Go to notes and disclaimers |
Moss, Sable and Jade II
by Raven
e served his three days, the master's sad eyes as he left
the hall each evening enough to steel him for the task.
Alex told Danally everything he could think of that
frightened him, and why, told her what he thought would
help. She listened, occasionally rubbing her chin on his
arm in reward, other times turning her back to him when
she thought he wasn't being honest enough. It helped, it
made Alex feel more secure within himself than he ever
had. It also let him release a great deal of useless fear,
things he'd been dreading, that he realized would never
happen, not so long as he was at Samstar Fields.
Alex also put in his time with Fitz. He'd been a little
worried over how the healer would react to him, but Fitz's
smile was just as open and friendly as always. Alex had
been given the grand tour before they began their work,
and he'd finally gotten to see the jade that Drell had
told him about. Fitz even opened the case and let Alex
touch it, watching with interest as the younger man's hand
was instantly drawn to a small piece. It wasn't a valuable
piece at all, but Alex couldn't resist it.
"It's the color of the master's eyes." Alex blushed, but
had to share the observation.
"You're right, it is. I never noticed that before."
Alex held it tightly for a moment longer, then reluctantly
returned it to the case.
They left soon after, with Fitz starting him on the soap.
Making it turned out to be hot, smelly, boring and
exhausting. At least the stirring part did, but Alex was
glad to know that he was making a true amends, not just
being humored.
He'd served his time, and Fitz was so grateful at being
spared the stirring, he sent Alex off with a small pot of
soap. The healer had scented it especially for Alex, and
it smelled of honey, vanilla and carnations. Alex had
thought it might be too much like a lady's soap, but one
whiff of the ingredients in Sable's special blend relieved
him. It seemed the stablemaster was fond of roses. To
further prove his point, Fitz let him sample the Captain's
choice. It was like the forest, sharp and clean, full of
evergreens.
Casually, Fitz showed him the master's blend. It was clean
and warm, again with the scent of sunshine, and barely
hinted with something spicy. Alex inhaled deeply, and Fitz
saw the features relax, saw the comfort Alex took from the
scent. It confirmed what he'd already guessed, that the
master was loved deeply by this wounded heart, and Fitz
gave praise that a soul was healing inside the scarred
body.
"Jade, is there anything else you require?"
"I wanted to ask a favor." Alex reminded himself that he
had no reason to fear, that the worst that would happen
would be that Fitz would say no. "The treats the master
gives the goddess. I would like to make her some, as an
offering. The master says you know how, and that you might
teach me. If you do not mind, and you have the time, I
would like to learn, please."
"I do not mind and, while I will not have the time for a
few weeks, I will be happy to teach you when I make them
next. In fact, I would be grateful for the chance to teach
someone else. I do not mind making them, but they take
time from my other work, and sometimes I have not the time
to spare."
"If I learn well, I could take over the task for you. I
have few chances to show my gratitude to the goddess, it
would be a boon for me to worship her this way."
"You have to make them for the kennels, too, Jade. It's a
good day's work."
"I would be grateful, Fitz."
Seeing that he was sincere, Fitz agreed. "Then, when next
I make them, you will be my apprentice, and then you shall
have the job, and with it my blessing." Fitz smiled, and
risked a light hand on Alex's shoulder.
Alex returned the smile, surprising Fitz by also returning
the touch. He then blushed just a bit, and took his leave.
In his room, he placed the pot of soap, lifting the lid to
take a last deep sniff. He grinned at the thought of
smelling this good, chuckling as he put his things away.
His work done with Fitz, he went to stables, to let the
stabler know he was available to work. Sable was in the
front room, as was the master. The men were discussing an
upcoming sale, and Alex gave a small knock to alert them
to his presence. It had taken time to get used to the idea
of wanting to let the master know he was present, but he'd
learned that to wait silently seemed as though he were
eavesdropping. Sable had taught him to make a soft knock,
then to wait for instructions.
"Jade, come in, please. Have a seat, we'll be finished in
a moment."
Alex did so, picking up the practice board and chalk. He'd
progressed to writing words now, and simple sentences with
the smaller words.
Taking up the chalk, he pulled a paper from his pocket. It
held sample sentences, and he carefully wrote the first
one. He concentrated, wanting to make each letter
perfectly, and was unaware of the fact that he was being
observed. Fox and Sable, their business concluded, were
watching him, not wanting to disturb him. His progress had
pleased them, and when Sable had mentioned that other
people at the keep taught lessons in other things once he
could read and write, Alex had immediately wanted to know
if he could take them.
The body might be scarred, the soul still fragile, but the
mind was razor sharp. Alex had taken to everything he'd
been shown, catching on quickly. It had been the need for
survival that had sharpened his wits, but it was a deep
hunger to know that now honed the blade to a keen edge.
Danally strolled into the room, appearing as she
frequently did whenever Alex was around. She hopped onto
the arm of his chair, watching his work. He'd done his
practice sentences, and now was working on words he hadn't
been taught. The green eyes followed his movements with
the chalk silently, until the last word on the board was
finished. He held it out to her, amusing the men watching.
She studied it, then put out a paw and tapped a word.
"I have it wrong?" Alex looked at it again, thinking.
"This letter?" Danally looked, then looked back at Alex.
"This one?"
At that, she rubbed her head on his hand. He stared at the
board again, and then wiped the board.
"If it is not F-i-t-s, then it must be the Z. Fitz is F-i-
t-z?"
He was asking the cat, which was good, because Sable and
Fox were too busy lifting their jaws from the table. She
made a small meow of praise and watched as he wrote it
correctly. She bumped his head, accepted his thanks and
left, tail high and proud.
Noticing that Sable and Fox were staring at him, Alex put
the board away and quickly turned back, thinking he had
kept them waiting.
"Jade?"
"Yes, Master?"
"Does Danally frequently check your work?"
"Yes, Master. I leave the board by the door of my room in
the mornings, and if there is one wrong, she prints it
with a paw. If none are wrong, she prints the bottom, to
let me know she's checked it. Have I done something wrong,
Master?" He wasn't really frightened, but they were eyeing
him strangely. Remembering his lessons about such things,
Alex spoke again, if softly. "Master, I'm feeling uneasy.
If I've offended, you have but to say."
Fox instantly shook himself out of his stupor, as did
Sable. "No, Jade, my apologies for staring. I'm simply
finding it hard to believe that Danally can read."
Alex couldn't help it. He burst out laughing, a full rich
loud genuine laugh that startled and thrilled Fox and
Sable. They'd heard him laugh softly, a chuckle or so, but
this was the first time either of them had heard him
really laugh. They shared a look of relief and gratitude
to whatever was amusing the boy, glad to see this further
sign of healing.
"Forgive me, Master, I mean no disrespect. But since I
have been here, I have been asked to believe that my
master will never rape me, never beat me and never use me
ill. I have been asked to believe that I will be taught
skills, allowed to buy my freedom and helped to live a
good life as a freeman. I have been asked to believe in
mercy, kindness, tolerance, peace, forgiveness, faith,
hope and charity. I have been asked to believe in
happiness, for myself and others. Against all that,
Master, I find it far easier to believe that the cat is a
goddess who can read."
It was said with a broad smile and a sparkle of mischief
at the impudence, the most playful he had ever dared be
with the master, and Fox rewarded him. Not only did he
laugh, he reached out. It was a brief hug, but warm and
strong, and Alex sighed with pleasure at the feeling. Fox
risked a brush of his lips across the top of Alex's head,
wanting to be sure his slave knew how proud he was.
He eased back and winked at the boy before saying to
Sable, "Have you no work for this insolent brat?"
It was the same type of tease Alex had seen the master use
with Thomas, and he grinned, even as Sable's hands gently
turned him toward the door.
"Saddle Jessopa, with a beginner's tack, please. Walk her
to warm in the left holding pen, then secure her to a post
and wait for me. Repeat, please."
Alex did and Sable chuckled in his ear.
"You heard the master, brat, get to work."
It was play, and when Alex felt a light tap on his rear to
send him off, he knew that was play also. He'd seen Sable
do it to others, but the stabler had never dared do it to
him before, and Alex knew that they were beginning to
trust him as much as he trusted them. It made him flash a
last, glorious smile over his shoulder as he left to obey.
Sable and Fox looked at the doorway and then at each
other. A light sense of sorrow seemed to drift down onto
Fox, and his next words told Sable the source.
"You want him."
"Yes. He's attractive, I'm only human."
Fox nodded and, gathering his things, said the next in a
quiet rush. "If he is willing, then be with him. Love him
and let him love you."
Sable opened his mouth, but Fox shook his head and closed
his eyes, saying what he had to, what he needed to say.
"Please, my love? Let him give you what I cannot?"
Sable's heart ached, but he knew he could not argue. Not
when Fox called him his love. He nodded, and Fox started
to leave, pausing to put a hand to Sable's face. Sable
caught it, boldly kissing the palm.
"And who will give it to you, Moss? What of your needs, of
what I would give to you?" He was not allowed to call Fox
'beloved,' not allowed to use any name but Moss to show
his feelings, and while he understood the reason behind
the rule, it still hurt.
"I cannot. But," and here Fox sighed, making his own
concession. "I will go to town. I will visit with James."
James was known to them both, a good man and a good
friend. He was also Fox's first male lover, and the two
had continued to sleep together on occasion throughout the
years. It was the closest Fox had to a lover and, though
it pained him, Sable was glad that Fox would accept
tenderness and care from someone.
"Thank you." Sable meant it, and Fox leaned into the broad
chest for a moment, sighing wearily. He then pulled back
and, seeing no one was about, weakened enough to kiss the
sternly set lips so near his own. Sable could count on one
hand the number of times Fox had actually kissed him, and
so he savored every brief moment.
Too soon, it ended and, with a last sad smile, Fox left.
Sable felt his throat tighten painfully, then slammed his
hand on the desk. The pain helped to clear his head, and
he calmed himself before going to the exercise yard.
Alex had begun riding lessons his second week at Samstar.
He'd taken to it easily, but Sable wanted him to be more
than competent. The stabler felt it important, though he
couldn't say why, that this slave learn all he could about
riding and horses. Thus, the lessons had gone slowly, and
with great detail.
Sable came out, seeing Alex talking with Jessopa, nuzzling
her and being nuzzled in return. The horse adored him, it
was easy to see, and so they'd taken to using her for
lessons. She had actually thrown a tantrum the last time
they'd used another horse, having claimed him for her own.
Alex, in turn, felt safe on Jessopa, trusting her
completely. They had a bond, and Sable secretly thought
the master was likely to sell the mare to their newest
slave, in return for two foals.
"Jade, bring her around, please."
He obeyed, and when he was in front of Sable, the
stablemaster made a motion that meant mount up. Alex got
into the saddle easily, and Sable made another motion that
meant take a lap. Sable tried to conduct the lessons using
the standard military hand signals, wanting to be sure
Alex could follow his directions should talk be dangerous.
Alex took the lap slowly, knowing that Sable wanted the
horse well used to him before speeding up. He'd not done
more than canter since learning to ride, and a part of him
yearned to cut loose, just once, to ride fast and hard. It
was a yearning that grew stronger with every lesson, and
Alex sternly reminded himself to be patient. He returned
in front of Sable, and the man gave him an approving nod.
"Good. Now, we're going to try something different.
Dismount, then remount without using your stirrups."
Alex did, and when he was on the ground, took a moment to
figure out the best approach. He tried once, and slipped
back down. Rethinking, he moved his arms farther apart,
and changed his grip on the saddle. Alex was then able to
pull himself up and swing a leg over.
"Very good. You thought that out well, and quickly. Now,
dismount, and this time, remount without using your
hands."
That took somewhat longer, but finally, Alex figured out
where and how to lean to keep Jessopa stable and himself
properly balanced.
"Excellent, Jade. Soon, you'll be ready for more advanced
training. For now, I'd like you to simply ride her. I'll
open the gate, you ride in the east paddock until I
signal. Vary your speed, practice stops and starts, as
well as turns."
Sable opened the gate, and Alex rode through sedately.
He'd made a long oval, when he noticed Thomas signaling to
Sable. The man turned, heading for the keep. Alex knew
he'd be back soon, and continued his work. After several
minutes, Sable was still inside, and Alex was feeling that
yearning again. It was strong, stronger than it had ever
been, and Jessopa seemed to feel it, too. Alex had been
holding her back, but now, temptation overcame him.
Telling himself that Sable had said to vary his speed and
hadn't strictly forbidden him to ride fast, Alex gave in,
leaning forward to say in Jessopa's ear. "Come, girl.
Teach me what is to ride, what it means to move with a
noble mare such as yourself." A light touch of his heels
to her sides, and she whickered softly as she eagerly set
off.
It was exhilarating. Alex leaned forward and found that
perfect spot, where he and Jessopa seemed to be one
creature. He relished the wind, relished the feeling of
flying wild, nothing to tether him to the earth. It was
fantastic, the most alive he'd ever felt, and he found
himself laughing out loud with the sensations. He wasn't
sure how long he'd been racing, lost in the movement and
rhythm of Jessopa's hooves pounding the ground, her
strides eating up the pasture land. He curved them around
a corner, and as they headed back toward the stables
again, he caught sight of Sable standing by the gate.
Alex gradually slowed, and by the time he was only walking
Jessopa, they were in front of the man. Alex felt the
tension tighten his stomach, but he wasn't really afraid.
He wasn't looking forward to being in trouble, but he
didn't fear it either, not the way he once had. It was
different, had been since that first touch of the master's
hand in chastisement. Instead, it was dread of
disappointing either the master or Sable that worried him.
Still, he'd acted freely, he would take the consequences
without complaint.
Sable had seen the young man's ride with conflicted
emotions. On the one hand, he hadn't ordered Alex not to
gallop, but there had been a clear understanding that
things were progressing slowly on purpose. The fact that
he'd waited until Sable was gone to gallop bordered on
deception, and Sable could allow no slack on that.
However, Alex was young, and so was the horse. It was a
beautiful fall day and both horse and rider had shown much
patience over the past few weeks. Now, as Alex approached,
Sable saw the swallow, the quick lick of lips. The eyes
dropped from habit, but new training overcame, and his
green eyes raised again, meeting his own with resignation.
It said clearly that the slave knew he'd done wrong, but
that he didn't regret the act itself, merely the fact that
it had met with disapproval. Clearly, the ride had been
found worth it.
"Dismount. Walk Jessopa to cool, then rub her down and put
her away properly. When you've finished, come to my
office."
"Yes, Sable."
Alex moved to obey at once, and Sable retired to his rooms
to think about what to do. It wasn't a matter for the
master, but clearly called for more than a scolding,
though he knew that would hurt Alex worse than anything.
When Jessopa was back in her stall, Alex washed his hands,
then moved to the door of Sable's office. He knocked
softly, and Sable motioned him inside.
"Sit down, please."
Alex took a chair, and Sable came around the desk, leaning
against it, arms crossed on his chest.
"Would you care to explain?" Sable had decided to let the
young man tell what had happened in his own words, to see
how strict he had to be.
"The past few times I have ridden, I have wanted to let
her run. I...I was curious, but it was also like a need. I
do not offer you an excuse, I should have asked permission
first. You have wanted me to go slowly, I knew this. I
waited until you were gone, but not to deceive. I knew you
would return and find us galloping. It was just harder to
ignore the temptation without you there. The day felt so
good, and Jessopa was bored, and I was bored, and I
weakened. What I did was wrong, Sable, but it felt right.
Despite knowing you would not approve, and that I should
feel guilt, it was not as strong as the feeling that it
was right for me to ride her so. How can that be, Sable?"
Alex was sincere. He did not have much experience with a
conscience, had been stripped of the right to choose his
actions almost too long. Sable was used to Alex coming to
him with questions regarding morals and ethics and
behavior, encouraged him to do so, and now the stabler
took a deep breath before answering carefully.
"You remember we spoke of an internal sense of right and
wrong? How, after following a path for a while, a man
would learn when he had strayed from it, and when it was
time to leave it?"
"I remember."
"That is what happened today. You disobeyed, and while you
knew that to be wrong, your heart told you this was not as
important as acting. You usually regret disobeying, do you
not?"
"Yes, Sable. To know that I have disappointed, that I have
violated your trust, makes me feel ill."
"And did you get that feeling, today?"
"No. Not really. I knew you would scold and punish, but it
just didn't seem as important as letting her go."
"That's because you trusted your own judgement in this
matter more than mine. You knew what I required, but you
also knew what you needed. Your heart weighed the two, and
decided that, this time, your needs were more important
than simple obedience."
Alex thought about this, a bit surprised at the idea of a
need more important than obedience.
"You're saying I put myself above you. Are you very angry
with me, then? Should...should I go to the master?"
Alex was becoming frightened in his confusion, and Sable
hastened to reassure.
"No, Jade, easy, little one. I'm not angry at all. In
fact, I'm proud."
"Sable, I'm glad you aren't angry, but proud I don't
understand." Alex's face showed his complete loss at this
leap.
"Jade, what is the master's goal for his slaves?"
"That we should become freemen, having the means to make a
good life."
"Exactly. To that end, he teaches many things, but there
is one thing he cannot teach, one thing that separates a
slave from a freeman more than any collar or chain. The
ability to think for oneself. As a slave, you have had
that choice taken from you. You may have had thoughts or
opinions, but you learned quickly that, to survive, they
had to mean nothing next to the master's will. Now, with
our master, survival is guaranteed. You need not worry
about survival, and so your mind and heart are learning to
live as freemen do, taking pleasure, finding what is
important to you. You are learning to value yourself,
Jade, not in terms of how you serve the master, but in
terms of simple being. You're beginning to respect
yourself, to treat yourself kindly."
Sable smiled down at the green eyes so full of thoughts,
and placed a hand on one shoulder briefly.
"No, little one. I am not angry. And while I will speak to
the master about this, it will be to share the good news
that you are learning to care for yourself. As we both
care for you."
He said this last softly, and something new flashed
through those busy eyes, but Sable couldn't say what it
was. Instead, he moved back behind the desk.
"Now, while I'm glad for the reasoning behind it, I cannot
approve of your actions. You made a choice, Jade, and
there are always results from choices, do you see this?"
"Yes, Sable."
"So, scolding first. Jade, the run went smoothly, for that
I'm grateful. Did you consider what might have happened if
Jessopa had found a hole? If she'd gotten spooked
suddenly, or had not responded to the rein? A full run can
be a marvelous thing, and you have the makings of an
excellent horseman, Jade, but you are not one yet. Your
skills would not have been sufficient had something
happened, to prevent injury to yourself, or to Jessopa.
She might have even broken a leg, Jade. Does that happen,
no healer in the world can save her. The horse would have
to be put to death, and as the rider that caused her
injury, that responsibility would have been yours."
Alex paled, not having considered this. His audible
swallow told Sable that the message had been taken to
heart, even more than Alex's immediate apology.
"I'm sorry, Sable. You're right, I didn't think of that. I
would never have risked her so, had I thought."
"I know that, Jade. It was simple error in judgement, not
a deliberate chancing of her. Still, in the future, do you
wish to run, ask first. I can arrange for you to use the
racing oval. It's safe for a full run. Understood?"
"Yes, sir." Sable had allowed Alex to use this, knowing
that, when the boy felt insecure or was being scolded, he
needed something more respectful than just a name. It
comforted the young man to have a title at such times, and
it was neutral enough not to bother Sable.
"Good. I think that's enough scolding."
He saw relief, knowing Alex thought a scolding the worst
part of any punishment.
"As for your punishment, I've thought about what would be
fair. Some of the men are going to be cutting wood for the
winter next week. It is hard, dirty and generally an
unpleasant, though very necessary task. It will be yours,
everyday of next week. The first day, your body will use
muscles you've never used before, and they will hurt. I
want you to be mindful of that ache, as the consequence of
a new action, one you are strong enough to attempt, but
not skilled enough to do yet without strain."
"Yes, sir." Alex accepted it without a murmur, relieved as
always that, if he'd wronged badly enough to deserve
punishment, it was a real punishment, allowing him to feel
as though he'd atoned.
"Very well. That's all I have to say on the subject. Do
you have any questions or comments?"
"One."
"What is it, Jade?"
"Is it permitted to make an amends to an animal? I wronged
Jessopa. I would like to apologize to her, and make an
amends. Is that appropriate?"
"Does she feel?"
"Yes, sir."
"Then she can benefit. It's appropriate. Anything else?"
"No, sir."
"Then a hug, and you can go make your peace with Jessopa,
before starting the mucking."
Sable always ended disciplinary moments with a touch of
some sort, wanting to stress that the motive was care and
learning, nothing more.
Alex moved into the embrace gratefully, needing the
physical reassurance after the fright of realizing what
might have happened. The arms around him were warm and
strong, the large body holding him closely was a comfort,
rather than the terror it would have been before. Thoughts
of before always made Alex grateful, and he whispered into
the muscled chest, "Thank you, Sable. For your teaching
and your kindness."
"You're welcome, little one. Now, all forgiven. Go in
peace, Jade."
He placed a kiss on the broad forehead, a mere brush of
his lips, then eased away.
Alex tilted his head back, looking up into the dark brown
eyes, seeing the care and affection. He knew Sable desired
him as a man, but there was none of that present, only a
gentle smile of compassion and understanding. A moment's
brief hesitation, and Alex reached up, ghosting the most
fleeting of kisses across that smile.
Sable's eyes widened in surprise, but they also darkened
with desire. A slender needle of fear dug at Alex's spine,
but Sable only smiled a bit more and, in his softest
voice, said, "Thank you, Jade. That, too, was
appropriate."
Relieved, Alex managed to return the smile, before taking
his leave.
Sable had two thoughts. The first was that perhaps, Alex
was beginning to care for him. The second, that he wished
it didn't matter quite so much to him, if he were.
Alex spent the next week in the far fields. He and six
other men filled wagon after wagon with wood, using what
they could of old or sick trees, then taking only trees of
a certain size from the healthy ones. They also took any
fallen trees that were still serviceable, so that they cut
as few healthy trees as possible. Alex was puzzled by
this, until one of the men, seeing his unasked questions,
explained that Fitz had instructed them to gather in this
manner, explaining it would keep the forest as abundant as
possible, ensuring a wood supply for many years to come.
By the end of the week, Alex had learned many new skills,
and sincerely hoped never to have to use them again. Sable
had been right in his description of the work, and the
first night Alex had been knotted with muscles that
rebelled against the new strains. Sable had come to his
room after the reading, a small jar of balm in one hand.
"May I come in?"
Alex motioned him in, and Sable carefully left the door
ajar as he spoke.
"I brought this. It will help with the soreness. Will you
permit me to give you a rubdown?"
"I would be very grateful for that, thank you." Alex was
too sore to be frightened, merely stripped off his shirt
and stretched out on his bed. Sable kept the touch
medicinal, treating Alex like he would one of the horses
that had been overtaxed.
Alex had groaned under the strong fingers, the soreness at
first made worse by the insistent movements. Soon, though,
the ache was less, the balm and massage bringing blessed
relief. A loud sigh of that relief made Sable smile and
tease.
"Perhaps you'd have preferred a spanking?"
"I'd be more comfortable right now, true. But, no. A
spanking may hurt less, but it's a sign of real failure. I
may have made a mistake, but I haven't failed yet, not
you, nor the master. I hope I never do so."
"Good lad." Sable meant it, and he continued the massage
in comfortable quiet.
"Sable?"
"Hmm?"
"May I ask you about your wife?"
The hands paused, but Alex could tell he hadn't upset
Sable, the man was simply thinking. Taking more ointment,
Sable returned to his rubbing, speaking almost absently
while he did so.
"Her name was Myra. She died less than a year after our
marriage. She was bought by Lord William, the master's
father, when she was but thirteen. I had been with him
only two years, but I had seen more than enough in that
time. Lord William bought her as part of a group sale,
else he'd never have spent money on her. Myra
was...different. She was quiet and gentle, very lovely in
an unusual way. She was smart, I'm sure of it, but what
most people noticed was that she seemed to live in a world
of her own. It was like her mind was trapped somewhere,
she took no notice of anyone or anything around her,
except for strange moments and ways.
"She would go days without eating, but would gather up
buckets full of stones, spend hours arranging them in odd
patterns. She didn't seem to notice she was starving, but
let one pebble be out of place and she would howl. In
winter she would walk barefoot through the snow, but she
would wrap a potato in layer after layer. Nothing made
sense with her, nothing. Lord William saw her act so for a
week, and determined to sell her off quick. A child like
that, I knew what would happen to her. She couldn't be
trained, she'd either be beaten to death or sold to the
brothels for dark work. Even if she took no notice of her
suffering or pain, it would still be real enough."
Sable paused, had Alex remove his pants to work on the
legs now, averting his gaze until Alex's rear was covered
by the blanket. He resumed his story when he resumed the
massage.
"She was too beautiful for that. Her eyes were like no
eyes I'd ever seen, and her hair was a marvel, a pure
black length that flowed like water down her back. I
didn't desire her, nor love her as a spouse. But I did
love her, there was something so pure, so untouched about
her. She reminded me of the glass in the church windows,
an image of a saint caught up in rapture. I couldn't bear
to let it happen, but could think of no way to stop it.
Until I remembered something. Lord William, always eager
to increase the number of his slaves with no cost to
himself, would allow any male slave over the age of
sixteen to choose a wife from the other slaves. I thought,
if I took her to wife, she'd be safe. I could keep her
well enough, she took so little and there was always grain
to be had in the stables. I went to him, asked for her."
Sable had finished with Alex's legs now and moved to the
table, washing his hands in the basin, while Alex changed
into a nightshirt. Alex simply sat up on his bed, climbing
under the blanket and waiting for Sable to continue. The
large man took a seat in the chair and, at Alex's nod,
helped himself to a cup of water.
"Lord William was smart. He was also cruel. He knew I
meant to cheat Myra's fate, and himself of the money she'd
bring. Still, he was a man of his word, none could deny
that. For good or ill, if he said it, it was law. He gave
her to me, oversaw the marriage, and placed her hand in my
own himself. He then informed me that he expected to see
her with child within six months, or he'd consider the
marriage annulled, and he'd take her back."
Sable's face was angry, bitter, full of a hatred that made
Alex shudder inside. It was the coldest look Alex had ever
seen on anyone, including the mistress.
"She was thirteen, as I said, only just, and had no
understanding of the world around her. She was like a
babe, going where she was bid go, but never knowing where
that was, or why. I took her to my room and, knowing I had
a little time, spent a month trying to find a way to her.
It was useless, but I did learn one thing. She had no
woman's cycle, that month, nor the next. By then I knew I
could scarcely wait any longer, time was passing too
quickly, and with no sign that she could even have
children. I would have to take her, but it would be rape,
I knew that. And it would come from me, the one that she
associated with kindness. I covered her, I fed her, I kept
her warm and safe and dry. She'd begun to curl against me
as we slept at night, and she would sometimes look at me,
really look at me, and smile. It was only for the briefest
of moments, but I can't tell you what it did to my heart.
And I was going to have to rape her.
"I went to one of the older women, and asked her for help.
She took pity on us and gave me a powder. I mixed it in
the wine at supper, and Myra was soon deeply asleep. I was
as careful as I could be when I took her, but I had only
been with a woman once myself, and she'd been very
experienced. When I pierced her maidenhead, there was
blood. A lot of blood. I cleaned her up, went outdoors to
vomit, and then returned to her. A few weeks later she
bled, but whether it was a child or simply the start of
her woman's time, I had no idea. Still it gave me hope,
and with only three months left, I waited a few days and
did it again. There was no blood for a month, and I
thought it was done, but then she began to bleed again. I
decided I needed to take her more than once, maybe that
would help ensure a child. I took her twice a week for the
next month."
Sable paused, poured more water and stood, going to the
small window and looking out.
Alex was moved by him, staring at the strong features so
full of pain. He wondered again why this man was still a
slave, but that would wait for another night. Sable began
speaking again.
"It didn't work, but she no longer looked at me with that
smile. If Myra touched me in the night now, she drew away,
a grimace of pain on her features. She seemed farther away
than ever, and if it was a comfort that I was trying to
spare her far worse, it was very little comfort indeed.
The next month was my last month to try, and so I took her
every night. She'd begun to fight in her sleep, just a
bit, the drug numbing and keeping her from knowing, but
her body reacting nonetheless.
"That next month, there was no blood. Lord William came
and I told him that I thought her pregnant. He gave me
three months to prove it, and I waited everyday with held
breath, but there was no blood. I began to notice other
changes, too, and she was so slight, I could feel a
difference in her body. She was with child. I told Lord
William this, and he examined her himself. He agreed, she
was with child, and that put an end to things as far as he
was concerned. He was getting another slave, and that
would recoup his loss. He put her completely out of his
mind.
"When I had stopped taking her, once she'd become
pregnant, she'd slowly come back around a bit. She smiled
at me again, and if I was terrified at what having the
child would do to her, there was part of me that looked
forward to it as well. A babe, a child of my own flesh,
and by this beautiful girl. I was naive enough to dream.
We'd been married nine months now.
"The next month, I came home to find her on the floor,
seized with cramps and burning with fever. There was blood
all over the floor, and I knew in a moment what had
happened. I went for the healer, but Lord William forbade
it, saying he wouldn't waste more money on a tree that
would never bear fruit. I almost killed him. I would have,
I think, was just about to leap on him, when Myra turned
to me, and gave me one of those smiles. She actually
reached out her hand to me, a first ever. I took her hand,
unable to resist giving her any comfort I could. I bathed
her, and then went to the bowl where I kept the powder.
The old woman had warned me to use only a tiny pinch. To
do more could make her sleep and never awaken. More still
could kill her.
"She was in pain, the cramping bending her near double,
the fever making her shake with chills till her teeth
rattled. The blood was no longer gushing, just a steady
flow. I poured all of the powder into a glass of wine and
made sure she drank it all. Her body slackened, cooled,
her eyes fluttered. She looked up at me one last time and
smiled, putting her tiny hand on my face. Then she was
dead."
Sable wiped his eyes, the silent tears that had begun,
ceasing just as quickly. He put a hand into his pocket,
pulling out his watch.
"We'd been married a few weeks, when she gave me this. It
wasn't uncommon for her to find things and bring them
home, cracked cups, old bowls and such. They were
treasures to her. I'd made a ring for her, just a simple
band of woven leather. I found a lovely rock, smoothed it
and put it in for a jewel. She was delighted, never took
the ring off, and I'd see her touching it. It was this, I
think, that made her give me the watch when she found it.
I cleaned it up, and was pleased that it still ran, not
that it mattered. A friend of mine, who felt sorry for
Myra, put her name on it for me with his tools. It seemed
to please her, and she would often pull out the watch,
trace the letters, and then laugh. I've replaced the
insides twice since then, but I will never replace the
watch."
Alex had another moment of need. Without thinking about it
too much, he knew what he wanted to do, and if it were the
wrong thing, so be it. He stood, went over to Sable, and
wrapped his arms around the man's head and shoulders.
Sable resisted for just a moment, then held tightly,
burying his face in Alex's body, arms coming to rest just
above the lean hips. Alex held, saying nothing, one hand
stroking slowly up and down the broad back.
For many long moments, Sable clung, letting the pain
subside and bringing himself back under control. The
strong face looked up at Alex, and Alex did what seemed to
follow next here. He slowly leaned down, pressing his lips
to Sable's forehead, holding it until he heard Sable sigh.
"Thank you." Alex said it with great reverence, and Sable
nodded.
He stood, brought Alex's hand to his mouth and kissed the
palm, before leaving. Alex blew out the candle, crawled
into his bed and fell asleep. He dreamt that night of
golden watches in rivers of blood.
Now, a week later, he was still struggling with his
thoughts of Sable. The stablemaster had been relaxed
around him since that night, and Alex had felt himself
that they were no longer just workers together, but
friends. It was a good feeling, and when they shared a
task now, he felt the man's presence in a way he never had
before. He needed time, and was gifted with just that.
The master asked to speak with him, and Alex reported
after the noon meal, as ordered.
Danally was inside with the master, and Fox waited
patiently as Alex made his greetings to the goddess,
offering her a sliver of mutton from lunch. She accepted
his offering graciously and, as soon as he was seated,
took her now customary spot in his lap, then looked at Fox
as if to grant him leave to begin.
With an inward grin at Danally, he turned his attention to
Alex.
"Have I done something wrong, Master?"
"No, Jade, I am pleased with you and your performance. In
fact, you've been doing very well, so I hear."
This brought a shy smile and look of satisfaction to the
handsome face, and Fox couldn't help but smile as he
considered how far this slave had come, and how quickly.
"Jade, the main foaling time is past now, and while your
talents with the horses have been a great help, I need
your labors elsewhere for a while. You know that it is
customary for everyone to take turn working in each area.
You also know that we've begun preparations for the
winter. This is a very busy, very crucial time for Samstar
Fields, and I must assign the work as is needed, without
regard to personal choice. There are a few exceptions, it
wouldn't do for me to pull Earlic from his smithing, or
Edna from her sewing rooms, but by and large, we must all
work where the need is most pressing. Therefore, I should
like you to begin working in the kitchens, with Leona."
Fox paused here, studying the face across from him
closely. He knew that Alex was fearful of women, and while
he no longer cringed in their presence, Fox wasn't sure
how this news would be handled.
Alex bit at his bottom lip, trying to picture himself
working with Leona. He'd become accustomed to her, and
even liked her, in a way. He knew that the kitchen staff
had been working harder than usual, and while he had no
skills at cooking, he didn't doubt he'd be helpful.
"Yes, Master. Only, may I make a request?"
"You may ask. I can promise nothing until I hear it, of
course."
"Master, should I make a mistake, do something wrong,
could you punish me, and not Leona?"
"Jade, I can see to it that any serious offenses are
brought to me to deal with, that is not a problem, that's
the rule now. Can I see to it she never scolds you? No.
That wouldn't be right, Jade, or fair to either of you. If
you are to work with her, then she must be able to correct
you, have some say in minor things. She is the cook, the
kitchens are hers, just as the stables are under Sable's
authority. Also, how would it be for the others, for her
to scold them and spare you? And then I must consider you.
You may find yourself working for a woman in the future,
how would it be if you couldn't accept an earned rebuke?
Leona is a fair person, Jade, but kind and gentle. She
would not scold without reason, and then she would never
be harsh. She would only seek to teach, Jade, same as
myself or Sable."
Fox paused, moving to sit in the chair across from Alex,
keeping his voice low.
"I understand that you had a bad experience with a woman,
I assume it was with your former mistress, but that is the
past, little one. It would be wrong for you to continue to
be afraid, without just cause. You must learn that Leona
means you no harm, you must learn to react to her as a
person, and not be afraid simply because she is a woman.
So, I'm sorry, Jade, but for your own sake, do you earn a
scolding, it will be from her, and any small punishments
you earn, as well. Can you understand what I do here,
Jade?"
"Yes, Master. What you say, it makes sense. I am only
afraid."
"There is no 'only' when one is afraid, little one. And
so, I will allow this much as well. Do you ever become too
frightened or distraught over a scolding or punishment,
you may ask for me. I will not interfere, but I will come
and be with you while you accept your due. If I'm not
available, then you may ask for Thomas or another male to
be with you for comfort's sake. It isn't much, but it's
all I can offer, Jade."
"It is a great deal, to me, Master. I will be alright,
knowing that. She...she isn't allowed to spank me, is she,
Master?" He knew the answer, but needed to hear it.
"No, Jade. I am the only one allowed to punish in that
manner. Mind you, do you stick your fingers into the cake
icing, she has a bad habit of smacking your hand with a
spoon."
Fox was teasing this, and Alex grinned, having seen her
tap the master's hand once when he'd done just that. It
hadn't hurt, had been done with affection, and Alex
relaxed a little.
"She's a good woman. In many ways, she's the only mother
I've ever known, and I love her dearly. I trust her
completely, Jade. I ask only that you try your best, and
fear only what you should, and nothing else."
"As you wish, Master. I promise to try."
"Thank you, Jade." Fox squeezed Alex's shoulder, and moved
back behind the desk. "Now, one more thing. You have not
counted your money since you have been here. While your
trust means much to me, it is a good idea to count it at
least once a month. Have you your key?"
Alex pulled out the long leather tie from his shirt front.
It held his keys safely tucked away, and they were skin
warm when he touched them. He chose the small one and,
when Fox opened the chest, found the box with his name on
it. Alex put the key in the lock and opened the box. He
was surprised to see how many coins were there already,
but turned his attention to the counting of them. Numbers
he'd known when he arrived, as well as the different coin
amounts, but counting his own coins was a new experience
completely. He carefully added his money, writing the
amount on a small scrap of vellum that the master placed
by his hand, along with a quill. He still struggled with
the quill, not yet having the knack of not blobbing the
ink, but he made the figures quite legibly and then closed
and locked the box back.
"Finished? Very well, remember, come by once a month or so
and check it."
"Yes, Master."
"Is there anything else?"
"Master, Sable told me that you have some books, for the
children. He says they are small and easily read. Think
you I could read one?"
"I do, with little or no trouble. But they are children's
stories, Jade, and quite simple. I fear they will not
entertain you much."
"It would be entertaining enough to read a book by myself,
Master. May I borrow one?"
"Of course. You may borrow two, that is the rule. The
library is for all here, Jade. I make a note of what book
you take, you sign beside it. If you lose or destroy a
book, then the cost comes out of your wages. You may keep
them for a fortnight, or you may bring them back anytime
within those two weeks. Library day is usually Sunday, but
I think we can bend the rules for you a bit."
He winked, pointing to a low shelf. It held some dozen
books.
"That shelf, you may chose any two. After that, I have
some others, only a little harder, you might want to
choose them next time."
Alex looked at the books, selecting two of the thicker
ones. He watched as the master wrote the names down, then
took the quill again, writing 'Jade' in a precise, if not
exactly smooth hand. Fox held the books out to him, and
Alex wondered at the wealth his master was so free with.
"How rich are you?" Alex bit his lip when he realized he'd
wondered it aloud. "Forgive me, Master, I meant no
offense."
"None taken, little one. For answer, I am rich enough that
few can question my ways, and poor enough that those that
might, seldom take an interest. I do not show my worth in
fancy houses or clothing, or in ways that might cause
talk. I will tell you something, Jade, people do not care
if you have wealth, only if you have things. You could
have more gold than the king, and none would speak ill,
but appear dressed in the latest fashion, in a brand new
carriage, and you will be surrounded by enemies by sun's
set. I do not care for such things, but if I did, I would
avoid them, else others look too closely at my beloved
Samstar Fields. My treasure is not in a box, but in
people, my people. Sable, Fitz, Lang, Leona, Frokey, the
Captain. All of them, all of you. You. When I count my
wealth, Jade, I count you."
The younger man was moved by this, and Fox reached out,
cupping his face briefly.
"Put your books away, and go tell Sable I've asked for you
to work in the kitchens, beginning tomorrow. If he has a
conflict with that, he may discuss it this afternoon, I
will be in my study. Repeat, please."
"I'm to put my books away and tell Sable you've asked for
me to work in the kitchens, beginning tomorrow. If he..."
Alex finished reciting his orders, the words giving him
time to recover.
"Very well. Dismissed."
"Master? Thank you. I will trust Leona."
"I know you will, little one. Now, off with you, I'm far
too busy to chat with a slave." Fox said this with a grin
and a wink, and Alex gave a low chuckle, playing along.
"Yes, Master. My apologies, Master. At once, Master."
"Out!" Fox mock-growled it, taking a threatening step
forward. Alex laughed, darting toward the door. He went to
his room, putting the books carefully down on the table,
then made his way to the stables.
He found the stabler in his office, and knocked softly.
Sable held up a finger, meaning he was to wait there for a
moment. A look inside showed Sable to be with Gibson, and
the boy was telling something in his hand language. Alex
could understand most of it by now, but this tale seemed
very involved. Sable was paying strict attention, and now
he nodded.
"That's fine, Gibson. I'll talk to the master, but I see
no problem with it. Let Lang know you have my consent."
With a smile, Gibson made the sign for thank you and
scampered off, pausing to wave at Alex.
Alex returned it, then went into Sable's office, taking
the spot Gibson had been in only moments before. "I have a
message from the master."
Alex repeated it word for word, as he had been taught, and
Sable bit the corner of his top lip, holding it
thoughtfully.
"I have no conflict with it, and the master's right, the
main foaling is past. Besides, do I need your talents,
Leona will let me borrow you back. Still...well, I've
enjoyed working with you, Jade. To be honest, I'm going to
miss having you in the stables. But you'll be a great help
to the kitchens right now, and I think you'll learn much
from the work. It will be good for you, Jade, there's no
denying that. I'll still expect you in the afternoons for
a riding lesson, you can work that out with Leona, find
when she can best spare you."
"Yes, sir."
The 'sir' made Sable take notice. He'd gotten used to it,
but only when Alex was upset. "Jade, is something wrong?"
"No, Sable. Only, I...I do not care for women. They
frighten me, Sable, and there are many women in the
kitchens. And, while Leona has always been kind to me, she
will have say over me, do I work for her. I promised the
master to try, and I will, but..."
"You're frightened."
Alex nodded. It was still odd to mention being afraid and
have anyone care, much less do anything about it.
Sable thought a moment, then had an idea. "Jade, think of
this for a moment. What would the master do if I were
suddenly to be cruel to the slaves that work for me?"
"He would find out why and put an end to it at once. He'd
be very upset, there would be a severe punishment. He
might..might even sell you."
"Exactly. And do not doubt that he would sell a cruel
slave, we have seen it happen here before. Leona has been
with our master since he was a young boy. She is largely
responsible for the goodness you see in him now, having
been in charge of his raising, along with his father.
Think you she would still be here, were she cruel? You
have heard of the master's father, see you any of that in
Lord Fox? No. Our master is a kind, good man because it is
in his nature to be so, and because Leona taught him there
was another way, that he need not be like Lord William.
So, when you work with her and she scolds, remember, she
scolded our master as well, and he loves her dearly."
"She raised him?" He was simply curious, but it was no
secret, and Sable nodded.
"As though he were her own. She tucked him in at night,
woke him in the mornings. She bathed him and tended his
ills, praised him when he did well, spanked when he did
wrong."
"She spanked the master?" Alex had seen her scold, but
this was something else entirely. Sable made a small sound
of amusement at the young man's face.
"He was but a child, Jade, and then I think it was only
once or twice. You could ask the master, do you want more
details."
It was a tease, and Alex shook his head almost violently
as he considered the mere idea, laughing as he did so.
"No, I believe I have knowledge enough of that subject.
But your other words are wise, Sable. I will try to think
on it like that, it will help. Again, you have made me
feel better, taken what frightens and mute it. Thank you,
Sable. I have enjoyed working here, too. When the time
comes and I am allowed to choose, do I ask for the
stables, will you allow it?"
"Gladly. You will always be welcome here, Jade. Always.
You need not work, I would enjoy the pleasure of your
company, when you have it to spare."
"As would I." Alex felt himself blush, but it was the
truth, and he owed Sable the truth.
The man was looking down at him now, a touch of desire
visible in his eyes. "It's time for your lesson. Prepare
Jessopa."
Alex moved to obey, grateful for the task. He would have
to think, and think hard, about what was happening to him.
Sable was beginning to make him feel things, and he wasn't
sure about any of them.
The next day found Alex nervously reporting to the
kitchens. Leona saw him from the corner of her eye, seeing
the way he looked everything over completely before taking
a deep breath, removing everything but calm from his face,
and squaring his shoulders. She smiled, her heart going
out to him. The master and Sable had both made a point to
speak to her about Alex, and Leona had assured them both
that she would be extra patient and considerate of him.
That he meant a great deal to both men was obvious, and
that alone made her eager to get to know him better. She
looked up from her desk now as he approached, smiling
warmly at him.
"Ah, Jade, so it's your turn in the kitchens now?"
"Yes, mi- ma'am." Sable had assured him that 'ma'am' would
be acceptable, many of the slaves referred to Leona as
such. She caught that he had nearly called her 'mistress,'
and knew he must be very frightened. That sort of slip
hadn't happened in a long while.
"I'm glad to have you here, Jade. The others will be glad
as well, we can use a good worker, and that is what
everyone says you are. A good worker, careful but quick.
That's my favorite kind, Jade."
She grinned, and her words helped thaw Alex just a bit. He
didn't realize he had a reputation, thought the words
merely a kindness, but word had spread. Those who had
worked with him said the same thing, he might be
unskilled, but he made up for it with his willingness and
attention to detail.
"It is nearing winter, Jade, and we must see that, no
matter how harsh the weather, those within have enough to
eat well, through the winter and beyond. There is much to
do, and a great deal of it will be both hard and dirty.
Still, it is worth it to be able to provide well for so
many, regardless of circumstances. It is one less worry
for the master, knowing his people will not go hungry."
As she said this, she turned to pick up a list, and so
missed the startled look. Alex had never considered this.
He knew, of course, that the master worked hard to provide
for them all, but didn't consider that he could directly
ease the burden with his labors here.
"If you'll follow me, Jade, I'll show you the main areas,
and then get you started for the day."
She pointed out the pantry, with the foods used daily. She
showed him the larger storeroom beyond where the bulk of
the dry goods were kept. A corner of this room also held
large pots and cooking vessels seldom used. On a shelf
were rows of crocks all sizes. The smallest would be held
easily in Alex's palm, the largest looked as though it
might need himself and another man to move.
She led him back into the pantry and opened another door
set into a corner. It opened onto stairs leading down.
"This is for cool storage."
They had gone down a dozen or so steps, and now were in a
low ceilinged chamber. It was the room Drell had mentioned
to him long ago. He saw the vent holes, and a shallow
ridge built around one section revealed a bit of the
stream that ran underground here.
"This is where we freeze things in the winter, and simply
cool them in summer. Down below is the chamber where we
cool things in winter and freeze them for the summer." She
grinned, and he followed her down another set of steps,
into an underground chamber. It was wider, the walls were
rock, but there was no sunlight here. Alex felt the panic
setting in, as the walls seemed to move closer together.
Leona had seen more than one slave react badly to the
cave, and had kept them near the stairs for that reason.
Now, she quickly urged him up the stairs, and the ones
beyond it. Once they were in the kitchen, she rushed him
right on out the door to the yards, before finally
releasing his elbow and stopping.
Alex was leaning forward, hands on his knees, panting
harshly. He gagged a couple of times and he looked pale,
but she could see he was getting better already.
"I'm sorry, mistress." He didn't even notice it, still
busy breathing again.
"It is nothing to be sorry for, Jade. Many people are
affected the same way by the caves as you, it is nothing
wrong or unusual."
He searched her eyes, finding them to hold the truth, and
nodded, accepting.
"If I had known, I would not have taken you down, Jade. My
apologies for a bad start."
"As you say, you did not know. I didn't know. Nothing to
be sorry for."
"Are you feeling better now? Think we can go back to the
kitchens and pantry?"
"Yes, ma'am."
"Good. Now, let me show you where we keep the rest of the
supplies."
She led him back inside, pointing out all the main areas,
and by the time she was finished, Alex was back in
control.
"Now, Jade, I'd like you to start for the day. We are
going to be doing pickling beginning this week. You saw
the crocks?" He nodded. "They are clean, but before they
can be used, must be boiled. I will need you to make a
fire in the third pit, use the largest iron tub. Fill it
half-full of water and then place the third largest tub in
the first, filling it with water as well. When the water
in the first tub is boiling hard, begin putting the crocks
in the second. They must remain for three minutes, I will
give you a watch to use. They will then be placed on the
drying tables to cool. When you get to the larger crocks,
they can go directly into the first tub. You'll need to
keep an eye on the water, we do not want them to boil dry,
and mind you handle the hot crocks with care, let you be
burned, or the crocks broken. There are tongs, and gloves
to wear. Think you can remember all of that?"
He repeated the instructions back to her almost word for
word. She was pleased, but surprise led her to tease.
"Gods, another of my children with fairy in their blood.
It's a wonder the elves don't sleep on the doorstep." She
was shaking her head, but Alex could tell she meant only
humor and affection. She'd turned away, and again missed
his look. "Very well, Jade, you see to that. If you have
any questions or problems, you have but to let me know,
I'll be about."
Alex began by building the fire. He found the tubs,
lugging them into place and starting with the water. He
then moved back inside, using one of the wheeled carts to
take the crocks out in only two trips. Alex put the cloths
into place on the drying tables, and realized that Leona
had forgotten to give him the watch.
"The watch, ma'am."
He watched as she pulled the small mechanism from her
pocket.
"I'm sorry, Jade, it slipped my mind. Now, I mean no
offense, but know you how to use one of these?"
"Sable taught me."
"Excellent. Now, again, three minutes boiling, then cool
to the touch."
"Yes, Leona." She handed the watch over without a second
glance, and Alex held it carefully. It occurred to him
that he might soon have enough money for a watch of his
own, a very simple one, true, but it was a possibility.
The thought made him grin.
He'd gone from being a naked, starving, half-wild animal
to contemplating buying a watch, and in such a short time.
Alex paused to send a prayer of thanks to Danally, then
began his work.
He finished the crocks sooner than he'd expected, and went
to find Leona.
"The crocks are finished, Leona. Shall I put them back on
the shelves?"
"Yes, please, Jade, but leave the fire and the water, I'll
get you started on the next task when you're done."
Alex carefully unloaded the crocks, then returned to
Leona. He handed her back the watch, but she shook her
head.
"You'll need it for the next task. We don't like to waste
anything, I'm sure you've noticed that already. We
recently had several boars taken in a hunt. The neck and
back bones need to be cooked down, the meat and morrow
will eventually cook off the bones. When that happens, and
the bones are clean, we skim the broth and boil it down
further, adding some seasonings. It's not a pretty
process, but it makes a strong, nourishing base. Do we
have a bad winter, it will serve us well. You'll need
clean water in the inner pot, of course, so be careful
draining it."
She got Alex set up and retrieved a large bag from the
cold storage. Leona went over the details a final time,
and then left him to it.
It was the nearest thing to actual cooking Alex had ever
attempted, so he was a little nervous, but her
instructions had been excellent. When the bones were
clean, he removed them, then skimmed the broth carefully.
Alex put the bones on the tray to dry, unsure what she was
going to do with those, and went to fetch the seasonings.
"Leona, the bones are out and drying and I've skimmed."
"Excellent. Marita, help Alex with the seasoning, please."
A lean blonde gathered the items needed, and followed Alex
to the pot. She began simply enough, adding an assortment
of vegetable pieces. They were cut in large chunks and she
explained they would be easily fished out later. She then
had him help her make the seasoning bag. Alex took the
fine mesh cloth, and folded it into a large square. Marita
put the seasonings into the cloth, and showed Alex how to
tie it. That was when the problem began.
The blonde, under the pretext, allowed her hands to linger
on Alex's broad ones.
"You're a handsome one, Jade. I've been hoping to have
some time alone with you. I thought maybe we could get to
know each other better."
It took him a moment to realize what was happening, it had
been so long since he'd been subjected to a sexual touch,
but then Alex froze, breathing hard.
Marita mistook his change in breathing for passion, and
now let one hand drift up his arm, squeezing the muscle
there, the way the mistress used to do. It was too much,
and Alex dropped the seasoning packet, and bolted for the
barn.
He flew in the doors, turned to Sable's office, and plowed
into the stabler. Sable kept his feet, just barely. Alex
had thrown his arms around the man's waist, burying his
face in Sable's chest and shoulder, and he was shaking and
panting, squeezing the breath out of the bigger man.
"Jade? Jade, what is it? What's happened? Please, Jade,
tell me what's wrong."
Sable hadn't tried to move the younger man, only held him
close, rubbing the lean back with one broad palm, quieting
him the way he would one of his horses. It worked, and
soon, Sable felt the arms loosen their hold. Easing the
young man back, Sable looked into his face.
"Can you talk now, Jade? Can you tell me what's wrong?"
A timid feminine voice spoke from the doorway.
"I can tell you, Sable. It was my fault. I...I touched his
hand, while we were working. I was flirting with him, just
a little, and when I squeezed his arm, he panicked. I
didn't realize he was frightened until it was too late."
Marita came into the room, standing well back from Alex,
but where he could see her face.
"Jade, I'm so sorry. I never meant to upset you, my intent
was only to offer you an evening's pleasure later. But
there is no force here, Jade, and I would not have touched
you, had I known you found it distressing. Again, you have
my apologies, and my amends, as soon as I can think of
one. I will go to Leona, Sable, and explain what's
happened." With a last, distraught look, she left.
"Jade, is it as Marita explained?"
"Yes, sir."
"Has she left out anything, perhaps something she wasn't
aware of?"
"No, Sable, it was exactly as she said. But it...it
reminded me of..."
"Your former mistress? Something she did reminded you of
the mistress?"
"Yes. Sh-she squeezed my arm, the muscle there."
"I see."
"It was not her fault. I have seen others flirt here, she
did it the way they do, and far less than most."
"Why don't you tell me the whole thing, Jade? It might
help."
Taking a deep breath, Alex repeated everything, leaving
nothing out. Sable was relieved, it was a very mild flirt,
Marita could have had no way of knowing what would happen.
The telling helped Alex calm down as well. By the time
he'd finished, he was able to see it for what it had been,
a simple misunderstanding, brought on by his lack of
knowledge of any woman save the mistress.
Alex eased back from Sable, looking up into the dark brown
eyes. He half-expected to see censure, and was relieved
when there was only concern.
"Jade, are you calmed enough to discuss this?"
"Yes, sir."
"I'm glad that you came to me, Jade, I want you to know
that. You did the right thing, coming for help, and not
just acting out of fear blindly. I'm also proud of you for
being able to see that Marita was only flirting mildly,
and meant you no real threat or harm. Do you believe that
she would never have forced herself on you? Never would
have tried to make you do anything?"
"I know. I could tell by how easily she let go, and how
upset she was about it all. She wasn't afraid of getting
in trouble for what she did, only worried that she'd
caused me trouble."
"Good, Jade, very good. Now, let's talk about how to make
sure this situation doesn't occur again."
"I've thought about that, Sable. It comes down to the fact
that I've never really known a woman, aside from the
mistress. I don't know enough about them not to be
frightened in a close setting, I relate it all to a
mistress, and a cruel one."
A knock drew their attention to the doorway, where Marita
politely waited. "If I may, I couldn't help but overhear.
I might have an idea about that."
Sable looked carefully at Alex, and when the young man
nodded thoughtfully, motioned her into the room. She was
careful to seat herself away from Alex, though he was the
one she addressed.
"Jade, I would like to make an amends to you, but I was
unable to think of anything you wanted or needed, until I
heard you talking just now. I don't know how this will
seem to you, but it is an honest offer. Do you not like
it, you have but to say, and I will make another amends,
with no harsh feelings between us.
"Jade, I could work with you, help you learn about women.
There would be nothing sexual, nothing intimate, but you
could become accustomed to being near a woman, treating
her as just a person, possibly even a friend. You could
ask questions, you could discuss your concerns and handle
issues as they arose. No one would think ill of it, I
could simply be a work partner, paired with you to teach
you the kitchen skills, it's common enough with a novice
kitchen helper." She paused, biting at her lip a moment
before continuing, "Jade, as I said, this is an honest
offer, I mean no harm or offense. Nor is it a way to get
close to you. I simply offer my assistance as an amends,
nothing more, I swear it."
"On what do you swear?" It was an old trick, but had
always served him well.
"On my honor as a woman of free will." The chin went up,
and Alex saw the pride and strength she drew from this
position, saw it was one she would defend to the end.
"Jade," Sable interrupted them softly. "It is your
decision. But in my opinion, it sounds like a good
solution all around. Do you wish time to think on it?"
"No, Sable. I need no time. I will accept your offer
gladly. Thank you, for your help. I'm sorry I overreacted,
I know you meant nothing but good from it."
"I appreciate that. I will leave you now and get back to
the kitchens. Leona says for you to take the afternoon
off, I can finish the base. You have a riding lesson soon,
anyway."
"Send her my thanks, please."
With a nod, Marita took her leave. Sable looked at the
young man still regaining his full control. Mentally,
Sable was more than annoyed with Marita. He'd just decided
the time was right to begin his own gentle courting, and
now she'd probably scared Alex back to square one.
He sighed, and Alex looked up, catching the annoyed,
slightly wistful gaze. He'd heard the sigh as well, and he
asked the stablemaster quietly, "Why do you sigh?"
It was an honest question, and while he didn't have to
answer, Sable hesitated only a moment before deciding to
do so.
"I sigh because I had recently begun to think you might
enjoy my company more formally. We no longer work together
every day and you seemed to be...warming to me. I had
thought to approach you. Not for sex but...well, I had
thought we might spend our off day together. A picnic, a
ride, conversation."
Sable shrugged, as though to convey it was fine, and Alex
stunned himself by saying, "I would like that."
Alex's eyes were wide at his own words, and Sable half-
grinned at the sight, before asking, "Jade, are you sure?
You'll forgive me, but you don't look sure."
"No, no, I am sure. The day you describe sounds very good
to me. I...I would like to spend it with you." Alex was
blushing furiously, but Sable's pleased look of gentle
wonder made him glad he'd spoken his heart.
"Then, with your consent, I will see you on the next off
day."
"Yes."
They shared a lingering look, before Gibson's arrival back
in the stables snapped the older man out of his daze.
"It's time for your riding lesson. Ready Jessopa, please,
Jade."
"Yes, Sable."
Alex left the room in a daze, and didn't leave the
stablemaster in much better shape.
While he readied the horse, Alex found himself whispering
in her ear. "Jessopa, do not be jealous, but I believe
Sable and I are about to become suitors."
The horse gave a soft snort of disbelief, and Alex
continued.
"No, it's true. He asked to spend our off day together,
and I said yes. Why did I say yes? Why? He is handsome,
true, and he has been more than kind, but it is not
gratitude. I feel for him. I don't know what, but I do
feel for him. Jessopa, do you think he cares for me as
well? Not like he does everyone, I know he cares for me,
but does he really care for me? He wants me, this I know.
And, well, I can't be certain, but I think I might...might
want him."
Alex had walked her to the fence now, and as he secured
her, he suddenly froze.
"Jessopa? Does one kiss on a first day together? If he
tries, should I allow it? If he doesn't, should I be
offended? Oh, lady, there is no one I can ask about such
things."
He sighed, then grinned as inspiration struck.
"Or just maybe, there is." With a smile, Alex formed a
plan.
The lesson was uneventful, with both men over their
awkwardness. When the lesson was over, Alex walked Jessopa
over to the track, and Sable let them have a full run. The
track was smooth, and they were alone, so the chances of
something bad happening were almost nil. It was pleasant
and good practice, and both slave and horse were better
for it.
"Jade, I'm going on in. Put Jessopa away, the usual, then
you're free to go."
"Yes, Sable."
While Alex began Jessopa's cool down, he watched the older
man leave. He took in the wide shoulders, the lean waist
and long legs. Alex even looked at the muscled rear as it
walked away, though it made him slightly uncomfortable to
do so. Still, there was no denying that the stabler was a
handsome man. His thoughts a pleasant buzz, Alex turned
his attention back to Jessopa.
When she was properly cooled down and put away, Alex
headed into the main keep. He paused by the kitchen,
unsure of how he would be received, but being too well
trained since his arrival not to know what he should do.
He saw Leona writing at her desk, and approached
cautiously.
"Ma'am?"
"Jade, how are you?" Alex saw at once that there was
nothing in her eyes save concern, and relaxed a bit.
"Fine, thank you. I-I wanted to say I'm sorry, for earlier
with Marita. She did nothing wrong, Leona, honestly, it
was a simple misunderstanding, nothing worse. Please, she
meant no harm."
Alex had wondered if Marita would be punished, and Leona
saw this.
"She's in no trouble, Jade, do not worry, little one. She
explained what happened and I believed her. As for your
apology, there is nothing to apologize for, Jade. You were
frightened, nothing else. Jade, have a seat, please."
He obeyed, and she began, choosing her words carefully.
"Jade, may I speak plainly?"
"Please."
"I understand you are afraid of women. I understand you
are afraid of me. I understand. I was a long time
overcoming my fear of men, and it was only raising the
master that let me then. If there is anything I can do for
you, Jade, anything at all to help make this situation
better for you, easier, you have but to say. Marita has
asked my consent to be made your work partner, it is
granted. You have my admiration and my respect for your
willingness to work through your fears. I wanted you to
know that, Jade."
"Thank you, Leona."
"Welcome, Jade. Now, be gone, I've a supper to finish and
a list to make." She grinned, and he inclined his head,
then left.
In the main room, Alex found the person he was looking
for. Thomas was pouring a glass of the watered wine, and
when he saw Alex, he smiled.
"Greetings. Would you care for a glass?"
"Yes, thank you. Thomas, do you have a moment? I'd like to
talk with you."
Handing the glass over with a frankly curious gaze, Thomas
nodded. "I am through for today. Is there something
wrong?"
"No, but I require advice."
"And you're coming to me? Poor lad, you are desperate.
Come, let's go to your room or mine and we'll talk." His
teasing manner put Alex at ease, as always.
Alex led them to his room, taking a seat on the bed and
giving Thomas the chair. Alex shut the door, at first, and
Thomas' eyebrows rose, but he only waited silently.
"Thomas, I...well, I have been approached by someone."
"You need do nothing, Jade. If you need help telling this
person 'no,' you have but to say. And do they not take no
for an answer, you let me know. I'll make sure they
remember the rules here..."
"Thomas! Hold your weapons!" It was a joke, but Alex was
warmed by this show of support from his friend. "I
appreciate your defense of me, but you have it wrong. I
don't need help telling them no. I already said yes."
At this, and seeing the slight blush creeping up the
handsome face, Thomas relaxed fully, a mischievous grin
making a bold appearance.
"Sable finally asked you, eh?"
At the look of absolute shock, Thomas began to laugh.
That night, at evening meal, Alex found himself seeking
Sable. The stabler was sitting a table across and away,
but Alex could see him plainly. The big man's eyes met his
own more than once, and it was always pleasant. A soft
smile, a knowing grin, and Alex was unable to look away
for more than a few moments.
"Jade!"
The voice, insistent and right in his ear, made him
startle. Fitz was looking at him with amused exasperation.
"I've called you four times, my friend. Can you tear
yourself away from your fellow cow-eyed suitor, I've a
matter to discuss."
Alex was blushing furiously, but he knew Fitz was only
lightly teasing, and doing so in front of everyone to both
break the news gently and to get Alex accustomed to the
teasing.
"My apologies, Fitz. You have my attention."
"I'll be doing the bits for Danally and the kennels the
end of this week. I've spoken to Leona, she's going to
have you do some smoking then as well, so it'll be no
trouble at all. I'll see you Friday to show you the
process."
"Friday, aye."
"That was all I needed, Jade. You may go back to your
mooning now."
"I believe," Alex said with what he hoped was the right
amount of tease in his voice, "that somebody is jealous."
There was laughter all around the table at this, if only
because no one had heard Alex tease in such a way before.
"Of that pile of muscle and horse muck? Quite likely."
Fitz's eyes sparkled, and he clapped Alex on the shoulder
briefly, before heading out.
The next morning found Alex back at the kitchens. Marita
was waiting, as was Leona. The older woman made no mention
of the previous day, only drew a list of chores from a
pocket. She went over each task with them, explaining what
was to be done and where the materials might be found. It
was largely heavy work, but since Marita was helping him,
there would be some basic cooking as well. She'd worked in
the kitchens several times in the past few years, and
would be teaching Alex the basic skills. Together, they
would make bases and mixes, to be held in storage for the
winter to come.
Leona handed the list to Marita, knowing that Alex had it
firmly in his head, and left them to get to work.
"Good morning, Jade." Marita offered it timidly, and Alex
really looked at her for the first time since the
incident. She was wearing a plain, loose dress, obviously
old and chosen out of deference to the work they were
doing. Her hair was tied back, and her apron was neatly
cinched. She handed him an apron, as well, and he took it
easily.
"Good morning, Marita."
His voice was as shy as her own had been, and she gave him
a smile before turning to the list. "We're going to need
two fires, Jade. If you'll see to them, I'll gather the
jars on the cart."
"Yes, ma'am." It slipped out, and Alex saw the hurt spark
in her eyes as she turned away. "Marita?"
"Yes?"
"I'm nervous. I didn't mean it. I'm not scared of you,
just the situation. I kn-know you won't do anything."
"Thank you, Jade."
The smile was sincere, and Alex forced himself to return
it, before heading out to start the fires.
The first task was simple enough, boiling all the jars,
the same way Alex had boiled the crocks the day before.
While they cleaned over one pit, fat was set to melt over
another.
"What do they use this for?" Alex wasn't repulsed, not
exactly, but it wasn't a pleasant sight or smell.
"Part of it stays in the kitchens, to be used for cooking.
Part will go to Fitz, as a base for salves and such."
They were standing by a prep table. Marita was showing him
how to cut the skin from the fat, sliding the flat of the
blade as close to the skin as possible. Once skinned, any
meat or gristle was cut away, and the remaining fat was
cut into cubes. Marita had two of everything, and Alex
followed her lead, picking the same instrument she did,
and trying to make his movements match hers.
"Try to cut the cubes all the same size, Jade, that way
they melt at the same rate."
Alex struggled for a moment, then switched the knife to
his left hand. "Is that acceptable? I can do it much
easier with this hand."
"Please. Jade, always use the hand you want, it makes no
difference in cooking at all. Wait, that's not quite true,
some of the implements were designed for a right hand.
Still, for knife work or stirring, anything that doesn't
specifically require a right hand, feel free to use your
left."
Having switched, Alex tried it again, with much greater
success.
"Yes, that's it. Good, Jade."
The praise warmed him, as always, and soon they were
working in companionable silence. They finished the
rendering and took the jars back inside. The fat they
poured into small clean buckets, and while Alex carried
them inside and down the ladder, Marita took them from
there. Alex was relieved to find he didn't panic as long
as he was holding the ladder, could look up and see the
light of the room above him.
When that task was done, Marita gathered a basket of
peppers, a needle and thread.
"This next task is easier done sitting."
Alex took a spot across from her, and again followed her
lead. She threaded the needle, and he noticed that the
string felt odd.
"What is this string?"
"It's been dipped in melted beeswax, like a candle wick.
You string the peppers on waxed thread, so the string
doesn't rot and spoil the pepper. It also helps seal the
needle hole, letting them dry better."
When he had a long string ready, she handed him a small
disk of wax. It went on first, then the peppers. She left
a two-finger space then strung another. Alex saw this was
the pattern, and they were soon making a dent in the huge
basket of loose peppers, and filling another with the
strung ones. Any peppers with bad spots were set aside, to
have the good parts chopped up and put away for freezing
and to make bases with.
It was tedious work but not hard, and Alex knew this would
be a good time to ask some questions.
"Marita? You said I should talk to you, ask you things. I
have no experience talking with women, so if I ask
something that offends..."
"Jade, please, do not let that concern you. This is to
help you. To learn, you must ask, no offense will be
taken. If it's an improper question, I will answer and
warn you of such, so you do not say the wrong thing to
another woman. But for myself, you will not offend.
Embarrass, possibly, but not offend." She grinned a bit,
and Alex relaxed, seeing that she meant it.
"Very well. You, uhm, you said you had noticed me. Am I...
I know I am not handsome like the master and I lack
Sable's muscles, but am I...fair?"
Marita was stunned. If she couldn't see his discomfort and
insecurity plainly, she'd think he was fishing for
compliments. The man honestly had no idea of how
attractive he was.
"Jade, you are more than fair. Your eyes alone would make
you fair, but you have a full mouth and good hair, also.
And while you lack Sable's muscles, your own are well
shaped, and solid enough. You are not handsome like the
master, but you are handsome, Jade, never doubt it. I am
not the only person that has noticed either."
"Are you the only woman?"
"No. I've heard male and female alike praise your looks,
Jade. But it isn't just your looks. It's your voice, your
manner. You're quiet, but you pay attention. You hold
yourself apart because you're shy, not because you're
arrogant, that's easy to see. You work hard, you work
fast, and you do good work. You don't complain, Jade, that
means much at Samstar Fields."
Alex thought this over, slightly stunned at this view of
himself. Alex had thought that perhaps the best way to
ask, was to first explain his background. This was as good
an opening for that explanation as he could think of.
He said nothing for three peppers, then spoke again. "I
have never been with anyone by choice. Not ever. My first
experience was rape, and I have not had an experience yet
that was anything else."
Marita deliberately kept working, but she felt her insides
freeze at his words. She didn't look up at him, simply
picked up another pepper to string, willing her hands not
to tremble.
"It wasn't just men, either. The worst rapes came from
women. With a man, eventually he'll complete, and stop.
With women, it can last for hours. Once, on a trip to
court, the mistress decided to take the sleeping carriage.
She had me chained across from her, and raped me all the
way there. We left shortly after dawn, and didn't arrive
until late that evening. It only stopped when she did, to
use the chamber pot or to eat or stretch her legs. Then it
was back in the carriage and back to the handle of her
riding crop, or one of the wooden or metal pieces she
favored. When we stopped for her supper, she changed
clothes, and decided I should be removed. She was afraid
the blood would get on her new cloak. It had started to
spurt, instead of just pool."
Marita thought she would be ill, used all of her willpower
to remain carefully neutral for his sake. It was obvious
he was telling her this because he felt he needed to
explain, to make something clear, and Marita had learned
that speaking of the past could often ease the future. She
remained silent, starting another string.
"The mistress was a thousand times worse than the master.
Always. He gave me to her most of the time. He liked to
see the way her mind worked. If she thought of something
cruel enough, amusing enough, he'd reward her, a new piece
of jewelry, extra gambling money. Her friends were the
same, each always trying to outdo the other in torment.
Over time, I suppose I just assumed that all women were
like that. I should have known better, there were female
slaves that seemed human, but mostly, I just learned to be
afraid."
Marita could tell that he was finished for the moment, and
she chanced a deep breath and a quick look up. His eyes
were shadowed, face lined with pain and fear.
"Jade, I do not blame you for your fear. You have more
than enough reasons to be afraid of women. I can only say
that, just as there are cruel men, there are men like the
master. Just as there are cruel women, like your old
mistress, there are women like Leona. We are, some of us,
most of us, human."
"I have seen that. I know it, from my time here. But now
you see why I need your help. I have no idea how to talk
to a woman, how to treat them beyond the politeness
required by the master."
"Small wonder. Well, to start with, I have an idea that
might help some. Look at me, Jade."
Emerald eyes obediently raised, and she held up her hand.
"You do not have to touch, but hold your hand up to mine."
He did so, wondering what point she was making. Marita had
her hand to the side, and now pointed out the difference
in sizes. His hand, though he was not much taller than
her, was much larger, broader. The wrist was much thicker,
the forearms nearly double her own, despite his still
slender build.
"Jade, I am not a mistress. There is no mistress here.
Here, there are only other slaves and free women and, save
the Captain, you are bigger and stronger than us all. You
could, were you attacked or hurt, fight back and win. The
master wouldn't punish you for defending yourself, or at
least, not much. You need never suffer physically at the
whim of a woman again. Never, so long as you are here."
Alex hadn't thought of it that way. It had never occurred
to him that, if a woman hurt him, he could defend himself,
could overpower her. Alex looked again at the difference
in their hands and nodded. Marita caught his
comprehension, and returned her hands to their work.
"It's little enough, but it's a start."
There was no more talk between them for a while, each lost
in thought.
"Marita?"
"Yes, Jade?"
"W-would you hold up your hand again?"
She did so at once, and Alex took a deep breath, steeled
himself, and pressed his own against it, palm to palm.
Marita could feel the tremble in his fingers, but he
continued to hold it there for several seconds, then put
his hand around her wrist. Alex could feel the fine bones,
and he realized that, if he were to squeeze hard, he could
do serious damage. He tightened the grip just a touch, and
Marita suddenly raised her eyes to his own.
"Do it. Squeeze, Jade. I give you leave, it's a good idea,
only...only try to stop when I say, please?"
"It would hurt you."
"Yes. But it would bruise only, if you stop when I ask.
It's a worthy cause, and a need, I think. Go on, please."
Alex studied her eyes for a moment, then gave in. She was
right, he needed to do this, needed to prove it to
himself. He increased the pressure gradually, watching her
hand redden, feeling the flesh give under his touch. He
watched her face, seeing her eyes darken, then her jaw
tighten. Alex was squeezing hard now, and a flicker of
pain passed over her face, eyes beginning to squint,
breath becoming harsh. Marita gave an instinctive little
tug, but Alex knew she couldn't pull free. A hint of fear
came into the blue eyes, and she gave a tiny cry as he
increased the pressure again.
"Jade, please. Stop now, please." She dropped her eyes,
lowering her head, assuming a submissive posture.
Instantly, he stopped his pressure, but looked at her now
free wrist.
The circle of his fingers was a dark red band, bruising a
bit already. Marita pulled it close to her, rubbing it
gently. She was looking at him again, and now she gave him
a small smile, a look of trust.
"Thank you." Alex stood up, running to the stables for a
moment. He came back with a small ungent jar. He held it
up as he sat back down across from her. "This will ease
it, and stop the worst of the bruising. May I?"
She nodded, handing her wrist back to him without
hesitation. As carefully as he could, Alex massaged the
ointment into her pale skin. He knew he would be thinking
about this a long time tonight, would need to speak with
the goddess as well.
Alex finished tending her, and reached into his pocket for
one of his cloth squares. He wrapped it around the wrist
the way Fitz had wrapped Alex's hand, tying the ends and
tucking them under.
"Thank you, Jade. That does feel much better."
He went to wash his hands, then returned the medicine to
the stables. When he came back out, Marita was already
working on the peppers again.
"You're human, like Sable. He'd have done that, let me
hurt him if he thought it would help. You're good."
"I appreciate that, Jade. You're good too, or you wouldn't
have let go. You'd have made me pay penance for the sins
of another woman. You took no revenge, Jade, only proved
to yourself that you have the power now."
Alex was startled, not having considered that either. "I
need to think a while. Could we just work, for a bit?"
"Of course. We have at least a month as work partners,
there's plenty of time to talk. We'll take it slowly. Now,
pass me the thread, please."
They finished the peppers in silence, and then Marita
showed him how to chop the others. The bad spots would go
to feed the animals, the rest were set into two bowls, one
to be frozen alone, the other became the first part of a
mix.
"Alright, Jade, if you'll bring the basket of celery, I'll
show you how to prepare it."
When they had that cleaned and chopped, she gestured to
the onions.
"We'll do those in the cook's stream, if you'll carry the
basket, I'll carry the knives and such."
Alex hefted the basket easily, and followed her down a
small path. The stream he'd noticed before, it ran past
the keep and down to the stables. A tiny bit had been
diverted, flowing from a narrow channel into the gardens.
Sitting down beside the channel, Marita put the board
right into the water, holding the onion under the stream.
She showed Alex how to clean it, then chopped it, all
under the water. It kept the irritation to a minimum.
When they'd emptied the entire tub of onions, they
returned to the work table. Marita took cheesecloth
squares and ladled half a cup of each vegetable into the
center, then tied them off and placed them in a basket.
When they'd filled all the squares, Alex carried the
basket inside, where Marita transferred them to a large
crock for freezing. Upstairs again, she guided him to one
of the indoor sinks, and a small pot of soap.
"This takes strong odors out of your hands. Fitz makes it
with lemons, it works quite well."
Alex washed the way she was, copying her as he had all
morning. "What is a lemon?"
"A fruit, very tart. We don't get them often, but when we
do, we use them well. We have a few trees, but they've yet
to yield, they'll need years yet."
She was drying her hands when Leona came by. "Marita, are
you alright?" She motioned to the bandage, and Alex
stiffened, going pale.
"I'm fine, Leona. Please, it's a bruise, nothing more, and
it was deliberate on my part. No one is hurt or upset. It
was positive, and my own idea. Let it go, please."
Looking at the girl closely, Leona determined it was the
truth. She didn't like the idea, but she only said, "It's
nearly time for lunch. Wait to start back on your chore
list. Start showing Jade some of the plants, instead. Be
sure to touch them, call their name, and list their use."
"Yes, Leona." Marita turned, and Alex followed her
obediently back outside and to the herb garden.
When they were out of earshot, he spoke quietly, "You
could have gotten me in trouble. You didn't. Thank you."
"I would have had to lie to get you in trouble, Jade. We
don't lie at Samstar Fields. Surely you know that by now."
Marita was teasing gently, and he rewarded her with an
honest, if brief, grin.
"Alright, Jade. This is the herb garden. We'll begin with
the mint."
She touched each plant, telling him what she could about
it. She also named any uses Fitz made of them, and didn't
neglect to point out the useful parts of each plant. They
made it only halfway through before the iron was rung.
After lunch, Marita gathered a strange contraption,
placing it in strong clamps on the side of the work table.
She then had Alex bring up a huge vat of raw meat pieces,
trimmed and boned. She also brought out a bag of dried
seasonings, and cloth bags.
"This is pork pieces, taken from older animals, and
tougher cuts from young ones. As you know, we recently had
several boars brought in. Most of the meat was eaten
directly, but these pieces will be chopped, ground and
seasoned. We'll then mix it, and stuff it into the cloth
bags to be frozen."
"And that makes?"
"Sausage. It's Leona's recipe, from her home country. It's
very good, and we can feed many with little."
Alex was doubtful, but Leona's food had been excellent so
far. He cut his share of the meat, then watched as Marita
packed it into the machine, instructing him to turn the
crank. It ground the meat, which she put into bowls, then
seasoned. It wasn't easy to turn the crank, and he saw why
his help had been needed. When it had all been seasoned,
he helped her pack the bags, and got his first sewing
lesson, as they used a simple stitch to seal them. It took
a good three hours, and he was glad when the last bag had
been put away.
Marita motioned him to the hall and took a seat, pouring
each of them a glass of the watered wine. Alex took it
without demure, used to the idea now. He also picked up an
apple, offering her one from the bowl. She declined, and
he sank down onto the bench across from her. They rested
in companionable silence. The morning and the work this
afternoon had helped Alex stop seeing a woman, and only a
coworker. He'd been able, for a little while, to forget
what she was.
"What's next?" He asked it around the apple bite, and she
bit at her lip.
"Jade, it's considered rude to speak with food in your
mouth." Marita said it as gently as she could, not knowing
how he'd react. He blushed a bit, but finished chewing and
swallowed. "I wasn't sure if I should say anything or
not."
"You should. If you're going to be teaching me anyway,
would you mind teaching me some manners, as well? I try to
follow everyone else, but some things I'm not sure about.
I'd be grateful."
"Then I shall. But a little at a time. And I won't scold,
only tell you, like then."
He smiled, able to see for himself that she was going to
great pains not to upset him.
"So, now that I've swallowed, what's next?" He remembered
the list, but Leona hadn't placed the tasks in order,
merely listed them.
"I think we should probably do the salting, then if
there's time, we can begin the peeling and chop work for
tomorrow."
It made sense, and soon they were back to work.
Alex was glad when the day was done, still, it had been
productive, in more ways than one. After supper, when
Marita went back to work in the kitchens, Alex left for
his writing lessons with the master and his riding lesson
with Sable.
Alex stopped by his room, picking up the books to return.
He looked forward to borrowing two more. He read aloud,
sometimes, to the goddess, knowing she would correct any
errors. It was wonderful to read. Alex often thought that,
even if the master had been cruel, he wouldn't have
complained, if only he'd still been taught to read.
Thinking of how the master was merciful and kind, led Alex
to another decision. He knocked on the study door,
entering at the call.
"Ah, Jade. Right on time, have a seat."
"Master, before we begin, I have something to confess."
Fox saw that whatever it was, it had the young slave
concerned, but not frightened. Biting his lip, Fox took a
seat, waiting patiently to hear.
Alex told him everything, beginning with his explanation
and continuing through Marita's words to Leona.
"I did hurt her, a little, Master. She'll have a bruise on
her wrist for a day or so. But I felt I needed to do it,
Master. I feel I disobeyed, but then, I didn't, not
really. What you say about the letter and the spirit of
the law, that's what this was. I broke the letter of your
law, but not the spirit. Nonetheless, I know how you feel
about us hurting each other, Master, and if I've done
wrong, I'm sorry. I'll take my punishment willingly."
Fox was quiet for a long time, but Alex knew he was only
thinking, trying to be fair. At last, the man sighed,
rubbing his face with his hand.
"I won't lie to you, Jade. I don't like what happened, any
sort of hurting between my people disturbs me. But, I do
think it was warranted, in this instance. I think it was
an idea with genuine merit, and it served a clear purpose.
Aside from that, it was Marita's idea and choice. It
taught you much, and for that I'm grateful. Perhaps it
even had to happen. There will be no punishment, but
please, I would ask that you consider carefully the choice
to learn things this way again. If you can find another
path, please do so."
"Yes, Master. Thank you for not punishing me."
"I only punish to teach, Jade, and there was nothing here
to learn. Thank you for telling me, your honesty and
integrity mean much to me, little one. And now, if there's
no more to be said of this, let's begin your lesson."
It was a good lesson, with Alex able to relax, now that
he'd confessed. He couldn't stand the thought of keeping a
secret from the master. He wished he could tell Lord Fox
the truth of his past, but despite his hope and faith in
the man and this place, Alex didn't dare confess all. Not
yet. Terrified as he was, he knew that, if he stayed then
one day, he would. Alex would go down on his belly and
tell the master everything, and if it cost him heaven,
he'd fall from grace willingly. Because there were no lies
at Samstar Fields. The day would come when he could no
longer look into those eyes, and not tell the truth.
Putting that thought aside, Alex moved onto the stables.
The sight of Sable was a welcome one.
The older man didn't turn around, merely said over his
shoulder, "Hello, Jade."
"How did you know it was me?"
"The horses told me." Sable turned then, grinning widely.
Alex looked past Sable into the stables, and saw that the
horses were all awaiting his arrival. Jessopa was snorting
impatiently, and Alex hurried to go to her.
"There, my sweet lady, I am here." Alex stroked her back,
and the horse nuzzled him.
"And my greeting?" Sable asked it softly, and Alex peered
at him shyly.
It was a tease, nothing required, but Alex was feeling
very good about himself. With only a short hesitation, he
moved to stand before Sable. The stabler all but held his
breath, keeping very still. He could see that Alex wasn't
frightened, merely unsure, and Sable waited to see what
would happen next.
Alex slid his arms around Sable in a brief, but sincere
hug. "Hello, Sable."
With great care, Sable used one arm to lightly return the
hug. "Nice."
Sable said it into green eyes that were now looking up at
him hopefully. He tapped the nose gently, and smiled down
at the younger man.
"Thank you. Shall I get Jessopa ready, now?"
"Yes. Because, if you stand here much longer, I'm going to
kiss you, and I promised myself not to do that until our
day together."
Alex swallowed, the words making him a touch nervous, but
not frightened. He thought about it, for just a second,
then moved away somewhat reluctantly, lip between his
teeth.
"I promised myself I wouldn't let you, until then." Alex
said it in a quiet rush, then all but ran to Jessopa,
busying himself with her tack. But he could feel Sable's
eyes watching him. He chanced a look back, and was
relieved to see that Sable was only smiling softly at him,
a look of pleased amusement on his face. It relaxed Alex,
and he let it go as he prepared for his lesson.
The lessons were getting more difficult as Alex's skills
progressed. Today's task involved steering Jessopa without
the use of his hands. Not just getting the horse to move,
but actually guiding her around a series of objects
without the use of either hand. Sable was allowing him to
hold the reins in his teeth, but had warned Alex that
soon, that control would be taken away also, leaving only
his legs to mount and steer the animal, then dismount.
Alex struggled a bit, as was to be expected, but by and
large was successful.
"Excellent, Jade! I'm very pleased with your progress."
Sable was speaking as his instructor now, attitude
completely professional.
"Thank you, Sable." Alex had learned to accept a
compliment politely, but he knew in his heart he'd never
get used to being praised. It always warmed him, he soaked
it up like a sponge, hearing the words echo in his mind
again and again. No one praised excessively, and it always
had to be earned, thus it could be savored freely.
"You're welcome. Walk Jessopa to cool, please, then see
her put away. After that, I'd like to talk with you in my
office about the next part of your training."
Alex nodded, dismounting without using his hands. He was
stopped by Sable's hand on his shoulder.
"No." It was said gently, but firmly, and Alex knew he'd
done something wrong, though he couldn't think what.
"Jade, I understand that we've been practicing mounting
and dismounting without using your hands. But that's when
I'm watching you, close by to catch you, should you fall.
I was too far away to be able to do that just now. When
the lesson is over, you need to use your hands to mount
and dismount, it's not safe otherwise. Outside of lessons
or an emergency, I don't want to see you dismount that way
again, am I understood, Jade?"
"Yes, sir." There was enough sternness in the soft words
to bring out the word, and Sable regretted it, but simply
nodded.
"Good. I'll meet you in the study." So saying, Sable
walked away.
Alex knew Sable wasn't angry with him, had only been
cautioning him to be careful, not actually scolding him.
Accepting it within himself as such had taken time, but
Alex could now be warned without feeling as though he'd
failed. Finishing with Jessopa, the young slave headed to
Sable's office, curious about the next stage.
Brown eyes studied him carefully, wanting to know there
were no hurt feelings. Alex saw the concern, felt the
regret, and spoke mildly.
"You weren't angry. You just want me to be careful. I'm
fine, Sable." It was odd to be reassuring the big man, and
the thought that he could make Sable uncertain, could
cause him grief, gave him an even odder sense of himself.
"Glad to hear it. Okay, have a seat, I need to discuss
something with you."
Sable leaned forward, elbows on his desk, hands clasped
loosely before him, resting his chin on the thumbs.
"Jade, we are a peaceable people here, you've seen this
for yourself, no doubt. But the master is preparing us for
life as free people, and there are times when free people
must be able to defend themselves. All the men here, and
most of the women, take some training to that end. With
the women, they are usually taught only how to fight one
on one, and the use of a knife. The men are usually given
more extensive weapons training. The riding I've been
teaching you is part of that. It will allow you to shoot a
cross-bow without losing control of your animal, to wield
both shield and sword from atop a moving horse."
Sable paused here, biting at his bottom lip.
"The master will be in charge of most of your training,
he's the one that will talk with you about this further,
plan your lessons and such. I'm only speaking to you of it
now because I'm going to be adding to your skills. It is
time you learned to jump a horse. This can be frightening,
Jade, and risky as well. It is your choice to take the
lesson or not. It's very valuable and can save your life,
but it is your choice. If you accept, that will be where
we next begin. If not, we will begin increasing your
saddle times, working on endurance and field work."
"Will there be risk to Jessopa?" Alex loved the horse,
loved her dearly, and he frowned as Sable nodded.
"Some. We do all we can to make it safe, and she's jumped
before, but there is a small risk, always. It's a natural
behavior for a horse, for Jessopa it's not so much a
question of teaching her how, but teaching her when you
wish her to jump."
"It's a valuable skill? It will make me a more valuable
slave to the master?"
"In the sense that he can use you in more situations, yes.
But you can have no greater value to him than you already
do as a person, you know that?"
"Yes. Though I still struggle with belief."
It was very honest, and Sable smiled a reward. Alex took a
moment longer to think, then nodded.
"I will learn."
"Very well. I'll inform the master of your decision, he'll
likely speak with you soon about your other lessons. Any
other questions, things to discuss?"
"Nothing comes to mind."
"Then one further task and you are dismissed. Please take
this letter to Drell in the kennels. Tell him it's got the
plans for the new run in it, and if he has any questions
or problems, I'll be working in the office late tonight.
Repeat."
Alex did so dutifully, and Sable handed the paper over.
"Thank you, Jade. I'll see you tomorrow."
"Tomorrow."
With a smile, Alex left. He'd never been to the kennels,
though he'd continued his friendship with Drell. The dogs
were indeed gaining in popularity, Alex had seen no less
than seven of them sold in his time there. He'd only seen
the dogs from a distance, not having much opportunity for
a closer look.
Now, as he approached the long, low building, he heard a
multitude of barks and yips. In a fenced area, several
dogs were playing, running and tussling. The puppies
especially seemed to be having fun, gnawing at the ears of
older dogs and tangling around their feet.
Alex entered, seeing Drell at the far wall, examining a
very pregnant female. He finished up and smiled as he
turned and caught sight of his friend.
"Jade! Welcome to the kennels. Am I finally going to get
to show off my dogs to you?"
"I'd like that, Drell, but first, business. I have a
letter for you from Sable, and a message. He says..." Alex
dutifully gave the message, and Drell took the letter,
putting it down on a desk by the door.
"Very well. Anything else?"
"No."
"Then let me introduce you to my dogs." Drell led him
through the kennel building. It was arranged like the
stables, but with lower walls and openings set low into
the walls, for the dogs to go outside. Drell showed him
around, then led him over to a door that went outside. He
gave an odd whistle, and Alex watched in amazement as the
dogs all ran to him, forming a line in front of him. Drell
praised them, and put his hands on Alex's shoulders.
"Friend." He said this firmly, repeated it, and then sent
the dogs off to play.
"What was that?"
"Oh, sometimes, if they don't know you, they can be tense.
If I tell them you're a friend, they'll relax around you.
But here, let me call one over for you, show you the breed
proper. Caleb!"
At the soft call, one of the males obediently trotted over
to Drell, sitting at attention again.
"Show, Caleb." The dog stood, holding himself still, while
Drell motioned Alex closer.
The dog was nothing special to look at, on the surface. A
mottled brown color, with a darker brown underbelly, a
large head and thick tail. The chest was ruffed, the tail
smooth and short haired. The dog's head came to near the
top of Alex's thigh.
"Plain, aren't they, just to look quick. But let me really
show you this dog." Drell's voice was proud as a parent,
and he gestured to the ears. "They're up and back, letting
them hear better. Their eyes aren't much more than any
other dog, but see the wrinkling around the nose? Lets 'em
smell more, stronger. And the neck, it's thick, see? Hard
to circle, even for a large hand. The feet," here he
lifted a foot spreading the toes a bit, "have some webbing
between the toes. They're good swimmers, love the water, I
can scarce keep them out of it. That thick tail works like
a rudder. The chest is broad, for strength, and yet the
hips are not so large to cause problems. They can run for
a long time, good endurance animal. Slow to start, but
once going, fast enough, and spin on pin. Herding
instincts from the sheep dogs, strength and courage of a
mastiff, endurance and senses of a hound. They're smart,
no doubt. Trainable, well, that's another matter,
sometimes. Stubborn, the lot of 'em."
Drell affectionately petted the dog in front of him, and
Alex noticed it didn't even budge.
"Relax. Good boy, good Caleb!" The dog, released from his
tight control, bounded, licking at Drell's face and
wagging his tail. Drell played a moment longer, then sent
him off. "Well? What do you think?"
"I know little of dogs, but they seem extremely obedient."
"They should be, they're loved enough." Drell said it
absently, and motioned Alex to follow him to another
penned area.
Inside, a young girl was working with an older puppy. She
was obviously trying to teach it to sit. Alex watched as
she put her hand on the dog's rump, the other under his
chin. There was a gentle push with the back hand while she
said firmly, "Sit."
The dog didn't touch the ground, moving instead to her
other side. The girl patiently put the dog back into
position, and repeated the process. This time, the tail
touched the ground and held for a second.
"Good girl, good, good." A tiny sliver of dried meat was
held out, along with enthusiastic petting.
"That's how we train them. They're very smart and they
like to work, they're a damn menace if they aren't worked.
It takes patience sometimes, but we've got that aplenty."
"You don't beat them?"
The look of horror on Drell's face made Alex wish he
hadn't asked.
"Gods, no! I'd sooner take a beating myself. No, beat
these dogs and you'll get nowhere. They're too stubborn to
let it bother them. They'll rip your throat out, first
chance they get. Now, scold 'em honest, and they'll cower
like they've been whipped."
"The master's method?" Alex offered it timidly, and Drell
laughed.
"More or less. There's no cruelty to anything allowed
here, Jade. And I tell you, when I die, I'd as soon be
sent back here as heaven."
"So would I."
The men shared a look, their common past as badly treated
animals letting them fully appreciate the place they found
themselves at now.
With a smile, Drell led the way to yet another small
building. Inside, in separate pens, three bitches were
surrounded by young pups, not yet weaned. The mothers
looked at Alex assessingly, not yet threatening, but
cautious.
Drell identified him as a friend again, and the dogs
relaxed somewhat.
"They understand a lot of words?"
"Aye. We talk to them like you would people, and they
respond somewhat the same. Hard to believe, but sometimes
I can explain to them what I want before we train and they
do better. Here, let's see if they'll allow you to see a
pup."
Approaching slowly, Drell spoke soothingly to one of the
mothers.
"Here, sweet, I've brought Jade to meet you and your fine
pups. I'd like to show him one up close, take it out a
minute. We won't leave the room, my word. Will you let me
show your children?"
The mother dog tensed, then her tail thumped and she
visibly relaxed, tongue licking at her own muzzle.
"That's a good lass." Drell chose a pup near the edge,
holding it carefully.
He held it out to Alex, who made sure to hold the pup the
way the kennel master showed him. The bundle of fur looked
up at Alex through narrowed eyes, little nose snuffling. A
tiny tongue explored Alex's face, and the whiff of puppy
breath made him grin. Miniature teeth, razor sharp, nipped
at a thumb, and Alex rubbed a hand over the soft warm
body, before holding the puppy out to Drell.
"You put him back, please. She'll know then to trust you."
Alex moved slowly, his time in the stables serving him
well here. Carefully he placed the puppy down, and the
mother dog shifted enough to smell her offspring
thoroughly. Sensing nothing amiss, the bitch raised her
head, sniffing at Alex's hand. He was a little afraid, but
held still, and the dog bumped his hand before lying back
down, inviting her pups to nurse.
"Thank you." Alex said it sincerely, used to talking to
animals, and the tail thumped politely before he was
ignored.
"Well done, Jade."
Drell patted Alex's shoulder as they exited, and led him
back to the main pens.
"Well, if you've no more business, I must get back to
work. You're welcome to go out into the free play yard,
they love company. Of course, there's usually a child or
three in there, but adults may play as well. It's good for
the dogs and the people." Drell grinned, and with a
handshake, headed back to work.
Alex watched the dogs play for a moment longer, thinking
how happy they looked. Gods, they lived better than he
ever had, until he came here. The master was kind to
everything. Alex's brows drew together as he had to wonder
why. Why was Lord Fox William of Mulder so good? Something
must have happened, must have changed him. There was a
story there, one he'd dearly love to know. Maybe he could
ask Sable, on their off day.
Thinking of their promised day together eased the frown
from Alex's face. He was nervous about tomorrow, no doubt,
but he was also oddly looking forward to it. Alex headed
back to the keep, wanting to take a quick bath before
evening meal. As he walked, he tried to imagine what it
would be like. They would have breakfast together, then go
to the stables. Alex knew Sable had something special in
mind, but the older man was keeping it a secret, only
smiling broadly when Alex timidly hinted for a clue.
The smile was nice. Of course, it made Alex think of
Sable's mouth, and being kissed. He was a little worried
about that part. He knew he was curious. He'd never been
kissed before, not really. Alex had worried that he
wouldn't know how, and had taken all his courage in hand,
going to Thomas. Alex laughed aloud at the memory of the
boy's face when Alex had asked if he'd kiss him.
Soon, amidst blushing explanations, Thomas had understood
what was being asked, and had sighed with relief, before
happily agreeing. In Alex's room, with the door closed but
unlocked, Thomas had very carefully given Alex a chaste
kiss on the mouth. Not wanting to frighten or hurt Alex,
Thomas had sat in a chair, on his hands, while Alex leaned
down, making the moves himself, more or less providing a
practice surface.
Two kisses later, and Thomas had gently teased him. "Now,
Jade, kiss me again and I'm going to find myself in
competition with Sable, and that won't do at all."
"It-it was good enough, then? For you?"
"Jade, it was very nice. I don't feel that way about you,
but kissing you could change that easily enough. Honestly,
you've nothing to worry about. Besides, Sable will lead,
all you need do is follow. But you, Jade? Was it pleasant
to you or did it frighten?"
"It was pleasant. I was a little frightened, I admit, but
not of you, Thomas, you know that?"
"I know that. Jade, let me say this. Sable may break your
heart, if your romance doesn't work out, but he would
never hurt you, Jade, never take advantage of you. If
something upsets or frightens, you have but to say, and he
will stop, Jade. No matter how those green eyes of yours
devil his dreams."
"Thank you, Thomas."
"Welcome, Jade."
Chapter Four
Coming into the washroom, Alex was still smiling. A glance
around, from habit, showed it to be deserted, and he
quickly stripped and began to bathe. When the door began
to open, Alex merely wrapped a length of toweling around
his middle and moved his stool into the corner, back to
the walls. It wasn't a necessary precaution, he knew, but
it did help ease his fears.
He saw that it was Fitz, and relaxed completely. Alex
trusted Fitz the way he did the master and Sable, knew
there was no harm in the former priest. Even as he thought
this, Fitz saw him and paused at the doorway.
"Jade, would you prefer I bathe later? I have the time, I
would not make you uncomfortable."
"No, Fitz, stay." Alex hesitated a moment, then decided to
make further use of the master's lessons. Looking into his
soap pot, Alex said softly, "I trust you, Fitz. I know you
to be my friend." And it was true. Alex didn't feel the
complicated mix of emotions around Fitz that he did around
the master and Sable, but he cared for him, and counted
him close.
Fitz looked quietly delighted, his pale eyes shining, his
mouth under the moustache pleasantly curved. He knew the
young slave would be awkward at having shared this, and so
carefully turned to his own soap pot and bucket. But his
voice was warm and rich as he spoke. "I thank you, Jade.
Your words mean much to me, as does your friendship. As do
you."
Nothing more was said, but the silence was as comfortable
as the spring sun, and Alex grinned at the man when their
eyes met. Fitz turned to rinse, and the grin was ripped
away by horror. His gasp was audible as he got his first
look at Fitz's back.
There was a scar, deep and jagged, that ran from Fitz's
neck to his waist. It looked as though someone had tried
to cut the man in half with a too short instrument. At the
end of the scar, very legible, were initials. Laid under
this scar was a thick layer of fine scars, scars from a
small scourge. He'd been beaten many, many times, and by
the same hand, before the cut.
Fitz heard the gasp, and quickly turned. The green eyes
were staring into his own with shock, and Fitz knew he'd
have to explain to the boy. Taking a stool, he pulled it
near, and began to speak.
"My apologies, Jade. I forgot you'd never seen, or I would
have taken more care. Yes, it is a bad scar, and the wound
itself nearly cost me my life, twice. The initials at the
bottom were carved by the man that inflicted that wound.
It is a long unpleasant story, but one I will share with
you, do you want to know."
"Would it cause you pain to tell? I would not upset you,
Fitz."
"My appreciation for your concern, Jade, but it is not a
tale that grows worse with the telling. It eases pain,
often, to speak of it. I have told it many times, and
while it does hurt to remember, it is a healing hurt, like
the lancing of a blister. If you are curious, ask."
"I am curious. I do not understand why anyone would hurt
you so. You're a good man, Fitz, you were a priest, were
you not?"
"I was. Still am, in my heart. But I am only human as
well, Jade. Never forget, when you see a man of God, which
comes first in that viewing." Fitz sounded sad, and Alex
nodded, solemnly accepting this as a new rule. "Now, let
us finish our bathing, and then, if you are free, you can
come to my study, and I will tell you my story. I do not
think there will be time before we sup, but mayhap we
could share our meal there? We could talk while we eat,
and then neither of us would miss the evening's time. Is
that agreeable?"
"I would like that, yes."
"Then that is what we shall do. I will explain to the
master where we will be and why, if you will ask the
kitchens for a basket."
"I will. And I will even ask Marita for an extra dessert.
I will tell her you need comfort." Alex took a chance on
making Fitz grin, and was rewarded when the sad cast
lifted a bit.
"Aye, and then you'll eat half of it yourself. I've
noticed your taste for sweet things, Jade. Makes me wonder
what you see in Sable." The jest brought a blush, and Fitz
chuckled. "Come, our water cools."
They tended to their wash, Alex finishing first and
heading for the kitchens. Soon, he was back with a basket,
heavy as always, and peeped into Fitz's rooms. The older
man wasn't there yet, so Alex put down the basket and
began looking around. It was allowed, if the door was
open, and so Alex wandered the displays. He hadn't had a
real chance to explore the room since learning to read,
and he was thrilled that he could make out most of the
words. The items became more special as he read of the
history, the name, and personal notes Fitz had placed
beside each one.
Alex saved the case with the jade for last. As before, he
was drawn to the piece that matched his master's eyes. He
wondered again that the Captain had named him such. True,
his eyes were green, but he didn't think they looked
anything like the stones he saw in front of him. He saw a
small card beside the jade, and began reading. Alex still
read out loud, not from need but by choice. If he heard
it, even from himself, he could remember it. Thus he had
the master's stories in his head, should the books he
borrowed ever be denied him.
"From the Latin, meaning 'side.' It was be-believed," he
struggled a bit, then continued, "to heal wo-wounds in the
side."
"Actually," Fitz's voice intruded gently from the door, so
as not to startle, "the strict meaning was 'side,' but it
was a common belief that it could actually replace the rib
used by God to make woman. It was thought to fill a place
in a man's soul, and echo the beauty and nature of woman."
Alex thought on this as he picked up the basket, carrying
it into the room beyond, into Fitz's study.
"Does it heal? Is there truth there, or only belief?"
Fitz's eyes sparkled, and he said softly, "Little Jade,
enough belief can create its own truth. But," and he
turned serious again, "to my knowledge, it has no healing
properties, beyond the comfort and healing any item of
beauty can give. Speaking of comfort, what have we for
sup? I was in the village this morning and my noon meal
was not to Leona's standards, bless them for sharing."
The basket was opened to reveal roasted pork, and nothing
else that Alex could recognize, save the biscuits and the
gravy. Fitz saw the confused look, and pointed as he
explained.
"This is a stuffing, of sorts. It's made with bread and
spices and corn grain. This is yam, like an orange potato,
only buttered and fried. This is a wild greens mix,
steamed with the pork fat and onions. Some people do not
care for it, but I would ask that you try to eat a fair
portion. It is very healthful, Jade, and despite your
blossoming, you are still healing, deep within. It would
be good for you."
"Yes, sir." Fitz allowed it, knowing that the boy was
responding to the healer giving instruction, and not to
his friend. He also knew that Alex was distracted by
something, and nervous about the story to come, so the
slip wasn't a surprise. At least, Fitz thought thankfully,
the lad hadn't called him 'master' in a good while. He
watched as a large spoonful of the greens was dutifully
placed on the platter. "You are an obedient soul, Jade,
and you comply with grace. That is good."
Alex smiled at the words, not often earning praise from
Fitz. "Thank you."
"And now that our plates are filled, let us have our
moment of quiet, and then I will begin." They paused, Fitz
praying, hands making the sign of the cross, Alex mentally
focusing on Danally.
When they were finished, Alex had a sudden thought. "Fitz?
Do I offend you?"
"What do you mean, Jade?"
"Well, you said you were a priest still, in your heart. I
worship Danally, you know this. Does my belief in the
goddess offend you?"
"Not in the least. It should, I suppose, and were my own
history different, it might. However, I did not have the
usual priesthood, and so I simply see it as the way the
one God has chosen to speak to you. I doubt you could
harbor much belief in the god of my church. It's likely
done you little good and great harm. However, a goddess
that was taught you by what little loving family you had?
Aye, you could give your soul for that. We all need God,
child, but we must all come to him the best way we know. I
have seen you trust, act in faith, willingly change your
heart and your actions, overcome doubts and fears, all at
the urging of Danally. Your faith is real, your belief
sincere and your prayers are answered. It is not my place
to say more. But no, you do not offend me."
Alex was relieved. Turning to his food, he ate the greens
first. It wasn't a bad taste, but strong, and he didn't
care for it. Quickly eating the entire portion, he took a
deep drink of the ale, and then hesitantly approached the
stuffing. This he liked, and a sample of the potato
followed.
"It's sweet!" Alex was surprised. It was very sweet and
buttery, delicious. "Is this the dessert?"
"No, that's a vegetable. I think we have baked apples and
cream for dessert."
"It is very good, for a vegetable." Alex always ate a
portion of everything, Fitz had taught him that this was a
rule, to keep one healthy, but he didn't care for most
vegetables.
"You truly have a tooth for sugar, Jade. Still, I will
tell Leona she has found a vegetable that our Jade
actually likes, she will be delighted."
Alex grinned, knowing it was true. Fitz took another bite,
then his face settled into thoughtful lines, and Alex knew
it was time.
"I must go back quite a ways, Jade, for you to really
understand my story. I was literally found under the
bushes at the abbey of St. John. The brothers took me in,
as it was winter, and travel unsafe. I was nearly frozen
when then they found me, despite the thick blankets I'd
been wrapped in, and they weren't sure that I would live
through the night. They felt I could not have been more
than a few hours old, though they saw no sign nor track of
anyone about. They had a cow, but I refused the milk, and
so the goat obliged. This I took, and the brothers watched
and fed, making a false teat from thin cloth and a small
bladder. Fortunately, one of the monks had been a family
man, and remembered seeing his wife do the same for one of
their babes, when her milk failed. He knew to heat it,
adding just a bit of sugar and water. His name was Brother
Jacob Fitzgerald, and it is his name I use today."
There was a look of deep sorrow on the face, and Alex knew
that Fitz had loved this man, loved him deeply.
"All the monks took their turn raising me, but Brother
Fitzgerald became my father. He was the one they sent for,
when nothing else would stop my crying. Mind you, they had
all taken a vow of silence, I was being raised without
words, without anything spoken save the chants and hymns,
the readings and responses. It wasn't his voice that
soothed me, it was his presence. They only meant for me to
stay the winter, and planned to take me to a nearby
convent come spring. By then, I'd been there nearly four
months, and my care given almost exclusively to Brother
Fitzgerald. They had made me a small bed, and I slept in
his room. He strapped me to his chest and went about his
duties, or to his back, when he did the floors.
"When spring came, the head of the abbey came to Brother
Fitzgerald. He said that, in light of my unusual
circumstances and my obvious pleasure at being in the
house of the lord, I must be meant for this life.
Therefore, he saw no reason for me to go anywhere else,
until I came of an age to choose. In addition, Brother
Fitzgerald was released from his vow of silence, in order
that he might teach me and raise me properly. It was
lifted for me only, though, he was still to maintain his
silence to all others. And, in accordance with the spirit
of all this, he was given leave to claim sole
guardianship. That pleased him most, for it meant he could
have some say in what would become of me."
Fitz paused, pointing with a fork at the plate across from
him.
"You are an excellent audience, Jade, but do not forget to
eat."
There was humor in the reminder, and Alex blushed, knowing
he'd been staring, lost the way he got with the master's
stories. He took a bite of the pork and the stuffing, and
Fitz continued.
"So, I grew up in the abbey, learning everything the monks
could teach me. It was discovered that I had a penchant
for healing, and so they made the herborium available to
me, and all their texts. I was reading from age three, it
was natural for me. By the time I was twelve, I knew all
they knew. Let me say this without humility, and then
explain. Jade, we all have our gifts. You have yours, as I
learned painfully." A wink turned this into a friendly
tease. "The master has his, for which we are all thankful,
and so on. My gift is healing, but not simply healing. I
am very bright, Jade, very bright. I have a gift for
storing and absorbing knowledge. It isn't like the master,
the ability to remember what's been read, or your hearing.
It's not that specific, nor that clear. But it's more
widespread. If I've seen it or heard it or tasted it or
any of that, then the core of that remains with me. The
knowledge of it is mine forever. And I was blessed with a
great tragedy, that has made the most of my gifts. Let me
continue."
Fitz took another drink, a deep breath.
"As I said, by age twelve, I knew all they had to teach
me. I'd been through their library, through every scroll.
I could tend the sick as well as they could; better, for I
could remember reading of a treatment, of seeing the
villagers use this plant or that. I went everywhere with
Brother Fitzgerald, and helped every way I could. They had
given me the name of John, for the abbey, but the
villagers referred to me as John Fitzgerald, Brother
Fitzgerald's boy. They knew, of course, that I was not his
real son, but it was no matter to them. To me either. And
now as I grew older, he proved his love was a father's
love. He prepared to send me away."
Alex didn't understand this, unless Fitz meant that
fathers don't love for very long. Seeing the confusion,
Fitz paused.
"My apologies, Jade. I mean only that he loved me more
than himself, that he put my wants and needs ahead of his
own heart's desires. That is what a father does, Jade, a
good father. It has been said that our Master is the
father of all here, and I would say that is true. He does
the best for us, at risk to himself and cost of his own
soul. That is how a father is supposed to love, Jade,
though few enough do."
"Earlic does. Thomas says he was a little disappointed,
but he understood and he's proud now that Thomas is going
to University. Is that what you mean? Letting Thomas go
and be what he must, rather than what Earlic would have
him be, and still be proud?"
"Exactly. Brother Fitzgerald knew that I had already
gained all I could from the abbey and the village. He knew
I was bright, and he wanted to foster that. I had much
growing to do still, and he didn't want those years
wasted. With permission, he contacted a family member that
lived across the channel, and asked would they shelter me
and see to my instruction. They agreed, and we set sail a
few weeks before my thirteenth birthday. He would sail
with me there, and then return a few days later. We never
made it there. Once in the middle of the channel, the ship
suddenly began heading for open sea. The ship was being
stolen, and us with her. The crew, just a few men for a
small vessel, had already been dispatched, and now with
none to help us, we were at their mercy.
"There was a lady on board. She was young and lovely, no
more than five years my senior, with long dark blonde
hair. I feared for what would happen to her, having served
the village enough to know of such things. She was
unmolested, however. It seemed she was the reason we were
being stolen. Her father had made the mistake of refusing
an offer for her hand. The rejected suitor was a
vindictive sort, and hearing that she was to be sailing
alone to visit relatives, arranged for her to be sold to
the East. Brother Fitzgerald and I had been given consent
at the last moment to sail along, the captain, rest his
soul, being a godly man and promising us free voyage, did
no one else want to sail besides the lady. We were thus
not listed on the manifest, and not expected.
"Eat, Jade, or I'll not tell the rest until your plate's
cleared."
It took a moment for the gentle scold to penetrate, but
then Alex turned his attention back to his food,
apologizing. He knew that Fitz wasn't angry, only
determined that he not miss a meal.
He'd heard Fitz say the same thing almost to the master,
once taking a book from the man's hand and telling him
sternly he couldn't have it back until he'd eaten.
They had the only master in the world that would allow
such, and Alex had watched in amusement as Fox had
sullenly finished his soup and then held out his hand for
his book. Once it was in his hand, Fitz had turned,
leaning over the desk. With a sigh that Alex had finally
identified as a sound of regret, the master had landed a
hard blow with the book to Fitz's rear.
"I apologize for my tone and manner of speech, Master. I
should have ensured we were alone, and found a better way
to ask you. I'm aware what could have happened, had I been
overheard."
"I'm sorry, Fitz."
"I am not. I will tell Leona you ate the entire bowl, and
she will be so pleased with me, she will boil my elixirs
for me." Mischief had sparkled in Fitz's eyes, and Fox had
laughed, even as he hugged the man, sending him to the
kitchens with the empty bowl.
Alex brought himself back to the present, having eaten a
good half of his meal, and looked up imploringly at Fitz.
"Oh, dear. Those eyes are going to be trouble yet. I can
see I'll need to be on guard around you, Jade, lest I give
you everything you want."
Alex chuckled into his ale, and Fitz resumed his story,
reassured the boy was alright from the scold.
"As I said, we were unexpected, but the pirates knew
Brother Fitzgerald was a priest, and apparently
superstition ensured that he remained unharmed, too. That
left me. I was a strong healthy boy, and they apparently
had no taboos against me. Brother Fitzgerald took one look
at the lust on their faces, and used his waist belt to tie
me to his side. He'd been praying loud and for effect the
whole time, waving the cross and using every gesture he
could think of, until he had me secured. Then he slid his
eating knife into his hand, and made it clear that the
only way they would get me, was through him. The lady,
having seen this and knowing that they wouldn't touch her
for fear of her new owner, stepped up, coming to stand in
front of both of us. She made it clear she would cry foul
treatment and injure herself, blaming it on any man that
touched us."
Fitz's eyes sparkled as he told this, face alive with
remembered awe and gratitude. A tender smile graced his
features, and Alex knew that Fitz had also loved this
woman, priest or not.
"I'd never seen anything so brave. I knew Brother
Fitzgerald would give his life for me, I had expected no
less. But can you imagine it, Jade? Here she was, alone, a
gentlewoman, raised her whole life with care, and she's
suddenly being stolen away from her home and family. She
knew where she was going and what would happen to her once
there, but she ignored her own terror and sorrow to
protect a priest and a boy she'd never met, knowing they
could do nothing for her. She was beautiful, her skirts
billowing back around us with the wind, her hair
streaming, eyes sparkling with fury and despair."
"You fell in love." Alex whispered it, but the topic was
somewhat on his mind, and he was too curious not to ask.
"Aye. I fell in love with her, right then and there. I'd
never really known a woman, being raised in the abbey. The
village women were part of the flock, nothing more. This
lady was suddenly real to me, and I lost my heart."
Fitz gave a small sad smile and then seemed to shake
himself.
"We sailed for many days, and the lady didn't let us out
of her sight. We protected each other. Brother Fitzgerald
would sleep while she watched, and then he would watch for
her. She would only sleep if I was curled up behind her,
and if I spent more time staring at her sleeping form than
sleeping myself, my adoptive father made no comment. He
was too grateful. He would tell me, where she could hear,
still bound to his vow, how grateful he was to her. It was
cheating, but he assured me the Lord would understand,
given the circumstances."
Fitz paused to pull the dessert from the basket. Plump
apple slices, soaked in brandy and baked with spices and
butter, dollops of cold cream topping the crumb coating.
It was delicious, and both men took a few bites, before
Fitz continued.
"The voyage passed well enough, despite the length. None
of us were sick, thankfully, though Brother Fitzgerald had
his healer's bags with him. The lady was the only one fed,
until they saw she was determined to share her portion
with us, at which time we were grudgingly given meals as
well. There was no privacy, not for anything, and so
Brother Fitzgerald would shield the lady as best he could
with his robes, while she tended her business, made what
bath she could, and dressed from her meager supply. It had
to have been humiliating for her, and the crew took every
opportunity to tell her what awaited her, but not a word
of complaint did she offer.
"When I fashioned her a flower from some scraps of vellum,
thinking to give her comfort, she smiled at me, embracing
me in a way she never would have, just a few days past. I
could smell her perfume, became nearly drunk on it. I
memorized that scent. I later learned to make it, figured
out which flowers and spices combined to create her
perfume."
Fitz paused, eyes full, and reached behind him to a shelf
with his oils. His hand found an older bottle, smaller
than the rest. He uncapped it and closed his eyes as scent
drifted up and out. Fitz held the bottle out to Alex, and
a curious sniff brought the lovely fragrance to him. It
was light, but real somehow, spicy but floral, an
intriguing mix.
"What is your impression, Jade?"
"It smells warm, like the noon sun, but from a shade tree.
And a breeze blows." Alex blushed a bit, but that was what
it reminded him of, and if he'd learned anything, it was
to answer true. He wasn't sure how Fitz would react but,
to his relief, the man beamed at him.
"Very good, my friend. Very good, indeed." Fitz corked the
small vial, kissed it and set it back on the shelf, though
he didn't return to his food.
Pushing the rest of his dessert toward the younger man,
Fitz resumed his tale.
"When we arrived, we were led from the boat to a place
unlike any I'd ever seen. I had read of such places, of
course, studied them in books, but nothing prepared me for
the sight. People, their features and skin all different,
their dress unusual, the language a babble around me. The
earth was different, the animals even, the grass beneath
our feet, none of it familiar. But more startling than
anything was the wealth."
Fitz pulled his watch, checking the time. He showed it to
Alex, who made a gesture that clearly stated he should
continue talking.
"The buildings weren't castles, not like we think of them,
but they were palaces. Stones in every color of the
rainbow, gems decorating the walls and doors, gold on the
ceilings. Silks and satins and tapestries so delicate they
looked like spiderwebs. And the smells, Jade, the smells
nearly took your breath. Spices and flowers and fruits,
all heavy and rich, incense curling in wreathes from every
window. It was incredible, and despite my fear, I couldn't
help but marvel. We were led into a very large room, empty
save for some huge pillows and a low couch where a throne
would be. On it was a man in his mid-thirties, surrounded
by servants, all kneeling low along the walls."
Fitz paused, taking a drink, and Alex saw the struggle in
his eyes, the pain from this part of the story. Gently
placing his hand over the healer's, Alex said softly, "You
need not finish. I would not cause you pain."
Fitz gave him a sad smile, and used his other hand to pat
Alex's, giving it a squeeze before releasing it. "You
cause no pain, Jade. I am grateful, in fact, for it is not
often I can justify sitting in my quarters, simply
remembering. I will finish, with your consent, though you
may miss part of the reading."
"Gladly, to hear your tale, and to help you. I will listen
for as long as you talk, Fitz."
The healer's pale eyes grew warm, and he sighed. "Thank
you."
A deep breath, a slight clearing of the throat, and Fitz
continued.
"The man's name I still do not know. Everyone simply
referred to him as High Lord. He was our new master. The
High Lord said nothing for many minutes, simply lay on his
couch and watched us, his eyes missing no detail. The
woman had shocked the servants by remaining standing, back
straight, head up, returning the stare equally. Brother
Fitzgerald, having the comfort of the Lord, also showed no
fear. That left me, and though I was afraid, I stood
between them, and could do no less than follow their
example. It was quite the scene, the three of us standing,
staring straight ahead, waiting, and the High Lord
reclining, equally patient.
"At last, a low sound of laughter reached us, and he
spoke, in our language. He turned his attention to us,
Brother Fitzgerald and myself first, asking who and what
we were. I had to speak for us, of course, the vow of
silence. Clearing my throat, I said the first thing that
came to mind. I told him that this was Brother Jacob
Fitzgerald, a priest, and my father."
Fitz's eyes misted over, and his mouth twitched.
"I'd never called him such out loud, never dared. But I
was too scared and needed him to know how I really felt,
in case...well, in case the chance was lost. I felt the
hand on my shoulder tighten for a moment, and a sound like
a sob, but I was smart enough to only put my hand back,
over his, and say nothing more.
"The High Lord told me that he had no use for a priest. I
replied that we were also healers, both of us skilled in
medicines and surgeries, that we would doubtless have
techniques new to his people. When he asked why we should
be trusted to tend his sick, I got angry. I told him
flatly that my father would never do anything but his best
for anyone, that he was a man of honor and took his vows
very seriously, and as his son, I was bound by his honor
as well.
"The High Lord said nothing more, only nodded, before
turning his attention to the lady. He stood, moving to
tower over her. She was a small thing, but she continued
to meet his gaze with dignity and courage. He reached out
a hand for her face, and she allowed it, being brave, but
no fool. She had given confession to Brother Fitzgerald
when we sighted land, and we all knew her plan. She would
give what she could, take what she must, in hopes of one
day returning home. So, I wasn't surprised when she
stoically allowed the caress. His hand tangled in her
hair, tightening painfully, but she made no sound, despite
the tears I could see welling in her eyes."
Fitz paused, eyes closed for moment.
"The High Lord was impressed. It seems he'd been
surrounded all his life by women trained to accept his
will, but never had he been with one that openly despised
the act. He released her hair, telling her she was a
worthy addition to his household. He told her she would be
a welcome challenge. She made no response, and he turned
back to me, with a smile. He moved to stroke my hair, as
he had done hers, only to find his way suddenly blocked by
both Brother Fitzgerald and the lady. He'd not expected
this, never dreamt there would be resistance over such a
specimen as I. He was angry, at first. Then he grinned, a
hard evil grin that made my blood curl."
Fitz gave a sigh, refilling his glass. Alex chewed his
bottom lip, suddenly aware of how much Fitz had drunk. The
man wasn't inebriated yet, but would be soon, did he not
slow down.
"Would you like me to water that for you, Fitz?"
"No, I would not. I am going to get drunk, Jade. I am
going to finish this story, and write a full explanation
to the master. You will take it to him when you take the
supper dishes down, please. I will then go to my room and
become very drunk, with the master's consent. And he will
give consent, Jade, for I do this maybe once a year. I
have leave, so long as I explain ahead, that I will be in
my room, abandoning myself to the wine. I am breaking no
rule, Jade, though I thank you for the thought."
Alex nodded, understanding for the most part. He trusted
Fitz; if the man said it was allowed, then it was allowed.
Still, he felt the pain of Fitz's story much more, knowing
now that it drove the man, this man, to drink.
"The High Lord looked at me and said that he would see
what use could be made of my abilities to heal. But in the
meantime, he wanted me trained, along with the lady, in
the language and customs. All the customs, including the
bedroom acts. I would not be touched, he assured me,
neither would she, until all the lessons were complete. We
would learn together, she and I, and any failure on either
of our parts would result in my punishment. I was to be
her whipping boy."
Alex saw the slow flush rise on Fitz's face, saw the
humiliation burn there. He felt sorry for the young boy
from so long ago.
"He'd seen the weakness. He could control both the lady
and Brother Fitzgerald through me, the weakest link. The
High Lord had his assurances of good behavior from them,
for my sake, and my good behavior was assured by knowing
my presence kept them both safe. It was a neat package,
none of us willing to risk the others. Had he separated
us, he would have been more successful. And lived longer."
Fitz paused to use the chamber pot, while Alex took the
dishes and the note down. The master frowned as he read
it, but only asked sadly where in the telling Fitz was.
When Alex told him, the master nodded and, with a brief
touch to Alex's shoulder, gently gave consent and sent
Alex back up.
In his quarters, Fitz was staring out his window when Alex
returned, taking a seat on the pillows by the fire.
"We learned. Brother Fitzgerald began healing, and when
not with him, I was with the lady in our studies. She
tried, but though she was very bright, it was a difficult
tongue. The first time she failed to meet expectations, a
small flog was brought out. It was made from horse hair,
finely strung, with a wooden handle. They gave it to her
and pointed to me. When she refused to beat me, they
brought out a cat, and one of the guardsmen. Seeing her
choice, I stripped off my shirt and knelt in front of her.
I'd never called her by name, having too much respect, but
now I did, needing her to know it was alright.
"'Suzanne, please. Do it, before things worsen.' She knew
I was right and moved behind me. She was instructed to
give me six lashes, and she was smart enough to know they
had to count, or more would follow. I'd never been
whipped, not really. Brother Fitzgerald had switched me on
occasion, a couple of stripes for serious disobedience
only, and those mild. I made no noise but could not help
my tears. When the punishment was complete, we were
dismissed. She took me to my father at once, explaining
tearfully what had happened. He granted her absolution and
directed her to the herbs necessary to help my back. It
was her hand that bathed me, that spread the ointment, and
the touch was nearly worth the beating."
Fitz poured another glass and Alex moved closer, drawn by
the pain in the man's eyes.
"She seldom failed to at least make the minimum responses
after that. We soon learned the language. I learned it
first and was soon able to speak to those I treated. Our
skills as healers were welcomed, and we did have many new
skills and thoughts to bring, but we learned as well. The
court physicians, seeing the benefit, shared openly with
us, and soon I'd learned most of their techniques as well.
I knew far more than they thought. While taught to speak
the language, the lady and I were not taught to read or
write it. But I learned anyway. It took some time, but
time I had. I was soon proficient in their written word as
well, and learned much in the hope of escape. I was given
leave to use the library by the physicians, for it held
pictured anatomy books. I read most everything there, a
bit at a time, books from the world over. The lessons
continued, how to eat, what to eat, their religion, their
folktales, we were given it all. I couldn't help but be
fascinated with all of it. I loathed my conditions and
circumstances, but the learning itself was a delight. The
city was a main stop on the trade route, and their culture
a mix of most of the world. I was a delight to my tutors,
taking it in as quickly as they could give it to me."
Fitz was slightly glassy eyed now, and Alex felt his
sorrow magnify. Fitz, loving considerate Fitz, as much a
caretaker of them all as the master or Leona, was hurting
badly. There was also the faint hint of unease. Alex had
often been hurt the worst on nights when the wine flowed
heavily, and to smell it so strongly on Fitz caused his
stomach to clench. But he also knew that Fitz, drunk or
not, would not hurt him. It kept the discomfort to just
that, and he wasn't afraid.
"After many long months, it was time for the last set of
lessons. It was time for the lady to learn how to please
the High Lord. For both of us to learn it. I - I don't
know what I expected. A book, a lesson much like we'd had
before. I was innocent, if not ignorant, and when they
brought in a pair of slaves, I blushed scarlet at what
they intended. Sure enough, our lessons were practical
demonstrations. We watched, while the fine points were
made and the proper methods carefully shown. We were
forced to touch, to examine, and when we proved reluctant,
the lady even less used to such things than I, they were
angry. They ordered two dozen strokes this time, and I
couldn't keep quiet. I could hear her soft sounds of pain
behind me, the apology she whispered with every stroke.
When it was ended, she had them fetch my father. I was
tended, and once healed, they began again."
Fitz gave an ironic bark of laughter, and Alex cringed at
the sound.
"You are looking at the only priest in the land that has
been trained as a pleasure fellow for both men and women.
And I'm very well trained, Jade. I could put any of the
King's gloried whores to shame in minutes. Sworn to
celibacy, and I can make a man spill his passion in less
time than it takes to piss, or keep a woman in the throes
a whole night. It's been years, but they're lessons I've
never forgotten. Cannot forget."
Fitz poured another cup full, nearly sloshing it. His
words were beginning to drag, a faint slur appearing, but
he was still aware of what he was saying.
"It had been nearly a year, Jade. I was nearing fourteen,
and old enough to respond physically to all they showed
me, too young to be comfortable with it. It was an agony
of shame, every time. To have to touch the naked breasts
of a lovely young slave girl, to fondle the hardness of
the slave boys, painfully aware of my own, and all while
being watched by a tutor, a guard and the lady? It was the
only time I was whipped for my own failures as a pupil. I
confessed nightly to my father but that, too, brought its
own shame, and soon he took to giving me a blanket
penance, forestalling my need to confess. The lady as
well, to spare us recounting our sins in front of each
other. We were given little choice in the matter, and it
was simply a matter of nature, not my fault, but my
reactions humiliated me."
"It was worse, because you loved her." Alex had remained
silent for most of the telling, but this slipped out. Fitz
nodded, face full of sorrow.
"Yes. I loved her, could not help but think of her. I had
to watch her as well, Jade, that pale hand trembling
slightly as she found a nipple, stroked along buttocks. I
wanted to do those things to her, have her hands touch me
that way. I was nearly overwhelmed with my struggle, when
she came to my father and asked leave to whisper her
confession. It was the only way to have privacy, we all
shared the same chamber, could not leave once locked in
for the night. I moved to the far side of the room, giving
them all the space I could. It seemed they spoke for a
long time, but I paid no attention. I was working on an
escape plan, was nearly finished with it. It would be
dangerous, but I thought it had a chance of working."
Fitz paused, moving to sit nearer the fire, sinking to the
floor somewhat heavily and clumsily. He looked into the
flames for a long moment, head propped on his own bent
knee.
"This is the last part of the tale, Jade. After this, it
would be a great kindness to me if you would see me to bed
and ensure the candles are blown out before you go."
"Of course, Fitz."
"Then I will finish, and let blessed dark bring longed for
oblivion. As I said, they spoke for a very long time, then
I heard Brother Fitzgerald knocking at the door. He waited
until the guard appeared, then told me he wanted to check
a patient and would be back later. He spoke loudly, still
cheating his vows for the sake of need. He was led away,
and the lady approached me. She sat down on the low
cushions they used for beds, and stunned me by taking my
hand. 'John,' she said, the rare gift of my name on her
tongue. 'We must speak.' I waited, knowing that whatever
it was, would be difficult to both say and hear. She told
me that she had noticed my struggle, knew of my feelings
for her. I would have died from embarrassment but she
forestalled it, saying that she knew because she felt the
same as I did. My love for her was returned."
A look of radiant joy filled Fitz's face, and Alex thought
that it changed the man's whole countenance. But then the
light dimmed.
"She told me she had spoken to my father, and what she was
about to say had his approval, as my father, if not as a
priest. She wanted me to make love to her, Jade. It was
almost time for her to be sent to the High Lord, the
lessons were all but finished. It was a matter of days, at
most, before she became his concubine. I wasn't sure I
would be sent for, but it was a possibility for me as
well. She was a virgin, as was I. She did not want to go
to him that way. The idea of giving him that as well, was
abhorrent to her; still, she did not want to force me. Did
I refuse her, she would steal one of the false phalluses
from our lessons, and rend her own maidenhead. She would
bear me no ill will either way, it was entirely my
decision, but she knew her heart. And her heart yearned
for me.
"It was the happiest moment of my life, Jade. To call her
name, to touch her, to feel her respond to me. When she
lay herself under me, speaking my name and holding closely
to me, as though I were a man full grown and not simply a
scared shaking boy, awkward despite his lessons, I knew
true happiness, knew a completion in my soul that not even
the church had ever touched. We exchanged our innocence,
forgoing any tricks, save those to ensure she felt no pain
at the entering. We made love, earnestly, sincerely,
pledging our hearts and souls with our bodies. To be able
to say the words, Jade, to tell her all my longings and
many thoughts of her, this was such a gift. To hear her
own shy tale of falling in love with me, that was even
more precious. A few hours we had, and then I heard
Brother Fitzgerald, singing his chants on the way back. It
was a warning, of course, and we heeded it. A last kiss,
and we quickly dressed again, though she returned to my
side when finished, and took my hand.
"My father eased my worries at once, saying softly that he
wished he could have married us first, but that God knew
what lay in a man's heart, and a woman's as well. A smile,
and he took the lady's usual bed, making it plain he
expected us to share the night. We only slept, it was late
and we were tired, but we were together, holding through
the whole night. Before dawn, Brother Fitzgerald awakened
us, pointing to her bed. She understood and moved back
before the guards came. They took us to lessons, as usual,
but the day passed in a warm glow for me. Every smile had
new meaning, and when she whispered my name, I was in
heaven.
"We fell to earth soon enough. That afternoon, the High
Lord himself roared into the room, angrier than I had ever
seen him in our daily audiences. He had clutched in one
hand a wad of cloth, and he was so angry it was several
moments before I understood what he was saying. It was the
sheet. While there had been no pain when I took her, there
had been blood, and in our joy, we had forgotten. The
servants had recognized it for what it was, mixed with my
own traces, and had told. He was furious with both of us.
He had the guards with him, and while one moved to
restrain the lady, two more held me to a wall. The High
Lord, ignoring my lady's pleas and cries, ripped off my
shirt, and then took his knife out. He carved his initials
first, to remind me that she was his property, and not to
be stolen. It was only then that he plunged the knife in,
trying to literally cut me in half. But, in his rage, he'd
grabbed the first knife to hand, and it was too short, an
ornamental dagger, though sharp enough. It spared my life,
but I passed out. I know the rest only as a second hand
tale, told me by others, later.
"It seems that one of the healers, an extremely kind and
gentle man, a priest of sorts in his own religion and much
like my father, had heard the talk of what was happening.
He'd immediately sent for his new friend and fellow man of
god, and so Brother Fitzgerald had come inside as I passed
out. Brother Fitzgerald took one look at me and apparently
went berserk, thinking I'd been killed. He was an older
man, but very strong, and had been a soldier before
becoming a priest. I was told he killed the guards first,
simply slitting their throats almost before the enraged
High Lord realized something was happening. He then killed
the High Lord.
"There was only a matter of minutes before more guards
came, and my father, finding me still alive, took the only
action available to him. He turned me over to the other
priest, begging the man to use my plan and get me out of
there. My father asked it in the name of God, and the
native priest could not refuse. Suzanne, the lady, knew
every detail of my plan, and she led them through the
false door I had discovered on a map in one of my many
forays to the library. It wound down through the depths of
the earth, coming out finally by a small cove in the bay.
I had already arranged a boat and supplies there, on our
trips to the port for healing goods. In a year, if one is
a good healer, one can build many favors, Jade. I had used
them all in arranging my plan, and had it been night and
the dark of the moon, as I had planned, it might have
worked. As it was, it was mid-afternoon and rushed, an
army of guards looking for us already, as I lay bleeding
across my father's shoulders. In desperation, he begged
the lady and the old priest to go, to take me, while he
provided the distraction and time necessary to ensure even
a faint hope of survival.
"She agreed, knowing it was my only chance. They pushed
off, with me nearly dead in the bottom of the boat. The
old priest began tending me at once, as best he could,
while the lady tried her best to follow the route laid out
on the plan, but she had no skills with such things, and
not the strength to row hard against the current. By
nightfall, they were only half as far as they should have
been, and the weather was turning. She made a decision,
brave and selfless, as they all had been. Putting in to
shore, she sold some of her jewels and bought passage for
the old priest and myself on the first ship sailing. Luck
smiled, I suppose, for there was a ship casting in less
than an hour. She saw us settled aboard, and then prepared
to leave. She would remain behind, allow herself to be
captured, and give us time to escape.
"I woke then, rousing just enough to see her, to ask what
had happened. She came to me, telling me that she loved
me, begging me to live, and pressing something into my
hand. A kiss, and she was gone. In my hand was the vellum
flower I had fashioned for her so long ago. I tried to
rise and blacked out again. When I came to, the old priest
told me we had been at sea some four days, and that I
would live, but it would take a long time before I would
be normal. I was in and out of consciousness for several
more days, the pain of so many slashed muscles taking its
toll.
"We arrived at another large port-town two months later.
By then, I could sit up and even manage a brief walk. It
had been a struggle, and fever had nearly claimed me
twice, but I was young, and the healer excellent. I
recovered. We took another ship, only to run aground on a
small island, due to a storm. It was some four months
since the incident, and the only thing keeping me from
going back to the High Lord's palace, was the old priest.
He was alone, helpless now as I had been that first voyage
in. He'd lived his entire life in the palace and
surrounding village, knew nothing of where we were, the
language slightly different, the culture very different.
He needed me, and I owed him the debt of my father. It was
a debt I had to repay, knowing in my heart that my father
was now dead.
"The island welcomed us, despite our strangeness, and
again I learned all I could, trading our skills as healers
for life. It was peaceful, a kind place, and we were there
for a half-year, while the ship made repairs and waited
out the season. We again set sail, and while I longed to
return and search for Suzanne, I obeyed the old priest,
and we reached a port farther east than either of us had
any knowledge of. Upon arrival, while arranging our
lodging at an inn, there was a mishap and a young man
managed to nearly slice his thumb off. By instinct, the
priest and I began tending him, and he was soon resting
quietly, wound tended. We thought nothing of it, brushing
aside his thanks. We settled into our rooms, and went to
bed early, tired from the voyage. The priest was even more
exhausted, and I worried over him. He'd been pale, weak
lately, for no illness I could find. Now, as I fussed over
him, he smiled at me.
"He told me I was good, as my father had been. He then
told me that I was soon to be alone again. He was dying,
could feel it within himself, age and our traveling having
caught up with him. There was nothing for it, and he was
ready. I asked if there were any special arrangements he
wanted, and he asked only that I say a special prayer,
which I would find in his prayer book, already marked. I
agreed, and with thanks for all he had done. He patted my
head and went to sleep. He never awakened. The next
morning, he was dead."
Fitz poured a last cup, though his slurring was more
pronounced now. He drained it, then threw it against the
wall.
"I saw him buried, his prayer said. And then I sought
passage back. I had to try and find her, had to know if
she was alive. But there were no ships sailing back. It
seemed that at this time of year, the ships would only
sail farther east, never west. I was desperate, I had to
get back. The young man whose thumb I had tended, came to
me. His father was going to be taking a caravan back
westward. He would arrange for me to travel with them, in
gratitude. I wept, I was so relieved, and gratefully
accepted. We left a week later, the wagons loaded. It
would take us nearly a year to get all the way back, but
there was no choice. Three months into our journey, we
were attacked by marauders. The only reason I was spared,
was because they had seen the initials on my back, had
recognized the High Lord's name. They assumed I was his
slave and let me live, apparently not knowing yet that he
was dead. I was collared and chained, along with the few
others spared, and we continued. It was hard, and I do not
care to share that tale, beyond saying I followed the
lady's example, taking what I must in order to live. I
used every trick the bedmaster ever taught me, and then
more, to remain valuable and alive.
"At last, we arrived back where Suzanne had left me. There
was no word, no trace, nothing save the tale that a
'yellow hair' had been taken on board a ship, fighting her
captors with every step. No one knew where the ship had
gone, or where she was. Not that it mattered. I was a
slave now. My captors knew the High Lord was dead, and
they knew who and what I was. I was sold at the next
market, advertised as a healer and the highest level bed
slave. I had four owners before Frokey bought me for the
master, knowing Samstar Fields was in need of a healer. It
was the only time I was bought for my healing skills. I
was bought and sold again fairly quickly before. There
isn't much use in a pleasure slave that can't achieve an
erection. I could be used, but my obvious lack of interest
displeased my owners and they sold me again quickly
enough. I was fortunate, none of them were cruel, or
punished me for my lack. They simply sold me again. Still,
my last master was very nice. He kept me on as a companion
for some time, having a common love for learning. He was
fascinated by my tales, my experiences, and we often spent
entire nights talking, sharing knowledge, if not passion.
He didn't sell me, but rather he died, and his wife sold
me to Frokey, saying I was too ugly for her bed, and she
had no need of talk. The master offered to return me to
the church, but I cannot. I have given my soul to Suzanne,
it would be wrong to take the final vows."
There was bitterness in the voice, and Fitz was nearly
weeping.
"And now, now it has been sixteen years since I saw her. I
continue to search, as does the master and Frokey and
Lang. I remain a slave, that I may travel unnoticed, ask
questions without arousing suspicion. The master's letter
gets me in most places, and none think it odd a former
priest is given to nosy questions. I heard she was back in
this country, but it is only a rumor, and some three years
old now. I do not give up, will never give up, and I have
a good life while I wait, but I do wait, Jade. And I grow
weary with it, weary unto the depths of my soul. And that
is my tale, little one, and having told it, I had best end
my shameful condition, and sleep. Help me, Jade?" The eyes
looked up, beseeching, tears spilling uncontrolled down
the lean face, catching in the dark beard with its hint of
grey.
Alex wiped at his own eyes and tenderly reached for his
friend. Finding the bedroom, Alex walked Fitz to it,
seating him while a night shirt was found. The chamber pot
was used, with assistance, the clothing changed, the face
washed. Alex settled the man in, tucking him snugly, the
way Sable had tucked him that night.
After blowing out the candles and banking the fire, Alex
returned, expecting to see Fitz asleep. Instead, the pale
eyes were staring at the ceiling, and the hands were fists
on the covers.
"I'm lonely, Jade. I've been lonely for so long now, and
yet no other can fill that void. I nearly tried, several
years ago, thinking to at least have the comfort of a warm
body, the human need for touch too strong to be ignored.
But how could I? I consider myself wed, Jade, married in
the eyes of God, if not man. I could not give another my
sex, my heart and body would not be in it, and none would
start a relationship knowing those things. It would be
unfair to even ask. Still, there are times, when the night
is long and cold, that I yearn to not be alone."
Alex looked down at Fitz for a long moment, his own
painful past and fears struggling with his new friendship,
his platonic love for this very gentle soul that had
suffered in so many ways. Slowly, with a deep breath, Alex
removed his shirt, then his shoes and leggings.
"Jade? What..."
"Hush, my friend. You've spoken enough for one night. Let
me, Fitz. Please? I cannot give much, but I give it with
an open heart. Take it?"
Alex didn't wait for an answer, merely walked to the other
side of the bed, and slid under the covers. Once there, he
opened his arms, and with a choked sob, Fitz gave in. With
his head buried between Alex's neck and shoulder, and
Alex's arms around him, warm and strong, Fitz cried for a
long time. When he at last calmed, he shifted to lie with
his head on Alex's chest, the heartbeat soothing him with
its strong rhythm.
"Thank you, Jade. The Captain named you well."
"Shhh. Welcome, Fitz. Sleep now."
A nod, and soon the breathing was soft and even. Alex lay
in the dark and thought of all he'd been told, all the man
had gone through. He stroked a hand up and down the
slender back, never having noticed the frailty of Fitz
before. The healer had always seemed large to him, but now
Alex saw that this was an illusion only, brought on by the
life that poured out of the man, the genuine love and
compassion for all things and beings. Alex sent a silent
prayer to Danally, asking her help in finding the Lady
Suzanne, did she live. He would add his faith to Fitz's,
and see what good could be wrought.
It was odd to be lying in bed next to someone, and Alex
knew he should be frightened, but he wasn't. It was sort
of nice, aside from the strong scent of wine. He wondered
what it would be like to hold Sable this way. That caused
a pleasant tingle, and with another prayer of thanks to
Danally, Alex drifted off to sleep as well.
When he opened his eyes, it was to see Leona arranging
some things on a tray. He wondered at what she would think
of him, in bed with Fitz though they had only slept, and
risked a glance at her face. It was met with a warm smile,
and she put a finger to her lips, indicating he should
remain quiet. He watched as she filled a glass with water,
added it to the tray that now sat by the bed, and with a
carefully mouthed "thank you" to Alex, was gone.
Alex knew he would be late to begin his work, but felt
sure it would be excused, the master knowing where he'd
been the night before, and Leona having seen him now. He
was wondering whether he should leave before Fitz woke up,
but couldn't help feeling that would be wrong, somehow. As
he debated, he felt a weight settle lightly on the bed at
his feet. A glance showed him Danally, and Alex bowed to
her as best he could. Her eyes looked meaningfully at
Fitz, and Alex mentally sent his prayers to her.
'Please, Goddess, help him if you can. He believes,
Goddess, not the way I do, true, but he does believe in my
belief. Grant him an intercession, if you may. He is
worthy, Goddess. Please?'
Danally kept her eyes focused on Fitz for a long time,
then closed them tightly, before she delicately made her
way up the bed, sitting near Fitz's head. She laid a paw
ever so lightly on his head, letting it linger for a bit.
'Thank you, Goddess.'
Danally nodded, then walked over to sit on Alex's chest,
the side not occupied by Fitz, and settled down, the low
thrum of her purrs soothing him. After a few moments Fitz
stirred, awareness coming to him with painful slowness.
After a time, a groggy thick voice rasped out, "Why do I
hear a cat purring?"
"Because the goddess has favored us with her presence."
The sound of Alex's voice brought Fitz's eyes, bloodshot
and heavy-lidded, creaking open to look at him.
"Jade? You are in my bed?"
"You did not wish to be alone. I will go, if you have
changed your mind."
"No, no. It's not that, Jade. To be honest, I thought you
a dream. I woke warm and comforted. That never happens
after a telling. I heard your heartbeat, felt the blessing
of your solid presence, and told myself it was an
imagining brought on by all the wine. Then there was a cat
purring, and I knew I was dreaming still."
Alex grinned, seeing that despite the night before, Fitz
was his usual self now, the humor, the wit, the warm
honesty, all back in place.
"You're awake. I am in bed beside you, Danally on my
chest, as are you. And I will tell you a truth back, Fitz.
You wear well." It was shyly whispered, and Alex blushed
when he said it, but he did find it pleasant, had enjoyed
the unique situation, and needed Fitz to know that.
"I did not frighten you, then. I had worried, how the
morning would find you. I am glad, for both of us, Jade.
It was a blessing, and I thank you for it, my friend."
"Welcome, friend."
A soft smile, and Alex, careful not to disturb Danally,
tilted his head to place a brief kiss on Fitz's forehead.
It was received as the affectionate token and absolution
it was, before Fitz began easing himself to lie on his
back. He groaned, a hand coming to cover his eyes.
"Leona left a tray by your bed."
"I am surrounded by saints." Fitz rose unsteadily, mixed
three of the powders from the tray and emptied them into
the water. He then drank it deeply, and lay back on the
bed. "The medicine will end the pain and nausea in a
matter of minutes, though I will be tired most of the day.
I suppose I should be a better Christian and accept my
penance, but the good Lord did not create us to be
fools..."
Alex chuckled, but stopped when Danally cracked an
irritated glare at him. With a whispered apology, Alex lay
still again.
"So, what brings Danally to my bed? Does she come with
bedding you, you'd best warn Sable sooner than later."
Alex blushed again, this time strongly, and Fitz chuckled
weakly, groaning as he did so.
"My apologies, Jade, I meant only to tease gently."
"You did. I'm not blushing because of what you said,
but...well, holding you, sleeping beside you made me think
of sharing a bed with Sable, really picture it for the
first time. That is why I blush, your words reminded me of
that."
"If you are frightened, you need not be. Sable would never
do anything to knowingly make you uncomfortable, you know
that, Jade?"
"I do. It's not that I'm frightened, more that I'm not."
"Ah, you look forward to sharing his bed?"
Alex knew he didn't have to answer, but it was good to
speak with someone besides Thomas of this. "Yes. I think I
do, anyway. I've never been intimate with anyone, not of
my own will. And I know Sable will not force me, or hurt
me. I just don't know what to expect."
"Expect to be loved, little Jade. To be cherished and
adored. Expect him to want you, and need you, and delight
in you." The words were a small shock, and Fitz turned to
his side, looking intently at Alex. "I have said too much.
Jade, you know my story now, you know my training. Do you
have any questions, any worries, do not hesitate to come
to me, to ask. It will not bring up last night again, I
assure you. I will answer as the healer I am, making use
of all my knowledge. Anything you wish to know, Jade, you
may ask without shame or fear."
"Thank you, Fitz. It means much."
"You are welcome, but now I would ask again. Why is
Danally here? The cat has not visited my quarters the
entire time I've lived here."
"I said a prayer to her last night, for you. And this
morning, as well. I asked her to intercede for you."
Fitz gave Alex a deep look of gratitude.
"You are a good man, Jade, and I am thankful to know you,
and count you a friend. And as for you, Mistress
Danally..." The cat met Fitz's gaze neutrally. "I cannot
call you 'goddess,' but will not say you are not. You are
his goddess, and any help you grant, I will be
appropriately thankful for." It seemed to satisfy the cat,
and with a yawn and stretch, she hopped down, leaving in
her usual leisurely fashion.
When she'd gone, Alex stretched as well and stood,
dressing quickly.
"I must go. While Leona knows where I am and will not
mind, I should get to work. There is much to be done
today."
"Oh yes, the preserving begins this afternoon. Are you
doing the fruits first this year?"
"No, Leona said she would save those, as she's expecting
another late berry run in a few days. One of the men found
a large stand of bushes while hunting."
"That is good, extra is always a blessing."
Fitz had dressed as well, and now the men faced each
other, preparing to go their own ways.
"Thank you again, Jade. Go in peace, my friend."
"Welcome, Fitz. Abide in peace, my friend." A slightly
awkward hug, and Alex was on his way, hurrying to the
kitchens. He found Leona by her desk, and she graced him
with a smile again.
"If you would, find Marita outside and see what help she
needs preparing the vegetables. She has the task list."
"Yes, Leona." He moved to go but was stopped by a light
hand on his arm.
"Have some breakfast first, Jade. No skipped meals, sweet,
no matter how good the cause. There's a plate on the
mantle, milk by the sink."
"Yes, ma'am."
Leona nodded him on, and he quickly ate, then joined
Marita. She was struggling to lift one of the heavy pots,
and Alex took it from her, easily setting it inside the
largest cauldron, already half-filled with water.
"You should have asked for help with that, Marita." It was
only after he said it, that Alex realized it was a
reprimand, the first he'd ever dared give anyone. Marita
only nodded.
"I know, but you get busy and just think to do it.
Besides," and now she flashed a grin at him. "If I were
not forced to work alone by my partner's absence, I would
have had help."
Alex knew she wasn't mad, and so grinned back.
"You've never even been late before, Jade, we were worried
you were ill, but Leona explained you were helping Fitz
early this morn."
It wasn't a lie, but Alex was grateful for the careful
explanation Leona had provided him.
"So, how do we begin?"
"By cooking the vegetables, before they go into the sealed
crocks and jars. We'll start with the beans."
It was a tedious process, but not overly difficult or
physically demanding. By mid-morning, they'd done three
types of beans, two of peas, and a batch of carrots. The
leftover bits went into a jar with pieces of potato and
stock.
"Soup base. What we don't use, Leona sends to the village.
It is the start of our soup, it will likely be their only
meal, Lord bless. Jade, if no one has told you, we
sometimes get people from the village. They come seeking
food. You've noticed Leona keeps soup on the fires all
day, for any that are hungry between the meals, or that
need an early or late meal. Do you get a request for food,
take a bowl of the soup, one of the apples, two slices of
bread and a finger-width of cheese. That is for each
person, Jade, and they may eat at the worktables here,
does the weather permit, or in the meat shed, if not."
The meat shed was sheltered on three sides, and had a
roof. There were tables there, grooved, and it was where
much of the final meat preparation for mealtime took
place. Fowl was jointed there, the chops cut, that sort of
thing.
"The master feeds any that ask, so you need no consent to
fill a plate."
"Do you not have trouble with beggars?"
"We do not. Fitz makes it plain to the villagers that the
master does what he can, but he will help only those that
make an effort. If there is true need, an illness or
injury that prevents work, that is excepted, as are the
very old and the very young. But do we feed the able
bodied, we will find them work quickly enough the next
time they come asking. Charity demands once without
explanation or excuse. After that, they can earn what they
need."
"That sounds like the master."
"Yes. Oh, here, Jade, the time is gone, help me dish the
beets."
They turned their attention back to the food, setting the
wax plugs tight and thick. Marita fussed carefully over
them, not relaxing until they were cooled, and showed
solid. Pleased, she drew out the list, checking what was
next.
"Jade, know you the dillweed in the herb garden?"
He assured her he did, from her tour, and she sent him to
fetch her a small basketful. It took nearly all the mature
dill in the garden to fill it, but at last he managed to
get enough. She gently rinsed it, then lay it in a
cheesecloth square, tying it off with some of the other
herbs.
"Have one of the girls give you a thumb's width of sugar,
please. Your thumb."
Alex went inside, finding Meave near the cone. She blushed
as he approached, and Alex wondered at it, before making
his request. Meave began slicing from the bottom, careful
to cut around, not just down. Soon, he had his sugar, and
Meave shyly held out another small sliver.
"For you."
"Thank you. That is sweet of you."
"I have heard you like things that are sweet." Meave was
scarlet as she said this, and Alex realized the child was
attempting to flirt with him. Unsure, he merely thanked
her again, and took his leave.
"Marita, I have a question..."
They spoke the rest of the time they pickled, and when
Alex took the large crocks back inside, he was able to
meet Meave's gaze without worry, now knowing how to handle
an adolescent's crush.
Chapter Five
Alex woke up early the next day. He didn't move for a long
time, simply lay in his warm bed, looking at the sunlight
streaming into the window. The banked ashes from his small
fire had kept the chill from the room, and he yawned and
stretched, then slowly his lips curved into a smile.
It was his off day. He would spend the day with Sable,
though Alex wasn't quite sure how. All he knew was that,
after breakfast, they would be together, and the thought
made him very happy, if more than a little nervous.
Getting out of bed, Alex hesitated only a second before
picking up the specialty scent soap that Fitz had made for
him, and heading to bathe. Alex shaved himself carefully,
Fitz having patiently taught him how to see to this task
many weeks ago. Now, he surveyed the results in the small
communal mirror that hung over the toweling.
Alex's eyes narrowed critically as he studied his
reflection. He'd finally gained enough weight to look
healthy, though the hard work ensured he was gaining only
muscle. As the comb whispered through his drying hair,
Alex was pleased to see that it had nearly recovered, too.
It was thick again and soft, the color nearly as strong as
it had been before. His hair had always grown quickly, and
now it hung below his shoulders, loose waves and random
curls. Alex started to tie it back, as usual, then simply
gathered a bit from the sides, to keep it away from his
face, and tied it off instead, leaving the length free.
It would have to do, he supposed, but he looked clean and
neat, and that was all Sable or the master ever required.
Besides, the man had seen him at his worst, he doubted
Sable would suddenly not find him handsome enough.
Chuckling at his struggling vanity, Alex finished getting
ready and headed downstairs. He passed Thomas on the
stairwell and his friend gave a low whistle, making Alex
grin.
"Now, why would Jade be looking especially handsome today?
And smelling oh so sweet? If I'm not mistaken, he's
changed his hair as well, hmmm..."
Alex gave him a playful slap to the shoulder, a mere
brushing of the back of his hand across the muscle, and
Thomas gave in, laughing.
"Alright, I've played the maiden for him. D-do I look
okay? The hair doesn't make it too-"
"Jade, relax! You look fine, honestly, and the hair is
only nice, not overmuch. And I can assure you, there's not
a thing maidenly about you. If I wasn't busy courting half
the kitchen girls, I'd give you a tumble myself." It was a
tease, nothing more, but Alex appreciated his friend's
willingness to reassure him.
He showed his appreciation the way Thomas liked best, by
teasing him back. "I don't think I'd have you, you're
something of a chaser..."
"Insults? Well, see if I ever kiss you again." With a
haughty look of mock indignation, Thomas flounced away,
pausing a few steps down the hall. "Jade?" Alex looked,
seeing his friend was now earnest, though still smiling.
"You do look fine. Nothing bad will happen, and Sable will
watch out for you. Have fun, Jade, please?"
"Thank you, Thomas. I do promise to try. I am...unafraid."
A last wink, and they went on their way, each man glad to
know the other.
Downstairs Alex took his place, saying hello to Drell and
the others, seeing a knowing grin from more than one of
them, but no one teased. Relaxing, Alex looked for Sable,
finding the big man sitting in his usual place, to the
right of their master.
It was the tiniest hint of favoritism, and not even that,
as Sable was nominally in charge should the master be
gone. Also, as the stablemaster, it was only logical that
they should have the most work together, and so none could
say ill. But Alex, like everyone else, knew that it was
one of the few public ways that their owner would admit
Sable was more than just another slave, that the man was
special to him.
A pang went through Alex at the thought. He knew Sable and
the master loved each other, didn't question it for a
moment. At the same time, Alex didn't doubt that Sable's
attentions to him were honorable and sincere. It should
have worried and confused him. It did neither. Alex just
assumed that Sable could love both of them, the same way
he loved Sable and the master. His pang, as he saw them
now, sitting next to each other, speaking with their heads
close together, wasn't jealousy but sorrow, that it would
go no farther for them.
Alex still didn't know why the master refused to love
Sable, or let himself be loved by the man, but he knew it
was so. Perhaps, if the day went well, he would ask Sable,
though he doubted he would get an answer. Something told
him this story would be the most painful of all for Sable
to reveal, and Alex was reluctant to bring such pain.
He came out of his musings to find them both looking at
him, eyes full of understanding pain. Alex gave them his
best smile of comfort, trying to convey his heart with a
glance. It seemed to work, for the master, in an extremely
rare gesture, actually lifted Sable's hand and brushed the
briefest of kisses across the worn knuckles before nodding
to Alex and then turning to the child awaiting his
attention.
Sable looked in awe, and Alex felt his heart swell that he
was the cause for that gifting, knowing what it meant to
Sable. The brown eyes reflected a sincere gratitude, and
Alex happily turned aside, seeing the master stand with
his watch.
The minute of silence concluded, and Alex took a portion
of the hash being passed. It was made with the remnants of
last night's beef, but the potatoes and onions were still
firm, and the mushrooms were thick slices in the gravy.
There was a simple bowl of chilled berries and pear slices
with it, and Alex ate heartily despite his nerves.
After he'd cleaned his plate, he turned and saw Sable
waiting for him, the big man smiling gently at the sudden
soft flush.
"Are you ready?"
"I think so. Is there anything I need?"
"Your cloak, it's cooler than yesterday. Money, if you
have some you wish to spend. Nothing else comes to mind."
"I'll get my things."
"Meet me in the master's study when you have them."
Alex thought this odd, and his brow wrinkled, but Sable
was called away before he could ask. Alex fetched his
cloak and his money, tying it well to his belt. He had
been saving the full amount the master allowed, but had
made few other purchases, beyond a small tin dish to feed
the goddess from when she visited his room, and a crock to
store her treats. The bag was fairly heavy, and Alex
wondered, as he knocked on the study door, what he would
need money for.
The master's voice bade him enter, and Alex stepped
inside, finding Sable standing beside the desk, the master
using a tape to measure around his neck.
"Ah, Jade, just have a seat, I'm almost through with
Sable."
Bewildered, Alex watched as Lord Fox picked up a metal
coil, smooth and large, with two holes in the flat tabs at
either end. Sable tilted his chin up a bit higher as Fox
wrapped the coil around his neck, two fingers underneath
checking for fit. A slender lock was threaded through the
now overlapping holes and Fox paused, letting go, the
lock, though still open, holding the collar together.
"Is that alright? Too snug?"
Sable turned his head various ways, then shook his head.
"It's fine, Master."
Satisfied, Fox reached out, picked up a small flat diamond
shape made of hammered copper. It had the master's seal on
it, and Fox threaded it on the lock as well, then clicked
it closed, stepping back to see if it looked right.
"Okay. The new shape works better, it lies flat. Good.
Jade, stand here, please."
Sable had moved aside, and Alex took his place, watching
as Fox picked up the tape. He allowed himself to be
measured, not speaking until the master was picking a
coil.
"Master?" There was hurt in the soft word, and Fox put the
coil down, looking into the green eyes and seeing them
sparkle.
"What is it, little one?"
"You have said I am to share my confusion, my pain before
it turns dark. I-I would not give offense, to you or to
Sable, but if I am to obey, then I must say something to
you."
"Understood, Jade. I will listen with an open heart."
"You always do." Alex said it matter-of-factly, and was
rewarded by seeing his master smile with pleasure.
"I hope so. Now, tell me what troubles you?"
"Master, I would not run, I swear it. I know you cannot
trust me yet, it is my first day away, so your actions
bring me no pain. But, Master, surely you must know Sable
would not part himself from you? Please, Master, can't you
trust him? Do not hurt him this way."
Fox's confusion cleared when the trembling hand touched
the collars on the desk. It was Sable that answered
though, the voice husky with the emotions the young slave
had stirred with his simple words.
"He doesn't hurt me, Jade. It's not lack of faith in me
that makes him collar me. It's his need to protect me."
Alex looked up, seeing on both of their faces that this
was the truth. "I don't understand."
Fox spoke now, his voice gentle if grieved. "Jade, there
is a law that all slaves not on their master's land must
wear a collar, identifying the master's name, and showing
that person to be a slave. These tags show my consent for
you to leave the property, to travel. It shows you have my
permission to be where you are, without me around. But
more than that, it means you belong to me. You are mine,
and not to be trifled with lightly. No one will seek to
steal you or harm you, so long as my tag is on your
collar. The date is pressed in, this was just hammered
today, it is your proof that you are owned and
unavailable. Should trouble arise, you are protected. They
would bring you here if you were hurt or, as a worst case,
should you get into trouble, the village guards would
return you here, for me to deal with, rather than
punishing you themselves. My mark is well known, Jade, as
is my reputation. There has only ever been one slave taken
while wearing my mark, and the men that committed that
crime suffered much more than the slave girl they sought
sport with. I made an example of them, was deliberately
cruel so that no one else would dare ever trifle with that
which is mine."
Fox's voice and face had gone cold and hard, and Sable
reached out, lightly squeezing the back of the stiff neck.
Fox startled almost, and then his features relaxed, the
gentleness returning. He clasped Sable's wrist warmly for
just a moment before moving to get a drink from a near
table. Fox swallowed deeply, and then returned to stand in
front of Alex, picking up the right size coil, and fitting
it around the slender neck in a move that was nearly a
caress.
"So you see, little Jade, this hated and thrice-damned
collar that I fasten with my own hands around your neck,
is my way of ensuring you are not treated as a slave, but
as a person, by people who might otherwise seek to use you
in ways of which I do not approve." The master had
enunciated the last words very clearly, and that old anger
was back on the surface. Nonetheless, his hands were
gentle and careful as they fastened the collar around
Alex's neck.
Once assured of the fit, the master slid a tag on and
clicked the lock. He stood back and eyed the collar as he
had Sable's.
"Good. Now, if there is nothing else?"
"One thing, Master." Alex felt his heart pound, but he
heard that same heart urge him on.
"Yes, Jade?"
Alex sank to his knees, bowing low in front of his master,
knowing it made the man uncomfortable but needing Lord Fox
to know how he felt.
"Thank you, Master. For caring enough to be occasionally
cruel."
The hands, which had reached to stand him up, now paused,
and Alex felt one rest on top of his head.
"You are welcome, my sweet slave."
It was the nearest thing to a genuine endearment Alex had
ever gotten from his master, and it sang through him.
Standing, he saw that the master had a suspicious tremble
to his bottom lip, and before he could stop himself, Alex
had reached out, pressing his own mouth to it.
He froze, horrified at what he'd dared. He'd closed his
eyes, and so he missed the look that passed between Sable
and Fox. It would have reassured him much if he had seen
it. Instead, he only choked out an apology.
"Hush, Jade." The master cut him off, and Alex felt a tear
threaten. A warm hand came up, cupping his cheek, the
thumb brushing at the wetness clinging to Alex's lashes.
"I am not angry. You must not do such again, ever, but I
am not angry with you. Still, it is forbidden, and you
knew this. I'm sorry, Jade, but I must punish."
"Yes, Master." Alex felt as though his heart was breaking.
He watched, tears continuing to spill down his cheeks, as
the master reached for him.
"Moss, please." Sable's voice was low, and pleading.
Fox looked at him for a long moment, hesitating, his
emotions easily read in the depths of his eyes.
Alex saw fear and regret, hope and guilt. "No, Sable. He's
just keeping me safe again."
Alex, unable to stand the guilt in those hazel eyes, had
made the choice for all of them. He unfastened his pants
quickly, and leaned across the desk, his modesty spared by
the long shirt.
"I'm ready, Master."
A single spank, hard and hot, and the master was rubbing
his back.
"Do not forget again, little one."
"No, Master."
He helped Alex stand, quickly re-tying the loose pants,
then pulled the slight form into a tight hug.
"If I could allow it, Jade, I would allow it with you, as
well as with Sable." It was a hurried confession, made to
the top of his head, and then the master bolted from the
room.
Alex looked at Sable dazedly, and the larger man opened
his arms. Alex stepped into the embrace, and both of them
held in silence for many moments.
"Why? Why can't he love us? Why can't he let us love him?"
Alex hadn't meant to ask, but he couldn't hold it back any
longer.
"It's a very long story, and I need permission to tell
much of it. Let me say that he has a very good reason, the
best, and leave it at that for now. If he gives me leave,
I will tell you the whole story one day."
It was good enough, and Alex nodded against the strong
chest.
"How's your backside?"
"Fine. You've swatted me harder in jest. Besides, that's
not where being spanked hurts." It was true, Alex barely
felt an open hand slap to his rear, but his heart would
ache for days after, he knew this.
"Good, because we have some riding to do. That is, if you
still want to go today. I'll understand if you've changed
your mind."
Alex eased back, but carefully remained in the embrace. "I
haven't changed my mind. Have you?"
"No. If anything, I think I want it more."
The frank honesty was offered without apology or shame,
and Alex allowed himself a tremulous hint of a smile.
"Then you shall have it." It might have been a tease, but
it sounded more like a promise to both of them, and Alex
felt the arms tighten around his waist, for just a moment.
"This is very dangerous, isn't it? We play with fire."
Alex said it right into Sable's dark brown eyes, and the
man nodded. "I am learning I would rather burn than be
cold. But I am scared."
"As am I. We should take this slowly, Jade, for all our
sakes." So saying, Sable motioned toward the door with his
head. "Come. I have been waiting a long time for today, I
would not lose it completely to heavy thoughts."
They left, going down the stairs and detouring past the
kitchens. There, Sable picked up a small basket, and Leona
fussed over them for a minute, before sending them off
with a smile.
It lightened their mood, and as they walked to the
stables, Sable reached out, taking Alex's hand with a
small amused twitch of his mouth. Alex was surprised,
professional behavior was always expected. As though
reading his mind, Sable squeezed his hand briefly.
"We are not on duty. It is permitted, so long as we are
discreet, and on our own time."
He led Alex into the stables and secured the cloth wrapped
basket to a hook on the back of his saddle. Alex would
ride Jessopa, the mare was already saddled and ready to
go, having snorted a welcome to Alex as they entered.
Sable was just about to mount up, when Danally entered the
stables. She hopped up on the railing that ran around the
doors of the stalls, and walked it easily until she was
next to Sable.
He eyed her curiously, and she made a very serious "may-
row"-ing in his direction, eyes and face set in stern
lines.
"What?" There was a little belligerence in the tone, and
Alex grinned, knowing that Sable truly didn't want to
believe the cat was more than a convenient way to be rid
of mice.
The goddess was in full righteous mode though, so she
repeated her feline sound of demand, and cut her eyes
toward Alex, then back to Sable.
"Jade, do you sincerely worship her, believe her to be a
goddess?" The belligerence was gone, and Alex saw that
Sable was asking somberly, his jaws twitching slightly,
eyes never blinking in the blue gaze of Danally.
"Yes, I do."
"Very well. Mistress Danally, I assure that my intentions
toward Jade, while not completely pure, are both honorable
and serious. I will do my best not to hurt him, in any
way, and I will attempt to bring him pleasure in every
way. For his sake, I will ask your consent. Have I leave
to court him?"
Sable waited, unable to believe he'd just asked the cat
for her approval. But he knew that it would make Jade feel
better about them, and that was no little thing. Besides,
the young slave was exceptional at accepting the role of
Moss in their conjoined lives, a little understanding on
his own part would only be fair. So, he lowered his head
and eyes and stood calmly, waiting for a reply.
The cat looked him over, then looked at Alex and made a
sound of inquiry.
"Yes, Goddess, I care for him very much."
The words made Sable warm all over, before he heard the
cat sigh and felt, for the first time, her paw touch his
chest. She then leapt down and made her way out of the
barn, permission granted.
"Jade, if you tell anyone that I did that, I'll have you
on mucking duty for a month."
"Yes, Sable." Alex laughed, knowing Sable only said it to
make himself feel better.
"Now, can we please get out of here?" There was almost a
whine to the rich voice, and Alex swung himself into the
saddle with ease.
"Please."
They rode out of the yard at a sedate pace, and Sable led
them to the road.
"Come. It's time you saw the village."
It was a lovely ride, the air crisp with the late fall,
the leaves a riot of color around them, and the road well
maintained.
"The village is called Williamsville, it was named that
when the old master was born. It's an old settlement, the
master's people were the original inhabitants of this
land. It's a nice place, the village guard pays the
Captain to help them maintain their training and
standards. She divides her time between the village and
Samstar Fields, it helps strengthen our own position, and
the master's control of what happens in the village. The
guards are fair, there's no ill treatment, and since the
keep gives so much trade to the village, there's almost
never trouble. It wasn't always that way, of course."
Sable paused, seeming to think for a bit, then gave a
weary sigh.
"No, there is one more thing to get past, then we can
honestly enjoy our day. I would not have you worry
needlessly, nor of the wrong thing. The story the master
told earlier, that happened less than a year after his
father died. The master had sent the girl into town on an
errand, and a few of the bar rabble decided that, with the
old master dead, the new boy was too young to be much
threat. They scared her badly, and one of them raped her,
or rather, tried to. He was too drunk to penetrate, but he
was trying. The others only pawed at her, banged her
around."
"What did the master do?"
"He went down with the Captain, a few of her men, and some
of us. He was cold, cold as the darkest winter ice. I've
only ever seen him that cold and hard twice before. It was
frightening."
Alex reflected on what it would take to frighten Sable,
and shuddered at the thought of a sixteen year old boy
pulling it off.
"He knew who had committed the offense, the girl had known
them by name, and now he strode into the bar without
hesitation. He pointed to each of the three men, and the
Captain and her men quickly escorted them out of the bar.
He led them to town, to the very center, and had them
stripped naked and secured to the posts in a matter of
minutes. He didn't say a word, merely gestured, and
watched, never taking his eyes off of them, no emotion on
his face. When they were ready, he held out his hand, and
the Captain handed him a whip. It was the only time I've
ever seen him use one, and I was shocked when he proved
quite the expert. He laid on the lashes like a slaver
twice his age, striking with such skill, he was able to
whip them for a long time before they were in real danger.
Once the other two had passed out, he had them cut down
and taken away. That left the last man, the one that had
tried to rape the girl. He hadn't been whipped as hard as
the others, and now we saw why.
"The master made a motion, and the man was cut down,
turned around and re-tied. He was begging and pleading,
but Lord Fox ignored it, just shook out the whip and went
back to work, whipping the man's front this time. When the
front was well striped, Lord Fox changed it again, for a
crop. He whipped the man's organ with it, the organ and
the sack, again, very carefully, inflicting god's own
pain, but no damage. The man passed out twice, and each
time, Lord Fox had him revived, and whipped him again. The
third time, Lord Fox let him be. He turned then, looking
at the stunned villagers, and spoke for the first time.
"'I hold to what is mine. I am jealous and wrathful. If it
is mine, it is mine alone. Just as my slaves reflect on me
by their behavior, so does your treatment of them tell how
you would treat me. Never forget it. I will not.'
"He left then, without another word. There hasn't been any
real trouble since. Once in a while, a visitor will see
one of the slaves, try to take advantage, but they're
warned quickly enough. Originally, it was fear that kept
us safe. Now, it's respect and care for the master. They
know he won't hesitate to act, and act fully, but they
also know him to be kind and fair."
Sable, glad the last unpleasantness had been dealt with,
turned to Alex with a smile.
"And now, we may speak of other things, and the first
thing I would like to say, is that your hair becomes you,
Jade."
Alex was a bit embarrassed, but pleased at the sudden
change in topic. "Thank you, Sable. I had hoped you would
find it so. And now, a question. Why did I need money?"
"Well, while it's true that Leona packed us provision,
it's also true that they have different things to eat and
drink for sale. There's also one place I'd like to show
you, where you might have the urge to spend your coin, but
that's a surprise, so you'll simply have to wait and see.
I'm also going to be doing some shopping, with your
indulgence. It'll only take a while, and then we will be
on our way again."
"We're going somewhere besides the village?" Alex was
surprised, not expecting to be allowed so far, so soon.
"Yes. Not much further, but a bit. There is a place I wish
to show you. We will spend the most of our time there."
"Do you always plan so many surprises for your
companions?" Alex was excited, but curious as well.
"No. Only for very special people and unusual occasions.
In the future, when our off day consists of me lazing
about with my head on your lap, please remember that I was
once romantic and thoughtful."
"I like the sound of that."
"Of what?"
"You lazing with your head on my lap. I would get to touch
your scalp."
It brought a flush, but Sable liked the comment, he could
tell.
"Hmmm, you've been hanging about Thomas overmuch. You're
learning how to flirt."
Alex laughed brightly, and they began to ride in earnest.
It didn't take long for them to reach the village, and
Alex enjoyed the ride. They were able to make
conversation, the pace leisurely, and as they chatted
about nothing in particular, Alex thought again how odd it
all was. He was on a horse with provisions and money. He
was riding with a man he thought he might love, and they
were free, for the day. Granted, it was freedom with a
locked collar about his neck, but freedom nonetheless.
"You've gone quiet. Something wrong?"
"No, just thinking how strange this is. Good, but strange.
I-I don't remember ever having a day to myself, not until
I came to Samstar Fields. The first off day, I was almost
afraid to leave my room. I thought I might get into
trouble, without someone to tell me what to do. Finally,
Thomas came looking for me. We played chess, and he stayed
the afternoon with me."
"He's been a good friend to you. He's a good lad, I'm
going to miss him when he's gone."
"When does he leave?"
"Not for quite a while, nearly summer."
Relieved, Alex noticed that they had come around a bend,
and were now entering the village gates. He saw the guards
by the gate, and felt his stomach clench. He pulled his
cloak more tightly around him, drawing the hood further
onto his face. Alex doubted that the guards would be ones
he'd known before, but there was no need to take a chance.
A quick glance showed that Sable had caught his
nervousness, and put it down to the newness.
"It's okay, Jade. They'll look at your tag, and we'll
enter, nothing more."
Sure enough, the guards approached, greeting Sable warmly,
by name. They still checked his tag, and Alex's, but then
waved them on through. Alex sighed his relief, unable to
stop a shudder.
"Jade?"
There was concern in Sable's voice, and Alex gave him a
nodding smile, letting him know everything was well.
"Let's stable the horses, and I'll show you around." Sable
led them to a stable that was more than decent, and soon
the horses were settled in nicely.
Alex was a bit surprised when Sable again took his hand.
"Is it safe?"
"Yes. This town is now one of the most tolerant you will
find. Many of the places are run by couples of same
gender. No one cares, not here, there is a good deal of
fairy blood here, it makes for tolerance."
Relieved, Alex gladly let his hand be tucked into Sable's
larger one. It was reassuring, and soon he relaxed enough
to be aware of the sounds and sights around him.
Sable bought an ale first off, both of them thirsty from
the ride. He bought one for Alex as well, refusing his
coin, and explaining that, as the one that had asked, it
was his duty. Alex looked doubtful, but he accepted this
as true, and he drank the light ale with pleasure. It
wasn't strong, Sable had assured him of that, but Alex was
so unused to alcohol, that he felt the warmth spread
through his entire body.
They walked through the square, looking at this stall and
that. When they came to a lace vendor, Alex suddenly
stopped them.
"Sable, Marita has been most kind. That scarf, it reminds
me of her. Would it be permitted for me to gift her? Would
that be rude or offend her in some way? I only mean to say
thanks."
"That would be very nice, Jade. And you're right, it does
look like her. She'll be most pleased."
"Will you help me, with the price? I do not know the value
of some things yet. Most things."
"Of course. I will squeeze your hand if the price is too
high. You then offer one lower, by about a third. When the
price is good, I will tap your hand."
Alex took a deep breath, and stepped up. He began to
bargain, another first. Finally, he felt the tap, and
accepted the price. Opening his pouch, he carefully
counted out the coins, and then took the scarf, rolled and
tied in a muslin square.
"That is my first purchase, aside from things I have
bought at Samstar Fields. Never did I think to have money,
yet alone enough to spend on another, for something as
unnecessary as lace. It feels good, Sable, so very good."
Alex turned his face up to Sable, green eyes sharp with
the vividness of being alive, honestly alive. He wore a
pleading look, willing Sable to understand, and the big
man did, knew too well how it must all seem to him.
The hand Sable placed on the side of Alex's face turned to
a thumb caressing a finely etched cheekbone. That led to
Sable leaning down, slowly, drawing closer and closer,
until his mouth touched, covering Alex's trembling lips
with his own. It wasn't a long kiss, was almost chaste,
but the connection between the two men was set in an
instant.
Alex felt himself quicken like a babe in the womb, his
heart pounding, but with no more fear. No, something new
and different was coiling in his belly, something that
licked at him with warm breath. Desire. Alex wanted Sable.
For the first time as an adult, he felt honest desire,
wanted to touch and be touched. It was the first time in
his adult life he could remember feeling such. He had a
hunger for Sable.
Alex let it show, not shielding his emotions when the
stablemaster leaned back. He was relieved to see an
answering hunger in the dark depths, but Sable only gave
his cheekbone a final caress and then deliberately stepped
away, holding out his hand. Alex took it, and they walked
in quiet companionship.
A few vendors later, and Sable stopped them, heading for a
shop across the street. He opened the door with a
mischievous twinkle, and Alex entered cautiously. The
caution was soon replaced by greed. It was a baker's, and
Alex peered longingly at the sweets lying on the trays,
protected from the few cold weather flies by netting.
"Is it alright?"
"Of course, why wouldn't it be?"
"Leona says I have a tooth for sweets. She says it isn't
healthy to have too much."
"That's true for everyday, Jade, and it's good you heed
her advice. But this is a special occasion. Get yourself
something, you can indulge, a little."
Alex looked like a child at Christmas, and soon had
purchased a honey-laden cream roll and a small berry tart
with more cream and a thick lemon glaze. Sable bought a
cream roll, and they ate them on the street, walking and
savoring. A cup of hot tea at another stall, and they were
ready to keep looking.
"Oh, wait. Now, you remember the store I told you was a
surprise? It's before us now, so close your eyes." Alex
felt a bit unsure, but trusted Sable. He obeyed, and Sable
led him to the window, then said, "Open."
Lettering on the window, in a bright white paint,
proclaimed the shop to be "Xanthe's Books and
Manuscripts", but it was the inside of the shop that drew
his eyes. Books, laid on the scarlet cloth, their pages
open to show the illustrations. More books on the shelves
lining the wall. Vellum, inks and inkwells, fine boards of
slate and quills of all styles.
Sable, seeing that his companion was more than willing to
spend the day staring from the outside, laughed and opened
the door, leading him inside. Alex was stunned. There were
more books here than he'd ever seen in one place, and the
vellum drew his hand. He spent a long time examining every
shelf, and Sable watched him with gentle amusement. It
thrilled him to see the younger man so happy, so lost in
himself.
The shopkeeper had started to approach him, but had
retreated back behind the counter when Sable shook his
head. He wanted Alex to look his fill. Finally, Alex
turned around, blinking owlishly, as though he'd been
lost.
"I was right, you do like this store."
"Sable, it's amazing!" Alex was aware he was whispering,
though he wasn't sure why. "I've never seen so many books,
and the vellum! Is...is it all very expensive?"
His teeth came out, worrying his bottom lip, and Sable
stroked the pad of his thumb across it, urging him to
release it.
"I'm not sure, to be honest. The master shops here far
more than I do. But see the woman behind the counter? She
will answer your questions, and be kind as she does it."
Alex took a deep breath, and moved hesitantly toward the
counter. The lady smiled, she'd seen the awe in his eyes
and found it refreshing to think of selling to someone
that appreciated the books, and didn't simply require a
new symbol of status.
"May I be of some help?"
"Yes, um, the, um, vellum and...and quills." Alex heard
the faint stutter and cursed himself for it, but he was
shaking and couldn't help himself.
"Ah, yes. No doubt you're seeking a gift for a young man
just learning his letters. I think I have something that
would be right for someone just struggling with the ink.
Follow me, please."
Alex, relieved that she was making it easy for him,
followed her to a shelf in the corner.
"This is the University set, it's a common gift for boys
seeking to better themselves. It has vellum of an
acceptable grade for practice, as well as three higher
quality sheets. There is also a solid quill base and two
extra quills. The inkwell is simple but solid, and the ink
a grade above practice. It's a good basic beginner's set.
I've sold many of them, and more to Lord Fox's people than
I care to say."
The twinkle in her eye said she knew plainly that the set
was for him, and Alex darted a quick glance to Sable. The
man was only smiling, and Alex knew he was being teased.
"Yes, I think you must. Um, how...how much does it cost?"
"It's a fair price, more fair for some."
With Sable's eyes guiding him, Alex began to bargain
again, stopping when Sable made a motion with one hand. As
she moved around the counter, she looked with some humor
at Sable, lounging against a wall, looking large in the
small room.
"You bargain like one long used to such trades. One would
think you a horse dealer or some such, young friend."
Sable laughed aloud, and moved to stand next to Alex,
placing one hand on a slender shoulder.
"Jade here is a fine horseman, it's very shrewd of you to
pick up on his talent."
"I'd pick up more than talent, should you wish." She
winked broadly, and Alex felt a quiver of anger run
through him, taking him off guard.
"He's mine." It was a flat statement, and Sable and the
lady both looked at him with wide eyes. "I-I meant, h-he's
with me, now, to-today."
Completely undone by the spike of emotion, and frightened
that he'd said something very wrong, Alex did the only
thing he could think of that would make it better. He
turned his face into Sable's chest, clinging tightly.
"I'm sorry." It was a whisper, but they both heard him.
"Here, little one, no harm has been done. Come now, head
up again, let me see those lovely eyes. That's it."
Alex, in an attempt to atone, dutifully raised his head.
"You did nothing wrong, young friend. Now, come, I've a
small gift for you, do you show you've forgiven me for my
offense. See here? It is an ink powder. Mix it with a bit
of wine, and you'll have a fine practice ink, and plenty
of it. One pinch of powder to a cup of wine." She dropped
it into his bundle, and Alex stepped forward.
"Thank you."
He managed a wavery smile, and she smiled back.
"You are welcome, and I hope I will see you here again in
the future. I like to sell my things to those that love
them."
Alex made a small bow, aware that she was a lady of some
station, and they left.
Once outside, he gave a large sigh of relief, then looked
to Sable.
"How bad was I?" It was an honest question, and Sable
answered it with the gravity it required.
"It was a slip, granted. And, in the wrong place, to the
wrong people, it could have gone badly. Besides, as a
slave, it's not your right to claim anyone."
The words cut into Alex, though he'd known the depth of
his sin, in that regard.
"I'm sorry, Sable. I'll tell the master tonight.
Unless...unless you think we should go back now."
"No. You've had enough trouble for one day. He shouldn't
have spanked you earlier, the lesson was already learned,
he only acted out of his own fear. I'm not saying to keep
this from our Master, I would never encourage that. I only
tell you that, to my mind, you've been punished enough to
cover it. If you choose to let this be between us, and you
could, Jade, without guilt or wrong doing, he will not
know, not from me."
Alex bit his lip, confused and troubled.
"Jade, let it be. Enough seriousness for the day. There
are still things you must learn, still things to be
settled, but not today. This is meant to be a day of rest,
of fun, and you've had little enough of those in your
life, I'd wager. Now, you have done well, Jade, very well.
It's enough for today. I'm going to use my rank as senior
slave and forbid you to think of anything serious for the
rest of the day. Is that clear?"
Alex looked into the face of this man that was trying so
hard to show him a brighter path, and he saw that Sable's
pleasure would only come with his own. Besides, the man
was right, he could think of all these things later, when
he had nothing but the night and the goddess. All would be
well by morning.
"Yes, sir. Nothing but light and fun."
"Good. Now kiss me, and let's be done in town."
Alex blushed, just a hint of warm pink, but he held up his
face, lifting his lips to Sable's in another brief touch.
Taking his hand again, they began to walk back toward the
stables.
Alex felt better as soon as they headed away from town. It
had been more of a strain than he'd realized, going among
so many people, away from the safety of Samstar Fields.
How far he'd come, when home and the master meant safety,
and the thought of not being owned by Lord Fox could bring
him such dread.
But now, now they were alone again, and Alex could
breathe, could hear the birds and the sound of Jessopa
moving beneath him, the rhythm of her hooves on the hard
ground calming.
"Better?"
"Yes. And you?"
"I was only concerned for you, Jade. I'm fine. And now, I
think it's time we had a little lunch. We're nearly there,
just a bit further, around this bend."
They made the curve, and Alex gasped. There, sprawled in
front of them, lay the most beautiful lake he'd ever seen.
A small rook tumbled into it, and the splashing sent up
plumes of rainbow colors in the fall sun. The sound was a
melodic gurgle and the grasses and trees around it were
lush, despite the lateness of the year.
"It's beautiful! I've never seen a place so lovely."
Alex was still sitting on his horse, just staring, and he
felt a light pat on his thigh. Looking down, he saw
Sable's hands out to his waist, and Alex moved
instinctively, putting his hands on the broad shoulders
and letting Sable lift him down. The bigger man made no
move to release him, and Alex turned in the subtle
embrace. Sable's hands were still at his waist, but Alex
could lean back against his chest, resting his own hands
over Sable's.
They simply stood and looked for a long moment, then Sable
placed a kiss on Alex's head, and turned to his
saddlebags. He handed Alex a couple of blankets and took
the basket himself. Sable led them to a clear wide spot
under a sprawling tree. The branches came down like a
canopy, leaves of gold and russet filtering the light
above, the lake and its beauty spread before them.
Alex shook out the blankets, and Sable knelt with the
basket, beginning to unload it.
"Shall we see what Leona has packed for us? If I know her,
it'll be a full meal, despite the fact that I only asked
for a lunch basket."
"She makes food if you ask?"
"If you pay her for the goods and time, plus a small
profit, she will make what you ask, yes. The kitchens must
make a profit, they drain the most of our resources. The
kitchen girls will take on extra work for spending money,
they get a share, but the rest is profit, and helps keep
us all fed."
Alex eyed the bundles coming out of the basket with
interest. He was hungry, and ready to rest for a while.
"Ah, she's done right by us. We have savory pies, cheese,
pears and small sweet cakes. A jug of wine and one of
ale."
They divided the food, and after the moment of silence,
settled in to eat. It was delicious, the meat and
vegetable pies in their sauce always one of Alex's
favorites. They ate without much conversation between
them, but the mood was pleasant. When the last crumb had
been savored and the jugs drained, Alex lay back on the
blankets, looking up at the leaves swaying above him.
He felt the blanket shift, and Sable settled next to him,
not touching him, just lying close beside him, sharing the
view. The wind gusted, and Alex drew his cloak more
tightly around him. A moment later, a blanket was being
spread over him, and he smiled at the care.
"Warm enough?"
"I could be warmer." It was as bold as he dared be, and he
had to lower his eyes for a moment to say the words, but
he meant them.
Sable moved to lie next to him again, and then he was
propping on one elbow, looking down over Alex.
"We have to take this slowly, Jade. I may want nothing
more than to make love to you for hours, but it's too soon
for that."
"Is it too soon for you to hold me, as we lie here?"
"No. It's not too soon for that at all. Would you like
that?"
"Please."
Sable lay back, and Alex turned onto his side, his head
pillowed on Sable's shoulder, the strong arms around him.
Alex was being held the way he'd held Fitz, and now he
found the comfort Fitz had spoken of. He could smell the
clean scent of Sable, a touch of roses clinging to him
yet. It made Alex smile.
"You smell like roses."
"And you smell like honey and spice."
"Fitz made it for me. He said it would suit me."
"He was right. He made mine, too. He said it was only
natural to have roses where you'd normally have manure."
Alex couldn't help it, he laughed. Fortunately, he could
feel Sable's own laughter moving him, heard and felt the
soft sounds.
"Did he pick the master's scent, too?"
"No. He told me he only tried to copy the scent that was
already there. That clean, dry warmth."
"Laundry on the line in the sun."
"Then brought into the library and left for a week."
Alex turned his head slightly, looking more fully into
Sable's face. "So, you don't mind that I love him, too."
"Everybody loves the master, one way or another. He isn't
perfect, and there are times I get incredibly angry with
him, but I'd forgive him anything. I don't mind that you
love him, too. And I also don't mind that he's in love
with you. That's a new one. He's never loved anybody like
this but me before, not really. But it doesn't bother me.
How could it, when I love the both of you?"
Alex nodded, eyes growing thoughtful and dark.
"Oh no, you don't." Sable sounded firm, but Alex's quick
glance showed him only pretending to be stern. "I told you
no more heavy thoughts, and I meant it. I can see I'll
have to resort to force."
So saying, Sable reached down, his fingers finding Alex's
ribs, and tickling.
"What are" Alex, having never been tickled, wasn't ready
for the laughter that began to burst out of him, but he
gave into it easily enough. He tried to roll away, but
Sable was leaning over him now, and tenuously pinning him
to the ground.
Finally, after many breathless moments, Sable stopped and
merely held Alex close to him. Alex, still weak from
laughing, only cuddled like a child, nuzzling close.
They watched the leaves, listened to the birds, and slowly
drifted to sleep.
|
Title: Moss, Sable and Jade Chapters Three, Four & Five Author: Raven Email: raven@aeneas.net Pairing: As far as pairings go, there will be Sk/K, Sk/M, K/O, K/M, K/M/Sk and maybe some other assorted variations. Rating: NC-17 Author's Notes: While vaguely medieval in nature and setting, this does not take place in any known time or place. It is full of anachronisms at every turn from material things and manners of speech to philosophies that simply were not present in the real Middle Ages. Also, while this is a slave fic and carries some dire warnings, there are very few graphic scenes in this fic. This is not a typical slave fic in that it is ultimately about goodness, healing, hope and love. There may be more dark scenes before the work is completed, but right now, you will find very little of that sort of thing here. It is not a dark piece, nor a harsh story, so don't let the category "slave fic" mislead you. There is nothing wrong with that kind of story at all, I'm simply warning you that this isn't one of them. Additional Author's Notes: This is a work-in-progress. Please be aware that I do not work on this story very often. It has taken over a year to get it to this point, it may take another year before it is complete. It is my pet project and I am writing it solely to please myself, therefore I only work on it when the mood, timing and setting are just right. That doesn't happen very often, I can promise. It's not a matter of inspiration or feedback, it's a question of loving a private world in my own head and playing there selectively, to keep it special. So, if you really, really, really need to know what happens next and just can't wait...please, do us both a favor and don't read it until it's done. [g] Warnings: Slave fic. Angst. References to non-consensual behaviors. Violence. References to Torture. Oh, yeah, and Angst. Summary: Alex is a slave, but his new home and master are unlike anything he's ever known. Disclaimer: The characters within these stories belong to Fox, 1013, et al. There is no profit made or intended from these stories, and they should be considered as being for entertainment purposes only. |
[Stories by Author] [Stories by Title] [Mailing
List] [Gallery] [Links] [Resources] [Home]