Return To Volter

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THE QUEST III: RETURN TO VOLTER An Ellora's Cave Publication, February 2004

Ellora’s Cave Publishing, Inc. PO Box 787 Hudson, OH 44236-0787

ISBN MS Reader (LIT) ISBN # 1-84360-764-6 Other available formats (no ISBNs are assigned): Adobe (PDF), Rocketbook (RB), Mobipocket (PRC) & HTML

THE QUEST III: RETURN TO VOLTER© 2004 MARILYN LEE

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. This book may not be reproduced in whole or in part without permission.

This book is a work of fiction and any resemblance to persons, living or dead, or places, events or locales is purely coincidental. They are productions of the authors’ imagination and used fictitiously.

Edited byMartha Punches . Cover art byMichelle Walker .

THE QUEST III: RETURN TO VOLTER Marilyn Lee

Prologue

You are sufficient, my cub? In the gathering dusk, Slayer lifted his head from his front paws and looked across the distance separating him from Meka, the carnivore who had borne him. This was their last night together and he wanted her to find pleasure in his company, but his heart felt heavy. With the rising of the sun, he, his sire Hunter, and his human mate, Jemi Hunter of Earth would set out for Tern Terra beyond the mountains that towered over the land. Once he left Volter, he would never see the slim, human female for whom he longed again. Ayanni. He had wanted her the moment he saw her at the river, not far from his pride’s home territory. He had seen her, mated with her, and lost her. All in the space of a short time. With the rising of the sun, she would be lost to him forever.

I am…not. Meka, a large, majestic and beautiful carnivore, rose to her feet and padded over to him. She lay next to him.Your wounds trouble you? The wounds he had received at the hands of his sire’s younger sibling gave little discomfort.No. My wounds are nearly healed. What troubles you, my cub? He told her of Ayanni, who had haunted his thoughts since he’d seen her. Even as he’d battled his father’ s younger sibling for the life and honor of his sire’s mate and his own life, he had thought of her. Thoughts of her had given him added courage and strength to battle on even as the wounds on his flanks had been ripped open by the teeth and claws of the carnivore born and bred in Tern Terra, ancestral home of the powerful, shape-shifting carnivores. She does not want me. She has accepted another male. Meka let out a low, angry roar.You are the future ruler of Tern Terra, land of the Great Carnivores. How could she choose another? Are you not brave and worthy of your sire? Did you not battle a much bigger, mature Tern Terrain for the sake of your sire mate’s honor? Did you not disdain to back down although gravely injured? Are you not the finest cub ever born in Volter? Who is this insignificant human who would choose another over you? She does not think so. She has forsaken me. She is not worthy of you! You will find a she-vore in Tern Terra worthy of you and one day return to Volter with your mate to show your cubs. When you return, there will be great joy and pride in all the carnivores of Volter, my cub. You will forget the insignificant human who dares think you unworthy. I do not wish to forget her. I ache for her, Meka. Then you should take her, my cub. No female may deny you. The suggestion repulsed him. He had considered finding Ayanni and trying to convince her to come with him. He had been so certain that she would meet him at the agreed upon time at the tree where they had met and mated within ten sun risings. But she had not met him. Although he longed to claim her as his, he had never thought to use force. He closed his eyes, allowing visions of her slender, dark body, with long, silky hair falling over her shoulders, her warm skin glistening with droplets of water, as she rose from her swim, to dance along his memory. She had surrendered her womanhood to him with a sweet passion, and innocence that branded her image in his heart and mind. How could he take her by force?I cannot. She has made her choice and I must learn to be sufficient without her. I would ask a great favor of you, Meka. Ask and I will grant anything within my power, my cub. Watch over her. There are many dangers in the Volterian forest and she is so beautiful and desirable. Let no one harm her. What does this human look like, my cub? How will I know her?

She has long, dark hair that falls over her shoulders and lovely dark skin. Her body is slender with small breasts, wide hips, and a curly mat of hair covers her mating channel. Meka was silent before replying.What does she look like with her human covering on, my cub? He explained as best he could. Where does she live? He told her how to get to the small hut where he had last seen Ayanni. Meka rose to her feet.Let us go there together, my cub, and retrieve her. We cannot. She has made her choice. Will you watch over her for me, Meka? I will tell the prides of her and when and if she roams into our territory, we will do our best to ensure no harm comes to her. With that he had to be content. Just before sun rising, he and Meka, accompanied by both her pride and that of her sibling, Berka, set out for the hut stop where his sire and his human mate awaited him. Shortly thereafter, he took his leave of Meka with a heavy chest and a great sadness. As he followed his sire with his mate on his back along the trail leading out of the Volterian forest and towards the mountains, he heard Meka’s wail of despair fill the air. My cub! Do not forget she who bore you and values you. I will not forget and I will return, Meka. I give you my oath,he promised. The knowledge that by leaving he was grieving her added a heavy weight to him. As a younger cub, he had dreamed of one day going to the land of Tern Terra with his sire, but he had not realized how sad this leaving of she who bore him and the human female he so desired would be. Although born on the plains of Volter, the blood and resolve of those born in Tern Terra, ran through him. It would take time, but he would learn to be sufficient without Ayanni. When he returned to Volter to see Meka and the prides, he would not seek her out. He would honor her memory and the choice she had made, as befitted the future sovereign of Tern Terra. And he would choose another mate…one who would not find him wanting as Ayanni so clearly had. He tossed his head and vowed to think of her no more. ***** “What is this you have done, Ayanni? What shame and poverty have you brought to the house of your father?” Ayanni stood with her head bowed. She had shamed her parents and the male to whom she had been promised. She should be full of remorse for all the frustrated hopes her mating with Slayer had visited upon her family. For that, she felt regret, but she found she could not regret the short, but magical time she had spent with Slayer. All her life she had heard tales of the great shape-shifting Carnivores of Tern Terra. Like most young Volterian females, she had dreamed of someday catching the attention of one of the great males. Hunter, the only known Tern Terrian in Volter, was bond mate to Jeroni Teyer, daughter of lord of the land, Donoun. Since one as insignificant as she was not likely to catch Hunter’s eye, she had long since realized

that her hopes of bettering her family’s situation rested with a normal Volterian male. At the end of the last warm season, as she and her mother had fished at the river for dinner, she had caught the attention of Wyman of Volter. Wyman, only offspring of Boone, from a village on the other side of the river, would receive many heads of livestock and a large hut when he took a mate. Of all the females in their small village bordering the carnivore’s watering hole, Wyman, tall and strong, had chosen her to be his mate and mistress of his large hut. Once she was mated to Wyman, his family would give her father livestock and many barter coins that would lighten her family’s load. Her mother would no longer have to spend long days fishing or working fields that yielded very little sustenance. Although Wyman had not stirred her emotions or her fantasies, she knew how fortunate she was to be placed in a position to raise her family’s prospects. When he had spoken of his intentions to mate with her, her father had joyfully accepted. Until she had encountered Slayer, she had considered herself blessed by The Gods of the Mountains. She knew she should not have allowed Slayer to mate with her. But having spent so many sunsets listening to the days of old when nearly every Volterian female could expect to be chosen as a mate of one of the great Carnivores, she had been incapable of refusing him. Although she had not really been asked, she had instinctively known that had she said no and meant it, he would not have mated with her. But she had not refused him and now her family would suffer the consequences of her selfish longing for physical pleasure. “What is done cannot be undone. It grieves me to tell you of your father’s decision, my daughter.” Ayanni’s heart raced with fear. “He will not forgive me?” Her mother’s eyes filled with tears. “He will not. I am to say you are no longer Ayanni, daughter of Disston. You must make your own way, my daughter.” Tears blurred her vision. “What will I do on my own? Where will I go?” “Disston has said I must not help you, but I will do what I can, my daughter. Together we will build a small hut for you.” “But Mother…you have no leisure to build even a small hut.” “I will make time. I will rise earlier.” Her heart ached. Her mother already toiled from long before sun rising to after sun setting. By following her selfish longings, she had increased her mother’s burden. “Father will not allow it.” Her mother lifted her head, her dark eyes glinting with defiance. “I will not see you with no shelter. We will speak no more of this.” So she was to be on her own with no male to protect her. But at least she would have shelter. Somehow, she would survive until Slayer returned for her. For surely he would return. “When am I to leave?” “He will allow you to remain only until the fruits of your deeds are evident for all to see…then you must leave…and never return.” She was to be cast out on her own. And still she could not regret having mated with Slayer.

Slayer. My lord. Where are you? Why do you not come to me when I need you? ***** A warm moist touch against her lips roused Ayanni. She opened her eyes. He stood over her. Somehow she lay in the forest with the moonlight overhead. The warm night air kissed her bare skin.Slayer.My lord. Her nipples hardened and a shiver skipped along her spine as she noted that his cock, long and thick, protruded from itssheath. He was so majestic with his sleek tan coat, glorious dark mane, and beautiful slanted green eyes. Her heart pounded and she found breathing difficult. She had waited for what seemed forever to have him come to her again. And now he was here. “My lord,” she whispered, tears filling her eyes. “I thought you would never come again. I thought you did not want me.” The green eyes she so adored shone with a tender light as he bent his head to gaze into her eyes.I will always want and value you, my Ayanni. You are my chosen mate. I will always come back to you. The grief and despair holding her in its grip melted away and she reached up to tangle her fingers in his glorious mane. “My lord.” Slayer,he told her softly, brushing his mouth against her lips. “Slayer,” she repeated. “My lord, Slayer. I am your servant here to please you.” No, not my servant. Never my servant. The female I chose as my mate, my Ayanni. The tears spilled from her eyes and down her cheeks. “Mate me with me, my lord.” His warm, rough tongue brushed against her breasts. She gasped and bit her bottom lip, her nipples tingling, her mating channel going damp. She ached all over for want of him. She parted her legs. “Please, my lord.” His head dipped and she closed her eyes. He touched the rough edge of his tongue to the little bud above her mating channel and she shivered. The breath was expelled from her lungs in a wild rush. “Oh, my lord, Slayer. Please.” He licked at her again, slowly dragging his tongue along the entire length of her pussy. Gods of the Mountains that was so wonderful. She bit her bottom lip and thrust her hips up against his mouth. “Please, my lord. Please. Please put it inside me. Take your servant, my lord. Mate with me. Take away the sadness in me.” You must not be sad, Ayanni. You are my choice. I will never value another as I do you. The rough edge of his tongue pushed against the folds of her pussy and then it happened. She felt his tongue penetrate and enter her. The world around her exploded. She trembled and gushed around his tongue. Pausing only briefly to lap at her juices as if they were the gifts from the Gods of the Mountains, he continued to jab deep in her. She moaned and lifted her legs to wrap around his flanks. He moved closer and deepened the penetration with his tongue, deliberately dragging the rough edge against her hot spots. She exploded again and again, until she felt as if she were drowning in an ecstasy of love, desire, and bliss for this big, majestic Carnivore she had fallen for the moment she saw him. “Oh, my lord, Slayer…I value you…I value you,” she moaned, slumping against the forest floor,

deliriously happy. And I you, my Ayanni.He gave a final jab of his tongue into her and slowly withdrew it from her. She felt his warm breath against her face and opened her eyes. He lowered his head and kissed her. She eagerly parted her lips and tasted herself on his tongue. He drew away from her and stood over her, panting. She looked up and saw his cock leaking moisture from its tip. She knew what he needed—what she wanted to give him. She parted her legs and tilted her hips. “My lord. Mate with me,” she pleaded. She felt the excitement emanating from him. He went down on his hunches and inched forward until the big head of his cock pressed against her. A shock of need dashed through her. She reached down, gently cupped her hands around his thick length, and moaned with pleasure as she slowly fed it into her starving channel. He growled softly as he inched forward, pushing more cock into her. She closed her eyes, gasping through her parted lips. She had never thought to feel this combination of desire and love again. His big, warm balls came to rest against her bottom. He remained still, giving her time to adjust to his length and hardness again. She made a small, moaning sound to signal her readiness to be mated. He withdrew from her and pushed slowly back inside her, rubbing his cock along all her sensitive inner spots. She wrapped her arms around him and thrust her body up against his, kissing his underbelly and raking her fingers along his flanks. It had been so long since their first and only afternoon together. They were both eager and hungry for the physical closeness she longed for-as well as the sexual pleasure the act of mating brought them. She moaned, he growled deep in his chest cavity. She tried to part her legs further and he dived eagerly forward, thrusting his thick, twelve-inch cock deep into her pussy. They clung to each other and fought for that wonderful, all-encompassing satisfaction that they could only achieve with each other. She came and splintered into so many happy little pieces that even the Gods of the Mountains would have a difficult time putting her back together. And when she felt him coming in her, she came again. Battling her way through the pleasure, she clung tightly to him with her face pressed against his belly, as he purred in pleasure and filled her body with the last of his seed. As he pulled out of her, the dream slipped away and Ayanni came awake with a start. Lying still on her palette on the floor, she knew without opening her eyes that she was in the hut stop without him. He was not there with her. She was alone. So alone. It had been a beautiful, useless dream. Chapter One

As they made their way along the winding mountain path, Jemi felt the muscles in Hunter’s flanks tighten against her legs. He had been tense since they had left Volter. As they neared the end of their journey to Tern Terra, his body felt like one gigantic coiled muscle. Moving in a single column, several hundreds of yards ahead of them were Dioni, her personal bodyguard, and the four Carnivores who had come to Volter to ensure Hunter’s safe return home. Hunter’s only surviving cub, Slayer, trailed forlornly behind them. What should have been a happy time for them all was filled with stress and anxiety instead.

She leaned forward and brushed her lips against Hunter’s mane.Hunter? Are you all right? I am…sufficient. But she knew he wasn’t. She could feel his turmoil through the psychic bond they shared. No, you’re not. Please let me share your burden. It is mine to bear alone. I must face she who bore me and tell her that Stalker has been dispatched. It wasn’t your fault,she protested.His younger sibling, Stalker, had come to Volter on a covert mission to ensure Hunter did not return to Tern Terra to claim his rightful place as elder offspring of Seeker and future ruler of Tern Terra. When confronted by Slayer, Stalker had gravely injured Slayer twice before being killed by Slayer’s mother and several of the carnivores from her pride. His death had been horrific, but no more so than the one he had intended for Jemi, Slayer, and Dioni. It wasn’t your fault,she told Hunter. I should have given him a quick, painless death. I should not have taken the cowardly way out and allowed Meka and the others to tear him to pieces as they did. As far as Jemi was concerned, Stalker had received exactly what he deserved, but she was careful to shield that thought from the distressed Hunter. You had no idea what they intended. What will I say to she who bore me when she asks if I at least ensured his death was quick? How will I be able to face her and tell her the truth? It wasn’t your fault! I defy anyone to say it was! she said fiercely. You won’t have to face her. I’ll face her and everyone else in Tern Terra and tell them the truth. I won’t have you made to feel bad for something you had no control over. No. It is my duty to face her. She linked her arms around his neck and kissed his mane.We’ll face her together. As you wish, my Jemi. She nodded. Yes. She was his Jemi and she defied anyone to fuck with her male. They lapsed into silence and she allowed her thoughts to drift back to how she, a modern day, civilized woman had come to be so passionately involved in a relationship that would have been impossible on Earth. With the death of her husband, Cody, her world had been torn apart. Just before he lapsed into a coma, he had promised her that he would find a way for them to be together again. Five years after his death, she had received a letter from him telling her to go to an abandoned mining town so that they could be together again. From there she had been transported to the world of Volter, where she’d learned that Cody shared the body of a shape-shifting Carnivore, called Hunter. She had been dismayed to find herself sharing the body of Jeroni, the only child of the ruler of Volter.

She and Hunter had quickly fallen in love and become lovers. After attempts from his now deceased brother Stalker, and the recently killed seer, Tioni, to prevent Hunter from returning home, they were now on their way to Tern Terra. Tern Terra. The land of Hunter’s birth and the land where he would one day be ruler and they would hopefully all live happily ever after. That is if they could get through the mist that was steadily descending on them. She looked up and blinked. The air above them was blanketed with a thick mist. Do not be alarmed, Jemi,Hunter told her.The encroaching mists mean we are very near home. ***** My lord, Hunter. We have arrived. At the words spoken by Traveler, the huge, almost black Carnivore who had been sent to ensure his sire ’s safe return home, Slayer looked up and frowned. In front of them appeared to be a wall of unbroken rock rising high into the air, through the mists covering its top. On either side of the road were the majestic Mountains of The Gods. Slayer could see no way beyond what appeared to be a dead-end. His sire, Hunter, a huge Carnivore with a sleek bronze coat and a regal dark golden mane approached the wall and touched his head against it. Slayer listened as the wall made a rumbling noise. He tensed, expecting the earth under his feet to shake as it sometimes did or for the wall to tumble down, crushing his sire. Instead, as Hunter stepped back, the wall of rock suddenly rumbled open, revealing a wide, foggy passage. His sire turned his head and looked at him.Slayer. We are home, my club. Come. Walk the path into Tern Terra with me. The other Carnivores, sent to guard Hunter on his journey home, moved aside to make room for him and bowed their heads as Slayer padded past them. Soft, respectful murmurs of,My lord, Slayer,brushed against his thoughts as he moved to stand by his sire and his mate, Jemi Hunter. He bowed his head.Sire,he responded softly. Hunter bent his head to brush his head against his.We are home, Slayer. At last. Slayer tried to share his sire’s obvious excitement, but his thoughts kept turning to Volter and Ayanni and Meka, and the prides he had left behind. Come, my club. It is time to meet Seeker, Lord of Tern Terra, and Tyla, she who bore me. Yes, Sire. I am eager to meet Seeker and she who bore you.He paused and looked up at Hunter. He had heard much of Seeker, his own sire’s sire and of Tyla. Hunter had always said there had never been a more majestic and regal Carnivore born than Seeker. And now he was about to meet him. He who had been born of a normal carnivore, rather than a valued human female.Will they find me sufficient, sire? He felt Hunter’s surprise.They will not find you wanting, my cub. She who bore me is not human, sire. Meka is worthy and brave, as are you, my cub. Come. We must not keep Seeker and Tyla waiting. Hunter moved into the passage and disappeared into the swirling mists. Slayer, with a last look back at

the path leading toward the Volterian forest followed. Once inside the mists, he was relieved to find his eyes quickly adjusting. They were in a huge, cavernous cave lit by what appeared to be some strange luminous crystals covering the walls. Ahead of him, he saw Hunter, with Jemi still on his back, padding towards a large circle of sunlight. He followed. He heard a rumbling noise behind him. He turned and saw the four Carnivores accompanying them within the cavern and the wall of rock was back in place. For a moment, he felt a sense of loss and panic. He was cut off from the world he had known and loved all his life. He would see Meka again when he returned to Volter, but Ayanni was now lost to him forever. My lord, Slayer? You are sufficient? He looked at the she-vore who stood next to him with her head bowed. Sheela, the seer who had healed him and Dioni.Thanks to your skill as a healer, I am very sufficient, Sheela,he replied. It is my duty and my pleasure to serve you in any way I can, my lord. He felt a distinct warmth emanating from her. He realized that she was offering herself to him. He wanted to mate, but he longed for the slender, beautiful human female whose dark, lovely image was seared into his senses. He could still remember the smell of her body, the taste of her pussy under his tongue, the feel of her soft human hands fondling his flanks. Her warm lips brushing against his mouth. Her dark eyes looking at him with adoration and desire. How could he be satisfied with another female after having known such delights? Even a she-vore as becoming as Sheela could not hope to compete with sweet, adoring Ayanni. Still, the offer stroked his male pride. I will remember that, Seer,he said and turned to follow Hunter, Jemi, and Dioni. He stepped out of the cave and found himself standing on a wide path, bounded on either side by tall, leafy trees and foliage. At the end of the long path, he saw a huge stone building with many large openings his sire called windows. Outside the building, many huge Carnivores in humanoid form prowled back and forth. As Hunter, Jemi, and Dioni approached, the Carnivores parted and kneeled with bowed heads. It is the abode of Traveler, my lord Slayer, master of the guard of the royal house of Seeker. All who would enter Tern Terra must first pass through the guardhouse. Slayer turned to find Sheela again at his side. He inclined his head slightly and padded behind Hunter. My lord, Slayer. Welcome to Tern Terra, lord Slayer. Tern Terra rejoices to welcome you, lord Slayer. Reverential murmurs buzzed in his ears as he neared the still kneeling Carnivores. The inside of Traveler’s adobe was large and airy. They passed through the main room, along a huge tunnel-like room, and came out into the most lush, verdant forest Slayer had ever seen. Everywhere he looked was green. The trees were tall with strong, low hanging branches capable of providing welcome shade on the most scorching of days.

More Carnivores in humanoid form prowled the forest. Slayer noted the path under his feet sloped upward. He raised his gaze and blinked. Ahead, several hundred yards along the forest path, was a gigantic stone building with low windows too numerous to count. The building seemed to extend upwards for a very long time, vanishing into whirling mists. Slayer felt pride swell his chest. For this was surely the royal palace, home of Seeker, ruler of all Tern Terra. Hunter, with Jemi now walking beside him, spoke quietly to Dioni, who nodded and followed one of the Carnivores around the building. Hunter then turned to look at him.Slayer, come. His highness and her majesty await us. Yes, sire. The Carnivores patrolling in front of the stone door stepped aside and Hunter, Jemi, and Slayer entered the building. They stepped into a long, high room lighted with the same luminance crystals that had provided light in the cavern. More Carnivores patrolled the room. Two stood on guard in front of a set of massive doors. As they approached, the two guards shape shifted to humanoid form. With bowed heads, they opened the doors. Hunter paused, lowered his head. Slayer watched as his sire shifted from his natural form into that of a tall humanoid with dark hair, fair skin, and green eyes. They then passed through the doors and into an enormous room with low windows, a strange silky floor with two huge throne chairs at the end of the room. Seated there were two humanoids. One, a beautiful woman, had kind eyes and long, light hair. The male was huge with tanned skin, green eyes, and blond hair. He wore human covering, but he had a regal bearing and Slayer knew immediately who he was. Without being told to, Slayer knelt. He glanced towards Hunter in time to see he and Jemi kneel and bowed their heads, along with everyone else in the room. My lord Seeker. My lady Tyla. Your humble servant, Hunter, has returned. And who have you brought with you, Hunter? I have brought my mate, Jemi Hunter of Earth, and my only surviving and eldest offspring. And who is this offspring who would one day rule Tern Terra in your stead, Hunter? He is Slayer, born of Meka, your highness. She who bore him leads the largest pride in all of Volter. This Meka is a Volterian carnivore? Yes, my lord. Then your offspring has very little human blood. He in no way suffers from that lack, my lord Seeker. He has already proven his worthiness to bear your blood, my lord. You will not find him wanting in any way. No. Of that I am sure.Seeker descended the throne and stopped in front of Hunter. “Rise, my cub.” When Hunter had, Seeker embraced him briefly before turning to stand in front of him. “And you who would one day rule this land. Slayer. Rise and face your sovereign.” Slayer rose, but kept his head bowed.My lord. “Lift your head so I may look upon you.”

I am humbled in your presence, your majesty,he admitted, keeping his head bowed. “Excessive humility is unbecoming in one who would stand before the counsel of elders as ruler of Tern Terra.” “Oh, enough with all this pomp and circumstances and talk of the counsel of elders,” Tyla suddenly said. She sprang from her chair and ran to throw her arms around Hunter’s neck, sobbing. “Hunter! Oh, Hunter! I feared never to see you alive again! It’s been so long, my cub!” She pressed kisses all over his face before looking at Seeker. “Our eldest is all grown up now. He is no longer a cub. He has a mate and a cub of his own.” She looked at Jemi, still kneeling with bowed head. “Jemi Hunter of Earth, you are among your pride. Rise and lift your head. Welcome to Pride Seeker.” Without waiting for Jemi’s response, Tyla released Hunter and flung herself at Slayer, wrapping her arms around his neck and covering his head with kisses. “Slayer! Offspring of our beloved Hunter, welcome home and to Pride Seeker.” You humble and honor me, my lady Tyla. “Enough with all the formal nonsense. You are Slayer, my grandcub. You will not call me your lady Tyla. You will call me grand.”She stepped back and studied him before rushing back to hug Hunter. “Hunter, he is a strong, handsome cub. Just as you were.” He is also brave and honorable, Mother. “Like his father,” Jemi said. “His father left Tern Terra without permission many seasons pass,” Seeker said, his voice suddenly cold. “His disobedience caused much grief and anxiety.” “He intended no disrespect,” Jemi began. “He only—” “Silence human!” Seeker thundered. “You have not been given permission to speak!” Jemi jumped and pressed back against Hunter. Slayer could see her visibly shaking and longed to rush to her aid, but didn’t quite dare. Being in Seeker’s presence made him feel inadequate and insufficient. She meant no disrespect, sire,Hunter said quickly.She is from Earth and does not know our ways. “Then you have best instruct her to remain silent until she learns her proper place, Hunter. I will not be spoken to with anything but respect.” Hunter bowed his head.My lord. “Oh, don’t be so supercilious, Seeker!” Tyla snapped. She walked over to Jemi and put her arm around her. “Seeker roars frequently, but he is a very tamed Carnivore. Do not fear him.” “Tyla!” Seeker roared. She whirled around to face him. “Yes, my lord?” she asked, smiling at him. Slayer watched as his grandsire’s face stretched into a smile under Tyla’s look. “As you say, Tyla.” He turned to look at Jemi. “We will speak no more of your indiscretion, Jemi Hunter.”

She bowed her head. “Thank you, my lord.” “You may call me Seeker,” he said graciously. “You honor me, my lord Seeker.” “Seeker,” he reminded her, smiling. “Without the lord when we are not in formal company.” “Now, we’re all introduced and home and happy,” Tyla said. “When your siblings hear of your arrival they will rush back to Tern Terra to welcome you home, my cub.” She looked around, her smile turning into a frown. “Hunter, where is Stalker?” Slayer felt his sire’s turmoil and spoke before he could.I regret to inform you, that my lord Stalker is dead, my lady. By my hand. Tyla stared at him, then looked at Hunter. “Dead? Dead? Stalker? My cub is dead?” She looked around, her legs buckled, and she fainted. Chapter Two

Does her majesty hate me, sire?Slayer asked as soon as Hunter, in his natural form, padded into the room where he and Jemi had been escorted after Tyla had fainted. Hunter approached him and gently butted his head.Of course she does not hate you, Slayer. You do not think I allowed her to think Stalker’s death was your fault, do you? I told her the truth. But his death was my fault, sire. If I had not been injured, Meka and her pride would not have killed him. If I had been stronger and able to battle more fiercely, he would not have injured me so, provoking Meka’s wrath. You are her only surviving cub, Slayer. She would have ripped him apart for scratching you. What happened to him was not your fault. “Nor yours,” Jemi said. Hunter turned to look at her.Still speaking out of turn, huh? Have you learned nothing about holding your tongue until you’re spoken to? “What? Why you arrogant, big-headed, egomaniac. You are not yet ruler of this place and I am not afraid of you. You…oh, you…” she began hotly, stopping suddenly when he laughed. After a moment, she laughed too. “Is your mother all right?” He shook his head slightly.One of her cubs met a horrible death at the hands of his sibling. How can she be all right? Slayer looked up at him.But sire, it was not your fault. She does not now find you insufficient. Does she? I do not know. She says not, but how can she not? He was my younger sibling. I should have protected him.

Sire, he was not worthy to be your sibling! He was not honorable! Hunter tossed his head angrily and stepped away from him.You are speaking out of turn, Slayer! You did not know him. He did not deserve to be ripped apart. Slayer disagreed, but remained silent. He glanced at Jemi. He had a feeling he and she would need to suppress their thoughts frequently in this place his sire called home. He wondered if he should have remained in Volter, where he was accepted as he was. His grandsire had not seemed very pleased that he had been born of a Volterian carnivore instead of a human, like all the royal family before him. Hunter butted his head again.What troubles you, my cub? I should not have come here, sire. I am not wanted. I will return to Volter to those who find me sufficient. He received another head butt, this one not so gentle.Silence, Slayer. You are in the royal house of Seeker. Have you no sense of the honor bestowed upon you to be here? “Hunter! Let him speak! You may be used to all this bowing and scraping and holding your tongue, but we are not!” Jemi snapped. “Don’t you stifle him.” He kept his gaze on Slayer.Then he will have to learn to adapt. You both will. Seeker does not tolerate disrespect in any form. He will make very few allowances for either of you. She stiffened. “Oh, really? What will he do if we displease his royal highness? Eat us?” Slayer found the image painted in his mind by Jemi’s words humorous. He tried, but could not stifle the rumbling in his chest. Hunter gave an angry roar.You will not teach Slayer to disrespect his sovereign, Jemi. And you would do well to realize that now you are in Tern Terra, Seeker is your sovereign as well. His cold gaze raked over them both. He shifted into a humanoid form, turned, and stalked out of the room. Jemi tossed her head angrily. Her gaze softened when she looked at him. She smiled and linked her arms around his neck. “Don’t worry about him. He’s just still hurting from having to tell his mother what happened to Stalker.” Now that he is here, he is different. She nodded. “I know he seems different, but underneath, he’s still the same sire who loves you more than he does his own life.” He pulled away from her.I am not going to stay in this place. I am returning to Volter. “No! Slayer! You can’t. Oh, Slayer, you’ve been through such a lot and I know this is going to be a big adjustment, but you can’t leave.” Why not? “Your sire needs you.” His sire needed him, but he left anyway. Why should I not do the same? “Because he needs you. Slayer, he loved Stalker.” He was not worthy. He deserved to die!

“Your sire doesn’t agree and he grieves with your grand. And if you should leave, it would break his heart. Please. Stay for him—at least for a while. He knows that you will want to return to Volter to visit your mother, but stay for awhile.” I will stay, but I know I am not wanted here. Meka is not sufficient enough for my grandsire, but Meka is she who bore me and I find her very sufficient. “As well you should, Slayer. She’s your mother. I don’t think your grandsire meant to imply Meka was not sufficient enough.” I think you are wrong. “Why do you think that?” Because I have so little human blood I will probably not be able to shape shift into a human like his majesty and my sire. She shrugged. “So? What would be so bad about that? I fell for your sire before he could shift and I wouldn’t care if he never shifted again.” You are kind, Jemi Hunter of Earth, but you do not understand. Being able to shift is part of being one of the Great Carnivores. Without that ability, I will not fit in here. Did you not notice that nearly every Carnivore we encountered was in humanoid form? The other Carnivores will consider me inferior. “Oh, surely not, Slayer! You are the eldest offspring of the future ruler of the land. Who would dare consider you inferior?” They will not openly say it out of respect for my sire, but I will feel it. I will stay only until my sire is fully sufficient. And then I will leave. “Slayer.Thisis your home.” No, Jemi Hunter of Earth. It is my sire’s home, but it is not mine. I did not know until now that there would be a difference in the two. My home is Volter. There no one will find me insufficient.And there he could at least be closer to the one female he would never forget, even if he could not have her. She hugged him, offering him what he was beginning to suspect would be the only sympathy he could expect in this strange place he had once so longed to live in. Later that evening, as he walked in the forest outside the royal palace, feeling angry and anxious to flee back to Volter, he encountered Sheela, in her natural form. She bowed her head.My lord, you are sufficient? Your wounds trouble you? My wounds do not, seer. I wish to be alone. To his annoyance, she continued to walk beside him.Did you not hear me, seer? I did, my lord, but I sense a turmoil in you. I am here to help you and provide succor. He knew she wanted to mate with him. The thought of a willing female ready to mate with him teased him, but a picture of Ayanni danced in his memory and he tossed his head angrily.I have no need of the kind of succor you offer, seer. She prostrated herself.I meant no disrespect, my lord. Forgive my insolence. It was born of a desire

to be of service to you. We will speak no more of it,he said tersely. He wanted to be alone to cherish his memories of Ayanni. She hesitated then went on quickly.I sense a restlessness and a fear in you, my lord. His chest cavity swelled.I am Slayer, elder offspring of Hunter, future sovereign of Tern Terra, I fear nothing and no one.Except the fear that he would forever long for a female he could not have. I meant no disrespect, my lord. I meant your fear that you will not be able to shift. I can help you with that, my lord. You can? Yes, my lord. It will take time, but if you are willing to remain in Tern Terra and work hard, you may yet be able to shift. Into humanoid form? She shook her head.Other creatures of the forest. That would not be good enough to be accepted in Tern Terra, but it would be a start. You will stay in Tern Terra, my lord? He inclined his head slightly.Yes. I will stay. Thank you, my lord.As he watched, she shifted into a humanoid body with fair skin, long fair hair, dark eyes, and full, firm breasts. Looking at her, Slayer felt his cock stir. He sensed her excitement and suspected she thought that if he remained in Tern Terra, he would eventually mate with her. She was a strong, beautiful she-vore, but no comparison to his Ayanni. I will stay for the reason stated,he told her. He had no wish for her to try to cultivate a mating relationship with him. He would learn to long for another female, but that would take time. If she were still interested when he was ready to take another mate, he might consider her. She walked towards him and his gaze went to the curly patch of hair over her pussy. It was a very human looking pussy, lovely to look at. How would it feel around him? Despite himself, his cock popped out of its sheath. Noting his protruding shaft, she lay on the ground with her legs open, her pussy exposed. It glistened with moisture and looked tight and welcoming.My lord Slayer, I am here to serve you in any way you desire. With thoughts of Ayanni dancing in his head and the remembrance of the incredible pleasure a human female could provide, he moved over her, lowered to his hunches, and sank his cock balls deep in her with one powerful movement. She moaned, tossed her head from side to side and wrapped her legs around him. Feeling his cock completely surrounded by her warm pussy, he closed his eyes, thought of his Ayanni and repeatedly thrust his cock into her in a fury of lust. Driven by his hunger for pussy, he rutted into her, rotating his hips and driving his cock as deep into her pussy as he could get it. She lay under him, matching him ruthless thrust for thrust, joyfully accepting his plunging shaft into her tight, hot channel.

Oh, my lord, Slayer. My lord!she purred. She raked her hands along his flanks and bit into his underbelly. Keeping a mental picture of Ayanni foremost in his thoughts, he continued pummeling her until he felt his climax rapidly approaching. With the knowledge that he did not need to fear hurting her, he thrust violently into her, shuddered, and roared as he blasted her pussy full of his seed. He didn’t linger in her. Despite her soft sound of protest, he withdrew from her almost immediately, backed away, and stood breathing deeply. Still in humanoid form, she purred softly and sat up.My lord would like his servant to spend the evening with him? His physical needs had been satisfied, but other needs that only Ayanni could satisfy remained in him, eating at him like some ravenous, greedy forest animal. But Ayanni found him insufficient. He tossed his head angrily. He looked at Sheela, watching him with wide eyes, her arms extended to him. Growling deep in his chest, he approached her, went down on his hunches, and thrust his cock back into her human-like pussy. If Ayanni did not want him, he would mate her out of his system. Yes, my lord, Slayer. Yes! Mate with your servant.She purred in a soft, insistent chant. With her purrs growing in intensity and her pussy warmly accepting his cock, he took her again and again. The night was filled with the sounds of their combined growls and purrs as he ravished her. He rutted into her until his cock was tender. And still he wanted Ayanni. With the coming of the dawn, he finally drew his flaccid cock out of her drenched pussy. Physically sated and ravenous, he looked at her. She lay on the ground, convulsed her body, and resumed her natural form. She rose, gently swaying from side to side.You found me sufficient, my lord? Shall I come to you with the setting of the sun, lord? After a night of mating with her purring with delight and pleasure as he rutted into her, he knew her to be more than capable of meeting all of his carnal needs. That’s all he could expect for now. I am going hunting,he said. He padded several feet before turning to look at her.When I return, I will want some pussy. He felt her pleasure.I will be here to serve you, my lord, Slayer. The words were the words he longed to hear. If only they came from another female.I will return, seer. Would my lord honor me by addressing me as Sheela? Sheela. I will return.He turned and loped into the surrounding forest. Chapter Three

Ayanni slid out of the tree where she and Slayer had agreed to meet. She had been coming to this special place for many sunrises in hope that he would be there, but now, she realized it was time to give up the fantasy. He was not coming back. The reality was she had thrown everything away for him and he had decided she was not sufficient.

She looked up. The sun was rapidly setting. If she were going to get home before dark, she would need to hurry. Angry tears filled her eyes. She had wasted another day waiting for him to keep his promise when she should have been making provisions for the hard times which lay ahead of her. Memories of the sweetness of mating with him tugged at her memory. She thrust them aside with an angry shake of her head. She could not afford to keep losing herself in useless fantasies. As she quickly moved through the forest, she became aware of quiet, stealthy movements paralleling hers. She swallowed slowly and glanced fearfully to her left. Standing in the clearing, several hut-stop lengths away stood a large carnivore with a dark mane. She froze, her heart pounding so fast she began hyperventilating. She was too far from a tree with low standing enough branches for her to leap in to safety. And she knew she could not hope to outrun the carnivore. She had no weapon. She had no hope of escape. The carnivore began padding towards her, catching her gaze. If she remained where she was, maybe her end would be quick and relatively painless. But she could not give up her life so easily. She screamed, turned, and fled back towards the tree where she had spent the day. She heard an angry roar behind her. The carnivore pursuing her would soon over take her. She heard the cat rapidly closing the distance between them. Glancing over her shoulder, she saw several females cats bound out of the forest. Gods of the Mountains! She was beginning chased by a whole pride. They were going to rip her to pieces. Instead of joining the chase against her, led by a large, brown feline, the female lions charged the larger carnivore bearing down on her and brought him down. Thanking the gods for her lucky escape, she raced back to the tree. She leapt onto the low bow and shimmied up the trunk of the tree into the higher branches where she knew the branches wouldn’t bear the weight of the heavy cat. From there she watched the cats scramble on the trail below her. Although big and fierce, the male cat suddenly roared, and bounded away from the females, and disappeared into the forest. Ayanni, clinging to the trunk of the tree looked down in horror as the female cats converged on the tree and looked up at her, roaring. Now instead of one cat wanting to eat her, there were many. Although the females padding around the base of the tree looked fierce, she was sure that Slayer would have been a match for them. As one of the Great Carnivores, he was much larger than the largest Volterian cat. But he was not there to rescue her. He had taken her one prize and left her to make her own way in the forest. She could not afford to spend her time longing for him. Besides, if she happened to fall out of the tree that night, the cats would kill her, and all her worries would be past. She shook her head. No. Where there was breath and reason, there was hope. Even now, the Gods of the Mountains were being kind, for the cats, led by the large, brown feline, began moving away from the tree and into the forest. Ayanni spent a time she considered sufficient for them to clear the immediate area in the tree, then descended slowly. Standing at the base, she stood, staring into the dusky forest. Walking home in the dark would be dangerous beyond words. But spending the night in the tree that could see her plunging to her death was also dangerous. She clenched her hands into fists and decided it made more sense to stay in the tree than to proceed alone. She turned to ascend the tree. A pair of dark, glowing eyes stared at her down from between the branches. Screaming, she turned and fled into the forest. She had not covered much ground before she realized she

was being shadowed. Stifling a scream, she turned her head and saw a large, brown cat padding towards her. Feeling tired and weary, she closed her eyes and waited, praying for a quick end. She heard a soft purr and something bumped against her side. Frozen to the spot with fear, she opened her eyes and found herself staring down into the eyes of the feline who had led the charge that had saved her from the male. She wasn’t sure how she knew that, but she felt certain this was the same carnivore. The carnivore’s eyes were dark and her teeth looked lethal, but something about her reminded Ayanni of Slayer. Inexplicably, she knew that she had no need to fear this cat or any of the felines emerging from the forest to encircle her. To test her theory, she moved forward slowly. Then forward again. Although the cats moved with her, none impeded her progress. And before long, she grew bolder and began to run. They ran on either side of her, their eyes glowing in the dark. And when a hyena appeared on the trail in front of her, several of the felines charged it and drove it away, while the other half remained near her. Finally, the hut of her father came into view. She was safe. She turned and watched the felines pad back into the forest, all except the large female. She stood watching Ayanni, her eyes glowing in the darkness. Although they were not green like Slayer’s, Ayanni knew this female was in some way connected with him. He had not come for her as he had promised, but he had somehow provided safe passage for her. “Tell him I said thank you and I am sorry I was not sufficient enough for him,” she told the cat and turned and went into the hut. ***** Ayanni sat at the river, enjoying the feeling of the warmth of the sun on her bare skin when she heard a quiet sound behind her. She turned and found him standing almost within arms’ reach. He was as she remembered him, standing as tall as a pony with a sleek, tan coat, a beautiful, luxurious dark mane, and green slanted eyes. He was the most majestic and beautiful creature the Gods of the Mountains had never created. She cast her gaze down and caught her breath. His cock, long and thick was unsheathed. The big tip glistened with moisture. She felt herself going moist. “My lord! You’ve come back to me!” Yes, my beautiful brown one. Did you not think I would? His soft tone caressed her senses. His eyes, full of warmth and tenderness intoxicated her. “My lord,” she whispered. “I have waited for your return for so long.” I am here now, my Ayanni.He padded slowly to her. They gazes met and locked. She sighed and lay on her back, parting her legs slightly. He lowered his head and touched his mouth against hers. She moaned softly, eagerly parting her lips. A raging passion lay just below the surface of his tender kisses. Her whole body was aware of him and his body. That this beautiful, majestic, almost mythical male should desire her, amazed and humbled her. His mouth brushed against her lips in long, hypnotic kisses that took her breath and filled her aching heart with joy, desire, and pleasure. He slipped his tail under her body and around her waist. Holding her

within the circle of his tail, he propelled his cock into her pussy and mated with her. He was tender, warm, and lingered over their mating, softly whispering to her how much he valued her. Tears filled her eyes and spilled down her cheeks as she clung to him, chanting that she needed and wanted him always. Holding her close and touching her mind and her heart, he told her what he always did when he came to her in her dreams, that he valued her and always would. With tears still falling down her cheeks, Ayanni, alone on her small palette, curled into a ball, and drifted to sleep, hugging thoughts of Slayer closer. ***** “This is a bad time for Hunter. Must you leave now?” Slayer stood in the royal palace in the quarters that his sire shared with his mate, Jemi, watching the play of emotions on her face. During the many seasons he had spent in Tern Terra, although he had grown to love her, he still could not understand her. She never did what he or his sire expected of her. Her unexpected behavior seemed a source of continual delight to his sire, but it just confused him. My sire will ascend to the throne of Tern Terra soon in Seeker’s place. He does not need me here. “But Slayer, you are his only offspring.” She bit her lip. “As you know we had hoped to produce siblings for you, but it seems the Gods of the Mountains have not deemed me worthy.” Since arriving in Tern Terra, Slayer and Jemi had often found themselves out of favor for having inadvertently offended either Seeker or one of his royal counselors. As a result, he and Jemi had become very close. When he was lonely and missing Meka and Ayanni, he went to Jemi for comfort and assurance. He and Hunter had grown apart since their arrival in Tern Terra and he found the prospect of leaving Jemi more unpleasant than that of leaving Hunter. He will not miss me,he said. Although he still loved and respected Hunter, he no longer longed to be miserable in Tern Terra, just to be near him. Now that he was about to ascend the throne in Seeker’s place, Hunter was rarely home and frequently in bad spirits when he was.He does not need me, but Meka has been injured and I must go to her. Jemi rose from the chair by the window and slipped her arms around his neck. “I know he must seem distant and somewhat unapproachable to you lately, but he loves you more than ever, Slayer, and will need and want you here with him.” He has not said so, Jemi. “Which doesn’t mean he doesn’t want it. He feels the weight of the responsibility of ruling Tern Terra heavily. It’s a responsibility you yourself will one day bear. Don’t you want to stay and see how he handles himself?” He is Hunter, elder offspring of Seeker, the most majestic of all the Great Carnivore, save for Seeker. No one will find my sire lacking as a ruler in any way. While he roams the Tern Terrian forest at will with his lady, Seeker will hear all grand things of Hunter, lord of all Tern Terra. When I hear of him in Volter, my heart will swell with pride knowing his regal blood runs through my veins. “So you won’t stay?” I can not. She released him and stood back to look at him. “Will you return when Meka is well?”

I do not know.He looked out the window to the Terrian forest. Although he was acknowledged as the future ruler of Tern Terra when Hunter abdicated the throne, he had never truly felt at home here. Even after these seven full seasons, he missed Volter and each time he visited Meka and the prides, he found it more difficult to return to Tern Terra. She sighed. “What of the new male leader in the pride? The father of Meka’s cubs? Won’t he resent your staying?” Meka is the leader of the prides, but when I am in Volter, all carnivores must bow to me. Meka’s new male will show me due respect or suffer the consequences. She winkedat him.“You sound almost as pompous as Seeker.” I come by it honestly,he joked and they shared a warm tingle of amusement along their special bond. She sobered quickly, her eyes filling with tears. “Oh, Slayer! I could not love you more if you were my own cub.” I love you too, Jemi. She gulped in a deep breath. “You must return. Promise.” I can not promise to do anymore than return for visits,he said.But you should know that even when I am in Volter, I will carry you in my heart and thoughts. She gave his mane a tug. “That’s all well and good, but I want you close where I can hug you and protect you.” I will miss you more than I can say, Jemi Hunter. She sighed. “And what of Sheela?” What of her? “Have you…does she know you are leaving and may not return for some time?” I owe her no allegiance, Jemi, but I have informed her that I am returning to Volter. She is free to mate with whomever she likes. I am sure that once I am gone she will find Dioni quite irresistible. He watched as Jemi bit her lip. Before coming to Tern Terra, Jemi and Dioni had been lovers with his sire’s knowledge and approval. Nevertheless, Slayer knew Dioni had not mated with Jemi for several seasons. During the last seasons, his sire had been inclined to want Jemi all to himself, and Dioni had had to seek comfort in the paws of some of the willing she-vores in the forest. He suspected Jemi missed Dioni, but she had never said so. Now she shrugged. “You think so? I hope so because Dioni deserves to be happy and settle down.” I have seen Sheela watching him often. He will find her to be a satisfying mate. “And what of you, Slayer? What are your plans to take a mate?” As the only offspring of the future ruler of the land, Slayer knew what was expected of him.I will choose a mate when the time is right. She stroked a hand over his mane. “Ayanni?”

No. Not her. She did not find me sufficient. I will not dishonor her further by intruding on her life with her chosen mate. The memories of our one afternoon together will have to suffice. Jemi caught her breath and stared at him. “Slayer! Are you saying you actually mated with her?” Her apparent distressed surprised him.Yes. Did I not tell you that? “No! Oh, Slayer! Poor Ayanni!” Why? “Don’t you know? She can’t mate with a human male. Not after having mated with you.” Why not? “Slayer, once a Volterian woman mates with one of the Great Carnivores, her pussy conforms to the contours of his cock and she can no longer mate with a Volterian male.” Slayer felt as if a slab of the great mountains had crashed down from the sky to crush him.Do you mean all these seasons when I thought she was with her chosen mate, she has been alone, unable to find pleasure with another male? She looked at his face and slipped her arms around his neck. “Oh, Slayer! I thought you knew!” No,he said, feeling a crushing burden on his shoulders.I did not. I…by the Gods of the Mountains! What has she been doing all this time? I thought she had not come to me because she went to him. Jemi! What has become of her all this time? I must go at once to find out! She kissed his mane. “Go, if you must, but please remember how much your sire loves and needs you. Let us hear from you, Slayer.” I will, but I must go at once to find what has become of Ayanni.He wheeled and charged through the palace and out into the forest. As he raced toward the Cave Of Ascent, he became aware that two Carnivores from the royal guard raced after him, calling out that they would accompany him. Although he had no wish for a guard, he could not spare the time to argue with them. If Hunter or Seeker had sent them, they would accompany or follow him, no matter how much he objected. He had to reach Volter as quickly as possible to seek out Ayanni. Chapter Four

Toiling in the hot afternoon sun in the small patch of ground behind the hut stop that she and her mother had built, Ayanni paused. She put the spade in her hands aside and sat back on her heels, wiping the burning sweat from her eyes. Shielding her eyes with her hand, she gazed up at the sun. It was just over head and at its full power. She sighed. She had too many more hours of field work ahead of her to be this tired. She glanced at the small neat row of plantings she’d put into the ground. She would finish another row, then she would stop to fix a small meal. She would prefer to finish the planting before stopping for the evening, but she had to give Wynter some sustenance. “Not long now,” she said, picking up her spade and thrusting it in the earth. There was no answer. She smiled. Putting the planting in the dirt, she padded it with the handle of the

spade. “Did you hear me, Wynter? I will give you a meal very shortly.” When she was again greeted with silence, she looked over her shoulder to the hut stop where Wynter sat. Only she wasn’t there. She raised her voice. “Wynter?” Wynter didn’t answer and Ayanni sighed. If it was one thing she could depend upon, it was that Wynter would be where she shouldn’t be doing something she shouldn’t be doing. It seemed Wynter wanted to eat now. She put down her spade and rose. She walked over to the small hut where she and Wynter took shelter as evening approached and in the cold of the season. She opened the door and froze. The inside of the hut was small and windowless. There was room on the floor for a pile of skins where she and Wynter slept, a small table with two chairs where they ate, and a tiny recess where she prepared their meals. In the corner of the room, were two pans. One for washing and one for seeing to their other needs in the cold of the season. She saw immediately that Wynter was not inside. She closed the door and turned and ran around the small structure. “Wynter! Wynter!” She still received no answer and her heart thumped as she thought of Wynter alone in the forest surrounding the hut. The same forest where a group of female carnivores had rescued her from a male cat intent on making a meal out of her many seasons earlier. She had never gone back to the tree where she and Slayer had mated after her narrow escape. And she had never been stalked again, although she had occasionally looked up when returning from fishing at the river to find the big cat who had led her rescue padding parallel to her. Knowing she had nothing to fear from the female, she had thought inexplicably of Slayer. She angrily brushed the memory away. The forest that now frightened her, seemed to fascinate Wynter. Six seasons past, Ayanni, tired from plantings, had fallen asleep over their afternoon meal. She had awakened to find Wynter, who had just learned to walk, in the forest, heading toward the watering hole where the carnivores rested in the heat of the day. Terrified that her only reason for living would be killed by a rogue lion or other cat, she had grabbed a thick piece of wood and run into the forest. As she had snatched Wynter up in her arms, a cheetah had spring in her path. Before she could even release the scream of terror rising from her throat, the big lioness, in the company of several other lionesses, had sprung between them and the cheetah. Knowing the lioness and her pride members would protect her retreat, Ayanni had clutched Wynter against her body and fled back to the hut. Several times in the last six seasons, she had found the missing Wynter in the forest, sitting among the lionesses. The last time, she had come upon Wynter lying on the ground with her head on the big lioness’ s side fast asleep. Although this feline had saved her several times, Ayanni had still felt fearful as she approached to retrieve Wynter. Although the lioness had let out a plaintive roar when she picked up her daughter, she had made no movement that could be considered threatening. She had looked into the lioness’s eyes. “Thank you,” she whispered. “For saving us both so many times.” Back at the hut she had talked very sternly to Wynter and told her she must not go back to the carnivores. Wynter had looked at her with green slanted eyes very like Slayer’s. “Why not?”

“Because it’s dangerous.” “They will not hurt me,” Wynter had told her. “How do you know that?” “Meka and Berka told me.” “Who are Meka and Berka?” “They head the prides in the forest. Now that Meka’s cubs are bigger, sometimes she lets me pet them. I like Tomma best. Meka says one day Tomma will lead the pride, even though Macak is eldest.” “Wynter, you can actually talk to them?” “Yes.” “You mean you understand them?” Wynter had looked surprised. “You mean you can’t understand them?” “No.” Wynter had frowned. “Then why can I talk to them?” She had sighed and told Wynter that her sire was a carnivore. “Like Meka and Berka?” “No. Not exactly like them. They are Volterian carnivores. There are other carnivores from—” “From Tern Terra?” She nodded. “Who told you of Tern Terra?” “Meka. She said her eldest cub Slayer was going to be ruler there one day.” So that explained why she always thought of Slayer when in the presence of the big lioness. She was Slayer’s mother. Wynter had tilted her head and looked at her. “Do you know Slayer?” “I…I…met him once,” she said. She had been unable to tell Wynter that Slayer had mated with her and then abandoned them both. Although he had not found her sufficient enough to be his mate, Ayanni had not wanted Wynter to know her sire was living well in Tern Terra while she had to work from sun rising to sun setting to provide sustenance for them. “Meka says he is the most handsome and brave and strong cub ever born in all of Volter. Meka misses him very much.” Ayanni swallowed quickly. “Wynter, you must not spend so much time with the prides.” “Why not? I feel sufficient with them.” Ayanni had bit her lip, feeling more inadequate than she’d ever felt. “Do you not feel that way with me, Wynter?”

“Yes, but you are always in the field or fishing or washing. You won’t let me help and there is never any time to just sit and talk with you like there is with Meka and Berka.” Ayanni had looked away then, tears filling her eyes, rage her heart. Wynter, a child of a human and a Great Carnivore, had matured much faster than a normal Volterian female so that now close to seven seasons, she was as tall as Ayanni. Now, fearful of where Wynter might be, Ayanni returned to the hut stop, picked up the stout wooden stick she had learned to carry while walking in the woods and ran along the path. As she cleared the forest, she decided to check the river first. One of the few things she and Wynter had in common was their love of the water. As she cleared the forest and approached the river, her heart thumped. A slender female with bronzed skin and long, dark hair falling past her shoulders lay on her stomach on the bank of the river, breathing slowly and deeply. Next to her lay a medium sized cub with its head resting across the back of her legs. Ayanni stayed well away from the bank of the river. “Wynter,” she called softly, not wishing to disturb the cub. Although small, it was still a carnivore and subject to taking exception to having its rest disturbed. “Wynter,” she called again. Wynter lifted her head and smiled. “Mother,” she spoke softly. “Keta and I were resting from our swim.” “Wynter, why did you leave without telling me? It is not safe for you to be alone in the forest.” Wynter eased from under the cub and gracefully rose to her feet. She slipped her dress over her head and came to stand next to Ayanni. “It is safe for me, Mother. All of the creatures know me and I have told them who you are as well. You must not worry about me.” Ayanni looked into her daughter’s eyes. Somehow Wynter had grown up so quickly, all while she had worked non-stop to keep her well-fed. She had missed so much of her daughter’s passing seasons and Slayer had missed them all. Slayer. She could never look at Wynter without seeing something of Slayer in her. The cub suddenly rose, saw them, growled deep in its throat, and began a charge. Ayanni’s maternal instincts overcame her fear. She jumped in front of Wynter, her stick clutched in both hands. “Mother. It’s all right.” Wynter stepped from behind her and faced the charging cub. “Keta! This is Ayanni. Stop!” When the cub continued charging, Wynter thrust out her right hand. To Ayanni’s stunned surprise, the cub suddenly stopped short and went down on its hunches, apparently having difficulty breathing. Wynter lowered her hand and immediately approached the cub. She placed her hand over its head. Although she was silent, Ayanni felt certain she was “speaking” to the cub, the same way Slayer had communicated with her without verbal words. When Wynter removed her hand, the cub rose, and slowly approached Ayanni with its head bowed. “Keta offers her apologies, Mother. When she woke suddenly, she did not immediately recognize your scent and thought you intended me harm. If you touch her head, she will know she is forgiven.”

Still bemused, Ayanni lifted a hand and tentatively touched the cub’s head. She jumped back when the cub let out a low roar. Wynter laughed. “Mother. She’s just saying hello.” “Yes, well, let her find another way to say it.” She sighed. “If you’re sure you’re going to be all right, I’d better get back to the planting.” “I can take care of myself,” Wynter assured her. Ayanni nodded. “What did you do to stop her?” Wynter shook her head. “I do not know. I just know that when I want to, I can feel a strange surge go out through my hand. It’s very strong and getting stronger all the time. Mother. You never told me who my father is.” Ayanni sighed. “He is…was a Tern Terrian.” Wynter’s eyes lit with excitement. “One of the Great Carnivores? I am offspring of a Great Carnivore? Mother! What is his name? I will ask Meka and Berka if they know him. Do you think Slayer knows him?” “No!” She shook her head. Although Wynter was now an adult in every way, Ayanni didn’t think she was ready to hear the ugly story of Slayer. “Wynter. I have to get back. I need your promise that you will come home before dusk.” “You have it, Mother.” She nodded. “Then I’ll go back to the planting.” “I will come help you.” “No!” Wynter tossed her head, sending her hair cascading around her face. “Why not? You work all the time and never let me do anything. Why should you work so hard all the time?” “It is what I deserve,” she said. “It is what I brought on myself. You did nothing to deserve the life into which you were born. If I work from sun rising to sun setting until I perish, it will be my reward for a long ago act of selfishness.” She turned and quickly walked back to the hut stop, her thoughts turning to Slayer. After all these seasons, he would surely have forgotten her. He would be mated now and have several cubs, one of which would one day rule Tern Terra in Wynter’s stead. The injustice of it brought angry tears to her eyes. As she entered the clearing where her field and the hut stop were, she caught sight of a carnivore standing on the other side of the forest. The stick dropped from her hand and she stared into the green slanted eyes of the majestic Carnivore with his sleek tan coat and glorious dark mane. He was much bigger than in her memories, but she knew immediately who he was. She was dreaming again. She closed her eyes quickly and opened them. But he was still there. Ayanni.

She felt the familiar, intimate caress of his mind against hers along the psychic bond they had shared for one brief, but wonderful noon so many seasons past. Ayanni.He padded slowly towards her.Ayanni, my love. His love? He had left her alone and afraid for cold, miserable season after miserable season and now he just padded back for what? What could he possibly want after all this time? I want what I have always wanted, Ayanni—you. “Slayer!” she spat out his name and reached down to snatch up her stick and clutch it in both hands. “Do not come any nearer!” She warned. “If you do, I will hit you.” He paused and she felt his confusion and a wave of regret from him.Ayanni. I know you are angry, but you must allow me to explain. “There is nothing to explain, Slayer! You mated with me, made me unfit for Wyman, who wanted to bond with me and make my family’s prospects better and then you left me alone! Why have you come now?” Ayanni! I did not know. You must believe me! “What didn’t you know, Slayer?” I did not know that having mated with me you would not be able to mate with a human male until recently. “And when you did know? Did you come to see how we were surviving alone on our own?” Yes! I am here now, am I not? I came as soon as I learned of your plight. “But now is too late. We don’t need or want you now, Slayer, elder offspring of Hunter,” she said coldly. She ignored the dismay coming from him.I never intended to cause a hardship to you or your family. I will meet with your sire and explain that you were blameless and make restitution. “My sire?” Yes. Is that not who you meant by we? I know you and your family have suffered greatly because I behaved dishonorably and I will do all I can to atone for everything to your family. “And what of Wynter? Not a single word of regret for what she has had to endure because of you?” Wynter? Is that she who bore you? She stared at him and realized that he did not know about Wynter. Fear clutched at her heart as she realized what would happen when he did. He would take her. Neither he nor his sire would allow one of royal blood to remain in such a lowly state. “Go away and stay away, elder offspring of Hunter! I no longer value you or want to see you again! Return to the riches of Tern Terra that I was not sufficient enough to share with you!” She ran towards the hut stop. He bound forward and stood in front of the door, blocking her passage. She stopped abruptly, several feet from him, her breathing ragged, her chest aching and heavy. “Let me pass.”

Ayanni. You must give me a chance to atone for my mistakes. I know they were many and grievous, but I was but a cub when last we saw each other. I had no thought or wish to hurt you, Ayanni. I have never forgotten or stopped valuing you. I humbly beg you to let me explain and make it right for you. She thought of all Wynter had been denied living in the Volterian forest while he lived in lavish comfort in Tern Terra with his mate. “Some things can not be forgiven, Slayer. I am no longer the innocent, unmated girl who believed you when you said you wanted her. I have spent many hard, harsh seasons struggling on my own, disowned by my father because I believed what you told me when I should not have. There is nothing that you have to say that I want to hear. You can force your will and yourself on me, but I will never, ever willing welcome you into my arms or my heart again! So take me my force or stand aside, Slayer!” She felt a wave of shock from him.I would never take you by force, Ayanni. “Then stand aside and do not ever come back. Too much hurt and pain have been suffered on your behalf. I cannot forgive you, Slayer. Return to Tern Terra and enjoy all it has to offer you and your mate and your cubs.” I am not mated, Ayanni nor have I any cubs. “You…have no cubs? None?” No. I am not mated and I have no cubs. I had hoped that you and I— She shook her head. “Slayer. It is unworthy of the future ruler of Tern Terra to bedevil one of my lowly station. I have no wish to see, or speak to you ever again. Will you not even be honorable enough to leave me in peace, my lord, Slayer?” She felt a wave of despair from him.Ayanni…I…I have never stopped valuing you. “Does that mean you have not mated since you mated with me, my lord?” she demanded. Along the psychic link they were communicating through, she felt his resignation that his response was only going to increase her rage. And still, she was somewhat impressed that he did not lie.No, he admitted.I have not taken a bond mate, but I have mated. As she had known he would have. “Well, I have not had that pleasure, my lord, Slayer! Do you know how I have survived since you left? Wyman, who had spoken for me comes around and bottom mates with me in exchange for barter coins!” A wave of rage and pain swept through him.I will rip his throat out for treating you in such a way! “While you’re doing that, rip out your own throat because none of that would have happened if you had kept your word! Now let me pass!” Ayanni! “Let me pass!” He moved out of her path and she ran inside the hut and closed and bolted the door. She knew that if he chose to, he could easily break the door down. But she knew he would not. Ayanni. I love you! I always have and I always will. She tossed herself onto her pallet and put her hands over her ears.I do not love you! she screamed.Go

away! Please! Please, Slayer! Go away. He went and she dissolved into a flood of tears. Walking away to the sound of her tears was one of the hardest things Slayer had ever done. But he knew now was not the time to try and change her mind. He had hurt her badly and would have to suffer the consequences. Chapter Five

Making his way to Meka’s pride, he felt as if the weight of all Tern Terra rested on his shoulders. How could he possibly win her back? What could he say or do to make her inclined to forgive him and love him again? My lord? You are sufficient? He glanced over his shoulder at the bigger of the two Carnivores who had followed him from Tern Terra. Both Tracer and Totter had tan coats. Tracer was older and training Totter. Although they had kept a respectful distance while he talked to Ayanni, he had no wish or need for company. And he certainly had nothing to fear on the Plaines of Volter where he had been born and raised.Retreat. I wish to be alone. Both Carnivores bowed their heads and melted into the forest on either side of him. He sighed, knowing their seeming obedience was limited. Both would remain near enough to render assistance should the need arise. He gave an angry shake of his head and then hesitated. A scent spoor that was strange and yet vaguely familiar floated towards him and he stiffened, sniffing the air. A young human female cub appeared on the path in front of him. She was tall and slender with long dark hair. Her skin was bronzed and her eyes were green and slanted. He stood still, having no wish to frighten her.I mean you no harm, child. Rather than the fear he had expected, he was amazed when she uttered a cry of delight and sprang forth to fling her arms around his neck and hug him. “You are Slayer, elder offspring of Meka and Hunter. Does Hunter now rule Tern Terra?” He felt a particular twisting in his chest as he looked at her when she drew away from him. He felt as if he should know her and yet they had never met. In fact she was the first human cub he’d ever encountered. Who are you? “I am Wynter. Elder offspring of Ayanni.” His heart lurched.Offspring of Ayanni? Who…who is your sire? “Ayanni has never said, but he is one of the great Carnivores from Tern Terra. Perhaps you know him. Do you?” Slayer felt as if he had been stabbed in his chest for he knew he looked upon an offspring he had not known he possessed. He recalled the small place where he had left Ayanni sobbing. He had an offspring who had grown up there while he had lived a carefree, luxurious lifestyle in Tern Terra. He understood more fully why Ayanni despised him.

I…I am your sire. She shrieked and covered his head and mane with kisses. “Oh, sire. I knew you would be regal and I knew that one day you would return and make life better for me and Ayanni.” A feeling of joy and warmth he had never experienced overwhelmed him. He brushed his cheek against her soft one, longing to atone for all she and Ayanni had suffered because of his actions.I bitterly regret that life has been hard for you and your mother. I did not know when I left that she was with cub. Had I known I would not have left. “Oh, sire, I never doubted that. Ayanni does not like to talk about you and why you were not with us, but I have always known that you did not know of my birth.” The warmth and acceptance he felt from her amazed and humbled him.You do not hate or resent me? “No, sire. I have longed to meet you, but did not want to bedevil Ayanni with questions. She works hard and has very little time for idle chatter.” He sighed.I will make things as right as I can, but she hates me. She drew away from him and stared at him, her green eyes wide. “Who told you that?” She did. She would not allow me to explain or really talk to her. “She is hurt, but she does not hate you, sire.” Sire. Every time this beautiful human cub called him Sire, he felt a combination of pride and sorrow. Pride that he had helped produce the most beautiful creature he’d ever seen. Sorrow that he had not been there to protect and take care of her. I think, perhaps, that she does. I did not take care of her as I should have and you and she have suffered because of my actions. I should not have left Volter without making sure she was all right. “You asked Meka and Berka to look out for her and they have.” He digested that in silence for a moment.How is it that you know of Meka and Berka? “I don’t know of them. I know them, but I did not know you were my sire.” I am grateful to the Gods of the Mountains that you bear me no ill-will, but I fear that I have lost Ayanni forever. “Do not be so certain of that, sire. At night she dreams of you and calls out that she values you in her sleep.” Maybe so, but I have injured and gravely wronged her. If she will not forgive me I do not know what I will do. She looked surprised. “Do? Why you must woo and win her, sire. Her heart is yours. It always has been.” She does not wish to see me. “Surely the elder offspring of Hunter can find a way around that, sire.”

A plan began forming in his mind.Perhaps there is a way after all. She smiled at him, her eyes warm. “I knew you would be as clever as you would be majestic, sire.” His chest cavity swelled and a great sorrow filled him. He had missed so much of her life. To have her feel about him as he still felt about his own sire filled him with gratitude and humility. Hunter had at least been around as he grew from a cub into an adult Carnivore. He had not been there for Wynter and yet she still seemed to value and respect him. It was more than he was worthy of or deserved. You humble me with your graciousness and spirit of forgiveness, Wynter. Hunter, future sovereign of Tern Terra, will be proud to call you his eldest grand offspring. Her eyes lit with excitement and her smile widened. “It is so? He will not find me wanting, sire?” No one will find you wanting, Wynter. Even Seeker will find delight in your presence. “Seeker is the ruler of Tern Terra?” Yes and the most majestic of all the Great Carnivores, save my own sire, Hunter. There is none more regal than Hunter. “There is one…you, sire,” she said and bowed her head. “No one will ever convince me that there has ever been or will ever be a Great Carnivore more regal or majestic than you, my lord Slayer.” Her words and sincerity touched and silenced him. When she wrapped her arms around his neck, he could only brush his head against her and utter yet another silent prayer to the Gods of the Mountains for their graciousness in allowing him to father such an offspring worthy to carry the royal blood of Hunter. “So what is your plan to win back the heart of Ayanni who values you still?” He shook his head.I have no wish to engage you in deception against she who bore you, but I do have a plan. Now you should return to the hut. I felt her worry for you when I was with her…but at the time I thought you were her mother. I will send one of the Carnivores accompanying me with you. “You are gracious and generous, sire, but that is not necessary. All in the forest know who I am and I freely traverse the forest and the plains.” She was a daughter of Tern Terra indeed.Still, just this once Tracer will accompany you. “As you wish, sire.” He called to the two Carnivores standing silently amongst the surrounding foliage.Tracer and Totter, this is Wynter, my eldest offspring, he told them proudly. Both Carnivores bowed their heads. My lady Wynter, it will be an honor and privilege to serve you,Tracer said. Totter, the younger and more inexperienced of the two royal guards, seemed awed by Wynter. Slayer could feel his delight in meeting her that far exceeded Tracer’s respectful reaction. I am humbled in your presence and will seek out every opportunity to be of service to you, my lady Wynter,Totter said.

Totter, see Wynter safely home and then meet us at the camp of Meka,he told him. You honor me beyond my deeds, my lord Slayer, entrusting me with the well-being of her ladyship. Slayer was amused. Clearly Totter was quite impressed with his beautiful, regal offspring. Wynter gave him a last long hug, which he savored and cherished before she turned and walked down the trail with an adoring Totter at her side. Slayer waited until they were out of sight before he and Tracer continued along the path that would bring them into Meka and Berka’s territory. Accompanied by Tracer, Slayer made his way to the water hole where he knew the prides would be lying up resting in the heat of the day. Meka was there. He felt a strange feeling in his chest when she rose to greet him and was clearly unsteady on her feet. Slayer, you have returned. He padded over to her and brushed his head against hers.You are not sufficient. I am not.She lay back down and he noticed that her right front leg bore an ugly open wound. I have two guards with me from Tern Terra. I will send Tracer back to bring a seer to heal you. Do not trouble yourself, my lord. I will be sufficient in time. That is not sufficient. I want you well now and you must not call me lord. With you I will always be Slayer, your cub. He turned to Tracer.Return to Tern Terra immediately and bring back Sheela. Tell her Meka is not sufficient and she must come at once. Tracer bowed his head.My lord. Without another word, he turned and quickly left the camp. Slayer lay beside Meka and touched her flank with his tail.What has happened? Who has injured you? I will give them a slow, painful death. I will rip them into little pieces. No one may harm you with impunity. He felt her reluctance.It is of no importance, my cub. As he lay with her trying to decide how to get her to confide in him, a big tan carnivore with golden eyes and a dark brown mane approached.Slayer. You’re back. Macak, Slayer is the future ruler of Tern Terra. You must not be overly familiar,Meka instructed the young cub. This is Volter, not Tern Terra, Meka. I will not bow to my own sibling. Slayer didn’t like the tone he took with Meka. He rose to his feet. Macak was by far the biggest of the carnivores on the Volterian Plaines and nearly as high, although not as heavy as Slayer, who was now as big as Hunter. Slayer had often suspected that Macak resented the attention he received when he returned from Tern Terra to visit Meka and the prides. Berka had told him that when he was in Tern Terra, Macak was king of all he surveyed. Berka had hinted at some ugly things that troubled Slayer, but when pressed would

not substantiate her suspicions. You would do well to choose your words wisely and guard your tone when speaking to Meka,he warned. Macak tossed his head, his golden eyes whirling with angry lights.And you would do well to remember that this is my domain, Slayer, not yours. Slayer snarled softly and head-butted Macak. The younger carnivore’s legs wobbled and he sat down on the ground in a heap.My domain is wherever I am for I am Slayer, elder offspring of Hunter, future sovereign of Tern Terra. Wherever there are carnivores, I demand the respect due me. Do not make the mistake of disrespecting me again, Macak or I will show you the difference between the two of us. Slayer!Meka struggled to her feet.Please. He intended no disrespect. I think that he did, but he will not make the mistake of openly displaying his disrespect again either for you or for me. Totter appeared suddenly at his side.My lord, Slayer, all is well? He inclined his head slightly. It would be a sad day on the Plaines when he could not handle a younger sibling who did not know his proper place.Wynter arrived home safely? Yes, my lord Slayer. He watched Macak struggle to his feet, angrily tossing his head. You have something to say to me, cub? Slayer. Please,Meka implored.He is your younger sibling. You must make allowances. He turned to look at her and grudgingly sank to the ground. He could hardly insist that Macak respect her if he did not do so himself. He inclined his head.Forgive me, Meka. You are leader of this pride and I did not intend to lose sight of that fact. No harm was done, my cub. The look he saw in Macak’s gaze momentarily stunned him. He and Macak had never been close, but he had not expected to see such hostility shining in his own sibling’s eyes. He decided that Macak would definitely bear watching. Chapter Six

“You are sufficient, Mother?” Ayanni, kneeling in the planting field, blinked away a flood of tears and looked over her shoulder. Wynter stood at the edge of the field with a troubled look on her face. Ayanni sighed. Although she longed to pour out her frustrations and fears on Wynter’s slim shoulders, she knew she mustn’t. Wynter had already had too much grief and heartache because of her mistake with Slayer. Slayer. Just the thought of him caused a crushing ache in her.

To see him after so much time and realize that she valued him as much as she ever had was a bitter blow. Her seasons of struggle and grief had taught her nothing. Her foolishness must surely be boundless. Why even the Gods of the Mountains would despair of one so beyond redemption. How could she want him still? How could— “You have been crying.” The soft sound of Wynter’s voice startled her back to an awareness of her surroundings. She cast a quick look at Wynter before averting her gaze. “Yes,” she admitted. “But I am sufficient.” She spoke quickly, hoping to forestall Wynter asking the reason for her tears. She knew she had to tell Wynter that Slayer was back in Volter. Despite all he had done, she had no wish to see the inevitable hatred in her daughter’s gaze when she learned that Slayer had deserted them for so many long, miserable seasons. Yet she must tell her the truth that night before she went to visit Meka and saw him there. “We must talk. Go inside and I will prepare a meal after I put in the rest of the plantings.” Wynter hesitated. “Whatever is troubling you will soon be put right, Mother.” Nothing could be right as long as Slayer was back in Volter. Until he returned to Tern Terra, she would have no peace. She forced a smile and went back to her plantings. Seeing Slayer earlier that day had both shocked and angered her as she had made a sort of peace with the past and had not expected to see him again. She put the rest of the plantings in, washed her hands at the small lean-to outside the hut, and with a heavy heart went inside to talk to Wynter. She paused in the doorway, frowning. Wynter had laid out the eating utensils on the table along with the fresh bread Ayanni’s mother had brought them just that morning. Wynter now stood over the fire, stirring the slowly cooking stew of herbs and plantings. She rushed inside, closing the door behind her. “What are you doing?” Wynter resisted her efforts to take the ladle and continued stirring the stew. “Please sit down, Mother. It is not right that I should continue to do nothing while you toil all day. I am perfectly capable of helping. So please sit down and I will serve you for once.” Although weary and tired, Ayanni shook her head. “If I must toil, it is my own doing. You did nothing to deserve such a low station. It is not right that one such as you should toil.” “Please, Mother. Just this once allow me the honor of serving she who not only bore me, but has struggled so fiercely to provide for me.” “Wynter, you…I have not told you this, but you have royal blood. It is unseemly that you should wait on anyone.” Wynter clutched her hand against her breasts. “You are not anyone. You are she who bore me. You are she whom I shall always value above all others. Please, Mother. Be seated.” With tears filling her eyes Ayanni sat at the table. Despite her lowly station, she felt blessed by the Gods of the Mountains. She had done nothing worthy of such devotion. She blinked back her tears. “Wynter, you have not questioned me about your sire.” Wynter turned to look at her. “I have always known you would tell me when the time was right.”

With the fear of losing her to Slayer weighing heavy on her shoulders, Ayanni knew she must tell Wynter that Slayer would probably come to take her away to Tern Terra very soon. “He is Slayer, elder offspring to Hunter, future ruler of Tern Terra. He…he has returned to Volter.” Wynter placed a bowl of stew on the table before her, then placed a hand on her mother’s shoulder. “I know, Mother. I have met him.” The breath caught in Ayanni’s throat. “You have?” “I encountered him as I returned home. Oh, Mother. Is he not the finest Carnivore ever born?” The excitement, pride, and admiration in Wynter’s voice struck like a knife. When Slayer took Wynter he would take her only reason for living. She tried to tell herself Wynter deserved to live in luxury in Tern Terra, but the thought of a life without Wynter brought a fresh flood of tears to her eyes and anguish to her heart she could not bear. “When is he returning?” “I do not know.” She bit her lip. “I will miss you so much.” Wynter’s hand tightened on her shoulder. “What do you mean?” “When you go…” She sucked in a breath and fought back the tears. “Go where?” “To Tern Terra with your sire.” “What?!” Wynter sank down to her knees and stared up at her, her dark eyes quickly filling with tears. “What are you talking about? Have you grown weary of me, Mother? I know I have not been as obedient as I should have been, but I will change, Mother! I promise! Don’t send me away! Please!” “Send you away? Never!” “Then…I do not understand. What were you speaking of when you said you would miss me?” “Wynter, you are the elder offspring of the future ruler of Tern Terra. Now that Slayer knows about you, he will take you back with him when he goes.” “Never!” Wynter’s dark eyes shone with determination. “No one…not even Seeker himself could induce me to leave you, Mother!” She wrapped her arms around Ayanni’s legs and pressed against her. “I would rather be here with you with barely enough to eat than to live in splendor in Tern Terra without you.” “I fear you will have little choice but to leave me, Wynter.” Wynter rose and stared down at her. “I am Wynter, elder offspring of Slayer, future ruler of Tern Terra. No one will take me from you, Mother.” She extended her right hand. “Anyone who tries will regret it.” Ayanni looked at Wynter with a sort of awe. Her daughter was as tall as she with a slender yet pleasing build. Wynter’s hair, dark and straight hung past her shoulders and fell along ample breasts. Her child had become an adult while she toiled with the plantings. And though Wynter spoke with respect, there

was an undeniable authority about her. She was indeed a regal and royal daughter of Tern Terra. It would be a crime against the Gods of the Mountains to keep her in Volter. “You belong in Tern Terra.” “Have no fear. I will never go without you, Mother.” Wynter smiled. “Now, eat. After you have, you must rest and I will see to the finishings. Then I will have a final walk before sleeping.” About to protest, Ayanni bit her lip and remained silent. It was time she accepted the fact that Wynter could take care of herself. Although she knew Wynter would never rule Tern Terra, she felt sure Wynter would be accepted there as Slayer’s elder offspring. Not only was she regal and of royal blood, but she had the gift of the right hand. None on the Plaines would be able to harm her. Nevertheless, it was difficult to watch Wynter walk out into the darkened forest without her. Unable to stop herself, Ayanni grabbed her stout stick and crept out after her. ***** My lord? From his reclining position next to Meka, Slayer looked up at Totter, standing over him in the darkened forest.Yes? You are sufficient? I am. Forgive my impertinence, my lord, but should I not make a journey to the hut of my lady Wynter to ensure that all is sufficient before settling down? Slayer suppressed a sigh. Totter was clearly taken with Wynter. He could imagine Seeker’s reaction to such a circumstance. It was not a situation Slayer should encourage, but he remembered his own feelings the first time he saw Ayanni and found it impossible to be too harsh with Totter. Should Wynter find him a nuisance, then he would act. Yes, but take care that you do not disturb her or Ayanni, Totter. Make sure all is secure…stay for a time if you feel the need, but do not frighten Ayanni. And do not impose yourself on either of them. Totter inclined his head.I will take care to follow your instructions very carefully, my lord. Totter paused and Slayer followed his gaze several yards away to where Macak rested.You will be sufficient while I am gone, my lord? There is no one on the Plaines that I fear. Go, Totter, and take care of any of your needs while you are gone. I am and will be sufficient with the prides I was reared amongst. I will see you after the rising of the sun when you have hunted and fed. Should you need me, my lord, you have but to call. Of that I have no doubt. Go with no fears, Totter. ***** Wynter lay in the forest on her back upon the bow of a tree with low hanging branches, staring up at the moon overhead, enjoying the nocturnal sounds of the forest. This was her favorite time with the stars out and the forest creatures moving quietly through the jungle and through the branches above her head.

She had learned much since the rising of the sun, who her sire was, why Ayanni had never allowed her to help in anyway, and had met Slayer. Slayer. She had felt Ayanni’s fear, but she knew her sire would do nothing to hurt Ayanni. She frowned. Why could Ayanni not see that as well? She felt a gentle brush against her mind and slowly sat up, with her back against the trunk of the tree. As she watched the path, a big, Carnivore with a tanned coat and a beautiful, dark mane emerged from the foliage. She felt a strange feeling in her chest and between her legs in her mating tunnel as she watched him pad slowly towards the tree where she sat. She recognized the reactions as those of an adult female. Even Ayanni had finally realized that Wynter was an adult. Acknowledging her first adult cravings excited her. The Carnivore approaching was big, with a sense of leashed power about him that seemed to aggravate the strange, yet not unpleasant feeling in her chest. Her lips parted and she found she breathed through her mouth as he stopped under the tree with his head bowed respectfully. My lady, Wynter. You are sufficient? Do you require assistance? She looked down at him. His mane was magnificent and his coat a rich luxuriant color. His voice was deep and warm and the sound of it made her feel very strange indeed. Her hands itching to stroke his coat, she dropped out of the tree and stood near him. “Totter.” Her voice came out low and raspy. She cleared her throat and tried again. “Why are you here? Is my sire sufficient?” He is, my lady. I have come to…ensure that all is well with you. Is it, my lady? “Yes.” And with she who bore you? She is sufficient as well? She nodded. “She is.” Why is my lady out alone? “Totter, would you render me a service?” You have but to name it and I will perish trying to render it, my lady. She smiled, feeling warm and needy. “I do not think I would wish you to perish, Totter.” He lifted his head and Ayanni had a sensation of falling endlessly as she gazed into his warm, dark eyes. It was a fall, she found she not only didn’t mind, but delighted in making. Her throat tightened and moisture filled her mating tunnel. She wet her lips and forced herself to look away. How can I be of service to you, my lady? She swallowed slowly and turned to look at him, although she was careful not to gaze directly into his eyes. “Do not call me your lady. I am Wynter, born of Ayanni of Volter.” You are also Wynter, elder offspring of Slayer, future ruler of Tern Terra. It is not proper for me to address you as anything but my lady. Unable to stop herself, she looked directly into his dark eyes and felt a consuming need to see him…all of him. Although she herself had never mated, she had seen Keta mate and had enjoyed watching the cock of Keta’s lover sliding in and out of her mating channel. Now she knew she wanted to share that

experience with the Carnivore in front of her. “And are you always proper, Totter? Do you never do something just because you want to?” I do not have that luxury, my lady. I am Totter, elder offspring of Toren, born to serve the royal house of Seeker with my lifeblood if necessary. I can not afford to indulge myself in anything improper. “Oh, but Totter, sometimes one must be a little improper.” She smiled at him, stroking her palm along his flank. “When we are alone like this, I forbid you to call me anything other than Wynter. I will hear no more my ladies from you when we are alone. Agreed?” He hesitated before inclining his big, handsome head. “And I will have none of that bowing of heads either when we are alone. When we are…can we not just be Totter and Wynter…equals?” His head shot up at that.No, my lady! There can be no talk of our being equals. I am your servant, sworn to give my life in your defense, if necessary. “I would never allow you to die for me, Totter!” It is a service I would gladly render with my only regret being that I could do it but once, my lady. Wynter’s eyes misted with tears at his heartfelt sincerity. “You were going to call me Wynter when we are alone,” she reminded him. I fear my lord Slayer would not approve. She smiled. “Then we will not tell him. Now, will you walk with me through the forest, Totter?” It would be my honor to accompany you, my la— “Wynter.” Wynter. The sound of her name in his voice sent welcome warmth through her. Save for Slayer and possibly Hunter, she doubted a more magnificent Carnivore had ever walked the Volterian Plaines. She felt honored, excited, and breathless to walk through the forest with his big, reassuring bulk at her side. Her feelings for him confused her. She had never felt anything like this with any other male. None of the males in either Meka or Berka’s pride had this effect on her. Many of those males had wanted to mate with her and although she had always known she would take a carnivore lover rather than a human one, no one had stirred her—until now. She paused and looked at him as an unpleasant thought struck her. “Totter, what is your mate called?” I am not yet mated…Wynter. The Gods of the Mountains be praised. Smiling, she walked along the trail with the moonlight shining on her and Totter’s company to keep her content. “But there is someone you look forward to mating with?” His hesitation was brief.There is no one, my lady. She sensed that he was not being particularly forthcoming with her. She stopped and turned to look into his eyes, running her hands through his mane.No one?

He looked away from her and her heart thumped as she felt a wave of longing from him…directed at her. Breathing deeply, she slid a hand down from his mane and over his flank.No one? she asked again. He moved away from her, still avoiding her gaze.I will see you safely back, my lady, then I must return to my lord Slayer. Wynter. Please. Wynter. She sighed. She had been too bold and now he had retreated. She would act more prudently next time— maybe. They covered the distance to the hut in silence. At the door, he bowed his head.I will take my leave of you, my lady. “Will you come walk with me in the forest after sun rising? I would like to show you where I live.” Although she felt his pleasure at her suggestion, he answered in a calm voice.I can make no promises, Wynter. I am at my lord Slayer’s disposal. She felt certain that her sire would deny her very little, including the company of Totter. “If I ask my sire and he agrees, would you find accompanying me an unpleasant task?” If it be my lord Slayer’s wish, I will accompany you. “That is not what I asked.” That is all I am prepared to say, my lady. She sighed. Why would he not say what she wanted him to? She knew that even if she ordered him to speak, he would say no more than he wanted to. She liked that about him. “Then I must be content with that. I will see you again, Totter.” I will look forward to that, my…Wynter. She curled her hand into a fist to keep from stroking it along his flank.As will I, Totter, elder offspring of Toren. Chapter Seven

Wynter stood at the door of the hut watching Totter move away. She turned to go inside, but the ache in her was unbearable. Taking a deep breath, she raced through the forest in the direction Totter had taken, calling softly to him.Totter. He turned to face her.My lady? What is it? She hesitated, then approached, and slipped her arms around his neck.I do not wish to be parted from you. My lady…I must go before I do something I must not. She trembled with anticipation. That’s what she hoped for—that he would do something he should not. She leaned forward and brushed her mouth against his. She had expected it to feel strange. It did not. It felt right and proper that her lips would touch his in such an intimate way. Closing her eyes, she kissed

him slowly, but with a growing hunger. She felt his passion and his resistance.My lady, you mustn’t. She allowed the tip of her tongue to touch his lips.I must. Do not deny me, Totter. Please. My lady…we must not. We must, she countered and kissed him again. She felt a shudder go through his entire body. Then his tail whipped out and wrapped around her, pulling her closer. She sighed and surrendered to the passion and power in the kiss he took command of. Couple with me, Totter,she whispered. He growled deep in his chest cavity and released her.It is not permitted. She lifted her chin. She was Wynter, elder offspring of Slayer, who would one day rule Tern Terra. There was nothing she wanted that she would not have. She lay on the ground on her back, her hand extended.Couple with me,she urged softly. She felt his struggle. I am to guard and protect the royal family. I am not permitted to— Heart thumping, she bent her knees and parted her legs, exposing her mating channel to his gaze.Totter, elder offspring of Toren, I have a need. Do not deny me. Couple with me. He advanced slowly and her tunnel filled with moisture. He surprised her by urging her gently onto her stomach. The touch of his tongue against her puckered bottom felt strange. Still, an undercurrent of excitement danced through her. He must have shifted because she felt human hands on her waist, urging her hips upward. Keeping her eyes closed and surrendering to him with complete trust, she felt the tip of his cock, hard, thick, and heavy pressing at her bottom. She tensed. She wanted him, but she knew the coming coupling would not be without discomfort. He gently parted her and ejaculated into her. Feeling his seed enter her gave her a pleasure she had never imagined and made her eager to feel his cock inside her. “Bottom mate with me,” she pleaded. “It is not permitted, but I fear I cannot do what I should in this instance.” She rolled over onto her back so that she could see him. She lifted her legs and pressed her bottom against his hardened cock. “Mate with me.” He pressed forward. She bit her lip and pressed her hips downward. He eased into her bottom and she gasped. She had never had anything inside her bottom and feeling his hardened flesh easing into her took her breath away. A wall of pain crashed down on her. She sucked in a breath and froze. His forward motion stopped and he leaned over her, kissing her breasts and brushing his tail against her pussy, sending a wave of pleasure to cover the pain. It was strange that in his humanoid form, he had retained his lovely tail. “Don’t stop,” she begged. “I want this…I want you. Take me.” He allowed her several moments to adjust to having her bottom invaded before he continued to move forward. She felt him stretching and filling her bottom until he was fully seated in her. When he was, he paused again, allowing her more time to adjust to his length and thickness.

It felt strange but nice. He cupped his hands over her butt, lifted it, and began moving slowly in and out of her, leaving her bottom almost completely and then filling her up again. As he stroked into her, he sucked at her breasts, his teeth gently piercing the skin of each breast, his tongue teasing her nipples. Icy chills shot through her, making her body stiffen and shudder with delight. She moaned and felt the most incredible joy suffuse her body. It seemed to explode out from her bottom and engulf her entire being. She wrapped her arms and legs around him and surrendered to the ecstasy brought by his cock. When he shuddered and let out a deep growl, she held onto him as he filled her bottom with his seed. She sighed. Next time, she vowed, he would spill his seed inside her mating channeling. If the Gods of the Mountains smiled on her, she would be fertile and bear his cubs. She would call their first female cub Meka. ***** With the rising of the sun, Slayer woke to find Meka, Macak, and all the pride members gone. He was alone. He rose and called to Totter who immediately trotted up to him from the surrounding foliage. My lord? Where is she who bore me? She and he who is called Macak went hunting. Slayer stiffened. Meka was in no condition to hunt. Why would Macak allow her to risk further injury? Which way did they go? They went toward the watering hole. Fearing for she who bore you, I followed for a time but was ordered away. Slayer made an effort to control his temper. No purpose would be served by pointing out that Totter had erred in allowing Macak to send him back.Macak had no authority to send you away. I recognized no such authority from him, my lord. However, I thought it prudent to obey when she who bore you ordered me away. Slayer could see no reason for Meka to send Totter away unless she did it to please Macak. And why should Macak wish to be alone with an injured carnivore on a hunt? Berka’s veiled warnings came to mind. His chest swelled with rage.Macak! Hear me, he roared. I am on my way. It is in your best interests to ensure no harm befalls she who bore us. There was no response, but he knew Macak had heard him. He turned and raced through the forest with Totter at his side.Meka, I am coming! Slayer, my cub…I am not sufficient. The weakness he sensed in Meka sent a chill of fear through him.I am coming! And then to Macak, in a soft dangerous voice meant for him alone,If she does not survive, I will dispatch you in the most painful way imaginable! There will not even be enough left of you to gather in the misty place! he promised.

***** “Wynter, there is nothing I would like more, but my chores will not allow me to go walking. There is too much to do.” Wynter turned from the small opening in the side of the hut and looked at Ayanni. As usual, Ayanni looked weary but determined to work from sun rising to sun setting. Well not this time. “Mother, I will not accept anything less than your agreeing to come with me. I would have you meet Totter.” Ayanni shook her head. “Oh, Wynter! You are so young…too young to value anyone.” “I am the age you were when you met my sire. I am an adult, mother and I know what I feel for Totter is as strong as what you feel for Slayer.” She watched Ayanni’s eyes widen and a sad look settle on her face. Even after all the hard seasons of struggle, Ayanni was still very pleasing to look at. Small wonder Slayer had never forgotten her. “Please, Mother. Will you not come for a little while? When we return, we will both work in the field.” She saw Ayanni ‘s lips part and spoke quickly but firmly. “I have been selfish and remiss in allowing you to toil alone for so long.” Ayanni crossed the room and clutched her hand. “Oh, Wynter. Never selfish.” She sighed. “Yes, Mother. Exceedingly selfish, but it will not happen again. You are she who is valued by the future ruler of Tern Terra. It is unseemly for you to toil alone.” Ayanni moved away. “He does not value me, Wynter.” “Oh but he does, Mother. He has told me and I have sensed it in him. Will you come and meet Totter?” “I have no wish to see your sire again.” She sensed the longing in Ayanni. “Oh, Mother. There is no need to pretend with me.” “It is so weak of me to long for him after so many seasons and so much pain.” She squeezed Ayanni’s hand. “It was not pain willingly inflicted. Will you not give him another chance?” Ayanni shook her head. “I cannot, but I will come meet Totter.” She smiled and threw her arms around Ayanni’s neck. “Oh, Mother, you will be so impressed.” Ayanni hugged her. “I am certain of it.” Some moments later they walked together in the forest. Although she had assured Ayanni they would be safe, Ayanni carried the big, stout stick. Longing to see Totter again, Wynter had to overcome the urge to run swiftly along the path to Meka and Berka’s territory. But Ayanni would not be able to keep pace. Halfway there, she stopped abruptly, tilting her head, closing her eyes, and listening intently. “What is it?” Ayanni asked softly. Wynter frowned, keeping her eyes closed. “It’s Meka, Mother.”

“What about her?” Wynter’s eyes snapped opened. “She’s in trouble. She is near.” Ayanni sucked in a breath. “We must help her.” “Yes. She is in grave danger. Oh, Mother. I wish there was time to see you safety back home before I go to her, but I fear she would perish if I did. Keep close, Mother.” With her heart thumping, she set off running as fast as she dared with Ayanni several body lengths behind her. She could feel Meka’s distress and despair.I am coming, Meka. Hold on. No.She sensed Meka’s dismay.It is too dangerous. You must not come any closer. There is great danger. Slayer is coming. Retreat and be safe. Slayer will ensure that I am sufficient. But Wynter could sense that Meka was being less than truthful. Meka was trying to protect her at the risk of her own life. She glanced back over her shoulder to ensure there was no danger to Ayanni and ran on. She reached out to those she sensed surrounding and threatening the injured Meka. I am Wynter, elder offspring of Slayer, future ruler of Tern Terra. She who you menace is Meka, she who bore Slayer. Stand down or face his wrath and mine. This is not Tern Terra, offspring of Slayer and if you do not wish to share in Meka’s fate, come no closer. The words spoken with contempt sent a chill through Wynter.Harm her and you will meet a painful end, she threatened. As she neared the spot deep in the forest where she knew Meka was somehow managing to hold off her attackers, Wynter paused and allowed Ayanni to catch up with her. “Mother, this is too dangerous for you.” She looked around and saw a tree that she knew Ayanni would have no problems ascending. “Climb up that tree and wait until Slayer arrives before you come down.” Ayanni shook her head. “No. There is no way I’ll allow you to go on alone, Wynter. We’ll go together or not at all. I will allow no challenge in this matter. Do you understand?” There was no time to argue and in truth, Ayanni’s resolve impressed her and made her proud. “Yes, Mother.” She inclined her head slightly. Then she turned and with Ayanni close behind her, she ran into the wooded area and felt her heart thump at the sight that greeted her. Meka, breathing deeply and painfully stood with her back against a huge tree, her flanks covered with blood, wavering on her feet. Surrounding her on three sides stood three adolescent males. Sweeping Ayanni behind her, Wynter ran forward and stood in front of Meka, her clenched right hand extended. Ayanni stood at her side, the stout stick clutched in her hands. I am Wynter, elder offspring of Slayer, he who will one day rule Tern Terra, stand down or face our combined wrath. The apparent leader of the trio, a medium-sized beige carnivore with blood on his left flank padded forward. The other two males also showed signs of having been in a battle. Meka had put up a fight as befitted one who headed two prides and one who had born a royal son of Tern Terra. Offspring of Slayer, you may be, but you are but a human cub. Stand aside or you will all be

dispatched,the beige carnivore told her. I am far from just a human cub. The one called Meka must be dispatched. We have no quarrel with you. Stand aside or be dispatched with her. Your sire will not arrive in time to save you. I do not require the assistance of my sire to dispatch cowards of your sort who would attack an injured carnivore.She lifted her head.You have been warned! Wynter took several deep breaths, calling up the energy she always coiled in her stomach. She opened her hand and a jolt shot out from her fingertips. The carnivore padding towards her stopped and wavered. The other two roared and charged. Ayanni screamed and Wynter swung around and quickly thrust out her hand to the closer of the two charging cats. Pausing only long enough to make sure he stopped, she turned to face the last one, not many body lengths away. She thrust out her hand and again felt the discharge leave her body, but this time the resultant charge was not strong enough to stop the charging cat. Wynter’s heart thumped. She didn’t fear for herself, but she was afraid for Meka, who had clearly been gravely injured and for Ayanni. She had been a fool to bring Ayanni into such a dangerous situation. Losing Meka would be a tragedy. Losing Meka and Ayanni would break her heart, as well as Slayer’s. Slayer. Keeping her gaze on the carnivore’s encircling them, she reached out.Sire.You must come immediately. There is great danger to Meka, Ayanni, and myself. Several carnivores have gravely injured Meka surround us. Come quickly, sire, or I fear I will not be able to protect those you value most. Having called out to Slayer, she snatched the stick from Ayanni. “Get back, Mother. Stay close to Meka,” she cried and ran forward, somersaulting into the air, twirling the stick. As she sailed over the charging carnivore, she brought the stick down across the back of the cat’s neck as hard as she could. She heard something snap as she landed lightly on her feet as the carnivore went down to his knees. She didn’t have time to catch her breath as the other two cats were now charging towards her. And she knew she did not have the energy to stop them. She turned and rushed towards the smaller of the cats, swinging the stick. Her intended target let out a low roar and jumped aside in time to avoid the blow. She saw a flash out of the corner of her eyes and then felt the breath knocked from her lungs as the other carnivore slammed into her, knocking her to the ground. Lying on her back, stunned, she nevertheless had the presence of mind to bring the stick up to ward off the snapping jaws of the carnivore standing over her. She heard Ayanni screaming and Meka roar as she fought to keep the cat’s teeth away from her neck. A big paw descended. She twisted her head to the side, but was unable to avoid the blow completely. She felt pain in her head and something warm running down her face. She was injured and about to die. But she would not die without putting up more fight. She extended her right hand, trying to channel what little energy she felt coiled in her stomach. Nothing happened and she resigned herself to a quick death. But Ayanni and Meka still had a chance to escape. Meka. Take Ayanni and go. I will stay and battle to keep those who would attack you here. Go and take she who bore me while there is time. Instead of retreating, Meka left out an angry roar and then charged forward with Ayanni on her back, clinging to her neck. As they reached Wynter and the struggling cat, Ayanni jumped off Meka’s back and Meka slammed into the carnivore standing over Wynter, knocking him onto his side.

Wynter bounded to her feet and rushed to stand in front of Ayanni. She felt dizzy and her vision was blurred, but she had to protect Ayanni. Angry tears filled her eyes and rage her heart as she saw Meka lying on her side, bleeding and barely breathing. Sire!she screamed.You must come. Meka is dying and I am not sufficient. I fear I cannot protect Ayanni much longer. Please come, sire. ***** Wynter’s plea for help sent a chill of fear and blind fury through Slayer as he and Totter raced to the spot where the three females who meant so much to him faced death. To Wynter, he called out.I am coming, my cub. You are of Tern Terra. You must survive. If Meka is dying, there is nothing more you can do for her. Take Ayanni and flee. I will avenge she who bore me. I cannot leave her, sire. She has saved Ayanni many times. Wynter! Take Ayanni and flee. I command it. I cannot, sire. I am…am not sufficient. Slayer felt as if his heart had been ripped out. Meka was dying, Wynter was injured, and Ayanni’s life was at risk. He sent up a silent prayer to the Gods of the Mountains. Then he roared out an angry challenge to those threatening Ayanni and Meka.Infidels! Hear me! I am Slayer, elder offspring of Hunter, he who will rule Tern Terra. I order you to stand down or I will dispatch not only you, but all whom you value. I will show no mercy to your prides. I will dispatch them all from cub to elder. No one will be safe from my wrath. Hear me and obey! Stand down! And to Macak.Run, Macak. Run long and far for I will dispatch you on sight, you who have killed she who bore me will have a very short life. And to Wynter,Hold on, Wynter. I am coming, my cub. Beside him, Totter left out an angry roar that reverberated for miles through the forest. He sensed an anguish and fear for Wynter in Totter’s roar that nearly rivaled his own. I am Totter, elder offspring of Toren, of the royal guard to the house of Seeker, lord of Tern Terra. I will hunt you all down to the last cub and dispense a vengeance that will make the planes of Volter run with blood. Stand down, cowards who would attack females, or face the painful and ignorable death befitting your kind. Slayer put his head down close to the ground and let out an angry growl. Totter joined him in his verbal challenge and roaring together, they created a sound that echoed for miles through the jungle.

Chapter Eight

Both Slayer’s and Totter’s challenge reached Wynter. The combined vocals were so powerful that she almost felt as if the ground beneath her feet shook with their rage. She watched the carnivores menacing her and Ayanni exchange nervous glances. They were both young and she was sure neither had ever seen

one of the Great Carnivores nor had occasion to hear the powerful battle-cry of one of the great cats. The sounds of her sire and he whom she valued, infused her with hope. Keeping Ayanni behind her, and ignoring her desire to close her eyes and lose consciousness, she backed up until they stood with their backs against the tree. She held the stick clutched in her left hand, breathing slowly in an effort to dredge up the remnants of energy still coiled in her belly. Not only was Slayer coming, but so was Totter. All would be well if she could just hold the remaining carnivores off for a little longer. She remembered Slayer’s words.You are of Tern Terra. And so she was. Both she and Ayanni would somehow survive and those who had taken Meka’s life would pay dearly with theirs. Cowards! Leave now while you still can! The two cats exchanged glances and then started a slow charge towards her. Wynter took a deep breath and clenched her right hand, bringing it slowly up from her side. “No, Wynter. They will kill you.” Ayanni snatched the stick from her hand and shoved her away and stood in front of her. “But only after they have killed me.” Weakened by the blow she had received to her the side of her head, Wynter lost her balance and fell back against the tree. Unable to stop herself, she slid down the trunk of the tree and sat on the ground, dazed and confused. As the cats charged, she lifted her right hand and thrust it forward, her stomach muscles aching with the effort to dredge up enough energy to stop the charging carnivores. Nothing happened and she screamed with fear as the bigger of the cats, evaded Ayanni wild swings and knocked her to the ground. The other carnivore rushed at Wynter. Then as she struggled to rise, two loud growls shook the world and Slayer and Totter bounded onto the trail. Before the cat snapping at Ayanni could close his teeth over her neck, Slayer had slammed into him, knocking him away from Ayanni. He then snapped his teeth shut on the smaller cat’s neck and lifted him above his head before slamming him onto the ground at his feet. Lifting his massive paw, he delivered two crushing blows to the head of the other cat. Wynter heard bones breaking and the cat let out a short, cry of pain and then lay silent and still on the ground. The carnivore rushing at her, tried to veer off and flee, but Totter let out a loud, powerful roar that seemed to frighten and confuse the smaller cat. As he stood, staring, with wide, fear-filled eyes, Totter, delivered a blow to the side of his head that dropped him to his side. Slayer looked over at her.My cub…you are sufficient? I am now, sire. Slayer cast a quick look at Ayanni.See to our cub. Ayanni nodded and rushed across to kneel at her side and wrap her arms around her. Returning Ayanni’s embrace, Wynter watched as Slayer went to the spot where Meka lay. Meka lifted her head.My cub…I knew you would come. Lie with me so that I may die in peace with

you at my side…you whom I will always love best. Tears filled Wynter’s eyes and rolled down her cheeks as Slayer let out a roar of pain and anguish and lay his head against Meka’s flank.Do not perish, Meka. Please. I am so sorry I did not arrive in time to help you. Do not despair. You are here now, my cub. I will die happy with you at my side. No, Meka! Do not die!He lifted his head skyward.Please save her! I will do anything…give anything…my right to the throne of Tern Terra. Please save her. It is all right, my cub. Now you are here, I will no longer fight entering the misty place. No!Slayer lifted his head and called out angrily.Macak! Hear me! I will dispatch you in the most vicious manner! No, my cub. You must not hurt him. He meant no harm! He led you into a trap and deserted you! For that he will be dispatched slowly! No, Slayer. This is the last thing I will ever ask of you. He is but a cub and longs to rule the prides. Promise me you will not dispatch him. He is your sibling. You must not hurt him…if you value me…promise me so that I may enter the misty place with an easy heart. Promise me, my cub. I…I promise. Unable to bear the scene playing out between Meka and her sire, misty eyed, Wynter looked at Totter. The cat at Totter’s feet attempted to rise. Totter swatted him with a sheathed paw.Remain as you are or die. Without waiting for a response, Totter padded over to her and licked her face.My lady. You are injured. I will dispatch the remaining coward slowly for this. Ayanni stiffened and Wynter tightened her arm around her. Totter was as big as Slayer and Wynter knew he must be a fearful sight to Ayanni. “Do not be fearful, Mother. This is Totter. Totter, this is Ayanni, she who bore me.” Totter immediately drew away and bowed his head.My lady Ayanni. The sounds of Slayer’s grief were more than Wynter could bear. She closed her fingers in Ayanni’s hair. “Mother, please. He needs you. Go to him and comfort him as only you can now.” To her surprise, Ayanni immediately rose and ran across to Slayer. Wynter watched as Ayanni lay at his side and stroked her hands along his flank, whispering softly to him. Totter moved closer to her and lay by her side.Wynter. She felt his concern, and more, for her. She reached up and wrapped her arms around his neck, burying her face against his beautiful, glorious mane.Oh, Totter. I thought I would die without knowing your kiss again. He wrapped his tail around her and although she was dizzy and weak, she felt safe and warm. She turned her head and brushed her lips against his. To her delight, he kissed her back, running the tip of his tongue along her lips. A flood of delight and ecstasy danced through her. Mating hunger filled her.I would feel you inside me again…this time in my mating tunnel…when we are not so sad. His answer delighted her.I look forward to cunt mating with you, My lady Wynter.

They shared another brief kiss before he pulled away from her and returned to the cat still cowering on the ground where Totter had left him. She looked over towards her parents and saw Ayanni holding her sire in her arms, kissing and comforting him as he grieved for Meka. A sudden, regal roar filled the air. Confused, Wynter watched as both Slayer and Totter lifted their heads. Slayer rose to his feet and wailed in answer. Moments later a huge Carnivore with a beautiful bronze coat and a dark golden mane, flanked by several other cats trotted into the clearing. Wynter sucked in a breath. She knew she was looking at the magnificent cat who had sired Slayer. Hunter, future ruler of Tern Terra. Totter bowed his head.My lord, Hunter. Slayer rushed to him.Sire. She who bore me has been dispatched. Hunter brushed his head gently against Slayer’s.My cub, do not despair. Sheela is here. She will do what she can. A smaller Carnivore went over to Meka. Ayanni let out a cry of fright and Slayer immediately returned to her side. Wynter saw with satisfaction Ayanni’s arms slip around his neck. He kneeled and she slid on his back, her face buried against his mane. Hunter looked at her and then Slayer.We will leave Sheela to do her work. Come introduce me to your cub. But sire, Meka has been dispatched. The grief in Slayer’s voice brought fresh tears to Wynter’s eyes. Do not be so sure she is beyond help,Hunter told him.Sheela is a powerful seer and healer. Come. I would meet your cub. First I would have you meet her mother. Hunter inclined his head.Who even now clings so fiercely to your neck you are in danger of being strangled? She is shy, sire. My lord Hunter, this is Ayanni, she who bore my cub. Ayanni, this is my lord Hunter, elder offspring of Seeker, who rules Tern Terra. Ayanni lifted her head and bowed it. “My lord, Hunter.” Wynter watched as the future ruler of Tern Terra bowed his head to her mother.Ayanni, she who bore my only grandcub…I am honored. And now sire, meet Wynter.She felt Slayer’s pride as he padded over to her.Sire.This is Wynter, my eldest offspring, born of Ayanni of Volter. Wynter, this is Hunter, my sire, and the most majestic and regal of all the Great Carnivores. Hunter sent a warm wave of affection towards her.Wynter…future ruler of Tern Terra, I am honored and humbled, my cub. My lord Hunter, I am…I am…She struggled to her feet, blinked rapidly at him, felt herself falling, and then was surrounded by darkness.

***** Ayanni felt Slayer’s grief as if it were her own. It was unbearable. It tore at her heart and made her long to comfort him. The seer, Sheela, had not been able to save Meka. Slayer and Hunter had wailed in grief at her passing while Sheela had tended to the unconscious Wynter as she and Totter had hovered over her. Finally the seer shifted into humanoid form had looked up at her and nodded. “She will be sufficient once she wakes. For now we must let her sleep undisturbed.” Totter had shifted into a tall, handsome humanoid with blond hair and dark eyes, and carried Wynter back to the hut. He had laid her on her bed and turned to look at Ayanni. “If my lady will allow me to stand watch over her, I would count it a favor.” “She will sleep for sometime, my lady,” Sheela informed her. She looked over her shoulder out the door where Slayer could be heard wailing in grief. “If I might suggest, my lord Slayer has a greater need for you at the moment. My lady Wynter will sleep and wake with some head discomfort, but nothing more. Go to my lord. Please.” Ayanni bent and kissed Wynter’s cheek and looked at Totter. She knew she looked into the eyes of one who truly valued Wynter. Although there was something in Sheela’s manner towards Slayer that trouble Ayanni, she knew that both the seer and Totter had Wynter’s best interest at heart. “I will go to him, but if she should awake and need me… “ “She will not awake for some time, my lady. I have instructed her body to sleep the pain away. It will be close to sun shining before she wakes. Please see to my lord.” After making sure Wynter slept soundly, Ayanni left Totter to stand watch over Wynter and went out back where Slayer lay with his head buried in Hunter’s flank, wailing in grief. Several Carnivores stood watch at a respectful distance. Although she was still nervous around so many huge Carnivores, she felt a need to comfort Slayer that she could not deny. His pain was like an ugly gaping wound. She slowly approached, stopping several feet from the grieving Carnivores. Hunter looked up at her. She saw a pain in his gaze.Come. He needs comfort that only you can provide. Looking into his gaze, she knew what he meant. What he wanted her to do…mate with Slayer. That was something she had promised herself she would never do again, even though it was the one thing she longed for. She shook her head. “I…I can not.” You must. His grief is great. He needs you. Come! Please! It was more of a command than it was a plea and Ayanni found herself stumbling forward.We will leave you alone, but we will be near should we be needed. Hunter rose and padded slowly away. After a moment he and the other Carnivores disappeared into the surrounding foliage. Ayanni turned back to face Slayer. He lay with his head on his paws, shudders shaking his body. His misery rolled over her, infusing her with sorrow. Ayanni’s heart felt as if it would break with Slayer’s. She stretched out beside him, pressing her body against his.I am so sorry. I grieve with you. She stroked a hand down his flank. He turned and buried his head against her, making a low, anguish cry.

I am so sorry, Slayer. She was brave and unselfish. She gave her last bit of strength to save us. And it was not the first time. She has come to my rescue on a number of occasions. It is my fault she has perished. I should have been here for her. This should not have happened. I should not have failed her. No! You did not fail her.She pressed her face against his.You must not blame yourself. Meka was she who bore me. It was my responsibility to safeguard her. I should not have gone to Tern Terra and left her. Had I stayed in Volter, I would have known what Macak planned and stopped him. She kissed his mane and pressed closer.Enough! I will not listen to any more of this! But she who bore me has been dispatched and I have been forbidden to seek my rightful vengeance. The Gods of the Mountains are just. She felt him stiffen against her. Then he turned to face her, his eyes troubled.You believe that, after all you have endured for so many seasons through no fault of your own? She was silent for several moments before deciding that she really did mean it. After all, because she had met and mated with him, she had Wynter, the sun in her life. And although she had suffered much, she could not wish Wynter unborn. And though she was reluctant to admit it, she was lying next to the only male she would ever value. It amazed her that he who would one day rule Tern Terra still found her pleasing after her years of toiling. She could feel his need for her. In fact, it mirrored her own. Yes, my lord Slayer,she answered quietly and lay her head against his upper underbelly. You must not address me as lord. Tantalizing remembrances of their one afternoon together teased her senses and love-starved body. She did not enjoy bottom mating and her only source of pleasure had come from losing herself in sweet memories of their coupling so long ago. That had sufficed in the past but not now. Not with him so close and in such obvious need of her. Now she wanted so much more. She sucked in a breath. She wanted him.You always have and always will be my lord, she whispered and reached a trembling hand down to rub over his sheathed cock. She felt it immediately begin to swell under her fingers. No!He surprised her when he drew back. She lifted her head and looked at him in confusion.What is it, my lord? He rose to his feet and gave an angry shake of his head.I have already instructed you not to call me lord. His obvious anger confused her. She sat up, twisting her hair in her fingers.What have I done to displease you? You offer yourself to me as a sacrifice because my sire commanded it. I do not want or require such a sacrifice from you! Chapter Nine

She felt her face burn. She bolted to her feet and stalked over to him. Raising her hand, she slapped his face so hard her hand stung.How dare you imply that I can be ordered to couple with someone I do wish to couple with. You think because I have not known pleasure since you coupled with me that I am easy and— I think no such thing and I intended to give no insult,he said quickly. He brushed his mane against her shoulder.Why can you not look into my heart and know how I feel? How I have always felt. How can you not know how I have longed for you? There has never been a sun rising or setting since I left you that I have not longed for you. The hunger and ache for you has eaten away at me for all these seasons. I have never stopped longing for you or valuing you. I never will. You are one…the only one I have ever valued. For me there will never be another one to take your place with me, Ayanni. Never. His impassioned plea tore at her heart. She knew in that moment that for herself, she could and would forgive him anything. She did not know if she could forgive him for all Wynter had been denied for so long. But that was something she would consider later. She had needs that only he could satisfy…needs that would no longer be denied. Excitement building, she slipped off her dress, revealing her bare body. It was no longer as slender and shapely as it had once been, but she could feel his rising excitement as he looked at her with dark eyes. Her legs trembled as she walked over to the nearest tree. Slipping her dress behind her, she leaned back against the tree, parted her legs, and waited for him. He made a low growl deep in his chest cavity. He padded slowly over to her. Her heart thundered in her chest as she noted his cock sliding out of its sheath. It had been so long. Moisture and heat filled her mating tunnel. His tongue flicked out and he gently, quickly drew it along her outer lips, making her stomach muscles tighten and clench. Hmm. He allowed the rough edge of his tongue to lap at her, then as she gasped, he leisurely thrust it forward and deep inside her, filling her with his warmth. “Oooh!” she moaned. How she had longed for this moment. It has been a lifetime since she had known such delight. “Slayer…” she whispered. “My lord, Slayer. “ He withdrew all but a quarter of his tongue and then thrust in back inside her. Pleasure sliced through her as he began a sweet, intoxicating motion inside her. Each time he began the descent into her, the tip of his tongue touched her interior clit, turning her body into liquid heat. A flutter of desire and passion flared in her, spreading through her entire body. Oh, this was why she had been born…to be this handsome, powerful male’s vassal…to be his slave…his humble and grateful servant. Giving in to the hunger and need she had suppressed for so long, she gripped his mane in her hands and began thrusting herself roughly forward on his tongue, grinding her groin and her pussy into his face and mouth. She could feel the edges of his teeth lightly brushing against her clit as she mindlessly rutted herself on him. Pleasure danced along her nerve endings and she burst into a blaze of heated passion and a release that was so sweet and so intense, that tears streamed down her eyes. She wrapped her arms around him and wept softly as she came…again and again.

He kept his tongue buried deep in her creaming body and sent soft words of value to her as she shuddered through her final explosion.I love you, Ayanni. Only you. Always and only you. For me there will never be anyone I love half as much. I am your humble servant and slave, my Ayanni. Forgive me. Forgive me and take me back! Still trembling, she wiped her damp cheeks against his mane and slumped back against the tree. To feel such pleasure again was wonderful beyond her memories, but she longed for more still…she had to have more. She unwound her arms from his neck and he backed slowly away from her, using his tongue to lick her juices off his face. Her legs gave way and she slid down the tree and sat on the ground with her legs parted, exposing her heated and still moist passage to his gaze. His cock, now fully erect, was still outside its sheath and she slowly licked her lips as her gaze settled on the object of her desire.Slayer…please , she whispered softly, rubbing a hand against her channel. Panting softly, he padded over to her and lowered his head. She closed her eyes as his tongue touched her breasts. He sucked gently but insistently at her breasts until they were both hard peaks. Then he took turns biting into them, his incredibly powerful teeth sinking into them enough to break the skin but not draw blood. Her passage flooded again and again. She lay writhing on the ground, longing for fulfillment. Finally she could bear no more. She raked her fingers through his mane and stared up at him.Take me! Now! I can wait no longer! Do not tease me any longer, my lord. Please! You are sure this is what you want? Yes!she screamed at him.It is what I have wanted and longed for since you left! Please, my lord. Rise, my Ayanni. I need you on your feet for this first time. Her mouth went dry and her legs shook as she rose and leaned back against the tree. He rose on his hind paws and moved forward, his cock, thick and long, exposed and erect. He laid his big body against hers. She reached between them and guided his cock to her entrance. He eased forward. His cock, hard and hot, slowly began to pierce her. She caught her breath and gasped. “Oooh!” He halted his forward motion. Don’t stop. Please. As you wish, my Ayanni. His hips moved gently forward. She nearly held her breath as he slowly filled her. The feelings assailing her were totally incredible. She had forgotten how enjoyable his entrance into her was. She closed her eyes and allowed her senses to be overwhelmed. Every part of her shared in the joy of his slow possession of her body. She wanted him to drive his cock in quickly even as she wanted him to make the experience last for an exquisitely long time. Finally her need to be completely filled with him won over. Clutching his flanks in her hands, she thrust her hips forward. After a brief hesitation, he slid his big body forward, sinking deep inside her, filling her as only he could.

“Oooh!” She bit her lip and trembled, her body on the brink of an explosion. She fought to control it, but lost the battle. A delicious orgasm washed over her and she surrendered to it, rutting herself wildly on his cock as she came. Fully seated in her and motionless, he allowed her to enjoy herself.That’s it my Ayanni. Feel my devotion and value for you…feel my love for you. Come for me and know how much I love you…how much I will always love you. She moaned and laid her face against his underbody as the last shudder left her body. She had to press her lips closed together to keep from telling him that she valued him too.That was so good, my lord. So good. I had forgotten how wonderful mating was with you. I had only my memories and they had begun to fade. She rotated her hips so that she could feel him, still hard and huge inside her. A tremor passed through his body and she realized how selfish she had been. She had been pleasured several times while he had yet to come. Sighing softly, she stroked her hands down his body. His skin felt soft and warm under her fingers.Now, my lord Slayer, it is your turn. She gave a gentle squeeze around his cock.Mate with me. Take me. She kissed his belly.Mate with me and fill me with your seed. It has been so long, my Ayanni, I fear I may not be able to be kind or gentle with you as you deserve. She raked her teeth against his belly and reached down to touch his balls.I do not require gentleness…I just want to be full of your seed again, my lord. My hunger for you does not require you to be gentle. Take me. That was all the encouragement he needed. He gently drew all but the head of his cock out of her. He lingered at her entrance for several long moments before easing back in her. He laid against her, his cock lying motionless in depths only he could touch, savoring being inside her again. Then he withdrew again before starting the long slide home. His languid movements created an almost unbearable joy in her. She moaned and slipped her arms around his big body.Do not torture me. Mate with me, my lord. Faster. More. Hard and fast, my lord. Please. I ache to belong fully to you again. Growing softly, he wrapped his tail around her waist, withdrew partway out of her, and then thrust back in with a force and passion that made her entire body tremble with pleasure.That’s it, my lord. Please. More. Harder. Don’t stop. As you wish, my love. She leaned back against the tree, bracing herself for the coming delights. Adding to her enjoyment was the sharing of his pleasure in her through their bond. Oh, how she had missed feeling him and hearing him in her head. Knowing he felt as overwhelmed by being with her again as he did helped her realize that he had meant everything he had said to her. He had not forgotten her. He had never stopped valuing her. Never. In a matter of moments he was rutting into her with wild abandon, almost hurting her. She curled her fingers in his flanks and pushed her hips back at him, opening herself fully so he could drive his hard, hot cock as deep into her as possible. The furious motion of his powerful hips driving his cock into her set off a series of mini explosions in her she could not control. Her mind went blank and she clung to him helplessly, sobbing with delight as one

orgasm rolled into yet another one. He stopped briefly to soothe her, whispering to her softly. He valued her. He loved her. He had never forgotten her. He could never be sufficient without her. He was her slave and lived to make her happy. He loved her…he loved her…he loved her. She was only marginally aware that he was about to come. He shuddered, laying his big body so tight against hers she could barely breathe, and then blasted stream after stream of seed into her. Although reluctant, she pushed weakly against his big, shuddering body.My lord. I cannot breathe. My apologies, Ayanni!He drew his body away from her and slowly eased his cock out of her. When he removed his tail from her waist, she slid down the tree and sat staring up at him with wonder-filled eyes. He dropped to all fours and bent his head. She parted her legs and closed her eyes as he lapped at her channel. His tongue slid inside and she moaned.Oh, my lord . She curled her fingers in his mane and gasped as he licked her to a quick climax. Then, as she remained on the ground, he went down on his hunches, shot his cock balls deep with one lunge and had her two more times, whispering to her that he had longed to fuck her again so many times. Although never having heard the word fuck, Ayanni had no trouble deciding what it meant or deciding that this fucking was a very good thing indeed. By the time he finally drew out of her, she sat in a pool of their combined juices. She was exhausted, but very satisfied. She thought that she needed to get up and see about Wynter, but she fell asleep where she was with Slayer lying beside her, whispering softly to her that she was a luscious fuck as he remembered. Nice. Very nice. She woke later. She lay naked on her bed from the hut. She saw Slayer lying nearby, his eyes shining in the dark, looking at her.You are sufficient? She remembered how he had coupled with her and felt a flush of pleasure and heat warm her face.Yes, my lord. Do not call me, lord, Ayanni. I am not your lord. I should get up and check on Wynter,she said, suddenly feeling shy with him. I have just checked. She breathes easily and Sheela has assured me she is and will be sufficient when she wakes. Sheela. There was something about the seer that made her uneasy. She wasn’t sure why.How long have you known her? Known who? Sheela. The seer. She felt his uneasiness and tensed, certain his words would not be welcome. I have known her for many seasons…since I left Volter. And? And what?

And how well do you know her? Well enough. She tended me when I was injured. She sat up slowly, looking around for her clothing. She saw her dress laying to her right. She slipped it over head and rose, smoothing it over her body as she did. “So. She is the one!” He rose slowly. She could feel his understanding of her meaning along their bond. She waited quietly for his response. Would he lie to her or would he tell her the truth and expect her to accept his having sent for his lover so soon after his arrival in Volter? She…offered a measure of comfort. “You coupled with her!” Yes. Her heart swelled with jealousy and rage as she thought of the slender beautiful seer repeatedly coupling with Slayer while she herself had been bottom mated again and again without the least bit of consideration given for her pleasure or her emotional needs. She stalked over to him and slapped him. “I hate you!” She turned to run, but was held back when his tail whipped up and around her waist. She glared at him. “Release me!’ Ayanni, please! Listen to me! “I will not! How could you send for her and tell me you value me?” Ayanni! Sheela is one of the most sufficient seers in all of Tern Terra. When she who bore me was not sufficient, who else would I send for but her? My only thought was to have Meka sufficient again. I did not send for her for any other reason. You can feel my thoughts and desires, Ayanni. Search my soul and you will know that for me there will never be anyone but you. She shook her head. “Release me! I do not wish to be near you again! You bring physical pleasure for a time followed by heartache that lasts for seasons. I have had enough of you! Release me!” Ayanni, please. I need you. She felt the wave of grief from him but hardened herself. “I grieve with you for the loss of she who bore you, but I have given you all the comfort you may expect from me. Release me!” His tail tightened around her waist briefly before he released her.Ayanni. Sheela can never mean to me what you do. Please forgive me for having hurt you. “I will…when you return to Tern Terra without trying to take Wynter from me!” She felt his shock and then his tail whipped around her waist again, holding her in place.Take her from you? You think I would take her without your permission? “I didn’t think you would leave me to struggle alone but you did! So should I not believe you would take her? I heard your sire say she would one day rule Tern Terra. I know you won’t let me keep her here.” Ayanni. I would never take her without your permission and in fact I have no plans to return to Tern Terra for some time. I will remain in Volter to lead the prides in Meka’s place for a time and to ensure that Macak does not return. I promised Meka I would not dispatch him but he will rule the prides only

after I have been dispatched to the misty place. She suppressed a shiver at the thought of Slayer being dispatched. “What will become of him?” If he returns he will be dispatched. “But what of your promise to Meka?” I promised not to dispatch him myself. In honor of her, I will not seek him out, but should our paths cross, Totter will dispatch him in a most painful way to pay for what he has done! It seemed strange that Meka, who had been so noble and honorable, could have born a cub capable and willing to lead her into a trap that had resulted in her untimely demise. And yet she had also born Slayer and her blood ran through Wynter as well. Both Slayer and Wynter would one day rule Tern Terra so she had left a lasting and meaningful legacy. She realized she was getting too caught up in Slayer’s concerns and gave an angry shake of her head. “Release me.” He complied immediately.Before you go, Ayanni, you should know that builders are coming from Tern Terra to construct a new dwelling for you and Wynter and there will be two shemoras and a personal bodyguard for you as well. His words surprised her. Shemoras. To do all the toiling she had done for so many seasons. Her inclination was to tell him she wanted nothing from him, but she knew Wynter deserved more than she could possibly provide. And for all she had suffered, she deserved some comfort too. “I will accept your kindness, Slayer, but I will not accept you into my arms or my heart again.” It is not kindness. It is what you and Wynter deserve. She who would one day rule Tern Terra and she who bore her cannot be allowed to continue like this. I did not know of your plight, Ayanni, or by the Gods of the Mountains, I would not have left you alone. She knew he spoke the truth, but the pain of the long seasons feeling neglected and unvalued could not so easily be dismissed—especially with Sheela the beautiful around. Sheela will soon be mated with another, Ayanni, to Dioni, the bodyguard of Jemi, she who my sire values about all others…as I do you. She shook her head. “I am going now.” Before you do…your bodyguard…would you have him be humanoid or in his natural state? “What of Wynter?” Totter will guard her with his life. “And you think it’s wise to have Totter guard her?” His heart aches for her…as mine does for you. She does not find him intolerable and she is old enough to choose who she would value as a bodyguard and a mate. The thought of Wynter mating with the huge Totter sent a shiver through her. “He is too big to mate with her.”

I mated with you. “And look what came of it!” We had Wynter,he pointed out, sounding confused. And she could never regret her birth. She inclined her head. “Yes. We did.” She smiled. “She is as brave as she is beautiful. She is worthy to rule Tern Terra. Is she not?” She felt Slayer’s shared pride.She is. Seeker himself will not finding her wanting and she has already won over my sire. She will one day be the first female to rule andyou will be revered as she who bore her and cherished her under difficult circumstances. She bit her lip. She would much rather be known as she who was revered by Slayer. Your bodyguard, Ayanni. Carnivore or humanoid? The thought of another big Tern Terrian to remind of what she had hoped for with Slayer was too much. “Humanoid,” she said and felt a stab of pain from him. He viewed her choice as a rejection of him. She longed to explain, but feared she would end up on her back with him over her rutting into her again if she didn’t leave immediately. He will arrive soon, Ayanni. When you wake, he will be here and I will be gone. She turned back to face him, her heart thumping. “Gone? But I thought you said you would remain in Volter to lead the prides.” It is obvious to me that you would rather I do not remain, and Berka can lead both prides until Wynter is able to take over. “But…what of Wynter? She is so delighted with you.” And I with her. I will return frequently to see her and she will be welcome in Tern Terra as often as she’d like to visit. Be well, Ayanni, and learn to forgive me in time. She felt as if she couldn’t quite catch her breath. After all his protestations of value, he was leaving again. He thought just because he was building a new dwelling and providing servants, that was all she and Wynter required of him. Well he was wrong. Fighting back tears, she turned and ran into the woods, aware that one of the big Tern Terrian trailed her. After a long time, feeling exhausted, she sank down against a tree and allowed the tears to stream down her cheeks. She hated him and she would never forgive him for hurting her yet again. Chapter Ten

Wynter felt something soft and warm brush against her mind. She opened her eyes and saw a tall, handsome man with dark eyes sitting near her bed. Although it was some time before the sun would rise, she had no problem seeing him clearly in the gloom of the hut. And although she had never seen him in humanoid form, she immediately recognized him. She smiled and extended a hand. “Totter.” He rose and quickly moved across the room to sit next to her, stroking his fingers along her bare arm. “My lady. You are feeling more sufficient?”

She nodded. “Meka?” “Sheela was not able to save her.” Her eyes filled with tears and she turned, burying her face against his body, slipping her arms around him. “Oh, Totter! She was so brave. She battled to the end when she should have fled for her life.” He stroked his fingers through her hair and held her. When she continued to sob, he lifted her onto his lap and buried his face against her cheek. “You are she who would rule Terra. She did well not to allow you to surrender your life. Your life holds great value for all in Terra in general and for me in particular. Although I mourn her passing, I thank the Gods of the Mountains you were not dispatched.” She turned in his arms to look up in his face. As a Carnivore, he was one of the most breath-taking males she had ever seen. As a human, he intoxicated her senses and aroused her passions. When the Carnivores were afraid or needed comfort, they sought to mate. She had a large amount of Carnivore blood running through her veins and she needed to mate. She wanted to mate. She lifted her head and tentatively brushed her lips against his, expecting him to draw away. To her delight, he returned her kiss, his arms tightening around her. Warmth and passion infused her as they clung to each other. When he lowered her onto her back and pushed her dress up around her waist, bearing her mating tunnel, her heart thumped. He trailed a path of kisses down from her belly to her trembling legs. He parted them with gentle hands and slowly, sensuously began to eat her. His tongue, long, thick, and moist, eased in and out of her. His lovemaking created a coil of heat and need in her that sent chills all through her, even while flashes of heat burned in her body. Mate with me,she pleaded.Please. Rise above me and thrust into me. I cannot. Even this is too much, but I cannot resist, my lady, even though I may be banished or worst for daring to touch you thusly. She tightened her fingers in his hair and held it close to her body.No one will hurt you, she vowed.I will not allow it. He thrust in tongue in and out of her channel, being careful not to break through her maidenhead. Although she longed for the ultimate embrace with him, she was soon overcome by passion and surrendered to a sweet climax. He rose above her and lay his big, heavy body on hers and held her as she moaned softly, savoring the last tendrils of pleasures. She could feel his cock, big, thick, and hard through his clothes. The feel of it excited her passions anew. She pushed against his shoulders and he immediately rolled off of her and onto his back. Trembling with anticipation, she kneeled next to him and quickly pushed aside his loincloths, exposing the thickest cock she had ever seen. He was already fully aroused and just the sight of him sent a fresh wave of moisture rushing between her legs. Sighing with desire, she gently encircled his cock in one hand and kissed the big, pulsing head. He shuddered.My lady! You mustn’t! My lord Seeker will not approve. I do not require his approval,she told him. She cupped her free hand over his warm balls, hefting them against her palms. They felt heavy with seed. Seed that rightly belonged inside her. And she was going to

have him and it. Overcome with a desire to please him, she closed her lips over his cock. His big body shook. He felt warm, pulsing, and intoxicating. She loved the feel and taste of him against her mouth and tongue. She settled down to fully enjoy sharing this special coupling with him. He held her head in his hands, gently controlling the speed of her mouth moving along the thick length of his big cock. Content to follow his lead, she tenderly and joyfully sucked him to a blistering climax. In a very short time he blasted jet after jet of seed against the back of her throat. She eagerly swallowed, savoring the taste and texture of his cock and his seed. When she was certain she had swallowed it all, she removed her mouth, rose over him, and thrust herself down onto his still hard cock. No, my lady!His hands shot up to grab her hips, but it was too late. With a soft cry of pain and determination, she slammed herself down against his groin. His hot cock burst through her maidenhead, and plowed balls deep up into her channel, filling her completely. Oh!She moaned as a wave of pain washed over her. Fighting her way through it, she lifted her hips and pushed down again, taking him all the way back in her with a soft hump of pain. He laid under her, staring up at her with wide, guilt-filled eyes, his body shaking with lust and pleasure. Oh!She bit her lip and ground herself against him, so full of cock and pain, she was almost afraid to breathe. Yet she was deliriously happy. We must stop this immediately, my lady.His hands tightened on her hips. Still, instead of lifting her off him, he pulled her down, and thrust his hips up, driving his cock balls deep into her center of pain and pleasure. Oh! Totter! It hurts!she admitted. He stiffened.Shall I stop, my lady? She found his mouth. As she kissed him, she gave him his answer, slowly moving herself along the length of his cock until it was buried deep inside her. Wrapping his arms around her, he thrust up into her and began coupling with her with a passion and heat that left her gasping in pain. Keeping one arm around her waist, he removed his other hand and brought it down in a stinging blow against her behind. Pain and heat flashed through her.Oh! Oooh! Dominating her with his superior strength, he thrust up into her, devoured her lips with his mouth, and rained delicious, stinging blows onto her behind. Timing each blow with the hard, hungry upward thrust of his cock into her, he quickly drove her to the edge of a climax so intense, it left her gasping and crying and moaning as it washed over her with the force of an unstoppable tidal wave. She surrendered, allowing herself to happily drown, feeling his lovely, thick seed shooting deep into her body. Gods of the Mountain willing, she would soon bear his cubs. The thought alone was untold bliss. When she woke later, she found Ayanni kneeling beside her, wiping her forehead with her hand. “Wynter? Are you all right?” She lay still for a moment, feeling her face burn as she remembered what had happened in the hut in the

dark of the night in Totter’s arms. He had coupled with her and driven her nearly insane with pleasure and pain. He had been so big and thick, his cock had felt as if it were forever stretching her channel…or pussy as he had called it at one point. Pussy. The word conjured up thoughts of something deliciously forbidden. She liked it. “Yes…” She sat up slowly, disappointed that Totter was not there. “My sire? Is he all right?” Ayanni’s lips tightened and she glanced away. “Your sire is fine…but he is no longer in Volter.” Wynter frowned, closing her eyes and reaching out with her mind. He was in Volter. She could feel him…just as she could feel that Totter was close by. But clearly Ayanni believed Slayer had left Volter. This must be part of the plan to win Ayanni back of which Slayer had spoken. She sensed Ayanni’s sadness. She opened her eyes and put her arms around Ayanni. “Do not fear, Mother. He will return.” “He will not…and even if he does…it will not be to see me. It will be to see you. And even if he wanted to see me when he returns, I will not have him.” “You have borne much, Ayanni. The Gods of the Mountains have not brought you and my sire together again just to cause you misery. You must believe that it will be all right and it will.” They clung to each other, crying softly for different reasons. Wynter knew Ayanni sobbed for what she thought was the loss of Slayer again. Wynter herself sobbed for the loss of Meka and for the pain she sensed in both her parents. And for her secret fear that either Seeker or Hunter would prevent her and Totter from being together. Having met Slayer and felt his regard for her, she knew he would not stand in the way of her happiness. And she knew that for her to be happy, she would need to be with Totter. “It will be all right,” she promised. “For us both.” The Gods of the Mountains willing. ***** He will have to be punished. No, sire, I will not allow it. Totter stood in the forest far from the hut in the presence of Hunter and Slayer with his head bowed, waiting to hear his fate for daring to have coupled with a female of the royal house he was sworn to protect. As he tried to appear humble and contrite, his thoughts lingered on his night with Wynter and the tight and sweet wonder of her unmated pussy—given so freely and generously to him. Memories of her driving her warm, moist pussy down on his cock, made him hard. The choice of his fate will not be yours, Slayer,Hunter thundered. Totter could sense his fury. Although he felt certain Slayer sympathized with his feelings for Wynter, Hunter was soon to ascend the throne and his will was law. Despite Slayer’s protests, Totter knew he was going to be banished from Tern Terra and maybe even dispatched. Although he regretted having disappointed Slayer, he could not regret coupling with Wynter and taking the gift of her pussy. I respectfully disagree, sire. Wynter is my offspring and she values Totter. Slayer, this is a situation you should not have allowed to go on. Now it falls to me to rectify your mistake. No, sire. It does not fall to you. Wynter is my offspring and I will have nothing done to Totter that she would not wish. She values him…as do I. I will allow nothing adverse to happen to him.

Slayer’s defense of him on Wynter’s behalf, surprised and humbled Totter. Still, he knew Slayer was too much in awe of Hunter to continue trying to defend him in the face of Hunter’s wrath. And in truth, he had behaved disgracefully in coupling with Wynter and deserved whatever punishment Hunter deemed appropriate. Having tasted the delights of coupling with Wynter, he would die but with one regret, he could not couple with her again. He has coupled with a daughter of the royal house of Seeker. Even now, she may already be with his cub. Seeker will be furious. He must be punished, Slayer! I will not allow it, sire. Totter raised his head slightly and saw the two royals facing each other. Both were big and regal, both holding their heads in a manner that showed their individual determinations. You will not allow it? Are you challenging my authority, cub?Hunter demanded. She is my offspring and I demand the right to act in her best interest, just as you have always acted in mine. She values him and I will not have her made unhappy. Totter is loyal and brave and worthy of Wynter if she so desires…and she does. Slayer moved to stand in front of him.If there is to be any punishment, it is my right as Wynter’s sire to determine that and I determine that there will be no punishment, sire. She values him and I will allow no unjust punishment to be visited upon him. Unjust?Hunter tossed his head angrily.You are implying I am unjust? No, sire, I am not. You are both my sire and my future sovereign. I value your opinion and bow to your judgment and will in all things…save anything that would harm my cub. Any punishment to Totter would harm her. Do you wish to make her unhappy, sire? Totter waited for the explosion from Hunter. To his amazement, Hunter inclined his head slightly.I will yield to your authority as Wynter’s sire in this matter, Slayer, but see that you do not challenge me again, Hunter warned. Slayer bowed his head.You are my sire and my sovereign. I seek opportunities to serve and obey you, not to challenge you, sire. Forgive me. There is no need to ask for forgiveness. You are within your rights to do whatever is necessary to protect your cub’s happiness, just make sure you do not challenge me again, Slayer. I will not make any more allowances. Thank you, my lord, Slayer intoned. Hunter growled in annoyance and turned to face him.And you, elder offspring of Toren, get out of my sight. And thank the Gods of the Mountains that my cub was brave enough to stand up for you otherwise you would be meeting your makers in the Misty Place for having dared touch a daughter of the royal house of Seeker. Totter hesitated and then lifted his head, meeting Hunter’s gaze.My lord Slayer honored me with his defense of the indefensible. I have erred in my duties. I stand ready to receive whatever punishment you deem necessary, my lord, Hunter. No!Slayer used his big body to bump him.Do not be overly noble, Totter!

Hunter sighed.My lord Seeker will not be pleased when he learns of this. Then why tell him? Totter watched as Hunter stared at his cub. Are you suggesting I lie to him? No, sire. I am only asking why he must know? Especially if Wynter is not with cubs? He has a right to know all matters affecting Tern Terra and he will not be pleased. Then my lord Seeker will have to learn to cope because I will not have my cub unhappy even to please him,Slayer said. To Totter’s surprise, Hunter inclined his head, looking pleased.Well said, Slayer. You are indeed her sire. No one must be more important to you than your elder offspring. Hunter tossed his head. Now both of you, leave me. What of my lord Seeker, sire? Just as you have done verbal battle with me in your cub’s behalf, I will battle in your behalf to my sire, Slayer. He will not be pleased. No, he will not and I will not have my cub made unhappy. Seeker will just have to understand that my first obligation and loyalty is to you, my cub. You need concern yourself with this no longer. It is my obligation and privilege to prevail upon him in this matter on your behalf. You are my elder offspring and only surviving cub. No one will be allowed to make you unhappy. Not even my sire. Thank you, sire. Hunter brushed his head against Slayer’s.It is my right, duty, and privilege to ensure your happiness, my cub. I have no greater obligation or pleasure. Slayer bowed his head and turned.Come Totter. Bowing his head in Hunter’s direction, Totter followed Slayer, his mind abuzz with questions. Would he be allowed to remain with Wynter? The thought that she might be with his cubs, took his breath away and humbled him. He could hardly wait to see her…touch her…and fuck her again. He recalled her slamming herself down onto his cock. Or have her fuck him. ***** Sleep eluded Ayanni for most of the night and when she woke just before the rising of the sun, she found two shemoras, in humanoid form outside the hut. Both tall, fit, bowed to her. They introduced themselves as Casea and Atona. Atona took the water carrier from her hand. “I will attend to this, my lady.” It felt very strange to have two such regal Carnivores addressing her as lady and refusing to allow her to do anything. For the first time in many long seasons, there was nothing for her to do. No fishing. No washing. No plantings that would require her to spend nearly the entire sun rising on her knees. She felt as if a burden of immeasurable proportions had been raised from her shoulders. She had the entire day to do just as she liked. That had never happened. Even before she was forced to

survive on her own, there had been fishing and plantings to do with her mother. But now, she was free. To do…nothing. Sun rise after sun rise. She took a moment to savor the realization that her time of toiling in the sun was past. No more worries about how she could continue to provide the nourishment Wynter needed. No more worries about Wynter’s safety when they were apart for she would be accompanied by a Carnivore who was prepared to die for her if need be. After she had refreshed herself, she checked on Wynter, found her sleeping soundly, and stepped outside the hut. With no chores to attend to, she could do something she had missed for many long seasons, have an early morning swim. Standing across from the hut, watching her was the most beautiful creature she had ever seen. He was tall and muscular with sun-kissed tanned skin, long, thick, curly blond hair that cascaded around his broad shoulders, and green eyes as incredibly beautiful as Slayer’s. His chest, wide and deep was bare and covered with a mass of fine hair. His only covering was a loincloth that ended just below his groin, barely covering what she could clearly see was a rather large, although flaccid cock. She could see the outline of it along one muscular leg. She found that she could not look away. For the first time in her life, she felt a sexual stirring for a male other than Slayer. Filled with shame and guilt, she ripped her gaze away and fled in the opposite direction towards the water. “My lady. Wait. Please.” Heart hammering, she turned to find him running easily towards her. “What is it that you require?” she asked, forcing herself to look at his handsome face. He reached her and went down on one knee, his head bowed in submission. “My lady, the Gods of the Mountains have looked upon me with great favor.” His voice was deep. “Who are you?” “I am your humble servant, my lady.” “What are you called?” “I am Shadow, he who will follow, guard, and protect you.” Who would protect her from the shameful lust she felt in his presence? She had to clench her hands into fists at her side to stop them from reaching out to stroke his hair and shoulders. She was distressingly aware of a powerful desire to toss off her dress, lay on her back with her legs parted, and have him thrust deep and long into her mating chamber until he filled her with his seed, as Slayer had done. Her face burned as she realized how…unnatural such thoughts were. She had coupled with Slayer, the love of her entire life, not one sun rising past. How could she want this Carnivore in humanoid form so much? She wet her lips, almost trembling with need. What was she to do? Almost as if he had read her thoughts, he lifted his head and looked into her eyes. “I am here to serve in whatever capacity my lady wishes,” he said, his voice a deep, soft burr. “I am going swimming,” she told him, looking away. “I will accompany you.”

With him walking at her side, she made her way to the place at the river where she enjoyed swimming. She stood on the bank, staring into the serene green depths. When alone, she swam without clothing. But that would not be possible in the company of this strange, handsome Carnivore who excited her passions as only Slayer had. Slayer. Thoughts of him made her mouth dry and her heart ache. He had been gone less than a sun rising and already she missed him. She would probably never see him again. Tears pricked her eyes. She sucked in an aching breath and raked her hands through her hair. How was she supposed to forget him yet again? How could she live without him? She had been a fool to send him away. Without him, what would life have to offer her now that Wynter had taken a mate of her own and would soon no longer need her? She gave an angry shake of her head, tugged her dress over her head, and made a running dive into the water. She dove deep and swam under water, enjoying the riot of color and life in the river before she had to swim up to the surface for air. As her head broke the surface, she heard a splash. Shadow swam towards her, his green gaze catching hers. Without speaking, almost as if they were in tune with each other, they turned, and swam towards the other side of the river. It had been a long time since Ayanni had been free to swim more than a short distance. Halfway across, she began to tire. Before she could falter, Shadow dived under the water and came up underneath her. She sighed, wrapped her arms around his body, pressed her cheek against his shoulder, and relaxed her body. Easily bearing her weight, he swam towards the riverbank. As they entered shallow water, she slid off his back. He rose and lifted her in his arms. Her lack of embarrassment confused her. Wyman had been bottom mating with her for many seasons and yet she had not lost her shyness with him. Why did she feel so easy and sufficient with Shadow? He stood still, looking away as she slid her dress over her wet body. She wrung as much water out of her hair as she could before heading back to the hut. She made a determined effort not to look at him. The water glistening on his tanned skin aroused her. Everything about him seemed to arouse shameless passion in her. They didn’t speak as they started the journey back. As they neared the hut, she heard the sound of many tools and angry cries from the animals in the forest. She glanced at him. “It is your new dwelling. Lord Hunter has received permission from Lord Donoun to erect a new dwelling for you and Wynter and your shemoras. Would you like to see it?” She nodded. They followed the sounds and arrived at a clearing not far from the hut with a view of the river. Many Tern Terrains in humanoid form were at work on a large frame that would surely house more sleeping areas than Ayanni had ever seen. She turned to look at Shadow. “Are you sure this is it? It is so…big.” “You are she who bore the future ruler of Tern Terra. It is not permissible for you to be housed any longer in such humble dwellings. This dwelling will provide six separate sleeping areas, three additional separate areas, and two inside bathing areas. There will also be a separate sleeping area in the back for me and Totter so that we may be close at all times.” Ayanni stared in amazement. She had never expected to live in such a place. But it would be so lovely to have Wynter living in a dwelling that had more than one area and a tiny opening with which to look out at the surrounding forest.

“Does the location please you, my lady? I have orders from Slayer to ensure that everything is to your liking.” “Yes. This is a very good spot.” He inclined his head slightly. “Slayer will be pleased that you are pleased.” “Will he? How will he know? He’s left us again,” she said bitterly. “Forgive my impertinence, my lady, but he has only tried to do what would make you sufficient. He said you wanted him to leave. So even though it made him very sad, he left. But I am here now and I will do everything and anything to ensure that you are sufficient. There is nothing I will not do for you, my lady.” They gazes briefly locked. A tingle of desire shot through her. She turned quickly and headed back to the hut. He fell into step beside her. When she arrived back at the hut, she found Wynter and Totter, in humanoid form, outside the hut talking quietly. Wynter ran to fling her arms around Ayanni’s neck. She was kissed and warmly hugged. “You are wet. You’ve been swimming?” “Yes.” She stroked her hand down Wynter’s hair. “And you? Are you sufficient?” Wynter’s lips trembled and her eyes filled with tears. “I am going to miss Meka so much.” Ayanni hugged her. “I did not know her, but I know she was noble and brave and I too will miss her.” Wynter sighed and drew away from her. To Ayanni’s surprise, Wynter approached Shadow and embraced him. They kissed each other’s cheeks. Ayanni cast a quick glance at Totter. Wynter’s warm greeting did not seem to upset him. “Mother, Totter and I are going to talk to the prides. They are grieving and missing Meka. If it is all right with you, we will spend a few nights with them.” Ayanni hesitated. Even in humanoid form, Totter was as huge as Shadow. The thought of his coupling with her slender daughter was still not something she was comfortable thinking about. Yet Wynter was happier than she’d ever seen her. “I will sleep close to her, but not with her, my lady,” Totter said quietly. “I give you my oath as the elder offspring of Toren, honored to be among those who guard Seeker, sovereign of Tern Terra.” Ayanni looked in his eyes. She saw honor and integrity in his gaze. She knew he would keep his word. She looked at her daughter and saw resignation in her gaze. Wynter had no wish for Totter to sleep separate from her. And as Slayer had pointed out, she was of the age of consent. She swallowed. “That is not a promise you need make me. Wynter is able to make her own decisions.” Wynter threw her arms around Ayanni’s neck and kissed her cheek. “Thank you for allowing us to be together.” “Your sire tells me he will not hurt you.” “He won’t. He values me, Mother.” “Then couple with him as you will.” “You will be sufficient with that?”

Ayanni drew back and looked into Wynter’s eyes. Beneath the sadness for Meka, she saw happiness and hope because of Totter. “I will be very sufficient with anything that makes you so…content.” They kissed and embraced. Ayanni watched with a sigh as Wynter and Totter returned to the hut to get more clothing before heading towards the prides territory. “He would perish before he hurt her.” She nodded. “Yes. I know.” “What would you like to do now, my lady?” Couple. The thought would not leave her. It plagued and haunted her. She wanted Slayer and yet she wanted Shadow too. She was shameless, always thinking only of physical pleasure. Swallowing quickly, she looked into his green gaze. Unable to help herself, she glanced down. Her gaze centered on his cock, laying against the inside of one muscular thigh. “I live to please and serve you, my lady. If there is anything you require, you have but to make your wishes known. I am…equipped to handle all your needs.” She wet her lips. “And what if my…need is…of a physical nature?” “It matters not. I am prepared to satisfy all your needs, my lady.” He allowed his green gaze to lightly touch upon her breasts before centering on her groin area. She swallowed slowly, shame and desire fighting for dominance in her. She had known so little carnal pleasure in her life, she felt completely unable to resist its allure. His allure. She wanted to couple with this handsome bodyguard Slayer had sent her. Perhaps this was Slayer’s way of atoning for all she had suffered. Although her heart longed for Slayer, her treacherous body would be quite content with the wonderfully handsome Shadow. “May I render a service to my lady?” She looked down and saw that he had thickened and hardened. Breathing through her mouth and overcome with desire, she stretched out a trembling hand to brush aside his loincloth. Her fingers encountered his hard, thick flesh. Her face burned and her mating tunnel filled with moisture. Keeping a grip on his cock, she used her other hand to lift her dress, exposing herself to him. Moving closer, she pressed the big head of his cock against her pussy, sending a shock of desire all through her. “Oh!” she moaned softly and pressed closer. She wouldn’t put him inside her because neither of them would get any pleasure from that, but just to feel his hot flesh pressed against her was sweet beyond compare. It seemed he had other ideas. Moving quickly and purposefully, he wrapped an arm around her waist, clutched his cock in his hand, and thrust forward. “Oooh!” she cried out in surprise and pleasure as his cock shot up into her pussy, filling it as completely and as deliciously as Slayer had. She stared up into his passion-filled eyes in stunned amazement. He was inside her. She could actually feel his heavy, thick cock in her. And it felt so good she was afraid to breathe or move. If she did she might wake up and find this was just a beautiful, but useless dream. Keeping his cock deep inside her, he managed to lower them to the ground. She lay on her back with her

legs open and her pussy full of cock. She had never expected to be able to enjoy coupling with another male. Her mating channel had been contoured to welcome only Slayer’s cock. How could Shadow’s cock feel so good inside her? Slipping his other arm around her, with his cock fully seated in her heated, moist pussy, he found her mouth, and began to fuck her slowly and tenderly. The feelings his coupling conjured up were incredible. She couldn’t begin to imagine how either of them could find pleasure in cunt mating like this. Nevertheless, she enjoyed every deep, penetrating thrust of his thick, hot flesh deep within depths that had never known this pleasure with anyone other than Slayer. Her hips lifted to meet his downward thrusts and she wrapped her arms and legs around him, eager and hungry for the explosion she could feel rapidly building. She loved the feel of his hard chest muscles crushing against her breasts. She closed her eyes, stroking her fingers through his long, blond hair, allowing her feelings full rein. He coupled with her slowly and oh so sweetly, clearly elated to be with her…inside her. As he stroked into her, he kissed and caressed her body with eager hands. He whispered to her softly. She was sweet and lovely. She deserved only the best. He was her servant for life and lived to please her. Warm, shocking, but undeniable feelings flooded her senses. Nothing had ever felt so right or so proper…not even coupling with Slayer. As the last thought thundered through her, he urged his big cock forward, against her interior clit, and her world detonated. Sobbing with joy, she clung weakly to him, welcoming the delicious flood of his seed rushing out of his body and deep into her mating channel. Oh. Good. So good.With her eyes still closed, she stroked her fingers through his hair. “Slayer,” she whispered. “Oh, my lord Slayer.” I am here, my Ayanni. Chapter Eleven

Ayanni’s eyes flew open and she found herself staring into Shadow’s green eyes. Realizing that she had called out Slayer’s name instead of his, she averted her hot face. “I am sorry,” she whispered. Still inside her, he gently turned her face so he could look down into her eyes. “You need offer no apology, my lady. Is he in your heart and thoughts?” “He does not value me,” she whispered. “He values you more than he does his ability to breathe,” he countered, pressing a warm kiss against her lips. She could not stop her automatic response to him. “How do you know that?” “I have known him all his life. I know what he feels for you.” Her face burned. To discuss Slayer’s feelings for her while still coupled with Shadow, shamed her, but only marginally so. She was hopeless. She pressed against his shoulders abruptly aware they had coupled where anyone

might have seen them. “I need to refresh myself.” “As you wish, my lady.” He pressed a final kiss against her lips, thrust his cock leisurely into her, and finally withdrew from her. Her legs trembled so badly when she rose, he had to slip an arm around her waist to steady her. She pressed close, slipping her arms around him. She made no protest when he slipped a finger under her chin, and kissed her. She responded with a greedy hunger and within moments, she was again sprawled on her back with Shadow on top of her, his long, thick cock buried deep in her mating channel. This time his thrusts brought pleasure tinged with pain. Holding her rear end in his big hands, he thrust into her with a power and speed of which only one of the Great Carnivore’s was capable. Each sweet movement brought thoughts of Slayer to mind. She tried without success to dismiss such thoughts as her climax built. When she reached her orgasm, she again cried out Slayer’s name. He held her, soothing her softly when she sobbed with pleasure and shame at her inability to stop thinking of Slayer. “You must not cry, my Ayanni,” he whispered, nibbling at her lips. “It matters not what you call me or who dominates your thoughts when we couple. I have but one purpose in life…to please you and bring you pleasure. If you are sufficient, that is all that matters.” “But what about you?” she demanded through a storm of tears. “If you are sufficient, I am as well. You must not concern yourself with me.” “It is selfish to think only of my pleasure.” “If you are pleased, I am as well.” He drew out of her, raised her to her feet, and walked her back to the river. There he bathed her, taking time to kiss and caress her body. By the time they started back to the hut, she feared she was falling for yet another of the Great Carnivores—while still valuing Slayer deeply. After eating a meal prepared for them by one of the shemoras, she and Shadow spent the day walking through the forest. She listened while he talked of Tern Terra. “Who is your mate?” She asked as they sat along the riverbank looking over the water. He turned his head and looked at her. “I am yours to do with as you will, my lady. There is no one else.” “But surely there must be someone.” “There is not.” Her heart beat increased at the thought of having the handsome, blond Shadow always with her. It might almost be enough to compensate for the loss of Slayer. Almost. But nothing could quite take away the sting and heartbreak of losing the one true love of her life. Almost as if he sensed the conflict in her, he reached for her hand. A thrill of pleasure shot through her at his touch. Capturing her gaze, he kissed her hand. “I live to serve you, my lady.”

“But can you ever truly value me, Shadow?” “I value you more than I do my humble life, my lady. I ask nothing more than the opportunity to make you sufficient.” She looked into his beautiful green eyes and found herself speechless at the unguarded sincerity she saw in his gaze. She moistened her lips. Maybe life without Slayer could be worth living after all…provided she had Shadow at her side. They wondered through the forest for the rest of the day. After the evening meal, they walked again. As they did, Ayanni noticed that Shadow grew quiet. She realized that he must be tired. Maintaining his human form must be a strain. Although she longed to stay with him and have him couple with her, she feigned a yawn. “I think I must rest now,” she told him. He saw her back to the hut, but did not come in. “With your permission, I will remain out here and resume my natural form.” She dismissed her selfish desire and nodded. “Sleep and rest well, Shadow.” He inclined his head. “My lady.” ***** Rather to her surprise, Ayanni fell asleep almost at once. She dreamed of Shadow, only to have him turn into Slayer. It seemed perfectly natural that Slayer and Shadow should be interchangeable in her dreams. She woke the next morning, longing for Slayer and eager to see Shadow. Disappointment seized her when she rose and went outside and found a tall, fair Carnivore in humanoid form standing across from the hut. “Where is Shadow?” she asked. “I am Tracer, my lady. How may I serve you?” She found she did not care who he was. “Where is Shadow?” “He is unable to be here. I have been sent to serve you in his absence.” She stared at him. Although tall, blond, and handsome like Shadow, she felt none of the irresistible attraction for him she had felt for Shadow on first sight. More, she felt a sense of panic at the thought of never seeing Shadow again. “Where is he?” “I am not certain, my lady.” She moistened her lips. “Will he…return?” “That will be up to my lord Slayer.” “Slayer? And where is he?” “I am not certain of that either, my lady.” The fear of losing Shadow sent a chill through her. Her level of panic at the thought frightened her. It was confusing how she could value Slayer in his natural form and yet enjoy Shadow in his humanoid form just

as much. The day in Tracer’s company was long and unrewarding. Ayanni found that she could not stop thinking of Slayer and Shadow. She could not stop thinking of them both. Nor could she curb her longing for either of them. She had never thought it possible to value more than one person at a time. Yet her yearning for Slayer and Shadow were like twin aches inside her that she feared would eat their way through her. She lay down that night feeling restless and afraid. She was having a new, comfortable dwelling built for her and Wynter, her days of toiling were over, and would never return. This should be a happy and content time in her life. This level of anxiety should not be. It took a long time for her to drift into a restless sleep. Her dreams of Slayer and Shadow again intermingled. She clung tightly to them both, only to have them slip out of her grasp. When she woke at sun rising, her cheeks were damp and her heart heavy. “You are well, my lady?” She sucked in a quick breath and looked across the room. Shadow stood by the door, smiling at her. Joy welled in her. Allowing her instincts to take over, she let out a happy cry, bounded to her feet, and rushed into Shadow’s open arms. He held her in silence while she clung to him and sobbed. Finally, he cupped her face in his hands and gazed down into her eyes. “Why are you crying?” “You weren’t here when I arose yesterday and when I asked Tracer when you would come back, he said that depended on Slayer.” “And did you think Slayer would deny you anything? Even me?” “I don’t know what to think anymore…except that I…do not want you to go away.” “Then I will not.” She stroked her hands over his chest. “But you did.” He hesitated before speaking. “I am not…adept at shifting. Spending the entire sun rising in this form was very difficult and tiresome. I had need of rest. I regret that you were given cause for concern. There was also a need to confer about Macak, my lady.” She looked up at him and pressed her fingers against his lips. “Do not call me my lady anymore. Call me Ayanni.” “You are she who bore Wynter, future ruler of Tern Terra and she who Slayer values above all others.” She shook her head. “I am she who needs you.” She saw tiny lights flickering deep within his green gaze. “What of Slayer?” She lifted her chin. “What of him?” He stroked a finger down her cheek. “He values you far more than you can possibly know. You are the one person he will forever value. There is only one he values more.” She stiffened. “Sheela.”

“No! Wynter.” She relaxed against him. “Why did he leave me?” “Do you want him back?” How to answer. She would forever want Slayer back. Yet, even after so short a time, she could not bear the thought of giving up Shadow. She bit lip. When had she become so greedy? How could she want them both so badly? “My lady?” She shook her head, drawing away from him. “I do not wish to talk about Slayer.” “As you wish.” He heaved a sigh and a chill shot through her. Shadow did not value her. He wished to encourage her to ask for Slayer so he might be free of the burden of coupling with her. “You spoke of Macak. Is there news of him?” His eyes narrowed and she saw anger and a lust for revenge in his gaze. “As you may know, with Meka gone, Slayer is the recognized leader of both prides. It is his duty and privilege to keep the prides safe. Already he has been challenged.” “By whom?” “Macak. He has been spotted near the prides territory. He approached a young she cub from Berka’s pride and coupled with her against her will.” Ayanni shivered. “What of the cub?” His lips tightened. “She was not yet ready for mating, but the seer says she will be sufficient soon.” “The seer? Which seer?” He looked directly into her eyes. “Sheela. She is the only seer in Volter at the moment. Do you dislike her, my lady?” “Dislike? I do not know her, but Slayer…spent many seasons mating with her.” “All the while he thought of you, my lady. You must not doubt that you are and always will be the only person for him.” “Where would that leave you…and me?” “Do you wish us both, my lady?” She felt her face burning with shame. She averted her gaze. “I do not wish to discuss it.” “As you wish. Everything will be as you wish.” “I just want to be with you.” “And Slayer?”

She pressed her lips tight and turned to face him again. “I do not wish to discuss him.” He inclined his head. “As you wish.” “What of Macak?” “Slayer promised Meka he would not dispatch him, but one more grievous offense and he will have no choice but to dispatch him. A promise made to Meka cannot negate Slayer’s responsibility to safeguard the prides.” She inclined her head slowly. Yet it would be a tragedy if Slayer was forced to dispatch his sibling. “He will do his best to keep his promise to Meka,” he said quietly. She glanced at him with widened eyes. Had he read her thoughts? He gave her an enigmatic stare. She decided that she must have spoken her thoughts aloud. After bathing and eating, they went to the site of the new dwelling. Ayanni was amazed at how much was done. The frame was nearly complete and it seemed a huge place. “Do you think you will be happy here, my lady?” Shadow asked as they stood watching the many Carnivores working on the new dwelling. Without Slayer? She turned to look at him. “Will you stay here with me, Shadow?” “If that is your wish, yes.” She gazed up into his eyes, trying to discern his feelings. “But would it be your wish or would you just do it because it would be what Slayer would command you to do?” He raised her hand to his lips and kissed the back. “I would not need anyone to command me to remain with you, my lady.” “Do you mean that?” “Yes, my lady, I do. My life and heart belong to you. They always will.” Warmth quickly spread all through her. “Oh, Shadow. You make the parting so much more bearable.” “What is your pleasure for today, my lady?” She squeezed his hand. “To spend the day exploring the Plains as I never could before and to have you call me Ayanni.” After leaving the building site, they returned to the hut to have the shemoras pack them a meal, then set out with their destination the other side of the river. Ayanni was surprised at how content she felt with Shadow. True her thoughts continually turned to Slayer, but she found the resulting feelings quite bearable. They spent the majority of the day exploring. As they drew further away from the hut, Ayanni stared around her in wide eyed wonder. She had never been so far from home. It was as the sun lost its warmth that she noticed Shadow tensing. “What is it?” she asked.

He stood still with his handsome blond head tilted to one side, his nostrils flared for several moments in silence before he suddenly looked around. His gaze settled on a tree with low hanging branches several body lengths away. “Quickly, to the tree.” He took her hand and ran her to the tree. He lifted her and pushed her onto the low standing bough. “Upward, my lady. Quickly. There is trouble approaching.” Ayanni resisted the urge to ask questions and scrambled up into higher branches. She sat clinging to the trunk, staring down as Shadow quickly moved away from the tree and stood tense and silent, his head tilted to one side. Moments later, three carnivores bounded into the clearing and slowly began to advance on Shadow. Ayanni bit her lip to keep from screaming. Although Shadow was big, he was in humanoid form and he had no weapons. Even if he reverted to his natural form, he would not be a match for the other carnivores because his strength must surely have been sapped by having maintained his human form all sun rising. The cats menacing Shadow were too small to be Tern Terrains, but they were big and there were three of them. Ayanni closed her eyes and reached out.Slayer! Oh, Slayer! Where are you? You must come and help Shadow. Slayer. Please. She felt the familiar brush against her mind that she shared only with Slayer.I am here, my Ayanni. Fear not. Heart thumping, she glanced around, expecting to see Slayer, but she could not locate him. Yet she had felt him and he had answered her. Have faith, my Ayanni. She looked back down at the scene unfolding below her. Shadow stood unwavering. “Macak! I am Shadow of Tern Terra. Stand down in the name of Slayer, future ruler of Tern Terra.” The larger of the cats gave an angry toss of his head. When he spoke, Ayanni was amazed to find that she understood him.I am not fooled, as your female is. I know who and what you are. “Then retreat or face the wrath of a son of Tern Terra.” Shadow turned his attention briefly to the two smaller cats. “If you persist, none of your prides will be safe from the wrath of Slayer.” The smaller cats paused. Do not be afraid. This is not Tern Terra and he is weak. After we dispatch him, we will take turns coupling with his female cowering in the tree. Ayanni gasped, but fearful of distracting Shadow, remained silent. Somehow she knew that Slayer and Shadow would find a way out. “You have all received the only warning you will get!” Shadow said coolly. “Proceed and die…all of you.” The bigger of the cats continued forward.Do not fear him. He cannot take us all. Ayanni bit her lip and clung to the tree, offering up silent, frightened prayers to the Gods of the

Mountains. “Do not be fooled by anything the cowardly Macak says. If you proceed, I will dispatch him and you both. Then those of your prides will be dispatched…from cub to full-grown. Just as you have shown no consideration for youth or age, none will be shown those of your prides.” The smaller of the carnivores both let out fearful growls before turning and disappearing into the forest. Shadow centered his gaze on Macak. “Now he who would dispatch she who bore him, there is only you and me. Retreat now and out of respect for Meka, I will allow you to withdraw.” I will not withdraw. You have taken leadership over the prides. You are weakened and after I have dispatched you, I will dispatch Berka and take complete control of the prides. “Withdraw, coward, and live for a little while longer only.” I will dispatch you and spend the night enjoying your female before dispatching her. “Your death will be on your own head.” Macak let loose an angry roar and charged Shadow. Ayanni couldn’t completely suppress a small scream. She quickly pressed a fist against her mouth. She wanted to look away, but somehow felt she had to look to show her trust in Slayer and Shadow. A roar rumbled from deep within Shadow’s chest. Snarling, he leapt into the air. Macak rose onto his hind legs and lifting a paw, he delivered a powerful blow to the side of Shadow’s head. Shadow was knocked to the ground onto his back. He lay unmoving. “No!” Ayanni screamed and began scrambling down the tree. “Get away from him!” Do not descend the tree, Ayanni. Shadow will be all right. Slayer’s words halted her downward scramble.Are you sure? Yes. Climb back up and do not distract him. She slowly climbed back into the upper branches and looked down. Macak wheeled around and charged Shadow, still on his back on the ground. When he was within a body length of him, Shadow sprang up from the ground, exploded to his feet, and shifted swiftly. By the time he gained his feet, he had resumed his Carnivore form. Like Slayer, he was huge with a sleek, tan coat, a beautiful, luxurious dark mane, and green slanted eyes. Her heart thumped. He didn’t just look like Slayer…hewas Slayer. Macak, seeing that Slayer had resumed his natural form, broke off his charge, veered to the right, and crashed into the surrounding foliage. Slayer, roaring out an angry challenged, raced after him. Ayanni climbed down the tree. “Slayer. No! Don’t kill him! Remember your promise to Meka!” she begged. She could hear Macak and Slayer crashing through the forest, neither making any effort to be silent. Macak was fleeing for the life Slayer was determined to take.

“Slayer! Please don’t!” She gasped and stopped abruptly as Slayer, in his natural form appeared in front of her, panting with rage. She swallowed slowly, then reached out a hand to stroke his mane. He let out a plaintive growl that tore at her heart, and laid his head against her shoulder. She slipped her arms around him and kissed his face. “It’s all right.” No. You will not be safe while he breathes. I must dispatch him. Not on my account. I am not afraid of him…not as long as I have you by my side. He lifted his head and looked down at her, a troubled, yet hopeful look in his green slanted eyes.Then you forgive me? “Yes,” she whispered. “And I am sorry I sent you away. Please don’t ever leave me again.” I have never left you in any way that mattered. You have always been she who I value more than my ability to breathe. I will forever need and want you, my Ayanni. Will you…reside with me in the new dwelling being built while I preside over the prides until Wynter is old enough to rule them? Yes,she told him.I will reside with you on the bare ground if you but ask it of me. She frowned.I do not understand. I thought Wynter would rule Tern Terra. She will. After me. When Hunter no longer rules there, I will return for my turn. When my reign is over, Wynter will rule. While I rule Tern Terra, Wynter will rule over the prides. He trembled against her and she stroked his mane. “Are you all right? You seem…unsteady.” He sank down to the ground. She dropped to her knees beside him, staring at him. “Slayer?” I’m a little unsteady, but I am all right. Maintaining humanoid form is very difficult for me. “Why? All the Great Carnivores are shape-shifters.” I am not like the other Great Carnivores. My sire and his sire both had human mothers, as do most of the other Tern Terrains. As you know, I did not. It took many seasons of work with Sheela to learn to shift into other creatures of the forest. Everyone thought I would never be able to shift into humanoid form, but I persisted until I mastered the ability to morph my body into humanoid form. But I can only do it with great difficulty and maintaining the form for any length of time is extremely taxing and painful for me. She wet her lips. “Then why did you spend so much time as Shadow?” You said you wanted a humanoid guard and I had an unbearable need to be near you. “Oh, Slayer!” She slipped her arms around his neck. “You put yourself through so much discomfort to please me.” If it pleased you, it was well worth it. “It did.” She kissed his mouth. “Shadow is wonderful…almost as wonderful as you are.” You would like to see him again? She shook her head. “No.”

He drew back to stare at her.Why not? I learned to shift to human form in part for you. “You said it brings you pain and I would not wish to cause you pain.” It is a pain I would willingly bear again and again to please you. She stroked his face. “I value you just as you are, Slayer. It would be nice to see Shadow again, but you are the one I felt as if I would perish if I did not see again. You.” Then why didn’t you meet me at the mating tree as I asked you? She frowned. “I did come!” You did not! I waited, but you did not come. “I came…but I came later. Why couldn’t you wait a little while for me? Making the decision to risk all the hopes of my family was not as easily made one. But once I had made it, I came. Why didn’t you wait for me?” I feared you were not coming, but I would have waited forever except that my sire’s mate and her bodyguard were in danger. My sire was too far away to arrive in time to help them so he called out to me and I went to intervene. “Were you able to save them?” I held the interloper off until my sire arrived. Both of them survived. “Why didn’t you come afterwards? I went back the next two sun risings before I gave up.” She felt a wave of regret from him.I was not yet fully grown and I was gravely injured. If not for Sheela, I would have perished. I was not able to stand for several sun risings. When I was again able to rise, I had convinced myself that you had not come because you had made your choice. And I went to Tern Terra, but I never stopped valuing you. She bit her lip, remembering all the lonely seasons without him, struggling to provide enough food for Wynter and herself. And it had all been unnecessary. He had valued her the entire time. She quickly blinked away the tears that stung her eyes. They were useless now. They were together again. This time forever. She sighed and tightened her arms around his neck. For the first times in many seasons, everything was right in her world. Now that she had Slayer back and Shadow, she had nothing to hope for. The future she had never dared hoped for, looked bright and promising. ***** Wynter and Totter stood together in the darkened forest, facing each other. Although she and Totter had spent the last two evenings sleeping in each other’s arms amongst the prides, Totter had refused to couple with her again. Now she felt frustrated and angry that he would not take her. They were both naked and he was aroused, but he was being noble again and refusing to take her. But her pussy and her heart ached for him. She was determined to have him again. “You are very young and not ready to take cock. I should not have taken advantage of you. Although I am prepared to accept the consequences of my actions from the royal house of Seeker, I need to know if you can forgive me.” She sighed. His refusal to satisfy her physical needs left her aching for him. She kissed his lips. “There will

be no consequences! This is what I wanted and for all the pain, I do not regret it! And I intend to repeat the offense…again and again! I will have you, Totter and will allow no one to harm you.” He stroked his fingers through her hair. “You are brave, beautiful, and generous. But it is my job to protect you.” She stroked her fingers through his hair and kissed his warm lips. “We will protect each other, my Totter. It is the way of two who value each other as we do. When I rule the prides, you will rule with me. When I ascend the throne of Tern Terra after Slayer, you will rule with me. I pledge my life, my body, my heart, and my soul to you.” “As I do you, my Wynter,” he whispered, slipping his arms around her. Finally. She spread her naked body against his. “Couple with me, Totter…fuck me and make me sufficient.” Sliding his nude body on top of hers, he slipped his cock deep into her pussy. He coupled with her slowly, stroking his big shaft deep into her, touching her interior clit with each delicious movement of his powerful hips. Even in human form, he was a wonderful, breathtaking lover. His cock, thick and hard, stroking gently in and out of her, brought untold pleasure and delight to her. Her pussy was the center of everything and his cock the reason for breathing. She clung to him, valuing him so much and so deeply, her feelings stunned her. Holding her tightly, he thrust hard and forcefully into her. She cried out in an agony of delight and came several times on his cock before he exploded inside her, filling her with his seed. She wrapped her legs around him, determined to keep every drop of seed in her mating channel so that he might impregnate her with her first litter of cubs. “Oh, Totter, take me. Take me and give me cubs that will one day rule Tern Terra.” He kissed her lips, sinking his tongue in her mouth and thrust his cock deep into her body and up into her soul, whispering that he loved her for eternity. Such sweet, sweet words. They coupled several times before he drew his cock out of her, holding her close. “Oh, Totter, I love you too,” she whispered, holding his body against hers. She fell asleep feeling sore, but very happy and content. She had a feeling the future she and Totter would share would hold many adventures and challenges, but together, they would be equal to them all. Of that she had not the slightest doubt.

About the author:

Marilyn Lee lives, works, and writes on the East Coast. In addition to thoroughly enjoying writing erotic romances, she enjoys roller-skating, spending time with her large extended family, and rooting for all her hometown sports teams. Her other interests include collecting Doc Savage pulp novels from the thirties and forties and collecting Marvel comics from the seventies and eighties (particularly Thor and The Avengers). Her favorite TV shows are forensic shows, westerns (Gunsmoke and Have Gun, Will Travel

are particular favors), mysteries (love the old Charlie Chan mysteries. All time favorite mystery movie is probably Dead, Again), and nearly every vampire movie or television show ever made (Forever Knight and Count Yorga, Vampire are favors). She thoroughly enjoys hearing from readers. Marilyn welcomes mail from readers. You can write to her c/o Ellora’s Cave Publishing at P.O. Box 787, Hudson, Ohio 44236-0787. Also by Marilyn Lee:

Bloodlust (anthology Things That Go Bump In The Night) Bloodlust 2: The Taming of Serge Dumont Bloodlust 3: Forbidden Desires Bloodlust 4: Nocturnal Heat Branded Breathless In Black Carnal Confessions Full Bodied Charmer Moonlight Desires Pleasure Quest The Quest III: Return to Voltar Road To Rapture Shifting Faces The Fall of Troy The Talisman

Discover for yourself why readers can't get enough of the multiple award-winning publisher Ellora's Cave. Whether you prefer e-books or paperbacks, be sure to visit EC on the web at www.ellorascave.com for an erotic reading experience that will leave you breathless.

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