Empire Eternal. (ShadowOfDesire)

[Polybius]

For Nadia, it had not been a good week. When the Great Convention was announced, her duties as the head of the Harem Guard. To add to the list of personal worries for the head of his personal guard, the Ashmogh family was coming. Typically due to their ancient rivalry and vendetta, the Ashmoghs sent representatives to the yearly Imperial Diet Assembly for Imperial and governmental matters. Since the Colleoni and Ashmogh were not technically at war or fighting a war in the limited manner laid out by Imperial Law, the Ashmoghs had been welcomed to the Imperial Capital and given unperverted access to their rightful seats in the Imperial Comitium at the Palace. Verun was coming, the whole damn family was coming.

Magnus's blade struck the wooden manikin in the chest. The manikin flickered blue, an indication that the strike was too fast. The manikin wore a kinetic energy shield or a K-Shield. Bullets, blasters, lasguns, and even a direct hit from a missile would leave anyone or thing struck with and wearing an activated K-shield unharmed. Swords, blades, and spears were the only weapons slow enough to penetrate the shield. Given that these types of shields had been commonly used since antiquity, most armies, nobles, and guards were trained to fight with short swords or daggers. Magnus slashed the manakin again, and again he was too fast. Nadia had taught him several techniques since she became head of the guard to land a lethal blow without using too fast a strike. But he was off, his emotions clouding his ability to use the blade correctly.

"Given the circumstances, I can not allow you to come to the Imperial Palace during the convention. Xenia and three other noble-born concubines of the harem of my choosing will go instead..." He told Nadia earlier in the day. "...You and the officers of the guard must wear the inhibitor chips. And do not speak of them. I want the priestess to figure out on her own you wear one..." Magnus said and placed a small button-like chip on the back of her neck, after discussing the coming of the Adorian Priestess.

Magnus struck the manakin hard reflecting his frustration, and again the shield prevailed. Decades ago, he had removed the slave chip from the back of Nadia's neck. A device would that could paralyze or even kill a disobedient or runaway slave. Since then she had loved him deeply, and Magnus loved her in return. Although did not show just how deeply. He could not as Emperor. There were subtle hints of his affection. Each member of the guard wore an all-black bodysuit and K-shield at the wrist, along with a black cape with the crest of House Colleoni on the back of it. But Nadia's uniform had two golden stripes on her forearms and a crest on the left-hand side of her chest. The crest was a golden King Cobra Wrapped around a sword, under it were four small stars representing the four styles she had mastered at the Kilic School of Fencing. Similarly, Magnus had Nadia train him to fight, and they would spend hours together practicing various katas and techniques.

"When Mara and the Priestess arrive, escort them here to the East training room..." He told Nadia.

The planet Ganzir was unforgiving, bleak, and cold. There was no naturally occurring life, no gardens, only rock and water. It rained almost constantly, a cold pounding rain, with temperatures in usually in the high 30s Fahrenheit. The blue sun of the system, Shamash, barely pierced the grey clouds during midday. This was the capital of the Empire. While the Imperial palace lie in the south near the equator. The Harem and home of the Emperor, a massive ziggurat made of native stone lie tucked in the mountains in the Northern reaches of the planet. Landing platforms and windows lined the sides of the great structure. Inside one would find little comfort. The walls and halls had been crafted from granite and marble, ranging in all kinds of dark colors and textures. Rooms were literally cut into the stone, and the halls and various chambers were laid out like a labyrinth. The spartan philosophy of the harem meant there were few amenities. A great library lie deep in the structure, there were several holographic projectors rooms that only showed informative videos and newscasts. There were several kitchens and a wine cellar, and many pools of both heated and cool water for swimming. Aside from that, there was no formal form of entertainment. Only women were now allowed in and only an officially registered Imperial ship could land at one of the Harem's landing pads. Intergalactic travel was instantaneous, space folding allowed for 'jumping' anywhere in the universe in a matter of seconds. This meant the new concubines could likely still be at their homeworlds as travel between planets mostly took what little time it took to fly through the atmosphere from planet to planet.

Magnus set down the blade on the table that furnished several other types of swords and daggers. Nadia would arrive soon, and his two new concubines with her. He would not give them a formal welcome or any fan fair. Magnus never did for any new concubine, the first reminder they were a slave. Even now he only wore a pair of tight black shorts. His muscular and toned body was exposed for all to see. His hair was short and brown with matching brown eyes and sharp facial features, he was quite handsome ever for a man who was genetically engineered to look so. Checking behind his ear to ensure his inhibitor was on, he then decided to take a breather until Nadia arrived with his new concubines.

 

[ShadowOfDesire]

The shuttle shook upon entry, rattling the passengers about in their harnesses, but the turbulence was blessedly brief. The craft touched down with minimal use of the anti-grav units, settling onto the marked landing pad almost feather-light. Even so, several of the passengers swore at the pilot's incompetence, talking loud enough for the crew to hear as they rose for departure. Their incessant chatter had irritated Jael over three jumps and two atmospheric entries. Thankfully, this was the last stop for the merchants and the remaining trip would be short.

Brightly colored clothing swished past her, though she hardly noticed, paying more attention to the display in her hand than the tourists visiting the pleasure planet. Diphus VII had many leisurely activities for those willing to pay. One could easily get lost on the planet for a year or more and never visit the same region twice. Some big spenders did just that, supporting the planetary economy with an influx of credits. Jael had the pleasure of visiting the planet once during her training, but her time on the surface was brief and focused on politics rather than pleasure.

As soon as the passenger cabin was empty, she relaxed a trifle and finally abandoned the pretense of reading. She'd hardly had the concentration to read a single sentence, anyhow. Outwardly, she was the picture of placid neutrality. Within, her emotions were in turmoil, and she hadn't much time to sort through them. She truly thought that she'd have more time training, more time to focus on her studies, but such was not the case. When the High Priestess summoned her only a day prior, it was with great news that her time to serve was hand, and her service would be such a great distinction.

It wasn't every day that one of the Order was sold to the Emperor.

A flurry of activity breezed through the open door, drawing Jael from her musings. As her attention shifted, she locked eyes with the most beautiful woman she'd ever seen. The girl wasn't simply pretty -- she was elegantly beautiful, tall and slender, with eyes of brilliant sapphire, and long white-blonde curls that framed her intriguing face. Her graceful poise told Jael that she was of good breeding, but it was the entourage that followed that gave away her status as a noblewoman.

The girl was a beacon of calm within the flurry of servants, as though the way they hurried to tend to her needs was a usual occurrence. It was, of course, but the girl's gratitude at every little thing was so genuine that it made Jael want choke the sweetness right out of her comely body. The pale lilac dress she wore fluttered about her, iridescent fibers woven within it catching the light now and again. The garment seemed far too airy and delicate to wear, though something within the weave obviously gave it strength.

Then came the tearful farewells as the girl said goodbye to each and every servant, the last of whom helped her to settle in a seat across from Jael. When the cabin was empty at last, quiet save for the girl's soft weeping, Jael searched for the cabin crew to watch them prepare for departure. The shuttle rumbled a moment later as it lifted from the planet and climbed out of the atmosphere.

The girl had ceased her tears to gaze at the view through her window, though Jael's movement drew her attention away. She blinked in surprise, having expected to be alone for the journey. "Is... is this not the shuttle bound for Ganzir?" she asked softly.

"It is," Jael confirmed, smiling inwardly as she felt the girl's eyes roving over her in quiet speculation. Unlike the beautiful vision across fro her, the Priestess wore the plain, common clothes of her order. Her breeches were snugly fit, though her long tunic covered her from neck to mid-thigh. The garment was cleverly cut to allow for easy access to weaponry, though one would likely not notice the alteration until it was too late.

"Then you are to be...?"

"Same as you, I imagine," Jael said wryly. She expected the girl to scoff. While Jael was alluring in her own way, she could not hope to compete with the girl's beauty. She wasn't prepared for the rush of relief in the girl's tone.

"Oh, thank the stars! I was so afraid that I would be presented all on my own. I'm so frightfully nervous! This day has been completely overwhelming, emotionally exhausting, and it's like I'm living someone else's life. It doesn't quite seem real! What do you think he'll be like?"

Jael grunted as the warning sign flashed in the cabin. "You'll know soon enough." Time and space stretched to meet, folding, and she felt the familiar tug of travel from one place to another.

---

Nadia wasn't at all impressed with her charges. The girl, perhaps, was far prettier than anyone in residence, but that would likely cause issues as soon as she was introduced to the others. The Priestess she disliked from the very first sight of the woman, and the feeling seemed to be mutual. Other than the standard greetings, the one called Jael spoke not at all. The other chatted constantly, excitedly, and didn't stop speaking until they reached the training room. She shut up abruptly at the sight of Magnus' half naked body, and Nadia had to repress a smile. He had that impact on many women. She glanced at the Priestess, but the woman's neutral expression hadn't changed, which irritated her greatly. Why, she didn't quite know.

"Your Imperial Highness, may I present to you the newest members of your harem? Lady Marathine of House Neris-Sulvari, daughter of the High Regent of Diphus VII."

Marathine dropped into a formal curtsy, her dress rippling out around her as she knelt on the cold floor and bowed her head. "Imperial Highness," she breathed, a tremble in her voice to match the slight quiver in her shoulders.

Nadia continued without pause. "And Jael, Honorable Sister of the Adoratrician Order."

"Master," Jael intoned with a respectful bow, though didn't shy away from meeting Magnus' piercing gaze.

 

[Polybius]

The First Impression did not go well. Magnus could hear the chattering from what seemed like the landing pad all the way to the training room. Mara, the inexperienced noble of Diphus obviously needed a lesson in proper harem etiquette. As Nadia led the two girls into the training room Magnus could read her face to see she was unimpressed with the new concubines. So was the emperor. Mara then grew silent, then trembled at the emperor's sight even as she knelt, not confident enough to introduce herself to a man without a shirt. Jael then decided to set the bar even lower. A slight bow, and then she called him master. After she did so, there was a long awkward silence.

He was now furious.

"I want to welcome you to the Imperial Harem." He said with a stern tone to the two of them. "I want to also congratulate the two of you, for the most ungraceful entrance in over twenty thousand years of Imperial History, to this harem." Despite his anger, he held his emotions in check. Yet anyone could sense his frustration. "My enemies have spies everywhere, and I already can't count on you to not speak unless necessary. Then you tremble at the sight of a noble of a great house. You will be by my side sooner than you think, at the Imperial palace when all the noble houses great and small will be in attendance. I need you to show some self-control." His gaze pierced Mara with disapproval. Only to then turn to Jael.

"And you. Calling me master." His volume is now elevated. "I am the Emperor of the known universe. Not a damn slaver from the slaver guild. They are called masters. You will address me as your highness, your majesty, my lord, or any other title fit for an emperor. You will not address me ever again as a slaver." He took a step towards Jael. "And you will kneel in my presence." He exhaled and turned away from the two. "Say nothing." He ordered the three concubines.

He walked over to the weapon table and resting his hands on the tabletop and exhaling. He picked up one of the practice swords and towel, wiping the blade and wiping it clean. The silence gave the emperor a moment to think. The rainstorm outside grew stronger, pounding on the windows and thunder could be heard in the distance. But like the temperature in the room, his anger chilled and Magnus recollected his thoughts. Setting down the towel he turned back to Jael and Mara.

"The Great Convention is less than two weeks away." Magnus finally cut the silence. "Anyone in the galaxy who hasn't been living under a rock knows about it. I don't know what you were told, but the two of you were selected to serve me because your skills will be useful during this once-in-a-lifetime event. After which you will serve me until the day I die. You are now Imperial Concubines, You will act as Imperial Concubines, and you will serve me loyally without question." He spoke to the concubines as an Emperor. "My rivals are in motion. And should I fall and perish in the coming conflict. Despite the promises of immunity and protection, my enemies will not show you mercy." He did not want to elaborate on the Corporate Wars that engulfed the Delta Quadrant.

His gaze set on Jael. There was something about her, no there were several things about her. When Magnus made eye contact he felt a stir of emotion. "Lady Jael..." The words were spoken in a way so she knew from now on that was how she would be officially addressed. "I am told you have passed all your trials as an acolyte, and you are a full-fledged priestess. I was also told you came armed with a vibroblade." Magnus said looking at her belt. "You will show me you are loyal. Had me your weapon." Magnus's face was now expressionless. He wondered how Jael would respond, and how Nadia would react. As he had directed his conversation toward Jael and Mara. But someone she did not know so close to the emperor with a weapon. The Emperor trusted Nadia would remain motionless and silent.

 

[ShadowOfDesire]

His quiet rage and disapproval frightened Mara. She'd wanted so badly to make a good impression! That he was already cross with her was heartbreaking. She bowed her head and tried to control her emotions, remaining in her kneeling position upon the floor at his feet. Her soft, slender hands were clasped tightly in her lap. Wisely, she said nothing, and she would say nothing until she was addressed and directed to do so. It was something of a relief, really, to not have to muster up conversation with the most powerful man in all the known galaxies... the man that would eventually bed her and take her virtue.

Jael also held her tongue, which was absolutely no imposition for her. Unlike the young girl at her feet, she knew the value of simply listening. The Emperor intrigued, rather than frightened her. As he worked to compose himself, she lowered herself to her knees beside Marathine and simply waited, curious how he ruled his harem. He'd bought her from the Order to add to his collection, and a lifetime of training urged her to worship him in mind and body as a literal god. However, her training remained at odds with her own common sense. Beyond knowing what her duty entailed, the order had also taught her to think for herself. Others might follow blindly, but Jael was not the type to The practical part of the Priestess whispered otherwise, however. He was her master, no matter that he disliked the title, and she'd obey him as such for as long as she deemed him worthy. She said nothing of this aloud, however, for it'd mean treason and certain death.

His request was a curious one, but she didn't hesitate to present her blade. It slid from its protective sheath in a seductive whisper. As the device was not active, she flipped the blade in her hand and offered it hilt first to Magnus. It was the favored weapon of her Order, though not all of the Priestesses had the knowledge and aptitude required for wielding it. The dagger itself was about the length of her forearm including the customized handle. Both the blade and hilt were a deep matte black, so dark that it seemed to absorb any available light. From first impressions, it looked like nothing more than a simple blade, but he knew that it would take but a small shift of his thumb to flip the hidden switch. If he set the dagger buzzing at supersonic speeds, Jael's hand would be slashed to ribbons before she had time to scream.

Still lurking behind the two newcomers, Nadia tensed but did not move to interfere -- not yet, anyhow. She trusted that Magnus had the situation in hand, just as he knew that she'd jump in to save him if he was ever out of his depth. Thankfully, that'd yet to happen in all their time together.

 

[Polybius]

Jael handed Magnus the blade, much to his surprise, yet the expression on his face would not show it. Taking the black sword by the hilt with his left hand, he studied the weapon for a moment. After the invention of kinetic shielding or K-shields, swords and blade weapons became the only practical weapon able to defeat someone who was wearing one. Each house, and by extension each order, guild, corporation, and even the free world coalition had their own secrets when it came to weapons technology. The Adoratrician Order was steeped in secrets, and the vibroblade was one such secret weapon. It was his first time seeing such a weapon. In Magnus's other hand was the blunt practice blade, he tossed the sword down in front of the priestess. The blunt weapon landed on the ground with a clang.

The Emperor realized after taking another glance at the black blade, that the secrets of its creation were worth far more than Jael. Yet he dared not try to replicate it. To do so would violate the eons-old neutrality of the Adoratrician Order.

"You will get your vibroblade back when you earned my trust. For now, that blunt sword will do. Pick it up and stand." Then he gestured with the black vibroblade to one side of the room. "Stand at the end of the sparring mat." He ordered. "And wait."

Magnus turned to Mara and gently with his free hand helped her back onto her feet from the kneeling position. "Be strong. You're an Imperial Concubine now." His tone had changed from anger and frustration to a more assuring tone. "Chin-up." As she stood he took a moment to study Mara's beauty. He ran his finger through her hair, tucking the white-blonde curls behind her ear.

"Nadia." His gaze shifted to his guard. "Pick a practice sword at the table please, then stand across from Jael."

Magnus turned to face Jael again. "Nadia is the finest of my harem guards. A master of four styles from the Kilic School of Fencing, one of the best blade dancers in the known universe." His voice was clearly full of pride as he spoke. "Your order assured me that you could fight as a full-fledge priestess. I hear that an Adorian Priestess could fight as well as any blade dancer. So we will assess your abilities."

Magnus wrapped his right arm around Mara's waist. Slightly shifting his body and hers to view the fight. "This is not a fight to the death. But I expect effort, as I have seen and been in fights before. You both will only use the one blunt practice sword. No grabbing another one from the table. No throwing the weapon. No biting..." He said a bit annoyed at the last part as if it happened before. "... and you will not use a K-Shield. The first to disarm, land a killing blow, or force the other to yield will win the fight."

He took a deep breath. "Now fight!"

 

[ShadowOfDesire]

Jael swung the practice sword to test the weight, eyeing her opponent as she took her place on the mat. Nadia stalked forward with her own weapon, each step deliberate and precise. Both of the women removed their outer robes for better mobility, tossing them aside without breaking eye contact. Then, without fanfare, the dance began as they began to circle like predators on the hunt, each searching for an opening, waiting to pounce.

It was immediately apparent that the women had two different vastly different fighting styles. The sword dancer fell into familiar rhythms, aggressively testing the limits of the newest concubine in a sudden flurry, sword swinging in one of the many katas that she and Magnus regularly practiced. However, each of Nadia's blow was blocked or avoided as the priestess' steps flowed like water and her blade followed suit, striking out as she retreated to provide breathing room.

After the third such attack, always aimed at testing Jael's defenses, the priestess suddenly changed tactics. Nadia's sword slashed at her torso. Jael batted it aside and stepped inside the woman's guard, jabbing for the heart. Nadia twisted her body at the last moment and the blade skimmed past her in a glancing blow. Had the sword been real, she would have sustained a wound, though nothing fatal.

Combat changed that instant as they began to fight in earnest, both determined to land a killing blow, and neither willing to submit. Each move flowed seamlessly into the next in a deadly dance. Jab, block, parry, slash, dodge -- the movement ebbed and flowed as approached and tactics changed rapidly. The line between defense and offense blurred, switching so quickly that it was impossible to predict the next move.

Magnus could feel Mara beside him, pressed close against his side, tense as she watched the battle unfold. Her breath came in soft, excited gasps each time it seemed one might end the fight. With the provided distraction, her nervousness in his presence had faded, though she couldn't fully relax while the war waged on.

Sweat flecked their foreheads as combat lengthened. Magnus had seen Nadia disarm a man in the span of only a few heartbeats, but she'd yet to gain the advantage against the priestess. Watching their battle, it became pointedly clear that they were evenly matched in speed, stamina, and training. Nadia had been genetically modified for just such a purpose, but it seemed that Jael had a few genetic secrets of her own.

Gracefully, they spun in and out of danger, their swords an extension of themselves, as if they'd been born with it in their hands. Nadia's expression had turned murderous as combat dragged on, every passing moment fueling her determination. By contrast, the priestess seemed only focused, impersonally tackling the challenge without crippling emotion, which only seemed to enrage Nadia further.

The killing blow finally came as the sword dancer found a sudden burst of speed to bat the priestess' sword aside. She roughly grabbed a handful of tunic, jerking Jael forward to set the blade against her neck. "Do you yield?"

To her amazement, Jael chuckled softly. "Never. Do you?" Her eyes looked pointedly down to Nadia's chest where Jael's own sword was poised for a killing blow. Neither of them would have survived, but their opponents, and the threat they posed, would be dead.

Nadia growled and shoved her back, utterly disgusted and ultimately frustrated. She stalked around the mat to cool down, sword slashing through the air in irritation. Jael simply bowed in acknowledgement of a good fight, smiling. Her eyes were dancing as they turned to Magnus, one arm wiping sweat from her brow.

"That was simply amazing," Mara breathed, wide eyes bright with excitement.

"I am pleased to have found such a worthy opponent," Jael replied, her eyes locked with the Emperor's. "Did it please your Highness?"

She wasn't certain why she cared if he'd enjoyed the spectacle, but it somehow mattered now that she was his property. He could make her life miserable if he so desired. He could have her executed on a whim. She didn't fear him, but she did respect the power he wielded.

 

[Polybius]

In a combination of arrogation and indulgence, Magnus would have argued he had created the perfect piece of art. Stripping a layer of clothes before closing in an elegant display of movement and swordplay, the duel was both breathtaking as it was beautiful. At first, it seemed the Jael would have a quick upset, a thrust to the chest that Nadia avoided. However Magnus himself was almost taken by the girl's stunning display of skill, but unlike Mara his expression was neutral, maintaining his mystique of the emperor. When the battle came to draw, his gaze shifted to Mara, enforcing the role that she was expected to spectate beside him. Magnus realized that had Jael had her vibroblade, Nadia would be dead lying in pieces on the floor. It was a draw in the technical sense, but Jael had won the fight. There was no denying it.

"It was amazing, wasn't it," Magnus replied to Mara.

Jael's eyes met the Emperor's, and the woman's demeanor now impressed him. "You fought well." He said, clearly impressed. "I can't remember someone ever getting the better of the Captain of my Guard." His gaze shifted to Nadia, who was clearly venting her frustrations. Not just a few moments ago the emperor gave a little speech about acting like an Imperial Concubine. His look to Nadia was that of disapproval, not because she lost, but the manner in which she conducted herself after said loss.

Magnus's eyes met Jael's again. "This is only the first time, the two of you will fight," Magnus stated. "You will face the of the members of the harem guard, despite not being one of them. While I expect you to give your life in defense of my own, you will act as a Truthsayer for me and this harem."

The emperor stepped away from Mara, set the black vibroblade down on the weapons table, and picked up a clean towel. His ripped half-naked moved close to Jael. He noticed the sweat from her brow, and carefully he reached up with the towel in hand wiping away the sweat, testing her reaction to him touching her and getting so up close and personal.

"The day has been long, and the air is cool. Let us retreat to the heated baths. I could use a dip in some warm water. And you ladies look as if your ready to wash off." Magnus stated then looked to see if Nadia had regained control of herself.

Magnus walked back over and placed his arm back around the waist of Mara, and led the girl out of the room and down the marbled and granite halls of the harem. As they walked the halls Magnus explained where each planet the stone had come from and led them deeper into the ziggurat itself. Eventually, the group came to the warmed baths, a room covered in Orinoco-style granite from the planet Eocene. Well lit by floating orange orbs that hovered around the ceiling revealing the walls and bath were polished black, fused with veins of gold and quartz. The room was kept much colder than the rest of the harem, to help contrast the heat of the crystal clear warm water of the pool, which billowed steamed from the surface.

As they entered the pool, Magnus unzipped Mara's lilac dress.

"Disrobe ladies, and step into the water."

 

[ShadowOfDesire]

Jael tensed at Magnus' touch, surprised that he'd care about the sweat that threatened to fall into her eyes. She offered a murmur of thanks and a nod as he pulled away, though continued to watch him with open curiosity. The man was a conundrum, a puzzle to be solved, and she wasn't quite certain how to go about it at first. He had the ego and audacity of an Emperor, but he'd already allowed them to glimpse his humanity. Had the slip been intentional? Or was this simply how he navigated life within his harem and the women he'd chosen to serve them. Each had a different gift, she'd guessed, and had been selected for a singular purpose, just as he'd done with her. The girl Mara was another puzzle. She was sweet, beautiful, and graceful, but timid and naive. Why had he selected her? Surely he had a plethora of women to bed him. Did he truly need another pretty face? Or did the girl have hidden gifts that had not yet been revealed?

Nadia had calmed her raging temper by the time they reached the baths, though still simmered internally and threw Jael cutting glares whenever no one was looking. She'd long been Magnus' greatest warrior, so the defeat (or draw, as it were), was humiliating. While she knew that Jael's skills would help protect the Emperor, Nadia couldn't help but wonder if he'd soon have a favorite. Would he displace Nadia with the new arrival? Would she soon be obsolete? Those fears squeezed at her heart, for the very thought of being parted from his side was enough to make her stomach churn with nervousness.

She was contemplative and quiet when he ordered them into the bath, removing her clothing without a second thought to reveal the perfectly toned body of a seasoned fighter. Her dusky skin and darker complexion glowed beneath the warm lighting, glistening with the sweat from the bout. Her breasts were large and full, though had been bound and well secured by the suit she wore. Once freed, they hung heavily as she bent forward to slide the rest of her suit down her legs. She pulled the pins from her hair, letting the raven tresses tumble free. The only bright thing about her were her brilliantly blue eyes, which were firmly fixed on Magnus as she stepped into the water.

Jael by comparison was of a smaller, slender build, but no less toned. She disrobed without comment, unashamed of her nakedness, nor of Magnus seeing her without clothing. She and the others belonged to him now. He would physically have her if he so desired, and she would go to his bed without complaint and do her duty to him. She was ultimately thankful that he was a handsome man, well formed, and without any physical deformities or other features she might find unattractive. Other priestesses were not so lucky when they were eventually sold to their new masters.

Jael's complexion was darker than Nadia's, caramel in color, and she had dark eyes along with the dark hair that she wore in a single long braid. Flat-footed, the priestess was also a few inches shorter, and her breasts were smaller with darker nipples, but they were pert with youth and needed no support in her suit. She stepped into the water after Nadia, a soft groan escaping her lips as she sank into the blissfully heated water that helped to soothe strained muscles.

It was Marathine that balked at the idea of undressing in front of the others. She quivered beneath Magnus' hand as he unzipped her gown, clutching the front of the dress to her body to keep it from falling free. Nibbling uncertainly at her lower lip, she ducked her head as she hesitantly loosened her grip, allowing the wispy fabric to slide down her body and pool at her feet. Her peachy skin complimented the golden-blonde of her curls that tumbled about her shoulders, giving her a warm, golden cast against the black stone. Her blue eyes, thick with blonde lashes, remained on the floor as she tried to conceal her nakedness with her hands. There was absolutely no reason for her to hide, however. The girl's body was simply exquisite. Rather than the toned definition of the others, her curves were soft and exceptionally feminine, plump breasts, rounded hips, and large buttocks all begging to be squeezed.

Mara knew, of course, that her duty would be to pleasure the Emperor as he willed, but she was still nervous. She was a virgin, had never even kissed a man, and was ultimately uncertain on how to please one. While she'd known at a young age that she would eventually be married off to secure her father an alliance, the realities of her situation didn't truly strike her until that moment. She'd been naked among her ladies as they bathed her, but never with a man! She'd never even been alone with a man that wasn't related to her.

Her virtue had been closely guarded for this very day. Mara was glad that it'd finally come, though disappointed that she would have to share the moment with other women. It wasn't the romantic interlude she'd been hoping for when she dreamed of her wedding night, but she simply had to remind herself that the Emperor was not her husband. He was her master and lord, and her virtue was his to have whenever he desired, in any manner he chose.

 

[Polybius]

Magnus could feel Nadia's eyes fixed on him. But the emperor paid her no attention. Her frustration with Jael was both an annoyance and a problem for the emperor. For years, no decades, Nadia had been with Magnus, she had seen favorites of his come and go, while she had enjoyed also being close to him. Likewise, her first defeat placed a bit of doubt in the emperor's mind. Perhaps she was not as skilled as he believed, or would such a defeat in a real situation lead to an outburst that cost him.

"Chin up my dear." The emperor said softly after Mara's dress fell to the floor, his arm still around the girl. Magnus softly lifted her chin with his hand so she would meet his own gaze. "I assure you that everyone here will see you naked." He said humorously. "And you will see everyone else here nude as well."

Magnus was nude as other girls now, showing his slightly tan body with a ripped physique as well as his large endowment. The Magnus took one of Mara's hands and ran it down his chest, letting her feel the toned and defined muscles and abbs, her fingers gently grazing across his skin. Magnus led the blonde into the warm waters. "Don't be nervous, this was meant to happen." He assured her. Although he wanted her to open up and relax, she should want to show off her perfect womanly features to Magnus, not be bashful about them. His face was easy to read and he was still slightly disappointed by her hesitation. Most girls were willing to throw themselves at him just to spend an evening with him. Perhaps Mara had been too sheltered.

The emperor slid deeper into the pool, the warm steamy waters washing over him. Letting go of Mara, Magnus dipped down below the water level, only to emerge to the surface moments later and wipe the water from his eyes. Exhaling sharply and Magnus dived down under the water again, using only his arms he managed to swim to one end of the pool and back to the girls while remaining underwater, remaining under and in motion longer than a normal man could. Magnus broke through the water and inhaled deeply, his large chest expanding to take in all the oxygen it could. As he caught his breath his gaze settled on Jael. Thus far she had been an enigma to him. He knew she would do anything he asked, but she would do so because he was the emperor, not because she loved him.

"The best way to ensure a woman is not an assassin is to get her wet and naked. It's hard for a naked woman to keep any hidden weapons on herself that way." The Emperor started to Jael. "Tell me priestess have you ever been with a man before? Or have you had another lover once who took your womanhood?" He asked, his tone and face showed he was interested in her answer.

 

[ShadowOfDesire]

Once in the water, which partially covered her nudity, Mara seemed to relax, though she kept to the edge of the pool where seats had been carved under the water's surface. Jael joined her there, dipping low to wet down her braid and wash the sweat from her face and neck. Nadia remained slightly apart, though was cleansing herself in the same manner, rinsing away the remnants of her failed bout.

At Magnus question, Jael laughed softly. She slid from her perch and swam toward him, eyes alight with amusement. "The best assassins could kill a man without needing a single weapon. There are many ways to disable a man with one's body, for instance. All one needs is the right opportunity. I could smother you with my thighs, for instance, or rip your throat out with my fingers. Bite through to your main arteries so that you bleed to death in a matter of moments. And a dozen other things that I could think of to use in this very room to cripple or kill."

"Of course, you paid for that knowledge, as well as my skills in other areas. Our order is trained in seduction, as well. I've been with many men and women as part of that training, have honed the skills of lovemaking to a fine point. Like all of the other knowledge I possess, that was in the service of whatever master that I would one day serve. They are yours to command, to use as you see fit, and to sample if you desire." She drew tantalizingly close without touching him, which made Nadia tense again. The Priestess paid little mind to the sword dancer, however, as her attention was focused on the Emperor.

"Which begs the question, which would you like to experience first? All the ways I might assassinate you even though I'm wet and naked? Or how I can please you while in the same state? There is such a fine line between the two."

 

[Polybius]

Magnus raised an eyebrow as Jael listed all the various ways she could kill him. "Careful now, you are speaking to the Emperor." Although his tone betrayed him, showing more amusement and interest. Jael approached him, and the attraction was there, Magnus could feel it. As Jael approached the emperor his eyes locked with hers. Nadia tensed as Jael grew very close. But her training held as the Emperor made no move to summon her to stop the priestess.

"As for your skills and knowledge..." Magnus said keeping eye contact with the girl. "...How will choose to balance the secrets of your order and your duty in service to me? I wonder if you truly serve me, or if you still have some ties to your order. Will you always stand beside me or will you walk in the shadows?" His voice was soft as it was quizzical. "But I did not bring you to the pools for oaths of loyalty and assurances, no." He then took a step closer to Jael, to the point where they were barely touching.

Magnus reached out and placed his right hand on Jael's neck. Slowly he ran his fingertips down her chest, stopping to feel the perk of her left breast, then continued down her waist. Her skin was nice and smooth, and her endowment warm and plump. "We all have our genetic secrets. My family has theirs, but I can assure you I am tough to please and can exhaust many women in a single night." He boasted, eyes fixed on the woman in front of him. "I do take pride in my sexual conquests, just as I take pride in the way I rule the known universe."

Magnus nodded his head and smiled. "But let's not drift too far off-topic, as for what I will experience first is all your ways in lovemaking and pleasure. Please me. Demonstrate to me how good you really are. Right here, right now."

 

[ShadowOfDesire]

"As Your Imperial Highness commands," Jael said in amusement.

She closed the distance between them, plastering her wet body against his, and caught him in a fiercely passionate kiss. The first between them that clearly demonstrated the priestess was no celibate acolyte. Had he not be wearing the device that blocked her gift, she would easily know how to pleasure him before he himself knew what he craved most. Without her abilities to reply upon, she was presented with another challenge, as important as the fight she'd had against Nadia, but much more pleasurable.

Her kisses strayed, from his mouth to jaw, to nibble at his earlobe and then his neck, but she didn't linger very long on any one particular spot. Her teeth caught his nipple as she gazed up at him, chuckling impishly as her tongue lashed against the hardened nub. Then she was dipping lower, sliding deeper into the water until she'd submerged completely. Only then did he feel her mouth surround his balls. The water was so hot that her warm mouth felt almost cool by comparison, the suction and exploring tongue almost lovingly worshiping that which housed his royal seed.

He was so very trusting after what she'd just reveled to him. While she might not truly enjoy her change in situation, at least not yet, Jael would not harm him. He was too valuable to her, too important, and she needed him to further her own gains. He might own her, but he did not know the true desires of her heart.

His cock was suddenly enveloped by her questing lips, beneath the water's surface, without even the barest of ripples to betray her position. He could clearly feel her latched onto his cock, however, and her fingers digging into the meat of his buttocks as she literally pulled herself down its length. He was thrust into her throat, squeezed by the rippling convulsions as she swallowed, and the suction returned, though this time on that throbbing shaft that demanded attention.

How long could she hold her breath? One minute? Two? Both passed, and still she suckled at his cock, head bobbing to stroke him with lips and tongue. Her strokes were not steady or rapid, but slow and languid, meant to stoke his lustful fires rather than bring him to an immediate release. After what seemed an eternity, and with one final swipe, she abandoned the member in favor of air, and rose to the surface to draw in a deep breath. Her eyes rose, sparked with lust, as she gazed up at him.

"I doubt you will ever learn all of the ways that I am trained in the art of pleasure, but going in search of them will always be enjoyable," she said, smirking.

 

[Polybius]

Magnus's toes curled as Jael engaged him in a kiss, she was talented and knew how to use her body which was now pressed against Magnus's own frame. He was a little surprised she could conjure such arousal without being able to use her abilities to manipulate his mind. Her composure was both tempting and teasing, Magnus exhaled sharply as she worked her way down on him. Then he moaned with pleasure as her mouth found its way around his endowment.

He set his arm on her shoulder as she dug into his glutes. His posture straightened and muscles contracted, he could feel his blood following to his phallus while she applied a nice rhythm of suction. His head rolled back until she finally rose from the depths of the water, meeting his gaze again. Any doubts or mistrust towards the priestess the emperor had managed to wash away like grime in the pool. She was clearly capable of doing what she pleased.

"My predecessors each reigned for almost a thousand years." Magnus replied between exhales to her comment on learning everything about her 'art' of pleasure. "Such is a long time, and I hope you are able to live up to such a boast."

His eyes flicked to Nadia for a moment. "Nadia my dear, why don't you 'play' with Mara a bit and get her and yourself warmed up for this evening." Magnus could command any such pleasures in the harem at will, and he was more than willing to do so.

"Hold still." He ordered Jael. Magnus's gaze fixed back on Jael. He was not finished. Magnus suddenly picked up Jael by the waist, his arms were able to easily lift the petit girl off the floor of the pool. Then he lowered her down unto his phallus penetrating her sex, going deep. Instead of thrusting with his hips, his sheer strength in his arms was able to lift and lower the girl over and over again to simulate such penetration. The tension built slowly over time, minutes passed quickly, and slowly Magnus built up to a final release and climax. She was nice and tight around his endowment, her body petite and soft enough. Only after the orgasm came did he lower Jael down again, and then released her from his grip. He was breathing heavily but nonetheless was ready for more.

"I see you are in fact quite the prize, I rarely make mistakes in choosing my women." His gaze locked back on Jael's eyes. "I hope you are satisfied."

 

[ShadowOfDesire]

Nadia didn't hesitate to do her lord's bidding, though Mara looked stricken at the thought of being touched by the woman. As the warrior advanced, the younger woman backed up into the wall, eyes wide and fearful. Though her expression could sometimes be harsh, and her duty to her Emperor made her seem rigid, she did have a compassionate side. That side saw the virginal girl, and took pity on her.

"But, I'm not attracted to women," Mara murmured.

Nadia shook her head. "Shh. It doesn't matter in this place. You'll learn, and you'll learn to enjoy it. A hand is a hand, no matter the sex, and the fingers and mouth of a woman can be as pleasurable as those of a man."

Taking her by the hand, she led her to the shallows where they could sit on the stone steps that led into the water. After Mara had settled, Nadia leaned in to nibble at her neck, teasing the sensitive skin. She could feel Mara's heart beating rapidly as she dipped lower, capturing one of the girl's perfect breasts in her mouth. Mara moaned softly as Nadia tugged at the hardened nipple, catching it in her teeth to flick at it with her tongue. Slowly, the warrior's touch slid up her damp thigh until fingertips grazed her bare sex. She teased those soft lips, working between them until Mara's pussy was filled with wet desire.

Mara squirmed against her, gasping for breath as the woman entered her, fingers sliding into her virginal channel slowly while her thumb circled Mara's swollen clit. All too soon, the girl was rubbing herself against Nadia's hand, her body begging for more. Nadia began to pump faster and switched to lovingly bestow her other breast with attention. Her efforts were rewarded with a rush of fluid as Mara climaxed with another's help for the very first time, eyes opening wide as she struggled to understand what had happened.

Nadia chuckled. "I told you, you'd come to enjoy it. You'll also learn to do this to other women to offer them pleasure. His Imperial Highness enjoys watching his women pleasure one another. It makes him quite hard."

Behind them, Jael clung to Magnus' shoulders as he used her body, soft grunts of pleasure rising in her chest with every plunge of his cock inside her silky channel. He was large enough to stretch her, enough for it to cause a moment of discomfort. She wasn't as tight as a virgin might be, but it was clear that she'd not taken any lovers in some time. Her pussy clung to his driving member desperately, not wanting to give him up. When he finally came inside her, she was panting quietly from the brief exertion. A shiver rolled through her as he disengaged, withdrawing from her sopping cunt. She hadn't climaxed, but his fuck hadn't been about her pleasure, but rather a demonstration of his new dominion over her and her body.

She cast a sidelong glance at him as she dipped into the water once again to wash herself once more. A faint smile of amusement appeared, though it was fleeting. "With the match? Of course, Highness. Any woman would be so lucky as to become the Emperor's property as one of his harem."

 

[Polybius]

Magnus smiled, and the priestess chose her words carefully. However Magnus found the woman to be most elusive, an element or x-factor he possessed that he could not quite put his finger on. Often the girls in the harem had their own agendas, schemes, and plots that were carried out between themselves and the emperor. Usually, their goals were one-dimensional, trying to win favor or some kind of boon for their families, planets, or factions they represented. A few minutes after Magnus had met each concubine he could discern and dissect their personalities. For a moment doubt washed over the emperor, had it been a mistake to request a priestess from the order. It was no secret his father was a skeptic of their ways and allowed them at the capital when the law or ceremony required it. He told the young Magnus never to trust them.

"I'm glad you are happy with the match then," Magnus said. Gently he pulled Jael nack up against his body, so her back was facing his chest. "Watch." He said, referring to Nadia and Mara. "Have you seen such pleasures? I can have almost any woman of any bloodline. The most beautiful women in the galaxy, born and engineered to serve in any way I see fit." He whispered into Jael's ear. His hand wrapped around the girl's waist. His still erected phallus grazed her from behind. "Enjoy these moments, as the burden of the universe will soon fall upon you." He squeezed Jael's breasts Liberally, his arms holding the girl steady in place as he spoke.

"Nadia dear. I know Mara is new. But I never let you go easy on anyone before." He said to Nadia after Mara had climaxed. His tone inferred he wished to see Nadia play the girl some more until he gave the order to stop.

His focus switched back to Jael. "Soon you will have to make a choice. The fates of millions, just one small planet will be in your hands. This is a test, one you must be ready for. You have been matched with the emperor, and now you must show you can handle such power." Magnus continued to tease at the girl's breast with his hand. However, he carefully read the girl's body movements to gauge her reaction. "This test is not something every concubine experiences, in fact, you alone must face this because of what you are."

Finally, he let go of her chest. "No questions, for now, just something to think on." He gestured to the side of the pool. A small stack of bar soap piled in the shape of a pyramid stood ready for use. "Instead I want you to grab a bar of soap, lather me up, and rub down my body. I hope you are good at massage motions."

 

[ShadowOfDesire]

Jael leaned against him as he spoke, eyes half closed in lust as he toyed with her sensitive nipples. He could feel her relax beneath his hands, not at all uneasy about whatever physical demands he might require of her, and she certainly enjoyed the pleasure he provided. As he spoke, she felt a small surge of pride, knowing that she was unique among his harem. He was truthful in that he could have any women of noble breeding or otherwise, beauties from every corner of the galaxy, a dozen women from each world he ruled. The women among his collection were sure to be the most beautiful creatures that anyone could imagine, just as Jael was truly beautiful, and yet none of them had her gifts and talents. Nadia might have been his most trusted concubine and bodyguard, but Jael knew that she and Magnus would soon be far closer. He had the burden of rule upon his shoulders, and she was uniquely qualified to help him carry it.

When he released her, she turned to face him as she dipped into the water, swimming backward toward the edge. Her eyes remained locked with his as she smiled, alluring lips curving into that wicked smirk that she'd worn from almost the moment she'd arrived on his planet. "I am capable of passing any test you put in front of me, Highness. I was trained for such things, and welcome the challenge." The water sloshed between them as she returned with the soap he required, lather already forming in her hands. "If you like a show of all my skills, a massage would be one of the most relaxing, especially once you've bathed and wish to relax with hot oils worked into your muscles." Her gaze traveled down his body, once more admiring perfection, the muscular form that women lusted after and men envied. "Something for us both to look forward to, I think."

She began working the soapy lather into his back so that he might watch Nadia and Mara more clearly. Her hands were strong and soothing, her fingers banishing any knots that lingered in those taut muscles. As she serviced him, she watched the scene over his shoulder, leaning in briefly to murmur huskily into his ear. "Your blade dancer is magnificent."

And she was truly right, for Nadia was on display as much as Mara's nubile body. His guardian had planted herself in the shallow water upon her knees, which left her shapely thighs, rump, and bared sex on full display. She'd pressed Mara back so that the girl was propped back on her elbows, staring wide-eyed down her own luscious body as the other woman buried herself between her legs to lap at her swollen, dripping sex. Mara was soon trembling again, breath coming in short, shallow gasps as the guard worked her into another lustful frenzy. It was a sight that he'd seen many, many times before, and one that never grew tiresome. To watch an innocent, virginal girl experience those pleasures was a beautiful thing to behold.

 

[Polybius]

The priestess assured him she was capable of handling such a challenge. Yet even before he was emperor, Magnus had seen good men and women break under the pressure. Jael offered a message, which did not wash away the doubts the emperor had at this moment. It was completely different to wield a blade or be capable of domestic duties than to choose the fate of many people in scenarios like war. The priestess would know soon enough.

"A massage sounds lovely." The Emperor said. It took more than a moment to shake the feeling of doubt. Failure was a very real option, and the consequences real enough to bare. Yet his thoughts scarred when Jael began to rub down his body and whispered to him about his blade dancer.

"She is, isn't she," Magnus replied to Jael. "The alpha of all my girls, a fiery personality to match. She resisted more than any other at first, which is why she is the greatest of concubines."

The emperor exhaled as the priestess lathered down his body, watching the scene with Mara and Nadia play out before him.

"I have many beauties here in this place. If you wish so, I will let you pick one... to let us say play with when you are not attending to my duties and desires. Perhaps something to toy with in bed or to relieve stress. Perhaps you wish to break her or do something darker. If I don't possess such a girl to suit your whims, I can procure one from the slavers guild. She'll be here in less than a day." Magnus spoke softly. "However you may not have Nadia."

This was partially a test. Jael would sense it in his tone. Magnus wanted to see who she really was. Would she show mercy? Perhaps she would choose personal desires and passion over the freedoms of another. As the Emperor, Magnus could read a person simply by how they manipulated the fates of others.

He waited for Jael to finish lathering down his body and turned to face the priestess. "A massage sounds lovely. But how about instead I take you to my favorite sex dungeon? Put you and Mara through your paces? I was wondering if you are familiar with the art of bondage." Magnus smiled his eyes then locked with Jael's.

He slowly exited the pool and gestured to the towels. "Leave your dresses on the floor ladies. I will arrange for new clothes befitting your status here in the harem. Jael dry me off, my dear."