Temptation

Chapter 1
Chapter 1

“Temptation”

 

by Oni and Piper

 

 

The road to becoming a Paladin is long.  It is difficult.  It is fraught with peril.  Jym, sixteen year old Paladin squire, understands all these things.  What he can’t understand is why the road he is literally walking on at the moment is so …. rocky.  “Ahhh!” he calls out in surprise as he trips on a large stone.  Again.  Falling forward on his face.  Again.  The heavy backpack on his shoulder tumbling over his head and spilling its contents.  Yet again.

 

“I think he almost flew that time.  Just a bit more speed and he’ll get it.” A sarcastic voice breaks in, Jym recognizing it as that of the sorceress Reiko, a member of his mistress’ party.  The magic-user, and sometime thief, is of the Kirasani race.  With dark golden skin they are exotic, and feared, mostly for their potential for mastering the dark arts.

 

In truth, the cold edged wry comment is less stinging than the exasperated one that comes from his mistress Amara as she sighs.  “Jym, at least try to watch your feet.  I suppose I have not been drilling you enough on balance.  We will fix that.”

 

“Yes mistress.” Jym says dejectedly as he pulls the loose items back into the pack.  He glances up at the blonde Paladin he is apprenticed to, unable to look her in her blue eyes.  He feels like he is letting her down.  It’s the same feeling he had earlier in the day when she’d stood over him, sword drawn, to protect him from clay golems.

 

Amara says nothing, instead kneeling and helping the boy put things back together.  Her short blonde hair barely moves as she looks down, streaked with sweat and dirt it matches well with her muscled shoulders and shining armor, a symbol of her devotion to duty over devotion to beauty.  When they are done she pats Jym on the head.  “Now please try to stay upright.  It is the first rule of combat.”

 

“Not to mention the first rule of walking.” Reiko adds.  “May we go now? It’s almost dark.  Not that I mind, of course.  I’m just concerned your boy will run into a tree.”

 

Jym spares the dark woman a minor glare but says nothing.  In truth he is having a hard enough time keeping his young eyes off of the ample skin Reiko is showing from her skimpy clothing.  A top, bottom and boots are all the Kirasani woman ever really wears.

 

Also, having fought the earth creatures in a nearby mine, and seriously depleting their resources, the wounded group is making their way to the next town, looking for healing and rest.  Jym knows the sooner they reach the town the better for all.

 

It is an interesting group, the blonde haired holy knight and her young squire morally countering the Kirasani sorceress.  It is rounded out by a mountain of a barbarian man named Killik, bearing a large battle axe and long black hair.  Amara, the recognized leader of the group leads the way.

 

They arrive at the town in the night, traveling the quiet streets until they find the town's one inn.  A sign on the empty front desk reads, "Rooms are now free.  Take a key."  On the sign are keys hanging from nails, along with room numbers.

 

"Free?" Amara asks.

 

"Must be a celebration in town," Killik ponders.

 

"Are they celebrating in their sleep?" Jym points out.

 

"Watch it boy." the barbarian warns, sensing disrespect from the squire’s words. 

 

Reiko takes a key.  "Well, whatever the reason, we need sleep.  Nothing wrong with free, as long as those doors lock."

 

They take two rooms as usual, one for the women and one for the men.  Not until they are settled does Amara begin taking her plate and chain mail off.  "You have set up a warning perimeter witch?" she checks with Reiko.

 

Reiko gives her a smirk back.  She isn't a lowly or evil witch and the Paladin knows it, but the nickname has held from when they first met and she'd had to set the holy warrior straight.  In truth the two women are not friends, but they do have a mutual respect as comrades. 

 

"Definitely," Reiko responds with sarcasm.  "If anything bites your face off, I will be the first to know."

 

In the other room, as usual, Jym tries to keep out of the big man's way as Killik chooses his floor bedding and lies down.  Jym is tired, but has to stay up to help his mistress out of her armor, then see what he can do to mend it and sharpen her sword.

 

Jym goes out the door and knocks on the women’s.  Reiko opens it and flashes the sides of her breasts to him from her open night tunic.  "Why hello.  Did we order room service?" she jests, knowing the image will make the boy blush.

 

Ignoring her comments as best he can, Jym pushes into the room and moves quickly to help Amara, particularly since she is hurt.  There is a nasty bruise on her back as well as a gash on her leg, thankfully not too deep.  Jym takes the armor and politely does not look at her in her undergarments.

 

"So nice to have a slave.  How can I get one again?" Reiko teases.

 

"You have to promise the secrets of your profession," Amara observes.  "And you have to care for him."

 

"Ah.  Yeah.  Now I remember why I don't bother.  No one worthy of those secrets." she comments, before lounging on the bed.

 

Jym mutely gathers the armor and sword, listens to the instructions he is given every day, and lugs them from the room along with the caring supplies.  Having not taken part in the combat, Jym is luckily not as tired as his comrades.

 

"Bye bye cutie pie." Reiko teases again.

 

Not wanting to disturb the cranky barbarian, Jym takes his chores to the abandoned common room and makes himself comfortable.  He lights a fire in the prepared hearth, then sits down and gets to work.  About an hour later, Jym pauses in his work, thinking that he heard something, but what and from where he is not sure.

 

After a moment he catches sight of green eyes peeking at him from behind a chair.  He frowns in response and asks, "Hello?"

 

An embarrassed-looking girl his age stands up.  She has curly, unkempt brown hair and is wearing a baggy nightgown.  Given how large the garment is it appears to have been handed down, her skinny arms sticking out from beneath it.  "Sorry, I couldn't sleep and was wondering what the noise was."

 

"Um, noise, what noise?" Jym asks.  His eyes immediately move over her body and he is already feeling turned on by her.

 

She gestures at the armor, and the little hammer he was using to remove dents.  "That." She draws closer and warms herself by the fire.

 

"Oh!  Goodness.  Sorry.  It ... it doesn't really seem like noise to me anymore." he admits.

 

"You were being quiet," she assures him, glancing at him coyly.

 

"Alright.  Um, my name is Jym miss.  Yours?" he asks.

 

The girl smiles and gazes into his eyes.  "Dinni."

 

"That's cute." Jym says before catching himself.  "Do you live here?"

 

She nods and sits down.  The end of her gown, which was dragging the ground, rises slightly to bare her ankles.  "How long are you staying?" she asks bluntly.

 

"We'll likely stay till my mistress gets better.  Probably a few days." he says honestly.

“Who made the rooms free?"

 

Dinni brightens.  "That's nice.  The innkeeper did, of course.  So he wouldn't have to stay up all night.  How many are you?"

 

"Four, including myself." he admits.  “So, what kind of town is this?" he asks somewhat lamely.  The girl does seem nice and he doesn't mind talking to her, feeling comfortable and interested in keeping her there.  Despite his dedication to his chores Jym was getting bored in his solitude.  Not to mention the girl is rather cute sitting on the bear carpet, knees bent in front of her, her bare toes playing in the fur.

 

"That's good!" she smiles.  "We don't get many visitors."

 

Jym finds himself smiling back, becoming even more relaxed in this instinctual interaction between boy and girl.  "Good." he repeats.  "So, does your father own the place?"

 

Dinni doesn’t answer him.  She lies down on the rug, propping her head up with her hands childishly.  "Can I watch you work?"

 

"Uh, sure.  It's not that interesting though." he says.

 

Her feet rub together in the air behind her.  "That's okay."

 

He becomes a bit transfixed at the soles of her bared feet.  This girl isn't a match for his mistress in body certainly, but she is very attractive in her own right and by the standards of their age.  "Well, see, I do this to repair it." he begins, describing each process.  She seems to find him fascinating, and he is too interested in her to notice anything wrong with that.

 

The night moves along and he eventually finishes.  Fair Dinni has fallen asleep on the rug, on her side with her legs spread slightly.  Jym smiles, and looks for something to cover her with and keep her warm.  As he does so a gold ring spills out of her night gown, kept on her neck by a silver chain.  He looks at it, admiring the ring but leaving it as he is certainly no thief.

 

It has a diamond in it and looks like a wedding ring.  He wonders if it belongs to her mother.  Finding no blanket, he decides to wake her instead so she doesn't sleep the night away on a rug.

 

As Jym gently shakes Dinni’s shoulder the girl moans and wraps her arms around him without opening her eyes.  Jym freezes, not sure what to do but finding himself aroused by the touch.  "Um, Dinni?" he asks.  He then tries to pull free.

 

"Dinni?" he asks again after a moment, trying to push off the girl.  His hands accidentally push against her breasts.  She moans and smiles with familiarity.

 

Jym blinks embarrassed.  "Dinni?  C'mon, wake up."  He tries to pull free again.  She moans yet again and wraps her arms around him without opening her eyes.  She smiles at the sound of her name and snuggles closer, rubbing her face against his chest.

 

After a few more seconds however she wakes up and shakes the confusion from her face.  Instead of blushing, she looks a little sad.  "Sorry," she says letting him go.

 

"N-no problem." Jym stutters.  "Um, sorry to wake you.  Nice ring.  You mother's?" he asks, changing the subject.

 

Dinni sits up and looks down at it.  "My..." she begins to say, then, "Mine now."  She drops it back into her gown.  "It doesn't fit very well."

 

"Right.  So, may I escort you to your room my fair maiden?" Jym asks her.

 

Dinni smiles and shakes her head regretfully.  "No, thank you.  My... my father the innkeeper... shouldn't know we met like this."

 

"Oh.  Sorry.  Nice to meet you Dinni, see you in the morning." Jym says.

 

Dinni rises slightly on her tip-toes and gives him a peck on the lips.  "You're very sweet."

She keeps glancing over her shoulder at him as she shuffles away.  And he keeps smiling back at her, unable to keep his eyes off the girl.  Finally she leaves his sight, and he hears a door close.  Apparently, her room is on the bottom level.

 

Finished with everything else Jym gathers the armor and sword and returns to his room. He finally collapses into the bed and fall into a deep sleep.

 

The next morning, before Jym wakes, the others get their sore bodies out of bed.  Reiko stretches and yawns.  "Ugh.  Hate mornings." she mutters.  "There should be a law against sunshine."

 

"Don't blame the world that your tricks don't stand up to the light of day," Amara smirks, limping to her clothing.

 

"Oh, you know I have more than tricks.  The tricks just make things easier." the Kirasani say back.

 

"I'll be downstairs getting some grub," Amara comments.  "I hate being healed on an empty stomach."

 

"Right.  I suppose I'll have to wear clothing." the sorceress sighs.

 

"Such as it is," Amara zings.

 

"Just because I'm good enough not to get hit shouldn't get you upset blondie."  Reiko comments as she pulls on her skimpy top and sits to pull on her boots.  The opposites make strange room mates, although it is the same thing which makes them effective partners. 

 

Amara heads down the stairs carefully, thumping along the wooden steps.  She sees a skinny teen she assumes to be a serving girl.  Reiko by comparison glides down behind her.  "I am getting tired of saving you, just like when we first met." she teases.

 

"It is I who saved you," Amara corrects.

 

"Yes, yes, so you keep reminding me." she rolls her eyes.  "So, breakfast? Oh girl!  Over here!" Reiko calls.

 

The girl meets them at the base of the stairs and curtsies.  She is wearing a plain brown dress and white apron.  "Welcome!" she says.

 

"What do you have for breakfast?  We're hungry." Reiko says.

 

"This morning we have porridge and fruit, milk and coffee or tea."

 

"Coffee, black, to start." Reiko says, wandering to a chair.  "No eggs?" she checks.  Amara eventually limps to a chair on the other side of the table. 

 

"Thanks for the help." she grumps to Reiko. 

 

"Anytime." the Kirasani comments back.

 

"Eggs are here, but not prepared.  The porridge is ready," the girl says politely.

"Anything else?"

 

"Fruit." Amara says roughly, wincing from the pain of her bruises. 

 

Reiko smiles and says warmly, "Eggs.  Scrambled please.  I can wait."  The serving girl curtsies again and walks to the kitchen.  Killik is sitting at another table, a number of empty bowls already in front of him.

 

"You see?" Reiko says to Amara.  "You ask politely and you get."

 

“You can be taught.”  Amara wryly comments, causing Reiko to playfully stick her tongue out. 

 

After a moment they both turn to see a boy of about ten coming out of the kitchen to start collecting the barbarian's plates.  The girl opens the door and hisses at the boy to come back.  The boy scampers back, looking annoyed with about half the dishes.

 

"Well, that’s weird.  The children run the kitchen." Reiko mutters.  The two youngsters soon come out with Amara's breakfast and Reiko's coffee, along with a basket of fresh bread.

 

"Ahhhh, sweet dark magical sustenance" Reiko intones as she stares into the coffee.

The girl then pushes the boy toward the rest of the dirty dishes, and heads back into the kitchen herself.

 

Reiko savors the dark brew then nods towards the boy.  "That reminds me.  Where is your runt?"

 

"Either sleeping, having fixed my armor last night, or he's scrambling to finish this morning after dosing off again," Amara says wryly.

 

"He does work hard .... for a worthless human of course.  I will save him an apple," Reiko decides.

 

By the time Jym makes it downstairs, the women are finished with their meals.  Dinni smiles at him as she passes causing him to turn his head and grin without even realizing it.  The girl looks to be younger than him in the daylight.

 

"I have saved for you an apple young squire.  Prostrate yourself before me." Reiko jokes to Jym, having noticed the target of his gaze.

 

"For the horse?" Jym guesses.

 

"Good for growing boys as well." Reiko says.  The woman points her eyes at Jym’s trousers and the morning … stiffness he has woken up with.  Realizing it is obvious Jym blushes and turns his body.

 

"Girl," Amara calls, changing the subject.  "Where is your temple?"  Dinni politely gives directions.

 

Reiko rolls her eyes at Jym’s modesty.  "Look kid, if it's alright with your 'mom' you can stay and eat with me, and keep an eye on the lovely serving girl.  I'm still waiting for my meal anyway."  She gives him a friendly smile.

 

"Jym," Amara calls him over and holds out a small pouch before he can answer Reiko.  "Visit their stores.  See what you can do to restock while we are at the temple."  The Paladin gives the Kirasani a look that lets her know she is part of ‘we’.

 

“But my eggs.” Reiko complains.

 

“Are not ready yet.  They will be when we return.  Until then you are staying with us, if only to keep you out of trouble.”  A sighing Reiko rises and follows as ordered.

 

When the Paladin and her charge go outside, the first thing they notice is the large number of children in the village.  There are small children playing in the street, and larger children watching over them.  Killik joins them after a moment.

 

Reiko is visibly annoyed and hangs back with Jym.  "Can't believe she just orders me around like that who does she think she is?" the Kirasani mutters softly, just barely overheard by Jym.  The apprentice sighs, tired of hearing her complaints.

 

"Oh, don’t you start too." Reiko snaps, though without anger.

 

"What, telling you what to do?  Would it matter?" he asks.

 

"No, but at least you are smart enough to know it." she huffs.

 

"So how are you going to rebel this time?" he asks.  The sorceress is no older than he is in some ways Jym knows.

 

"I haven't decided yet.  You really are too smart to be a Paladin." she compliments.  Reiko chooses to help Jym with the shopping, Amara thankfully not objecting.

 

The shopping is brief.  All they have in town is a general store and a smithy.  As the pair wander through the general store, they notice a youth Jym's age behind the counter, watching them.

 

"Have you noticed?" Reiko whispers.  "Have you noticed that the oldest person we've met is your age?"

 

"Huh?" Jym responds then considers her words.  He shrugs.  "Maybe the adults got the kids to do the work?" Jym guesses.

 

"Then where are they?  Did they leave for some reason?  In the fields?" she wonders.

 

"That would make sense," Jym guesses.

 

When she gets the chance Reiko asks the boy behind the counter, "Where is the owner?"

 

"He went to the next town to get supplies," the boy answers.

 

"Did everyone go to the next town?" she asks.

 

The boy shrugs uncomfortably.  "No."

 

"Then where are the adults?" Reiko asks bluntly.

 

Jym moves in front of her.  "I'm sorry.  She really doesn't have manners sometimes."

 

The boy shrugs.  "None of my business.  They come and go as they please."

 

Reiko simply moves off and outside to wait for Jym.  When he gets to her she adds, "What do manners have to do with things?  Am I just crazy or is this just weird?" Reiko asks Jym.  The lad can only manage a shrug.

 

***

 

Meanwhile, at the temple, the other pair has encountered more weirdness.  Instead of an area representing all the gods as is usual custom, there is but one statue of a naked woman with a benevolent look on her face, holding her hands out as if to embrace the parishioners.  A small boy in priest's robes meets them near the door.

 

"Um, greetings young ... priest." Amara says.  "May I see your master?"

 

The boy mutely leads them to a buxom priestess with long raven black hair and flowing robes who smiles at them.  "Good morrow," she says grandly, "and welcome to the temple of Naita."

 

Killik grunts noncommittally.  Amara for her part has never heard of a remote temple just to Naita.  The Paladin also doesn't think much of the goddess, feeling She represents traits which are entirely too weak.  Although being the goddess of life does make her a major deity.

 

"She needs a healing." Killik nods to his partner.

 

"Ah, very good," the priestess says.  "Naita shelters us all.  Come."  She leads the way to a comfortable lounging couch.

 

The priestess says a powerful prayer over Amara's wounds, and Amara feels a strange tingling as the wounds close.  The tingling leaves her feeling refreshed and relaxed.  She stretches as she sits up.  "Well, that was ..... pleasant." she admits.  She feels refreshed, almost years younger.  Hopping energetically from her seat she moves swiftly from combat stance to stance, shifting from step to step with a noticeable bounce.  “Much better.” She comments, laughing lightly.

 

Smiling broadly, the priestess holds her arms out to Killik in offering.  The large barbarian glances at Amara then shrugs.  If the Paladin detects no evil....

 

Killik feels the same as Amara after his healing, younger and more energetic.  He is quite upset however when a few of his scars disappear.  "What is going on?" he asks.

 

"Naita's blessings on you," the woman smiles then leaves them alone.

 

Killik turns the still lightheaded Amara around.  "Who is this Naita?" he asks, not familiar with the gods of the civilized world.

 

"Goddess of life and motherhood … and children," Amara comments.  "Civilians pray to her, asking for healthy offspring and for 'protection'.  If you ask me, my God offers better protection with His Paladins."

 

"I understand them.  Mothers are powerful in their own right." His voice rumbles gently. 

 

"They continue the species," Amara has to admit, flipping her sword around a little recklessly.

 

"Careful, you could cut yourself." he warns. 

 

They move from the temple and spot their party mates in the street.  The normally prim Amara looks in full health and a little wild.  The barbarian looks less rough and a little less intimidating.

 

Reiko waves.  "And what are you two doing?"

 

"That healing really packed a punch!" Amara compliments energetically.

 

"Right.  Anyway, you noticed anything, strange around here?"  Reiko asks.

 

"You mean all the kids?" Amara asks, not surprising Reiko in the least that she noticed.  "Their temple is dedicated solely to Naita.  And this is the result: an overabundance of rug rats.

 

Reiko blinks as the implication of the Paladin’s words sink in.  "You mean lots and lots of sex?  Huh.  Maybe this goddess ain't so bad." she comments.

 

Amara snorts then thinks about it.  "Actually, that healing did feel kind of like … you know."

 

"Point the way." the sorceress quips.

 

"Right up there, you can't miss it," Amara smirks. 

 

The sorceress shrugs and wanders off to be greeted by the small boy when she arrives at the temple.  "Well hello." she kneels.  "Where's your mommy?"

 

"I live here," he says simply.  He has dark hair and a creamy complexion, with dark blue eyes.  A real lady killer some day Reiko thinks.

 

"I see.  I was curious about a blessing." she checks.

 

"What kind?" he asks curiously.

 

"Whatcha got?"

 

He looks at her chest and reaches out a little hand to gently touch her nipple through her top.  "We can bless those."

 

The priestess walks up.  "Well, hello and good morrow, dear woman."

 

"Oh, hello." Reiko says.  She repeats her request, and asks about what the boy was mentioning.

 

"Naita blesses all things womanly and motherly," the woman answers.  The boy looks up at the priestess and giggles as if being tickled.

 

"I've rarely been accused of the latter." Reiko jokes.

 

"Do you seek to conceive?" the priestess asks.

 

Reiko blinks, honestly surprised.  "Um, no.  Sex is good though.  Very good."

 

The priestess frowns.  "Sex without conception.  I see."

 

"The best kind as I've found.  In fact, with a little of the right magic you never really have to worry, y'know?" she adds.  Reiko has always been one to push others as far as they can go and she likes the disapproving glances she is getting from the little priest and priestess.

 

The priestess nods slowly.  "Very well."  She says a prayer over the Kirasani woman who feels a tingle in her breasts and in her groin.  "Your sexual feelings will be enhanced, and you will not become pregnant while this blessing is in place."

 

"Very nice." Reiko admits.  "And how long does it last?"  She frowns after a moment.  "And what do I owe you?"

 

"It will last until you have no further use for it," the woman says mysteriously.  "That will be fifty gold."

 

"Ouch." Reiko winces, but reaches into her pouch.  "This better be worth it."

 

The woman cups Reiko's breast through her skimpy top and stops the woman in mid motion.  A shiver and shudder run through the dark sorceress buckling her knees.  "Oh .... gods!" Reiko gasps.  She smiles as the tingles echo and spread through her entire body. 

 

The priestess takes the money and helps the weak-kneed woman over to a couch to sit down.  "My!  Pity there are no men around when you need them." Reiko pouts.  "Hmmmm, I’ll have to track down Killik.  Heck, even Jym would do.” She admits.

 

The little boy grins up at her.  "Not you shrimp." Reiko deadpans.

 

"He is quite skilled at breastfeeding," the priestess remarks with a hint of laughter.

 

"I dunno.  Probably shoulda been weaned a while ago." Reiko mutters.

 

"Mother's milk is the most nutritious," the priestess preaches.

 

"Hmmm, now that would be cool to make." Reiko admits.

 

"Done," The priestess smiles.  "No extra charge." 

 

Nothing seems to change though to Reiko.  Her breasts feel normal.  The dark skinned woman pokes at a nipple.  "And I turn it on how?" she asks.

 

"Why, by having someone suckle, of course!" the priestess laughs.

 

Reiko is left speechless for a moment then grins evilly.  "Oh, I will enjoy this.  You have my thanks."

 

"Go in the way of Naita," the priestess bows.

 

Reiko nods and leaves, looking for some man of age in this strange town.  She finds none fitting that description however and instead returns to the room, joining Amara.  "I have energy to burn," The Paladin notes with a sigh.  "We should leave town and find some evil to punish!"

 

"Well, aren't you a motivated warrior?" Reiko comments leaning against the room's doorway.  "Still, I agree.  This town is .... small."

 

"You got a place to go to?" Killik grunts from the hallway.

 

"We are pretty out of the way, that's your territory," Amara tells Killik.  "We could hunt that ogre you mentioned finding trace of on the way here.  And there's always more Jungle Hounds."  Like furry apes with long snouts, the Jungle Hounds are carnivorous humanoids which attack forest-goers in packs.

 

"Hounds are plentiful and stay to the woods.  Ogres can be more bothersome to those who live here.  Unless someone has heard of something the villagers need." he thinks.

 

"Yeah, maturity." Reiko sniggers.

 

"With all those children running around, they don't seem to need much protection," Amara notes.

 

"True." Reiko admits, Killik nodding behind her.  "Well then, when do we leave?  I'm sure Jym would like to see his little girlfriend before we go." the witch teases, reaching a hand into the hallway and tugging the red faced apprentice into the room by the tunic.  "You're our glorious leader Amara, what’s the word?" Reiko asks.

 

"Well, I say we go as soon as we can and tackle both." the energetic Paladin says.  She literally seems to be bouncing in her seat and is already getting into her armor.  Jym moves forward to help his mistress but is shooed off to pack instead.

 

"Food?" Reiko asks Killik, who simply gives an affirmative grunt.  "Right, why ask the giant barbarian if he wants to eat?" she quips.  As they walk down the stairs Reiko adds, "Hey, do you like milk?"

 

The two serving kids are happy to see them again, and promise the best food in town.  "There is roast pig, wild hen, and rabbit stew." The serving girl promises.  They order samplings of each and dig in, waiting for the other pair to come down the stairs.

 

After a few minutes Jym comes down the stairs with a pair of packs on his shoulders, having put their things together.  It may be the way to built broad shoulders, but his physique doesn't seem ready to start putting on much muscle for his.  As he stumbles by Killik reaches out and plucks the heaviest pack from the boy's shoulders with one hand. 

 

Reiko pouts.  "Awwww, I was enjoying the show.  You are too nice."

 

Dinni catches Jym's gaze and smiles at him.  Taking a double glance he smiles back.

Reiko's arm reaches over and takes his second pack with a grunt.  "Well boy, it's now or never." the dark witch winks at him.

 

Dinni tilts her head curiously and Reiko gives Jym a light shove forward.  "Go on." she whispers.  Jym takes a deep breath and moves towards the girl, intending to at least say a proper goodbye.  Dinni smiles up at him as he approaches. 

 

"Are you leaving?" Dinni asks, batting her eyes. 

 

Shy, Jym looks at the floor, and notices that she is wearing shoes today.  He finds himself disappointed at that.  "I can't stay," he apologizes.  "They want to get going already."

 

"The dark one seems to think you have time." Dinni says.  Jym turns to see Reiko smile and wave at him.  He blushes, unable to explain what they have time for or even work up a proper farewell.  Taking pity on the lad, Dinni takes him by the hand and leads him into the kitchen, away from prying eyes.

 

Her green eyes look up into his.  "Is there something you wanted to say?" she asks.  "Or...?"  She begins untying his tunic.  "Do?"  Jym is unable to say anything, struck dumb by desire and her forward actions.  She isn't even blushing!

 

Dinni takes him by the hand and leads him through a back door, into a short hallway, and into a set of rooms large enough that they must be the owner's living quarters.  "Will ... will the owner come?" Jym gasps.  She shakes her head silently, her hair streaming from her young head in thick lockes.

 

Jym finds his pants down to his ankles before he knows what has happened.  Dinni lies with him on the bed and begins to work on him.  She is tender and caring, and not at all hesitant.  And he is utterly blown away by the most memorable experience of his young life.

 

Dinni seems to know what she is doing, but she is tight from lack of use, and she seems to savor the experience as much as he does.  When they are done Dinni sighs and cuddles into his shoulder, pressing her naked body against his.

 

Jym is too dazed for a few minutes to even move.  "That was .... incredible." he pants.

 

"Thank you," she whispers in his ear.

 

"Am I your first?" Jym asks.

 

She hesitates then says, "In a way."  She giggles to herself, her feet rocking back and forth energetically.

 

"Um, what?"  Jym blinks after a moment then shoots straight up and hops off the bed, trying to get his scattered clothing back on.  "I - I've gotta go.  Nice .... meeting you." he stammers.

 

Dinni looks alarmed.  "What's wrong?" she asks, sitting up.

 

"I'm supposed to be getting my mistress and the others ready.  She'll be expecting me now.  I'm late." he replies.  Looking at the girl again he leans forward and plants a kiss on her lips, unable to resist.  Dinni wraps her thin arms around his shoulders in a lingering embrace.

 

When they separate Jym smiles.  "I .... I gotta go." he says again, though doesn't move. She just smiles back and they gaze into each other's eyes for a bit.

 

Finally Jym is broken from his trance when he can just make out Amara calling his name and with a final kiss he moves to leave.  Dinni gazes after him with a fond smile, holding the sheets to her chest.  It is a memorable pose.  One he can barely tear away from.  He returns to the main room to find his annoyed mistress armored and ready to go. 

 

"Where were you?" Amara asks.

 

Jym freezes, trying to figure out how to explain things when Reiko breaks in.  "He felt sick.  Went in the back to puke it out and clean up."  The sorceress explains simply.

 

Amara grunts, but nods in acceptance.  “Very well.  Come along now.  We have much ground to cover.” She orders.

 

As his mistress passes by them Jym looks at Reiko.  She can tell he’s a bit surprised.  The sorceress nudges him with her elbow and whispers, “Just call me a sucker for random romantic encounters.  You owe me.  So, did you actually work up the courage to kiss her?”

 

“Uh … yeah.” Jym answers.  “Among other, stuff.”

 

Reiko’s eyes widen before she grins widely, just having noticed the ties on the lad’s tunic are a bit off.  After a glance over her shoulder she messes Jym’s hair.  “Good for you kiddo, I didn’t know you had it in you.”

 

“Neither did I.” the boy admits.

 

***

 

They leave the town behind soon thereafter, the elder party members with energy, while poor Jym is too spent to keep up.

 

"What is taking you so long?" His mistress complains.

 

Jym looks kind of dopey.  But he isn't the only one acting strange.  The other three are far more chatty than usual and about far less important matters than are usually discussed.  At one point Amara actually asks Reiko if her armor looks good on her and she seems a bit uncomfortable in it as well.  Maybe his mistress got the straps wrong from having to put it on by herself, Jym thinks guiltily and he offers to fix it.

 

"We might as well stop for a moment, let you catch your breath," Amara agrees.

 

Jym works at her straps as Amara asks Killik, "So, how far to the ogre?"

 

"Five miles," he grunts.  "Maybe.  Must find stool."

 

"To sit on?" Jym asks, causing the women to laugh merrily.  Embarrassed, he concentrates on his work.  He notices the straps are buckled to their normal wear spots, but the armor is still loose on her.  Jym reasons they must have stretched as they sometimes do and adjusts things accordingly.

 

As she rests Reiko's breasts start tingling.  Her hand reaches up and rubs one in confusion.  It feels good, her nipples erect under her top.  "Wow." she breathes.  Fiddling with a nipple she tries to see if it will actually produce milk.

 

It does not, though she startles at the shocks of pleasure through her body.  She doesn't realize it, but her body suddenly loses all extra pudginess gained since she reached her late twenties.

 

"Reiko!" Amara hisses sharply, having noticed the Kirasani's actions.  Reiko’s breasts seem to push out even further and higher on her chest.

 

"Jealous?" the exotic woman asks with a smirk.  "I got a blessing at the temple too.  Enhanced sexual feelings.  Nice huh?"

 

Amara grunts.  "You would."

 

Before Reiko can reply shaggy Jungle Hounds suddenly start dropping from the trees, trying to knock them to the ground.  Swords are drawn, Killik's battle axe is pulled from his back and even Jym unsheathes his short sword as the group fights back.  Reiko raises a hand and begins to discharge sparks of electricity at the monsters.

 

The battle is invigorating for all save Jym, making the trio of warriors feel great.  Poor Jym is knocked to the ground however and pinned by one of the Hounds, which pushes down on his chest, making it difficult to breathe.  Thankfully Killik’s axe tears through the creature before it can finish the boy.

 

When they are done killing the lot of them, Amara, Reiko and Killik are miraculously unharmed for a change.  They laugh excitedly, the thrill of the combat still surging through them.  All Jym has to show for it is bruises on his chest.

 

Killik helps him up.  "Are you hurt?" he asks.

 

Jym wheezes and tries not to cry.  He has been admonished for that behavior before.  He also knows the injury isn't serious and gives the barbarian a negative shake of his head.

 

"Well, looks like we'll get two birds with one stone." Amara comments.  "The hounds found us."

 

"They do that," Killik comments.

 

Amara looks positively radiant, more beautiful than Jym has ever seen her.  Her scowl lines have disappeared with her easy smile.  He is too impressed at her performance, and embarrassed at himself, to comment on it

 

As the celebrating dies down the women notice that Killik is sporting a rather large erection under his loin cloth.  Reiko can't resist moving forward and placing a hand on the loincloth.  "Excited to see me big boy?"

 

The big man shivers at her touch.  "Watch yourself, Reiko," he intones, but he puts his hand over hers, keeping it there.

 

"Don't look at them," Amara instructs Jym primly, covering her apprentice’s eyes.  "Oh quit it you two ... at least until after the ogre." Amara adds.

 

Killik eyes Reiko hungrily, ignoring the Paladin.  Amara claps her hands sharply startling the man out of his trance.  "Now!  Break it up!"

 

Killik pulls away, though leaves a longing glance with the sorceress.  The pair have hooked up before Jym knows, and they do both get excited after combat, but the lad has never seen them so intent to go at one another so soon afterwards before.  Amara politely doesn’t preach to them, though her disapproving scowl is enough of a message.

 

They all take some time to cool off before continuing onward and deeper into the woods. 

 

***

 

"Ogre is cunning," Killik warns.  "Hunts like a man, but is a hunter of men."

 

"Suggestions?" Amara asks.

 

"Stay quiet and do not let your guard down." The barbarian advises. 

 

Hours later, they are walking through the woods when a snap sounds from under Jym's boot.  He is yanked into the air by his ankle, where he hangs upside down, fifteen feet in the air, caught by a vine trap.  The others look around, ready for an attack.

 

There is silence for a few moments.  Then they notice the growing ground tremors. 

 

Amara looks to see if Jym can be cut down quickly but there is no easy access to the lad, unless she doubled in height.  She instead points to the large trees motioning to the others to set up an ambush.  Unfortunately they cannot tell the direction of the rumbling.

 

After another moment the rumbling stops and things fall quiet.  The trio look around, ready for a fight.

 

A shadow temporarily blocks the sun as a boulder comes crashing down into their midst.  It bounces into into Killik, knocking him five feet.  Amara recovers and looks around just in time to dodge a tree trunk as it is swung at her.

 

Reiko spots the direction the objects are coming from and looks for a solid target.  The huge beast of a humanoid lunges into the clearing, still wielding the long tree trunk.  He must be at least twelve feet tall and covered in muscle under the dirty hides.

 

Ready for the assault this time Reiko lets loose.  Being a storm sorceress her powers delve into the natural energy alive in the air.  She had begun seconds ago by gathering fog around her, raising it above the ground and churning it.  Then, she lifted into the air slightly, her palms pointing at the ogre.  An invisible connection is made, and lightning cracks and flashes in a blue arc between them, slamming into the huge brute with enough concussive force to make him stagger back a step.  The tree in his hands explodes as its sap evaporates in an instant.

 

Reiko readies another blast but Amara charges the beast and blocks her aim, sword flashing.  Amazingly, Killik is also back in the fight, wielding his axe.  For Jym the blood is starting to rush to his head and he is seeing spots from the lightning blast.

 

"Dammit." Reiko mutters at Amara’s lack of teamwork.  She decides to launch a small bolt at the branch holding Jym instead.  She times it, and the branch cracks, dropping the swinging Jym away from the immediate fight.

 

Killik's axe cuts into the ogre's calf from behind as Reiko maneuvers to the side for another clean shot but breaks it off just in time as Amara gets in her way once again.  "Dammit!  Stay out of my line of fire!" she shouts angrily at the Paladin.

 

Amara gets yanked off her feet like a small child for her efforts and flies through the air to land hard on the forest floor.  The ogre then lunges forward to bash her against a large tree, but impales his foot on Jym's discarded short sword.  He staggers then drops to the ground.

 

Finally having a clear shot, Reiko prepares another bolt.  "Stay clear!" she shouts before firing.

 

The shot is clean and the ogre twitches from the shock, spraying blood everywhere.  The monster glares at Killik as the man positions his axe for a killing blow, and says something none of them understand.  His deep voice sends chills through them.

 

Killik lops the ogre's head off, sending it rolling.  It comes to rest at Jym's feet, the fearsome face glaring at him in frozen hatred and causing the lad to release a small cry of shock.

 

"Did anyone get that?" Reiko asks, ignoring Jym’s reaction.

 

"An epithet, no doubt," Amara says, gingerly picking herself up from where she was dropped.

 

"It seemed to have power to it." Reiko mutters.  After a moment she turns on Amara with a glare of her own.  "And what the hell was all that?  How many times must I repeat myself?  Stay clear of my line of fire in a fight.  I almost fried you.  You were running around like ... like an undisciplined apprentice!" she yells at Amara.  Turning to Jym she adds, "No offense."

 

"I'm a squire," Jym says helpfully, but is cut off by Amara.  The Paladin and the sorceress enter into their usual bickering, though Reiko raises her voice more than usual.  Amara doesn't seem as imposing next to the witch this time it seems.

 

"I do more damage than both of you put together.  We've been through this.  You screen for me and you stay out of my way!" Reiko yells.

 

"You want it both ways!" Amara scoffs.  "I can't intervene AND stay out of the way!"

 

"Somehow he managed it!" Reiko points at Killik.

 

"He was knocked clear of the battle!" Amara exclaims shrilly.

 

"We should wash in the pond," Killik speaks over them, pointing to a barely visible pool of water.  They are all covered in blood spray. 

 

Reiko huffs then looks away with her arms folded.  Her nose is in the air as if something smells bad.  "Yes, we should." she says simply, moving towards the pond.

 

Jym looks forlornly at his broken sword stuck in the ogre's foot.  Noticing, Reiko reaches behind her back and under her cape, pulling out a long, curved, and very nasty looking razor sharp dagger.  "Here." she holds out to the boy.

 

Jym waits for his mistress’ nod before accepting it then thanks the sorceress.  “So glad your ‘mommy’ approves.” Reiko adds snidely, eliciting another glare from the Paladin.

 

The boy notices that the others are again thrilled by their fight.  Their energy seems boundless as none of them so much as slow down as they approach the pond, never mind limp or move stiffly.

 

Reiko strips to her naked glory and moves into the pond.  Amara for once feels ... self-conscious at seeing the Kirasani’s body.

 

Killik also strips naked.  His massive erection bobs as he wades in.  Moving closer to the barbarian Reiko innocently asks, "Get my back?"

 

Killik comes up behind her, lifts her off her feet, and tosses her deeper into the pond, her head plunging below the water.

 

"Hey!  What was that for?" Reiko sputters.

 

"Got your back," he laughs then settles down to more gently wash her back.

 

Amara is taking a very long time with her armor, as if she doesn’t want to remove it. Jym kneels to help his mistress and she thankfully notices that Killik and Reiko are paying her no attention.

 

Without her armor, Amara looks skinny somehow.  The woman slips into the pond still wearing her tunic which covers down below her privates.

 

Reiko's naked breasts are the most amazing thing Jym has seen on a woman, but he turns away as Amara gives him a look of warning.  Reiko finds that the touch of Killik’s hands on her skin is amazing as well.  Killik quietly takes her from behind, holding her up as he thrusts into her.  She is left breathless as extra wonderful feeling ripples through her.

 

Jym being clean stays dressed and on guard on the bank, not noticing what the pair are doing until he hears some grunting.  His eyes open wide at their audacity.

 

Amara washes as quickly as she can, disgusted by the display.  She even stays in her wet tunic as she leaves the pond. 

 

"Mistress?  Do you want a dry one?" Jym asks, reaching for her pack.  Amara takes her tunic off, and Jym is treated to the sight of a beautiful young woman, far less muscular than he has ever seen her.  He frowns and realizes something is wrong. 

 

"Mistress!  Your body!" he exclaims.

 

Amara glares at him furiously.  "How dare you!  Look away!  Have you no shame?"

 

Jym does look away.  "Yes, but mistress.  Your muscles are less, and you look skinny.  Even your breasts seem smaller."  Reiko's gasps of pleasure get ever louder.

 

Amara pulls her tunic on and cuffs him on the back of the head, thinking he is comparing her to the witch.  "You say such rude things!"  Color in her cheeks, Amara walks away from the pool.  "Bring my armor.  And ... don't refill your canteen in there."

 

Jym pulls back and rubs his head.  "Yes mistress." he says.  Reiko screams out though certainly not in fear.

 

In the pond Reiko turns around and Killik holds her bottom, floating her in front of him.  The water sloshes with their rhythmic movement.  She scrapes her nails across his bare back and kisses his neck.  The barbarian is looking much less hairy, his facial hair almost soft under her hands. 

 

The Kirasani woman twists and bucks, grinning and gasping and kissing Killik firmly and deeply on the mouth.  More of her bottom slowly enters the water,  then her waist.  Killik becomes clean-shaven and starts panting rather than grunting at the effort of holding her up.  She smiles again, and bites his lip.  The pleasure is so great Reiko has noticed little else but her feelings.

 

Killik starts nibbling on one of Reiko’s breasts.  Her mammaries begin to lactate and her pleasure doubles as he sucks on her hard nipple, warm milk squirting into his mouth.

 

"Ahhhh!" Reiko cries out in pleasure again going limp in his arms as her lover suckles heartily at her teat.  Killik's thrusts grow less compelling until he slips out of her and just sucks at her breasts. 

 

Reiko eventually finds herself floating in the water on her back.  Floating in ecstatic pleasure, Killik’s cheeks smooth against the skin of her breasts.

 

Her arms wrap around him, pulling him closer.  Given her state and his, they would have gone on for a long time, if Killik's added weight hadn't forced Reiko under and flooded water into her open mouth.  Instead she gurgles and twists, breaking above the water with a sputter and a rack of coughing.

 

They separate, Killik coming up laughing at her ... though it can't be him.  At first, Reiko thinks it must be Jym.  She frowns and stares at the boy.  "Killik?" she asks.

 

The wet lad in front of her is a skinny thing with a hairless face and chest.  He continues to laugh and crouch in the water up to his elbows.

 

Reiko gasps in shock then splashes out of the water.  The boy makes cat-calls after her, watching her round bottom move as she scrambles, then wades out of the pond behind her.  He shudders and giggles to himself, and she'd swear she sees him get smaller.

 

Reiko scoops up her skimpy clothing and moves away.  "Amara! Jym!  Get over here!"

 

"Awwwww!" Killik complains then runs off into the forest to hide from them with a giggle.  The Kirasani just stares after him, mouth open.

 

Amara hurries over, holding up her sword.  "What?  What is it?"

 

"Killik.  He's ...he's ...." Reiko stutters.  "He's young.  Jym young."

 

 

 

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