Three Moon Station

Author: Blackstone Icy Snow

24 downloads 638 Views 903KB Size Report

This content was uploaded by our users and we assume good faith they have the permission to share this book. If you own the copyright to this book and it is wrongfully on our website, we offer a simple DMCA procedure to remove your content from our site. Start by pressing the button below!

Report copyright / DMCA form

DOWNLOAD PDF

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

The Wild Rose Press www.thewildrosepress.com

Copyright © First published in 2008-12-19 NOTICE: This eBook is licensed to the original purchaser only. Duplication or distribution to any person via email, floppy disk, network, print out, or any other means is a violation of International copyright law and subjects the violator to severe fines and/or imprisonment. This notice overrides the Adobe Reader permissions which are erroneous. This eBook cannot be legally lent or given to others. This eBook is displayed using 100% recycled electrons.

Distributed by Fictionwise.com

2

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

CONTENTS Three Moon Station Dedication Chapter One Chapter Two Chapter Three Chapter Four Chapter Five Chapter Six Chapter Seven Chapter Eight Chapter Nine Chapter Ten Chapter Eleven Chapter Twelve Chapter Thirteen Chapter Fourteen Chapter Fifteen Chapter Sixteen Chapter Seventeen Chapter Eighteen Chapter Nineteen Chapter Twenty Chapter Twenty-One Chapter Twenty-Two Chapter Twenty-Three Chapter Twenty-Four 3

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Chapter Twenty-Five Chapter Twenty-Six Chapter Twenty-Seven Chapter Twenty-Eight Chapter Twenty-Nine Chapter Thirty Chapter Thirty-One Chapter Thirty-Two Chapter Thirty-Three Chapter Thirty-Four Chapter Thirty-Five A word about the author... Thank you for purchasing ****

4

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

With startling swiftness, the bidding began, voices calling from all sides, and that one voice she didn't want to hear, gave its bid, higher than the rest, so high all but two of the others dropped out immediately. Katy bit her lip to keep from screaming as Alwin Marsten fixed her with a black stare that told her he was determined to have her. The bidding reached five hundred. One of the two remaining bidders dropped out. Marsten and the other battled another hundred and fifty Credits higher. At five hundred and seventy-five, the other bidder gave up. With a triumphant smirk, Marsten started toward St. Clair. "One pound of angelica and no more bids!" St. Clair dropped his gavel. It spun around, rolling off the podium top, and he bent to retrieve it. "Did I hear correctly? One pound of angelica?" "And the bidding stops," the redhead answered. St. Clair sighed. This had been the most exciting auction he'd ever attended and it didn't appear to be over yet! "Mr. Marsten—you heard? Your bid?" Marsten looked at the redhead. "A pound of angelica? Prove you've got that much!" The other man reached into his pocket and held up a second pouch. Untying the strings, he shook several white rocks onto his palm. Marsten's lips tightened in anger. "Well?" St. Clair prompted. 5

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"You know I don't have that kind of money!" Marsten snarled. "Let him have her!" He looked back at the redhead. "You'll be sorry for this! We're not finished!" Flinging himself through the crowd toward the hitching post, he untied his horse, mounted it and rode away. St. Clair's gavel sealed the bid.

6

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Exhilarating and attention-grabbing, Three Moon Station will keep you enthralled as passions collide on a distant planet." ~Margaret Marr for NightsandWeekends.com "Warp-speed twists and turns in a gripping plot. Explore the frontiers of outer space and inner feelings with characters that seem as real as you and I." ~Linda Nightingale, Writer, GRW Magnolia Award in Mainstream, Cardinal Desires. "What a ride! Let Toni Sweeney's futuristic Three Moon transport your imagination's emotion. A suspense filled pageturner." ~Sherry Morris, Immaculate Deception Romantic Times Booklovers Magazine Reviewers' Choice Award Best Small Press Paranormal Romance. "For a romance that's out of this world, hop a ride with Katy, who runs from one danger into a whole new world where the biggest danger is a handsome man who might just steal her heart and yours. Ms Sweeney takes us into her version of the twenty-third century Earth and beyond." ~Mary Marvella, GRW Service Award '04 Sandra Chastain Service Award '06. Previous releases: The Irish Lady's Spanish Lover (Double Dragon Publications)

7

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone [Back to Table of Contents]

8

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are either the product of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to actual persons living or dead, business establishments, events, or locales, is entirely coincidental. Three Moon Station COPYRIGHT © 2008 by Toni V. Sweeney All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission of the author or The Wild Rose Press except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles or reviews. Contact Information: [email protected] Cover Art by Rae Monet The Wild Rose Press PO Box 708 Adams Basin, NY 14410-0706 Visit us at www.thewildrosepress.com Publishing History First Faery Rose Edition, 2008 Print ISBN 1-60154-388-3 Published in the United States of America [Back to Table of Contents]

9

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Dedication A Irene y a Dina, las gracias por toda la ayuda y le apoyan me han dado [Back to Table of Contents]

10

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Chapter One If the electronic sensors hadn't opened the doors as Katy rushed toward them, she would've crashed head-first into the plated plexiglass, probably fracturing her skull, possibly killing herself, and thereby saving the two gunmen behind her the trouble. As it was, the double doors slid open at her approach, and she ran outside onto the sidewalk, looked skyward for a taxi, then bolted up the street as the doors closed again, momentarily trapping her pursuers inside. It was difficult running in high heels and if she'd been somewhere else, she might have kicked them off—next time I run for my life, remind me to wear jogging shoes—but the thought of being barefoot on August-heated polyconcrete wasn't an inviting one, even in her present state of mind. She saw the hover cab ramp and mounted the steps two at a time, reached the platform and slapped a hand on the dome of the transmitter, causing it to signal that here was a passenger requiring immediate transportation. Within a minute, an Independent appeared, its red and black checkerboard doors blatantly informing everyone that its owner was non-Union. Docking beside the platform, its back door swung open as the driver spoke the phrase that hadn't changed in four centuries. "Where to, Miss?"

11

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Katy scrambled inside as the two men burst through the doors, one of them sighting her as she fell onto the seat and the hatch slammed shut. The driver repeated his question. For a moment, she couldn't think. Where did she want to go? "Got to have a destination, ma'am," the driver prompted. She peered through the back window. The two men were running in the opposite direction but the thought that they'd given up disappeared as they reached a sleek and deadlylooking Federation Motors Cannon parked at the curb. "Ma'am?" the driver said again. "T-the terminal. Hurry." "Going to catch a shuttle?" The cab pulled away from the platform and soared to Speeding Height, some forty feet above the pavement. The driver bent to punch the coordinates into the minute GPS set into the cab's dashboard. Katy didn't answer. The men were inside the car. In a second they'd be after her again. She wondered if the cab was fitted with laser-proof glass as the Federation Board of Automotive Safety recommended. Probably not. Neither the cab nor its driver looked as if they would ever have enough fares to afford laser-proofing. A bus floated into position behind the cab, hiding it from the black car's sight. "Y-yes." Katy straightened, stuttering in fear. "I-I have to catch a-a s-shuttle and I'm late. Please—please, hurry." 12

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Going to Emergency Height, ma'am," the driver pointed the cab's nose upward. It climbed to a high-speed level of forty-five feet and banked left at the next stoplight, merging into traffic which was relatively heavy for this early in the afternoon. Katy looked back again. Far behind them, the black car zoomed past the corner where the cab had turned, crossed the intersection and sailed straight ahead. With a sigh, she leaned back. For the moment, she'd lost them. She let the shock of the past twenty minutes sweep over her. Why had it happened? Why? This wasn't the Old West. This was the twenty-fourth century, for God's sake. Two men armed with laser guns couldn't just chase someone down a busy city street in broad daylight. Apparently, they could, because they had. Okay, let's think this through ... you can figure this out ... think back.... Karel Andrews, her uncle's partner, had asked her to stay late, to make some copies. She liked Mr. Andrews. He was as nice as Uncle Cyril was cruel. He'd given her a disk, went into his office and shut the door. She slid it into the slot, reading the notations idly. Nothing interesting ... just an account ledger for The King's Ransom, a well-known—and very expensive—local restaurant, but the information was wrong. It gave the owner's name as 13

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Antar Benedetto, and Katy knew that wasn't correct. The King's Ransom was owned by Dery Brunarosa, so why— That was when she heard the pop. A harmless little sound, but out of place. Ejecting the disk, Katy stood up and walked over to the office door which was slightly ajar. Mr. Andrews had been complaining about the lock not latching securely, and it was supposed to be repaired this weekend. Otherwise, she wouldn't have heard anything. She peered through the opening and clamped both hands over her mouth to stifle a scream. Mr. Andrews lay on the floor, his chest a mass of charred cloth and tissue. A man was kneeling beside him, going through the pockets of his jacket. Behind him, another man was ripping the little discs stored in the cabinet from their protective sleeves and tossing them on the floor. Backing away from the door, Katy whirled and ran for the office entrance. Just as she disappeared around the corner, one of the men came into the outer office. Shouting something to his companion, he started after her. The lift doors were gliding shut as he ran into the hall. Okay, that was a pretty good summary of what had happened, but she was still no closer to figuring out why it had happened. It was obvious they were looking for a disk. Could it have something to do with the one she was clutching so tightly in 14

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

her hand, the one that showed there were two owners—one public, one secret—of The King's Ransom? Mr. Andrews was the accountant for the restaurant. Maybe he'd discovered that Dery Brunarosa wasn't the real owner, and, for whatever reason had attempted to blackmail Antar Benedetto and gotten himself killed for his greed. That couldn't be it. Karel Andrews was the most moral person she knew. His honesty was a joke around the office. He'd never do such a thing. Okay, how about this, then: Mr. Andrews had discovered that Antar Benedetto was the real owner of the restaurant and, for whatever reason, was going to tell the police, and they'd killed him to stop him. That made more sense. That was why he asked her to copy the disk—so he could take it to the police. Why was it so important that Antar Benedetto's ownership of the restaurant remain a secret, a secret he'd kill to keep? She had no idea, but she knew what she was going to do. She'd take the tram to Precinct Seventeen and give the police the disk. For killing her boss, Antar Benedetto was going to be in a lot more trouble than he would for simply being the secret owner of a restaurant. As yet, though, she still couldn't see how that could mean trouble for anyone. Antar Benedetto. Where had she heard that name before? She couldn't remember, but for some reason, it conjured up images of violence—and not just that of Mr. Andrews' death. 15

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Here you are, Miss. Terminal Station." The driver glanced at the meter. "That'll be fifty Credits." She'd left her purse in the bottom drawer of her desk. How in the world was she going to pay him? Katy gave him a quick, nervous smile. "Of course. Just let me get out—" The door obligingly swung open and she scrambled off the seat. "I have the money in my pocket." Reaching into the pocket of her skirt, she released the disk and pulled out her apartment key-card, handing it to him as she slid through the door. The minute her feet touched the pavement, she slammed the door and began to run. Behind her, she could hear the cabby shouting into his communicator, "Dispatch, I've got a fare-jumper—at Terminal Station." Could things get any better? There were always policemen stationed at the terminals, ready for the passenger violence which erupted half a dozen times a week. The dispatch operator would notify the police and they'd come get her and she wouldn't have to take a tram to the precinct—they'd take her there—and then she'd be safe and she'd give them the disk. She slowed to a walk, looking around for the tell-tale black and gold jumpsuits of the local law enforcement officers, saw none, and stopped. Okay, I'll just stand here and wait to be arrested. Shouldn't be too long. Several minutes passed. No police. 16

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

She was beginning to get a little anxious, dodging people brushing past her as they entered and left the trams. She began to walk again, thinking she'd better find the one that would take her to the Precinct since the minions of the law appeared to be busy elsewhere. Maybe I should smash a window or snatch somebody's purse and hurry them along. Katy wasn't the violent sort. Any overt act she'd ever made had to be practically forced out of her. Ever since she came to live with her aunt and uncle as an orphan of six, she'd been a passive creature. Uncle Cyril's domineering personality, which had enabled him to become a force in the business world, had easily cowed the frightened child who obeyed his every command in an attempt to earn his love ... you'll go to finishing school, Katy, because I wish it ... my office has an opening, you'll begin next week ... don't worry about finding a young man, Katy, when the times comes, I'll select the proper husband for you ... all her obedience had gotten her was a frantic flight from gun-wielding killers. Where are they now? She'd heard the cabby talking to the dispatcher. Fare-jumping was against the law and carried a stiff fine. The newspapers were always full of lists of people arrested for doing just that. There's never a cop around when you need one. There were murderers, however, and through the throng of people coming down the walkway, she saw the first of the two men.

17

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

He saw her, shouted something to his companion and pushed through the crowd toward her. For a moment, he was boxed in by passengers leaving a tram. Katy didn't wait to see if he'd get through. She whirled and ran down the walkway. The ticket carrel loomed before her. "One, please." The clerk wasn't as easy to fool as the cabbie had been. He held out the ticket but didn't release it as he said, "That's twenty Credits, Miss." Katy looked back. The gunman had gotten through the crowd. "I-I don't have any money." "Then step out of the way, please—and give paying customers a chance." The words were delivered with a curled lip and a smug air. This man definitely needed a course in Customer Relations. "Please," Katy said, quickly. "I need to get to Precinct Seventeen." "Keep that up and you'll get a free ride there." He also thought himself a comedian. "Free ride—that's it. Aren't there any trams that don't require a fare?" He consulted his computer screen. "Got three—you're in luck, one runs a block from Precinct Seventeen." "W-which one?" "Number—" His voice was blotted out by the overhead noise of a klaxon so he pointed in a leftward direction, and 18

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Katy started that way, dodging people moving the opposite way. Two trams and a line of passengers loomed in front of her. Neither car had a marked destination. Which one was it? She hesitated, then was shoved from behind by someone pushing his way through the crowd. As she stumbled into the line of passengers entering the tram on her right, there was a harsh, "Hey! Watch it!" from a big blonde as she accidentally trod on her toes. Katy regained her balance, and was swept inside as the line moved forward. They fell onto the seats together. Looking around, she asked the woman next to her, "Where's this tram going?" It was the same woman whose toes she'd stepped on. "To the Shuttle port." "Shuttle port. I don't want to go there." "Don't think you've got a choice." The woman nodded at the doors as they began to slide shut. Jumping to her feet, Katy ran toward them. The guard, stationed there to protect passengers from would-be terrorists, raised his rifle and blocked her way. "Where d'ya think you're going?" "Please." She backed away from the rifle. "I'm on the wrong tram. I need to be on the one going cross-town." She broke off as the doors crashed together and her pursuers threw themselves against its transparent surface, fingers clawing at the seam where the two halves met as if they could pry them apart. 19

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

The guard raised his rifle again and they backed away from the doors and onto the platform as the tram pulled out of the station. "Those two seemed to be pretty anxious to get on here," the guard commented. "Y-yes, they did, didn't they?" Katy agreed, voice quivering. The guard looked at her speculatively. "Maybe it'd be safer for you to ride to the shuttle port and take the tram from there to wherever you're going." "I-I think it would." She looked back at the seat she'd vacated, "I'll ... just go sit down..." and scurried away. As she returned to her seat, the woman murmured, "Told you so, didn't I?" Katy didn't answer. She was too busy trying to settle onto the seat, sighing and brushing back a stray lock of hair that had fallen into her face. Somewhere, she lost her barrette and the mass of bright curls was floating wildly about her shoulders like a sunsetcolored cloud. She looked up and down the aisle. The tram was slightly crowded, and with the exception of the guard, all the passengers on the tram were women. How very odd. Settling back, she turned her attention to her companions. She was seated between the big blonde and a young girl with long dark hair in a single pigtail down her back. Judging from the conversation she was having with the other woman—over and around Katy—the girl was excited about the trip she was about to take. 20

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"I think this is just great, don't you, Jessie?" Katy turned to look at the blonde as she gave a noncommittal murmur. She was older than the girl, tall and blonde and generously-endowed, a real Juno. "I can hardly wait. This is a real adventure." Another barely-audible grunt from Jessie. "I think I'll just wait and see." "Aren't you excited?" Smiling at the dark-haired girl's last remark, she shrugged. "Guess it beats five years at hard labor, Cilla." Katy laughed. "You make it sound as if you've been in prison." The woman raised an eyebrow and smiled. "I was." After that, she ignored Katy and continued talking to Cilla, leaning so that she could look at her friend around Katy's body. After this obvious snub, Katy stayed quiet. She didn't intend to eavesdrop but how could she help it when she was sitting between them? It wasn't as if she was deliberately trying to overhear. Was it? Jessie and Cilla—her real name was Priscilla, it turned out—were going on a trip ... together ... and while the younger woman saw the journey as a romantic adventure, the older one more realistically reminded her that there was probably going to be hardship and discomfort involved but where they were going and why, neither had mentioned, and Katy hadn't been able to glean a single clue to their destination from what either said. 21

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Presently, the tram slowed, stropped, and the doors opened. The guard who'd been lounging in a seat by the door, stood up, gesturing with his rifle. "Okay, ladies. Everyone out." In one body they all rose, and Katy was startled to find herself being lifted to her feet as something under her tightened. She turned and looked behind her. A cord. She'd been sitting on a plasticon cord and each end of it was connected to a clear bracelet on her companions' wrists. She looked from the cord to Jessie. "You're manacled," she whispered, not wanting anyone else in the car to hear. "Why?" The blonde woman appeared amused by her question. "I told you, Honey," she answered and at Katy's blank look went on, "Five year's hard labor? We're convicts. We're being transported to the colony on Tritomis-Two." At that moment, they went out the door, and Katy was swept along with them, and carried several yards up the platform. She stepped away from Jessie, struggled out of the crush of bodies and started back toward the tram... "Hold it." A hand caught her arm, spinning her around. "Where are you going?" Another guard. A female one. "I'm getting back on the tram." The woman smiled and it wasn't altogether friendly. "And deprive us of your company?" 22

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Katy smiled back. "It's nice of you to say that, but this was really a mistake—" "It certainly was." The amused look faded from the woman's face. "Get back in line. If you make another "mistake" I may have to be a little rough with you—orders or no. Where's your wrist-cuff?" "Wrist-cuff?" Katy's smile vanished as she looked down at her arm. "I-I don't have one ... I—" "Don't have one? How'd you manage to keep from being cuffed? I've never heard of that happening. Say," the guard eyed her suspiciously, "are you one of those special Minimum Security prisoners or something?" Katy shook her head. "I'm not a prisoner. I got on this tram by mistake—" "Sure, you did." The guard pushed her back in line, digging into the pocket of her tunic. "Look, there were two men with guns—" "You had an armed escort?" "No, I—" "She got on the tram pretty fast, Smitty," Jessie put in, "and the two guys didn't make it. The doors shut before they could get on. Fulton saw them." "That's right," Katy confirmed. "The guard on the other tram said I was supposed to ride back to the Terminal. Ask him." Smitty looked back down the platform. "Too late. The tram's gone." "Oh, no!" Katy's gaze followed hers. "What am I going to do?" 23

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Look—" Smitty turned back to her. "If you really got on by mistake—What prison were those guys escorting you to?" "They weren't escorting me anywhere—" "Okay, where were they taking you, then?" Katy didn't answer and the guard went on, "You must be pretty dangerous if they were armed, but you're not cuffed, so—" Pulling a manacle from her pocket, she slipped it onto the girl's wrist, snapping it shut. Katy's left arm swung toward the cord connecting Jessie and Cilla and clung there as the electromagnet inside the cuff adhered to its surface. "When we get to the shuttle, I'll let my superiors worry about it." Smitty turned and walked away. "Fine ... maybe they'll believe me." Katy continued to mutter to herself until Jessie turned on her, "Oh, shut up, will you? You're getting on my nerves!" This unsympathetic attitude rendered Katy silent for exactly five minutes, after which she started complaining again. When Jessie took a deep breath to deliver an even stronger admonition, Cilla intervened, "Oh, Jessie, leave her alone. Can't you see she isn't looking forward to this like we are? Maybe she doesn't want to go." "You're right there," Katy agreed. "I certainly don't want to go to ... wherever you said you're going." They were at the shuttle now. Beside its entrance was a desk fitted with a computer terminal and audio unit. A male guard stood by the desk, a female one at the CT. 24

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Progress was slow—each woman's name checked against the passenger list in the databank before she was uncuffed and allowed on board. As Cilla disappeared inside, rubbing her wrist as her manacle was removed, it was Katy's turn. "Name?" the man asked. "You're not going to find me in that thing," Katy declared, nodding at the computer. "Oh? Why not?" He'd been laughing and joking with all the women and she smiled, thinking his lax attitude meant he'd listen to her. "Because I'm not in there." "Where are you, then?" "Not in there, Mr—" Katy glanced at the nametag on his coverall pocket. St. Clair. "—Officer St. Clair. I don't belong here—" "How long are you going to keep this up?" Jessie interrupted. "God! Are you sure those two guys weren't taking you to a Federation Mental Hospital or something? For a psych evaluation?" "What two guys?" Officer St. Clair asked. "The two men who were with her," Jessie answered before Katy could explain. "You see—" and she launched into her version of Katy's story. "No—that's not the way it was—" Katy interrupted as the guard put his hand on her arm, very gently, as if he were suddenly afraid she was going to turn violent. "Just be quiet a moment," he said. "Smitty!" 25

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

The woman guard came toward him at a run. He left Katy and met the woman halfway and they talked together for several minutes, one and then the other looking at her. At last, they both walked back to where she stood. "Where'd you lose your companions, Miss?" "At the Terminal. The doors closed before they could get on, thank goodness—but they weren't my companions." "Of course not—I meant the officers who were escorting you—" "They weren't—Oh!" Abruptly, she stamped her foot, the gesture shockingly childish. She caught the guard's arm, giving it a little shake. "Why can't I make you understand?" "Watch that!" Smitty raised her rifle. "We were told to be gentle with you people but if you keep up this stupid business, I'm going to give you a rap with my rifle butt!" "Good." Jessie laughed. "I'm about ready to give her a couple of wallops myself. That'll save me the trouble." "Oh, please, don't hit me!" Katy released the guard's arm and cowered away from Smitty, bumping against the desk, anger dissolving into fear. She began to cry. St. Clair touched her arm. "No one's going to hit you," he assured her. "Smitty's just barking, aren't you, Smitty?" He glared at the woman who turned and stamped back down the line. "I'm going back to my post!" St. Clair turned back to Katy. "Now—" Sniffing back a final tear, she scrubbed at her eyes, looking up at him. For a moment, he wavered as he looked down into the tear-stained blue eyes. 26

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Shaking his head as if to clear it, he said briskly, "Let's get this settled. You're holding up the line and putting us behind schedule." "Fine." Katy nodded in agreement. She decided to get straight to the point. "You see, my boss was murdered—" "Murder?" The guard stiffened. "Maybe you don't belong here." Katy relaxed. "Murderers aren't eligible for transport." "I didn't murder anyone!" she exclaimed. "I was in the next room." "An accomplice? That's different." "No. I—" She gave up. "Look—just check your computer. It'll prove I don't belong here." With an air of calling her bluff, he turned to the woman behind the desk. "Harris, if you'd be so kind—" She nodded. "Let me have your identification card." Katy shook her head. "I don't have it. I don't have anything." Nothing except this, she thought suddenly, putting her hand in her pocket and touching the disc. She certainly wasn't going to hand that over. These idiots would probably throw it away! No, she'd wait until she was with the proper authorities—someone with brains—before she let the disk out of her possession. Harris shrugged. "No matter. Name?" "Katherine Rawls." Katy spoke into the audio unit. "City?" Katy assumed she meant her hometown. "Burnett, Iowa." 27

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"That's where the Federation Reformatory for Female Offenders is located, isn't it?" St. Clair asked. Kathy nodded. "It's a pretty place to visit but you wouldn't want to live there." That was the wrong thing to say. "You're familiar with its interior, eh?" Harris spoke up, "Here it is—Kathleen Rawls—" She studied the screen a moment before turning it so St. Clair could read for himself. "Hmm ... accomplice to murder. Sentenced to twelve years because of doubt as to actual involvement in the act. Previous convictions." He looked back at her, eyes narrowing. "You've been a very busy young lady, Miss Rawls." "Maybe she's seen the error of her ways. Maybe that's why she's going to Tritomis." Jessie spoke up. "That's not me!" Katy protested. "My name's Katherine." "A typo," Harris brushed away her protest. "Those government stenos can't spell worth a damn." "Show me her mug-shot," St. Clair ordered. She repeated his request. "Here you go—" She eyed Katy critically. "Picture doesn't look much like you but mug shots never do. Physical description: red hair, blue eyes—" St Clair studied Katy's face. Harris was droning on, "Five feet four inches—" "I'm five-two." Katy interrupted. "So someone can't measure properly." "One hundred and ten pounds—" 28

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"One hundred and eight," Katy corrected, a sinking feeling coiling inside her. "Not everyone gains weight on prison food." "Age twenty-four..." "I'm twenty-two," her voice trailed away as she realized the two descriptions were too similar. The evidence was all circumstantial but enough to convict her as if she'd truly committed a crime. "So you lied about your age." The officer shook his head. "It was a good act and I'll admit that for just a minute, I nearly believed you, especially when you started crying." "It says here she's nicknamed The Crybaby," Harris interrupted. "She's escaped arrest several times by playing on the officer's sympathy." "That settles it." St Clair was all business, now, "Get her processed and inside," his voice harsh to cover his embarrassment at allowing himself to be taken in by a female prisoner. "I don't want to hear another peep out of you until we're underway." Katy didn't answer. Within minutes, the wrist cuff was removed and replaced with a flexible identification band and she entered the shuttle, following the passageway to a cabin where Cilla was waiting. "What kept you?" the girl demanded. "I was beginning to worry. Where's Jessie?" "S-she'll be along in a minute..." Katy's voice trailed into silence. She sank into a chair. 29

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

It'll be okay. This may be the best thing. So I'll go to Tritomis—hide out there, find some way to make a living, then when things calm down, I'll find someone who'll listen to me and I'll come back ... and make Antar Benedetto pay. When another guard appeared, passing out sleeping shifts, she took the garment without argument, undressed, and pulled it on. By this time, Jessie had joined them and was busy putting on her shift also. The guard came back, collected their clothing, and placed the garments in ditty-bags marked with each woman's name. "Okay, ladies into your bunks." Katy shook her head. "I'm not sleepy just yet. I'll stay up for a while and—" "Afraid you don't have a choice," he told her. "But—" "Come on, Katy," Jessie interrupted. "You know we're going to be put into stasis for the trip." No, she hadn't known that. Katy's insides quivered and jerked. How could I possibly know that? I've never been offplanet before. St. Clair appeared in the doorway "What's the hold-up?" He looked past the guard to Katy. "Might've known it would be you." "No, no!" Katy assured him, sitting down on the edge of the bunk. "I'm not causing any trouble. Not me. No, sir!" "Good." She raised her hand like a child asking permission. "I'd just like to ask one question—" 30

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"What is it now?" St. Clair gave an exasperated sigh. "This stasis business—is it safe?" "It's safe," he replied, with a patience he didn't feel. "No one has ever expired while in stasis ... now, lie down." Obediently, she leaned back against the pillow. The bunk was fairly comfortable, the mattress firm and the pillow contoured to cradle her neck and head. St. Clair lifted her arm, pressing a hypogun against it. There was a faint pop but surprisingly no pain. He released Katy's arm, placing it by her side, and closed the bunk's transparent cover, pressing the buttons that would send oxygen into the case as well as remove the carbon dioxide she exhaled. Shaking his head, he looked down at the girl. She gave him a sleepy smile, raised one hand and twiddled her fingers at him. He raised one hand and waved back. Katy took a deep breath. She felt sooo sleepy. She blinked, closed her eyes, then opened them again as the memory of where she'd seen Antar Benedetto's name came to her. Looking up at St. Clair's blurred image, she said, "I know who—" **** "—he is." The lid slid upward and Katy opened her eyes, yawning and stretching. Sitting up, she swung her legs over the edge of the bunk, stifling another yawn and smiling as she saw Jessie and Cilla, fully dressed and seated on a little couch. 31

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Well, I'm glad they changed their minds." "What are you talking about?" Cilla asked. "About putting us in stasis." "We've been in stasis for four months," the girl protested. Katy stared at her. Jessie nodded confirmation. "Jessie and I woke up about an hour ago. We thought we'd wait for you before we had breakfast." "Glad you're up." Jessie's voice was decidedly more friendly than it had been this morning—no, four months before. "We were beginning to worry," Cilla put in, "but Officer St Clair said some people take a little longer to come out of it than others." "A-are we really there?" Katy asked, hoping it wasn't true. "Are we on Tritomis?" "We sure are." Cilla caught Katy's arm, pulling her to her feet. "Come on, let's eat. I'm starved, aren't you?" "Yes—I am," she agreed, and surprised herself by giggling. "After all, I haven't eaten anything in four months." "Too bad it didn't make me lose some of this." Jessie slapped one full hip as she came up behind them, putting a hand on each girl's shoulder. "Let's go lay on the feedbag." Katy's legs were a little wobbly as she walked into the little living area. Once she stumbled slightly and Jessie caught her arm. "Just take it easy. They explained that after four months of inactivity, the leg muscles might be a little weak. There's an electrostimulator built into each bunk that's supposed to 32

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

prevent this but we'll all have to watch how we walk for a few days." She waved a hand at the little table and Katy saw that it held a tray with three plates filled with what looked like bacon and eggs and stacks of toast. Glasses of orange juice completed the picture. Releasing Katy, Jessie reached for a plate, handed a second to Cilla, plopped herself down on the sofa, and proceeded to eat. Katy picked up the third plate and sat down also, balancing it on her knees as she reached for a fork. "This is delicious!" she exclaimed after her first bite. "Real bacon and eggs. Not soy-mix." She paused to wipe her mouth with her napkin and took a long swig of orange juice. The real thing. She couldn't believe it. "Why not?" Jessie grinned over a piece of toast. "Nothing's too good for the Federation's little Transportees." Katy didn't answer, lifting a new forkful of eggs. She wondered what was waiting for them on Tritomis. She knew prisoners were transported. It happened all the time because the prisons on Terra were so overcrowded, but she'd never thought about what became of those who were sent away. Now that she was one of that select number, knowing those facts became of utmost importance. She picked up a strip of bacon and stuffed half of it into her mouth. Maybe she'd not be here long enough to find out. 33

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Sooner or later, this mess would be straightened out. Preferably sooner. Besides, there were people who'd miss her ... and when Mr. Andrews' body is discovered and I don't show up for work.... Several of the other secretaries knew she was going to work late ... the cabdriver had her apartment key-card, and ... Officer St. Clair—he'd looked relatively intelligent. Maybe he'd request verification that Kathleen Rawls had actually been taken from the Reformatory in Iowa. However it happened, she certainly couldn't do anything just now. No one would listen or even let her explain, so she'd just keep quiet, make no more trouble, and bide her time until someone found her. One way or another, the police would be looking for her. Federation justice was swift. They'd find her soon enough. Right. In the meantime, she'd just go along with this stupid case of mistaken identity and hope that soon was very soon. "So, tell me, Jessie—" She paused to lick bacon grease off her fingers. "Since we're all in this together ... what were you in for?" She hoped that was the right phrase. She'd heard it in a mystery vid the other night. Jessie laughed. "I was a cat burglar." Katy looked blank. "I robbed hotels—relieved people who were too stupid to put their money and jewels in safes of those little valuables." She picked up another piece of toast and smeared it liberally with jam from a small jar sitting on the table. 34

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"One night, I made the mistake of lifting a box full of jewelry from the girlfriend of some Federation bigwig. He pulled every string he could find and they caught me two hours later. I got ten years—five at hard labor." Jessie shrugged. "Then, this little opportunity presented itself, so—" She let the rest of the sentence trail away and took a bite of toast, chewing with relish. I certainly wouldn't be so nonchalant about it if I'd been sentenced to ten years in prison. "How about you, Cilla?" "I'm afraid I'm not as notorious as Jessie." The dark-haired girl studied her plate. "I've got a pretty routine story, I guess. I fell in with a bad crowd." She stopped eating, pushing the eggs about her plate with her fork. "My parents are Traditional Naturals—" Katy looked surprised. Everyone knew about the Naturals, a cult which had settled in the Buffalo Commons, the vast abandoned grassland which stretched from the border of Missouri and Iowa in an ellipse to North Dakota and Oklahoma and as far West as Montana. Practicing a way of living their ancestors in the mid-twentieth century had followed, they adhered to a harsher, stricter way of life. "You've certainly not followed their ways," Katy commented. "I don't think I've ever heard of a Natural being arrested." "Don't I know it," the girl answered. "I won't make excuses for myself. I met a man, thought he was wonderful, but later 35

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

found out he wasn't. When he robbed the roadside market, I was flying the car." She sighed. "I got seven years as an accomplice because I had no previous record. Now, I've got a chance to redeem myself..." "Yeah," Jessie agreed sarcastically, through a mouthful of toast. "This'll definitely make you a law-abiding citizen again." "It may be wrong to say it—but I don't care what the Federation thinks of me," Cilla answered. "I hurt my parents terribly and my coming to Tritomis will make it up to them. It means they'll forgive me and I can be a member of my family again." "Cilla's been shunned for her sins," Jessie put in. For a moment, all three were silent. Then, Cilla laughed. "You know, technically, we can't really be called Transportees, since we're all doing this voluntarily," She wrapped a strip of bacon around a morsel of toast and stuffed it into her mouth. "All except Katy here," she added. Jessie picked up a piece of crust and sopped up the remnants of egg off her plate. "Maybe she won't be so difficult after she sees what's waiting for us." There was a glitter of delight in her eyes. Something about that mischievous twinkle made Katy ask, "And just what might that be?" "Men," came the startling answer, slightly muffled by a mouthful of egg and toast. "A planet full of lonely men!" [Back to Table of Contents] 36

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Chapter Two "M-men?" Katy nearly choked on her toast. She began to cough. Jessie reached behind her, and started pounding her on the back. Cilla handed her the glass of juice and she took a quick drink, winced as Jessie struck another blow between her shoulder blades. "Jessie—Jessie! Thanks. You can stop now." "Sorry. If I didn't know better, I'd think you didn't know the reason we came to Tritomis!" the big blonde exclaimed, setting her plate on the table. Katy took another deep breath and flexed her shoulders slightly. The spot where Jessie had struck was beginning to ache. "Why don't you tell me why you and Cilla came here?" she said weakly, raising the glass again, and downing the rest of the juice. "Glad to. You do know that Tritomis-Two is a Federation colony—" Katy nodded. "—so I won't have to go into any background, then," Jessie went on with more than a little relief, "—and, like a lot of those places, women are at a minimum." "Anybody who's ever seen a "Settlers" movie know that!" Katy exclaimed, thinking all this was obvious. "Why even those old Westerns they used to make—" 37

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"The men came out here and staked claims and built homes," Cillia put in, interrupting her, "but most of them didn't have families." Jessie picked up the story again. "At first, the only help they had was convict labor, sent here to work off their sentences. Real Transportees." Katy placed her empty plate next to Jessie's. "So far, you aren't telling me anything I don't already know." "Sometimes I wonder." Jessie gave her a slightly sardonic stare. "Anyway, after they were released, most of the convicts stayed on, staked their own claims or were granted land in return for good behavior and, of course, they needed help—specifically women—to cook and clean and do all those other little domestic things—" Katy snorted. "Women haven't been domestic for centuries. Except the Naturals. Sorry, Cilla." "It's okay." "Be that as it may," Jessie went on, "on a remote planet like Tritomis, they are domestic." "Is that why you're being so difficult, Katy—because you don't believe in women taking a home-making role in life?" Cilla asked. "But—All these women—" Katy began. "They ... we ... is everyone a-a ... criminal?" They nodded. "A-and now, we're convict-labor..." her voice trailed away. "Unh-uh," Cilla disagreed sharply. "We were all given a chance for Pardon, Katy, if we came here as Domestics—" 38

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"I see," Katy said. At least, she thought she did. In return for becoming servants in the houses of men who had themselves once been convicted of crimes, these women prisoners would receive Pardons. No wonder Jessie and Cilla, with a total of seventeen years imprisonment between them, had jumped at the chance. Kathleen Rawls, too. She felt her stomach lurch as she realized that she, too, was considered a female prisoner and would also have to work in someone's house. "H-how long does this work—" she nearly choked on the word, "—last?" "The warden at the prison said one year was the minimum," Cilla explained. "After that—" she shrugged, "—it's up to the people involved." "Were you asleep when they explained it all?" Jessie asked. If I were really Kathleen Rawls, I'd have known this, Katy thought. I'd better start watching what I say. Aloud, she said, "Well—I-I guess I wasn't listening too closely. All I heard was the word Pardon. I-I came here under false pretenses..." "Even if you aren't supposed to be here, Katy," Cilla went on, "if you behave and uphold the Agreement, you can still be pardoned." She actually cares what happens to me. For a moment, Katy was touched. I can stand it for a year. Maybe. Yes. Sure. She'd keep her mouth shut, make no trouble, be a good little housekeeper, and wait for the Federation Marshals to find her. 39

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

The door to the cabin slid open and St. Clair stood in the archway. "Good morning, ladies. Ready?" Katy's stomach stated it wasn't in no uncertain terms. It decided to return her breakfast. She stumbled to her feet, whirled and sped toward the little sanitary room. "I think I ate too much," she called over her shoulder. "II'm going to be sick." "Come out to the meeting area after you're finished in there!" St. Clair called. The door slid shut. Jessie looked at him. "She's a little nervous." "She ought to be, after that scene at the shuttle port." He stepped into the corridor, Jessie and Cilla following. "I'll admit I was almost taken in by her story," he said. "I even went so far as to send a query to the Burnett Reformatory asking whether or not Kathleen Rawls had signed up to go to Tritomis and if the agreement was voluntary." "And—?" "I got an affirmative reply." "She seems to be coming around now," Cilla spoke up. "She admitted she didn't really pay attention to the terms of the Agreement—" "Yeah," Jessie agreed, "said she just heard the word Pardon and nothing else." St. Clair thought about that a moment. "Yes—she looks like the kind who would do something like that." 40

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

They were out of the shuttle now, St. Clair walking them toward an open area on the outskirts of Zero, the little town where the shuttle had landed. **** The first settlers to Tritomis-Two named their little encampment Zero because they were starting from nothing and building toward something. It was still small, had a general store/Federation post office/bank, a stable, a church, a marshal's office, and a doctor's office, as well as a saloon—Larkin's Place—which boasted good whiskey, all-night card games, and female companionship in the person of three Federation-licensed females who would, for the proper amount of Credits, provide any man, be he settler, brush raider, or Freedman, a brief physical enjoyment to relieve the tensions built up during long, lonely nights at a station or farm. In a large area just in front and to the left of Larkin's, a series of risers and benches had been set up, a podium with a desk to one side. Women from the shuttle sat on the benches, talking and whispering to each other. Seeing Jessie and Cilla to their seats, St. Clair made his way to the podium where he looked over the papers laying there, nodding to the official who sat at the table where the contracts waited to be signed. Katy hadn't yet appeared but he decided to get started, anyway. He wanted to get all preliminaries out of the way before the riders started arriving. Seizing the gavel, he 41

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

rapped on the podium. Voices fell silent as each woman looked his way. "Ladies—" Someone giggled, a quick nervous sound. St. Clair allowed himself a quiet smile. "The men'll be here pretty soon and I want to go over the rules governing this procedure—to make certain everyone understands the reasons she's here and also her Rights." A murmur traveled through the benches before dying out again. Jessie leaned forward and whispered something to Cilla who answered her though her eyes didn't leave St. Clair's face. "It's been explained to all of you that you've been given a chance to have the convictions against you overturned," he began. "This is the way it works—the men here are looking for wives. They want someone who'll take care of their homes—and themselves—and help them run their homesteads. Since bringing all of you here is a costly operation, each man has to pay for the woman he chooses—" "You mean we're going to be auctioned off?" a voice demanded. "That's right." He paused to let that sink in before continuing. "Don't get the idea you're being sold as slaves, because you're not. Before you leave this area with any man, you'll be duly married by Pastor Fisher here—" he nodded at the man seated at the table, "—and these marriages will be legal and binding to all parties involved." The jingle of a bit made him look past the last row of benches. 42

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

A rider was dismounting from his elo, tying its reins to a hitching post. The horse-like animal's metal-tipped horns gleamed in the light from the streetlamps as it shook its head and shorted. Behind him, up the street, he could see more riders, some on Terran horses, more on elos, coming toward them. Better get this said fast. "The only stipulation is that you remain for one year. If, after that time, either party decides it isn't working out, then the marriage'll be dissolved—and the prisoner will be returned to Terra to serve out her sentence which will be reduced by one-half time already served." "Hey." From the rear, someone protested. "I thought we'd get Pardon after one year." "There's another one who didn't listen," Jessie murmured to Cilla. There were more murmurs, a chorus of "Yeah—what about that?" from a few others. "Sorry, ladies—Automatic Pardon is only earned by anyone staying here five years." The murmur got louder. He could hear the words, "Five years?" traveling through the group like an echo. "Any woman giving birth during the first year is immediately Pardoned." At that, the voices drowned out his own, and he fell silent, letting them mutter among themselves about that part of the Agreement. A movement at the shuttle's hatch caught St. Clair's eye. 43

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Katy scurried down the gangplank and ran to where Jessie and Cilla were seated, dropping onto the bench beside them. Taking a deep breath, he went on, "The men can talk to you if they wish and you may talk to them. The only rule is that neither of you touch the other, unless it's with a guard's permission—" "—not until the money's paid!" someone called out. A titter of laughter spun into the air. The men were getting closer. Better bring this little speech to a close. "That's it, ladies. One year's cooking and cleaning and all that goes with it—that's all it takes. And remember—you're not slaves. You're Domestic Engineers. You have Rights. If any of you are mistreated in any way, all you have to do is complain to the Marshal. You'll be listened to." The hitching posts were full now, men appearing from the saloon as well as the general store. Zero's main street was filled with them, all moving in a concerted wave toward the risers at the western end. Cilla nudged Katy. As the girl looked at her, she nodded toward the street. Both Katy and Jessie followed her gaze. Jessie swallowed quickly and the sound was audible in the sudden silence. "I guess," she said quietly, "this is it, girls!" [Back to Table of Contents]

44

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Chapter Three After a few words of greeting to the men, St. Clair fell silent. They were arranging themselves into little groups, ignoring the very ones they'd come to see, but casual glances over shoulders and quick comments to each other were evidence that they were very much aware of the women's presence At last, one turned, looked at a woman sitting on a bench in the front row, squared his shoulders and taking a deep breath, walked purposefully toward her. He stopped, toeing the yellow line painted on the platform, making certain he was behind the rope stretched across it, and made a stiff little bow. The woman smiled and he began to talk to her in a low, earnest voice. In a few moments, he was back with his friends, recounting their conversation, and more men were walking toward the risers, the air abuzz with the sound of voices. The area in the center of the semi-circle was filling rapidly. A tall man hitched his horse to a vacant post, sauntered a few feet from it, and stopped, looking around. He was dressed in what was considered the work uniform on Tritomis—a long-sleeved shirt, jeans, high-topped boots, and something that most of the others didn't have, a laser gun in a holster against his right hip. He stood there looking around, a slight smile touching his mouth. 45

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Smitty, seated on a high stool near Cilla, her rifle resting against her right knee, looked around, saw him, and said in a sharp whisper, "Damn! Not him again!" "What? Who?" Cilla asked. "Him." Smitty nodded at the tall man. The three women looked in that direction. Cilla shivered, taking in the dark face and the stern expression. "That's Alwin Marsten. Girls, you'd better pray he doesn't bid on any of you." "Why not?" Cilla looked at her with wide eyes. "He's gotten three transportees in the past three years and it looks like he's after Number Four." "Three?" Katy spoke up. "Shouldn't that be illegal?" "Not if they're all dead." The guard shivered slightly and looked away. "The first one was killed in an elo stampede. The second one died of pneumonia after falling into the river, and the third hung herself. Rumor around Zero is that all three had help in dying." "But—Surely, the Marshal investigated." Katy exclaimed. "I mean, didn't any of the women ever complain?" Her voice trailed away as Smitty shook her head. "Once they got to Marsten's station, none of the women were ever seen again, except when the doctor was called in. The Marshal could find no evidence of foul play. 'Course each one had been dead three or four days by the time he was notified and a lot of covering-up can be done in that time." "Oh, God!" Cilla shuddered. "I never thought about— suddenly, I'm thinking this might not be such a good idea." "Too late now," Jessie reminded her. 46

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Katy put a hand on the girl's shoulder. "Don't worry, Cilla, I'm sure you'll find someone nice." She looked back at Alwin Marsten. "A nice man," she repeated, "and not a probable murderer." At that moment, as if he'd heard, he looked toward them, his eyes meeting hers. Katy shivered. His eyes were exactly like those of the men in Karel Andrews' office—cold, hard, totally without pity. She turned her head, forcing her gaze from his. "Now that's more like it!" Jessie pointed up the street. Two men had just come out of Larkin's. Each one held a mug of tarraroot beer, bright red and foamy. One raised his tankard to his mouth, not pausing in his movement down the street. He was the first person Katy had ever seen who could drink and walk at the same time without spilling the liquid all over himself. Lowering the mug, he said something to the other man, and they stopped a few feet from where Katy and the others sat. The second man, the shorter of the two by possibly an inch, turned to sweep a bright blue gaze over the risers, talking the entire time. He wasn't still a moment, speaking with his whole body—head, hands, arms waving and gesturing. He wore a low-crowned, wide-brimmed hat which he pushed onto the back of his head, saying something else and laughing at his friend's reply. He was dressed like the others 47

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

except that he also wore a thigh-length jacket of soft, dressed animal-hide. "Oh, my," Jessie murmured. With the hat out of the way, they could see his face clearly. He was young, probably only a couple of years older than Katy, had a still-boyish face with a spattering of freckles across nose and cheeks, evidence of days spent in the sun. Thick straight hair, looking corn-silk white against the dark suede, fell from under the hat to the shoulders of the jacket. They were very broad shoulders, Katy noted approvingly. Laughing at something his companion said, he turned toward him with more gestures, at the same time taking a long drink from his tankard. "Oh, I hope he isn't a drunkard!" Cilla exclaimed as the level in the mug went down considerably. "Probably not," Smitty answered. "Most of the men here only come to town once every two or three months. They do a little drinking, then go home again. I doubt that would qualify any of them as alcoholics." Katy turned her attention to the other man. He was a little taller but just as wide-shouldered and slim as his friend. Not thin, because there was something about the way each man moved that suggested tight, wellconditioned muscles, each one's slenderness the result of having no excess fat on his body. Anywhere. Katy felt her face get hot. Why had she thought a thing like that? 48

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

She couldn't see his face. The brim of his hat was resting low on his forehead, only part of his nose and his mouth visible. There was a little crease, not quite a dimple, in one cheek that became deeper when he smiled as he was doing now, breaking into outright laughter at something the blond man said. He was dressed like the others—shirt, jeans, boots covered by gaiters to protect them while riding in the brush, with a long black trail coat over everything. His right hand rested negligently against his belt buckle and from a leather thong wrapped around his wrist hung a foot-long braided quirt with a small shock bar embedded in the end of the shaft. As he shifted his weight slightly, the coat parted, revealing a short-barreled Winchester DT3 laser pistol strapped to his right leg. Someone coming down the street called out and he turned and looked toward the speaker. His hair hung down his back in a loose braid which swung against the black duster as he spun around. It was a fiery copper, even brighter than Katy's own. She saw something else. Two tiny turquoises set into the lobe of his left ear. She glanced toward the blond man again. He, too, wore an ear ornament but it was simpler, a small gold ring. The blond man was looking toward them again. His eyes met Cilla's. 49

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

He dropped his mug. It slid from his fingers, landing in the dirt right side-up, splashing beer on his boots. For a moment, he stood there, listening to his friend laugh before bending to retrieve the mug. He turned away, saying something to his friend, then glancing back over his shoulder, and just as quickly, the redhead pulled the tankard from his hand and pushed him toward the riser. Stopping at the line and looking down to make sure he wasn't stepping over it, he swept off his hat—the blond hair floated like a cloud of spider web, then settled again—as he nodded to Smitty, who greeted him as if they were old friends. "Hello, Abel." He looked directly at Cilla. "Ma'am, my name's Abel Parker.... "He transferred the hat to his left hand and extended his right over the rope. Cilla looked at Smitty and when the guard nodded, reached out and placed her hand in his. "Priscilla Roundtree." The words were a whisper. His fingers closed around hers and neither moved until Smitty tapped the clasped hands with the barrel of the rifle. "Okay, that's long enough." They flew apart, guiltily. Abel recovered first. He took a deep breath, cleared his throat and launched into what was probably, for him, a very long and difficult speech. "Miss Roundtree, I've a farm south of the Taheya River—not too big, just some acreage and a 50

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

couple of cows. I raise wheat, had a good crop last year. There's just me and my dog—Do you like dogs?" Cilla smiled. "I love dogs. At home, we had sheepdogs. I've really missed them." Abel looked pleased. "I'm twenty-four-years old and I'm a Christian." He dug into the neck of his shirt and displayed a small cross as if to verify this. "And I've never been married ... I—do you know anything about farming?" "I certainly do," Cilla smiled again, and relaxed a little. "My people are Naturals." "Then you can cook and—" One restless hand strayed to his shirt-front, picking at a button which came loose in his fingers. He looked down at it, then held it out to her. "And sew—?" Cilla held out her hand and Abel placed the button on her palm. "Would you sew this button back on for me, Miss Priscilla?" "I'd be proud to, Mr. Parker." Abel was twisting the brim of his hat now, the expressive hands attempting to overcome the stillness he'd forced upon them. His words came out in a single breathless rush. "You'll allow me the honor of bidding for you?" Cilla nodded. Jamming the hat back on his head, he almost fell down the steps, running back to his friend. Cilla watched him go, fingers clutching the button to her breast as if it were something priceless. 51

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

His hands spoke volumes as he reached the redhead who looked past him toward Cilla. He handed Abel his tankard, his gaze swinging toward Katy, and he smiled as he raised his mug. Flushing, Katy looked away. "Oh, oh!" Cilla was practically squealing with happiness. "Isn't he cute? I didn't think I'd be this lucky!" "You aren't lucky. Not yet." Smitty's voice was like a shower of rain over the girl's happiness. "Don't get your hopes up over Abel Parker." "Why not?" "He's come down here for the past three years," the guard explained. "Like he says, he's got a small farm. He's only been able to save about three hundred credits. He picks out a girl, bids on her—the whole three hundred—and then someone bids three hundred and one. Every time." She shook her head. "Don't count on going home with that one, Cilla." For a moment, Cilla looked as if she were going to cry. The soft pink mouth set itself in a stubborn line. "No," she said, "I'm going to do just that. He'll bid for me and he'll win this time. You'll see." All she got in answer was a skeptical grunt. A loud shout of laughter breaking over the hum of the voices caused the three to look around quickly. "My God!" Jessie exclaimed. "It's a grizzly bear!" The man coming toward them certainly looked like a bear, the image furthered by his size and the long riding coat he wore. He was nearly seven feet tall, a bearded, furry giant. Stalking up the steps, he planted himself in front of Jessie and swept off his hat, revealing a mop of jet-black hair which 52

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

rivaled the heavy beard in its shagginess. Looking her in the eye, he declared in a voice that carried up and over the risers and probably across the plain to the next station, "I'm Lars de Groot and you've caught my eye, little lady!" Jessie cowered against the back of the bench, blinking. "My Ingrid died four years ago and last night, I said to myself, 'Lars, it's time you let that sweet lady's memory go and started eating someone's cooking besides your own.'" Jessie swallowed loudly. "D-do tell?" "I think you're that someone. What law did you break?" Jessie tried to assume a nonchalant expression. "Burglary—mostly second, third, fourth-story stuff." "I knew it!" He laughed and slapped one leg with his hat. "I was a smuggler, m'self. Ran guns to the Fringes before I got caught." He tilted his head so she could see the little gold ring in his left ear. "Became a Freely eight years ago." Katy glanced at Abel again. So the golden earring meant its wearer was a Freedman, a convict who'd served his time and was now a homesteader. Fresh-faced Abel was an ex-convict, too. Her gaze strayed toward the redhead. And the turquoises? Lars was talking again. "Can you cook?" Jessie had recovered now, quickly shook her head. "Can't even boil water without burning it." "No matter—" A big toothy smile. "I can teach you how. Sew?" "Don't know one end of a needle from the other." 53

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Darning socks and sewing on buttons ain't hard—how about farming, know anything about farms?" "Not a thing," Jessie declared fervently. "I couldn't tell a cow from a sheep if I had to." "Well, don't have no sheep, so that don't matter." The big man paused, studying Jessie a moment. She stared back at him impassively. "Can you dance?" Jessie smiled. "As a matter of fact—yes. Dancing's my one weakness." "Then you're the one for me, ma'am." He touched two fingers to the brim of his hat, turned, stamped down the stairs, and took his place behind Abel Parker and the redhead. "Oh, God! Oh, God!" Dramatically, Jessie clasped her hands together and raised them heavenward. "Please don't let that bear get me!" "Really, Jessie," Katy began. "So he's a little ... uncouth. I think you're overreacting. After all, you're just going to be his housekeeper, not his wife." "Very funny, Katy!" Jessie snapped. There was a loud shout of anger and they saw Alwin Marsten dodge as Abel's redheaded friend took a swing at him. His mug lay on the ground, beer bubbling into the dirt. "Here now!" Grabbing a collar with each hand, big Lars lifted both men as if they were children. "We came here to see the ladies, not fight. Forget it for now, you two!" He set them on their feet. Marsten made a sudden movement with his right hand. The quirt flicked upward into the redhead's grasp, its end 54

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

resting across his opponent's wrist, his thumb ready to press the switch that activated the electric shock. Marsten moved his hand away from his gun, straightened his collar and stalked away. The redhead said something to Lars who patted his shoulder before bending to pick up the tankard. Abel took it from him, poured part of his remaining beer into it, and handed it to his friend who took it, still looking in Marsten's direction. "Looks like Red there has a temper," Smitty murmured. "Do you know who he is, Smitty?" Katy asked. "Never seen him before. At least, he's never been to an auction while I've been guarding—and that's been six years now." The gavel struck the podium top. "All right, gentlemen, we're ready to begin," St. Clair announced. "The first lady we'll introduce is..." He called a name and a woman stood up, waiting while the man who'd spoken to her made his bid. No one objected or challenged him so he strode to the platform, took her by the hand and led her to the desk, where he paid his money, speaking to the Pastor. After they both signed the contract, they left. One by one, the women were called, offered for, and went with their men. "Priscilla Roundtree" Cilla stood up. Abel raised a hand, calling out, "Fifty-five Credits," the usual starting bid. 55

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

From another corner, came a call of seventy-five. Abel countered with a second bid and in quick succession came others as the men got a good look at Cilla's pretty face. Abel raised his bid to one twenty-five, causing one opponent to drop out while the other stubbornly kept raising the price until it reached two hundred and fifty Credits. "Do I hear two seventy-five?" St. Clair asked. "Two seventy-five," came the grudging reply. "Three hundred," called Abel. There wasn't an answer. The whole area was quiet, everyone knowing of Abel's past failures, waiting to see if he'd lose again. "Well?" St. Clair asked. "No—he's beat me." Cilla gave a little jump of joy, turning an expression of sheer delight on Abel. "Three hundred—" St. Clair began the official declaration of acceptance of Abel's bid. "Going once, going twice—" Abel started toward the podium. "Three hundred and twenty-five." The harsh voice broke through the wild murmurs. Abel stumbled, whirled and searched for the speaker. Cilla looked as if she'd cry. Alwin Marsten. Cilla put both hands to her mouth, staring at Abel's face. "I've a bid of three hundred twenty-five from Alwin Marsten," announced St. Clair, looking at the young Freedman. "Abel, do you want to—" 56

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

The boy's shoulders slumped. Without speaking, he shook his head, turning so he wouldn't have to look at Cilla. Marsten gave the girl a hard, cruel smile. Once again, St. Clair began, "Three hundred twenty-five once—" Cillia began to sob, looking down at the button. "Three hundred twenty-five twice—" A hand came down on Abel's shoulder as the redhead whispered a single word. Abel spun around, raising one hand. "Three hundred fifty!" Marsten scowled, staring at the redhead who calmly returned the look. "Four hundred!" No going by units of twenty-five now, the bidding became deadly, Marsten determined to get Cilla simply because the redhead was helping Abel thwart him. The price rose to six hundred. Marsten made another bid ... six hundred fifty. Another silence. Abel didn't speak. Marsten waited, looking confident again. For the second time, St. Clair asked Abel for his commitment. Looking back at his friend, who gave a barely perceptible nod, he answered, "I bid seven hundred Credits." "Mr. Marsten? Will you answer Mr. Parker's bid?" "No." With a sneer, Marsten looked from Cilla to Abel. "She's not worth it." Before he had a chance to change his mind, St. Clair called out, "Once, twice, three times—to Mr. Abel Parker for seven hundred Credits!" 57

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

The men began to cheer. The redhead reached into the pocket of his long coat, extracting a small bag and tossing it to Abel who caught it, jumped onto the platform and took Cilla's hand. As they passed his friend, Abel held out his hand and the redhead shook it. "Well," Smitty said, "he won't be bidding for anyone. That was probably all his money in that bag he gave Abel." Four more women came to the podium. Then, it was Katy's turn. With startling swiftness, the bidding began, voices calling from all sides, and that one voice she didn't want to hear, gave its bid, higher than the rest, so high all but two of the others dropped out immediately. Katy bit her lip to keep from screaming as Alwin Marsten fixed her with a black stare that told her he was determined to have her. The bidding reached five hundred. One of the two remaining bidders dropped out. Marsten and the other battled another hundred and fifty Credits higher. At five hundred and seventy-five, the other bidder gave up. With a triumphant smirk, Marsten started toward St. Clair. "One pound of angelica and no more bids!" St. Clair dropped his gavel. It spun around, rolling off the podium top, and he bent to retrieve it. "Did I hear correctly? One pound of angelica?" "And the bidding stops," the redhead answered. St. Clair sighed. "Mr. Marsten—you heard? Your bid?" 58

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Marsten looked at the redhead. "A pound of angelica? Prove you've got that much." The other man reached into his pocket and held up a second pouch. Untying the strings, he shook several white rocks onto his palm. Marsten's lips tightened in anger. "Well?" St. Clair prompted. "You know I don't have that kind of money!" Marsten snarled. "Let him have her." He looked back at the redhead. "You'll be sorry for this. We're not finished!" Flinging himself through the crowd toward the hitching post, he untied his horse, mounted it and rode away. St. Clair's gavel sealed the bid. The redhead led Katy toward the desk, placing the bag on it, waiting patiently as the Pastor asked her, "Do you understand and consent to abide by the rules set forth in this Agreement?" He looked at the redhead. "And you, too, sir?" They both gave their answers. Taking the pen handed him, the redhead signed his name in a bold scrawl, then offered it to Katy. She took it, signed, and gave it back to the official who folded the contract and presented it to her. He handed something to the redhead, who lifted Katy's left hand, slipping a gold bracelet over her wrist, tearing off the plastic band and dropping it on the table. Numbly, Katy looked at it. She was now in this man's employ, wearing a servant's cuff. She picked up one of the little cases. 59

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

He took it from her, pulled off his hat and bent and kissed her. As he straightened, they stared at each other. The eyes hidden by the brim of the hat were a bright aquamarine, and his face—Lord, he's handsome! As the hat once more covered that brilliant hair, he took her arm and escorted her from the platform, giving a quick bark of laughter. They walked through the crowd toward the road into town, the same way Abel and Cilla had gone half an hour before. Halfway there, Katy paused, looking up at him. "Thank you for saving me from Marsten." A slight shrug. "I wouldna let a dog be sold to that bastard." "I'm flattered." "Dinna be. I think you'll be knowing you're far prettier than any dog created." His grip tightened, gently propelling her forward. "Where's your farm?" She wanted to hear him say something else. She liked the Scottish-like lilt to his voice. "Station," he corrected. "On the Plain. Near the Taheya." "Near Abel Parker's station?" "Farm." She wondered what the difference was. "A few miles beyond it." "How'll we get there? Do you have a Drone?" "I do but we'll na be using that. I've brought m'oxen and wagon." "Wagon? You mean we're going to ride in an ox-drawn wagon?" "That we are." 60

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Why? It'll take forever to get there." "Day and a half. Not long." "Long enough. That's the dumbest thing I ever heard!" Not a good thing to say to one's employer, but it was true. "Na necessarily," he disagreed. "Drones are fast, sure. We'd be home in a couple of hours but they also use fuel which costs Credits and since I just spent all my hard-won wealth on you, Sunshine, I canna be wasting any more on fuel, can I?" He shrugged. "Besides, this way will give us more time to get acquainted." "Where did you get that angelica, anyway?" "Won it in a poker game at Larkin's two months ago. Thought I'd save it for a rainy day. Guess it poured today." He stopped walking. "Here we are." Katy looked at the wagon. "Why, it looks like an antique Conestoga." "Aye. Designed after them, in fact." He dropped her bag behind the seat. "Has to be big to hold three months of provisions, which is exactly what I have inside. If you'll just climb aboard—" Hands went around her waist, lifting her to the seat. He swung up beside her, untying the reins. Without so much as a snort, the oxen roused themselves as he released the brake with one foot and called to them. The animals started forward, throwing massive shoulders against the yoke, and the wagon rolled down the street, bearing Katy and the redheaded man out of town. [Back to Table of Contents] 61

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Chapter Four For some time, they rode in silence. Katy sat studying the redhead's profile, her gaze straying to the long braid and the two turquoises. She wanted to ask him about them, find out what they signified and what crime he'd committed. She'd seen only one or two others at the auction wearing the blue stones so whatever he'd done, it must not be a very common crime. Murder? That made her shiver slightly. Couldn't be. Murderers weren't transported. They were isolated in Confined Solitude so others wouldn't be contaminated by their violence. What had he done? She nearly asked him, felt her lips forming the words, then stopped as she realized she didn't know his name. His signature was on the contract. She'd look at it. She was folding back the edge to look at that black scrawl, when he spoke, causing her to jump. "Name's Sarkin Trant." He was looking at her, the aquamarine eyes amused. He knew what she'd been trying to do. "How do you do?" she answered primly, as if they were being introduced at one of Aunt Clara's social functions. "I'm—" "Oh, I know who you are," he interrupted, looking back at the oxen again. He flipped a rein, dislodging a bright insect 62

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

from the near ox's flank. "Kathleen. Kathleen Rawls. What d'they call you?" "Katy." "Katy." He thought that over. "It fits you." "Oh?" "Aye," he nodded. "Something old-fashioned, just a little childlike—but delightful. Aye, it fits you, Sunshine." She wasn't certain whether he'd insulted her or not. "Why do you call me that?" "Because 'tis what you are. That's what I thought when I saw you sitting there like a little sunburst wi' that hair of yours sending rays around you." He grinned and shook his head, the copper braid bounced. "I'm by way of being an expert on red hair, y'see." She wondered again about his accent. "Are you Terran?" He shook his head. "Arcanian. There's a Barbarian Blood Royal in m'family tree. That's why I've got this hair. Some childless Noble loved a yeoman's daughter but couldn't marry her, so he asked his sovereign for permission to have a child wi' her." He smiled, adding, "Legally, he died still childless— but his line lives on." "I-I thought ... I mean, you sound Scottish." "M'maither was. Maire Deoridh MacGregor, from New Edinburgh in the Alba Highland Colony on Mars. I kept a few of her ways, some of m'speech patterns among them." "Are you a Freedman?" He glanced sideways at her. "We'll na talk of what's gone before. Our pasts are na important. 'Tis our presents and how we handle our futures that matter." 63

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"How far did you say your farm is?" "Station," he corrected, "and I dinna say—but 'tis about two hundred miles." "Two hundred miles. You can't mean that!" "But I do," came the calm answer. "Out here exact distances are very important." "I-I won't be able to survive sitting on this seat for two hundred miles." "I'm sorry you're finding it unpleasant," he replied mildly, not seeming in the least sympathetic, "but then, I suppose almost anything would be discomforting to that soft little rear of yours." "How do you know my rear is soft?" It was crude of him to say such a thing, and she was brazen for talking about it. The aqua eyes twinkled. "Did I na lift you up here?" Katy blushed and looked away, remembering how his hands slid from her waist to her hips, giving an extra little push to boost her onto the seat. A far off squawking filled the air. Looking up, she saw a large pink cloud floating toward them, becoming a flock of big, brilliant birds, which flew over, rose higher into the air, reshaped into a cloud again and flapped away. "Oh, they're beautiful! What are they?" "Lunats. They're prized for their down. A couple of the settlers have lunat farms. They clip the birds' wings to keep them from flying away." He looked at her, eyes still twinkling. "Have you ever slept on a lunat-down mattress?" She shook her head. 64

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"I've one at m'station. You're in for a treat." He looked away again, adding, "and so am I." At least, that's what she thought he said. It was muttered so softly, she wasn't sure. "What do you grow at your farm?" "Station," he corrected once again, patiently. "Station, farm, what's the difference?" "A great deal." It was obvious this distinction was a matter of pride. "A farm's just that—a place that raises crops. A station is more like a ranch, where cattle, horses, or elos are bred." "Which do you breed?" "Elos—I raise, train, and sell them." He lifted his hand, the quirt flipped upward against his palm and he snapped it at a large green fly that had settled on the brake. The insect gave a indignant buzz as it was knocked from its perch, recovered, and flew away. "Give you a bad bite, those can." From far away, came a soft rumble. "What's an elo?" He smiled. "I think you'll find out firsthand in just a few minutes." "What do you mean?" "Listen." He cocked his head slightly, holding up one hand. The sound was louder now, long and continuous with no hint of stopping. "Is that thunder?" Katy looked up at the sky. "Na quite. I'm thinking we're about to have visitors." Before he finished speaking, they were in the midst of a galloping, leaping herd of creatures with high-streaming tails. They swept around the wagon on all sides, enclosing it in 65

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

their center—so close Katy was able to see the color of their wide eyes and the pinkness in the flaring nostrils. The elos were remarkably like Terran horses except for two features—in front of their finely-shaped little ears, each animal had a set of horns similar to a cow's, and instead of hooves, they possessed four-toed feet, like a large dog's. Even with these startling differences, the animals were swift, surefooted, and—Katy would be the first to admit—beautiful. The herd thundered past, the stallion driving them before him. "God! Look at him!" Trant exclaimed. "Is he na beautiful? If I dinna already have a stud, I'd stake a claim for him. Look at those horns!" He shook his head, as if a treasure were galloping away from him. "D-do they usually come that close to people?" Katy asked. She could've reached out and touched one, if she'd been brave enough. He nodded. "Elos are na afraid of humans, and that's why 'tis so easy to catch them. They're na afraid, and they're curious." He flicked the reins again, scattering a trio of green flies. The oxen, Katy realized, were just as placid as before the herd had engulfed them. They'd never even altered their gaits. Trant looked thoughtful. "There's a big roundup every Spring. Maybe I'll go this year. I'd like to add a couple of that one's colts to m'herd." There was a loud thudding behind them. "What's that?" Trant was smiling, looking off to the left. "Looks like someone's curiosity got the better of her." 66

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

A young elo mare had broken off from the herd and doubled back to the wagon. She stopped, stood watching the oxen a moment, then with a high-pitched neigh, trotted toward it, falling into a long-legged, easy walk beside Katy. "Do na worry," Trant answered. "She's na going to hurt you. I told you, they're curious. She just wants to find out more about us." The girl looked at her. "What-what'll I do?" "Touch her." "What?" Touch this wild animal with its twelve-inch horns? "Go ahead—Touch her neck." The elo turned her head, looking at Katy with liquid-brown eyes. Katy raised one hand and gingerly pressed her fingers to the animal's crest. She didn't expect the reaction she got. The elo swung around—she had to lean backward to dodge its horns—and thrust her head into Katy's lap, chin resting against her knees. Katy began to stroke the velvety nose, running her hands up the animal's jaw, as the elo nibbled at her skirt. "You're a nice horsie—I mean, elo—aren't you? Yes, a pretty, pretty elo..." A sound from Trant made her look up. "Better watch it. You keep on wi' that drivel, and she may upchuck in your lap!" Katy's flicked him an irritated glance. "If you don't like the way I speak to this animal, don't listen!" "I'll do just that." The elo lifted her head, pulling away from Katy's touch, and trotted away from the wagon. 67

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Look what you've done!" she accused. "She's leaving." "Look what I've done?" he shot back at her. "'Twas probably that silly baby-talk that chased her off." "Nonsense!" Katy snapped. "You scared her away." The elo hadn't left. She trotted ahead of the wagon, crossed in front of the oxen, and came over to Trant's side, presenting a golden muzzle to be stroked, while her lips brushed his knee. As he placed one hand on the animal's neck, he gave Katy a triumphant glance. "Scared her, did I?" Katy didn't answer, becoming very interested in the landscape. "'Tis born of the wind you are, you beauty, skimming the ground, flying into the air ... You're a wild spirit, na to be tamed ... gentled, maybe, but broken? Ne'er—" "You're talking to her," Katy pointed out. "That I am. Telling her what she wants to hear." "Aren't you afraid it'll make her sick?" "I dinna think 'twill. After all, everyone likes flattery." "I was flattering her, too." The corners of his eyes crinkled. "Aye. I guess you were." The elo trotted beside the wagon, legs moving gracefully as she kept up with the oxen's pace. "Look at her. Look at that color." He turned to Katy. "I'm trying to establish a color breed—that exact shade of gold. If she'll just stay wi' us until we ge' to the station..." He glanced at the mare again. "You beauty! So strong, so beautiful ... those long slender legs ... I've been waiting for you ... for a long, long time." 68

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

That last sentence, Katy realized, was aimed in her direction although he'd been speaking to the mare. Hadn't he? She looked around, seeing a coil of rope behind the seat. "If you want to make sure she doesn't run away, why don't you tie her? Here's some rope." She started to lift it out. "Canna do that." His hand stopped the movement. Katy dropped the rope. "'Tis against the law to catch elos except at Roundup. If, however, one trots willingly into your corral..." "Sort of like Look what followed me home?" "Exactly." At this point, there seemed nothing else to say on the subject, and they fell quiet. From time to time, Katy continued to fidget, as various parts of her thighs and backside became numb. It was also getting close to midday, the sun beating down with unrelenting power. With startling abruptness, a little breeze blew over them. Turning a quick glance at Trant to make certain his attention was elsewhere, Katy opened the top two buttons on her dress, folding back the collar to allow some of the cooling air to touch her throat and circulate inside her blouse. "Careful," he admonished, without looking at her. "Better not let those rising beauties ge' sunburned. That could be very painful." "I was trying to get cool. This heat is stifling." He swung around to study her critically. "I'm sorry—I forgot that you're na used to Tritomis' sun." Reaching under the seat, he produced a small jar. "Here." "What is it?" She made no move to take it from him. 69

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Sunblock. 'Twill keep that delicate white skin of yours from become the color of lunat feathers." He tossed the jar into her lap. It struck her skirt and rolled. Katy caught the jar between her knees. Trant laughed. "Hmm. 'Tis a good grip you've got there, Sunshine." She felt her face getting hot and it had nothing to do with the sun. Why does he have to make everything sound so suggestive? Unscrewing the lid, she looked at the white cream inside, sniffing at it cautiously. It had a faint citrus scent. She began to dab it on her arm, smoothing it across the back of her hand and fingers. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw that Trant was determinedly studying the track before them. Katy stroked cream onto her other arm, applied some to her cheeks, and closed the jar. "You missed a spot." One hand shot out, finger touching her nose, smearing the cream she had dabbed there. It stroked from the tip of her nose to between her eyes, rubbing it into her skin. He took the jar from her and returned it to its place under the seat. "Is it always this hot in the summer?" "'Tis na Summer yet. This is still Spring." "Oh, no—" She couldn't stop the groan of dismay. "You mean it'll get hotter?"

70

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Nay," came the surprising answer. "I'm na certain how 'tis on other worlds, but here, it ge's cooler as Summer progresses." "Thank Goodness for that, anyway," Katy breathed. She began to fan her hand against her face. It didn't help. She looked over at Trant, thinking how hot and uncomfortable he looked with that trailcoat on. "Mr. Trant? Isn't that coat terribly warm?" "That 'tis." "Why don't you take it off?" "I was na certain 'twould be the thing to do—a gentleman doesna usually disrobe in public." "Taking off your coat isn't disrobing." She was surprised at this odd sense of delicacy. "Take it off. You must be nearly stifling." "If you're sure—" At her nod, he handed her the reins. Katy took them, looking panic-stricken as she felt the movements of the oxen transferring themselves to the leather to her hands. With a relieved sigh, Trant shrugged off the coat. There was a large wet patch between the shoulder blades of his shirt, and damp stains under each arm. He folded the coat into a bulky rectangle, taking the reins from her. Katy relinquished them gladly. "Would you like to use this as a cushion? To put something between that hard seat and your soft—" "Thank you, I would." She cut off what he was going to say, because the twinkle was back in the aqua eyes and she knew it would make her blush. 71

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Taking the coat from him, she pushed it beneath her, falling back onto the seat and settling herself. "That's much better." Another long silence stretched before them until it was broken by a low rumble that had nothing to do with thunder or an approaching herd of elos. Trant glanced at her with one eyebrow raised. Katy blinked in surprise. "Sorry—guess I must be getting hungry. I-I was sick this morning. Lost my breakfast." "Lost—" He swung toward her, a sudden flaring of anger in his eyes. "Are you breeding, then?" "Am I what?" It took exactly four seconds for his meaning to sink it and then she was shouting at him, "Y-you think I'm p-pregnant? How dare you? What a terrible mind you have! I was upset a-about all this. God knows, this is enough to make anyone lose her breakfast!" She flounced around on the seat away from him. There was a long inhaling of breath, a prelude to the equally long sigh that followed. "It appears I owe you another apology. We seem to keep ge'ing off on the wrong foot—" She was surprised at the quick capitulation. "You'd na have been allowed to come here if you were in a-a delicate way. Still, sometimes these things happen. There've been cases of little stowaways no one caught. A man likes t-to be prepared for—" He broke off. To be prepared for an unexpected, and unwanted, arrival? Of course. She wouldn't be much use as a housekeeper if she were pregnant, would she? Can't cook and sweep and clean while you're in the throes of morning sickness, or in labor. In 72

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

spite of her aunt's efforts to keep her ignorant, Katy was aware of those aspects of pregnancy—and a few others, courtesy of Aunt Clara's talkative friends. She imagined Mr. Trant intended to keep her very busy repaying her supposed debt to the Federation. "You needn't worry," she assured him acidly. "I'm not pregnant, nor ever have been." "I believe that, Sunshine," he assured her. "You couldna be that trim if you had." That's about the most back-handed compliment he could pay me, she thought, angrily. Once again, her face flamed. As if none of this had been said, he went on, "Since your stomach's empty, perhaps we'd best fill it. Under the seat there's a basket of food." Peering between her feet, she saw the basket and, after a slight struggle, hauled it out, lifting it to her lap. He moved to allow her room on the seat. Katy raised the lid, staring at the contents. "There should be enough for noon, tonight, and breakfast tomorrow. We'll be home before noon." Home ... that word made a funny, little squiggle in her stomach that had nothing to do with hunger. "Who packed this for you?" she asked, as she lifted out a cloth packet tied with a rawhide string. Setting it on her lap, she began to untie it. "I did." He didn't add that when he'd done so, he'd had no idea he'd be sharing it with anyone. Still, he was certain that if he didn't eat as much as usual, there'd be enough. After all, the lass didn't look as if she ate more than a chiksa-bird. 73

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Opening the packet, Katy surprised him by stating, "Right now, I could eat a-an elo!" and proceeded to stuff some little sausages in her mouth. "Best na let Goldie hear you say that," he admonished, one finger going to his lips. "Goldie?" He motioned to the elo who was still at the side of the wagon. "Sorry, Goldie," Katy called. "Nothing personal." She offered him the packet of sausages. "Have one?" He leaned over, picked up one, then promptly dropped it as the near wagon wheel struck something in the road and the wagon shook. Katy caught it as it sailed through the air, and stuck it into his mouth. He began to chew, laughing at the same time. She liked his laugh. "These are too rich to eat alone," he told her. "There's packnut bread, too." She rummaged around, found another packet and opened it. Large yellow triangles. Handing him a piece, she watched him take another sausage and, holding the two together, bite into them, copied him and did the same. The basket also held a small earthenware jar of bright red jam, some apples, and a large napkin, embroidered with the single initial as his handkerchief had been. Who's the woman who made them? His wife? So far, he'd mentioned little about the ranch and nothing about the family 74

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

there. She'd have to try to steer the conversation in that direction, soon. Find out what—and who—awaited her. He accepted another slice of bread, liberally smeared with jam, turning toward Katy with a slight scowl as she began to laugh. "You've got jam on your chin." She grabbed the napkin, steadying his chin with one hand and wiped away the red streak. As she straightened, he caught her hand and pressed a quick kiss against her palm. "Thank you." "Y-you're welcome..." As she settled herself again, she looked down at her hand as if expecting to see a lip-print in the palm. Why had he done that? She thought about the brief kiss he'd given her in town, wondering a little belatedly if she should've protested that. She didn't know how these people acted or what they did to express themselves. She touched the tip of the napkin to her hand as if she could wipe away the memory of the warmth of his lips as easily as she'd removed the jam stain and knew she couldn't. It made her feel very odd. She tossed the napkin back into the basket. "Had enough?" She didn't answer, suddenly wary, trying to find some double-meaning in even that simple question. "There's a canteen if you're thirsty." In spite of the heat, the water was cool, with a strange sweet aftertaste. Trant drank also, then returned the canteen to its resting place. [Back to Table of Contents] 75

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Chapter Five Abruptly, the anxiety of the day's events, the sun, the silence, conspired against her. She began to nod, jumping as Trant touched her shoulder. "Why do you na ge' into the wagon and lie down, if you're sleepy?" She roused herself, "No, that's okay. I'm all right, just a little tired, that's all. I've had a busy day." It was getting into late afternoon now, the sun setting behind a far-away ridge of mountains. In its place, Tritomis' three moons had risen, bare outlines in the sky. Against the shadowed darkness of a stand of trees, she could see countless flickering lights. "What's that?" "Fireflies." She stared at them, fascinated. She'd never seen fireflies. The little insects had disappeared from Terra three centuries before. "Looks like you may ge' that cool weather you wanted, Sunshine, and soon." "What do you mean?" She tore her gaze from the dancing lights to look at him. He waved a hand toward the trees. "Fireflies flying low to the ground. Means rain's on its way..." He looked upward "...and here it comes."

76

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Katy saw it—a mass of black clouds, rolling over the horizon, heading straight for them. A brilliant flash of lightning and a fierce crash accompanied it. "We'd best find shelter." Trant turned the oxen toward the trees. The cloud reached them, hovered above, and huge pelting drops began to strike the wagon. Katy looked with disbelief and dismay as the first sprinkles spotted her lap. The falling water changed to a flood, hard as little pebbles. The elo snorted and dashed away. One of the oxen raised his head and mourned a loud protest, the first sound either creature had made. They were under the trees now, and Trant set the brake and dropped the reins. "Ge'inside the wagon. Na use both of us ge'ing wet." "Where are you going?" Katy asked, raising her voice to be heard over the rising of the wind. "To unyoke the oxen. Ge' inside." He slid over the side. Without a backward glance, Katy did as ordered, raising the canvas flap to clamber over the seat, landing on top of a stack of bags. She slid off the top bag and fell behind them on what appeared to be a small mattress, then huddled in a corner, listening to the rain and the wailing of the wind, and wondering what was taking Trant so long. She should've stayed outside and helped him—but what do I know about unharnessing oxen? I'd just be in the way. It had gotten noticeably colder and Katy was surprised to find that she was shivering. Looking around, she discovered she was sitting on a pile of neatly folded blankets, tugged one 77

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

from under her and wrapped it around her shoulders. The back flap of the wagon was thrown open with such violence that she jumped and Trant flung himself inside, closing it again before the rain could follow. He landed on his back on the mattress, sat up and leaned forward. Water poured off the brim of his hat and he snatched it off, dropping it onto the wagon bed. Pulling the braid over his shoulder, he began to wring it between his hands. Water ran through his fingers and dripped onto his shirt. "Oh, God! I'm wet to the skin." He released the braid and began to unbutton his shirt. "What're you doing?" Remembering his earlier hesitation in removing his coat, she was startled. "Taking off m'shirt. I'm soaked and the temperature's dropping. You'd na want me to catch pneumonia, wouldya?" "But—what about the oxen?" He gave her a glance that commented on where she put her priorities. "I mean—if you might catch cold from getting wet, what about them?" "Oxen have hair that repels water. They're na going to suffer." The shirt was open and off and thrust at her. "Hang that up, wi'ya?" Wildly, she looked around, saw a hook on one of the staves of the wagon's roof and hung the shirt on it, turning back to look at Trant again, or rather, at his bare back. My goodness, his skin's beautiful—a golden, even tan, smooth and unblemished—looking like wet satin with the rain's moisture beading on it. The braid burned copper 78

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

against that gold, the damp ends clinging to the small of his back... The small of his back? Oh, no—he's wriggling out of his jeans! The strangled sound she made stopped his movement. With the jeans halfway off his hips, he paused to look back at her, frowning a question. "Cold—you're cold..." She snatched up a blanket and thrust it at him, knowing she was babbling. "Blanket—here— Cover up ... I-I mean, wrap up." He took it with a slightly confused nod of thanks, draped it over his shoulders and proceeded to remove the jeans. His boots and gaiters were lying nearby. He'd probably taken them off while she was busy with his shirt, and had hung his gunbelt and his hat on another hook as well. The jeans found their way into her hands. Lord, wet denim's heavy. She pushed a hook through a belt-loop and left them hanging, water dripping onto the edge of the mattress. Once more, she turned back to Trant. He was shivering, huddled under the blanket, shaking so hard his shoulders were bouncing. "Don't you have any extra clothes?" He shook his head. "N-nay ... I-I'll have t-to w-w-wait 'til those d-dry..." Any fear his lack of clothing gave her disappeared. How can you be afraid of someone when he's naked, wrapped in a blanket, and shivering so violently he can hardly speak? There were two blankets left. Picking up one, she kicked off her shoes and knelt beside him, putting it over his head 79

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

and attempting to towel-dry the sopping hair. After a few minutes of brisk rubbing, she pulled it aside to let him come up for air, then started in again, only to have him exclaim, "Mercy, Sunshine, please. I can stand the hair. 'Tis m'body that freezing." Without answering, she flung the corner of the blanket aside, and applied the one she held to his left shoulder and arm. His skin's so cold. It feels almost icy. She continued to rub his arms, pulling away more of the blanket, ignoring the cry of protest he gave as the chill air struck his body, as well as the fact that it left him almost naked before her. The hand holding the blanket stilled as Katy looked at his bare chest and realized what she'd done. It was the custom for Terran men to practice depiliation and Katy had never thought how hairy a man's body might be in its Natural state. Oh my—he's as furry as an animal. She realized she was staring and averted her gaze before he got the wrong idea, moving behind him and rubbing his back while he continued to shiver beneath her hands. Somehow the blanket found itself across his lap as she worked her way around him. At last, she was kneeling in front of him again, between his bent knees, patting the matting of damp curls on his chest. His skin was warmer now, and he'd stopped shaking, was looking up at her with an expression she could only describe as thoughtful, if she were being polite, calculating, if she wasn't. "Why do we na lie down, Sunshine? Share a little bodyheat?" 80

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

She was now very aware of their positions and the sudden warmth coming from his body, and the way the copper hair on his chest narrowed into a dark red line before disappearing under the blanket on his lap, a blanket that suddenly quivered slightly. Rocking back onto her heels, Katy regained her balance and stood up, "I think you're warm enough," retreating behind him to the back of the wagon and her corner again. He sat with his hands clasped together, resting over the slight bulge in the blanket, not looking at her, but saying to the wall of the wagon, "Aye, I'm thinking the same thing," in a strained voice. He managed to bring the blanket up and over his shoulders without her seeing more than a single bare hip. "We might as well ge' some sleep. We'll na be doing any more traveling tonight." "But, after the rain stops—" "The track'll be too muddy. The sun'll have to dry it first. We'll move again in the morning. Hand me that last blanket, wi'ya?" Picking it up, she shook it open. He took it and spread it over his legs. "'Tis big enough for two," he said, expectantly. He wanted her to sleep here? With him naked and only that blanket between them? She knew she had no choice. Where else could she sleep? Outside? On the wagon seat? Both very wet, very cold, very unpleasant choices. 81

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Unusual circumstances call for unusual actions, Katy. This appeared to be just one more in a series of unusual actions she'd committed recently. Defeated, she sat down by him, wrapping her own blanket securely around her, and pulled up the other one. For a moment, they stared at each other. At last, Trant said, "Lie down, Sunshine. I know you're tired and I am, too. A wetting like this seems to sap the strength from a man. Besides—" he rolled onto his side, his back to her, "this is no place to be starting anything." She had no idea what that was supposed to mean but didn't question it, simply followed his example and rolled away from him, as close to the wall of the wagon as she could get, pulling the blanket up over her shoulders. The only time she moved was when she realized that Trant's wet jeans were dripping on her hair. Once in a while, she felt a slight tremble from his side of the wagon, but had no desire to go to him and offer the warmth he'd asked of her. She was almost asleep when something he'd said earlier forced itself into her mind, nearly knocking her wide awake again. I'm na certain how 'tis on other worlds... Why not? He had to come from somewhere else, unless ... Had he been born here? Had his mother, Scottish Maire Deoridh MacGregor, unknowingly been pregnant when she'd come to Tritomis, a convicted woman giving birth to a little stowaway? Was that why he'd been nervous about her breeding? 82

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

What have I gotten myself into? The question whirled in her brain and vanished as she fell asleep. The life of four months ago seemed very far away. [Back to Table of Contents]

83

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Chapter Six She was suffocating, the heat stifling, searing her lungs. She was lying face-down on burning stones, mouth and face pressed against them. Grass between the stones tickled her nose as they boiled and pulsed, their steam scented like lemons. If she didn't get off them, she'd die. Pressing hands against the stones, she struggled to push away, smothering in the heat. A hand touched the back of her neck. The blanket was swept away, uncovering her head. and Katy opened her eyes and looked up into Sarkin Trant's aqua ones. For a moment, she didn't understand—where she was, who he was—then, memory of everything returned and she gave a long shuddering gasp, inhaling the cool air gratefully. "You kept me warm," he said quietly. "Thank you." She didn't answer, couldn't tell him she hadn't done it on purpose. She'd gotten cold, unconsciously sought out his body, huddling against him. She looked down, saw her hands resting against his bare chest, thought about what else she must be pressed against and pulled away, coming out of his arms and out from under the blankets and scrambling to her feet. "I-I didn't want you to get sick." He sat up. "This would be a bad time for a man to be bedridden, would it na?" That seemed to amuse him, for he laughed, and shook his head. "Is m'shirt dry?" 84

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Distracted, she turned and touched the garment. It was wrinkled but no longer wet, as were the jeans. She handed them to him and he put them on—under cover of the blankets, she noted—then stood up and stamped on his boots and fastened his gaiters. He picked up her shoes. "These are fine for dancing but na for stalking through the Brush. I'll have to ge' you some boots or something." Kneeling, he placed them before her. "Want me to put them on you?" At first, Katy didn't answer. Memory of the warmth of his skin and its fresh citrus smell made her uncertain she wanted him touching her feet or any other part of her body. She felt strange, his closeness disturbing—but surprisingly, not scary. "I can do it myself," she replied, stiffly, stepping into the right shoe. He didn't argue, just stood up and picked up a blanket as she put on the other one. Once the blankets were folded and stacked, he reached for his hat and the gunbelt and proceeded to put them on. "Why do you carry that? Abel didn't have one." "Abel doesna have three hundred elos the brush-raiders would like to steal." He opened the back flap of the wagon and slid out, helping Katy down. "We've got to ge' going. This storm has set us behind schedule. If you've got any calls of nature to attend to, Sunshine, best do them now." He set her on her feet, "I think I might, too, adding, "Separate bushes, of course." before she could say anything. 85

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

The elo was nowhere in sight. Trant had lost his golden mare. She must have been frightened by the storm and run away, Katy thought sadly. As she was returning to the wagon, however, she heard a joyous nicker and turned to see Goldie trotting toward her. "Goldie. You didn't leave." She threw her arms around the mare's neck, forgetting that, for all intents and purposes, the elo was still wild . "Lucky creature. To ge' a morning's welcome like that." Trant sauntered around the wagon, buckling his belt. Before Katy could reply, he seized her by the waist and tossed her onto the wagon seat. "Up you go, Sunshine." She landed, bounced, and righted herself. "Ouch." "Sorry." But the smile he gave said he wasn't. He was busy a few minutes harnessing the oxen, then climbed up beside her, unsetting the brake and gathering the reins. He called to the oxen and they started off, Goldie trotting alongside the wagon. "How much farther?" Katy asked. "Bored already?" "No—but you said the storm made us late." "We should ge' there in the late afternoon." She extracted the basket from under the seat. "Let's have breakfast." "Fine wi' me." As they ate, she became uncomfortably aware of how awful she must look. Her hair was snarled and tangled by sleep, hanging down her back and in her face. Probably sticking out like a scarecrow's, she thought, running one hand 86

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

over it to smooth it. Not that she'd ever seen a scarecrow, but the idea implied something extremely untidy. Trant saw the gesture. "Relax—you look fine." "Oh, sure," she answered. "My dress is wrinkled from being slept in—" "You didn't have to do that," he put in quickly. She ignored that, not wanting to think about it. "—and my hair hasn't been combed. I've lost all my barrettes." She stopped, making a futile little gesture, and was startled when he reached over and pushed a stray strand back from her temple. "You look beautiful," he said, "like some fairy-child come to grace this poor mortal's company." Flushing at his compliment, as well as the sudden tingling the touch of his fingers sent through her body, she became very interested in the piece of bread and sausage in her hand, stuffing it into her mouth before she said something foolish. Trant looked away, concentrating on finishing the bit of bread he held. Katy opened the canteen, drank, and offered it to him. As he accepted it, she said, "Tell me about your fa—station." "You're na a curious little creature, are you?" She shrugged. "If I'm going to take care of the place, don't you think I should know some about it?" "Very well." He bowed his head as if in agreement. "As I said, I raise elos—and that's all. No crops, no cattle. I have one cow, for milk and butter, a few chiksa-birds—and that's it." "What about the house? The land?" 87

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"The house is well-made. When it rains, there'll be no leaks coming through the roof to drip on you while you sleep. The fireplace is adequate." He paused, as if uncertain what else to tell her. "How many rooms does it have? How much am I going to have to clean? How many beds?" Perhaps that last question hadn't been a good one. He grinned. "Right now, only one's being used." As Katy struggled not to blush, he went on, "There are eight rooms. I only use two, so the rest are closed off, but once the little ones start coming, they can be opened." So he didn't have children yet but expects to. Again, she wondered about his wife, the embroiderer of those monograms. Had they been married long? Or not long enough, if there weren't any children. Why does he need a housekeeper if he has a wife? Is she an invalid? No answers. Not yet, anyway. Trant fell silent and so did she. They both seemed to have exhausted all subjects of conversation since he'd said he didn't want to know anything about her past and she couldn't ask about his. She wanted to tell him what had happened and why she was here. He seemed like the type who'd believe her, but still—No, it was better not to trust him just yet. Wait a little longer. Be certain. Noon came and they finished the food, with the apples for dessert, feeding the cores to Goldie who gobbled them down and begged for more and was disappointed when none appeared. 88

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

**** She'd been dozing, leaning against Trant's shoulder. During the time, his free arm had gone around her, pulling her against him, steadying her against the wagon's jolts, and she hadn't protested, simply snuggled her cheek against the rough fabric of his shirt and slept on. When the wagon stopped, she roused instantly. "What is it?" She rubbed her eyes and looked around. They were at the top of a rise, a brush-covered bank behind them, deep open country on the other side. "What's wrong?" "You were asking about m'land, Sunshine. Judge for yourself." He released her to wave a hand across the valley. Katy turned her head to follow the gesture. Below them stood the station. She could see the white house, its fanshaped solar panels resting on the roof, a barn, and some outbuildings, corrals, a small garden—with fences stretching beyond them. In the distance, the figures of elo mares and foals roamed the pastures, their shadows cast by the setting sun into long black shapes upon the grass. "There 'tis, Sunshine—Three Moon Station. Home." Home ... the pride in Trant's voice lessened the tremor within her. [Back to Table of Contents]

89

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Chapter Seven In the yard, Trant pulled the team to a halt and jumped down, turning to help Katy. The elo followed them, looking around with curiosity. She saw the animals in the corral, nickered a greeting and trotted to them, thrusting the golden muzzle over the top plank of the fence. "Now's your chance," Katy whispered. Trant shook his head. "Later. You need to ge' settled first. Then, I'll bed down the team and tend to Goldie." He took her bag and started toward the house, calling out loudly, "Hatch! We're here. Hey, we're home!" pausing to look back at her when she didn't follow him. Katy ran the few feet to reach him, standing on the porch as he opened the door. There were brightly burning petro-lanterns hanging under the eaves of the porch roof. She could see that the house looked sturdy and well-made, though old, and had recently been repainted. As she started through the door, she was seized about the waist and lifted off the ground. "Mr. Trant. Put me down, please." "Certainly, Sunshine," came the cheerful reply, "as soon as we're inside. I'd na want you starting off your new life on the wrong foot." He stepped across the threshold and set her on her feet. "That was very thoughtful of you," Katy began, "however, I don't think—" 90

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Well, 'tis the custom," he replied, a little defensively. "Oh—in that case..." If it was a custom, she didn't want to insult him. She turned and surveyed the room, and was stunned into silence, not believing what she was seeing. My word, what a disaster area! The entire room was a shambles—clothes, books, papers, everywhere. The space was large, divided into a living and dining area, with table and chairs and breakfront china cabinet. Gathered around the hearth were a couch, two rocking chairs and end tables. On either side of the fireplace were bookcases with—of all things—a computer terminal and keycontrol tucked on one shelf, but at the moment, Katy's horrified glance barely noted these things. Right then all she could see was the disarray before her. It looked as if every night he simply undressed where he stood, dropping shirts and jeans over the back of chairs or onto the floor. There appeared to be enough discarded apparel lying around for two people for a month, she thought, as she counted the garments. The table was littered with books, some open, lying facedown among papers and writing utensils. Trant moved past her. "I'll put this in the bedroom." He disappeared through a door in the wall ahead of her, leaving her standing there, still speechless. His wife must be ill—that would explain the room's appearance. No self-respecting housewife would voluntarily allow things to get into this condition. Katy, who prided herself on her neatness—remembering the tidiness of her 91

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

room and closet in her uncle's home, clothing arranged according to color and use—was appalled. "Well?" He was standing beside her again, spreading his arms to indicate their surroundings. "What d'ya think?" She found her voice. "I think it's easy to see this place hasn't been touched by a woman's hand in quite some time." No reflections on the ill Mrs. Trant, she added silently. Her tone brought a slight frown to his face. "Oh?" "This is awful." "I realize 'tis a bit untidy—" "Untidy!" she exploded. "That's an understatement. It looks like a cyclone hit it!" His puzzled look told her he didn't know what a cyclone was, though he grasped her meaning. "I think it looks livedin." "Yes," she agreed sarcastically. "By a herd of pigs. This place is a sty. How can you expect your wife to stand it?" He took a deep breath. "Maybe she'd better do something about it, then." Realizing the absent woman obviously couldn't and that he was showing signs of the temper he'd displayed at the auction, Katy cast a quick glance at the quirt, making certain it wasn't in his hand, as she said, "No, don't worry, I'll take care of it." She swept toward the table, raked one finger across it and stared, first at the clean mark on the wood's surface, then at the layer of dust on her fingertip. "Cleaning this room alone could be a lifetime project." 92

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

He stalked over to her, started to say something, then stopped, gaze shifting over her head to the doorway. "So there you are. Where've you been?" She turned to see who he was talking to. A man stood in the doorway, younger than Trant, a little younger than she, about twenty, she thought. He was barefoot, wearing unbelted jeans, and an unbuttoned shirt that looked as it had been hastily thrown over the broad shoulders. His long black hair was tousled as if he'd been asleep, hanging about his swarthy face and down his back. He was as dark as Trant was fair but Katy was aware of a startling resemblance between the two. "I was asleep." He answered Trant's question, though he didn't move his gaze from Katy's face. "Who's this?" "Who wouldya think 'tis?" Trant replied in a slightly irritated tone, still rankling from her condemnation of his home. The boy didn't answer and Trant said something absolutely surprising, "Hatch, this is Katy—Katy, this is m'son, Hatch." His son. She couldn't do anything but stare—gawk—mouth falling open. He was too young to have a child this age. Nevertheless, she knew it was true. In spite of Hatch's darkness, the aqua eyes and handsome features were Trant's own. She managed to recover enough to stammer, "H-hello, Hatch," and take a step toward him, holding out her hand. The scowl forming on the handsome face eased a little as he carefully took her hand, gave it a gentle squeeze and released it. 93

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Didna expect this," he muttered, looking at his father. "Have you had supper?" Trant asked, sounding like a parent. "Couple of apples." "You need more than that." A shrug. "'Twas enough." Like Trant, Hatch had an accent. He looked from Katy to his father and muttered, "I'll go back to the barn. Guess you two want to be alone." He turned and walked out. "I'll be out in a bit to stable the oxen," Trant called. Hatch waved a hand over his shoulder to acknowledge that he'd heard but didn't look back. "Why is he sleeping in the barn?" Katy asked. Trant had said most of the house was closed—and only one bed was in use. "Not because of me, I hope?" "Hardly." Trant gave a short laugh. "I've always had trouble ge'ing Hatch to sleep in a house. He'd sleep under the stars if I'd let him—in all seasons." "Doesn't he get cold in the winter?" His father shrugged. "He says he doesn't, though I've made many a trip out there to make certain, when the snow is thick. Once, I found him sleeping in a stall, curled up next to one of the elos." "He certainly looked angry." He closed the door and turned to look at her. "Probably 'twas seeing how you reacted to learning I have a part-Gadja son." He shook his head, disappointment in the aqua eyes. "I'd na have expected that of you, Sunshine." 94

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"What do you mean?" she demanded, not understanding his accusation. "What's a Gadja?" "You dinna know?" She shook her head, seeing the disappointment fade. "I knew you couldna be that intolerant. The Gadjas are the original natives of Tritomis," he explained. "They're nomads, living off the land, and—like most places open to colonization—they've been made into a minority by the settlers. They're not treated kindly by us, I'm afraid." "And Hatch thought that I—" She was angry—at Hatch for thinking that, at Trant for not explaining sooner. "You'll tell him, won't you? Explain that I-I was just surprised you have a son that old?" He nodded, and she thought she saw a quick flushing of his cheeks, as if what she'd said embarrassed him. "I'm surprised you'd want to have more children now, with Hatch the age he is—" she went on, determined to make him talk of his family, now that she'd met one member. "When do I get to meet his mother?" He turned away from her, studying the table, picking up one of the books and staring at its cover before answering. "You'll na meet her, Katy. I've na been married." The words came out with a long sigh. **** "B-but—" She waved a hand toward the door, in the general direction of the barn.

95

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"I was fourteen when Hatch was born, old enough to commit a man's acts but na mature enough to understand the consequences." He still didn't look at her, shifting his gaze to the table. "I was working at a cattle station when a Gadja caravan came through. A pretty girl with long black hair promised me that for a Federation dollar, she'd tell m'fortune and show me things I'd ne'er seen before." A rueful shake of his head. "Well, she certainly did that." He dropped the book on the table, hands wavering as if he wasn't certain what to do with them. "For an hour, I was king of the galaxy. Then, they were gone. Nine months later, a Gadja man appeared at the station with a basket which he gave to the owner's wife. For the redhaired Djarni—that's what they call the settlers." He smiled, a little wryly. "Since I was the only redhead around, she gave it to me when I rode in that night. Hatch was inside. He'd been drugged so he'd na cry." He swung around, finally looking at her. "His maither had gi'en me a dividend for m'dollar." "You mean she just sent him to you? With no explanation or anything?" "There wasna need of one, was there?" "But just to abandon—" "Gadja women are very liberated, Katy. A woman doesna have to marry the man who sires her child nor e'en to birth it. If she decides to, she can gi' it away or send it back to the father." 96

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"She must have cared for him a little," Katy persisted, "since she let him live." "Maybe." Trant shook his head. "Have you ever seen her again?" "Na, but then, there's na reason to, is there?" "What did you do? I mean, a fourteen-year-old boy, with an infant?" He laughed a little ruefully, slight embarrassment in the sound. "The first thing I did was sit down and bawl—wi' pride because I had a son, in fear because I realized what a responsibility I had and that I was terribly ignorant of what to do." He looked down, fingers brushing against the table, unconsciously writing his son's name in the dust, forefinger spelling H-A-T-C-H over and over as he spoke. "My boss' wife took pity on me. She cared for Hatch, deducted money out of m'pay for his food and clothing and I saved the rest. By the time I was eighteen, I had enough to buy a stallion and two mares and when I was twenty, we moved here to Three Moon and I started m'own station." He looked up with a heavy sigh, as if ending a long and tedious confession. "That was fourteen years ago." "And you've been here ever since? Alone?" He nodded. "Aye. Until now." The look he gave her was puzzling, as if he expected her to read and understand it. She shifted her gaze, glancing around helplessly, not knowing what to say. He changed the subject. "Are you hungry? D'ya want anything to eat?" 97

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"No." She felt very tired and confused. "I'd like to go to bed." For some reason, that seemed to please him. "So would I—to make up for last night." "Yes," she agreed. "Sleeping in a wagon isn't very restful, is it?" They stood there a moment longer. "Hatch..." Katy said suddenly. "It's an odd name." "He chose it himself." "Oh, sure," she laughed. "You opened that basket and he said, 'Hi, Call me Hatch.' Right?" "'Tis Gadja custom for a child to chose his own permanent name. The parents only gi' him a Baby one. I wished to call him Andrus, after m'father but he said that since he'd na met his maither, he felt as if he'd been hatched or crawled out from under a rock." "So he chose Hatch?" "Actually, his name's Hatchling." He started to the door. "I'll ge' the oxen bedded down and see if Goldie's still about." He stopped with his hand on the latch. "There was another reason I wanted you here—other than the obvious one." She waited. "Hatch is almost grown now. I want him to learn ... t-to become accustomed to a woman's presence, b-before he..." The rest of the sentence went unspoken ... before he makes the same mistake his father did? He opened the door. "Mr. Trant—" He looked back. 98

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Where's your bathroom? I—" He caught her hand, pulled her onto the porch, and with both hands on her shoulders, marched her around the corner of the house, waving a hand at a small building a few yards away. "There y'are." "An outhouse? Oh, no." "Here—" He pulled a lantern off a hook, "You'll need this," then walked away, leaving her standing there, "Do na be long," and began to shake his head, laughing softly. The light from the petro-lamp sent bright rays into the darkness as Katy walked toward the little building. I don't believe this. I didn't think anyone—not even the Naturals—lived this primitively. Lord, I've always been a good person. Whatever did I do to deserve all this? She didn't tarry, just did what she had to do and hurried back to the house, hanging the lantern back on the hook. Going inside, she ran through the living room, refusing to look at its disorder, and straight into the bedroom. [Back to Table of Contents]

99

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Chapter Eight It was a fairly large room, sparsely furnished with a big iron bed as its main feature. She'd seen one like it in a museum, no air-suspension, the mattress resting firmly on the bed itself, its high headboard decorated with curling pieces of metal twisted to resemble small-leaved branches ending in iron rosettes and flower buds. A bedside table held a tiny lamp. At the foot of the bed, her case rested on a small hamper, and nearby was a large upright chest with a small metal mirror, a little basket resting upon it. On the wall beside the chest, hung a small crucifix. Katy opened the case. Three pairs of jeans, three shirts, two nightgowns—that was all. No underwear, makeup, or jewelry. She held up one of the nightgowns, wondering who had chosen them. It was white, full-length and sleeveless with a round, high neck, but there the demureness ended, for the garment was made of a soft fabric that became almost transparent whenever the wearer moved. "My Goodness!" Katy muttered, as she surveyed herself in the mirror. "This is awful." She turned slightly, blinking as the movement gave a fleeting but clear glimpse of her body. She'd never owned such a provocative sleeping garment. Aunt Clara had made certain all her nightgowns were of genuine Georgian cotton, totally opaque, totally obscuring. She'd have to make certain she never left her room after 100

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

putting it on. I certainly don't want Mr. Trant to see me in this! As she opened the top drawer of the chest, intending to put her shirts inside, she saw that it was full. Either Mr. Trant or Hatch was using the chest to keep extra clothes in, although she didn't see how they could have very many left with all those scattered throughout the living room. She pushed the garments to one side, stuffed in her meager ones, and removed the disk from her pocket, placing it under the nightgowns. She'd been afraid someone would steal it from her while she'd been in stasis. The first thing she'd done when she awakened was check to make certain she still had it. In the morning, I'll ask about them moving their things so I could have the chest to myself. She turned off the lamp, got into bed and immediately sank into the softest material she'd ever felt. This must be the lunat-down mattress Mr. Trant mentioned. It was kind of him to let her have it. It was so soft, like lying on— She fell asleep before she could finish the thought. **** Katy was sleeping so soundly she didn't hear Sarkin Trant come back to the house. She didn't hear the bedroom door open, his footsteps as he tiptoed in, or the quiet movements as he undressed. Only when his weight touched the bed, causing her to roll toward him, did she rouse slightly but it wasn't until he put his arms around her that she came suddenly and violently awake. 101

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Sitting up with a cry of alarm, she struck outward, touching warm, solid flesh. The lamp flashed brightness, as Trant reached for the pistol lying beside it, looking around quickly. "What is it?" Staring at his bare back and shoulders, half-hidden by the unbound hair, Katy uttered a shriek, ear-splitting in its terror, and scrambled backward, dragging the sheet with her. Her back struck the headboard and she climbed it, huddling against the wall, clutching the sheet to her breast. He looked up at her, the gun swinging around, aimed directly at her. "What's the matter?" "Oh, please. Don't shoot me!" Was he going to kill her? Without any reason? Are all these colonists latent murderers? "I'm na going to shoot you." His voice held surprise and something close to disgust. "What's the matter wi' you?" He activated the safety and dropped the gun onto the table. "W-what are you doing in here?" She held the sheet closer, pressing it against her chest, toes curling downward to wrap around the iron rosettes decorating the headboard. "Where else would I be? This is my bed, y'know." His tone implied she'd been stricken with sudden amnesia. "Your bed..." "...and since 'tis now night, where else would I be sleeping but in m'own bed?" "...your bed..." In that case, where's his wife? "Is there an echo in here? Yes, Sunshine—my bed. Now, d'we have its ownership established?" "But—you put my bag in here..." "Of course." 102

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

In a rush, she understood. There is no Mrs. Trant. Oh, God! He had bid for her, not merely to get a housekeeper but for something more—it was more convenient to have a woman handy if he needed one, especially when the only other available females were two days' ride into Zero. "You mean," she began, hoping he was going to deny it, "that you want me to—Oh no. No!" "Aye." He was nodding, saying with a mixture of exasperation, anger, and concern, "Hell, Sunshine. 'Tis sort of expected, y'know?" His voice was surprisingly sarcastic. She didn't answer, just shook her head and wrapped the sheet closer around her. "Oh, do na act so silly." He was trying to be patient, she could see that, but still confused. "I admit I expected a little shyness but—E'en though we did spend last night together in the wagon, we're still almost strangers..." He stopped, looked away, studying the far wall. "I mean..." The sheet, stretched against him, was covering part of one thigh and his stomach. He put his hand on it, pressing it onto the bed. Katy could see the curve of his hip and the paler mark of a tan line on the golden skin. She swallowed loudly. He looked back, shaking his head. "You're overreacting. Maybe you na expected to do this so soon but—damn, quit staring at me." He looked uncomfortable. "You've already seen me naked—and probably others, too." "Of course, I have," Katy replied sharply. All Uncle Cyril's's groundsmen—the caretaker, the gardeners, the pool-boy— 103

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

went without their shirts while they worked. She'd seen them all that way—and it was practically the same thing, wasn't it? She thought of those smooth, hairless chests. Wasn't it? "But not in my bed." That caused a widening of the aqua eyes. For a full minute, he didn't speak, just stared at her. When he did say something, it was very soft. "You mean ... y-you haven't ever—You're a virgin?" Katy didn't have to answer, the blush said it all. He looked away again, "God, I got a bargain, dinna I?" and made a beckoning gesture, patting a spot beside him. "Come down, Katy. We need to talk about this." She shook her head. "Come on. You look ridiculous perched up there like one of those stupid chiksas." When she made no move to obey, he lunged toward her, caught one of her ankles and pulled her off the headboard. She bounced onto the bed and was dragged to his side and released. "Now, then." Before he could move again, she was grabbing at the sheet, tucking it around him. "Please, Mr. Trant—keep yourself covered." He sighed and fidgeted slightly. One of his hands moved, gently grasping her arm. "Katy—" "No. Please." She pulled at his fingers, felt them open and release her. "No—I can't. I just—don't, please." Through her hysteria, she heard him answering, voice calm, almost soothing, hands touching her shoulders, one 104

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

gently stroking her hair. "Katy—Katy ... 'tis all right, Sunshine. I'll na do anything—I promise." For just a moment, she collapsed against him, pressing her cheek against his chest. He felt so warm, so good ... she opened her eyes. The aqua ones were regarding her with concern and a little sadness. "Promise?" Releasing her, he raked one hand through the copper hair, slinging it over his shoulder. "'Tis late. Let's ge' some sleep. Tomorrow ... tomorrow, we'll talk." "You can't sleep here." Hadn't he heard a thing she'd said? After all that, he still expected— "Na." It was said with an air of resignation. "I'll sleep on the couch." He pulled the top blanket from the bed and stood up, wrapping it around his shoulders as he did so, then stalked to the door, opening and going through it with as much dignity as a man could have who'd just been ousted from his own bed by a woman he'd been expecting to make love to. Katy watched the door shut before she turned off the lamp. Curling into a little ball in the center of the bed, she listened to the sounds from the other room, half-expecting the door to re-open and Trant to charge back in, demanding what he felt was rightfully his. When nothing more happened and everything grew quiet, she relaxed, though she stayed awake, thinking. It had embarrassed her to admit, even without saying so, that no man had ever touched her. Aunt Clara and Uncle Cyril had made certain she had little opportunity. Besides, on Earth, a 105

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

young woman of the High Caste was automatically assumed to be a virgin until proven otherwise. She'd thought she was lucky, coming to a place where she could hide herself by becoming some man's housekeeper—but now, learning why Trant had actually purchased her—not only to care for his home but to sleep with him and give him physical satisfaction... At least, he'd had the decency not to try to force her once he'd learned. He said they'd talk tomorrow. Good, we'll have a very frank talk and put our cards on the table. With that thought, Katy fell asleep again. [Back to Table of Contents]

106

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Chapter Nine It seemed only minutes later when a hand shook her shoulder. "Rise and shine, Katy. 'Tis time to ge' up." Opening one eye, she stared blearily at the dim figure above her. "What do you mean, waking me in the middle of the night?" "'Tis na the middle of the night. 'Tis daybreak—" He stepped to the window and drew back the curtains. A sickly gray light trickled into the room. "Ohhh..." She fell back on the pillow with a groan. "Hatch and I need breakfast." ...and I'm the one who's going to prepare it. She forced herself to sit up. "Oh. Yes." She was nearly out of bed before she remembered the nightgown's sheerness. "I—let me get dressed." "Na time—" He opened the chest, took something out, thrusting it at her. "Here. Wear this for now." He went out, leaving the door open so light poured into the room. Katy looked at the garment, a long robe, warm and fleecy but so big she could've wrapped it around her body twice. Tying the belt, she took a step and nearly tripped on the hem. Only by lapping the long folds over the belt, was she able to walk without falling. ****

107

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Trant was standing in front of the hearth, pacing impatiently. He looked up, saw her and said, "'Tis about time." The blanket he'd slept in was tossed over the back of the sofa, as carelessly as all the other items. "I'm ready to get started," Katy told him, stifling a yawn. "Where's your micro oven?" Putting a hand on her arm, he steered her around the table. "Here." He waved a hand at a metal box. She stared at it. It wasn't a microwave. "What is it?" "A stove." She ran her fingers across the top. "Where are the controls?" She'd never seen a stove like this one. "It na has any. It burns wood." He pulled a piece of lumber from a box on the floor, lifted a little lid on the stove's side and dropped it in, then a second piece, and a third, took a lighting tube from a shelf on the little hutch at the back, pressing the control. Flame flared from the tip and he held it under the wood until it began to burn. "There." "What should I cook?" This isn't going to be as easy as I thought. "Hatch usually eats oatmeal." He led her into a doorless room beside the stove, "'Tis here in the pantry," indicating a container on a shelf. "We're nearly out of packnut bread. You might bake some more of that." He picked up a box. "Instructions are on the side. 'Tis foolproof." He left her standing there, reading the instructions. "Mr. Trant?" 108

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

He stopped, looking back. "What?" "Water—where?" "Pump's right there." She looked at the contraption set against the pantry wall, seized the handle and began to move it up and down. "Mr. Trant?" His head appeared through the doorway, scowling. "What now?" "It's broken." He came back, putting his hand over hers, jerking the handle vigorously. Water began to gush from the spout. "Just have to be forceful, that's all." He released her hand. "Now. Anything else?" "No—I don't think so." She really wasn't sure. "Good—I'll be in the barn, doing the milking." He was gone, almost as if he were escaping. **** Reading the directions, Katy measured flour into a bowl she took from a shelf, pumped in the proper amount of water, stirred it enthusiastically, and poured it into a pan. Placing it on a rack inside the oven—it took her a few seconds to find the door—she filled a large pot with water and set it on the stovetop to boil. Turning her attention to the table, she decided simply to push everything to one end. She was studying the many renderings of Hatch's name that Trant had scrawled in the dust when the smell of something burning wafted toward her. 109

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Smoke was seeping around the edges of the oven door. Grabbing at the fireproof handle, she dropped it, allowing the door to fall open, sending a billow of smoke into the room. Coughing and fanning, she looked around desperately, saw a small towel lying on the back of a chair and grabbed it, pulling the burning pan of bread from the oven. The heat immediately seared through the cloth, burning her palm. Katy screamed, long and loud, and dropped the pan onto the stove top, where it continued to blaze, filling the room with smoke, while she stood there, rocking back and forth, cradling the injured hand with the other, sobbing loudly. Suddenly, Trant was in the room, fighting his way through the smoke that was beginning to roil through the doorway. "Katy!" His voice hit a note of fear that gratified her in spite of her pain. "What happened?" He made his way to her, saw the smoldering pan—the bread completely incinerated—and jumped back as she turned on him, pain suddenly forgotten. "I thought you said it was foolproof ." "'Tis supposed to be—" he began, only to be interrupted by a tearful, "Well, I burned it. Burned it!" She began to cry again, blowing on her hand. "Did you burn yourself, too?" She felt that was a stupid question, almost told him so, until she caught sight of the concern on his face. She nodded and he took her hand between his own. "Let's see." 110

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

At that, she remembered how much it had hurt, and managed a quick sob. Then, they were at the sink and he was holding her hand under the water. She cried out again as the force of the stream struck the injured tissues, and was crumpled into his arms, shoulders patted awkwardly, while he made comforting noises against her hair. "Shh, shh—'tis all right. You're na really hurt." "But i-it burns," she protested, childishly. He released her, looked at the hand again and took a jar off a shelf, stuck a finger inside and began to smooth something sticky and pink onto her palm. "What's that?" she asked with a sniff, deciding she'd better stop crying, but ready to start again if he showed her any more sympathy. "Tarraroot balm—" He smiled. "This is Tritomis' miracle drug. 'Tis a medicinal, a dye. You can make soap out of it— beer..." She remembered the red liquid in his and Abel's mugs. "You can drink it?" He nodded. "I'll have to introduce you to the delights of a tarraroot beer-drinking contest sometime." "I'm sorry, Mr. Trant, but I don't drink." It came out as prudish as any little old spinster could wish. She looked at her hand again. He was still stroking it although the cream had long since disappeared. "My hand feels fine now." A litle reluctantly, he released it. "Thank you." He stepped back, nodded, "Water's boiling," and disappeared outside again. 111

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Picking up the oatmeal container, she dumped its contents into the pot and gave it a couple of rapid stirs. Now to set the table. The dishes in the china cabinet were a surprise, delicate expensive plates with a beautiful blue garland around the border—dishes Aunt Clara would've coveted. The cups were decorated with the same design and she was astonished to see a set of crystal glassware on the top shelf. She wouldn't have credited Sarkin Trant with such very refined taste. In a drawer, she found silverware, all decorated with a finely etched design matching the plates. A bubbling noise behind her made her spin around. The oatmeal was boiling, erupting out of the pot and onto the stove with a smell of burning cereal. Wrapping the towel around the handle, Katy lifted the pot to the warming tray, dipping a spoon into the mixture and blowing on the oatmeal to cool it. When she hesitantly tasted it, she nearly spat it out, barely able to force herself to swallow. It's awful! What had she done wrong? Besides nearly burning it, that is? She picked up the container and reread the instructions. Salt—she'd forgotten the salt—and it was too late to cook more. Frantically, she searched the pantry for something else. There was a basket of eggs—she didn't feel brave enough to attempt to cook those—and a large square box on a shelf. Inside, she found half a loaf of packnut bread. Transferring that to a pan, she set it on the warming tray and hurried back into the pantry. 112

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

There was a trap door in the floor. Grasping the ring, she heaved it upward, staring down into damp darkness. A well? A rope was tied to the underside of the door. She caught it and pulled. A small net bag emerged, under it a large, tightlyclosed jar. It was so heavy she could barely lift it. With a struggle, she set the jar on the floor, and opened it by twisting the lid, peering inside. Milk. The pantry had been built over a spring so the milk could be kept cool. Upon investigation, she found the net contained a wrapped packet of butter. "Great." She set the butter on a plate, placed it on the table and transferred the milk to a pitcher. By the time she heard Hatch and Trant stamping across the porch, she'd cleared the table, the dust and Hatch's name had been erased, and three place settings adorned the top. She hoped she wasn't being presumptuous in thinking Mr. Trant would allow her to eat with him and his son. She was standing there, feeling slightly satisfied—thinking the house needed a definite going-over with a sonic cleaner and she'd better ask Mr. Trant where the vacuum was—as they came inside. Turning to greet them, she gave Hatch a smile, was answered with a glowering half-scowl, and a flicker of the aqua eyes from her to Trant and back again as he saw that she was wearing his father's robe. The scowl changed to a faint smirk—which died as he lifted a spoonful of oatmeal and swallowed it. 113

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Grabbing his cup, he drank milk noisily to wash away the taste of the burned, unsalted cereal. Katy sighed. "It's not very good, I'm afraid." "Na very good!" Hatch exclaimed. "God, 'tis—" He broke off with a slight grunt as his father kicked him under the table. "I see you found the bread," Trant cut a wedge and heaped softened butter upon it, "and the butter." Giving his father a venomous look, Hatch also helped himself to bread and butter, finishing his milk. Katy poured him another glass, noting that the boy was woefully lacking in manners, wolfing down his food as if he were afraid she was going to snatch it away from him. His father's manners, she noted, were considerably better. Somewhere in his life, Sarkin Trant had been taught proper etiquette. "There's today's milk." Trant nodded at the bucket setting just inside the doorway. "You can pour it into the cooler and wash out the pail." It didn't take them long to finish eating. Together, they stood up, Hatch practically bolting for the door. Trant delayed a moment. "We'll be out in the pastures until noon. Perhaps you'd best allow yourself a couple of hours to ge' dinner ready—" He gestured at the pendulum clock over the mantel. "Don't worry," Katy assured him. "Dinner will be much better, I promise." As he nodded, she could almost hear his unspoken thought, God, I hope so. 114

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Mr. Trant—" He gave her a questioning look. "A-about last night..." "We'll talk about it later," he promised, "when I ge' back." He joined Hatch on the porch and Katy heard the boy say, as they went down the steps, "God, Pa, I hope she's better in bed than she is at cooking. That was awful." "Shh," came Trant's quick warning. Hatch's voice dropped and they walked away, the boy still complaining. Katy stood there, her face flaming. How dare he say that? It was bad enough that Mr. Trant had expected her to sleep with him, but this boy, who had no right whatsoever, to say such a thing—or did he? The disturbing thought thrust itself into her mind. What if Trant had gotten her for both of them? Two men, way out here... No, no, I can't believe that. Mr. Trant might be a little misguided but he was decent, she was certain of it. Besides, if she had agreed to do what he wanted, she didn't think he'd share her with anyone. Sarkin Trant, she had a feeling, would jealously guard anything he considered his property. That only half-consoled her, so she decided to stop thinking about it and get busy earning her keep. Just how much is my keep, anyway? Perhaps tonight, while they were talking over everything else, they'd discuss her salary, too. She washed the delicate dishes and cups, setting them on the drain pan by the wooden sink to dry, wondered what to do with the leftover oatmeal and decided to let it set in the 115

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

sink until she could find out where the garbage disposal was. The pan of packnut charcoal joined it. Hurrying into the bedroom, she dressed in shirt and jeans, decided to ignore her shoes, and returned the robe to the chest, then went back into the living room and attacked it. Picking up the scattered garments, she stuffed them into the hamper she'd seen in the bedroom, wondering again if they were Trant's or a combination of his and Hatch's. That didn't take long. Then, she began an assault on the many books lying about. "At least, he isn't illiterate," she thought, as she returned the books to the shelves. Out of curiosity, she opened one volume, looking at the inscription inside. Andrus Trant. So this one had belonged to Mr. Trant's father. Another bore the explanation, This book belongs to Maire Deoridh MacGregor, written in a small, delicate hand. She looked at the title. Poems of William Butler Yeats. Turning to the fireplace, she studied it silently, touching a finger to the intricate carving on the underside of the wooden mantel—three interlocking rings above three long straight lines—smoke-blackened and dusty but very beautiful. It would take hours to get that clean and restore its loveliness. A sound from the yard drew her to the door. A young boy sat there on a small, thin elo mare. Katy came out onto the porch. "Hello." The boy looked surprised to see her. Touching his fingers to his hat, he said, in a wavering adolescent voice, "Morning, ma'am—I've got the butter my Ma made from the milk Sar sent us." 116

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

He held it out to her, another of those cloth-wrapped rectangles. She came down the steps, took it and smiled. "Thank you." The boy didn't move, just looked a little uncomfortable. "Is there something else?" Katy asked. "I—we were supposed to be paid." "Oh, how much?" She hadn't seen any money lying around. "Three dozen eggs." She remembered the eggs in the little basket, "Of course. Just a minute," ran inside and retrieved them, bringing them back and handing them to the boy. "Thank you again." "Yes, ma'am." He turned the elo's head, stopped and looked back. "Did Sar get you at the auction?" She nodded. A wide grin spread over the young face. "Ma'll be glad to hear that. She's been telling him he needed a woman here but the silly fool just wouldn't listen." She started to reprimand him, telling him he shouldn't speak about his elders that way, that Mr. Trant was most definitely not a fool—sometimes a little confused, perhaps— but he'd already turned away, kicked the elo and left the station yard at a quick walk which appeared to be all the little animal could manage. Katy stood there looking after him, holding the butter until she felt it begin to soften in her hands. Hurrying inside, she placed it in the net bag, remembered about the milk, and carefully poured it into the cooler, then lowered everything into the water, letting the door fall shut. 117

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Walking back to the living room, she took the towel and began to clean the now-empty table. Once it was totally free from dust, she moved to the chairs. She hadn't gotten to the mantel and the bookcases when she glanced at the clock and decided it was time to see how much of a mess she could make of the noon-day meal. Marching into the pantry, she surveyed the contents of the shelves. There were drygoods, beans, flour, meal—Trant had obviously unloaded the wagon before he'd waked her—as well as some canned items. To play it safe, she decided to heat something canned, and selected two one-pound canisters of beef stew. Who knows how much those two can eat, especially since they hadn't had a real breakfast? Pulling the pop-tops, she dumped the contents into a large boiler. She also made more bread. This time, she watched the clock, took the bread out exactly to the minute, and studied it proudly. It might be a little too brown on the bottom but otherwise ... perfect. It went to the warming tray, with large slabs of butter dotting its top. "Something to drink," she muttered. Milk again? Surely there must be something else, but where? Ask Mr. Trant about that. She couldn't see two adult men drinking milk all the time. When she heard the sound of the elos' feet and the snorts as the animals were tied to the little hitching post by the door, she went to greet them but they were already walking toward the pump by the water trough. "We'll be in as soon as we wash up," Trant called to her and she nodded and stood there, watching them. 118

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

She told herself it was so she'd know when they were finished, so she wouldn't put the stew on the table too early and have it get cold, but somewhere, deep, deep inside, she knew that wasn't the real reason she was standing there in the shade of the porch, watching Sar take off his shirt and splash himself with water from the pump, while Hatch worked the handle. It wasn't that at all. Memory of Sarkin Trant's beautiful satin skin, and wide, muscled shoulders was in her mind. Hatch bent, cupping his hands to catch water, tossing it into Trant's face, and his father retaliated by scooping some out of the trough. They were splashing water back and forth, laughing like two children, hair flying, wet patches appearing on jeans-legs, until Katy called, with a maternal asperity in her voice that surprised her, "Hey, you two! Quit that playing and come inside. Dinner's getting cold." Hatch stopped in mid-splash, looking at her. Trant dumped the water he held over his son's head, then spun on his heel and hurried away, laughing, throwing on his shirt. The boy followed, thrusting one arm into a sleeve. They sat warily at the table, faces anxious as she ladled the stew into bowls and presented one to each. As she put one before her own place, she thought she saw them relax a little. After all, it couldn't be too bad, if she was willing to eat it, too. At that point, she realized she hadn't had any breakfast, except for that one miserable mouthful of oatmeal.

119

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

They didn't move—each was waiting for the other to taste first. With a sigh, Katy lifted her spoon, and, after a moment, so did Hatch. He dug into his stew, took a small, tentative taste, swallowed, and ate the rest, looking at Katy with surprise and new respect. "Hey, this is good. Taste it, Pa." Trant obeyed, nodding in agreement after the first bite. In that moment, Katy was grateful that Aunt Clara had allowed their cook to teach her the fundamentals of the kitchen. "I made packnut bread, too," she said, unnecessarily. Each man helped himself to a large butter-smeared triangle. "About the milk—" Katy began. "We have other things to drink," Trant explained. "There's tea, and—" "Tea?" she interrupted. Both tea and coffee were considered illegal substances because of the caffeine they contained, were Numbers Two and Three on the Federation Surgeon General's List of Proscribed Substances, in fact. "Herb tea," he amended, "na the real stuff. We dinna break the law here, y'know," and smiled at the irony of the statement. Hatch stopped eating long enough to ask, "How's your hand?" An overture of friendship. He'd forgiven her for breakfast. "My hand?" She'd almost forgotten about the burn. It hadn't hurt since Trant applied the tarraroot balm. There 120

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

wasn't even a mark on her skin. "Oh—it's fine." She smiled at Trant and was surprised to see him look down at his plate. "You should've seen Pa running when that smoke started pouring through the door," the boy said, with sudden glee. "He must've thought you'd set yourself on fire." Katy picked up her cup and took a long, slow swallow of milk. "But you weren't worried?" Hatch shook his head. "I figured whatever had happened, Pa could handle it." He certainly had great confidence in his father's abilities, she decided. She wondered what Hatch would think if he knew about that little misunderstanding last night. As far as she could tell, dinner was a success. They each had three helpings of stew and completely demolished the bread, leaving only a few crumbs. As they went outside to their elos, Hatch was declaring he didn't want to go back to work but would rather sleep it off. "Oh, by the way—" One hand on the reins, Trant looked back at her. "A boy came by, with some butter. I gave him the eggs in that basket." "Good. Was he riding an elo?" "Yes, a really thin little creature." He nodded. "I was afraid they might've eaten the poor thing by now." He untied the reins and vaulted into the saddle. "I promised them that if they kept her through the winter, I'd breed her to m'stud. That way they could sell the colt and stock their larder for a good while." He gathered the reins. 121

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"His maither's a widow, got four little ones besides Jamie. They're in pretty bad circumstances. I trade her eggs for making us butter. That three dozen'll be gone in two days the way that brood of hers eats." "Will you stop? Now that I'm here?" Seeing his concern for the woman, she didn't want to be the cause of her losing a source of food for her family. He shook his head. "You'll have enough to do around here wi'out being a dairymaid, too, although I'll teach you to milk the cow." She must have looked startled because Hatch laughed. "He said his maither would be glad you had me here," Katy said, looking down. His reaction surprised her. "Oh, God. That's right. He didn't know." Trant looked displeased. "Damn! Let the Widow Carras know and the whole valley'll be informed by suppertime." "It doesn't matter, does it? I mean, you didn't want it a secret that you've gotten yourself a—" "Nay," he interrupted quickly, as if trying to keep her from saying the word, "'tis just that she's going to try to take credit for it, as if she put the idea in m'head. That's all." "I see." Katy fell silent, catching Hatch's glance. The boy appeared amused at his father's irritation with the Widow Carras. "By the way, have you fed the chikas yet?" Before she could shake her head, he went on, already knowing the answer, "There's a pan hanging on a nail in the barn. The feed's in a sack by the door. Just pour it into the troughs, scatter a little in the yard. You might gather the eggs, too." 122

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Then, he and Hatch were gone, leaving little puffs of dust thrown up by the elos' feet. By the time they came back, the sun was down, the chiksas had been fed, the eggs gathered—with only two small wounds on Katy's wrist where she'd been pecked by an irate bird who wanted to sample the taste of the gold band—and more stew was bubbling on the stove. Hatch immediately complained. "Are we going to have stew every night?" "No," Katy answered calmly. "Tomorrow, you'll have something different because I intend to master t-that metal monster as soon as the sun rises." "Bravo." Trant clapped his hands, applauding her little speech. "We'll look forward to it, Sunshine." **** Once the meal was over, Hatch disappeared into the barn and Katy began to wash the dishes. Trant stood in the doorway, watching her. "Want me to help?" That surprised her. "No, thanks. I can manage." She placed the last plate on the drainer, thinking how much easier it would be if a sonic dishwasher did the work. "In fact, I'm finished." "I timed it just right then." He followed her back into the living room. "I see you've made a marked improvement in the pig sty." Katy flushed. "I hope you'll forget that." "Why should I? 'Twas true. Being alone as we've been, Hatch and I both just sort of did what we wanted. That's 123

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

another reason I felt we needed someone else here. To keep reminding us that Man's a social creature and not meant to degenerate downward just because he may be isolated." That little speech surprised her. It sounded too philosophical and intellectual for a Freely. "Mr. Trant, I think we'd better have that talk now," she began and he nodded soberly. She walked a little closer, looking up into those bright eyes. Careful, Katy. Don't get too close. You might fall into that blueness and drown. "There's so much we need to discuss. W-we haven't even talked about how much I'll be paid." "Paid? You expect to be paid for—" "Of course," she interrupted. "I believe it's customary." He thought about that a moment. "Guess that tells me something about you I hadna wish to know, Sunshine." "After all," she reminded him, "I do have my own welfare to think about." His expression was serious as he said softly, "What wouldya consider fair payment, Katy?" "I guess that's up to you. What do you think my services are worth?" He looked a little flustered. "I—well, the women in town— at Larkin's—ge' ten Federals per toss—" "I'm sorry," Katy interrupted, "what's a toss?" "Maybe they call it something else on Terra." He startled her by seizing her shoulders, saying with an earnestness that made her frown, "Katy, I want you to know I'll ne'er hold your old life against you." 124

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

She smiled at this statement of reverse snobbery, but since she had no intention of ever letting him know that her uncle was one of the richest—and also one of the most criminally unscrupulous—men on Terra's Northern Hemisphere, she didn't answer, and Trant went on, "Though if you're a virgin, I dinna understand—" "I am," Katy said, flushing, "but I'd appreciate it if you'd quite harping on that fact. It's not going to affect what I do for you. I swear." "But how—I mean—" Trant shook his head, murmuring, "We're too isolated from Big Planet life here." She didn't understand what he was muttering about, decided to name her own salary. "How about you pay me five hundred Credits a month? For services rendered?" "What kind of services?" he asked, doubtfully. She shrugged, "The usual kind—" wondering why he looked even more confused, "but I think we should get one thing straight. I'm grateful for your saving me from Alwin Marsten, and I fully intend to uphold my end of the Agreement and work hard for you b-but—" Taking a deep breath, she pulled herself free of his grasp. "—I won't sleep with you." He didn't look too upset. "Na right now, you mean." "No." She shook her head, "Not ever," adding, "I'm sorry." "'Tis I that's sorry, Sunshine, most definitely. But I do na understand—if you intend to adhere to the Contract, how can you refuse to—" "I'm certain the Federation didn't send me here to satisfy the lust of some sex-starved colonist, Mr. Trant." 125

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

He didn't looked insulted, as she'd expected, just a little more bewildered. "Is that what you think I am? A sex-starved colonist?" "Of course not," she denied. "Not really." She took a deep breath. He'd obviously expected it to be so easy. "I'll be a good housekeeper, Mr. Trant but I just won't sleep with my employer. I can't." His face underwent a startling change, disbelief, amusement, relief—she wasn't certain which. "Employer?" he repeated. "That's what you think I am? Your employer?" She nodded. "Of course. You hired me to be your housekeeper—" He stifled whatever else she was going to say, by laughing out loud. "What's so funny?" A hand went to her shoulder. "Sunshine, I'm na your employer. I'm your husband." [Back to Table of Contents]

126

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Chapter Ten "You're ... what?" For a moment, she stared at him. He didn't say that. She'd misunderstood. Please God, let me have misunderstood. He repeated those unbelievable words, nodding as she began to shake her head. She pulled away from his grasp, staggering toward the fireplace. "I-I don't understand. You're mistaken. Or you're joking. Please." She whirled and caught his hands, felt them eagerly clasp hers. "Please say you're joking." "Nay, Sunshine. I'm na joking." She looked stricken. "Do na look so unhappy," Trant went on. "Being married to me willna be such a chore. You'll see." "No. No. You don't understand—" "I think I do," he cut into her protests. "You want to be courted. 'Twas too fast. All right. I can do that." Katy felt weak. Catching at the mantel with one hand, she leaned against it. "Dinna you read the Agreement? Dinna they explain to you?" She shook her head. "If I'd known—Oh God, I thought I was so lucky when I came into the terminal and saw that shuttle. It was as if it had been put there to help me." "So you've committed na crime then? You're a-a volunteer?" She had to tell him. 127

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"I was running away. I came here to hide." She looked at the golden bangle. It isn't a servant's cuff, it's a wedding band. "Running away? From who? Your parents—a-a suitor? N-na a husband?" She laughed at the dismay on his face. "Relax, Mr. Trant, you're not guilty of bigamy or anything." "I'm na worried about that." "If they find out where I am, th-they might come after me," she went on, "or send someone." "Wouldya go wi' them?" "After coming this far to get away?" "Then there's naught for you to worry about." "That's what you think." She stopped, studied his face a moment, and made her decision. Whirling, she ran into the bedroom, taking the disk from the drawer and returned to where he stood. She held it out to him. "Play it," Katy ordered quietly. "It'll explain everything." Going to the bookshelf, Trant inserted the disk into the loading slot of the terminal. Katy stayed where she was. She didn't want to see those numbers again. Presently, he took the disk out of the loader and turned to her. "This would certainly put someone away for a long time." There was immense concern in the aquamarine eyes. "D'ya know what these numbers mean?"

128

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Only that Antar Benedetto really owns The King's Ransom and not Dery Brunarosa as everyone thinks—and his men killed my boss." "You saw that happen?" She nodded. "T-they chased me ... that's why I got on the shuttle to Tritomis. I-I thought I could hide here until it was safe." Trant's face darkened and his fingers closed around the disk so tightly she was afraid he might bend it. The fury on his face made Katy certain she'd been right to trust him. Relief flooded over her. He'll let me stay here. Mr. Trant will give me refuge. "According to this disk," he explained, "this Benedetto is a high-edge dealer in Illegals—proscribed drugs, stolen property—and he's running the Credits through the restaurant so it can't be traced." "You could tell all that by looking at those figures?" "M'maither always said I had a head for numbers." He handed her the disk. Without speaking, she took it, and returned it to the dresser drawer. Trant followed her to the doorway, hovering on the threshold as if he had no right to enter. "There was something else on that disk, Katy. About his partner—a Cyril Rawls. Any relation?" "H-he's my uncle, but—surely you're mistaken. Uncle Cyril wouldn't—" Who am I kidding? Her uncle's reputation was notorious. He knew some very questionable people and had been involved in shady deals before—that was how he'd made his fortune—but murder? Would he really condone his 129

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

business partner's killing? Though she didn't want to admit it, Katy knew he would, without a second thought. Trant didn't press the matter. "Does Benedetto know you have that?" She pushed the drawer shut and turned to face him. "He probably does by now. I'm certain he's tearing the globe apart searching for me." "Will your uncle be looking, too?" "I-I don't know. They can't know I'm 'way out here. And now—" "—now?" He echoed her words as she came back into the living room. "I'll just stay here and work for you until my year's up— and then..." "And then—" "Well—then, we'll go to the Marshall, tell him it's not working, have the marriage voided, and I'll get this to the Federation Justice Department, and then, I'll go—" "Where wi' ya go?" Was she mistaken or was there a slight tremor to that question? She couldn't tell by his expression what he was thinking. "I don't know—I'll worry about that later. It's not important. What is, is that I'm safe—" "What if this Benedetto finds out where you are," Trant asked, "and comes here?" Katy went pale. "Dinna worry. I'll protect you." She wanted just that—remembering how she'd felt when he'd put his arms around her the night before, how her fear 130

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

evaporated into a feeling of safety—while at the same time she was exasperated by this stubborn, totally old-fashioned guardian instinct that had reared its head. In the short time she'd been in his company, she could see that Sarkin Trant was a good man, and she didn't want either him or his son hurt and she knew that if Antar Benedetto ever set foot on Tritomis, that's exactly what would happen. She wanted to tell him how he made her feel, instead forced herself to say, "I'm very tired. I'd like to go to bed now. Alone." He ducked his head, suspiciously agreeable. "Of course." "I'd also like to take a bath. Where—" He took a towel from a drawer of the china cabinet and handed it to her, "This way, ma'am," led her onto the porch, pointing to the left side. "Around the corner. There's a shower shed." He went back inside. **** She and Hatch arrived at the shed at the same time. For a moment, they stood there without speaking, looking awkwardly at each other. Pushing the door open, the boy leaned against the wall. "You go first." "Thank you." She scurried inside, setting the latch. As if a mere sliver of wood would keep either of those two out of anywhere they wanted to go. There was a bench to place the towel on, a small holder filled with white, lemony-scented soap—it reminded her of the smell of Trant's skin when she awakened in the wagon—and a 131

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

funnel in the ceiling with a rope attached, directly above a series of small drain-holes bored into the floor. Stripping off jeans and shirt, she stepped under the funnel, pulled the rope and screamed as icy water poured over her. A bang on the door, "Katy, are you all right?" "Y-yes," she gasped. "The water's cold. I wasn't expecting it." She bathed quickly, dried with the towel, noting the pebbly-wet goosebumps and thinking again of Trant's smooth skin, feeling uncomfortable as the shirt and jeans clung to her damp body. Opening the door, she brushed past Hatch and ran around the corner of the house. Inside again, she still had to get past Trant to reach the bedroom. He was sitting on the sofa, reading a book, a small pipe in one hand, took a puff, looked up at her, and blew the smoke into the air, saying, "That was fast. That cold water dinna tempt you to linger?" She shook her head. "I don't understand—you've got solar power. Why don't you let it warm the shower water, too?" He appeared to consider that. "Ne'er felt the need to." "What do you do in winter?" "Boil water and fill a tub here in the living room. I could do that for you if you'd like." "No, that's okay." The thought of sitting naked in a tub of water while he and Hatch impatiently stamped about outside didn't appeal to her. She stood there a moment longer, twisting the bangle absently. 132

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Was there something else?" He looked up, deliberately casual. "That isn't real tobacco, is it?" He shook his head. "Just an herb some of the Gadjas smoke. I use it when I need to relax. It helps me sleep." He held up the pipe, gesturing with it. Fragrant blue smoke drifted out of the bowl. "'Tis na habit-forming, I swear." She looked relieved. Poor lamb, she's probably thinking she's gotten saddled with a drug-crazed colonial as well as a sex-starved one. The damp shirt clung to her chest, the shape of her breasts clearly outlined. His hunger showed before he could hide it, certain by the way she flushed and turned away that she'd seen, silently cursing that she affected him that way and at the same time enjoying the feeling. Once again, he felt terribly ignorant, acutely aware of the reputation those from the Big Planet had for sexual freedom, wishing he knew more about Life on Earth and not wanting to believe Katy could be one of those depraved Terrans he'd heard so much about. "Good night, Mr. Trant." She opened the bedroom door. "Katy—" She stopped, waiting. "Call me Sarkin—or Sar, if you like. Please." She nodded, smiled a timid agreement, and went inside. Trant stared at the closed door before returning to his book, found his place and stared at it without seeing the words. 133

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Damn the girl. Why does she have to make me feel this way? Since that first burst of passion with Hatch's mother, he'd surprised himself with the way he managed to control his emotions. It became a matter of pride, those long years of being alone, burying any hint of desire under the grueling labor running the station, substituting the feel of an elo's driving muscles for the movement of a woman's soft body beneath his. Rarely had his hunger become so strong that he'd been unable to ignore it but on those few times, he'd ridden the three hundred miles to Larkin's. Afterward, he felt degraded, plunging into a temper that would last for days. Hatch always avoided his father during those times, as if he understood the shame Sarkin felt. Perhaps, he mused, that's why the boy was still virgin at twenty because he refused to allow himself to experience the self-hate he knew his father suffered. That changed when he saw Katy. He'd gone to Zero that day to make certain Abel got a woman, determined the boy would be able to make a winning bid, but when he saw that wonderful little creature with the glorious hair, he'd wanted her but forced himself to ignore the stirring. It was only when Alwin Marsten outbid all the others that he knew he couldn't let her go, would ne'er allow that bastard to touch that precious treasure. He'd made no move to touch her during the trip because he felt the back of a wagon was no proper place for a man to have his wedding night, and then, last night, she'd been so frightened. Now, learning that she'd never known what was 134

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

expected, that she thought herself being brought to the station to be merely his housekeeper... He meant what he'd promised. He'd court her—chaste and proper—if that's what it took. And before the year was out, she'd be his wife truly, coming to him of her own will. After that, she wouldn't want to leave, and if anyone tried to take her away—no matter whom—he'd better be prepared to fight. In the meantime... He'd stared at the page for five minutes, not reading a word. Sarkin closed the book with a snap, got up and dropped it on the mantel, tapping the pipe against the fireplace stones, and placing it beside the book. It was going to take more than that to help him sleep tonight. He took a towel from the chest and walked out of the house, heading for the shower shed. It looked as if the nights ahead were going to be filled with numerous cold showers. [Back to Table of Contents]

135

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Chapter Eleven Katy straightened and rubbed the small of her back. Bending over certainly made her muscles ache, but she didn't know any other way to pick vegetables. She was thankful so many Terran vegetables had survived transplantation to Tritomis. The little garden held tomatoes and onions, green peppers and carrots. There weren't any potatoes but a native tuber, the caric, was similar. A sprinkling of herbs over it all, simmering for a couple of hours ... yes, she thought Trant and Hatch would enjoy that. Dropping the last tomato into her basket, she stood up. She'd picked a lot of vegetables lately. Those two could certainly eat. She supposed it was the active life they led that kept them from becoming overweight—that had to be the only reason Sar's waist was so narrow, his stomach so lean and flat— Stop that, Katy. Right now. You're letting that mind of yours stray into forbidden territory. Namely, anything below Sarkin Trant's belt buckle. Allowing herself a rueful little smile, she picked up the basket and started down the next row. She wanted to pick some radishes also and prepare a pot of greens for supper tomorrow night. Of course, that would involve simmering the radishes on the stove all day, but Sar liked them. As she pulled the first bunch out of the ground, shaking the dirt off the white, icicle-shaped roots and tossing them 136

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

into the basket, she saw that one oval nail was cracked halfway across. Gently, Katy tore off the nail and dropped it on the ground, surveying her hands sadly. That made four—her forefinger, ring and little finger on her right hand and the middle finger on her left were all minus their long, rounded points. What did she expect? If she was going to go around grubbing in the dirt—how Aunt Clara would exclaim with horror at that—and performing chores such as washing dishes and scrubbing floors, nails were bound to be broken and hands dirtied. Aunt Clara would probably be disgusted at sight of her niece, barefoot and clad in jeans, kneeling on the hearth scrubbing away the soot, and Katy would've further shocked her by stating she didn't care. The past three weeks had been the most difficult and tiring time of her life but the most enjoyable she'd ever spent. She knew the reason of course: Sarkin Trant. In an effort to reassure her that she was safe even when alone in the house, he'd shown her the triangle hanging at the end of the porch—a loud clanging would bring him galloping if he were in the pastures. As soon as Sarkin was out of her sight, he was in her mind. She bit her lip, grinning foolishly. It was truly laughable. She was actually beginning to like him—no, more than like, she admitted it. Picking up the basket, she went back to the house. Depositing it on the table, she stood for a moment looking at the vase of flowers sitting in its center. True to his word, Sar had begun to court her, and the flowers were the most visible 137

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

sign. She'd found the first one lying on her pillow when she'd gone in to make up the bed one morning. Sar had gotten into the habit of getting fresh clothes from the bedroom each night and depositing his used ones in the hamper in the morning while Katy prepared breakfast. He easily accepted her suggestion that he not scatter his discarded clothing about the living room—so easily, in fact, that Katy wondered if he'd been wanting someone to put order into his life. After Sar left the bedroom, the wildflowers mysteriously appeared on her pillow. Sometimes, she would find them at her plate when she left the table to get food from the stove. Hatch always looked slightly disgusted at those times, probably thinking his father was acting a love-sick fool, she supposed, giving his wife those stupid flowers. It was always the same flower, a long stemmed, greenleaved stalk with a row of tiny blue-bell like blossoms in a bunch on the top. She'd asked Sar its name and got an embarrassed reply that it hadn't any. As they'd gone back to work, Hatch whispered, "The Gadjas call it Love-Stays-Forever." He looked at Sar's broad back as his father went down the steps and shook his head before running after him. Somewhere, sometime, she reflected, someone had taught Sar the little frivolities a woman liked. With the briefest twinge of jealousy, she wondered who it had been. She placed the flowers in a little bud vase she found in the china hutch. The stalks that shriveled and died were reluctantly fed into the stove, while others appeared to take their place. 138

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

It wasn't only the flowers that were winning Katy's heart. Sar was patient with her ignorance of the chores she was expected to do, laughing a little, never getting upset at her mistakes or failures, often teasing her into good humor when she became angry at herself. He hadn't lost his temper when she'd screamed upon learning there was no sonic clothes washer and dryer or vacuum cleaner at the station, admitting she had no idea how to use a broom. He'd made the fact seem merely an inconvenience rather than the catastrophe Katy stated it was, showed her how to sweep and helping her make the bed until she learned how, surprising Katy by not making any sly remarks or innuendos as they faced each other across the lunat-filled expanse, smoothing and tucking in the sheets. No matter how stupid she acted, Sar never got angry. Like that business with the chiksas... At dinner her second day at Three Moon, eating the boiled radish greens and carrots she'd prepared, Sar had asked, "Did you feed the chiksas?" "I fed them yesterday," she began. "They have to be fed every day, Katy," he reminded her gently. "'Tis na a one-time thing." Hatch thought that very funny. It's only for a year, then, I'll be going... They were in the corrals now, working with a group of twoyear-olds, green-broken animals ready to be trained to carry a rider, seven prospective mounts for a neighboring station owner. 139

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Katy began to empty the basket, placing the vegetables in the sink. A noise in the doorway made her look up. Two chiksas stood there, peering nearsightedly inside. Before she could move, one of the birds cautiously set a clawed foot across the threshold. Katy seized the broom, making a sweeping motion at them. "Shoo. Get out of here." With a squawk and a flutter, the two birds ran out of the house, down the steps—with Katy in pursuit, waving the broom—and directly into the path of the elo Hatch was riding across the yard. Katy skidded to a halt, the broom falling. With a screech, one of the birds flew into the air, striking the elo across the muzzle. The animal reared, its high crest striking Hatch's forehead. Stunned, the boy slumped in the saddle as the animal took a step forward, nearly trampling the other bird which paused stupidly in front of it. The chiksa screeched, the elo reared again and wheeled as Hatch attempted to control it. It galloped across the yard, straight toward the corral, swerved away from the open gate where several more chiksas perched on the top rail, and aimed itself directly at the fence. As Hatch pulled back on the reins, the elo set its teeth, launching itself at the fence. The fence was too high, there was no way it could clear it. With a crash of splintering wood, it hit the top plank chestfirst. Hatch hurtled over its head into the corral as the animal fell backward, its front legs catching between the rails. 140

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Screaming for Sar, Katy ran toward the corral as the boards came loose under the weight of the elo's fall and the animal collapsed. She crawled through the hole in the fence and raced to where Hatch lay. "Hatch. Hatch!" He stirred slightly, groaned and rolled onto his back. As he opened his eyes, she threw herself into the dirt beside him. There was a bleeding scrape across his forehead making bloody mud out of the dirt he'd nosed through as he slid across the corral. His shirt was torn and she could see a scored abrasion on his chest. Taking a deep breath, he tried to sit up, falling over again when his left arm wouldn't hold his weight. "Sonofabitch! Arm willna work..." Katy threw her arms around him, hauling him upright, just as Sarkin arrived. "Are you all right?" He had to ask twice before Hatch shook his head as if to collect his thoughts and looked up at him. "I think my wrist is sprained." He held up his left hand. "Is Moonbeam—" "The elo's on his feet so he canna be too badly injured," Sarkin caught Hatch's arm, pulling the boy to his feet. "Damn it. 'Tis you I'm worried about, Hatch. Are you sure you're all right? Naught broken? That head wound—" "'Tis just a cut, na a wound," the boy corrected. Katy smiled slightly, relieved to see that the boy didn't appear to be injured, but Sarkin wasn't to be so easily reassured. 141

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"'Tis bleeding." Sar caught Hatch's arm with a trembling hand. "Come into the house. I'll call the doctor. You need to lie down. Let me—" "Sar—" He was rapidly working himself into a state of anxiety. "Sar." "You might—" He stopped, looking down at her. "He's okay." she said gently. "He just needs to have his wrist bound." "Of course. I—" He nodded, turned abruptly without saying another word, and stalked back to the other corral, opened the gate and went inside. She took Hatch into the house, pulled off the thick riding gloves and surveyed the swelled wrist, silently bathed it in cold water, then wrapped it. Seating Hatch on the couch, she wiped away the dirt and applied salve to the cut on his forehead, then cleaned the others and smeared tarraroot balm on them. "Good as new," he declared, flexing his left hand. He stood up, pulling on his gloves. "I'll just use my right hand more for a couple of days and let this one heal." Buttoning his shirt, he walked out, calling from the porch, "Thanks, Katy." She returned the balm to the pantry. **** When she came out, Sar was standing in the kitchen, hands in his pockets, staring at her. "I suppose you think I acted like a fool." "No," she picked up the little basin and carried it to the sink. "I think you were acting like a concerned father." 142

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"'Tis just that—he's ne'er been hurt before," he went on, as if she hadn't spoken. "Nor e'en sick—none of those childhood illnesses or anything, a-and when I saw him lying there—" She put her hand on his arm. "Sar, I understand." He looked down at her. "Yes, I think you do." For just a moment, the aqua eyes held hers and Katy didn't want to believe what she saw in them. It's only for a year... She released his arm and turned away, feeling a slight pain in one foot as she stepped. "You're limping—what's the matter?" "Nothing. I-I guess I stepped on a stone when I ran into the corral." "Here, let me see. Stone bruises can be difficult to heal." Before she could protest, he'd scooped her into his arms and circled the sofa, setting her on it before disappearing into the pantry. She could hear him searching among the pots and pans and the sound of the pump being worked. When he reappeared, he was stirring something white and grainy into the water in the basin he carried. "Here." He knelt before her, setting the basin on the floor, and lifted the injured foot, placing it in the water. Katy shivered slightly. "What is it?" "Cold water and salt—'twill toughen that tender skin and help the bruise to heal." "Salt." She sat up quickly, pulling her foot from his grasp. "You mean you've used my cooking-salt? I have to make that 143

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

salt last until you get supplies again, Sarkin Trant. There'll be no more wasting it this way." Can this be me talking? The girl who had once bought a three-layer cake, taken one bite and thrown the entire thing away because it contained almond-flavoring which she disliked? "This much willna be missed, Katy." He caught her foot again and began to rub it gently and in spite of her anger, Katy allowed herself to relax. She hadn't realized how tired her feet were. As Sar's fingers stroked across the sole of her foot, she broke into laughter. "Sorry—I'm ticklish. My aunt once told me that I was very difficult to bathe when I was little because I'm ticklish all over." A devilish gleam came into the aqua eyes. "Now, that's interesting." Deliberately, his fingers touched the bottom of her foot, and Katy giggled and squirmed to escape. "Oh—oh! Stop it, Sar!" The rest of her words dissolved into a peal of giggles as the other foot flailed out, striking the basin. Sar caught it with one hand, setting it upright without spilling a drop and released her foot, rising to sit beside her as she wiped tears of laughter from her eyes. Before she could recover, he put one hand under her chin, leaned forward and kissed her. When he released her, Katy wasn't laughing. 144

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"I'll na apologize, Sunshine." He got up and walked to the door, stopping to look back at her. "I enjoyed it too much." Someone riding into the station yard prevented her from replying. **** Calling a greeting, Sar went out onto the porch. "Singleton. Hello." "Sar." "Tie up your elo and come inside." Picking up the basin, Katy scurried toward the pantry, making wet footprints on the wooden floor. She set the basin in the sink and was back in the kitchen as the man and Sar came into the house. The man hesitated when he saw Katy. "Singleton, t-this is Katy. M'wife." It was the first time he'd ever spoken the word. They both looked startled, as if by saying it, he made her officially his. The man didn't hide his surprise, breaking into a smile and removing his wide-brimmed hat. He took the hand Katy held out to him, bowing over it, and looked at Sar again. "Jos Singleton owns Black Mountain Station," Sar went on. "I'm very glad to meet you, Mr. Singleton." Katy gestured toward the living room. "Why don't you and Sar sit down? I'll brew some herb tea—" "Thank you, ma'am. That'd be great after that long ride I've had." Katy turned to the china cabinet, taking down cups and a tray and heard Sar ask, "What can I do for you, Jos?" 145

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Just came by to see how those elos you're training for me are doing." "Should be finished by the end of the week. That soon enough?" With a smiled thanks, Sar took one of the cups Katy held, as she offered the other one to their visitor. "That'll be fine." He accepted the cup, drank, and nodded his satisfaction. "I want five more." "Five?" Sar looked surprised. He leaned forward earnestly. "There's na way I can ge' five more elos trained in four days." "I don't need these trained," Singleton explained. "I want five mares to add to my herd. Five of that special color. Trant's Gold, that's what the settlers are calling it. Did you know that?" Sarkin shook his head but he looked pleased. "'Tis what I've hoped for—to have m'name put to a breed." He nodded in agreement. "I'll drive the dozen over as soon as I've this last colt saddle-trained." "Good." Singleton placed his cup on the end table. "I'll have your money ready then." He stood up, nodded to Katy. "Mrs. Trant—" Katy managed to keep from flushing. Sar walked with him onto the porch. Singleton turned to him, saying in a quieter voice, "Glad you finally got yourself a woman, Sar. It's time you had something softer than a lunat mattress to sleep against." Katy didn't hear Trant's reply. For a few moments, she stood there, thinking of lying in the iron bed—with Sar beside her—being held close and warm 146

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

against him. Being loved. Sar would understand her ignorance. He'd be gentle. It's only for a year... They stayed there a little longer, talking in an undertone before Singleton rode away. Sar watched the man leave the station-yard, then went back to the corral. Inside, Katy began to wash the cups. **** That night at supper, Sarkin announced, "I'll be driving those horses to Black Mountain Station at the end of the week, Hatch." The boy didn't look too happy but nodded. "I hate to take time away from those I'm training but—Aye, Pa, I'll be ready." "Na, you're going to stay here. I'll drive them alone." "But—" "What's the matter?" Sar demanded, picking up his cup. "Think your Pa's too old to handle a dozen elos by himself?" "'Tis na that—" the boy began. "I need you to stay here, Hatch," Sar went on, suddenly serious. "Singleton said there's been some brush-raider activity. I dinna want Katy here alone." The boy's face underwent a change as his father said that. He looked at Katy, nodded, and gave no further argument. "What's a brush-raider?" Katy asked. "A thief who specializes in relieving the settlers of their animals," Sar explained, buttering a piece of packnut bread. "Singleton has lost about twenty cows and several of the 147

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

other stations are also losing stock. He thinks that sooner or later, they're going to try and ge' some of ours." As Katy shuddered, and he went on, "Dinna worry, Sunshine. I dinna think they'll come to the station but I willna take any chances. If they learn there's a woman alone here— and I'm certain the Widow Carras has alerted everyone about you, Singleton said he'd heard the rumor but dinna believe it until he actually saw you—Well, they might decide to go in for something other than stock-stealing." "Thanks. You've really put my mind at ease." He made an apologetic gesture with one hand and continued to eat. Katy forced the feeling of unease to disappear. "Tell me, why do you and Hatch have such different techniques of breaking your elos?" She had watched them from the front porch, noticing that though each took considerable time with each animal, the way they went about their training was vastly different. "Gentling," Sar corrected. "Our animals are ne'er broken. They're gentled and then trained." "Okay—gentled, then." "Hatch does it the Gadja way." He looked at his son with a smile. "They say any animal who's Gadja-trained is worth a fortune. 'Course, I dinna charge that much." Hatch smiled slightly and studied his plate, breaking off a piece of bread and sopping up the gravy. "I've tried to ge' him to teach me how but he canna." "Why not?" 148

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"It canna be learned, Katy. The Gadja way has to be inborn. Hatch's maither bequeathed him that wonderful ability." The boy flushed. It was the second time Sar had mentioned Hatch's mother and the first time he'd done so in the boy's presence. At least, Katy reflected, he doesn't avoid the subject. Sar spoke of the woman as if they were divorced, instead of her being a stranger with whom he'd succumbed to sixty minutes of passion to create this handsome manchild sitting opposite her. "You must be very proud," she told Hatch, then sighed loudly. "Well, if you're going—how long will you be away?" "Three days—one to go, one there, and one to come back." "Shall I pack you something to eat or—" "Just for the trip there. I'll buy enough provisions from Jos' wife to eat on the way back." She nodded and stood up, clearing away the dishes. The prospect of three days without Sar seemed very bleak and lonely. I wish I wasn't going to miss him. I wish I wasn't beginning to care... That night, as she lay in bed, listening to Sar moving about in the living room, she heard another sound. For a moment, Katy was certain she was mistaken but—yes, it was music. Pushing back the sheets, she got out of bed and went to the door, opening it just wide enough to call, "Sar?" He was standing in front of the fireplace, the blue robe wrapped around him, carefully tamping the little pipe. 149

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Is something the matter, Katy?" "T-that music—" "Is it disturbing you?" He made a gesture toward the computer in the bookcase. "No, no," she answered quickly. "I-I was surprised to hear it, that's all." He hesitated, then said, shyly, "I-I thought you might like it." "That's Romeo and Juliet, isn't it?" "Aye—performed by the Royal Arcanian Orchestra, Lord Norkan Trant—no relation—conducting." He laughed. "That's one of my favorite Masters of Antiquity pieces." "Mine, too," he agreed, taking a lightstick from the mantel and flicking it to activate the flame, "though I think the story tremendously stupid." "What do you mean? It's a famous tragedy." "Aye—a tragedy—and it dinna have to be. Romeo should've told both families to kill themselves off if they liked, and then took Juliet and left town." She thought about that. "Then no one would've remembered them." "Maybe not—but they'd have lived to be happy." He lit the pipe, inhaling quickly, "Better alive and forgotten, then dead and famous, to my way of thinking." Katy said quietly, "Well—good night." As she closed the door, she heard him answer softly, "G'night, Sunshine."

150

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

As she fell asleep to the sound of the music, she wondered if it was simply one more way that Sar was attempting to woo her. **** In the living room, Sar dropped the robe on a chair and lay down on the sofa, not bothering to pull up the blankets that lay at one end. Blowing smoke into the air, he rested the hand holding the pipe against his knee and thought about Katy. Lord, she's entrapping me more with each day. He'd gotten a glimpse of the nightgown she was wearing as she stood at the door and that hadn't helped one bit. 'Twas a wonder his body hadn't made his desire obvious after seeing that pale little figure through the gown's translucent fabric, but by some miracle, she hadn't known. Oh, God—if I can't win Katy's love soon... 'Twas enough to make a man use his own hand to relieve his body's discomfort and he'd ne'er done that. His Pa had told him a man should ne'er commit such an act unless he were driven to desperation, but right now, Sar felt that he might soon be approaching such a point. Placing the pipe on the table, he rolled over, pulling up the blankets and settling himself to sleep. **** At the end of the week, Sar rode out of the stationyard, driving the elos before him. Katy and Hatch watched him go, then the boy left the porch, heading for the corral. She didn't 151

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

see him until noon, when he appeared, seated himself at the table, wolfed down whatever she set before him, and, after hastily telling her how good it was—though she doubted if he had tasted it at all—hurried out again. She worked on the evening meal and when it was ready, stepped outside and called, "Come inside, Hatch. Supper's getting cold." Hatch appeared Katy brought the bowls of food to the table, then stood behind her chair, hands against its back, saying, "I think you need a lesson in etiquette." He looked up at her, frowning. She could almost see the question. Etiquette? What does that have to do with anything? "On Terra recently, there's been an emergence of Old Earth manners." She cleared her throat slightly and announced, "Lesson Number One—a gentleman always seats a lady at the table." He stared at her. "Well?" Katy raised one hand, beckoning. "Come here." Jumping to his feet, Hatch ran around the table, stopping at her side, looking puzzled. She indicated the chair. As she stepped around it and started to sit on nothing, he seized the chair and thrust it under her. Katy looked up at him. "Thank you." Nodding absently, Hatch returned to his own chair. Katy picked up her napkin. Hatch stuffed his into the front of his shirt. "Napkins should be placed in your lap," she told him. 152

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"I dinna have a lap." "Across your legs, then—" "But I dinna drop food on my legs." he protested. "I spill it on my shirt-front. Besides," he grumbled, stabbing a caric, "Where am I going to use stuff like this anyway?" "It's a good thing to know," Katy told him, "on the offchance that someday you leave here and go someplace else, so people won't think you're an ignorant, uncouth colonist." "Are you saying my Pa's ignorant and uncouth?" he demanded, not hearing anything else she'd said. "Of course not." Katy retorted. "Your father's a very intelligent man—and he also has manners. Even if he has little chance to use them around here." They ate in silence, before Katy set down her fork and said, with a sigh, "Okay—maybe some of these things will be totally useless but—just humor me and let's see how it goes." She extended one hand across the table. "Deal?" He didn't take her hand but pulled the napkin from his shirt-front and folded it clumsily across his thighs. "Deal." He went back to eating. "Someday, when you find a young woman, you'll undoubtedly want to marry her and you're going to have to make a drastic change in the location of your bedroom." "I canna sleep in a house," the boy protested. "Are you going to ask your wife to sleep in a barn?" "Nay, of course na. But—" "It might be a little inconvenient if she sleeps in the house and you sleep out there—why, you'll wear a path through the 153

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

yard, running back and forth every time the ... uh ... urge strikes you." Surprisingly that made him laugh, "It wouldna be like that." "No?" He didn't answer. "Just think about it." [Back to Table of Contents]

154

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Chapter Twelve They were in the garden when Sar arrived home. Katy had been picking strawberries when Hatch decided he'd help her. It didn't take long for her to realize that the boy was eating more berries than the ones that were finding their way into the basket. "Stop that," she ordered, pulling the last berry from his hand and dropping it into the basket. "Do you ne'er eat berries while you pick them?" he asked, plucking two more from a large plant. "No," she answered, primly, suppressing a smile, "because if I did, I'd go back to the house with my basket as empty as when I came out here." "Shh—A rider. Damn, my gun's in the house—" He moved so he stood in front of her. "I-is it a brush-raider?" A figure came into view, rounding the corner of the house. It waved a hand and Hatch relaxed. "It's Pa." He waved back. Katy picked up the basket and they started toward him, Hatch catching the handle as she lifted it. "Welcome home, Sar." Katy called. He glanced at the entwined fingers on the basket's handle and frowned slightly before looking at her and didn't answer. Releasing the basket, Katy ran to Sar's side, seizing his arm. "Take these inside for me, will you, Hatch?" 155

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Sure, Katy." He smiled at his father. "Glad you're back, Pa." **** Sarkin watched his son a moment before turning back to Katy, "Did you miss me, too, Sunshine?" "Of course." She stood on tiptoe, presenting her cheek to be kissed. Sar greeted this little gesture with a raised eyebrow but didn't comment, eagerly brushing his lips against its pink smoothness. It was, he realized, the second time he'd ever kissed her. Entwining her arm through his, Katy walked with him back to the house. Again, Sar looked a little surprised. "You and Hatch seemed to be having a good time." "We've been working on his manners while you were away." "Oh?" "Uh-huh—Hatch said most of the things I wanted to teach him were useless here on Tritomis so we agreed to let you decide after you see what he's learned." "That sounds as if it may prove to be an interesting event." "He's sleeping in the house now, too." She looked straight ahead but watched him out of the corner of her eye. "In the house?" He couldn't hide his surprise. "In the empty bedroom—not on the bed yet, just a bedroll for now." "If Hatch's sleeping inside," Sar said softly, "I'll have to share your bedroom—" "What do you mean?" 156

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Would you humiliate me by having m'son hear me snoring on the couch and—" "You don't snore." "Ne'ertheless, I dinna want the boy to know we're na sharing a bed." "Let's talk about it—" "Yes, we should." he agreed and laughed quietly, shaking his head. "Hatch sleeping under a roof. How did you manage that miracle?" "I just told him that when he got married, he couldn't expect his wife to sleep in a barn." She learned her head against Sar's arm. "I explained that sometimes, a person has to give up a few of his own beliefs—even compromise a little—in order to make someone else happy." "Oh, Katy," it was said softly, "if only you'd follow your own advice." She pulled away to stare up at him. "What does that mean?" "It means that antiquated Terran law stating that a marriage isna lawful unless 'tis consummated, has long been abolished. You're m'legal wife whether we sleep together or na. The minute you signed that contract, you received half of everything I own—money, property, m'livestock..." "I don't want any of those things, Sar." "Ne'ertheless, you have them. While I have naught." The aquamarine eyes were bitter. "You're taking it all, Katy, and giving nothing in return." He turned and stalked away from her, leaving her standing there. 157

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Katy ran after him. "You must be hungry," she said, as if he'd said nothing at all. "I'll get you some supper." "That's na neces—" he began. "Don't be silly, Sar." She took his arm, steering him into the house. "Of course you're hungry and, of course, I—as your wife—am going to prepare you something even if it's just a piece of left-over strawberry pie." "Pie?" The anger left his face, as if he realized she was trying to tease him out of his mood. "In that case—" "Good. Now, sit down." Taking the pie out of the covered dish, she cut a generous wedge and transferred it to a plate, setting it before him. "I almost forgot—Hand me m'saddlebags, wi'ya, Hatch?" The boy obeyed, and Sar opened one bag, extracting a large dark bottle. "Wine?" Katy exclaimed. She started to sit down. Hatch ran around the table, pulled out her chair and held it for her. Sar watched them with surprise. "Wine," he agreed. "The best Singleton's wine cellar held. He claims it's been aging for twelve years." "What's the occasion?" "None—except," he hesitated then went on in a rush, "except I wanted to drink a toast to the prettiest ray of sunshine ever to light up these walls. Ge' some glasses for us, Katy." "I've told you, Sar, I don't drink." "You can drink a little of this, can you na, Katy?" Hatch asked. 158

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Aye," Sar agreed, adding, "after all, the toast isna good unless the one being honored drinks also." "All right then—Just a sip or two." She took three of the beautiful goblets from the hutch and set them on the table while Sar opened the bottle, then filled each glass. He handed one to Katy and one to Hatch. The boy regarded the wine dubiously. "I dinna know, Pa—maybe I shouldna." "Why not?" Katy wanted to know. "Gadjas canna drink. It makes them violent," Sar explained. "But that's tarraroot beer, Hatch. Na wine. Drink it," he ordered, adding, "if you have a sudden urge to smash all the windows, Katy and I'll stop you, we promise." He raised his glass. "To Katy—the second best thing that ever happened to me." Katy raised her eyebrows inquiringly. "After all, Sunshine," he went on, defensively, "m'son is the best." She couldn't argue with that. Hatch flushed slightly, also raising his glass. "To Katy," he echoed. She stood there looking at both of them, turning a gaze upon Sar that was so warm and shining-eyed he began to feel uneasy. It's only for a year... She raised the glass and drank, feeling the liquid slide down her throat, surprised at the warmth spreading through her body. "Thank you." 159

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

I've got to tell him how I feel. Got to let him know how much I'm beginning to care for him. Perhaps I should just show him. Tonight. "By the way," Sar said as he sat down and tackled the slice of pie. "There's going to be a party at the Singletons'." Hatch handed him a napkin. Sar stared at it a moment, then accepted it, stuffing it into his shirt-front. "Really?" Katy exclaimed. "When?" Hatch pulled the napkin out of Sar's shirt and dropped it into his lap. "Hatch. What the Hell are you doing?" "The napkin—it goes across your knees." He thought about that a moment, looking from Hatch to Katy, then smoothed the napkin and settled it before answering Katy's question. "In eight weeks. To celebrate Cristal Singleton's home-coming." He poured more wine into Katy's glass. "Crissa's coming home?" Hatch asked. "Where's she been?" Katy asked, raising the glass and drinking again. When she lowered it, it was almost empty. "Who is she?" She picked up the bottle and filled the glass again. "She's Jos's daughter and she's been at school on Terra." Sar was looking at Hatch. "I imagine she'll be greatly changed. How old were you when she left? About sixteen?" The boy made a non-committal noise, lifting his glass. "How old is she?" Katy wanted to know. "A year younger than Hatch. Nineteen, or wi' be. 'Tis also to be a birthday party." 160

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Oh. I just thought of something terrible." "What?" Sar stopped eating to look at her in alarm. "I don't have any party clothes. Oh, this is awful." "You have that pink dress. The one you were wearing when—" "That's not a party dress." "I know," he answered calmly, getting up. "That's why I brought this from Mrs. Singleton." He pulled a packet out of the other saddlebag, handing it to her. Katy unwrapped it, staring in surprise at a full-skirted dress of dark green satin. "Oh, Sar. It's beautiful." She held the dress against her breast, looking down at the low, ruffled neck and high puffed sleeves. It resembled the Victorian ball-gowns she'd seen on display in the Nineteenth Century Section of the New Smithsonian Museum on Earth. "Sandalia figured you might think you had to have a pretty dress to wear. She's anxious to meet you—" "I daresay they all are," Katy retorted, dryly. She draped the dress over the back of a chair and drank more wine. My, it's really quite good. "I suppose." He went on, idly talking about his trip, adding, "Singleton wants me to train a mare for Crissa, as a birthday present." "May I help you?" Hatch asked, the words slightly slurred. "Of course—maybe you'd like to train it yourself. A Gadjagentled elo's always better for a woman anyway." "Hmmm." The boy didn't answer, simply closed his eyes and tilted his glass, draining the last drops from it. 161

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Hatch—" Sar began. He was having second thoughts about giving his son the wine. The boy stood up, saying very deliberately, "Would you excuse me, Pa?" He remembered his manners and fixed Katy with a slightly unfocused stare. "Katy? Suddenly, I'm very, very sleepy." He hiccupped once, turned, and staggered into his bedroom. Katy stared after him. "I can't believe it—one glass?" "I told you—Gadjas canna drink." Sar looked at her. "Now that Hatch is gone ... about those sleeping arrangements—" Katy giggled and he looked at her warily. "I think," she told him, "I'm just a tiny bit tipsy, too." She set down her glass, and waggled a finger at him accusingly, "You rascal. You did this on purpose!" She wavered out of her chair. Sar stood also, putting out a hand to steady her but she sidestepped, weaving toward the center of the room. In concern, he followed her, "Damn! First Hatch, now you. That wine must be stronger than I thought." He wasn't feeling drunk—or was he? Certainly their behavior was making him light-headed. She whirled around, nearly losing her balance, "Whoops!" wobbled, and regained it. "It sh-certainly was." The hand came up again, one finger tapping against his chest. "I'll just bet you intended to get me drunk and have your wicked way with me, didn't you?"

162

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

The accusation, as well as the image flashing into his mind, shocked him into protesting, "Sunshine, I swear I'd ne'er—" "Why not?" Katy interrupted. Her face contorted slightly, as if she wanted to cry. "—do anything—what?" Now it was his turn to blink and repeat, "Why na?" "Not even if I want you to?" "If you want me to—Oh, God, Katy—" He didn't get any more said. Katy put her arms around Sar's neck and kissed him. In a moment, he was holding her close, pressing her slight body against his, letting escape the hunger he'd held at bay for so long. His hands slid up her back, moving around to her breasts, closing over them and grasping the shirt-front. He fumbled at it awkwardly, as if he had to get the garment off her before she came to her senses and pushed him away. "Hey!" Katy did just that, looking down at the gaping shirt, one buttonhole already hanging open, the button lying on the floor. She was slightly breathless, the touch of Sar's hands filling her with startling excitement. "You can do better than that. So can I." Staring at the next button owlishly, she slid it out of the hole, working her way down until the shirt hung open. Two small but rounded breasts peeped out. Either I'm totally drunk and having the most exquisite hallucination, Sar decided, or Katy's momentarily lost her mind or—Who the hell cares? I'm just going to enjoy it before one of us comes to our senses and spoils it all. 163

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Pulling the shirt off Katy's shoulders, he pressed his mouth between her breasts, planting a soft but lingering kiss. Katy put her arms around his neck again, the movement raising her breasts to brush soft nipples against his cheeks. That warm thrill was coiling through her again and this time, she didn't want it to stop. With a groan, he raised his head, mouth brushing Katy's lips, tongue pressing, felt her mouth opening— A sudden noise from Hatch's room made them freeze, glancing guiltily toward the closed door. "You know," Katy said, conversationally, "I don't think the living room is the proper place—" "You're right," Sar agreed. He picked her up, running for the bedroom. As he set her down, she laughed, "My, you certainly know how to sweep a girl off her feet." His answer to that was another kiss that left her gasping and staggering when he let her go. The little breasts heaved. He wanted to touch them, tease them with his mouth, see those pink nipples tighten, wanted to do all those wicked things he'd ever read about—everything that had been in his mind since he'd first seen her. He caught Katy by the shoulders and kissed her again. "Sar—" She put both hands on his chest. "Sar, calm down a little." Her attempt to sound serious was foiled by a large double hiccup. "Calm down!" He shouted the words, then dropped his voice as he realized Hatch might hear, if the boy wasn't already asleep from the wine he'd consumed. "Sunshine, how 164

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

can I calm down? I've been on ready for nearly three weeks. I'm about to explode!" "Don't explode yet." She giggled again and strolled over to the drawer where the nightgowns lay, pulled it open and said, stroking one finger against the soft white fabric, "Just give me two minutes—after all, this is our wedding night. A little belated, I'll admit but ... better late than never." She laughed loudly, the sound dwindling into another giggle which died into a snort. "I want this to be as-as romantic as possible." She turned to look back at him. "Two minutes. Okay?" "Well—" Suspecting a trick, he didn't want to leave, still not believing his good luck—certain that somehow, some way, she was teasing him. Surely, his being away three days hadn't made that much difference. Could a few glasses of old wine really have wilted those defenses? Taking a deep breath, Sar turned and left the room. Katy closed the door, swaying with dizziness that was partly caused by the wine and partly by the sudden realization of what she was about to do. I don't care what I said before. I want Sarkin Trant and he wants me and the twain are definitely going to meet. Here and now and— As she pulled the nightgown from the drawer, she realized for the first time that she wasn't wearing her shirt, "Hmm, wonder where it went?" and divested herself of the jeans with a broad sweeping gesture, pulling the gown over her head. 165

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Turning down the sheets, she climbed into bed, willing Sar back into the room—Come and get me, you sex-starved colonist—and promptly passed out. The door opened and Sar came in. "Katy?" He shook her shoulder. Katy murmured and didn't waken. "Katy, damn it, nay. Dinna do this to me." Katy slept on. With a sound that mixed a groan with a sigh, Sar crossed to the other side of the bed. Maybe she had the right idea. Perhaps sleep was what they both needed. He certainly did. Should ne'er have had that glass of wine while he was waiting for her to— Sar undressed and lay down beside her, taking Katy into his arms, and pulling up the sheets. "Damn it, Sunshine," he murmured against the tousled hair. "We came so close." In a few minutes, he, too, was asleep. **** Katy opened her eyes. She was lying with her back to Sar, his arms around her, holding her so close that his hair, still braided, hung over her shoulder. Moving slightly, she rubbed her cheek against his arm, feeling the braid swing, its bound tip brushing against her breast. Katy caught it, twisting the red curl around her forefinger. She wiggled, enjoying the warmth of Sar's chest touching her bare back, her backside resting against— 166

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Bare back? What was that hard thing touching the small of her back, anyway? She sat up, releasing the braid, feeling behind her with one hand. Her fingers came to rest on Sar's knee. He was under the covers, while she had been sleeping on top of them, four thicknesses of blankets and sheets separating their bodies. Their naked bodies. Without thinking, Katy's hand rose to cover her breasts. She was certain she'd worn a nightgown last night, had a vague but definite memory of putting it on ... she'd gotten into bed, and... She'd been asleep when Sar came in, and he'd known it. He'd gotten into bed with her anyway, and... "Oh!" Balling one hand into a fist, she struck her sleeping husband on the shoulder as hard as she could. He stirred slightly but didn't come fully awake until she began to pummel his chest, raining blow after blow against the broad, red-haired surface. "Hey! Katy, stop it. What—Oof!" Her fist caught him squarely in the stomach. Sar caught her wrists, holding them away from his body. She continued to struggle, shaking with anger. "Why are you hitting me?" "As if you didn't know." She shook her head, making the bright hair fly wildly. "Well, I dinna or I wouldna be asking, would I?" "Y-you beast!" 167

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Other than that," he answered, in a surprisingly calm tone, "exactly what have I done?" "You know." He studied her a moment, then released her wrists, ready to grab them again if she decided to take another swing at him. "Pretend I dinna." Instead, she asked, "Did you enjoy last night?" in a voice that indicated she hoped he hadn't. "Up to a point," he replied, still wondering what was going on. "But—na really." "Good." "Good? Katy, what—" "Oh, Sar, how could you?" She scrambled away from him, knees drawn up, looking at the wall. He thought he understood. She was angry because he'd gone to sleep, hadn't awakened her and loved her. He shrugged slightly. "It seemed like the right thing at the time." His hands went to his hair and untied the strip of leather, combing through the braid with his fingers. "The right thing?" She looked at him reproachfully. "Why didn't you wake me?" He looked apologetic. "I suppose I should have—but you were sleeping so soundly, that I just—" "—decided to do it anyway. The most important night of my life and you—" She turned away, voice rising slightly, "— so I still don't know."

168

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

The moving fingers stopped their motion, allowing his hair to swing free, the curled ends brushing against his stomach. His look held total bewilderment. "Wait a minute. You've lost me now. I decided to do what anyway..." Sudden understanding came over his face, to be replaced by anger. "Damn it, Katy. Do you think I'd—" He struggled a moment, attempting to speak calmly, and it appeared to be very difficult. "I suppose by Inner World standards, I'm uncultured and rough, and you may consider me a barbarian, but, God damn it, I think I've enough sensitivity in me na to do that to any woman, Sunshine—especially m'wife." The anger and insult on the handsome face brought a stumbling apology. "I'm sorry—please, I should've known better." She wanted to erase the hurt from his face, make him understand how she felt. "I-it's just that—this is an important time for me, Sar. It's only coming once and I-I wanted to remember every moment of it. When I thought—Well, I'm sorry." "'Tis an important time for me, too, Katy—after all, there's only one first time w' anyone." Now he was the one looking away, giving her a good view of the golden back as he sat with his arms resting against his knees. "Can you na tell I dinna touch you?" "How would I know? Would I feel any different?" He considered that a moment. "Well, th-there'd be signs, y'know." He gestured at her. "On yourself, on the sheets. Look." 169

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Katy turned away from him, sliding her legs over the edge of the bed. Feeling more than a little embarrassed, she carefully examined the insides of her thighs. They were pale and totally unstained. She raised one hip slightly, staring at the sheet. Nothing. Over her shoulder, she looked at Sar. The aqua eyes still held some anger. She could see a muscle in his jaw moving slightly. He was gritting his teeth. "There's na marks on me, either." Now it was her turn to move toward him, wrapping her hand in the thick copper waves and pulling him toward her. Over-balanced by the sharp tug on his hair, he fell forward, lay looking up into her face. "I'm sorry," she whispered. "We both are. Let me make it up to you." He sat up and caught her shoulders. "Now?" "Why na?" The aqua eyes were twinkling again. "Is there any law that says we canna have a wedding morn 'stead of a wedding night? We've all the ingredients—you're here, I'm here, there's na one to stop us—" They jumped as the fist struck the door. "Pa! Katy! Are you two going to sleep all morning? 'Tis time to get up." Sarkin glared at the door. "Say the words and I'll send the boy in search of his maither." Katy laughed and kissed his cheek. "I guess we'd better get up." 170

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Sunshine—" He didn't want to let her go. "Get up," she said firmly, leaving the bed and pulling open a drawer. She took out a shirt, tossing to him. Reluctantly, he put it on, watching her as she also began to dress. "By the way—when did you take off your nightgown?" "Me? I thought you did it." She was startled as she realized that she was standing before him totally naked and not feeling the slightest embarrassment. A shrug. "Maybe I did." He nodded toward the bed, "What about..." as he stood up and took the jeans she held out. Trying to appear casual, Katy averted her eyes. "Tonight," she promised, "and no wine." "Tonight." Sar opened the door, shaking his head. "I think this is going to be the longest day ever." **** Breakfast was very quiet. Sar and Katy avoided each other's eyes, certain that if they looked at each other, Hatch would be sure to see their mutual hunger. By keeping their gazes averted, they also kept from looking at Hatch. "Are you two mad at each other?" "No," Katy answered. "What makes you ask that?" "Because you havena said a word to each other in twenty minutes." "W-we have a lot to think about," Sar replied, "but you've been pretty quiet, too." 171

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

The boy sighed. "I dinna feel too well. I have a headache— it feels as if a herd of elos are running around inside m'brain." He shuddered. "I could barely open my eyes wi'out it hurting." "Hatch," Sar put a sympathetic hand on his son's shoulder. "You've just described the symptoms of a hangover." The boy's eyes widened and he shook his head, groaning. "God! In that case, I know I'm ne'er going to drink again." He took a deep breath and changed the subject. "I thought I'd ride into the pasture and pick out a mare for Crissa today." "Got any specific one in mind?" The boy nodded. "There's a two-year-old. One of the golden ones. A dapple. Coat looks like gold coins dropped onto yellow satin." "She sounds beautiful," Katy said. Gold coins on yellow satin ... she thought of the smooth sheen of Sar's skin. "She is," Hatch agreed, "beautiful, intelligent, long slender legs..." "Sound like the perfect mount," Sar commented, his smile at Katy holding a double-meaning. "If that's the one you want, start training her." "Guess I'd better get busy, then." Hatch stood up, dropped his napkin on the table, "Will you two excuse me?" and went out onto the porch. "You've done wondered wi' the boy's manners," Sar said. He stood up as Katy did, watching his son through the open doorway. Katy began to stack the dishes. He turned around so quickly she nearly dropped the plate she held. 172

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Damn, Katy, I want you so—if Hatch wasna on the porch, I'd throw you on the table and love you right there." "It's probably a good thing he is." She didn't look at him but picked up the dishes and carried them to the sink. No need to let him know what a thrill his words sent through her. He doesn't need any encouragement. "You're making me think all those tales I've heard about Earthers are na true. I thought they all..." "I'm not all Earthers, Sarkin Trant. And whatever you've heard—forget it." "I can see you have definite ideas about when and where lovemaking should be carried out." "I most certainly do." she replied, seizing the pump handle and working it vigorously. "And seven o'clock in the morning on the kitchen table is neither the time nor the place." "Think of the novelty of it," he protested, eyes shining mischief as he put his arms around her waist. "Oh, Katy Sunshine, you've got so much to learn." The plate she was holding slid into the sink with a splash as he nipped at her ear. "I'll look forward to the lessons," she murmured, reaching up to touch his cheek with damp soapy fingers, and startling herself with the sincerity of her words. "I'm lucky I'll have such a good teacher." For a moment, Sar didn't move, and Katy would have been shocked if she'd known what he was thinking. Damn, does she think I've been a stallion running wild among the mares? Oh, Katy, 'twill shame me if you learn that I'm little more experienced than you. To drive that thought from his mind, 173

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

he swept aside the uncombed curls, planting a kiss just under her ear. "Sar—" "Damn it, Sunshine. It's difficult to be an old man wi' young ideas." His voice sank to a whisper. "You're not old." "Good lass—feed m'ego. Sunshine, I want to make love to you everywhere. In the kitchen, in the meadows, the hayloft, at noon in the middle of the yard..." He spun her around, kissing her roughly. "Having Hatch around is definitely going to cramp m'style." A long, dramatic sigh. "I suppose we'll have to act like an old married couple and confine our activities to the bedroom at night?" "It might be best," she agreed, touching his cheek and standing on tiptoe to plant a kiss there. They heard Hatch ride out of the yard. Sar caught her hand. "Come on—he'll be gone for hours. We can—" "Sar ... no." He stared at her, not wanting to believe she was refusing. "I have too much to do, and so do you." "You're going to pull that housewifely excuse on me?" "I definitely am. Besides, I don't want you ruining our first time together by continually looking over your shoulder worrying that Hatch is going to walk in on us." She pushed him toward the door. "Tonight." "You've got remarkable fortitude, lass." "No, just commonsense." He allowed himself to be ushered out, turning at the door to say, "Agreed, then. But tonight..." His voice trailed away 174

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

and he smiled, waggling his eyebrows and giving her a comical leer. Laughing, Katy stood in the doorway, watching Sar run toward the corral and the elos there, as if he didn't trust himself to stay in her presence any longer. [Back to Table of Contents]

175

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Chapter Thirteen Sar was polling the next group of two-year-olds to be trained. Katy thought it sounded extremely painful until she'd learned that he was simply going to blunt and protect the animals' horns. She'd been assured it wasn't painful to anyone involved, either elo or human, but was definitely necessary. Though there'd never been a case of an elo deliberately injuring anyone with its horns, any animal with a set of twelve-inch bivalves on its head was a potential threat. The mares had horns shorter and thicker than the stallions but no less dangerous. A quick turn of a head, a sudden rearing, and an unsuspecting rider might find himself gored by his mount. Sar's method of polling the animals was quick and didn't frighten them. Using the power cartridge from his Winchester, he severed the horns just past the curve where they began to taper to a point. On a Burn setting, that part of the horn was incinerated in seconds. Afterward, a small metal ball filled with laminating gel was fitted into place, the residual heat fusing the metal to the horn. The Winchester, resting in its holster, hung in plain sight on a corral post, ready for the cartridge to be slapped back into its handle if he needed it. She looked at the extra gun, hanging on a peg on the back of the door. He'd promised to teach Katy how to use one in a few days. She'd taken it from the holster when he said that, hefting it, noting how heavy and alien it felt in her hands. She 176

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

wondered if she'd be able to kill anyone, then decided that if she were threatened, things would probably happen so fast, she wouldn't have time to think about it. As she finished the dishes, lifting the little garbage pail off the counter and setting it on the floor, she smiled, remembering her introduction to the garbage disposal. She'd scraped the remains of the burned oatmeal and the charred bread into a bucket, asking Sar what she should do with the pans. "Pumice," he replied, indicating a jar filled with what looked like sand. "Just sprinkle a little in, add water, and stir. Let it sit a while and they'll come clean." "And this?" She indicated the bucket. "Where's your disposal?" "Just dump it behind the barn. You canna miss the place— it has a certain air to it." He laughed. "The waidy'll be coming out when he smells it." "Waidy?" "'Tis like a small hog—ugly creature, all snout and tusks, but harmless. We have a bargain, he and I—I'll na shoot him and he'll eat only what we leave in the dump." So she poured the burned mess in the smelly little spot behind the barn and watched as the overweight, miniature warthog, waddled out of the brush, rooted happily through the mush with a few grunts and snorts and began to eat. Taking off her apron and dropping it over the back of a chair, Katy walked to the door.

177

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

The noon sun was bright in the yard but from far off came the muffled sound of thunder. On the horizon, just above the distant Mon-Sar mountains, clouds were gathering. Shading her eyes with one hand, she looked toward the corral. There was a stranger in the yard, standing at the corral talking to Sar. She hadn't heard anyone ride up. He looked her way as she started toward them and she smiled in surprise and recognition. "Abel. Hello!" The wide-brimmed hat was swept off with one hand. "How's Cilla?" He smiled. "It's Katy, isn't it? Cilla's fine. She'll be very glad to hear I've seen you. She's been fretting that Alwin Marsten got you." "You can tell her not to worry." Katy turned a gaze upon Sar that made him flush and study his boots. "Sar's taking very good care of me." Abel laughed, a delighted, teasing sound. He struck Sar on the arm with his hat. "Never thought I'd live to see the day a woman'd look at you the same way my Cilla looks at me, Trant. God, don't it give you a good feeling, though? We'd heard the Widow Carras' tale that you'd gotten a wife but I had to see it for myself." Sar mumbled something that neither of them understood and Katy came to his rescue by saying, "Is it my imagination, Abel, or have you put on some weight?" He didn't look fat, just more solid, as if his youthful body had suddenly taken a turn toward maturity. 178

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"It's showing, isn't it?" One hand went to his stomach. "Cilla's cooking's getting the best of me. Damn, those Naturals know how to cook. I have to go out and chop a cord of wood after each meal to work it off." "I see she's keeping you well-clothed, too," Sar commented. "That shirt looks so new it nearly crackles." "She's a fine little seamstress," Abel agreed, "and it's you I've got to thank for it, Sar." "I figured I either had to make sure you got a wife this year or find you a maither. You needed someone to take care of you." "Well, I'm glad it was a wife." "Why don't you two come inside," Katy said, "and have something to drink? Sar, it's time for you to take a break anyway." She placed a hand on his arm, the kind of gesture a concerned, caring wife would make, saw him flush at her touch, and felt as if she were playing a role for Abel's benefit. "Sure." He climbed over the fence, landing lightly beside Abel, pulled the gunbelt off the post, and dropped one arm across the younger man's shoulders. "Come on, Abel." Taking his saddlebags off the elo, Abel handed them to Katy. "Cilla sent this to Trant's wife. 'Course we didn't know who it was then." "Salberry jam," he went on, as Katy opened one bag and peeped inside. "She made a big batch and I told her how partial Hatch is to it." "Thank you, Abel—is there anything we can give you? Tomatoes, peppers—" 179

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Some tomatoes would be great. Ours haven't starting bearing yet, and Cilla's had a yen for something called salsa. She says it's made with tomatoes, peppers, onions, and spices, and we have everything except the tomatoes. Have you ever heard of it?" "Certainly." They'd reached the house now. Katy started up the steps. "It's eaten with cornbread." "She told me she thought she just might die if she couldn't have some soon. So, I'll thank you for saving my wife's life." Katy laughed as they went into the house. Inside, she stood in the pantry doorway and said, "I'm brewing some tea—or you could have tarra beer." "Beer'd be fine—but only one glass." Abel cautioned. "Two and you'll have to tie me on my elo." "You'll like this—I got it from Jos Singleton," she heard Sar say as she went inside. Along with the wine, he'd brought home a small jug of beer which had been placed in the well to cool. Katy had secretly sampled it before she lowered it into the water and decided she didn't like it. It was strong and bitter and her personal opinion was that tarra beer had to be something men drank merely to prove their masculinity and not because they enjoyed it. She retrieved the jug, poured some into two mugs, and, balancing her own cup of tea, carried them to the table where Abel and Sar sat. She sat in one of the rockers, picking up one of Hatch's shirts which needed mending. Like a good little wife. Close enough to hear but not near enough to intrude on their conversation . 180

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

They made small talk for a few minutes before Abel said quietly, "I suppose you know this isn't a social visit. I've come to ask your help. Yours and Hatch's." "In what way, Abel?" Katy didn't look up, kept her eyes on the button she was sewing, while she focused her attention on what Abel was saying. "The brush-raiders tore down my fences earlier this week." "Brush-raiders. They dinna attack farmers." "God knows I certainly don't have much—two cows, two elos, a pair of oxen ... but for some reason, I've been targeted." Abel raised the mug to take a long drink as if fortifying himself. "At first it was just a few planks pulled out. That didn't take long to repair, even when it happened a second time. Then, they knocked down an entire section." He shook his head. "The cows got out. It took me half a day to find them. I was scared to death something would happen to Cilla while I was gone." He glanced at Katy who was still bent over her sewing and lowered his voice. "I would've brought her with me but she didn't feel up to the half-day's ride to get here. I've got to get back as soon as I can—" "How can we help, Abel?" "I thought if Hatch could come back with me, it wouldn't take too long to get the fences repaired. Cilla knows how to handle a hammer but I don't want her doing manual labor— not now. With two men working, it shouldn't take too long." "Have you talked to the Marshal about this?" 181

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Abel nodded. "He's gotten in touch with the Fed Sector Office, requesting two more deputies. Singleton's put up a reward. He's lost more stock, and he's getting concerned." He drained the last of the beer from the mug and wiped his mouth. "The Marshal has a theory that the raiders are part of some station, and that's why he's never been able to find them." Sar thought about that a moment. "That'd explain a lot. Wi' the way cattle are shipped out of this place, it'd be easy to ge' rid of stolen ones before anybody could suspect." "Don't the station owners mark their cows so that they know which belongs to whom?" Katy spoke up. "On Terra, the Naturals brand their cattle—" "So do we," Sar replied. He indicated the design on the mantel. "Tritomis' three moons above the horizon," he explained. "Brands can be changed, so they're really no good unless someone's caught wi' another's stock and no bill of sale to prove ownership." "Singleton's asked the Marshal to request a No-Trial Warrant," Abel said. "What's a No-Trial Warrant?" Katy asked. "It means that whenever the raiders are caught, they won't get a trial," Abel said quietly. "They'll be killed on the spot." Katy shuddered. "Let's hope he catches the right ones, then," Sar said. "It'd be a pity if some innocent got killed because Singleton has raider fever." 182

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Can't blame him," Abel said. "Ne'ertheless—" They talked a few more minutes, arguing softly about the merits of the warrant Singleton wanted. In a little while, Hatch arrived with the new mare, was told what had happened and quickly put her in a stall in the barn. "This'll give her a little time to get used to being confined," he said, as he disappeared into his room to get a couple of clean shirts and pack a saddlebag. "Hatch is sleeping inside?" Abel looked surprised. "Thanks to Katy." "God! Katy, you are a wonder." **** After Katy had returned Abel's saddlebags filled with tomatoes, and he and Hatch rode off, she asked, with a little concern, "Is Cilla sick?" Sar was watching the disappearing figures. "I do na think so. Why d'ya ask?" "Oh, I don't know—just the things Abel said. How she wasn't up to riding, he didn't want her doing manual labor right now, little things like that." "I guess she's fine, considering." "Considering? Sar, are you keeping something from me because you don't want to worry me?" "Nay, Sunshine—" He turned to look at her. "Cilla's fine. She's—Abel says she think she's breeding. That's all."

183

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Breed—" For a moment, she stared at him, then smiled. "Oh, that's wonderful. I know Abel must be proud. It's a wonder he kept quiet about it." "He's worried. The brush-raiders have killed men at some of the stations and once or twice, lone women have been attacked. I suppose a man wi' a new wife and the possibility of a first child would be anxious." He looked across the yard. "I know I would be, if I had to leave m'wife and she was that way." He didn't seem to realize how that statement affected her. "'Tis strange, though," he went on, "this attack on Abel." He started out, stopped and looked back. "After I ge' through wi' the polling, wouldya like me to show you around the station? About now, the meadows are filled wi' wildflowers and there's a lake that the Taheya flows into. Can you swim?" "Yes. I love to swim." "Good. Maybe we could do that some time," he smiled and went on before she could remind him that she didn't have a swimsuit. "I'd especially like you to see the mares and foals, and Sharmai—" "Sharmai?" "My stud." "I'd like that, Sar. I'll pack a lunch. We could have a picnic on the banks of that lake. It sounds like fun." There was another rumble of thunder. Sar looked up as he started down the steps. "Rain coming. Should be here by nightfall. I'd best ge' busy." **** 184

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

By the time he'd finished, however, the rain wasn't any nearer, though the sky was dark and threatening, with heavy black-bottomed clouds hanging over the horizon. "I hope Abel and Hatch get there before the rain comes," Katy murmured as Sar came in and shut the door. He leaned against it as if barring someone's entrance. "Alone at last." Katy laughed. "Yes—now come to the table and sit down. Are you hungry?" "Na for that," he nodded at the food she'd set upon the table. "Now, if you'd care to take its place..." "Oh, Sar, stop it." She struck his shoulder. "Come sit down." He pretended astonishment. "You're na serious. You want to have supper?" "I most certainly do," she replied firmly, sitting down and spooning creamed carics onto his plate. "Neither of us has had anything since breakfast, and I for one don't want a romantic evening spoiled by someone's empty stomach growling at an inappropriate moment, especially if it's mine." "You're a perfectionist." Disgruntled, Sar dropped into a chair and began to pick at the food. Before many minutes had passed, however, he was eating enthusiastically, the way he always did when confronted with Katy's cooking. "I think Abel has the right idea," he commented. "I'd best be watching m'own waistline, else I'll wake up one morning and find m'self fat as well as old." 185

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"I don't think you have to worry about that." Katy couldn't visualize Sar as ever becoming overweight. He laughed and concentrated on consuming his meal. Presently, he glanced her way and said, "You look thoughtful." "I am." "Na having second thoughts about later, are you?" It was said lightly but one look at his face told her he was anxious. "Katy, do na see this as a duty." "Oh, Sar." She put one hand over his, her smile dispelling his doubts. "It's not that. What's happening between us is asas natural and inevitable as—Well, as the seasons." Gently, she touched his cheek and he turned his head and kissed her fingers. "You've wooed and won me, Sarkin Trant. I was— well, I was thinking about Abel." "Should I be jealous?" "I-I was wondering what he did to be sent here." He slid his hand from under hers. She could feel the change before he spoke. "Katy, I told you—we do na speak of the past here. Once a man's paid the Fed and is free, 'tis behind him." He stabbed a morsel of food and stuck it into his mouth with a gesture of finality. "Abel's a Freedman. What's done's done. Do na pry." "I'm not prying. It's just that Abel's so ... innocentlooking—and young. I just wondered why he was sent here. Tritomis is only for hardened criminals, isn't it?" "That 'tis. And your innocent Abel was definitely one—" He shook his head. "I've said too much. Let it go, Katy." 186

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"I'm sorry." She looked down at her plate, was silent long enough to eat another bite, than asked, "Does Cilla know?" "You're na going to gi' up, are you? All right, I'll tell you. But 'tis na to be repeated, Sunshine, to no one—na Hatch, nor to Abel's wife, and most definitely, na to Abel." He shook an admonishing finger at her and Katy nodded quickly, not daring to speak. "Abel Parker was a pirate." "A pirate." She couldn't believe it. Not sweet, awkward Abel. "That's right—a pirate." The words were almost spat at her. "Do you doubt m'words, now? God—" He took a deep breath and went on quietly, "He started as a cabin boy on a smuggler, the Celestial Ray, wi' an Arcanian named Shark, worked his way up to First Mate. Shark used to run down mid-space cruisers." "Well, one day, he boarded a ship and found that it held no passengers, just Fed Marshals." Sar spread his hands, as if to indicate the obvious. "Shark got away but part of his crew dinna, including his First Mate." He resumed eating. "Abel was sentenced to twenty-five years at hard labor on Tritomis." Katy didn't say anything, shocked by what Sar was saying about the young man she'd thought so gentle and kind. "He and about a dozen others were hired out to Jos and that's how we met—" Sar stopped eating, remembering again his first sight of Abel Parker, face bruised from the butt of a guard's rifle, shuffling slowly in the line of prisoners being led across the station yard. "I'd been owner of Three Moon about eight years by then. 187

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"God, I felt so sorry for that kid. He must've been about eighteen, so young ... it made me wonder how I'd feel if Hatch turned out bad. Would I want to think of m'son going through that?" "Do-do they mistreat prisoners?" "Well, they're na gentle. After all, most of these men are long-time criminals, ones that the Fed wants to make examples of. They're humiliated, herded to and from work like animals, na allowed to associate wi' the regular workers. At night, they're locked naked in a bunkhouse, isolated from the others—and always, they wear those damned electronic cuffs." One hand curled into a fist. Sar forced himself to relax. "Prisoners were na supposed to talk to anyone but in spite of that, Abel and I formed a friendship. Do na ask me how— I've ne'er quite understood it m'self—maybe it was kindred souls touching ... I do na know." "You said he was sentenced to twenty-five years?" "That's right, wi' another five tacked on when he busted a guard in the nose during transport." She still couldn't visual Abel as a violent man. "But—he's only twenty-four now. How'd he get free? He didn't escape?" Sar snorted. "He wouldna stay around here, if he did, now would he? Abel earned his freedom." "How?" "I'm coming to that, Mistress Curiosity. He saved Crissa Singleton's life, that's how. Like I said, he'd been hired out to Jos—they were putting in some new fence when Crissa decided to take a ride on her pony. She must have been 188

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

about fourteen—this was just before she went away to school. A sparfan attacked her elo." "What's a sparfan?" "'Tis a big bird, one of Tritomis' most dangerous raptors. They're strong enough to carry off an elo colt—or a human— and that's what it tried to do. Got Crissa out of the saddle and flapped off over the river before she managed to pry its talons loose. She fell into the water." He stopped, raising his cup. "—and—" Sar set down the cup. "The current's strong where the water runs through Singleton land. The river's full of raths. No one was brave enough to go in after her and risk being attacked by one of them. So they just stood on the bank, watching her drown. Abel jumped in. He was running the risk of himself drowning, if the guard activated the current in the cuffs while he was in the water—'twould have paralyzed him— but he did it anyway, got to Crissa and somehow managed to paddle back to shore wi' her. Later, they found out he didn't e'en know how to swim." "And that's how he got free?" "Na quite so quickly but—yes. Jos Singleton wrote the Sector-Governor telling him how a Transportee risked his own life to pull his daughter from a rath-filled river and requested that Abel be gi'en a Pardon for Unsolicited Valor. And he did. Wi'in a month, Abel had his Freely's ring and agreed to stay and work for Singleton for a year, in return for a piece of land near the Taheya." Sar spread his hands, smiling. "End of story. Let's talk of something else." 189

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Yes, let's. Let's talk of Freely's rings and those two stones in your ear and what crimes you committed. Since appearances are so deceiving and sweet Abel was once a pirate, what kind of criminal were you, Sarkin Trant? Or do I dare find out? She didn't say any of it, just continued to eat. When the first peal of close thunder sounded, they ignored it. The second however, was enough to make a deaf man notice. It shook the whole house, making the dishes in the china cabinet rattle. "Damn!" Sar dropped his fork. "That one sounded as if it hit something." He got up and went to the door, opened it and looked out. "Oh God!" Katy was on her feet, too. "What is it?" Sar was out the door, running, not answering her. Katy followed him onto the porch, watching him race across the yard. The barn was on fire. **** The lightning bolt had struck the roof. One end of the shingled structure was on fire, flames traveling across the top and down its side to the ground. From inside the barn, came the frightened neigh of Crissa's mare. Without slowing his pace, Sar called over his shoulder, "Katy, help me. We've got to ge' the livestock out of the barn." 190

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

The barn was already filling with smoke, the air hazy and thick. Sar began to cough as he started toward one ox's stall, pulling his handkerchief from his pocket and holding it to his face. In spite of the smoke, the animal was still docile, and he got it out of the stall and handed the rope in its halter to Katy. "Put them in the corral." "Together?" She began to cough. "They'll na hurt each other. Go!" He turned back to the other ox. Working quickly, they got both oxen, Crissa's mare, the cow, and Sar's elo out of the barn and into the corral. Katy pulled two of the sacks of feed outside into the yard as she heard Sar call, "I'm going into the loft. I've got to try to save some of the hay." She waited anxiously until she saw him appear in the loading-window leading to the loft. "Stand back!" A hay bale was pushed out the window; it hit the ground, bounced, and settled. A second bale followed, and another, until half a dozen lay in the yard. Katy turned and ran for the pump, filling the bucket and racing back to the barn to toss the water on the nearest wall. The flames sputtered and leaped higher. The roof was totally ablaze now. "Sar—get out. The roof may be getting ready to collapse." She saw him in the doorway, leaping outward, seizing the rope attached to the pulley and sliding down it as she turned 191

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

and started back for a second bucket. He landed lightly, released the rope and stepped away. "Katy, stop!" Katy flung the contents of the bucket at the fire as Sar started toward her. "Katy—" "Help me, Sar. Get a bucket. We've got to put it out!" She turned away, nearly losing her balance in her haste, running back to the trough, dipping the bucket, and staggering back to the barn, splashing water on the ground and on herself. "Katy!" She tossed the water, "Sar. Come on. Help me," and started back. He caught at her arm. "It's too late, Katy." "No." She tried to pull out of his grasp. "We can put it out." His fingers tightened on her arm. "Let me go, Sar—" "Katy, the wood's too dry." He had to shout to be heard above the flames. "'Tis no use." "No—" "Sunshine—" With a groan and upward spraying of bright cinders, the roof collapsed, falling into the loft. The bucket slid from Katy's hand. Sar put his arm around her, pulling her away from the barn, backing slowly across the yard. They stood there, watching the barn burn. "If only there was something—if the rain would come." 192

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

The wind blew the clouds closer. They floated low, showing their dark undersides, then opened to pour stinging rain upon them. The charred boards making up one wall and the skeleton of the others began to sizzle and steam as the rain struck them. Drenched in the flood, Sar and Katy clung to each other, watching the flames gutter and die. "Why couldn't it have come sooner?" Katy turned an anguished face to Sar. "Why?" "Sunshine—" He touched her face, vainly attempting to wipe away the tears and the rain. "It's gone, Sar. The barn's gone..." The words died away as Katy turned to look again at the smoldering shell. Sar put his hand on her shoulder. "We'll build it again, Katy. When Hatch ge's back. The neighbors wi' help. We'll cut the trees and make planks and rebuild." For a moment they stared at each other through the rain. The water was dripping off Sar's hair, running in little rivulets onto his shirt, plastering it to his chest and back. Katy knew her own clothes were drenched but she didn't move, trying to stop the tears. "'Tis only a building," Sar said softly. "I still have what's important." He touched her cheek. That did it. She began to sob in earnest, going into his arms, pressing her face against his rain-soaked shirt-front and he turned away, leading her back to the shelter of the house. **** 193

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Once inside, she began to shiver. Sar closed the door, shutting out sight of the smoking ruin, and hurried to the fireplace. He stacked wood, starting a fire, bringing her to stand before it. Teeth chattering, Katy continued to shake. He unbuttoned her shirt, stripping it and the jeans off her, produced a towel, rubbing it roughly over her trembling body. Gradually, the shaking stopped. Katy held out hands to the fire. "Fine ... I'm fine, now." She turned to smile at him, one hand going to the towel he'd draped over her bare shoulders. He was staring at her. "What's the matter?" Sar started to answer, sneezed instead and began to shiver. One hand went to the collar of his shirt. "Guess I'd better ge' this off." "No, let me." Katy pushed his hand away. Peeling off the wet shirt, she draped it over the chair he'd brought near the fire, then went to work on his jeans. He had to help her with the belt. It had a strange four-prong buckle that tried to defy her fingers but eventually, she managed to get it open. Handing her the wet garment, Sar took the towel and began to dry himself, stopping as he realized Katy was staring at him. She'd always wondered where a blush stopped. Now she found that it didn't. The golden skin darkened, his entire body flushing under the directness of her stare. He held the towel in front of himself. "I'm na accustomed to having a woman stare at m'body, Katy. 'Tis a bit embarrassing." 194

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Guess you'd better get used to it." She pushed away the hand holding the towel, "Let me look at you, Sar," sliding her fingers up his arm and across his shoulders as she circled around him. He shivered at her touch but didn't move as she stopped in front of him, staring at his chest. "Terran men remove all their body-hair," she said, as if supplying him with some much-needed information. "All?" She nodded, adding quickly, "At least—so I've been told." He thought about that. "Why?" She shrugged. "It's the custom." Sar was silent, reflecting again that he was totally ignorant about Earth. All? Why would a man remove the hair from his—That thought was swept away as another took its place. He met Katy's eyes with a scowl. "Do I disgust you, then?" Before she could answer, he went on determinedly, "I'll na change. I'll na do that to m'self for anyone." "No, Sar." She put her arms around his waist, pressing the bareness of her body against his. "I wouldn't have you change one bit of yourself. I like you just as you are." He wanted to shout at that, laugh to the heavens. Instead, he stood there looking down at Katy, keeping the joy within himself. Katy kissed his chest. "Let's go to bed." ****

195

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Sar carried her into the bedroom and placed her on the bed. "Now—" "Yes," she whispered, putting her arms around his neck. "Now." When he kissed her, Katy enthusiastically responded, lips parting, tongue more than willing to meet his, tease, touch and... One hand went to the soft little breasts. He could feel them changing, the nipples unfurling like little buds, growing into taut peaks as he bent to kiss them. He'd meant to be gentle, take his time, but the need for Katy was in him again—in truth, it had never left—God, I want you, Sunshine! One hand stroked across the flat little belly, touching a silky thigh, exploring hidden softness. "I'm glad Terran women do na practice that foolish custom—" Katy gasped and pushed him away. "What is it?" He forced himself not to shout, had to take two deep breaths so he wouldn't. "Do na be afraid—" "It's-it's not that..." She turned away, face pink. "It's—Oh, Sar—I'm ... all wet ... down there." The blush reached the base of her neck, visible through the fall of carroty hair. "Nay—" He pulled her back onto the pillow, kissing her again. "It just means you're ready for me, Sunshine. It means 'tis time for us to finally be husband and wife." He would have laughed at the eagerness on her face if the moment hadn't been so precious. "W-what should I do?" 196

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Just—touch me, Sunshine. Please?" Timidly, imitating his own gesture, one hand stroked against his stomach, sliding between his thighs, recoiling as his body reacted with total arousal. She held him in her hand, letting the heat from her fingers warm him, making him grow harder. She took a deep breath. "And now..." "Move your legs a bit—you can na keep them locked together like that." "Oh—of course." When he was settled above her, had gathered her into his arms, he felt her flinch slightly as their bodies touched. "This is going to hurt, isn't it?" Her voice sounded very small, and the most horrible thought came to him, making him lean back to look into her face, brushing the wild tendrils away from her forehead. "Katy Sunshine, you know what's going to happen? You do know how things are?" God, if she was totally ignorant, how could he— "Oh, don't worry, Sar." She gave a childlike giggle which Sar could've done without at that specific moment. "I know all about the Birds and the Bees." Birds and Bees? An odd expression. What did knowledge of insects and feathered creatures have to do with human sex? He hoped it meant what he thought it did. He hovered over her. "Put your arms around me, Katy—" The little arms clasped him tightly, pressing her warmth against him. "Move your legs, gi' me plenty of room—" She obeyed and Sar slid his hands down her back, resting them 197

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

against her hips. For just a moment, they looked at each other. "I swear, Sunshine, this is the only time I'll ever deliberately hurt you." He brushed a kiss across her forehead, lifting her body, pulling it roughly toward his, at the same time thrusting into her. A strangled sob was smothered against his shoulder. He stopped moving. "I'm all right," she said quickly, swallowing a last sob and sniffling slightly. "I-it hurt, Sar. I-I feel as if I've been torn apart." For just an instant, her lower lip trembled. "You have been—by a rough, uncouth, barbarian of a lustcrazed colonist." "You're never going to let me forget, are you?" she murmured, a slight smile touching her mouth. "Someday—" "Is that it? Are we truly married now?" "Truly, Sunshine. All legal and binding. 'Twill take a Fed divorce to dissolve our marriage now." She looked a little disappointed. "Funny, I thought there might be more to it." She looked down, as if seeing for the first time that their bodies were still joined, his belly resting against hers. "There is more to it, sweet, much more—and we'll begin now, if you're ready." "It won't hurt?" "Ne'er again." He hadn't moved, trying to give her time to become accustomed to the feel of his body, in her and on her. Now, he pulled away. "What are you doing?" It was a shriek of disappointment. 198

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Proving it to you." Again he was sliding into her. Katy put her arms around his neck. Eyes closed, she lay still beneath him, reveling in the sensation of his movements, but soon, though awkwardly, she began to move with him, catching the rhythm, body rocking against his. He wanted it to last, to give Katy total pleasure this first time but knew he'd be unable to. He felt the tension building, knew the frustration and the waiting of the past four weeks was about to take its toll. Damn, what a time for his body to refuse to cooperate! He came in a surge that was almost painful, blinding him, sending him slumping against Katy's little breasts with a gasp. "Sar, Sar!" She touched his face, brushing the damp hair off his forehead. "A-are you all right?" For a moment, he was too dazed to speak. At last, he managed to whisper, "I'm all right, Katy. I dinna die, if that's what you're fearing. Only the little death, 'tis all." With a groan, he left her, rolling onto his side of the bed. "Lord God, I think I may be too old for this." "Don't be silly." Her voice broke through the haze surrounding his brain. "If that's the way an old man acts, what would a young one do?" A warm little hand stroked his thigh, gently and tentatively touching his member. "Ohhh— it's broken." Startled, he opened his eyes, then relaxed as he realized she was teasing him, and grunted, "Just gi' it a while to mend—'twill be all right." "Then we'll do it again?" She sounded just a little too eager. 199

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Again?" It came out in a groan. "God, I—Again? Why na?" She lay beside him, hands still at his groin, her cheek resting on his chest. Sar put his arm around her. Neither of them spoke, though Katy's mind was working furiously and Sar might have been astonished had he known what she was thinking. Nothing had prepared her for the way she felt now, lying beside Sar, listening to his husky breathing and the pounding of his heart, reveling in the warmth of his body against hers. After Aunt Clara had confused her with semi-explanations, she'd conferred with the daughters of her aunt's friends and found them as ignorant as she. She'd rented a holovid from the library but Aunt Clara discovered and confiscated it before she could get past the Introduction. The little information Katy had viewed was enlightening but it still hadn't prepared her for the sight of her husband with a full-fledged erection. How could a man ride an elo with all that between his legs? She knew it wasn't so rampant and stiff when he wasn't aroused, that it happened only when he wanted her and the thought that her body—her touch—could bring about such a change in him filled her with a sense of total power. It was more than a little frightening. She sat up, leaned over and kissed Sar's mouth. "Mr. Trant. I want you now." Sar was surprised to find that both he and his body were quite willing to oblige. It was better this time. No one was in a rush and it was slow and sweet and everything he'd planned before. 200

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Somehow, his hair came undone, hanging over his shoulders onto Katy's breasts and she wound her hands in it, pulling his head down to kiss him again while her slender legs locked about his waist and he felt like an elo being guided through this wonderful bout of lovemaking by his little rider pulling on the reins of his hair to urge him to a thundering, galloping climax. Sometime, he cried out, "Oh God, Katy, I love you!" but neither of them heard or knew he'd said it. He heard her own cry of pleasure before his own, knew that now, they'd both become complete in each other, and suddenly, inexplicably, they were laughing out loud as he fell against her and kissed her again, his mouth capturing hers just as her body had captured his soul. When he moved away from her, she smiled at him and that sweet mouth spoke the word he didn't expect to hear. "More..." "God, what have I done?" He fell back onto the bed, only half-feigning exhaustion. "I've unleashed a sex-hungry female." "The better to satisfy that lust-starved colonist," came the answer, as she snuggled against him. The third time was the best of all and only afterward as he held Katy in his arms, did Sar realize they'd made love all night. "God, woman!" The first faint streaks of pink were gleaming through the window. "'Tis almost time to ge' up." "No—" Katy was nearly asleep, her voice fuzzy. "Sleep late..." 201

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"There's too much to do." How was he going to manage to get through the day? Damn, he was getting too old for this sort of carousing. "It was your wedding night, you can be allowed to sleep late the day after," she murmured, burrowing her forehead against his chest. She was right. He'd worked slavishly for fourteen years, to build Three Moon into what it was, to provide for his son, and now, for his wife, and by God, he did deserve to stay in bed until noon if he wished. The world wasn't going to crumble or the station fall into disrepair if Sarkin Trant awoke a little late this special morning. Katy was already asleep, the carroty curls tangled across his chest, his own hair over one shoulder, twined through it. Sar put his arms around her, closed his eyes, and with a sigh of total satisfaction, followed her. [Back to Table of Contents]

202

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Chapter Fourteen Sar awoke to the unique but doubly pleasurable sensation of seeing late morning sunlight pouring through the bedroom window and finding a beautiful woman sleeping next to him. Katy lay with her legs curled under her, cheek resting on his chest, arms around him. God, Sunshine, I love you. She moved slightly, rolling to snuggle against his side, one hand brushing his thigh and he was barely able to stifle the little jolt of pleasure that gave him. Lord, the lass was enthusiastic last night! Not even the whores at Larkin's acted that way. Come to think of it, they appeared fairly bored, their movements almost mechanical, and his own embarrassment hadn't helped. Was it because Katy was from Earth? Had his maither been that way behind the closed bedroom door? 'Course Ma was from Mars but she had been Earth-descended. If that was the case, no wonder Pa was always in such a rush to get to bed early— How can you be thinkin' such things about your own maither, Sar Trant! Stop that an' concentrate on your little wife! Katy hadn't awakened, giving a sleepy murmur and he wondered if her no longer-virgin body was in any pain. She wiggled slightly, settled herself again and that told him nothing. 203

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Perhaps, he thought, as he rolled over, 'tis because I did all the work last night. **** When he awoke again, it was an hour later, and the first thing he heard was Katy's voice, bright and cheerful and full of promises. "Good morning, Mr. Trant. Guess what I want from you this morning?" "What might that be, Mrs. Trant?" "A great big good morning kiss." He was glad to give that, did so enthusiastically. She definitely looked desirable, the bright hair falling over her breasts, with those little nipples peeping through the curls. "Know what we're going to do today?" "What?" he asked a little warily. She looked disappointed. "Have you forgotten? We're having a picnic and you're going to show me the station. You know—meadows, lake—" "Oh. Oh, aye—of course." He sat up as she slid off the bed, biting his lip to stifle the exclamation that nearly escaped as overworked muscles contracted. For the first time, he saw that she was wearing jeans. "I've already got a lunch packed." She found a clean shirt in the chest and handed it to him, and got one for herself. "You've been up and dinna wake me?" He tried to sound disappointed though secretly he was glad. If she'd demanded anything this morning, he wasn't certain he could have risen 204

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

to the occasion. He allowed himself a rueful smile at his choice of words. "You looked as if you needed the sleep. Is anything the matter?" "Why wouldya be asking that?" He pulled the shirt over his head and began to lace it, making sure the sheets were tucked securely across his lap. Out of sight, out of mind. "I don't know, you seem—testy." "Maybe sleeping late doesna agree wi' me." He took the jeans she handed him and stood up, stepping into them. "Is it all right for me to ride barefoot?" Katy asked. "I don't think my high heels are proper footwear for stirrups." Buckling his belt, he went to the chest, and knelt—with a sudden display of stiffness—to open the bottom drawer. "Here." He held out a pair of slippers. They were small, obviously made for a woman, fashioned of rawhide, with a rolled leather drawstring on top. "These were m'maithir's. I dinna think she'd mind if you wore them." Katy took them and set them on the floor, stepping into the left shoe. "It's almost a perfect fit," she said, holding up her foot and wiggling her toes. "Your mother must have been a little runt, too." "She was small and slight," Sar confirmed, "but full of more spirit than someone twice her size. Da was as big as I am but he ne'er talked back to her." "Did she have red hair, too?" 205

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

He shook his head. "She was black Scottish, wi' brown eyes and hair as dark as Hatch's. She'd have been proud of my little black bouchal. I look like Pa. I have his hair and eyes and height." Katy knelt to tie the strings. "It's strange that you're redheaded, if her hair was so dark." He laughed. "When it comes to Arcanians, they overpower the Laws of Heredity." He held out his hand. Katy placed her own in it and was pulled to her feet. "All I got from Ma was m'speech and a desire to some day visit Alba." "You've never been there?" "Ne'er. Nor to Arcanis, either." "Where are you from, Sar?" "Tritomis, Katy. 'Tis m'home." Which meant he wasn't going to tell her. "Where are your parents now?" "Dead. Both of them." That ended that. The subject was closed again. "Do you want any breakfast ... lunch ... brunch—before we leave?" Katy asked as they moved into the living room. He shook his head. "Na—but there's something I would like and you might laugh when you hear." "What's that?" "A bath. M'Ma always drilled it into me that a man shouldna carry his sweat over to another day and I wouldna call that drenching last night a proper bath. I'm uncomfortable wearing clean clothes when I feel so dirty." She pulled a towel from the chest. "By all means, let's take care of the problem. I'll scrub your back." 206

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

**** He welcomed the coolness of the water, soothing those parts of his body which were still protesting the previous night's unaccustomed exercise, and was equally grateful that Katy's bathing hands never strayed below his waist. Ne'ertheless, it was a delight being naked with her under the falling stream. God, her skin looks lovely when 'tis wet. Afterward, they walked across the yard, mother-bare and unashamed, back to the house where they re-dressed and rode out of the station yard. He'd chosen an old elo for Katy to ride, a gentle, surefooted little mare named Retta, a dapple-gray with a tail as pale as moonbeams. "She's a good little animal. Knows how to treat a greensaddle, does Retta." "Greensaddle?" "Aye—an amateur ... a newcomer." He helped her to mount, then practically bounced into the saddle. Damn, he felt as if he could run to the pasture by himself. Did having a wife do that? Was that why Pa always seemed overflowing with energy? Because of Ma? Suddenly, he wished it had been proper for him to speak of such things to his mother, to get her version of his parents' love. His father had been general in his explanations but Sar was certain Maire Deoridh would have given her son a more complete definition of the soul-fulfillment of marital love. I'll just have to muddle through an' hope for the best ... maybe pray a little... 207

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

**** They rode along the fence until they came to the meadow where the mares and colts grazed, separated from the one where the yearlings were penned. "Why do your elos look so different?" Katy asked. "What d'ya mean?" He shifted his weight slightly. "Some are slender and slight with long horns and others are stocky and heavier with short horns." There was a sound of hoof beats. "Here comes your answer now." Breaking away from the herd, an animal raced toward them, tail held high, mane streaming. He skidded to a halt five feet from where they stood, pawed the ground and snorted, shaking his head. "He's a horse!" Katy exclaimed. "Sharp of you to notice." Sar waved an introductory hand. "Katy, this is Sharmai. Shammy, meet the missus." The stallion snorted again and extended a pale gold muzzle over the fence toward Sar. "Greedy beast. I didna forge'." Sar dug into his pocket and produced six pink sugar balls, holding out his hand as Shammy delicately selected one and began to chew. "May I feed him?" He handed her a couple of the sugar balls. "Careful, do na ge' too close to the wire—you might ge' a shock," and as she looked at the thin thread stretched across the top fencepost, 208

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

he went on, "'Twouldn't harm you but 'twould be uncomfortable." "Electrified fencing?" "Solar fencing." He nodded to a small rectrangle attached to a nearby post, with wires running out of either side. "The sun's energy is trapped and conducted through the wire. Actually, all we need is the wire to keep the animals in. The fence is more for marking boundaries than anything else." "Very practical," Katy said. "It surprises me that you'd use it, it's so—" "New-fangled?" Sar smiled. "'Tis the best way to keep the animals from straying, Katy. It helps me, unlike the communicator or the Drone which, to my way of thinking, are just convenient options." "I think," Katy shook her head, "you're just old-fashioned and don't want to admit it. You'd probably make a good Natural." She held out her hand, offering the sugar balls to Sharmai, smiling as the velvet lips removed both daintily from her palm, blowing warm breath against her fingers. He wasn't a big horse, finely-made, though still larger than an elo. His coat was the color of an old coin, the thick mane and tail a deep copper, almost the color of Sar's own hair. "He's an Arab, straight from Terra," Sar explained, "Wi' a pedigree you wouldna believe." "Why have a horse?" "Full-blooded elos are too slight to carry an adult man or equipment, though they're good as women's mounts. Wi' Shammy's blood added, they become heavier, and stronger 209

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

muscled. Most of the animals used around here are elo-horse hybrids. Some of the other settlers have bred their own stock but I'm the only one who does it full-time." "And has a monopoly?" He laughed. "I wouldna mind competition but no one else seems to want to compete." She looked at the herd. Though there were a few dark animals and an occasional gray or white, most of the mares and foals were the red-gold color that was coming to be called Trant's Gold. "They're beautiful, Sar. I know you're proud." He ducked his head. "Pretty good, I guess, for a fourteenyear-old orphan wi' a baby to support." They rode away from the fence, Shammy following until they came to the beginning of the next meadow. The stallion watched them a moment, then neighed, and whirled to return to the herd. "The lake's over there." Sar pointed to a stand of dark trees. Riding through them, Katy commented on how cool it became once they were out of the sun. "Tritomis is a place where the temperature can reach extremes on the same day. Remember how cold it got when we were in the wagon, while it was raining?" They came out of the trees into a meadow filled with wildflowers, the lake a long blue finger gleaming out of the grass. Dismounting, they led the elos through the knee-high grass, Sar pointing out various wildflowers and grasses. 210

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"That thick-bladed grass is called Goosegrass. 'Tis the most common one and the animals like it. The tall one is Chiksa Oat. Usually that's the one we cut and bale for winterfeed. The farmers cultivate a domesticated version." He stooped and snapped off a stalk laden with pink blossoms resembling miniature sweetpeas, holding it out to her. "This is Shepherd's Purse—" Katy took it, pressing it against her nose. "It certainly has a sweet smell." "The farmwives use it in sachets to freshen clothes-chests and closets." He looked around. "Now, that one, wi' the tassels, that's called Mare's-Tail. I think you can see why." It was added to those she already held. "I know what this is." She held up a sprig of the same flower that Sar had left on her pillow. "This is Love-StaysForever." "Hatch blabbed, did he?" He smiled as he said it. She looked toward the lake. "What are those little trees near the water, with the bright purple blossoms?" "Those are Water Mallows, but they're na trees. They're actually hedge. The settlers transplant them to their station yards because they're so decorative and easy to grow." "Would you transplant some for me?" "If you want—" He pointed. "See that vine running along the shore? That's Hen's Ivy. 'Tis a pesky weed but pretty so I leave it." Katy looked down. "What's this?" she asked, tapping a plant with her toe. "That's—" Sar stopped. "Damn, what's that doing here?" 211

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Kneeling, he wrapped a hand around the cabbage-like plant and pulled it out of the ground, roots and all. "Why'd you do that?" He held it up. "'Tis Running Death. It contains a chemical that works on the nervous system. Any animal that eats it wi' run 'til it dies of exhaustion and heart failure." He looked around quickly. "D'you see any more?" Katy began to search through the grass. Presently, she called, "Here's another." That one was also uprooted. Before they had finished, they'd circled the lake and found six more of the plants. "I do na understand it." Sar shook his head, looking at the plants he held. "I've ne'er had Running Death on my land. Where could it have come from?" "A bird dropped a seed?" He shook his head. "New plants spring from the roots of old ones. That's another thing—these plants were scattered. They usually grow in clumps because they're all rootlings." "Do you think we got them all?" "I think so. They have to be close to the water. They'll na grow far from a lake or river bank." He was stuffing them into his saddlebag as he spoke. "What are you going to do with them?" "Take them back to the station and burn them. E'en dried ones are dangerous." "Sar—" Katy was kneeling, pulling the last one out of the ground. He turned to look down at her. "Look at this..."

212

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

She indicated the soil around the plant. It had been packed tightly and in the dirt was the imprint of a boot heel. "I think this was deliberately planted here." "By who? And why?" He took the plant from her and packed it with the others. "Maybe I should check wi' Singleton and the other settlers and find out if they've found any Running Death in places where 'tis ne'er been known to grow." There was a rustle behind him. Turning, Sar laughed. "Looks like here's an old friend." "Goldie." The little elo snorted and nickered a friendly greeting. Katy touched her muzzle. "I wondered what happened to you. I thought maybe you'd run away." Sar shook his head. "Been here all along, waiting for me to find time to train her for her new owner." "I thought you wanted her for your herd." "Well, I'm hoping her new owner wi' let me keep her in m'herd." He was looking straight at her, smiling. "You mean—she's mine?" She nearly squealed the words, making Goldie toss her head and snort again. "M'wedding present to you, Sunshine." Katy threw her arms around Sar's neck, planting a kiss on his cheek. "Oh, thank you, Sar." She released him to hug the elo, too. "Did you hear that, Goldie?" The elo looked as if she'd known it all along. "I don't have any gift for you." "Sunshine," his smile was soft, as was his voice, "you've gi'en me everything I want." 213

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

She looked away quickly, stroking the mare's muzzle, trying to hide the flush of pleasure his words gave her. Suddenly, the wedding band on her arm felt very warm. **** Sar took her hand and they walked to the lake's edge. There, he hobbled the elos and took off their bridles so they could graze. Taking a blanket from behind his saddle, he spread it on the grass. "Ohhh—it's so beautiful here." Katy sprawled full-length on the blanket, looking up at the sky while Sar sat beside her. She reached up and caught his braid, drawing the curled tip across his lips, laughing as they twitched and he broke into a smile and dodged the bit of hair. "Do you know what I'd like to do right now?" she whispered. "I think I have a good idea." His voice was also a whisper. He was trying to decide whether or not to start anything. After all, they were in an open meadow in broad daylight. Surely, she was still too shy to want to do more than that. He was wrong. As he bent to kiss her, she pulled open the neck of his shirt, slipping the laces loose. In the next moment, the hem was out of his waistband, her hands roving under it, touching his chest, his shoulders, then flinging it up so their bareness rested against each other as Sar pulled her own shirt out of her jeans and lifted it. Sometime, she'd gotten his gunbelt off and it now lay within reach on the blanket, near Katy's head. 214

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

As he gave his attention to teasing those little nipples, deciding at this point that what the Hell, he felt fine now, so— something touched his shoulder. Looking around, he stared into Goldie's curiosity-filled brown eyes. Sar swatted at the animal. "Away wi' you! I'm na putting on a display for your amusement." Goldie backed away a few feet, snorted and stood still. He waved at her again. "Go." All that got him was another nudge from an inquisitive muzzle. Sar sighed, all his ardor disappearing. "Sorry, Sunshine. I canna perform wi' this beast staring over m'shoulder." Katy sat up. "Maybe she'll get bored and leave." "We can hope." He released her. "In the meantime, let's go for a swim." "We don't have suits," she reminded him. "Do we need them?" He brightened. "Wouldn't you like to make love while floating in the water?" "Sar! What an interesting thought." She considered, then shook her head. "Goldie might follow us into the water." "Well, if she does, we'll just add her to our fun and games." "What's that supposed to mean?" "There a Gadja way of making love that involves sitting on an elo's back. It takes great balance and some skill but I think we might be able to master it." She laughed, pressing her face against his chest. "God, you're terrible." 215

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Oh, I'm na so bad. Just inventive." He stood up, pulling her to her feet. Before he could move, she pulled off her shirt and wiggled out of her jeans, scampering to the lake's edge. Sar stood watching her, feeling another surge of desire as he studied Katy's little backside. A darling little backside it is, with the softest, roundest little cheeks—His hands twitched, wanting to touch those pale curves. God, I'm a lucky man. **** "Oooh, it's cold." She waded into the water until it was waist-deep, then turned, and called, "Come on in." He turned away, pulling his shirt over his head, "In a min— " looked back and beyond her and froze. "Katy, do na move." "What?" She took a step toward him. "I said, do na move. Be still." He dropped the shirt and picked up the Winchester, slinging it out of the holster, aiming it at her. "Sar?" She froze. He was holding the gun in both hands, just like she'd seen actors do in those crime vids, and he was pointing it directly at her. "Put your hands over your eyes, Katy. I do na want you blinded by the flare." Great, he's going to shoot me, but he didn't want to blind me while he does it. She didn't move. There was a sudden surge of water behind her. 216

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Damn it, Sunshine!" His voice barked the command, a tremor of fear under it. "Do it. Now!" Katy pressed her palms against her face. She heard the weapon fire, three rapid bursts of light, felt the heat as it whizzed over her head, and then—A cut-off bellow and a frantic splashing in the water behind her ... then ... silence. Katy raised her head, dropping her hands, turned to look at the thing floating in the water and began to scream and scream and scream... Sar was in the water with her, carrying her to shore while she continued to shriek. He fell onto the blanket, pulled her onto his lap and held her tightly until the screams died away to frantic sobs and then to little whimpers, and all the time he kept stroking her hair, and saying over and over, "There, there, 'tis all right, Katy. You're safe, sweetling, you're safe." "W-what was it?" She shuddered and pressed her face against his throat, hands clutching at his chest. "A rath." "Why did you let me go in there, if you knew there were raths in the lake?" "I dinna know," came the earnest reply. "There should be nothing living in that water, not e'en a minnow. If any of the elos had waded in to drink..." He, too, began to shake. "God, Katy, you could have been killed, or-or maimed or..." "How did it get in there?" Sar didn't answer immediately. He was staring at the huge body, floating belly-up in a bloody scum that clung to the surface of the water. Slowly, he said, "I think whoever planted the Running Death put it there." 217

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

He released Katy and stood up, wading into the water again. "You aren't going near that thing?" "'Tis dead. There no danger now." Nevertheless, he approached the creature cautiously. Sometimes dead raths had reflex actions that could still be dangerous. Seizing it by the tail, he tugged it to shore. As he dragged it past her, Katy paled as she got a look at the remains of its blown away head. Sar dropped it into the grass and came back to her, wiping his hands on his thighs. He picked up the shirt where he had tossed it in his haste. "Let it stay in the sun a couple of days and 'twill be ready to skin." "Skin?" Her voice held disgust. "Aye—rathhide is tough and valuable, Sunshine. Might as well turn this little incident to our advantage." They dressed in silence, riding home without speaking. At the hitching post as Katy slid from Retta's back, Sar was startled to see her lean against the little mare's side, inhaling quickly. "What's the matter?" "Nothing." "Katy—" "All right. I hurt all over." she admitted. "I've been trying to ignore it all day but I can't. My stomach, my legs—other places." He turned his head. "Are you laughing at me?" she asked suspiciously. 218

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Sunshine, ne'er," he assured her, forcing himself not to smile. "Your legs are hurting because you've been riding all day but as for the rest of it—I'm afraid I'm the cause of your other pain. Your little body's just reacting to the ravaging this barbarian gave it last night." She relaxed, the hand touching her stomach falling away. "In that case, I won't worry, because it'll ease up soon enough, won't it?" His answer was to sweep her into his arms and carry her into the house, depositing her on the sofa. "Just sit there—I'll ge' you a cup of tea and fix you a nice hot bath, to soak in—" "Don't be so silly." She sat up, stood up. "I've work to do, and so do you. Aren't there animals to be fed?" Reluctantly, he agreed and hurried out of the house to get the chores out of the way. **** After Sar had cared for the stock, he returned to the house, where he found Katy setting the table with the contents of the picnic hamper, and looking very pleased with herself. "You promised me a picnic and we're going to have one." "Yes, ma'am." He was grinning widely as he took the sandwich she offered him. They had an enjoyable meal though she noticed that he appeared a little thoughtful. When the last crumb had been eaten and she'd gathered up the tablecloth, took it to the door and shook it, she said, "You've decided something, 219

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

haven't you? About those plants and that awful animal? You know who did it." "Well—" He waited until she sat down again. "I'm pretty sure it's the brush-raiders." "Why would they—" "I think it's revenge of some sort." "Against you?" "Why not? I've got my share of enemies. God knows, I've had enough brawls in Larkin's in m'time. Smashed more than one head. Quite a few settlers' men have run afoul of that quirt of mine. 'Course, that was before I became a settled married man," he added, smiling at her. "I do na know that 'tis me personally. It might be Abel, or Singleton—but I think 'tis one of the three of us. I think they're trying to get at one of us through the other two." "What do you and Abel and Singleton have in common? How would it hurt one of the others if you lost your elos?" "First of all, the three of us are friends. Abel and I both worked for Singleton. Jos is a good customer of mine, and I got my original stock from him so I literally owe him my livelihood. Abel is indebted to me for Cilla and to Singleton for his freedom." He shook his head. "We're intertwined, Katy, and if one of us is hurt, the other two will undoubtedly be affected. The only thing is—I can't think of anyone who dislikes Abel that much. Almost everyone likes the lad." "Everyone except Alwin Marten," Katy muttered. "What d'ya say?"

220

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Alwin Marsten. He's got good cause to hate both of you. You defeated him twice at the auction and humiliated him with your bid of that angelica." "And Marsten and Jos locked horns once over some cattle that strayed onto Marsten's land—Jos said they had help." "Well, then?" "Marsten's a wealthy owner and his station's prosperous. I don't think—" He was silent a moment before saying, with finality, "No. It wouldna be Alwin Marsten. "Twould be foolish of the man, and he's na that no matter what else he is." "We may never know." Katy exclaimed, standing up. "The rath's dead, the Running Death has been pulled up. Let's go to bed and forget it." "We'll go to bed," Sar agreed, "but forget it?" He shook his head. "I think, from now on, Hatch and I will have to be on our guard. I also think I'd better get to teaching you how to shoot as I promised." Katy decided to broach the subject. "Before we go to bed, didn't I hear someone say something about a hot bath?" "That you did." He glanced at the stove. "I see you have water boiling? I'll get the tub." He was out the door before Katy could answer, and back in a few minutes with a large wooden tub which he set before the fireplace. Taking the large cooking pot from the stove, he poured its contents into the tub, tested the water, and filled the pot at the pump and added that, also. "Don't want to parboil you." "I think it would be nice if we had an indoor bathing room." Katy began to unbutton her shirt. 221

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"A bathing room inside?" he repeated, as if he'd never heard of such a thing. Maybe he hadn't. "Certainly. Most civilized places have them, you know." She was unable to keep the sharpness out of her voice. "Guess that's why we na have one here, for we're as far from civilization as one can want to be. Right, Sunshine?" He looked amused, and, as she dropped the shirt in the chair and turned to face him again, very happy. "Look—" "Oh, I am. And I like what I see. Most definitely." The aqua eyes were dancing. "I'm serious." "And you think I'm na?" She waved a hand at the wall across from the fireplace. "You could cut a door there, build on a room—You could even have a small fireplace, cut drain-holes in the floor..." He looked unconvinced. "Think about this winter. Wouldn't it be a lot better shaving in a warm room than standing in the snow, using icy water?" "I'll think on it. When Hatch ge's back, we'll talk about it." **** While Katy sat in the steaming water, blissfully soaking, feeling the aches slowly fade away, Sar was busy in front of the fireplace. Opening her eyes, she saw that he was packing the little clay pipe. "Do you think you need something to calm you tonight?" "I need to think," came the reply. "It helps me do that, too." 222

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"I wish you wouldn't." She got very busy soaping her washcloth. "Sunshine, I promise you, 'tis na habit—" "I know what you said but..." She made a helpless little gesture with one hand, stopped and bent her head, concentrating determinedly on washing her right arm. "The Fed's na forbidden it." He held a taper to the fire and brought it to the bowl of the pipe when it began to flare. Katy watched in fascination as he put the pipe to his mouth, inhaled and blew the smoke into the air. "If they do, I'll stop." He stood there for several minutes, staring into the fire, smoke floating lazily toward the ceiling, the fragrance of the herb filling the room. Then he sat down in the rocking chair, watching while she bathed. Katy took a deep breath. The smoke had a pleasant smell, sort of like ... spices. Yes—nutmeg, that was it. Presently, Sar stood up, tapped the pipe against the hearth and returned it to its place on the mantel. "I think I'll have a little chat wi' the Marshal next time I go to Zero for supplies, and Hatch and I wi' have to ride fence and make certain everything's all right and check all the pastures for more Running Death and anything else that might be out of place." He turned to look at her. "'Twill throw our work schedule off but it has to be done." As she stepped out of the tub, reaching for a towel, he pulled it from her hands and wrapped it around her, kissing the damp skin at the base of her neck. She'd tied her hair out of the way with a piece of rawhide string and Sar pulled it 223

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

loose, laughing as the mass of curls fell about her wet shoulders. "Guess I'll take a bath, too." He pulled off his shirt. "There's no more hot water," Katy protested. "I'll use this." He was stepping into the tub. "Oh, Sar—my dirty bath water?" "There's nothing I'd rather do, Sunshine, than bath in water that's touched your dear little body." She wanted to stay and see how he managed to fit himself into the small tub but was certain she'd laugh and insult him, so she forced herself to look disinterested, "Suit yourself. I'm going to bed," and hurried into the bedroom. **** "You asleep, Sunshine?" "Of course not. How could I be, with you splashing and carrying on like a fish in a pond?" "Well, there's naught like a hot bath—unless 'tis a hot bath wi' your woman." He sat on the side of the bed, feeling for the covers, found them, and lay down. His leg brushed hers. His skin was flushed from the heat of the water, warm and still slightly damp. Katy shivered at his closeness. "Oh? I suppose you've done a lot of that? Bathing with women, that is?" "Ne'er," he answered good-naturedly, not allowing her gibes to bother him, "but I'd be glad to oblige you anytime you'd like." "Oh, Sar. It's so strange." 224

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"What is, Love?" "E-everything. I—the first time you got into bed with me, I was terrified." The thought of how she'd acted made her smile into the dark. "Today—I was actually running around outside—totally naked. And in the living room just now— parading before you without a stitch on, I wasn't the least bit ashamed." She took a deep breath. "I don't understand it. Have I lost my morals so quickly?" Sar laughed quietly. "'Tis na immoral, Sunshine, 'tis just that now we're really married and it makes a difference. Believe me, I've na made a habit of prancing around in m'skin before, either." Katy rolled over, and kissed him. He didn't respond as she expected, instead, put his arms around her and hugged her close. "Katy," his voice was very quiet, "d'ya find me adequate?" "A-adequate? I—" He wanted a serious answer, and she forced herself not to give the facetious one that trembled on her tongue, stuttering, "G-God, Sar. I'm no expert, and I certainly don't have anyone to compare you to but—yes, I'd say you're more than adequate. Why in the world do you ask such a thing?" "Because I have a great wish for there to be na lies in this marriage." His voice was soft in the darkness. "If you think me some wild man wi' the women, I'm bound to confess that I'm na such thing. I've had more loving from you in the past day than there's been in my entire life up to this point."

225

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Do you mean that? You're actually serious?" She felt for his hands, caught and held them between her own. She was startled to find they were trembling. "'Tisn't the kind of thing a man'd admit to otherwise, is it? I've been to Larkin's a few times, Katy, when I couldna abide the loneliness but 'twill ne'er happen again as long as I have you." "You didn't have to tell me that, you know. I'd never have known." "I know but I canna abide letting you think falsehoods about me, Love. I'm na expert on women." "Well, you're certainly a talented amateur." "Katy—" "We'll just have to see about doing away with your amateur standing." She leaned forward and kissed him, surprised that she could find his mouth so easily in the dark. "You're laughing at me." he accused. "You're too honest, that's your problem," she whispered, her voice fierce in the silence. "How did you ever become a criminal? Was that how you got caught? Because you were too honest?" "I'm na a criminal," he denied quickly. "I'm a settler." "Of course. And those two turquoises earrings are just for decoration?" "What've my earrings to do wi' anything?" "Never mind. We'll na talk about it." She mimicked his voice. "Remember?" "Yes, well—" They fell quiet. 226

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Presently, Sar spoke again, "It worries me, Katy, that things might be misunderstood between us." She didn't answer. He tried again. "I'll be going into Zero for supplies as soon as Hatch is back. Is there anything you want me to ge'?" "I'll make up a list." "No, I mean for us." "Us?" She thought about that. "You mean ccontraceptives?" "No, but—Would you be wanting me to ge' those?" It was asked a little anxiously. "What did you mean then?" "I was thinking of ... well, a-a sex manual." "A what?" He began to explain patiently. "Katy, I'm the first to admit I know nothing of Inner World sexual customs, nor of what Earthers consider right and wrong. M'Pa taught me the way of things. Ma ne'er said a word, she dinna feel 'twas her place to speak to her son of such matters. Pa was Arcanian and he taught me the practices of his world but I know little of the Big Planet and what they do there." He paused, as if waiting for her to say something. Katy moved closer to him, one hand touching his chest, slowly stroking down his body until it came to his thigh, resting against the tangle of curls there, consciously brushing her fingers against his skin. "I'd hate to commit some sexual error and ask you to do something you consider wrong and I wouldna want you to ask me to do something that went against what I'd been taught. 227

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

That's why I thought to—you see, I know the mores and customs of Arcanis but nothing about your world." "I didn't realize we might be so different." "I think we are. Earthers have a reputation for total uninhibited freedom while Arcanians—" "Wait a minute. Don't people call them the Space Studs?" "Aye." She could feel him fidgeting with embarrassment. "In spite of that, they have a very strict moral system." "But what if we've done something and we like it and we find out it's wrong?" she demanded. "I think we'd better just stay ignorant and happy." "As you wish, Sunshine. I only want to please you." Katy's hand went back to Sar's thigh, starting again the movement that had been interrupted. She looked up to press her lips to the underside of his chin, "I like the way we've been doing, just fine." "As to that, there are a few variations in position that are totally acceptable." "Like what?" "Like this." His hands went to her waist, lifting her and settling her across his hips. "Sar..." "Quiet, Sunshine—I'm going to gi' you a riding lesson." [Back to Table of Contents]

228

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Chapter Fifteen I have a great wish for there to be na lies in this marriage... Katy woke with Sar's words in her mind. He'd said that about himself but she felt that it applied to her even more. She was the one who'd come into this marriage with lies, though she'd told him the truth soon enough. Even now, she was continuing to be untruthful, for she had to make him believe she didn't really love him, when she was beginning to love Sar as passionately as he loved her. She felt him stir, lean over to press a kiss against her temple and whisper, "Time to get up, Sunshine," and silently, not looking at him, she crawled out of bed, got her clothes and began to dress. It was only after she'd fastened her jeans and stepped into her slippers that she realized he was sitting on the side of the bed, fully dressed, watching her with an expression that held more than a little sadness. "You're angry about last night." "No," she denied quickly, trying not to look at him and finding nothing else she wanted to fix her eyes on. "No, I'm not." "Then why have you na spoken to me since we woke?" "Oh, Sar." She went around the bed, coming to stand between his knees, putting her hands on his shoulders and bending to kiss him. 229

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"'Tis sorry I am, Sunshine—" he allowed himself a slightly sheepish smile, "for anything I said last night. I mixed the herbs a little too strongly, I think. You're right. Maybe I'd better na be using them." He shook his head. "'Tis just that I worried—" She couldn't keep from smiling at him, moving closer to brush back the copper hair hanging in his face and press a kiss against his forehead. "Sar, you're so sweet." He grimaced. "Sweet isna what any man wishes to be called, Katy." "Well, you are. A-and good and kind and—" "God!" He turned his head, looking toward the ceiling. "You make me sound like a saint." "Now that you mention it, you do look like one—one of those old paintings in a family Bible—" She considered, one finger on her chin. "Yes ... John the Baptist, I think. It's all that hair, I suppose." "And we all know what happened to him. Lost his head to a lass who liked to dance." "Or an angel," Katy went on, fully into her fantasy now. "That's it. A beautiful, red-haired angel." "I'll be na angel," he protested. "Do you know that angels canna have wives? They're sexless, poor creatures." "Scratch that idea then." Katy laughed. "Would you settle for simply being my knight in shining armor? Sir Lancelot? Sir Galahad? Sir Sarkin?"

230

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"God, you're a fey one." He pulled her onto his lap, kissing her throat, just under her ear, and abruptly, her mouth. "Or daft. I'm na certain which." He kissed her again, longer this time, holding her tightly and when he let her go, whispered, "By God, I love you, Katy." The words seemed loud in the room, followed by quiet. For a long while, Katy didn't move, didn't answer, just sat there, her head resting against his shoulder, one hand holding his. At last she raised her head and looked into the aqua eyes. "Sar—" "I know." He looked away. "I shouldna have said that but 'tis true, and if you ne'er feel that way about me, 'twill still be true. You've got my heart, Katy Sunshine, and that's all there is to it." She slid off his lap, standing with her back to him, hands clasped together. Katy looked down at the wedding band. I should tell him. Tell him he has my heart, too—bound as tightly as this band encircles my arm—but I can't. I mustn't. Behind her, Sar stood up. "Guess I'd better get to work." He turned and walked out, leaving the house, and Katy, as she went into the kitchen was filled with a sudden sense of despair. If I admit I love Sar, I'll never be able to leave here. Once I speak those words, I can never desert him—and I have to go back. ****

231

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Later, when Sar came in with the milk, he said, "I'd wanted to bring in some elos to begin training but I dinna like to leave you alone that long." "Take me with you." Katy picked up a towel and began to dry her hands. "I'll help you drive them here." "What?" He began to laugh. "Why not? How difficult can it be?" He stopped laughing to stare at her. "You're na serious." "I most certainly am." He was silent a moment, then nodded. "All right. Let's go." **** As she mounted Retta, he said, "Retta used to be a roundup pony, so she knows what to do. All you'll have to worry about is staying on her back. Move when she does, wave your rope wi' as much authority as possible, and she'll do the rest." "I think I can manage that." **** By the time they were headed back to Three Moon, she felt that she was riding, if not expertly, at least well, shaking the rope Sar had given her at the elos to keep them moving toward the station. After the little mare cut one elo away from the others and herded it toward the one that Sar was driving, she tried to anticipate which way the little animal would turn so she could move her body in unison with the mare's. In the stationyard once again, she told herself she'd enjoyed it all. 232

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"We'll make a rider out of you yet," Sar declared, lifting her off Retta's back and planting a kiss on her forehead. "Pretty soon, no one'll be able to call you a greensaddle." **** "Open your eyes, Katy." It was the same command he'd given her the day he'd taught her how to milk the cow. She was standing behind the barn near the food-dump, holding the Winchester laser pistol in her hands while he repeated, "Open your eyes, Katy. D'ya always close them whene'er you do anything new?" "No. Of course not." "Come to think of it—" he went on, as if she hadn't answered, "you kept them shut the first time I made love to you, too. That's a habit you'll have to break." "I did not," she retorted. All that got her was a skeptical grunt in answer. "I didn't," she repeated. "If I'd had my eyes shut, I couldn't tell you how your braid fell over your shoulder and got caught between us, could I? O-or how it brushed my breasts—" "So you noticed that. Pretty observant for someone so in the throes of passion, were you na?" "Oh!" She struck his shoulder and he laughed and tightened his grip on her wrist, raising the Winchester, pointing it at the row of rocks he'd set up on the top of the fence. 233

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Now, as I was saying ... The main thing is to hold it steady and squeeze the trigger. Do na hurry, do na panic." "That'll be easier said than done, if a brush-raider's actually in front of me." "Aye—and I hope it na comes to that, Love—but this is that ounce of prevention m'Ma always talked about." He stepped behind her, putting his arms around her, hands going over the one with the gun resting in it. "Now—sight along the barrel—" Katy closed one eye, squinting. "See the rock?" She nodded. His voice was soft in her ear. "The safety's off. Ready?" She felt the pressure of his finger over hers, the gun recoiling slightly, the barrel jerking upward as the bolt of light erupted from it. It struck below the rock, burning a small hole in the fence-board. Sar released her hands. Katy stood there, holding the gun, letting its weight pull her hands down. "Not bad—" "Not bad. I missed." "True, but if it'd been a man, you'd probably have burned a very sizeable hole in his belly. He'd have been stopped, anyway." She shivered at the matter-of-fact tone in his voice, watched as he drew his own gun and seemingly without even aiming it, fired. One of the rocks exploded, showering the ground with ash. "There. 'Tis the way it should be done." Taking a deep breath, Katy raised the weapon, aimed it and—she couldn't help it, she closed her eyes as she pressed 234

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

the trigger—fired again. This time, through nothing but sheer luck, the beam hit the rock, smashing it into pieces that struck the ground where they hissed and crackled in the heat emitted from the light. "Very good." Sar beamed at her. Katy managed a slight smile, even as he added, "Now, if you can only keep your eyes open." Before they were finished, not only were her eyes open, but she was shooting, if not expertly, at least without any fear of the weapon. Sar explained to her that the Winchester was a much more accurate pistol than those used by most of the colonists, who bought LXs or phytoblasters. It had a longer range, carrying an energy cartridge with twice as many charges as the other guns held. As they returned to the house and he replaced the gun in its holster on the back of the door, he turned to look at her. "Katy, I know that it bothers you, this having to shoot, but, I want you safe, Sunshine—" he touched her cheek, "and since I canna be wi' you every minute, you have to be able to protect yourself." She forced herself to smile. "I understand, Sar. Really, I do." Without saying anything else, he hugged her. [Back to Table of Contents]

235

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Chapter Sixteen Two days later, Hatch returned. Katy gave him time to dismount and tie his elo to the hitching post before she ran the steps, hugging him around the waist, "Oh, Hatch. I'm glad you're back." "Hey. Maybe I ought to go away more often." He returned the hug, and they walked back to the house. At the steps, Hatch looked up at his father, who was standing on the porch, scowling. "Are you glad to see me, too, Pa?" "Of course." Sar came down the steps, catching the boy's hand, fighting to overcome the sudden surge of jealousy he'd felt at seeing Katy, even briefly, in his son's arms. "I hope you're cooking something good for supper tonight, Katy." Hatch went into his room, depositing his bedroll and saddlebags on the floor. "I'm starving. I've got clothes that need washing, too." "I might've expecting that," Katy replied. "What would you like for supper? You name it." "How about something we haven't had since you've been here? What about chiksa stew?" "Chiksa stew? You mean—" She nodded toward the door and the birds scratching about in the station yard. "That's right." "What's the recipe?" "First, as the old joke goes," Sar answered, laughing, "you have to catch a chiksa." 236

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"You do that," Katy told him, "and I'll cook it." **** She didn't ask how he killed the creature, just stared at the limp bundle of feathers lying in the tub, swallowed, and asked, a little weakly, "What do I do?" "First, you've got to ge' the feathers off," Sar explained. "How?" "That's what the water's for." He indicated the kettle with steam pouring out its spout, which he'd told her to set on the stove before he'd gone outside. "The boiling water'll loosen the feathers so you can pull them out." "Pull them out?" He turned to look at her in sudden sympathy. "You've ne'er done this before, have you?" She shook her head and he said quickly, "Do you want me to—" "No. No, I'll ... manage..." She took a deep breath. "After all, that's a wife's job, isn't it? You've got more important things to do." He planted a quick kiss on her cheek. "Call me if you need any help." "What do I do with the feathers?" she asked as he reached the door. "There's a hamper in the pantry. They're na as soft as lunat down but they make good pillow stuffing." Then, he was gone and she was alone with the dead chiksa and a terrible sinking feeling in her stomach. **** 237

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

At supper that night, she sat picking at her food, making no move to join in the conversation, trying not to think of the ordeal she'd gone through to prepare this meal—and of course, doing just that. Finally, Hatch—the observant brat—asked, "What's the matter, Katy? You look a little pale." "I'm fine," she muttered, not looking up. "Are you sure?" the boy persisted. "I thought I saw you at the corner of the porch throwing up." It was true. With the first cut of the knife and the sudden welling of blood in the featherless skin, she barely made it to the edge of the porch, where most of her breakfast poured into the dirt. "Say," to Katy's weary mind, his voice was harsh and probing, "you're na going to have a baby, are you?" Looking up, she saw Sar's look of astonishment, heard his "Katy—?" and was on her feet, slapping her napkin onto the table. "No, Hatch, I'm not going to have a baby. You want to know what's the matter? Well, I'll tell you. I spent the entire morning, struggling to dismember a poor, defenseless, dead bird—something I have never done before—and I now have no appetite or desire to eat the fruits of my labor. So—" her voice broke slightly, "if you two will excuse me—" She turned and ran for the bedroom, managed to make it inside, slamming the door and flinging herself onto the bed as the flood came. Hatch looked at Sar. "Damn, Pa, I dinna—" 238

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Nay, ne'er mind." He was heading for the bedroom, also, "I'll handle this," opened the door and went in, closing it softly behind him. "Katy—" Pitiful sobs answered him. He knelt on the bed, pulling her up to face him. "Sunshine..." She huddled against him, wiping her eyes, accepting another of the soft handkerchiefs from him. "I'm so sorry. It's just that I—" "Why did you na tell me you'd ne'er cut up a chiksa before?" "I did. You asked me if I'd ever—" "I thought you meant you'd na plucked one." He resisted an urge to laugh and cuddled her close, rocking her slightly. "My poor lass. You were brave to go through wi' it, anyway." "It wasn't just that, Sar." She sat up, wiping her eyes on the handkerchief, blew her nose and handed it back to him. "It—when I saw the blood, I ... I thought of how poor Mr. Andrews looked—and that's when I got sick." He reached out and touched her hair, saying in a very soft voice, "So we're na having a wee one, then?" She remembered the look on his face. He'd wanted it to be true. "No, Sar, we're not." A slight sigh. Nothing else to reveal his disappointment. "Ah, well—But you've been here more than a month now. 'Twill be getting close to your Time, would it na, then?"

239

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

She looked away, feeling her face go hot. That wasn't discussed between men and women, not on Terra. "I-I guess it is." "Well then—we'll make some arrangements, when it happens." He stood up, stuffing the handkerchief into his pocket. "Come back to the table. You do na have to eat if you've na wish to." **** Hatch was standing just outside the door. "Katy—" She put a hand on his arm. "No, Hatch, no apologies. Just eat your dinner." In an attempt at apology, anyway, he asked, "Would you like to hear about Abel's place?" "Yes," Sar said quickly, before she could answer, trying to overcome the awkwardness hanging over the table. "How has having a wife changed his farm?" "The looks certainly have changed." Hatch smiled. "Cilla's planted flowers all around the house and had Abel move in some mallows. There are curtains on the windows, and she even braided a rug for the floor. Did you know that cult she belongs to doesna use any modern conveniences except the power that lights their homes? They live in a part of Terra called the Buffalo Commons. Cilla says it used to be called the Midwest or the Heart—Heart..." "Heartland," Katy supplied. "That's right." He talked for a few more minutes, extolling Cilla's virtues. "She's a great cook, though na as good as you, Katy." Katy smiled a little wanly at that. "'Course she was sick 240

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

a lot in the mornings—That's why I thought you might be—I mean, 'twas morning and you were being sick and..." Katy put her hand over his. "It's all right, Hatch. And I'm all right now, too." "Cilla sent you—Oh, God!" He dropped his fork, stood up and galloped for the bedroom. "God, she may be—I hope I dinna—" Sar and Katy exchanged glances, Sar shrugging in answer to Katy's unspoken question. Hatch appeared with his saddlebags, opening one, digging deep inside it. He pulled something out, a white fuzzy thing that wiggled and struggled and emitted a sudden loud yowl. "Good. I was afraid she'd suffocated. I was so glad to be home, I forgot about her." He thrust the creature at Katy. "Here. She's for you, Katy." Katy gave a brief "Oh," of delight and took the kitten from Hatch, cuddling it against her breast. Freed from the confining saddlebag, the little animal looked around, yowled one more time, and began to sniff at the underside of Katy's chin. "A brush-cat." Sar exclaimed. "Where'd you ge' it, Hatch?" "Abel found a female that'd been hurt, brought it home and she had three kittens. The others are earning their keep by protecting Abel's grain from field mice. I asked Cilla if I could bring this one to Katy. Do you like her?" "Like her? She's precious." She began to stroke the tapered ears, fingering the long white spikes of fur at the tips. The kitten began a loud throaty purr. "I'll call her Snowflake." 241

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"You'd best make her a black coat to wear this winter, else you'll ne'er find her in the drifts," Sar cautioned. "No, no. This little lady's never going outside." "A cat in the house? I do na know, Katy." "Cilla said to tell you she was litter-trained, whatever that means," Hatch supplied. "It means you have no excuse to keep her out of the house, Sar, and also that you'll need to make me a litter-box for her." "I've na idea what this litter-box is, Sunshine, but tell me how and we'll see what can be done." The rest of dinner was much more pleasant then the beginning, though the talk turned to the rath in the lake and the discovery of the Running Death, and Sar's theories about the cause. "When I go to Zero for supplies at the end of the week, I intend to see the Marshal," Sar said. Katy had spooned a bit of stew onto her plate, picking apart the meat with her fork, feeding the bits to Snowflake who was daintily eating them, little paws perched on the edge of the table while the rest of her little body rested in her new owner's lap. "Speaking of Zero—" she looked up. "Could I come with you, Sar?" He looked at her as if he'd never thought of that. "After all," she went on, "I've been here almost a month— well, four weeks, actually—and besides you and Hatch, I've only seen Abel and Mr. Singleton. I'd like to see some people, Sar." 242

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Sunshine, I've been cruel and thoughtless. I should have known you'd tire of just our company." "I'm not tired of it, I'd just like to see Zero and—maybe do a little shopping on my own—after all, I didn't really get a good look of the town when I was there before, did I?" It didn't take much convincing for him to agree to take her. Sar was still at the point in his married life when he wanted his wife near him as much as possible. He finally decided to take Hatch, too, making a family outing of it, "Providing you and I can work hard enough in the next three days to keep from ge'ing behind by leaving the station for a while." Hatch assured him they could. "I think that this afternoon, I'll do the washing," Katy decided. "That way you two'll have clean shirts to take with you." She looked at Hatch. "Didn't I hear something about dirty laundry?" He picked up the saddlebags from where he'd dropped them on the floor, "Right. Here," and Katy caught them and laughed, and kissed his cheek. "Thank you, Hatch—for my kitten." He reddened and touched his cheek, "You're welcome, Katy," and bent over his plate, neither of them seeing the sudden anger on Sar's face. Later, when she was alone in the house, and Snowflake was sleeping on an old blanket which Katy had folded and placed by the fireplace, she began to collect clothes from the hampers. With her arms full of shirts and jeans, she thought again of the look on Sar's face when Hatch had asked her if 243

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

she was pregnant. Surprise, hope ... why would a man with a grown son want another child now? Could she be? She'd have no way of telling, not yet—she'd just have to wait and see... Sighing, she gathered up the clothes, carrying them to the wash pots in the yard. [Back to Table of Contents]

244

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Chapter Seventeen The fire was burning, the water bubbling and most of the shirts were submerged in the soapy water, being stirred vigorously. Katy began to rinse them in the second pot, chasing away Snowflake who'd followed her into the yard and was standing on hind legs, peering into the water, pink nose sniffing curiously. "Shoo, you. Don't you know kittens don't like water?" Snowflake meowed that she'd been ignorant of that fact and scampered a safe distance away to sit next to the water trough and watch. "Need help?" Hatch asked, watching from over the top of the corral, as she struggled with the water buckets. "I could use a little." Climbing over the fence, he took one from her, carrying it to the pot and poured the water. Then, he returned to the pump for another bucket. Katy had her back turned, stirring the clothes when he got back. Dipping one hand in the water, he called softly, "Katy— " and as she turned toward him, flicked his damp fingers in her face. She gasped, blinked, and dropping the paddle, scooped up water in both hands, and pouring it over his head. Hatch laughed, splashed one hand into the bucket and very carefully washed Katy's face, smearing water across her cheeks, chin, and nose. 245

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Shaking her head and sending droplets flying, Katy looked around, deftly skimmed a froth of bubbles off the top of the water and pressed them against Hatch's face. She picked up the paddle, and brandishing it threateningly, began to chase him across the yard. Laughing loudly, the boy ran a few feet away from her, then whirling to stop so quickly that she nearly bumped into him. For a moment, they stared at each other before bursting into laughter. Katy pulled up the hem of her apron and began to dry Hatch's face. At the corral, Sar stood watching his son and his wife, hands gripping the railing tightly in an attempt to control the anger he was feeling. Jealousy was a new emotion to him, and he was startled at how strong it could be. He hadn't hesitated to leave Hatch alone with Katy when he'd driven those elos to Singleton's and when he returned to see them playing in the garden, walking toward him hand-inhand, and learned that Hatch was now sleeping in the house—something he'd never been able to get the boy to do in twenty years of argument—he wondered how Katy had managed it. Watching Hatch with Katy, seeing the boy showing off his newly-taught manners, he refused to believe the startling thought that was growing inside his head. He chided himself for even thinking it. 'Twas he she'd gone to bed wi', wasn't it? He was the one she'd let love her and take the gift of that sweet virginity, when she could have made him wait and wait. 246

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Sar shook his head, thinking how happy Katy had been to see Hatch when he'd ridden in, hugging him, kissing him ... the gift of the kitten ... again, he saw Hatch touching the spot on his cheek where Katy had kissed him. The truth seemed to explode inside his brain. Hatch was courting his stepmother, right under his father's nose. It was only natural, he tried to rationalize. He was so much older than she, while Hatch and Katy were nearly the same age. The boy was handsome—there'd never been an ugly Gadja—probably the lass couldn't help herself. He watched his son disappear into the hull of the barn where the sacks of grain and bales of hay had been set to protect them until the structure could be repaired, then looked back at Katy's slender figure bending over the washpot, wondering how long it would be before they went further than just kisses, imagining the two of them in bed together, naked, joined, Hatch's darkness overlying her pale flesh. Sar turned away, fists beating against the wall. He loved both his son and his wife. He didn't want to lose either of them. What was he to do? [Back to Table of Contents]

247

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Chapter Eighteen Hatch rode his elo while Sar drove the oxen, Katy riding beside him. She leaned her cheek against his shoulder. "I hope it doesn't rain this time." "Oh? Why not?" He brushed the quirt against the near ox's flank, disturbing a fly buzzing there. "Can you imagine the three of us huddled together inside the wagon?" She giggled, stifled the sound, and slid one arm through his. He laughed, too. "If it rains, I'll put Hatch under the wagon." She laughed again, looked up at the sky and sighed. "Anyway, I don't think it's going to rain. The sky's too blue." "Sometimes appearances can be deceiving, Sunshine." He was learning that too well. "I guess." She sighed again and closed her eyes. Sar turned his attention from the team to look at her. Katy's nearness, the warmth of her body against his, was almost overwhelming. He was glad she'd decided to ride with him. He'd brought his elo, tied it to the back of the wagon, in case they needed another saddle, and she could have chosen to ride it and be free to gallop off with Hatch who was out of sight somewhere ahead of them—and God only knows what they could do before the slow-moving oxen could catch up— but she decided to ride in the wagon with him. That fact cheered him considerably. 248

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

The trip was uneventful, no rainstorms, no flights of lunats, no inquisitive elo herds. The only other living creatures they saw was a pack of parri dogs, slinking through the brush. "They're scavengers," Sar explained, "living off whatever some other animal has killed." Katy shuddered. The parris looked like very large, very scrawny wolves, with pointed hairless ears and ratlike tails. "Are they dangerous?" "Only to half-rotted carcasses. They're too cowardly to attack anything living." That night, they camped in a grove that surrounded a stream, Hatch opening his bedroll under the wagon. "This stream is a branch of the Taheya," Sar told Katy. "Would you like to see how it looks by moonlight?" It was a stupidly romantic thing to say, but Katy liked that sort of thing, he'd found, and he decided he'd best take up his courting again. As they went into the darkness, hand in hand, Hatch called after them, "Hey, you two! Just remember—sound carries over water." Rolling over, he pretended to go to sleep, hearing Katy mutter, "He acts like all we do is find dark corners and make love." He didn't hear Sar's answer as their voices died away, disappearing into the darkness. ****

249

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Hatch settled himself and concentrated on sleep. Damn, I envy Pa, having someone like Katy to love. He'd just about despaired of ever finding anyone for himself. After all, how many young women were there around here? Young women who would look at a half-Gadja, anyway. The best I'll ever get is one of Larkin's whores. With that thought in mind, he'd made certain he had enough money in his pocket to pay for a toss. He'd made up his mind the night Katy convinced Sar to let them both come with him. He knew they'd stay overnight and, since Larkin's was also the only hotel in town, they'd stay there. After Sar and Katy were asleep, he'd simply leave his room, go to the saloon, and pick out one—and then ... well, then he'd become the man he already appeared to be. He just hoped Pa didn't find out. Remembering the selfdisgust Sar always showed the few times he had ridden to Larkin's, Hatch was certain his father would be furious if he learned his son had been to a whore. Sar had never punished him but he had a feeling he might be on the receiving end of his father's quirt if he found out. With a sigh, Hatch settled into his blankets and fell asleep. **** Within the trees, Katy's grip tightened on Sar's hand. "It certainly is dark here, isn't it?" "Couldna ask for a better dark corner, could we? Do na worry, Katy, I brought a lantern." He held up the petrolight, pressed the button on its side, adjusting the length of the flame. "There. Is that better?" 250

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Much better. At least now, I can see you." They had reached the river. Sar hung the lantern on a low branch, placing his arm across Katy's shoulders as they walked along the bank. "It's really beautiful here." She looked out across the water. "There's a river running through my uncle's property but it looks nothing like this." The current was moving quickly, moonlight gleaming silver against the blackness of the ripples. Silhouetted against the three moons, trees cast triple shadows that wavered and trembled on the stream's surface. "You said your lake doesn't have any fish. Do any of the streams?" "A good many. This one is probably filled, and if 'twere daylight, you'd be able to see them, the water's that clear." "Are you a fisherman, Sar?" "Na enough patience for that sort of thing." "How about hunting?" "Only to put meat on the table, ne'er for sport." He stopped to look down at her. "Where's the sport in just killing something?" "Are there any mosquitoes around here?" "I'd better be able to say if I knew what a mosquito is." "It's a small flying insect that sucks blood." "A nasty-sounding little creature, but na—Tritomis has very few flying insects—mainly those large flies that like to bede'il the oxen so." "Oh, I'm glad of that." 251

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Now, crawling insects—" he went on, "—that's another matter. We have thousands of those." "Thanks for warning me." "Do you think we're out of earshot now?" "Out of ear—" she stopped, looking up at him. "Why? Oh, Sar, you're not serious?" His expression told her that he was and when he kissed her, she didn't argue, just kissed him back, then pushed him away, saying, "If you think I'm going to lie down in this grass, you'd better think again, Sarkin Trant. I'm not about to let those thousands of insects crawl all over me." "And neither am I. We'll do it standing up." "What?" She nearly shrieked the word. "Shh." He put one finger to his lips. "Sound carries, remember?" "What?" she whispered this time. "You can't mean that." "But I do." "How—" "Like this." She was lifted off her feet and pushed into the fork of the tree, the trunk resting against her back. "Just hold the branches, Sunshine, until I get ... settled ... here." She felt his hands at the waistband of her jeans. "Wish you were wearing a dress," he muttered. "'Twould be much simpler." "Then buy me some." She bit her lip to keep from laughing. "I may do that." He'd gotten them open, slid them off, opened his own jeans, and put his hands around Katy's waist, lifting her out of the tree. 252

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Oh, my..." "Wrap your legs around my waist, Katy." Letting go of the branches, she put her arms around Sar's neck, back braced against the tree's trunk as he began to move against her. She pressed her face against his shoulder to smother the little cries she wanted to make but that Hatch's presence made her stifle. Even as she felt Sar surge against her in his own climax, she didn't make a sound. Instead, she sank her teeth into his shoulder and it was he who cried out. "Damn, Katy! You bit me!" He nearly dropped her. She was as surprised as he. "I'm sorry." "Why'd you do that?" "I—I was trying to be quiet. Hatch—" "I'm scarred for life because you na want my son to know what we're doing? Hell, Katy, he knows. He's probably lying under the wagon right now, snickering. Gadja's have good ears. I'll bet he heard every movement we made." She could feel her face flaming. "You're joking, aren't you?" "I'm na. What's that on your mouth?" She put one hand to her lower lip. The stain on her fingers looked dark in the moonlight. "Sar, it's blood!" "Oh, Hell—" One hand went to his shoulder. It came away wet. "You've got a good set of jaws, sweetheart. You bit through my shirt—tore the skin." He sounded incredulous, unbuttoned the shirt and slid it off his shoulder, looking at the mark, a perfect bloody oval of teeth-prints. "I'll carry that to my grave." 253

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Do you have a medical kit in the wagon?" "Nay." "You're wounded, Sar, bleeding. It needs attention." "'Twill be all right." He didn't seem concerned now that the shock was past, turned attention to fastening his jeans. "'Twill stop soon." He kissed her again. "Have you had your rabies shots, Sunshine?" She hit him on the chest. He laughed. "Get your pants on, Katy. 'Tis time to go back." He retrieved the lantern as she pulled on her jeans and then, taking her hand, they returned to the wagon. [Back to Table of Contents]

254

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Chapter Nineteen Zero's streets seemed filled with people. Several times, Katy realized she was staring. "Is it always this busy?" "Na usually," Sar replied. "There's a Gadja fair today." "A fair? Really?" "Once a year the Gadjas come to Zero and set up camp just outside town. They offer their wares for sale," Hatch explained. "They're expert potters and weavers, and have some good elos for sale, too." Sar stopped the wagon in front of the Marshal's office and climbed to the ground. "I'm going in to see Epson," he told Hatch as he helped Katy down. "Why do you na take Katy to the Fair and keep her entertained 'til I'm through? You might look at the elos, too. See if there are any we might want." "Sure, Pa." Hatch dismounted and tied his horse to the hitching post. "Come on, Katy." He took her hand and together, they started down the street. Sar watched them a moment before he went inside. **** There were about four dozen tents set up at the edge of town, stretching over a quarter mile, brightly-colored peaked roofs with little banners fluttering from the poles. "Goodness," Katy said. "We certainly won't be able to see all this in one day." 255

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

She paused to look at a display of mugs and vases before noticing that Hatch was still walking and ran to catch up with him. "The least you can do is wait for me," she complained. "Sar wouldn't like it if you misplace his wife." "Sorry." They passed a small open tent where a woman sat shuffling and dealing a small deck of cards onto the table in front of her. "Look, Katy. A card-reader." Hatch nudged her playfully. "Hey, why don't you let her tell your fortune? Maybe," his voice dropped to a whisper, "she can tell you how many babies you and Pa will have." Seeing the mischief in the bright eyes, she flushed. "Really, Hatch." The woman had noticed them and began to gather the cards. "Let me read the future for you, young lady? Tulera has True Sight." "Yes, go ahead, Katy." Hatch pushed her forward, laughing. **** The woman looked over Katy's head at him, eyes widening, as if she were surprised to see a Gadja with this fair, bright-haired Djarni woman. She transferred her attention back to Katy, smiling. "One Federation Dollar—tell fortune, show you things you've never seen before." Katy frowned. Why did that sound familiar? She'd heard someone else say that, but where? 256

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Without speaking, Hatch placed a coin on the table, then moved away. Katy caught his arm. "You're aren't leaving me?" "I'm going to check the elos for Pa. I'll meet you right here when I'm through," and he was gone. "Well," Katy gave a sigh of resignation. "I guess I'm getting my fortune told." She turned to face Tulera with a smile. "What do I do?" The Gadja began to shuffle the cards. She was wearing a jumpsuit made of brightly colored fabric in shades of red and orange that made her dark skin glow. The woman looked up from the cards then, met Katy's eyes and smiled. Thick golden rings swung in her ears, a heavy collarette around her neck, although her arms and hands were bare. On her head was a tight cap with colored streamers hanging down the back. Her hair was black, as dark as Hatch's and untouched by any color, though Katy thought that she might be only a few years older than Sar. She held out the cards. "You touch three times—left hand for past, right hand for future." Katy tapped the deck with the forefinger of each hand. "Now—" Six cards were dealt, face down. "Tulera tell you of your past." "I already know that," Katy protested. "But Tulera not know." The woman held up one hand. "This proves I not fake." She lifted a card, looked at it and stated, "You run away. You not really want to come here." Katy looked startled. A lucky guess, that's all. 257

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Tulera picked up a second card. "There was crime involved. Man die. You ran to save yourself." The third card was lifted. "You have something someone wants. He's a dangerous man—will kill to get it." She placed the third card atop the other two and picked up one from the second row. "This is your future—" She raised the first card, studied it, looked speculatively at Katy, and announced softly, "There's someone who loves you very, very much but you refuse to tell him how you feel." Tulera glanced at the second card. "You leave this place soon." She dropped the two cards she held and reached for the third, "and—" Katy realized she was gripping the edge of the table tightly. The woman lifted the last card. "When you leave, you take something away with you. This one who loves you—you take part of his life and he'll never know—" She dropped the card. "Is that it?" Katy wanted to cry. "When am I leaving? Who's going to take me away? What will I take with me? Part of his life—what does that mean?" "Tulera can explain no better—that's what I see." She began to pick up the cards, shuffling them, saying idly, "The young man—he your husband?" "What? Oh, no, he's my stepson." Confused by what she'd been told, Katy answered vaguely. "He Gadja." It wasn't a question. "Yes—" 258

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"His father Gadja, also?" Gadja-Djarni marriages weren't unheard-of, though rare. She shook her head. "His mother." "Ah—" Tulera nodded as if she understood. "She die, then?" "No, I—" She wasn't certain if she should be discussing Hatch's origins with this stranger. "She sent her son to his father." The moving hands slowed slightly, letting the cards spill onto the table. "He has eyes like water stones. Beautiful." She began to gather them again. "Yes," Katy agreed. "So does his father." "This father—He has hair like this?" One hand lifted a lock of Katy's hair. "A red-haired Djarni?" ...and Katy remembered where she heard that phrase before ... A dark-haired girl promised that for a dollar, she'd show me things I'd ne'er seen before. "You. You're—" "No. Don't say it," the woman ordered. "But, if you're his mother—" She stood up, looking in the direction Hatch had gone. "I'll get him—" "No." A hand caught her wrist, forcing her back into the chair. "What good it do? To tell boy—'look, that Gadja woman, she birth you, then send you away.'" "Well—" "Do no good." She shook her head. "He hates me anyway." "That's not true." Katy said. "He's never said he hated you." "Never?" The dark eyes seemed to probe into her mind. 259

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"I've never heard either of them say that." Tulera seemed to consider this fact, then stated, "Is good but I still not want him to know." "Why not?" Tulera sighed, as if speaking to a stupid child. "I very young, see young boy—Djarni boy, red hair, blue eyes, beautiful—My blood calls to his blood, we join—he say it his first time, I not tell him mine also—our bodies sing together, then my people go." She began to shuffle the cards again, not looking at Katy. "Later, I find out baby come, very happy, but Papa angry. He beat me for lying with Djarni, say get rid of brat." She shook her head. "I say no. I have beautiful Djarni's baby. When it born, he say he kill it, so I ask Uncle to take it to red-headed Djarni, pray he accept it, hope my son have better life than wandering in wagon, being hated by settlers..." There was a single tear in the corner of one eye. She reached up and brushed it away. "His father and I come together to create child for some reason—this boy special, must be—I not know why. I often wonder and worry about him." She smiled. "Now, I see him again. Can stop worrying." "I'm back. How'd it go?" Hatch's voice sounded so loud they both jumped. Katy looked around. "It-it went just fine." She stood up "Hatch—" She caught his arm. "Sit down." "Why?" He was smiling at her. "I-I want to—" Tulera turned begging eyes on her. 260

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"—to have Tulera read your fortune, too." "All right." He dropped into the chair she'd vacated. Tulera relaxed and began to shuffle the cards. She looked into the aquamarine eyes, remembering another young boy, younger than this one, whose lightcolored eyes had stolen her heart for an hour. "What your name?" "Hatch ... Hatchling," he answered, and reddened slightly, "'Tis kind of a joke." She nodded and smiled, as if she understood. "Hatchling— is good name." She went through the little routine as she had with Katy, had him touch the cards, then began to tell Hatch about his past. "You have two bloods in your veins—" "That's na too hard to figure out," he answered, "All you have to do is look at me," but he smiled as he said it. "You have the Touch that Tames—you use it to train the animals your father raises." He nodded. "There is one you love, who is far, far away." Hatch didn't answer, simply looked away, refusing to meet Tulera's eyes. The woman picked up the cards that held Hatch's future. "There is sudden danger, and soon. This one you care for, she lose something precious—" Her hand shot out, clasping Hatch's wrist, grasping it tightly. He looked startled, his gaze held by hers. "Stand by her, boy, don't desert her when it happens. She needs you." 261

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

She held up the last card, glanced at it. "Your innocence. You untouched by woman. Kept it so, boy. Wait for that one to come home. There be others for her but she be only one for you. Ever. Don't waste yourself. Wait for her." She dropped the card atop the others and held out her hand. "One Federation Dollar." As if dazed, Hatch dug the money out of his pocket and placed it in her hand. He stood up. "Thank you, Tulera," Katy said. "Goodbye." "No, not goodbye." The woman looked sad. "We see each other again. Someday soon." She looked away, dismissing them, re-shuffling her cards. Hatch and Katy walked away. **** As soon as they were out of earshot, the boy asked, angrily, "Is it so obvious? I mean, can a woman just look at me and know, hey, there's a virgin?" "It-it was probably only a guess." "Well, her guess was right on the mark. Damn!" He laughed. "I do na know how she found out but that was a mighty impressive bit of scam, was it na?" "Was it a scam? She told me some things no one on Tritomis could possibly know." "Such as—?" She shook her head. "No, it's secret and I'm not telling anyone." 262

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

A pretty girl strolled by, balancing a large basket filled with flowers on her shoulder. Hatch stopped, watching her. "You know, Gadja girls are really attractive. Maybe I ought to follow one and see if she'll do more than read my fortune." "Hatch." She managed to put total shock and disapproval into the word. It wasn't difficult, considering how the afternoon had gone. "Well, why na?" he retorted, defensively. "Pa did. Lost his virginity and had the time of his life." "And got you as a bonus. Do you really want to do that? Your child might not be so lucky." That sobered him a little. "I was just kidding, Katy." "Besides, did it ever occur to you that any of these woman here might be your sister, aunt or—or your mother?" Her voice dropped to a fierce whisper. "How would you like to do that to one of them and then learn that you'd—you know— with your own mother?" "God, I ne'er thought about that." He looked around quickly. "You're right, Katy. Hell, I might be related to half the people here. Damn. Guess I'd better walk lightly among the Gadjas." By now, they were at the edge of town again. Katy saw Sar standing by the wagon and ran to meet him. "Have a good time?" he asked, aqua eyes flicking past her to Hatch. "Oh, yes. Hatch had his fortune told by a Gadja named Tulera—" She watched his face as she said the name. He didn't change expression. It meant nothing to him. 263

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"I'll leave the wagon and the list at the store and they'll load it for us," he said, lifting her onto the seat. "I've gotten us rooms at Larkin's." Katy raised one eyebrow. "Larkin's? But isn't that a—" "They rent rooms on the second floor to travelers," he explained. "Oh." When they stopped in front of the general store, Katy said, "May I go in? I've been thinking that I'd like to get some flannel to make myself some nightgowns for winter. It does snow here in winter, doesn't it?" "Not until just before season-change, late in the year, but you do na need nightgowns, Sunshine. I'll keep you warm." "Oh?" She looked disbelieving. "How? Do either of you two sleep in anything in winter? Nightshirts?" She got a disdainful look from both of them at that. "Long underwear? No thanks." She shook her head. "I'll put my faith and my body in a soft wooly nightgown, and I'll be sleeping toasty-warm this winter while you two are shivering in your skins." She swept past Sar and toward the store, leaving him standing there, had gotten only a few feet away when a man lurched out of the door and bumped into her, nearly knocking her down. He was followed by the storekeeper. "—and stay out of here—" The man staggered backward, falling to the boardwalk, as Katy, steadied by Sar's hands, caught her balance. "Sorry..." came a slurred mutter, "didn't see—" 264

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Elai. Been harassing Mr. Proctor again?" Sar walked over to the man and extended a hand which was grasped as he hauled him upright. "Not 'rass," came the muttered protest. "Jus' ask for work. Need money." "For what?" A pause. The man was wavering on his feet. It was several minutes before he spoke, wiping a dark hand over his face. "For ... you know why, Sarkin Trant." Behind her, Katy heard Hatch make an irritated sound. She looked at the boy. His expression held a combination of disgust and sadness. She looked back at the man Sar had called Elai. He was tall, nearly as tall as Sar, dressed much the same, though shabbier, clothes dusty and in need of mending. His shirt was buttonless, hanging open, revealing a dark, almost hairless chest. He was obviously drunk, the smell of tarra beer hanging around him like a cloud. As he took off his hat, to brush one forearm across his forehead, she saw that his hair, though cut short, was as dark as Hatch's, almost blue-black in the sunlight. He looked at Sar, shaking his head, eyes a brilliant green, out of place in that copper face. With a sudden lurch, Katy realized that Elai was a Gadja halfbreed. Sar was still talking. "Do na expect any money from me to buy beer, Elai. I've told you, I'll na give you any to support that habit. I'll help you any other way but na that." 265

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

The man didn't argue, just nodded, "You good Djarni, Sarkin Trant. I 'member that," turned and staggered away, tripping and falling flat as he crossed the alley. Sar ran to help him to his feet, advising, "Get something to eat, Elai, na something to drink," then stood watching him stumble down the street, wandering from one side of the boardwalk to the other. "Sar, who—" He shook his head. "Elai Kent. He's the son of a Freely over by the Crown River. Mother's a Gadja woman. Good people. Gave Elai a good education but he could na adjust to being a mixed blood." For an instant, his eyes rested on Hatch who had walked ahead of them into the store. "He's by way of being the town drunk now." He fell silent, watching Hatch, and Katy knew that he was thinking how Hatch might also be walking in Elai Kent's footsteps if things in his life had been different. Inside, the storekeeper began an immediate apology. "Sorry about that, Trant, but that damned halfbreed's always in here getting in the way." "'Tis all right, Mr. Proctor." "This the missus?" He nodded to Katy. "Pleased to meet you, ma'am. Amos Proctor. He's always begging for money ... to buy beer, of course—" It was a moment before she realized he'd resumed talking about Elai without a pause for breath. "Blasted part-blood's a pest. Be better if someone shot him and put him out of his misery—"

266

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"I said 'tis all right, Proctor," Sar cut in, quickly, still looking at Hatch. He could see the dark stain on the boy's cheeks. "We do na want to hear it." "Huh?" The storekeeper stopped as if surprised by Sar's sharpness, then looked from father to son as if seeing Hatch for the first time. "Oh. Oh! Sorry, Trant—sometime's I forget your kid's part-Gadja, too." It was, in a way, a left-handed compliment. "Sorry." He went back behind the counter. Katy slipped her hand into Hatch's, squeezing it tightly, felt the answering pressure of his fingers as his lips compressed into a tight, angry line. "Don't pay any attention," she whispered, unaware that Sar had seen the gesture, his face becoming as drawn as Hatch's own. **** That night, much to Katy's disappointment, Sar made no move to touch her. Whether it was their surroundings, or exhaustion from the long ride, she wasn't sure. He simply kissed her, cuddled her close and fell asleep, leaving her to lie awake for quite some time, listening to the sound of music drifting upward from the saloon and the occasional rumble of men's voices and women's laughter. In the room next door, Hatch was also awake. For a while, he listened with envy to the clatter of boots and high-heels climbing the stairs to the third floor, thinking that if he hadn't let Katy talk him into having his fortune told, he might also be lying in a bed up there, enthusiastically tossing one of 267

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Larkin's whores and relieving himself of his virginity, but now— She said to save myself for someone who was coming back, someone who'd be the only woman for me. Ever. Hatch was certain who she meant and that belief, and that hope, kept him from leaving his bed, and climbing the stairs to the third floor, because in another month, Crissa Singleton would be coming home. [Back to Table of Contents]

268

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Chapter Twenty Katy sighed and fanned her face with the dishtowel. God, it's so hot. Hadn't Sar said that with summer, the weather would get cooler? Maybe he meant in the Northern Hemisphere, for the temperature here seemed to have risen. They were going into the Dry Season and that sounded to Katy as if it definitely meant more hot weather. As if that wasn't enough of a problem, Sar had been acting strangely since their return from Zero. She didn't understand what was wrong, but it was as if he didn't want Hatch to be alone with her. He never left them together for even a few minutes, if he could help it. He was also working much too hard. For the short time she'd been at the station, she'd seen that he was a steady worker, never stinting when it came to spending long hours with the animals or at whatever else the station demanded, but now it seemed as if he'd suddenly shifted several gears, working twice as hard as before, getting up earlier, working later at night. If she didn't know better, she'd have been ready to believe he'd gotten hold of some Running Death because that seemed to be where he was headed. He was almost ... Manic. Yes, that was the word. Manic ... high-pitched ... running full force. She had no idea what was driving him so. It certainly wasn't a need for money, for Sar had shown her the station's accounts and she'd been surprised at the balance resting in Zero's little bank. She'd no idea her husband was such a rich 269

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

man. Remembering how he'd complained about her receiving half of his possessions while he was getting nothing in return, she now understood, for half the amount in the ledger was a very tidy sum. He also seemed not to want to be alone with her, and for a brief ridiculous moment, Katy had the notion that Sar didn't care for her anymore. If she had to pinpoint a moment when he separated himself from her, it would have to be when she'd told him she was going to ride Junkar, instead of sitting beside him in the wagon. He hadn't said anything, just sat there silently, watching her gallop ahead of the oxen, laughing at something Hatch said, and even though she'd later cajoled and teased him into riding with her, making Hatch give up Majestic, he'd still been quiet, almost thoughtful, almost ... sullen. The first night home, she blamed his lack of response on the long journey—after all, four hundred miles in three days would exhaust anyone. Goodness knows, she and Hatch were tired, too, but the days went on and three days passed before Sar made any movement toward her in bed. Even then, it had been done almost hesitantly, "I'd like to love you, Katy," as if he expected to be rejected, though she came into his arms more than willingly and was shocked by the haste with which he'd possessed her, thrusting roughly into her body before just as abruptly pulling away and rolling away to sit on the far side of the bed. He reached for a towel laying on the bedside table as Katy sat up, demanding, "Sar, what are you doing?" saw his 270

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

shoulders hunch slightly and his body spasm and realized he'd discharged into the towel's folds. "Why?" It was wailed at him as he kept his back turned, hiding the sight from her as he used the towel to dry himself, folding it neatly and dropping it on the floor before looking at her again. Even then, he didn't actually look at her, but more in the general direction of where she sat. "I'm thinking we should make certain there are na children, Katy." "I'm sure you have a good reason for this decision, as well as the fact that you came to it all by yourself. Care to tell me?" "'Twas something you said the first night you came here— asking why I'd wish little ones now, with Hatch grown and all." If only he'd look at her. "I'm thinking now you're right. If you had a child now, I'll be elderly 'fore 'tis grown." He looked at her then, saw that she was unconvinced by this lame explanation. Well, she'd simply have to accept it for he couldn't tell her the real reason. I'm trying to keep you faithful, Katy. If you get pregnant now, I'll know the child's na mine because my seed's na in you. Maybe fear wi' keep you from sleeping with my son. "'Twas in my mind to ask the doctor for some contraceptives while we were in Zero, but he told me his supplies were depleted, so until he gets a new shipment, I'll have to do it this way." Instead of arguing, she said, "It's a sin, you know." "What d'ya mean?" "It's vile—doing it that way—an abomination." 271

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Abomination's a strong word, Katy." "Well, it's true. It's called onanism and God calls it a sin. Read your Bible—you'll see." She flung the words at him angrily. Like all Terrans, Katy'd received a basic Biblical education in school. She had no idea what Sar believed, in spite of the little cross on the wall. "Or are you such a barbarian you don't have a Bible in this desolated place? Maybe God's word isn't heard around here." "Aye, I have a Bible," he retorted, pulling open the drawer on the little table and lifting out a small book bound in thin pebbled black Morocco leather. "'Twas m'Ma's." He flipped through the pages, turning to the index. "What d'ya say 'twas called?" Biting off every letter, she spelled it for him. He found the entry, looked up the chapter, and began to read. Presently, he closed the Bible, carefully replaced it in the drawer. "I suppose I've now condemned m'self to everlasting Hell-fire." If she'd had any doubt about his religiousness, it was vanquished in that moment. He was deadly serious. "I don't think God's going to punish you for something done in ignorance," she answered, "but if you do it again..." "I'll have to find another way." He lay down, saying to the ceiling, "Put on your nightgown, Katy. You'll be less of a temptation if you're covered." As she obeyed, he turned off the lamp. ****

272

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

The "other way" Sar chose was abstinence, throwing himself into the maintenance of the station, working so long and hard that at night, he was too tired to do anything but sleep. Desire hadn't a chance when his body was exhausted from overwork and long hours, screaming for sleep that was too short and restless when it did come, and he tossed and turned while Katy lay beside him and bit back tears of frustration and concern. **** Two weeks later, Katy was in the yard when she heard the familiar whine of a drone and looked up to see a small black craft flying toward the station. While she watched, it swooped, and fired a small cylinder which sped from its nose, circled, and landed a few yards from her. She ran to pick up the cylinder. The top flipped open, revealing a small silver canister. As she took it out, the cylinder closed itself, trembled in her hand, and took off, speeding through the air and returning to the drone which was circling above her. Katy looked up in time to see the little object re-enter the drone which circled once more, then gained altitude and flew back the way it had come. As she stood there, watching it disappear, Sar rode into the station yard. "Katy. Did that drone drop a package?"

273

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

She looked at him. "Yes." She held out the canister, and he slid from the elo's back and ran toward her, snatching it out of her hand. "What is it, Sar?" "A life-saver, that's what." He smiled, the first time he'd done so since the night at the river on the way to Zero. "Special Delivery from Doc Maxin." At supper that night, he was so anxious and fidgety even Hatch noticed, though the boy didn't say anything until Sar finished his meal, stood up and announced, "I'm going to bed. Don't be long, Katy," and stalked into the bedroom. "What's wrong wi' Pa?" he hissed in a whisper. Katy shook her head. She couldn't tell Hatch the reason. She'd been edgy, too, but for a different reason. Knowing how strange Sar had been acting lately and the fact that he hadn't touched her in almost two weeks now, she wasn't exactly sure she should be looking forward to tonight's lovemaking. "Katy," came the bellow through the bedroom door. "Hurry up!" She dumped the dishes in the sink and looked at Hatch. "II think your father needs tending to, Hatch." She touched the boy's arm lightly. "Lock up before you go to bed, will you?" She left him standing there, nodding, as she opened the door and went into the bedroom. **** Sar barely gave her time to shut the door. He didn't say anything, just picked her up and carried her to the bed. Clothes went flying and abruptly, they were in a tangle on the 274

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

sheets and he was kissing and touching her and Katy was enthusiastically responding. When she was ready for him, he pulled away and she began a protest, only to stifle it as she saw Sar pick up the canister sitting on the bedside table. Feeling she should treat this as nothing unusual, she didn't turn her head, but watched as he pressed the non-aerosol lever, sending a fine spray on white mist onto himself. It dried into a coating as fine and tight as a second skin. He set the canister down, and turned toward her so quickly she had time for only one gasp as he took her in his arms and slid into her. "Thank God for modern medicine!" she thought she heard him whisper just before he collapsed—climaxing in one breath and snoring in the next. She shook him awake with a sharp fist into his shoulder, demanding, "Sar—are you trying to kill yourself?" He roused, looked at her with a dazed expression, and muttered, "I think I may already be dead. What happened?" "This has gone far enough. What's going on?" "Wha'?" Shaking his head, he sat up, one hand to his temple as if he'd suddenly developed a headache. "You fell asleep. We make love for the first time in two weeks and you fell asleep. How could you?" "I-I..." He looked so dazed, she couldn't stay angry. "Oh, Sar." She sat up, putting her arms around him. Wearily, he leaned his forehead against her shoulder, and she felt him sliding into sleep again. She gave him a little shake. "Please. Tell me why you're exhausted. Why?" "Got a station to run..." came the slurred mumble. 275

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Hatch is here. Let him take over some of the responsibilities. He's old enough. Is there any law that says you have to be the one to make every decision, meet with every buyer, do everything?" She wasn't trying to be quiet, didn't care if Hatch heard. "What are you trying to prove? Please, tell me what this is all about." He pushed away from her, looking sleepily into her eyes. "Sorry, Katy, I-I dinna..." His voice trailed away. He looked down, saw the gleam of the contraceptive layer and began to pick at it, peeling it off and dropping it into the wastebasket by the bed. I'm trying to prove that I can take care of you. That I'm master of Three Moon. That I'm as strong and as young as that boy you love instead of me. He couldn't say that, wouldn't. He shook his head, and she pushed him onto the bed and began to stroke his forehead, brushing the damp hair back from his temples. "I think you should hire some men to help you." That got through his sleepiness. "What? Bring in some riders?" He looked a little more alert. "Why not? You can afford it. After all, you have a monopoly on breeding and selling elos. If you had riders, you'd have someone to do the roundups and handle the drives, and you could devote yourself strictly to training and gentling. That's the part you like best, isn't it? Three men— even that many would take some of the burden from you—I don't know why you haven't done it already." "They'd need a place to stay. We do na e'en have a barn now." 276

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"When you rebuild the barn, build a bunkhouse, too." "I could ride into Zero and see if any drifters are asking for jobs and there's always convict-labor. Would you be frightened to have Transportees here, Katy?" "Of course not," she declared, not wanting to think about it. What an irony. Transportees working for an ex-convict. "After all, they'll be cuffed, won't they?" "You're right, Katy. I am tired and I have been working too hard and I definitely can afford to relegate some work. Maybe it's time I became a station owner like Jos Singleton and let my men do the work for me." He pulled her against him and kissed her, a long, slow, sleepy kiss. "What would I do wi'out you to make me see these things, Sunshine?" Katy smiled, and returned the kiss. "Perhaps you'd like to re-think some other decisions you've made, too?" Sar didn't answer. "After all," she went on, "I never said I didn't want a baby—" A soft husky exhaling—not quite a snore—was her only answer. **** The next day, he told Katy he'd made a decision. "While we're at the Singleton's party, I'll ask some of the other settlers to help me, and we'll see about building that bathing room you want, Katy, and a bunkhouse while we're at it, too." He seemed so excited and happy that when he put his arms around her and swung her up onto the table, she didn't 277

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

fight him, just laughed and let him push her backward so she was lying against its flat surface. "Now, Sunshine. I have you exactly where I want you." The aqua eyes were as brilliant as his smile. "Sar, let me up." She gave a half-hearted protest, secretly delighted at seeing him acting more like his old self. "I have dinner to cook." "Na cooking. You're going to be the main course." She was wearing one of the dresses he'd bought her, an ankle-length, sleeveless garment, whose low, round neckline gave him easy access to her breasts, and since Katy still had no underwear, no matter whether his hands went into the neck of the dress or under its skirt, all he found was bare warm Katy and nothing more, and that was the way he wanted it. Now, as he caught her skirts and slid them above her knees, she began to laugh, almost tempted to remind him of his decision, fearing that mention of it would quell his desire. "I must be totally insane to let you do this." "Aye," he agreed, leaning against her and beginning to rock slightly, "but 'tis a lovely madness, is it na?" Katy had to agree that it was. **** Some days, Katy felt totally mad with happiness and the joy of being with Sar, and other days, as now, while she stood in the hot, stuffy kitchen, she just felt mad. She pushed her hair out of her face, feeling it sticking to her neck, as the sweat slowly trickled down her back. She was beginning to 278

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

feel a little sick from the heat, the room stifling, as if the air were being displaced. She couldn't breathe... Filling a cup from the pump, she drank it greedily but as soon as the cold water hit her stomach, she knew it had been the wrong thing to do. Added to the dizziness and the suffocating heat was a sudden pang of nausea. The room began to spin, there was a loud ringing... Staggering to the door, Katy nearly fell onto the porch. She reached for one of the supports holding up the roof, clinging to it. Looking up, she saw Hatch running toward her, bare chest gleaming in the sunlight, then he was blotted out by a cloud of stars. The roaring was deafening, the stars blindingly bright... Everything went black and Hatch caught her just in time to keep her from pitching head-first off the porch. **** She awoke in the bedroom with the smell of burned feathers—a Gadja remedy for fainting—floating about her, and Hatch washing her face with a damp cloth. He'd unbuttoned her dress to insure that she could breathe easily and Katy did just that, inhaling quickly as she opened her eyes. "Are you all right?" He took the cloth off her forehead. "Yes. I just got a little too hot. The kitchen is almost unbearable." "Maybe we'd better start eating cold food," he suggested. 279

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"It might not be a bad idea. At least until the weather cools a little." "Can you sit up?" He caught her arms, pulling her upright. Katy wavered a moment, then swung her feet over the side of the bed. "I'm okay now." Hand on her arm, Hatch followed her out of the bedroom. At the door, he stopped and looked back at her. "Guess I'd better get back to work—if you're sure you're okay?" She nodded, and began to button her dress. She patted the hand still on her arm. "Thank you, Hatch." At that moment, Sar came out of the barn, carrying an armful of bridles. He stopped, staring in surprise at sight of his wife with her dress open and his son standing with one hand possessively on her arm. Neither of them knew he was there until they heard the jingle of the bits as they were thrown into the dirt. Sar leaped onto the porch, seizing Hatch by the collar, dragging him away from Katy and into the yard, striking the boy across the face with his fist. "Stay away from her, you young de'il. Keep your hands off m'wife." He knocked the boy down, landing on his chest, knees pinning his arms to the dirt, backhanding again and again across the dark face, and as the skin split and the blood spurted, Sar went wild. Hatch made no move to fight back, didn't even struggle, just lay there taking the punishment, while Katy pounded on his back, screaming over and over, "Sar! Stop it! Stop! You're going to kill him! Sar!" 280

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Her words got through to him. His raised fist stopped in mid-air and he looked from the battered boy beneath him— his son, his child, whom he'd never touched in anger—to the sobbing young woman clinging to his arm. Sar lurched to his feet, away from Hatch's body and saw the boy try to sit up, rolling over to bury his bloody face against his arm, shoulders shaking in pain. He caught Katy by the arm and dragged her up the steps and into the house, throwing over his shoulder, "I'll be back to settle wi' you later." Inside, he released her, slinging her away from him. With a yowl of fright, Snowflake leaped from her bed by the fireplace, scampering for the safety of the bedroom as Katy collided with the table, straightened, and turned on him. "What's the matter with you? Have you gone crazy? You might have killed him." "Aye, I'm crazy." He took a step toward her and was gratified to see her cringe backward. "Crazy as any man might be when he sees his wife and his son making a cuckold of him!" "What?" She stared at him as if she thought he'd truly lost his mind. "What are you talking about?" "Did you think you could do it practically before m'eyes and I'd na see, Katy?" "See what?" All she could think of was Hatch lying in the dirt, bleeding. "You and him—on the porch, your dress open, your tits showing..." He was so angry he was barely able to speak. 281

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"My—" Sudden understanding showed in her face—and disbelief. "You mean ... just now? Me buttoning my dress? That? That's why you beat Hatch so?" She screamed the words. "Aye, that's—" "You stupid, stupid fool!" She flew at him, striking him on the chest. Sar staggered backward, then recovered and caught her wrists, his greater strength subduing her fury. Katy slumped against him, shaking her head. "You're wrong, Sar. Oh, God, how wrong you are!" "If I'm so wrong, explain what you were really doing then, if na coming straight from m'bedroom wi' him." He couldn't bear to speak his son's name. "We were coming from the bedroom," she began and at the sudden color that came into his face, "but not for the reason you want to think." For the first time, he looked confused. "I'm waiting." "I-it was hot in the kitchen." She took a deep trembling breath, attempting to control her own anger. "So hot that I-I nearly fainted—did faint in fact. I went out onto the porch and blacked out. Hatch carried me into the bedroom. My dress was open because he unbuttoned it to make sure I got enough air." She turned away, unable to look at him. "If he hadn't been there, I'd have fallen off the porch and hit my head and maybe killed myself." "Oh, God!" He caught her by the shoulders, turning her to face him. "Katy, there's na been anything between you and the boy? Ne'er?" She shook her head. 282

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Look at me." The blue eyes swung toward his face. "Say it. Swear. There's nothing between you and Hatch." "Hatch is my stepson." She bit off each word as if she couldn't bear to have them in her mouth. "I'm your wife and even if I loathed the ground you walked on—as I feel at this minute that I should—I'd never betray you with him or any man." He released her so suddenly she staggered. She leaned against the table, supporting herself with one hand. "Katy, I'm sorry." "I think you'd better go to your son, Mr. Trant," her voice was cold, "and beg his forgiveness." He stood there staring at her a moment longer, then bolted for the door. Katy watched him run down the steps. How could Sar think such a thing? Now, his strange behavior made sense. What did Hatch and I do to make him believe that— If only it hadn't been so hot. If only she hadn't felt faint. Even now, she could feel the heat pressing in on her, the nausea rising in her throat, and—it wasn't the heat that was making her feel so sick. She'd felt this way for almost a week, nauseated as she cooked, the smells of foods that had never bothered her before almost overpowering. Katy raised her head and stared at nothing with shockfilled eyes. Oh, God. I'm pregnant. Her period was late. She had told herself it would come next week, but next week came and went and another week and another week—Sar never mentioned it again, maybe he thought it had happened while he'd avoided her. Now it was 283

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

two months since their belated wedding night. How long ago it seemed—though right now, she couldn't believe that the man who'd been so gentle with her was the same one who minutes before had tried to beat his own son to death. You'll leave and take a part of his life with you and he'll never know ... This was what Tulera meant, for Katy realized that she couldn't tell Sar about the baby. If he knew, he'd fight to keep her here. He'd never let her go. I can't be pregnant. I don't know anything about having a baby. It was just a little too late for that excuse, wasn't it? Snowflake peeped out the bedroom room, saw her mistress, and launched herself into Katy's lap. Clutching the kitten tightly, Katy pressed her face into the white fur and began to cry. **** Sar found Hatch in the shell of the barn, lying on the floor. The boy raised his battered face as he came inside. One eye was nearly closed, the skin of his left cheek split in a jagged star. The whole side of his face was covered with blood which still dripped onto his shirt, but Hatch did nothing to staunch the wounds, just sat there, bleeding and watching his father. "You thought I'd been to bed wi' Katy." His mouth painfully shaped the words. "I know now I was wrong, lad. Katy explained." "Did she?" Hatch wavered slightly, nearly losing his balance, putting out one hand against a hay bale. 284

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

When Sar touched his shoulder, he flinched and cried out. Sar pulled him away from the bale, cradling Hatch's injured face against his shoulder. Gently, he began to rock the boy. "In twenty years, I've ne'er raised m'hand to you, and now—" He stopped, touching fingers to the battered cheek. Hatch winced. "Why did you na fight me?" A painful shrug. "You're my Pa." "'Tis been a long time since I've held you this way, lad." He got to his feet, one arm around the shaking shoulders, leading Hatch toward the doorway. Katy was standing on the porch. She came down the steps to meet them, reaching out for Hatch. "I'll take him." "He needs doctoring. I'll—" "You'll go back to work." Her voice was cold. "I'll take care of him." She turned her back on him, leading Hatch toward the house. Not speaking, the boy leaned against her as they went up the steps. Sar watched as they went inside the house, then stalked to where Junkar stood in the corral. Silently, he saddled and bridled the mare, mounted and rode out of the station yard. [Back to Table of Contents]

285

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Chapter Twenty-One Sar didn't return until evening. He spent a pain-filled afternoon, riding through the meadows, mentally whipping himself for his treatment of Hatch, remembering how much his son had trusted him ... how, as young as he had been, he knew he had to make certain the boy knew he was loved and his father never hated him for his mixed blood. For twenty years, he'd reared his son with love and understanding, and in five minutes destroyed it all with his unreasoning jealousy. At last, he knew he had to go home. It was getting dark, Junkar was restless for her oats, and he had to face his wife and his son. **** Katy had treated Hatch's face, brewed him some herb tea which were guaranteed to make him sleep, and put the boy to bed, unrolling his blankets and making him lie down. Then, she went back to the kitchen and finished cooking the evening meal. She'd known Sar had a temper. After all, he'd nearly fought with Alwin Marsten at the auction, but he'd never gotten angry with her, and goodness knows, in the beginning, he'd often had occasion to. It was still difficult for her to reconcile the man she loved with the raging beast who'd beaten Hatch so. He'd been furious, but he'd been in control until the skin on Hatch's cheek had broken and he'd seen the blood... 286

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Was that why he'd been sent to Tritomis, because of those murderous rages? Had he nearly killed someone and gotten arrested? She didn't want to know. Didn't want to think about it, but she knew that, inevitably, she would. Even when the sun went down and the moons rose in the sky, she didn't wonder where he was or worry that he might not be all right. She checked on Hatch, found him awake, and helped him get up and walk to the table, realizing that though the boy's face was cut and bruised, he wasn't badly hurt. Hatch was young. His body would heal easily but his soul ... how long would it take that to recover from his father's distrust? A sound in the doorway made her look up. Sar stood there. He took a step inside and stopped, as if expecting her to hurl something at him and drive him away. Instead, Katy said, "Come sit down. I have your dinner ready." Silently, he obeyed, but when she set the plate before him and they all three sat there, neither looking at the other, his fist came down on the table so violently the dishes in the cabinet clattered. "This'll stop right now. Look at me, both of you." Two pairs of eyes turned in his direction. "I was wrong. I'm a jealous man who's too aware of the difference between m'age and m'wife's. I've wronged you two and I na expect either of you to forgi' me. Hatch—" He looked at the boy, saw that it took an effort for his son not to flinch and look away. "If you want to leave here, go to 287

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

another station, or e'en leave the planet, I'll gi' you the fare. Katy," the aquamarine gaze turned to her, "in the morning, I'll take you to the Marshal to make your complaint. It'll be na problem to have our marriage dissolved. Y-you have ample grounds." For a moment, neither answered. Then, hesitantly, Hatch said, "Pa, I-I do na want to leave. Three Moon's my home—I love you, Pa." In that moment, Sar wanted to hug the boy. "I see my son's forgi'en me." Sar looked at Katy, "—and you, Sunshine?" "As for what's between you and me—" Katy met the aqua eyes squarely. "We'll finish this meal and Hatch will go back to bed. Then you and I will settle this, in private—and it will be settled, Sarkin Trant, this night." He didn't answer, just bowed his head in agreement, lifted his fork and began to eat. Slowly, Hatch and Katy did the same. Hatch ate very little. His mouth was so bruised it hurt for him to chew. Katy spooned the liquid off the vegetables and— with a look at Sar that dared him to say anything—poured it into a cup which she held to the boy's mouth, making certain he drank it all. When they finished, Katy helped Hatch back to his room. Shutting the door, she cleared away the dishes, set everything in the sink and, giving Sar a silent stare, walked into the bedroom. After a few minutes, he followed her. **** 288

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Once inside, Katy slapped him. As hard as she could. "That's for Hatch! And me." He reeled with the blow, turning his head. When he straightened, she saw that his mouth was bleeding, blood trickling from one corner. "Will you look at that blood and attack me, too?" He smeared away the blood with a finger, wiping it on his jeans, but didn't look at it. "You know." "I don't know anything, Sar. Except that you attacked your son but you didn't want to kill him until you saw his blood. Why?" "Katy—" He held out his hands, dropped them helplessly, as if he couldn't explain. "Oh, Sar." Sobbing, she put her arms around him, and abruptly, was unbuttoning his shirt, pulling it off, struggling with the four-prong belt and the jeans, stripping him, flinging clothes everywhere. Pushing him into the bed, she pulled the dress over her head and tossed it violently onto the floor and climbed into bed beside him. She took him in her arms, holding his head against her breast. "Now—tell me." "About the blood or why I was so jealous?" His words were muffled against her skin. "Either or both. Whichever you think will make me stay with you." "The telling'll shame me—" "If you want me badly enough, you'll accept a little shaming."

289

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

He was silent, thinking about that. At last, he pulled away from her and lay down. Katy did also, head on the pillow. She took Sar's hand, gripping it tightly. "All I saw was his youth and yours, and how much older I am. The innocent little things you did together my jealous mind made into love-play and when I saw you come out of the house together, I thought it confirmed my fears." "You're a fool." "Aye, a fool, and I deserve to lose both of you. I love you, Katy. That's my only excuse." "Well, you're a lucky fool, Sarkin Trant, b-because I love you, too." There, she'd said it, tied herself to him, made the parting when it came even more difficult. "And that's the only reason I'm going to forgive you." He sat up. "Is it the truth? You love me?" "I said it, didn't I?" She was in his arms, and she felt one hand caress her back. "No," she pushed him away. "There'll be none of that tonight. We're going to get this all talked out and never mention it again. You'll not love me tonight. I love you, Sar, but at this moment, I don't like you at all." Piling the pillows against the headboard, he leaned against them and accepted her decision. "About the blood..." He stopped, as if trying to decide how to begin. "'Tis called the Singing. The Bloodsong. 'Tis a gift from that Arcanian Noble who also graced us wi' his red hair—a taint handed down from his barbarian ancestors. Only the men have it and not all of them." His hand sought hers, fingers entwining. 290

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"When they were warriors, 'twas a thing to be desired. It made them able to fight on and on wi'out feeling their wounds. Sight of blood spilled sent the viewer mad wi' rage, destroying every living thing around him. When they became more civilized, they tried to hide it because they were ashamed. Pa said there's a special squad of men in the Arcanian armed forces, the Blood Guard, who have the Singing. The Margrave calls them out when he wishes there to be na survivors of an attack." He sighed and said quietly, as if the sentence would condemn him, "Pa had the Singing and he prayed to God that I wouldna. God dinna grant his wish." "I-is it any blood or just that seen during battle?" "I didna react when you bit me. Remember? You could cut your finger and it wouldna bother me but if we were arguing violently and you did it, I-I'd become uncontrollable." He looked away again. "'Tis why I carry a shock-bolt in my quirt. It doesna break the skin." Katy shivered at the matter-of-fact way he said it. "Well, forewarned is forearmed," she murmured. "I'll have to make sure I don't have any bleeding wounds the next time we have a fight." "You can laugh about this? 'Tis glad I am that someone can." "Sometimes it's the only way, Sar." "God, I'm such a fool." She looked over at the crucifix hanging on the wall. "You're Catholic, aren't you, Sar?" 291

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

A quick, bitter laugh. "About as lapsed as you can get. But—aye—Ma insisted on having me christened in her Faith. Why?" "Let this be your penance—every morning for the next month, you look at me and your son and say that sentence ... God, I'm such a fool." Releasing Sar's hand, Katy rolled over and forced herself to go to sleep. [Back to Table of Contents]

292

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Chapter Twenty-Two "Come on, Katy. Are you going to stay in there all day?" Katy opened the bedroom door and danced out, stopping before Sar, skirts swaying. "How do I look?" "Beautiful." He caught her hand, twirling her around. "Like a jade water lily. Sandalia Singleton's dress fits you perfectly." "I'd like to register a protest about the way we're going to the party," she commented, putting her hands on his shoulders and turning him around to slide the black ribbon she held under the long hair and tie it neatly just past his shoulders, the waves hanging down his back. "I'm really not looking forward to riding all that way in the wagon." "We could always go on elo-back," Sar suggested, fidgeting as she smoothed the bow. "Damn, Katy, do I have to have my hair clubbed?" "Yes, I'm not going to have one of Jos Singleton's riders mistake you for a woman and ask you to dance." Hatch snickered and Sar shot him a narrowed aqua gaze. "Your time's coming." "I don't know if I could tolerate riding in the wagon, either," she went on, releasing the bow, and looking at the long copper fall of hair. "I'd think you'd be an expert on long spells in the saddle by now." The words were muttered under his breath. She came around in front of him. "What do you mean?" 293

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"As much riding as you and I do, Love?" He dodged, throwing up his hands theatrically as Katy began to hit his arm. "Sar, how could you? And in front of the child?" She couldn't help laughing, and looking at Hatch, saw the boy's turn away, trying desperately to smother his laughter. She began to tie Hatch's hair also, gathering the thick black strands and twisting them into a short braid, letting the rest of his hair fall free below the knot. As she did so, she saw that like his father, Hatch had turquoises in his left ear—three of them—something she'd never noticed before because they were hidden by the boy's hair. What do they mean? Hatch has never committed a crime. Sar and Hatch were exchanging glances and smiling. For almost a month, the two had been walking around each other as if treading on eggshells. Tonight was the first night they'd seemed normal again and Katy was almost weak with relief. It was also the first time Sar had teased Katy. Even at night when they were alone, he acted so distant, practically begging her permission before making love to her and once had even pulled away from her to roll over and go to sleep, never completing the act. Perhaps now it'll be like it used to be. Sar was talking again. "Do na worry, Katy. 'Tis too hot to make you ride in the wagon. Your dress'd be wilted before we get there. As for riding an elo, you'd be too tired to dance. We'll be going to Singleton's another way." "How?" she demanded, stepping away from Hatch. "Are we going to fly?" 294

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"That we are. We're going in the Drone." "Who's going to pilot it?" She'd almost forgotten about the little machine. Sar hadn't mentioned it since that first day in Zero. "I am." He made it sound as if the answer should have been obvious. "You?" "Want to see my license?" She didn't answer, just continued to look skeptical, winking at Hatch. Sar turned away, searching through the papers on the lamp table. "'Tis here somewhere—" He looked on the mantle, then turned to the bookcase, running fingers over the tops of books, selected one, opened it and pulled out a small card he'd been using as a bookmark. "Here." He handed it to Katy. "This is to certify that—" She stopped, looking up at him in surprise. "You're a combat pilot? How?" "There's a Federation Training Field near Callameya. Once a year, they hold instruction for the settlers. If Tritomis ever goes to war, I'm ready." He held out another card. "So's Hatch. He's been certified since he was sixteen." She glanced at the boy's license. "I'm impressed. So, you're flying tonight?" "Aye." Sar took her by the arm, leading her out of the house, Hatch trailing behind. "The way Hatch flies, we're liable to wind up in a taluhuta tree somewhere, especially since he's in such a dith to get there and see Crissa." "I am na," Hatch denied. "Nay? Then why have you taken two showers today?" 295

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"'Tis hot." "—and shaved twice, when God knows, being Gadja, you've na need to do it but once a month? Oh, he's been sweet on Crissa a long time, Katy." Sar lowered his voice confidentially. "Since they were children." "I have na." "Used to follow him everywhere, she did." Sar was enjoying Hatch's distress, smiling at the boy. "She was a pest," Hatch declared. "Every time Pa'd take me over there, she was always in the way." "And you enjoyed every minute of it," Sar accused. "Why, e'en before we moved to Three Moon, you were always wi' her." "Where else was I supposed to be?" Hatch demanded. "She's Mrs. Singleton's daughter and Mrs. Singleton was taking care of me." "Boys, no fighting," Katy interrupted. "Let's get the Drone and let me see just how well you can fly her, Mr. Combat Pilot." **** They reached Singleton's in an hour, after which Katy swore she'd never tease Sar about his flying skill again. He set the little machine down in the clearing, helped Katy out and walked with her and Hatch toward the station yard where they could see a dance-floor set up, petrolanterns strung across the yard, lighting the entire area as bright as daytime. "Hatch!" 296

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

A pretty blonde girl in a red dress ran toward them. Hatch caught her around the waist, swinging her off the ground as she threw her arms about his neck. He set her down and they walked away, Sar and Katy forgotten. "Doesna care about her, huh?" Sar muttered. "The least he could have done was introduce his stepmother." "Sar?" He turned to see a small plump woman, who hugged him about the waist and presented her cheek to be kissed which he did with the air of a dutiful son. "This must be Katy." "It'd better be," Sar replied, laughing, "or my wife is going to be after me wi' a quirt. Katy, this is Sandalia Singleton." As Katy murmured a greeting, he went on, "Would you take care of Katy for me, Sandalia? I want to talk to Jos a moment." As Sar disappeared, Sandalia caught Katy's arm, pulling the girl toward a long table filled with buffet dishes. "You don't know how much I've been wanting to meet you, my dear. After the way Sarkin kept talking about you while he was here, I've just been on pins and needles wanting to see this paragon." "Paragon?" Katy stammered. "M-me?" Sandalia nodded. "According to my boy, you're a bit of heaven come to this planet, an angel in disguise, a fairyqueen sent to bewitch him." "Did Sar really say all that?" "And more." Sandalia laughed, patting Katy's arm. "Oh, it's so good to see him married at last." Her voice fell to a 297

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

whisper. "I've always felt it wasn't good for him to be alone, raising Hatch by himself the way he insisted on doing." "I think he's done a very good job of it," Katy answered defensively. "Yes, I agree, but as young as Sar is, he needs someone. To be frank, my dear, I hated to see all that manhood go to waste." As Katy blushed, as much for Sar as for herself, and Sandalia went on, "I suppose you think I shouldn't say such things but I helped raise Hatch and took care of Sarkin, too, so I think I've almost as much right as his own mother to worry about his welfare." "That's right, he worked for your husband, didn't he?" Katy looked around, saw Sar standing with a group of men, Jos Singleton among them. "I'll tell you the truth—I wouldn't have given a Federation Dollar for the chances of those two getting along alone," Sandalia confessed. "I guess he's done all right, hasn't he? For a Freedman." "Freedman. Who told you Sarkin's a Freely?" Sandalia's voice rose in surprise. "Did he say that?" She clucked her tongue and shook her head. "If he did, he's fooling you, dear. Sarkin Trant is a settler. Just like my husband." He'd said that, hadn't he? Told her so, almost defensively, that night she'd accused him of being so honest. "I'm sorry," Katy answered, "I'm a little hazy on distinctions here. What's a settler?" "It's someone who came to Tristomis to homestead, bought land and built a farm or a station. A settler has no 298

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Federation crime-record. You can tell which ones they are by the turquoise ear-stones." She nodded toward the group of men. "My Jos's wearing his tonight because it's a special occasion—" Katy saw that Jos Singleton's left ear was decorated with a single stone. "—usually he doesn't wear it. Says it's a bother." "But if Sar—Isn't it unusual for a fourteen-year-old to be allowed passage alone?" "Sar didn't come here. He was born here. His ear-stones indicate that he's the child of a settler, just as Hatch's do." Where are you from, Sar? Tritomis. 'Tis my home. Katy shook her head. "This is too confusing. You knew Sar's parents?" Sandalia picked up a plate from the table, filling it with little delicacies. "Sarkin's father was Arcanian. He had a fearsome temper though you'd never know it except when that wicked Singing was upon him. One day, he broke some Noble's head for him, and got exiled. He came here—Arcanis doesn't register Exiles as Federation criminals—hired out to Jos and worked long enough to save the money to buy Three Moon." She handed the plate to Katy who selected a sandwich and bit into it. "Then, he fell in love with Maire Deoridh. She was the school teacher in Zero, had just come in from New Edinburgh, on Mars. Andrus took one look and lost his heart completely. Do you know anything about the Arcanian Law of Exile, Katy?" 299

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

She shook her head. "An Exile has no rights whatsoever. He can't even get married without his sovereign's permission. So, Andrus petitioned the Margrave and got his consent. The next year, he sent another petition—this time asking to be allowed to have a child." "What?" Katy couldn't believe it. Sandalia nodded. "The Margrave must have been in a good mood. Usually petitions are ignored for years. Andrus' were both granted within months. Sarkin owes his existence to the Margrave's generosity." Katy looked at Sar again. If the ruler of his father's planet had been in a less generous frame of mind, he wouldn't have been born, and she wouldn't be standing here, watching him, and feeling so much love she could barely stand it. "When did his parents die?" "When Sar was ten. There was a fever. Andrus was taking care of Maire Deoridh and Sar and trying to run the station, too." She shook her head. "It was too much for him. Sar's like him in that way, won't ask for help. Jos rode over to see how they were doing, found Maire Deoridh dead and Andrus unconscious with the fever. He died a few hours later." She sighed. "He buried them and brought Sar here." She picked up a sandwich and took a bite. "We offered to let him live here but he insisted on working for his keep, so Jos hired him on as a rider, and then—Hatch came along. When he went back to Three Moon, I didn't think he'd be successful. Look how wrong I was." She smiled. "And now, he has a wife and a new family. When's your baby due?" 300

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Katy nearly dropped the plate. "H-how did you know?" Sandalia placed a gentle hand on her arm. "Katy, when a woman's had three of her own, she can tell." "I—Sar doesn't know yet." "Then I won't say anything. That's a privilege no one should cheat a woman out of—telling her man he's going to be a father." For a moment, Katy wanted to cry. He'll never know. You'll take part of his life with you and he'll never know— Sandalia was looking past her. "Would you excuse me a moment? I see someone I'd like you to meet. Be right back." She walked away. Katy began to pick at the salad on the plate. Behind her, two women were filling plates, chattering quietly. She wasn't deliberately listening to what they were saying, wouldn't have paid any attention at all if she hadn't heard Hatch's name. "I think it's scandalous the way Crissa Singleton's throwing herself at Hatch Trant." "Why not? He's certainly good-looking." "But, Glynis—" Katy turned so that she could see them out of the corner of her eye. The speaker, a short plump woman, was filling a punch cup. "He's a halfbreed." "Maybe so," Glynis, a tall brunette, smiled as she sampled a bite of cake, "but he has his father's looks." Katy found that she was gripping her plate tightly, wanting to turn around and blast the plump woman for her prejudice. "Admit it, Nedra." Glynis finished the little cake, licking her fingers. "If anyone looking a little bit like Sarkin Trant had 301

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

chased you when you were available, you wouldn't have run very fast—halfbreed or not." "Glynis!" Nedra sounded shocked. She picked up a sandwich. "Don't tell me you wouldn't like to find out if what they say about Gadja men is true." There was a teasing smile on Glynis' face as she looked sideways at the other woman. "I think it's brazen of Trant to insist on raising the boy as if he were one of us," Nedra began. "Speaking of Sar—" Glynis interrupted. "I hear he's married now." "What?" This was obviously a surprise to Nedra. "Yes." Glynis lowered her voice. "Got a wife at the last Consignment Sale—some pretty little Piece of Light, I imagine—" She set down her cup and began to nibble daintily at a sandwich. "I must say, it's about time," Nedra declared with something akin to relief. "I always thought there was something ... unnatural ... about him hiding away on that station like he did. I was beginning to wonder if he was—you know, strange..." "Sar? Strange?" Glynis' laugh was complacent. "I think I can safely assure you that there's definitely nothing strange about Sarkin Trant. He's one hundred percent male." There was a smirk in her voice and definitely one on her face. Katy wanted to turn and slap her. Desperately, she wished Sandalia Singleton would return. Where is she? "Oh, that's right—you kept company with him before you married Austin, didn't you?" 302

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Glynis nodded. "He was very disappointed, of course—used to hang around our farm when Austin wasn't there." She sighed, loudly and artificially, lowering her voice. "He didn't want it to end just because I was married but Austin is so jealous, I was afraid he'd find out. Not that anything happened," she added quickly in a tone indicating the exact opposite. "Of course not." Nedra looked knowing, something like a leer in her bright eyes. "It took all my willpower to tell him to go away." "Here we are." Sandalia was back, with someone in tow. "And I find out you two already know each other." "Katy?" Katy raised her head, looking at the woman beside Sandalia. "Cilla." She was hugged tightly, as the two women behind her stopped talking. "Sandalia, won't you introduce us?" "Of course." Sandalia put a hand on Katy's arm, indicating the brunette. "This is Glynis Tate and Nedra Tower. Their husbands are farmers over by the Crown River—" "Settlers," Nedra stressed the word to make certain Katy understood that neither spouse had been a convict, adding, "as our fathers were. Glynis and I are cousins." Sandalia introduced Cilla, then indicated Katy, "This is Kathleen, Sarkin Trant's wife."

303

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Really?" Glynis looked slightly surprised. "Why, w-we were just talking about you—about Sar's getting married, I mean." "Yes," Katy answered. "I know." "T-tell me," Nedra stammered, realizing that Katy had probably heard everything they'd said. "H-how do you like living at Three Moon?" "Quite frankly?" Katy fixed them both with a hostile stare. "I'm enjoying both Three Moon and my husband very much. All one hundred percent of him." Glynis winced. "In fact," she went on, "I think I can safely say that I'm the light of his life." Cheeks flaming, Glynis looked over Katy's head. "Would you excuse us, Sandalia? I see Austin—come on, Nedra." Seizing her cousin's arm, she dragged her away. "Did I sense an undercurrent of dislike there?" Sandalia frowned. "There was no undercurrent at all," Katy replied. "I thought I was very open about it." That got a laugh. "I'm not surprised. Glynis and Nedra are noted for their sharp tongues. I imagine they said something they shouldn't have a little too loudly, didn't they?" "Exactly." Sandalia squeezed Katy's hand. "I like you, Katy. I'm glad you married Sar." She turned and patted Cilla's shoulder. "Will you two excuse me? I've got to play hostess now and I'm sure you've got lots to talk about." 304

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

As she left, Katy turned to Cilla eagerly. "Oh, Cilla, it's so good to see you again." "All of me?" she patted the protruding belly. "I suppose it's scandalous for me to get pregnant this quick but—I never believed in love at first sight until I saw Abel." She caught Katy's arm. "Oh, Katy, I love him so—it just seemed the most Natural thing in the world to have his baby as soon as I could." Katy hugged her again. "Cilla, I'm so happy for you. Thank you for sending me the kitten. I call her Snowflake." Before Cilla could answer, a voice behind them said, "I don't believe it. It's Old Home Week." Jessie stood near the musicians' stand. A very changed Jessie. The short blonde hair was longer, pulled back and braided at the nape of her neck. She was wearing a blue dress similar to Cilla's—too similar, the front of Jessie's dress also bulging at stomach-level. "Go on and say it," she ordered, as she saw the surprise on their faces. "Old Jessie got caught." She sighed as she came over to join them. "We'd barely got inside the house before that Bear jumped my bones. Lord, what a man." She nodded at the sandwich Katy held. "Say, are you going to eat that? No? May I—?" Katy handed it to her and Jessie went on talking as she munched on the sandwich. "Actually, Lars is a teddy bear. The sweetest man I've ever met. He can't do enough for me. Especially now." She held up one hand, pinkie extended. 305

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"I've got him wrapped around my little finger." Jessie glanced toward her husband, standing almost a head taller than everyone else. "Unfortunately, he's got me the same way." She looked back at the two women. "Girls, Old Jessie has met her match." In a few minutes, Cilla and Jessie were exchanging pregnancy complaints and symptoms. Katy stood silent, feeling left out until Jessie looked at her, "How about you, Katy? Any little bun in the oven yet?" Katy flushed and shook her head, not daring to answer out loud, feeling wicked for lying. "Funny—" Jessie looked disappointed. "I'd have thought that redhead had enough juice to get you preggy by just looking at you." She glanced toward Sar who was saying something to Jos. "Lord, he's a looker, isn't he?" Katy turned redder, and Cilla said, "Careful, Jessie. You might make Katy jealous." "No, I'm not jealous," Katy assured her, and smiled at Jessie. "Sar and I are just waiting until we get to know each other better before we have a baby." "Hell, Katy, getting to know each other better usually causes you to have a baby." That made her laugh and they stood there a few minutes longer until Cilla, looking around, asked, "Where's Hatch?" "Hatch?" Jessie's ears perked up. "Who's Hatch?" "Sar's son," Katy supplied. "He's got a kid?" Jessie looked surprised. "Some little toddler, huh?" 306

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Katy nodded toward the dance floor where Hatch and Crissa were standing, holding hands. "Him?" Jessie gawked. "That gorgeous piece of young manhood's your stepson? My God, he's as old as you are, Katy." "He's twenty." "But how—?" "It's a long story, Jessie," Katy shrugged, "and I don't have time to tell you right now. Perhaps later." "Oooh—" Jessie shivered dramatically. "You've got two good-looking men and all I've got is a big black bear. It just isn't fair." Hugging them both, Katy made them promise to get their husbands to bring them to Three Moon, and hurried over to where Sar stood. "As much as I hate to admit it, Sar, you may be right," she heard Jos Singleton say, "though it sounds conceited for me to think I might be important enough to warrant a revenge attack." "Hell, admit it, Jos," Sar answered. "You're the richest settler around Zero. You've got the most land, most stock and you're the most generous—who else would they attack? Who else's friends would be harassed?" There was an agreeing murmur from the others and Katy touched Sar's arm. He looked around at her and smiled, putting his arm around her and pulling her forward. "Gentlemen, this is m'wife, Katy." Quickly, he introduced them, each muttering a greeting and touching his first two 307

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

fingers to the brim of his hat. "I think it's time to end this discussion for now. After all this is a party and I've neglected m'wife long enough." With a nod to the others, he led Katy to the dance floor. The musicians were playing something slow and soft. Sar nodded toward them. "Some of Jos's riders. His men are multi-talented." "I know," she smiled. "After all, you were one of them once, weren't you?" That made him laugh. He looked around, saw Hatch and Crissa on the other side of the dance floor. "Hatch appears to be having a good time." Looking extremely graceful, the boy was guiding Crissa in the steps of the dance with remarkable ease. "I think he'd be happy with Crissa no matter where he was," Katy said. The music changed. "An old-fashioned waltz." Sar listened a moment, then nodded in satisfaction. "Aye, I think I can handle that." "You dance, too?" She made her voice incredulous. "Ma'am, you na aware of half of what I can do," he declared, leading her onto the dance floor. "Just wait 'til you really get to know me." "Oh, Lord—do I dare?" Being held by Sar in public made her clumsy. She stepped on his toes, and stumbled. "Why, Mrs. Trant. You willna be telling me you've na been trained in the gentle art of dancing?" "Sorry. I can't seem to get the rhythm." 308

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"You've na had trouble establishing a rhythm wi' me before." She blushed, and stepped on his toes again. "Ow. A simple kick in the shins would've been gentler, Sunshine." "Just watch your tongue then." That was definitely the wrong thing to say. "Oh, I intend to. I promise I'll keep it inside my mouth tonight—at least until I get home." She looked up at him suspiciously. "Have you been at the tarra beer already?" "Na a drop, Love." One hand released hers to touch his heart. "I swear. 'Tis just your presence making me reckless." He took her hand again and deftly, gracefully guided her across the floor. He was a very good dancer, Katy had to admit that. For someone so tall and big, he moved as lightly and confidently as a cat—not that Sar anywhere neared Lars deGroot's height and weight, and that man also was lightfooted, she noticed, seeing him and Jessie nearby. On a dance floor Lars was nothing like the great bear he resembled. When the music paused a moment, she realized she was out of breath. "Where'd you learn to dance anyway?" "M'maithir taught me. She had some vague idea that one day I'd leave here and felt 'twas something I'd need to know. Maybe she thought I was going to become some kind of paid lover who'd hang out in bars and romance women until I found some rich old lady to keep me." 309

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

As Sar took her in his arms again, Katy realized that Maire Deoridh had been only too realistic. With his looks and the charm that could overwhelm one when it was turned on full force, Sarkin Trant could have been very successful in that line of work. "Who taught Hatch?" she asked, looking around for the boy. He and Crissa were still dancing, though once in a while, some other young man would cut in. Hatch allowed them to dance for a moment, before reclaiming her again and each time Crissa bestowed a brilliant smile upon him that made the boy's face shine. "I did—and do na laugh," he ordered. "'Twas an embarassment to both of us—me holding him in m'arms and letting him lead. I've thanked God a thousand times no one saw." The music stopped. "Rondetta, Rondetta!" someone called, clapping. Sar groaned. "Ah, nay." "What is it?" "Do you na hear? They're going to dance the Rondetta." "So?" "'Tis a Gadja dance—the way to insure that everyone has a dance-partner. All the men dance by themselves, then choose the lady they wish to dance wi'." "Are you going to—" "Nay. After dancing the Rondetta, a man's too tired to do anything else." The music began, very fast, very loud. 310

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Everyone was backing off the dance floor, clearing it as a lone young man walked to the center. Josh, Jos Singleton's youngest son. The others began to clap and the music grew louder, as Josh began to dance. Clapping along with the rest, Katy watched with interest, while Sar stood beside her, trying to look disapproving. The steps of the Rondetta looked familiar. Katy had seen a similar dance done by the Federation's Bolshoi Dancers, a group dedicated to preserving the dances and music of ancient Russia. Encouraged by the others' shouts, Josh performed an intricate step ending in a high leap and moved toward the onlookers, seizing Hatch by the arm and dragging him onto the floor. With his arm across Josh's shoulders, Hatch and Josh began to dance together, moving from one side of the dance floor to the other. Hatch broke away, bringing someone else into the ring. Jos Singleton. His arms went across Hatch's and his son's, and the three repeated the same steps before Jos caught Abel's hand, and Abel joined the moving line of dancers. Soon, fourteen men were ranged across the little floor, all moving together in time to the music. Big Lars broke away from the others and started toward Sar who began a protest. "Nay—Lars, go away. I dinna want to—" He got no farther. He was dragged into the circle by Lars' big hand, reluctantly took his place beside the big man, and 311

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

with a sheepish glance at Katy, picked up the beat of the music. She didn't see why he'd been so reluctant. As he'd been with the waltz, Sar was graceful and surefooted. The music changed, become even quicker and one man moved away from the rest, dancing a solo of leaps and kicks before dashing into the crowd to claim a young lady and draw her to the side of the floor. One after the other, each man copied his action—Abel finding Cilla, Lars leading a clumsy Jessie onto the floor, Hatch embracing Crissa—and then it was Sar's turn. If she'd thought the others were energetic dancers, she was startled at the intricate footwork and high leaps her husband now performed. Before she realized it, he was standing before her, reaching for her hands, and as she placed them in his, she saw that he was breathing heavily. "See...? I ... told ... you ... 'twas ... strenuous." The dance floor was filled again, the music changing to another waltz and Sar put his arms around her and kissed her right there in front of everyone and she didn't care. "Hey, Trant," a voice called. "Get off the floor if you're not going to dance. You're blocking traffic!" Sar raised his head and laughed and gathered Katy into his arms and swung her in a circle. Behind them, a harsh voice grated, "I thought there was a Gadja stink around here." There was a loud shout and a scuffle and Sar released her, turning toward the noise just in time to see Hatch swing at Alwin Marsten. 312

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

It was only the boy's anger that gave enough power for the blow to knock Marsten down, catching the man by surprise because he hadn't expected the fury behind it. Hatch's fist landed across his jaw, one hand wrapping in his collar, pulling him to his feet. Marsten's fist slammed into Hatch's stomach and as the boy doubled over, the other hand went under his chin, knocking his head backward and throwing him to the floor at Crissa Singleton's feet. "Damned Gadja halfbreed." He'd barely gotten the words out before he was staggering away from Sar's attack, hands thrown up to ward off another blow. His arms were pulled down and Sar backhanded him across the face, knocking him down so that he fell into the arms of two of his men and sprawled on the floor. A loud gasp went through the crowd. On Tritomis, to backhand a man was an insult, stating without saying a word that he wasn't worth the energy to strike with a fist. Marsten glared at Sar. "Still protecting that brat of yours, Trant? Guess you have to. He isn't much of a man." He was being extremely brave, Katy thought, for someone lying at another man's feet. Sar glanced at Hatch. Looking slightly dazed, the boy was sitting up. Crissa knelt beside him, hands on his shoulders, Josh and his older brother Jack at his other side. Trant's hand slid toward his gun. Without speaking, Sar pulled the quirt off a rider's wrist, raised it and slashed it across Marsten's hand. It drew blood, and as the fallen man recoiled and Katy heard Sar's sharp 313

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

indrawn breath, she knew he'd deliberately used the lash instead of the shock-bolt, that he was going to kill Alwin Marsten, and was seeking the Bloodsong to help him do it. "No, Sar. No!" She caught his arm as Sar lunged forward, was flung away, saw others clinging to his shoulders and pulling him away from Marsten who was now on his feet. Jos Singleton stepped between them as Sar stood still, shaking his head and clearing it of the blood-haze. "Get out of here, Marsten. I was afraid it'd be a mistake to invite you here and I was right." Rubbing his bruised jaw, Marsten pretended insult. "You've got a twisted sense of hospitality, Singleton. I'm the one who was attacked and you defend that crazy Arcanian and his mongrel?" Sar lunged for him, nearly breaking free of the arms detaining him while Hatch scrambled to his feet, trying to push away Josh Singleton's hands. "Go." Singleton waved a hand toward the horses. Marsten gave him a sardonic smile. "I'll go, but if I were you, I'd watch that girl of yours. If you're going to let that halfbreed keep pawing her, you may find yourself with a Gadja grandkid one of these days." He stalked away. Sar put his arms around Katy. "I dinna hurt you, did I? I've a vague memory of you flying across the floor." "I'm okay. You were going to kill him, weren't you?" She looked up at him. "Sunshine, if ever a man needed killing, 'tis Alwin Marsten." He shrugged. "I figured 'twas time 'twas done." 314

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

**** Hatch was conspicuously silent on the flight home and when they got there, settled himself on the porch steps, not speaking. "I'd best talk to him." Sar said. Katy caught his arm. "No, I-I think it might be better if I did. Hatch knows he's different, Sar, and this concerns that difference and the way he feels about Crissa. I think a woman needs to talk to him." Nodding, he went into house. Hatch didn't look up as she sat down beside him. "Good party, wasn't it?" A grunt. "Na much." "You didn't have a good time? You and Crissa—" "—would've been happier wi'out Alwin Marsten's pointing finger. Does everyone think the way he does, Katy?" There was anguish on the young face. "Dirty halfbreed. Is that what I am to everyone? Sarkin Trant's Gadja brat?'" "There are prejudiced people everywhere, Hatch, but if we were on Earth—" "Well, we're na. We're here—where people consider Gadjas lower than parri dogs and half-Gadjas not worth spitting on." He shook his head. "They hate me." "That's not so. I haven't seen anyone act as if your halfblood matters. Certainly not Crissa Singleton—" "Maybe she's just being nice. Maybe Jos Singleton taught her to be kind to dogs and stray kittens and halfbreeds." He looked away again. "And Pa. M-maybe if I hadn't been born, 315

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

he'd have left here, gone to Earth or Arcanis, made something of himself." "You don't call running this station, being the only elobreeder this side of Zero making something of himself?" "He only did it because of me." "Right, because of you. His son." "A son he didn't ask for." "What was he supposed to do with you? Abandon you like your mother did? Throw you away? Kill you?" Katy was angry with Hatch's self-pity, though she realized what the boy was saying were things he'd probably been thinking for some time. "And Sandalia Singleton? Do you think her taking care of you all that time was merely being nice? She didn't have to. Jos could have fired Sar and sent him packing as soon as they found out." "Well—" "Your father loves you, Hatch. He's never been ashamed of you. He told me that the first time he saw you, he cried because he was proud that he had a son." "Are you sure it was that?" came the sullen answer. "Or was it just because it proved he was a man?" "He was a boy when you were born. He became a man when he accepted his responsibilities." "Hmph." Katy stood up, hands tightened into fists. "Hatch Trant, you stop that stupid talk right this minute. You're just feeling sorry for yourself, and if you don't quit it, I-I'm—" She caught him by the shoulders and began to shake him, seeing surprise 316

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

come into his face. "—I'm going to turn you over my knee and spank you." Hatch relaxed, the anger and self-pity leaving his body. "God, I wouldna want that, Stepmaithir Dear. I've been humiliated enough for one night." She released him, and he began to laugh, shaking his head. "Have you ever threatened Pa like that, Katy? I understand some people liked to be spanked." "Who told you about something like that?" Katy had never heard of such a thing. "Crissa." He turned to look at her, wiping his eyes, and she was surprised to see that he'd been laughing so hard tears had come into them. "She has this book—" He stopped. "Ne'er mind about that. Good night, Katy." At the door, he stopped and looked back, grinning at her. "Don't keep Pa waiting." **** As she climbed into bed, Sar said, "You're na very quiet when you get angry, Sunshine. D'ya know that?" He was holding Snowflake, stroking the kitten's head. "You heard, then?" "Couldna help it. I'd have to be deaf." He got up and dropped the kitten outside the bedroom door, shutting it before she could scamper back in. "I think you said it very well. Especially the part about what I feel for the boy." She didn't answer. "Sometimes 'tis difficult for a man to tell his son how he feels. Thank you for doing it for me, Katy." 317

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

He lifted her hand and kissed it. "Would you really have spanked him if he'd na stopped that foolishness?" "What do you think?" "From what I heard, I think Hatch would look forward to it, if some other female had threatened him. Lord, I wouldna expected that from little Crissa. God knows what kind of knowledge she's brought back from Earth." He shook his head. "Maybe the lass is too fast for Hatch. How could anyone enjoy being swatted on the ass?" Katy sighed. She felt very tired. "It takes all kinds, Sar." "'Course," he went on, "I wouldn't mind a woman's soft hand on my own rear sometime. Like right now." He pulled her toward the bed. Katy sat down beside him and began to unbutton her dress, slid it off her shoulders and stood up, letting it fall to the floor. "Sunshine—" "What is it, Sar?" "I wouldna say this unless I thought it necessary, but you've become a good cook lately and I think you'd best be cutting back on sampling your own fare." "What do you mean?" "Sweetheart, you're getting just a wee bit plump. Now— nothing unattractive—" he added, hastily. "It just means there's more of you to love, but your little belly's beginning to bulge."

318

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

He placed a hand on the mound of her stomach, patting it gently. Katy stiffened, closing her eyes. He mistook the gesture for anger. "I'll love you no matter what, Katy. I just wanted you to know, in case you hadna noticed." He slapped his own lean stomach. "I know I've no room to talk, for I enjoy your cooking, too." Why couldn't he tell it wasn't fat—that she was pregnant— after he'd wished for it to happen? Why was he now so oblivious to the obvious? "I guess I'd better go on a diet." There's no diet other than total abstinence that'll prevent this type of weight change from happening, Mr. Sarkin Trant. She lay down beside him. "Sunshine, what I said about telling someone how much you care—" "Yes, Sar?" "'Tis easier for a man to tell his wife," he said softly, rolling over to touch her shoulder. "I was thinking—maybe you'd like me to help you re-establish your rhythm tonight?" Katy regarded him solemnly a moment. "Would you hate me if I said I was tired?" She was telling the truth. Suddenly she felt exhausted and realized that Sar must have seen it in her face for he didn't press her, simply put his arms around her and lay down, cuddling her against him. He turned off the lamp and they lay quietly in the darkness before Katy asked softly, "Sar, why didn't you marry Glynis Tate?" 319

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

It was a moment before he answered, "What?" as if he wasn't sure he'd heard correctly. "If you were so crazy about her, why didn't you marry her?" Sar sat up, turning on the lamp. Katy blinked in its sudden glare. "Who told you that?" "Glynis. I—well, she didn't actually tell me. I just happened to be standing next to her and—" She shrugged. "I guess it's true that eavesdroppers never really hear anything good, isn't it?" He looked a little angry. "What else did she say, Katy? Good God, Austin wasna wi' her when she said that, was he?" "No, she was talking to her cousin, Nedra." "Thank the Saints for that! Katy—there's na truth to it. I was only at Tate's station once, to sell him some elos and I ne'er went inside the house." "I believe you." "But Austin might na. The man's deadly jealous. Lord God, if he ever heard her say such a thing—that foolish bitch!" He lay back down with an exclamation of exasperation, one arm going over his eyes to shield them from the light. "So none of it was true?" Katy persisted. "Oh, there's a little truth hidden away somewhere in it. I did squire Glynis around before she married. Glynis Kane, she was then—a tease and a flirt and a tempting bit of sweet." Katy stiffened slightly at the hate in Sar's voice. "She let me know quick enough that the only way to ge' her was wi' a wedding ring." 320

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Sar leaned back, put his arm around Katy, forcing her to relax against him. "I was nearly twenty, Katy—wanting desperately to feel again what I'd felt wi' Hatch's mother. I convinced m'self I loved Glynis when it was nothing but plain lust I felt. Decided I was going to marry her. E'en rode to her father's station to ask his permission—" "What happened?" Sar looked up at the ceiling, as if seeing the scene again. "He took me aside, told me how he'd seen what an ambitious young man I was, that he'd make me manager of his station, welcome me into his family if I understood that I had to rid myself of certain encumbrances." He said the last word with bitterness. "Encumbrances?" Katy looked up at him blankly. "Aye." Even the memory made him furious. "Hatch, Katy. They wanted me to ge' rid of Hatch. Old Man Kane could forgi' his son-in-law sleeping wi' a Gadja, providing he got rid of the evidence. They wanted me to send Hatch back to the Gadjas or put him in that orphanage on Andvari." "What exactly did you tell him—though I've a pretty good idea." "I listened, thanked him politely, told Glynis goodbye and rode back to Black Mountain. Hatch was in the kitchen, and I stood there looking at him, thinking that nothing in God's universe, no amount of money or power and certainly no woman—" he practically spat out the word, "—would ever make me gi' up m'son." 321

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

For a moment, his voice trembled as he realized that his own desire for a woman—for Katy—had nearly done just that. "A few months later, I brought him here to Three Moon." "You came home, sought refuge here." "Hid out's more like it. I was as close to a recluse as a man can get and still conduct business. Colonists from all over the valley buy my animals but only Jos and Abel are my friends. I had Three Moon and I had Hatch and I dinna need anyone else. And then—I saw you." "And you thought I was intolerant of Hatch. I remember you looked so sad." "I was. I thought I'd ruined three lives, Katy. E'en then I knew that I loved you so much that if I had to chose between you and Hatch, I wasna certain I could do it." She leaned forward and kissed him on the mouth, saying quietly as she straightened, "That's one thing you'll never have to do, Sar—choose between us." He laughed a little ruefully. "Wouldya listen to me? You ask me a simple question and I give you an autobiography. I dinna mean to be baring m'soul, Sunshine." "I'm glad you did. It helps me understand you better. Oh, Sar, we still know so little about each other." "We've plenty of time to learn, Katy. That's what so wonderful." He reached for the light, saying into the sudden darkness. "We've so much time to learn." No, Sar, we don't. Time's running out. [Back to Table of Contents]

322

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Chapter Twenty-Three "Katy, Pa, I've made up my mind." "About what, Son?" Sar asked, buttering a piece of packnut bread. Hatch took a deep breath. "Wi' your permission, Pa, I'm going to ask Crissa Singleton to ride out wi' me." Katy looked blank but Sar's face was a little rueful. "Well. I-I suppose—" He smiled. "It doesna matter what I say, does it?" "No, sir. Not a bit." "Then, I'd best say aye, had I na?" He bit into the bread and went on, almost casually, "If you ge' right to your chores, you could be finished by early noon and still have time to ride to Singleton's and be back before dark." "Yes, sir." Hatch was on his feet, grabbing a slice of bread, spooning his eggs onto it and bolting for the door. "Ne'er saw the lad move so fast before," Sar commented, returning to his eggs. "What does riding out mean?" "It means Hatch is about to start courting young Miss Crissa, if her father has no objections." "Do you think he will?" Sar shook his head. "Jos's always had a soft spot for Hatch. That was one reason I left Black Mountain when I did. He and Sandalia were about to spoil him rotten." He sighed. "God, if Hatch and Crissa marry, I could be a grandpa by this time next year. Damn, that does make me feel old, Katy." 323

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"How do you think it makes me feel?" she demanded suddenly. "I'd be a grandmother at age twenty-two." "And a beautiful old granny you'd be, too," he said, leaning forward and kissing her. He pulled his braid over his shoulder and inspected it closely. "What are you doing?" "Looking for white hairs." He laughed as she struck his shoulder but when he returned to eating, he looked very thoughtful and Katy realized how greatly this sudden reminder of Hatch's launch into adulthood had affected him. Standing up, she stood behind him and put her hands on his shoulders. "You're feeling sorry for yourself," she accused lightly. "Nay," he denied. "I'm feeling old." "I've something to tell you that'll make you feel young again." "Nothing could do that," he declared gloomily. "This will," she announced positively. She had to tell him, couldn't keep silent any longer. "Oh? And what might that be?" He sounded only halfinterested. "You're going to have to open one of the other bedrooms." "Why? Are we expecting guests?" She bent until her lips were level with his ear, kissed it lightly, and whispered, "We're going to have a baby." It took a moment for Sar to move, slowly turning his head to look at her. She was still bent over, looking straight into the aquamarine eyes, eyes wide with disbelief. Katy kissed 324

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

him, and his lips curved in a smile that broadened into a grin that spread a glow over his face. "Then 'tisn't fat I've been seeing but my own wee one making himself known?" He pushed back his chair and pulled her onto his lap. "And if I wasna so ignorant, I'd have recognized it." One hand went to her stomach. "Well now, my bairn, your Pa begs your forgiveness. So much for contraception—guess 'twas foolish of me to attempt it—I was trying to lock the barn door after the horse was safely gone." "Flatterer." Katy laughed as he kissed her. **** Hatch was understandably nervous as he rode into the Singleton station yard. Common sense told him Jos Singleton liked him and would have no objections to his courting his daughter but last night's events still rankled and threatened to drive common sense away. He thought again of what the Gadja woman had told him. There be other men for her but she be only one for you. Ever. She'd been speaking of Crissa, he was certain. He'd been worried that Crissa might forget him while she was gone. After all she'd never written—they'd sworn not to do that, not wanting to evoke any teasing—but the moment he'd seen her, he'd known that whatever they'd felt before she left was still there, still there and ready to grow stronger if they'd let it. Wait for her. Sandalia was sitting on the porch, doing some darning. She looked up as Hatch pulled his elo to a halt by the hitching 325

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

post and waited for her to invite him to dismount. Behind him, Crissa's elo, on a lead rope, snorted nervously. "Hello, Hatch. Tie up your elo and come in. Is that the mare Jos bought for Crissa?" "Yes, ma'am." He looped his reins and that of the mare over the post and started up the steps. At that moment, Jos Singleton came out of the house. "Hello, Hatch. Where's your father?" This is it. Squaring his shoulders, Hatch swept off his hat and looked from Jos to Sandalia. "Mr. Singleton, Mrs. Singleton. I-I've come to formally ask you if I can court Crissa." Jos was silent a moment before saying with a shrug, "I guess it had to happen sooner or later," and waved a hand toward the front door. "She's in the parlor. Go on in." It was, Hatch realized, the closest he would come to giving his permission. As Hatch practically ran for the door, he sat down beside Sandalia with a sigh. "Make me feel old, Sandy." "You are old, Jos," she replied unsympathetically. "But Sar's only thirty-four. How do you suppose it makes him feel?" Jos didn't answer. **** The parlor door was partially open but Hatch knocked anyway. Crissa was sitting on the sofa, stitching on a blouse. She looked up with a smile, "Hello, Hatch," and indicated the sewing. "I'm trying to be domestic today." 326

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Looks like you're succeeding." He sat down beside her and she stuck the needle into the cloth and dropped it on the table. "Did you and your father bring Daddy some more elos?" "No, as a matter of fact, I came by myself. To see you." "Oh? Any special reason?" "Crissa—don't pretend. You know. I asked your father—" "And—?" "He didn't say nay." He paused long enough to let that sink in, then went on, "I brought you a birthday present." "My birthday was yesterday." "We came in the Drone last night. It's too big to fit inside so—" He took her hand and together they went back to the porch. "Oh, Hatch." She took one look at the elo tied to the post and ran down the steps, reaching for the velvety muzzle, stroking the golden neck. "She's just beautiful. Did you train her yourself?" He beamed, nodding. "I know she'll be the best mount around here." Crissa sighed. "Now I've got one of the two things from Three Moon Station that I wanted," she whispered. "One of Trant's Gold." Hatch leaned toward her, "And the other?" She smiled up at him. "Can't you guess?" He was glad her father wasn't close enough to hear. Crissa looked past Hatch to where Jos sat. "Daddy, may Hatch and I go riding? To try out my birthday present?" "Of course. Just don't go far. Those brush-raiders are still out there somewhere, you know." 327

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"We'll just ride to the lake and back," Hatch assured him, not wanting to overstep any bounds on his first venture as Crissa's suitor. Crissa ran to get her saddle. He saddled and bridled the elo, lifted her onto its back, mounted his own animal and they were off, leaving Black Mountain and Crissa's parents behind in a cloud of dust. Crissa liked to ride fast, she always had, and he had to call to her, to remind her that she didn't know the elo's habits and it might be more prudent if she slowed down until she learned them. **** At the lake, they dismounted and let the elos graze while they walked along the shore. It was late afternoon now, the sun glittering on the blue surface. "Daddy told me about someone putting a rath in your lake," she shuddered. "Your stepmother could have been killed. Does it feel strange, having a stepmother who's only two years older?" "It did at first," he admitted, "but Pa loves her so and sometimes she acts almost as old as he is, though I've ne'er thought of Pa as old." With a start of surprise, he realized it was true. He'd never thought about his father's age, had accepted his authority and guidance though they generally behaved toward each other like brothers rather than father and son. "If you start extolling her virtues, I'm going to get jealous." Crissa pretended to pout. 328

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Then I won't." He drew a finger across her lips, making her smile. "Hatch," Crissa touched his shoulder. "I'm sorry about last night." He sighed loudly, biting his lip. "Let's not talk about it, Crissa." "That blasted Alwin Marsten. I'm glad your father hit him. If I were a man, I'd have done it myself." He laughed. "I'm glad you're not. If you were, people might think me a little strange since I was standing on the dance floor holding you in my arms." Oh, how he'd enjoyed that, her nearness, the warmth of her body through the fabric of the red dress. He turned, caught her shoulders, and kissed her, just a little roughly. When he let her go, Crissa looked across the lake, breathing deeply. "It's too cold today, but next time we come up here, I'd like to go swimming." "Wi'out suits?" "Of course." She touched one hand to his forearm, looking at the dark skin where he'd rolled up his sleeves. Her own arm was milk-white beside it. "You have the most beautiful skin, Hatch. I'd like to see if you're that way all over." In his imagination, she'd said things like that to him, and now, to actually hear it—"Crissa..." "I guess I'm a terrible person," she went on, "but at night, I'd lie in my bed and think about you and wish you were there beside me. I'd giggle at the thought of how my roommate would react if she woke and found me lying in your arms. I'd 329

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

think of looking down and seeing our bodies together and how beautiful it would be—" She blushed and looked away. "I'm talking too much. I'd better shut up." "Maybe you'd better," he agreed. "That kind of talk isn't doing me any good." He was beginning to get strange feelings again, the annoying tightening at his crotch that thought of Crissa always brought, heat and cold at the same time, so inconvenient when she'd been hundreds of thousands of miles away and now that she was here, absolutely frightening. She looked up at him, gaze so steady he felt uneasy. "What is it?" "You've changed, Hatch." There was wonder in her voice. He laughed. "I was sixteen when you left, Crissa— squeaky-voiced and gangly. I've just grown up, that's all." She didn't answer, just kept staring at him. Her eyes were like pieces of smoky topaz, like the polished stones the Gadjas dug out of the mountains to make jewelry. "You've changed, too," he went on. "I have? How?" "For one thing, you've got those, now—" His hand brushed her breasts. "You were as flat as a griddle cake when you left." "I guess you'd know, wouldn't you?" she answered, thinking of a day just before she left for school, a day when their parents were busy and the two youngsters had found themselves in the hayloft alone. Lying in the straw, Hatch had touched one of the flat little breasts, and their reaction had frightened both of them. There be others for her but she be only one for you... 330

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

She was wearing a lattice-cloth shirt, with no buttons or laces. He pulled it open, baring soft, heavy breasts and Hatch bent his head, pressing his face against them. He touched each and kissed it, and then they were in the cool grass under a nearby tree. He was lying between Crissa's booted legs, kissing her feverishly. Her mouth opened to his, tongues caressing, young bodies straining against each other while Hatch's hands worked at the fastening of her jeans and her fingers plucked at his belt. Her warm hands touched him, freeing him from the confining cloth. He knew he was too stiff and swollen and excited—there was too much desire—could feel the terrible thing that was going to happen, crying out to stop her, "No, Crissa. Don't!" His body convulsed, spilling between her thighs onto the grass as Hatch hovered over her, supporting himself with his hands, gasping for breath. When he opened his eyes, Crissa was staring at him, hands over her mouth. As soon as he could move, he pulled away from her, settling his limpness back into his jeans and sat, back to her, knees drawn up, arms resting on them, forehead touching his crossed forearms. She crawled over and sat near him. "I didn't look. I didn't see it." Hatch shook his head. "God damn, Crissa, I'm sorry." "Don't be. Maybe what happened kept us from making a mistake." He caught her hand, entwining his fingers around hers. 331

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"That—" She nodded behind her toward the glistening puddle in the grass. "It didn't make you lose your virginity, did it?" He wanted to thank her for not questioning his fidelity to her, for assuming that he'd stayed faithful, but couldn't say it. There be others for her but she be only one for you... "Pa explained it to me. It happens sometimes if a man hasn't ... it's happened before. Sometimes when I sleep." God, what did Katy think when she saw the stains? "My virginity'll be gone only when you and I join." "I guess we're going to have to be very careful, aren't we?" "Crissa, I don't want anything to be wrong between us. I don't want any jokes or pointing fingers and I especially don't want anyone counting days to see how soon after the wedding our first baby comes." "T-There are ways we could enjoy each other without actually having sex," she ventured timidly. "How would you know about things like that?" he demanded. "I've read books—" "Crissa, you and your damned books are going to get us in a hell of a lot of trouble." He looked away in disgust, then back at her again. "Where'd you get a book that tells something like that anyway? Not around here." "A-at school." "I might have known. Damn it! I think your father made a mistake in sending you to Terra. Earthers are the most 332

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

sexually-free species in the galaxy. They're licentious libertines. They—" "Your stepmother's an Earther," she reminded him. "Do you think she's a licentious libertine?" "How do I know what she and Pa do behind that bedroom door? Judging from the sounds that come out of there—no, I don't think Katy's like that." He glanced at the lake. The sun, reflecting on the water, was beginning to sink behind the mountain. "Guess we'd better start back. It's getting dark. I don't want your father hunting for us the first time we've been out alone." He stood up, pulling her to her feet and bent to kiss the tip of her nose. "You'd better close your shirt. He might not appreciate it if you ride into the station yard wi' your tits showing." "Guess you'd better do something about that, then." She waved a hand in the general direction of his open fly. "I know he wouldn't appreciate that." Flushing, Hatch turned his back, closing his jeans. On the ride back to Black Mountain, he was very quiet and very thoughtful. **** Pa's been acting strangely all evening, Hatch thought. All through the meal, he would look at him and smile, then turn to Katy and positively grin. Hatch couldn't see what was so funny and wasn't about to ask, feeling slightly apprehensive under his father's gaze. 333

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

At last, after the meal was over and Katy had cleared away the dishes, and he was ready to stable his horse, he saw her do a strange thing. She nudged Sar, nodded toward Hatch and whispered something. "Hatch, I-I'd like to talk to you." "Yes, Pa?" Sar was standing in the middle of the room, Katy beside him, holding his hand. He looked anxious and Katy patted his arm. "Go on." He took a deep breath. "Hatch, you know that sometimes I don't find it easy to say the really serious things." His voice trailed away as Hatch frowned and took a step back into the room. "Yes, sir?" "Marriage is difficult enough when the people involved are nearly strangers. It helps if they've known each other a while." Is he talking about Crissa and me? God, I hope this isn't going to be some kind of sex lecture. Hatch waited. "Sir?" "Courtship, marriage, and love all have to be there—e'en if they're not always in the proper order." He looked at Katy and squeezed her hand and she smiled. The proper order ... Hatch felt himself go cold. Does he think Crissa and I have—God, Pa, you aren't going to come out and ask me, are you? Not with Katy here. Sar was still mumbling. Hatch frowned. "Hatch, it's usually inevitable when two people love each other that babies come along. I know you're aware of all this, and I may be stating the obvious—" 334

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

He was right. It is a sex lecture. Pa, why? "I think the happiest day of my life was the day I opened that basket and saw your face, and now—when I think that I'm going to experience that day again..." Lord God. He thinks Crissa's pregnant. And if Pa does, Mr. Singleton may, too. If Jos Singleton thinks I've laid his daughter—Hatch went white. All coherence ground to a hysterical halt, the only thought in his mind now was which one would hold him and which would wield the whip. Katy saw his color change and said softly, "Sar, I don't think he understands what you're saying." He looked at her, and at Hatch again, saw the panic and incomprehension on the boy's face and said sympathetically, "Of course he doesna. Wi' me blathering so and making such a muddle of it. Hatch, what I'm trying to say is—Katy's carrying a wee one." "A ... wee ... one...?" Hatch sat down abruptly and as luck would have it, there was a chair beneath him. He looked from Katy to his father, letting the words penetrate. "A baby? Katy?" Laughing weakly, he got to his feet, putting one arm across Sar's shoulders and the other around Katy, drawing them together. "So that's what been going on behind that bedroom door." He kissed Katy's cheek and hugged Sar. "You've got to let me help and do whatever I can so that by the time Crissa and I are married, I'll be an expert on babies and won't have to learn on my own kids." [Back to Table of Contents] 335

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Chapter Twenty-Four Work on the new barn was going faster than expected. Though Hatch readily admitted that the structure had to be repaired, and the bunkhouse and bathing room completed, the boy still regretted it was going to take so much time, keeping him from spending more time with Crissa. On the third day of construction, a stranger rode into the station yard. "Morning, Ma'am." He stopped his horse, near Katy who was carrying covered dishes of food to the tables set up at the side of the house, "Hello." He'd touched his fingers to his hat. "Can you tell me where I might find Sarkin Trant?" Katy looked around. "He's here somewhere—Why do you want to see my husband?" "Sorry, ma'am—I didn't know you were Mrs. Trant. I-I heard he was thinking of hiring some riders. Thought I'd talk to him about it." Katy nodded. "I think you'll find him out back." He nodded, turned the horse's head, then stopped and looked back. "Mrs. Trant? You're breeding, aren't you, ma'am?" As rude as it sounded, after three people had asked her that, Katy discovered that was the customary way to refer to someone in her condition. 336

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Yes, I am." One hand went to the slightly thickening waistline. His expression changed to something she couldn't interpret. "My congratulations, ma'am." "Thank you." He touched his heels to the horse's sides and it walked around the side of the house. **** Behind the house, Sar and two other settlers were nailing the frame for the bathing room into place. "Mr. Trant?" "That's right." He stepped away from the house to regard the man. "Name's Parl Hayes. I heard you need a rider and I need a job." Sar nodded. "Done much station work?" He was studying the man's clothes. He was dressed like Singleton's riders in standard work clothes. The fact that he was riding a horse was the only thing that set him apart from any other. "Up until yesterday, I was one of Alwin Marsten's hands. Don't think that's much of a reference, though." Sar considered that. "Why'd you leave?" There was something familiar about the man. That question got an out-and-out laugh. "After what happened at Singleton's party, I got fed up. I don't hold with baiting kids." Sar remembered. "You—I took your quirt—" 337

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

The man nodded. "If I'd known what you wanted with it, I'd have handed it to you. Marsten's a bad one. I'm surprised no one's beaten him before now." "That's na a very nice way to talk about your former boss." Another laugh. "He's probably saying worse about me. I took a swing at him. That's why he fired me." "In that case, you're hired. Any man who'd dare talk back to Alwin Marsten's welcome around here. Tie your animal to the hitching post in front of the house and get to work. They're constructing a bunkhouse over there—" He waved a hand at the structure going up beside the barn. "Since you'll sleep there, you might as well help build it. We'll discuss wages tonight." **** "In a few more days, everything should be finished," Sar commented as he watched the last rider leave for home. Katy appeared in the doorway, "Sar. Supper's ready. Tell Hatch, will you?" "Right, Love." He turned to Parl. "Better get washed up. Katy doesna like to be kept waiting when it comes to serving up a meal." "I-I'm going to eat with you?" The man couldn't hide his astonishment. "I'm new at having hired riders," Sar answered. "I'll probably break all the rules of employer-employee relationships, but—yes, you're eating wi' the boss."

338

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

When they went inside, Sar made introductions, "Katy, this is Parl Hayes. He's got the dubious distinction of being the first rider hired to work Three Moon." Katy smiled at Parl. "We met earlier when he rode in." They sat down, Parl taking a chair next to Hatch who promptly began to fill his plate and eat, though his manners were somewhat more refined than the rider's tablemates usually were. Sar began to tell him of his duties and how much he could expect to be paid. "You can sleep in the barn for now. Until the bunkhouse's finished." Parl nodded. Listening to Sar talk, feeling almost as if he were eavesdropping as his new boss said something in a lowered tone to his wife made him realize that working for Sarkin Trant was definitely going to be different from working for Alwin Marsten and that he was going to enjoy it. That thought alone made him feel guilty when he remembered the real reason he was here. Looking at Trant's wife and seeing the faint bulge at her waistline made him feel even guiltier. **** Two days later, everything was completed, Parl moved into the bunkhouse, and life at Three Moon fell back into its old routine, relieved a little by the rider's presence, as he helped Hatch take over the fence-riding, and rounding up the elos for training. On the third day, it began to rain, one of the late thunderstorms that usually marked the end of the Dry Season 339

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

and the commencing of Season Change. The clouds had been forming for three days, gathering on top of each other in large gray masses. When the drops started falling, it was an immediate downpour, raining steadily for hours with no end in sight. Hatch put Majestic and Junkar, as well as Parl's horse, in the barn while Sar got saddles and gear into the tack room and they both scrambled for the dryness of the house as Parl took refuge in the bunkhouse. Hours later, after the rider ran from bunkhouse to stationhouse for supper, and afterward hurried back again, Sar stood at the open front door a moment, looking gloomily out. "Looks as if there's nothing else to do except go to bed." "That's fine for you to say." Hatch answered, thinking of Crissa and how he'd like to be stranded in the barn with her, snuggled down in the hay. "You've got Katy. I have to go to bed alone." "Hatch." Sar fixed his son with such a stern stare that the boy wondered if he's gone too far. Putting his arm around Katy's waist, he smiled. "I ne'er thought I'd live to hear myself say it but—damn it, boy. I'm going to be glad to see you married and out of here and settled down wi' a wife of your own." He pressed a quick kiss on Katy's cheek. "I've about reached the point when I'm going to become intolerant of my son's over-eager hormones." He picked Katy up and carried her into the bedroom, calling over his shoulder. "Get yourself to bed, boy—and dream of your Crissa." 340

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Hatch's answering laugh was cut off abruptly as he kicked the door shut. **** "Who has over-active hormones?" Katy put her arms around his neck as he released her. "I do. I'm making up for lost time." He sat down, caught her about the waist, and fell backward onto the bed, pulling Katy with him. "God, but I love you so, Little Wife." When the lights were out, Katy made certain the blankets were over their shoulders, snuggling closer to Sar with her head on his chest. "It's cold. The rain's making the air chill." "Sure you'd na want to put on that flannel nightgown you made?" came the amused question. "I think I'll give you a chance to prove to me that you're warmer than a couple of yards of flannel." He laughed, one leg going over hers to hold her against his body. [Back to Table of Contents]

341

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Chapter Twenty-Five Sar sat up, groping for the lamp, nearly knocking it off the table. Through the window, ragged rays of moonlight, struck the still-pouring rain. He found the switch, turning on the lamp. Katy put one hand over her eyes. "What is it?" "There's someone at the door." She could hear it now, a frantic pounding. "Could it be Parl?" He was out of bed, picking up the robe lying at its foot, putting it on. In the dark, his body, encased in the flowing garment, looked ghostly. "Guess we'll find out." Slipping on one of her gowns, Katy trailed behind Sar as he reached the door. He pulled it open, his body hiding the person standing there from her sight. "Who are you?" For a moment, there was only the sound of the rain striking the yard, hitting the roof, dripping onto the porch and running off. "Tulera," came the answer. "I come to see Hatchling. Where is he?" She pushed past him and came into the room and Katy, who'd stopped to light a lamp, turned to look at her. "Tulera, what are you doing here?" "Wait a minute." Sar caught her by the arm, pulling her back to the door.

342

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

He towered over the small woman, frowning as if he were trying to remember something. Tulera stared up at him, cowering slightly. "You look familiar. Do I know you? What do you want wi' my son?" "Must see him, red-headed Djarni. Your son..." She put a hand on his chest, as if to push him away. "...my son..." "Oh, God!" Sar released her, taking a step backward and bumping into the door. "What do you want wi' Hatch?" "Pa?" Hatch stumbled sleepily through his bedroom door. He'd thrown on jeans, stood there rubbing his eyes, "What's going on?" saw Tulera and smiled. "Tulera, where'd you come from?" She turned from Sar to the boy, running toward him, catching his hands. "I have vision. Come to warn you. Ride all night. Trouble here—soon." "You mean the trouble you saw in the cards?" "Don't go near Giant's Playground, Hatchling. Don't take her there." "But—" "Is much badness there. You go there, both die. You strong young man but not strong enough." She was gripping his hands tightly, turned to look at Katy. "I have to warn redhaired Djarni's son. Can't let him be hurt." She touched Hatch's cheek. "Stay away from Giant's Playground." She released his hands and ran toward the door. As she passed Sar, he caught her arm, "Tulera—?" saying her name almost shyly. She stopped to look at him. 343

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"I-I raised him the best I could," he whispered. She nodded, placing her hand over the one on her arm, patting it in an oddly comforting gesture. "He fine boy. No complaints. We mix well, Djarni." She looked from Sar to Katy and then at Hatch, "I not see you again," and disappeared into the rain. In a few minutes, they heard an elo's footsteps die away into the noise of the falling raindrops. "Pa?" Hatch took a step toward his father as Sar stood staring into the darkness. "Pa, why did you say that to her? What did she mean—we mix well?" Sar shut the door and turned to face his son. "We did mix well, Hatch. That was your mother." **** "I think he took it rather well," Katy commented when they were in bed again. "Do you? He looked stunned to me, as if someone had struck him between the eyes wi' a hammer." "How did you expect him to look? I think that, all things considered, Hatch accepted the news very well. He didn't go into hysterics—" "My son would ne'er do that." "—or fly into a rage—" "Now, my son might do that." "—or any number of things that a young man who'd never met his mother and is told in the middle of a stormy night that a Gadja woman who read his fortune six weeks before is 344

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

the same woman who gave birth to and then abandoned him, might do." "Would you repeat that sentence, please?" "I'm glad you can make light of all this." She caught his arm, drawing it across her breast. His hand closed around its softness. "If I dinna, I might cry," came the surprising reply. "I ne'er e'en knew her name, Katy, and she ne'er knew mine. If I had been a little older, if I'd known—I might have looked for her and found her, made a home for her and Hatch, na been alone raising my son all these years." Katy kissed his cheek. "I'm glad you were, Sarkin Trant. Otherwise, things might be a little awkward between you and me right now." **** Wrapped in his blankets, Hatch lay on the floor, staring at the rain beating against the window. He still couldn't believe what had happened, wanted to think he had dreamed the whole thing. He couldn't get the look on Pa's face out of his mind. His mother, for God's sake. He'd often stared in the mirror, wondering if his features in any way were like hers, seeing only his father's image looking back at him. She was pretty, he was glad of that, and he could imagine how she must have looked when the caravan rolled into Jos Singleton's station yard and fourteen-year-old Sarkin had given her his dollar. 345

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

He'd often wondered what fortune she'd told him. Tonight, after he'd recovered enough to speak coherently, he'd gotten up enough courage to ask, and Sar's answer had been a little embarrassed. "She told me that in a few months, I'd receive something I didn't expect—" It wasn't difficult to figure out what that something had been. "—I'd marry a woman wi' hair like sunrise—" A look at Katy. "—and I'd return to a place I called my own." It had all come true, and if he never saw her again, Hatch was grateful for the Vision that had sent his mother to him in the middle of this night. If only he could figure out where the Giant's Playground was so he could keep Crissa away from it. [Back to Table of Contents]

346

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Chapter Twenty-Six Hatch stopped his elo at the Singleton hitching post and dismounted. He'd ridden from Three Moon early that afternoon, and Sar had admonished, "Don't stay out too long, Hatch." "Don't worry, Pa." He touched the laser pistol at his hip. "I've got my gun, and if I see or hear anything suspicious, we'll come back as fast as we can." As he mounted Majestic, Parl asked, "Where'd you say you were going, Hatch?" Gathering the reins, he looked at the rider. "To the foothills that touch the western corner of Mr. Singleton's land." The man nodded. "That's pretty country along there. Your girl should like it. The grass is so tall there, you could get lost in it." He winked. Hatch laughed, waved to Sar and rode away. Parl looked at Sar. "I'm going to ride over to the south pasture and bring back that last group of yearlings." Sar nodded and went into the corral, and the rider touched heels to his horse and left the station yard. **** Crissa was waiting for Hatch. She was wearing a longskirted riding habit with a short-sleeved jacket, in a dark crimson fabric that make her pale hair shine. "You're not going riding in that?" he asked. 347

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"I most certainly am," she replied, little chin setting stubbornly. "Let's get my saddle." The saddle she brought out of the tackroom wasn't the usual one she used. "What is it?" Hatch asked, as he looked at the strange contraption with only one stirrup and a strange bent horn on the pommel. "It's a sidesaddle, dummy!" Crissa exclaimed. "Riding sidesaddle is the latest rage on Earth." "And how many women ride—horses or elos—on Earth?" "Not many," she conceded, "but the ones that do ride sidesaddle." "Crissa, it's not safe," he protested. "All your weight's on one side. The elo's overbalanced. If he falls, you won't be able to get off—not wi' that horn trapping your leg. Use your regular saddle and change into some jeans." "No. Riding sidesaddle is the way a lady does it, the way civilized women do it—and I intend to be civilized and a lady, Hatch Trant." "You'll be a dead one, when your mount falls on you," he muttered but he knew he wasn't going to win this argument, so he took the saddle from her hands and placed it on the elo's back and tightened the cinch. As he lifted Crissa onto the animal's back, holding its head while she adjusted her skirts, Singleton came out of the house. "Where're you two headed today, Hatch?"

348

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"We're going to ride up into the foothills, where all those big boulders are. I think Starlight needs to learn how to maneuver around rocks." The older man nodded. "Don't stay out too late." "No, sir." **** Crissa reined in Starlight and waited while Hatch helped her to dismount. The little mare was proving herself to be the best animal he'd ever trained, surefooted, gentle, and now stood patiently as Crissa slid from her back, dropping the reins to put her arms around Hatch's neck. He held her against his chest a moment, kissing her before setting her on her feet, then took her hand and they began to walk through the tall grass. This end of Singleton's land touched the Mon-Sur foothills which gradually widened and heightened to become the mountains forming the northern rim of the valley. There were enormous rocks scattered over the ground, gathered together in piled confusion while smaller ones dotted the ground, a challenge for any animal's surefootedness. Crissa sat down on a stone. "I'm going to take off my boots and go wading." "That water's cold." "I won't wade long." She began to unbuckle one boot but Hatch put his hand over hers. "Let me..." She moved her hand and he finished opening the buckle, caught the boot by the ankle and heel and pulled it off, dropping it in the grass. 349

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"I wish you were wearing stockings," he said as he pulled off the other one. "I'd like to take them off you." He looked down, smiling slightly. "Maybe I'm strange, but I've always thought that a woman taking off her stockings was one of the most sensuous sights in the world." "Hatch, how many women have you watched doing that?" "Only one," he admitted "Your mother. I guess she didn't think anything about doing it in front of a six-year-old. It was a long time later before I understood the way it made me feel." "When we're married," Crissa leaned toward him, hands on his shoulders, "you can take my stockings off every night." She kissed him lightly. Hatch wrapped his arms around her and she toppled off the rock, laughing. They rolled over in the grass, Crissa coming to rest atop him, kissing him again. He got to his feet, swinging her around in the intricate steps of a Gadja Courting Dance, whirling to a halt at the sound of Crissa's laughter. "It's certainly pretty along here, isn't it? And quiet—Why, there's not a sound." "You're right." There was total silence, not even the hum of an insect breaking the quiet. "That's odd. There are no birds—nothing." A chill swept over Hatch as he realized that there were miles of plains grass separating them from Black Mountain. Crissa shivered. "It's a little eerie, isn't it? Like we're the only ones alive."

350

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

He nodded, ignoring the feeling, wanting to tell her about Tulera's visit, that he'd seen his mother. "Speaking of eerie—I had my fortune read at the Gadja fair in Zero last month." "Oh? Anything interesting going to happen to you? Did it mention us?" "Crissa, do you really believe some Gadjas have True Sight? That they can actually see the future?" "Sure." Her answer was too quick. She turned away again, waving a hand at the jumble of rocks. "Do you know what the Gadjas call this place?" "I didn't know it had a name." "Of course it does. They call it the Giant's Playground." A stab of cold went through him. "Because of the stones. There's some story about a giant child tossing them into the air and leaving them where they fell. What is it? Hatch, what's the matter?" Not take her there... He caught her arm, pulling her back toward the elos. "God, Crissa, I didn't know! We've got to get out of here before—" The grass behind them rustled loudly and Hatch looked up as he saw the riders coming toward them. [Back to Table of Contents]

351

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Chapter Twenty-Seven Katy was hanging out clothes when Majestic came galloping into the station yard. She ran toward the plunging animal, dodging its flailing hooves as it reared, and, without thinking of her own safety, reached out and caught the swinging reins. The elo quieted, dropping its head, sides heaving. Katy patted its neck, and then, she saw the quirt-marks on its flanks. She began to scream for Sar. **** Halfway to Black Mountain, Sar met Jos Singleton and four of his men. Jos looked past him to Hatch's elo, following Sar on a lead rope. He nodded toward the golden mare tied to his own saddle horn. "She came back to the station alone." "So did Majestic—" "Hatch said they were going to the Giant's Playground," Jos said. Sar turned a stricken face toward him. "Where?" "The Giant's Playground," Jos repeated. "That pile of rocks in the foothills—Sar, what is it?" "Oh, God—he dinna know. Hatch dinna know that's what they were called. He wouldna have gone if he'd known." 352

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Known what?" Jos shook his head. "Sar, what are you talking about?" "I'll explain later." Sar kicked Junkar to a gallop, pulling Majestic behind him. "Now, let's go." **** Jos suggested they ride in quietly, in case the brushraiders were still here but they'd seen no one. It was late afternoon now. The sun beginning to skim the tops of the mountains rimming the valley, sending long wide shadows behind the trees. They got down and searched through the grass. One of Singleton's riders said quickly, "Lots of riders been through here recently. Half a dozen, maybe eight. Riding horses." "Must be the brush-raiders, then," Singleton muttered. "All reports say they ride horses." They moved out of the grass into the clearing. Sar took a step and stumbled, something snagging his boot. He knelt to unwrap it from his heel. A wide strip of cloth, part of a sleeve, the cuff and button still attached. Hatch's sleeve, with the clumsy stitches where Katy had mended the rip. He heard something. So soft, it might have been the wind, except that the wind wouldn't be so filled with anguish. Just one sound. Then silence.

353

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Sar looked up. Saw the tree. Dropped the sleeve. Stayed on his knees, staring at Hatch's body, hanging spread-eagled and naked against the trunk. Jos caught up with him, started to say something and looked in the direction Sar was staring. For a moment, he, too, was silent, taking in the sight before him. The sound came again, the dangling head lifted from the bloodied chest. Hatch opened his eyes and breathed, "Paaa..." and broke the spell. Sar and Singleton ran toward the boy, calling for the riders to help them. As they cut the ropes holding Hatch to the tree, someone brought a blanket from behind a saddle, wrapping it around Hatch, lowering the boy into Sar's arms. Hatch looked up at him, torn lips trying to form sounds. "C-Crissa..." he managed the word, took a pain-filled breath, coughing. "I tried ... to ... stop t-them..." You strong young man but not strong enough. "Shhh, do na try to talk." Sar's arms tightened around the boy as Hatch fainted. Jos's other rider and Josh were searching on the other side of the clearing. "Dad!" Josh fell to his knees, pulling off his long coat, dropping it over something lying among the rocks as he began to sob. Sar didn't move as Jos Singleton ran toward his son, didn't raise his head as he heard his old friend cry out and kneel beside his daughter's body. He didn't move until Jos returned to his side, carrying Crissa wrapped in her brother's coat. 354

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Sar—" His voice was too steady, as if he didn't dare take a deep breath for fear of losing control. "Sar—I-I'm taking Crissa home. I'll call Zero for the doctor. I'll send him to you as soon as he's done." He turned and walked away. The other riders helped Sar mount, holding Hatch's body until he was in the saddle, lifting the boy's body, settling it in front of Sar. Then, they mounted their own animals and rode after Singleton. All the way back to Three Moon, Hatch didn't move, didn't make a sound. He was a dead weight in his father's arms, kept from falling from the saddle by the grip Sar had upon him. He couldn't handle the lead rope, the reins, and Hatch, too. He let Majestic go, hoping the gelding would follow him back to the station. **** When he rode into the station yard, Katy ran to meet him, saw what he held in his arms and turned so white he thought she was going to faint. "Do na pass out on me, Sunshine," he said, his voice harsh to keep out the tears. "I need you. He's na dead but, oh, God, Katy, he's hurt terrible." From somewhere, Parl appeared, held Hatch so Sar could dismount, then relinquished the boy's body again. The rider's face was twisted into a grimace of disbelief. Sar carried Hatch into the house and into the bedroom where he placed him on the bed, the bed that Hatch had never slept in. 355

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Katy appeared in the doorway, basin and cloths in hand. She set the basin on the table, reaching for the blanket's edge. "Katy, what're you doing?" "He's hurt, Sar, his wounds'll need cleaning—" "Nay!" It was said so violently she cowered away from him, looking up at him reproachfully. "He—I do na want you to see, Katy. Hatch wouldna want—" "But if he's hurt—" "The doctor's coming. Jos said he's sending a transmission to Zero." "Can we wait that long? He's in shock." Before he could stop her, she lifted the blanket, looking down at Hatch. The scream was wrenched out of her. Sar held her, his arms so tight he knew he was hurting her but he had to, to avoid crying himself. "Oh, God, Sar. Who'd do such a thing? Why?" "It was the brush-raiders, Katy. It had to be. As to why? I've na idea." "Why Hatch and Crissa? Oh, God—what did they do to Crissa?" He didn't answer, just kept holding her. Katy lifted her head, eyes meeting Sar's. She put her hands on his chest and pushed him toward the door. "Go." "What?" "You heard me. Out of here. I can't leave him this way, Sar. I've got to do something." She pushed until he backed out the door, then slammed it shut. 356

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Turning to look at Hatch's unconscious body, Katy whispered, "I've got work to do." [Back to Table of Contents]

357

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Chapter Twenty-Eight She came out of the room twice, to throw the bloody water in the basin out the door and refill it with clean water, and get herbs and tarraroot balm from the pantry shelf. Once, she called through the door and asked Sar to bring the scissors from her sewing kit. "Why? Why do you need scissors?" "His hair's full of blood, Sar," she replied patiently. "I want to cut it." He brought them to her, stood watching as she sheared the black mane, dropping the thick locks in a little pile on the floor. **** Four hours later, the doctor arrived. Sar sent Parl back to the bunkhouse, wanting to face the doctor alone as he lingered in the living room long enough to give them a brief report on Crissa's condition before going in to look at Hatch. "She's still unconscious. Delirious. Keeps screaming for Hatch. Sar, she—one of the riders said he thought there were eight men..." He shook his head. "From the marks on her wrists and ankles, four of them held her while the others took turns..." Katy pressed her face against Sar's chest, the image of Crissa fighting against four men while Hatch, tied and beaten, was forced to watch, seared itself into her mind. 358

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

The doctor went into the bedroom, shutting the door. An hour later, he came out, paler and even more tired-looking than when he went in. "You did a good job of cleaning those wounds, Mrs. Trant. I know it must have been difficult for you, considering—" His voice trailed away. When Sar poured from a decanter he took from the china cabinet and handed it to him, he didn't argue, just accepted it and drank, surprised by the taste of very old, very potent Scyllan brandy. He let the liquor burn its way down his throat, letting its warmth fill him before telling them what they waited to hear—that Hatch would live, and how much damage had been done to his body. "It's times like this when I wished I'd chosen some other profession," he began. "Someone used a quirt handle on his face. Possibly a rifle butt, too. There are two distinct and different wounds. None of the facial injuries will be permanent. In fact, I don't think there'll even be any scars, although it may take them a long time to heal." "And—the others?" Katy asked. "W-what about..." "He has burns on his chest and stomach from a shock stick, as well as laser wounds. It looks as if they used him for target-practice." The doctor shook his head again. "I counted twenty-seven separate areas of first- and second-degree burns. I've given him a double injection of Cortriphon to counteract decomposition of the blood cells from laser radiation." Katy went a little paler, leaning against Sar, whose arm went around her. 359

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"His left shoulder has been dislocated and at least four ribs are fractured. I've immobilized the shoulder and taped his ribs." He took another long swallow from the glass. "If we weren't here, if we were on a larger planet, I'd have better facilities. I feel as if I'm not giving my patients what they need. I swear, Sar—" he looked up earnestly, "I'm doing the best I can with what I've got." Sar nodded. "I know you are." "I-if he doesn't respond, I'll have Marshal Epson notify the Sector Office and request he be transferred to the Hospital there." "And the rest of it?" "The rest ... the knife cuts across his stomach are purely superficial, no danger from those at all." He shook his head. "It's as if someone touched a knife to his belly and pressed it just enough to score the skin." "And—?" Sar persisted. "I know what you're waiting for, Sar, and I don't want to say it. It's difficult for a doctor to tell parents something like this. That their son ... especially when it's someone as young as Hatch..." He stopped. He couldn't go on. "Well?" Sar's face was expressionless. The hand gripping Katy's was white. The doctor sighed. "He—there are half a dozen cuts on the inside of each thigh. There'll be scars ... and ... he's been kicked repeatedly in the groin area..." 360

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Katy began to cry, not making a sound, tears streaming down her cheeks. The doctor took something from his pocket, turning it over and over in his hands, holding it so they couldn't see. "Someone used a knife—made six incisions from base to crown along the length of his ... he's lucky he wasn't castrated." He shook his head. "I'm sorry—there may be permanent..." He looked at Katy. "I guess you're fortunate that Mrs. Trant is pregnant, that you'll have another child. With all that scar-tissue, h-he'll probably be impotent." Katy broke down completely, sobbing uncontrollably. Not Hatch, please God, not Hatch who's never loved a woman, who wanted only to marry Crissa, a permanent virgin now, never loving, never able ... oh, God, no! Sar's arms went around her, holding her against his chest, letting her anguish flow while his became colder, burying it inside. When I find them, they'll die, slowly and horribly, and I won't need the Singing this time! A single moan came from behind the closed bedroom door. The doctor looked toward the door and back at Sar and Katy, dreading what he still had to say. He took a deep breath and got it over with. "He's probably going to be unconscious for at least twentyfour hours. I've got some pain-killers here and something to make him sleep. I'd advise using the maximum dosage. Use cold compresses on all the wounds to keep swelling down and reduce the danger of infection." 361

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

He spoke his next sentence to Sar. "The first time he urinates, you're probably going to have to hold him down. This was driven into the urethra." He held up the object he'd taken from his pocket. A six-inch fence screw. Katy fainted. [Back to Table of Contents]

362

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Chapter Twenty-Nine Hatch regained consciousness a day later. They were sitting down to breakfast, a meal as tasteless as the others they'd had since Sar brought his son home, looking forward to eating it as quickly as possible so Katy could return to sit by Hatch's bedside while Sar went out to do the chores. He was neglecting the station to stay with his son, though Katy assured him it wasn't necessary, that she'd call him if there was any change, or if he was needed, but she knew it was useless to say it. If Hatch had been her child, she wouldn't have listened any more than Sar was doing. So she sat, sewing on tiny garments for her own baby, while she watched and waited for any sign of consciousness from Sar's son. Parl had been told to take over the training of the elos for the time being. The rider had been shaken by the attack on Crissa and Hatch, asking about the boy constantly, offering to sit with him if Katy or Sar needed to rest, showing a concern that was surprising for an employee. At present, Parl was checking the fences, and Sar and Katy were alone in the house. Sar had just lifted his fork when the scream burst through the open door. Jumping up, he knocked over his chair in his haste, Katy behind him. Hatch was lying on the bed, body shaking, head thrown back, mouth open in a high, mindless keening.

363

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Kneeling on the bed, Sar seized the flailing wrists, his upper body across Hatch's chest as he forced the beating arm into stillness. Katy pulled back the sheet. "If you'll hold him, Sar, I'll change the bed." Her voice was faint with fatigue. Sar lifted his sobbing son and sat in a chair by the bed, cradling the boy in his arms while Katy got clean sheets and stripped the bed. As she tucked in the sheet, she glanced at Sar. It was awkward holding someone as tall and as big as one's self, but he was cradling Hatch in his arms as if he were still a child, stroking the shorn hair, whispering to him until the whimpering stopped. As Sar returned him to the bed, he said, "'Tis na right for you to be doing this, Katy. 'Tis na right for you to see Hatch like this." "Don't be stupid, Sar. Or difficult." She touched a hand to the boy's damp face. "Hatch needs both of us. If I were really his mother, you'd think nothing about this." She led him out and back to the table. "We'll hear no more about what's right and what's not. When Hatch is well, then if you want to berate me, you can, but until then—I'm taking care of him as best I can." He sat down, trying another argument. "You're pregnant, Katy. You shouldn't be seeing such unpleasantness—" "Pack me into the Drone, then, and fly me out of here," she answered angrily, "because as long as I stay here, I'm going to do what has to be done." She put a hand on his arm. 364

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Pregnant woman are tough, Sarkin Trant, especially one who's carrying a child of yours." Sar put his arms around her, leaning his head against her breast. "God, I love you, Sunshine." [Back to Table of Contents]

365

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Chapter Thirty "How can I make cold compresses when I have no ice?" Katy demanded, folding the little cloths into neat rectangles. "Twould be easier to simply refrigerate the cloths themselves," Sar began. "At the risk of being redundant, how? If I can't make ice how can I refrigerate something?" "We've a refrigeration unit," he answered. "Where?" He led her into the pantry, pointing to a small metal box shoved back into the shadows of a shelf. "I ne'er use it because we rarely have leftovers." He flipped a switch on its top and the unit began to hum. "Fifty below in ten minutes. Anything placed in it is frozen solid in four." "A refrigeration unit, a computer, a communicator, and a Drone you hardly ever use. Why do you have these things? Do you enjoy living this primitively?" "You know m'answer on that, Sunshine." He took one of the cloths and held it under the pump. "I'd suggest just letting them lie inside about a minute. That should get them cold enough." She did just that. **** When she went into Hatch's room, the boy was stirring restlessly. In spite of the antibiotics he'd been given, he had a 366

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

fever, muttering words and sentences which she couldn't understand, once or twice opening his eyes but seeing nothing. She placed one of the cold cloths across his forehead, gently touching the lacerated cheek. Hatch turned his head, unconsciously moving away from her hand. She took the salve the doctor had given her and began to rub it into the cut. When she finished with his face, she folded back the blanket and began to apply the medicine to the burns. They were scabbing, large ugly marks across his chest and stomach. The dislocated shoulder was bound and taped so his arm wouldn't move while it healed and the wrapping on his ribs looked stark and white against the dark skin. Hatch sighed and opened his eyes. "K-Katy?" She removed the cloth from his forehead. "I didn't dream it then. Pa did bring me home?" "Yes. Yesterday." She began to wipe his face, thinking how hot and dry his skin felt. "H-how bad off am I?" "Not good." She didn't intend to go into detail until he was better, until his mind had recovered enough to absorb the rest of the shock. She picked up the cup beside the bed, slid one arm under his head and raised him slightly, biting her lip as he winced at the movement. "Here. Drink this." He turned his head. "No. I don't want—" "Hatch, you have a fever. You need liquids. Otherwise, you'll dehydrate." 367

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"I'll also have to piss." The words were sharp in spite of his weakness. "I remember how much it hurt, Katy. I'm not going through that again." "Yes, you are." She held the cup to his mouth, tilting it so that he had to drink or be drowned in the flood of water being poured into him. Hatch inhaled, swallowed, choked, and swallowed again. When she set the glass down, it was empty. "We've got to get everything back to normal function and this is the best way to do it. Even if it does hurt." "You're not the one who'll suffer." came the muffled answer. His uninjured arm went across his eyes. "Oh God, Katy—it hurts so." She put her arms around him until he was quiet again. "Hatch, there's a chamber pot by the bed. I know it'll embarrass you for me to be here, so when you have to ... you know—I'll call Sar to help you." He didn't look at her. She tucked the blankets around him and left the room. **** Later in the afternoon, she looked in on him again, bringing a pitcher of water and more cold compresses. He was struggling to sit up, fighting the blankets. "What do you think you're doing?" She touched his forehead. It was damp. His fever had broken. "Please, Katy, I'd like to sit up but—I can't seem to manage it." "Maybe that means you're not supposed to." She set the items on the table. "Here, I'll help you—" 368

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

She put hands under his arms, sat down on the bed beside him and started to pull him upright, only to have his one good hand weakly but determinedly push hers away. "Katy," the look he gave her was wavering but serious, "I may not know much about pregnancies but I do know you're not supposed to be lifting heavy objects and I'm definitely heavy, especially right now." He shook his head. "Pa can move me w-whenever he comes in." "Speaking of Sar, do you—do you need to—" He flushed, closing his eyes. "I already have." "You couldn't have. You didn't make a sound." "No," he agreed, "I didn't." He moved his left hand from under hers, trying to place it under the cover. Katy looked down and saw the teeth marks on his forearm. "Hatch, where did those come from? They weren't—" She broke off as she realized what he'd done, bitten himself to keep from crying out, to keep her from hearing him when the agony came again. She caught his wrist, shaking it, saw him wince. "Don't you ever do that again! If you insist on suffering in silence, at least don't injure yourself any worse." She folded a cloth and thrust it into his hand. "Here. Bite on that next time." He grasped the cloth tightly between his fingers. "Don't be angry, Katy. I don't want you angry wi' me. I don't want you to worry." "Well, I am worried. I'm worried about you and about your father a-and I guess I'm even worried about the baby, though 369

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

goodness knows, it's the only Trant that's not giving me any trouble just now." She picked up the bottle of salve. "I've got three men to cook for and a house to clean and an invalid to care for and I'd like nothing better than to sit down and indulge in a nice set of screaming hysterics but I just don't have the time. So, I'll thank you to cooperate and get well and not do anything stupid because of some crazy sense of bravery or modesty or anything like that." When she stopped, she could feel the tears stinging her lashes. She opened the bottle, not looking at Hatch, and began to smooth the salve on the burns. For a long time, neither spoke, until at last, Katy asked, "How do you feel?" "Like I'd died. Like I wish I'd died." "These burns ... do they hurt now, at all? Does your shoulder or your ribs ache?" She had to get him talking, thinking, even if it was about his condition, get him above the pain. "M-my shoulder ... It hurts if I try to move even my fingers. As for my ribs, they only hurt if I take a deep breath—like fire slashing across my chest." He sighed quietly. "My face aches and when I drank that water earlier—I guess I must look pretty horrible, huh?" "Can you feel this?" Her fingers touched the marks on his stomach, painting white salve across each scab. "Barely." "And now?" "Are you touching my legs?" He shook his head. 370

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Katy pressed her fingers against the cuts. Hatch didn't react. "O-one of them kicked me ... several times, I think. I fainted after the first one, though." Katy looked at the bruises under the dark skin, still black with blood, mottled in the bends of his thighs, some visible in the dark hair. She brushed her hand across one. It was raised and thick, felt almost like a tumor. She reached for the bottle again, touched the salve on her finger to the first of the long slashes. "I can't feel it." He blinked, a tear sliding down one damaged cheek. "It's true, isn't it?" The words were an agonized whisper. "I'm ruined." If he heals properly, if he doesn't get an infection, he'll be all right. Someday. He has to be. "Ow." His eyes flew open in surprise, and the hand clutching the cloth clenched into a fist. "God damn, Katy. That hurts. What did you do? Stop." "Y-you felt that?" "Hell, yes." He blinked, trying to clear his eyes of the sudden tears. "Hatch," she tried to sound detached as she replaced the lid on the jar but her hands were shaking, "I don't think you're as badly injured as the doctor believes." [Back to Table of Contents]

371

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Chapter Thirty-One As soon as possible, Hatch insisted on getting out of bed. On one of his visits, Doc Maxin agreed it would be better for him to be ambulatory although it was going to be a long time before he'd be able to ride again. Ushering Katy out of the room, Sar helped him get dressed. "I think your part in this is about to come to an end, Sunshine. Hatch needs a man to help him pull his pants on." "He may need this." She thrust something white into his hands and left the room. "What is it?" Hatch asked He was sitting on the bed, trying to get his shirt on, finally giving up in exasperation as he realized there was no way he could raise his bound arm to put it through a sleeve. Sar held up the garment. It was made of soft flannel, some remnant of the fabric from Katy's nightgowns he supposed, vaguely resembled a pair of briefs, but was the skimpiest piece of clothing he'd ever seen. "Underwear? But why, when Katy'd be knowing neither of us—" "I know." It was the first time he'd seen the boy smile since he'd gotten fully conscious. "They're athletic briefs. One day when we were in Zero, you went to Marshal Epson's office? There was a lasergraph of him when he was in college, participating in some kind of sports event. He was wearing something like this." 372

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Sar nodded. "I remember. I told him he might as well be naked than wearing those scandalous things. Why would Katy make them for you?" "Look how soft they are, Pa." Hatch's fingers brushed the fabric. "Katy knows how tight and rough denim is." Hatch took the briefs from Sar and put them on, and with his father's help, finished getting dressed. He had to go shirtless. Neither of them could figure out how to get a shirt on him but since the weather was still mild, they decided it didn't matter. "I guess I'll be a one-armed handy man around here until my shoulder's healed," he said as he walked, a little stiffly, into the living room. Katy was standing by the table. As if she'd been waiting for him to make his appearance, she began to set the table. "You can help me around here," she told him, not raising her eyes from the plates. "Yes, ma'am." He grimaced as he settled himself into the chair. "Guess now I'm going to get a first-hand view of exactly what a wife goes through." **** Six weeks later, Crissa Singleton came to Three Moon. Though Jos sent riders to the station once a week to inquire about Hatch, the boy had never asked about her. Though he'd answered the Marshal's questions readily enough, telling in a detached monotone what had happened, he never voluntarily spoke again about what happened. 373

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Jos Singleton had posted a reward and Sar added to it. As if aware that they now had the two richest men in the valley after them, the brush-raiders disappeared. That's why Katy was so surprised to see Crissa ride into the station by herself. She knew that Jos had assigned one of his riders—his best rifleman—to ride with her wherever she went. "Good morning, Mrs. Trant." "Oh, Crissa." She hugged the girl as she dismounted. "Didn't I say to call me Katy?" "It's a little difficult, now—" She nodded at Katy's protruding abdomen. "You look like a Mrs." Katy laughed, seeing the girl's attention wander. "Hatch is in the garden." "D-do you think he wants to see me?" Katy smiled. "Why don't you go find out?" Tying Starlight to the hitching post, Crissa headed for the garden. **** Hatch looked up, then abruptly turn away. Crissa put one hand on his shoulder and he took her hand and they walked out of the garden to the little grove of trees behind the house. "We can have some privacy here," Hatch said as he led her into the little clearing and through a gateless stone wall. "A cemetary?" "My grandparents are buried here. I used to come out here when I wanted to think. It's peaceful here." 374

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Peaceful. And silent. As silent as it had been that day in the Giant's Playground. Nothing moving at all. Everything dead. He leaned against the wall, one hand brushing over the sun-warmed stones. "Why haven't you been to see me, Hatch?" He didn't look at her. "I'm not exactly in a condition to ride yet, Crissa." "You could have piloted the Drone. Haven't you wanted to see me?" "No. I haven't wanted to see you." He turned back to her with such fury that she was startled. "I knew that when I did, I'd see that bastard on top of you, hear you screaming my name and I'd feel again how helpless I was." He shook his head. "I don't like remembering that, Crissa." "Do you think I liked remembering it?" Her hands tightened into fists. She forced them to relax, and slowly and carefully pulled off her gloves. The bruises on her wrists had nearly faded, only greenish marks the size of a man's fingers remaining. "When I was first conscious, I hated you, Hatch, for not saving me. Then, I made myself face facts—there was nothing you could've done." "I could've—" "—gotten yourself killed. They'd have killed you without a thought but they held you and you didn't get a chance and it's just as well." "How can you say that?" She shrugged. "Daddy and Mother wanted me to go to the Sector Hospital for counseling, but I told them I don't need that. I didn't do anything to cause what happened, and even 375

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

though I regret losing my virginity that way, I don't consider myself a slut or a whore." She stopped, looked up at him and asked, pointedly, "Do you?" "Of course not. Only a fool would think that." "—and I'm not afraid of men. Otherwise, I wouldn't still look forward to marrying you." She waited for him to answer. Hatch didn't say anything. "Hatch? You do still want to marry me, don't you?" He took a deep breath, started to turn away and was stopped by Crissa's hand on his face. "Crissa—I-I don't think marriage to me is such a good idea. Not now." "Why not?" "I—well, I wouldn't be much good to you as a husband." "What do you mean?" He looked distressed, the aqua eyes searching her face. "Didn't your father tell you? H-how I was hurt?" "He said you had cuts and bruises ... and burns..." She touched the scabs on his chest. "Your beautiful skin..." "Not beautiful now. It's scarred and ugly." "You're beautiful to me. He mentioned your shoulder and said you had fractured ribs. What didn't he tell me? Hatch," her voice rose slightly, "what else did they do to you?" Slowly, he told her. Crissa went white. "For God's sake, don't look at me like that." He flung at her. "I don't want your pity. I can't stand it." "I'm not looking at you with pity." she replied. "I don't believe it. Are you sure?" 376

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Don't you think I've ... tried ... to—" He shook his head. One hand touched a headstone, gripping it tightly. Andrus Trant, Rest in Peace. He struck the stone with one fist. "Maybe you're not going about it in the right way," she suggested, pulling him down into the grass, to sit beside him. "There was another reason I waited so long to come see you." "What was it?" He was glad for a change of subject, anything to get away from his shame. "I wanted to make certain I wasn't pregnant. Dr. Winter didn't have any of those pregnancy termination injections but he told me that if I was, he'd perform an abortion as soon as I found out. Well, I won't have to go through that indignity." He'd never thought about that, nodded vaguely. "As for you and me—" She touched his cheek, turning his face toward her, leaned forward and kissed him gently. "Did you like that?" "Of course I did, but it's not my mouth that's affected." She kissed him again, brushing her lips gently against his, sliding one hand to his shoulder and down his back. "I like your hair short like this. It makes you look older." "Thank Katy," he muttered. "She did it. I feel bald." He kissed her back, almost tentatively, then again, a third time, each one more aggressive than the last. Crissa pulled away and began to unbutton her shirt. "What are you doing?" "Getting rid of this. I'd planned to do this the last time we were together. Now, I think, is a better time—" She pulled off the shirt and dropped it on the grass. She sat there, waiting, hands in her lap. 377

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Hatch touched one breast, stroking trembling fingers down it. Crissa closed her eyes, felt his lips plant the lightest of kisses. Her hands came up, encircling his neck, holding him against her. Hatch stirred uncomfortably. She opened her eyes. "What is it?" "Nothing." He put his arm around her, pulling her against his chest, inhaling quickly as she struck his shoulder. They toppled into the grass, Hatch on his back, Crissa lying against him. "I think this is going to be a little awkward." "Let me do all the work," she suggested, moving a row of little kisses down his throat to his chest. "You're really serious about this, aren't you?" She felt his arm tighten around her, hand stroking between her shoulder blades. "You actually believe that—" "Yes, I do. I don't want anyone but you, Hatch." She began to draw little designs on his chest, kissing between her fingers. He moved again, legs flexing, then relaxing. "What is it?" "I—would you mind, unfastening my jeans? They seem to be a little tight all of a sudden." She pulled them open, heard him sigh. "Crissa, I think you were right." "About what?" She pretended to not understand. "Don't joke. About that." He was trying to sit up. She had to catch his arm and pulled him upright. "I've got to get them off." He smiled a little tremulously. "How are we going to do this? I-I don't know if I can manage wi' only one arm to support myself but—" 378

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Don't worry. I'll get on top." "What? Where'd you learn that?" "My book." "Thank God for those books. The answer to all man's ills must be in them." "No," she told him seriously, "only some of the more important ones." She kissed him again, and helped him wiggle out of his jeans, then pulled off her own and knelt before him. "Hatch, here I am—I love you. There's never been any one else but you, and there never will be. Whatever problems this ... attack ... caused, we'll face them together but right now, we're going to make love, totally, fully, and with no reservations whatsoever." Hatch kissed her, fingers stroking her cheek. He lay back in the grass, his good hand holding her arm as Crissa sat astride his thighs. "Are you ready?" "Yes." "I'll be gentle. I don't want to hurt you." "I'm supposed to be the one to say that." She slid down over him, hearing his gasp of pleasure, began to rock gently, feeling him respond, moving with her until suddenly, he was rolling her over, so they were upright in the grass. Hatch put his arm around her, holding her against him, pressing her back against the wall, moving faster and faster until he felt the familiar spasm, greater and more wonderful than it had ever been before because this time it was real. 379

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

There was a second and a third shudder and Crissa fell against him, her face pillowed against his shoulder. When she raised her head to look into his eyes, each surprised the other by bursting into tears. He cradled her against his shoulder, tears falling into her hair, until abruptly he began to laugh, shaking his head. She looked up at him through her own tears and began to smile. "Oh, God, Crissa." He held her across his lap, rocking her gently. "I think there's nothing in the world I'd rather do," Hatch whispered, "than stay here and make love to you forever." "I've better things to do than have sex in graveyards," Crissa stated, sitting up and pushing him away, though he noticed she did it reluctantly. "Oh?" "Yes. I think we'd better start talking weddings and making a home and all that adult married stuff. It may become very important fairly soon." "What do you mean?" "I mean—you've been properly seduced, Hatchling Trant, and you just may be pregnant." "What? Did you read that in one of your books?" "Not at all." She picked up her shirt and put it on, buttoning it as she said, briskly, "You see there was another reason I took so long to come over here. Besides making certain I wasn't pregnant." "And that was—" He made no move to dress, just sat there watching her. 380

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"I wanted to make sure I was definitely in the midst of the most fertile part of my cycle. At this very moment, Hatch Trant, what we did is probably creating a brand-new little Trant." "You're kidding." "No, I'm not," she assured him. "That's pretty coldblooded of you, isn't it?" "Not at all. I'm just a very spoiled, very selfish young woman who's always gotten what she wants. I told you what else I wanted from Three Moon, and it looked as if I was going to have to take matters into my own hands—if you'll pardon the expression—" Hatch grinned suddenly. "—to get it." She bent toward him, on hands and knees. "Now, I have it—" She kissed him on the forehead. "I have you—" She kissed the tip of his nose, "and we'll get married. The sooner, the better." She kissed his mouth, tongue flicking out to brush his. "Trust me—it's the best way." "God! Pa was right. It doesn't always come in the proper order." "What?" "Ne'er mind. Since that little Trant is on the way, would you like to do it again? Just to make certain this wasn't a fluke?" He pulled up the tail of her shirt, one hand touching her hip. "It's no fluke. But if you need reassureance—" "Oh, I do. Yes, I think I definitely do." 381

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

They fell into the grass, Hatch on his right side, feeling the collision with the ground jar his injured arm, laughing as she gave a quick concerned cry at his grunt of pain, and smiled as he pulled Crissa against him and kissed her again. "Crissa Singleton, will you marry me?" "Why, Hatchling Trant, I thought you'd never ask." **** Sar lifted the dipper and took a long drink. "Is that Crissa's elo?" He nodded at the golden mare tied to the post. Katy nodded. "She and Hatch took a little walk." "Where?" He looked up anxiously. "In the cemetary." "How long have they been gone?" "I don't know. Maybe half an hour." She caught his arm as he hung the dipper on the hook and started toward the garden. "Sar. Where do you think you're going?" "After them. They shouldn't be gone that long." "No, you don't." Firmly, she pulled him back, turning him around. "They're fine. Besides," she put her arm through his, steering him toward the house. "I think they're ... talking over important things." **** A different Hatch returned to the house. "Pa, I think it's time I got back to work." "Well—" 382

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"I think I'm well enough. I know I can't ride yet and I've still got the use of only one hand but I can start halterbreaking the elos and getting them accustomed to being around people." "If you're certain, Son." Sar looked at Katy in surprise. "I am." Hatch nodded as if he'd made a decision within himself and smiled. "I'd also like to talk to you about something serious—" Katy stood up. "Maybe I'd better leave you two alone." "No." He held up his hand to stop her. "You can stay, Katy. After all, this concerns you too. Sort of." "What is it, Hatch?" "I was wondering if you'd object to Crissa and me living here after we're married? Just for a little while. Katy might like having another woman around when the baby's born. It'll just be until I can afford to buy a piece of land." For once in his life, Sar had no quick answer for what his son was saying. "I-I'd like to get that acreage up near Blue Hill—the piece wi' that little lake, the one surrounded by mallows. If you'd sell it to me, I'd work for you until it was paid off." My son's taking a wife. Soon he'll become a father and establish his own station. Who knows? Maybe between the Singletons and the Trants, we'll begin a dynasty on Tritomis. After all, there'll be four generations of Trants living on this planet now. "I think we can make some kind of arrangement," Sar said, squeezing Katy's hand. [Back to Table of Contents] 383

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Chapter Thirty-Two The night air was cool, a scent of far-off rain in the air. Katy was sitting on the steps, a pan of peas in her lap, looking out over the darkened station yard as she shelled them. Sar came out of the house and sat down beside her. "Nice night." "Uh-huh." He raised his head, taking a deep breath. "Smells like rain." "Yes." "Good. We need it." It sounded like small talk between strangers and Katy smiled. She looked up at the sky. "The stars are certainly clear. I don't think there's a cloud anywhere." "You can bet they're somewhere. Wherever it's going to rain." "Are there any constellations here? Are any of them the same we can see from Terra?" He pointed toward a star low on the horizon. "See that bright one there? Just over the barn?" "Yes." "That's the North Star—Polaris. Here, 'tis the eye of Fenra, the Hunting-Wolf of Diurhan the Warrior. 'Tis an old Gadja Tale. In exchange for the hand of Odile, daughter of the king of the planets, Diurhan agreed to protect the people of 384

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Tritomis for three thousand years. So, he and Fenra patrol the heavens, always on guard for invaders." "Has he succeeded in keeping Tritomis safe?" "The planet's ne'er been invaded." "So Diurhan will get Odile eventually?" He nodded. "Good. I like happy endings." "So do I." He leaned forward and kissed her. "Sunshine, in spite of all my foolishness and fears, at this moment, I'm the happiest man on this planet." She picked up a pod, gently cracked the skin and shook the peas into the pan. "The happiest, maybe, but not always the most truthful." "What do you mean?" She opened another pod. "Why did you let me think you were a Freely?" "Oh. That." "Yes. That. I mentioned it to Sandalia and she informed me that you're a second-generation settler." "I-I thought you might be sensitive about your background, coming to Tritomis from prison and all—'twas before I learned the real reason, Love—and I thought that if you believed I was a Freely, you'd be more comfortable wi' me. When I told you was true, Katy, our present and future are more important than the past." She looked at him a moment. "I love you, Sarkin Trant." "I'm definitely glad to hear that, Sunshine." He looked up at the sky. "You know, 'twas a night just about like this—this same time of year—when Hatch came to me." 385

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Really?" He nodded. "I'll ne'er forget my first look at him, Katy." He studied his hands a moment. "When I opened that basket ... He was so ugly, and yet the most beautiful thing I'd ever seen—skin still birth-dark, more hair than I thought an infant could have—There wasn't anything else in the basket. Just Hatch. He was naked, a piece of bone stuck through his umbilical cord and twisted to keep it from bleeding. Blue ripples painted across his forehead and chest, red on his little privates—magical Gadja Welcome-Signs for the newborn, all done quickly, as if whoever'd applied the paint had been in a hurry." He smiled. "I took one look, said the most stupid thing, "Mrs. Singleton, it's a baby. Why'd they send him to me?" and in the next second, I knew, and I started to cry." He looked away quickly and when he spoke again, his voice was very soft. "I've still got that basket. "Tis on the chest in the bedroom." "Tulera—she said her father was going to kill him. She sent him to you to keep him safe." Katy shifted her weight. The steps were getting a little uncomfortable. "So it's almost time for Hatch's birthday?" "Birthday?" "Don't tell me you don't celebrate birthdays here?" "Na for a long time. When we were at Black Mountain, Sandalia was fore'er having parties, but not since we moved to Three Moon—" 386

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"We'll have one tomorrow night. To catch up." She smiled. "How about you? When's your birthday?" "Ne'er mind about that. I've na wish to be reminded of my mortality or my rapidly approaching declining years." He smiled as he said it. "Exactly what day was Hatch born? Do you know?" "'Twould be tomorrow. Sandalia figured he was only a few hours old. We counted backward and found that it was exactly nine months before that the caravan came through." She leaned against Sar, resting her cheek against his shoulder. When he spoke again, his voice was soft. "'Twas late winter when they came to Black Mountain. I remember the winds were blowing. She was wearing a long red skirt and it kept whipping in the wind as we went into the wagon. There was a bed made of blankets on the floor and we got under them because it was so cold." He lifted her hand, kissing her fingers. "We dinna e'en get undressed. I unbuttoned my shirt and she opened her blouse and—" He broke off, looking away. "I shouldna be telling you this, Katy, but I—I want you to know that neither of us planned it. It just happened." "Sar—I know that." He laughed, embarrassment in the sound. "I was twenty before I saw a woman totally naked. One of the whores at Larkin's. When she took off the last piece of clothing, I stared and blushed and she smiled—thank God she dinna laugh at me—and said she thought I was sweet. Sweet!" Katy turned her head and kissed his cheek. "I'm not alone in my opinion, then." 387

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

He stood up, pulling a lantern off a hook under the eaves and catching her hand. "Come on." She set down the pan. "Sar—I don't think it's a good night for any amorous shenanigans." "I have something I want to show you. Seriously. Come on." She let him lead her around the house and to the garden. "Are we going to pick strawberries by moonlight?" "Hardly. Do you na know that fruit picked by the light of the moon is touched wi' magic and may be dangerous to mortals?" They went through the garden and toward the little grove of trees behind it. "Sar—" "You're na scared, are you?" They came to the stone wall, walking through to stop, staring at the two headstones. "'Tis my parents, Katy. You once asked me where they were." Andrus Trant, Age Thirty-five. Maire Deoridh MacGregor Trant, Age Thirty. "He was only a year older than I am now—it makes me conscious of so many things, Katy, knowing that I'll be older than my father ever was. Knowing that I'll see so much he missed—that I've already seen more than he e'er saw. Like my son growing up. And my next son being born." Katy didn't answer, just put her hand on his shoulder. Sar touched the stone gently, running his fingers over the rough, weather-worn surface. "I wish they could've known 388

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

you, Katy. I think you and Ma would've gotten along, and as for Pa—well, no one disliked Andrus Trant. I think I'm very lucky, Katy." "I know I am, Sar, and happy." She stood on tiptoe and kissed him. "Come on, let's go back. It's late. It's time to go to bed, and I want to show you how very, very happy I am." **** "Ready for dessert?" Katy asked, eyes twinkling as she shot Sar a conspiratorial look. "Sure." Hatch laid down his fork and looked expectantly at the stove. "What are we having?" "Something special." She stood up and disappeared into the pantry, reappearing with the cake she'd hidden there. It was small, one layer with a regular-sized candle—the only one she could find—stuck in its center, now burning brightly. Hatch laughed. "Is this some Terran dish, Katy?" "Right. Flaming Shortcake." She set the cake before him and began to sing, "Happy Birthday to You—" barely able to keep from laughing before she'd finished. "Is it my birthday, Pa?" the boy demanded. "As far as we can figure." "I haven't had a birthday cake since we left Black Mountain," Hatch exclaimed. "I'd almost forgotten about them." "Make a wish and blow out the candle." Katy ordered. Hatch did as instructed. "Do we eat the candle, too?"

389

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Of course not, silly. It goes back on the mantle with the others." She began to cut the cake, placing a piece on each plate. Hatch stood up, lifting his glass of milk. "I'd like to propose a toast—to you, Katy Trant—you've brought sunshine into both my life and my father's." "Hear, hear." Sar lifted his own glass and Hatch touched his to it. [Back to Table of Contents]

390

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Chapter Thirty-Three "Pa." The sound of the elo's feet pounding against the dirt of the station yard brought everyone away from their chores. "Hatch. What's happened?" "The fences in the north pasture are down. Sharmai's gone and the mares and foals are scattered." Hurrying toward his own elo, Sar motioned for the three Transportees and Elai Kent to follow him. Parl untied his horse. "No. You stay here." For a moment, Sar thought he was going to argue. "It's obvious this is brush-raider work. You stay wi' Mrs. Trant." Sar swung onto the elo's back, called to the others and was gone. Shaking his head, Parl looked at Katy. "I'll be in the barn if you need me, Mrs. Trant." **** He walked quickly away, not wanting to look at her, feeling guilt at Trant's trust in him. Damn, he'd hoped the things they'd done to the kid and the girl would be enough. Turning to look back at Katy as she walked toward the clothes-line, Parl shook his head. There's nothing I can do Katy set the clothes basket on the ground. ****

391

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

When she heard the hoof beats, she didn't turn around. It was only as the sound became louder, doubled, then tripled that she stopped what she was doing to look behind her, staring at the eight men riding into the yard. As fast as she could make her clumsy body move, Katy felt inside the basket, pulling out the pistol hidden there, holding it at her side. "What do you want?" "Where's Trant?" No greeting, no pretense of pleasantries. They knew she knew who they were. "Inside." She nodded toward the barn. "Want me to call him?" "Good try, Mrs. Trant." Their leader smiled. "We know he's out chasing his herd. It's probably scattered all the way to Zero by now. Take him the rest of the day to round them up, I imagine." Katy raised the pistol, saw him start slightly. He hadn't expected that. "Get out of here." Hands went to their guns. She held it in both hands as Sar had taught her, one finger sliding off the safety. "Don't try anything. I'll shoot, I swear." "They'll get you, too—" he said. "Not before I take down a couple. These things are fast." She'd seen the weapons they had, recognized them from Sar's description. "Faster than those LXs you carry." His eyebrows went up at her recognition of their weapons. "Want to try it?" She knew she looked ridiculous, a woman seven months pregnant, wielding a Winchester. 392

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

He gestured. The men took their hands away from their guns. "Parl." Katy raised her voice slightly, trying to keep it from quivering. "Parl." **** The hand came from the barn at a run, stopped a few feet from her, looking at the men. "Mrs. Trant?" "Parl, take your gun and keep them covered while I use the communicator and call Marshal Epson." "Ma'am?" He stared at her as if he didn't understand. "You heard me. These are the brush-raiders." He looked at the leader, shaking his head. "No." The man nodded. "Yes." Parl pulled his pistol from its holster, raised it, and swung around to point it at Katy. "Drop the gun, Mrs. Trant." She stared at him. "W-what?" "You heard me—I don't want to hurt you. Please, Mrs. Trant, drop the gun." The brush-raider laughed and rode his horse closer, reached out and put his arm around her, swinging her before him onto his horse. He pulled the gun from her hands and dropped it in the dirt. Katy began to struggle. The arm around her chest tightened, the other wrapping across her throat, choking her. "Sit still." She stopped moving. The pressure against her windpipe relaxed. "That's better." To Parl, he said, "Get your horse. Let's go." 393

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Parl nodded toward Katy. "You're not going to hurt her?" "Depends on what the Boss says. Let's go." He turned his horse's head, riding out of the station yard. Parl holstered his gun and followed them. **** Katy sat on the grass, wrists tied together. She shouldn't have been surprised when Alwin Marsten showed up, but somehow, she was. The stranger with him, however, was an even greater shock. He walked to where she stood, staring down at her. "You've led me a pretty chase, young lady." "W-who are you?" "That's right. We've never been introduced, have we? Antar Benedetto—I think you have something that belongs to me." Marsten was beside him. "Go ahead and get your information, Benedetto." He looked at two of his men, nodded, and before Katy could react, they were behind her, dragging her to her feet. Benedetto took a step nearer. "You and I both know why I'm here. Where's the disk?" "What—" Katy began, only to stop with a scream as a hand shot out and slapped her. "Don't lie. I know you took the disk, and I know you have it here. Where is it?" She shook her head. "I-I don't have it. I lost it." Another slap, this time with all his strength. She felt as if half of her face had been torn away, her neck broken. 394

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"I don't think she'll tell you—not for just a few slaps," Marsten commented, casually. "She's been around Trant and he's a tough bastard. It rubs off." "Yeah," the leader spoke up suddenly. "I thought that kid of his would never quit fighting." Katy's head went up. "You're the one who—" She lunged at him, nearly pulling free from the restraining arms, slipping as her heavy body threw her off-balance. "Damn. Pretty fiesty for a breeding woman, ain't she?" There was something near to admiration in the man's voice. "Hmmm." Benedetto looked thoughtful. "Boss," Parl spoke up. "Don't hurt her." "Getting sensitive?" Marsten asked, turning to look at the rider. "You know why we brought her here." "But—for God's sake, she's pregnant. You can't—" "I think I made a mistake sending you to Trant's," the settler commented, looking from Parl to Katy. "Looks like working for him has softened you." "It's not that," Parl protested. "It's just—" "Are you two going to stand there and argue, or help me?" Benedetto broke in impatiently. "Trant isn't going to chase those animals all day. He'll get back, find her gone, and start looking for her. From what you tell me, he won't give up until he finds her." "We can handle Trant," Marsten said. "What you do with Trant is between you and him. I told you to handle your own feuds. Just don't let them interfere with my business. I want to be gone from here by then." 395

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Don't worry," Marsten answered, looking grimly at Katy. "You will be." Benedetto turned toward Katy again. "Last chance to make this easy. Tell me where the disk is." Katy didn't answer, just shook her head. Before she knew what he was going to do, he snatched the quirt from Parl's wrist, raising it. Katy cowered against the men holding her but he didn't strike her, instead ordered, "Let her go." They released her, stepping backward. He thrust the quirt toward her, jabbing her in the ribs and Katy screamed, her body convulsing as the electrical current from the shock bolt coursed through her. As he pulled it away, she wavered, then fell to the ground, body jerking. Oh, God—the baby. What'll this do to the baby? It didn't matter. She knew she and the baby were already dead, had been from the minute the brush-raiders rode into the station yard. "Get her on her feet." She fought them as she regained some control, staggered, and fell to her knees. "Please—" "For God's sake, Mrs. Trant. Tell him!" Parl begged. She looked up, fixing her eyes on Marsten. "If I do, will you let me go?" He didn't answer. She shook her head. "I didn't think so—" Marsten pushed past Benedetto, jerked her to her feet and dragged her out of earshot. 396

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Listen, you stupid bitch—" His mouth was next to her ear, so the others wouldn't hear. "He's going to kill you, you know that." He didn't wait for an answer. "I want you. I've wanted you since the auction. Tell him what he wants to know and I'll keep you safe." She looked up at him, a flicker of hope balancing the disbelief. "You'll let me go?" "I've been ordered to kill you. I'm not crazy enough to buck Benedetto—" The flicker died. "Look, he isn't after you. He just wants the disk. If he gets it, I'll tell him I want you, that I'll keep you hidden at my station. I don't intend for Trant to get you back—" "He-he'll find me." Marsten shook his head. "After a little while he'll stop looking. People can disappear out here and never be found." "W-what about my baby?" "You and the kid will be safe. If you tell Benedetto—" He should have known that fear for her child would do what threats didn't. Slowly, she nodded. Marsten dragged her back to where Benedetto stood. He looked from her to Marsten and raised the quirt. She couldn't face another shock, almost gasped out the words. "In the bedroom ... clothes chest. In the second drawer at the back. Under my nightgowns." Benedetto turned and strode away, slinging the quirt at Parl who caught it. Marsten followed him, signaling for the riders to get mounted. "What the hell did you say to her?" "Promised her I'd keep you from killing her." 397

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

One hand went to the knife at Benedetto's belt. "You intend to keep that promise?" Marsten laughed. "Hell, no—but I've wanted that little bitch a long time. You wouldn't begrudge me having a little fun with her before I kill her, would you?" Benedetto looked back at Katy. He grunted slightly. "If she's told the truth, and I have the disk, I'll be leaving Tritomis before the sun goes down. I want her dead and buried by then." Marsten turned and walked back to the men. "Get a shovel," he told one. "Start digging a grave." "A grave?" Parl looked up. "What for?" "What do you think? To put a body in." He looked at Katy. She went white. "But you said—" the rider began. Katy interrupted, "No. You promised." Marsten looked from one to the other. "God! I don't know which of you is more gullible. Don't you know you can't trust a brush-raider's word?" To the man, he said again, "Get that shovel and start digging." Paril disappeared. "And make it deep," Marsten called after him. "I don't want the parri dogs digging up anything." Katy began to cry. "Stop that bawling," Marsten ordered. Parl reappeared carrying a shovel. "Marsten—" Benedetto beckoned, walking toward his horse. Marsten followed. Parl waited until they were out of sight. 398

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"Mrs. Trant—" His voice dropped to a whisper. Looking over his shoulder, he knelt beside her, one hand going to her bound wrists. Katy flinched as he touched her. He drew his knife. Katy saw the glint of the moonlight on the blade and whimpered, "No. Please..." then gasped in surprise as he slid it under the ropes and sliced through them. "Be quiet. I've got to work fast. Before they get back." He helped her sit up. "I swear I didn't know he had any of this planned ... I-I can't let them kill you." He cut the ropes around her ankles, pulling her to her feet. "Can you ride bareback? We don't have time to saddle a horse." "I'll manage," she whispered. Someone was coming toward the campfire. Parl motioned to her to stand still, then stepped to one side, ducking behind the brush In a moment, the other man came into the firelight. He saw Katy, stopped. "How'd you get loose?" Parl was up in an instant, one arm going around the man's mouth, keeping him from crying out as the knife flashed up and across his throat. Katy looked away as the blood spurted into the air. Parl eased the body to the ground, grabbed her hand and they were running toward the horses as fast as Katy could move. He'd gotten one untied from the line when Marsten appeared. "What do you think you're doing?" His voice cut through the silence, alerting the men who appeared from the other side of the camp, standing behind him. 399

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Parl stepped in front of Katy. "I'm taking her out of here. You're not going to kill her." "You fool!" The gun came out of his holster. Parl didn't have a chance to defend himself as the blast from the laser caught him in the chest. He landed in a sprawl a few feet away and didn't move. The vibration of the laser's whirl seemed to echo on the night air ... whirled above them ... became louder... Over the tops of the trees a Federation Search-and-Attack vehicle appeared. A searchlight shone from its belly, lighting the running figures on the ground. From the trees burst other men on elo-back, laser-fire lighting the darkness. One of Marsten's men aimed at the Drone, opening fire. An answering burst from above threw him to the ground. The Drone hovered lower, the side hatch sliding open so someone could jump from it, landing on his knees in the grass. "Katy!" He was up and running toward them as the Drone settled into the grass. "Sar!" Pulling away from Marsten, she took two steps before he caught her again, jerking her backward against his chest. "Don't fire!" a voice ordered. "You might hit Mrs. Trant." The searchlight fastened on them, sending Sar's shadow across their bodies. "Let her go, Marsten." "Let her go? And stand here and wait for the Marshals to take me? Oh no. This is one time you don't win, Trant." He pressed his pistol into Katy's ribs. 400

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Sar raised his own weapon, holding it in both hands. "Let her go." She'd never heard such cold anger in his voice. "You won't shoot. You can't. You'll hit her before you hit me and I know you're not going to do anything to hurt this brat of yours." Marsten laughed. He shook Katy, arm tightening about her chest, enjoying the look on fury on Sar's face. She took a deep breath. "Shoot him. Sar, shoot." "Katy, I can't." Sar's voice was as steady as his hands but she could sense his fear. "He's right. I'll hit you. Let her go, Marsten. This is between you and me." "Ordinarily, I'd agree," Marsten's answer was ridiculously conversational. "However, in view of the present circumstances, I'd be a fool to let my escape-ticket get away, wouldn't I?" He gestured at the Drone. "I suggest you tell the pilot to get out and allow us to leave." A slight movement from the body lying in the grass made Katy glance behind her. Parl wasn't dead, but was painfully inching his way toward Marsten, leaving a bloody trail through the grass. "You're not going anywhere," Sar said. Parl was almost behind Marsten now. One hand reached out... "Shoot, Sar!" Katy threw herself sideways as Parl's fingers closed around Marsten's ankle. Marsten fired, the shot going wild as he lost his balance. 401

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

She saw Sar rock backward on his heels as the flare flew past his head, knew he'd been grazed by the emission. Before he could recover, Marsten fired again Sar was knocked off his feet, landing on his back in the grass and Katy screamed and ran toward him. "Don't shoot, you might hit her!" came the order as he rolled over and struggled to his feet, aiming his own weapon. The shot was off-course, and Marsten once more fired. Sar flung the gun to the ground, leaping across the space to land on Marsten, knocking the man down. His hands wrapped around Marsten's wrists, forcing the pistol down. There was a bright burst of light between their bodies. The gun was slung from Marsten's hands, and Sar's wounded left arm slid behind the brushraider's neck, while his right hand went to the man's forehead. For a moment, there was total silence except for Sar's harsh, almost gasping breathing. Viciously, he moved both hands toward each other. There was a loud and brittle snap. Marsten's body kicked once and buckled, Sar falling with him. He lurched to his feet, staggering toward Katy. There was blood running down his face, his burned shoulder exposing bone and charred tissue, while the wound low on his stomach was sluggishly staining his boot top. Katy flung herself against him, felt his arm go around her, as much to reassure her as to hold himself upright. "Sunshine—" The men were swarming forward. One bent over Marsten, then checked Parl. "This one's still alive." 402

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"H-he's our hired hand," she said. "He tried to save me." Whatever else she was going to say was forgotten as she felt Sar's grip relax as he fell away from her. [Back to Table of Contents]

403

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Chapter Thirty-Four They got Sar and Parl back to the station. While the doctor was tending Sar, she was introduced to the man whose voice she'd heard in the clearing. "Agent Apley, ma'am, Federation Special Services—" He flashed his holo-ID as he explained. Auguste St. Clair hadn't been able to get Katy out of his mind. Upon returning to Earth, he'd gone to the Bureau of Prisons, requesting a status check on Kathleen Rawls, discovering that the prisoner was still awaiting transport. The Bureau computer matched Katy's description to the witness in the Karel Andrews murder, and the subject of a missing persons report. At that time, Agent Apley was already on his way to Tritomis-Two. The relatives of the women who had died on Alwin Marsten's property had filed protests with the Bureau of Prisons. The station owner was already under suspicion of being an acquisitions master for Antar Benedetto, his isolated land the perfect place to hide stolen goods before they were shipped to Earth. Suddenly, Apley found himself with two addenda to his assignment. "I was to determine whether the deaths were accidental as reported," he said, "or if each had somehow found out about Marsten's criminal activities and been killed to prevent her from going to the Marshal—and also to retrieve you." He'd been accompanied by someone Katy hadn't expected and didn't want to see. 404

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

**** "What are you doing here?" "Is that any way to greet your beloved uncle?" came the sarcastic reply as Cyril Rawls rose from the couch. "You've been a very inconsiderate child, Katherine—running away like that. You've given me a great amount of worry and put your Aunt through considerable trauma—" "I seriously doubt that." Aunt Clara hated her. She probably didn't want me found any more than you did, Uncle. She looked at the Federation man. "Did my uncle report me missing, Agent Apley?" "No. It was one of your co-workers." "I would've eventually," Cyril waited a little long to reply. "Frankly, Katherine, you've always been such a bother, it was a relief not to have you around. Almost as much a relief as getting rid of Karel." For just a moment, Katy stared at him before asking quietly, "Agent Apley, how did Antar Benedetto know where I was?" The agent looked over her head, eyes boring into Cyril's. Her uncle met the Fed's furious stare challengingly. "Someone told him." "You bastard!" She turned on him, startling him with the fury in her words. "You would've let Benedetto kill both your best friend and your niece? She looked at Agent Apley. "I hope he stays in jail a thousand years." "My dear," said her uncle calmly, "I'm not going to jail. Far from it." 405

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"What do you mean?" "I mean, dear child," his words were deadly sweet, "that my friends in the Federation Legislature realized I was coerced into becoming Benedetto's partner, and—for telling them what I know—are going to grant me immunity from prosecution." She looked at Apley again. "B-but he just confessed to—" "It doesn't matter, Mrs. Trant," Agent Apley interrupted bitterly. "Your uncle's turning Federation Evidence. He's getting off scot-free." As far as Apley was concerned, a thousand years wouldn't be long enough for Cyril Rawls' part in Benedetto's operation, but he was only a lowly F-10 employee, and his opinion wasn't important. Rawls looked smug. "Scot-free and taking you back with loving kindness. Once we're home again, however, there are going to be some drastic changes in your behavior, my dear. I may have to curtail your activities for a while—" Katy stiffened. Agent Apley put an arm around her shoulders. "Mrs. Trant doesn't need any more worry right now, Rawls. She's been through a very emotional experience, and I'm certain she's also worried about her husband—" "Her husband. That's another thing—" Cyril's voice trailed away as the doctor exited the bedroom. ****

406

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

She was barely aware of Agent Apley's hands on her shoulders, guiding her to the couch where Hatch stood, silently staring at the closed bedroom door. "He's sleeping right now," Doc said. "I've done all I can." He'd given Katy a cursory examination when he arrived, assuring her that the baby was unharmed, and now placed a reassuring hand on her arm. "None of the wounds were very complicated ones. Good thing he's so healthy." Katy sat down, reaching for Hatch's hand, drawing the boy down beside her as Agent Apley pushed Cyril Rawls away to stand before the hearth. "The head wound was just a graze," the doctor went on. "The one to his shoulder—well, it broke the bone. He's going to have to use one hand for a while. As for the other wound..." The room seemed to get darker. "The laser completely severed the right vas deferens— cauterized it as neatly as if it'd been ligated ... did an immediate partial sterilization." Katy gave a stifled whimper, squeezing Hatch's hand tightly. Doc Maxin knelt before her, speaking softly, so the others couldn't hear. "It's not as bad as it sounds, Mrs. Trant—it just means that it may take you two a little longer than usual to have your next child." She didn't know whether to laugh or cry at that, decided simply to sit there and say nothing, except to ask if she could see Sar. **** 407

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Uncle Cyril followed her and Hatch to the bedroom, trying to take charge. "Katy's going back to Earth with me," he told the bandaged figure lying in the bed as Sar turned pain-glazed eyes toward him. "You'll be fully compensated, of course—for any expenses she may have incurred—and also for allowing my niece to obtain a non-contested divorce, after which you'll promise never to see her again." "God, you don't mince words, d'ya?" "A man in my position doesn't have to." "Neither does a man in my position. I dinna want your damned blood-stained money. I want my wife." He raised his good hand and Katy caught it, squeezing tightly. "Strong talk for someone whose father was a homeless Exile." "Aye, I'm an Exile's son. But I'm an honest one. I've ne'er been involved in thievery or murder." "I'll have you know that on Earth, I'm—" "We're na on Earth. We're on my planet, and you canna buy me, Rawls." "Mr. Rawls," Hatch spoke up quietly. "Since you can't leave our property until the Agents do, I suggest you remove yourself from my father's presence. He doesn't need any more pain right now." Katy could've hugged him. Leaving Sar to sleep, she followed her uncle and Agent Apley into the living room where the agent said quietly, "You have to come with us, you know." "What do you mean?" 408

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"You have to testify—" "You have the disk. I'll give a written deposition..." "It can't be accepted. The Fed Court ruled that depositions can only be taken as Death-Bed Testimony, otherwise the witness must be seen and heard..." "I won't leave Sar." "Mrs. Trant—Antar Benedetto has always gone free because witnesses refuse to testify, or disappear. Are you going to let him get away again?" "What about my uncle's—" "He didn't witness the murder." Katy took a deep breath. "Very well. I'll testify, but then I'm coming back here—to Sar." "I'm afraid that isn't going to happen," Cyril Rawls spoke up. "Yes, it is," Katy answered. "I'm coming back here and you can't stop me." "I wouldn't try to, my dear," came the smooth answer. "You're perfectly free to come back to this primitive place, and wait for Mr. Trant to be released from whatever Penal Colony he's sentenced to, but I'm afraid that by the time that happens, he'll be too ancient to be of much use to you." "W-what do you mean? Why should Sar—He's done nothing wrong." "That's where you're mistaken." Cyril looked triumphant. "Your marriage took place under false pretenses—illegal detention, slavery, sexual corruption of a minor ... I'm certain my friends among the judges in the Outer Worlds Circuit Court can find a few more charges to tack on." 409

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

"I told Sar why I was here. I told him what happened. AAgent Apley?" Katy turned to him. She didn't like the look on his face. "I'm afraid what your uncle says is true, Mrs. Trant," the agent said, reluctantly. "Technically. Even though Mr. Trant knew why you came here, he did nothing about it, didn't take you to the Marshal and make arrangements for you to return to Earth." "B-but—" "As for the rest of it—even though you'll have your twentythird birthday before we reach Earth, Federation law states that, at present, you're still a minor, so your marriage is illegal, as well as your living with Mr. Trant as his wife." He sighed, defeatedly. "Being on an isolated station as you were—that might be considered detention in a way." "Now that we've settled that—" Cyril Rawls took over again. "Once he's behind bars, you'll get a divorce. I'll make arrangements to put the brat up for adoption—" "No." Katy could feel her heart sinking, a sick hollow growing inside her. Uncle Cyril was winning. Again. How many times had she given in before? How many times had he used blackmail on his business associates? "Please, Uncil Cyril." The stress of the last hours took its toll. Her defiance faded, tears rolling down her cheeks, misery in her eyes. "I-I'll do whatever you say ... divorce Sar, never see him again, j-just don't take away my baby." "That's my girl." He enfolded her in a hug. Katy forced herself not to flinch. 410

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

I'll marry her off to some ambitious young man in my firm, one who won't mind a halfbreed stepchild, and when the brat gets older—if it gives me any trouble—there are always offplanet boarding schools to keep it out of the way—perhaps an "accident" in transit... "It'll be for the best, you'll see." She looked back at Agent Apley, whose hands had clenched into fists. "When do we leave?" Her voice was lifeless. **** She stood on the porch, looking at the barn, the corrals, things she'd never see again. Sar came out of the house. He was limping slightly, his arm in a sling, but he was up and moving and that was what was important. "Don't go, Katy." "I have to." She couldn't tell him what her uncle had threatened. "Let me know whether I have a son or a daughter. I'll provide for both of you." "There's no need for that, Sar. Uncle Cyril—" "You'll take nothing from him. I'll take care of my woman— and my child." She didn't answer, blinking rapidly to keep the tears from falling. She wanted him to take her in his arms, to comfort her but Sar didn't touch her. He knew that if he ever held Katy in his arms again, he'd never let her go, and no one—not even the Fed—would be able to separate them. 411

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Agent Apley appeared. He'd notified the Bureau that they'd leave when Sar was out of danger. Katy was grateful to him for that. Apley was a good man in a difficult position. "We'll take care of her, Mr. Trant," he told Sar. "She'll have an armed guard every minute." He escorted her to the Drone, where Cyril Rawls waited, helping her inside. As the ship rose into the air, she looked back, seeing Sar and the house get smaller ... and smaller ... until they disappeared in the dust the Drone blew into the air as it left Three Moon Station behind. Katy began to cry and Cyril put his arms around her. "Get it out of your system, Katherine. Then you can forget that convict-born bogtrotter." She cringed away from him, burrowing her head against Agent Apley's shoulder and the Federation man put his arms awkwardly around her. **** Sar watched the Drone fade into the sky. Snowflake wandered out of the house, weaving around and around his ankles. From somewhere, Hatch appeared, bent and picked up the kitten, holding the animal to his chest. The boy was crying, not trying to hide the tears. "Pa? Is she really gone?" "Yes," Sar's answer was a pain-filled sigh. "Sunshine's gone from our lives for ever." ****

412

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

In Zero, they had to wait half an hour for the shuttle to arrive. Cyril Rawls was congratulating himself on once more winning over an opponent, though it was an opponent he hadn't known existed until a few hours before. Katy stood in front of the little building that housed the General Store, remembering her first sight of Sar walking out of Larkin's Saloon, drinking from the mug of tarra beer without spilling a drop, thought of the excitement of the Gadja fair and having Tulera read her fortune. The woman had been wrong in a way. She was leaving, but Sar was very aware of what she was taking away. Agent Apley was watching Cyril in barely hidden disgust. He hadn't expected anything like this to happen, and wanted no part of taking Sar's wife and child from him. There had to be a way out of this, some way to let Katy stay here, and still insure Antar Benedetto received the Fed's justice. He turned and looked at the little building, reading the sign across the front ... General Store—Bank—Post Office—and one he hadn't seen before—Notary Public ... How long had that been there? "Mrs. Trant. About your testimony..." [Back to Table of Contents]

413

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Chapter Thirty-Five Sar insisted on riding to the north pasture, though he was told that to do so would probably re-open his wounds. He couldn't stay in the house. Now that it was empty of Katy's presence, he had no desire to look at the rooms where she'd never be again nor lie in the lunat-down bed by himself. There were a thousand memories in that house that would haunt him and he had no wish to face them any sooner than he had to. So, he rode to the north pasture, Hatch by his side to make certain he was all right and didn't faint or do any of those weak things that men who've been severely wounded and refuse to stay in bed are prone to do. Singleton sent some of his riders to replace the fences. Sharmai and all of Trant's Gold had been recovered but now they meant nothing. What is wealth if the reason to have it has been taken away? Hatch would be starting his own station soon and he'd be left with ... nothing but memories, and he already had too many of those. A little later in the morning, he was surprised to hear the high-pitched whine of a Drone. Some of Agent Apley's men tying up a few loose ends before following him back to Earth? Earth... He never wanted to hear the name of that damned planet again. He just prayed to God that Katy would speak kindly of him to the baby and perhaps some day, he'd have a chance to see it, if only as briefly as Tulera had seen Hatch. 414

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

He was tiring, in pain and agreed when Hatch suggested they return to the station. Might as well face the memories now, instead of later... **** He was the first one into the station yard, saw the smoke billowing out of the open door, and dismounted his elo, limping toward the water trough. "Hatch, get the other bucket!" He dipped the one he held into the water and hobbled toward the house. Awkwardly balancing it against his injured arm, he flung the water into the smoke-filled doorway just as Katy stepped onto the porch. She stood there speechless with the shock of the cold water drenching her, just as Sar went silent with the surprise of seeing her again. "I don't believe it!" She wiped her face. "I burned the bread. Only gone two hours and already I've forgotten how to use that metal monster." She looked at him. "Don't you have anything to say?" The bucket crashed to the porch. "Y-you came back..." "The Notary Public in town ... a video ... Agent Apley said it was as good as actual testimony." She reached out and touched the copper braid, wrapping it around her hand, pulling him toward her, looking into the aquamarine eyes that were suddenly too bright. He put his good arm around her, holding her close, staring into blue eyes that were definitely ready to cry. "Welcome home, Sunshine." 415

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Hatch skidded to a halt at the steps, staring as his father kissed Katy. Setting down the bucket he carried, he watched as Katy put her arms around Sar's neck, resting her face against his chest and Sar pressed his cheek against the top of her head. Raising his arms, the boy spun in the graceful turns of a Gadja dance of happiness, raising his face to the sky, arms outstretched to embrace the heavens. Everything's all right ... Katy's home and Pa's happy again ... and soon he and Crissa would be together. What more could he want out of life? Hatch threw his hat into the air with a whoop of sheer joy. Katy's home and Pa's happy ... God, it's good to be alive! [Back to Table of Contents]

416

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

A word about the author... Icy Snow Blackstone was born in 1802, in the mountains of northern Georgia where her father, the Reverend John Blackstone, an English emigrant, was prominent in local politics. Two hundred and six years later, her great-greatgreat-great-granddaughter began using her name as a pseudonym for her romance novels. The present Icy Snow Blackstone lives far from her Southern roots in Orange County, California, where she is associated with the South Coast Writer's Association. Visit Icy Snow at www.tonivsweeney.com [Back to Table of Contents]

417

Three Moon Station by Icy Snow Blackstone

Thank you for purchasing this Wild Rose Press publication. For other wonderful stories of romance, please visit our on-line bookstore at www.thewildrosepress.com. For questions or more information, contact us at [email protected]. The Wild Rose Press www.TheWildRosePress.com

If you are connected to the Internet, take a moment to rate this eBook by going back to your bookshelf at www.fictionwise.com.

418