Dark Prince Of Anfall

Dark Prince of Anfall

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Therese MacFarland

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Dark Prince of Anfall By

Thérèse MacFarland Triskelion Publishing www.triskelionpublishing.com

Published by Triskelion Publishing www.triskelionpublishing.com 15508 W. Bell Rd. #101, PMB #502, Surprise, AZ 85374 U.S.A. First e-published by Triskelion Publishing First e-publishing June 2005 ISBN 1-933471-25-5 Copyright © Therese MacFarland 2005 All rights reserved. Cover art by Triskelion Publishing PUBLISHER’S NOTE: This is a work of fiction. Names, characters places, and incidents are the product of the author’s imagination. Any resemblance to persons living or dead, business establishments, events or locales is entirely coincidental.

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Prologue

She watched, bemused, as the exquisite young man tossed and turned in agony. His tanned naked body glistened with sweat, and he winced as if in pain and moaned low cries for help. Gri-Lasa sat for a few moments longer, chin propped on her palm, studying the Prince’s handsome features, wondering if she were making the right choice. Perhaps she should keep him for herself. He wouldn’t make a poor consort—brave, gifted, intelligent and certainly a man worthy of a goddess’s bed. Compelling. A bit reckless, a bit quirky. Charming, really, she thought. Gri-Lasa laughed at herself. Every time she took a human form, the burning pull of base traits assaulted and surprised her. What would it hurt? To reach out and stroke the Prince’s swollen cock and watch his response, to take him inside and give him pleasure beyond his experience, beyond his imaginings? A crackle in the air and the silent sound of shifting energy broke her train of thought for a moment. Another young man crossed to the Land. Timothy. What a sad, tortured soul. No matter, she thought, he’ll heal in time.

So much more appropriate.

And evocatively

handsome too. Gri-Lasa sighed as she pushed down fantasies of the dark-haired Prince, who now reached down his glistening torso to grasp at his cock. It seemed to bring more torture than pleasure, and he moaned again for release. “Wait a little longer, my sweet. You have battles ahead beforehand. Remember me and remember her. And give me the child who will save the Great Lands from its misery.” Gri-Lasa held her palm over his forehead and he sighed in satisfaction, the strain easing from his face. “I had best leave you, Prince, before my human form tempts me to actions I may regret.” I have created a man sexually obsessed.

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No doubt he’d find another pretty loyal subject, anxious for a taste of his charms, only to discard her. Gri-Lasa ensured that only one woman would ever fulfill his needs. Only the one she chose for him—Tarana Anthlasan. “Here she comes,” she whispered. “You want only her.” He gasped as Tarana entered his dream. Gri-Lasa shimmered into the night air, leaving Sennsárin to his ephemeral exploits.

Senn felt his mouth go dry at the sight of her. Tarana’s allure never failed. This time, she entered from the balcony, slowly pulling away the thin veils of silken fabric from her body as she approached him.. She stood a foot away from the bed, gazing down the length of his body, pausing to admire his cock. He felt the blood harden him further and his cock fill to bursting with need. The ache was unbearable, and he reached out to pull her in. Senn saw she intended to tease, her full red lips pursed in a half-smile, her eyes sparkling, her hand gently caressing her stomach and coyly reaching lower to play with the pale fringe of gold curls below. But he wanted it his way first. Very hard. As hard as she could stand and then just a tiny bit harder. “Please, let me use my gifts, Tarana. Let me stroke you deep inside, caress the spot that makes you die for me..” Senn reached down and ran his palm along his shaft, circled his thumb over the wet head. “Don’t you find me attractive tonight? Not even a wee bit? Bored of me?” He chuckled, knowing how the woman craved his charms, his skills. He didn’t need magic. To her, he was magic, and the knowledge drove him to madness with pride and the fierce need to own her. Tarana growled softly at the sight of his hand moving along his cock. It mesmerized her, he knew, and picked up the pace of his strokes, shuddering and moaning with her. She ran her hands up her stomach and squeezed at her hard nipples, pulling them towards him, as if begging him to suckle. She moved closer to the bed. Senn grabbed her wrist and pulled her onto the bed and in one strong movement rolled onto her. He looked deeply into her eyes from an inch above, moved slowly so she could feel how hard he was, how needy. Tarana’s eyes widened and stared at Senn’s lips. “You want me more than ever, don’t you, Pussy Cat? Tell Senn how much you want him!” he growled, running his hand down her torso and pressing fingers into her dripping core. “Is this too much?” He pushed a third finger in and she cried out, arching up to press against his palm. He caressed her velvet walls with his fingertips and sighed at the glorious feeling of her response, clutching down on his fingers, pulling him in. Senn circled his thumb over her, and she bit at her lip and panted

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his name. He watched the flush of pleasure sweep up her body to her cheeks and toss her away to her blissful inner sanctum.. She screamed out his name and rode his fingers in desperation. “That’s to get you wet enough for my size,” he chuckled. “I’m wet enough, you conceited asshole,” she panted. “Dear God, how do you do that so quickly? It’s the magic.” “It the thumb,” he winked. Tarana reached up to his cheek and brushed her fingers along his lips. “You never kiss me.” Senn felt a stab of shame and brushed it aside. “In time.” Why don’t you kiss her? What would that mean? An unfamiliar voice slid firmly into his mind, but he ignored it. Instead, he reached into the air and the scarves Tarana had worn danced to his hand. Tarana looked startled for a moment and started to speak, but he held a hand over her mouth and ordered the scarves to bind her wrists and ankles. They circled, knotted, and tightened as Tarana struggled slightly. “Not a very convincing fight, my dear.” Senn edged himself up her body and knelt so that he could press his cock down to touch her lips. Tarana groaned and then flicked her tongue across the head quickly. Fire darted through his veins and he grasped onto the wall to keep from falling as his legs quivered. “Touch yourself, Tarana,” he whispered lowly as she widened her mouth and moved her full lips to suck him in, still lavishing the head with her tongue. He thought away one of her bonds and she moved her hand down her body and shuddered as she played with her folds. “Oh, bloody hell. Oh Spirit, help me.” Senn threw back his head and thrust into her mouth as she sucked him in further. “Tonight, Pussy Cat. Tonight you’ll feel my fur against your ass, feel my teeth on the scruff of your neck. Understood?” He panted and felt the throbbing that signaled his first release. There would be many, many more before they were through tonight. He arched up to the ceiling and cried out in the ancient tongue as colors, shapes and stars exploded and swirled, and his body exploded with them.

“Hell!” Senn sat up suddenly, drenched in sweat, covered in his own sticky essence. He growled in anger and pulled the sheet off the bed, tossing it to the floor and kicking at it in frustration. He washed his torso with a wet cloth and brushed away the last glimmers of sexual magic still shimmering in the room, then wandered onto the balcony, as he did most nights after he found his phantom release.

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Not for the first time, he saw his brother on the balcony, draining a mug of ale and pulling on his pipe. Kas’s white-blonde hair shimmered in the moonlight and a soft glow of magic lit a large book that rested unopened in his lap. “Don’t ask.” Senn took the chair next to Kas, who held out a second mug. “Ask what?” Kas smirked. “Hadn’t you better break this habit of strolling along the balcony naked, Senn? I know you’re an exhibitionist as well as an insomniac, but the palace houses more than your brothers. There’s Jenna to consider. Not to mention Mother.” “Shut up, Kas.” Senn took a hearty swig of ale. “Did you feel it?” “Feel what!” Senn looked sharply at Kas, felt the flush rise to his cheeks. Surely Kas wouldn’t intrude on his dreams… “Someone crossed. A man. I have a good feeling about this one. We should find him.” “With Teren’s men on the move again? That doesn’t sound smart.” “Well, perhaps the Spirit will lead the Great Lander to our door. We can use all the gifts we can get. I can almost see him. His name…can’t quite pick it up.” Senn closed his eyes and saw the young man on all fours, clutching at the ground as if the world were spinning. “He’s about my age. Hair the color of Jenna’s horse. His name is Timothy.” Senn felt a throbbing in his head and sighed. “Maybe he’ll make it to Tansing Crossing. Sara and Kenneth can dote on him. I’ve enough on my mind.” “What’s her name?” Kas chuckled. “Goodnight, Kas.” Senn made his way back to bed and lay down, lacing his fingers behind his neck. Her name is Tarana. And when we were little, I wanted her to play with me. Where are you, Tarana? Why do you torture me like this?

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Chapter One

Tara screamed as the windshield shattered, the bullet missing her by inches. She held onto the steering wheel with a death grip as she begged the VW Beetle to give her more power. “Come on, come on,” she urged the car. A glance in the rear-view mirror told her it was hopeless. The lunatic gaining on her didn’t care a damn about the winding road, the potholes, the oncoming traffic, the local gendarmes, or the fact that it was broad daylight. Tara could see the road straighten out ahead and thought she might have one chance to get out of this alive. She wasn’t sure it would work, but she knew it would hurt like hell. Pulling her backpack across her shoulder, she unlatched her seatbelt, slowed down, and opened the door. With a deep breath, she rolled onto the macadam, and scurried across a lane of oncoming traffic into the brush and rubble on the side of the road. She heard the curses of drivers and horns of cars swerving to avoid her abandoned bug, but she didn’t look back. “Son of a bitch!” It had hurt. Tara knew she didn’t have time to stop and assess the damage to her body. She could hear the squeal of the truck brakes behind her and made a break into the dense cover. If she could get through the trees to the road on the other side, she had a chance. Palm fronds cut at her arms as she shielded her face and worked hard to keep her footing amidst the rocks and dead branches. Her pursuer swore up a blue streak as he gained on her.. Evidently she was worse than a whore and had questionable parentage, sexual appetites, and was named after a body part. Well, you’re a fat bastard, she thought, knowing that she could outrun him. She heard the zing of the bullet inches from her head. Use angles, don’t run in a straight path, she reminded herself.. At least she was going to make the son of bitch work to kill her, she thought, picking up her pace. She wasn’t much of a marksman, but she might be able to slow him down. Tara fired over her shoulder and heard his scream. Her blood ran cold at the sound. A hit! Why couldn’t she ever hit a target when she had a clear shot? Adrenaline shook her from head to toe and the tears finally began to flow as she realized she’d probably killed the gunman. In the distance she heard sirens. Now what? She had possibly killed a

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man in Mexico. Jail time in a foreign country—it couldn’t get much worse than that. She wouldn’t be able to explain the guns she had bought on the street, and no one would ever believe her story. Tara ducked behind a tree and squatted down, digging through her backpack for her compact with shaking hands. “Lovely,” she said out loud, looking into the tiny mirror. Her chin was bleeding, she was filthy, her shirt was torn, and damn it, and she was missing a diamond earring. She pulled off her shirt and soaked it with water from the ubiquitous bottle one had to carry in this part of Mexico. Tara wiped down the gun and tossed it into the woods, then wiped the blood, tears, and sweat from her face and arms. She reached for a clean tank top when a shadow fell across her and brought her cool relief from the scorching sun. She looked up slowly and squinted. He was big, he was gorgeous, and he looked very concerned. “What the hell’s going on? You’re American?” He didn’t try to hide his examination of her breasts, barely covered in a wisp of white lace. Tara typically wasn’t afraid of showing a little skin, but she suddenly flushed in embarrassment.. Great, now she had a gorgeous masher on her hands. She reached towards her bag and he pulled it away from her. “Look, don’t shoot me. I’d have to defend myself.” His presence stirred an odd feeling in Tara’s gut. It wasn’t simply because he was a hunk, she thought. Her nerve endings tingled in excitement and something more—fear? No, premonition. She’d felt it before, when time seemed to stop for a moment. Like déjà vu, only forward. He radiated a calm power that made her think he probably could defend himself barehanded against a gun. “I’m not going to shoot you,” Tara whispered, pulling on her top. “And I’m not looking for a savior right now. Unless you’re the law, please move along. You’re a six-foot tall sign pointing down at me.” She heard voices coming from the jungle and knew the local cops were going to arrive any moment. “Please go.” “Five eleven and a half,” he corrected softly. He surprised her, wordlessly pulling her upright with one strong arm. He held her hand and she felt a shot of energy go straight up her arm. Tara glanced at him quickly, but he didn’t acknowledge feeling the connection. He kept his eyes on the path out of the woods, not even glancing at Tara as they made their way through the trees towards a huge thatched roof palapa. Tara struggled to shove her things into her backpack as she tried to keep up. In minutes they sat under a tattered umbrella, drinking Coronas at a humble roadside cantina. “Look,” he leaned in and whispered in her ear, “I don’t know if I’m going to be able to pull this off. If things start to go bad, I’m going to grab hold of your hand. Don’t let go.”

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His breath felt hot on her neck and he smelled exotic and wonderful. Tara tried to shake off the distraction. She needed to concentrate on escape. She pushed a lime slice into her beer and didn’t look up when the cops approached their table. Her mind raced. How could she flee these cops on foot? This was going south quickly. “Señor, habla Español?” “No, sorry. What’s up?” “Have you seen anyone else in the last few minutes? Did you hear anything?” “No sir, no one but me and my wife, and the tavern proprietor there. Thought I might have heard something, but I couldn’t make it out. Sorry.” He looked at the Mexican wiping down the tables and Tara thought that they exchanged a few unspoken sentences. She picked up the familiar vibe again, and the fluttering sensation grew in her stomach. Magic! The gifts! “And you, Señora? You saw nothing unusual?” “No. What’s the problem, officer?” She shielded her eyes against the blazing afternoon sun and took in the young cops for the first time. They looked like boys. Short, tan, good-looking boys. He ignored her question. “May I ask where you have been? And your destination?” Her companion put his hand on her arm to silence her. “We were on our way to Cancun, and decided to take a little break,” he indicated the sweating metal pail of beer. “Help yourself. Señor, more ale for the officers, please.” The young officer looked seriously offended. “No, graçias, we are on duty. May we see your passport, please?” “That’s back at the hotel. I’m sorry. I didn’t know I had to carry that with me.” “Your names?” “Damon. Matt Damon.” Tara nearly choked on her beer. Matt Damon? What the hell was he thinking? “You also do not have your passport, Mrs. Damon? No other form of ID?” “That’s right, I’m sorry. We were thinking of snorkeling and were afraid to bring too much along—you know, stories about things getting stolen and all.” “And your hotel?” “Vista del Mar, in Akumal.” Tara nearly moaned out loud when he gave the name of her hotel. The officer nodded at his colleague to make notes..

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“You should not be driving the rental vehicle without your ID, of course. All right, Mr. Damon, I hope you enjoy your stay in Akumal. Please let us know if you remember seeing anything unusual. Someone critically wounded a man back near the main highway, and the assailant evidently abandoned his car. If you remember anything, please contact the Playa del Carmen station.” He nodded, evidently satisfied, and approached the proprietor, getting off a dozen rapid-fire questions. “Drink up.” Her rescuer breathed out in relief and nodded. “Matt Damon? Are you out of your mind?” “Look, I’ve been out of the country a while. It was the only American name that came to mind.” “Tavern proprietor? Where are you from?” “He is a tavern proprietor.” He shrugged. “I’m from New York. Try to relax a little.” He put his hand on top of hers, and she felt the shock again. Her heart skipped a beat. He looked up suddenly and Tara realized he felt the electricity as well. “Oh, man. This is kinda weird. What’s your name?” “Tara. You? Mr. Damon?” “Tim. Tim Emory.” Tara studied Tim closely, openly. He seemed a little embarrassed by her examination, but she ignored his discomfort as she took him in. Handsome, very, very handsome. Long auburn hair pulled back into a pony tail. Built, amazing body. Stunning emerald eyes. “You look a little like my cousin. Around the eyes.” “And you look a little like Marilyn Monroe with a punk haircut.” Tara laughed and he smiled. “Tim—what’s going on here? How did you find me back there?” “I saw most of what happened from a couple cars behind you. Actually helped you out a little with that shot of yours. You aren’t a very good shot. Why was that guy after you?” “What do you mean, you helped me out a little?” He closed his eyes and then nodded as if he’d made a decision. “Let’s get out of here and talk. We obviously have some things in common. You felt it?” Tara nodded. It was so rare, the feeling, the connection with someone with the magic, the gifts, her father had called them. This pull of Tim’s far surpassed any magic she’d encountered in years. Not since the palace, the white palace. She shut her eyes and it all came rushing back. The youngster, long blonde hair flowing in the warm breeze, ordering everyone out of the entire palace compound. He stirred the air with his fingers, and acres shimmered with his blue and silver energy. Everyone gasped as he turned a huge gray stone

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building into a white gleaming complex.. What was the boy’s name? One of the brothers. The youngest. No, there had been one younger, about her age, with dark hair and huge blue eyes, who followed her around like a puppy. That one scared her with his intensity and she always pushed him away. Uncle Luke picked her up in his strong arms, swung her around, and made funny noises at her, smacking a kiss on her forehead. He was enormous, yet so gentle. Her favorite. She pushed down ephemeral memories of her father and the pain and longing they always stirred. Hawthorne. Are you okay, Tara? Tara nodded and then opened her eyes in shock. Tim hadn’t spoken aloud. He smiled a little and sighed. “Yes, there’s a lot to talk about. Now, let’s get out of here and you can tell me why someone is trying to kill you.” “Look, it’s not your problem. But it could become your problem quickly if you catch the bullet meant for me.” Rescue me, Tim Emory. Take me away from this world, save me from Sam. He stared into her eyes. “Let’s get out of here. What’s your hotel?” “Vista del Mar. You already told the cops.” “Shit, sorry, another bad call. First Matt Damon, now this. Well, you’d better pack and check out.” Tara nodded. She hadn’t even unpacked. Hadn’t laid her head on the same pillow for more than a few nights in a row. The tears built up and she shoved them down for the thousandth time. If you lose it, Sam wins.

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Chapter Two

Tara worried in silence as Tim sped along the dusty partially completed highway and turned into the upscale Vista del Mar drive. Tim parked the car and looked at Tara. Tara suddenly felt a bit more nervous. “Want to talk here?” “Inside.” “You’re a man of few words, Tim Emory.” “I’m a man of few thoughts, Tara…?” She ignored his question. How could she explain that she never had a real last name? They strode quickly through the cool, deserted lobby, decorated with Mayan sculptures and lovely tiled fountains. They wound through open-air pathways to her room, where Tara felt another wave of panic as she threw open the hotel room door. You’re letting a stranger into your room, and not simply any stranger, but one with magic. One strong enough to change the path of a bullet. “I’m not dangerous, at least never intentionally,” Tim answered her thoughts as he closed the door. He walked to the balcony, which overlooked a winding pool, and in the distance, the perfect deep beach and turquoise Gulf of Mexico. The resort terrace bustled with a wedding, and Tim watched a nervous looking man awaiting his bride. Tara dropped her bag on the bed and joined him, bringing two beers from her mini bar. Tim indicated the wedding with his bottle and Tara smiled. “And who is the woman Tim Emory thinks about as he watches a resort wedding?” “That’s personal.” He pushed his hand through his thick hair. “Sorry, it’s a sore subject. She’s…stringing me along. Maybe she’s spoiled, I don’t know. I’m tired of trying to figure it out. It’s too much work.” “A real princess, eh?” Tara felt sorry for him, he seemed so sad suddenly. He looked at her and laughed. “You could say that.” They sat and drank in silence for a few moments. Tara finally turned to him. “I suppose that you’ll want to know why I shot that man. With your help.” She toasted him with her beer bottle.

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“It’s clear why you shot him. He intended to kill you. What’s not clear is why a hit man—yes?” Tara nodded, “wanted to kill you. Who’s the client?” “My husband. He’s not a nice guy, and he’s not going to stop until he gets me.” “Damn, what’s wrong with divorce? Have you gone to the police?” “I am the police. That’s part of the problem.” Tara looked into Tim’s eyes, searching for a clue, a reason to distrust him.. She couldn’t find one, no matter how hard she probed. He nodded, evidently reading her probe. “Go ahead.” “Yes, I do trust you, and I don’t know why.” “The gifts. They don’t lie. We’ll talk about it. But first, finish your story. Your husband…” “Sam. We’d been married for three months. He took me under his wing, made sure he was my first partner out of the academy. I fell for him instantly.” “He knew about your gifts?” “That’s not something you share in my part of Texas. I helped out on a few missing persons cases, but that’s about it. Any more and they’d likely stone me for a witch.. In any case, Sam never took my “psychic” gifts seriously. I found out he was on the take—drugs, prostitution, you name it. The final straw came when two children died in a drug-related blood bath. I gave him an ultimatum. You see where that got me.” “Why not go to your superiors? A judge, someone else in town?” “Sam controls the town.” Tara noticed his doubtful expression.. “I know it’s hard for someone from New York to understand, but it’s true. When I left Puebla Rojas, I started running. Fast.” “And you’ve been on your own for how long?” “Running for a month. Sometimes I’d…well, I’d hide, using the gifts.” Tim gasped. “You can shift, change form?” “That surprises you?” Tara shrugged. “My mother could. Hasn’t helped very much. This is the second time one of his thugs caught up with me. I suppose the odds may turn against me pretty soon.” “You’re awfully calm about this, about meeting me. About your powers. The adjustment to magic really screwed me up for a while.” “Do I seem calm? Do I have any choice?” Then she felt it. The wave of fear, of anger, of hurt and overwhelming grief well up, slowly at first. No. I will not let Sam win. Or mother.

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Tim had seen it instantly, the second he had a good look at her. The stunning resemblance, impossible to ignore. One of her ancestors was Anfallen, there was no doubt. Very short white-blonde hair, brows darker than her hair—was that make-up? Deep beautiful blue eyes, a strong straight nose. And not just the looks, he thought, but her vibe. A distant cousin, perhaps? A coincidence? She could pass for a younger sister of the King. And she possessed the gifts in spades—she could sense, she could shift. And she seemed to take it all in stride. Tim wondered if he wasn’t the more shaken of the two of them. No, now she was weeping, openly. He stood and pulled her into his arms and held her while she cried. “It’s okay, I’ll help you.” Tim felt so helpless. How the hell could he help her? Senn. Sennsárin would know what to do. “Shit!” He looked at his watch. “I’m late! I’m sorry, Tara, I have to go, meet my friend. I don’t know what to do about Sam, but you’d better get out of here before the cops put two and two together. The car registration—it will name this hotel.” Tara wiped her tears and shook her head. “No, I wasn’t that stupid.” “Good girl. Look, I don’t know what you’re going to think of this, but I suggest you come with me. I’ll pick up this friend, and then maybe we can figure out how to help you.” Tara sighed and put her hand on Tim’s cheek. “You’re a good man, Tim Emory. I wish you could help me. I can’t pull you into this—I’d be putting you at risk. And I’m afraid, unless you have the key to Anfall in your pocket, there’s not much you can do for me…” Tim gasped and put his hand on her forearm. He felt the blood in his veins turn to ice water. A wheel was turning, and it was as big as the planet. “What?” “There’s not much you can do for me.” “Anfall. Is that what you said?” “You know about Anfall?” He squeezed his eyes shut and nodded. “Because of the legends?” He shook his head and she gasped. She fell into the chair next to him and took his hand. “Look at me, Tim. I’m begging you. What do you know?” “I think the question is what do you know? I am the adopted brother, so to speak, of King Kasmárin of Anfall.” Tara’s eyes grew huge and Tim knew she recognized the name.

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“The blonde. The beautiful boy, the very gifted one.” “That would be him. He is also my brother-in-law. My sister, Lauren, married him.” “And his brothers?” Her voice shook and Tim knew the mystery was unfolding quickly. “Lucenor abdicated to Kasmárin a year ago. He is well.” Tara nodded for him to continue. “Sennsárin is with me, here, in Cancun.” Tara shivered. “The dark prince, the intense needy one. He always scared me. My God.” “Senn? There’s nothing scary about Senn. I’d never describe him as needy and scary. Are you sure you don’t mean someone else?” Tara shook her head. “I remember his name now.” She squeezed her eyes tightly. “I didn’t imagine it. And their sister, Jenna, she’s the one you love.” “Aye.” Tara smiled lightly at the old-fashioned response. “And?” She looked into Tim’s eyes and he saw her world crumble away at the answer she found there. Hawthorne. She must be of his blood. How was it possible? He shook his head sadly. “Hawk died in battle.” Tim couldn’t stop the tears from sliding down his own cheeks. “Trying to save my life. They all nearly died trying to save me.” Tara nodded and Tim saw something of the whole family in her response. How strong they were, how ready to accept any burden, instantly. Yes, she was Hawk’s daughter all right. He held both her hands and looked at her with admiration. Tim could barely catch his breath. “How? How did you end up here? What can I do for you?” She shook her head sadly. “It doesn’t matter now. I’m an orphan. I suppose I always was. I simply hoped…” She stood and paced. “Thoughts of going back got me through life with my mother, Josie. The monster. Oh, you don’t know about her? Well, the brothers can tell you, I’m sure. I’ll never discuss her. She brought me back and I’ve been looking for a way, forever…At times I almost thought I imagined it. And him, Hawthorne, Hawk you called him—his big hands lifting me over his head. His long hair tickling me. His strong arm around my waist as he hoisted me in front of him to ride. The heat and the smells of flowers—sometimes I can almost bring back the feeling of the place. I remember a river, and I especially remember the boys. And here you are, telling me it’s all real.” “Yes. As real as Cancun and New York.” He snorted. “Perhaps a little more real than either. But I never heard that Hawk had a daughter…?” Tara simply shook her head and stood, watching the newlyweds hug their guests down below on the gorgeous hotel grounds.. She turned suddenly. “Tim? Can you take me? Is it possible?”

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Tim smiled. “I really don’t see why not? Is will solve your current problems.” And it might create some new ones. Why does this feel so frightening? “The family…would they welcome me? With my father gone…” “You’re Hawk’s daughter! You don’t understand how we revered him. How could you?” Tim shook his head and willed the pain away. “He was one of the greatest men I’ve known. Do you understand, Tara? I knew him. I ate with him, got drunk with him, trained with him…” Tim laughed lightly, “Snuck around him to try to hit on his sister. He kept close guard of Jenna. There’s not a soul in Anfall who wouldn’t welcome you with open arms. You’ll have the family that I think you’ve been looking for.” “I honestly can’t imagine that.” “Let me help. This must be…overwhelming…” Tim tried to imagine her at the palace. He felt the tremor again, the sense of trouble. “On second thought, let’s talk once we meet up with Senn and see what he has to say about all this. It’s going to come as quite a surprise to him, I’m sure.” He noticed her nervous look. “I promise, he’ll be thrilled to see you.”

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Chapter Three

Evening fell by the time Tara checked out of the hotel and they drove to Cancun. The grimy town was just coming to come to life with young tourists hell-bent on getting drunk and getting laid. Tara looked around constantly, nervously. Her skin tingled in fear of being followed by Sam’s men, fear of the local police, and fear of meeting a Prince of Anfall. “No one’s following us. Relax.” Tim sounded worried himself. “It’s gotten pretty cheesy here,” Tara noted, trying to sound casual. “I vacationed here years ago and it wasn’t quite like this.” “Yeah, I think the glory days are pretty much over. There are only so many Spring Breaks any town seems to be able to survive. Actually, most of the tourists have moved on Playa del Carmen, Akumal, places further down the coast. Even those are over-run. These hotels in town are having trouble hanging on.” Tim sped past a bus belching out diesel fumes. “That place isn’t hurting for business.. Sin City? A little incongruous with the décor, don’t you think?” Tara pointed to a nightclub shaped like a Mayan temple. Puffs of dry ice induced smoke fumed rhythmically from the mouth of a huge image of a Mayan god perched high on the roof. A line of young people stretched down the street. “Tacky. The women especially.” Tara heard Tim’s unguarded thoughts. “Doesn’t she know how provocative she looks? Those breasts straining against that tiny white top, long tan legs running on forever. Women. Always ready to criticize one another. Or maybe, just maybe, she honestly doesn’t know her own appeal.” “Well, believe it or not, the second in line to the throne of Anfall is partying here tonight.” Tim parked the car and looked at Tara nervously. “What’s wrong?” “I’m suddenly concerned about this meeting as well. I don’t understand it—maybe the shock of meeting Hawk’s daughter. More than one Anfallen in Cancun, Mexico. It can’t be coincidence…”

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“No, it can’t. And it terrifies me. Tim, I’m sure it has something to do with Sennsárin. I don’t really want to go into it…He was the strangest, most intense little boy. He clung to me and frightened me. I’ve had dreams of a man, recurring dreams, and I often wondered if it was him…” “He won’t frighten you now. He takes making people comfortable very, very seriously.” “You love Senn. It’s in your voice. You truly love him.” Tim nodded uncertainly. “Anfall is a place of bonds, undying bonds.” Tara heard him again. “How could he tell her Senn was his hero? That Senn was his lifeline? That his life changed the second he had laid eyes on him. That he would die for the prince.” Tara pushed down a dozen questions as they walked up to the door and ignored the protests of the party animals waiting in line to get into Sin City. The bouncer at the door recognized Tim and nodded, pulling aside the cord across the entrance. Tim put his hand on Tara’s shoulder and she turned. “I simply don’t know how to prepare you for this, Tara. But Senn’s your blood, your uncle. And, well…” “It’s okay, Tim, I’m a big girl.. I’ve seen guys drink before. They may not have been royalty, but he puts his pants on one leg at a time, I’m sure.” She smiled and grabbed Tim’s warm hand. Her heart pounded in her chest nearly in time to the loud base line she heard emanating from deep within the club. Tim pulled Tara through a maze of bodies and tables and rooms where Mexican and American kids were rubbing elbows and more, throwing back beer and shots like there was no tomorrow. They entered the main floor, where strobe lights gyrated in beat with the music. Several hundred people danced in joyous ecstasy. And the music was spectacular, she thought, feeling her body start to respond to the rhythm and the dark deep voice of the singer. The last music she expected to hear in Mexico— oldies…what was the song? An Earth, Wind and Fire song? Tim eked out a tiny spot at the bar closest to the stage and ordered two beers. “Where is he?” Tara mouthed, unable to make her voice audible over the blaring music. She tapped her foot and found her nervousness melting away with the music. Happy, it seems so happy here, she thought. “Talk to me like this, use the gifts. It’s easier in here.” Tara felt Tim’s easy way slip into her brain. “Oh. I’m not used to it.” Tara squeezed Tim’s hand and smiled. “It’s so nice, such a relief.” “I understand, trust me. To be yourself. To use your gifts freely, expand your magic. It will be like that every day in Anfall.”

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Tears welled up at the thought and Tim brushed one off Tara’s cheek. “So, where’s our dark prince?” Tim took on a sly grin. He nodded towards the stage. Tara turned around, looked at the stage and the singer, and felt the earth drop away from under her feet. Impossible. He personified all of her dreams, all of her fantasies, all of her hopes, fears, lust, longing. From childhood crushes to adult affairs—every one of her experiences with men led to this moment, when she saw him.. Each a poor imitation of this one man. Sennsárin. Her uncle. Tara’s heart fluttered and she felt a chill as a dim awakening began. The dreams, the ones in which a man with long dark hair and brilliant blue eyes seduced her into a dark, dangerous frenzy of passion. Tim put his hand on her shoulder and shook her slightly. “You okay?” “I’m not sure. I’ve known him forever. It’s…a little hard to explain.” And I’ve feared and wanted him just as long. Tara squeezed her eyes shut. My uncle. Tim rubbed her back a bit but Tara barely felt his hand, her skin turned to stone, her whole being frozen at the sight of Senn. He wore his long luxurious dark hair in a ponytail, but some locks escaped to fall into his brilliant eyes. His simple black t-shirt accentuated his lean, muscular arms. Worn jeans hung low on his torso. His face was all strong broad planes of tanned skin and straight, perfect angles. And those eyes. Almost too blue for his coal black brows. Tara felt mesmerized, swimming in the vibrations pouring from him. Exotic, compelling. Impossibly sensual. The crowd, he mesmerized them, too, she thought.. It must be his magic. His voice. “My god, Tim, he can really sing. How does he know these songs?” Tim laughed. “He remembers everything. I’ve taught him a lot of songs, but actually, once he hears something once, it’s in his brain forever. Kind of a prodigy, I guess. He does screw up the words sometimes.. I thought of buying him an iPod before leaving, put a thousand or so songs on it. The King would never forgive me.” Tara nodded numbly. She looked back at Tim and took a swig of her beer, partly to take a break from the tremors at the sight of Senn. “Oh no. He got a tattoo. Luke will flip.” Tara turned back and repressed a gasp. Senn had pulled off his sweaty t-shirt and now walked along the edge of the stage, touching fingertips with girls reaching out to him. Perfect chest, perfect

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stomach, perfect fringe of black hair peaking above his low-slung pants. Senn smiled and the room lit up. He dipped his fingertips provocatively beneath the waist of his jeans and the women at the stage cheered in approval. One yelled out for him to strip down.. A chanting started and Senn ran his hand down his stomach and past his navel, unbuttoning his jeans. Tara stared in shock at his display, then felt shock at herself, at the throbbing in her crotch and the desire circling low, heating her core and making her breath quicken. “Oh no!” Tim groaned as Senn started pulling on the tab of his zipper. Tara turned towards Tim, trying to regain her calm. “There’s not a woman in this room that doesn’t want him right now. What happened to that annoying little boy?” Tim laughed. “Welcome to my world. He’s wrapped every woman in Anfall around his little finger. I think he’s running out of girlfriends, might have to start over on a few.” Tim sighed heavily. “I regularly disappear into the woodwork. And trust me, he can still get pretty annoying.” Tara turned and placed her hand on his cheek. “Tim Emory, don’t you think like that. You’re pretty much a god, too, you know.” She saw him blush. Tara turned back to the stage and found herself pulled again into Senn’s smile and magic and voice and sex appeal.. And the sight of his strip tease in front of the crowd. He opened his fly slowly, never missing a note of his song, to reveal a patch of dark hair peaking above low-slung boxer briefs. In a second he stepped out of his jeans, and moved happily about the stage in underwear that hugged his crotch and legs like a second skin. “Oh for Pete’s sake, they’ll arrest him. Well, maybe not in Cancun.” Tim turned away and threw back his beer. The crowd urged Senn on and he toyed playfully close to his crotch with his palm, and then looked up suddenly. And Tara felt his unbearably intimate probe drill right to her soul. Senn spotted her. He knew her. No, you’re imagining it. He’s spotted Tim. Tim grabbed her hand. “He’s seen us.” “Yes, I felt it.” It felt like being kissed from across the universe. He can’t possibly know me. Senn flashed a huge grin and his energy soared even further as he finished his song to a roar of cheers and applause. Tara watched in horror as he quickly made his way off the stage and the band took off on an instrumental. Her heart pounded in her chest and she fought desperately not to run. Tim squeezed her hand and leaned in close. “It’s all right, he’s family. Your uncle. You’ll see.” And in what seemed like both an instant and an eternity, Sennsárin, Prince of Anfall, stood halfnaked a few inches away from her. The man of her dreams. The man of her nightmares. Her uncle.

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Senn looked past her to Tim and grinned. He then looked down into Tara’s eyes and his smile faded. Beads of perspiration rolled down his neck onto his smooth tan skin. He smelled of spicy soap and magic, Tara thought. How could magic have a smell? Senn’s eyes drilled into hers and she felt the air between them stir and shimmer. He put a fingertip under her chin and tilted her head up a few inches. “Tarana.” He whispered in her mind. “Tarana? I don’t understand.” “Your name, sweetheart. Your name is Tarana. And you’re just as I’ve pictured you all these years.” Senn pulled back, held both her wrists, and examined her openly from head to toe. His eyes glimmered in unabashed appreciation. Tara examined him openly as well, couldn’t stop herself, and let her gaze wander from his amazing face to a spectacular bulge in his briefs. “Hell, Senn, this is your niece. Hawk’s daughter.” Tim yelled out over the music. “Of course, my niece.” Senn’s eyes clouded over slightly and he pulled Tara into his arms and crushed her to his body, molded her to his form. He gently kissed her forehead and she felt a jolt of energy. She passed out in his arms.

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Chapter Four

Senn lay in bed with his arm over his forehead, brain pounding in pain, body wracked with anxiety. Why did the Spirit bring her to me? More than he had hoped for in every way. Cropped blonde hair, nearly as pale as Kas’s. A body that made him yearn instantly to taste and touch and claim. Senn groaned at the memory of her full breasts pressing against his skin, the look in her dazzling blue eyes. Her thoughts had poured into the air for him to cherish—exquisite, sexy, hot, amazing. She thought him amazing. Senn sighed deeply, already dreading the thought of seeing her every day, treating her like a loving relative, watching her grow to love a man, take a husband, build a life in Anfall. It would be the death of him. “Explain it to me, Senn,” Tim tried again. “You’re freaking me out, both of you. She left Anfall as a child, her mother whisking her away from Hawk. There’s quite a story there, and I want to know it.” “Yes, indeed. A story.” Senn sighed. “I’ve never seen you like this. It’s fucking ridiculous. Can’t you be happy to see her? She’s obviously in trouble and needs your help. You’ll take her to Anfall?” “Of course, if that’s what she desires.. It’s her home.” Senn lay on his side, meeting Tim’s intense gaze. “What the hell is it then? Tell me.” Senn squeezed his eyes shut and quieted his thoughts for a few moments. “Have you ever wanted something your entire life, Tim? I asked Kas that once. He wanted so much. I’ve only craved one thing.” Senn sat up and clasped his hands together, staring at his palms as if he were trying to see the future in the faint lines etched there. “I met Tarana when I was a boy. She was a few years younger. She wasn’t with us for more than a few months, maybe as long as a half year—I’m not sure. She wouldn’t talk to me, ran from me. Always hugging Hawk’s legs or begging Luke to lift her up or running after Kas.”

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“Yes, that’s more or less the picture she gave me. It’s odd. You’re the most approachable one in the family.” “She didn’t understand why I frightened her then. You know that she’s a shifter? She didn’t know it when she was a child. I knew.” Senn heard a slight tremor in his voice and looked quickly at Tim, knowing he’d catch it. “And we’re connected in other ways…” “She’s powerful, I felt it. And she amazed me with her composure—for someone with the gifts, I mean.” Tim sat next to Senn on the bed. “What I don’t get is why we met in the jungle on the side of a dilapidated stretch of road. It can’t be a coincidence. It’s not, is it?” “Unlikely.” Senn reached for his beer and left his answer hanging in the air. “In your own good time, then.” Tim stood and walked onto the balcony. “Bloody hell, stop pouting. You’re as bad as your sister,” Senn yelled after him. “I love you too, you know. I have to talk to Kas.” Kas, can you hear me? I need you. He followed Tim onto the balcony. “Be patient with him,” Senn reminded himself. So insecure, clinging to his adopted family, never allowing himself to be alone.. Tim hadn’t been the same since his ordeal, since being captive of the greatest horror to plague Anfall. Even with the Wizard Teren long dead, Tim couldn’t relax. The weeks of torture, fear, pain, and isolation… Senn shuddered and pushed down the thought. Tim lived in comfort and safety with his family, and that would have to be enough for now. “Tim, I’m sorry. The family’s so… fucked up, as you’d say. I know I’m too attached to Kas.. It bothers Lauren, it bothers you, and it may bother Kas. Kas stood in for father…” Senn shook his head. He had tried so many times to explain it, to Tim, to himself. He never found the words. “And you think I’m too attached to you.” “Actually, I think you probably are. And I rather like it.” Senn grinned and Tim scowled at him.. “As long as you don’t propose marriage, we’ll be okay…” “Shut the fuck up. You are an asshole. Forget the iPod.” “What’s an iPod?” “Never mind.” “Timothy?” Senn drew his name out in the way he knew Tim hated. He could tell Tim chomped at the bit to tell him, to please him. “It’s a machine. Like a computer, well, I guess it is a computer. But here’s the part you’ll like.. You can put hundreds of songs on it, thousands, and then listen to them whenever you like.” Tim grinned, very proudly, waiting for Senn’s reaction.

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“Bloody hell! It will work in Anfall?” “I can’t imagine why not. Of course, eventually, they’ll be a power problem. But I bet you and Kas will figure out how to juice it up.” “And you bought this pod for me? Where is it?” “I didn’t buy it yet, but I will…” “Then this trip wasn’t a total loss.” “How can you call rescuing Tarana a loss? Hawk’s daughter?” Senn felt the hand of Teren clutch at his heart. He couldn’t, wouldn’t utter the truth. “Well, whatever the problem is, you’d better stop looking at her like you want to fuck her brains out. You freaked her out back at the club.” Senn nodded. Her uncle. And I can’t tell her the truth. What is your truth, Senn? Why does she matter so much? Because she’s a shifter, he thought. And you’re obsessed with the idea. There’s nothing to the dreams, the foretelling. Perhaps Alyssa could help. The Maiden knew everything about Anfall, from its founding to its future. Tim put out his arm and Senn grabbed it in the warriors’ embrace. Tim nodded. “I’m sorry. Something’s going on for you and I should be there for you instead of getting all… stupid…” “Jealous.” “Shut up. It’s because you’ve waited all this time to meet a shifter, a woman, and it turns out she’s your niece. And she’s hot, too. Pretty damned hot. Bad luck, Senn, I’m sorry.” “Do the math, Tim. How the blazes could she be my niece? Hawk would have been about thirteen when Josie had her. It’s possible physically, of course. But it’s not what happened.” Tim put down his beer. Senn felt Tim’s fear wash over him. “Who is she, then? And why does it feel so important?” “She’s a member of the oldest line of the Anfallen royal family and a gifted adept. And from what you’ve told me, she’s endured a lot. Tim, stand by me now. Don’t ask. I need Kas—this has to come from the King. Understand?” Tim nodded and Senn saw the disappointment Tim always tried to hide. Forever the outsider, no matter how much he’s loved, Senn thought. What could he do to repair that? He shook off the thought. He had a more urgent matter on his hands. The daughter of the greatest evil to ever inhabit the Land.

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The only shape-shifter in his life. The golden witch who had haunted his dreams, his loins, his nightmares for his entire life. The grown woman, more beautiful, more compelling, than even in his private fantasies. All the women, dozens and dozens of women—he had searched for her with his quick couplings and exotic obsessions. But at the sight of Tarana, he felt longing for the first time in his life. What a cruel joke. She thought him her uncle. And Kas, no doubt, would make him keep the secret of her vile heritage. The man she called father was killed by her true father. Evil blood poured through her veins. Insanity was her heritage. Senn’s heart pounded at the quick tap at the door. “Damn, I’m not ready, Tim.” “Ready for what?” Senn shook his head and went to the door. He placed his palm against the wood and squeezed his eyes shut, trying to restrain himself from reading Tara’s mind. He pulled the door open quickly and she nearly fell into the room.

“Hello.” Senn smiled and gestured for her to enter the room. Tara tried to respond lightly. “Hello Uncle. Hello Tim.” “Well, come in, make yourself comfortable. Did you get some rest?” “No, but I feel a bit better. You…” This contact will kill me, I know it. Please don’t touch me again, please don’t. Senn smiled more broadly and his eyes lit up, the room lit up with them. Tara thought the whole of Mexico must feel happier when Senn smiled. He didn’t seem so threatening now, especially fully dressed. “Yes? Finish your thought.” “I honestly can’t remember what I meant to say.” Tim cleared his throat. “I’m going for a swim since we’ll be leaving soon. Who knows when I’ll see Mexico again?” “The North Shore of Anfall is as beautiful…” “Senn, it’s not a contest. The North Shore is wonderful. It’s an excuse, idiot. A polite way of giving you two a chance to talk. Satisfied?” Tim grabbed a towel and shorts and left the room quickly. Tara felt helpless, alone with Senn. Without Tim as the anchor, she felt adrift in Senn’s blue eyes. The air between them began to shimmer again. “Stop that, Uncle.”

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“I’m not doing it, dear. You are. And by the Spirit, please stop calling me Uncle. You make it sound like an insult. Now come here, I won’t bite.” Senn winked and Tara laughed lightly. “At least, not in this form.” He arched a brow and pursed his full lips and her heart raced again. So, he had come to it quickly. Tara felt her cheeks burn and took in a deep breath. “Why are you… why does it seem like… you’re teasing me?” “Flirting you mean?” Tara nodded, then shook her head ‘no’. Senn laughed. “Yes or no?” He grabbed her hand, led her to the sofa and pulled her down next to him. Does he know how I feel, about the dreams? Can he read my mind, know how he pulls at me, thrills me, terrifies me? “Your thoughts scream at me, Tarana. We’ll work on creating blocks. You’ll need them in Anfall. I’ve a nosy family.” “So you will take me there?” “If you wish. They’ll welcome you, you know.” “When do we leave Cancun? I want to get away from Sam’s world.” Senn shook his head sadly. “From what Tim tells me, you do need to escape the son of a bitch. But I’d like to get my hands on him first.” “I simply want to get away as quickly as possible.” “It’s your choice. Then we’ll drive inland, tonight and cross at a place called Uxmal, an ancient place.” “The Mayan site? If I knew it was that easy…” “No, dear, it doesn’t work that way. But I’ll take you there. And if you don’t like Anfall, then we’ll bring you back. Deal?” Tara nodded. “Tell me.” “What?” His eyes widened, and she saw tiny slivers of gold and silver in the deep blue. He was only foot away. If she leaned in and touched his wonderful hair, or caressed his cheek, would he push her away…? She stood up quickly and gasped. “You’re pushing thoughts into my head.” He shook his head sadly. “No, I’m not.” “Tell me, then. Tell me everything. Tell me about my dreams. Why have I known you forever?”

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Senn squeezed his eyes shut and when he opened them, it looked as if he were welling up, as if tears threatened to escape his gorgeous blue eyes. He took in a deep breath. “Well, you remember me, of course, from when we were children. Tim told me as much. Annoying, I think he said you called me.” Senn smirked. “I guess I am. At least I was. You know now that you’re very gifted. You didn’t know all of your abilities then.” “That I can change.” “Yes, change.” Senn closed his eyes again and licked his lips. Tara thought for a moment that he looked different, that his teeth looked sharper, his ears pointier. But just as quickly, the image dissipated. “I simply wanted to play with someone else who could change. It was lonely as a child, being the only one. I have two distant cousins, two men, but it’s different—I met them only as a grown man, and well, they’re men.” He shrugged. “Go on. There’s more. The dreams.” “You show me your dreams and I’ll show you mine.” Senn reached out his hand, but Tara left it hanging in the air. He finally let it fall to his lap. “I don’t think I need to tell you about them. I think you know them. I thought for years I faced insanity like my mother’s, craving a man I didn’t know. You agree these dreams are wrong? My uncle…” Senn stood and before Tara could resist, he pulled her up into his arms and pressed himself against her. He felt so solid, so strong, smelled so wonderful. Tara let herself bask in his beauty for a moment. He rested his chin on her head and whispered. “We’ll never speak of the dreams. I don’t fully understand them, but we must never speak of them again. Anfall forbids it, as in your world. You’re Hawk’s child, and I’ll honor him with my life. We will welcome you into the family, and you’ll be my niece. And perhaps, someday, we’ll be friends. Perhaps even… perhaps even change together.” His whisper became even softer. “What do you become, Tarana? I will never hold you again like this. You’re all a man could want for many lifetimes. I won’t speak of it again. But I want you to know that if I could choose anyone as my own…” Senn’s longing tore through her and she began sobbing, feeling as if something long held in was going to explode. “Tell me, Tarana. Give me that. The Spirit gave you to me in dreams, too. My whole life I’ve thought of you. Just once, tell me how you change. Tell me that you’ve thought of me, not simply as an annoying little boy.”

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Tara fell to her knees and Senn knelt next to her and held her close. “I change as you do, Uncle. Like in the dreams.” I have longed to be with you since Dylan and Gwyneth called the Land into being. Where did that thought come from, she wondered? Who were Dylan and Gwyneth? “And…” “And? Would you have wanted to be with me—if things were different? At least given old Senn a chance? Would you have changed with me, and laughed with me… and loved with me?” Senn kissed her lightly on her forehead. Tara opened her eyes and looked into the blue pools only inches away from hers. Their breathing mingled in the space between them, and Tara reached up tentatively and stroked Senn’s hair. He shivered and she pulled back. “I don’t know, Uncle. I don’t know if I’d have given you a chance. You’re still a little intense.” “And needy? That’s what you’re thinking? No, don’t lie, I can hear it. You’re the only one who’s ever called me needy. I’ll have to think about that one.” “I don’t understand this at all,” Tara sighed. “Are you quite sure uncles and nieces can’t get together in Anfall?” She tried to smile through her tears. “I wouldn’t have minded a date or two…” Senn grimaced. “If the King changes the rules, you’ll be the first to know.” “Uncle.” “Niece.” After several more silent minutes of looking at each other in mixed wonder and regret, Senn pulled Tara to her feet. “Let’s walk, and I’ll tell you about your home. And the family. I’m really the only sane one in the bunch.”

*****

Twenty-four hours later, Tara and her new companions climbed the steep Mayan pyramid of the Magician at Uxmal in the dark. Fear washed over her in great waves. Senn took her hand and looked deeply into her eyes. “Calm down, Tarana. It’s really going to be all right, I promise. Tell her, Tim.” “I’m fine, boys. Let’s do the Macarena or whatever we have to do to get to Anfall.” She wondered if she’d ever see her home again, her country. It stunned her, the sudden thought that she loved her country. And she felt the same emotion pouring from Tim. Loss—he was full of loss, and so was she.

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“Tim? Why do I feel the tragedy pouring from you? A vision of September eleventh?” Tim squeezed his eyes shut and nodded. “My parents. I think of it every time I cross for some reason.” “Oh, I’m so sorry.” But she didn’t have time to ask another question. She felt a current run from her feet to her head. When she opened her eyes, she saw the final glimmer of sunlight flame the sky scarlet over a bright blue river. And she knew in deep in her soul that it set in the East. For the second time, she fainted in Senn’s arms.

“Oh my. Honey, come here. Senn and Tim are home and some young lady just hit the deck. I think we had better get down there.” Sara rushed to the entrance of the villa where her husband joined her. Senn held Tara in his arms. “Hello Aunt and Uncle. We’re back.. And I’m famished.” “Senn?” Kenneth sounded stern. Tim started up the hill to the villa. He muttered as he walked. “Oh, Tara is a little souvenir Senn picked up in Mexico.”

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Chapter Five

The sounds of exotic bird calls woke her.. Tara looked around warily and tried to shake off the uneasiness of unfamiliar surroundings. A light warm breeze flowed into the lovely room through an open full-length window. Everything shimmered in white and pale gold, light and airy, magical. She rose and dared to look out the window—Anfall took her breath away. And slowly, surely, she realized that she knew this house, this view. A sparkling blue river shimmered over rocks and wound past hillocks of lush grass and rushes. Palm trees, or something like them, lined a dirt road that ran along the river. In the near distance an arched bridge, painted white or made of white stone, she wasn’t sure which, shined in the sunlight. Semi-tropical jungle encroached on the far side of the river. It was warm, as warm as Mexico. Not too shabby, Tara thought. She heard voices coming from the other side of the room, and realized that the window on the far wall must open onto a courtyard. Tara wandered to the window to watch Senn, Tim, and a middle-aged Black woman sitting on a bench, talking seriously and quietly. Tara imagined they must be discussing her. So, it was real. And Sam was a world away, literally. Tara wasn’t sure how she felt about that. She looked again at the trio below and sighed. Senn had rescued her from Sam perhaps, but who would rescue her from Senn? He now looked much more exotic. The peaked ears, of course. He must have charmed them into a normal shape in Mexico. He had changed out of his Cancun t-shirt into what she supposed was the local garb—a pair of loose cotton pants hanging very low on his torso. She felt a rush of heat pour through her as she took in his near-bare body. His thick black hair hung mostly loose to his shoulders, a few braids tied with a leather cord to keep it out of his eyes. His smooth tan chest and stomach glistened with moisture, probably from a morning workout, she thought. A new tattoo of a symbol she didn’t recognize marked one bicep. He wore a toe ring! She chuckled when she saw the small gold band. Buff, sexy, handsome beyond imagining. Her uncle. Tim braided his long hair out of his face and looked as if he pleaded with Senn. Tara went back to the bed and hugged her pillow.

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“This is good, Tara,” she assured herself. “You’re home. Josie is a realm away, Sam can’t hurt you, and these people… this family will take care of you. It will be okay.” But her heart told her she faced a dark road. And his name was Sennsárin. Their talk, their one embrace had scorched her soul. She wouldn’t think about the dreams. Her cheeks flushed at the fleeting visions that intruded on her thoughts constantly—couplings, games, and dangerous flirtations she hadn’t remotely encountered in real life, probably never would. He’s Hawk’s baby brother. He’s your uncle. He’s simply a handsome guy. You’ll get to know him, maybe be friends. He said you could change together. Tara sat up suddenly, remembering what Tim had said about her uncle—his way with women, his charm. He had gone through most of the women of Anfall, Tim had said. Was it possible Sennsárin was merely a womanizing creep? That he’d read her thoughts and took advantage of them, flirting with her despite their family relationship? Tara remembered how he seemed to thrill at the praise that adoring women lavished on him in the Cancun nightclub—reaching out to touch everyone who wanted him. Was she supposed to be another fan, to feed his ego? Tara resolved to keep her distance from him for a while, stick close to Tim. The smell of breakfast—eggs, bacon, sausage and coffee—wafted on the light breeze, and Tara realized suddenly that she was famished, really hungry for the first time in weeks. Surely that was a good sign. She pulled on a sundress and stepped into sandals. Well, here goes nothing, she thought, as she slowly made her way to the courtyard.

The faint image of another woman flit past her

consciousness. A woman who walked this path before her, stayed in this room, felt unsure. Lauren, Tim’s sister. I’ll like her, she thought. “Well, there you are!” I was afraid you wouldn’t wake until lunch. The pretty middle-aged woman put her arm around Tara and pulled her inside to a large sitting room where servants loaded a huge sideboard with steaming food. “I’m Sara, and this is my husband Kenneth.” “How do you do?” Kenneth rose and greeted her formally, inclining his head slightly. He had the ears and the looks, Tara thought. Senn’s father? Surely this Sara wasn’t his mother? “Thanks for letting me stay the night,” she felt foolish, not knowing what to say to these strangers. “You are always welcome here, dear. I must tell you how much I loved your father, how much I miss him still. It’s some comfort to have you in Anfall.” Tara accepted a plate loaded to capacity from Sara and sat at a small table.

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“Did you know my mother too?” “No, she left Anfall before I crossed.” Kenneth cleared his throat and put in softly. “I knew her, Tarana. Not well, but I do remember her.” “I’ll bet Tara wants coffee!” Senn interrupted the flow of conversation as he entered from the courtyard with Tim. “That would be great.” Tara could barely get herself to glance up at Senn, and when she did, she was sorry.

Her heart dropped.

Perhaps she’d grow accustomed to it, she thought numbly, the

unbearable need to be in this man’s arms. Senn and Tim sat with her and Tara pushed the food Sara served her around on her plate, appetite lost. “I guess I fainted or something last night.” Tim patted her shoulder. “Relax. We all understand how hard this is for you. Hey, the first time I crossed, I spent the night sobbing in the woods.. Actually, I think I spent a few nights sobbing in the woods. Until Luke found me running around in circles trying to tame a wild horse. I’m sure I really impressed the royal family that first day. And I had been working up the nerve to cross my whole life.” “Your whole life? I don’t understand?” “I grew up in a family that knew about Anfall.. My mother taught me and my sister the ancient stories of this land and the chant that would bring us here. After my parents died, I decided to come alone. My sister followed about a year later, looking for me.” “Then she married my brother..” Senn pulled the top off a muffin and popped the entire thing into his mouth. “Senn, not now. We’ll tell you all about the last few years in Anfall later.” “I’m fine, really. Senn filled me in on some things. You don’t need to treat me as if…” Senn rose and stood by Tara, then leaned down and kissed her cheek. As he did, he subtly ran his hand down her spine and around her waist. “I’m sorry. Let me get you that coffee?” Tara reeled. Slam, right into her gut. She looked up quickly and saw a sly look on Senn’s face. He knew it! He knew what he did to her! Son of a bitch! All his sobbing and lamenting about their one embrace.. The man was a sham. Tara tried to probe Senn’s thoughts but there was a block the size of the Great Wall of China in the way. He was powerful. She’d never met a person who could block her probes.

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Senn suddenly looked much more imposing, and Tara thought she saw an aura of red around him. “Tara, don’t try that with me and for the Spirit’s sake, do not try that with Kas. In fact, don’t probe anyone’s mind without permission.” His tone was harsh and cold. “It’s considered rude and that’s putting it mildly.. Now, can you ride a horse?” “I’m a Texas Ranger.” Tara was proud at the controlled tone of her own voice, her spirit quaking at Senn’s reprimand. He looked at her blankly. She snapped, “Yes, I can ride.” Tara felt everyone’s curious examination and tried to think of something innocuous to discuss. Tim came to her rescue. “A Texas Ranger is a cop from the southwestern part America—a part of the country that still uses horses. I’m not sure how to explain this.” Sara laughed nervously. “You’re not going to be able to explain Texas to Senn. He’s just gotten the hang of New York.” Senn turned back to Tara, his expression unreadable. “I’ve also been to Key West.” “And Cancun. Quite the vacationer. What were you doing there?” “Cancun? Or Key West? Cancun was a joke, a little escape. My brother gave me a t-shirt and…oh, never mind, it’s a long story. We took our friend Tillie back to Key West, where she lives. She gets homesick, and then she gets sick of home and comes here.” “Tillie’s my Aunt,” Tim put in helpfully. Tara shook her head uncertainly. “I’m getting a little lost here. Maybe you can draw a family tree for me or something.” Senn sighed. “Yes, a family tree. Perhaps when we get to the palace, Kas will do that for you. He’s quite the historian. I’ll be occupied.” The silence closed in around her. “This isn’t the palace? I’m sorry, this is a little odd for me…” She’d been awake twenty minutes and already she was exhausted. Sara patted her on the back. “No, no, dear, this is a little villa, you see. We call it Tansing Crossing—that river is the Nor, and the main city on the Nor is Tansing, a few miles downstream. The villa is certainly lovely, but the palace is a few hours away by horse and it’s about twenty times the size of this villa.”

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Tara felt like an idiot. Of course, she thought. The scale of things would have looked so different as a child. This place must be tiny in comparison. “It does have the same general look, however, so if you like this, you’ll like the palace. When you’re done eating, I’ll show you around.” Tara nodded, putting down her fork, wanting badly to get away from Senn. “Let’s do the tour now, thanks.”

Senn started to follow the women, but Tim pulled him back. Kenneth joined them, pulling his pipe from his pocket. The younger men looked at him impatiently, knowing sage advice always followed the lighting of Ken’s pipe. “Not like you Senn. Did I ever tell you how much I admire your good nature, your helpful way with strangers, newcomers? What happened to that man I admire so much? Your singing career in the Great Lands went to your head?” Kenneth pulled on his pipe and the sweet aroma slowly filled the dining room. “I’m not a boy, Ken. And she’s no stranger or newcomer.” Tim poked Senn in the chest. “What the hell was that about? You are not yourself.” Senn felt a mixed rush of guilt and fury. “You do not understand this matter. Nor do you, Uncle.” He stormed onto the balcony and paced back and forth. Tarana. You’re bringing out the worst in me. He felt Tim behind him and turned to face him. “Don’t give me that look, Tim. Stop your bloody hero worship and open your eyes. I’m flawed. I’m a lecherous, lazy, son of a bitch. I’m not the funny, kind soul of your fantasy or anyone else’s. You don’t know me and you never will. Kas is the only one who understands me.” Senn turned away and leaned on the balcony railing, pain pounding in his head, half-lies tearing at his gut. What the hell is wrong with you, you sound like a child! Why would you push Tim away? Something’s terribly wrong. She’s poisoning you. Get home now. He heard Tim leave and smelled Kenneth’s pipe. “Her father is dead, Senn. It doesn’t matter which man, the hero or the beast. They are both dead. There’s no need for all this drama.”

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Senn waved Kenneth off. “You don’t know about this, Kenneth. There’s a bit more to it than her parentage. She’s part of a… plan. I don’t know what that plan is, or was. I don’t have a very good feeling about it, though.” Senn turned suddenly and forced a smile. “Let’s not discuss it further. It will be up to Kas and to Luke, who is probably fuming by now. I’m sorry if I was rude. I haven’t been feeling myself.” “You’d better go find your best friend.. He has an open wound that needs healing right now.” Kenneth tapped on his temple. “Not quite right emotionally since his capture. He needs you.” “Kas is my best friend.” “No he isn’t. Kas is your brother, your other half. Timothy is your best friend. He chose you. You chose him. Kas and you were destined to be joined, as Kas was destined to be with Lauren. You and Timothy…find him, Senn. No one should have to endure what he’s been through.”

Senn found Tim lying in the grass on the riverbank, eyes closed. He spoke without looking at Senn. “Prince. What brings your Highness?” “I don’t suppose you had a chance to buy that pod for me?” “I don’t suppose there’s any reason I would want to give it to you.” “You bought it.” Senn sighed in happiness. “Thousands of songs you said?” He flopped on the grass next to Tim. “That means I won’t have to listen to your bad ass voice anymore?” “Bad ass voice? Man, I’m glad we didn’t stay in Cancun longer than we did. Get your useless apology over with and leave me the fuck alone.” “I’m not here to apologize.” Tim glanced at Senn quickly. Senn pulled at long strands of grass and stripped one down to a tender shoot, which he pulled between his teeth. “I have a crushing headache, Tim. I think I’m becoming ill, and I need Kas to help me. But I want to talk before we leave for home. I want you to tell me about Teren.” “Never.” “I can reach into your brain and pull it out, but then it wouldn’t help.” “I don’t need help.” Tim turned his back to Senn. “He tortured you.

He poisoned you.

Our enemy took all of his hatred out on you.”

“It’s over, Senn. I don’t need to relive it. I’m fine.”

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“Tarana. Her father was Teren. Your captor.” Senn heard Tim’s gasp and closed his eyes, hoping that he’d find some way to help him accept it. He couldn’t accept it himself. “Tara’s mother, Josie, chanted her way to Anfall, as you and Lauren did, as Sara and Bruce did. Jaimes and Cullen stumbled upon her, and they thought she might do well at the Palace. She did not. Josie fell in love with Luke—he was perhaps seventeen. She was too intense for him—her gifts, I suppose. He wasn’t ready, didn’t really want her. Josie was heartbroken, and the heartbreak turned to fury. And revenge. She knew of Teren, knew he was our enemy, growing in strength. Josie found her way to Talinthall. “I don’t know all that happened, but I do know that she returned, broken, begging for healing and shelter for herself and her baby. We pretended the baby was part of the family. Tarana took to Hawk, and began to think of him as her father. We let it happen. It was so wrong,” Senn winced at the thought of what they had done. “Hawk was a kid himself. I think he really cared for Tarana, but Josie was very ill mentally, and we didn’t know what to do about her. She took care of the problem for us. One morning she was gone, and Tarana with her.” Tim rolled towards Senn. The pain in his eyes was nearly unbearable. “God bless Josie, I hope she has found some peace. That a woman…” He shook his head. “I hope he treated her better than he did me.” “Well, we know he raped her, at least I expect it was against her will, although I can’t be sure. At least you didn’t have to deal with that kind of assault…” Senn broke off in horror at the wave of shame and grief that poured from Tim. “Bloody hell, Tim…” Senn reached to Tim’s arm, but he pulled away quickly. “Don’t touch me. Don’t you dare speak of it again.” Tim looked at Senn, tears streaming down his face.. “And don’t you ever feel sorry for me. You lost your brother because of me.. Hawk would still be alive if I could have taken care of myself…” “That’s horse shit, and you know it. Hawk would have died rescuing someone else. It was the Spirit’s wish for him.” “That’s enough, Senn. Leave it. What about Tara? What will happen to her?” “I don’t know. I don’t know what happened to Josie, but she wasn’t well enough to raise a child. I don’t understand how Tarana survived, flourished. I suppose a girl who can turn into a beautiful talented woman, a Texas…” “Ranger.”

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“Yes. She must have some intelligence, right?” “Not necessarily. Oh never mind, that’s a bad Great Lander joke. Thoughts of Anfall, she said. That’s what got her through the bad times. They were thoughts of you, weren’t they?” “Yes. And I’ve thought of her every day since I woke to find my golden haired doll gone. And dreamt of her, of us. But at the end of each dream, the passion turns nightmarish—one of us leaves the other, and I’m full of bitterness. I can only assume it’s my own insanity, not a foretelling. I’ve never spoken of it to another soul, save one. I made a terrible mistake. I spoke about it to her. Don’t leave us alone again. I’m not myself around her.” “So she’s not your niece and you can’t tell her. I’m sorry. She was meant for you, wasn’t she?” “Evidently not.” “But she’s what you’ve wanted, always.” “There’s that.” Senn heard the resignation in his own voice but curbed his reaction. Somehow, knowing the full measure of what Tim had endured, perhaps not even the full measure, his problems seemed small, and he felt self-absorbed. So, he’d find a wife elsewhere. He wouldn’t be the first man to have lost a love just when he found her. Love? Nonsense, he corrected himself. Lust. A compelling draw, a kinship. But not love. Tim shook his head in agony. “How can I help?” Senn sighed. “That’s why I admire you so much, why you’re so much better than me. All you ever want to do is help and forgive.” “I haven’t forgiven you. And you can get that look off your face—I won’t hold it against Tara. How could I? We’re both Teren’s victims.” “Then I get my pod?” “Yes, idiot, you get your pod.”

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Chapter Six

“Bloody hell! Who gave Sennsárin permission to go off with Timothy? I swear, Kas, ever since your marriage he’s been wild, like a teenager again. What havoc is he creating in the Great Lands? And Tim, damn it—he should know better.” The huge man glared at Lauren. “Don’t look at me like that, Luke! I’m not in charge of my brother,” Lauren snapped. When Luke was angry, the whole palace seemed to shudder, Kas thought. He bounced his son Hunter on his knee, making cooing noises at him. “Relax, Luke, they’re young. Well, young-ish. And may I remind you that I now give the orders around here?” “Horse shit, Kas. You were saving the whole kingdom when you were his age and I was leading an army into battle. We weren’t drinking in, in…?” “Key West. They were dropping Tillie off. And then I think maybe they were going to check out an area to the west, called Cancun. It’s a bit of a joke, actually. I gave Senn a shirt that said …” “I don’t care why he went! Get him back here.” “Luke, I can’t conjure him back. And I’m not going after him. I’m not leaving my wife and baby.” He smiled at Lauren in reassurance. Luke cursed and stormed out of the room. Lauren did her best not to laugh, but her husband caught her smile. “It’s not funny. Well, it’s not that funny.” He smiled at Lauren as she reached for their son and began feeding him. “You know, he has more food on his face than in his mouth.” “You try it. He already has enough power to turn the spoon upside down if he doesn’t like the food.” “He wants his mother’s gorgeous breast back, that’s all. Who could blame him?” Kas kissed Lauren’s forehead and walked to the balcony, feeling disturbed for the first time in over a year. Life had been so good. He spent each day with the woman of his dreams, a healthy son, a peaceful kingdom and happy family. Decades of strife and war had ended. He was the most powerful wizard in the world, and he had used his powers to rid his land of evil. The Anthla-ma, the scepter of the Kingdom of Anfall,

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was back with its rightful owner, and no harm would come again to his household. Not while he lived. The legacy of Teren was gone forever. But there was a new problem, he thought, running his hand through his long blonde hair. The peace of Anfall drove its warriors insane with boredom. Their world focused on training, fighting, and working to ward off their enemy, who no longer existed. And Luke chomped at the bit to fulfill his lifelong dream. That bloody trip to the Sharl Mountains, Kas thought uneasily. Something about it pricked at his skin. Well, he thought, you simply don’t like it when your brothers aren’t together. He missed Palin, his half-brother, and Tim, his adopted brother…and Hawk. Kas uttered a prayer to the Spirit. Surely Hawk and his old friend Hunter were in better hands. But Senn’s absence cut through him. Kas sighed, thinking the palace walls of Anfall didn’t reflect light in the same way when Senn wasn’t within them. His wife had called them Yin and Yang, explaining to Kas the complementary forces of light and dark, hard and soft. Kas had thought her description was perfect—he felt like half of a circle, a broken wheel. Lauren joined Kas and kissed him on the cheek, then brushed away the barest trace of lipstick she left there. “Kas, there’s a tension building around here. Luke’s expedition has been put off at least a half-dozen times. Alyssa and Palin’s wedding, Cullen’s illness, Hunter’s birth. He’s about to explode. Why don’t you let Luke go?” “He’s not waiting for my permission. He’s waiting for Tim, and I’m pretty certain he wants Senn to go with him.” “This trip to the Sharl could take months, even more! Senn wouldn’t go away for that long.” She laughed. “Neither of you would survive it.” A commotion in the main courtyard brought the couple to their feet. Luke lifted a rider, a woman, from a horse. She was wounded badly, blood soaking her leg. Kas took the stairs two at a time to run to the woman’s side and Lauren followed. The woman was probably close to thirty-five, and quite striking.. She wore her straight black hair bluntly cropped, bangs covering her brows. She stared at Luke with her dark brown eyes. Her manner of dress was far more revealing than typical of these parts—her pants were nearly transparent and flowing and her shirt was created of shimmering scarves wrapped around her breasts and tied behind her neck, leaving her midriff and a few inches of flesh beneath her navel bare. And something about her makes me uneasy, Kas thought. He squatted down and examined her torn leg. “No problem, she’ll be fine.” “Do you need my help?” Lauren asked.

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“Let’s get her into bed and we’ll take care of this in no time.” Lauren handed her baby to her mother-in-law and leaned down close to the stranger. She brushed the woman’s hair out of her face and tried to comfort her. “Lady, can you hear me? What’s your name?” “She’s in shock, Lauren. The wound is nasty, infected. It hasn’t gone to her brain, though.” Kas caught Luke’s worried expression. “Honestly, she’ll be fine. This is nothing.” “It looks pretty nasty, Kas.” Luke pointed to the broken off shaft.. “She probably broke that off herself.” The woman didn’t take her gaze off of Luke. Lauren caught Kas’s eye and silently questioned him about her. Kas shrugged off Lauren’s probe, unwilling to let the woman hear them if she were gifted. “Come on Luke, get her upstairs.” The Queen Mother and her husband and the rest of the court moved aside as Luke lifted the lovely stranger into his arms.. Lauren grabbed Kas’s arms when Luke put his lips to the woman’s forehead and brushed it with the lightest of kisses.. “What’s gotten into him?” Kas grunted and shook his head to silence Lauren.. They settled the woman into bed and Lauren ripped the fabric away from the woman’s leg. Kas examined the arrow shaft more carefully, then pulled Luke and Lauren to the side. “Shock isn’t going to get her through this. It’s going to hurt like hell. I’m going to knock her out.” They nodded. Kas knelt next to the woman and held her hand. He gently turned her head to look at him, but she resisted, turning her gaze back to Luke. “Luke, leave,” Kas ordered. Luke growled and remained for a few moments, then reluctantly nodded and left the room. Kas took the stranger’s hand. “Miss, look at me. I want you to look into my eyes, and look deeply.. You feel warm and relaxed, very comfortable now. Do you feel the water, the warm water? You’re floating, so tired and sleepy. Everything is peaceful, very peaceful.” She closed her eyes, out cold. Kas went to work on the arrow. Lauren wiped at the blood as he worked with a knife of energy, gently cutting the shaft and the arrowhead away. He held his hand over the gaping hole left in her leg and chanted.

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Lauren found Luke waiting in the hallway. “The arrow is out, and she’s sleeping. Kas is sealing the wound now. I’ll get some things to wash her up and some fresh clothes.” “Who is she?” Luke looked shaken.. Lauren had never seen the warrior look so uncertain. “We’ll have to ask her when she wakes up. I have the feeling she’ll want to talk to you, Luke. She couldn’t take her eyes off you. Amazing, that wound wasn’t fresh—she’d probably ridden quite a distance in great pain.”

Kas left the peacefully sleeping stranger with a maid and found the entire family in the main hall. He approached Luke and handed him the arrowhead pulled from the woman’s leg. It was a nastylooking item, made of a shiny black glass-like stone with three barbs along each edge. “I haven’t seen the likes of it,” Luke remarked. “It’s obsidian,” said Cullen. The Sunaran warrior took the arrowhead from Kas and showed it to his brother Jaimes, who nodded in agreement. “It’s black volcanic stone, very easy to shape, very sharp. Only found in the Sharl Mountains. The raw material looks different, and it’s not until you crack it open that you get this glassy sheen. I certainly don’t recognize the workmanship, though. Not ours.” “So, all my life I seek to explore Sharl, and before I’m able, Sharl comes to me.” Everyone looked at Luke. He turned away, rubbing his chin in puzzlement. Kas walked to his eldest brother and put his hand on his shoulder. “I don’t quite understand it, but I can’t read this woman. I think she may be charmed in some way, and she may have some of the gifts. I won’t be sure until she wakes up.” “Great, another adept.” Luke sighed and flopped into a chair that seemed too small for him. Kas sat next to his brother. “There’s something odd about this woman and I don’t like it. I don’t think you should get involved with her.” “Who said I wanted to get involved with her?” he bellowed. “Bloody hell, I don’t know the woman.” “Well, you’re disappointed she may be an adept. Why’s that?” Kas smirked. “There are enough wizards and witches in the family now! We don’t need gifted strangers riding into the keep.” He rubbed his forehead, regretting his remark instantly. He grabbed Kas’s forearm. “Brother, I’m sorry. No disrespect to your kind.” “Oh, I’m horribly offended,” Kas snorted.

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Chapter Seven

Mira’s room was magnificent, the great Palace of Anfall exactly as she had pictured it. She sat up and felt a phantom pain in her leg and a tingling where the arrow had lodged. So, the great Prince adept healed her. She felt lucky beyond belief to be alive, to have reached the palace, to be the recipient of Kasmárin’s healing powers and mercy. Mira tried to remember the details of the man’s face, but could only draw to mind the image of a beautiful white spirit, a man fair beyond her experience. King Lucenor matched her fantasies of him as well—a massive, handsome warrior. She had been too weak to greet him properly, but she would make that right immediately. She stood, a little dizzy, intending to dress, find the King and make her case. Mira walked to the window and looked out over the exquisite countryside, lush and warm, bright and peaceful. Anfall, the land of heroes. She had made it. A single tear fell and she brushed it away. You’re a long way from finished, Mira. This is the beginning.. She stepped in front of a mirror, seeing that she was dressed in a simple shift, face pale, but otherwise, unmarred. Mira found the bathroom and luxuriated in a bath, the first one in weeks. She washed her hair and toweled it dry, brushing it until it shined. She explored the pile of clothes left on a chair near the bed, choosing a simple white cotton top and loose cotton pants. The palace showed her great hospitality, and she took that as a very good sign. After one last look in the mirror, she made her way out of the room and into a hallway, unsure which direction to turn, the place a maze. “There you are, looking quite well!” “Oh, milady!” Mira gave a deep curtsy to the woman who had been at her side, the woman who must be the wizard’s wife. “That’s not necessary!” Lauren laughed and helped Mira up. “Please call me Lauren.” Mira regarded the beautiful woman, who had a strong but kind presence. “I am Mira Nalan-ma. Third child of Moiran, once ruler of Sharla-ja. I am your servant.” “Well, Mira, I welcome you to Anfall. You’ve come a long way. Are you well enough to join the others?”

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Mira hesitated. “I suppose I have no choice. I don’t feel ready, but as you say, I have come a long way for this moment.” Lauren put her arm through Mira’s and led her down the hallway. “Take a deep breath, Mira. My family only looks intimidating. They’ll be happy to meet you.” When Kas went to the doorway to greet Mira, and she promptly dropped to one knee. “My Lord Adept!” Mira rushed the words out in a hushed tone and held her hand over her heart. Kasmárin pulled Mira to her feet, but she wouldn’t look at his face. “I owe you my life, Lord. Please accept my eternal gratitude.” “You’re quite welcome. I trust you’re feeling well? So, let’s introduce you around and learn a little about you.” Mira looked into Kasmárin’s face finally and had to stop herself from gasping at his full beauty. He smiled briefly, and she realized he caught all of her thoughts. He led her into the room, where the rest were on their feet waiting to greet her. “You’ve met Lauren, my wife, the Queen.” “The Queen? I don’t understand. Surely you are not King Lucenor?” “Oh, no. I am King Kasmárin. There’s been a little change.” She fell to both knees and bent her head. “Majesty, I beg your pardon.” Kas rolled his eyes and helped her up again. “Really, there’s no reason for all this.” “This is the famous Lucenor.. You may address him as Luke.” Mira looked into the face that had filled her dreams for years, the hero of all the stories of Anfall, the magnificent warrior she had come all this way to see. This time, she not only fell to her knees, she flattened her body to the floor and lay prone in front of Luke. She felt her entire body shake, waiting for the man’s response. “My lord, I am your servant through eternity.” Mira heard the warrior groan and winced. Surely he would dismiss her. “Oh my!” Lauren knelt next to Mira and tried to pry her from the ground. “Mira, that’s not at all necessary, really. We’re a bit more casual than that around here. Please, come on now, get up.” Mira squeezed her eyes shut, waiting for Lucenor’s word. “Lady.” Luke’s voice boomed. “Attend to me and stand.” Mira immediately stood, eyes to the ground. “Now, tell me your name!” Luke ordered, sounding fierce. “Highness. Your humble servant is known as Mira Nalan-ma.”

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“Well Mira Nalan-ma, I order you to stop bowing to me, to King Kasmárin and his wife Lauren, and to anyone else you might meet in the next few days. Is that clear?” “Yes, Highness.” “And I furthermore order you to stop looking at the damned floor.” Mira turned her gaze to the ceiling, unable to make eye contact with the warrior. “That’s not what I meant, and you know it. You’re being a little obstinate, for a humble servant. Come to me, Mira.” As if in a dream, she went to Luke and stood before him. He grabbed her hand and led her onto the balcony.

Mira imagined this moment so many times that she couldn’t sort out if she were

daydreaming or not. She stared numbly at the view of the inner keep, children playing, grooms leading horses to a stable, a woman sweeping. What had she been thinking? That this hero would follow her anywhere, based on her charms and her feeble pleadings? He was a mature, experienced, grounded man. No woman’s fool. Exquisite and strong, massive and powerful.. The most acclaimed warrior of all time. His voice was strength itself. “I don’t know what has frightened you, but you are obviously an incredibly strong woman, to have come all this way, and to ride wounded as you did. You are from Sharl, are you not?” “I am the youngest child of Moiran, the Master of Sharla-ja. Yes, Majesty, I have come from Sharl.” “I sense you have come for me, is that right? Or is that simply the imaginings of a warrior faced with a beautiful stranger?” Mira looked up quickly and gasped. Had he said he found her beautiful? No, she had heard her own fantasy. “Tell me what you need from me, Mira.” He would think her audacious beyond belief. In her rehearsals, her speech was flawless, but reality was so different. Her mouth went dry and she feared she would cry in front of the warrior and the royals. No, she owed more to her own family. “Tell me, Mira. The worst that can happen is I’ll deny you.” She nodded. She had to try. Mira looked beyond Luke to see all the family gathered to hear her tale. She wished the Palace of Anfall would open up at the foundations and swallow her whole, drawing her into blissful solitude..

King Kasmárin unnerved her with his beauty, his wife with her kind

countenance, the Queen Mother and her consort with their anxious expressions. Two huge Sunaran

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warriors looked on skeptically. Was there no escape from this duty? She thought of her brothers, dying or dead already. “I’ve come…” Mira tried, but her voice failed her. Her knees started to give out, but Luke steadied her with both hands. Mira took in a deep breath and looked him squarely in the eyes. ”I’ve come to ask you to help my people.. We are destroyed, Majesty. We have fought the Great Landers for decades, but they have the gifts, and we are not greatly gifted with the magic. Our numbers are dwindling quickly. You know of our ancestry, no doubt? Of the line of Dylan’s son, Shamus?” “No, we do not know of your people at all, lady. We know of nothing beyond the Sharl. Great Landers you say? Some of those here are Great Landers. They are nothing but the most peaceful of the gifted ones.” “I mean no insult to them.” Mira looked nervously at the family, realizing that the Queen Mother’s consort, a dark-skinned man without peaked ears, was certainly a Great Lander. And Queen Lauren herself! Of course! How had things come to pass so differently at Anfall? “I digress. The Great Landers brought weapons with them. We have only our fighting arts, no match for their weapons, which fire small metal projectiles and are quite deadly. My father’s kingdom is lost, without Anfall. My brothers are dead, or all but dead. We will hold on for a month or two, no more. Anfall is our only hope. I have come to beg for your kindness, your mercy, your army. We know that we have never fought by your side, bowed to your kingdom, been your ally.. Nor have we been your enemy. We humbly ask that you forgive our self-isolation, our negligence to your kingdom and your rule of the Land. We owe you many centuries of allegiance, and perhaps tithes of some sort?” “You owe us nothing.” Luke’s lips curved up and Mira couldn’t imagine what he found amusing. “There’s more. What is it?” “I am embarrassed.” Luke lifted her chin, forcing her to meet his eyes again. “Be strong, woman. Tell me.” “My father does not understand the glory of Anfall—the beauty of its people. He thought that it was the stuff of legends, not of reality. In Sharl-ja, I am considered attractive and a valuable warrior.” She laughed nervously, humiliated. “My father offers me in marriage to you in exchange for your help. He does not understand that you have no need for a woman like me.” She covered her face in embarrassment. Luke laughed outright. “Indeed? Well, let’s take one step at a time, shall we?”

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Mira felt the blood rush to her cheeks. He was laughing at her. “Why can’t he tell her she’s beautiful? You men are all the same.” Lauren poked Kas on the arm. “Don’t get mad at me! I tell you you’re beautiful every day! Mira, Luke, come in here and sit, and we’re going to iron out this whole thing right now. We need to hear about these Great Landers and the history of Sharla-ja. You must relax, Mira,” Kas hooked his arm around her shoulder and she felt a peaceful warmth pass through her entire body. “You’re using magic on me, Sire. To calm me.” Mira looked at the King’s sparkling blue eyes. “It’s the least I can do for a guest.” Kas winked. He turned suddenly to Lauren and Mira heard his whisper. “Sennsárin is back.. And Timothy. They are safe.” Lauren sighed in relief. “It always worries me. They are at Tansing Crossing?” “Yes. And…there’s someone with them.” His voice grew concerned. “Oh, don’t tell me Tillie’s returned?” Lauren laughed. “No,” Kas whispered. “It certainly isn’t Tillie.”

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Chapter Eight

Tarana could ride, clearly enjoyed it, Senn thought. And he enjoyed watching her, a bit too much. Her ample breasts moved rhythmically beneath her white shirt, rubbing her dark nipples into hard peaks. Her long tan legs looked sinfully appealing as she squeezed them against the sides of the horse. Her short blonde hair fluttered in the warm air and she even smiled a little. She and Tim chatted about life in the Great Lands, although she occasionally asked very pointed questions about Anfall and the royals. Senn laughed a bit at Tim’s description of the household, all painfully true. “Kas has absolute power over everyone, and he likes to remind us all of that somewhat regularly. Of course, he doesn’t actually give orders, because no one is stupid enough to cross him. I mean, flames shoot out of his hands when he’s angry.” Tara laughed, and Tim added with a snort, “I meant that literally.” “Oh. All right, I’ll watch my step with the King, then. Is he as handsome a man as he was a boy?” Senn put in, “Ugly as sin. You won’t recognize him.” Tara turned around and grinned. “Ah, jealous?” Senn arched a brow. “I’m not concerned.” He knew what Tim would say and tried to stop him, but it was too late. “Our playboy Prince doesn’t have any trouble picking up women. We generally travel with a few Sunaran knights to beat them off of him.” Tara nodded seriously. It doesn’t matter, Senn. She’s off limits. She may as well know that you get around—it will be easier on both of you. “And Jenna? What of the Princess?” Tim groaned and Senn guffawed. “My sister specializes in torture.. Tim has been trying to get into her bed for…” “Senn! Shut up!”

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“All righty then, tell me about Luke? I remember him so well. He was large and strong, and handsome in a different way. I always pictured that he’d end up looking like the Rock.” “Who?” Senn asked. Tim couldn’t stop laughing. “Perfect. You nailed it—wait ‘til you see him. Luke’s the man. He’s grounded, very kind. Ignore his growling—it’s all an act. He couldn’t lead the army if he didn’t seem so proud. He’s a pussycat, actually.” “I’m the pussycat,” Senn put in slyly. “Then there’s Senn, the family schizophrenic. Your Uncle Senn is…the most complicated person I’ve ever met in my life.” “Oh Tim, you’re making me blush.” Senn began humming. “You mean the shape shifting?” Tara looked back and Senn and he looked away, unwilling to discuss the topic with her. It hit too close to home, too close to his fantasies. He nodded to a young boy who guided a few scrawny goats along the road to the palace. The boy stopped and dropped to one knee and Senn motioned him close. He scurried to Senn’s side, and he leaned down and ruffled the boy’s hair, then pushed a gold coin into his hand. “No, not the shape shifting.. Stuff like that,” Tim indicated the boy. “And his gifts, which are substantial—that’s putting it mildly. And his skill with weapons, which he demonstrates only when necessary. There’s his ego, which is also substantial. His way with women. His sense of humor, which is twisted beyond belief. Watch for his practical jokes—no one is immune. Let’s see, there’s his blind devotion to his family, especially Kas. Have I left anything out, Sennsárin?” “My incredible good looks and fabulous singing voice.” Tim sighed. “You’ll meet Palin, he’s the baby, not born yet when you left, and his new wife Alyssa. And Lauren, of course, my sister, Kas’s wife. You’ll hit it off. And the Queen Mother, Margaret, her husband Bruce, who is also Luke’s General. And then the Knights.” “The Knights?” “Cullen and Jaimes, brothers, Sunaran warriors. They’re basically Luke’s bodyguards, but also our very good friends.” “You forgot someone,” Senn put in. “Yes, the real ruler of Anfall. Hunter, Kas’s baby boy.” “Spoiled?” Tara asked. “Beyond belief.”

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“We’re only a few miles out now,” Senn said happily. Tara glanced at him. “You’re always happy to come home, aren’t you? I’ve never felt like that.” “Perhaps you’ll learn to call Anfall home, sweetheart.” “Perhaps,” Tara said quietly. It felt so surreal. The only thing that felt solid was the old mare under her. She absently patted Bell’s neck and make clicking noises. Bell snorted back in appreciation. Tara smiled briefly at the horse and at Senn for choosing such a tame horse for her, an expert rider. Her confusion about Senn’s presence paled in comparison to her growing fear of meeting the rest of the family. First Sennsárin, now Kasmárin. Why afraid of him all of a sudden, she thought? She tried to take in the fantastic scenery. Sweet small pastel cottages lined the road, surrounded by neat vegetable and flower gardens. Behind them, enormous philodendron leaves hung in a filigreed canopy between towering palms and rushes. She could hear the tinkling of waterfalls in the distance. Occasionally a citizen would run out to greet the men in a respectful but casual fashion. A few young women leaned on fences and waved to Senn especially. Tara wondered if he was more restrained in his greetings than normally—they seemed somewhat put out by his brief wave. Senn hummed or sang incessantly in his fabulous baritone voice.

And his choice of songs made everything more

surreal—pop hits from every era, with a special fondness for Elvis, she thought. Tara gasped and ducked as a colorful bird swooped down to land on her shoulder and then hopped to Senn before making its way to the treetops. “You’re jittery,” Tim noted. “I suppose it would freak me out a bit too. Actually, I suppose it did.” “I’m fine. Do you always worry about everyone and everything?” Tara snapped, a bit too harshly. It wasn’t like her, she thought. Tim was a saint, her rescuer. But she couldn’t find the energy to apologize to her new friend before he took off at a good clip, leaving her alone with Senn. “Damn it.” “I do it a lot,” Senn pulled up alongside Bell. “He’s impossible not to hurt. Forgive yourself and let him go.” “He saved my life. Did he explain what he did in Mexico?” “I got the general drift of things.” Senn smiled and Tara felt a little catch of tight anxiety in her chest. “You’re jittery. I’ve seen every Great Lander go through it. Just roll with it.”

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Tara looked directly into his eyes and saw his pupils flash in an emotion she couldn’t read. What a face, she thought. It shocked her every time she looked at him. When would it be okay? When would he simply be her good looking uncle? Senn’s smile faded and he bit his lip. “Never.” “Never what?” Senn acted as if she hadn’t spoken, as if he hadn’t and looked back towards the path. “I’ll probably be going away for a while. Luke is mounting a bit of an excursion and I think I’ll join him. That is, with permission from Kas.” Tara’s heart sunk. No, this is good. Very good. “I take it that you and Kas are close.” “There’s that. But he’ll understand. It will help, won’t it?” Before she could answer, he pointed to a clearing to the left of the path. He needn’t have, for the Palace of Anfall was impossible to miss. Shimmering white in the bright sun, parapets and balconies and stairways all vied for attention. It was too much to take in at once. At they neared the palace, more ornate details came into view— fountains and manicured gardens and statues. “My God,” Tara whispered. “I don’t remember it quite like this.” Senn laughed lightly and rode on in silence. They took a road that curved up to the sweeping entrance of the Palace, and Tara could see Tim dismounting at the arched gateway to the outer keep. She suddenly felt the shock of Senn’s hand on her forearm, his palm hot on her flesh, his magical scent filling the air. “I’ve said this before,” he smiled. “And knowing me, I’ll say it again.” He put a finger into the air, “However, I do believe this is the last time we’ll be alone.” Tara’s heart began to pound furiously. They both stopped riding and regarded each other. Senn looked at her lips and Tara thought he might actually lean in and kiss her. “Don’t, Uncle. Whatever it is, don’t.” I don’t trust you. “No?” A flash of anger crossed his face. “Then live your life wondering, niece.” Senn pressed his heels into his horse and left her to follow him.

Senn picked up the pace to a fast gallop and flew into the courtyard to find Tim taking the steps to the Grand Hall, briefly stopping to clasp arms with Kasmárin. Kas stood alone on the stairway and waited while a groom took Senn’s horse. Senn looked into his brother’s eyes and read the anguish, the sympathy, the fury, and the understanding he knew he’d find. And the relief to be with him again. “Well, Majesty, I’m back.”

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“Yes, it would seem so. And you’ve brought a guest.” “A family member.” “Was it wise?” “You’ll weigh in on the subject, no doubt.” Kas moved to Senn, who reached out for him. “Bloody hell, Senn, what’s wrong with you?” Senn felt his legs quiver as Kas pulled him in close, pressing his lips to Senn’s forehead. “You’re burning with fever! Tarana, has she done this to you?” “I was hoping you would know.” “Oh, Senn.” Kas scooped him into his arms and Senn felt Kas’s healing energy fill his body, mind, and soul as he gently drifted into Kas’s turquoise world of blissful sleep. His last thought before passing out was how needy he must seem to Kas. Tarana had been right, after all.

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Chapter Nine

Senn came to and found Kas sitting in a chair near the bed, turning the pages of a large ancient tome. “Passing time with a good book? Is the patient going to live?” “You might make it. Actually, I’m working on a few ancient spells. You might give a little thought to expanding your gifts once in while.” Kas closed the book. “There’s a good deal about shifting in here—since you’re the only one of any power left…” Senn arched a brow at Kas, who looked grim when understanding took hold. “Ah, I see. Tarana shifts. Well, let’s talk about her, Senn. What have you told her?” “Nothing.” “I don’t believe that for a second,” Kas smirked. “I can feel it pouring off you, whatever it is.” “Why did she make me sick? I felt the life draining out of me every time I was close to her.” “And you’d like to be close to her?” Kas didn’t bother waiting for an answer, but stood and looked out the window. “Lauren’s with her now. I’ve told them all, those who didn’t know. About Teren being her father. I don’t know why, or even if, she made you sick. Just take care.. You feel better now?” Senn nodded. “I don’t feel horrible evil pouring off her Senn, honestly. I think you’re being a little dramatic. You really want her?” “How did she take it, the news about Hawk and Teren?” “I’m about to speak with her. Unless you want to?” Kas turned back to him. “Brother, you simply aren’t made for subterfuge of any sort. It goes against your very nature. Every time you fight your true nature, you make a bloody mess of things. My guess is that you felt unwell because you can’t deny yourself a single thing. In any case, Tarana deserves the truth, we all do. Perhaps it will be your job to comfort her in her great need…” Kas smirked again. “Does she know that you’ve slept with every other female in Anfall? That sort of thing generally doesn’t go over very well with women.”

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“That would be funny if it weren’t so fucking serious. We’re tied at the core. You didn’t know that, did you? You think you know everything about me, don’t you?” Kas laughed lightly. “Indeed.” “Wrong. I’ve kept a few things from you. My whole life…well, I’ve had this feeling, since Tarana was small…” “You chased her as a boy. I remember. You’ve dreamt of her constantly since then. And you want her like you’ve wanted nothing else in your life, save our bond—yours and mine. But you fear her, and she fears you, because of a strange evil you think is tied to her parentage, and the dreams you have that end so badly.” Kas yawned dramatically and covered his mouth. “Something along those lines?” Senn snorted. “Do you know what I had for lunch three Tuesdays ago in Cancun? Bloody hell, why do I bother trying to break free of you? It’s hopeless.” Kas sat next to Senn on the bed. “You don’t try at all. You don’t want to break free.. It is hopeless.” He pointed to the book on the chair. “And it’s all explained rather clearly. There are three of us…I thought at one time the third might be Lauren, but it’s not… She greatly gifted, but there’s another who’s bonded to us. A triad.” “I don’t know what the fuck you’re talking about.” Senn sighed and pushed Kas away, climbing out of bed and pulling on a long robe. “It’s fairly odd that you had the Awen mark engraved on your arm if the triad means nothing.” “That’s a random design, I was drunk.” Senn touched the deep blue tattoo, three angled bars on his biceps.. He wondered now why he had instructed the Key West tattoo artist to use that design. At the time, it hadn’t felt as if he had a choice. “Well, when the Spirit moves you, we’ll discuss it. I can see you’re going to be fine, although this is the grouchiest I’ve seen you in years. You’ve picked up a foul tongue in the Great Lands. I’ll go speak with Tarana—that will help a little. Think about it carefully before you go to her to declare your undying lust, Senn. She’s going to be pretty confused for a while. And then, of course, there’s the possibility that she might actually be evil.” “That’s really insightful, thanks.” “By the way, we’ve another visitor, a woman, from Sharl. Her name is Mira, and she’s asking for Luke to rescue her people from enemy Great Landers. He’s going to take half the army with him, I’m sure.” “By the way? That’s a bit more than ‘by the way!’ What the hell?” “Hmnn, well, you’ll go with Luke of course. One of us has to.”

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Senn felt the fear clutch at his stomach, as it did every time he faced a time without Kas nearby. Kas patted Senn on the back as he headed out the door.. “It will be okay.” “For you,” Senn mumbled at the closed door and empty room. He pulled the robe from his naked body and crawled back into bed, shimmering into a new form, circling a few times until he was comfortable. “Bloody hell,” he growled to the empty room as he licked his huge forepaws. “Damn Sharl to hell. Bloody Luke and his bloody expedition. Stupid Texas Ranger.”

Tara walked among the orchids and flowering trees arranged around the central fountain that graced the ornate formal garden. She studied the fountain, drawn to the face of the statue that poured water from a jug to trickle onto smooth rocks in the pool below. An old man, wise and kind looking, with a pipe clenched between his teeth. The image brought her a moment of peace and she sat on a bench facing the statue. She saw the flicker of a hummingbird as it darted like a winged ghost in and out of view. The place was enchanting. No, enchanted, she thought. The palace was graced with every child’s storybook fantasy—elves and handsome princes and beautiful ladies and… her. How did she fit in to this picture? She glanced down at her wrinkled shorts and bare legs, cheap leather sandals bought in a Cancun gift shop. Just call me Alice in Wonderland. “I see you found one of my favorite spots.” Tara jumped. Her imagination had never done him justice. Certainly King Kasmárin was the most beautiful man she had ever seen. Tall and strong, perfect chiseled features, piercing blue eyes, pale shimmering blonde hair and a benevolent smile. Too perfect. He smiled broadly. Tara wondered if he read her thoughts. “Welcome back to Anfall.” She stood uncertainly, wondering if she should kneel before him or hug him. Her uncle. The greatest wizard any world had ever known. She did nothing. Nor did he approach her. “Sit,” he gestured for her to return to the bench. He sat next to her and she took in the familiar scent of patchouli and magic. “It’s glorious here,” she said, “I remember the day you conjured this palace into being. As I grew older, I thought perhaps I’d imagined it.”

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Kas laughed lightly. “That was well over twenty years ago. I still can’t leave things alone. My wife constantly nags me about it. She says I would have been an interior designer in the Land.” “That’s a little hard to imagine.” She felt oddly at ease in the great wizard’s presence. He pointed to the statue. “You found Hunter.” “Hunter?” “Our dear friend. The Spirit took him. It seems to me that people who need healing gravitate to this spot, just as they gravitated towards Hunter during his lifetime.” “Was he very gifted?” “Yes, indeed. But not as you mean.” He sighed and grabbed Tara’s hand suddenly. She felt the now familiar jolt of magic pass through her veins. “I’ll ask you to be quiet for a moment as I tell you about my good friend there.” Tara nodded curiously. “Hunter loved us—the boys, perhaps most especially Palin, the baby. Palin was born after you left. Hunter was a great warrior, even without the gifts.. He lived for nine decades, all of them spent helping the family, teaching the boys, fighting our enemy. I know there are many Great Lander sayings on the subject and that I’m not being original, but it’s clear that our greatest enemies are within us. Hunter taught us to fight those enemies—fear, jealousy, envy, greed, selfishness—simply by his example. For my entire life, I thought the powerful wizard, Teren was our most feared and hated enemy. But that isn’t true. He’s dead. Yet still, we struggle. “So now Tarana, you’ll have to discover your internal foe.” “I didn’t expect this type of analysis, Uncle. This sort of talk goes for over a hundred dollars an hour back home.” Kas squeezed her hand tightly to silence her and then let up the pressure. “Josie had many enemies, didn’t she?” he said, “Self-loathing perhaps foremost among them. When Luke didn’t return her affections, she sought out our great foe, Teren, hoping to punish Luke. I suppose she gave him some of our secrets. It doesn’t matter. Teren is dead. I killed him. Hawk was your friend, not your father.” Tara felt the certainty, the truth and along with it, a confusing mixture of dread and relief. So, she had lived a lie. Somehow, she had known that Josie had lied about Anfall, about Hawthorne. She had obviously lied about it being impossible to return. Which was worse? To be the daughter of an enemy of Anfall? Or to be told lies your entire life, to not have an identity at all?

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Kas turned and studied Tara. “Is Josie still alive?” Tara nodded, and the tears began to flow. The tears that she had forced down for so many years. “In an asylum.” “How sad.” Kas squeezed her hand again. “I’ve always wondered if I’d end up like her.” Tara broke down fully and Kas pulled her into his arms. She felt his warmth and healing love, forgiveness and acceptance. Tara looked up hesitantly after a few moments. “You don’t hate me. I can feel it.” “Welcome to Anfall. Hawk was very fond of you. It’s your choice—you can call yourself his daughter, or his friend. We’ll abide by your decision. But know that no one will blame you, or harm you, or turn you away, ever. Your father Teren was truly evil, Tarana, I don’t want to mislead you. But you do not need to accept him or Josie as your destiny.. You can create your own.” Tara looked up at the statue. “I wish that man were my father.” Then it hit her like a ton of bricks, and she found herself breathing quickly, panicked, joyful. “He isn’t my uncle.” Kas laughed. “No, Senn’s certainly not your uncle. He probably didn’t hide it very well, did he?” Tara brushed away tears and smiled. “Well, I thought he was a little inappropriate, all things considered.” “Why don’t you let him know? It’s really bugging the shit out of him. And when he’s in one of his rare foul moods, life isn’t very pleasant for me. His suite is on the third floor, at the furthest end of the East hall.” Tara smiled a bit and nodded. “Can I ask you something… Majesty?” “Kas.” “Hmnn. Kas. Why does he frighten me?” Kas pointed up to the statue of Hunter. “Perhaps that’s one of the enemies you’ll have to meet on your own battlefield, Tarana. Perhaps you and Senn will figure it out together.” “Kas? Please call me Tara.” Kas smiled and hugged her to his chest.

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Tara tapped lightly on the door she supposed was Senn’s, but the palace was such a maze, she feared she might have lost her way. A rotund maid trundled down the hallway, brushing her skirts straight. She nodded cordially and Tara stopped her. “Pardon me, miss. Is this where Prince Sennsárin lives?” “Aye. I’m sure he’s in, I just tidied up a bit, but mind you, calling his quarters tidy is a bit of a wos-a-name. You know, when things go against one another? What’s that called?” She scratched the curly gray hair beneath her scarf. “Contradiction?” The maid shook her head. “You’re on the right track… well, anyway, it’s nearly impossible to keep his quarters. Like a hurricane, he is. He was sleeping soundly and not in his usual good mood when I woke him, so I didn’t stay long. Not that my baby would turn me into a toad, mind you, but his bad moods are awful. Here…” she opened the door quietly. “No, no, I can’t go in without…” “Of course you can. Oh, Sennnn-sar-innn,” she drew out his name in a sing-song voice, “you have company.” Tara heard a low growl and backed up a step. “Well, who the hell is it?” Senn’s baritone voice sounded odd and Tara thought he sounded pretty pissed off to be woken a second time. The maid pushed Tara through the door and shut it behind her. Tara could hear her chuckle from the hallway. Tara’s eyes gradually adjusted to the low light and she took in the huge room—most every foot of floor space covered with lush pillows, silken throws, huge candle holders and books stacked everywhere in irregular heaps. On a landing elevated from the rest of the room, she saw the huge canopied bed. And the creature curled up on it. “Pan... pan…” Tara struggled to get her lips to work. He opened his eyes and blinked, the bright blue pools even more shocking against his sleek black fur. “Panther.” He didn’t move. Tara felt the pull to change as she’d never felt before. Not to escape, not to hide in dense cover, not to flee her painful life in solitude, but to be with him. To lay with him. To open herself to him, fully. Senn pushed himself up and stared intensely at Tara, who slowly approached him.

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“Senn?” He blinked. She sat tentatively and reached out her hand, left it hovering an inch above his fur. Too fast, Tara, too much. Tara pulled her hand back and stood quickly, feeling like her world was spinning out of control. Alice in Wonderland, and you were born in Wonderland. This place is crazy, and so are you. She turned for the door but Senn caught her from behind, strong hands on her shoulders. “Don’t go. I’ll behave.” Tara turned to find Senn in his human form, a loose silk wrap looped around his waist. “Did I frighten you?” “Yes. No.. I don’t know. Not your form…” she waved that off. “That I expected. Smelled is a better word.” Tara tried to stop herself from looking at his naked torso, tried desperately to lock onto his eyes, but failed. She dropped her gaze to his chest, down to his navel, down to the bit of deepest black hair beneath. His skin looked like the softest velvet and he smelled…Oh, God help me. Senn winked. “I’d like to mark you now you know.” His smile became rather coy and Tara felt a fluttering in her chest, a tingle through her veins. “Are you flirting with me, Uncle? That’s not very subtle.” Tara heard how shaky her voice was. “Oh, that’s really disappointing. You’re going to keep on with the “Uncle” horse shit?” Senn sighed dramatically. “You’re no fun at all.” “You’re very, very different all of a sudden,” Tara backed up, wondering that her legs still worked. The raw sexuality pouring off of him made the air shimmer. “I’m very, very available all of a sudden. All of a sudden after over twenty years of thinking about you.” “But there’s something… still… wrong. The dreams…” “Fuck the dreams, darling.” Senn moved closer and pulled a strap of her shirt down her shoulder. His fingertips set her skin on fire. He moved the strap very, very slowly, then moved to the other shoulder. Tara moved her hand to brush his away but he growled softly and pushed her hand aside. “Be nice, Tara. Let Senn play a little. Where’s your generous spirit? Your gratitude for being brought home to Anfall?” He ran his hands on her bare shoulders and she shivered. “Aaah, you like my touch. A lot. Tell me.” Senn’s eyes narrowed and Tara glanced briefly at his lips, cursing herself as she did for giving her feelings away. “I just learned about Teren. This isn’t the time, Senn. I’m too…” her voice trailed off.

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“Nonsense. I can tell you aren’t torn up over it at all. You sought me out right away. To tell me you know we aren’t related. Yes?” Tara tried to push him away, truly frightened now that she wouldn’t be able to withstand his onslaught. His voice mesmerized her, his face and eyes hypnotic, his hands pure magic. Senn suddenly reached around her neck and grabbed her short hair, yanking her head back. He moved closer and leaned in, touching his tongue lightly to neck. His hot sweet breath scorched her and her core throbbed. He ran one hand along her jaw, down her neck, and across the swell of her breast. Senn’s fingers were burning hot and filled with magic. Please, go ahead, touch me.. Senn snickered and pulled Tara’s tank top down to expose her breasts. He moaned lowly and cupped one breast in his palm, rubbing her nipple into an aching peak with his rough thumb. He circled and circled until Tara felt herself pushing her wet crotch against his. His hard shaft pressed into her belly and she bit back a plea. Take me, do anything you want, I’m your slave. Senn drew in a quick breath and Tara knew he read her mind. He pulled at her waist and nearly lifted her from the ground to bring his full lips onto her nipple, where he sucked and licked. Fire drove to Tara’s pussy, she clutched onto his back, digging her fingernails into his skin, and grabbing his silken hair. Senn pushed her against the wall and pulled her shirt to her waist. He attacked her other breast as if he were dying and could suck a cure from her nipple. He grabbed her hand and pushed it towards his swollen cock. Tara gasped. So hard, so big. He’d be the best she’d ever had. “That’s what they tell me,” he growled, rubbing her hand along his shaft. “I’m the best they’ve ever had.” That’s what they tell me. That’s what they tell me. Tara pushed him away, pulled up her shirt, and moved away from him. Senn looked at her in surprise and she felt his probe of her thoughts. “Oh come on, now. You didn’t honestly think I’m a virgin?” “No,” she whispered. “No, I didn’t think that.” “You’ll tell me when you’re ready, then, Tarana. Because it may not be tonight, and it may not be this week, or even this month, but you won’t deny yourself, no matter what you think of my history.

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And when you come to me, you won’t give a damn about your dreams or Teren or Anfall and all the women who’ve been in my bed. You’ll barely know your own name.” “Fuck you, Senn. What an ego.” Tara squeezed her eyes tightly. He’s been through all the women of Anfall.. Remember that. He’s only a playboy prince. Remember. Just like Sam. “Have it your way for now. I’m in no mood to settle for dreams. I’ll have someone tonight. It’s a pity you won’t let me take you. Because, my dear, although the dreams weren’t real, I’m that good.” He pulled her in again and nipped at her neck with sharp teeth, and Tara couldn’t bite back a groan at the feel of his hot lips and tongue and teeth on her skin. Senn turned away and walked back to bed, letting the silk wrap that had covered the lower half of his body fall to the floor. Tara stood frozen, watching his glorious body ripple and shimmer. He stretched out face down on the bed and turned away from her. She gaped at the sight of him, velvet and tan, hard, and perfect. Simply perfect. “You’re an egomaniac and an exhibitionist, Senn.” “But with good reason, eh niece? ‘I had you at hello.’” “What?” “I had you at ‘hello.’” “That’s backwards. And it’s from Jerry McGuire.” “I know. I like that movie. If they made a movie of my life, I’d want Tom Cruise to play me, I think. He’s awfully short, though.” Tara frowned in terrible confusion, spell broken.. She backed towards the door, still looking at Senn’s tight beautiful ass and muscular back and legs. He turned his head towards her and winked. “I make you laugh. Don’t I?” Tara shook her head and ran to the door, pulling it open and slamming it shut behind her. She leaned against it, panting. And slowly, she felt a little laughter bubble up from deep in her heart. Laughter. When’s the last time a man made you laugh? She couldn’t remember. She was still breathless when Lauren found her. “Everything okay, Tara?” “Fine, just fine. I’m fine. Am I fine?” She desperately needed some reassurance she hadn’t lost her mind. “You will be, I think.” Lauren laced her arm in Tara’s. With her other hand she banged loudly on Senn’s door. “Out of bed, Kitten. We’re having a pow-wow, dinner in an hour.” Lauren turned to Tara. “Now, I have the feeling you’d feel more comfortable in some Anfallen clothing. How about it?”

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“Thanks, I don’t want to put you out, but I would like that.” She hesitated and Lauren smiled encouragingly, led her by the hand down the hallway. “What do want to ask me? It’s about Senn?” “Yes, it’s about Senn. Honestly, I’m not sure where to start.” Lauren nodded seriously and thought quietly for a moment. “It took me a good long while to really understand him. I’m not sure I do completely. It took me no time at all to love him.” “Love him? You mean as a friend?” “Yes, of course. Well, Senn’s more than a friend. He’s connected at the hip to Kas and I’ve adjusted to that,” she laughed lightly. “I think I have, anyway.” Lauren tilted her head and regarded Tara seriously. “You’ve been through a lot. And this is a complex family. But there’s a lot of love here. I hope you let yourself enjoy it. But that didn’t answer your question about Senn, did it?” Tara winced. “It’s embarrassing. I feel like I’m in junior high or something. But, do you think…”

She shook her head and waved her hand in front of her face to ward off tears of

embarrassment and confusion.. How could she ask? “Could a woman ever get Senn to settle down? And could you be that woman?” Tara sighed and nodded. “I don’t know why I’m even thinking about it—it’s ridiculous. He could have anyone in the world… He said he’d sleep with someone tonight—it didn’t even seem to matter who. I’m pretty ordinary…” “Ordinary? In what way? You’re beautiful, brave, and very gifted. I never visited Texas, but in New York, you certainly wouldn’t have been ordinary. As for Senn…well, he has been around, I won’t lie to you. I don’t think he’s ever taken sex very seriously. Hmnn, that’s not quite right. He takes sex very seriously,” Lauren laughed lightly. “He takes all of his play very seriously. I guess no one’s managed to capture his heart, if that’s what you mean?” “I see.” “What did Josie do to you?” Lauren shook her head. “Or was it a man? We’ll have to give it some time, but I assure you, Anfall will do wonders for your ego. About Senn, well, I can only say that he’s irresistible in a number of ways and if he’s got you in his sights, well, hang on to your hat.” “You can say that again.” Tara’s heart ached at Senn’s words. He’d have someone tonight. You fool. What would it have hurt?

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Chapter Ten

Tara wished fervently that one of her gifts was disappearing into thin air. When she entered the dining hall with Lauren, everyone was already seated around a huge table, and she felt as if a dozen strangers were examining every bit of her, inside and out. She had to stop herself from running down the hallway and out the palace door. Only Lauren’s tight grasp on her arm stopped her. The men stood, but it was Luke who approached her.. Tara looked up at the handsome giant, waiting for his reaction. He didn’t smile, but pulled her into his arms. Then, unexpectedly, he swung her around, exactly as he had when she was a little girl. Tara couldn’t hold back her tears. “Welcome,” Luke whispered into her ear. “Wipe those tears. I detest tears. You’re home.” Tara kissed Luke’s hand and rubbed it against her cheek. He smiled shyly and pulled his hand away. Kas indicated a seat between himself and Senn and Tara joined the rest, looking around to take in the family, who Kas introduced to her one by one. And finally, the stunning raven-haired stranger, Mira, who did not look pleased to meet her. Tara felt Senn slip into her mind. “She’s not thrilled at Luke’s joy to see you. Actually, I’m not sure I liked that display very much either.” Tara looked at Senn in surprise. “We’re a jealous bunch,” he explained. Tara felt a thrill run through her body. Did he mean he wanted her? No, simply the egotistical playboy. But it was lovely, she thought, being next to him, a foot away, catching his spicy scent in the air, his warmth. Kas looked past Tara and reprimanded Senn with a harsh look. “Tara, we were speaking with Mira about the trouble in Sharl. I’m sorry we’re not giving you a proper welcome, but this matter seems rather urgent.” Kas turned back to Mira. “Your father seems to have a fairly small force, you say, and some of the warlords have betrayed him for these Great Landers?” “Describe them.” Luke’s command was quiet.

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“The Great Landers?” Mira said, “They are average men. We have seen only a very few women, and suspect that is one of the prizes they seek, but not the most significant one. They are gifted of course, but not significantly. A few channel well, a few seem to be able to cast simple spells. Handto-hand they are easily defeated. Their weapons pose the greatest threat.” “What other prizes do they seek?” “Sir Cullen and Sir Jaimes will tell you that occasionally a stone or nugget of metal washes downstream to be found at the foot of the Sharl on the Sunaran side of the range.” The warriors nodded in concurrence. Mira continued. “On our side of the range, these riches shower down upon us. If one goes into the mountains and digs in the ravines, it is more a flood of stones than a shower. Evidently these stones are quite valuable in the Great Lands and we suspect that these men cross back to take advantage of the wealth they have found here.” “Seems like a fairly good theory,” Tim agreed. “If Sharl is full of precious stones, these guys are living it up when they go home. And no doubt coming back for more.” Mira looked at Luke, her eyes pleading. “Anfall is our only hope. We will not survive much longer against them. My siblings may already be dead, as well as Moiran.” Tara thought the woman sounded like Princess Leia pleading for help against the Empire. Her words rang false in Tara’s ears, as if she uttered lines from a play. “What Empire?” Senn whispered. “I thought you weren’t supposed to probe thoughts, Highness?” Senn laughed. “I don’t probe—your thoughts drift for all to hear. Tim, Kas, even Bruce can probably hear you. Close your eyes and receive.” Tara closed her eyes and saw a wall, at the same time visible and invisible, made of energy. “If you can see that, you will keep some bit of privacy.. I’ll teach you more later.” Senn suddenly turned to Mira. “Mira, my dear, how did you get that arrow in the leg? You are the only one who escaped an attack of some sort?” “Yes, I escaped under the cover of night on foot, but was tracked at daylight. I hid in a small cave and eventually found my way to the pass of Anthla. I ate and drank where I could. The rest you know.” “Enough.” Luke stood. “I’m exhausted by all this talk. Three days. We leave then. Anyone accompanying me should make arrangements. Bruce, I will take only a small part of the army. You will command the rest.”

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“Yes sir.” Luke’s general nodded. Tara regarded Bruce and he turned to her, feeling her probe. She tried to work through the family relationships in her mind. He was the Queen Mother’s husband, but not the boys’ father. “You’re Sara’s brother, aren’t you? She and Kenneth, from Villa Tansing. I can feel it.” Bruce smiled. “Can you feel it, or is it the Brooklyn accent?” Luke sighed in impatience and rose from the table. “Finish your dinner, Luke. It’s not that simple, and you know it.” Kas called him back. Luke turned, his face stormy. “It’s very simple.

You know the problem with you gifted?

You think too much, about

everything.. Kasmárin, you are too busy trying to be the perfect leader, Sennsárin is too busy trying to please you, Timothy is too busy trying to please him, Jenna is off somewhere avoiding Timothy. Palin and Alyssa are off trying to get some peace from you all. Mother frets over everything. Bruce and Cullen and Jaimes are the only normal ones of the bunch. You’re all making me sick. You’re warriors of royal blood. And all you can do is talk.” “I can do more than talk, majesty,” Mira said quietly, proudly, flirtatiously. The comment irked Tara for some reason, and she found herself speaking despite a tiny voice warning her not to. “You aren’t the only one, honey.” Mira glared at Tara. “We shall see, lady. Perhaps you would like to put your warrior skills to the test against a master of Sharla-ja?” “Bring it on.” Tara stood and threw her napkin on the table. Tim burst out laughing. “Are you going to mud wrestle or something? I want to watch.” Kas groaned. “Shut up, Tim.” Tara left the room in a huff and then realized she had no idea where to go. She felt Senn behind her. “This way,” he whispered, and took her hand. He led her down a hallway and into the garden, to the bench where she had sat with Kas. “Oh shit, what an introduction to your family. Honestly, I don’t know what got into me.” Senn laced his fingers in hers and she felt her body light up. “Pretty ridiculous. You do realize you started it?” “What? I did not!” “Sure you did. You had a moment of Luke’s attention. Mira didn’t take to that, surely you noticed.”

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“Well she’ll have to grow up. I’m not after him, but I’m not going to act like he doesn’t exist. He’s been in my heart for years.” “Not like I have, though, right?” Senn pulled her hand to his lips and she felt the luxurious brush of his full lips press onto her palm. Shivers coursed through her body. Tara wouldn’t look at him. “You’re right, you are a jealous bunch. All of the women of Anfall not enough for you, Senn?” Senn pulled at her chin so that she had to look at him. His eyes glimmered and Tara sighed at his beauty. “Don’t,” he whispered. “Please don’t do that to me. I can’t undo what I’ve done, who I’ve been.” Tara nodded. “You don’t owe me anything. I’m sorry. I just really met you, and your life is your business.. Only...” “Yes?” “Don’t try to seduce me like you did earlier today. I’m not one of your…girlfriends. I won’t be....” Senn winked. “That remains to be seen. I’m really sorry about that. I came on a little strong. Maybe a little sleazy? Sometimes, when I change form, I get a little…” he shrugged. “Horny? Me, too.” Senn closed his eyes and groaned. “Oh hell, did you have to say that?” Tara noticed Senn’s breathing quicken and felt her own response, a throbbing down low, an ache where she wanted Senn’s touch, his mouth. “Tara, guard your thoughts, or I won’t be able to…” Irresistible. Lauren’s right, there’s no getting away from it.

Hang onto your hat. Tara

tentatively brushed Senn’s cheek with her fingertips and he captured her hand in his and pulled it to his heart, which was beating wildly. Then he moved her hand down his torso and let go. She felt his rockhard stomach and pushed his shirt up to glide her palm along his velvet skin. He moaned, squirmed, and licked his lips and Tara knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that he was the most sensual man she had ever known. Built for pleasure. She pushed her fingertips beneath his waistband and felt a fringe of silken hair. And then froze, when she realized that his huge cock was rock hard and pressing against the back of her hand. Tara felt as if she stood on a precipice, ready to jump. She wanted so badly to please him, her ache growing and wetness making her squirm and moan herself.

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Senn leaned in close and whispered, “Please. I’ll die if you don’t.” Tara turned her hand and captured his shaft. Senn cried out as she rubbed her palm over the slick huge head. He brought both hands to her head and pulled her in, pressing his mouth onto hers in brief quick movements. He pulled back for a moment and stared into her eyes, taking in her expression, then dove into her mouth in desperate hunger. “In the dreams, we never kissed.” They thought in unison, the words hanging silently in the air of the garden. Tara nearly fainted from the contact, the shock of magic that soared through her body, the melding of his mouth and hers, his tongue exploring all of her, sucking on her tongue and lips, his teeth nipping. He bit at her neck and pulled at her earlobe and she felt herself falling away into another world. He was sucking her life into his soul–she could feel it. Needy, so needy. You are too, Tara. Her ache grew and she pulled caressed and rubbed his hard shaft and head in slow strokes, thinking of him inside of her, stroking her at such a pace. Senn’s breathing quickened further and he moaned and arched in pleasure. “Oh sweetheart, you are amazing. I won’t last…I don’t think…Oh bloody hell…” Tara knew he would explode and quickly unlaced his loose cotton pants. She gasped at the sight of him, the glorious size, the look of metal encased in dark velvet in her hand. Senn looked at her quickly, a flicker of doubt and longing in his eyes. “Tell me what you think of me, Tara.” Shocked that he could need a compliment, Tara could barely form the words. “You’re a god. Don’t ask me to tell you that. Honor me a little. You had me at ‘hello’.” Senn laughed a little through his gasps. “I like your sense of humor. But not nearly as much as your hands, and your amazing face, and your fucking gorgeous body…” “I have a pretty good mind, too.” Tara knelt down between Senn’s legs. Senn started to speak but lost his way when Tara brought her lips onto him. He arched and grabbed her head, pulling her in, crying out, and moaning her name. “This is wrong,” he growled. “This isn’t how it should be…” “This is how it is, Prince.” Tara looked up at him. Tara ran her tongue over his smooth skin and began a rhythmic sucking motion, pulling and twisting with her hand, moaning in time with her own strokes. When he cried out her name, he sounded like a warrior, claiming his prize. He poured and poured sweet spicy nectar into her mouth and Tara

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drank him in greedily. He shook for moments afterwards and then pulled her into his lap and rocked her back and forth. Tara could barely think, appalled at what she had done. When had she become simply another one of his women? In a matter of a few moments. “No, please don’t ruin it, Tara.” Senn caressed her short hair and lavished her cheeks with kisses. “I can’t fucking stand it, do you hear me? Talk to me, say anything. Tell me about that mind of yours. Let me get to know you, all of you. Please, I’m begging, don’t dismiss me.” “I can’t, Senn,” Tara shook as tears began a slow trickle down her cheeks. “I just fled a man who promised to be with only me forever. He couldn’t manage it for a month. You won’t last a week.” “You’re wrong. And you know it. You’re simply afraid of me. You were afraid of me when we were little, when you saw me in Cancun, and now. I won’t hurt you, I couldn’t if I tried. We’re supposed to be lovers—you must know that by now? No one has ever made me feel the way you do.” “Lovers? Lovers…” Tara pulled away and stood. “Yes, in the dreams, we’re simply lovers.” “Simply lovers? I don’t understand.” “No, I don’t suppose you do.” Tara ran from the garden, Senn’s wonderful taste and scent surrounding her still, chasing her to her room, taunting her as she lay crying in her bed. “Of all the men in the world, why would you expect this one to be different?” You’re a fool and deserve everything you get.

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Chapter Eleven

Senn and Kas stood alone on the dark balcony for a final pipe and mug, as was their custom most nights at the palace. Senn thought how comforting he found the ritual, especially after Kas’s marriage and the birth of his son. “I haven’t seen a starless June night in years,” Kas gestured with the stem of his pipe. “It bothers me. Do you feel it?” “Not really,” Senn sighed. “I’m not as tuned in to things like that as you.” Kas turned to face Senn and leaned back on the railing. Senn thought he looked more serious than in months. “Go ahead, tell me what you think of Mira’s story.” “It doesn’t add up.” “Agreed. They use firearms, and she was shot with an arrow. She could not have been shot at Sharl and then ridden that distance. They may be struggling against Great Landers in Sharla-ja, but there’s something else she’s not telling us. And she’s working on Luke, although it doesn’t seem like she has to work very hard.” “Luke’s no woman’s fool. He sleeps, and fucks, with one eye open, trust me.” Kas nodded. “There’s something else. I can’t read her, at least not fully. That shouldn’t be possible.” “And you think Luke may be walking into a trap.” “And Tim, and Cullen and Jaimes, and you, Senn.” “I’m not going.” “Yes, you are. We both know it. I’m the king and I have to stay here with my family, with mother and Jenna, Lauren and Hunter, most of the army. Luke doesn’t have the gifts. You are the only one who has the power to ward off these Great Landers, if they exist, or Mira’s people, if they are the real threat. A bit of our army and Luke’s bravery won’t stop firearms.” Senn felt his blood turn to ice water in his veins. He couldn’t look at Kas. Why did it always have to come to this? He felt as if he were choking. First Tara, now Kas. Was Tim the only one who would ever really need him the way he needed others?

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“I have to talk to you, Kas.” Senn hesitated, cringing at what he was about to do. He saw Kas’s quick intake of breath, knew his brother was aware what he was about to say. The air between them became charged with emotion, and fine lines of blue energy began to crackle between them. “I have to understand what’s going on between us, why it always feels this way. It’s crippling me. I can’t go away without feeling…empty. The thought of going to Sharl without you terrifies me, sickens me. It’s been like this for as long as I can remember, since boyhood. I suppose you know it— you humor me enough.” He groaned. “Taking me on your honeymoon. Bloody hell.” “You’re a very brave man to bring this up, brother. I don’t know where you get it. Certainly not from our parents.” “That’s not an answer.” Senn feared he would cry and felt embarrassed beyond belief. “I suppose you’re in love with me.” “Shut up, asshole. This is serious. I knew it was a mistake to try to talk to you.” Kas put his hands on Senn’s shoulders and forced him to face him squarely, looking at him intently. “I’m not kidding.” “Kas, I like women. That’s pretty obvious, isn’t it? I mean, I really like women.” He pulled Kas’s had to his head. “Go ahead, see the last hour of my life, read what I’ve felt, what this woman did to me.” Kas did as instructed and widened his eyes after a moment. “Phew.. You really have to get this whole communication thing down a bit better. Women like Tara—well she’s not a tavern wench. She’s a modern Great Lander, and obviously falling for you. Speak with Lauren. The whole ‘lover’ talk…” “Never mind that now. You’re avoiding talking about us, you and me. I know you must feel some of this…whatever it is... I think you do.” He shook his head sadly. “I hope you do.” “Don’t you see? Listen to yourself! ‘You hope I feel the same?’ Isn’t that how you would talk to a woman?” Senn fell silent, an ache growing in his heart. Did he have to now question everything about himself? He choked back tears. “I don’t feel like a normal, whole man.” “You aren’t whole without me. And I’m not whole without you. Lauren says it’s a gift we share, one we may not even yet know we have.” He put an arm around his brother, trying to comfort

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him. “She says we are soul mates, that the Spirit linked us in some way. And I think it’s a kind of love like no other, almost like being in love. “Don’t be embarrassed. Please, I need you, don’t pull away from me. I would die. Do you understand? I would die if you shut me out.” Senn looked at Kas, shocked at the depth of his brother’s outpouring. Kas pulled Senn in and hugged him, rubbed his back as he began to cry. And Senn cried fully, years of anxiety and fear draining away in his tears. Kas tightened his hold and joined him, a few tears escaping. “We didn’t really have a father,” Kas spoke lowly. “And mother wasn’t really with us, lost in her grief and depression. We’ve only ever had one another, understood one another. It’s not so complicated. Lauren says the family is an emotional mess, really. She says in the Great Lands we’d all be drunks or worse. I think you simply have old pain bubbling up.” Kas hesitated, then pushed Senn away. “Look, brother, I tried to tell you earlier. There’s a bit in the ancient writings, in Dylan’s work, and I’m fairly certain it’s about us. Are you listening?” Senn nodded and wiped away his tears. “Listening, Majesty.” “The three of us—the foretelling of a triad that would be the most powerful in history. Locked in devotion to the Spirit and one another.” “Why do you think it’s about us?” “There’s a spell. It names you, Senn. I always thought it was about the ancient Kasmárin and Sennsárin, but it’s not. I know that now. I have dreams…” Senn looked up quickly. “No, not like yours. The Spirit speaks to me, tells me to study, to commit myself to Her. In any case, I’ve committed this spell to memory. The result isn’t clear. But I sense the Spirit wants us to do this. I want to try it. I need your permission.” “What the fuck will it do to me? Hell, don’t turn me into a donkey or do something you can’t undo.” Kas laughed and then quieted himself, holding his hands in front of his face and chanting lowly. Then he spoke loudly.

“Anthla hanavasan vraimoi, Sennsárin Astrana.

Agapa samthlon.

Lasa

serwitalas. Through heaven you were given to me, Sennsárin of the stars. Our love makes us one. We devote our lives to Gri-Lasa.” Senn moved back in shock. “You spoke her name, aloud! You aren’t to call to her that way! What the…”

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A fire flickered at their feet and slowly moved up their bodies. It grew and coursed through them both, circling through their chests. Senn felt his entire body burning in a painless flame and reached out to Kas, who was staring at him in astonishment. An enormous, silent rumble shook the ground. “Did you see her? Did you?” “Who? No, Kas, what’s going on?” “She appeared to me. She said… I can feel all you’re feeling.” Senn nodded numbly.

It wasn’t reading, it was sharing one mind.

Kas’s power nearly

overwhelmed Senn, who never understood fully how much his brother held back, what he could do.. After what seemed like an eternity, but was only minutes, the connection lessened and they could breathe again, as two beings. They both fell to a bench, hearts racing and sweating. “It’s permanent? Anytime, you can be in me? Shit. I’m not sure I like this.” “I think we need a little time to get used to it. There’s some reason the Spirit gave me this spell. I think we need to work it out. You do understand that?” “Well, if you say so, but I can’t imagine what it is. Do you mean that we’re destined to do something big? Bigger than defeating Teren?” “I’m not sure. Take a good look inside yourself. You can cast spells now. We have the same gifts.” Senn looked out over the Western plain and pushed trees up from the ground with barely a thought. “If you two are quite finished now, we’d all like to get some sleep.” Lauren walked onto the balcony, trying to look and sound nonchalant. She approached Kas and looked carefully at him, touching his cheek. He grasped her hand and kissed it. “It’s okay, love, I’m fine.” Lauren nodded.. “You nearly blew the roof off the palace. You broke most of our crystal and every mirror in the place is shattered. And you woke Hunter,” she scolded lightly. Senn and Kas looked at one another and laughed. Luke cleared his throat. He filled the doorway, arms across his chest, shaking his head in dismay. “Boys, you’ve got to show some restraint—practice that horse shit somewhere else! I’ve never known you to be that irresponsible, Kas. Senn’s another story.”

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Lauren hugged her husband, and then Senn. “I don’t know what you’re up to, but I hope it’s something good. Don’t wake the baby when you come up, dear.” But Kas never came to bed, instead sitting on the balcony through the night with Senn. They charmed the clouds to give way to a blank canvas of black, and then painted glimmering stars and meteor showers, glowing lights and coalescing balls of fire. Now and again they’d meet minds, testing that the power was still forceful. They watched the sunrise turn the white palace walls a shimmering pale pink. “Sing for me, brother.” Kas said quietly. “You hate my singing.” “No, I’ve always loved it. I think you know that.” “Bloody hell!” Luke appeared in the doorway and ran his hand through his long disheveled hair. “Have you lost your minds? Have you two been up all night?” Kas laughed. “Go inside and start breakfast, we’ll be in soon.” He held Senn back with a hand on his arm and motioned for Luke to leave them. “Tara? What have you decided about her? I won’t intrude, but I want to know.” “I’ve decided she’s going to be with me every day for the rest of her life. Does that cover it?” “Pretty much.” Senn and Kas moved into the dining hall and found everyone staring at them in wonder. “What?” Senn asked. “You’re glowing, boys. Sit down and eat.” Luke sounded mildly annoyed. “Whoa.” Tim stood. “Um, guys? Do you realize you really are glowing?” “It will pass.” Kas shrugged it off. “Well, how about that thing on your forehead, will that pass?” Kas reached to his face and Senn did the same as they looked at one another. In deepest blue, the symbol of the Spirit slowly surfaced in the center of their foreheads. Senn rubbed his forehead. “I don’t suppose it’s coming off?” Tim shook his head. “What the hell were you up to last night?” “You could have told me about this part, Kas. Hell.” “You know,” Tim rubbed his chin in thought. “I’ve a theory.” Luke groaned loudly. “You have a theory for everything, Timothy.” “You’ve been saying for years that we needed more gifts around here, especially when it came to fighting Teren.. I think we’ve hit the magic critical mass.”

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“What do you mean?” “Well, there are more of us. First Bruce, then me and Lauren, Palin growing stronger, the Maiden, now Tara…” “I wonder what we’re supposed to do with all of this power?” Senn said quietly. “You’re supposed to get off your ass and prepare for your trip to Sharl,” Luke growled as he shoved a forkful of sausage into his mouth.

*****

“Get the hell down to the practice field now!” Lauren banged on Senn’s door. Senn heard the commotion and looked out his window to see a crowd gathering—soldiers, servants, and the family. All watching a fight. He saw past the crowd to flashes of female limbs and cursed. Tara and Mira. Senn’s mother Margaret grabbed his arm and hissed, “This is intolerable. Make them stop, or I will.” When he pushed through the crowd to break up the fight, Kas pulled him back. “They’re practicing,” he whispered. “Mira said they should get ready for the coming battle. Let them get it out of their system.” “Horse shit.” “That’s an order.” Senn looked on helplessly as Tara took a beating.. Mira spun effortlessly, connecting the heel of her foot to Tara’s gut. Tara hit the deck, wind knocked out of her. Mira looked very smug and motioned with her hand for Tara to get up and come at her. Tim came to Senn’s side and grabbed his arm. “Don’t you think we should stop it? It’s not bad viewing…but…” Senn rolled his eyes and looked at the crowd, noting that the men were really enjoying the spectacle of two sweaty, dirty, scantily clad women. He saw a few coins change hands and groaned. Use your gifts, Tara. Tara leaned up on one elbow and reached her other hand out. A buzzing and a shimmer emanated from her hand, and in a moment, she held a gleaming white sword of quivering energy. She arched a brow at Mira as she pushed herself to her feet. Mira backed up in horror. The crowd gasped. Kas whispered, “She much stronger than I thought. And fairly focused.”

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Luke pushed Tim aside and whispered into Senn’s ear. “Don’t count Mira out.” Senn looked at Luke. “What’s wrong with you people?” “They’re warriors. Respect them. You wouldn’t break up a fight between two men.” Senn nodded slowly. Luke was right. Tara was a warrior in the Great Lands. You don’t know her. You’ve seen what you’ve wanted to see. A pretty face and wonderful body. The crowd cheered them on and Tara caught Senn’s eye. She threw the sword to the ground, where it fizzled into thin air. Mira gathered her courage back and moved in for another strike, then stopped cold at the sight before her. Where Tara had stood, a large sleek cat, golden with darker mottled spots, reached a paw into the air, expanding it to show razor-sharp claws. She leapt at Mira, pushing her to the ground and opened her mouth wide above her neck, growling lowly. The crowd cheered as Mira slapped the ground three times. Tara stood to her full human form and reached her hand down. Mira hesitated for a moment, then took Tara’s hand and stood. Mira bowed her head reluctantly. “Go again?” Tara asked smugly. “That will not be necessary. You have made your point.” Tara nodded. “Then teach me that kick?” “The wheel?” Mira smiled briefly. “It would be my great pleasure. If you teach me the use of your firearm.” Tara nodded and bowed her head slightly. “How about a swim first? We’re filthy.” Mira nodded and the two pushed past the princes and the king without any acknowledgement. Senn turned and watched them in shock. Tara stopped and turned back suddenly, looking Senn right in the eyes. “I’m a bit disappointed you didn’t put money on me, Kitten. By the way, you’ll never see me in that form again. Hope you enjoyed it.” Tim patted Senn on the back. “So, I see you two are getting to know one another.” “Shut up, Tim. And by the way, you might want to go wash. You have something on your forehead.” Senn pulled at Kas’s sleeve and pointed to the three-barred symbol slowly materializing on Tim’s forehead. Kas gasped. “Well, that answers one question.” Senn groaned. “I’m glad it’s all clear to you, Majesty. It’s as clear as mud to me.” Luke turned to enter the palace and glanced at Tim, who was still rubbing his forehead and looking terrified. “Oh, hell. Not you, too.”

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Tara soaked in the hot water, praying that the aches would diminish before the trip to Sharl. She hadn’t had her ass kicked like that since the police academy. “Well,” she thought, “no one has actually asked you to go.” Should she simply ask Luke? She wouldn’t speak to Senn. Tara had seen the look of dismay on his face after her match with Mira. His first glimpse of a female shifter—it had rattled him, she was sure.. She smiled to herself. “Not another one of your bloody conquests, Kitten. It will take more than a smile and a touch and…” Tara groaned and sunk beneath the water, wishing she could hide so easily from the rest of Anfall, from Senn. Who are you kidding? The memory of his kiss was scorched onto every cell of her body, sealed with magic. And the feel of his silken skin, his amazing body, his amazing cock, the heat of him, in her hand, in her mouth…what would it be like? To have him inside of her? “I think it would be somewhere between spectacular and indescribable.” Tara squealed and sat up in the tub, then ducked back under the soapy water to hide her breasts. “How dare you! Who the hell do you think you are? Coming into my room and… and… into my mind. You son of a bitch! Get the hell out of here, now!” Tara heard her voice getting more hysterical with each sentence. Senn smiled slightly and shook his head. “I don’t think so, my dear.. It’s not what you want. It certainly isn’t what I want.” He sat unceremoniously on the floor next to the tub. “I was very proud of you today. I didn’t have a chance to place a wager on you, but I would have, if I thought it proper.” “What? What? Didn’t you hear me? Get out.” Tara realized that the frothy water was getting less frothy by the moment and crossed her arms to cover her chest. “I love your form.” Tara saw him shudder slightly and the sight gave her a thrill that she tried to push down. “I want to see you like that again. More than anything.” “No. Never.” Senn put his hand on her wet cheek and she slapped it away, but he grabbed her behind the neck and she couldn’t squirm free. “Don’t,” he whispered. “Remember the dreams?” “We weren’t going to talk about the dreams.” “Remember the one where I subdue you, restrain you? And you have no choice but to let me pleasure you for hours? Did you have that dream, Tara? I had it so many times…” Senn breathed in deeply and Tara made the mistake of looking at his crotch. The evidence of his fantasy was pushing hard against his thin pants.

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“Oh, God, don’t do this to me, Senn.” “Call me Kitten again. You meant to insult me, but I rather liked it.” “I won’t be one of your whores.” “I know. I came to tell you I know that. That I don’t want you to be another one of my whores, as you say.. I came to apologize.” Tara stared dumbly, and realized her mouth was hanging open. Senn put his hand in the water and swirled the remaining bubbles. “I know that I’ll have to earn your trust somehow. I’ve never been in this position—asking a woman to give me a chance. It stinks. I may never forgive you for it.” “Go to hell.” Tara realized her tone was becoming less convincing with each sentence. “And that I realize that you’re more than a beautiful body and gorgeous face…and gifted. I have to tell you, seeing you change like that…” He shook his head and smirked. “Are you quite finished?” “I suppose so.” Senn rose and turned towards the door. He didn’t turn to face her as he left the room, but muttered over his shoulder, “But you did want me, last night. And that was the best ever, Tarana…Tara. Rest up, it’s a long way to Sharl. Bring your gun. If you need more ammunition, see the smithy today. She’s rather busy with the men’s swords.” Tara stared at the empty doorway long after he had left. She dried herself off and started to feel something bubble up, something small, and very tentative. Hope. It had been so long since anything but endurance had dominated her life. Enduring Josie, enduring loneliness, enduring Sam, enduring being a fugitive. Enduring haunting dreams of a man and a place she could never hope to see. But you’re here. And he’s real. Can you believe him? Tara walked into her bedroom and froze. Flowers of every color and variety covered the entire room. Petals blanketed the bed, and Tara tentatively lay down on the soft surface. She closed her eyes and took in the overwhelming fragrance, luxuriating in the idea that someone, no, not someone—but Sennsárin, would think to do this. The most romantic thing any man had ever done for her. When she opened her eyes, she noticed the small deep red silk box where none had been a moment before. She reached for it, hand quivering, and lifted the lid. A ring. An exquisite emerald, with fire inside that gleamed and shimmered with the quiver of her hand. Tara pulled the ring from the box and put it on her right ring finger, only to find it a bit small. She bit her lip and tears began to flow as she tried it on her left hand. Warmth flooded her entire being as she slipped it on.

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Impossible. He doesn’t mean this, he doesn’t understand what it means at home. We don’t even know one another.

*****

Palin looked up at his still-lovely bride. He pulled helplessly at the chains of light that bound him to the stone wall, and tried again to break through the bond that sickened her mind. “I love you, Alyssa. I’ve always loved you. Please remember who you are, who I am, who we are together. Teren is gone. He has no power over you.” Her violet eyes flashed in anger and she tossed her long straight hair aside. “Stop calling me that name, boy. Until you acknowledge me properly, you will suffer.” Just as quickly a sly gleam replaced the anger, and she looked at him provocatively. “Of course, you know the reward for proper behavior.” Palin squeezed his eyes shut, the pain clutching at his heart a hundred times worse than the physical pain she inflicted on him for days. “Aye, Laenora, I acknowledge you.” Alyssa nodded regally and swept out of the room, leaving Palin once again to his grief. The lovely Maiden, the woman who swept him off his feet, now an insane megalomaniac, intent on destroying his family, his home, his land. And her sexual appetites turned vile and excruciating. She made Palin watch her take other men, while he still waited for the consummation of their wedding day. It had taken only a day away from the palace, and the changes began. Teren. He had taken her, destroyed her mind, poisoned her soul, and he reached out to her still from beyond the grave. Alyssa had been right, Palin thought. She was unpure, insane. And somehow, he still loved her. Why had the Spirit given him this life? He longed to speak with Hunter, to ask his old friend why the world could be so cruel. “Luke? Kas? Can you hear me? Don’t walk into this trap. Don’t come to Sharl,” he muttered.

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Chapter Twelve

“Oh my God, who’s on Catcher? Someone stole Kas’s horse!” Lauren stood and squinted. “It’s Tara! Riding him like…like Kas does.” Senn stood and watched the woman leap over a stream and duck under a tree branch. “That’s my girl.” Tim leaned up on one elbow and grinned. “She’s something all right.” Senn and Lauren both looked sharply at him. “What? I can’t enjoy the sight of a beautiful woman?” “Not that one. What happened for your unnerving passion for my sister?” Senn growled. “Your sister is off my dance card.. She knew I was coming home, yet she ran off to the North Shore. I’m through.” “Yeah right, this week.” Senn approached Tara and grabbed onto Catcher’s rein as she dismounted. Tara breathed heavily as she nodded to the three. “He’s magnificent. I’ve never felt anything like it. I heard you were out riding and was dying to myself. Kas lent me Catcher. I hope you don’t mind the company?” Senn took Tara’s left hand and lifted it, then scowled. “Where’s the ring?” Tara hid her hand behind her back. Senn waved a dismissive hand towards Lauren and Tim. “All right Emorys, time to shove off. I think I hear the baby crying…” “I don’t think you get to order the Queen around,” Lauren complained. “Yeah, and I’m a fucking Knight of the Round Table now, or whatever the hell this is…” Tim pointed at his forehead. “Watch your language!” Lauren pulled Tim by the shirtsleeve and they mounted and rode together back towards the palace.

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Tara stood in embarrassed silence as Senn held her hand, looking for his ring. She vaguely heard the call of birds and the sound of a stream nearby, smelled the light fragrance of horseflesh and took in a snort from Catcher. “You didn’t wear my ring,” Senn whispered. Tara pulled her hand away and kicked off her shoes. She edged away from Senn, dying to ask him a million questions. “You’re quite the rider. Oh, hell, can’t you even look at me? What’s the problem now? Why won’t you wear the ring?” Tara closed her eyes and pushed down the barrage of feelings assaulting her. “We’re not a couple, Senn. I don’t know what we are. You’re being ridiculous. Is that what the ring means to you? Or was it simply a gift?” She looked at him, his huge blue eyes pools of need, pulling her in. “It’s beautiful, by the way.” “You know damned well we’re a couple,” Senn yelled in frustration. “Why are you so difficult!” Senn approached her and turned her to face him. Tara glanced up at the small symbol on his forehead. “Lovely, isn’t it?” Senn smirked and his eyes twinkled and danced. The air seemed to dance around him. “Won’t marry a guy with a tattoo, is that it?” “I’m already married.” Tara smiled weakly. Senn shrugged. “Let Sam come collect you.” Senn pulled Tara in close and she felt his warmth surround her. “We’re not in love, Senn.” “We aren’t? I don’t suppose we are. Does it matter?” He put his hand to her cheek and brushed his thumb along her bottom lip. Tara choked back a moan. “You have…women friends. I’m not…” Senn put his hand over her mouth. “Had women friends, Tara. Well, I still have friends, but now I have no lover. Except one.” Tara sighed. Of course, there had to be a catch. “I don’t want to know who it is.” “Who it’s about to be.” Senn pulled his hand away and pressed his full lips onto Tara’s briefly. Then he backed away. “If you will have me,” he fell to one knee and pulled her hand to his lips and then to his forehead, “I’ll never be with another. If you don’t want me, Tara, you have to tell me. Soon. Because I think about you constantly, and it’s really driving me fucking insane.” Senn stood. “Was that speech pretty enough? Now give me the ring, because I know you have it with you.” His voice turned low and threatening.

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Tara pulled the chain around her neck from beneath her top, the ring dangling between them. Senn pulled hard at the chain and it broke. “Let’s get this straight, because this shit is very annoying, Tara. I’m not forcing you to make love to me. You’ll let me know when you’re ready. And if I have to fucking wait a year and marry you and give you gifts and flowers every day, I’ll do it. I’ll be damned unhappy about it, but I’ll do it.” “Don’t boss me!” Tara felt old anger boil up, at her mother, at Sam, at anyone who forced her life into their mold. And it mixed with undeniable excitement that this man, this god, might actually mean what he said. “I will boss you. For the rest of your life. And you’ll love every second of it. Now give me your hand, damn it.” Tara pulled her hand behind her back and Senn growled and pushed her to the ground, forced her onto her stomach and restrained her with a knee on her back. He pulled her left hand into the air and shoved the ring onto her finger. “You’re a fucking idiot. A bully.” “You could have gotten out of that in less than a second. Can’t fool Senn that way, Pussy Cat.” “Don’t you dare call me that!” “Pussy Cat. Pussy Cat.” Senn rolled her over and pushed her hands over her head. “You’re going to break my heart, Senn, I know it.” “Well you’re simply going to have to be a brave girl and see, won’t you?” Senn winked and brought his mouth onto Tara’s. She resisted for a moment only, then clutched at his back and his hair, panting and moaning at the luxury of his assault. Tara brushed her hand against his ear. Senn gasped and squeezed his eyes shut. “Tara, do you know what that does to me…touching me there?” “I do now.” She brushed her hand along the ridge of his ear again and he groaned loudly. She leaned in and brushed her lips along his forehead, and then worked her way along his temple and down to his ear. He cried out the second she brought her tongue onto the peak of his ear.

She’ll kill you like this, Senn thought. She’ll pull you apart bit by bit. Flames shot throughout his body and blood coursed to his cock, the aching and throbbing becoming nearly unbearable as Tara flicked her tongue along his ear. “Tara. If you don’t want me, don’t do this. I’m warning you. I won’t stop if I start.”

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“Is that a threat, or a promise?” Her hot breath burned into him and he caught the frenzied excitement in her voice. Senn sat up suddenly and looked down at her. His world was coming into focus quickly, the strong feeling of power and need sending a thrill through his veins. “Say that again. Make it clear what you mean.” Tara’s eyes grew wide and she reached up to his cheek. “I…” she shook her head and looked away. “It’s embarrassing. I’ve never talked about it. It’s too soon…” Senn pushed her arms over her head again and pinned them to the ground, harder this time. He saw her pupils widen and her breathing grow rapid. She licked her lips and shivered slightly. “Like that?” he asked. Tara nodded. “More than that, Tara? Tell me. Do you want me to be in charge? Is that it?” She nodded again and Senn smiled broadly. “Tell me, what’s the fantasy? Show me…” Senn put his hand to her forehead and sighed as their minds met. Tara didn’t flinch at the contact, although Senn knew how strong he was and how intensely she must feel it. Then he found what he sought. Tara was tied to a bed while Senn pleasured her; scampering away from him down a knoll of grass while he pulled her to the ground; chained to a wall while he pushed into her; bound to a chair and forced to suckle his cock. It went on and on, the images of his power, of his pleasure, of her pleasure. And in each fantasy, she begged for him, pleaded for him, offered him everything she had if only he’d make love to her all night. And finally, the fantasy he needed to see, to be sure, to know fully that this woman was meant for him, forever. She craved for the sleek black cat to clutch at the nape of her neck with his sharp teeth, right to the point of drawing blood, while he rode her golden form in a frenzied rutting. She was at his mercy, the only place she wanted to be. He felt lightheaded and withdrew, stunned. “The dreams weren’t quite accurate. Not really our fantasies?” “I don’t know. I can’t think,” she panted. “Those weren’t our dreams, were they?” Senn wondered what power wanted to intrude on his consciousness, on hers. “Tara? Do you want it to be like that between us? Yes or no. Be very sure.. Because the nature of these things…I will act. And your protests won’t matter. You must be sure.” “I’m not ready.”

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“That wasn’t my question.” He kissed her neck and worked his way back to her mouth, mumbling endearments she couldn’t understand. “What’s that language?” “Answer me. Do you want those things with me?” “Mnnn hmmnn. Just…not…yet,” she panted. “Soon?” Senn laughed lightly. “Oh, yes, soon.” “Good answer.” Senn kissed her until he couldn’t tell where her soul ended and his began. After what seemed like an eternity, he pulled her into his arms and rocked her back and forth. And a strange feeling, a new feeling, poked and prodded ever so gently at his being.. He wondered what it was.

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Chapter Thirteen

“What the hell was Luke thinking, not letting Kas send us to Sharl the fast way? This is absurd.” Tim wiped the sweat from his brow with the shirt he had pulled off earlier. Senn frowned at Tim and shook his head. “You’d deny him his lifelong dream? Let him have his adventure, Tim. One victory without magic.” Luke held up his large hand and the column halted. He turned around to Senn with one eyebrow arched. “What now?” Senn complained. “I may not hear what you’re saying, but I can tell when you boys are talking in that ridiculous way of your kind. It’s rude, and I won’t tolerate it.” Tim laughed. “'If you have something to say, share it with the class.'” Luke and Senn looked at him curiously. “Never mind.” Tim sighed. Senn rode to Luke’s side and motioned for him to move on again. They rode in silence for minutes. “Spit it out, Senn. You’re about as subtle as you were at age five.” “How long have you been able to tell that we’re reading one another?” “What does it matter? It annoys me. I want it to stop.” Senn put a hand on Luke’s arm. “Listen to me brother, you shouldn’t be able to tell. Unless, of course…” “Do not think about uttering one word of that nonsense, or…” “How long, Luke?” Luke groaned. “Three days. It’s giving me a headache. What the hell do you all talk about? You, Tim, Tara, Kas, Bruce, even the Knights.” “What else? Come on, there’s no hiding it from me, I can reach right in there and pull it out if I have to.” “You wouldn’t dare.” Luke glared at Senn and kicked his horse into a trot.

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Tim caught up with Senn. “What was that about?” “Not sure.” “All right, then. What’s this about?” Tim pointed to his forehead. “Kas simply shrugs and says he doesn’t quite know, and I know he’s lying.” “Kas doesn’t lie. Honestly, I don’t know. I have the feeling we’ll know by the time we return from Sharl.” “If we return. Had you considered that we may actually lose this battle? If they’re heavily armed, we don’t stand a chance.” “You underestimate me. And yourself. Tara’s pretty strong too.” “She’s a lousy shot.” “Don’t criticize my girlfriend. It’s impolite.” Senn smirked and Tim laughed. “Girlfriend? Going steady now? Well, it’s a regular love fest, this trip. Luke and Mira went at it all night last night. I’ve never heard anything like it. Sounded like a porn flick. I’m pitching my tent somewhere else tonight.” “Jealous.” “Yes, I am.” Senn had trouble mustering up sympathy for Tim, too absorbed in nonstop thoughts of Tara. “Marilyn Monroe, you said, Tim?” “Oh, not that again.” “Posing naked on a fur rug?” Senn sighed. “You know, I can make her eyes go all misty simply by staring at her. She thinks the most incredible things about me. Pictures me going down on her while she’s tied to a bed…” “For crying out loud! That’s not the sort of thing you talk about.” “No? I really enjoy talking about it. Makes you uncomfortable? Why’s that?” “It just does. Honestly.” They rode in silence for a while and Senn whistled nonchalantly, waiting. “Tied to a bed, you said? What else?” Tim ran his hand through his hair and looked around to see if anyone was listening. “Oh, the regular stuff, you know. I caught her thinking about taking the both of us once, you and me. She denied it, but…” “What! No way!” “Way. I imagine that’s not something that would interest you?”

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Senn saw Tim’s face flush scarlet and heard him mumbling. “I don’t know. It might be kinda weird. Maybe…” “Yeah, especially that part where she wants to see us together. I told her you had a thing for me, but it really wasn’t my style…” Senn resumed his whistling. “You’re a real shit, you know that Senn?” “That’s for holding out on giving me my pod!” Senn called after Tim as he rode away. “You’ll get your iPod in hell, Sennsárin,” Tim roared back. Senn laughed and looked around for Tara, spotting her far behind, chatting with Mira. Her growing friendship with the Sharla-ja woman disturbed him, and he made a mental note to warn Tara about trusting Mira fully.. Luke knew how to take care of himself against any woman, gifted or not. His thoughts drifted to the idea that Luke had the glimmerings of the gifts. Senn took a deep breath and reached out to the thin silver cord in his mind’s eye that connected him to the palace, to Kas. “Do you hear me, Kas?” A faint acknowledgment warmed his skin and set his nerve ending tingling. Senn said nothing more, embarrassed by his need to reach out to Kas. “All’s well,” Kas’s voice rang clearly in his mind, and Senn broke his hold on the thread.

Mira felt the pounding in her brain, followed by the familiar voice whispering thoughts that were hers, and at the same time, foreign. Since fleeing the Great Landers…no, before that. Odd, she thought, she couldn’t really remember the Great Lander invasion so clearly now. Not something one forgot easily. She concentrated fiercely, trying desperately to understand if the voice was part of her gifts, perhaps direction from the Spirit herself. “Yes, Mira Nalan-ma. You will do my bidding. You are the chosen one.” Mira craved to speak of it to Sennsárin, but the dark Prince frightened her with his knowing looks and probing questions. Perhaps the voice was a trick, her hopeful imaginings, or even the result of her wound and subsequent infection. Or, she thought nervously, the great adept poisoned her while pretending to heal her. “Are you all right?” Mira looked at Tara and nodded, urging her horse along. “I am well. Why do you ask?” “No need to get pissy about it. You just looked like you were in pain.” Mira tried to smile. “These headaches. They come and go.”

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“You should tell Senn, maybe he can help you.” “No! Lucenor will help me if I need it.” “Sooooo, you and Luke pretty cozy these days?” Mira looked at the beautiful blonde in pity. The woman seemed rather naïve. The voice inside her head fed words, the chatter confusing. “I avail myself to him, of course! As should you and any woman within reach.” Tara snorted. “Bloody unlikely, as Luke would say.” “He is a masterful lover, with a huge sex and a powerful way. He is not easily satisfied, I should warn you. He has the fortitude of three men. And you would not imagine that such a warrior would care about his servant’s happiness, but the man takes great pains to ensure I am pleased. His use of his hands and his tongue is beyond…” “Whoa! Mira! Drop it, okay?” “You are Sennsárin’s mistress, is that not so? And Timothy’s as well?” “No! We don’t quite work that way in the Great Lands.” “Ah, well, you might want to readjust your thinking, for in Anfall, the brothers are reputed to have many lovers.” “Tell her that you fancy Sennsárin, that he fancies you,” the voice whispered in firm command. “Of course, Lucenor has pointed out to me that I must also entertain the others. Sennsárin has invited me to his tent, but I have been hesitant to change partners. He is less to my taste, but I will do my duty, perhaps this evening.” Mira felt guilt creep into her heart, along with another strong command to maintain silence. “Senn asked you to…to come to his tent?” Mira heard the quiver in Tara’s voice. “Indeed. What of it? Will you care for Lucenor’s needs tonight as I will be occupied with Sennsárin?” “I have to take care of nature, excuse me.” Tara peeled away from the column and led her horse behind a rock outcropping. She felt she might vomit, a taste of bile rising in her throat. She glanced at her ring and saw that her hand shook, although she felt nearly nothing, her entire body numb. Tara squeezed her eyes shut against the pain that squeezed at her heart. You’re not in love with him. It doesn’t matter. Just another man, another liar. “Pussy Cat! There you are!” Senn’s voice cut through her and she pushed down the pain as quickly as she could. Don’t give him your pride. He can’t have it. Don’t show the hurt.

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“Tara, what is it?” Senn hopped down from Silk and pulled Tara down from her horse. She wrestled free of his grasp. All of her vows came to naught and she burst into tears. She stomped her foot in anger at herself, at Senn, at the world. “How dare you! Here,” she ripped the ring off her finger. “Give this to Mira!” “Mira? Oh, now, what’s this? You’re having some kind of feminine fit? Did I speak to her for too long? Happen to glance in her direction? She’s nothing to me, you must know that! I spend every minute thinking about you, waiting for you to come to me. It’s so bad I feel at times I’m losing my breathe!” “Evidently you aren’t very good at waiting, Highness.” “No you don’t. Come here,” Senn pulled her in close and kissed her forehead. “Now tell me.” “You invited her to your tent.” Tara felt the life drain out of her.. Alice in Wonderland. The rules are different. “It’s your way, I suppose. It isn’t mine, Senn. Don’t speak with me again, at least unless we must about this trip.” “Shhh. Put your hand on my head,” Senn moved her hand to his forehead and he smiled. “I’m afraid the feeling grows with each hour. I’m actually starting to care about you. Pity. Was hoping you felt the same.” As Senn slipped the ring back on Tara’s finger, his thoughts, feelings, fantasies, pounded through her. Senn’s internal world, full of love, fear, devotion, happiness, concern…and her, an undercurrent to each thought. Mira wasn’t present. “Is this a trick?” Senn rolled his eyes. “Yes, it’s a trick. It’s her trick. Look, Pussy Cat, there’s one way to prove I’m faithful. Stay in my tent at night. Every night. Hmnn, what do you say?” He leaned in and kissed her lightly. “Why does your scent make me forget my name?” Tara sighed. Senn laughed. “I wonder the same thing about you. Tara, don’t speak to Mira of this. We must give her enough rope to hang herself—learn what her game is. We’ll tell Luke, but no one else. Agreed?” Tara stood up tall. “I’ll be there when you tell Luke?” She asked in challenge. “I’ve nothing to hide. You can be with me any moment of my day.” He lowered his voice to a whisper and spoke hotly into her ear. “Especially the times when I’m frustrated from waiting for you, and have to find my poor way, alone…would you like to be there for that?”

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Tara sighed as the inevitable heat and moisture rushed to her core. “You’re insufferable.” “Aha, that’s a ‘yes.’” He grinned. “You’re plotting my seduction.” “Honey, I’ve been plotting your seduction since I was about six years old.”

Tara relaxed a bit after witnessing Senn’s warning to Luke about Mira. Luke hadn’t seemed very put out, she thought. He had simply rubbed his chin in concern and nodded. Her emotional rollercoaster exhausted her. Could she trust Senn now? Believe that he wanted her, a simple woman from a simple town so far away? So ordinary. Why would he want someone so ordinary? Lauren had called her beautiful, and talented, but perhaps she was being kind. Josie’s words echoed in her mind, a constant backdrop to her relationships. “Men are scum. And with your sharp tongue and tomboy ways, you’ll be lucky to get anyone to marry you. You’re better off.” Well, perhaps Senn wanted a tomboy, someone ordinary. Tonight, she swore to herself, tonight she would go to him. She’d sneak into his tent, perhaps shift to please him, and give him everything he craved. The thought sent her blood boiling and she turned to examine the countryside, lest Mira or the others see it on her face. And the countryside alone was worth the trip, she thought, wondering how such a desolate landscape could be so enchanting. They crossed thousands of acres of reddish clay, broken only by the occasional rock outcropping or a dried ancient gully where water once flowed. The sun scorched them, relentlessly, until sundown.. Then the most sudden chill would creep across the flat plains and the column would huddle around fires or under heavy fur throws in their tents. They saw very little life—a few large birds made lazy patterns overhead, a few lizards peaked from beneath rocks, an occasional tiny flower clung to life in the cracked soil. And once, a large pale golden cat, growling outside her tent at night. Tara had peaked out, unsure whether to subdue the beast with magic, only to find Senn speaking in growls to the animal and petting its coarse fur. Senn had seen her, felt her, and looked up. He merely winked and said, “a distant relative of yours, perhaps?” The constant clip-clopping of the horses on the hard soil lulled her into near sleep in the heat. Once in a while, Senn would suddenly break into song—a familiar rock ballad, or a mysterious chant

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that Tara assumed was ancient, perhaps from the time of Dylan and Gwyneth. It didn’t matter to her, whatever he sang, it filled her, heart and soul. And everyone would grow quiet and listen, rapt, begging him for more if he stopped. “How you making out?” Tim startled her as she drifted in fantasies of Senn. Tara pulled her white veil aside and smiled. “I’m hanging in there. Do you know it’s only been a few days since we sat in Cancun, drinking beer, telling the cops you’re Matt Damon? I wouldn’t mind a cold one now.” Tim laughed. “Yeah. It’s weird isn’t it? Sometimes I wonder if that world really exists, in the way I used to dream about this one.” They rode in companionable silence for a while. Gradually, Tara felt tuned into her new friend, and felt a melancholy emanating from him. “I’m sorry Jenna wasn’t there to see you off.” “Screw Jenna. It’s worse that she wasn’t there to see her brothers off. I’m through with her antics.” He shrugged. “I have enough to deal with these days,” he pointed to the mark on his forehead.. “Don’t ask, I have no idea what’s going on. Senn and Kas won’t talk about it.” “Maybe they really don’t know.” Tim shrugged again. Then he pointed. At first, Tara had no idea what he saw. The heat formed silver pools on the soil and a shimmer in the air above the phantom waters. “It’s very, very faint. You need to squint, but you can barely make out a hazy outline. The Sharl. The only mountain range in Anfall.” “Oh, we’re there!” “No, that’s miles away, it’s deceptive.” “You’ve been here before?” “Not further than this. Senn and I used to explore a bit, but we’d never cross the salt flats ahead. Cullen and Jaimes describe the area so often, I feel as if I know it. Sunara. Their land is at the base of the Sharl. They haven’t been there in many months. We’ll stop and meet their people. It should be quite a homecoming.” The words were just out of his mouth when a horrific yelping echoed through the canyon. Cullen and Jaimes were calling out a piercing cry, and some of their Sunaran brethren who made up a small fraction of Luke’s army joined in. “What the hell?” Tara asked. “They’ve spotted the Sharl. Home. That’s their happy cry,” Tim laughed.

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“I’d hate to hear their angry cry,” Tara eyed the huge black warriors. “Trust me, you would. It’s not pretty.”

Tara emptied her bag on her bedroll. She checked the safety of her gun, wishing like hell she hadn’t thrown the second pistol away in Mexico. Mira had learned to use it quickly and accurately and it would have been another weapon in Sharl. She sorted through her pitiful belongings and picked up her tiny compact. When had she broken the mirror? She squinted, trying to perfect the application of her signature scarlet lipstick in a tiny unbroken spot of the mirror. Then she opened several of the precious hand-wipes she’d picked up in her Cancun hotel and wiped down her skin the best she could. Finally, a dab of her cologne stick. Tara took a deep breath and peeled off her clothes, wrapping her naked body in her sleeping fur. Please let me be enough for him. I don’t love him, but I could someday. I really could.

Senn started awake, sensing Tara’s approach. He smiled and whistled happily, quickly pulling off his clothes and stretching out luxuriously on the furs that covered the floor of his tent. He snapped his fingers to bring a candle to life and waited in excitement for her. He sighed in pleasure as she pushed open the flap of his tent. Dressed only in a fur wrap. But her expression was troubled, and he felt an equally troubling vibration pouring off of her. Was it too soon? It didn’t even seem like her… Senn realized the trick too late. She quickly dropped the fur and came to him—voluptuous, naked, kneeling by his side and running one hand along his stomach. “Leave Mira. I won’t hesitate to use force.” Senn kept eye contact with the woman, unwilling to let his gaze stray to the body that was not hers. And at the moment Senn realized that all of his hopes would be broken by this clever, devious woman, Mira assumed her true form. She climbed on top of him just as Tara pushed open the tent flap. Senn squeezed his eyes shut and called to Tara, but he knew it was useless. The shock and fury—she’d never get him a chance to explain. Tears welled up and flowed down Tara’s cheeks, but her voice was steady and she held her chin high, in defiance. “You’re quite cruel, Highness.” She turned and walked into Tim’s chest. He grabbed her with one strong arm and looked past her to Senn and Mira. “Shit.” Tim pulled the weeping woman tighter into his arms.

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Senn shook his head. “No, Tim. On the life of Hawk, on the life of Hunter, I promise.” Tim sighed and nodded. “Come on, Tara, let’s get some of that ale we were talking about.” He led her out of the tent. Senn rolled over and hovered above Mira. He pressed his hand on her throat and she coughed. “What’s your game, bitch? Speak the truth, and speak quickly.” “I thought you’d like her form,” she gasped out, her eyes wide and tearing up. Senn put his hand on her forehead and felt a strong block against his probe. What he could read through it was harmless enough. “I do like her form. But I like her spirit even better. You neglected that part. Now get out, and don’t come within ten yards of me again. If this story about your people is a ruse of some sort, I will be the one to kill you, and I’ll do it slowly.” “But Lord,” Mira began. Senn held up his hand in warning and she pulled her wrap around her and hurried from his tent. Senn lay back and pulled a cover over himself. Was there nothing he could do? No, Tara wouldn’t speak to him, would never give him a chance to explain. She would be hurt, pride wounded, furious beyond belief. The pain clutched at him, reached to his heart and squeezed. And Senn realized that he wasn’t feeling her pain, but his own. Well imagine that, he thought. A woman finally got to you. A brave, strong, talented, wonderful, wounded, beautiful woman. And she’d drive him out of her heart, he was sure. Senn felt Tim behind him but didn’t turn. “She won’t listen to me, Senn. I’m sorry. She wants to go home.” “Then I suppose when we get back to Anfall, you’d better take her home. Let’s not speak of it again.” “I’m so sorry. If you want me to try again?” “No,” Senn whispered. “I don’t think it was meant to be. It’s always seemed too complicated. Let it go. Goodnight, Tim.” He rolled over and saw a small plastic box, and smiled weakly. His pod. He pulled the earphones on and played with the buttons for a moment, and then laughed as music poured into his soul. But his smile faded as the words sunk in. These Great Landers were a sentimental bunch, he thought. And before he could stop it, a few tears trickled down his cheek. Just like a little girl, Sennsárin. Some chosen adept you are.

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Tim stood outside Senn’s tent, begging God for some inspiration, unwilling, unable to let his friend be hurt this badly, this unfairly. “Why do you not pray to me, Timothy? Why do you ignore me?” The voice slid into his brain and he jumped slightly. “Who are you?” A faint giggle faded into the night, and he heard the silence broken again and waited to hear what the woman would say. But it was Sennsárin, singing softly, sadly. “When I fall in love, it will be forever…”

Alyssa clapped her hands together in glee and then turned to Palin and pointed. “Your family is weak! It takes nothing to break them!” “They are many things, Maiden, but weak is not one of them. Whoever you are, and you are not my wife, you will not break them.” Palin winced as Alyssa stretched out her hand and sent a piercing knife of flame into his leg. He clutched at his thigh and looked down to see blood pour between his fingers. “Your Maiden is dead. Forget it at your peril.” She swept out of the room and Palin let the groan escape he wouldn’t utter in front of her. “She only sleeps inside you, Laenora. And she loves me still.” I pray she does, he thought. Or I may as well be dead myself.

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Chapter Fourteen

Tara held her head high and sat tall as they took the road to Sunara. Warriors and their folk lined the way, holding spears high, chanting and cheering Luke’s army, and the return of their great heroes, Cullen and Jaimes. Tara noted that Luke graciously pulled the Knights to the front of the column and fell back slightly, allowing them to take in the full spectacle. Perhaps he’s a real man, she thought.

No, these brothers were all the same, like men

everywhere. All ego, bluster, and self-absorption. Like Sam, only wearing different clothes, and carrying swords instead of guns, riding horses instead of driving Mercedes. The sharp pain in her heart dulled to a throbbing ache, and she forced herself to stay as far away from Senn and Tim as possible. A lovely young girl with gleaming black skin and huge brown eyes ran to her horse and reached up, offering an exotic flower to her. It momentarily broke her brooding mood and she smiled back at the girl. “Why thank you very much,” Tara managed. The girl flashed a bright smile and scurried back to the crowd. The huge gate of the city came into view, and Tara thought that Sunara, at least the outskirts, looked like photos she had seen of the ruins of ancient Egypt. A broad river flowed alongside the road, and rushes filled with songbirds rustled with the light breeze that cascaded down the mountainside. Huge figures of Sunaran warriors decorated the mammoth walls of the city, and Tara caught a glimpse of a tall obelisk in the distance. She longed to ask someone the dozen questions flooding her brain, but there was no one to speak with, not Tim, or Luke, certainly not Senn or Mira. Who were the Sunarans? Had they come from the Great Lands too? From Africa? How did they fit into the puzzle of the ancient worshippers of the Spirit, Dylan and Gwyneth and Drummond of Anfall? Alone. Now you’re completely alone with your thoughts. For a brief moment, she pictured herself fleeing the gunman in Cancun. And with it, a different outcome, in which a bullet pierced her heart, and she lay on the leaf-covered soil, life draining away slowly.

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She squeezed her eyes against the picture, wondering if she would have been better off dead. If Tim hadn’t been there to change the course of her life. Now she was an orphan again, with nowhere to turn, no home, no friend, no life. No love. “That is all you think of your worth Tarana? A friend, a man, a family? That is how you measure yourself?” Tara turned in every direction to learn who was pushing the voice into her head. “Do not look for me among these children. Look for me within. Do you remember that my beloved Kasmárin ne Grasa spoke of your internal foe? Look no further for your foe, for you have found him. He is your fear. His name is Teren, he was your father, and he lives still within you and many others. Defeat him for me and I will grant you eternal joy.” Tara felt faint as the presence pulled back, and she began wobbling in her saddle. Tim was alongside her in a moment, steadying her. “What is it? The heat?” “Go away, I’m fine.” Stay. Tell me what’s happening to me. “I heard that. What’s going on? Is it Senn?” “No. I’m…hearing voices now. I suppose I’m following in Josie’s footsteps. Maybe it’s only the heat.” “Wouldn’t happen to be a young female voice? Saying something weighty?” Tim arched a brow as he steadied Tara with one arm. “So that’s it. Senn says it’s the Spirit, reaching out to us for some reason. Highly unusual evidently,” Tim laughed lightly. “I’ve come to expect the unexpected in Anfall.” “It’s all unexpected.” Tara brushed away a tear. “Let me back in, Tara, I won’t hurt you.. You need someone—you can’t isolate yourself this whole trip.” Tara nodded reluctantly. “It’s not you, you know that, don’t you? Only, don’t mention him, okay? Please?” “You got it. Feeling better? Because you’re about to be treated like the World Series MVP,” Tim pointed to the crowds that waved and cheered from high atop the city walls and gate, throwing garlands before Luke and his Sunaran warriors. They rode in through the gate, Tara gasped in wonder at the buildings, gleaming silver, and gold, painted in bright primary colors, roofed in hanging gardens and bright striped canopies. The smells of spicy foods and horseflesh and incense assaulted her as much as the sight of the place and the cheers of the crowd of villagers.

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“Will we stay here long?” Tara asked in wonder, trying to take everything in. “As long as Luke desires—no more, no less. My guess is one night.”

Tara feared looking in the mirror. Aswara, Cullen and Jaimes’ sister, attended to her personally for almost an hour, bathing her in a pool of warm oiled water, buffing her skin with a soft towel, dressing her in the sheerest silk garments that were barely more than scarves, and slicking her short hair back from her face with perfumed oil. When Tara thought they were finally finished, Aswara pulled her to a seat and opened a box of paints and potions. “Now, great lady of Anfall, we will see how to catch a Prince.” “What! Aswara, you’re very much mistaken if you think I want any of those sons of bitches out there.” “Those sons of bitches are the rulers of Anfall,” Aswara pulled open the top of Tara’s ephemeral blouse, sending the buttons flying across the floor. “Oops, it looks as if you will have to wear this open. What a pity, Lady that your breasts are so exposed. No time to fix it.” “If I didn’t hate you so much right now, I think I’d like you,” Tara eyed the dark beauty curiously. “In my land, people would tell you that you look like a very famous statue of a woman named Nefertiri.” “Is that an insult, Lady?” “It is not.” “Be still while I paint your bland whiteness,” Aswara snorted as she applied kohl to Tara’s lids and darkened her lips. She hummed in a lilting voice. After a few minutes she pulled back to examine her handiwork. “Not bad. Sennsárin should be properly moved.” “Sennsárin should go to the devil by the fastest route possible.” “Tsk tsk. It has become well known in the last hours among all my people that you have hurt the spirit of our Lord’s young brother. You are not popular at the moment. I would not advise you to walk the streets of Sunara unattended by guards. You will rectify this problem, of course.” “I’ve hurt him? I’ve hurt him? He screwed around with another woman. We were going to be married! How dare you!” “I do dare. Cullen and Jaimes proclaim Sennsárin incapable of subterfuge. He has not betrayed you. Rather, they say, it is the bitch Mira. She took your form. Luke has bid my brothers to keep her in chains until we reach her homeland.”

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“Oh, come on, you didn’t fall for that story, did you?” Aswara squatted before Tara and held her chin still. “Listen to me, you little weakling. I will treat you with the utmost respect in public so as not to shame my brothers before their Lord.” Aswara’s eyes drilled into Tara and she felt the deep probe of the woman’s gift. “I know my brothers, and they would die before telling their sister a falsehood. They are gifted, and they have shared this story with me. You are not worthy of Sennsárin, for having such little faith in him.” “I saw them with my own eyes!” “Did you now? With the eyes of the gifted warrior or the eyes of an insecure woman? If you had courage, you would go back to that moment, put aside your pride, and read the true heart of your beloved.” “He can hide his thoughts, change them! Why should I believe him?” Aswara smirked. “You are stupid beyond imagining. Why would the handsome Prince of Anfall need to trick a woman into his bed? He snaps his fingers and women crawl to him, on their knees, begging for a touch, a kiss, one night. I have seen this myself during my time in Anfall.” Aswara stood. “You are passable. The jewelry is our family’s treasure,” she pointed to the stunning emerald necklace she had clasped around Tara’s neck. “Before you fight in the challenge, please remove it.” “Challenge? What the hell are you talking about? I’m not fighting.” “You will fight. Or I will slit your throat as you sleep. You will not shame us more than you have.” Aswara lowered her voice slightly. “It is obvious that the woman is weak in the upper body. Avoid her legs and get her to the ground as quickly as possible.” Aswara led Tara out of the low building into the brilliant light. Senn sat only a few yards away, one woman weaving his hair into intricate braids while another massaged his feet. He looked up at Tara and his eyes widened. She watched as he slowly ran his gaze down the length of her and back to her face. He closed his eyes for a moment, and then turned away. Tara’s heart beat wildly. She was so confused. Senn looked…hurt. What right did he have to look hurt! Son of a bitch. “You have no faith in me.” Tara didn’t answer him. “I can still love you. You can’t change that, Tarana. Nor can whatever evil has infested this world.”

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“Enough of that silent babble!” Luke grabbed Tara by the arm and pulled her to the corner of the courtyard. He pointed to Senn and then shook his finger in front of Tara’s face. She looked into his blazing eyes and thought he might actually strike her. “You, stop this horse shit. Whether I like it or not, Senn cares about you, you’re a part of my family, and your welfare is my business. These people know honor like you know breathing. That thing,” Luke pointed to Mira, who was sitting in a corner of the courtyard, cuffed to a pole, “was put in my palace by the Spirit to test my temper. She irks me badly. Now I want better from you, understood? I liked you very much as a child, and I want desperately to like the woman who will marry my brother.” Luke lowered his voice. “My beloved brother. Why don’t you use those fucking gifts of yours, learn the truth, and stop being a baby. We have a battle ahead of us, and that man,” he pointed to Senn, “could die. He’s very reckless in battle, let me tell you.” Tara was shaking and Luke steadied her arms. She nodded slightly, hoping to break free of him, but he wasn’t finished. “You will now go to him, beg him to show you the truth, beg him to forgive you, feast with the mighty Sunaran people, represent our family in the challenges, and then be the warrior Great Lander I know you can be. You’re clear on all of this?” Luke shook her slightly. Heat poured from his hands and power rippled through her body and Tara suddenly felt her fear snap, felt it break in two and fall to the ground. She stood up as tall as she could, and then dropped to one knee. “Yes, Majesty, I understand.” Luke pulled her up and arched a brow, then nodded, smiling slightly. “Good. By the way, you look unbelievable. Senn’s a very lucky man.” “Your gifts are very strong, Luke. No wonder you’re such a good leader.” Luke simply grunted in response and took his seat with the men. Tara took in a deep breath and took long strides back across the courtyard to Senn, who looked up in amazement. “Leave us,” she ordered the women attending to Senn. Both bowed and backed away. “I like your hair like that, Senn. It’s sexy. And you should never, ever wear a shirt.” A slow smile crept to his mouth as he narrowed his eyes. “Has Mira now cast a spell on you?” “No. Luke lifted one.” “You’ll let me explain?” Senn’s eyes looked so sad, it pierced Tara’s heart. And she knew, without a doubt, that she was falling hopelessly in love with him.

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“No.” Tara squatted at his side and put her hands on his muscular arm, rubbing the oil into his skin as she had watched the Sunaran women do. Their faces were inches apart, and Tara felt their quick breaths keep pace with one another. “Please? I don’t often ask for things. I’ve never had to beg a woman to give me a chance.” “No. I don’t need an explanation. If you tell me it was a trick, then it must have been one.” “You’ll always wonder, let me show you,” he pulled her hand to his forehead, but she pulled it away. “No. I’ve decided to believe you, without that.” Senn’s tentative smile widened slightly and Tara saw a sparkle come back to his eyes. And with it, mischief. “Prove it?” Tara leaned in and kissed him hard on the lips and he pulled her into his lap and took her mouth captive with his sweet taste and magical smell. He kissed her long and hard, running his hands down her back and clasping at her buttocks. “I would take you now if I could, right here, push into to you, make you scream my name for everyone to hear,” he whispered. “Later, Kitten,” she whispered back, and they began a second kiss that lasted longer. Tara was vaguely aware that Sunarans surrounded them, giggling and whispering. She looked up reluctantly and saw a hundred men and women, jumping up and down, twirling in circles, smiling and waving weapons. “What are they saying?” Tara asked Senn. “They’re saying you had me at hello,” he smiled broadly. And he held out his hand, her ring sparkling in the palm of his hand. “I threw that in the desert. You made me another!” Senn shook his head. “It was never lost.” “Senn,” Tara breathed in deeply. “I think I might be falling here—hook, line, and sinker. If you aren’t sure about us…” “Hook, line, and sinker?” “It’s a fishing metaphor. I mean falling in love.” Senn sighed and pulled her back in close. He brought his lips to her ear and whispered so lightly she thought perhaps he hadn’t even spoken. “Please keep falling hook, line, and sinker.”

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As if from far away, Tara heard Aswara’s proud voice. “I’m very, very good with make-up and clothing.”

*****

Aswara leaned in and whispered to Tara. “You must stop staring at Prince Sennsárin, it is not allowed.” “Why? And I’m not staring.” Tara tried to pull her gaze away from Senn, yards away, eating with Sunaran’s finest warriors and a dozen or so of Luke’s men at a long table. He would not catch her eye. Aswara snorted. “At times of war, meals are sacred. Leave the men be.” “I will be fighting with them!” “And thus they leave us alone. I will fight alongside you at Sharla-ja.” Tara nodded and pushed the unfamiliar food around on her plate. Strong meat and bitter greens. And unbelievably potent liquor, made of milk. It was terrible. A heavy pounding rattled the table, and Tara looked up to see a Sunaran elder hammering a huge staff into the soil. “Lucius, our grandfather,” Aswara whispered.. “The challenge will begin shortly. Remember, get her to the ground. No magic, or you will be disqualified.” “This is ridiculous.” Aswara shushed Tara as Lucius began a chant. After what seemed like an eternity, the wrinkled man extended his staff along the rim of the assembly. “Honor to Lucenor Anfall. Honor to Sennsárin Anfall. And to Timothy Emory of the Great Lands. And to Tarana Anthlasan of the Great Lands, and to Jaimes and Cullen, honor especially to the guardians of our great lord.” “Anthlasan? What’s that?” “Your last name, I would assume. Surely you know your name?” “Evidently not.” Lucius continued. “In honor of our visitors, in honor of their journey across the pass of Anthlama, to the land of Sharla-ja, we humbly offer the games!” A loud cheer went up and Tara thought there was nothing humble about Lucius, his pronouncement, or any of the Sunarans, despite his speech. Tara looked at Aswara in question and she pushed put her finger to her lips and offered a silent explanation. “All may enter the challenge. There are several categories of battle. It is essential that all

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leaders have champions in each category. Tonight it is simple—Cullen and Jaimes are the highest ranking Sunarans, and Lucenor is leader of all Anfall. You are the only female among Luke’s army. You will thus fight for his honor. If you were not here, I would take that spot.” “You can still take it if you like.” Lucius shook his staff. “Who will represent Sunara in the short sword?” Cullen and Jaimes both stood, and then just as quickly, Cullen sat, acquiescing to his older brother. “And who will honor Anfall?” Tim and Senn stood at the same time. They regarded one another seriously, and Tara knew they were communicating silently. Neither withdrew. “Oh no. Is this going to be like the Star Trek episode where Spock has to fight Kirk to the death?” Aswara tilted her head in confusion and Tara sighed. Finally, Tim sat and Lucius turned back to the crowd. “And the iswahr? Who fights?” Tara was afraid to ask what an iswahr was, praying it wasn’t something she’d have to use. Tim and Cullen stood, and Lucius nodded again. “And hand-to-hand. Which of our women will fight empty-handed?” Aswara poked Tara in the side and she yelped. She felt the entire crowd staring her way. Her legs went to jelly, her stomach turned, her blood turned to ice. Tara looked across to the men. Senn was biting his lip and staring down at the table. Luke looked her directly in the eyes, challenging her to honor him. Big Luke, she thought. If I could be five again, and have him swing me over his head. Why, he must have been a teenager. And he was only a kid when he led an army against my father for the first time. Where does bravery live? Is everyone brave, deep within, she wondered? The young female voice slid in so softly she thought she imagined it. “Exactly, clever girl. It lies deep within all.. But you’ve know that for a long time, haven’t you? Or you wouldn’t have survived to become my servant.” Tara stood and heard her own voice, steady and loud. “I fight for Anfall.” The crowd went wild and then the cheers gradually faded as all eyes turned to the woman at the end of the table, the woman chained to the table legs, the dark eyed beauty, as she stood. Mira was slightly bent from her shackles. “I fight for Sharla-ja!” “Fuck me. Is that what you meant?” Tara looked down as Aswara. “Of course.”

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“She’ll kill me.” “Perhaps. The general idea is to avoid that outcome. These games are largely ritualistic. Quite often there are no deaths.” Aswara lifted her drink to Tara in salute and smiled. She spoke through her teeth. “She expects nothing from you. Surprise her.” Tara sat and watched numbly as Senn and Cullen slowly walked through what seemed like an intricate choreographed dance, each thrusting in turn with their short swords. She sighed, relieved. It was only a game after all. Senn was glorious, tan, hard, and glistening, moving quickly, effortlessly. She barely saw Cullen, until the dance turned to a fight, and the two picked up the intensity. Tara caught her breath as Cullen sliced a shallow channel across Senn’s midsection, and rivulets of blood stained his pale leggings. Senn arched a brow and grinned slyly, motioning with his free hand for Cullen to try again. Cullen moved in and Senn spun in a full circle, slicing from beneath to disarm Cullen with a mighty upward thrust. Cullen quickly fell to one knee and bowed his head. The crowd cheered and Senn helped Cullen to his feet. “Your betrothed is quick. Of course Cullen is stronger.” “Of course,” Tara tossed back. “I suppose you think Jaimes will defeat Tim?” “Easily.” Aswara sounded somewhat uncertain, Tara thought, as she watched Jaimes and Tim retrieve long staffs with curved blades embedded on both ends. “Oh God,” Tara mumbled. Jaimes let out a bloodcurdling cry as he began deftly spinning his staff in challenge, moving it behind his back, at one point throwing it into the air and retrieving it without breaking eye contact with Tim. Tara shook her head in dismay for Tim and looked to Senn, who was watching her carefully. He winked and her heart caught in her throat. So compelling, she thought. I’m dreaming. And she was pulled back to the moment when he nodded in Tim’s direction.. Tim mimicked every one of Jaimes’ movements precisely, adding a few flourishes of his own at the end. Then he moved in quickly and the two blocked, parried, and pushed so quickly that Tara could barely decipher the individual movements. Both men panted and grunted as the match moved past ten minutes. Lucius finally pounded the ground with his staff and the two stopped immediately, bowed to one another, then embraced. “Who won? I don’t get it?” Aswara looked at her in dismay. “A draw. What kind of warrior are you precisely?”

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“No kind, precisely.” “Well, I hope you know something,” Aswara nodded towards Mira as men unchained her from the table. “She hates you.” Why? Why does she hate me? What’s her plan? Well, right now she looks as if she wants to kill me. Aswara cleared her throat and pointed to the necklace Tara wore, motioning for her to remove it. Tara’s hands felt numb as she unclasped the gems and moved to the center of the courtyard. She looked helplessly at Senn. Senn nodded encouragingly. “Are you nuts? I can’t beat her!” “You must.” “What the hell kind of answer is that? I thought you cared about me?” “I do. Don’t forget what this woman tried to do to us. Surely she deserves a beating for that?” Senn smiled broadly and even laughed a bit. Tara groaned, kicked off her sandals, and moved to the center of the courtyard. Mira stood a few yards away, smirking. Lucius banged his staff on the ground for the battle to commence. Mira narrowed her eyes and spat on the ground. “This is amusing, is it not Great Lander? Magic is forbidden in the challenge. You cannot conjure a sword or turn yourself into a beast this time. You cannot even hold a man’s interest. You’re quite useless, really.” “Fuck you!” The fury welling up surprised Tara and she felt her body respond to the surging adrenaline coursing through her veins. She suddenly felt invincible, and she knew that if she went down, she wasn’t going to go without a fight. Tara turned away to glance at Senn. She gritted her teeth and winked at him as she left her back open to Mira. She knew it would come, and it did. Mira’s spectacularly fast wheel kick whirred over Tara’s head as she ducked quickly. The momentum of Mira’s kick left her off balance for a split second, and Tara was ready with the last thing the woman expected. With every ounce of strength and focus she had, Tara landed a right hook on the woman’s jaw. Mira dropped like a stone to the ground, out cold. The crowd was completely silent for a moment. Tara herself looked down, stunned at what she had done. In less than a half-minute, the bout was over. Lucius raised Tara’s hand and the crowd

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cheered her. She brushed off her hands dramatically and slowly, regally, took her seat next to Aswara. Tara held out her hand and Aswara dropped the necklace into it, snickering lightly. Tara leaned in and whispered to the woman, “You told me to get her onto the ground.” Tara pointed to the men slapping Mira awake. “I did.” Aswara guffawed and patted Tara on the back. “I’m glad we’re on the same side!” Tara glanced up at Senn. He leaned back in his chair, his hands folded behind his neck, feet propped on the table, looking quite smug. “Was that satisfactory, Prince?” “That’s a good start. Are you ready for the second challenge?” Tara’s heart sunk. “What now?” “I think we have an appointment tonight? I’d like to know which one of us succumbs first.” “Succumbs?” “Mnnn hmmn. You know exactly what I mean. I’ll be waiting for you, Pussy Cat.” Senn leaned forward and stared seriously into Tara’s eyes, and she saw the visions dancing in his mind. She thought she might have an orgasm simply watching his fantasies. How would she ever please this man? He would be insatiable.

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Chapter Fifteen

Tara bit her thumbnail and looked up at Aswara, who never seemed to run out of advice. “You’re not wearing that are you?” “What should I wear? My God, I feel naked enough in these…these scarves, or whatever you call them.” “You don’t go to a man for the first time in something like that.” Aswara grumbled, rummaging through a huge wicker trunk, throwing garments of every variety into the air. “Aha! This should do.” She held out a wisp of black on her index finger. Tara took the undergarment and examined it. “A thong. Great. Where’s the top?” Aswara groaned in frustration and ordered Tara to strip off her outfit. Tara scowled at her, but took off the silken garments and stood stark naked, arms folded across her chest. Aswara pointed to Tara’s crotch and handed her a straight edge razor. “No way.” “I’ll do it for you if you like,” Aswara smirked. “Look, Aswara, I appreciate your help, but I’m not a virgin and I don’t think I really need this kind of detailed instruction.” “In Anfall and Sunara, women prepare quite seriously for such a coupling. Certainly you want to meet the Prince’s expectations.” Tara felt her stomach roll in nervousness. The Prince’s expectations? Did he really care what she wore? If she were shaved? “Well, maybe I do need advice. He’s rather…intense. You’re sure he’ll expect this?” “Mnnn. Yes, I suppose you could call him intense.” Aswara threw Tara a bar of the everpresent patchouli soap and pointed to the steaming tub. “I’ll be back in a few minutes to freshen your make-up and prepare your breasts. Hurry.” “Prepare my breasts? Prepare my breasts for what? You’re messing with me, aren’t you?” Tara called after the woman as she scurried out the door.

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Tara stepped into the steaming tub and soaped up her body, hands trembling in anticipation. What was wrong with a little kissing and a quick roll in the hay? What the hell did Senn expect? Tara shaved herself gingerly, trying to ignore the thoughts and sensations trembling through her. Would Senn really want her this way? She ran her fingers along her skin, ensuring that she was very smooth, and shuddered as she touched herself, unable to keep her hand from rubbing against the swollen flesh, back and forth, thumb against her hard wet clit. She stopped quickly as she heard Aswara’s sandals flop on the soil outside the door and groaned, aching for release. “Finished?” Aswara arched a brow and snickered. “Or do you need more time? Perhaps you need some help?” “Yes, I’m finished.” Tara snapped back, grabbing a towel and drying off quickly. Aswara threw the undergarment at her and Tara stepped into the thong, feeling the luxury of the silk as it touched her newly bared skin. “Sit.” Aswara roughly pushed her face side to side, wiping smears of kohl from beneath her eyes, applying a bit more lip paint, and then, to Tara’s shock, rubbing oil between her palms and applying it to Tara’s breasts and shoulders in long, sweeping strokes. “Excuse me!

Is that really…necessary?”

Tara looked away and felt herself flush in

embarrassment, flush at the pleasure. Aswara pulled back and put her hands on her hips.. “Tarana, please. If I were interested in sex with you, I’d approach this quite differently. This is our way. It is designed to arouse you, all of it.” Aswara went back to her massage, concentrating for a bit on Tara’s shoulders. Tara sighed despite herself as she felt some of the tension of the last weeks begin to unravel. Then she tensed again as Aswara pushed Tara back on a fur and poured more oil into her hands. She began long strokes up Tara’s legs. “Stop squirming! Accept the sensations.” Aswara hissed in impatience as she moved to Tara’s hips and circled her hands on her belly. “Aswara, are you making this ritual up? I mean, are you gay?” “Gay?” “A lover of women.” Aswara roared in laughter. “I am the Princess of Sunara. You have not heard of my reputation?” Tara gasped as the woman ran her hand down her belly and slipped her hand under her thong, rubbing oil onto her pussy, her newly shaved skin. “I’m getting an idea of your reputation,” she panted.

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“I need you to stop that now.” Tara flushed in embarrassment as she felt herself respond to the luxurious feel of the woman’s trained hands. And she knew she was wet, soaked with excitement. Aswara laughed again. “Have no fear, Great Lander. I am a lover of men. I’m simply very good as certain rituals. We don’t worry so much about these things in Sunara. Now stop fighting me.” Tara’s breathing quickened as Aswara continued fingering her folds, bringing her to the brink of release, then moving away to her hips, then back to her pussy, over and over. Tara finally surrendered, let the sensations fill her.. She arched to meet Aswara’s hand and cried out as she pushed a thumb inside her opening. Aswara quickly retreated. “Well done. I assume you now feel ready for your Prince? You must feel incredible burning lust for him.” Tara groaned. “Uh huh. Yep, ready.. Thanks, I guess.” “You are quite welcome. If the feeling fades as we continue our preparation, you must tell me, and I will give you near-pleasure again.” Tara shook her head in disbelief. “I don’t think that will be necessary.” Aswara grinned. “Of course, you realize now that you must return the favor?” “What!” Tara hissed in protest. “At any time of your choosing, of course. Right now would not be appropriate.” “Oh, okay. Right. Maybe after the battle or something.” Tara tried to shake off the picture of Aswara, naked, squirming beneath her hand, her mouth. The heat built more and Aswara grinned more widely. “You’re messing with me again, aren’t you?” Aswara winked. “Now, you have exquisite full breasts and our Prince will no doubt be quite, quite pleased by that. We simply need a few finishing touches to set them off.” Tara forced herself to breathe evenly as Aswara massaged her breasts again and pinched at her nipples. She applied a berry-red liquid to them. At first the liquid burned, but then she felt only pleasant warmth. She looked down to see her nipples deep red and puckered hard. Aswara nodded, satisfied. “Alenberry. They will stay that way for the night. And your Prince will like the taste as well,” she winked again. Finally, Aswara fastened a necklace of dozens of fine golden strands, linked to create a meshwork that surrounded Tara’s breasts and fell to her navel. “Very good, you smell of sex and look quite wonderful. Then off with you! He stays in the guest suite four structures down. Count carefully, mind you, or you will give another man quite a surprise.” Aswara pushed her to the door.

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“I can’t go out there like this! Are you crazy?” “You must. Everyone must see Sennsárin’s good fortune. It is our way.” Tara sighed, more nervous now about the journey to Senn’s quarters than whatever escapades the Prince would plan for them. She’d run like the wind and hope no one saw her. Aswara opened the door and several dozen men and women gasped when she pushed Tara across the threshold into the open courtyard. They clapped lightly and Tara stood, frozen, a deer in the headlights. She was horrified to see Luke and Tim among the onlookers. Tim widened his eyes and pulled at his goatee. Then he looked away. Luke surveyed her openly and nodded in approval, then approached her.. Tara looked at the ground. “Ready?” Luke’s deep voice echoed through her body. “Hardly. Dear God, Luke, he should have warned me about all this.” “It’s the Sunaran way. I understand there are some rituals between the women in preparation? I don’t suppose you’d humor me and tell me about them?” He chuckled. “You’re all really hopeless. Some other time, okay?” Tara shrugged. “When in Rome… Oh hell, what does it matter? Aswara…uh…pleasured me.” “Yes, I pretty much knew that much. I was asking for details,” he laughed again. “Tara, dear, I can see I’m making you uncomfortable. I’m jesting with you. At least I think I am.” Luke picked up her chin with a fingertip. “Dear, you do understand all of this, don’t you? You must enter this union freely, eyes wide open.” “I suppose it’s pretty obvious.

I’m dressed like an exotic whore and I’m on my way

to…pleasure my boyfriend.” “Hmnn.” Luke rubbed his chin. “Yes, there’s that. And you understand that once you’ve pleasured him, as you delicately put it, wearing that necklace, and doing this walk in a public fashion with my blessing, the two of you will be married?” “Married? Oh, there’s some mistake. Senn and I, we don’t…we haven’t…well, I mean he mentioned it…” Luke nodded patiently. “He doesn’t mean to marry me now?” “Well, you can ask him, but I’m fairly certain that’s his intention.” Luke let his eyes drop to Tara’s mostly naked body. “I can’t say I blame him, either. Of course, I mean your other charms as well. No doubt he’ll want to have a traditional Anfallen wedding when we return as well.. He wouldn’t leave Kasmárin out. I’ll leave you two to work out the details.”

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“Would you mind telling me now what preparations for a traditional Anfallen wedding include? I’m not very good at surprises.” Luke laughed and held his arm out for Tara. She took his arm, glancing quickly at Tim and catching his eye. Tim nodded encouragingly. They walked a hundred yards to Senn’s quarters, and Luke stopped and put his hands on Tara’s shoulders. “In my opinion, Tara, you couldn’t choose a better man. But that’s for you to decide. Be very sure. If you don’t want this, I’ll talk to him.” Tara’s heart pounded furiously. “I didn’t know it would be this…public. But there’s no doubt I want this.” Every nerve ending in her body screamed for Senn, and she feared that Luke, as well as all of the Sunarans, must be able to see the desire burning through her. Without further ado, Luke pounded on Senn’s door. “Anyone home?” Luke laughed and walked back to the crowd, leaving Tara standing alone. She tried to peak in through the window and could see a glimmer of fireplace glow behind the drapes and a flash of movement, but nothing more. Tara stood motionless on the doorstep, unsure what to do. Should she knock again? She lifted her hand just as Senn pulled open the door. He grabbed her hand, jerked her inside, ignoring her as he bolted the door, and pulled the drapes completely closed. Finally, slowly, he turned and faced her. Senn’s eyes grew wide as he surveyed her from head to toe several times. I must look ridiculous, she thought. This isn’t what he wants. Senn rolled his eyes and smiled. He stood a few yards away, wearing only thin loose pants. Tara let her eyes fall on his glorious body and glanced quickly at his erection pushing against the light fabric. Senn grinned at her examination and moved a foot closer. Tara felt her mouth go dry and licked her lips as she moved a few steps closer to him, desperate for a word of approval, a touch. She couldn’t stop herself from speaking. “We’re not in love. We can’t marry.” “You’re in trouble now, Pussy Cat, saying such nonsense. You don’t want to make Senn angry, do you?” “I feel ridiculous in this outfit.” “I’m not sure you’re actually wearing anything.” Senn moved in closer. “I don’t know what you want from me, Senn.” Tara felt tears of confusion welling up. “Do I have to spell it all out for you?” Tara couldn’t get a full breath. Please tell me what you want, Senn. Tell me what to do. She watched as he nonchalantly pulled the leather cord from his hair and let it fall to his shoulders.

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Somehow, without her fully aware of when he had moved, he was now only a foot away. Tara looked into his blue eyes, the smirk pulling at his lips. Senn didn’t touch her, but she felt as his breath, his energy, brushing across her entire body. He finally stepped in and grabbed her nipples, pinching and twisting playfully. Fire pounded through her and she had to reach to his shoulders to stop from falling to her knees. “Tarana,” he whispered. The mischievous look left his eyes and he stared seriously. “If at first light, you tell me that you aren’t in love with me, I’ll leave you alone forever. But tonight is mine. The door is bolted. I’ve waited long enough for you. And my dear,” he moved his hands to her head and brought his lips an inch away from hers, “I’m falling in love with you.” He picked her up effortlessly and carried her to his bed, then knelt next to her. “I don’t know what this battle in Sharl will bring.. But I want to go into it married to you. Would that be all right with you? Consider it a favor,” he laughed. Tara mumbled, barely able to form words. Had he really said he was falling in love with her? “Was that a yes?” Tara took in a deep breath and jumped off the edge of a high, high cliff, not sure if she’d survive the fall, but sure she had to try. To trust again. To love again. “It’s a yes, Senn. Most definitely a yes. There was never really any question, was there? From the second I saw you on stage, the earth shook. I never dreamed you might really want this…want me.” “It’s more than want. I know you don’t think we love one another, that this is only sexual. Perhaps it is. But if you have me for your husband, from this moment to the end of time, I’ll never leave you. I’ll never be with another.” He kissed her lightly on the forehead. “I’m enough for you?” Senn waved his hand across Tara’s body, and she looked down to see her siren attire replaced with her Anfallen riding britches and top. She knew that her make-up was gone, Aswara’s potions and lotions were gone, that her shaving had been for naught. “You’ve been perfect since the day you were born. No matter what Josie said, no matter who your father was, no matter what foes you’ve put in your own way. No one could come close.” “I can become a cat,” Tara reminded him, brushing away a tear that his words called forth. “There’s that. Bonus points only. Are we quite finished talking now? I’ve a very fierce ache and you’re the cure. What do you say?” Senn unlaced his pants and Tara watched his sensitive looking hands move deftly, waiting in anticipation to see him naked again. To hold him, taste him.

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“All those fantasies of yours, Tara? Where I’m in charge? We’re going to work into them.. Right now, I’m simply going to fuck your brains out until you can’t take it anymore. I’ll assume that’s okay with you unless you tell me otherwise.” Senn stepped out of his britches, brushed his hair back out of his face, and ran his hand down his chest to touch his swollen cock. He ran his thumb over the tip and Tara saw the air around him glow slightly as he shuddered. Tara quickly unbuttoned her blouse as she watched Senn begin long slow strokes with his hand along the shaft of his cock, over the slick head. She fumbled with her pants and Senn pushed her onto the bed and quickly straddled her, pushing her hands aside and ripping the lacings apart. He stopped a moment to look into her eyes and grinned. Tara thought her heart would stop at the sight of that smile. Senn pulled her pants off and threw them over his shoulder, then worked his way up her body to her neck with his mouth.. His tongue was fire. Torture. Bliss. Senn bit at her earlobes and thrust his tongue into her ears, whispering as he had before, exotic phrases, ones that Tara vaguely understood somehow—threatening to kill her with pleasure. His voice was dark and rough, growing rougher by the second. Tara cried Senn’s name as he sucked hard on her neck, biting harshly, too harshly. The pain was real and frightening and Tara nearly pushed him away, but he sucked harder and pinned her arms to the bed. “What…what are you doing?” He lifted his head and Tara was shocked to see a bit of blood on his lips, a frenzied look in his eyes. “I wanted to taste you. The magic in your veins.” He leaned in and licked the tiny puncture, closing it with his magic. Tara felt a wave of pleasure course through her at his healing kiss. “You are so strange,” she gasped. “You love that about me,” he whispered and moved to her breasts, bringing his scorching tongue onto one, and then the other, sucking and biting and kissing until Tara needed to push him away. The pleasure was unendurable. “I can’t…I can’t, Senn. Please…” “Please what? Stop? Unlikely,” he laughed darkly. “Don’t try to push me away again, Pussy Cat. Don’t irk your Senn.” He went back to his suckling, and Tara cried out repeatedly until her cry was soundless, her mind numb, her body washed with breaking wave after wave of ecstasy. Tara tried to sit up, stunned, unable to fathom what was happening to her. She leaned up on one arm and Senn looked at her carefully.

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“Am I hurting you? What’s wrong?” His voice was gruff and impatient and Tara shuddered at the sudden change in him. She nodded slightly. And took in a deep breath, then shook her head no. “You’re unbelievable. I’ve never felt anything like that.” “Music to my ears. I’d like to know,” he ran his hand down her torso and ever so lightly touched her wet silken curls, “what really makes you hot. How can I make you insane for me? How I can make you forget other men ever existed?” “You’re really all about possession, aren’t you, Senn?” “That’s probably a fair assessment. Does that bother you?” Tara closed her eyes, bracing herself for an assault she was sure would be like nothing she’d experienced in her life as Senn locked eyes with her and slid down her torso. He knelt on the floor at the end of the bed and pulled her down close, pushed her legs apart, and feasted. It’s the magic, Tara thought as he pushed his tongue impossibly far inside her velvet tunnel, prodding and plucking at secret spots. His full lips pulled at each fold, as he endlessly brushed his tongue across her clit, in circles, back and forth, changing his path and his attack every time she would approach orgasm. “Senn, please, don’t do this to me. I can’t…” “Not one more word,” he pushed her back on the bed. “except to beg me to give you release.” “I’m begging,” Tara gasped. He sucked her clit and pushed his fingers inside, groaning himself now. Senn’s mouth seemed charged with energy, his tongue sending tiny darts of lightening to her core. Her pussy clenched tighter and tighter around his thrusting fingers and she screamed to God as she floated away. From very far off, she heard Senn’s moaning and felt the tip of his cock teasing her pussy. “So wet, so hot,” he repeated. He pushed slightly further, and Tara clenched the head, desperate to hold him in, to pull his huge cock in deep. She reached for him but he knocked her hands away and lifted her ass with his strong arms. “Look at me Tara,” he growled. “Tell me you want this.” He pulled out slowly and Tara cried out, begging, screaming for him to come back to her, using language she was sure she’d never uttered in her life. Senn pushed hard, very hard, in one deep thrust. With long, slow strokes, he built a rhythm, stoked a fire, a burning. Tara looked into his eyes, unable to believe the sensations, wondering if he felt as she did. He groaned and bit on his lip. She watched him shudder and take in a deep breath as he

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poured into her, his pulsing cock straining against her. She grabbed onto his hair and cried out as she came again. Sweat dripped from his forehead onto her belly and she opened her eyes, to realize that he was still far away, still throbbing, thrusting slowly, emptying into her. He looked powerful, glorious. Finally, he collapsed next to her and pulled her tightly into his arms. The scent of cum and magic filled the room and the air shimmered with the pleasure they released. Senn tilted her head to face him and kissed her lightly, then smiled broadly. “I think we’re rather good together. How about you?” Tara shook her head, still reeling from her orgasms. “I didn’t do a thing except lay there.” “Well, I didn’t forget that night in the garden. Figured I owed you one,” he winked. “You’re incredible, Senn. I can’t find words.” “Those are good words. By the way, I suppose we’re officially married by Sunaran rules. I know I said I’d wait until morning, but I’d really love to hear you say that you want to be my wife?” Tara shook her head in wonder. Senn looked almost nervous, waiting for her answer. “You had me at hello, remember?” “I thought it was the other way around,” Senn laughed and pulled Tara in more tightly, rocking her back and forth in his arms. “Let’s go hunting. Come on, what do you say?” His breath was hot in her ear. Tara thought she might rather stay in bed for another round. “Hunting? That really wasn’t what I expected you to say at a moment like this. ‘Dear, we’re married. So let’s go hunting.’” Senn looked at her seriously and brushed the hair out of his eyes. He continued staring without a word, and finally arched a brow. “Oh. Hunting,” Tara gasped. “On all fours, so to speak.” Senn’s grin spread slowly. And in an instant, a thin veil of energy shimmered around him. When it dissipated, Tara held a panther in her arms. She tentatively stroked his smooth fur.. Senn began a low purring and kneaded the bed beneath his huge paws. As Tara reached up towards his head, he opened his mouth wide and clutched her wrist into his mouth, holding her firmly but gently. She laughed. “I get the idea, Kitten.” Tara closed her eyes and found the spot in her mind she secretly thought of as her private zoo, and called forth the only form she had ever been able to assume. She reached a golden paw to Senn’s black one and he blinked. “You can’t imagine, Tara, what this means to me.” Tara growled in happiness and licked at the scruff of Senn’s neck.

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“The sun has set. Time to hunt.” “What’s out there, Senn? What’s the prey?” Senn blinked again. “Why, you’re the prey, my love. A lovely cat in heat doesn’t have a chance of escape. Have I told you how fast I am?” “Don’t underestimate me,” Tara taunted, leaping to the floor and edging towards the door. “To be fair, I’ll give you a head start. Ten…nine…” Tara heard Senn’s magic unbolt the door and open it a crack. She flew through the door and leapt down the path away from the compound. She heard the squeals and commotion from behind, knowing that she’d been spotted by the Sunarans, praying they knew her identity and weren’t going to mount an expedition of their own. Tara scrambled through the sparse underbrush and the memory of running through the jungle in Mexico washed across her quickly. But this time, she thought, how lovely to be caught. She could smell Senn behind her and knew he would overtake her in moments. She tried to scramble up a narrow tree and felt his jaw lock on her hind leg. He pulled her down and they wrestled playfully for a moment, growling and laughing. “How badly do you want this, wife?” Tara growled in protest as Senn latched onto her neck and held her tightly against the tree. In an instant, he pushed into her and thrust in and out quickly, growling and biting down harder. Tara thrilled to the new sensations ripping through her—complete submission to Senn’s strengths and desires. He pounded into her in a frenzy, madly, and she felt him pour his hot liquid into her. He let go of her neck and she faced him, panting heavily. Senn circled his prey still, and Tara knew he meant to find release again. She darted down the path and laughed as he drew her to the ground, licking her face and chest. Again he pushed her onto her belly and thrust into her, just as greedily. Tara hugged the tree with her paws and then felt an unsettling urge to feel the coupling, if only for an instant… He let her have an instant only, the feel of fur on her back, his teeth on the bare skin of her neck. Senn laughed darkly and changed into his human form, then thrust into her, finding his release again. “That was quite naughty of you, Tara! I loved it.” “I’m still loving it,” she cried as she fell back into his arms, hot liquid streaming down her legs. Senn pulled a blanket from the air and gathered it around them both. He gently pulled her to the ground and snuggled against her, shimmering back into his feline form. Tara did the same. An hour later, they stirred to the commotion around them.

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“There, near that tree!” “Oh, bloody hell,” Luke exclaimed. Senn popped his head up and growled at Luke, who shook his head and motioned for the others to move on. “It’s my brother. Ignore them. Perhaps they’ll go away.” “Is Luke angry at us?” Tara asked Senn uncertainly. Senn snorted. “Not at all. When Luke’s angry, you’ll know it, trust me.” Tara purred and licked at Senn’s neck. “I think I’m ready for the next part. What is the next part?” “We go back and make love for the rest of the night. Any way you like.” “I think I can handle that.”

Kasmárin rolled away from Lauren and watched the sunrise through the long window of their bedroom. Lauren touched his shoulder. “What is it? Hunter?” “No,” he turned to her and smiled. “Nothing like that. Senn. I felt the most overwhelming sense of peace, and I think it’s coming from him.” “At this distance?” Lauren sat up. “Nothing separates us.” Kas drew back the covers slowly and walked to the balcony, pulling the curtains aside. So, it’s done then. Senn and Tara. “What’s wrong, Kas? Something’s eating at you.” Lauren joined him and Kas pulled her into his arms. “Do you know that every time I look into your eyes I’m stunned by how beautiful you are? Have I told you that?” Lauren smiled briefly. “It can’t compare to what I feel when I realize we’re married. What made you mention that? Trying to distract me?” “Perhaps. Senn is married now. To Tara of course.” Lauren’s eyes widened. “That’s a good thing, right?” “We’ll see. Something’s plucking at my magic, and not in a comfortable way. Since they made their way to Sunara. They’re about to move on to Sharla-ja.” “You’re afraid for them?” “Yes.” Why? Think damn it. It’s more than Mira’s story, more than the threat of Great Lander bandits. They’re in danger. Senn and Luke.

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Then enlightenment hit him like a bolt from the sky. He grabbed Lauren’s arm in support. “Palin! By the Spirit, something’s terribly wrong with him. Lauren, I feel Teren’s poison.” “I don’t understand? Teren? How’s that possible?” “I don’t know. I have to go! Why would Alyssa and Palin be at Sharla-ja?” “Kas. Don’t go, please. We need to stay here, I can feel it.” “Lauren, you’ll be fine here, I swear to you. I don’t have a choice.” Kas pulled her into his arms and kissed her hair. Where is that peace you promised me, Spirit? Please, protect my brothers. Senn, can you hear me?

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Chapter Sixteen

Aswara pulled away from her brothers to ride near Tara. “So? How was it?” Aswara’s grin was as unsubtle as her question. “Honestly, you get involved in everything, don’t you?” Tara regretted her words when she saw the hurt look on Aswara’s face. Perhaps this was the way women spoke to one another in the Land. Women who were friends. Tara realized glumly that it was possible women talked that way in Texas as well. But she had simply never had a real friend. Aswara nudged her horse forward and Tara caught up to her. “I’m sorry, Aswara. You’ve been nothing but kind to me. Well, a bit bossy, but you mean well.. I don’t feel like myself this morning. Wish I could crawl into bed and sleep for a week.” “That is because of your escapades, which I evidently am not qualified to hear about.” “It was amazing. He’s amazing. I’m amazed. And…” Aswara looked at her curiously. “Yes?” “I’m terrified.” “Terrified of wonderful sex? I’m sorry to hear that,” she said seriously. Tara laughed. How can anyone understand what it’s like to go from having nothing to having everything in the space of a few days? And the fear of losing it. “It’s not that. I’m a little concerned that Senn doesn’t really want this relationship.” “Marriage,” Aswara corrected. “Yes. That it’s only a fling. Sexual fling.” “There you go again. Luke was right about you.” “What did he say?” “I mentioned that you were a rather clever fighter, despite your obvious fear and lack of skills. And that you seemed to be handling our ways as well as one might expect. Luke noted, and I concur, that you are your own worst enemy, and are fighting a constant battle. Why is that?” Tara stared at the woman numbly. She had heard those words before, about herself, about others. Why did the cliché now hurt? Seem so appropriate, so simple, so real?

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Aswara nodded. “I see you take my meaning. Can you explain why you get in your own way?” A barrage of images pounded through her brain—Josie beating her into a psychological pulp, feeling like an outsider her whole life because of her gifts, wondering if her father had abandoned her, Sam…Sam with other women. Sam, hiring men to kill her… Aswara snorted. “I hear your thoughts clearly. You have not learned to block properly. You have had bad experiences. That is life, is it not?” Tara nodded in agreement, but tears threatened to betray her. They must all think I’m so weak. Aswara’s many bracelets jingled as she put her hand on Tara’s arm. They both stopped and let the column move past them. “Dismount, Lady.” Tara followed Aswara to the edge of one of many small streams fed from the melt-off of the snow-capped Sharl. Birds flitted around the grasses and sang happily in the sunshine. Aswara took Tara’s hand in hers and bowed her head. She arched a brow at Tara. Tara quickly looked down, wondering what this ritual would involve. “We will now meditate. You do know about prayer, I assume?” Tara nodded. “Our Father, who art in Heaven, hallowed be thy name,” Aswara began and Tara gasped. Aswara uttered the full prayer flawlessly and then looked at Tara. “Is that not correct?” “Yes,” Tara whispered. “How do you know that?” “Why, an old friend of mine—he died a year ago—learned it from a Great Lander and took quite a liking to it. He said that it couldn’t offend the Spirit too much to call such goodness upon the Land.” “Hunter, was it Hunter?” “Aye,” Awara smiled. “He was a wonderful man. Now I will teach you another prayer that Hunter favored.” She bowed her head again. “Anshri moi, naramthal. Sri s’agapo, sri s’antranoi, sri s’meranala.” She continued in the ancient tongue for a moment. Tara understood not a single word, but felt overwhelmed with grief. She was about to ask Aswara for a translation, but the woman squeezed her hand for silence. A slight breeze stirred the rushes near the stream and a number of birds took flight. Tara looked up at them as Aswara spoke. “Come to me, Spirit, and quench my longing. Let me love you, let me trust you, let me please you. Erase my fears so that I do not offend you with self-doubt, jealousy, and bitterness. Teach me to close the great door of yesterday and lust not after the door of tomorrow. Show me this moment, in which I am cradled in your loving arms.”

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“Of course,” Aswara continued with a wink, “there are other prayers for vanquishing enemies that I particularly favor. We will need them in the coming day or so. Stop feeling sorry for yourself. Do you understand that your self-pity is not serving you? Give yourself to the Spirit. And please stop taking everything so seriously. Buck up, as Timothy is fond of saying.” Tara smiled, brushed away her tears, and nodded. “Thank you. For trying to help me. And for not laughing at me.” “Oh, I only laugh at you when you aren’t nearby.”

Tim pulled his cloak closely around his shoulders.. Senn could feel his impatience, knew his friend longed to ask a dozen questions. “Go ahead, then, get it out of your system,” Senn grunted. “What? I didn’t say a word!” The road narrowed as they climbed, and now only two horses could pass abreast. The rocky outcroppings at the base of the Sharl turned to higher and higher cliffs, and the path of Anthla-ma was soon shrouded in shadow. The aired chilled noticeably as they climbed, and the vegetation changed to sparse tall trees, emerging here and there from deep crevices. Senn slowed so that the Knights could pass together and Tim would be directly alongside. “You know, Tim, this is the last thing I expected to feel this morning. Last night was beyond my wildest dreams, and let me tell you, I’ve had some wild dreams. But today…” “Don’t tell me you’re not sure? It’s a little late for that, isn’t it?” Senn winced and felt a knife stab at his heart. Tara was everything he wanted, everything he needed. Then what is it, Senn? Why the tinge of doubt? He glanced at his friend and saw his deep concern. Perhaps Tim knew him better than he knew himself. “I don’t know.” Senn rubbed his forehead, trying to push away a dull headache. “Maybe we rushed into it. I can’t think of anyone I’d rather be with. I simply…” he shook his head and waved Tim’s next question off. “I’m sure everything will be fine.” Spirit, help me. I committed myself to this woman.. Are you testing me? He’d pushed down a dream of the lovely Maiden, Palin’s wife Alyssa, right before he had woken with Tara in his arms. Why would he dream about passion with another woman now? Tim sighed and patted Senn on the back. “Brother, I have a lot of faith in you. Give it time, it’s a big change.” Tim coughed and pulled his cloak more tightly. “Are you ill?”

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“Just tired. Since we arrived in Sunara. A bit of a headache, and my stomach doesn’t feel right. Maybe the Sunaran liquor,” Tim shuddered. “I’ll never drink that shit again. And the Spirit keeps speaking to me, almost taunting me.” He sighed heavily. “Kinda wish we were back in Cancun to be honest.” Senn felt himself wishing the same. To be as far from the Sharl as possible. The Sharl? Something in the magic felt…sour. “Luke!” Senn called ahead and Luke pulled back and fell in besides Senn. “Commander, I think we’d better proceed with extreme caution.” Luke frowned. “And you suddenly expect me to do less?” “Extreme caution. Something’s off. Energy is corrupted slightly here, and getting worse as we ascend. It’s affecting the gifted.” Luke snorted. “It’s the altitude, nothing more. You’re always looking for a mystical crisis. Can’t you simply enjoy the trip?” Kas’s words rushed urgently into his brain.. “Senn! Warn Luke of danger in Sharl. Palin is there. He needs you.” Senn gasped and put his hand on Luke’s arm. “Palin! He’s in Sharla-ja! Kas is warning me of danger there.” “What? Nonsense. Palin and Alyssa are enjoying the loss of their virginity, hundreds of miles from here.” Tim gasped. “No, Luke, Senn’s right. Something feels very wrong. Let me go up ahead and scout.” “No!” Luke and Senn responded at once. “No,” Senn repeated more softly, realizing that Tim would think the worst, and be correct. He was a terrible scout. “We can’t afford to lose you.” “Bull shit. You think you’d be better off losing me.” “Stop pouting, Tim, we don’t have time for it,” Luke barked and whistled to the Knights. The huge warriors hurried to his side and waited for their instructions. “Both of you, scout on ahead a bit. The special ones here think we may be walking into something. It’s all very dramatic.” Jaimes nodded and Cullen spoke up. “They’re right, Luke. We were just talking about it. It feels a bit like the forest of Anan-kai, actually. Charmed. Gives us the creeps.” Luke groaned. “I take it you don’t mean charmed in a good way, then. Bloody hell, what’s this about?”

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Senn’s headache grew stronger and he saw Tim shiver slightly. “I think it has absolutely nothing to do with a Great Lander invasion of Mira’s kingdom. The woman lured us here. I think guns are the least of our worries.” Luke shook his head dismissively and motioned for Jaimes and Cullen to get on their way. The rest followed slowly. Senn felt Tara close by and fell back to greet her. When he looked at her, he felt tongue-tied. You’re never tongue-tied. Say something, idiot.. She’s your wife. “Hello.” Senn forced a smile. He saw the fear sweep across Tara’s face and a flush climb to her cheeks. “I thought you might be a bit happier to see me. Even though it’s only been a few hours.” “I am happy to see you, honey. Please don’t look at me like that. What’s wrong?” Senn rubbed as his head, wondering why Tara looked so different to him now. So unfamiliar. The woman he’d made love to all night seemed like a stranger.. He noticed a tiny scar on her chin he was sure he’d never seen before. Her eyes weren’t quite the deep blue he thought they were, had a bit more grey in them. “You tell me what’s wrong. You were gone when I woke, and you’ve avoided me all morning.” “No I haven’t, Tara. I needed to get some air—I get up early, it’s my way.” “Since when? I’ve only known you a week, but it seems to me you sleep later than anyone.” Senn started to protest, then noticed her anxious look and stopped. It’s true. Why are you making excuses? You ran out on her this morning. “It occurred to me this morning that we don’t know one another very well. I mean, about each other’s lives and likes—that sort of thing. It will be nice to spend time together—won’t it? Maybe spend a few months before our wedding in Anfall…” Senn saw his words had a terrible effect on her. “What happened to knowing one another all our lives? What happened to everything you said last night?” “I meant all of that, Pussy Cat. Every word. I simply meant…oh, come on Tara, I didn’t mean anything bad.” “Sennsárin, the one thing you do rather poorly is lie. You’re an exquisite lover, a true warrior, a gifted mage, but a very, very bad liar. I know a man who’s having second thoughts. You don’t mind a night of fucking, but you sure as hell weren’t ready for marriage. If I looked up ‘regret’ in the dictionary right now, it would have your picture next to the word.” “What? I regret nothing!” You regret bringing her here. How is that possible?

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“Never mind, Senn. I fucking expected this. I hoped, somehow, I wouldn’t wake up from the beautiful dream I had…” Tara brushed away her tears and rode quickly to the back of the column. “Spirit help me,” Senn prayed. “Why am I screwing this up? Tell me what to do.” He listened, but heard nothing but the clip-clop of hooves on the mountain path. “Kas, help me. I miss you so much.”

Alyssa paced, her fists clenched so tightly that her fingernails drew blood in her palms. Palin bit back his words. She’d come so close to killing him, several times. He had to think of a way to free Alyssa from the clutches of this demon. “They’re coming, they’re near. They approach the pass of Anthla-ma.. Then it is a matter of a day, no more.” She looked at Palin as if she just realized he was there. “Oh, your brothers, your dear brothers.”

She mocked him.

“Sennsárin and Timothy and

Lucenor—all will be dead within a day. And you—along with them once your usefulness has passed. You can join that disgusting old man Hunter you admired so. Ungifted weakling! How like you to adore such an ordinary person. How will Kasmárin feel then, dear boy? He will die of grief. And my reward will be to join my beloved husband in a great land he rules far away.” “Teren is dead, rotting in hell, ruler of nothing. Do you understand? How can you allow another to control you? You have lived in isolation for a thousand years because of his evil. How can you let him take another moment of your life? Fight it, Alyssa, please. You loved me. You still love me.” Palin saw the most fleeting glimmer of recognition in her violet eyes. They softened and she wavered. He thought she might topple to the ground. “Yes, fight it, love. There is a way out.” “No!” Her eyes flashed in fury. “Alyssa was weak, and I am infinite. Did I not vanquish a kingdom,” she swept her hand towards the fields where Palin knew the royal family of Sharla-ja lay dead or dying. He occasionally heard a groan from a wounded soldier. And then crushing silence. The witch Laenora had completely taken over Alyssa’s consciousness. Palin had watched in horror as she burned the Sharla-ja fields, destroyed their palace, toppled their monuments and gravestones, all with the clap of her hands while he begged her to stop. “I see through the eyes of my servant Mira that Lucenor’s pitiful group flounders. Your idol, Sennsárin, is wracked with doubt.

He abandons his wife of one night.

Bitterness fills her to

overflowing. Timothy is fearful as a child, sick and nearly cowering as he did at Talinthall. Even the Knights drown in their superstitions. The great Lucenor muses in confusion, too skeptical of the gifts

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and mired in concern for everyone and everything. Each defaults to his greatest downfall. Child’s play.” Alyssa laughed and Palin cringed at the sound, which came as if from far away. As if from Teren himself, calling out from the grave. He had failed, then, he thought. They had all failed to protect Alyssa from her greatest nightmare, the man who pursued her for a millennium. Teren won when he raped her. Palin closed his eyes and tears burned the wounds on his face.

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Chapter Seventeen

Luke cradled Mira in his arms as she shook uncontrollably. He knew instantly from the look on her face that she was sincere—destroyed by the sight of the decomposing body. Scavengers had picked at the flesh, pulled out the eyes, left nothing but rags, sinew, and bone, save an elaborate pendant of obsidian and diamonds that hung from the victim’s neck. Luke warned Senn and Tim away with a sharp glance, knowing they meant to comment on Mira’s tricks. Mira’s tears streamed onto his chest and he rubbed her silken hair and muttered as many comforts as he could muster. “He’s family? Your brother?” Luke whispered gently. Mira shook her head slightly in affirmation and clutched at Luke’s neck. “Aye, the others will be gone as well. Garlan would be the last to be taken.. The strongest warrior in the Land.” Mira looked into Luke’s eyes. “Outside of Anfall,” she added half-heartedly. “No need for that deference now, dear. I’m very sorry for your loss.” Luke nodded towards Cullen, who covered the corpse with his cloak after removing the man’s necklace and handing it to Mira. “We’ll give him a proper burial.” “This is a warrior’s burial, Lord. Only non-warriors are entombed. Warriors go to the Spirit from the place they fall. Nature takes care of the shell.” “I see.” Luke pulled her in more closely and caressed her back as he looked out past her shoulder onto the plain of Sharla-ja. All the years of longing to see the mythical kingdom brought him to this sight—a broken land, with a broken princess in his arms. Mira tried to pull away but he held her tightly, not ready for her to see the devastation. It was evident enough, without looking, Luke thought. The farm buildings, houses, and public structures smoldered and the smell wafted up the mountainside on a light breeze. Even the vegetation burned—odd fields, built like broad stone steps against the mountainside. Luke wondered what crop the people had grown. He closed his mind to the smell of burnt flesh. Only one charming complex of edifices remained—a maze of small buildings with peaked roofs and thin winding columns supporting them. Gold and bright red caught the sunlight, and a few tattered flags flapped in the smoky breeze.

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Sharla-ja. The enchanted kingdom. Exotic, but rather small. And, he admitted to himself, it would have been disappointing even in its glory. “It was a town of only a few thousand, Mira?” he asked softly. “Yes, Lord. It was.” “You understand it is all gone?” Mira nodded and pulled away. “Aye.” She looked deeply into Luke’s eyes and he saw the beauty and pain masked in recent days by her hatred—no, her madness, he thought. “There were no Great Landers, Mira? This is not the work of a few New Yorkers with guns.” She rubbed her head. “Great Landers?” Mira looked around at the group that had gathered to view the devastation. “I know no Great Landers…except for those residing in Anfall…Timothy, Lauren, the others…” She looked into Luke’s eyes again uncertainly. “What happened to me? I remember telling you about our plight. It makes no sense to me now. I do not remember how I reached Anfall. Or why?” Luke motioned to Senn, who squatted next to Mira and placed his hand on her forehead. He looked up at Luke. “The good news is, she’s telling the truth.. I think her grief has broken whatever charm was on her. Want the bad news?” “She’s telling the truth, I get it. Hell, who would possibly do this?” Luke looked out over the devastation. “I suppose there’s one way to find out.” Senn pointed to the ruined town. “Luke, this is serious.” “Oh really, what tipped you off? The two-thousand or so corpses littering the ground?” Mira wailed at his remark and Luke cursed himself for his thoughtlessness. Senn squatted near him. “Luke, we can’t take everyone down there. It’s too dangerous, and some of them,” he nodded towards Tara, “they shouldn’t be exposed to that.” Senn also subtly glanced at Tim, who was coughing and rubbing his forehead. “No, Senn. I agree, a small force only. But the other gifted go with us—Tim, Aswara, the Knights.” Luke pushed Mira away and shook her slightly by the shoulders. “Look at me, Mira. You will stay here, with the rest of my men. We’re going to find out who did this to your family, your people.” Mira shook her head vehemently. “Do not take this away from me, Lord. I have the right to fight my enemy.” She gestured to the body of her brother. “Garlan, my father, my other brother, all of our people earned me the right to die by their sides. I do not want to disobey you, but I’ve the right to a warrior’s death.”

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Luke shook his head solemnly. “I’d prefer you not die any kind of death, Mira. Not for a good long time. I have other plans for you, and I intend for the last princess of Sharla-ja to remain safe. That’s an order.” Mira nodded numbly. “If this were another time, I wouldn’t let that pass.” Senn smiled wryly. “Shut up, Senn. Gather the gifted. I don’t know what strategy is best against such evil, but we can’t go rushing down there without a plan. Let everyone eat and rest for a bit, then assemble them here in an hour.” The small band broke up but Senn stayed behind with Luke. “Don’t joke about Mira now, Senn. She’s devastated, she’s lost everything.” How can I help her? My Spirit, she’s all that’s left of Sharlaja. Senn nodded. “I know. Luke, I’m concerned about Tim and Tara, especially Tara. She’s torn up over a bit of a spat we had.” “Spat? What the hell happened? In the space of one day?” Senn ignored the question and looked out over the plain. He brought his arm up to shield his nose from the smell of decay. “I don’t understand any of this. Why was this place so shrouded in mystery? I can’t see why it was ever considered special, and why the Sunarans and Sharla-ja never approached one another?” Luke shrugged. “The pass of Anthla-ma is reputed to be charmed, and you know how the Sunarans hold with superstitions. It was probably a legend begun by Sharla-ja, to keep their stronger neighbors at a distance. Seems like it was a pretty enough little spot. All gone.” Luke reached down and grabbed a handful of rocky soil, letting the finer dust past through his fingers. He held up a dull green stone between his thumb and forefinger. “Mira told the truth about one thing—they have stones in abundance. There,” he pointed to a rivulet of pebbles and rocks, some glimmering in the light. “Rough emeralds, laying on the surface for anyone to scoop up.” Luke sighed and shook his head. “Quite useless to the dead. Who’s there, Senn?” Luke pointed to the unblemished palace. “Can’t you feel it?” Senn nodded. “As impossible as it might sound, I feel Teren’s presence there. I wish Kas were here. At the same time, I’m glad he’s not in harm’s way.” Senn barely had his sentence out and Kasmárin shimmered into form a few feet away. Kas pulled his pipe from his pocket and nonchalantly lit it, raising one eyebrow and speaking from between clenched teeth. “I thought I heard you call my name, Senn. Several times, in fact. It’s nice to be needed.” He winked at Luke.

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Senn strode to his brother and pulled him into his arms, nearly knocking him off balance. Kas patted Senn’s back and looked at Luke questioningly. “Guess he missed you. There’s some trouble with Tara. Lauren, mother and the rest?” “Fine. Lauren’s a bit put out, but I’ll smooth that over. Seems that everything to worry about is right down there,” he pointed to the palace with the stem of his pipe. Luke nodded. “You know, Kas, you’re getting a bit more like Kenneth and Hunter every day. You’re a little young to be acting the wise old ruler.” Kas laughed and hugged Senn closer, pressing his lips to his hair. Luke heard his silent whisper to Senn. “I love you brother. You’ll fix it with Tara, I’ve seen it. But Teren’s down there, that’s what’s making you doubt yourself. Pull it together.” Luke groaned. “I suppose I should tell you that I can hear that horse shit now. Must have rubbed off or something.” “Can you indeed?” Kas laughed. “No more making fun of the gifted, then Luke.” The three walked a few dozen yards back to the encampment. The Knights and soldiers cheered at the sight of Kas. Tara nodded a glum greeting and Mira fell to her stomach on the rough earth in worship of her King. Luke scooped her into his arms, where she began sobbing again. Tim coughed again and saluted briefly. Kas muttered, “Just like old times. What a mess.”

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Chapter Eighteen

“I wish I could do that!” Tara exclaimed as she watched Senn take flight, now a large blue-eyed hawk spiraling in ever-tightening circles towards the palace. “You mean you wish could be with your beloved,” Aswara corrected. Yes, I wish I could be with him, Tara thought in wonder. Even though he doesn’t really want me. I’ll never stop wanting him. I'm so pathetic. Kas broke off his consultation with Luke and motioned to Tara and Tim. “You two are next. In from the North, with great stealth. Tim, if you feel a probe, if you’re detected, beat a very fast retreat.” Tara could smell Tim’s fear and put her hand on his arm. “Are you okay?” Tim shook off her arm and nodded. “Let’s go.” Kas stopped them. “I’ll be right behind you, but I won’t tell you how, lest she read your minds. Aswara and Jaimes and Cullen will come in along that ridge.” Kas pointed to a narrow path along the mountainside that terminated near the palace. “She? Who do you mean?” Tim’s voice quivered and Tara had to stop from reaching to him again. “Alyssa, of course. She’s polluted with Teren’s poison, not in her right mind. But as powerful as she’s been in a thousand years. Remember, Tim, she will destroy us all without a thought.” “Alyssa?” Tim’s voice shook. “What about Palin? Is he dead too?” “No, I feel his weak magic. I’m sure she plans to use him against us, though.” Tara’s heart sunk. “Palin is the youngest, the one you all love so much?” “Yes, Alyssa’s husband. He is Bruce’s son, and our mother’s.” Polluted with Teren’s poison…But I am polluted with his blood. My father. Kas placed his hands on Tara’s shoulders. “Remember what I said? About choosing your own destiny?” “I haven’t made one good choice my entire life,” she said. “What makes you think I’ll start now?” She wanted to throw herself into Kas’s arms, beg him to help her, to take the pain away.

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“Senn was not a bad choice, Tara. You’ll see.” Tim grabbed her hand and pulled her along the path and all her thoughts of Kas’s help faded as she realized they were walking into what could be their own graves. Real fear of another sort gripped at her stomach. “Tim, why are we paired like this? We aren’t the most powerful.” Tim squeezed her hand. “You know, I’m actually a little more powerful than you might imagine.” He stopped for a second and regarded Tara. “That’s not like me, to say something like that.” “Yeah, I noticed. You really have trouble with not being one of the brothers, don’t you? With being an outsider? And there’s that thing between you and Senn, what’s up with that?” “What’s up with the thing between Senn and you?” Tim said, “The greatest guy in the world is in love with you and you can’t appreciate it? You really loathe yourself, Tara, do you know that?” “If Teren were your father…” “That’s not it! You were like this when I met you, before you knew…” “Think about how you met me. My husband was trying to kill me!” Searching for something really hurtful to say, Tara bit her tongue when she saw the wounded look in his eyes. He coughed and rubbed his forehead. “I wish I could rub this fucking thing off. The Spirit be damned.” He shook his head sadly. “I don’t mean that.” “I know, I know.” She pulled him into her arms. “What’s happening to us?” “Shhhsh, she’ll hear you!” A girl’s voice scolded. They both looked to the edge of the path and Tara gasped. A beautiful girl-child stood there. Ageless wisdom reflected in her steel-blue eyes. Her long golden hair floated lightly around her, though there was no breeze. She wore a simple white shift and was barefoot. Tara felt the earth tremor slightly beneath her feet and wondered if this were the witch Alyssa. The girl reached out her hand to Tim, but he recoiled, sheer terror etched across his face. It must be Alyssa, but how could this ten-year-old be Palin’s bride? “Timothy,” the child scolded and stomped her foot impatiently. “Take my hand.” “Oh my sweet God,” Tim fell to his knees and put his hands over his face. “Hmph. That’s not really the response I was hoping for, but it will do.” The girl smiled up at Tara, who felt her heart beat wildly. Her skin tingled and she wanted to crawl out of her body. Tara knew the child was not Alyssa, was not a threat. Whatever she was, she was very powerful.

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“Who are you?” “You can call me Lassie, if you like. I answer to a number of names, mostly Gri-Lasa. Tarana, sweetie, I’m going to talk to Timothy for a moment, but I’ll get back to you.” Tara nodded numbly at Lassie, thinking how odd it was that the goddess had the same name as a TV dog star and spoke in a British accent. Goddess? Lassie looked at her quickly, smiled, and nodded. Tim stared in dread as the child squatted beside him. “Sit with me.” She sat right onto the dirt path and pushed Tim off his knees, giggling. He sat up and she climbed into his lap and laced her hands around his neck. She kissed him on the cheek and giggled again. Tears streamed down Tim’s face and he opened his mouth as if to speak but no sound came out. “That’s okay, my child, you cry as much as you like. No need to say a thing.” Lassie brushed his hair with her palm and ran her little fingers through his goatee. Tim stared into her eyes and shuddered visibly. His tears subsided gradually and Lassie lay her head on his shoulder. To Tara’s amazement, she stuck her thumb in her mouth and sucked for a few moments. Then she pulled a lollipop out of the air, unwrapped it, and stuck it in her mouth. “Want one?” she asked Tara. “No, that’s okay. Umm, you’re the Spirit? And this is just a form you take on?” “Mnnn, if it helps to think of me that way, sure. I do wear different clothes, even shoes once in a while. Sometimes take on other forms to blend in, depending upon the need.” She shrugged and sucked on her candy. She held it out for Tim to take a lick and he smiled weakly and took the candy from her. His voice was barely a whisper. “Thanks. This is the best thing I’ve ever eaten.” Lassie rolled her eyes. “What did you expect?” “I didn’t expect you. Why are you…well, here? Visible? Why us?” “Do you believe in me, Timothy?” “Well, now I do.” He pulled at his goatee. “Actually, I think I always have.” Lassie nodded happily and pulled the lolli-pop from Tim’s mouth, put it back into hers and sucked loudly. She leaned in and whispered into Tim’s ear for a moment. Tara strained to hear, but Lassie sent her a look to kill, so she turned away. Tara started when she felt the child take her hand and lead her down the path a few yards. She looked back at Tim, who still sat on the ground, now looking quite happy to do so. “Tarana, how are you, dear?”

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Fear welled up inside Tara and clutched at her heart. It was too much—Anfall, magic, Senn and now this. A goddess wanted to have a chat. “Please don’t. I don’t mean to be disrespectful. Shit, I don’t even know how to talk to you. But please don’t do whatever it is you’re going to do. I can’t take anymore. I want to die.” Tara felt a knife pierce her heart at her own words. I want to die. I really do. Lassie frowned. “I had great plans for you, my dear. I’m a little disappointed, I must say. But if you really want to die…” Lassie stepped back and threw her lolli-pop into the air, where it vanished, and brandished a golden sword in its place. The sword gleamed and shimmered in the dying sunset, and Tara felt a jolt of terror sweep through her. “Tell me why you want to die, Tarana and I’ll oblige.” Lassie looked at her sympathetically as she twirled the sword inexpertly. She dropped it once and giggled as she blew dirt off the sparkling blade. “Go ahead, tell me, I’m listening.” “I can’t handle the pain anymore. The hurt. It’s too much.” “Is that all?” Lassie threw the sword into the air, caught a gorgeous orchid, and handed it to Tara. “Isn’t the flower beautiful?” Tara nodded, wondering if she were going insane. “I give up. I just give up.” She fell to her knees and sobbed. Cried for herself, for her mother, for her father, for the loneliness, for the thousands of dead strangers strewn on the field below, for everyone in pain. And for Senn, who suddenly seemed terribly wounded himself. Lassie sat next to her and wrapped her arms around her. Tara looked up to find Tim standing nearby, looking strong, healthy, and interested in what was transpiring between the two. The girl put her hand on Tara’s cheek and turned her face so that they stared closely into one another’s eyes. Tara felt herself pulled into the goddess and saw the vision of her own life, from birth to the present moment, as if she watched a movie going in fast motion. But in each frame of the movie, Lassie was there, watching, sometimes pulling her by the hand, sometimes helping her up out of bed, or pointing her in a different direction. She lay next to her when she slept, held her hand while she was ill, hugged her when she was sad. Finally, she saw the goddess in Cancun, standing in the middle of the road with one arm extended towards the car. Tara saw herself stop the car, roll onto the macadam and run through the brush. To Tim. To Anfall. To Senn’s arms. “It’s good to give up, Tarana. Stop fighting it. You’re doing just fine. I’m very pleased with you, my child. You will still feel pain and you will suffer always. That is the way of life. And then, of course, there’s all the joy.” Lassie kissed her cheek and Tara felt a warmth flood her body.

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The child stood and took Tim’s hand and gestured for Tara to stand. “Defeat evil wherever you find it,” she said seriously. “Sure you don’t want one?” she held out a lolli-pop. Tara nodded. “Maybe I will, actually. Haven’t had one in a really long time.” “Carry on, then,” Lassie nodded and vanished. Tim and Tara stood still, quiet, unmoving, for quite a while. Finally Tim broke the silence. “I think we’d better get moving. Can’t screw up the plan.” “What did she say to you, Tim?” “You wouldn’t believe me if I told you,” he laughed. “And I won’t. Come on.” “You know, I meant to ask her why she lets bad things happen to people.” Tim took the orchid from Tara and placed it behind her ear so the blossom tickled her face. “Come on, Pussy Cat. I think your husband might need you pretty soon.” “He’s not really my husband, we both know that.” Tim nodded. “But I think you two could be very happy together. It’s only been a week, Tara. Give it a chance. Come on, the Spirit delayed us.” He laughed and pulled her by the hand. “No, Tim, it hasn’t been a week. I’ve known him my whole life.”

Senn took a deep breath and ducked behind a large stone structure that looked like an altar. He closed his eyes and poured all of his energy into shielding his presence from the Maiden. The sight of Palin’s thin body, bloody and worn, and chained to a wall, floored him. At least he’s alive. There’s hope. “There’s always hope, my child.” Senn turned around quickly to face an exquisite woman, perhaps a few years his senior. She had long flowing blonde hair and steel grey eyes that twinkled as she took him in. She wore a long gown of pure white, a woven gold rope hanging low on her hips. Senn glanced quickly at Palin, fearing the woman would speak and give away his presence. She simply smiled and put her finger to her lips and nodded. She motioned him to follow her, and they walked quickly to a small cupola in the palace wall. Senn watched in awe as she waved her hand gently in the air and surrounded them with a circle of light. “We may speak freely now, Sennsárin of the Stars.” Searing heat suddenly wracked Senn’s body and he fell to his knees, scraped his hands on the smooth stone floor to stop the dizzying feeling of falling into an abyss. As the sensations slowly passed, a dull awareness pricked at his brain.

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“I know you, Lady. By all that is holy, it can’t be… You only appear to the good, the pure…” “True enough.” Gri-Lasa stood still, patiently, and Senn wondered what he was to do. “I’m sorry,” he muttered. “You’re sorry?” She laughed lightly. “Indeed, what makes you sorry?” Senn stood slowly. “I’m not sure why I’m sorry.” To his horror, he felt the burning of tears on his cheeks and wiped them away quickly with his sleeve. He could only think of the trial he’d been to his family, his restlessness, the women he’d hurt and Tim. Why do you feel badly about Tim? “I see.” She took his hand and walked with him along the edge of the palace. “Darling, you do worry about others a great deal, don’t you? So intense, so needy…” She shook her head in mock dismay and then winked at him. “That’s what Tara said. I don’t understand.” “You’re very charming, of course, but you know that. I do enjoy that about you, you know. It pleases me to watch you. And I do love your voice. I hope you always sing for me.” Senn bowed his head in respect, but he was utterly confused. Gri-Lasa’s warm hand made his skin tingle and his nerves sang in excitement and fear. “You don’t really answer questions, do you, Spirit?” Senn looked her in the eyes and found the nerve to smile a bit. Gri-Lasa laughed. “Leave it to you to challenge me. Very well, I’ll answer any question you might have. But only one, so choose wisely. I get to set rules like that to amuse myself once in a while.” Senn closed his eyes and sorted through the big questions of his life. Why do I feel so isolated, even though so many people love me? What do I need from them that I’m not getting? Why do I push them away, when I really want them so close by? Why do I live on the outside? What’s to become of me? And no sooner had he asked the questions of himself, he knew the answers to them all. I’ve made the same choice, again and again. And it doesn’t matter why. It was always in my power to choose differently. Gri-Lasa arched a brow. “I’m still waiting for that question?” Senn bowed his head. “How can I serve you?” Senn thought she looked slightly startled. How does one surprise a goddess?

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“You have surprised me, my dear. That doesn’t happen often. You will find a way to serve me. Destroy evil where you find it, Sennsárin. And nurture your child well, for she will help restore peace in the Great Lands.” She pulled Senn in and pressed her lips on his cheek.. She smelled like sweet orchids and sunshine. “My child?” But she vanished before the words were from his lips and he felt an overwhelming sense of longing for her return. Palin’s loud cry started him out of his thoughts and he rushed quickly back into the palace hall and hid again. This time he saw the Maiden. Alyssa was still beautiful but her eyes looked empty and lifeless, insane with bad magic. He could read her unguarded thoughts drifting through the palace. Laenora. She believes she is the ancient priestess who became Teren’s ally.. Dead for centuries. “What have you done, boy?” She kicked at Palin’s feet and he moaned, barely able to open his eyes from exhaustion and pain.. “I have lost my servant, Mira—she regains her identity. I cannot see the tricks the Anfallen plot for me. How have you betrayed me, how have you warned them?” Palin didn’t answer and Senn knew he was surely dying. He’d have to act quickly, and alone. You’re no match for her Senn. He called to Kas, knowing it would betray his presence. Alyssa spun around. A slow sly grin spread to her lips. “We have our first royal visitor, Palin. Welcome your brother to Sharla-ja.” Palin didn’t respond. Senn stepped forward. “A trade, Laenora. Palin for me.” Her cold laughter echoed through the empty hall. “Why would I need to bargain with the shapeshifting prince?” “Because I’m stronger than you imagine.” I pray I am. “You are nothing without your brother. Kasmárin does not care enough about you to leave his bride and child.. You are merely the court jester, are you not?” Senn smiled inwardly, realizing how nicely she had summarized the fears that had plagued him forever. And he marveled at how ridiculous they now sounded to him.

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“So that’s your power, Laenora? Feeding on the fears of the unwary? That’s quite pitiful. You won’t go unpunished for your destruction of the Sharla-jan.” “I care not for this speck of dust kingdom. I will have Kasmárin. He will suffer as Teren suffered, he will lose all who are dear to him. He will pay with the Anthla-ma and his life.” Senn looked deeply, searching for the key to tricking the demon. Pride, he thought. Like Teren. A megalomaniac. “So, you’re either afraid to free Palin, or afraid your powers aren’t strong enough to detect a trick of mine. Which is it? I offer a simple trade. Then you’ll have what you want, without a fight.” Alyssa looked at Senn dully and he feared she wouldn’t take the bait. Then he noticed that she looked at his forehead and winced a bit at the recognition. “I cannot trust you, Prince. You serve another. We will fight to the death, your death.” Palin coughed. When Senn looked at him, Palin shook his head slightly. Laenora’s eyes flashed in anger. “The boy is correct. You cannot defeat me.” “Wanna bet?” Senn turned sharply at Tara’s voice. She held her revolver out steadily with both arms extended, aiming directly at Alyssa. “What manner of toy is that? You should know better, Tarana, blood of my beloved. Join me and we will rule Anfall.” “'Join the Dark Side'? Pulease, lady. Let Palin go, or you’ll find out what kind of toy this is. Gri-Lasa told me how to defeat you, bitch. I have her ammo in the barrel.” Senn tried to wave her off but she moved forward steadily and he saw Alyssa falter in uncertainty. He looked questioningly at Tim, who shrugged in confusion. Before Senn could think what to do, Tara fired two shots at Alyssa and quickly rolled to the ground behind a pillar. Palin cried out in pain and horror as Alyssa fell to her knees, holding her hands to her chest, watching the blood flow through her fingers, seep down her gown. “Alyssa...” An icy wind swept through the chamber, swirling around Alyssa’s fallen figure. The bonds restraining Palin faded into nothingness and he slumped to the floor with a groan. Senn closed his eyes, extended his palm and sent the full force of his power to the wounded woman. She shuddered and cried, writhing on the floor. “Stop, Senn, please,” Palin begged. He tried to stand, but fell back to the floor in agony. Tim joined Senn, mimicking his gesture, pouring his power to match.

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Senn pulled from his memory—no, Kas’s memory, he thought, the words that would exorcize the demon. The chill in the room deepened until it was almost unbearable, the remnants of the Spirit's power whipping about Alyssa's writhing figure like the tattered shroud of the ghost she was. In timeless moments, Senn felt Laenora’s grip loosen its hold on the woman. A seething, ethereal apparition separated from Alyssa’s seemingly lifeless body and dissipated in the air over her head. Warmth began to slowly seep back into the room. Senn ran to Alyssa and placed his hands on her wounds, now praying and sending her healing energy. “Maiden, don’t die. We still need you. You are free, truly free. Come back to us.” Tara and Tim joined him, kneeling by Alyssa’s side, hand on her torso, praying and channeling. Her eyes fluttered open and she looked at Senn. “Sennsárin, let me die, dear. I am so sorry. I tried to fight him, you know I did. I cannot live with what I’ve done.” “You did nothing. Teren killed the Sharla-jan.” “I tortured my beloved.” Senn held her in his arms and pressed his lips to her forehead. “Come back to us. Palin needs you desperately. He loves you. Please, Alyssa.” Tara scurried to Palin, who pulled himself along the floor in agony. She helped him to Alyssa’s side, where he cried and rubbed her cheek. “I love you, Alyssa, please stay with me.” “I love you, lad. Please forgive me. I must leave you.” Luke entered the room and stormed over to the dying woman. “You’ll do no such thing. Kasmárin, fix this.” Kas hurried to her side, examining her wounds. “These aren’t fatal wounds. Senn and the others have healed her.. It’s her will.” Kas spoke softly to Alyssa. “You must want to live, Maiden.” “I cannot live with what I’ve done,” she whispered, clutching at Palin’s hand. “Then Teren wins. He will have destroyed Palin, destroyed you and wounded this family deeply. Do not let him take Anfall as he did Sharla-ja. Don’t be selfish.” Alyssa closed her eyes and sighed deeply, and Senn and the others feared she would surrender to her heartache. “Palin?” she whispered. “Can you still love me?” Palin pulled her into his arms and gently put his lips to hers. “I’ll always love you.”

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Alyssa pushed herself up a bit with the help of the others. She took Tara in and nodded regally. “You are wise. Those were no holy missiles, were they? But the mention of the Spirit’s name sent fear through my captor.” Senn helped Palin to his feet and held him closely. “Palin, she’ll be fine now.” “No, no,” he whispered weakly. “She won’t forgive herself. But maybe I can help her live with it.” “Just rest, now. There’s plenty of time for that.” Senn scooped Palin into his arms and Kas motioned for all to gather close around him. All complied but Luke, who leaned against a pillar, arms crossed stubbornly. “All right then, brother, you’ll return with your army on your own?” Kas asked. “I’ll stay for a while,” Luke grunted. “Clean up this nightmare,” he nodded towards the plain littered with corpses. “Take care of a few things.” Senn smiled inwardly. Mira. “Kas, Luke intends to stay with Mira.” “I heard that, Senn. Stop it. I’ll see you in a month or so, perhaps more.” Luke strode out of the Palace of Sharl and Senn knew he had hit the nail on the head. Alyssa moaned. “It is because of me, of course. Mira Nalan-ma will not forgive the woman who destroyed her people, her homeland. Lucenor intends to keep us separated.” No one spoke to disagree, to comfort Alyssa. Senn wondered how the women would ever coexist at Anfall. He finally glanced at Tara and found her looking at him. He had put all worries of her aside to help Palin and the Maiden, to cope with the overwhelming experience of meeting Gri-Lasa, and now all of his thoughts returned to the near stranger he loved. Doubt now dissipating with the demon Laenora, he saw Tara anew. She smiled subtly and his heart flopped in his chest. Is this what it feels like? What Kas felt for Lauren? Imagine that. “Imagine that, indeed,” Kas said aloud. “Let’s go home.” He motioned for them all to move in more closely and closed his eyes. He chanted briefly, and in a moment, they shimmered into the courtyard of Anfall.

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Chapter Nineteen

Tara walked idly along the stream, wondering if anyone even noticed she was missing. Then she groaned, realizing how selfish she would seem if anyone knew she was feeling sorry for herself. Aswara would give her a good tongue-lashing, she thought in amusement. The day had dawned grey, but was now glorious, the sun warming her bare shoulders and legs, birds calling to one another, rushes swaying in the lightest of breezes. She heard a noise and turned quickly, her heart pounding furiously, sure Senn had finally come to her. But it was Tim. Tara smiled and tried not to let her disappointment show. Tim laughed and strode up next to her, then pulled her into his strong arms. “He’ll be along presently. He’s talking to Kas.” “What a shock, imagine that. Talking to Kas. Three days of talking to Kas.” Tara smiled up at Tim and rubbed his newly shaved chin. “I like. Why?” Tim shrugged. “Seemed like time for a change.” “How is everyone? I can’t claim to understand all of this very well.” “No, I guess not. I think it really shook Kas and Senn—all of us really—to know that Teren lived on in any way. And then, well, there’s Sharla-ja.” Tara nodded and tried to push away the memory of the dead, littering the plain of the small village like hundreds of misshapen mannequins, cast aside. “I wonder what Luke’s doing?” “Burying the dead, no doubt. Trying his best to console Mira.” Tara sat in the grass and Tim sat with her. “And what’s Tim up to now? Make up with Jenna yet?” “I told Jenna to fuck off.” “Liar.” “If I’m lying, I’m dying.” Tara snickered. “I’m glad. You’re too good for her. You deserve someone really special. If I weren’t…” “In love with Senn…” Tim laughed lightly.

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“Well, that remains to be seen,” Tara lied.. They looked at one another silently for a few moments, then Tara reached for Tim’s hand. “I have to ask, Tim. Don’t be angry with me. Are you in love with him, too?” Tim looked taken aback for a moment, then rubbed his chin where his beard had been. “You aren’t the first person to ask me that. Senn actually brought it up last night. It floored me. He’s my friend. Like a brother. He babbled on about the Spirit, the Awen mark, and our bond with Kas. He was parroting some lecture of Kas’s, I’m sure.” Tara saw his struggle.

“You didn’t really answer my question.

Not that it’s any of my

business.” “I guess it is your business. You’re married to him. Tara, I’m not gay. Ask Lauren about me in New York.. Ask Jenna, she’ll tell you.. Not that I got far enough to prove anything with her.” “Having intercourse with a woman isn’t exactly a litmus test of your sexuality.” Senn coughed and the two turned to see him slide off Silk in a fluid motion and loop the rein around a low branch. Tara felt herself flush, wondering again where they stood, trying desperately not to look desperate. “You should knock, Senn. You have a habit of slipping in unannounced.” Tim looked at her quizzically. “I heard him. He’s been there a while.” “And you went on like that!” Tara flushed more. Tim shrugged again and pointed to the mark on his forehead. “The three of us pretty much share everything now. A bit worse since we’re back at Anfall, wouldn’t you say, Senn?” “A bit better, you mean, brother. Don’t let Kas hear you complain about the priesthood.” “Priesthood?” Tara snorted. “Unlikely priests, all three of you.” “Nevertheless, Gri-Lasa has spoken. In fact, I’d like to know what she said to you two,” Senn smirked. “Because you, Timothy, seem a little smug. And you finally kicked my sister to the porch.” “To the curb,” Tara corrected. “And you, my love?” Senn pulled her hand into his and kissed it. She couldn’t suppress a visible shudder at his touch. Please, please, let it be all right. Tara shook her head. “Tim heard everything she said to me. She…well, she showed me that she’s with me, always has been. Actually, Aswara and Luke knocked a little sense in me too. But I still feel a bit…” “Insecure?” Senn squeezed her hand. “Unsettled. But Tim didn’t answer your question. What did she say to you, Tim?”

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Tim rolled onto his stomach and mumbled. Senn pushed at him with his boot. “Come again brother?” He winked at Tara and she smiled. Tim rolled back to face the pair and sighed deeply. “She said I’m to be hers. Forever.” “Hers?” Tara asked. “Like in a holy way? Or hers? Like in a mortal way?” “Um, pretty sure she meant the second. Talked about having my baby.” Senn howled and Tara held onto his arm in shock. “You’re kidding, right? You’re going to be her…lover? I guess you have a few years to wait, then. She seemed to be about ten or so…” “Ten!” Senn laughed. “She was about twenty-seven when I met her and a knockout. I don’t think she intends to leave you hanging for very long.” Tim sighed again. “I don’t get it. Why me?” “Just the charm and good looks, I guess.” Senn reached for his hand. “We’re supposed to have a baby, too. A girl. I think Hunter is the third child. She has plans for our children, big plans.” Tara stared at Senn. “Sorry, Pussy Cat, I guess I should have told you first. We’re having a girl.” “We are? Are you sure? I really don’t think I’m pregnant.” “No, not yet. But soon, really, really soon,” Senn leaned in and kissed Tara’s neck and she felt his magic wash through her body and groaned. “Then, you’re staying with me?” Tara squeezed her eyes shut, wondering how needy she sounded. “We’re married and in love. Why wouldn’t I stay with you?” Senn looked at her in shock and Tara felt the air rush from her lungs. She nearly cried in relief. Tim groaned and rose. “I think I’ll be going now.” “No!” Senn ordered. “It’s going to be like this, Tim. You may as well get used to it. Tara and I are married, and you and I are bonded. Until the Spirit decides to sweep you away to her love nest, it’s the three of us. You don’t get to go off and pout anymore. That’s over. Understand?” “Not really.” Tim flopped back down on the grass.. “I’m not going to sit around and watch you two fuck, it that’s what you mean.” “Not every time, of course,” Senn said seriously. “But I can’t see that it would hurt once in a while. What do you say, Tara? It’s her call, of course.” Tara took in a breath and held it for a moment. What are you asking me, Senn? “Now? Is that what you mean? Now?”

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Senn nodded, eyes flashing in excitement. “Why not? I’ve read it in your mind, a few times, in fact. I told Tim, but he thought I was kidding. I wasn’t kidding, was I, Tara?” Senn reached out to them both and took their hands. He chanted a few words, and they found themselves sitting on cushions in his suite.

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Chapter Twenty

Senn looked inordinately pleased with himself, Tara thought, as he looked back and forth between her and Tim. He loosed the band from his hair and let it fall free. Tara knew that as a sign that Senn was ready for action. “Senn, this is absurd. Tara doesn’t want this, anymore than I do.” Tim stood and walked towards the door. Senn caught up with Tim and put his hand on his shoulder. “Turn and face me.” Tim turned and Tara saw his cheeks turn scarlet. His skin glowed with magic and his chest rose and fell quickly. “You’re not one for tavern women, Tim. It’s been a while, a long while, hasn’t it? Look me in the eye and tell me you haven’t wanted this and I’ll drop it, forever. I’ll know if you’re lying.” Tara gasped when Tim shook his head ‘yes.’ His eyes darted towards her and she looked away. “Your wife is not into your little games, Senn.. Show a little respect.” “This is my wife’s game, brother. Pulled from her head, only a few nights ago.” Senn looked at Tara. “Tell him, Tara. Have you ever thought of having the two of us?” “No!” Tara felt a tinge of doubt creep in. “Maybe in a dream, but that doesn’t count.” Tara’s breath hitched as Senn walked towards her, pulling off his shirt. He looked deathly serious, dangerous.. “Don’t lie to your Kitten. I know your heart, remember? I’ve seen everything in it. Fantasies you haven’t let yourself have. Do you trust me, Tara? Yes or no?” Tara looked past Senn at Tim, who no longer looked mortified. In fact, she saw with mixed horror and excitement his erection pressing against his pants. “Is this what you want, Senn?” “For once in your life, Tara, will you just say what you want! Give me an answer, damn it. Do you trust me?” Tara squeezed her eyes shut and nodded. It was true. She did trust him. And Tim, and Kas and Luke and even Palin, whom she barely knew. She trusted Aswara and all the Sunarans and Lauren and… Tim’s words, spoken in Cancun, echoed through her brain.. 'Anfall is a place of undying bonds'.

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Tara looked into Senn’s eyes and whispered 'I love you' as she extended a hand towards Tim. Senn smiled smugly. “I love you too, wife. Don’t forget, I’m still interested in getting to know you a bit better. We have our lives ahead of us, Tara. Please try to relax.” “Relaxed is the last thing I am right now.” Tara managed a smile. “You don’t look very relaxed yourself,” she nodded towards his pants. Senn smirked and his eyes flashed merrily. He narrowed his eyes as he pulled off his boots and then his pants. Tara squirmed at the sight of him, nearly forgetting Tim. But Senn hissed Tim’s name and Tara looked up to see her friend smiling shyly down at her, over Senn’s shoulder. Senn turned over his shoulder and winked at Tim. “Your pal has a number of fetishes, Tim. Did you know we have a submissive Texas Ranger on our hands?” “Wouldn’t have guessed it. I suppose between the two of us, we might be able to handle her.” Tara laughed nervously and watched in amazement as Tim pulled off his clothes. He seemed to lose his last bit of shyness when Tara groaned at the sight of his swollen cock, tip dark and beautiful, powerful thighs and arms and chest leaning next to Senn. Tara looked from one to the other, wondering if she were offending Senn by appreciating Tim. Senn snorted. “Now what makes you think I’m that possessive?” Tim laughed but Senn silenced him by pressing his lips to Tim’s briefly. “Don’t get any ideas, Timothy. This is with my permission, you know.” “Aye, Prince. As you command.” Tara realized her mouth was hanging open and shut it quickly. She opened it again and shut it again. Then it came pouring out. “You kissed him. Senn, you kissed him.” “Oh, not that again,” Senn sighed. “We all kiss, Tara. We’re brothers. Kas, Luke, Palin, even Cullen and Jaimes.” Tim whispered over his shoulder, “That’s what he tells all the girls. Oh, that came out wrong. Honestly, Tara, it’s their way. It’s our way. Just wished the women kissed too.” “Well, would somebody kiss me, for Pete’s sake?” Tara wanted to scream, the sight of the two men and their rigid cocks sending waves of longing through her. “Timothy, would you be so kind as to pleasure my wife?” Tim looked at Tara and she knew he needed one more bit of reassurance that she wanted this, wanted him as well. “Yes, for God’s sake. Pleasure me, someone, anyone,” she pulled her shirt over her head and pinched at her nipples. Tim moved above her and slid her pants and underwear off in one swift movement. Senn leaned in and kissed her first gently, then fiercely, breaking contact only to whisper his

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secret endearments in the ancient tongue. He cupped her breasts and squeezed them as he kissed her. Tara felt Tim push her legs apart. His silken hair brushed her thighs and she gasped and looked past Senn. Senn grabbed her chin and moved her mouth back under his. He looked deeply into her eyes and whispered “I love you” again. Then he pulled a scarf from behind his back. “Open your mouth, Pussy Cat,” he growled. Tara parted her lips slightly and Senn wrapped the scarf around her face. A thrill pounded through her as Senn pushed her hands over her head and bound them together against his bedstead. “Now, Timothy.” Senn leaned in and suckled on Tara’s breasts as Tim stroked his tongue along her swollen lips, licking the juices flowing from her, moaning in pleasure himself. Tara yelled out in blissful agony and Senn laughed at her muffled cry and bit playfully at her nipples. Tim swirled slow, steady circles of fire across her clit, Tara drowned in pleasure, arching up to meet Tim’s mouth, and clutching at Senn’s back as her orgasm swept up her body. “Mnnn, doesn’t she taste wonderful,” Senn snickered. “I would have liked a bit more time,” Tim murmured. “Take all the time you like.” Tara moaned as Tim lowered his face to her again.. He looked up with a mischievous gleam and Senn knelt next to Tara and whispered in her ear as Tim licked and sucked. “How long do you think this will go on, wife? Two of us. Both with the gifts. I could call in Kas, of course, I don’t think Lauren would mind. Would you like that?” Tara shook her head no as Tim’s tongue darted into her juices, but her protests were lost as she came again, in wave after wave. “Tim, I think you missed a spot,” Senn said in a singsong voice. Tim laughed and wiped off his chin. “What spot would that be?” Tara cried out in muffled protest as Tim pushed his fingers deep inside her core and swirled his fingertips against Tara’s velvet walls. “This one?” Senn moved next to Tim and licked his fingertips in glee before bringing them down close to Tim’s hand. Senn rubbed at her clit while Tim massaged her vagina. And both men reached for their cocks and began to stroke themselves with their free hands. It was too much to bear. Tara squeezed her eyes shut and with every bit of magic she had, willed the gag off her mouth and the bindings off her wrists. Senn and Tim looked at one another and laughed loudly, then returned to their masturbation.

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“You two are fucking deviants!” Tara was trying to form another coherent thought when a third wave of pleasure pounded through her and she felt the men pour their juices onto her legs and stomach. Senn rubbed the semen up to Tara’s breasts. “Don’t insult us again, wife. Or the gag goes back.” “Are you quite through, Senn?” “Am I? It’s your fantasy, my dear. I thought there was a good deal more.” “After all this, I’d better get a chance to fuck her.” Tara and Senn looked at Tim in surprise. He was massaging his cock and quickly becoming hard again. Senn looked at Tara. “I think your friend would like a little service. She’s quite good, Tim.. Show him, dear.” Tim groaned as Tara motioned for him to lay back on the bed. She grasped his cock and moved both hands over the head and along the shaft, watching in pleasure as Tim threw his head back and sighed loudly. I can’t believe I’m doing this in front of the man I love. Tim reached out as she lowered her mouth to his cock, licking and sucking. “A golf ball through a hose…” Tim murmured. Tara suppressed a laugh and returned to pleasuring Tim. Senn brushed up behind her and she felt his heavy shaft pressed against her back, and she knew he intended to have his satisfaction at the same time. “I love you so much, Tara,” he whispered as he pushed into her from behind, filling her completely, in so deep she thought she would burst. Senn grabbed her hips and pushed in a steady rhythm and Tara forgot where she was for a moment. “Hey, for God’s sake, don’t stop,” Tim complained. Tara stroked Tim half-heartedly as Senn pressed the tip of his cock from side to side and teased her opening. Tara moaned as Senn pulled out and motioned for Tim to take his place. Tim positioned Tara on the bed and stood at its edge. Senn lay on the bed, head propped on one hand, watching, fascinated. Tim pushed into her and pounded at her in a frenzy. It felt wonderful, she thought. Tara looked at Senn, who was grinning devilishly. She saw him through a haze of intense pleasure, as Tim hardened further and pressed deeper with each thrust. “Enjoying yourself, boys?” Tara spit out each word. “Immensely,” Tim groaned, reaching around to pinch at Tara’s nipples. Tim found a spot of bliss with the tip of his cock and brushed it again and again. He rode her frantically, calling out to God as he spilled his seed into her womb. They collapsed together onto the bed and Tim pulled Tara into his

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arms. He suddenly opened his eyes and looked into hers from an inch away. Tara saw the flecks of gold and silver in his deep pools of green that she now knew signaled one of the very gifted. “I’m sorry, I guess I’m not supposed to hold you like this,” he whispered. “Senn, I’m sorry.” But he didn’t let go. Tara thought, in fact, that Tim held her even tighter. Senn climbed in bed next to Tim and threw a strong arm over him. “Tim, I’ll thrash you don’t stop apologizing for yourself. It’s become quite irksome.” Tara felt Tim shake a bit and pressed her hand to his cheek, knowing he was holding back tears. “What is it?” she whispered. “Was it that bad, being with us?” Tim snorted. “Yeah, that must be it.” The three lay in awkward silence for a few moments, Tara searching in confusion for something to say. Senn broke the silence. “We’ll leave tomorrow for the Great Lands, won’t we Tim?” “Whatever you say, Prince.” “Just a short trip. Some unfinished business.” Tim released his hold on Tara and rolled onto his back, arm across his eyes, and sighed deeply. Senn pulled his arm away. “We’re going to New York, Tim. Sightseeing. The three of us.” “I don’t want to go to New York, Senn. I told you I won’t go there again. You and Tara go without me.” “Why would we do that? Come on, brother, you wouldn’t break up our little party so quickly, would you?” Senn widened his eyes at Tara and she realized he wanted her help. “I want you with us, Tim. Please?” Tara tried. Tim jumped out of bed and pulled on his clothes. “Whatever.” He looked over a little slyly at Tara. “But don’t think he doesn’t have something in mind for you, Pussy Cat.” Tim left the two alone and Senn pulled Tara into his arms. “That was something, husband. A first.” “We didn’t really get around to your fantasies, my dear. I’ll have to take care of that.” Senn moved on top of her and kissed her neck, rubbing his cock against her leg and moaning. “That was all about Tim, wasn’t it? Not about me.” “That’s right,” Senn looked up and grinned. “But this,” he hissed as he pushed into her, “this is all about you. I love you so much. I had no idea what it would feel like, what it could feel like. My heart’s going to burst. Tell me you feel the same way, Tara.. Say something encouraging.”

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“I’ll love you every minute of every day for the rest of my life.” Tara moaned as Senn caressed her core and kissed her lips. An hour later, Tara woke from a light sleep to find Senn staring at her lovingly. “Senn, what did Tim mean about you having something in mind for me? In New York?” “Oh, not New York. No, we’ll be hitting Texas first. Pay a little visit to your ex-husband.” “No! Oh no, Senn, you can’t be serious.” “I hear that a lot.”

Tara could barely wait for dinner to finish. The Queen Mother seemed a bit peevish, learning that Senn was leaving a few days after coming home.. Probably happy to be rid of me. Margaret was a cold fish, Tara thought. And so was Jenna. She was certainly beautiful, with long white-blonde hair framing a perfect face. So like Kas in appearance. But cold as ice and evidently quite angry at Tim, who ignored her completely. “I’m wanted back at North Shore, so I’ll be leaving tomorrow as well,” Jenna put in slyly at one point. Lauren nodded politely. “What for, Jenna?” “Why Patric, of course. The man I’m seeing. He’s quite put out that I left at all, but I explained that I had to see my brothers and mother after such a long stay.” Tara wanted to lean across the table and throttle her. Lauren chatted on amicably while Palin and Alyssa barely spoke. Kas and Senn seemed to communicate silently. Bruce concentrated on his meal, ignoring the rest of them. Tara played with the fowl on her plate and finally dropped her fork and picked up her wine goblet. She caught Tim glancing her way and knew he was a bit embarrassed about their tryst. She tried to smile encouragingly, realizing in shock that she wasn’t embarrassed at all. In fact, the memories were bringing up new fantasies, which she pushed down quickly lest one of the gifted caught them on the air. She had to get Senn to help her with her blocks. “So,” Senn suddenly caught everyone’s attention. He lifted a glass. “This is to my new wife, the love of my life.” He turned to Tara and smiled. “I hope you’ll be desperately in love with me and Anfall forever.” Tara’s heart turned in her chest and she sighed happily. “Here, here!” The rest joined in and the mood turned a bit lighter as the family asked about Sunara and the challenge, how Luke fared with Mira.

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At the mention of Mira, Palin and Alyssa grew quiet and Tara thought they both would begin crying. They excused themselves, claiming exhaustion was taking its toll. Tara imagined they weren’t exaggerating. Senn broke another lull in the conversation. “I really need some pointers on this Great Lander speech, Tim. What did you mean earlier about Tara being able to suck a golf ball through a garden hose?” Tara punched Senn in the side and Tim looked at him in disgust. “Senn, you are, without doubt, the biggest idiot I’ve ever met.” Lauren gasped, leaned in and whispered something to Kas and the two of them burst into laughter. Bruce whispered to Margaret and she squealed in horror as Bruce started snickering. Margaret finally let a chuckle escape and Jenna threw down her fork. “So I’m the only one who doesn’t know what’s going on? Someone fill me in.” Senn leaned back and put his arm around Tara’s shoulder. “I think Tim meant that Tara can suck a cock like a paid whore. Is that what you meant, Tim?” “Trust me here, Tara.” “I get it, Senn.” Tim groaned and nodded. “Of course, I imagine Gri-Lasa might better Tara’s performance. No offense, dear.” Tara bit back a giggle. “None taken, dear. She is the goddess, after all.” Lauren leaned in and looked at her brother in wonder. “Tim, what’s this about you and the Spirit? Is this some kind of joke?” Tim shrugged. “Could be. But she did tell me we’re to be a couple, have a kid, that sort of thing.” Kas guffawed. “Good for you, Tim!” Jenna was scarlet and stood quickly, throwing her napkin on her plate. “Absolute nonsense. And it does not explain what Senn’s wife was doing sucking on…on…” Kas laughed heartily. “Jenna, dear, we’re talking about Senn’s exploits. I don’t think this all bares very close examination. Why don’t you scurry off to bed, honey? Leave the big kids to have a nice, naughty chat? I, for one, want details.” “Why are you insulting me like this, Kas!” Jenna looked very hurt. Kas motioned for her to be off with a flick of his hand. “Run off and think about it a bit. It will come to you.” Jenna twirled in a huff and Margaret mumbled “Excuse me,” and caught up to her daughter.

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Kas shook his finger at Senn. “That was very, very devious, Senn. You have a good friend, Tim.” “Why thank you, brother.” Senn grinned. “We’re all waiting to hear if it’s true or not.” Tim laughed. “Damn straight it’s true.” “This is the oddest place,” Tara mumbled. Bruce leaned in and caught her attention. Tara moaned, wondering what the kind man would have to say about the conversation. “Tara, can you tell me how the Yankees were doing when you left home?” Tara’s mind froze over. What was Bruce asking? Tim answered for her. “Not great, Bruce. Pitching sucks again this year.” Bruce merely groaned and went back to work on dessert. “Don’t think I’ll bother going back this year, then.” Tim reached across the table for Tara’s hand.

“I did try to warn you about the family.

Especially that one.” He nodded his head towards Senn. “You told me he was my uncle and that I’d have no trouble fitting in!” Tara cried. Tim shrugged. “Okay, well, I got it half right.”

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Chapter Twenty-One

Sam Wade was one old, ugly redneck motherfucker. At least that’s what Tim called him. Senn wondered what a redneck was as he watched the man eating at the counter of the diner. Senn peaked out the window to ensure that Tara was still in the car. She looked terribly nervous. Tim opened his mouth to speak but Senn silenced him with a look as a handsome man in his thirties exited the bathroom and sat next to the older man. Senn rolled his eyes at Tim, who shrugged. “Father and son?” Tim nodded. “Where’s Morgan? He should be here by now.” The door jingled and a huge Black man in cowboy boots and a wide-brimmed hat practically shaded the whole diner as he surveyed the patrons for his party. Senn raised a finger and the man sauntered to their booth. “Mr. Emory?” Morgan looked at the pair oddly and his gaze settled on the symbols on their foreheads. Tim stood and offered his hand, and Senn did likewise.. “I’m Tim Emory and this is my cousin, Senn.” “Senn?” “It’s French. Have a seat, Mr. Morgan.” “You boys certainly don’t look like you’re from these parts. Part of some cult I should know about? I normally don’t come out on a Sunday, but when you mentioned the heroin, well, you got my interest.” Senn leaned in and whispered. “You’d like to fix that problem, FBI agent Morgan?” Morgan took off his hat and arched a brow at Senn.. “Joe will do. Yes, I’d like to fix that problem. Every time I think I’m close to fixing that problem in this county, some scumbag tips off the dealers.” Senn pointed to the counter. “There’s your scumbag.” He turned to Tim. “What’s a scumbag?”

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Morgan snorted. “That’s Sam and Arnold Wade. Sam’s the sheriff in these parts, boys. I hope I didn’t disappoint the missus and drive two hours just to have you finger the cleanest, finest ranger that…” Tim slid earphones across the greasy table to Morgan. He looked hesitantly at the device, then put them on. Senn nodded towards the Wades. Morgan leaned out of the booth to confirm he was listening to the men. He rubbed his chin for a moment, then muttered, clenching his fist in fury. “Holy shit.” Senn and Tim dug into their omelets while Morgan pulled out a notebook and began scribbling furiously, muttering profanities the entire time. Finally, Morgan pulled the earphones off. “That’s enough for now. You boys will have to tell me how you know Sam Wade and…” He stopped in mid-sentence as Senn snapped his fingers. Tim peeled off a twenty and the two rose. Tim headed for the door, but Senn walked to the counter. “No, Senn, let it go.” Senn ignored him and walked up to Sam. Sam looked over his shoulder and up at Senn, who smiled. Senn swatted Sam’s hat off his head, still grinning. “What the hell! Boy, you had better pick that up and explain…” Sam had no sooner stood up then Senn cold-cocked him and he crumpled to the floor. Senn turned to the older man. “When he wakes up, tell him that was from Tara.” Senn strode to the door and snapped his fingers behind him. Joe Morgan finished his sentence, and then turned in confusion. Senn and Tim slipped into the car and Tara pulled away. “Well? What happened?” she asked breathlessly. Tim grinned. “I love it when a plan comes together. Sam is toast. And Senn clobbered him.” “You clobbered him? For little ol’ me?” “Yes, Pussy Cat. It took everything I had not to kill him. But then, it didn’t seem right to do that in front of his father.”

“I don’t get it,” Senn grunted, pointing to the runner. “Why doesn’t he go to the next spot?” “Steal second? It’s not that easy,” Tim laughed. “The guy with the ball can throw him out. The guy with the ball can throw faster than anyone can run. Surely even you can understand that much?” “This is, without a doubt, the most boring game I have ever witnessed. I can’t believe these people paid money to see this,” he gestured to the full stadium.

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“It’s a thinking man’s game, Senn. Didn’t expect you to get it.” “Now what’s happening?” “The inning is over and we’re standing to stretch. Everyone stands at the same time.” Senn rolled his eyes but kept silent as the crowd sang along to “God Bless America.” When the song was done, Senn announced, “That’s it, we’re leaving.” “Not until I buy souvenirs for Bruce,” Tara reminded him. Tim leaned against a pillar, arms folded across his chest as Tara loaded Senn down with t-shirts and hats. Despite his growing discomfort, he had to smile at how ridiculous the purchases seemed. Souvenirs to take home to Anfall. Of all the things to buy… Senn approached Tim and placed a hand on his shoulder. “Okay, take me to this place.” “No.” “Timothy. That’s an order.” “Tough shit.” “We’re not leaving until you do.” “I can get home on my own. Or have you forgotten that?” “It’s a hell of a lot quicker if I take you.” Tara pushed herself between the two men. “Senn, let him be. If he doesn’t want to go, you shouldn’t force him. Grief is a very personal thing.” “Stay out of it, Tara. I can fight my own battles.” Tim picked up the souvenirs Senn was dropping as he juggled a soda and box of food. “Can you?” Senn chewed on a soft pretzel, turning his nose up at the taste. “This is terrible.” Tim pushed the shirts and hats into Tara’s arms and pulled the pretzel out of Senn’s hand. He threw it in the trash, took Senn’s soda, and drank it down in one gulp. “Anfall, now.” Senn sighed. “All right, then, I’ll put it a different way.” “Oh, no you don’t, asshole. Don’t you dare…” “Do it for me.” Senn wiped mustard from his chin and stared at Tim. Tara looked back and forth at the men, and Tim could read her thoughts, spiraling out for all of Yankee Stadium to hear, but no one would hear them. Except for him. She was stunned at the depth of his connection with Senn. . Tim squeezed his eyes shut. “Fuck you, Senn.” He held out his hand, Senn took it, pulled Tara in close, and the three shimmered into lower Manhattan.

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“I still can’t believe it’s not there,” Tim said quietly. “The building?” “Buildings, really. Two.” Tim pulled Senn’s hand to his forehead and saw Senn shudder at the images pounding through his brain. A bright blue sky, an aircraft carving a slice high in the air, screaming and smoke. Over and over, in loops of pain. Tim turned away and shrugged. “Satisfied? Now let’s go home.” Senn glanced at Tara, who sat on a nearby bench, clutching her precious souvenirs. He realized suddenly that it was painful for her, too. That deep in her heart, she would always be a Great Lander. “Did you and Lauren bury your parents?” “There was nothing to bury. It doesn’t matter now, Senn.. For God’s sake, leave me alone! What do you want? If I cry my eyes out, will that do it? Tell you about my dreams? Want me to go to a shrink? It’s over, ancient history. There’s nothing I could have done, nothing! I was in England. I missed their goddamned anniversary.” Tim’s voice caught in his throat. “It was my idea. To meet with Lauren in England. To skip their anniversary.” “Why would you do that?” Senn asked softly. “Because I was angry.” Tim sat on a bench and covered his face with his hands.. “They wouldn’t let us practice our gifts. They wouldn’t tell us how to get to Anfall. I hated them for it. So I convinced Lauren to blow off their anniversary and meet me in England.” “And they wouldn’t have gone to this restaurant together if you’d been home?” Tim stood and paced, and Senn closed in on him. “I don’t know. I don’t fucking know. Don’t you think I’ve asked myself that a million times!” Tim pushed Senn away when he reached out for him. “Leave me alone, damn it.” “Lauren says you’re wrong, you know. Said they’d never skip their anniversary breakfast, because they first met at breakfast.” Tim looked at Senn numbly. “The last thing I said to my father was ‘go to hell.’” Senn felt a knife twist in his stomach for Tim. And for himself. “The last thing I said to my father was I wish Hunter were my father.” “But you were just a kid when he died—you didn’t understand what you were saying.” “You never asked me about my father. And I never asked about yours. Because we’re so busy protecting each other from pain. I think we’d better change our ways a bit, Tim.. We’ve been a little

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self-indulgent over our old wounds.” Senn tapped on the symbol on his forehead. “Like it or not, I think we’d better work now on becoming different kinds of men. Father material, in fact.” “Give me a minute.” Senn nodded and joined Tara on the bench. They watched Tim stand at the edge of an abyss, head bowed in prayer. A subtle glow surrounded him, and just behind him, Gri-Lasa shimmered into view. Tim did not see her but took in a very deep breath as she put her palm against his back. He cried for a few minutes, wiped away his tears, and joined his friends. “Better?” Tara asked tentatively. Tim smiled a bit. “Actually, I do feel a little better.” He frowned at Senn. “I don’t suppose I’ll ever hear the end of this? You’ll take credit for helping me?” Senn laughed. “Of course. Now we can go home.”

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Chapter Twenty-Two

It felt so good to hear Tim laugh again, Senn thought. He listened with only half an ear as the family babbled on through dinner. Senn couldn’t take his eyes off Tara. With every minute he saw something new.. A mole on her cheek he hadn’t noticed before. Very subtle dimples. Her hair—what had she done? It was very blonde today, and different somehow. She wore a skimpy sinful dress she had bought in New York. Her nose twitched a little when she laughed—it was the cutest thing, he thought. She had a habit of pushing her hair back behind her ears. And each time she did, her emerald ring sparkled like fire. It made his heart ache. Badly. Something’s terribly wrong with you. Senn caught his breath when it hit him, like a thunderbolt. Tim caught his eye. “What’s up with you?” Senn nodded towards the door and excused himself. Tim followed him onto the balcony. “You okay?” Senn opened his mouth to speak and couldn’t find the words. His heart pounded in his chest and he felt dizzy, excited, confused. Thrilled. “I’m a father. I’m going to be a father. I think it was this afternoon, in the shower. I was concerned for a while that I wouldn’t know when the time came…” Senn realized how worried he had actually been. “I wasn’t sure it wouldn’t be your child, you know?” “Oh, hell, I can’t believe I didn’t think of that! Four times…” “No need to worry, because I know without a doubt the baby is mine. Tara was singing in the shower—she has a terrible voice. I mean really awful. She was so beautiful. So happy. She smiled at me and held out her hand. I…something happened to me.” Tim nodded encouragingly. “I want to marry her.” Tim laughed. “You’re already married, idiot.” “No, no we’re not. Not the way I want. We had sex in Sunara, and I said all the right things to her. But I didn’t feel them until now. I thought I was in love with her, but now I know…I can’t explain it.”

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“Come back in, Senn. You’re telling all this to the wrong person.” “You’re never the wrong person. Her name is Marie.” “Who? That’s my mother’s name.” Tim’s voice quivered a bit, and Senn smiled. “I know. My daughter’s name will be Marie.” Tim looked at the ground and shook his head. “Do you go out of your way to try to make me cry? It won’t work this time.” “Stand with me at the wedding?” Senn punched Tim in the arm, feeling a bit embarrassed. Embarrassed? When’s the last time you were embarrassed about anything? Senn could feel Tim’s question coming and warded it off. “Kas wouldn’t have it any other way.” “Let’s go in. She’ll be looking for you.” Tim walked towards the door, turned suddenly, and grinned. “Marie?” “Marie. Stay out here a bit. I think you have company.”

Tim felt it too, a strong magical presence. He sat on a bench and stared at the stars, wondering how many generations of Anfallen rulers had done the same. How would his child fit in to the family? You’re a fool. Waiting for a goddess. He thought of the girl with the golden curls who had calmed his soul, stirred his hope, and squeezed his eyes shut tightly. “Gri-Lasa, did you mean it?” “Of course. It’s not in my nature to lie.” Tim opened his eyes and squinted, barely able to make out the woman on the grass below. He watched her slowly make her way up the balcony stairs. At first he could only make out a tall, slender figure, her long gown shimmering in the moonlight and golden hair cascading about her shoulders. When she was a few yards away, he gasped at her beauty, fell to one knee, and cast his eyes to the ground. His stomach rolled with nerves. “Be brave, honey.” He looked up into the eyes of his future. Such kind eyes, with a gleam of mischief in them, he thought. She’s as old as the universe, she needs nothing, wants for nothing. “Why me?” Tim wondered if he had actually spoken aloud, then realized it probably didn’t matter. Gri-Lasa smiled and Tim’s heart slammed into his chest. “How about if we simply say you’re very, very handsome, kind, gifted, and truly brave.” Tim shook his head uncertainly. “Truly brave. You will see, in good time.”

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“What do you want me to do? I’ll do anything.” Tim winced, realizing that he sounded pathetic, and the goddess surely knew he wasn’t offering to be a pious priest, but begging for her affection, her attention, a simple touch. Gri-Lasa approached Tim, took both his hands, and pressed them to her beating heart. “Take what your heart desires.” Tim moved his hand uncertainly to touch Gri-Lasa’s cheek, her silken pale skin. He saw her flush slightly and it gave him a bit of courage. “Do you mean for me to pray to you, Spirit? Because I’d rather kiss you.” Her eyes sparkled and Tim tentatively put a hand around her waist. He looked at her lips and saw her take in a quick breath. She wants you to kiss her! How is this possible? “Only if you want to. Free will and all that rot.” She smiled slightly and Tim felt a surge of desire fill every cell of his body, the aching need to taste her, to hold her. But I’ll never be enough for a goddess. I wasn’t even enough for a vain princess. “Perhaps I can decide for myself if you’re enough for me, Timothy. I recall that I am the one who sought you. Surely even you can’t dismiss that fact?” Her breath brushed his cheek like a caress. Tim pulled her in and laced his fingers in her hair. “I’m not sure how to kiss a goddess.” “I’ve watched you kiss a woman. More than once.” Gri-Lassa laughed lightly and the whole night sky seemed to dance with her laughter. “Fortunately, I’m only jealous in my human form. Kiss me, Tim, I’m asking you to kiss me. Until I forget my jealousy.” Tim pulled her in and crushed her mouth with his, savored the intoxicating taste and fragrance of her, lost himself in her. “Oh, I chose wisely.” She groaned and kissed him back with feverish intensity. Tim thought he’d drown in the sensations washing through him. What would it be like…? “Let’s find out,” she whispered. Gri-Lasa broke off their kiss and pulled Tim by the hand down the stairs, out to the palace gardens. She picked up her pace and soon they ran along the winding paths past fountains and pools and statues. Gri-Lasa let go of Tim’s hand and turned suddenly to face him. A sly gleam came to her eyes and she walked backwards slowly as she spoke to him. Tim recognized the charming child in her, the girl who had promised him a life of love. She gestured with her index finger for him to come to her as she backed up, but each time he approached her, she backed up more quickly.

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“You’re messing with me, goddess. I want another kiss.” I’ll die if I can’t kiss you again. “What if I’ve changed my mind?” “You wouldn’t do that.” A twinge of doubt stabbed at his heart. No, I know she loved that kiss. “Perhaps the evil one ruined you for women? Perhaps the universe punishes you for abandoning your father?” Tim stopped cold and fury built quickly. “I didn’t abandon my father, and you know it. And you can decide if I’m no use to women.” Tim covered the distance between them in a few steps and pulled the goddess to her knees, held her tightly by the shoulders. He looked into her eyes and saw merriment, joy, anticipation. One side of her mouth curled up in a smirk and she opened her mouth to speak. He didn’t give her a chance. Tim pushed her back onto the grass. “I’m so fucking sick of everyone psychoanalyzing me. Yes or no?” Her eyes widened and Tim knew her answer beforehand, with absolutely certainty. “You seem to have lost your shyness.” “Shut up, Spirit.” “Call me Lassie.” Tim pulled off his shirt quickly and straddled her. She ran one palm up his stomach and moaned as she did. Tim grabbed the neckline of her dress and pulled hard, tearing it down the middle until she lay completely exposed to the night air. He sat back for a moment in awe at the sight of her. Lassie smiled. “If there’s something you’d like me to change, I can arrange it?” “I think I can handle you like this.” Tim pulled off his boots and pants and frantically fell onto her body. “I can’t wait. Tell me that’s okay.” Tim cried out as she reached to his swollen cock and caressed him to the brink of mindlessness in a matter of a few seconds. “Oh my god.” “Take your woman, Tim. Take her now.” Tim kissed her as she guided him into her. He cried out again at the unimaginable bliss of thrusting into her. Beyond hot, beyond tight, beyond wet. She was like a drug, pounding through his veins, pleasuring every nerve ending. He felt her tight vagina clench down on his cock and massage it, caress it. “I can’t hold back any longer. I’m going to come,” he gasped as she raked at his back with her nails, arching and screaming out with each thrust. Lassie put her hand on his cheek and guided him to kiss her as they floated together into the world of pure spirit. Tim’s last thought before losing all focus was that the woman had been a virgin. He should have been more gentle.

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She shocked him by rolling him onto his back and lowering herself onto his still-hard cock, clenching as she rode him in a steady rhythm. Impossible. I’m not ready. But he felt the throbbing ache build and intensify the bliss of his first orgasm. “Spirit?” “Hmmn? Oh, being a goddess has its advantages, my dear. Enjoying yourself?” Tim’s struggled to speak but cried out instead as he poured into her again, and she milked him deep in her womb. She leaned in and caught his cry with a kiss. She fell onto his body and they remained locked in a sexual embrace, kissing, Lassie still tight, Tim still hard, deep inside her. “Somebody fucking help me now.” Tim pulled away from their kiss and looked deeply into the goddess’s eyes. She put her palm against his cheek and whispered softly. “Still feel inadequate? Think you might come to care for me? I’m trying to win you over with sex.” She snickered a little and Tim felt her core clench him tightly as she laughed. “Stop moving, for Pete’s sake. I need a rest, woman.” To Tim’s shock, she looked a little hurt, and he realized she was waiting for him to say something. “You’re kidding, right? I’ve been thinking of this every second since you were ten, sitting on my lap, sharing a lolli-pop. Oh, that sounded wrong, but you know what I mean.” “Then you’ll give it a chance? Marry me?” Tim saw another flicker of doubt in her eyes and forced himself not to laugh. “I’ll consider it.” A sudden thought shocked him into clarity. “I’ll get old, Lassie. I’ll age, and you’ll stay the same, or be whatever age you want. I don’t like the idea…” Tim pushed down the picture of this lovely woman nursing him in old age. Gri-Lasa put her finger to his forehead and tapped on the Awen symbol. “I guess the three of you didn’t quite figure it out? Priests of Gri-Lasa tend to be long-livers. Ask the Maiden. Why do you think she was so shocked to see this mark on Sennsárin?” “How long?” Tim’s heart pounded in his chest. “Can you wrap your mind around the concept of infinity?”

Cullen pulled Jaimes back. “Leave him for a moment.” Jaimes nodded and the siblings watched as Luke kneeled next to the stiff body of Mira, placed his own sword on her chest and arranged her hands atop it.

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Aswara wiped away a tear. “How can he give her a warrior’s burial? She died at her own hand.” Cullen hugged his sister closely. “We all do our best. Who could blame her?” “But I thought she cared for Luke, wanted him for her own. Wouldn’t that be enough to live for? Nothing would make me turn my back on that man.” Jaimes looked at his sister sharply. “Indeed? That is aiming quite high, sister. Shush, here he comes.” Luke’s face was impassive as he nodded to the three. “Then, I’m on my way.” Cullen bowed his head. “And may we accompany you?” “That is always your choice, Sir.” He glanced at Aswara briefly and she felt her heart stop briefly. “Lord, I’m sorry for your loss. I thought perhaps you and Mira…” “I would have asked her to marry me, in order to give her a home, a purpose. I did not love her.” He shrugged. “My friends, I do believe that my trip to Sharl has come to an abrupt end. Who would have thought…” Luke shook his head. Jaimes patted his friend and Lord on the back.

“I am sorry, Luke. There will be other

adventures, other women, both more suitable, I’m sure.” “May I accompany you and my brothers, Lord?” Aswara bit at her lip, wondering if the man’s new gifts would reveal her secret. “Certainly. I’d like that very much. And yes, I do hear your thoughts, Princess.” Luke smiled slightly and strode down the mountain pass towards his troops.

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Chapter Twenty-Three

“This is really intolerable,” Luke growled, covering his ears against the cries of three babies and a toddler. “Someone could have timed this a bit better. I blame it on Lassie.” Tim punched Luke in the arm. “Don’t talk about my wife that way! Besides, you’re the last to get in on the whole deal.” “By about a week,” Luke groaned. Kas bit back a smile and rolled onto his side, propping his head up with one hand. Just like Senn to want a picnic at Tansing Crossing to celebrate his birthday. Now the women fluttered about, carrying dishes, picking up children, playing with children, exchanging children. Aswara breast-fed baby Kas, the quietest of the lot. Senn crawled around on the ground with Hunter riding him like a horse, the two laughing hysterically. Lassie handed off her son to Lauren so she could help with the food. Tara tried desperately to quiet Marie and finally called to Senn for help. Luke downed his ale in one long gulp. “I’ve ridden into less complicated battles. Bloody hell.” Palin joined the men on the grass and sat next to Kas. He pointed to a very serene looking Alyssa. “She’s happy, Kas. I think she’s really happy.” “I think so too, Palin. You did it.” Kas threw his arm around the young man’s shoulder. “I did it all right. We’re pregnant.” “By the Spirit!” Luke cursed. Tim laughed. “Luke, don’t curse like that. She’s right there.” “If Jenna announces she’s pregnant I’m going to pick up my family and move.”

Senn drained his goblet and handed off his baby girl to his mother Margaret. He wound through his relatives to take Tara by the hand and pull her, laughing, down to the river path. “Where are we going?” Tara asked breathlessly. “To celebrate my birthday.”

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Tara giggled and started running down the path. Senn gave her a head start, as usual. When he caught up with her, he pushed her to the grass and kissed her passionately. Tara moaned and clutched at his hair. “How can I love you this much? It’s impossible,” Tara whispered. “It was inevitable. I had you at hello, remember? Now put on your fur coat, honey and roll over. Senn wants his birthday present. This time, we’ll have a furry little son. I think we’ll name him Tim, what do you say?”