainly.’ and disappears into the back room.

‘A list of what?’ I ask

‘Every herb and fungus needed to tranquillise each breed of dragon.’ He knocks back the remainder of his rum and slams the cup down on the bar. ‘And anything else that may come in useful.’

‘That will take awhile; I mean there are a lot of combinations.’ I lament, just as Mara reappears; she places the parchment, ink and quill in front of me and quickly re-fills the Captains cup. He does not thank her for the action, so she makes a face behind his back, and quickly saunters off to serve an actual patron.  

‘Well you best get on with it then, haven’t you?’ His voice raised and his diminutive patience faltering.

‘My husband...have you..?’ I try to ask, only to be rudely cut off.

‘List!’ He bellows pointing to the table behind me. 

I tut loudly and snatch up the writing tools.

‘When you’ve finished give it to Bailey so he can source what he can.’ He mumbles, staring carelessly at my tits.   

I nod, move towards the bench and begin the arduous task of recalling everything from memory.

I’m about half way through when Del appears with a jug and cup in hand. ‘Drink?’ He says, flopping down into the chair opposite me.

I know I should not, as the task of recalling six different combinations consisting of a minimum of eight different plants is difficult enough without having my senses blurred. But it is mind numbing work, so surely a little drink will be beneficial?

‘Del you are bad! Besides you prohibit drinking on the job’

‘Yes, well that was when you worked for me. I’m not sure if you’ve grasped this, but you belong to Reve now.’ He pushes the jug towards me.

‘Yes I follow. But Kalcha is almost as well versed in these things as I, surely he can give him everything he needs?’

He chuckles and pushes the jug further towards me. ‘Oh Ros, you are sweet. But I don’t believe your husband can give Reve everything he needs.’ He raises his brow in quick succession, grinning like a jester.

 ‘He will free Kalcha, won’t he?’ I cannot help but worry.

‘Leron is a respected name, a respected trapper. Reve needs his experience as much as he needs your knowledge. If Kalcha agrees to join us, then he will be freed, you needn’t worry about that.’

It fills me with a certain pride to hear people speak of him in such a way. He has been out of action for the best part of a year, excursions costing too much to assemble in relation to profits. So I have forgotten how notoriously skilled he is. I smile my appreciation for Del’s words. ‘So, tell me, where do you fit into this?’ I reach for the jug and pour myself a drink, holding it to my nose and savouring the rums rich scent.  

He looks away from my inquisitive gaze and down at his hands. ‘I’m the Quarter Master; Reve needed me to rally the crew, or what was left of them, as many have gone bad over lack of bullion. The Captain’s social pleasantries are somewhat lacking, and as you know I am a diplomatic soul.. a lovable scamp, if you will!’

I giggle at his dramatic bearing. ‘And did your charm work?’

He rubs at his face, as though hassled, and then lets out an almighty sigh. ‘There are seven or so loyal to the Captain, so I knew they wouldn’t desert. I managed to talk another eleven round, but we’ve lost over a third in total...perhaps this is a good thing, separate the wheat from the chaff, so to speak. I believe that the men left are dependable.’   

 I smile, nod and continue with my questioning. ‘How does the Quarter Master, of Bastue’s Bitch end up running a brothel?’

‘Oh, there was a slight altercation. Nothing really. It was very silly. And an opportunity...’ He pauses and smirks. ‘Presented itself here. I knew he would send for me eventually though, he was in need of my skills, to sell this wild scheme to the men.’   

‘How can you sell an idea that you’re not fully behind?’ I ask, deciding I shall question him later on this slight altercation.

‘Indeed. But Reve is adamant and his enthusiasm is somewhat contagious. Besides he may be many things, but he is no fool. He lives his life for riches, and until recently he has always delivered. You see Palor, North Tasbrie, Saharbic, none of them are trading as much now, and so foreign ships are few and far between. This dragon has come along in the midst of a drought and replenished Reve’s thirst for adventure, arguing has proven fruitless... We are sailing at first light and that is that.’ He slumps back in his chair and gazes off towards the bar, his eyes following Mara as she skilfully fills several cups with liquor, sliding them across the bar to the two waiting patrons.    

I knock back the rum, and pour myself another. ‘Say all this goes to plan, we find the ship and take the dragon, then what? Does Reve have contacts? Does he know of anyone in the market for such a creature?’

He laughs. ‘Dragons are a sought after weapon are they not? Whoever wields the biggest weapon holds the most power, and power is what makes this fucking world go round. Believe me, finding a buyer is the easy part.’  

 I nod in agreement, refilling my cup and drinking deeply, my head beginning to feel fuzzy.  

‘Now if you’ll excuse me, there’s something that requires my urgent attention.’ He stands, ruffling my hair as he walks by, heading in the direction of the bar. I watch as he tries to vault over the bar, his hand slipping under the wet surface causing him to plummet ungainly to the floor behind, Mara immediately rushes to his aid laughing hysterically at the calamity. She drags him to his feet and kisses him all over his face, giggling. He’s pulling her towards the backroom; I look away and swallow the bitterness caught in my throat. 

I shake my head and stare back at the half completed catalogue, trying in vain to remember if its Fluxroot or Hogweed required for this formula. I decide it is neither and scrawl down Fellenwort, although not one hundred percent sure on my conclusion. I polish off the cup of liquor, my head beginning to spin; drinking on an empty stomach is never wise.  

By the time I’ve finished daylight has been replaced by glowing sconces, dusk is upon us. I look around the tavern but cannot see Reve anywhere. I feel inebriated from the rum so I blink my eyes, trying to clear the fuzzy outline from my vision. Bailey is seated by the bar with Nila between his legs; she looks so tiny entwined with his giant frame. He’s running his hand across her buttocks and playfully slapping them; the tremble of her arse cheeks through her sheer gown is mesmerizing. I push my chair back and make my unsteady way over.

‘Reve said to give you this.’ I say holding out the parchment for him.

He turns his head lazily towards me, unimpressed by my interruption. He reaches out and takes it. ‘Cheers.’ He says his eyes scanning the list, and then he looks back to Nila and sharply says. ‘Off.’ He pats her bottom one last time, before pushing his great hulking form from the stool, knocking her back a few steps as he does so. ‘Tell Reve I’m on it.’ His eyes back on the list studying it hard.

‘Where is he?’ I ask, scanning the room.

‘Having a shit.’ He mumbles, his concentration fully on the parchment.       

‘Oh, lovely.’

‘I’ll see you at sun-up.’ He pulls his focus and nods at me and then Nila before turning to leave. I’m left staring at her livid little face, preparing myself for a barrage of rudeness.

She crosses her arms and narrows her eyes. ‘Thanks a fucking lot! Ya just cost me a trick....ya owe me three bullion!’ She holds her hand out to me expectantly tapping her foot.

I snort. ‘Don’t be stupid.’

‘I’m stupid now am I?’ She snaps through gritted teeth.

‘Nila this is ridiculous....Look I’m leaving tomorrow, can we at least be civil?’ I refuse to beg, but perhaps I should make an effort.   

She pouts and remains silent.

‘I understand that friendship is out of the question, but I don’t want any hard feelings. What happened happened, and... I probably did read too much into it....it was the rum’s fault!’ I cock my head on a side and give her my pleading eyes.

She sniggers and rolls hers in retort. ‘Where ya going anyway?’

I pause for a few moments wondering how best to answer. ‘Captain Reve requires my expertise, we’re sailing at sunrise.’

‘Your expertise ey? Randy bastard can’t go a few weeks without a woman on the end of his cock?’ She laughs brashly.

‘It’s not like that.’  

‘Sure.’ She nods derisively. ‘He’s taking you, a whore, with him for your fucking conversational skills.’

My pride wants her to know the truth, that I am more than just a vessel for his gratification. But it is for the best that she remains oblivious. So I grin and say. ‘True. He is a man of few words, and a man of enormous insatiability.’   

‘I’m fucking jealous! You’re free of this stifling place and out on the open sea.’ Her eyes dull over in reverie, so I surmise that she is truly envious. Although in theory my situation has not improved, I am still a whore, just a more exclusive one.

‘So, are we ok then?’

She laughs in the insolent way that she does. ‘Sure, whatever.’ She shrugs, and stares off over my shoulder. ‘Ere he comes now, bring me back summat nice won’t ya!’ And with that, she bolts.

Reve is stood behind me, his body pressed firmly to mine, his hot breath on my cheek; he smells heavily of rum and sweat.  I close my eyes and moan softly as he wraps his arm around my waist and grasps a hand full of my dress. ‘I take it you’re done.’ He rumbles heavily in my ear.

‘Yes. I gave the list to Bailey; he says he’s on it.’ I turn my head to the side so my nose is touching the coarse bristle on his cheek and I can stare into his immersing eyes.

‘Good girl.’ His dirty, unnatural smile breaks out and my body quivers. ‘Now, should we address the small matter of your husband?’

I exhale, suddenly remembering Kalcha’s existence and nod hastily.

 ‘Since you’ve been more than accommodating, I shall take action at once.’ He grabs my arse firmly and growls.

I squeal and press myself harder against him, contemplating asking him to postpone Kalcha’s release, so we can take our lewd display upstairs. But realise that would be untoward, given the fact Kalcha is in this position because of my previous self-indulgence. ‘Yes, let us take action immediately!’ I cry.

He squeezes my buttock cruelly and backs away. ‘Go upstairs and wait my return.’ He commands, moving around to face me.

‘I will do no such thing, I’m coming with you. I’ll be damned if Kalcha learns of my situation from anyone other than myself. It will be break his heart, and I cannot imagine you being sensitive to the issue.’ I scowl hard at his tanned face, waiting for him to castigate.

But to my surprise he grunts impassively and says ‘Very well.’ He moves behind the bar, swaying as he goes, and knocks heavily on the door to the back room. ‘Del!’ He bawls.

They’ve been in there for hours, administering a lingering goodbye. The flimsy door eventually jerks back to reveal Del, sweaty and dishevelled, his shirt unbuttoned and his lean chest on display. He rests casually against the frame, looking down at the Captain. I crane my neck to see if I can catch a glimpse of Mara, my need for a potion growing, but it’s very dark in there so I cannot make her out. His big eyes look blood shot; he blinks rapidly and rubs at them with his knuckles. They exchange several quiet words, ending with Del nodding and retreating back into the darkness.

I follow Reve out into the warm and hazy evening, and walk beside him, in silence through the streets of Vesale.  

It’s not long before the great stone archway of the gallows looms from the cluster of buildings; I’m sweating with every step I take, as we draw closer to the jail, closer to Kalcha. I feel sick to my stomach. The gravity of my circumstance and how seedy it has become suddenly hit me.

The gallows are deserted but well lit. The statues of the gods are illuminated by giant fire pits, positioned at their marble feet. I find my gaze lingering on the beautiful form of Freisa; her hair is flowing freely behind her while her hands rake through its luscious thickness, and her gown exposes one of her ample breasts as well as most of her stomach. Her serene face watches me as I make my way across the courtyard, although she is posed for seduction her expression is one of kindness. Perhaps she recognises my plight, she is The Whore Goddess after all. There is something eerie about staring into the face of a goddess, I have never paid much heed before, suddenly I feel extremely small. I tear my eyes away, feeling a chill travel up my spine despite the warm evening and my previous sweats, I shudder.

We reach the top of the soaring steps and Reve grasps the handle of the jail door and shoulders it inwards.

The ruddy dwarf is sat behind his desk, still staring at his book, our presence insignificant to him.

‘Honac you ginger bastard!’ The loudness at which Reve delivers this is so great that it causes me to jump.

The dwarf’s attention is now fully on the Captain and a wide grin spreads across his broad features. He quickly leaps from his seat and trudges across the flagged floor towards us. He reaches up and grasps Reve’s upper arms. The two men stand studying one another in silence, until Horac says in a weary tone ‘By the gods you are still one ugly fuck.’

‘Ha!’ Reve bellows, shrugging off his grip and belting him on the arm with such force it causes me to flinch; the dwarf does not move. ‘I see Lord Soren has made use of you.’

‘It was either this or the stocks.’ He says listlessly, momentarily glancing at me. ‘What brings you to this side of town? A bit far from the docks isn’t it?’

Reve laughs gruffly. ‘Do you miss it?’

Horac sighs heavily and stares off wistfully into the distance. ‘Every damn day, Captain. How long has it been?’

Reve nods his head in a knowing manner. ‘Eleven months.’

The dwarf whistles. ‘Is that all? Feels like a lifetime.’

‘I may have a proposition for you. But first..Kalcha Leron.’

The dwarf stares blankly at him for several moments. Then his attention moves to me, looking me up and down slowly, his expression still vacant. ‘Ah. The big bastard, who beat on the boy that fucked his wife. Yes now I remember, and if my memory serves me right, you’re said wife.’ His face is still impassive regardless of his crass words.

I can feel my cheeks burning and shame covering me in a hot thin layer of sweat. I glance quickly at The Captain to observe his reaction, but he hasn’t flinched, his face still set in its natural grim state.

 ‘I need to speak with him.’ He grunts, completely disregarding Horac’s account of my dishonour.

‘This way.’ He signals for Reve to follow and I fall in beside, but the dwarf holds out his thick arm, blocking my way and coolly says. ‘Not you.’

‘What?’ I snap in confusion. Glancing at Reve for help, which he sends in the form of a shrug.

‘You wait here.’ Then he turns to Reve. ‘Fourth cell on the left, I’ll stay here and keep an eye on this one.’

I look at both of them flabbergasted. ‘By the love of the gods, what do you think I’m going to do?’ I yell in exasperation.  Glaring at the heavily armoured, brutal looking men, then down at my slight defenceless frame.

‘I don’t know, and that is exactly the problem. You look unpredictable.’ He narrows his eyes and stares at me, hard like he’s trying the spy the very essence of my soul.

‘You’re an arsehole.’ I say flatly, equalling his hard stare.

‘And you have proven my point.’ His tone is flat and dry and I want to hit him.

I shake my head in disbelief and watch Reve disappear through the dark portico. My heart is hammering in my chest and I have to blink away tears. All the horrible scenarios are running through my head of what Reve will disclose, all the seedy exploits of my dirty fate. He already thinks of me as sullied, so how will he see me now? When he knows what I truly am? But what does it even matter? He despises me anyway, perhaps this will bring him some joy, to know that retribution has been served. I turn my back on the damned dwarf, for he will not see me cry.

Horac and I wait in silence, besides the sound of my pitiful sniffling, which I scold myself inwardly for. It feels like an age before the sound of boots on stone echoes through the passageway. I spin around expectantly, awaiting the owner’s arrival. I am not sure how I feel, is it excitement? Dread? Or a strange sickening combination of the two?

Reve appears in the dark entrance, his face inscrutable. ‘Let him out.’ He commands. ‘I’ll pay the fine.’

I breathe a great sigh of relief and despite my nervousness smile widely. ‘He said yes!’ I gasp.

Reve looks at me and nods grimly. ‘Of course he said yes. I doubt he wants to spend another second  in this rathole, especially with the company he’s had to endure.’ He smirks at the dwarf as he says this.

‘Fifty Bullion.’ He says dully. ‘But anymore of your impudence and I’ll bump it to eighty.’ 

The Captains tuts and says. ‘Do you take credit? Before you answer, hear my proposition.’

The dwarf’s expression is completely unchanged. He strolls back around the desk and climbs into in his seat, Reve perches on the edge of the desk and they begin their hushed discussion. I pace across the foyer biting my nails, cursing both of them and their lack of urgency. The prolonged upshot is killing me, are they doing this on purpose? They are, I bet they are.

‘Good man!’ Reve bellows smacking Horac hard on the back;  he stands and gazes at me his shark like smile split across his face. ‘Right, onwards and upwards!’ He stands and moves towards me.

Horac pushes back his chair and heads in the direction of the cells, unhooking the heavy keychain from his belt as he goes.

 Reve is stood very close to me and the proximity is suddenly unnerving. ‘What did you say to Kalcha?’ I whisper.

 He leers at me, usually a warm sensation would shroud me. but right now I feel very uncomfortable. ‘I didn’t tell him that you’re a whore, if that’s what you’re worried about?’ He rasps in my ear. I should feel relieved but I don’t. Time is passing so slowly and my face must be a frozen picture of panic. I can feel Reve’s eyes bearing into the side of my face, it’s as if he’s enjoying my torment.

Then I see him, his tall broad frame looms in the archway, his face cast down towards the stone. His sandy braid hangs over his right shoulder, his clothes filthy and his hands still shackled. I hold my breath waiting for him to lift his head and notice me, so I can look into his familiar eyes. He trudges further into the light and slowly raises his head. My face breaks out into a big smile, feelings of comfort come flooding towards me, this man stood before me in shackles is a reminder of everything I once was.       

Chapter Six: Captain.

I must have slept for most of the day, because as I awake I realise the morning sun that gleamed through my open shutters previously has been replaced with a grey light, giving my bedroom a washout effect. A warm breeze wafting through the window causing the shutters to rap gently against the wall, and a low buzz from the outside world are all that penetrates my cocoon. I stretch and yawn loudly, swinging my legs over the side of the bed, pausing for a moment to look at my ruined dress on the floor. I didn’t bring much clothing with me from my old home, so that dress was crucial. I groan as I recall my earlier carnal exploits, was it worth the ruin of a perfectly good dress? Probably. But regardless of how satisfying the act was, it does not ease the dread of seeing her again.

I plod to the bathroom, my heavy steps thudding against the bare floor. I should wash before I dress; I feel as though I’m exuding the smell of lewdness. There is a small amount of water left in the basin from the previous night, so cupping my hands I gather some up and splash it against my face, the water is tepid, which is a shame as I wanted to feel an icy spray, in hopes of clearing my head. I lather my armpits and then my genitals with a bar of lavender soap. Then rinse away the suds and resolve to clothe.    

Wrenching open the wardrobe I stand gazing at the two simple gowns that hang there, as well as my britches and travelling shirt. These are all my worldly possessions, and they are a pitiable array. I screw my face up in distress, wondering why I didn’t bring something more ornate, or even some damn undergarments. How am I supposed to sell myself dressed in drabness? I decide my scarlet cotton dress is the best of the two, plus it has a cord fastening across the bust meaning I can wear it lose, flaunting my assets. I tug it on over my head, run my fingers through my hair and decide that this will suffice. I leave my quarters, bare footed and head out onto the well lit landing.

I’m met with the sound of rowdy mirth, men are laughing and shouting, and women are giggling and cooing; typical sounds of a lively whore house. Leaning over the balcony I survey the inn, there are around fifteen or so men, some sat in small groups around tables drinking and cursing. And others sprawled out on daybeds, while the scantily clad girls incite their urges; Nila is one of those girls, and I quiver at the sight of her stroking the face of some swarthy commoner.  I look down at my dress and yank at the bust line, tearing it slightly, so as to expose more flesh. Vigorously I shake my head, trying to reset my disposition, and then glide down the stairs and into the boisterous tavern.

Mara is behind the bar as usual, leaning over it and seductively talking with Otho, the Blacksmith’s effeminate son -I don’t think I’ve ever seen her working the floor or retiring to her chamber with a customer. Del is at the far corner of the bar conversing with a foreboding looking fellow, even though his height is middling his scarred face and sun beaten skin constitute a hardy image. Their discussion seems to be one that carries an intense weight. Directly behind the menacing figure is another of equal severity, a young man as broad as he is tall, and armed to the teeth, is glowering at Del. His sleeveless shirt boasting impressive biceps, and bare skin obscured by countless tattoos. Neither Mara nor Del notices my arrival, which is fine, as I’m late.

I saunter over to far side of the room, to a table where a lone figure is sat, his face hidden under an oversized hat. There are a two empty cups in front of him so I make for them. I catch Nila’s eye as I do so, her fake smile suddenly turning sour, I scowl at her in return as she straddles the lap of the rough chap she’s enticing. I roll my eyes and reach for the dregs in front of the mysterious patron, lifting up the brim of his hat in the process. ‘What have we under here then?’ I say coaxingly. He almost falls from his chair as he jerks up right; I think I’ve startled him from slumber. His dazzling blue eyes dart around the room in confusion, before settling on me. He’s not a hideous man, but then I would not deem him attractive, when he smiles I notice he has lost several teeth to scurvy. I suppress a grimace. ‘I’m sorry, did I startle you?’

‘Aye lass that ya did, but not to worry.’ He reaches around my waist and drags me onto his lap. The bottom of my spine pressing against the hilt of his sword. ‘Ya can startle me anytime ya like.’ He winks and I chuckle at his brazenness.

‘It looks like you’re all out of liquor.’ I nod to the empty cups that I hold in my hands. ‘Would you like me to fill them up?’

He throws his head back and howls. ‘I’d like to fill you up!’  

This is my second evening of work, and already I’ve reached my limit of appalling innuendos. But of course, I need to be accommodating if I mean to earn. So instead of punching him in his face, I laugh to a magnified level; he does not seem to grasp my mockery. ‘And I cannot wait to overflow!’ I cringe at my own remark; he doesn’t seem to notice, he’s howling again. ‘But first, a drink!’ I smile broadly and squirm free of his embrace. His breath smelt heavily of sour wine, so I need not query his preference. ‘I shall be right back, don’t you dare move!’ I narrow my eyes playfully.

‘Wouldn’t dream of it.’ He smiles, his eyes defiling my body through my gown.

I stroll over to the bar, heading in the direction of Del and his intriguing companions, they are still engrossed in discussion, and Del is shaking his head in disbelief. ‘Utter recklessness, even if by some stroke of luck - bestowed to you by Fortych himself- you manage to find this ship, and this creature actually exists, then what? Hm? One cannot simply take a dragon, you’ll be cinders and ashes my good fellow, cinders and ashes!’ He throws his hands up in defeat.

I slam the cups down on the bar and all three men turn to glower at me. I suddenly regret my action. Del tries to shoo me away, but I stand firm and say. ‘Well actually, that depends on the breed. Not all dragons are fire breathers, for example a Golden Crest is only fatal in close proximity, for its poisonous bite is the killer, but it has no range. Not.. like..say.. Black Death, now they release something far worse than fire, they breathe complete destruction.’ I catch myself suddenly, reining in my enthusiastic sermon. All three men are gawping at me in disbelief.

‘Forgive her Reve, she’s new.’ Del says addressing the scarred man, then turns to me and says. ‘Ros, my dear girl, your tales of the unknown are most compelling. But please, you’re paid to fuck, not to enlighten.’

‘Sorry Del.’ I cast my eyes down and turn to seek service from Mara.

‘Wait.’ A gruff voice sounds, and I am compelled to face it. It’s the scarred man, his face burnt from the sun and prematurely wrinkled; his russet hair is swept back from his forehead and fixed with grease. He scratches at his unruly beard and continues. ‘How many breeds are we talking?’

 

‘Six, although the Red Worm is considered a parable by many, since there has been but one alleged sighting.’ I look away from his hard stare, and down at my feet.

Del chimes in. ‘Have you ever heard of anything so ridiculous? Dragons my arse. No one has seen nor heard anything in close to an age. I trust Reve that the ocean has finally sent you mad. And Ros, please, your encouragement is beginning to try me.’

‘That is not true, there are several recent accounts; one just needs to know where to look. Their numbers have certainly diminished over the years, for they no longer attack the cities. But travellers still report their sightings, especially over The Ahm peaks.’

Reve turns to Del beaming, his smile is dazzling and completely unexpected. He raises his brow and rasps. ‘I like her.’

‘Don’t smile Reve, it’s unnerving. And pray tell, my dear girl, how many dragons have you seen?’

‘Well....none.’ I say disheartened. ‘But that is irrelevant, just because I haven’t personally witnessed something does not make it unfounded.’

Del cocks his head on a side, sucking in air. ‘Well, that is where you and I differ. These are rumours, and I will not risk my life for such frivolity.’

‘What about a share in a hundred thousand bullion, would you risk your life for that?’ Reve grunts.

This appears to perk his interest. His head jerks and he stares hard at the wiry man. ‘This is what you should have opened with, Captain.’ His smile spreads across his captivating face.

‘Again, this depends on the breed. The more formidable, the higher the price. A hundred thousand may only be the beginning.’ I say. Reve is staring at me like I’m made from solid gold.

The burly bastard stood behind the Captain erupts into a fit of thunderous laughter. ‘Well fuck me sideways.’ He hollers.

A hand encircles my waist and wine scented breath hums in my ear. ‘I’m thirsty lass. What’s taking so long?’   

‘I thought I told you not to move.’ I chime my expression blank.

‘That you did lass aye, but I canny wait no longer, I thirst for wine and I thirst for your cunt.’ He reaches down and grabs my crotch.

‘Back off Hyatt.’ The Captain snarls.

‘Fuck you Reve, I saw her first. Besides we’re on land now. You’ve no rule over me.’

Without further warning Reve has his sword out, and the tip of the blade is resting against Hyatt’s throat. The speed at which this man moves is phenomenal. ‘I will always have rule over a wretch, now back off before I slice your neck open.’ He growls through gritted teeth.   

‘Alright, alright, calm down. Think you’ve made ya point.’ Hyatt pushes me towards the frightening Captain and backs away with his hands up. ‘Nicer looking whore’s in ere anyhow.’ And on that insulting note, the hat wearing fellow staggers across the room sloppily seizing his next target, a shocked looking Ariana. She quickly composes her pretty face, and begins to entice. I look away, somewhat resentful of her skill.

Staring hard at Reve; I have a compulsion to curse at him for ruining my opportunity. But my senses get the better of me.

‘Why does a harlot know so much about dragons?’ The big lad behind the captain asks.

‘I read.’ I say dryly, distractively looking around the room for a possible patron. I catch the eye of a plump middle aged man; he rubs at his bald head and smiles, a kind smile that I find reassuring. ‘Now, if you gentlemen will excuse me.’ I nod to Reve, smile at Del and move away.

‘Just a minute girl.’ The Captain grunts. ‘I need you to tell me everything you know.’

‘Ser, I would love to as my interest in these matters does not need much encouragement, but alas I have to work.’ I smile curtly and turn to leave again.

‘I’ll pay you.’ He rumbles.

I glance over at Del in confusion. ‘If the man wants to waste his money on parables of old, so be it.’ He quickly shrugs his shoulders. ‘Darling, I suggest you take his money.’ The he looks to the Captain. ‘Reve, you are crazy fool. One does not pay a whore for counsel.’ Sighing heavily he continues ‘But I see you’ve made up your damn mind. Be sure to take this somewhere private. We don’t want the whole of Vesale knowing our business.’ He scowls at me as he says this, obviously annoyed by my intrusion.

‘Shall we?’ Reve holds his arm out, signalling for me to lead the way.  ‘Don’t get too pissed Bailey, I need you with a clear head.’ He grunts to the big bloke.

Bailey leans his massive bulk against the bar and snorts. ‘Me? Nah, you’re confusing me with someone else Captain.’ His large eyes are fixed on me. I decide that he is exceptionally good-looking, and I have to force myself to look away from his chiselled face.

I make my way up the stairs and back into my quarters with Reve close behind, close the door and gesture for him to sit down on the bed. He sways across the room, unaccustomed to stagnant ground, and drops down onto the hard mattress, repositioning his sword before he collides. His eyes flickering to my exposed cleavage as I stand before him, so I fold my arms across my chest, he is paying for my words not my body. ‘So, what exactly is it you want to know?’

He scratches his oily head and says. ‘Everything. If I’m to take this beast, then I need to be armed with the facts. ’

‘And you’re just going to take my word for it? A whore’s word?’

‘What reason would you have to lie?’ He rasps; his cold eyes boring into me. ‘You’ve already spoken freely, without any incentive.’  

We study each other for a few moments, then I smile and say. ‘Firstly, you must know that this isn’t going to be easy. I worked in The Beast Trade for over three years, and I’ve never known of an actual dragon to come on the market, plenty of draglins but never a dragon. And we had some of the best trappers in Edora working for us. You see, dragons are a great accolade, so their pursuit of one is relentless.... yet they can never deliver. So, I simply must know who has managed to succeed where the best have failed?’

The Captain shifts uncomfortably in his seat, he clearly does not want to divulge unnecessary information. ‘Please, this is the only answer I want, and I shall not question you further.’

‘A rich noble from Pelor.’ He grunts suddenly. ‘All I know is, they’re shipping the creature back there from The Kraz Marsh, in three days time, and I plan to take them in the open water. You know as well as I that Pelor is unstable; imagine if they had a weapon like that in their clutches?’

I laugh brazenly. ‘Oh, I see, you’re doing this for the good of the country, for the wellbeing of all Edorians. My word Captain, you shall be deemed a hero!’

His face darkens, and the room undergoes a drop in temperature. ‘Don’t deride me girl. ..Now shut your mouth and give me what I need, like a good little whore.’ He smirks and his eyes move quickly over my body.

His strange expression causes me to shudder; I swallow hard and look at my feet. ‘Each breed is vastly different from the other, in their temperament, diet, size....I could go on Ser, and you’ll need to know the specifics if you plan on successfully handling this creature. Three days is not nearly enough time to divulge everything, unless of course you know the exact strain.’

‘Shit.’

From his curse, I conclude that he does not. ‘If I were to hazard a guess, I would say White Lythe. They are the smallest, therefore the easiest to contain and sedate. But how they even got close to one is a wonder...’ I shake my head in disbelief. ‘Transferring it from ship to ship without waking it will be crucial, for the call of A White Lythe will break your heart... literally, tear it in two.’

His head is in hands and he’s rubbing his face roughly. ‘What’s the worst case scenario? Which breed is the most deadly?’

‘Well, that would be Black Death. But they are three times the size of a war galleon. So I doubt it’s the one you’ll encounter.’ I smile at him, trying to ease the apprehension in the room. ‘Look, they are all fucking terrible in their own way; hence the gigantic price tag. Maybe you should reconsider your scheme?’

A look of complete exasperation flitters across his face. ‘Maybe you should keep your ill-informed opinions to yourself!’ He bellows. He’s up from the bed and pacing across the floor. ‘There will be a way, there is always a way. I cannot let this opportunity pass.’ He’s mumbling to himself in the way of a mad man. Then he pauses and glares at me. ‘You mentioned trappers? That you know some of the best?’

‘Y..yes...well I did, but as you can see, I no longer work for the company.’ I smile slyly to myself as an idea dawns on me. ‘Although, perhaps there is someone who might help.

‘Yes?’ He snaps.

‘His knowledge on these matters is almost as great as mine; and his trapper skills are second to none....but unfortunately his circumstance has taken a turn for the worst.’ I engage the Captain in an intense stare.     

‘How so?’ He says warily, but I can tell I have peaked his interest.

‘He’s in jail, and has a rather costly bail.’

Reve exhales nosily. ‘How much?’

‘Eighty Bullion.’ I exclaim, trying to remain cool and failing.

He lets out a low whistle, and shakes his head slowly.

‘Surely that is nothing in the grand scheme of things. If this is indeed a White Lythe, you’re looking at hundreds of thousands, if not more! This man is a great trapper and without him I doubt you will get within a hundred feet of the thing.’ I say this in great haste and Reve picks up on my desperation.

His smile is lecherous. ‘Your investment seems somewhat heightened, why so?’ He’s smiling widely, and it shows in his now sparkling eyes that shine in unison with his perfect teeth.

‘No reason, I just assumed you would want the best.’ I cannot hold his stare, for it makes me uncomfortable.

He laughs, a loud cutting sound. ‘I accept nothing but.’ He moves swiftly towards me. He’s standing inches away and lifts up my chin with his index finger, forcing me to look into his eyes. ‘What does this man mean to you?’

‘Nothing!’ I blurt pulling my face away from his touch.

‘Well now you are so obviously lying. Pray tell, how am I supposed to believe anything that falls from your mouth, um?’ He’s torn his eyes away from mine and they linger on my exposed flesh.

‘I’m sorry.’ I whisper, I need to appease him, he may be the only chance I have of freeing Kalcha. ‘He was my husband...is my husband. But that does not diminish what I said, he is a fine trapper. Ask anyone about Kalcha Leron and you will learn the truth of his standing.’ I force myself to look into his cold hard eyes.

He nods his head slowly, rubbing at his beard. ‘I believe you.’ His eyes back on my face. ‘What did the righteous Leron do? How does one as upstanding as he, wind up in custody?’

I look at Reve in confusion. ‘You know him?’

His unnatural smile breaks across his creased face. ‘I’ve heard of him.’ He starts to run his finger up and down the length of my neck. ‘Kalcha married a whore? Oh the irony is palpable.’ He’s still smiling, and it makes me uneasy.     

My heart is racing as I jerk away from his touch. ‘This is a recent turn of events....he is unaware of my fate.’

He laughs. ‘He will be enlightened soon enough.’

A feeling of hopefulness ascends, I smile expectantly. ‘Does this mean, you will fund his bail?’

He nods his head slowly, his powerful stare piercing through me. ‘But if I am to free your husband, I expect a little something in return.’

I groan inwardly, it was obvious from his vulgar leering where he wanted this to go. ‘Ser, I believe my guidance will suffice as payment. You desired only my knowledge, nothing else.’

He snorts. ‘What you’ve told me is not worth five Bullion, let alone eighty.’

‘You will gain a vital crew member. And I too will readily offer you my advice, but my body was never on offer.’ The idea of fucking this man is not entirely vile. For sure, he has a look of a frightening savage, but as far as patrons go he is somewhat striking. But if there is a way to avoid copulation, then I will seek it.

‘I think that you’ve forgotten that you no longer sit behind a fancy desk, negotiating with wealthy lords and ladies. You work in a brothel now girl, so your body is always on offer.’ I spy him swallow and his eyes mist over with salaciousness as he drinks me in.  His calloused finger now running across the top of my breasts.

Breath is caught in my throat and my body involuntarily shudders. Arguing with this unmoving man is futile. So I will do it, to free Kalcha; besides this is my occupation. So I move closer to him, grabbing his shirt collar and roughly pulling his face to mine, he snarls at me like a feral dog. Grabs at the skirt of my dress and hitches it upwards, his hands coarse and firm against the softness of my thighs. Our noses are touching, but we do not kiss, we just stare hard at each other as he tugs my dress up and over my head, tossing it across the room. I am rendered naked, as his hard hands squeeze and pinch my buttocks, he’s sliding a finger down my crevice and probing for my arse hole, I gasp loudly as he forces a finger inside. His mouth is pressed against my ear, his breath hot and quick. I wrap my arms around his neck, squeezing our bodies together as he assaults my tight arse with his finger, the growing bulge in his britches is pressed against my sex. He’s growling in my ear, and the impurity is inciting.

‘Get on the bed.’ He grunts.

I pull away, my eyes locked on him. I back up quickly towards the bed, sit down on the edge and shunt backward till my bare back is pressed against the headboard. I draw my knees up and part them, lick three of my fingers and begin to rub myself gently, all the while holding his ominous stare; my nipples immediately hardening under his scrutiny.

His smile is different now; it oozes a bestial longing that matches the look in his eye.  He raises his baldric over his head, and lets the sword crash onto the floor; the resonating clang does not draw his focus from me. I start rubbing myself faster, making little whimpering noises to entice him further. I watch as he unbuckles his belt, which he has accessorised with several smaller blades, he lets that drop to the floor as well. Swiftly he yanks his cotton shirt over his head, revealing a lean muscular torso and a sprinkling of auburn chest hair. His disrobing has disturbed his slicked back hair, and a thick strand hangs in front of his face, obscuring his view, he flicks his head back quickly removing the obstruction. He’s still grinning at me as he wrenches down his trousers and underwear, he steps out of them and moves towards the bed. His cock is almost fully erect; the sight of its impressive length jutting out causes me to rub faster, I feel myself dampen.

He climbs onto the bed and crawls towards me, his eyes flicking between my stare and my open legs, his lewd smirk still plastered across his face. I start to let out little moans and crumple my face, as if the distance between our two bodies is a torture. He’s kneeling between my legs watching me pleasure myself, his hand is on his cock and he’s rubbing it slowly, up and down the shaft, and squeezing the head, hard. He reaches out with his free hand and fondles my breast kneading it roughly between his fingers. ‘How do you sedate a dragon?’ He asks breathlessly.

‘I’ve told you.’ I gasp, watching as he rolls my sensitive nipple between his solid fingers. ‘It depends....it all depends on the breed.’ I whine as my excitement rises, I insert a finger inside myself, encouraging my cunt to moisten further.

‘Herbs?’ He asks as he speeds up his strokes.

‘Y...yes...mainly...fungus... pounded into a solution.’ We’re watching each other so intently; I’m squirming on the bed, longing for his cock to be inside me. ‘Coat your arrows with it... get it into the blood stream.’ 

‘If you knew the breed, you’d know the formula?’ He grunts raggedly, his hand moving so quickly up and down his shaft that it’s become a blur.

‘Yes.’ I hiss, pushing myself up so my face is an inch away from his, our heavy breathing in unison. ‘Now Captain, are you going to fuck me or what?’

He starts to laugh, softly at first, but growing louder until it fills the small chamber. ‘I want to watch you...watch me.’  He pulls my nipple, stretching and twisting it between cruel fingers. ‘I want you to make yourself come.’ He growls again in my ear.

I push another two fingers inside my wet pussy and begin to quickly fuck myself with them, my mouth open and my breath jagged. The dirty smile on the Captains face sending a tingling sensation over every inch of my naked body.

‘What’s the biggest, after Black Death?’ His hand still working his length, I watch on intently as he knocks my hand away from my cunt and proceeds to rub at it with his erection, propping himself over my body and slapping his dick against my pussy. I lift my hips up, trying to coerce him inside, but he draws back, my juices covering his cock, making it easier for him to rapidly work it, up and down. 

I cry out in utter frustration, my hand back between my legs and flicking at my clit, building up the fire. ‘..ummm..’ I can’t think straight, I try to gather my thoughts for an answer, but I just want Reve to fuck me, why won’t he fuck me?  ‘Green Blaze.’ I blurt as it suddenly comes to me.   

‘How big?’ He snarls. Why is he doing this? It’s sheer cruelty.

I can’t help but stare at his cock as he asks me this, smirking at his full delicious length. ‘Big enough...big enough..I don’t know..Oh gods..please!’

He laughs again, quickening his velocity. ‘I’m close, so very close, I want you to peak with me...make yourself come.’ He snarls in my face.

He pushes two fingers inside me and I cry out at full volume from his eventual touch, he pushes them in deeply, plunging them in and out of my hole while he strokes himself into a  fever.

He scrunches his face up and hollers as his seed comes jetting out and across my belly, the sight of which sends me over the edge, my fingers slapping against my clit, my whole body quivering in pleasure, I scream as my orgasm takes complete control. ‘Yes, oh fucking yes!’ I shriek. My back arches and my head bangs against the headboard. I can hear Reve laughing boisterously, his fingers still inside me, still fucking me.

I slump back as the last few drops of pleasure trickle away, breathing raggedly I stare up at the stained ceiling.  The Captain roughly withdraws his fingers and shifts himself to the edge of the bed. He stands and sways towards his discarded clothes, I find myself staring at his firm buttocks as he bends to drag on his trousers, I bite my bottom lip and smile at the pleasing sight. He turns around to look at me as he fastens up the cord, and grins brazenly. ‘You said that Leron’s knowledge is almost as great as your own?’ He’s fastening up the buttons on his cotton shirt now.

‘Yes.’ I murmur as I run my finger across the span of my stomach, my eyes glazing over.

‘Almost....almost  is not good enough.’ He snarls, strapping his weapons belt around his waist and reaching for his dropped baldric.

I jerk upright, suddenly worried by his assertion. ‘What do you mean?’

He remains silent as he fumbles around in his pocket and produces several bullion coins, placing them on the nightstand. ‘For your troubles.’ He says, leering at my naked form.  

I start to panic, convincing myself that he is going back on his word. ‘You will not find a better trapper in Vesale.’ I snap frantically, studying his unyielding face.

He nods slowly. ‘I know, and his position is vital. But knowledge is also a great weapon, and as you are aware, I want the best.’ He stares hard at me, and then turns to leave, swaying across the room and tugging open the door. ‘I will see you tomorrow.’ He rasps without looking back.

The door slams shut, and I slump back down on the bed. My head reeling with the possible indication of his words.      

Chapter Five: Unproved.

‘You’re married?’ Nila asks, taken aback.

I nod solemnly and grab the corner of the bed sheet, the smell of lavender soap wafts towards me as I shake it brusquely, drawing out the creases. ‘For eight years.’ I say quietly as I tuck the sheet   under the mattress and move down the length of the bed, to repeat the process.  

‘Fucking hell, you must’a been young, too young to make a commitment like that’ She exclaims, copying my actions at her side of the bed.

‘I was fourteen.’ I say dryly.

‘I’d two years of whoring under me belt by then.’ She smiles as if proud of the fact. ‘So where is he now? The ‘usband?’

‘He’s not around.’ I snap, as I finish the unexciting task of bed making.

‘Alright, keep ya fucking panties on.’ She rolls her grey eyes at me and gathers up the dirty sheets that we’d discarded on the floor. ‘Speaking of panties... did they get all wet for your first punter?’ She sniggers sarcastically.

I stare at her completely straight-faced. ‘What the fuck do you think?’

She throws her head back and laughs in the brash way that she does. ‘Come on, he want that bad, I mean once ya looked passed the warts, he was kinda...’ She grimaces and shakes her head ‘No... I got nothing.’

‘Let’s speak no more of this!’ My body involuntarily shudders as I recall last night. His hefty frame writhing on top of me, the smell of horse manure and sweat seeping through his pours. I had drunk a lot of rum before hand, which isn’t usually encouraged but Del was very understanding. What with it being my first time and the man being borderline repulsive, in-fact he insisted I drink. Fortunately it was all over in five thrusts; he clearly had a passion for immobile, dead eyed women.

‘You’re no fun!’ She cries, making her way to the door.

 ‘Because I do not find it amusing! Oh Nila, it was so horrendous, I just wept and wept’ I follow her out of the door and onto the open landing. Fingers of sunlight are reaching through the filth stained windows, highlighting the flaking paintwork and the multitude of cobwebs that possess every nook and cranny.  Even though the lodgings are somewhat shabby they still have a certain charm.              

‘What did you expect? Men that av to pay for it ain’t gonna be fucking deities!’ She throws the dirty sheets on top of the growing mound of linen.    

‘I am not completely delusional. It was just a shock, I thought I would be better equipped to cope with it, but I was a mess!’ I bend down to collect the clean bedding that I’d laid out on the landing.

Nila raps on the door to the final room and we wait for a response; none transpire so we head into the empty chamber to strip the bed. ‘Don’t worry, you’ll get there. I find if I close my eyes and make a shit load of noise, I can trick my body into believing its ‘aving a good time. Plus, you started off with a horror, I mean in all fairness he was fucking repulsive. The only way to go is up, right?’ She smiles unconvincingly.

‘I suppose.’

It took my injuries over two weeks to heal to a satisfactory stage, with the aid of creams and curative potions.  Del made many thorough inspections of my arse in that time, but to my shock and slight frustration, he never once initiated sex. He was always his overly charming self, full of compliments and little quips, yet his hands never strayed beyond my wounds  and his eyes never wandered. This confused and saddened me in equal measures.

I remember longing for the day I could start work properly and begin saving some bullion, in hopes of fulfilling my promise to Kalcha. I believed I would be eased in slowly, but Mr Warty- I don’t know his name - as I mentioned early I was exceedingly drunk by this point- wanted more than just a hand job. I recall dry heaving into the privy for the remainder of the evening, Del was very compassionate and gave me the rest of the night off; he even rubbed my back as I wretched.    

We finish up the last room and collect the dirty washing, sharing the burden equally. ‘I reckon Del will let you ‘ave tonight off you know, he felt well bad, should have given that bloke to one of the seasoned girls.’

I look at her in astonishment. ‘Why is he so kind? I would never deem a whore master to be thus.’

She screws her face up. ‘Fucking talk normal would ya?’

‘Sorry: why’s the fucker so nice?’ I try to mimic her common tone but fail, cringing at my own intonation.

‘Don’t do that again.’ She scowls at me then says. ‘I think his mother was a whore or summat.’

‘I severely doubt that, he’s far too eloquent.’ I pucker my brow at the absurdity of a man so gracious coming from the loins of a whore.

‘You forget ya’self, and have insulted both of us in the process. Besides he was brought up by his father, some seafaring noble I think, I dunno, Mara is the best person to ask about these things, I’ve not been ‘ere a year.’

We make our way downstairs with the soiled linen. It’s mid morning so the The Axe is deserted of cliental. Mara is behind the bar, rubbing frantically at the cups with a rag, she’s wearing a blouse unbuttoned quite low, revealing her full breasts that trembling with the effort, I find myself entranced by their delightful movement. Our presence draws her from the all encompassing task, she looks up from the cup, smiles and winks at me, my knees nearly give way. ‘Dump it by the back door my little loves. Lilian can take it out back and scrub it, since she does sod all else. She can’t even wash these darn cups properly’ She smiles her beautiful smile, a flash of white teeth and red lips.

‘I’ll do it. I don’t mind.’ I say, which is a lie, but I feel the need to endeavour to a degree, since I have been living free for the past several weeks.

‘Well ain’t you a little grafter? Unlike others I could mention. Put it by the backdoor and come sit down, I want you both to try something.’ She says with such zeal making it impossible to dispute.  

We trudge through the bar and into the stuffy kitchen, where Lilian is sat crossed legged on the counter, staring vacantly at her nails. Her hair flowing freely across her shoulders covering up her knife ears. But her features are so razor-sharp you needn’t see the ears to know of her Elven roots. She glances up as we lumber through, her purple eyes flicking between us.  

‘Mara says you gotta wash these.’ Nila snaps.

‘Tell her she can do it herself.’ Chirps the Elf, her attention back on her nails.

‘I don’t fucking think so, get off your fat arse and do something!’ It doesn’t take much for Nila to release her wrath.

Lilian is staring daggers at the small blonde. ‘I’m busy.’ She says firmly and slowly.

‘You’re a fucking waste of space!’ She screams as she marches straight to the backdoor, tugs it open and throws the linen out into the muck covered yard.

‘For the love of the gods.’ I mutter under my breath, as the angry little thing stomps over to me, pulls the washing from my grip and hurls them out as well, then she proceeds to jump up and down on them in her bare feet, swathing the sheets in filth. Lilian and I stare on, both unmoved by this typical eruption.

She ceases the demented feat and looks over to Lilian, gasping for air, then calmly says  ‘I suggest you sort this before Mara notices, and I suggest you do it now.’

Lilian looks away shaking her head, her full attention back on her nails. ‘Whatever... Crazy bitch.’

Nila’s eyes spark with rage, she jerks towards the elf as if to clobber her, but I swiftly intervene. Jumping between them both. ‘Don’t be bloody stupid.’ I say, as I grab her slim arms and slowly manoeuvre her back out into the bar, her eyes are glued to mine; I can’t help but chuckle at her as she struggles free from my clutch, so much rage in such a little parcel.

A scowl followed by a  laugh, then she dryly says. ‘Handled that well.’

I snort and slap her arm as we amble over to the bar. I pull out one of the discoloured stools, scraping it back over the wooden floor, its cushion an unsightly mixture of brown and grey stains. I flop down onto it wearily. Nila does the same and glances at me in expectation, curious about what is to follow.  

‘You girls ok?’ Mara asks, not looking up from the taxing operation of cup cleaning, her face twisted with focus and ire. How is it that she still remains flawless even when her features are awry? ‘Heard you had a rough night Ros? It gets easier, I promise.’ She looks at me with her big black eyes, her sympathy radiating through her gaze.  

‘I need to man up’ I mumble under my breath, I feel as though I’ve let myself and everyone else down, their patience and understanding only adding to my downer. 

She burst into a fit of delightful laughter. ‘You should do the exact opposite of that. A man is rendered defenceless when confronted with a beautiful, naked woman. We have them when they are at their most vulnerable. Always remember, you are in control.’ Her expression changes to a stern glance.

I nod, and stare at my hands, her attention causing my cheeks to burn.

She laughs again, breaking the tension ‘And here endeth the lesson. Now.. I’ve been experimenting with some herbs, incorporating their properties into the booze. Making them taste sweeter and possibly giving you more of a buzz, you girls fancy trying a few?’

I open my mouth to consent immediately but Nila gets there first. ‘You want us to be your fucking guinea pigs?’ She barks.

 ‘A simple no would have sufficed.’ Mara utters despairingly.  

‘I can’t very well say no to you can I? Del will be on me case for weeks.’

The dark skinned beauty closes her eyes and sighs impatiently. ‘They are not going to harm you, if anything they may have some health benefits.’

‘May have some health benefits? You don’t have a fucking clue about alchemy, I may sprout another head!’

‘Well then you’d be an innovation. Imagine the extra cliental you’d entice as a two headed whore, you’d truly prosper. Us on the other hand would suffer terribly, could you imagine her with two gobs? Bloody hell...she’d be even more insufferable.’ Her eyes glint at me. ‘Don’t look at me like that Nila, I’m only playing. I’m not going to force you to do something you don’t want to do. Besides I was going to have a drink with you.’

This seems to cool her somewhat. ‘Oh, well. As long as it ain’t nothing too strong, I ‘ave to work tonight.’

Mara nods her understanding and reaches under the bar, bringing up two  little wooden casks. She points to the left one ‘This is rum infused with Lovers Bush.’ And then to the right. ‘This is brandy instilled with Speckled Silverleaf.’ She smiles contentedly at us.

‘That means fuck all to me... I’ll have the brandy.’ Nila, puts her elbows on the bar and rests her head in her hands. 

Mara deftly pours a small amount of the brandy into a cup, and hands it to the blonde. ‘Now go steady you hear? Silverleaf is a slight stimulate, and your mouth doesn’t need any more of that.’ She turns her attention to me. ‘Rum?’ She quickly dispenses the brown liquid and slides the cup towards me.

‘Why not?’I say with a shrug of my shoulders. ‘What’s Lovers Bush do?’

‘Well.....’

The double doors to The Axe bursts open, flooding the large room with a pool of bright light and sending a tornado of dust across its path. A fraught looking Del swaggers into the room, his gaping shirt falling off one shoulder. ‘Oh fucking bollocks.’ He bellows. ‘Mara, my wonderful lady, pour me a drink, a strong one, without delay!’ His affluent voice fills the room. All three of us stare at him in astonishment.

‘But Del, my love, you cannot hold your drink.’ The stunning woman croons.

He struts over to the bar and plonks himself down on a wobbly stool, steadying himself by seizing onto the bar. He looks Mara meaningfully in the eyes and says ‘Bastue’s Bitch has docked.’ His wide eyes do not leave the woman’s face, after a moment he takes hold of her hands and presses them to his forehead. ‘Do you know what this means?’ He wails.

Nila and I both look at each other in confusion, I knock back a mouthful of the modified rum; the taste is unaffected.  

‘Do you think Reve’s will summon you?’ Mara asks calmly.

‘Perhaps.. Possibly.. Most certainly!’ He raises his head and gazes at her, still clutching her hands. ‘I suppose it all depends on how much he’s aggravated the crew.’  

‘But, this is what you’ve been waiting for.’ She shakes her head in confusion.

‘Oh Mara, my lovely sweet Mara. How I longed for the open sea, the smell of salt in the air and the feel of a swaying deck beneath my feet. But that was before, before...’ He pauses and stares so intently at her I feel he might cry,  swallowing a lump he says. ‘I am torn.’

I knock back some more rum, and spy Nila out of the corner of my eye helping herself to another cup, I turn and smirk, shaking my finger in mock reproach.

‘Do you still want that drink my love?’ Mara asks, stroking his hair.

‘No, you are right, of course, I cannot manage my consumption. It would be a calamity!’ He turns his head and notices Nila and I for the first time, up until this moment we had not existed, only Mara. I am not going to lie, it stings like Scarlet Nettles. ‘Do you know what would cheer me up?...’ He asks looking at all three of us in turn. ‘ ...A foursome.’ His wicked grin is back with a vengeance, along with a rapid brow raise.

Mara quickly pulls away from his clutches, rolling her eyes. ‘You’re a fiend! She cries.

I’m  giggling like a child and I hear Nila snort loudly. ‘That would be a damn cluster fuck Del and you know it!’ She exclaims.

‘A cluster fuck of sheer pleasure. A pleasure I may not experience again for some time. Come now, let us all retire to the boudoir and embark on a beautiful, naked, journey together!’

I knock back the final mouthful of liquor, I’m feeling somewhat inclined to agree, for some reason it is sounding like a jolly good idea, I giggle again.

Del grins at me, his smouldering smile that entices the coldest of hearts. ‘Ros, I knew you wouldn’t let me down!’

‘Unless ya paying I’m out.’ Nila snaps.

‘Pay? Pay? Girl I fucking own you.’ He says this with a smile still plastered across his face. I pray that Nila doesn’t bite.

Luckily Mara steps in before it escalates further. She takes his head in her hands and runs a long slender finger down the length of his cheeks. ‘Am I not enough for you?’ She coos. Her voice and demeanour set to full seduction.

He appears to melt beneath her touch. ‘My lady, you are simply more than I deserve.’ His voice is soft and coated in lust. He leans in and presses his mouth to hers and she grasps a handful of his hair, moaning against his lips.

I force myself to look away, swallowing hard; my jealousy an utter confusion. I instinctively reach for the casket and decant more alcohol into my cup, gulping it back quickly. I seem to be squirming on my  stool, the flattened cushion beneath me is feeling quite agreeable. I look over to Nila, she is watching the couple intently, her pale eyes glazed over with yearning. ‘I don’t think I can watch this.’ I whisper to her.’

Nila swiftly grabs one of the casks from the bar and tries to conceal it in the bust of her dress, but fails miserably, the cask distorting her bosom to a rather freakish level. ‘Let’s go get piss drunk.’ She whispers, grinning roguishly. I find my gaze lingering on the gaping seam of her gown, her tits almost visible, I shunt forward in my seat encouraging the tingling between my thighs.

Glancing over at the embracing couple, I notice that Mara has been dragged over the bar, her back pressed against it, she’s untying the lace of his britches and he has his hand up her blouse. ‘Are they just going to fuck, right here?’ I ask stunned.

‘Yep, come on.’ She’s tugging on my arm and has me out of my seat, we’re scurrying across the bar and towards the stairs.

‘You’re working tonight!’ Del bellow towards us, his face pulled away from Mara as she smothers his neck and chest with kisses, nimbly working his stiffening cock. ‘Do you think I can’t see the cask up your dress girl?’ He says breathlessly, his arousal interrupting his regulation. ‘Oh.. Fuck it.. Be gone, the pair of you!’ He cries out, and clings onto the bar for dear life. ‘But be back down at dusk...both...of...you.’ He winks at me, and I giggle my response. Then he grabs Mara’s face in his hands, kissing her passionately and grinds his body against her.

 I stand gawping at the delicious sight, their two striking forms twisted together. Above all my better judgement I long to go over and join in with the indulgence. I part my lips and find myself moaning along with Del. If it wasn’t for Nila pulling on my hand I believe it would  be up my skirt.

‘Come on!’ She cries impatiently.

We rush up stairs and into my quarters, I slam the door and lean against it, practically panting. ‘Shit, I’m working tonight.’ But for some reason the idea doesn’t fill me with dread, for some reason I think I could handle Mr Warty right now. I start laughing like a lunatic.

‘What the fuck is wrong with you?’  Nila barks, she’s laid on my bed, her arms behind her head, her legs drawn up and her knees parted, her gauzy dress gathered around the top of her legs.   

‘I haven’t a clue.’ I watch her bring her knees together then part them again, a completely innocent act but it feels like a seduction. ‘Do you feel funny?’ I ask.

‘I feel like I should be cleaning, or running, or cleaning and running. Or fucking, I should be fucking...and cleaning.’ She bolts upright on the bed. ‘Do ya think Del is leaving?’

‘I don’t know.’ My head is warm and fuzzy, and for some reason it feels so good to clench my jaw. I’m finding the sound of my own breathing arousing. ‘We should have another drink.’ I look at her and grin.

‘We should, that is a fucking great idea; you’re amazing.’ She snatches the cask from the nightstand, lifts it over her head and releases the valve, letting the liquid dribble into her mouth.

I drift over across room and plonk down next to her, she positions the cask over my head and dispenses the booze into my open mouth, starring deeply into my eyes. ‘You brought the rum, well done.’ I say wiping at my lips with the back of my hand. I close my eyes and listen to the sound of my  breathing, then flop backwards onto my bed, arch my back and roll my head from side to side.

Nila drops down next to me giggling, a gorgeous sound that I feel compelled to emulate. I turn my face towards her, running my finger from the top of her forehead and along her button nose, her eyes are closed and a satisfied smile spreads across her face. She’s moaning as I trace the outline of her lips.

Giggling again she stares at me fervidly, the next thing I know her lips are pressed against mine and her soft tongue is exploring my wilful mouth. I grab her waist and pull her on top of me, her slight weight making her easy to manoeuvre. She pulls away from my kiss and straddles my waist, hitching up my skirt in the process, the feel of her supple hands brushing against my flesh sends a shudder through my entire body. I prop myself up on my elbows and watch her fixedly as she grasps the hem of her dress and winches it up and over her head. She’s naked beside a flimsy pair of white panties, I take a moment to bask in the beauty of her pert breasts and firm stomach. Impulsively I reach out with the tips of my fingers and gently caress her sex through the thin material, she smiles and her eyes glint with hunger. I bolt up upright, kissing her lovely lips in a fever and slipping my fingers inside her undergarments, she begins grinding against my digits. Her moaning distorted from the potency of our clinch. I can feel myself grow moist from her silky tongue in my mouth and the feel of her dampening cunt on my finger tips, she’s making the most delightful sounds that send my head whirling. I easily slip two fingers inside her, bearing upwards in fast succession, she meets me with her own eager drive.

She pulls away from my face and cries out in bliss, then presses her lips to my ear and whispers. ‘I’m so wet, you’re making me so fucking wet.’

She starts tearing at the bust of my dress, pulling it down over my shoulders and ripping it apart, exposing my tits. She smiles agreeably at the sight and takes my left breast in her mouth, sucking and flicking her tongue over my rigid nipple. I watch her with fascination, my mouth hanging open at the delectable display. I start to wiggle my fingers inside her, front to back faster and harder, her pussy growing wetter by the second. She jerks away from my breast and screams at the top of her lungs ‘For the love of Freisa don’t stop!’

I stare in wide eyed wonder as she squirms around on my lap, leaning back so I can fully absorb the luscious view. ‘Do you like that?’ I ask as I speed up the motion, slipping another finger inside and pushing harder against her now dipping wet hole, her cunt so warm and so tight around my extremities.   

‘Yes, Yes! Oh fucking yes!’ She’s  practically screaming the building down.

I laugh loudly, pushing my fingers so hard and so rapidly into her, that the frenzied motion seems removed from me. I begin to slow down as her breathing becomes erratic. ‘You’re fucking exquisite.’ I moan.

In this moment she is the most beautiful creature I have ever laid eyes on, her pleasure is my pleasure, every time she moans my entire being throbs with ecstasy. I long to press my bare flesh against hers, placing my hands on her narrow waist I flip her onto her back. Standing up I shake myself free from my gown, while Nila shuffles back and rests her head on the pillow. She’s looking at me enticingly and fondling herself, pushing her hips upwards to greet her fingers. I bite my lip as my eyes glaze over.

‘I want you Ros’ She pants.

I crawl onto the bed and position myself between her open legs, I lean down and Kiss her gorgeous mouth, letting my tongue explore every inch. I grab her slender wrists and pin her arms above her head, she’s laughing and thrusting herself towards me, teasing me. I straddle her thigh, and inch my pussy towards hers, she’s spreading her legs further apart and angling herself so that we collide. I let go of her wrists and clutch her waist as I grind against her cunt, gently at first, savouring the feel of her warm wet slit against mine. I watch as her face breaks out into a heavenly smile, we cannot tear our eyes away from each other. I begin to hump faster, the heat of the friction building to a searing height. Backwards and forward, backwards and forwards I coerce my body at such a speed, humping and grinding, both of us crying out with pleasure.

She’s pushed herself forward and lifted her arse off the bed, rubbing against me with an animalistic urge,  pushing me onto my back, her face pressed against mine. I can feel her hot breath on my mouth. I kiss her nose playfully, then lick at her lips. I’m flat on my back and she’s kissing my neck, moving onto my breasts and swirling her tongue around my nipple. ‘I’m going to make you come so hard.’ She groans, her kisses travel down my stomach and pause just above my aching sex, I whimper with frustration, my pussy so hot it feels ablaze. She teases me further with little kisses on the inside of my thighs, looking me in the eye as she carries out the tantalizing act. I start to push myself towards her, I yearn so much, that if she does not perform at once I fear I may explode.

‘You’re mean to me. Stop teasing.’ I whimper.

She  smiles deviously as she positions her face before my waiting sex, she’s so close I can feel her warm breath against my clit, the gentle caress sending my mind whirling. She flicks out with her tongue, and I jerk backwards from the sudden contact, the pressure to much for me to bear. She laughs wickedly then buries her face between my legs, her tongue lashing at me in a frenzy, I’m screaming and writhing, grasping at the sheets beneath me. She’s slowing right down, circling my clit with her gentle strokes, my body relaxes and my breathing slows, I start to push my hips towards her face and she immediately speeds up again in response, I put my fingers in my mouth, wetting them and start circling my nipple recklessly. Nila is devouring me, pushing her fingers inside my dripping hole and lapping at my clit, I can’t take it anymore, the combination of inflated sensations and the sultry vision of her between my legs is like an upsurge of bliss that pounds against me. If the Gods truly exist then this must be their realm. I scream at the top of my lungs. ‘Yes, yes, yes!’ My back arches and I push my pussy hard against her face as I come, she grabs my buttocks as I lift them from the bed and pulls me further towards her, her face submerged in me. Wave upon wave of pure unadulterated pleasure crashes against me, the force of  it nearly renders me unconscious. I involuntarily clamp my legs around her head, and squeeze my nipple harder, clutching at the last few moments of paradise. My body collapses on the bed, I’m desperately gasping for air, my eyes shut tight as the room appears to be spinning.

Nila is chuckling to herself, as she rises up from between my thighs, her face smeared in my juices. I laugh with her, then let out a long satisfied sigh.

‘My turn!’ She blurts, grabbing my arms and pulling me on top of her, we’re kissing again, softly and quickly, I can taste myself on her lips. I run my hand down her taut little body, taking one of her hard nipples in my mouth and flicking the other with my finger, she giggles her approval. I bury my hand between her hot thighs, and she spreads her legs as far as she can, while I continue sucking on her tit. She’s so wet, making it easy to massage her sex in large circles, encompassing all of it. I pull away from her breast and push myself up on my knees, so I have the  perfect view for when I make her come. I very slowly and very gently circle her pleasure spot with two fingers, and with my other hand push two inside her, slowly fucking her with them. She’s gazing at me, and groaning, her breathing becoming faster and heavier. I keep the pressure on her clit very light, and move my fingers inside her in a circular motion, it doesn’t take long before she’s screaming her delight. Her whole body quivering, her eyes shut tight, she turns her face and buries it in the pillow, stifling her cries. I can feel her pussy contracting around my fingers, and her clit throbbing, her whole body writhing underneath my touch, I smile widely at my accomplishment. ‘That feels so fucking good, don’t stop!’ she bellows into the pillow. I speed up the movement inside her, and start to really fuck her hard, thrusting my fingers in and out while she’s shrieking and squirming on the bed. Suddenly her legs slam shut around my hand, and her body falls motionless. 

I slowly remove my fingers from inside her and yank my hand free from her locked legs. I start laughing again, my whole body shaking with force. ‘Well, that was fun.’ I say collapsing beside her, my rowdy laugher dwindling to a titter.

‘Ummm…if only it was always like that.’ She says dreamily. I’ve never seen Nila look so still, so satisfied. Her eyes flutter open and she turns her head towards me. ‘Think of all the pleasure we could ‘ave ‘ad beforehand, if you hadn’t been so fucking hesitant.’ Her tranquil demeanour fades away and Nila is back.

‘I’m terribly sorry that it took me so long to acclimatize. You must understand how foreign your world is to me? And besides, I didn’t know that friends covet one another like this, the lines are somewhat blurred.’ The pleasant whirling in my head is dwindling, and I long for a drink.  

‘This is your world now, a whore’s world. This is what we do, we fuck, be it for money or pleasure and what’s more...you ain’t my friend.’ She screws her face up as if repulsed by the word. ‘You’re my competition.’

I’ve never had many friends in my life, not since childhood, and I was torn away from that ahead of time. Kalcha was my whole life, but since my marriage had grown stale my work replaced him. I threw myself into the learnings of other species, and the art of selling. The fact I surpassed most my contemporaries did not win me any friends. It doesn’t look as though much will change in that respect. I sigh deeply and look away from her. ‘So you fuck the competition?’ I say dryly, wounded by her words.  

‘Look, let’s not make this weird. I wanted it, you wanted it, so we did it. End of.’ She sits up and flings her legs over the side of the bed, standing.

‘Fine.’ I say, reaching for the crumpled bed sheet and covering myself with it.

She’s tugging her dress over her head, smoothing out the creases. ‘You’re sulking now ain’t ya?’

I turn my back on her and draw my knees up to my chest. ‘No.’

She snorts. ‘Yeah you are. What is it you want? We work together that’s it, and considering the nature of our trade I’m struggling to understand why you’re upset.’

‘What does it matter to you anyway.’ I spit. Since we’re not friends I do not need to explain myself to her, not that I would know where to begin as I do not understand it myself.

‘It fucking doesn’t.’ She bites. I hear her stomping across the room and the latch on the door lifting, then the room filling with a loud crash as she slams the door, the sound vibrating in my ears long after her departure.

I feel like I’m plummeting down from the heights of elation. Cold fingers are wrapping around my spine and angst has replaced the warmness in my mind. I feel fucking horrible. I toss and turn under the thin sheet, spying the cask of doped rum I scowl at it, concluding on the fact that Lover’s Bush is utterly toxic.