My Story Bits and Ramblings

Adora betraying slaves

2018-05-10T19:07:00.003-04:00

The next two days were a blur, with someone waking her up, making her eat something then she fell back to sleep again. Finally after a week, Adora was able to stay awake for several hours at a time and sat up on her mat. The room was empty. The slaves had already left for their chores. She heard a key unlocking the only door to the slave’s quarters and she tried to stand up, but the room tilted sharply and she decided to stay seated. Lord Nicholas walked in and the guard outside the door closed it behind him. Adora tried once more to stand, but was forced onto her butt again. “Relax, Adora. I won’t be here long. Since a slave is not worth much if they are not in good health, you will stay here to heal until I say, then you will be sold.” He paused to let his words sink in, then frowned, apparently disappointed his words didn’t have an effect on her. “You will be sold as a common slave…”
    Adora interrupted, “Now just a minute…” Adora was slammed against the wall and pinned there. She didn’t notice the stone in his hand when he came in. He placed his hand on her neck and squeezed just enough to get her attention. “You don’t deserve to be sold as a trained slave. You attacked me and now you can’t cast magic - not that you could cast very well to begin with.” He paused a moment, “The only thing you have going for you now is your ability to shift. Hmm, maybe I’ll sell you as a pet.” Adora jerked but her father squeezed his hand which stilled her again. “You will be sold at the international market so I won’t have to see you for some time.” He waved his hand and she fell to the floor, then struggled to get on her knees.
    “Father, may I ask a question?”
    He let the silence extended while he considered. Finally he answered, “Go ahead.”
    “Thank you, Father. How long will you sell me for?”
    “A year for starters, then we will see after that.” He started to turn away, then stopped. “Oh, and I’m sure I don’t have to tell you not to mention that I took your magic away?”
    “No, Father.”
    “Good. I’ll be back to check on you later this week.” He left. Adora sighed and sat down on her mat, looking at her hands. No magic. Well, I guess that’s not so bad. Like he said, I couldn’t cast worth a flip anyway. She still felt loss. How did I do that magical blast? Adora shook her head and fell back to sleep.
    The key in the lock woke her a while later and Adora sat up while the slaves were coming back for the night. They were talking amongst themselves and so didn’t notice Adora right away, but when they did, word got around quickly and the talking stopped. The girls spread out and surrounded Adora while an older women, Hanna, walked up to Adora with a sneer. “Well, well. Look who’s finally awake. It’s the mighty Adora. What are you doing here? Did daddy feel you needed to spend time with us poor slaves? To see what it’s like?” Hanna had her balled fists on her hips as she looked down at Adora.
    Adora slowly stood, only weaving a little when she was fully upright. She returned Hanna’s cold stare, “I’ve told you before, Hanna, I am as much a slave as you. And contrary to what you want to believe, my father Lord Nicholas, hates me.”
    Hanna narrowed her eyes, “You are nothing like us,” she said. “You are highly trained and you get to come and go as you please. I’ve seen you when I am working and I’ve caught glimpses of you in the training room. Don’t tell me you are a slave. That’s a lie.” Hanna shoved Adora who lost her balance and fell. Adora launched herself at Hanna and punched her in the nose before getting dizzy and falling to her knees. Blood poured from Hanna’s nose and she backed up, screaming. Shit. {Father you’ll want to send a healer here. Quickly please.} Adora stood and walked over to Hanna saying, “Here. Let me help you.” Hanna shot her a hateful look and swatted her hands away. Adora shook her head and sat back down.
    Just a moment later, the door unlocked and Lord Nicholas stormed in with a healer close behind him. “What happened?” He bellowed and looked at Adora. Adora was already on her knees and bowed her head. She guessed the healer just finished with Hanna, because the woman stopped crying and everyone fell silent. “Now then,” Lord Nicholas said again, “Adora, what happened?”
    Adora stood and didn’t look at Hanna. “Hanna started a fight with me and…”
    “That’s not true, master! She…” Hanna began, but Lord Nicholas shut her up with a look, then returned his attention to Adora. “I’ll remind you to not start fights with my slaves, Adora. You are only here a short time, so I suggest you make the most of it. Without your magic, you should fit in with them quite nicely,” he said. Adora clenched her jaw repeatedly and balled her fists when her father turned and left the room. The healer followed him out the door.
    Hanna gave Adora a smug look then went to her own mat. Adora sighed and laid down, trying to ignore the girls talking together softly. Thankfully, she fell asleep pretty quickly. Sometime during the night Adora opened her eyes and, unable to fall back to sleep, listened. Her heart sank when she heard some of the slaves still talking. This late, there is only one thing they could still be talking about. Father would know if I tried to ignore them. He would know if I warned them. I have no choice. Her stomach knotted, but she listened and soon recognized the voices and sure enough they were talking of escape. Adora listened to their whole plan until they concluded and finally went to sleep. Adora closed her eyes and felt her tears falling on her pillow. Damn you father. I will see you in hell. She fell into a fitful sleep and woke up in the morning unrested.
    Adora stood next to her mat with the other slaves when the door was again unlocked. Nicholas came in to inspect them and stopped in front of her. Looking her over he asked her, “I will expect a full days work from you if you leave this room with them. Understand?” She nodded, “Yes, father.” He nodded in return and told them all the rooms they would be responsible for, then he turned to leave. I have to tell him, but Hanna will know I listened last night. She will blame me. Adora bowed her head and clenched her hands. Father will do worse than take my magic away if I don’t tell him. Nicholas was 10 steps away from the door. Tell him. No. You have no choice. Tell him. Five steps. Adora opened to mouth but no words came out. Now his hand was on the door. “Father,” Adora said and he stopped but didn’t turn around.
    “It’s about time,” he said. “It was almost too late, my dear.”
    Adora stared at him. “Wait, so you already know?”
    He turned and grinned at her surprise, “Of course, but why don’t you tell me anyway.”
    “I don’t see why I should since you already know…” she began, then dropped screaming in pain. The pain stopped and she struggled to her feet. I really need to stop doing that.
    “Why don’t you humor me, my dear.”
    Adora couldn’t bring herself to condemn them, but when her father’s hand started twitching around his stone, she dropped her head and forced the words. “Hanna and some others were talking of escape last night.”
    “You bitch!” Hanna yelled and launched herself at Adora. Adora easily avoided her, tripping her as she moved past. The woman jumped up again, but then Lord Nicholas said, “Stop!” Hanna and Adora froze.
    “Adora, bring them all here in front of me.”
    Adora gaped at her father. {Father, couldn’t I just tell you their names?}
    “Now,” he answered.
    Adora nodded, stood straighter and walked up to each girl involved, Hanna last, bringing them before her father. Some cried, others begged, but all of them wished Adora the fires of Hell with their eyes. Adora pushed down and buried her feelings, ignoring the girls as best as she could then moved back to her own mat. The 5 girls knelt in front of Lord Nicholas who smiled and turned to speak to the door guard quietly. The guard left and a moment later, Flagg entered the room and the 5 girls moaned. Nicholas chuckled, “I see you remember my slave trainer. Good. Then I’m sure you will understand when I tell you he hates to re-train slaves.” Lord Nicholas looked from one girl to the next and they slowly lowered their foreheads to the floor. The girls soft cries could be easily heard. Lord Nicholas continued, “And I refuse to have my reputation as a man who has extremely obedient slaves be ruined by 5 children grasping for what they cannot have. This is your last chance. You try this again, and I won’t punish you. I won’t sell you.” He paused until their crying lessened and he was sure they could hear him. “I will kill you. Now, get out of my sight.” A few guards approached and escorted the women out of the room, following Flagg. Then he dismissed the rest of us to our chores.
    Adora stood to the side until the others had left and it was just the two of them. She knelt, “Father, may I ask a question?”
    “About the Shifter?”
    “Yes, Father. May I see her before I am sold?”
    He again let the silence hang there, but Adora was used to his games so she waited. “No. You will not. I am training her myself and…” he stopped and chuckled at Adora’s sudden look of dismay.
    “You’re training her, father?” Adora said and she found she couldn’t breathe.
    Lord Nicholas affected an innocent look, “Is that a problem, my dear?”
    Adora lowered her eyes again, “No father. It’s just that,” she paused, looking for the appropriate words. “I feel sorry for her.”
    Lord Nicholas laughed, thoroughly pleased and walked out of the room. Adora followed after him and found the other slaves.

*******

Nicholas' New Purchase

2018-05-10T18:59:00.000-04:00

Adora turned and made her way to the auction block. The crowd in front of her was thick and the auction was just about to start. Adora maneuvered through the crowd until she was in the middle and closer to the stage. “It’s about time you got here,” an all too familiar voice said. Adora sighed and turned around. Lord Nicholas stood there, frowning at her as usual. “Good afternoon, father,” Adora said. He only dipped his head in greeting then returned his attention to the stage. Since he is here, he will likely take over. Sure enough, when the auctioneer started, her father began bidding. Adora stood next to him, suddenly bored. She began looking around at the other bidders in the crowd. There were several that she recognized, having been temporarily sold to them in the past. Others in the crowd she only knew from them visiting her father about various business. Then she saw a face that made her smile. Michael was a few feet behind her, and when he saw her, he smiled a little and winked. The bidding seemed to last forever, but Adora noticed her father didn’t bid too often. He must be looking for something specific this time.
    {Adora, you might want to pay more attention to the stage.} Lord Nicholas said and chuckled in her mind. Adora rolled her eyes at looked at who was on stage. She gasped and stared.
    “We have something extra special for all of you this afternoon,” the auctioneer said. Standing near him was a jaguar in a cage. It was crouched and hissing, with it’s ears flat against it’s head. The auctioneer laughed, “She is a spirited one.” He looked out over the crowd. “I know what you are thinking. When did we begin selling animals?” He laughed again, “Not to worry, my friends, there is a reason this cat is up here and she is for sale.” The auctioneer nodded to a man standing a little behind him who pulled out a ruby and pointed to the jaguar. Within moments, the jaguar seemed to shrink a little, her fur disappeared and her muzzle shorted until a young woman was on her hands and knees, fully clothed, in the cage. The crowd gasped. He forced her to shift, Adora realized. “That’s right, gentlemen,” the auctioneer said. “She is a shifter. She was the only one the Harvesters could capture and I know I’ve never seen or heard of anything like her around here before.” The woman stood and glared at the crowd.
    Lord Nicholas immediately began bidding and Adora looked at him, whispering, “No.” Her father stared hard at her and she swallowed, looking away, but she couldn’t let it go. {Please father. Don’t do this. You can’t.}
    {I will do anything I please, Adora. You forget your place and will be punished when we get home. But I will have her. After all, you are the only other one for miles around.} He laughed out loud and continued the bidding. The bidding continued, but competitors quickly dropped out as the amounts went to unheard of levels. Finally, there were only two still in the running. Adora looked around for whomever could compete with Lord Nicholas. Her heart lifted when she saw it was Michael. Oh please let him win, she prayed to no one. Eventually, the time came and Michael shook his head, dropping out of the auction. “Congratulations, Lord Nicholas! Well done!” The auctioneer said and bowed to him.

*******

    After the auction, Nicholas stood by the Shifter’s cage and just watched her. The spell cast on her earlier had worn off so she was a jaguar again. The cat had her ears back and her haunches were up and she was having a staring contest with Lord Nicholas. Adora stood several feet behind her father and watched the shifter. Her heart ached to free her, but she knew there was no way she could. Michael came up next to her and whispered, “I’m sorry Adora. I tried to win her.” She simply nodded. She had to admit, though, she was curious about this shifter. I have never met another shifter like me.
    “Adora,” her father suddenly spoke up. “Come here.”
    She swallowed and went to stand next to him. He motioned to the shifter, “Go near her cage. I want to see what happens.” She stared at him, unbelieving. He swung his hand at her head, but she ducked just in time, and quickly made her way to the cage. With each footstep, the jaguar crouched lower and hissed softly. A breeze blew from behind her and suddenly the jaguar stopped hissing and her ears began twitching, as if she was confused. Adora stopped just out of paw reach should the jaguar choose to attack and they just looked at each other. {Move forward, girl,} Father mentally commanded her. Adora’s heart was pounding and she certainly didn’t want to, but fear of extra punishment spurred her on. She took a small step inside the jaguar’s threat area, but the woman didn’t react. Another breeze stirred Adora’s hair and the jaguar sat up and both her ears were forward. She took another step and Adora was now close enough for the jaguar to bite her. The jaguar seemed to relax a little.
    Then the jaguar looked past Adora and instantly, she crouched and snarled. Adora turned around and her father had begun to slowly step forward. He stopped and smiled. “Just as I thought. Adora, come here.” Once again, Adora stood by his side. “She recognizes you by your smell and therefore was not threatened.” He chuckled, “But when I approached…” He let his thought hang in the air, and there was something wrong with what he said, but before Adora could figure out what it was, his guards approached. They were driving a flat-bed wagon. They hopped off the wagon and bowed to Lord Nicholas.
    “Excellent,” Lord Nicholas said, “I see my messenger didn’t waste any time. Use those poles to put this cage on the wagon. And be very careful with its contents. She bites.” The guards carefully put the poles through the holders attached to the cage without getting too close to the jaguar, lifted her up and set her in the back of the wagon. In moments they were gone and Adora was once again alone with her father. Her stomach knotted as she looked at him. A slow smile spread across his face as he reached into a pouch and pulled out his diamond. Adora’s heart beat faster and she took a step backwards before she could stop herself. He lashed out and grabbed her arm in a vice grip. “I believe, my dear, you have some punishment coming to you,” he whispered and his eyes sparkled. “What kind of pain should it be this time? Throbbing? Searing?” He paused, “Or maybe something else altogether?” He probed her mind, then laughed out loud. “Oh! That is perfect! What a great idea, Adora. Let’s go home.” He pocketed his gem, turned and walked away.
    Extremely puzzled, Adora followed him to his awaiting carriage, climbed inside and they were quickly on their way. What the hell did he find in my mind? What is he going to do? She remembered him telling her once, ‘The anticipation of an act is worse than the act itself.’ And he was right. At least so far. She felt fidgety the short trip home and it didn’t help that every time he looked at her, he chuckled. As soon as they got home, he dismissed her. She went to her room, but couldn’t rest. She just kept pacing the floor. Finally, Adora decided to go to the training room.
    Her heart lifted as she entered it, her only favorite room in this hell of a manor. She didn’t know how he created it but anything she could imagine became reality. She closed her eyes and imagined an obstacle course with enough activity to keep her mind off my father and perhaps even the poor Shifter. She ran through the course several times, trying again from the beginning each time she fell, until she could finally reach the end in one pass. Adora was bruised and exhausted, but she felt good. But her stomach quickly knotted again once she left the room. She took a bath and went to bed.

*******

Adora before The Council

2018-05-10T18:41:00.001-04:00

Adora tested her bonds once more, but it was the same. The rope was biting into her wrists. The guards certainly know how to tie a knot. She rolled her shoulders, trying to ease the throbbing. How long are they going to keep me kneeling here? Even her legs were starting to tingle.

“Well, Adora? Are you going to answer us?”

Adora looked up into the woman’s face and sighed, “No.”

The woman shook her head and turned to the other Council members. As they softly talked amongst themselves, Adora studied the woman. It’s hard to believe we’re related. The woman had the slightly pointed ears and thin build of the half-elves. Finally they turned back to face Adora, each one leaning forward to look down from their raised dais. The woman spoke again, her soft voice full of authority. “Adora, you have some very serious charges against you today. Do you understand?”

Adora rolled her eyes then stared at the marble floor. I’m not a fucking three year old. One of the guards prodded her with his staff and Adora grunted as low electricity ran through her. Yes, let’s play this idiotic game. “Yes, Alia, I…” Adora began but finished off screaming in pain as the guard hit her with a stronger bolt of lightening from his staff.

Alia’s jaw flexed, and she took a deep breath before speaking with exaggerated patience. “Every time you come before us, Adora, we must remind you to show the proper respect. You will call me Councilwoman Alia.” She paused to let Adora consider the consequences. “Now, since you said you understand why you are here yet again, would you please repeat the charges against you.”

Adora stared at a spot on the floor while her heartbeat slowed. Without looking up, she said, “I am accused of using an unregistered diamond, breaking into Lord Banos’ home by magical means, killing at least one guard with magic and stealing a jeweled necklace.”

“Which she hasn’t returned yet!” Lord Banos said, his arms crossed.

Adora chuckled and was granted another dose of the electric staff. I will kill that damned guard the next time I see him alone.

Alia’s lips tightened as she stood and leaned on her fingertips. “Adora, I don’t believe you understand the seriousness of this crime. The reason you used magic to commit this crime is the reason you are before us and not at a common court.”

Adora raised her eyes to her half-sister and waited. Let’s get this over with.

“Therefore, I will ask you again,” Alia continued, “Did you act under someone’s orders or did you decide to do this crime alone?”

Adora looked at the lit candles in front of her and knew she had two more behind her, creating a Truth Spell around her. Adora remained silent.

“Let’s try a different tactic, Adora. Where did you get the unregistered diamond?”

Adora raised her eyes again and calmly returned her half-sister’s gaze, her mouth closed.

“You understand, Adora, if you do not answer our questions, we have no choice but to scan your mind.”

Adora nodded, “I understand, Councilwoman Alia.” Kind of a puffed-up title for someone who is only 10 years older than me.

“Normally, one of us would scan you, but since you are a slave, we will call in your current owner and ask him who will do it. Who is it this time?”

Adora said in a deadpan voice, “Lord Nicholas, Councilwoman Alia.”

She smiled, “Ah, good. He can scan you himself.” She frowned at Adora, “And at least he will tell us the truth.”

Adora snorted, but said nothing.

Alia sighed and waved her head, “Guards, take her back to her cell.”

***

Adora paced in the small cell and rubbed her wrists. At least they untied me. She chuckled, remembering their fear. Five guards pointing their staffs at her while a sixth undid the ropes. I suppose I should feel flattered.

“What now, Adora?”

Adora turned to the speaker and smiled, “Now, Charlie, I wait until Lord Nicholas arrives.”

“You almost look glad to see him.” His eyes danced with amusement as he watched her.

She frowned, “No, but he will get me out of here. I am too valuable to stay tucked away like this.” Charlie only nodded and silence again fell around them. Charlie was leaning up against the wall, waiting for his time in front of The Council. “What’re you in for, Charlie?”

Charlie shrugged, “They think I know something about the rash of unregistered gems in town.”

Adora’s eyebrows lifted, “And do you?”

Charlie gave her a half-grin, “No.” He chuckled at her obvious disappointment. “But I know who does.”

Adora opened her mouth to ask, but just then they heard footsteps and saw 5 guards approaching their cell. “Stand against the wall,” one said. They obeyed and soon the guards had the cell door open and their staffs ready. “Adora, come with us.”

“Looks like they won’t let me stay with you Charlie.” She chuckled, “Oh well, it’s been fun.”

“Tell Michael I said hello,” Charlie responded.

Adora turned to look at him, but he only stared back, his face blank.

“Come on, move it Adora,” the guard said, raising his staff to motivate her.

Adora quickly stepped out of the cell and was escorted to a side room just off the main courtroom. They opened the door and motioned her inside. Stepping inside, she saw Alia sitting in a plush chair across from the door, but when she turned to take in the rest of the room, she fell to her knees. Lord Nicholas sat just outside of direct view from the doorway. She touched her forehead to the floor and waited. The door close and silence fell.

“Well,” my sister said, breaking the silence, “at least she is respectful to you.”

Oh shit.

“She wasn’t to you?” Lord Nicholas asked her.

“It wasn’t that she wasn’t respectful, but she was uncooperative. She didn’t answer any questions and so has forced my hand in bringing you here. I know you are busy. I apologize for disturbing you.”

“Think nothing of it. Adora has always been…a problem, and now this.” He sighed, “I am just going to have to use a firmer hand with her.”

Adora’s stomach knotted and she felt sick. That doesn’t sound good for me at all.

“Of course, you must do what you feel you have to,” Alia said. “But I need you to scan her mind so we can at least find out where she got her unregistered gem and if she was under orders to commit the theft.”

Adora heard them stand and she tensed, expecting Nicholas to grab her at any moment, but they only walked to the door.

“I should be finished in about 2 hours,” Lord Nicholas said. “In the meantime, go relax. You are working yourself too hard, my dear.”

Alia said, “I wish I could father, but duty calls. Please notify me as soon as you learn anything.”

The door opened then closed again. Adora started to tremble, knowing she was now alone with him. Nicholas slowly walked back to his chair and sat down. Her heart was being furiously. The silence between them deepened then he said, “Lift your head, Adora.” She sat up and saw he had cast a silence spell around them. His eyes bored into her and he kept rubbing his Emerald in his hand. “Will there ever be a time,” he growled, “when I send you on a mission and you don’t FUCK IT UP?!” He stood and backhanded her. She screamed as her head was snapped around, followed by her body then the floor broke her fall. Tears blinded her and as she tried to get back on her knees, he grabbed her neck with both hands and hoisted her up to her feet. Adora stared at him for a moment before realizing his hands were tightening. She let out a terrified noise and began to claw at his hands. Just as her vision was about to go completely black, he let go and she dropped to the floor, coughing and gasping. “What am I going to do with you?” He paced while he scolded, “I told you to do something that I thought was so simple even you could do it. Looks like I was wrong.” He stopped pacing and faced her. “Get up.”

She struggled to rise and he place his hand on her neck again. She tensed and grabbed his arm, but he never tightened it. “Now to see what happened during your mission. Look me in the eyes, Adora.”

She lowered her hands and lifted her eyes to meet his. At first they just stared at each other, then his eyes seemed to get closer and everything faded to black. Her body felt heavy and she couldn’t see anything but she could feel his oily presence in her mind. He had free access to her memories and he asked about that night. She had no choice but to watch the memories play out before her. She saw the ease and care she had getting into Lord Banos’ home and going through the house quietly and undetected. Then the mistake happened. A child was walking about the house and walked in on her. They stared at each other, dumbfounded. Then the child screamed and the guards came running. Unfortunately, they were in a room with no windows and the door was quickly blocked by the guards. Adora rushed past the child and fought the guards, hoping to knock them out before they could alert the rest of the house, but it was too late - she heard the rest of the house stirring and feet running down the hall. She threw a short bit of rope at one guard while saying the trigger word and then grabbed her gem to take care of the other. The rope quickly wrapped around the guards neck and strangled him. The second guard already had his sword out and they danced for a few steps before she got her own sword out.

Now feeling more at ease with her blade in her hand, she used magic to bathe her sword with fire. After just a few more parries and thrusts, she stabbed him through his chest, killing him quickly. When she looked up, there were more guards at the doorway and the family behind them with Lord Banos already casting a spell. He pointed at her and she quickly froze. The guards unarmed her and had her tied before the spell wore off. They searched her, but didn’t find what she had already stolen.

The memory faded and the light around her brightened as he slid out of her mind. She felt very weak and dropped to the floor once he released her. Lord Nicholas looked down at her, and asked, “Why didn’t you kill the child? Or at least knock her out? Was that too difficult for you?” She didn't answer so he grabbed a handful of her hair and hauled her to her feet. She cried out and withered under his glare. “Answer me, you worthless slave. Why didn’t you kill that child when you had the chance?”

She swallowed and opened her mouth, but no words came. After another try, she said, “Father, she was only 6. Gods above, you can’t expect me…”

He shook her head again, “I can and I do. This will not happen again.” He released her, and she collapsed, her tears falling freely.

*******

Adora in a tight spot

2018-05-10T18:23:00.002-04:00

Mille opened the door and let the air slam it against the wall. She stood in the doorway, the evening sun outlining her perfectly. The bartender growled, "You gonna pay for damages woman!" Mille stepped further inside the Flaming Phoenix and frowned. She didn't bother shutting the door. Now that she was out of the glaring outside light, the bartender cleared his throat, "Sorry Mille, I didn't mean any offense. I didn’t recognize you. You looking to compete in the arena?"

Mille shook her head, "You know I never do, Carl." She glared at each person as her eyes slowly traveled around the room. Finally she found whom she was looking for. Taking a few steps toward the person, Mille called to her from across the room. "You know why I'm here, Adora.” The room fell silent and all eyes turn to watch the newcomer. “Come with me quietly and we'll see you are treated to a fair trial."

Adora stared back at her from the table and took a sip of her blackberry cordial. "Well, well, well. If it isn't Mille herself. I am flattered.” There were low chuckles around the room. “You plan on taking me in all by your little lonesome, eh?" She sipped her drink again and placed it down. Mille just stood there, watching. "Why don't you sit down, Mille, and we can discuss this. I'm sure we can come to an amicable agreement."

"There is nothing to discuss, Adora. You are coming in with me now. You will not slip my grasp this time." She gripped the handle of her mace, but didn't draw it yet. Those closest to Mille scooted away from her.

Adora scowled, "I think you will not find it so easy, Mille. I will not be going with you, but I will be leaving here. You have spoiled my appetite. " Mille takes two steps closer to Adora.

"Stop!" Adora held up her hand. "Don't make me do this Mille. I admire your tenacity, but I suggest you turn and leave now."

Mille shook her head, "Not a chance, Adora. You have gotten away with too many murders and thefts for me to leave. I am bringing you in." She draws her mace. "Now."

Adora shrugged, "So be it." She tugs on her ear lobe and a man sitting at a table nearest to Mille suddenly stands and swings at Mille's head. She ducks, but that momentary distraction was enough. Adora hopped over the bar, through the kitchen and down into the cellars. There she went to a large cask, twisted the spigot and the entire front of the barrel opened to reveal a tunnel. Getting inside, she closed the door and re-set the lock. Reaching the end, she climbed the ladder and slowly opened the door in the fake tree stump. Not seeing anyone in the woods around her, she stepped out of the hiding place. Stupid woman. Her stubbornness will get her killed…or worse. A twig snapped and Adora froze. She scanned the woods around her, and strained her ears, but could not detect any other movement. Just has her hand touched the hilt of her sword, a net came sailing from the darkness and wrapped around Adora before her sword was half of the scabbard.

The net tightened around her, forcing her sword away. “Who the hell..??” Adora hollered. She struggled, knowing it was useless. Finally, she fell back on the ground. That’s when she saw several men coming out of the woods. They were dressed for living in the woods and most of them had some kind of injury - this one was wearing an eye patch, another had a scar, and all had a gleam in their eyes Adora did not like. “How dare you! Let me go now!” They kept approaching her and the net finally tightened enough to keep Adora from moving.

Eye-patch pointed to a couple of the other men, “Pick her up.” Then he turned and melted into the woods. Adora was silently hauled up and thrown over a muscular shoulder. Now what? {Father, I’ve got a problem.} Silence. {Father?!} Sill no answer. Well, it looks like I’m on my own. Adora forced herself to calm down so she could think clearly. She was powerless now anyway without being able to draw her sword or reach her Gem. They walked for a while and Adora was quickly disoriented without being able to see around her. Finally she heard more voices, like at a camp, then one man’s voice broke through. “Well, well. Our fishers are back. Let’s see what they have caught.” I was grabbed and thrown to the ground, knocking the air from me. “Damn it!” I said and struggled more.

The speaker got up and walked over to me and I glared at him from the ground. His eyes widened, “It can’t be.” He stared at me a little longer, “Well, gentlemen, it looks like we have a dangerous catch here.”

“Who is she?”

The man reached through the net and took my sword and my Gem. “This, men, is Adora. She works for Lord Nicholas,” There were several gasps around us and the men began to talk at once.

“We can’t keep her.”

“He’ll have us all as slaves.”

“Let’s kill her.”

“Let’s let her go.”

“Fool, she has already seen our faces.”

“No.” The leader said, “We will sell her, but not at the market. Too many would know her.” He nods, having come to a decision, “We’ll take her to The Slaver.”

My eyes widen, “No! Not the slaver!” {Father! Answer me!} Still no response. What they hell? Maybe they blocked my link? How?

The leader chuckled, “You know of The Slaver?” He pointed to others around them, “Put her in the wagon. There is no time to wait.” Two men got in the wagon with me and The Leader and another rode up front. The Leader snapped the horses and we were off.

“You will pay for this. Lord Nicholas will find out and will kill you all.”

The Leader chuckled, “I don’t think so, but The Slaver will certainly pay for you.” The other men also laughed.

I fell silent and remembered my first experience with The Slaver. I was a common slave (for punishment) when one day I was called out to Nicholas’ throne room. With my stomach in knots I stood before him. Another man approached me and looked me over thoroughly. Never taking his eyes from me, he asked Nicholas all about me - my skills, faults, and who else had owned me. Since I was fairly young, my faults were more numerous than my skills. The Slaver then grabbed my chin and looked into my eyes with a greedy smile, “Yes. I will get a good amount of coin for you.” There was something about him that made my skin crawl.

I came back to the present and looked around. I could only see the tall trees above me. We’re still in the woods. Where are we going? The sun had almost set when we stopped. The men climbed out of the wagon, dragging me with them. One hauled me on his shoulder again and another knocked at a door. Someone answered and I instantly recognized The Slaver’s voice. “Gentlemen. I see you have a new catch for me. Excellent. Bring her inside.”

“Wait until you see who it is. I have a feeling you know her.”

I was once again taken off the man’s shoulder but this time I was set on my feet with 2 men holding me up.

The Slaver’s jaw dropped, then he smiled, “I don’t believe it. Adora is it really you?”

I glared at him, “My father will make you pay unless you return me right now.”

The Slaver laughed, his foul breath in my face. “Oh yes, it is you. Gentlemen,” he said to the others but never taking his eyes from me, “be glad you used this net I gave you. If you hadn’t, or if you had released her from it, you would all be facing Lord Nicholas’ guards right now.” I gasped and he chuckled, “That’s right my lovely. This net keeps any psychic powers - magical or natural - from working.” He turned and spoke to the Leader and they discussed prices. My jaw dropped along with the others when I heard the amount. The Leader agreed, the coin was doled out and they left, leaving me sitting in a chair. He went into another room, but I could still hear him talking, “Since you can’t be useful in the net, I have also created a special collar that will perform the same as the net.” He came out of the room holding a plain metal collar with runes carved into it.

“No!” I again tried fighting the net. “Don’t do this! What about my poison?” I was getting frantic and I fell onto the floor with a thump.

The Slaver grabbed the net and lifted me to my feet. “Relax. When did you last take your antidote?”

“This morning.”

“Well, what are you worried about? We still have 2 days to figure out that solution.” He laid me down on a mattress and worked the collar around my neck, finally clicking it in place. Then he canceled the spell on the net and it loosened around me.

{Father? Please!} Silence. I quickly threw off the net and looked at him. “Well, now what?”

“Now,” he stood up and headed for another room, “we feed you and get you ready for your trip tomorrow.” Once he was out of eye sight, I bolted for the door, threw it open, and ran outside. I didn’t get 5 steps when I suddenly couldn’t breathe. I dropped to the ground and clawed at the collar. The slaver was standing in the doorway and called out, “Come back and you’ll be able to breathe.” Forcing myself to concentrate, I crawled as fast as I was able back to the house while I was still conscious. When I was close enough, the spell stopped and I lay there, breathing deeply. The Slaver knelt by me and showed me his hand. He wore a plain metal ring with runes etched in it. “You always have to learn things the hard way?” He sighed, “You get too far from this ring and that’ll happen. Now shall we go inside?”

I scowled but walked back inside the house. He sat me at the table and placed a large bowl of stew in front of me and some crusty rolls. I must admit, I was hungry and not seeing any other choice, I ate. Between mouthfuls, we talked. “Who are you selling me to?”

He smiled, “Someone very special. Yes, he will pay a great deal for you.”

*******

Adora caught red handed?

2012-06-19T19:34:00.000-04:00

Drexel led Adora back to her room, “Please stay here. I’m afraid that now we have a lot to talk about but I need to do some talking with others first.” He shut the door, leaving Adora alone.

[Father, I have a problem. Kyle is here and now they know that I’m your daughter and I believe they think I’m a spy.]

There was a small knock at her door but Adora ignored it. After the other knock Adora thought, What the…? Oh wait. I forgot that some people knock to get into a room. They don’t just barge in. What a difference from home. “Come in,” she beckoned. The door opened and Samual walked into the room. Adora took a couple steps back as he closed the door behind him. Her heart was beating fast, but she forced a sneer on her face. She watched him as he locked the door. “Samual,” Adora said, “What are you doing here?” He narrowed his eyes, “Knock it off, Adora. I know what you are trying to do.” Adora shrugged, “I’m only trying to get you to understand that anything between us is impossible.”

“Fine. You can lie to yourself if you like, but I will keep my hope and you cannot take that way.” She opened her mouth to reply but he raised his hand. “I didn’t come here to discuss us. I need to know if you are sincere about accepting our help.” Adora began to pace around the room, “I just don’t see how you can help those who will likely be on the Huntsmen’s Most-Wanted list. But I will try.” Samual nodded and he smiled. Adora knew of smiles that can mean physical pain, like her father’s, but this smile went straight to her heart. She closed her eyes to block the tears.
“Kyle doesn’t trust you,” Samual continued. Adora blinked and looked again at Samual with dry eyes. “I don’t blame him, but what have you guys decided to do about that?” “First we were going to ask you to stay in your room, but we figured that as long as either myself or Drexel stayed with you at all times – except for in here of course – then that should be good enough.” Adora nodded, “That’s ok with me.” “Good,” Samual said, “and since we couldn’t decide who would get first baby-sitting duties, we drew straws. He got the short straw meaning he gets this first shift.” Samual stared at her for a long time, then blinked and left the room.
Another knock on her door brought Kyle into her room. “How nice of you to come visit me.” He waved his hand, “Shut up, Adora. I know why you are here and I will keep watching you to prevent us from being discovered.” Adora scowled, “You came in here just to tell me that?”
“No,” Kyle said, “I am mostly hoping I could convince you to accept our help and to help us. We can free you Adora. Even from Lord Nicholas. Come on! I escaped him.”
“Hm,” Adora said noncommittally. “You have magic too. That would’ve helped in many ways. I don’t. I am a slave.” Adora paused. “Remember, a slave is a slave for life?”
Kyle shook his head, “So are most of the people here! So are most of the people we help.” Kyle shook his head, “I want to help you Adora, but I will not allow you to jeopardize all we have worked for and accomplished during all these years.”
Adora narrowed her eyes, “Are there any previous slaves that I could talk to that have escaped from my father?”
Kyle looked thoughtful and nodded slowly, “I think so, but I don’t know for sure.”
Adora pursed her lips, “And how many of my father’s slave wagons have you captured over the years?”
Kyle looked a bit more uncomfortable at this question, but he answered, “About 10. His guards are usually well equipped and well trained.”
Adora nodded, “And you guys have been capturing slave wagons for about 25 years I believe I was told? And in 25 years and the numerous caravans that travel through that pass – and not just my father’s – you have only successfully captured 80 to 100 slaves belonging to my father? How many of those hundred do you have successfully completing your freeing program?”
Kyle scowled this time, “Less than 10.”
“Ten?” Adora said. “That’s not a very good success rate. What happens to the slaves that you cannot help?”
Kyle shrugged, “We erase their memory of their wagon being captured, but not of the attack, and drop them off where they can be found by the searching party or so that they can make it back to their owners.”
Adora nodded slowly. “How would you prevent the Huntsmen from coming after the missing slave?”
Kyle turned away and unlocked the door saying, “We haven’t come up with a successful plan for that yet. Thankfully, they are not hired by most owners to retrieve common slaves.” Kyle opened the door and stepped out into the hall. “Kyle!” Came a voice from down the hall and a young man ran up to him, panting. “Thank goodness I’ve found you! We have a problem with Lord Nicholas’ pleasure slaves!” Kyle ran down the hall following the young man. Adora stepped to the threshold and looked down the hall. Sighing, she shut the door.

Kyle and the young man ran fast enough so that communication was impossible. Finally they reached the hallway where the slave girls slept and found them crying hysterically at one of the dining room tables. There were several guards standing around. “What’s going on here?” Kyle demanded. “Sir,” the captain of the guards began, “we saw these girls drinking from these little vials that were hanging around their neck. We took the vials from them because they belonged to Lord Nicholas and I was afraid that they contained a poison since we hadn’t had very good success with his slaves. But when I took the vials, they tried very hard to get the vials back, but refused to tell me why. So when I refused to return the vials until they told me the reason, they became hysterical. So we sent for you and Drexel.” Just as he finished Drexel came running up to them.

“Ladies!” Drexel said, sitting down at the table. “Please tell us what is wrong. We are only here to help you.” The women only continued their hysterical crying. He turned to Kyle, “Can you calm them down?” Kyle nodded and said his magic words. The girls’ screaming cries became moans and their breathing slowed considerably. “There! That’s better. Now then, I know you are scared of Lord Nicholas, but believe us that we can help you, but you must trust us and tell us what these vials are for.” One of the women with long braided black hair and bright green eyes, shook her head, “He made us swear to never tell anyone. But know that if we don’t get those vials back, we will experience great and increasing pain in three days and then we will all be dead. Do you want that on your conscious for so little a thing?” The woman stared at him steadily and finally Drexel shook his head, “Captain, give the vials back to them.” The guards handed out the vials and the women held them close to their bodies as if it was a rare treasure. Then they all got up from the table and went to their separate rooms. The guards then dispersed leaving Kyle and Drexel alone. Kyle sat down and said, “What was that all about?”
Drexel shook his head, “I don’t know, but I don’t like it.”
“Any luck with Adora?” Drexel asked, changing the subject.
Kyle shook his head, “No sir. She immediately got to the heart of our problem. That we have had so very little success with capturing Lord Nicholas’ wagons or in getting them to accept freedom. And she mentioned the Huntsmen again.”
Drexel sighed, “Do you think she is a spy?”
Kyle sighed and considered the question very seriously. Finally he nodded his head, “Yes sir, I do. But we still might be able to talk her into accepting our help to set her free.”
Drexel clasped Kyle’s shoulder, “I’ll talk with her. And who knows, perhaps she knows about these vials?” Kyle only nodded, stood and left the room. Drexel sat alone for another hour, thinking about his coming conversation with Adora and finally gave up. There was no way to predict how this was going to work out. He stood up and headed to her room.

           Once again, Adora heard a knock at her door. Growing more accustomed to it, she quickly responded. “Come in!” Drexel entered and closed the door behind him, but the door stayed unlocked. “Kyle was just telling me about your talk a few moments ago.” Adora stared at him, but said nothing. She is not going to make this easy. “Why do you want to stay with him Adora?” Drexel tried a different approach. He sat on the floor and leaned against the wall.

“Why do you keep hounding me about something I believe to be impossible?” Adora countered. “I have accepted my slavery. Why can’t you?”

Drexel looked extremely sad, “Because my sister was a slave and it killed her.” Adora gasped and sat on the bed. Her face had softened and she was now more willing to listen. “I have thus built my life trying to help other slaves escape and get their free lives back,” Drexel continued. We lived in a moderately sized city on the coast and one day three good-sized ships came into the harbor during the night. They set fires to many homes and when the alarm was raised and we all rushed out to battle the blazes, they entered our homes and kidnapped our wives, children, sisters – all the females they could get their hands on.”

His eyes filled with tears and he was looking at the wall, but his eyes were seeing another place in time. “At first we didn’t hear them screaming because of our yelling while trying to put out the fires and also because they started with the houses the furthest away from the fires. As they worked closer, we heard the screaming and some of us ran to help, but they were well-armed and well-trained. We were city men. They killed every one who attempted to help the women. Finally we all gave up trying to put out the fires and went to save our women. We failed utterly. Through their skills with the sword and magic they defeated us. When those that survived woke the next morning, the whole town was burned to the ground and most of the men were dead. I was one of the handful of survivors.”
           Adora sat on the bed in stunned silence. Finally she worked her tongue loose, “Did you ever find her?” Drexel shook his head, “No, but many years later I received a letter. How she got it to me I don’t know, but it said that by the time I read it she would be dead because she and some of the other slaves were going to attack their guards and try to escape.” Adora nodded knowingly. Drexel fell silent and his pent up tears streamed down his face.
           Adora could not speak. She could only find meaningless and empty words that she could not bring herself to say, so she stayed silent. “Who have you left behind, Adora?” Drexel asked.
She shook her head and sighed heavily, “No one. I’ve been a slave for as long as I can remember.”
Drexel nodded, “Is Lord Nicholas really your father?”
Adora snorted, “Yes, unfortunately.”
“What about your mother?” Drexel asked.
“I don’t really remember my mother. She disappeared sometime when I was 5 years old. I’ve lived with my father ever since.”
“Why do you want to go back to him?”
“I have no choice, Drexel. I greatly admire what you are trying to do here, but in my case it’s useless. I am a slave and he has guaranteed my loyalty to him. If I were to leave him, I would be dead in a matter of a week.”
Drexel got a puzzled look on his face at these words. “Adora, a while ago Kyle was urgently called to assist with your father’s pleasure slaves. The guards had taken away some small vials that the girls had just drunk from because they feared they were poison. The girls refused to tell the guards what was in the vials but said pretty much what you just did. That if they didn’t get the vials back they would feel great and increasing pain in three days then three more days later, they would be dead. Do you know what they are talking about?”
Adora paled and Drexel jumped up, “Adora! Are you ok?” Adora reached into her tunic with a trembling hand and pulled out her own vial that hung around her neck. Drexel gasped.
“Did it look like this?” Adora asked.
“Yes! The very same!” Drexel stared at Adora, “What is in these vials Adora?”
Adora replaced the vial under her shirt and shook her head, “I never would have thought that he would do that to his pleasure slaves, but it makes some sense.”
Drexel growled, “Well, it’s not making sense to me! Adora you know about these vials obviously. Please tell me!”
Nodding she waved to the chair in her room. “You’d better sit down. This will probably come as quite a shock.”
At first Drexel didn’t move, but after he realized that Adora wouldn’t tell unless he did so, he quickly moved the chair over to the side of the bed and sat down. “These vials,” Adora began, “keep us alive.” Drexel opened his mouth to interrupt, but Adora held up her hand. “Please. No interruptions. There will be plenty of questions later.” Adora closed her eyes and silently got her thoughts together before continuing. “Many years ago Father poisoned me after I was returned to him by the Huntsmen for escaping him for the third time. He said that only he had the formula for the poison itself and only he had the delay potion. You see, he told me there was no cure for the poison and that it is a very slow acting one. From the first few days of being poisoned, the person feels nothing. Then they begin to feel a slight burning that quickly increases to feeling like their very skin is on fire. This pain increases over the next three days until finally the person dies. This delay potion keeps the pain at bay, but we have to take it at least every three days. Or at least sometime before we die. Taking multiple doses of the delay potion on the same day or before its needed will not work. The delaying effects are not cumulative.”
Drexel was stunned by what he heard. “How could he do that to people much less his own daughter?! I don’t understand.”
Adora shrugged, “But now you know why we are loyal to him. At least I am because I am too cowardly to accept death. I want to live.”
Drexel’s face grew hard and his lips pressed into a thin white line. He shot to his feet. “Adora come with me. I may have someone who can help you.”
Adora stood and walked with Drexel out of her room and down several halls to a dead end. At least Adora thought it was a dead end until Drexel felt around on the tunnel wall and suddenly a section of the wall opened. It was dark through the opening, but Adora’s eyes were quickly adjusting to the light. Faster than Drexel’s. “Where are we?”
“You’ll see soon enough, “ Drexel answered. The room was crowded with several plants growing in pots and even more plant cuttings bundled and hanging from the rafters.
Going to a door on the far end of the room, Drexel listened then knocked on the door in code. After a few moments the door opened and an old woman was standing there. “I need your help Zoe,” Drexel said. “It’s of the utmost importance.” Zoe frowned but backed away so they could enter. She shut the door behind them. This room had many windows letting in the bright sunlight and several tables with what looked like a wizard’s lab set up on them. “Adora,” Drexel turned to her, “Zoe might be able to help with this poison problem. Her knowledge is vast and she has helped us in the past. Tell her of your poison.”
Father would be furious at me for telling more people about his poison. Especially for telling this woman in order to be hopefully cured. But what if she can help? I haven’t had a chance myself to find out if his ‘No Cure’ scare is true. The worst she can tell me is that she doesn’t know. The woman had blue eyes so light they almost appeared colorless. They looked right into Adora and she shivered. But finally making up her mind, Adora nodded and told the woman all she had told Drexel about the poison – which wasn’t much – and about the delay potion.
Zoe nodded, her eyes shimmered and her body twitched. Finally she answered, “Yes, very interesting child. I actually have heard of this poison, but I’m afraid that Lord Nicholas is right. There is no cure, and now there is no hope for either of you.” Before they could understand what was going on, Zoe’s body grew and changed and in the blink of an eye there stood before them Lord Nicholas.
“Father!” Adora yelled and her father quickly waved his hand and they both collapsed, screaming in pain. Flagg came out of a side room and they were all transported back to Lord Nicholas’ castle. He waved his hand again and the pain finally stopped. They were both too weak to get up from the floor so they laid there panting. “Get up you useless child!” Adora got up on her knees and for once she was glad she didn’t look her father in the eyes. Drexel slowly stood, his legs shaky but he had no fear of looking Lord Nicholas in the eyes and did so defiantly. Lord Nicholas smiled at his determination then turned to Adora, “Why were you going to Zoe, Adora?” Adora swallowed hard, and desperately considered lying to him. But before that idea could take root, Lord Nicholas grabbed her by the throat and held her high in the air. She gasped for air and grabbed his arm, “We were going there hoping to find a cure for the poison father. But I didn’t know that until Drexel mentioned it.”
“Leave her alone!” Drexel yelled but with a wave of Lord Nicholas’ hand, he quickly found himself suspended in the air with his hands pinned behind his back and his ankles pinned together. “I will deal with you in a minute, but first I think you will want to watch this.” Lord Nicholas lowered Adora and brought her face very close to his. “Now just relax my dear and look me in the eyes.” “No! Not a mind scan! No!” Adora pleaded but Lord Nicholas sent out shocks of electricity through her body. She screamed and went limp when he finally stopped. “Do I have to ask you again, Adora?” In answer, Adora relaxed and looked him in the eyes. She felt him enter her mind like a thick evil cloud. [Show me what happened from the time the caravan came through the pass until now.] And with no way to stop the memories, Adora watched the memories display before him and she heard her thoughts being replayed as well. She groaned but she didn’t know how long he scanned her mind. Finally the ordeal was over and he was out of her mind, but as before she was completely unable to move.

“What did you do to her you monster!” Drexel yelled.

Lord Nicholas smiled – she heard it in his voice – and replied, “My dear Drexel, I have just learned all that Adora discovered about you and your operation. I have just scanned her mind and she told me everything.”

“No!” Drexel said. “It’s not true! I don’t believe you.”

Lord Nicholas replied, “Then how do I know that you dreamed up this idea because your sister was taken captive and sold into slavery many years ago. That Master Kyle, who used to work for me, created this collar that broke out mind link and that Samual is also involved in your organization.” He laughed, and it was a cold cruel sound. “Oh yes, I have great plans for those slaves. And a special punishment is planned for Samual.” Adora heard Drexel crying. “Guards,” Lord Nicholas said pleasantly, “Take Drexel here to the dungeons and Adora to her room.”

Adora's training session

2012-06-19T17:20:00.003-04:00

Adora’s bones ached as she bent over bracing her hands on her knees and breathing heavily. Sweat dripped off her face and even from her hair to create several small puddles on the floor. Her clothes were soaked with her blood. If it wasn’t for Father, I would’ve quit ages ago, the bastard! The sun was setting turning the sky brilliant hues of pinks, oranges, violets and reds.

A heavy sigh was heard from her trainer Ebony. “Let’s try it again, Adora. And this time, try not to die.” He watched as she straightened up with difficulty and push her soaked hair off her face. “Remember,” Ebony continued, “you are to kill the prince in his bedroom – preferably in his sleep.” He smiled at her and she gave a weak smile back.

“Right,” Adora said and checked the climbing claws on her hands and on her shoes one last time. “If I had some magic items, this wouldn’t be so hard.”

“Ah,” Ebony said his whispery voice not much louder than a gentle breeze, “but if you are able to get in and out without the magic, then you will be able to do so much more with it.”

Adora rolled her eyes, having heard all this logic before. Why couldn’t I be born with magic? She backed into the shadows and looked at the tower again. Normally this would be the tower on the corner of a castle, but for her training, this was only the tower and two short sections of wall extending in either direction and fading into mist. Looking at the top window, Adora saw the whole top floor in her mind as she went through her previous attempts.

I climb to the top window in the tower and slip in. I am noticed by the guard who attacks me. I manage to kill him but not before he calls in two other guards to assist. Slightly injured, I kill these two guards as well. However, their fighting has alerted the last guard stationed at the prince’s bedroom door allowing him to take precautions. I go down the short flight of stairs to the prince’s door, see the guard standing there and I attack him and he kills me. Every time it’s the same. What is the trick?! What I am doing wrong? I can’t get past the last guard?

“Use your strengths Adora,” Ebony whispered to her through her review. “You’ve come a long way in our training over these past two years. You can do this. The most direct plan is not always the best.”

Adora rolled her eyes as Ebony concentrated and the training scenario reset. The image shimmed then solidified and Adora could once again see the guard pacing by the window on the top tower floor. “When you are ready Adora.” Adora only nodded at Ebony’s statement and considered her plan of action.

I could climb the walls as before and do the whole thing over again and probably die again. Adora quickly circled around from the shadows of the trees and decided to change tactics this time. She approached the tower from along the wall, out of sight from any of the windows in the tower. She looked carefully at the tower, then closed her eyes and took several deep breaths. Catching a quite offensive smell, she shook her head and sneezed. Oh gross! It smells like a whole pile of crap. Wait! The prince’s privy! Do they just toss it out the window? She got excited now. There just might be a way inside around the guards. She walked around the base of the wall until she saw what she was looking for. About one quarter of the way up, was the chute where the smell was coming from. It happened to be just large enough for her. She smiled.

She climbed the wall slowly, making sure the claws were dug into the gaps around each stone before she inched her way up. She kept her eye on the chute since the guard wouldn’t see her unless he stuck his head a good distance out of the window. Finally she reached the chute and carefully made her way inside. Her stomach cramped and she gagged from the smell, but fear of her father pushed her on. I have to admit this training room is realistic. It was a slow and at times slippery climb, but finally she made it to the top. The top had a thick wood plank nailed across the top with a hole cut into it. With a bit of wrangling and wiggling, she finally made it out of the hole and was now in the prince’s bathroom.

She grinned wide. Finally I have gotten farther than the many times before, but it’s not done yet. The thought sobered her and she opened the door to the privy slightly and looked around. All was quiet except for the soft snoring coming from the bed. She slowly opened the door wider then froze. The snoring had doubled. There’s someone else in the bed! She cursed, shifted her weight to the balls of her feet and quietly made her way from the privy to the foot of the bed.

As Adora closely looked over the bed, sure enough, she saw two people. They were covered up to their neck so she couldn’t see which body was which at first. Then she remembered about the guard outside the door. Going over to the door, she carefully set the lock. That won’t stop him forever, but it’ll slow him down. She then drew her sword and walked back over to the bed. She could tell now who was the prince and she moved to his side of the bed. I hate this part. Don’t think about it. She closed her eyes for a moment then quickly and deeply cut his throat. His eyes shot open and he reached up to his neck, but his life was already soaking the bed. Ignoring him, she walked over to the woman and dispatched her the same way. She then cleaned her sword off on their bed, put it away, and climbed back down the privy chute.

She dropped out of the chute and quickly hugged the wall. Not hearing anything that would tell her they have discovered her crime she made the wide circle along the wall and back into the line of trees to where Ebony was waiting with a smile. “Excellent! You finally figured out the trick.”

Adora returned his smile. “Only with your help, Ebony.”

“Yes,” came an all too familiar voice behind her. Adora sneered as they turned and saw Lord Nicholas approaching them from the portal opening. Adora dropped to her knees. “My daughter doesn’t seem to be smart enough to figure out these things on her own. No more hints Ebony.” Ebony bowed but said nothing. “Erase this Ebony and we’ll try something else.”

Again Ebony concentrated and everything vanished. They were standing in a completely white space. This time Lord Nicholas concentrated and instantly they were in a thick forest and a female jumped out of the bushes in front of them and sprinted further into the woods. ”Adora, that woman is another slave. Bring her to me.” Adora swallowed hard and hesitated. Father wants me to hunt down a run-away slave. Bastard.

“Well?” her father said, his voice getting a dangerous edge to it. Still she stood there. [Adora you’d better get moving as my patience is running out. Do you remember the last time you refused to obey my orders? That was nothing. You are much older now and can take more punishment.] Adora swallowed and began to run through the forest after her prey. When she was out of sight, she slowed down and walked through the trees. I have to obey. There is no other option. Damn you Father! Pushing down her hates and fears, Adora picked up her pace and began the hunt.

At first she ran in the same direction as the other woman ran. Then she stopped and looked around, trying to gauge which way she ran. Finally she heard the woman crashing through the woods and took off running, stopping only now and then to re-establish the trail. This took her quite a few hours, but she eventually caught up with the woman and both of them were exhausted. Adora held up her hands; the other woman sneered at her, slowly backing away.

“Wait!” Adora called out. “Please, you must come back with me. I don’t want to have to do this by force, but I have no choice.” The other woman slowly approached her and Adora gasped. She looks like my mother. What I can remember of her anyway.

“Come with me Adora,” The woman said and held out her hand.

Adora stepped back, “Who are you?” Damn it! This isn’t real!

“I’m your mother. Come with me child and we can escape all this. We can be happy and safe.”

Tears blurred her vision and Adora suddenly found it hard to swallow. “No,” she sobbed, “I can’t. You aren’t real.” She collapsed as sobs wracked her body. “I have to stay here.” Adora covered her face with her hands. Go away. Please just go away!

“Adora!” Her father’s voice shocked her into action. She jumped to her feet hastily wiping her tears away. Lord Nicholas stared at her, his eyes blazing. Adora started to fall to her knees but he raised his hand, “No! You will stand there and look me in the eyes. I ask you to do such a simple thing Adora. To bring that run-away slave to me, but I was still waiting after several hours. And now when I cleared this training session, I find you in a pool of tears!” He blasted her with his anger. “Pathetic. What do you have to say for yourself?”

Adora blinked away her tears and she looked at her father with new loathing. She clinched her teeth, “You bastard. You did that on purpose! It was my mother! You wanted me to attack and capture my own mother!” She was screaming at him now. Lord Nicholas pointed his finger at Adora and she screamed in pain though no cause could be seen for it. Finally, after several minutes, he pulled his hand back and she crumpled to the ground.

Ebony stepped forward to check on Adora, but Lord Nicholas stopped him with his arm. “She’s fine. I will not have any slave, and especially not my 15 year old daughter speak so disrespectfully to me.” He smiled, “It will be a pleasure making sure she learns her lesson. That is all, Ebony.”

Ebony bowed and left the room. Lord Nicholas walked over and looked down at his unconscious daughter. “Pathetic.” He picked her up and closed the training room portal behind him. Flagg was walking back to his rooms when he saw Lord Nicholas coming up the stairs. “What happened?! Is she dead?”

Lord Nicholas shook his head, “No, just knocked out. It is the calm before the storm of her punishment. Come and I’ll tell you all about it.” Flagg followed Lord Nicholas to his third floor suite where Adora was chained to the wall with a collar.

“I must apologize my Lord.” Flagg bowed, “Evidently my training of Adora is not staying with her.”

Lord Nicholas raised his hand, “Do not concern yourself. She is her mother’s child who was just as stubborn. I will take care of this myself. She will learn to fear me.”

Lord Nicholas' party

2012-06-19T16:50:00.002-04:00

Lord Nicholas stood in his great room, making sure the tapestries and other decorations were in place. He had coat of arms, if they had one, honoring each person who was invited. His coat of arms hung behind his throne along with a banner on each side. Hung around the room were all the others. On the floor leading from the doors to his large chair on a dais was a red carpet, wide enough to two to walk abreast. There were several pillars lining the way on either side of the carpet. Each pillar was carved to look like a different naked slave woman holding up the ceiling complete with the slave’s mark on her right cheek – if you could see it – and shackles on her wrists and ankles.

Standing along the far wall were twelve female slaves and three male slaves dressed in barely opaque silks and holding an empty tray in their hand. He smiled as he looked over each of them. “Remember," he told them, "Do not embarrass me tonight."

They knew it would be a bad idea from past experience. "No master!" they said in unison, their eyes staring at the marble floor.

Smiling he left the great room and made his way to the kitchen. When he entered all the slaves turned to him and went down to their knees. Looking over everything silently, Lord Nicholas nodded and left this time making his way to the large front doors, passing several more slaves who were standing along the wall also dressed in the slightly opaque silk. As he stood on the bridge waiting for his guests, his thoughts went back to yesterday. Ariel is such a fool but I needed her to get Adora. As was foretold, she will be very useful to me. She is only five years old now, but she will grow quickly and she will need to learn much. But she could be a problem too. Her mother was very willful, but I have broken others before, and I shall do so with Adora.

The arrival of the first carriage pulled him from his thoughts. It was pulled by four black horses and was large enough to seat six comfortably, but Lord Nicholas knew it usually held less than half. When it stopped at the bridge spanning the moat Lord Nicholas magically opened the door and lowered the steps. A man slightly taller than Lord Nicholas appeared with thick black hair streaked with grey, tied at the nape of his neck with a black ribbon, and piercing cold blue eyes. His eyes took in every detail of the castle before settling on his host and he smiled. Lord Nicholas walked to the middle of the bridge, bowed slightly and straightened, "Father. It's good of you to come." He finished crossing the bridge and they clasped forearms. "You are looking well."

His father, Gareng, waved off the compliment, "Why should I not look well? My magic is just as strong now as when I was your age." His look turned serious, "Is the child here?"

Lord Nicholas nodded, "Of course. You will meet her later."

The elder man nodded, "Yes, too bad it was a girl. But she will still be useful. What about her mother? What was her name?"

"Ariel,” Lord Nicholas answered, “and she proved too unwilling, so I killed her. Besides, she was no longer useful to me. I had a child I could use."

The elder man nodded, "I look forward to meeting her."

Lord Nicholas snapped his fingers and one of the slaves walked out to them and knelt at his feet. “If you would like, she will take you inside and make sure you are entertained while we wait for the rest of my guests.”

Gareng waved the girl away, “No. I will stay here with you.” The girl stood up and went back inside.

Another caravan pulled up, highly carved and with its own coat of arms on the door. Again, Lord Nicholas magically opened the door and a young woman with blond hair, weaved into a thick braid, and slightly pointed ears emerged. Lord Nicholas bowed his head and smiled. "Alia. You are looking very well."

The woman gave him a bright smile which lit up her green eyes. As she clasped arms with Lord Nicholas, she gave his arms an extra squeeze. "Father, it's good to see you again. It's been too long."

"How is your mother?"

"Cl'enia is doing very well father, but she still doesn't speak of you very often."

Lord Nicholas shrugged, "Well, she has been known to carry a grudge for a long time. She is an elf after all. Now, (snap) if you will follow my slave, she will take you inside and entertain you while you wait." Alia smiled, bowed her head in greeting to Gareng and followed the girl inside.

“Who else have you invited?” Gareng asked as Alia entered the castle.

Without turning around to face him, Lord Nicholas answered, “Lord Fernand, Sean Lardner,” he counted off on his fingers each person as he continued to name ten others. Gareng nodded, “Impressive and interesting. You also, if I remember correctly, have some kind of agreement with most of them.” Lord Nicholas laughed, “Yes Father, you are so right. I have invited them to remind them of the consequences. A couple of them have been late on their payments and one has the audacity to skip this last payment.”

The rest of the carriages arrived one by one until finally all of his guests had arrived. Lord Nicholas showed them all to his great room where they had a chance to talk with known guests or get to know the new. The slaves immediately held up their empty trays and began to walk around the room. As they passed the guests their favored drink would appear. Most of the guests admired the slaves, each considering which one they would claim tonight.

Lord Nicholas floated around the room, chatting about everything but saying nothing of importance as he went from group to group. He walked up to an older man with graying hair and a wiry body who was talking with a beautiful black haired woman many years his junior. She bowed to both as Lord Nicholas approached and walked away. “Benjamin, I was so sorry to hear about the horrendous attack on your caravan last month. It is the third time in four months, correct?”

The man nodded sharply and held Lord Lucovous’ eyes without fear. “It does. And I still think you had something to do with it. Possibly everything.” Benjamin sighed, “But you are our Lord and now,” he reached into a pouch hanging from his belt and pulled out a bundle of rolled up papers, “Here is the deed and other information needed to take possession of my business.”

Lord Nicholas took the papers and his victory smile said all.

“Now how are my family and I to live, my Lord?”

“You will work for me of course. You will continue in your business as usual, but under my direction. Your family belongs to me now.” The man paled and swayed on his feet. “But they will continue to live with you as a reminder - you will obey my instructions or face the consequences.” Benjamin nodded, drained his drink and left to find another.

Lord Nicholas grinned and turned to see priest Hyder who was standing alone, comfortable with his own presence and watching everyone. “Welcome again,” Lord Nicholas greeted when they were close. “I’m glad you were able to get away from the church for a while.”

Hyder smiled, “I couldn’t stay away from our largest contributor, not to mention most of our slaves come from you.”

Lord Nicholas smiled, “Just trying to do my part. Please do not hesitate to ask for anything you require. I have other slaves to choose from if these do not meet your approval for use during your stay.”

Hyder nodded and chose his drink from a passing tray. He sipped it and let the liquid roll over his tongue before swallowing. “Excellent. How did you find this rare monkeyberry wine?”

Lord Nicholas smiled, “That is my secret Hyder. But I have plenty of it, so please drink all you want.” Hyder lifted his glass in a silent toast and Lord Nicholas acknowledged it with a nod before moving to another group.

Finally he was able to get Alia alone. "How are you getting along?" Lord Nicholas asked her.

"I'm doing well,” Alia admitted, “considering I was just put on the Council just about a year ago. Some of the other Council members had a hard time accepting me since I am the youngest to gain a seat in seventy years. Still, I am qualified and the others are coming around."

Lord Nicholas nodded and smiled, "If they didn't I might have had to talk with them." He chuckled.

"They would likely listen to you more than anyone else," Alia said. "You're the Council's strongest supporter. Besides, your divination magic is extremely useful to us."

Lord Nicholas bowed, “My services are at your disposal.”

A man walked up to them who stood almost as tall as Lord Nicholas with brown hair and brown eyes. He kept his hair all one length but only to the top of his neck. He was a very common looking man, but his eyes shown with intelligence. Nothing escaped their notice. “Ah, Flagg. It’s good of you to join us.” Lord Nicholas squeezed his shoulder in obvious pleasure. Alia bowed her head to both of them and moved onto another group, leaving them alone.

“How are my new girls coming along?” Lord Nicholas asked him.

Flagg smiled, “They should be ready in another two weeks. Most of them have been slaves for some time so they are easy to train, but I have three new ones and they are fighting me.” His smiled widened, “It is always very satisfying to break them, and remold them.”

Lord Nicholas’ laugh rang out, deep and rich, loud enough to cause a few of his guests to turn in their direction. “You are the best slave trainer I have ever hired. Do any of them qualify for pleasure slave status?”

Flagg shook his head, “Possibly, but I’m not sure yet. I’ll let you know as soon as I make my decision.” Lord Nicholas nodded and Flagg continued, “Now what about this child of yours – Adora? When do I get her?”

Lord Nicholas smiled, “Patience. She is still too young, but don’t worry, you’ll have your chance. Possibly in about 8 years or so.”

Flagg sighed, nodded and continued. “I also noticed she doesn’t have the slaves’ mark yet. Will I get to apply it?”

This time Lord Nicholas’ smile widened, “Anxious aren’t you? Probably, but I’m not making any promises. I may just apply it myself.”

He turned to his guests and raised his hands. “My guests, if you are ready we will start the entertainment. Please give the girls some room.” His guests immediately backed up into a wide circle. Lord Nicholas spoke his magic words and snapped his fingers. There was a burst of smoke and five women appeared along with some musicians. They quickly got into their places and the music started. Lord Nicholas waved his hands and the torches went out replaced quickly by glowing orbs which cast their soft light on the dancers and the fireplace flared into life, casting it’s light without the heat. The women were dressed as belly dancers and as they moved the light reflected off their clothes. The guests were quickly entranced. The girls movements spoke of various promises and their fulfillment. Although there were several guests, the girls made each of them feel like it was a private performance just for them.

As they danced, the lightweight coins on their clothes and the bells on their ankle chains tinkled lightly on the ears. Each of the girls was dressed in a different color – red, yellow, purple, green, and gold. They danced and never seemed to tire. As the evening wore on, more and more layers came off of the girls costumes. Eventually there was a fine sheen of sweat covering their bodies and they were dressed only in their hip scarves. The music built to a crescendo and the girls twirled around at a dizzying speed, before gracefully falling to the floor as the music ended. The applause was uproarious.

“Wonderful, ladies,” Lord Nicholas’ voice rang out over the crowd and the girls stood and collected their scarves and clothes from the floor. They gathered in front of Lord Nicholas and knelt, “You will be called for again, so be prepared.” He clapped his hands and the ladies and musicians disappeared.

A gong sounded down the hall and Lord Nicholas showed his guests to the dining room where they were served all their favorite foods. They dined and drank to their hearts content. When they were satisfied and the table cleared off, Lord Nicholas whistled and the serving slaves walked into the dining room without their trays. They lined up facing the dining table looking at the floor. Lord Nicholas snapped his fingers and the five dancers also joined the servers.

"Now gentlemen and ladies. To keep up my reputation of hospitality you may choose any of my slaves here you wish to use for the length of your stay. I simply ask you do not maim or scar them. Otherwise anything goes. If you want to keep any of them, I'm sure we can agree on a reasonable price. Please let me know if you have any special needs or you don’t see anything that entices you."

All his guests stood up and began to walk among the slaves who were silent. Most of the slaves accepted this part of Lord Nicholas' entertainment - after all, a host’s reputation depends on the quality and quantity of the slaves his guests can pick from. However, some of the slaves looked worried because it was also a known fact - you never knew the desires of those who chose you. Occasionally the slaves were asked a question or two, which was answered softly, but mostly the picking was done quietly. Soon enough though, all the slaves were chosen and they lead their Master's guests to the assigned guest rooms.

"And now," Gareng said when the room was empty, "You promised me something else."

Lord Nicholas laughed and slapped his father on the shoulder, "Of course! I did not forget. She is staying with Sarah for now. Frankly I am not sure what to do with her until she turns training age." Lord Nicholas lead his father out of the dining room and down the hall a second time to Sarah's rooms. This time the main room where she mixes her salves was empty, but Lord Nicholas simply went to the only other door at the rear of the room and opened it. Revealed was an even smaller room with Sarah sitting on the floor brushing out Adora's hair and laughing. Sarah was getting her ready for bed. Sarah quickly knelt when the men entered, but Adora watched them.

The elder approached Adora, but it was Lord Nicholas who spoke. "Gareng, this is your granddaughter, Adora."

Gareng picked up the child and felt her tense in his arms. "Now child here is nothing to fear. You just do as you're told and everything will be fine." He put her down and Adora quickly ran behind Sarah. "Timid little thing," Gareng said critically.

"Yes," Lord Nicholas agreed, "but she's young still. I have a feeling she will have her mother's stubbornness which will have to be beaten out of her."

Gareng nodded and they left the room, closing the door behind them. As they walked down the hall, Gareng spoke, "Tell me again about the vision you saw concerning Adora."

"Well, as you know I cast the spell about a week before I met Ariel. I was told –

She will be a great help to you; She will be a great threat

She will cause you to prosper; She will have a hand in your death

She will have magic not her own; Her magic belongs to another

Gareng nodded, "Just be careful with her. Control her with an iron fist. Her animal nature could easily cause her to turn on you."

"Yes sir. I already have a few ideas on how to handle it."

Their aimless walking through the castle led them to the second floor and in the guests hallway where they could hear various moans and screams coming from most of the rooms from the slaves. "Sounds like my guests are enjoying themselves. Good. They should sleep soundly tonight," Lord Nicholas said. They finally reached the suite of rooms Lord Nicholas had prepared for Gareng. As he opened the door, "Shall I bring you any slaves sir?"

Thinking it over Gareng shook his head, "No son. I will sleep alone, but" and he waved his hand while muttering and suddenly the moaning was heard in his room clearly. "I shall sleep to the girls pleasure and suffering." They both laughed and parted company.

Lord Nicholas continued up another flight of stairs to his rooms on the third floor. The whole floor was converted into his personal library, divination room and bedroom. He made his way to a spiral staircase near his bed and climbed it the only direction it would go - up to the pleasure slave's quarters. The whole fourth floor was dedicated to them. They were lying around in all states of undress and when they saw him, they quickly bowed low. He quickly picked two girls and they followed him back to his room, trembling.

"Prepare me for bed," he ordered and they quickly obeyed. As they undressed him he thought once again about the vision. Too bad it wasn't more specific on how exactly Adora would be instrumental to me. But I will control her or she will pay dearly for it.

Lord Nicholas and Lios come to an understanding

2012-06-19T13:50:00.001-04:00

Adora leaned against her father’s chair on the dais; her arms crossed, looking disgusted. Several village merchants had been coming up to him all morning and giving their reports as well as his cut. Each time a bag of coins was in his hand, he shook it gently, counting them just from the sound. Another day of this excitement. If I hadn’t yelled at him three months ago during my training, I would have never found myself here, constantly under his close watchful eye. With each merchant, Lord Nicholas sat back in his chair, watched them enter, bow to him, listened to their report and caught their money when it was tossed up to him. He never said a word.

Still another man swaggered into the great room. Lord Nicholas leaned forward slightly. Adora felt the tension and stood up straight. Here’s something new. The man performed as all the others, but there was no humility in his movements. There was a sneer on his lips when he stood and tossed the bag to her father. He shook it, and smiled. The man misunderstood his smile and grinned broadly back at him. “Lios,” Lord Nicholas asked, “how long have you been in Falconridge?” Strange question, Adora thought, Father knows all the merchants that move here.

“About six months, my Lord,” Lios answered.

Lord Nicholas nodded, “And your business has done well?”

The man nodded, grinning even wider, “Very well, my Lord.”

The fool, Adora thought, my father is setting his trap with your words!

“And these weekly reports and tributes I ask for, they are not too taxing on you?”

The man bowed slightly. “Not at all, my Lord.”

Lord Nicholas nodded, reached out his hand and his magic wrapped around Lios’ throat and slowly began to tighten. Lios froze and reached up to his neck, his eyes wide with surprise and fear.

Lord Nicholas stood up and motioned for Adora to follow him. They approached Lios and stopped just out of arms reach. “Then why, may I ask, have you been cheating me these last six months?”

Lios responded, “My Lord…” but Lord Nicholas tightened the noose more, leaving Lios silenced, while Lord Nicholas paced back and forth in front of him. “It was only a few silvers off at first. Then it became off by a gold or two and to your credit, you kept it there for about two months. But lately,” Lord Nicholas tightened the noose a bit more and lifted Lios off the floor. Lios was thrashing, trying to catch his breath, “you have been off by five gold coins. And now today you are off by ten.” Lord Nicholas stopped pacing and turned to face him once again. He loosened the noose a little and Lios began babbling. Lord Nicholas held up his hand, silencing him.

“Since you came to Falconridge, I’ve had several people watching you and your family. I’m told you have three daughters, the youngest already turning heads though she is only 13. And your wife is quite a hard worker.” The man’s eyes grew wider with each word and he silently pleaded with Lord Nicholas who coldly stared back at him. “As punishment for stealing from me, I will enslave your youngest daughter. Permanently.” Lord Nicholas released the noose and Lios dropped to the floor.

Lios scurried over to Lord Nicholas’ feet and tearfully bowed to the floor, “Not Melody, my Lord! Please no! Take me; take my business; I’ll give you half of all coin I bring in! Please!”

Lord Nicholas considered his offer, “Very well, for half of the coin you bring in, you can keep Melody. But you and your family will not leave these lands without first consulting me, nor are you allowed to let your business deteriorate.”

Lios began kissing the floor, “No my Lord! I will obey your every command. Thank you! Thank you!”

“Remember Lios, I will be watching you and your family.” Lord Nicholas waved his hand and a guard escorted and very shaken and humbled Lios out of the great room.

“You see, Adora, make people fear you and they respect you and are obedient.” He frowned at Adora, “Usually.” Adora bowed and followed him back to his seat.

“Father, you would’ve taken his daughter, wouldn’t you?”

Lord Nicholas chuckled, “Yes, and I still might. I do not know yet. It will all depend on how obsequious he is. But he will respect me and fear me,” he turned and looked pointedly at Adora, “unlike some I know.”

Adora met his gaze and forced a smile, “Yes, and I love you too.”

Nicholas grinned, “I’m glad we understand each other, my dear.”

Adora sighed, “He doesn’t know it yet, but you just took over his life.”

Lord Nicholas chuckled, “Yes. He is a slave in all but the markings. Is it not marvelous?”

Adora frowned and took her place as before, leaning against his throne.

The thwarted contract

2012-06-19T13:37:00.000-04:00

"You're a fool if you believe that." Adora spoke from the corner of the room, half covered in shadows.

The men sitting around the table turned to look at her. Even sitting, they seemed to look down on her. A servant doesn't speak, she could hear them thinking. "Lord Nicholas," a graying man said the name with respect, "Has promised us everything we could hope for in this contract. We would be a fool to not accept it."

Adora shrugged, "As you will, sir, but I know him better than any of you and I say again, you would be a fool to accept it."

Another man, younger than the first, stood up, "You go too far, girl. Remember your place."

She knew she was treading on dangerous ground and kept her mouth shut.

The man looked at another man at the table, "Teralis, keep your servants in line if you don't mind. She is your bodyguard, not our adviser."

Teralis stood up, his grey eyes slowly looking at each man, "Forgive my indulgence, gentlemen, but I think we need to at least hear what she has to say. Adora, come here." Adora immediately went to stand behind Teralis. He sat down and gestured to the table, "Go ahead and say your peace."

Adora bowed slightly, "Forgive my earlier impertinence, sirs. I was out of line, but I felt I had to speak out. Otherwise, what I've seen happen to other towns would happen to you. Lord Nicholas is my father. He is a very cunning man and he wants power. To get it he will blackmail or corrupt anyone he has to. And he is a master of contracts. He writes them with carefully hidden loop-holes that he will exploit later. He comes in looking like a savior, but soon you find that he has become your Master. But by that time, he has too many connections and is dug in too deeply to get rid of. Better to say exactly what you want than to just assume you both agree on certain points." Adora suddenly felt ashamed at her forwardness, bowed quickly and backed away from the table.

The men looked at each other in silence for a long time, then they all began to talk at once.

"What if what she said was true?"

"How can we trust her?"

"Is she reliable?"

"She is only a servant after all."

Teralis stood up and silence is achieved once again. "Gentlemen. I believe I can vouch for Adora's reliability. Lord Nicholas is her father, yes, but he is also more than that. Adora is not my bodyguard by choice. She is a slave. I bought her from her father."

"Ridiculous! Lord Nicholas enslaves his own daughter? Why?"

Teralis shrugged, "Who knows, but I think that gives her some knowledge about how he works and how cruel he can be."

The men thought this over and their talks resumed. They had much to discuss.

******************

Adora knelt in front of her father and waited. It had been a wonderful six months since she was sold - temporarily - to Teralis. Suddenly an immense evil presence entered her mind. Not again, she thought. He filled her mind causing her to collapse to the floor, no longer able to control her body.

Nicholas walked through her mind, opening all doors to her thoughts and memories. Adora moaned and felt her helplessness & vulnerability weigh down on her the more he searched.

"Did you interfere with the contract signing?" Gone was his voice of charm and eloquence. Now she heard only threats. She couldn't tell if he spoke the words aloud or in her mind.

She knew that he knew the answer already, having searched her mind but he wanted to hear her say the condemning word.

Yes. The word came to her mind unbidden and unstoppable. His presence began to seethe.

"I see. Why? Show me what happened."

Instantly the memory unfolded in her mind. Once again she was in the room with the men sitting around the table. She heard her words and her thoughts. She could not stop the memory once it was asked for. The memory faded and once again Adora was in the blackness of her mind. "I see." Her father's voice was almost a whisper. Her blood ran cold. He gets quieter the more angry he gets. "Obviously my training nor Flagg's is working. Perhaps Mori can convince you."

Adora blood froze. No, father, she pleaded, I... she broke off. She could think of nothing to talk him out of this punishment.

"Perhaps you should have thought of that before you spoke up."

Nicholas pulled out of her mind and Adora was once again aware of her surroundings. She was lying on her side on the cold marble floor, but she could still not move. This always happens when he enters my mind. I'll be able to move again in a little while. She heard footsteps and saw Mori's feet step in front of her but she could not look up at him. She was not sure she wanted to. What is he going to do? The thought gave her chills and she desperately wished she had just kept her mouth shut.

Adora's escape

2012-06-19T11:00:00.001-04:00

Adora woke and stared at the roughly hewed beams that formed the ceiling. She sighed. “Another day free.” Am I really? She got up and looked out her window. The field around the Inn was flat and grassy for a few miles before the thick woods began, so she would be able to see them approaching. But only if they come through the woods when I am watching.

Adora shook her head and turned around. Her eyes scanned over her room – the table and chairs, her bed and the trunk at the foot of the bed. Her room didn’t look much different than her room back home. I’ve been here too long! Why haven’t I left yet?? The longer I stay the more likely I will be captured. Adora quickly dressed in leggings and a loose tunic then stormed out of the room.

The Phoenix Alehouse hadn’t opened for business yet, but Adora could already smell breakfast being cooked and her stomach growled. You are putting them in danger, girl! Adora went out onto the front porch and began to sweep it off, allowing her mind to wander.

She had come here just two months ago, starving, running and scared. It was about this same time in the morning. Smelling cooking food, she could not resist and quickly found herself softly knocking at the door. Before she could change her mind, the door opened and a gentle man looked at her with deep blue eyes. He was a bit overweight and his hair was thinning, but he had a quick smile. His name, she found out later, was Reginald.

Reginald quickly showed her to a table and brought her a plate over-flowing with food. She shoveled the food into her mouth, too hungry to taste it. About half-way through the meal, however, she caught Reginald looking at her right hand. She could see the question forming about the strange mark there, but she hid her hand in her lap and he let the question go unasked.

He stood up and Adora tensed. Her mouth frozen in mid-chew. Is he going to call the authorities? Turn me in? Does he know what my mark means!? She watched him carefully, but he only went to the bar and poured her a glass of cold milk. Setting it in front of her, he sat down again. “I could use some help around here,” he spoke softly. His voice kind and comforting. “There’s sweeping and such that needs to be done that I just don’t have time for. I could only pay you a few coins, but your room and food would be free.”

I could use the coin and some food would be great before I move on again. Adora simply nodded her head and finished her plate. “Great! You’ll find a broom on the porch. Go ahead and sweep that off while I get your room ready.” He took her plate away and it wasn’t until she was on the porch that she realized he hadn’t even asked for her name. She had been here ever since and he still has not asked her name or even her history.

Heavy boots on the front steps brought her back to the present day. She stole a glance at them, trying to appear that she wasn’t looking, expecting them to ignore her and continue on inside. Most other people did just that. But she realized that they were staring at her and making no move to head inside. Without looking up, Adora said, “The Inn will be open in a few moments, but I believe they are about to serve breakfast if you want to wait inside.” They still did not move. Finally she stopped sweeping and looked at them in the eyes. They much have seen my gold arm bands. A few people before have tried to steal them, but discovered that she is not as easy a target as she looks.

“Are you guys lost?” They stepped closer to her, and Adora backed away into the railing that surrounded the porch. She could go no further. As Adora tensed to jump over the railing, the thinner man grabbed her right arm and pulled it out straighter. Adora jerked her arm back but it was no use. The man’s grip was firm. “Those are very interesting arm bands, my dear. I don’t believe I’ve seen anything like them.” His voice was oily, sending shivers down her spine. He turned her hand over and traced the symbol on the back of her hand. “And such a beautiful symbol. What is it?”

Adora’s heart was pounding now. The second man came in close and grabbed her other arm. She struggled, but they held her tightly. “Who are you!?” she demanded. They both looked into her eyes and thinner man smiled wickedly. “We are the Huntsmen.” Adora’s eyes grew wide and her heart stopped. “No,” she breathed. Then she came to her senses and she pulled her arms, trying desperately her free herself. The thin man pulled her close and held her against his body. “Stop fighting Adora. Surely you knew this day would come.”

Just then, Reginald burst out of the front door holding an axe, ready to strike. “You let her go!” The larger man stepped in-between them and lashed out at Reginald. Adora heard bones breaking and Reginald was thrown against the railing, his arm bent in an impossible direction. The large man held the axe now. “Old man,” the thinner man said through gritted teeth, “she is a slave and we have come to take her back to her owner. But first you must learn what it costs to hide a slave from their owner.”

The thin man held out his hand and a small ball of flame appeared. Adora instantly knew what he was going to do. “No! Please! You have me now! Let’s go. Please don’t do this! He didn’t know I was a slave. Please!” The thin man only smiled again and threw the fire ball at the Inn. The fire quickly caught and began to spread. The man threw more fireballs at the building and soon the whole front of the building was engulfed. Reginald looked horrified and finally sprang into action.

He jumped to his feet, but then swayed as the pain in his arm threatened to overwhelm him. Shaking his head to clear it, he ran back into the Inn shouting his wife’s name. Adora was crying uncontrollably and the thin man laughed. They walked off the porch and down the street just as others were coming out of their houses and spreading the word about the fire.

As they walked out of town, Adora quickly dried up her tears and tried to concentrate on the problem at hand. No one is stopping us. It doesn’t even look like they see us leaving. She hoped Reginald and his wife got out of the building safely. She doubted they would be able to put out the fire in time.

They left the town and walked about another two miles, coming to a large encampment. Adora looked around in wonder. There were at least 50 men in camp. “Were all these Huntsmen hunting me?” The thin man laughed, “No, but you have given us quite a chase.” She was lead to the center of the camp where she saw a cage. Adora gasped and began struggling again, “No! I hate cages!” She was shaken so hard that she stopped fighting. He looked her deep in her eyes and another smile tugged at his lips. “You will go into the cage willingly now. Or we will put you there after you have entertained us.” He watched her to make sure his meaning was understood. Adora paled and walked herself to the cage. They locked her inside.

She had just enough room to stand and turn around in one spot, but no more. The seriousness of her situation slammed into her and she groaned, grasping the bars to keep from fainting. She watched the men break camp and while most of the left in different directions, about ten stayed behind. She finally learned the thin man’s name – Kevven. He walked over to a wooden box and took out a short piece of rope and a small, clear glass globe.

Kevven held up the globe and said, “Nicholas.” The globe filled with black, swirling smoke and his voice came through, deep and filled with evil. “Nicholas here.”

“We have your daughter, sir. We will be arriving in just a few moments.”

“Excellent. You will receive your fee upon your return.”

The globe cleared and Kevven put it away. He picked up the rope and spoke the magic that would extend it to whatever length he needed. The other Huntsmen gathered their camping gear and piled it around Adora’s cage. Then they laid the rope around all of it and, stepping inside the circle, touched the rope ends together.

The rope glowed blue then white. The woods outside the ring became hazy then blurry then disappeared altogether. Adora looked down and even the ground wasn’t seen. They were floating in a white space. We’re being transported back to him. Adora closed her eyes, involuntarily picturing the meeting that was about to happen. She whimpered as she thought of the pain and beatings she would receive. And who knows what else he will throw at me. Oh, why did I run away! I knew I would be caught eventually. Why did I do it? Adora was beginning to feel sick.

The sights beyond the rope cleared and she groaned again. There in front of her was her home. Her prison. Her punishment. Kevven and the large man unlocked her cage while the others loaded the gear into a wagon. Adora collapsed to the ground, too weak with fear to stand. Kevven and the large man lifted her up and she stumbled towards the main doors.

They carried her inside, down the hall, and into his throne room. Adora never looked up. She could feel his wrath reaching out for her, surrounding her, then choking her. They carried her to the end of the red carpet and dropped her. She flinched as her knees struck the thin carpet and felt the hard marble underneath. Adora bent down until her forehead was touching the floor. Blind panic threatened to blind her to reason, so she clinched her hands and trembled.

A bag of coins was tossed into the air and Kevven caught it easily. That sounded like a lot of money. They silently turned and left Adora to her fate. Adora was alone with her father and she could picture him sitting on his throne, his thick black hair hanging to his shoulders, his black eyes boring into her. His right hand would be gently, sensuously tracing the curves on the small naked slave girl carved atop his cane.

She heard him stand and walk over to her. Finally she saw his shiny boots stop next to her. She heard a sword being drawn. That is the sword hidden in his cane. A sudden peace came over her. He is going to kill me. Right here; right now. At least I won’t suffer. A quick cut was made to the back of her neck and Adora cried out. But it was only a shallow cut. What is going on? She stayed in her position and waited. Nicholas walked around to face her. “Kneel.” Adora got up on her knees, but kept her eyes on his shoes. “Look at me, Adora.” She swallowed hard and her eyes traveled up his body to his eyes. He was smiling. Oh that’s not a good sign.

“You are very good at what you do, my dear. You managed to stay free for almost a year. That is quite an accomplishment. Of course, I didn’t hire the Huntsmen until about two weeks ago. Their fee is steep, but they are always successful. I could kill you, slowly and painfully, but you are too valuable to me right now. That being said, you are getting to be too independent for a slave. You need to learn loyalty and with that cut on your neck, I have just guaranteed it.”

Adora looked at her father, completely puzzled.

“I have just poisoned you Adora.” Her eyes grew wide and she reached back and felt the blood already sealing over the cut. “Don’t worry, it’s a very slow acting poison.” His smiled widened and Adora whimpered. “There is no cure and only I have the delay antidote. You won’t feel a thing until three days from now. Then it will begin as a burning and the burning will continue to slowly get stronger over the next three days, and at the end of that third day, you’ll be dead. But you’ll beg for death long before then.” He laughed then, his voice echoing around the room. “I’ll let you go for five days to prove to you the truth of what I say. That should keep you loyal to me.”

“Now leave me.” Adora stood up, not believing what her father had just told her. Poison? No cure? Once again, she stumbled out of the throne room and barely made it to her own bedroom before fainting.

What happened to Lord Nicholas?

2012-06-18T18:27:00.001-04:00

Adora was lying on a cot when she woke up. She looked around, but only saw fuzzy shapes moving around the room. She blinked and groaned. Someone rushed to her side. "Adora! Are you ok?" Adora only groaned and blinked once more. Finally the person came into view and Adora smiled. It was the old slave healer Susan. "What happened?" Adora's voice was weak and she tried to sit up, but screamed with the pain. "It only hurts when I move," Adora laughed weakly. "What happened?" Adora asked again.

"What do you remember?" Susan countered.

Adora focused on the uneven, rough, cave-like ceiling. "A cave! The slave's quarters!" Adora frantically looked around her, ignoring the sudden throbbing pain in her neck and head. Was I punished and sent to be common slave again? She was definitely in the slave's quarters but she was lying on a cot, not on a normal slave's straw bed at all. "What...?"

"What do you remember?" Susan asked again.

Adora tried again. This time she closed her eyes and images flashed through her mind. Fragmented, confusing. "A fight. In the throne room. Father throwing magic. Where was I? Near him. Protecting him. A bright light. Pain. Darkness." Adora looked around again and realized something was wrong. Father's not here. But that's not too unusual. Then is came to her. Silence. All I hear is silence. Since I was born, Father and I have shared a mental link. As much as I hated it, I never realized how it would be without it. "Susan, what happened to my father? Where is he?"

Susan got a strange look on her face and only patted Adora's hand. Then, before Adora could ask anything more, Susan walked away to check on the other patients.

Adora relaxed, closed her eyes and tried to call out to him. Father. (Silence) Father! (Silence) Nicholas!(Silence) Hope and fear swirled in her. He hates it when I call him by his name. Yet he did not answer. The only thing that could break our link would be planer travel or....death. Wait! Sometimes powerful magic can block our contact. "Susan!" Adora yelled. Susan came rushing over.

"Yes, Adora, what is it?"

"Answer me truly." Adora's eyes locked onto Susan's. "Is my father dead?" She emphasized every word.

Susan looked away for a moment then turned back and nodded. "All magic points to it, but we were waiting for you to wake to make sure." Adora stared at the ceiling in shock. She no longer heard anything around her. Father, dead? It's not possible. How? A cleric came over to Adora and began chanting over her. The healing power flowed from the cleric into Adora, bringing blessed relief. When the cleric left, Adora tried to sit up and this time only received minor protests from her body. Adora looked around and finally saw all the injured. Most were soldiers but some were her father's special fighters. There was only one cleric healing everyone. But only being able to cast so many times a day, that was a slow process. Susan did the best she could with her herbs and salves, but that wasn't much help. But Adora didn't see her father anywhere. Of course not. Father wouldn't be with the commoners.

"Take me to him. Now." Susan quickly moved to obey Adora's commanding tone. "He's in his room." Adora knew where that was, but she still allowed Susan to lead the way. The slave's quarters could only be entered and left by a door to the throne room. When Adora entered, she gasped. It certainly wasn't much of a throne room now. There were huge char marks on the walls from fireballs and various other magical blasts and blood was splattered everywhere. But there were no bodies around - either of Nicholas' men or of the "enemy". Her father's throne was nowhere to be found and most of the blasts seem to have hit the dais where it usually sat. They left the throne room and walked slowly down the hall. No one was seen and the silence was oppressive. Finally they reached Nicholas' room and Susan opened the door. Adora suddenly found it very difficult to breathe. Adora didn't enter the room, but only stared at the open door. Susan gently pushed Adora inside.

Her father was lying on his bed, looking very pale. She took a few tentative steps on her own, then she saw movement. But not from the bed. Adora turned to see Flagg standing there, watching her. Adora fell to her knees before him. "Adora," his rasping voice called out. "Get up. You need to verify his death." Adora swallowed hard and looked into Flagg's face. He reached out and helped her to her feet. He guided her to the bedside and she stood there looking at her father.

"He's only sleeping," Adora said.

"Adora. You need to make sure."

Adora reached out and touched his hand. She closed her eyes and attempted to enter his mind. If he was alive, he would be furious at this intrusion. She shuddered at the memory. This time there were no barriers to pass and she entered easily. Too easily. She found only silence. She probed deeper but again met no resistance nor thoughts of any kind. She pulled out and blinked. Adora stared at her father until Flagg tapped her shoulder. She turned to look at him with a vacant stare. "He's dead. There is nothing there."

Adora turned back to look at her father's face. How can you be dead? I thought you would never die. What about your magic? Your protections? Adora stood there, staring at him for seemed an eternity. She felt a hand on her shoulder and she turned to look. But it wasn't Flagg. It was her sister.

They only discovered each other a few years ago and haven't seen much of each other since. Adora especially didn't like Alia much because she always thought Adora was exaggerating about Nicholas' cruelty. As expected, Alia and Adora have different mothers and Alia lives with her mother, not with Nicholas. Adora stepped away from the bed, "He's dead, Alia."

"I know." Her sister gave her a stony look. "What happened?"

Adora shook her head, "I don't remember much. Fragments. Bits and pieces. I was knocked out, I guess."

Alia nodded slowly, "I see. I'm not here as your sister Adora. I'm here as the head of the Council. This will be investigated."

Adore looked at her sister dumbfounded. "What's to investigate? He's dead."

"Yes," Alia agreed, "But who or what killed him?"

Adora instantly knew what she was hinting at. "I didn't kill him! Gods above! I am his slave! Or was. He was still alive when I was knocked out!"

"That remains to be seen."

Adora was incredulous. She collapsed into a chair and her sister walked out. Adora lashed out at her father. "Damn you! I can't escape from your treachery even after your death! I am innocent! You bastard!" She continued to yell and threw everything she could get her hands on around the room. Adora yelled again and ran out of the room, then outside onto the grounds. She ran around the property until she was completely exhausted and collapsed onto the grass. Sleep came instantly.

/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\

Adora stirred awake. She was still lying on the grass.

“Welcome back.”

Adora didn’t need to open her eyes to know that voice. “Hello Alia. Are you here to arrest me?” Adora kept her eyes closed, waiting for judgment.

“No.” Adora jerked her head up and stared at her sister. “The guards verified your story,” her sister continued. “They, thankfully, filled in more of the details that you could not remember. I would suggest you talk with them to fill in your memory blanks.” Alia paused and took a deep breath. Adora still didn’t trust herself to say anything. “I am now here as your sister. I will stay and help with the final details, but you have much to think about.” Adora sat up. “You are free now, Adora. And since you are free, you inherit all our father’s possessions."

Adora shook her head, “No. You are the older sister. It belongs to you.” Even if we do have different mothers.

“That is true, but I have already signed away my rights to it. I would have no use for it and I certainly don’t have the time for it. Besides, you know his business better than anyone else.” Alia stood, “Now then. I will find a room and get settled in.” She left without a backwards glance.

Another story bit...

2012-06-18T18:14:00.000-04:00

The bell's sound brought a smile to the shopkeeper's face. He secured the needle in the fabric he was embroidering and stood up. It had been a fairly good year and he was surrounded with several projects in various stages of completion - a wedding dress for a lovely woman down the lane, an infant's holiday outfit for the family across town, and a cape for a young man that didn't give his reasons for wanting it. He smiled a bit wider, set down his work and pulled the curtain aside that separated his work room from the rest of his shop.

His smile disappeared in a flash. Lord Nicholas and two of his bodyguards were standing there, making the normally spacious floor seem crowded and claustrophobic. "M-my lord. Y-you honor me and my business." He bowed low and stayed there. "How may I serve you?" He slowly raised up but his eyes refused to. Lord Nicholas watched him and was silent for several moments. The man began to sweat and his breathing became rapid. Lord Nicholas smiled, enjoying the shopkeepers discomfort.

Lord Nicholas looked around the shop and his eyes sparkled. "Master Nadair," Lord Nicholas said in a friendly tone. "You have a beautiful shop and judging by its size, I'd say you are doing well for yourself. True?"

Nadair's head bobbed like a marionette's on a string. "Yes my lord. I have no complaints." His sweat now began to collect into drops on his face.

Lord Nicholas began to run his hand over the polished wood counter that stood between him and Nadair. "So you have no complaints about the annual tribute that I require from you?"

Nadair jerked his head from side to side, throwing the sweat from his face. "None my lord! The amount is very reasonable!" He bent down back into his low bow.

Lord Nicholas was silent again and walked around the counter to face Nadair. Nadair gasped and dropped to his knees, he forehead touching the floor.

"Nadair," Lord Nicholas said, dropping the respectful title. "You don't have a problem with me allowing you to own your own business? To do with it what you wish? And all I ask is an annual tribute. Is that too much to ask since I am your Lord and I rule this whole island?"

Nadair's voice was slightly muffled since he was talking to the floor. "No, my Lord! You are very generous to allow this humble shopkeeper to set up shop in your land and..."

Nicholas cut him off, "And yet, you are stealing from me." Nicholas' voice was calm and conversational. He watched Nadair closely.

Nadair quickly sat back on his heels, his eyes wide with fear as he looked up at Lord Nicholas. "No!" he whispered. "Never my Lord! I would rather die first!" His sweat was flowing freely now.

Lord Nicholas raised an eyebrow, "Die? Really? Hm, I may have to take you up on that offer. Because you have been stealing. You have taken something that was mine and have given it away." He looked down into Nadair's eyes, and motioned for his guards to grab him. They did and held Nadair against the wall. The man was ghostly white now and he began to shake his head, too scared to speak.

Nicholas moved close enough to be almost nose to nose to Nadair. "You have helped my daughter escape. She is MY daughter and MY slave. Therefore you have stolen from me and now you must pay."

The Fighting Arena & The Slave Market

2012-06-18T15:28:00.001-04:00

The sun shone brightly and the morning breeze was cool, promising a very comfortable day. Adora breathed in deeply and smiled. It was a day that one waits all through the summer for - the welcoming coolness of fall. Adora sat back in her chair under the awning and relaxed. For a few minutes anyway. A man with thinning brown hair and a thick waist came over to her table carrying two mugs. He set one before her then he sat in the chair next to her and began to sip from his own mug.

“Hello Carl,” Adora smiled. “Won’t the other barflies miss you?”

Carl laughed, “No Adora. Suzette is filling their orders. You don’t come here too often, so when you do, I make it a point to sit with you.”

Adora nodded, “So who’s fighting today?”

Carl looked out across the yard from where they sat. About 10 yards in front of them was a large square area that had four posts, one at each corner. A shimmer could be seen between each post, rising about as high as three men standing on each other’s shoulders. There were other tables set up around the ring in the sun. Most of the tables were full of people, most armed in some fashion. No one was inside the ring yet. Carl answered her question, “There is of course Chenka. You remember him, I think.”

Adora nodded, “Oh yes. He is one of your regulars that fight here. I’ve fought him a few times. He is good.” Then Adora spotted him at a table on the opposite side of the ring with two other men. Chenka had red hair, an eye patch and several scars. He was sipping from his mug and chatting with the others at his table. He seemed more inclined to watch the show than to participate.

Carl nodded, “Yep. I thought you’d remember. But today there is a new guy, named…Samual. He is quite a braggart but I don’t know if he can back up what he claims. No one has fought him. Of course, he only showed up yesterday.” Just then a young man with light brown hair stepped through the shimmer wall of the ring and began to walk around the square. He was wearing leather armor and a sword at his side. He had a smirk on his face. “That’s him,” Carl said. “Rumor has it that he is quite good, but again, I haven’t seen him fight yet.”

“Anyone care to challenge the greatest fighter in all of Braxland?” Samual called out. “I can beat anyone here, but don’t worry, I’ll go easy on you if you’re too scared. Come on, who’s first? I’ll buy the winner drinks for a week.” He continued to walk around, yelling out challenges and taunts, but no one stood up.

Adora took another sip from her mug and stood. Carl immediately put a hand on her arm. “Adora, be careful. I don’t want to have to explain to your father how you died.”

“Thanks Carl,” Adora smiled, “That shows real confidence in me.”

Carl shrugged, “I’m simply telling the truth. You know your father wouldn’t like it and he would keep you from coming back here.”

Adora’s smile faded and she nodded her understanding. Then she walked out into the sunlight towards the ring. “You talk like a fighter, but can you really fight?” Adora challenged Samual. All eyes swung around to her. Several of Carl’s regulars began whispering amongst themselves. Adora walked closer to the ring, her left hand resting on the hilt of her sword. She was wearing just a plain shirt and leggings.

“Ha!” Samual laughed, “Are you the only brave one to accept my challenge? A female?” He turned to the tables, “Will none of you men accept my challenge? You would have this woman shame you?”

Adora listened without emotion, “Who are you, boy?”

“Boy?! I’ll have you know that I’m the greatest fighter in Braxland! I have top honors in three sword competitions! Who are you?”

Adora raised her eyebrows, “You come here, looking for a fight and you don’t find out who the best fighters are in the area first? You are either stupid or naïve; I don’t know which yet. But I’ll take your challenge.” Instantly all around the tables, the whispering grew in volume and coins began to quickly change hands. The betting had begun. Adora continued, standing just outside the ring, “With magic or without?”

“Without.”

“Cheating or no?” Adora asked. Some in the past were honest enough to say ‘cheating’, but most said ‘no’.

“No.”

“Conditions?”

Samual thought about it, “The first person to draw blood three times.”

Adora nodded, “And no killing.”

Samual smiled, “Agreed.”

Adora returned his smile then stepped into the ring. Adora drew her sword and held it pointing to the sky in front of her face. Samual did the same. Then they bowed, both keeping their eyes on each other. The fighter’s greeting over, they relaxed and circled each other, looking for an opening. Adora took an easy swing toward his shoulder which was easily blocked. She jabbed, he knocked her sword out of the way. She made a couple more easy attacks, which he countered each one. He has some skill, so let’s pick up the challenge a bit. Her attacks now became faster and stronger, but so did his. He was a more aggressive fighter than she was, often trying to take aim at her chest and head, while she danced around him, poking at him here or there, making him jump, but not hard enough to draw blood. The crowd, now including people from inside the tavern, began to yell encouragement and suggestions to the fighters.

“Come on man! Give it to her!”

“Quit playing with him Adora!”

“Where’s all the talk now Samual?”

At the mention of her name, Samual paused and Adora quickly took advantage. She moved in and put a good slice into his arm. A cheer went up from the crowd. Samual cried out and both fighters backed away.

“You’re Adora?” Samual asked, shocked.

“Yeah. So?”

“The Adora? Lord Nicholas’ daughter?”

Adora rolled her eyes, but kept her sword up and ready. “Unfortunately, yes.”

The crowd, sensing the pause, began to roar in disappointment.

“I can’t fight you,” Samual continued. “They say you’re the best fighter in more lands than Braxland and the surrounding lands combined!”

Adora smiled and shook her head, “I doubt I’m that good. You shouldn’t believe everything you hear. People have been known to exaggerate. Shall we finish now?”

Samual shrugged and came at her with his sword swinging. He must have found new inspiration because he was beating her back and around the ring. He knocked her down and, before he could react, she reached out her arm and pulled his legs out from under him. They both quickly got to their feet. This time Adora came at him and for a while they fought in the center of the ring, neither giving ground to the other. They were starting to sweat and they were tiring, but the fighting continued. Finally they both paused to catch their breath and Adora took a few steps backwards.

“What do you say to a draw?” Adora asked as she panted.

Samual’s eyebrows raised in surprised and he tried to catch his breath, asking finally, “Why?”

Adora smiled, “I have other, more important matters here to take care of and if I stay to finish this, I’ll be late in doing them and will get into a lot of trouble. I frankly didn’t think it’d take this long to defeat you. You are good.”

Samual smiled, held up his sword in the same fighter’s greeting and Adora did the same. Then they bowed to each other and sheathed their swords. They shook hands and turned to leave the ring. That’s when Adora saw him. The man was standing in the crowd, watching them. He stood taller than the other men in the crowd, and the crowd backed away from him. He wore a well-tailored, dark blue shirt with silver trim and pants. Adora stood frozen in place. Everyone around her seemed to disappear. Her vision was centered and taken up with the man. She fell to her knees and bowed her head. Samual saw this and stopped just outside the ring. He turned and stared, his questions all too plain on his face.

“You were sent here with a purpose, Adora. Not to show off for the locals.” The man folded his arms and stared at her.

“Yes, Father,” Adora said, keeping her eyes lowered, “I was just finishing up here since the market doesn’t open until now.”

Her father approached her, his eyes wide, “Are you suggesting that I don’t know when the auction block opens?!” His voice grew louder with every word until it was beating against Adora.

She cowered and lowered her forehead to the ground. “No Father!”

“Get up,” he growled.

Adora quickly rose to her feet, but kept her eyes on his chest. Her heart was beating so fast, she thought she would faint.

“Look me in the eyes,” her father demanded.

Adora slowly raised her eyes to his. When she did, he took another step toward her, through the barrier and grabbed her throat. She tensed, but didn’t try to avoid his attack.

“Do I need to prevent you from coming here, Adora? You should have been looking over the girls and deciding which would best serve my needs. Not playing around here trying to forget that you are a slave.” His grip tightened around her throat. “My slave.” Adora grabbed his arm, but didn’t fight. Her eyes were still locked onto his. “Do I make myself clear?” Adora tried to nod as best she could, then he dropped her and she quickly got to her knees again and bowed her head. He turned and left the tavern grounds. Adora stayed just how she was for a few moments more. Finally, she sighed and stood up.

The regulars quickly turned back to their drinks and low conversations, acting as if they hadn’t seen anything. Only Carl and Samual came up to her. She fished a gold coin out of her pouch and handed it to Carl. “Sorry Carl, but it looks like you were right. I probably won’t be back here for a while.” Carl pocketed the coin and smiled, “You are always welcome here Adora.” He then turned and headed back to the bar.

“What the hell was that about?” Samual asked her.

Adora turned to him, “What? Carl’s kindness or my father’s visit?”

“You know damn well which one I’m talking about.”

Adora chuckled, but shook her head. “Another time. As he said, I’ve got work to do here, but if you want answers, you’re welcome to tag along. We possibly can talk while I finish what I need to.” And with that she turned and left the tavern grounds. But before she had taken five steps, she heard steps running behind her.

“Adora! Wait!”

Adora stopped and Samual stopped next to her. She continued walking again but not quite as fast this time. “I’m confused,” Samual said. “He called you his slave? Why? And why did you kneel before him like that?”

“When you own a slave, don’t you call that slave your own? And if you are a slave, don’t you kneel for your owner?”

“Well…yes,” Samual said, “But you’re not a slave.”

Adora snorted, “What gives you that idea?”

“Well, you’re not marked. You not only carry a sword, you are quite skilled with it. And you are not dressed as a slave.”

Adora sighed. “Never-the-less, I am a slave. I’m just a well-trained one.”

Samual shook his head, “If you say so. You are heading to the auction block? Why?”

“Father wants me to buy him new slaves. About four or five. Common ones unless a good trained one is available.”

“A slave buying more slaves?” Samual said. “I don’t get it.”

Adora shrugged and couldn’t say any more as they had reached the auction block. The set-up reminded Adora of a cheap theater. There was a large tent set up on a large stone foundation that raised the tent about three feet off the ground. There was an enclosed space behind the tent that simply had canvas stretched between two poles for walls. There was only one opening that people could enter to look over whatever was being sold that day. Since she was just in time for the auction, though, Adora went straight to the crowd already gathered at the front of the tent. Several nods of greetings were given her which she returned and finally stopped in the middle of the crowd.

They weren’t kept waiting as the curtains disappeared and a fat man walked out onto the stage. “Welcome one and all! We have many slaves for sale today so we’ll get right to the point. As usual, we will go through our male slaves first.” Another man walked out onto the stage, his wrists and ankles linked with chains. He was human. His left cheek bore the slave’s mark, but his forehead was clear of an owner’s mark. He had his eyes lowered and stood hunched over. He was bare chested and wore thin pants. “Here is a common slave, strong as an ox mind you and perfect for lifting just about anything required or working any menial jobs.” The announcer went on about who owned him before and what the slave’s abilities were.

Adora looked at the slave and shook her head. She leaned over to Samual, and whispered, “That slave won’t live much longer. He has lost his will. Men don’t make good common slaves.”

Samual whispered back at her, but unable to take her eyes from the slave on stage, “How can you tell? That he won’t live I mean?”

Adora smiled, “I’m a slave too, remember? It’s something you just notice after a while. Most men are too independent to be comfortable as a common slave. They fight it too much. And when their will is finally broken, they quickly deteriorate. Father never buys male common slaves. Trained male slaves are a different matter.” The bidding began but it wasn’t in earnest. Most were saving their coins for the females. He was sold and another male slave was brought out and the whole process began again.

“So why does Lord Nicholas have his daughter, who is a slave, buy slaves for him? Surely he has others who could do the job besides you?”

“Oh yes,” Adora said, “But this way, I am constantly reminded of my position and how grateful I should be that, one, I’m not up there, and two, that I am a trained slave and therefore have more freedom than common slaves.”

Samual nodded, but didn’t reply. The male common slaves were quickly sold and a subtle change came over the crowd. They grew quieter and paid closer attention to the announcer. “I’m sorry, but we don’t have any trained male slaves today, but don’t worry. We have plenty of female slaves of all persuasions. Let’s get to the ladies that you came to see.” The first female was brought out and she also had her eyes lowered but she stood up straight. The announcer expounded on her traits and abilities and the bidding began. This took a bit longer than for the males. The girl wasn’t what her father was looking for so Adora kept quiet.

“What type of common slave is Lord Nicholas looking for?” Samual asked.

“I’ll know her when I see her. Or at least my father will tell me when I see her.”

Samual nodded. “How long have you been a slave, Adora?”

“Since childhood. I don’t believe I was born a slave, but I can’t really remember anything before living with my Father.”

“And now,” the fat announcer said, “I have a treat for you. She is listed here,” and he checked his paper once again, “as a common slave, but after you see her, I think you’ll agree that someone has not been using the girl to her full potential.” A slave was brought out with the same slave humility as the others, but even without seeing her face, she was gorgeous. She had the dark brown skin of the Bonites and long thick black hair. Adora leaned forward in her seat. [I must have her Adora. No matter the price.] “Let’s see her face,” Adora called out over the crowd. The girls chin was lifted and no mark was seen to mar her looks. She had large brown eyes and a pouty mouth. Adora bid even before the announcer was able to give her abilities or previous owners.

“Uh oh gentlemen, it looks like Adora is interested. That means Lord Nicholas is interested and he always gets what he wants. Still,” he winked at the crowd, “Why let him have this girl cheaply? Come on, who’s the next bidder?” The bids were yelled out quickly and for a while it climbed and climbed. As it got higher, the bidders began to drop out. Finally it was between Adora and one other bidder. Adora looked around to see this mysterious bidder that could stay with her this long. It was Mikal, the leader of the largest thieves guild for many lands around. He smiled and winked at her. She rolled her eyes, but smiled back. [Bid a few more times, Adora, but then let him have her.] Adora did as she was told and when Adora shook her head, refusing to bid more, the announcer stared at her.

“I don’t believe this. Incredible. I never thought I would live to see the day that Lord Nicholas lost on a bid.” The announcer turned to Mikal and smiled, “But sir, it looks like you have been rewarded for your persistence. This beauty is yours. Use her well.” The announcer marked on another piece of paper and snapped his fingers. The paper then appeared floating in the air in front of Mikal where he grabbed it and put it in a pouch on his belt. The paper summarized his purchase so that he could pay for the girl when he wished. As another girl was brought out, Mikal made his way to Adora and Samual.

“How many are you planning on buying today, Adora?” Mikal asked.

Adora shrugged, “I was told about 4-5 common and possibly a trained slave if one fits my father’s needs.”

Mikal nodded, “Well then, I guess it’s a good thing that I don’t have plans to buy more than this one. You made me spend quite a bit, but I will get my money’s worth out of her.” He looked over at Samual and watched him for a moment. “Who’s your friend, Adora?”

Adora smiled, “Mikal, this is Samual. I just met him during a fight at the Flaming Phoenix. Samual, this is Mikal, one of my previous owners.”

Mikal laughed, “Adora, just about everyone here of any importance is a previous owner of you.”

Adora shrugged and smiled, “True enough.” Mikal and Samual shook hands just as another common slave was brought out for bidding. For a while, Adora’s attention was taken up by bidding and though she knew Mikal and Samual were talking, she wasn’t listening. She ended up buying 4 slaves, with only quick questions sent to her father for about 200-300 coins a piece. After collecting the claim slips, she turned to Mikal and Samual who were still heavy in conversation. Adora walked up to them and smiled, “If it’s about me, it’s nothing but lies.”

Samual smiled back, “On the contrary Adora. I’m told it’s all the absolute truth. You are very fascinating.”

“Oh yeah, fascinating,” Adora rolled her eyes and snorted. “Now if I could just have my freedom to go with it.”

“That is one thing I’m still having trouble wrapping my mind around,” Samual said, shaking his head. “but Mikal says it’s all true, and from what I saw earlier I’m forced to believe it.”

“Speaking of my father, I need to collect these girls and get back. Mikal, it’s been great seeing you again.” Adora shakes his hand, which he returns warmly.

“I need to see about buying you for a longer period,” Mikal said, “and not just for whatever job I have lined up.” Adora smiled and they said goodbye.

Adora turned to Samual, “Well, I guess this is where we part company.”

Samual shrugged, “Actually, I was hoping I could meet your father, Lord Nicholas.”

Adora’s smile dropped and her face became stone. “Why?”

Samual was puzzled, “Because I think he’s fascinating. I mean for one thing, he is Lord over a vast amount of land and two, he has a highly trained daughter that he keeps as a slave. I mean what kind of man would do that?”

“Exactly; I would think that would turn you off, but I’ll take you if you really have your heart set on it.” [Father, the man I was fighting at the Flaming Phoenix wants to meet you. Yes, he is very skilled with a sword.] “Ok,” Adora said after a moment’s silence, “He said he would gladly meet with you.” Adora voice was flat.

“Wait, what? What do you mean ‘he said’?”

Adora rolled her eyes and sighed, “Sorry. I keep forgetting you don’t know. I have a permanent mental link with my father. We can send messages back and forth to each other at will. He can also read my mind when he wants to. I just told him that the man I was fighting at the Flaming Phoenix wanted to meet with him and he agreed.”

Samual whistled, “A mental link? That’s efficient.”

Adora’s eyes narrowed, “Yes, isn’t it.” She suddenly turned around and strode toward the partitioned area where the bought slaves are kept. There was still a line, so Adora was forced to stop, but she refused to look at Samual.

“Adora, what did I say?” Samual was looking at her, obviously confused.

She shook her head. “I was just beginning to like you Samual, but when you started admiring my father for what he has done and wanting to meet him,” Adora couldn’t finish and simply shook her head again.

“I’m curious about him, yes, but I don’t necessarily admire him.”

“It certainly sounded that way to me.”

“I don’t have to meet him if it’s going to bother you this much.”

Adora laughed, but it was a harsh sound. “No, you have to now. Otherwise, I’ll get blamed for talking you out of it. Then I’ll be punished.”

“Punished for what? It’s not like…oh,” he said.

“Now do you believe me? I do what I do because I’m under orders. I have no choice. Everything I have learned and everything I have done is because of him.” Samual was stunned into silence, so Adora paid for her slaves and made sure they were securely chained together by their collars. She had their ankle chains shortened before attaching the lead to the first slave’s collar. It would make their walk slower, but it would keep them from breaking away. Most of the walk was in silence. Thankfully the girls were not new slaves, so they didn’t cry or struggle. They were just about out of the marketplace when someone called out her name. She stopped and turned toward the sound. She hissed softly and stiffened when she saw who called her.

The man was tall – head and shoulders above Adora - and well built. He has deeply tanned skin and his blond hair was striking against it. His eyes were of a blue so clear they were almost colorless. He walked with a confident swagger and his long sword kept the beat as it tapped against his leg as he walked. “Well, well, well. I had heard that Lord Nicholas was buying slaves today, but I see the report was not quite true.” The man looked Adora over for a moment with shameless lust. “Still, it is good to see you again. I so enjoyed our time together, but it was a shame I was not able to do more.” He looked her over again and smiled. Only a two-year-old would’ve missed his meaning.

Adora was shaking with anger and she spoke through gritted teeth. “Hello Kevvin. I’m no run-away slave, so why don’t you leave me alone and go find whatever poor girl is your target.”

Kevvin laughed, “But Adora, I have no mark yet. I just checked in with my guild and there was nothing new. So I thought I’d just wander around the market to see what trouble I could get into.” He looked at the slaves behind Adora, all keeping their heads bowed. “I will gladly escort you back home.”

Adora hissed, but took a moment to collect herself. Finally she bowed slightly to Kevvin, “Thank you for your assistance. I’m sure Father would be very grateful if you would.” Her words caused her pain coming from her throat and it was plainly written on her face.

Kevvin laughed, “Why it’d be no trouble at all.”

Adora's Magic Is Taken Away

2012-05-28T19:51:00.001-04:00

Adora stood there, completely frozen. What have I done? If she ran, she was dead; if she stayed, it would be worse. Her dread and fear filled her, emptying her of rational thought. Why doesn’t he move? Why doesn’t he react!? Her father merely sat there, on the floor, staring at her; watching her. The sweat trickled down her neck while her lips trembled.

Lord Nicholas sat on the floor of his throne room where the force of her magical blow had laid him. His thick black hair clung to his face in complete disarray. His white dress shirt was now partially untucked and she had slightly torn it so now the shirt now gaped open to show a hint of his well-muscled body. His tight black leggings had some dust from the fall. He softly spoke and his clothes and hair straightened themselves and he was once again the picture of elegance. Except for the tear, one would never have known what happened.

“You are waiting for me to react, my dear?” He stood to his full height and towered above her. The top of her head came up to his chin, but his anger and power made him seem much larger. Despite his calm voice, there was a hard edge there that only those familiar with his wrath would hear. Her brown eyes were involuntarily locked on his. A very low, and short lived, moan escaped her throat. A smile – a slow, oily smile – spread across his face, “Do you have any idea how greatly you have roused my anger, daughter? Are you aware of the consequences of what you have just done?” The thought seemed to please him. He stepped forward and tucked a stray lock of hair that had come loose from her braid behind her ear. She trembled at his touch. “I’ve wanted to do this for a long time,” he purred, as a lover might. Adora moaned again…and fainted.

As Adora stirred, shadows of half remembered nightmares floated through her mind. She tried to catch them, pin them down, but they eluded her grasp. She tried to move her arms, but they seemed so heavy and unresponsive. And she was getting a headache. She groaned.

“Ah. Glad you could join me, Adora. I would hate to do this without your screams.” Nicholas' rich baritone and soft tone belied the threat intended. The memory of her disobedience came crashing upon her and her eyes shot open.

Adora was fastened down on a stone table while she stared at the ceiling. To describe what she was feeling at that moment would be impossible for any mortal. It was not the ceiling that caught her attention, but what was hanging from the ceiling. A large ruby – almost the size of a man’s fist - was hanging from a chain above the center of the table she was on. For the first time since that horrid moment of her disobedience, she found the words to speak.

“Father, no," she whispered. She pulled uselessly against the restraints. "Not this, please!” she begged louder through trembling lips and tried to yank away from her bonds again to no avail. “Don’t take my magic, father, please!” She tore her eyes from the hanging stone and sought out Nicholas' eyes. They were hard and cold.

“What would you have me do, Adora?” His voice was now granite. He shrugged as if given no choice. “You used your magic against me. You attacked me!” He screamed out the accusation and his voice became a living thing – surrounding her, choking her and repeating her sin in her mind. Adora closed her eyes, trying to keep from crying; to keep from showing that weakness here in front of her father, but that battle was quickly lost. “You see,” he continued, “I can, of course, kill you. I would be within my right. You are only a slave, after all. But that would be too easy.” His voice had softened again, to its snake-like charm, and he leaned close to her face, “That wouldn’t be any fun.”

He spoke more magic words and her skin was on fire. She screamed as the flames traveled slowly from her feet to her shoulders, burning her clothes from her body. It left no scars or marks of any kind, but it had delighted him. Adora opened her eyes and stared at her father. Her throat burned from her screams so she simply watched him.

Nicholas moved to the end of the large, round table that she was chained to, and began to speak the ancient words that would activate the magic in the table. One by one, the fist-sized precious stones that were inlaid around the edge of the table lit up with an eerie blue light. They grew brighter and brighter until they formed a barrier. The barrier grew higher and higher over her, then it curved and finally came together as a dome at the top, save for a hole just as wide as the stone that hung above it.

Then Adora felt something move inside her. Then that something pulled from inside her feet, her hands, her head, trying to gather at her center – her belly. It was her magic being gathered up and pulled from her body. It felt as if her very muscles were separating themselves, strand by strand. Adora open her mouth to scream, but all was silent. The pulling, gathering, separating continued for hours and Adora mentally begged and waited to pass out, but no relief came.

Her magic rose in a thin white light from her belly up to the stone and inside it. The ruby shook, but held together. Sweat poured off Adora and dripped from the table. The ordeal continued, and if she could have opened her eyes, she would have seen a satisfied Nicholas. Finally, all of her magic was inside the ruby and Adora was finally allowed to pass out. He reached up, took the stone from the chain and left the room – leaving his daughter to her nightmares.

/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\

Adora floated to consciousness against her will. She tried to roll onto her side and go back to sleep, but as soon as she tensed, her muscles screamed in protest. She clinched her teeth, moaning. She lay still for a while, but it soon became clear that her body had had enough of sleep. Then her memories came back to her; they refused to be forgotten. "Damn you father."

You did bring it on yourself. Her conscious often argued with her at these times.

Shut up. He could have done it faster, then it wouldn't hurt so much. Or he could have used the bracelets.

Perhaps, but would that have sent the proper message?

Shut up.

She tried sitting straight up once; twice. The pain and weakness was incredible. For the third try, she slowly rolled onto her side and tried to push herself upright. Adora gritted her teeth and tried to ignore the pain, but it was no use. Giving up, she returned to her back and laid there looking around as best as she could.

It was dark. She had originally thought that was only because it was probably the middle of the night. But this dark was deeper than that. And now she felt how cool the air was. She was underground. Adora waited until her eyes adjusted to the darkness, then looked around again. “Oh no. I should’ve guessed this is where I would end up again.” But this time I’m just like them. No magic. At all. Now what’s going to happen to me?

She saw three rows of women sleeping on mats of straw covered by a coarse cloth. “The common slave’s quarters.” She shook her head and once again tried to sit up. After much struggling, rocking and pushing, she managed to get up on her elbows. “I wonder how long have I been asleep?” She said to no one. Adora was not worried about waking up the other girls. She knew how heavily they slept.

“Two days and nights,” responded a voice from the shadows.

Adora turned her head sharply to where the sound came from and her head fell back onto her mat. Raising her head, she called out, “Who’s there?” Adora tried to sound firm and unafraid, but she knew she didn't have the strength to swat a fly, much less to defend herself. She wasn't sure she knew how without her magic. She only heard a deep chuckle at first.

“I’m surprised, Adora. You don’t remember me?" The voice rumbled around the room. "I’m hurt, and after we’ve spent so many lovely nights together. And I even took the time to dress you. Can you not guess?” Then more arrogant laughter was heard. Adora shuddered at the thought of being clothed by a man.

She closed her eyes, trying to place the voice. She remembered, and moaned. “Brian Ogwood,” she said.

A methodical clapping came to her ears, “Very good, Adora. I knew you would remember.” Then he said one magical word and a soft light shone around him coming from his staff. He walked up to her and stared down at her, with a smile that he must have borrowed from her father. His leather red-dyed vest reflected the light, but not the rest of his clothes. His blond hair stuck up every which way, and it would’ve been humorous, except for his cold light blue eyes. She remembered he is her height and age, and he would be handsome except he also had a slightly pug nose. His eyes traveled over her body, remembering every curve and mark under her clothes. Adora had a plain face, but she was shapely; a fact she regretted more than once. Adora could see Brian’s desire for her in his eyes.

Seeing him again almost made her sick. The memories came flooding back of being raped repeatedly, and nasty mind games he played on her. As if he could read her mind, his smile widened. He knelt down beside her and reached out to stroke her cheek. Revolted, Adora jerked away. He grabbed her chin and forced her to look at him. His smile turned predatory. “Don’t worry,” he chuckled, “As much as I want to, I was ordered to only watch over you and allow no one to molest you. Unfortunately, that means me as well.” He stood up, “And now to let Lord Nicholas know you are awake.”

Adora looked up at Brian, her fear giving way to anger, "You'd better run off then like a good little boy. Let's not keep my father waiting." Brian's eyes flashed as he waved his hand over her, muttering a few magical words. Her throat tightened; she gasped for air; then she couldn't breathe at all. She began to claw at her neck, looking up at Brian with growing fear. She had forgotten how easily he gets angry.

Her vision began to get blurry and the blackness was closing in. Brian turned and strode toward the guarded door. The blackness was almost complete. The door slammed shut behind him and instantly she could breathe again. Adora took great gasping breaths, collapsing back again on her mat. Real smart Adora. Now he'll tell father of your rebellious actions. You are digging a large hole for yourself girl.

/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\

Nudge. Nudge. Quit it! Who’s messing with my feet? I need my sleep. She rolled over and tried to go back to sleep. Nudge. Nudge. Adora angrily looked at her feet and gasped. “Flagg! I’m sorry,” and out of habit Adora tried to get to her feet. She was able to sit up at least, but once she tensed her legs to stand, the floor began to tilt and she quickly set her hands down and waited for the dizziness to pass.

“Easy Adora,” Flagg said. “I appreciate your enthusiasm, but you are obviously not quite ready for that yet. Sit down. We need to talk.” Adora sat cross-legged on her mat, idly playing with her feet. The other slaves had already left for their chores hours ago. “First thing, Adora, is to get your strength back as soon as possible. So I have ordered Sarah to bring you a bowl of stew often. You will eat all of it.” Just as he finished, Sarah came over with a steaming bowl and knelt down next to Adora. “Take and eat, Adora. We can still talk,” Flagg said. Adora took the bowl and began to eat while Sarah slipped away. “Now then,” Flagg continued, “as your Father’s slave trainer, I will be responsible for checking on your progress.”

Adora noded, “Better you,” she said around a mouthful of food then swallowed, “then my father. I’d likely say something to him that would only get me more punishment.”

Flagg nodded and chuckled, “Probably, but that is the other thing we need to talk about. Adora, look at me.” Adora swallowed another mouthful of soup and obeyed. “What do you want now?” His golden eyes stared deeply into hers. The depth of those eyes spoke of many years of life, but his smooth face and blond hair belied his considerable years. “Do you want to stay a common slave or do you wish to get your magic back and go back to your life before all this happened?” He waved to indicate her current circumstances.

Adora knew this was a serious decision, but she didn’t take long thinking about her answer. “I want to go back. What do I need to do?”

Flagg nodded, as if this is what he expected. He placed a vial of a bright blue liquid in front of her on her mat. “You need to figure that out for yourself, but I think you’ll know what will please your father. But this one thing I will tell you.” He paused, making sure he had her full attention. “You must accept your slavery and stop fighting it.”

Adora lowered her eyes, “Yes, I know. You’re right, but,” she paused and her jaw tightened. She picked up the vial and held it so tight, her hand shook. “I’m his daughter, damn it! He has no right to treat me this way! He doesn’t love me. He doesn’t care about me. He only sees me as a tool to be used to get what he wants. He poisoned me to keep me loyal so that now I need to take this,” she shakes the vial again, “every three days, he created a mental link between us and now he takes my magic away!”

Flagg sighed, “Adora, why did he take your magic away?” Flagg spoke in his soft, trainer’s voice now.

Adora sighed, “Because I attacked him.”

Flagg nodded, “Exactly. And why did you attack him?”

Adora took the seal off the vial and drank the contents, then answered the question. “Because he was magically choking another slave. One I foolishly made friends with after he told me not to. He was reinforcing his rule that I not disobey him.”

Flagg nodded slowly. “Adora, I want you to think back on all the times you were punished and try to discover why you were punished. I’ll bet that most of the time, you – in one way or another – asked to be punished yourself. Of course it’s worse when the person punishing you likes to punish, but that’s all the more reason to not give him a reason.” Adora sat there, slowly finished her soup and stared at her mat. She wanted so badly to say something, anything, to Flagg. To say he was wrong - to say that her father was a maliciously cruel man for no reason – but deep down, she knew Flagg was right. He stood up, “You think about what we’ve talked about and we’ll talk over it more when I return in a few days.” Adora didn’t even watch him leave; only the sound of the door closing and being locked behind him told her he was gone.

Adora and the Freedom Fighters

2011-11-11T21:53:00.003-05:00

"Slaves! You don't have to live this way," the woman cried out to the crowd. "Slaves should be treated better than animals. Owners! You have no right to treat them as anything less than equals."

Adora frowned as she listened. The woman and her friends had been on this corner for the last three days, always preaching the same message. I'm surprised they haven't been run out of town by now. But then again, the owners here know they have too tight a grip on their slaves to worry about a revolt. She turned to look at those gathered and saw several faces of owners she knew - some quite well - but they wore mixed expressions. Very curious.

"You slaves! Come to me for healing and to hear more of the Liberator's words of freedom. There is a better world out there for you, away from this island kingdom."

Adora heard enough. "Your words are not welcome here," she yelled.

The woman quickly began to scan the crowd, "Who said that!? Why not?"

Adora stepped out in front of the crowd. "I did. Just how do you suggest the slaves revolt? They have no weapons and no one to support them except for other slaves. Besides, the smart ones know there are laws against attacking one's master."

The woman stared back at her, her eyes steadily returning Adora's gaze. "We would support them. We can help them."

Adora snorted, "You are so naive. A slave is a slave until they die. No matter where they go, they are still a slave and can be brought back."

The woman opened her mouth to say more, but Adora only shook her head, turned away and began walking away from the crowd. That was very well said, my dear. Adora heard the man's voice in her head and her frown deepened.

Adora snorted. I didn't say that to impress you.

No, but you said it because of me. I have taught you well. The man's laughter reverberated in her head.

Bastard.

Adora continued walking when she realized there was someone behind her. She quickly turned and saw the woman from the street corner following her. She was wearing a simple rough tunic with a set of broken chains stitched on it. The symbol of the Liberator no doubt. Adora waited for the woman to catch up with her, then asked, "Do you want to continue our discussion?" Adora's tone said she wasn't keen on the idea.

"Yes," the woman said bluntly. Adora looked at her more closely and had to admit she was pretty with her blond hair braided and pinned back and her shiny blue eyes taking in everything they saw. "Is a slave really considered a slave all their lives even if they manage to escape?"

"If you are going into a country to try to free slaves, you should look into the laws better." Adora sighed and turned to continue walking. The woman followed.

"Yes," Adora continued, "It is as I said. A slave is a slave for life."

"But how can anyone enslave another person? That seems so abhorrent to me."

Adora shrugged, "Because they can. Because some of them enjoy being masters."

"But you are not a master are you?" the woman asked.

Adora smiled a little. She knew that just by looking at her black clothing and the sword at her waist, that she didn't look like what she was. "No I'm not a master." Adora continued walking. I wish this woman would go away, she thought.

No Adora, the man's voice rang through her head again. You will continue this conversation and then you will bring her to meet me. Her and anyone else she cares to bring along. The man laughed and Adora's jaws clenched.

Yes Father, Adora answered.

Adora stopped and turned to face the woman, "Are you serious in learning about the slave's life? What a typical day is for them?" Adora stared at her, waiting for the woman to answer.

"Yes," was the woman's enthusiastic answer.

Adora smirked, "Good. Then follow me to the auction and you will see where it begins once they are brought to the island."