Astonish

Trapped in a job working as an assistant for an ambassador, Ceelie is hoping for something better for her life, but she knows that it isn’t likely. While on an assignment to obtain some atmosphere scrubbing trees Ceelie finds herself courted and seduced before she can blink. Rimeer is the avatar of the green and life giving world and he is in need of a companion. Ceelie can’t bring herself to deny any of his needs and when the planet joins them, she finds out that being part of a ménage can include three minds seeking pleasure as one.

The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal. Criminal copyright infringement, including infringement without monetary gain, is investigated by the FBI and is punishable by up to 5 years in federal prison and a fine of $250,000. Please purchase only authorized electronic editions, and do not participate in or encourage the electronic piracy of copyrighted materials. Your support of the author’s rights is appreciated. This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events or locales or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental. Astonish Copyright © 2012 Viola Grace ISBN: 978-1-77111-125-6 Cover art by Martine Jardin All rights reserved. Except for use in any review, the reproduction or utilization of this work in whole or in part in any form by any electronic, mechanical or other means, now known or hereafter invented, is forbidden without the written permission of the publisher. Published by eXtasy Books Look for us online at: www.eXtasybooks.com

Astonish A Terran Times Tale By Viola Grace

Chapter One

F

illing people with awe was a charming skill for an entertainer, but it really was not very helpful in a personal assistant to an ambassador. Ceelie Orlie was resigned to a life of following the Tival Ambassador around and trying to keep him calm and organized. Her talent would remain unused and unwanted. Her assignment today was not only to deliver Ambassador Keeln to the wild planet of Hassoi, but also to assist in gaining trust from the locals. “Ceelie, when will we land?” Ceelie jumped but kept her hand on the controls. “We will be down within the hour, Ambassador.” Ambassador Keeln was his normal charming self today. He was well groomed, as always, but his fairly pleasant features were marked by his scowl. “Be a little more precise with the landing this time, Ceelie. I was a little shaken up by the last drop to the surface.” She nodded. “Yes, Ambassador.” 1

Viola Grace Ceelie verified the beacon that the Hassoi had set out for them and followed it down. They were a relatively unknown species, but they had some of the best plants and trees for world forming that had ever been discovered. If you had a planet that you wanted to fill with green, oxygen-producing life, you dealt with the Hassoi. Trees of the Hassoi adapted to every environment they were placed in and did not spread beyond their original placement. They stayed put and simply grew into perfect oxygen farms. The Tival had located a suitable dead world to remake and they had balanced the initial environment but were now working on populating it with flora and fauna. Ceelie was along for the ride as Keeln wandered from planet to planet, collecting items and agreements for supplies. Ceelie smiled at the bright life that she saw when she looked at Hassoi. It was green, growing and inviting, reminding her of the lush jungles of her home. Terra had never seemed further away than when she looked at Keeln, but it seemed just around the corner as she eyed the jungles and open fields. Life with Keeln was depressing on most days. He was either hitting on her or ignoring her, but every now and then, she saw a place like this and 2

Astonish it was a gemstone in her mind, a bright place to look at and smile about. She placed Hassoi in a special place in her thoughts and locked it down. Ceelie was going to keep this green jewel in her thoughts every time Keeln got on her nerves. “We are on final approach, Ambassador. Please strap in for landing.” She heard the click but didn’t look at her passenger. She needed her attention for the Tival shuttle landing. They were not as technologically advanced as the true Alliance ships, so they required a lot more effort to keep them steady during touchdown. Sweat formed on her brow and slicked her palms as she fought the controls for a smooth landing. The beacon was visible as she set the ship down on the grass. The moment that the ship powered down, the locals came out of the shadows of the vegetation and smiled in greeting. “We are at our destination, Ambassador.” She unsnapped her harness and got to her feet. Ambassador Keeln looked at her and she saw the lust in his eyes as she had countless times in the past. There was also anger in his eyes that had been showing up more and more frequently of late. “Who are we speaking to here?” 3

Viola Grace She really needed to stretch after that landing, but there was no way she would do it with him watching. “The locals are going to greet you as an honoured visitor and tomorrow, you will meet with the avatar. He will be watching and waiting, so behaviour and manners are of utmost importance.” Keeln grabbed her by her throat and held her, not tight, but threatening. “You are lecturing me about manners?” She kept still. “I am not lecturing. I am briefing. By the way, there are two locals looking in through the front screen and unless you do some spin control, they will judge you by this action.” He released her quickly and she moved to the back of the shuttle with as much dignity as she could muster. She typed in the codes and swung the shuttle hatch open. Stairs descended and she walked out of the ship, waiting for the Ambassador to emerge. He looked very proper, his embroidered coat, snow white shirt and embroidered trousers. The Tival were a cold race, made of elegant lines and distressingly beautiful features, but if you were unfortunate enough to be around one, the beauty faded quickly into something dark and jealous. The locals of Hassoi came forward and smiled at them. They were a variety of sizes but all as green as the leaves of their trees. Their skin had 4

Astonish the appearance of a smooth tree bark and their hair came in shades of pale mint to blackish green. She bowed low to the headman of the village. “Greetings. May I present to you Ambassador Keeln of the Tival, here to negotiate for his people.” The headman smiled. “I am Warcoth. Welcome. What is your name?” Ceelie could feel the Ambassador stiffening with outrage behind her. “I am Ceelie Orlie of the Alliance Protectorate of Terra. Please call me Ceelie.” He grinned, showing white and pointed teeth. “Welcome, Ceelie. The women of the village would like to offer you hospitality if you will take it.” She bowed. “If the Ambassador will allow it, I would be only too happy to partake of your hospitality.” Warcoth looked past her to Keeln. Ceelie turned and quirked a brow at her employer and waited for his response. “Of course, she must go if your women would have her.” Keeln flipped his hand in dismissal. The moment that he waved his hand, a giggling group of women surrounded her. Some were shorter than she was, others taller, but all welcomed her with every smile and gesture. Ceelie was separated from Keeln and escorted into 5

Viola Grace the forest, the deep green surrounded her and she was surprised again at the feeling of coming home. Some of the women had flowers in their hair and they all wore tunics and trousers, but their feet were bare. Ceelie realized that she was in a bit of a pickle when the women spoke to each other in liquid tones and her mind was unable to pick out the words. “I am sorry, I don’t understand you.” The eldest of the women that were still pulling her into the woods smiled. “Do not worry. We can speak Alliance Common. It is just easier to speak the language of the trees.” “The language of trees? Is that the language of Hassoi?” The women laughed. “Hassoi is our world. The trees are his just as we are his, these words are also his.” The village of the Hassoi appeared in the woods with surprising suddenness. One moment, there was nothing but shadows and the next there were laughing children, hunters and women walking past with baskets of fruit and vegetables. Ceelie had to ask, “Madam, where are we going?” “Call me Gilla. Before we can declare you a guest, you must be washed of your previous worlds. Deep in the heart of our village, we have a 6

Astonish spring that brings Hassoi to us. You will bathe in that spring and then you will be given all that our planet can offer.” “I am only here as the assistant to Ambassador Keeln. I don’t wish to take or trade anything from your world.” Gilla grinned, “We know. It is why you will be given all we can offer. Only someone who gives without expectation of receiving can be considered a true friend. So many folk have come here to trade, but they want to get more than they offer and so receive less than they asked for.” Ceelie’s head spun at the logic, but she couldn’t break free of the swarm of women that was growing with every step. The women herded her toward a cavern opening in the base of a huge tree. The rock tunnel led her down below and the liquid laughter of the women around her had her smiling and let her concern fade for the moment. After all, nothing that brought such joy could possibly harm her, could it?

7

Viola Grace

Chapter Two

O

ne moment, she was surrounded and the next, she was alone with Gilla. “Bathe as long as you wish. There is a fresh gown for you waiting next to the towels. Thank you for taking part in our hospitality.” Before Ceelie could say anything or ask any questions, Gilla shoved her through a doorway and closed it behind her. Bemused, she looked around her and breathed deeply of the high humidity. The spring was indeed bubbling from the depths of the planet and it produced a gentle mist of warm heat. The towels were stacked neatly to one side and there was a pitcher with water and two glasses waiting for her. She trailed her fingers in the warm pool and smiled. Ceelie hadn’t had a bath in months. Even when she and the Ambassador were on a world that would allow her to use water, she was forced to reside on the shuttle. It was one of Keeln’s 8

Astonish cruelties, but since he was bound by the employment agreement to not have sex with her he found other ways to punish her for being beyond his reach. Not wanting to disappoint her hosts, she peeled out of her loose ship suit and boots, shucked her underwear and let her hair down. With only a few steps, she was in the water and with a happy sigh, she dove under the surface. The water held her in a soft caress and she swam, floated and twirled in it and wrapped herself in a feeling of relaxation and care. When the tendrils of thought that were not her own came in, she tensed and sank for a moment before spluttering back to the surface. Hello? Greetings and welcome, lady. Do I have the honour of addressing Hassoi? I do not know if it is an honour, but you do indeed, lady. Call me Ceelie. Ceelie then. You have a lovely mind. Thank you. Do not thank me. It is the truth. You have a very rare mind and a lovely talent. Ceelie blushed and started to swim for the edge of the pool. Thank you for the compliment, but my talent has not done me any good. It got you into the Volunteers, did it not? You may be selling it short. 9

Viola Grace Life shuttling the ambassador around lets me see many things, but I can’t enjoy them. It is far from the life I imagined. What would you consider to be a good life, Ceelie? She left the pool in a rush of water and pink skin. I don’t know. It isn’t up to me. The last decision I made was to leave my home, after that, it was all up to those around me to shove and tug me where they wanted. Would you make a life if you had the choice? I would. I have seen a lot and I am tired. Unsurprisingly, she found that he had not left her mind though she had left the water. I think that you have a lot to give a nation or a people. You simply need to reach within your soul. She grimaced and wrapped herself in the towel. You are currently the only thing in my soul, Hassoi. Exactly. She felt the fading of the living soul of the planet as he withdrew from conversational distance. Absently, she poured herself a glass of water and sipped as she debated whether to put on the gown or her baggy suit. Ceelie lived by her own rules and slipped the gown over her head. Never refuse hospitality if you need a race to decide something in your favour. She was still on assignment, after all. She was wrapped from chest to hip in tight fabric and the flowing skirt swept the floor. Her hair was knotted, but the rest of her was fine. She 10

Astonish was dry, relaxed and she finished drinking the water before she opened the door to smile at Gilla again. “Come, Ceelie. We will help you prepare for this evening.” Ceelie blinked and tilted her head slightly. “What is this evening?” “You are our guest, you will be at our feast.” Gilla tugged her along, her smooth hand gripping Ceelie’s arm. Under social restraint, Ceelie followed her hostess to a large gathering of women. They sat her down, polished her nails, brushed her hair and draped a heavily jewelled necklace over her head. “Thank you for speaking in Common. It makes me much more comfortable.” Ceelie’s comment to Gilla was met with a look of confusion. “What do you mean, Ceelie? We are speaking the language of Hassoi and Hassoi has given you understanding.” That little bit of information caused Ceelie to revaluate her mind. There was indeed something there that had not been there before. She touched her forehead out of reflex and the woman working on her nails gave a light hiss. Chastened, Ceelie returned to a passive state. “Do you do all of this for regular visitors?” “We don’t usually have visitors. This is what Hassoi wished us to do and so we do it.” The 11

Viola Grace young woman buffing her nails smiled. “We don’t mind. He asks so little and gives so much that it is a joy to make him happy.” The other women smiled and nodded. There was no malice, no fear, only open hearts and open minds. It was refreshing to see folk who were not obsessed with either ignoring or worshiping their avatar. Hassoi seemed to simply be part of their everyday life. When one of the young women brought her some more water in a carved wood cup, Ceelie took it gladly. She was thirsty and the water slipped down her throat to cool her everywhere it touched. She offered what was left in her cup to Gilla, but the older woman shook her head. “That water is for you alone. Enjoy it.” There was something behind that comment, but Ceelie drank the water, enjoying the feel of it as it seemed to run through her veins. When the light took on a red tint, the women got her to her feet and led her back to the shuttlecraft. “Why isn’t the evening planned in the village?” Ceelie didn’t want to be rude, but it seemed strange to walk the distance to the shuttle with all the food in tow. “He has not been offered the hospitality of the 12

Astonish village, only the planet. He will wait until the morning to meet with the avatar, but we give him the offer of food.” Oh crap. Keeln was not going to be happy about the pampering she had received. “You will remain with us while you are here. Hassoi insists that you are to be given every courtesy.” Ceelie nodded, but she couldn’t help the frisson of fear that snaked up her spine. Getting into that shuttle with a disgruntled Ambassador was a ticket to being launched out the airlock. He would have to pay a penalty or find a reasonable excuse to ditch her, but she knew that she wouldn’t survive this trip if he was on it. With the women around her, she was cajoled onto a chair carved into the base of one of the trees and a canopy was erected to protect her from the direct light of the fading sun. Ambassador Keeln tried to come over and question her a few times, but the men and women of Hassoi barred him from her presence. She wanted to ask the mind of the planet what was going on, but he was no longer active in her mind. A deep voice asked, “Care for more water, lady?” She reached out and her hand collided with one that was far larger and stronger than any of the women in her gathering. 13

Viola Grace He had spoken in the language of the Hassoi, but his body was far more dense than that of the forest people. Unlike the others who wore only shirts and trousers, the male holding the carved cup was dressed in boots, snug black trousers with a sinfully faithful fit and a soft green shirt cuffed with leather. A hood covered his features and all she could see was the green glow of his eyes. Mute, she reached out to take the cup. He steadied her hand with his own and she felt a surge of energy running up her arm to pool in all of her pleasure centres. The flavour of the energy was familiar and she squeaked out, “Hassoi?” “Rimeer and Hassoi. We have wanted to meet you since Erocan first told us of you.” He inclined his head and she could sense the smile. “Erocan? Oh, the avatar on Feeni.” The water-born avatar had been a pleasure to work with and the planet had been very kind to her. “Indeed, he was very impressed with you. He was not impressed with the Ambassador’s behaviour when he thought no one was looking.” Rimeer took a casual seat at her feet and leaned against her thigh. Ceelie fought the urge to rest her hand on his head. His warmth was comforting as was the 14

Astonish sheer physical presence that he wore. “So, that is why you decided to separate me from him?” “We separated him from you, but yes. He does not deserve to have you as an assistant or in any other capacity.” “I think he is frustrated because the other capacities are forbidden to him.” Rimeer-Hassoi turned to her and she saw a high cheekbone and chiselled lips in the last of the sunset. “That would probably explain it. Males despise being denied what they want.” “It has never been an option for him. Why would he bother wanting what he cannot have?” Rimeer-Hassoi smiled and stroked her ankle under her gown. The sensation was astonishing. Her blood started to pound in her veins and her body was awash in pleasure. She bit her lip and stifled a moan. “How are you doing that?” He smiled and the glow in his eyes became intense. Drink your water, Ceelie.

15

Viola Grace

Chapter Three

“I

t is in the water?” Her hiss got the attention of the Hassoi women nearby. They looked from her to the avatar and smiled with relieved expressions. Rimeer-Hassoi took the cup from her and sipped it. “It isn’t in the water. It is the water. The water is from the closest spring to the heart of Hassoi and it passes through every stream and glacier on this continent before coming to a tiny stream known only to the village elders and myself. The word for the water is Hassoi Bond.” She didn’t know what to do. “You bonded to me without telling me?” He laughed, a rich sound that rustled the leaves in the trees and twisted the wind through the clearing. **** The Hassoi folk in the clearing smiled as one. 16

Astonish Their planet was amused and that was a good sign. For years, he had sought a mate, a partner to call his own. The current Hassoi had evolved, but they were no longer compatible as companions for their world. It hurt that he had to seek a mate from another species, but seeing the light in his eyes as he looked at the lady, it was obvious that he had found a woman who could give him joy. If their avatar felt joy, the entire world would benefit. **** “It seemed the best course of action as I could not speak to you until we were bonded. Well, I could have spoken in Common, but it lacks a certain amount of charm when engaged in a courtship. The language of my people is so much more expressive.” She blinked down at him and realized that they had been conversing in the liquid words of the Hassoi. He handed her the cup he had just been sipping from, “Drink your water, Ceelie.” Absently, she took the water and sipped until she noticed that her obedience was causing the glow of his eyes to intensify. “Is my drinking water turning you on?” He blinked rapidly. “I believe it is. Rimeer is 17

Viola Grace pleased that you will follow orders. His people were considerably bigger than the Hassoi of today and he is worried about the fit. The water will help with that.” She felt her cheeks turn scarlet. “I don’t…I mean…The Alliance…” “Has already given me their blessing. You are a class zero and thus your genes are ideal for this kind of gradual manipulation. Your personality is stable and a complement to Rimeer’s and he finds you exceptionally attractive. Based on your physical reactions, you are not indifferent to him, so this is a very good match.” She had to blink. “I have already been handed over? Was anyone going to tell me?” “Not before we got you here. Keeln may have gotten violent if he discovered too soon that you were no longer at his disposal.” His casual pose of sitting at her feet was disarming. She reached her hand out and pushed the hood away from his face, staring into the features of the avatar who had mail-ordered a bride from across the stars. His forehead was wide, his nose almost feline, cheekbones high and lips full. The dark brows and black hair with gold threads running through it made her smile. His expression was set in lines that sent a tremor of anticipation through her. “You wanted to hide this?” 18

Astonish The voice was similar but different when he spoke. “My people find my appearance a little too wild for their tastes. When Hassoi and I joined, it was a different time and our people battled from coast to coast.” “You were a warrior?” “I was. I found the spring, drank and begged Hassoi to end the fighting. Too many of our folk died for nothing more than land that did not belong to them anyway. When Hassoi took me over, it gave them a focus and took away the false reasons for battle. Our fights took on ritualistic purpose and then faded all together.” She smiled. “Like football.” He gave her a puzzled look. “I can see the image in your head, but it doesn’t make sense.” “Ritualized combat.” “Ah. Well, once my folk were at peace, Hassoi and I made treaties with a number of races, travelled in our system and he realized that I needed more.” “A bride.” “Bride, mate, bond, companion, they all mean the same thing. I was lonely and I was alone. The hunt for a match began, culminating in you.” The tone Rimeer was using went from a deep baritone to an almost-husky growl. Ceelie bit her lip and widened her eyes as the small gesture seemed to electrify the male in front of her. 19

Viola Grace She held still, unable to back away as he moved up her body to meet her face to face. His scent was musky and wild with a hint of pine. The kiss he pressed to her lips loosed her lower lip from her teeth and he leisurely explored over and over. A shout came from across the clearing, but Ceelie threaded her hands in the cool silk of Rimeer’s hair and returned his kiss, arching her neck to press her mouth more firmly against his. He backed away and pressed her hands to the arms of the tree-chair. “Hold still. That is an order.” She quivered and held still. His mouth took hers again and she shuddered at the effort to keep from pulling him toward her. Her senses became focussed on the pools of energy spreading under her skin. Her clit throbbed, her nipples ached and her channel was clenching rhythmically, desperate to be filled. Normally, this behaviour would have shocked her, but with Rimeer leaning over her, their only point of contact were lips and tongue, she heard her breath leave on a low moan. Her senses were nearing the point of no return. A light touch on any part of her body would have sent her into an orgasm, but that is not what she got. After pulling her to the brink of a pleasure overload, he leaned back with a satisfied smile on the slick curve of his lips. “Oh yes. This will 20

Astonish work.” Ceelie wanted to shriek as frustration overloaded her senses. Her voice was a hiss. “It will work? I was so close!” He chuckled. “I am aware, but I thought it would be best not to take you in front of your new people. When you come, I want to be inside you, feeling every spasm, every shiver, every sigh.” Ceelie was still trying to breathe normally. She leaned forward and the necklace she had been given scraped across the bodice of the dress over her nipples. She held back her keen of desperation. Across the clearing, Ambassador Keeln was being held back by a Hassoi. “What is Keeln doing?” “He objected to my kissing you, so our people held him back. They also have informed me that he was attempting to strangle you after you arrived. That will have to be dealt with.” He crossed his arms and scowled at the Tival. Ceelie felt she needed to intervene. “He thought I was telling him what to do, so he put his hand on my throat. I explained and he let go.” “He let go because there were witnesses.” It was Hassoi speaking now. “Where did Rimeer go?” “I had to take over. He wanted to kill the Tival and that would not be a good start to your new life here.” 21

Viola Grace She felt that the planet would give her straight answers. “So, he was not kidding. I am stuck here?” He sighed and reached out to stroke her honey brown hair. “We have been given the honour of providing you with a mate and a home. You are too delicate for any other work in the stars.” “What will I do here?” “Learn our ways, help with negotiations when the time comes and share Rimeer’s life. You can explore the planet as much as you wish. I will always be with you to act as a guide. Nothing that you desire will be restricted to you. You merely have to ask and it will be provided.” She smiled. “I can’t think of anything right now.” He smiled in return. “If you do think of anything, tell me. I am within you now and you will never be alone.” Instead of fear, the idea brought her some peace. She had never liked being alone. It had always filled her with insecurity. Rimeer reappeared in his own body. “Hassoi has informed me that I may not kill the Tival.” She leaned back in her chair. “That will probably be for the best. He is annoying, but he is an ambassador and needs to be sent back where he came from in one piece.” A young woman of the Hassoi came toward her 22

Astonish with another cup of water. The woman bowed and blushed as Rimeer looked at her, but she handed the cup to Ceelie and retreated swiftly. “Your people seem a little afraid of you.” Ceelie sipped and idly took in Rimeer’s exceptionally impressive physique. “They became more peaceful and ceased breeding for the warrior traits of strength and stamina. I am slightly intimidating to my own race now.” There was no apology in his tone. He was merely stating a fact. He returned to sitting at her feet, one arm curled under her calves, his hand idly stroking her foot. The small touch should have been negligible, but her arousal flared back into full awareness the moment that he ran his thumb along the arch of her foot. It was amazing that such a light caress could have her shivering, but only the scent of fresh food broke her sensual haze. The long table at the side of the clearing was ready and two young women loaded platters and brought them to Rimeer and Ceelie. Without asking him, she slithered to the ground and leaned against the base of the tree as a support. With her platter in her lap, she started to explore the roasted pieces. She paused when she realized she had an audience. “Why is everyone staring?” 23

Viola Grace “As the honoured guest, you must eat first, or no one else can eat.” Rimeer took a piece of what seemed to be roasted mushroom and trailed it across her lips. Out of reflex, she parted her mouth slightly and he slipped the food inside, while his eyes took on a heat that was far beyond his earlier intensity. The flavours spread in her mouth and her body warmed with heat. Everyone else started talking at once, but she only had eyes for the male next to her. He fed her, piece by piece and when her mouth dried, he lifted the cup of water to her lips. By the end of the meal, her stomach was sated, but her body was on fire. She wanted him. She had been told she could have him and she wanted it much sooner rather than later.

24

Astonish

Chapter Four

I

n a further example of torture, Rimeer-Hassoi lifted her into his lap as he took her previous position in the tree-chair. Pressing her thigh against the thick rod of his arousal didn’t do wonders for her equilibrium, but the feel of his chest against her gave her the strangest feeling of being protected that she could recall. From the moment that she had left Earth, she had felt like a nudist in a porcupine colony. She had shut down her emotions and devoted her life to making the people around her happy. With her previous assignments, it had been easy. She had only needed to do a little procuring here and there and her employers had been delighted with her. Keeln was the exception and the fly in the ointment. The instant that she met him, he showed her contempt and as they grew to know each other, it shifted to lust. Both emotions scared the hell out of her. Rimeer scared her, too, but in a good way. 25

Viola Grace Nothing that he did would physically hurt her, but she would be emotionally pushed to her limits, she could tell. One night with him and she would never be the same. If Ceelie wanted to be honest with herself, she didn’t want to be the same. She wanted to be more, had always wanted more but had no idea how to go about it. Keeln was sitting on the ground with Hassoi surrounding him. Some of the Hassoi women and men danced, played music and generally provided a fine night of entertainment. Rimeer smiled and wrapped his arm around her hips. “I believe that we should seek out some privacy.” His words were whispered against her neck and she could only nod nervously. He surged to his feet and before she knew it, they had disappeared into the forest. The leaves and trees bent out of their way as Rimeer walked deeper into the unrelieved dark. Ceelie was glad that he knew where he was going, because she certainly had no clue. His hands cradled her protectively as they moved at a speed fast enough to whip her hair around them. She pressed her face into his chest and hung on as they streaked through the night. When he slowed, she looked up and noticed the phosphorescent glow that lit his skin. “Where are 26

Astonish we?” “The spring of Hassoi. He thought it fitting that we join together fully, here.” She blushed at the thought. “I see.” He chuckled and released her legs so that she was plastered against him with one burly arm. “No, you don’t, not yet, but you will.” The semi-threat made her tremble. He raised his hand and a bed of vines coiled and writhed next to the spring. Rimeer narrowed his eyes and made some final adjustments before a wave of moss covered the vines. He set her on her feet and with a few deft tugs, removed the dress from her to puddle around her ankles. A low groan broke from his throat. “Lovely. Even better than I imagined.” She folded her hands in front of her and leaned her head forward. It looked demure, but she was hiding her breasts in the fall of her hair and the joint of her thighs with her hands. “Do not hide yourself, Ceelie.” His tone was harsh. She immediately moved her hands to her sides. Rimeer lifted his hands and shifted the fall of her hair so that it fell down her back. “Climb onto the platform, Ceelie. Place your arms above your head and part your ankles.” She was mortified. “But—” “Do it, Ceelie.” His tone didn’t allow for 27

Viola Grace negotiation. Nervously, she climbed onto the springy and soft platform. His eyes glowed as she followed his orders and she lifted her arms above her head. When she parted her ankles, he groaned and she felt Hassoi’s energy spike in her. Vines snaked around her wrists and ankles, pulling her thighs further apart and arching her back. It wasn’t uncomfortable, but she had never felt so exposed and erotic before and it was having a riotous effect on her senses. Under her avid gaze, Rimeer removed his clothing swiftly before moving toward her. The glow of the moss under and around her lit his body in a fearsome outline and cast his cock in a harsh light. It seemed more weapon than masculine as he approached her and when he joined her on the platform, she quivered as it came closer. His kiss started on the inside of one ankle, trailing up to the joint of her thighs, parting her sex and licking inside. The suddenness of his mouth on her caused her to shriek, but when his tongue took up an undulating rhythm, she moaned. Her hips rose to meet his mouth over and over, but when she was on the edge of release, he withdrew. “Not until I am inside you.” 28

Astonish She shivered at his words whispered against her inner thigh. He began again at her other ankle and worked his way up once again, this time, bypassing her weeping sex and working his way across her torso. Her nipples felt the sharp edges of his teeth, the slope of her breast, the curve of his lips and the swipe of his tongue. She whimpered as his teeth tugged gently on her neck and sighed as he sucked her earlobe. Ceelie could feel his cock pressing against her opening, parting the lips of her sex and working into her inch by inch. Rimeer kissed her as he shifted his hips and plunged into her completely. She felt so full as he started to move that her breath came in pants, her lips pressed against his at each soft, whimpered sigh shared with her lover. He thrust into her in a hard beat, their bodies slapping together wetly as the spray from the spring coated them. Ceelie arched to meet him, the sliding friction of his flared head inside her warmed her and stroked each nerve ending that she had. Her cries took on a high, desperate pitch and finally, she froze, her body clutching at him and squeezing hard, stroking his cock from head to base. Rimeer groaned and his body shook against her. She felt the jet of heat inside and wished that 29

Viola Grace her arms were free to wrap around him. As soon as she expressed the wish, her arms were free and she ran her fingers through his hair, bringing his lips to hers in a frantic kiss. She wished for her legs to be free and the moment that the vines released her, she wrapped her thighs around his, holding him inside her. “I didn’t say you could move your arms, Ceelie.” His growl sounded against her throat. “You didn’t say I couldn’t. I wanted to hold you and the vines let me go.” She stroked her fingers slowly through his hair and he moved his hips, sliding inside her once again. He wrapped an arm around her waist and rocked back on his heels. She held onto his shoulders as he cupped her hips and lifted her, slowly lowering and raising her again and again. The forest glowed around them, blues joining the greens and spots of light flitting past in a lovely dance that complemented Rimeer’s movements inside her. She kissed at his neck, jaw and stroked his shoulders and arms as they moved together. The heat built up inside her until her fingers tingled, her feet curled and she was helpless to forward her pleasure. “Tell me what you want.” “Please.” Her voice was a whimper. “Tell me.” 30

Astonish She shook and tried to concentrate. “You. I want you, Rimeer. Hard, fast, anyway you want to take me, I want you.” He growled and bit her neck while he used one hand between them to stroke her clit. She screamed at the combination of pleasure and pain but gave herself up to blinding waves of sensation as her body began to change.

31

Viola Grace

Chapter Five

H

er temperature ran hot and cold for what seemed like days. She lay in Rimeer’s arms as her skin hardened and Hassoi made over her aspect. “What is happening to me?” Ceelie’s voice was weak. “Hassoi is changing you to match me, so that we can have a long and happy life together.” Rimeer stroked her hair away from her face and smiled down at her. Ceelie noted the concern in his eyes and reached up to caress his face. Her arm was the same pale shade it had always been, but the texture had changed. Her skin was stronger and had the shine of a new leaf. Her nails were a pale green, but that was the only concession to the change that she could see at first glance. “You have to meet with Ambassador Keeln today, or he will never leave.” She smiled as she stroked his hair. Her hand picked up textures that 32

Astonish she had missed before the change began. “We will engage in the negotiations together. Are you able to sit up?” Rimeer put his arm behind her. She struggled and got herself upright with his help. She was back on the mossy platform, but she was still naked. The biggest change that she could see was that her nipples had a slight green colouration. Rimeer did not want you to change. He loves the way you look now. Ceelie blinked. Why are you talking to me directly now? You are my newest avatar. Why should I not speak to you? But Rimeer is your avatar. I am a planet, Ceelie. I could make the entire population my avatar if I wished. Now, stop being silly and attend to your mate. “Ceelie? Your eyes changed shades.” He was giving her a worried frown. “Hassoi was speaking to me and calling me silly.” She smiled. Relief washed over him. “Let’s get you dressed and we can return to the clearing.” The gown he held up was far more elaborate than the one from the day before. It was green and studded with gemstones around the upper edge of the bodice and the wide band of the waist. “What are these?” 33

Viola Grace “Jewels of Hassoi. They are found in the deepest recesses of the planet and Hassoi has released them just for you. The only other folk here wearing them are the headman and woman of each village.” That surprised her. “How many villages are there?” “Ninety-four. We will have to visit them all to introduce you to your population.” He smiled as she stood and shimmied into the gown. The fastenings were some light lacing at the back that she managed with only a few short tugs. “Why are all the women here wearing trousers and I get a long gown?” Her curiosity on the matter was genuine. His grin was positively mischievous. He lifted her by the waist, pressed her up against a tree and lifted her skirt. The bark of the tree softened against her back and her eyes widened as he pressed her skirt up beyond her hips. With a slight shift of his hips, he was pressing against her and her body was creating copious amounts of honey to assist him. He slid into her and stared into her eyes the entire time. The hard thrusts brought her orgasm to her in short order and he pounded into her with jerking motions until he groaned and jetted inside her. When they had both resumed normal breathing, he slid out of her and pressed a long 34

Astonish kiss to her neck. “That is why you wear the gown.” She chuckled weakly and held onto him. “Good reasoning. I was just wondering.” He laughed and walked with her to the edge of the spring, bathing his seed from her thighs and her juices from his cock. Rimeer stood and clothed himself in the same garb as the evening before. Once again, he took her in his arms, but this time, she was able to watch as he sped them through the woods. It is a gift I give to my people. The woods part for those who have drunk from the spring of Hassoi. It is a good gift. Will I be able to do that? The planet actually laughed in her mind. You had best learn your way around before you try and run through the woods. Rimeer might not enjoy tracking you down, but then again, he might. Oh dear. Exactly. I am glad that you two are compatible. It is a wonderful thing to feel his heart so light and your hesitant anticipation. I am trying to be less hesitant. Give it time. You have all the time in my world now. I have no interest in getting an alternate avatar. You are mine until you and Rimeer decide that you wish to pass on together. Comforting thought. I meant it to be. You have given Rimeer something to live for and he will give you everything he can in 35

Viola Grace return. Ceelie sighed and smiled against her mate’s chest. He had given her something to look forward to and she could only hope that Keeln would soon be in her past. “What do you think you are doing, Ceelie?” Ambassador Keeln approached her and he was holding his fists tight against his sides. Ceelie knew that if Rimeer had not been at her side, one of those fists would have flown toward her already. “I am following the requests put to me by the avatar of Hassoi.” She didn’t cower in the face of his rage. “I can imagine what those requests were.” Rimeer stiffened. “You shall not imagine her in any way, shape or form. She is not yours to question.” The Ambassador flinched and when Ceelie looked, Rimeer’s eyes were glowing hot. Hassoi was not impressed. “Ambassador Keeln, you are invited to leave immediately. Should you choose not to leave, you will be left to wander the towns and villages of Hassoi, none giving you shelter.” Hassoi was firm. “What about the trees I came for?” “Your forfeited the trees when you laid hands on our avatar.” 36

Astonish Keeln was in shock. “What? I never even got near him.” “Not Rimeer. Ceelie. She was destined to be ours and you laid hands on her. Those actions are unforgivable and you will leave now or watch your ship destroyed.” Ambassador Keeln stuttered and held out a hand to Ceelie. “You won’t let him do this, will you?” Ceelie smiled and had a peculiar sensation. Hassoi was taking over. “You will not speak to her. I am in charge of this world and all those upon it. You may send an alternate delegate to negotiate, but you, Ambassador Keeln, are no longer welcome here.” He looked as if he wanted to argue, but at the last moment, he stood straight, jerked his head in a perfunctory nod and stalked to his shuttle. The folk of Hassoi watched the man leave, his shuttle lifting off with a distinct wobble that eventually straightened out. Ceelie felt a lightening of her soul as the dark cloud that was Keeln disappeared into the atmosphere. “I can’t believe that he simply went away.” Ceelie voiced her thought. “Hassoi did not give him a choice. Now, we have a luncheon date in the village. Your people want to meet you.” She smiled up at him and stroked her hand 37

Viola Grace through his hair. “This is a start then.” He grinned and swept her into his arms once again. “It is a start.”

38

Astonish

Chapter Six

“T

o our new avatar and the joy she will bring to Hassoi and Rimeer.” Warcoth stood and raised his glass. Ceelie was still drinking the water of Hassoi, but everyone else had a cup of wine. When everyone had drunk, she smiled and inclined her head. “Thank you. It is an honour to be welcomed in such an open and friendly manner. I hope to fulfill your wish for your planet and avatar.” Smiling, Rimeer lifted his cup to his lips, but his other hand was slowly dragging her skirt up her thighs under the table. She tried to keep up a conversation with Gilla, but it became distracting when either Hassoi or Rimeer began pouring power against the lips of her sex. Ceelie could feel the energy of the planet climbing in her skin and with a twitching shudder, she gasped and came, scattering the power 39

Viola Grace throughout those assembled. Rimeer pressed his lips to her neck and whispered, “Bravo. Well done.” She followed her instincts and punched him in the arm. “You could have warned me that you were going to engage in something publicly.” He slowly sucked the fingers that had just been inside her. “Where would the fun be in that? We have just blessed every adult in the vicinity with the power of Hassoi.” She sighed and leaned against him. “Is that what that was? I thought you were just copping a feel under the table.” He laughed. Across the village, a fruit tree bloomed at the sound. “There was a little bit of that as well.” She smiled and watched as couples held hands and slowly disappeared throughout the village. “They are all sneaking away for sex?” “Many of them.” “What else do you do as avatar?” She bit her lip. “Meditate, go for walks. Discuss crop rotations. Visit the villages once a year, that sort of thing. Why?” “I am sort of used to filling my days. Keeping busy.” “Give yourself time to relax before you put pressure on yourself. You are still changing, so 40

Astonish allow yourself time to complete your adaptation.” She flexed her hands on the table and noted her pale green nails. “What other alterations can I expect?” “They will all be very minor. I like the way that you look very much. I don’t wish for any changes to your body.” There was an intensity to his tone that sent shivers down her spine. “I thank you for your consideration. I have heard of other avatars being completely rewritten by their planets or stars.” She bit her lip. “It isn’t necessary for Hassoi. There are no environmental factors that your body will encounter that need special alterations. You are ideal just the way you are.” She blushed. “I am hardly ideal. Even as a Volunteer, I barely made the grade. My talent is to simply give people the impression that something is more impressive than it is. Nothing astonishing. Back home, I worked in advertising. I wasn’t good at it, but I could always sell the pitch even if the product couldn’t deliver.” “It sounds unsatisfying.” She snorted. “Oh, it was. I was only too happy to apply to leave my world, but I had no idea that I would be trading one dead-end job for another.” He chuckled. “Well, this particular job won’t end any time soon. In fact, it has some challenges that I would like to introduce you to at your 41

Viola Grace earliest convenience.” Ceelie opened her mouth to speak, but he was already moving, lifting her and draping her over one shoulder. She squealed and kicked, but he merely slapped one hand on her ass and held her in place. A few of the Hassoi saw them leaving, but they merely waved happily on their way to their own assignation. Rimeer carried her into the forest and as he flipped her to the moss, a hedge of brambles sprang up around them. She watched the intensity of his expression as he slid her skirt up and tugged the top of her dress down. Ceelie quickly asked the question that had been buzzing in the back of her mind. “Can I contact the Alliance and verify the update in my status?” He chuckled. “Ceelie, at this moment, there is no blood in my brain. Ask me later.” His dazed expression as he stared at her left her in no doubt that it was partially true. With light around them she could watch the nuances on his features. His face went from dazed to intense as he took in the swell of her breasts with their hard peaks aching for his touch. Her body was reacting violently to being stared at. Her sex swelled and the hot honey seeping from her made her blush furiously. Rimeer knelt 42

Astonish between her thighs and stroked his fingers through the honey before bringing them to his mouth. She was wordless, but a thought came to her mind. Love sap. That was the Hassoi word for the slick seepage from her channel. Her sap was certainly flowing and when he leaned forward to cover the hole with his mouth, it flowed to greet every stroke of his tongue. He rubbed at her clit gently with his fingers as he delved into her with his tongue, lapping deeper than she imagined he could go. Her channel was caressed, scraped and her g-spot teased until she arched against him, groaning as her body shuddered. He drank from her until she drooped back on the mossy forest floor. Once she was limp and sated, he moved up and laved at her breasts, cupping them with his hands and licking, biting and sucking at her nipples in turn. She slowly started to twist against him again, her hips seeking more than the teasing touches that were driving her mad. “More, please.” Ceelie’s fingers were holding his head to her, but she draped one leg around him to pull him into her. He resisted and she whimpered. “Rimeer, please.”

43

Viola Grace His voice against her skin was almost enough to push her over. “Tell me exactly what you want.” “I want you inside me.” “You want me to fuck you.” “I want you to fuck me. I want you to press your cock into me and slide so deep you are buried to the hilt and then I want you to pound into me hard and fast until you come. I feel so empty, please.” He lifted his head and his eyes glowed brightly. He opened his trousers and as his cock sprang free she groaned and arched against him. “Please, Rimeer. Please.” Her body was hungry, desperate and empty. Ceelie didn’t know if it was the planet in her mind or the effect of Rimeer on her senses, but she had never been this frenzied to feel a man inside her before. As he fitted himself to her he threaded a hand in her hair. “Look at us, Ceelie. Watch me become part of you.” She watched the dark green of his skin as her pink lips parted and yielded to his pressure. She closed her eyes and he stopped. “I am only going to give you what you want as long as you are watching, Ceelie. Watch us.” He was holding her head comfortably and as he thrust into her with slow deliberation the ground 44

Astonish rose up and arched her back so that she could watch every second of their joining. The duality of feeling and seeing him enter her at the same time made her head spin, but it paled in comparison to the feeling of Hassoi joining them. While Rimeer slid and rocked into her body, Hassoi thrust and pulsed in her mind. The sun climbed high in the sky as they pumped and twisted inside her and she watched every second of it. Her pleasure rose, peaked and rose again. Their strange triad blended, mixed and she didn’t know where she ended and Hassoi began. Memories that weren’t hers filled her mind. She saw the people of Hassoi at war, dead and dying on battle fields, felt the frustration and the desperation to heal the people and bring an end to the fighting that had become less of a purpose and more of a reflex. She saw a young Rimeer reflected in the spring of Hassoi, his image shattered and returned to him in a thousand pieces as he drank the water and begged for wisdom. Hassoi had offered the solution and Rimeer had accepted him into his mind and body. Rimeer stood as the new avatar on the eve of battle in the centre of the field where men were destined to die. He remained there all night with 45

Viola Grace the bond between the man and the planet growing stronger. When the opposing sides tried to rush each other at dawn, a hedge of thorns separated them. As the armies started to retreat, a hedge blocked them. With the two armies cordoned off, RimeerHassoi spoke to each leader, giving them the water from the Spring of Hassoi. The planet needed to make the connection to its people and so it did. Over the course of ten years, Rimeer visited every battle, every village and every outpost, bringing the water of Hassoi and putting the planet back in touch with his people. She saw centuries of shepherding the people of Hassoi. Endless sexual encounters with willing women also traipsed across her thoughts. The sex had ceased when fear began to appear in the eyes of his lovers. He could deal with anticipation, intimidation, but outright fear killed his lust and left him feeling like a freak amongst his own kind. The rest of the memories were waiting and loneliness until the images of Ceelie started. It had been a mention by another world and the moment that he had seen her, she had been the only woman in his thoughts. All of his past encounters blurred and became faceless leaving only Ceelie as his focus. She snapped back into her own skin as another wave of pleasure broke over her and Rimeer 46

Astonish flashed his bright fangs and snapped at the air. Hassoi filled in the significance and she quickly got over her initial fear. “Bite me, Rimeer.” His eyes widened as if he hadn’t heard her correctly. “Bite me, please. Sink your teeth into me while you grind your cock into me.” Her fevered whispers came out of the words Hassoi gave her in her thoughts. Her skin was bright pink with her blush but she knew it was what he needed and Hassoi assured her that she would heal. She reached up and ran her thumb over his lips and the point of his teeth. “Bite. Me. Rimeer.” Her hands tugged his head toward her shoulder and when he lunged she inhaled sharply. It was too late to panic, his teeth set in her shoulder and she felt a surge of pain a moment before Hassoi filled in the spaces with pleasure. Rimeer’s teeth pumped something into her and he came, his cock pulsing within her while his mouth provided her with a peculiar feeling. Ceelie giggled. Whatever was in his teeth was making her feel a little drunk. He relaxed his jaws and lapped at the wounds he had made. “You will wear these marks for our lifetime.” His words confirmed what she imagined had happened when Hassoi told her it was what 47

Viola Grace Rimeer needed. He needed to bite her and with the peculiar euphoria running through her she had no objection to the biting again. Rimeer nuzzled at her neck and she could feel his smile as he worked his lips against her skin. “I had no idea that having a bonded mate would be so…satisfying.” “I think Hassoi built that in just to keep your people happy.” She stretched under him against the support that Hassoi had provided. “It certainly worked on me.” She giggled again and stroked his hair. “You don’t mind the bite?” there was a flicker of insecurity in his eyes. She laughed and wrapped her arms around his neck. “I don’t know. We will have to try it again just to make sure.”

48

Astonish

Chapter Seven

D

inner at the village was sparsely populated. Ceelie smiled sheepishly at the exhausted couples that did manage to attend. Warcoth and Gilla were sitting side by side, occasionally holding hands as they passed food to the avatars that were, themselves, a little tired. The curious gazes that focussed on Ceelie’s bite were intense and constant. She finally had to ask Rimeer, “I am guessing that the biting is no longer a common thing.” He wove his fingers through hers. His hair gleamed from their bath. “It is not. Drinking of the water brought them closer to the planet, so a bond is formed on a sub-network of senses now. They do not need the more aggressive bond that my people formed.” “You bonded by blood.” “It proved compatibility. The women bit the men, the men the women and if either suffered from any side effects beyond the euphoria, the 49

Viola Grace match was negated.” She leaned forward. “You would enjoy being bitten yourself?” He sighed. “You are not equipped to engage in that sort of bite.” Ceelie twisted her lips and contacted Hassoi. Would he truly want me to be able to bite him? Yes. He yearns to feel your teeth in his flesh as you tighten around him. Can you start the change? It has already begun. Ceelie smiled. “I might be. You haven’t seen all the changes that Hassoi has engaged in. He simply didn’t get your entire list.” “I told him not to change your appearance.” “He took that to mean teeth as well. He is working on it as we speak.” She could feel the tingle of power that accompanied Hassoi’s changes. It was an odd feeling to have fangs taking the place of the first three teeth next to her incisors on either side. These teeth were meant for serious slicing. There was no doubt about it. “You will have to bear with me as the teeth come in.” She ran a finger along the edge of her teeth. When she tasted blood, she pulled her finger out. “You seriously asked Hassoi for bonding teeth?” Rimeer’s features took on a cast that she was becoming intimately familiar with. He was 50

Astonish turned on. “I did. Since we are bonded mates, I may as well go all the way, so to speak.” He pulled her onto his lap and settled her against him. “Hassoi is healing you, but you have had enough going all the way for the day. Relax and rest. We will be travelling quite a bit over the next few days, so you will need to rest when you can.” “Why will we travel?” “Your people need to see you. Hassoi has spread the word that he has tapped a second avatar and that she is not of this world. They will need to see you to understand.” Biting her lip, she looked up at him. “Am I that hard to fathom?” Rimeer hugged her tightly. “It is a pursuit that I will give myself to for the next thousand years or so. After that, I may ask for a hint.” She sighed and leaned against him, Hassoi hard at work healing and reshaping parts of her body. She dreamed of Earth until Rimeer woke her again. The air was crisp and cold. She shivered, but it was a reflex that was unnecessary. Her body registered the cold but did not feel it. “Where are we?” Rimeer set her on her feet and walked with one arm around her waist. “We are at the top of the 51

Viola Grace world. The northernmost of Hassoi’s people reside here.” They waded through snow and paced across icy stones. A light came close to them and one of the Hassoi came out to greet them. “Welcome, Avatars. Rimeer, it is good to see you again.” The smaller male smiled at her bond mate before he bowed to her. “Welcome, lady. Hassoi’s choice was well made. You are carved of the ice and as beautiful as the stone.” It is a compliment. They live in the ice and are comparing you to the most lovely of their crystals. Thanks for the heads up. Hassoi’s amusement spilled through her and Rimeer chortled. “She is indeed, with the steam of the deepest hot spring.” The headman raised his brow and gestured for them to follow. They walked through the snow and entered a cavern that was lit from within. The walls were made of rainbow crystals that shared light from one to the other. “The entire village is underground?” Ceelie tried to keep her voice low. “It is. They grow their crops, raise their children, live, love and all under the surface of Hassoi.” Rimeer kept his arm around her as they entered the bright light of the underground village. 52

Astonish The headman waved his arms. “I offer you the hospitality of our home.” Rimeer nodded. “And we accept it gratefully.” His voice carried in the sudden silence and a cheer broke out. Rimeer lifted Ceelie’s hand and pressed a kiss to it. “My bond mate, Ceelie Orlie. Chosen of Hassoi and my beloved.” She smiled at the faces that had more grey than green. “I thank you for your hospitality. It is appreciated.” Another cheer sounded and they were being shepherded to the head table where a meal was waiting. “Is this standard?” Ceelie whispered to him as course after course of food was offered. “It is when we are on a wedding journey.” He offered her a piece from his plate and she nibbled delicately at it. “What is a wedding journey?” “Each newly wedded couple needs to visit and pay homage to their ancestors when they are first wed. They visit the homes of their last three generations and then they can return to the village of their choice to build a home of their own. Most couples meet at cross-village festivities, so there are usually a minimum of two villages involved.” “I did wonder how cross-breeding was accomplished.” 53

Viola Grace “It used to be managed by war. We would take the unwed females of the defeated village.” He tore apart a loaf of bread with his long, strong fingers. “How old were you when you became the avatar?” She sipped at the water she was given. “I was in my third decade, still too young to see what I saw. I knew that there had to be a better way to live, a way that would still the battle between my people. I went and asked Hassoi for an option and this is where I ended up. I do not regret it, but it has not been easy for me at times, as your life has not been for you.” She swallowed. “You saw my past?” “I did. It was most enlightening. You have spent your life trying to do your best and being thwarted at every turn. You will not be blocked from you path here. You will be honoured for your efforts.” Ceelie couldn’t imagine a lifetime where she was given respect, but she would trust that she might understand it in time. “Why do the folk travel? Why not simply stay in one place?” Rimeer grinned. “Sex.” “What?” “When our kind have sex, we create a wave of emotion that spreads like a stone dropped into water. The cascade is felt and it stirs other couples 54

Astonish into mating. A newlywed couple is always welcome in any village for this one side effect.” Her blush filled her cheeks and snaked down her chest. “Have I mentioned how much I like your change in colouring when you are flustered or aroused?” Rimeer drew his fingers across her skin just under her collarbone. “No. You haven’t mentioned it. So, as a bonded couple, we are expected to have sex in every village we visit?” His waggling eyebrows were answer enough. She stood up, dropped into his lap and wrapped her arms around his neck. “What are you waiting for?” His laughter spilled over her and he got to his feet, carrying her to a guesthouse. As they moved together, they felt the power mount until it spilled into the air around them, blessing the village and its people with a joyful lust that cascaded outward in an ever-widening circle. Ceelie cuddled up next to Rimeer and had to admit, it was beyond her to sneer at another race’s tradition, especially when the results were so…satisfying.

55

Viola Grace

Chapter Eight

T

hey managed to visit three or more villages per day. By the time they finished their circuit, Ceelie was exhausted. “I just want to sleep one night in your arms without trying to screw our way to a village’s prosperity.” She yawned and smiled at her mate. They were moving rapidly through the forest again. Her speed walking had kicked in during the middle of week two. He was looking a little ragged around the edges. “I agree. I want nothing more than to curl around you and simply feel you breathing softly against my chest.” Warcoth greeted them at their return. “Congratulations on your triumphant tour, Avatars. We have been blessed several times over as the waves of your celebration washed over us.” Ceelie groaned. “The blessing was our pleasure, Warcoth.” It was true. There had been an endless wave of 56

Astonish pleasure, pebbles in a pond and they had run across their own effect several times during their travels. Rimeer stood behind her and loosely draped his arms around her waist. “Is there any news we need to know, Warcoth?” “There is a tangle of briars growing in the forest, but Hassoi has assured us it is nothing dangerous.” Ceelie looked up at Rimeer, “What are you and Hassoi up to?” He chuckled. “It’s a surprise.” Warcoth smiled at her. “Lady, the villages have been sending clothing for you. Apparently, Rimeer has been hard on your attire.” Ceelie grinned. The green gown that she had started with had died at the nineteenth village at the abrading surface against a rock wall. The replacement that the village had offered lasted until they spent a night next to the hot springs. She had come up with a compromise for the frantic seamstresses who only had hours to create something for the avatar. She was currently wearing two wide swaths of fabric. The first was folded carefully and wrapped around her breasts, the necklace that Hassoi provided her with was knotted in the centre as support. Around her hips, she knotted another panel of fabric that allowed Rimeer access while giving her a socially 57

Viola Grace acceptable appearance. To Ceelie’s eyes, her clothing reminded her of old sword and sorcery movies. All she needed was a few pounds of jewellery and she was ready to play the role of barbarian queen. Rimeer was more than happy with her clothing. The wrap around her waist did not fight his hands and with a few short tugs, she would be naked. With even less effort, he could flip the skirt out of the way and thrust into her. It was a win-win scenario. “Can I see the surprise?” He paused and consulted Hassoi. “Yes, you can.” Without a goodbye, he took her hand and they walked rapidly from the village toward the wall of briars. They stopped and she recognized the area. “This is the mouth of the spring. It is hidden behind the tangle.” The wall of briars was huge. It was over thirty feet tall and over a hundred feet wide. “What is in there? Sleeping beauty?” He laughed. “Now that we are here, it will retract.” His words were the trigger that the vines seemed to need. As they watched, the briars crumbled into dust and exposed what they were hiding. 58

Astonish “Holy heck.” Ceelie’s mouth opened in shock. It was her house. The house in her mind that she had clung to while her world had rocked around her. It was made of wood, stone and living trees, but it was her house. “How did…it’s my…” she took step after step forward. Rimeer let her enter on her own. Ceelie wandered into the house and explored it with her enhanced speed. The rooms were as she pictured them. The furnishings were perfect and in the centre, where she had placed a fireplace in her mind, was the spring of Hassoi. She turned and looked at her bonded mate. “It is all here. Everything I ever dreamed of, it’s all in here. Why?” Rimeer smiled. “You give me everything that I need, why should I not give you what you want?” She rushed into his arms and held him, feeling Hassoi join their embrace. It was a genuine emotion, not a protocol, not an attempt to be politically correct for an audience. She wanted nothing more than to hold him all through the night and at this moment she realized that it was possible. She sighed and rubbed against him. “Can we go to bed?” He laughed and Hassoi smiled through his eyes. “Did you have me build a bed?” 59

Viola Grace “Three that I counted. One should be big enough for Rimeer, so can we just have a nice rest without engaging in the sacrifice of pleasure?” Hassoi grinned and stroked her cheek. “You have more than earned it, but on the morrow, I will need my avatars again.” Rimeer replaced Hassoi in his own body and sighed. “Which way to the bedroom?” She laughed and stepped out of his embrace, taking his hand and hauling him to the second level where the master bedroom held court. She untied her breast wrap and let it slither to the floor while she worked at the knot that held up her skirt. When she had first started traipsing around barefoot, she had expected her feet to pick up dirt. Hassoi didn’t let his avatar get dirty. Her skin repelled dirt and attracted nothing but her bond mate. It was a funny situation, but she only needed to shower or bathe after sex. Cum was the only thing that stuck to her newly slicked skin. Rimeer’s clothing didn’t fight her and his erection bucked lightly as she pressed a soft kiss and lick to it while she knelt to draw his trousers down. “The boots are all yours, Rimeer.” He snickered and sat on the edge of the bed, pulling his boots off, one by one. Ceelie turned back the covers and slid inside, holding the blankets up in invitation. 60

Astonish He didn’t make her wait. Rimeer slid in next to her and gathered her in his arms. They both sighed happily. “I have to tell you, in the last month, I never thought that this would happen, though I did dream of it.” Ceelie looked up at him in shock. “I thought that I was the only one dreaming of some quiet time with you. I mean I enjoyed everything we have done and everywhere we have done it, but this was what I needed.” He cuddled her tightly against him, stroking his hands up and down her spine. His erection was still between them, but he showed no inclination to use it and that was fine with her, though her body whined a little in disappointment. The afternoon light spilled over them as their breathing synched and they fell into a light sleep. As evening fell, Ceelie woke in Rimeer’s arms. She turned so that her back was against his chest and snuggled in tight. One of his hands cupped her breast and he nuzzled the joint between neck and shoulder. With his thigh, he lifted her upper leg and his cock slid against her wet folds. He rocked his hips slowly against her, working into her slowly and deliberately. The golden haze of pleasure rippled over her as they rocked lazily together. There was no frenzy, 61

Viola Grace no intensity, no urgency, only the pleasure of two bodies working together in harmony. They shifted position and she rode him until his face took on an expression she knew very well. Laughter welled as he lifted her, flipped her and brought her to her hands and knees. He thrust back into her, pounding hard and fast until she bucked back and screamed as light surrounded her in a bright, burning wave. He shouted and slammed against her, grinding his hips to her buttocks as his cock jetted wave after wave of cum into her. When their bodies stilled and their breathing returned to normal, they curled together, still joined and got a good night’s rest.

62

Astonish

Chapter Nine

T

he ships came as a bit of a surprise to Ceelie. She had gotten used to the low-tech that was the standard on Hassoi. Her com unit was in her home, just as she had designed it and since she knew that none of the folk had been in the house during construction, it did make her rather curious as to who had installed it. Three shuttles came down and landed in the clearing, each disgorging a representative of a different species or gender. Ceelie and Rimeer walked toward the newcomers together. Ceelie was surprised to see two Sector Guard uniforms with the third male. “Greetings, visitors.” The woman in the uniform stood near the male and the connection between them was almost visible. “I am Counsel, this is Contract and over there is Representative Tau of the Tival. We have come to help the process along.” 63

Viola Grace Rimeer kept an arm loosely around Ceelie’s waist. “Please, come with us to the negotiation area. Food has been prepared.” They waved their guests toward the tables and chairs that had been set up under the canopy. The Tival Representative kept staring at Ceelie and she looked at him with Hassoi in her eyes. “You are staring, Representative Tau.” He swallowed nervously. “I was told that you harboured ill will toward my people.” She laughed. “It was Keeln that I did not like. He considers his employees to be property. As a Terran, I am no one’s property.” Tau looked to Rimeer. “Would you agree with that statement, Avatar?” Rimeer chuckled. “Ceelie and I are bond mates. I am hers as she is mine. It is an equitable arrangement.” Counsel and Contract smiled at each other. Ceelie stifled a laugh. She knew all about the partners of the Sector Guard. Several Terrans were members of the Guard and a bonding was part of their partnerships. Counsel smiled at Ceelie, “May I walk with you? I would like a moment alone.” Ceelie pressed a kiss to Rimeer’s cheek. “You boys play nice.” She gestured to Counsel and she started to walk along the edge of the woods. 64

Astonish Counsel smiled at her, her Wyoran features quite pleasantly attractive. “I have been sent to make sure that you are adapting well to being an planetary avatar.” Ceelie chuckled. “I am, though having time to adapt is the problem. We just returned from our wedding trip yesterday afternoon. This is the first day that we have not been engaged in Hassoi rituals.” Counsel tilted her head. “What did these rituals entail?” A slight blush didn’t deter Ceelie. “As avatars, we needed to celebrate our union with all of the population of Hassoi. This meant travelling from village to village and consummating our bond in order to spread the energy of Hassoi directly to his people.” “It sounds exhausting.” Laughter spilled from Ceelie. “You have no idea. Even Hassoi was grateful for the reprieve.” “You generate energy?” “Every time we couple. It is very rare that we can hold the energy between ourselves.” She shrugged and smiled as a tree held out a flower for her. Ceelie inhaled deeply and offered the bloom to Counsel for a sniff. Counsel inhaled deeply and smiled at the scent. “That is amazing. The forest just gave it to you?” “It wasn’t the forest. It was Hassoi. I am not 65

Viola Grace simply in a relationship with his avatar as I am sure you are aware.” Counsel sighed. “We are aware. When Hassoi asked for you to be given to him, his avatar was an afterthought. Of course, Rimeer needed a companion, but it was Hassoi who wanted you specifically. He planted the need for you in Rimeer.” Ceelie would have stumbled if she hadn’t already known. “I see. That is a little awkward, but we already settled it.” Counsel stopped in her tracks. “What?” “I figured it out when I went through Rimeer’s memories. There was a glow about my images that was unnatural. I confronted Hassoi during our journeys and while it made for some tense days, we managed to sort everything out.” Counsel grinned. “You are doing my work for me.” “I try to make things easier for those around me.” “That is a very passive thing to do. Does it give you much trouble?” Counsel had gotten to the heart of it. Images flashed in her thoughts, the way her body responded to Rimeer when he gave her orders, when his demands put her in positions she would never have chosen. Embarrassment paled in comparison with the satisfaction she felt at his 66

Astonish pleasure. Pleasing him pleased her and while it wasn’t the most comfortable thing to admit, it was part of her. “No, it doesn’t give me much trouble. I manage to muddle along.” They were a solid distance away from the men who were engaged in negotiations for some of the life-giving trees. “Have you come to grips with what you are?” “That I am destined to want him in whatever way he will have me? I have come to grips with it. We have struck a balance.” “Do you get to use your own voice?” The meaning was clear. “I take him into me, as me. He comes into me as Rimeer. Hassoi joins us once the fun and games have begun.” Counsel looked like she would like to crawl into a hole. “You understand why I am asking these questions.” “I do. I was not given much choice, but I do not regret it. Sometimes you know where you are supposed to be in the universe. It just clicks into place around you and your life starts to turn on its own axis at long last.” Counsel reached out and took her hand. “I know precisely what you mean.” The two women walked together and collected the flowers offered by the forest. 67

Viola Grace Ceelie was learning her place in the scheme of things and knowing herself was the first step. Once the contract had been signed for a dozen of the great trees, they all sat for a meal before Representative Tau left with a smile. They watched his shuttle fly off and Ceelie sat back with a sense of relief. “I thought that he would never go. Those Tival creep me out.” She ran her hands through her hair. Rimeer came up behind her and massaged her shoulders. “You did well, Ceelie. I am sure that he could barely sense the contempt.” The Guardsmen laughed. “I can’t help it, I just don’t like their whole species.” She groaned and leaned back into Rimeer’s ministrations. “I suppose that first impressions have wrecked them for me for life.” Rimeer chuckled. “I am sure you will get over it in a few centuries. Anyway, now that he is gone, we can get down to the serious discussion.” Ceelie looked up at him and then let her head droop as his hands loosened the knots in her shoulders. “What discussion?” Contract grinned and pulled a small device out of a pocket on his belt. “This year marks the local planetary avatar conference and it is being held on Hassoi.” 68

Astonish She blinked. “Why?” Rimeer smiled. “It is our turn. We will be hosting the event on the far side of the eastern continent. An island has been created for the purpose and Hassoi has been busy crafting a meeting centre. The Sector Guard will help us with supplies and transport for the guests.” “When does this event start?” “Forty-five days.” Ceelie sighed in relief and relaxed completely. “Good. I need a little break.” Counsel smiled and when Ceelie peeked at her from beneath lazy lashes, the woman had an expression of satisfied relief on her face. Whatever the Guardsman was looking for, it seemed that she had found it. Rimeer’s caresses worked down her arm and she lost the thread of conversation as he worked at her arms and back in turn. It seemed that massaging her was a form of doodling to him and she had no complaints. Ceelie tuned out the voices around her, but Hassoi whispered the information to her. She nodded absently when she was told that she would be the hostess for the event. Thirteen planets were going to send their avatars to Hassoi under heavy guard. Once they were on the surface, they were going to be her responsibility. The Sector Guard would provide her with 69

Viola Grace whatever she needed for the avatars, she only had to make the equivalent of a shopping list and provide it to them. The planets and species of the avatars were on a data chip and she would be making all decisions regarding their food and drink for an entire week. She sleepily looked up at Rimeer, “Did you bond with me just so you wouldn’t have to host this event?” He chuckled. “I won’t tell and Hassoi has promised to keep his thoughts to himself.” The Guardsmen laughed and Rimeer kept up his attentive massage until she couldn’t keep her thoughts straight, let alone hold a grudge. The Guardsmen adjourned to one of their shuttles when the sun began to fade. Based on Contract and Counsel’s posture, they were on their way to an intimate evening and Ceelie couldn’t blame them. Life was hard for those in the Sector Guard, they flitted from ship to planet to base and back again. It was an awkward life for those who were partnered. The fact that Counsel and Contract arrived in separate ships was proof that being a partner did not ensure that you would remain together. She asked Rimeer the question that was in her thoughts. “Will we ever be separated for duty?” He shook his head. “No. We share the power of 70

Astonish the world we walk. We travel together and appear together, two representatives of the same world, male and female. We complete each other.” They walked home and she made her way easily in the dark. The window openings glowed green in welcome as they approached. “It is funny how something that didn’t even exist a few weeks ago could already make me feel this way.” She smiled as she entered her home. It was her home, her territory. Rimeer was invited in because he was hers as well, but it would have been crass of her to mention it. He knows. He knows your heart, better than you do at times. You needed a place here that was yours, so we provided it, free and clear. Yours to do with as you wish. She smiled and Rimeer led her back to their bedroom. This time, he removed her clothing and then he completed the massage with an attention to all of the spots on her body that he had learned were vulnerable to his touch. When she opened to him, she was ready and he was willing. The rest followed throughout the night and into the early light of dawn.

71

Viola Grace

Chapter Ten

A

fter a frenzy of preparation, Ceelie thought that they were ready for their special visitors and with special foodstuffs being delivered, clothing and bedding coming from across the sectors, they had everything that they could need. If they didn’t have enough specific luxuries, the avatars would have to simply be displeased with the conference. The Sector Guard shuttles landed on the small island, one at a time. Each one dropped off a planetary avatar and each avatar knelt and greeted the land under their feet before rising to greet Ceelie and Rimeer. Kale-Gant arrived with his wife Carella, an exstellar avatar. There was Norich, Venkar, Leevo, Orkan, Lenak, Hechlin, Barud, Sheellee, Zarro, Dasgul and Carutta. They all arrived one by one and under escort from their respective planets. Ceelie welcomed them all and Rimeer escorted 72

Astonish them to the buffet area. She greeted them all personally and then Hassoi greeted their planets. When the final guest arrived, Ceelie was relieved. Though Hassoi had changed her skin so that she was not susceptible to the sun, she didn’t like being parted from Rimeer. Her attitude was a bit of a shock considering that she had never considered herself clingy before. Maksuan greeted the ground and then stood to greet her. “Thank you for your hospitality, Ceelie of Hassoi.” “I greet you warmly and welcome you unconditionally, Maksuan of Niiko.” She bowed and took his hands in hers. **** Hassoi took over. “Greetings, brother.” Niiko nodded Maksuan’s head. “Thank you, brother. It has been a very long time.” “It has. Not since we were spinning away from each other.” Niiko grinned. “How are you enjoying having two avatars? This one looks lovely and her soul shines from within.” Hassoi bowed. “She is generous with her spirit and has completed my prime. He has felt a joy in these last months that he had not felt since childhood.” 73

Viola Grace They turned and walked toward the gathering. Niiko cleared his throat, “I have been feeling an emptiness in my avatar and frankly, I had never given much thought to finding him a mate before this.” “You had best be sure that he wishes a mate. If you bring him one and he is not sure that he wishes to keep her, you may create a rift between you that cannot be breached.” “I would not wish to destroy the link with my avatar. Maksuan has been an excellent companion and very useful.” “As was Rimeer until his soul began to ache for something more. When I heard of creating a split avatar between a male and female, I was not sure that it would be a good idea, but once I met Ceelie, I knew that it was the perfect fit.” “How did you find her?” “I asked the Alliance and they agreed to look for a match for my requirements. If Maksuan agrees, it would be a good starting point.” “What did the female demand in return for her life?” “Nothing. Safety. She wanted safety and comfort and Rimeer was willing to provide both.” Hassoi shrugged. “Maksuan is a little scandalized by her attire.” “My climate is more temperate than yours, Niiko. She is wearing what makes her 74

Astonish comfortable.” Hassoi laughed. “And what makes Rimeer uncomfortable. She delights in driving him to the edge of self-control and beyond.” Hassoi ran Ceelie’s hands down her body, over the gemencrusted bodice and the belt of the skirt that held the fabric in place. Her midriff was exposed and the marks that the Alliance put on Terrans were proudly displayed. “It sounds like she upsets him.” “Only in ways that he truly desires. They communicate well and it might be pheromones, but they manage to find a happy medium. Rimeer is very happy and Ceelie is an ideal pairing for him.” “Then I will ask Maksuan if he will consider it. Now, he is very uncomfortable with the subject, so we will speak later.” Niiko bowed and gave control of his body back to his host. When Hassoi released her, Ceelie breathed easy. Rimeer approached her and slid his arm around her waist. “It is time to resume your duties as hostess.” She inclined her head to Maksuan and went to mingle with her other guests. It was going to be a very social week, so she brought her talent to the fore. It was a small thing to be able to have her efforts perceived as more impressive than they really were, but she enjoyed the idea that Hassoi 75

Viola Grace would be thought of in a positive light. The avatars were simply there for a good time, but after the snacking, it was time for the planets to have a boardroom-style discussion. Rimeer and Ceelie took turns being Hassoi. When Ceelie had a break, she walked outside and took a walk in the cooling air. “It is rather intense, isn’t it?” Carella was leaning against the railing of the balcony, looking out over the water. “What is?” “Being an avatar. I have flashes of memory but nothing concrete.” “You are Terran.” Carella smiled and turned toward her. “How did you guess? We look like a dozen other races.” “You used the word concrete. It isn’t a word that translates into Alliance Common.” “True. How long have you been an avatar?” “Just over two months.” “Did you get into it willingly?” Carella had an urgent tone in her voice. “I did. It was a little weird at first, but this is where I belong. Hassoi is caring and he has adjusted me the exact amount needed to match his first avatar. I still look like me and that counts for a lot.” Carella seemed surprised. She looked at her hands and blinked. “I suppose that is true.” 76

Astonish Ceelie remembered what Hassoi had told her. “You were taken as avatar by force. You didn’t have a choice.” Carella shook her head. “She pulled me through time and used my body, then locked me in a sphere for over four centuries. When I was released, Kale and Gant were there to help me through the adjustment. Our child is proof that our bond is true.” Ceelie smiled. “You have a child?” “We do. Kale and I required a lot of medical intervention, but we managed to bring our little one into the world.” “Boy or girl.” Carella laughed. “I hope so. Kale’s people choose their sex later in life based on the surrounding population. We are just waiting until Junior is old enough.” Ceelie grinned and they talked about Carella’s life in the Sector Guard and the peculiar feeling given to them by the celestial beings that nestled in their minds. Even though Carella resented the star who had lived in her body, she had acknowledged that it filled something in her soul that had previously been lacking. The conference wound to a halt for the night. Rimeer showed all of the avatars to their bedrooms and Ceelie waited in their bed until her 77

Viola Grace mate returned. She opened her arms to him and caressed all of the skin she could reach. He played with her breasts, but he was a little distracted, so she took matters into her own hands…or teeth. Ceelie reared back and bit his chest, eliciting a growl and a change in position. He shoved her to her back and held her arms above her head while his thighs parted hers. He thrust into her slowly, rocking forward in minute increments. When he was buried to the hilt and her body was stretched to capacity, he pulled back and then slid into her with a twist of his hips. “Biting is cheating, Ceelie.” “I didn’t know there were rules. Oh, that’s good. Harder, please, Rimeer.” She arched against him and wrapped her legs around his hips. “If you cheat, I might make you wait, Ceelie.” She laughed and leaned forward again, biting the other side of his chest. Her fangs pumped her essence and the power of Hassoi right into his bloodstream. Her laughter stopped the moment he growled and drove into her with a heavy beat. They rocked and pounded together, bodies grinding and slapping against each other in the darkness. When they came, the rush of power blended the two parts of Hassoi into one, sending a thunderclap of power across the island. 78

Astonish Ceelie and Rimeer stayed locked together. He rolled to his back and she draped herself across him, nuzzling at his neck. “See, if it starts in cheating, we can still both win.” “I conceded to your superior logic. Feel free to cheat anytime the spirit moves you.” He stroked her spine and she arched against him, rubbing her breasts against his chest. Ceelie was going to speak, but a wave of power washed over her and for the first time, it wasn’t Hassoi’s power. Her eyes widened and she looked at Rimeer, “What the hell was that?” He started laughing and his shaft moved inside her. “That was Kale-Gant and his mate, Carella. All avatars give off power when we come.” “Even when we are off our world?” “Yes. Now that Hassoi is within us, he goes where we go.” Rimeer wove his hand in her hair and tugged her head toward his. He laved her lower lip with his tongue and nibbled lightly. She pushed against him and rocked her hips. “I don’t know whether to be embarrassed or competitive.” He purred and lifted her with his hips. “I am going to cast my vote for competitive.” She laughed and sat up on him, riding him in the darkness, their energy glowing violently as they worked together to show that team Hassoi had more power to spend than any visitors. 79

Viola Grace It was one long night. The next morning at breakfast, Ceelie couldn’t stop yawning. Carella came up to her and smiled. “I call a truce. No more competitive fucking. Please. I haven’t felt this exhausted since I fell out of that sphere.” Ceelie laughed and poured some juice. “Fine. No more competition, but I have to ask, which one of you decided to go for broke? That last hour was so touch and go, it is amazing to me that anyone got any sleep at all.” “Kale got competitive and then Gant joined in. After that, I was just along for the ride. Who started it in your room?” Ceelie snickered. “That was my fault. I have been experimenting with biting and it sort of got out of control. The teeth were one of the adjustments that Hassoi made and I am still getting used to them.” “We are here for five more nights. Take it easy and confine it to once a night and we will do the same. Deal?” Carella extended her hand and Ceelie responded in kind. They broke into giggles that ended in a hug. “Deal, but no promises on afternoon nookie. Sometimes you just have to jump them, you 80

Astonish know?” “I accept your terms and the truce is struck. Now, let’s get some food. I am famished for some reason.” **** With laughter between them, they drew the attention of several avatars. Speculation began in a few gazes and the avatars began silent communication between them. A life of power was one thing. A life alone was another. If their planets could arrange for mates, perhaps centuries would pass a little faster. It was worth a try.

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About the Author Viola Grace was born in Manitoba, Canada where she still resides today. She really likes it there. She has no pets and can barely keep sea monkeys alive for a reasonable amount of time. Her line of day job tends to be analytical which leaves her mind hopping to weave stories. No co-worker is safe from her character analysis. In keeping with busy hands are happy hands, her hobbies have included cross-stitch, needlepoint, quilting, costuming, cake decorating, baking, cooking, metal work, beading, sculpting, painting, doll making, henna tattoos, chain mail, and a few others that have been forgotten. It is quite often that these hobbies make their way into her tales. Viola’s fetishes include boots and corsetry, and her greatest weakness is her uncontrollable blush. Her writing actively pursues the Happily Ever After that so rarely occurs in nature. It is an admirable thing and something that we should all strive for. To find one that we truly like, as well as love.