The Mission

 

By Rob Nagle, edited by Brantley

 

Chapter 5

 

 

His loving eyes traced along the contours of her back as she prepared herself for their evening out. James so admired how enhancement had made BiduÕs muscles fuller, and harder looking. He remembered how heÕd ached for her before, and now that she was strong like him, he ached for her all the more.

Bidu donned the top she planned to wear to dinner. His view obscured, the Velorian male sighed, and then his eyes flashed.

ÒJames!Ó Bidu whined in exasperation.

She turned to him, a hand having taken over the task of modesty from the strap which had been burned away.

ÒI didnÕt bring that many clothes with me,Ó she strove to point out to her transgressing mate.

From where he sat observing her in the corner of their bedroom, Colonel KimÕVallara smiled.

ÒGood,Ó he said. ÒThatÕll save my heat vision.Ó

The woman looked upon her man. There were times—so many times—when she didnÕt not know whether to cuss Ôim, or to kiss Ôim.

She opted for neither that particular time. She stripped off her damaged top, and began searching through her bag for another.

ÒWhy donÕt you just go naled?Ó her husband wondered idly. ÒMost of the Velorian women do anyway.Ó

ÒI am not a Velorian,Ó Bidu stated, turning to him with another top in hand. ÒI am Novo Recifean.Ó She pulled the top on, and straightened it. It was sheer, pretty and hugged her nicely. ÒAnd even though IÕm on vacation, I am still a representative of my world, and culture.Ó

She finished this statement by drawing back her shoulders, and thrusting out her chest—which caused both of her enhanced nipples to pierce through the light material of the top sheÕd just put on.

ÒOh, shit,Ó she sighed, relaxing her proud carriage just a tad too late.

ÒNow do you see the advantages of going bare?Ó her loving husband droned.

Bidu fixed her eyes on him.

ÒYou are the only one who has the privilege to see me,Ó she told him.

To a man from a race where public nudity was the norm, this logic was obscure. But he was learning.

ÒI love you,Ó he bequeathed to her with all his Velorian heart.

He was learning.

 

* * *

The two Supremis glided through the air in their ProtectorÕs uniforms. The sun still shone beyond the mountains. ShellÕy, and CassÕandra, were on an early evening mission to the Forest of Chestnut Eyes to search out Binkleyan refugees whoÕd escaped the Aurean occupation. TheyÕd been thoroughly trained in Binkleyan first aid in the event they encountered people with injuries, and carried a small cache of emergency medical supplies. Along with this, they bore a letter, signed by Chancellor Jolie, assuring those who read it that the occupation was over, and that it was safe to return to the cities.

The forest was still some distance off. Neither of the Protectors were in a hurry, so they passed the time in conversation.

ÒDoesnÕt the Colonel seem a bit stiff to you?Ó ShellÕy asked her sister Protector.

ÒHoney,Ó CassÕandra rejoined, Òevery man is stiff to me.Ó

ShellÕy looked askance at her gorgeous flying companion.

ÒI donÕt mean in - that way,Ó she sought to clarify.

ÒWell,Ó Cass wondered, joking aside, Òin what way do you mean?Ó

ÒI mean—like—formal . . . since he got married.Ó

ÒYeah . . . ,Ó Cass acknowledged thoughtfully. ÒI kinda miss the way heÕd cupped my breasts in greeting,Ó she went on to reminisce. ÒHeÕs got good hands, yÕknow.Ó

ShellÕy smiled of her own, remembering the colonelÕs touch.

ÒThatÕs not the only thing heÕs got thatÕs good,Ó she said.

ÒNow how would you know about something like that?Ó CassÕandra asked.

ÒI went to the sun earlier this week - Ò

ÒI noticed,Ó said Cass, admiring how ShellÕyÕs figure stretched the emblem on her uniform. ÒIt looks good on you.Ó

ÒThanks,Ó ShellÕy bid her through a warming blush.

Such a compliment from another Velorian was one thing, from another Protector was another and from a Protector of CassÕandraÕs high standing - it was to be prized.

ÒYou wear energy well, ShellÕydee,Ó CassÕandra further granted her, herself feeling a warming glow as she spoke.

ÒOh, CassÕee,Ó said a pleasantly helpless ShellÕy, ÒyouÕre sweet.Ó

ÒSo anyway,Ó Cass said to return to their topic, Òabout colonel Jim.Ó

ÒAnyway,Ó said ShellÕy to resume, ÒI was going to the sun for an energy boost earlier this week, and he asked if he could come along.Ó

ÒReally?Ó

ÒYeah.Ó

ÒTo the sun?Ó

ÒUmhm.Ó

ÒWhat would he want to do that for?Ó Cass gave herself to wonder. ÒHe sure didnÕt look like he needed it.Ó

ÒHe didnÕt,Ó ShellÕy affirmed with a knowing, sidelong glance to her companion. ÒBelieve me.Ó

ÒSooooo,Ó an intrigued CassÕandra offered to prompt ShellÕy along with her tale.

ÒWell,Ó ShellÕy continued, Òyou donÕt easily say ÔnoÕ to the colonel, so I flew him to the sun. I was going to leave him where I thought heÕd be safe, and do some leisurely subsurface diving, but he kept insisting that I let him move closer. He assured me that heÕd be all right, so I told him IÕd be quick. Not wanting to leave him for very long, I dove straight down to get as much O(rgone) as I could as fast as I could. Let me tell you; having so many orgasms in such a short span of time definitely does a number on your perspective. So, anyway, when I got back to the colonel, I still couldnÕt focus very well, but when I saw him, that got my attention fully erect.Ó

ÒThatÕs one way to put it!Ó Cass laughed with a grin. ÒSo,Ó she then wondered with pointed curiosity, Òwhatever had become of our dear Colonel Jim?Ó

ÒLetÕs just say that I have never seen a man like that,Ó ShellÕy answered.

ÒWell,Ó CassÕandra sought to qualify with teasing sobriety, Òyou are rather young, Shell.Ó

ÒIÕm the same age as you,Ó ShellÕy countered.

ÒAnd inexperienced,Ó Cass teased further.

ÒI lost count of my lovers long ago,Ó ShellÕy countered again.

ÒThere are men,Ó CassÕandra took care to inform her Velorian sister, Òand there are -- Velorian men.Ó

ÒAnd the colonel is one—hunk—of Velorian man,Ó ShellÕy added coyly, Òespecially after the sun got through with him.Ó

This got Cass to wondering - as well a Velorian Protector might.

ÒAnd what did you do with this . . . hunk?Ó she inquired.

ÒWell,Ó ShellÕy replied most dutifully, Òbeing a Protector, I . . . protected . . . him.Ó

ÒDid you!Ó CassÕandra fairly squealed with peaked interest.

ÒOf course,Ó ShellÕy forthrightly affirmed. ÒWhat sort of Protector do you think I am?Ó

ÒOh, a good Protector,Ó Cass readily granted.

ÒSurely,Ó ShellÕy agreed.

ÒA very good Protector,Ó CassÕandra granted further.

ÒI am,Ó ShellÕy further agreed. ÒA Protector who would never shirk her . . . duty.Ó

ÒSo, you - protected . . . him,Ó Cass stated to inquire.

ÒI most certainly did,Ó a very proud ShellÕy acknowledged.

ÒAnd what was it like?Ó Cass wondered.

To this, ShellÕy closed her eyes, and sighed.

ÒLike floating through space!Ó she softly exclaimed.

CassÕandra gave her a droll look.

ÒYou were floating through space anyway,Ó she pointed out.

ÒWell, thereÕs floating,Ó ShellÕy qualified, Òand then thereÕs . . . floating.Ó

ÒAnd you, and the colonel were . . . ?Ó

ÒFloating through space!Ó ShellÕy elaborately rhapsodized.

ÒArgh!Ó CassÕandra growled with frustration. ÒWill you give me a simple answer!Ó

ShellÕy dutifully gave her irked companion her undivided attention.

ÒDid you, or didnÕt you?Ó

ÒWith the colonel?Ó

CassÕandra sighed heavily. ShellÕy smiled, and drifted close enough to put a comforting arm around her.

ÒNo, we didnÕt,Ó she finally admitted.

Cass looked her way Ð relieved, grateful.

ÒThank you,Ó she said with affected strain.

They flew along together. The forest was getting closer.

ÒBidu is one lucky girl,Ó said ShellÕy.

Cass heard a certain wistfulness in ShellÕyÕs tone. It made her wonder.

ÒHow lucky?Ó

ÒLetÕs not start that again.Ó

CassÕandra laughed, and rolled over onto her back, resting the box of supplies she carried on her tummy.

ÒYou have been liberated from the Aureans!Ó she cried up to the clouds with mock effect. ÒYou are free!Ó

Her delivery made ShellÕy laugh.

ÒThatÕs bound to reassure any Binkleyan that the Aureans have been overthrown!Ó she rejoined.

ÒEah!Ó Cass groused. ÒItÕs the script—done it a thousand times.Ó

ÒEight hundred, and thirty-six actually,Ó ShellÕy clarified.

ÒStickler,Ó CassÕandra chided. ÒItÕs gotten old. ItÕs boring!Ó

ÒNot to the Binkleyans who hear it,Ó ShellÕy pointed out. ÒYou have to consider theyÕre hearing it for the first time.Ó

ÒYeah, I know,Ó Cass acknowledged, though grudgingly. ÒItÕs just hard to keep something like that—fresh after doing it as many times as we have.Ó

ÒWell,Ó said ShellÕy, ÒitÕs whatÕs expected of us, and the looks on their faces when we tell them does make it all worthwhile.Ó

ÒIÕm not discounting that,Ó Cass readily conceded. ÒI just wonder if thereÕs a way we can spice up the way we tell them, yÕknow - make it more . . . exciting.Ó

ÒÕExcitingÕ that is, to us, you mean?Ó ShellÕy inquired.

ÒIt sure as Aurean beats yawning our way through it,Ó said Cass, Òwhich both of us are doing,Ó she further noted.

ÒOkay, well,Ó ShellÕy offered, ÒwhatÕve you got in mind?Ó

* * *

ÒHide,Ó a Binkleyan man quietly urged his family. ÒSomeoneÕs coming.Ó

The man, and his family, had narrowly escaped the Aurean attack more than three years before.

ÒBut dad,Ó said the manÕs son, pointing to the two forms which had appeared in the sky overhead, ÒtheyÕre flying.Ó

TheyÕd lived in the thick of Chestnut Eyes Forest ever since.

ÒTheyÕre Velorians, dear,Ó the manÕs wife noticed, Òand their uniforms Ð theyÕre Protectors!Ó

And they had survived on little more than fear.

ÒWe donÕt know what their business is!Ó the man insisted. ÒNow go into the cave, and keep out of sight.Ó

He looked up at the descending forms as the others withdrew.

ÒLet me talk to them.Ó

The man stood bravely alone as the two flying blonde Protectors light upon the ground some distance from him. They were so beautiful in their official uniforms. They inspired the best of hopes, and the fondest of dreams. Still, the man was cautious as the Protectors strode toward him, one of them carrying a box of some kind. He stood his ground as they stopped a few paces from him. He could tell by their demeanor that this was an important visit.

ÒWe have liberated you from the malevolent clutches of fucking assholes!Ó the Protector carrying the box proclaimed.

Was it true, the man wondered? Could any of what heÕd just heard possibly be true? Was it over? Really—finally over? Was there to be no more pain, no more sorrow? Was the abuse, the cruelty, the suffering finally to be over? In spite of all that he had known—all that he had seen, the man allowed himself to greet the news with subdued joy. He could scarcely believe his good fortune.

ÒYouÕve killed my in-laws,Ó he stated to the women expectantly.

Both Protectors stared at the man, then, as one, both of them blinked.

ÒNo,Ó CassÕandra quietly answered.

ÒSome of them?Ó the man inquired, still expectant.

The ProtectorÕs proud, official bearing diminished somewhat at this point.

ÒNo,Ó said ShellÕy quietly.

The man looked furtively from one Protector to the other.

ÒOne, at least,Ó he said.

Ò . . . no . . . Ò

ÒWe were referring to the Aureans,Ó CassÕandra sought to clarify. ÒYÕknow, the ones who took over your planet, subjugated your people and slaughtered you by the millions.Ó

The man seemed to require a moment to assimilate the information Cass had provided him. Once the proper mental perspective had been accomplished, however, he nodded with realization.

ÒOh,Ó he acknowledged, albeit without discernible interest, Òthose fucking assholes.Ó

ÒYes,Ó ShellÕy confirmed with a disapproving glare in the direction of the great, new termÕs inventor, Òthose - fucking assholes.Ó

ÒWell,Ó the man irritably exclaimed, Òit would have helped if youÕd specified just what fucking assholes you were talking about!Ó

ÒIÕm sorry, sir, youÕll have to excuse us,Ó ShellÕy offered with elaborate sincerity. ÒWeÕre from off planet, ya see, and . . . we didnÕt know there were so many varieties on BinkleyÕs World.Ó

CassÕandra administered a disciplinary pinch to ShellÕyÕs bum, which made her wince nicely. ShellÕy abruptly backslapped CassÕs hand away. They accomplished this exchange while maintaining their official regard of the man.

ÒDaddy?Ó called a small voice.

Both Protectors, and the man, looked to see a child standing by the mouth of the cave, one of her little arms in a makeshift sling.

The sight of injured put Cass in motion. She flew to the girl, settling to her knees in front of her.

ÒHi there,Ó she greeted her brightly, opening her box of medical supplies.

The girl studied the Protector.

ÒAre you an angel?Ó she asked.

CassÕandra looked on the girl as she calibrated a diagnostic tool.

ÒYou might say that,Ó she replied.

Still with the man, ShellÕy admired CassÕs mind for duty. She withdrew the ChancellorÕs letter from the inside of her uniformÕs sleeve.

ÒThis should help clarify the reason why weÕre here,Ó she said to the man, offering the letter to him.

He took the letter, opened it and read.

ÒIs it all right?Ó the manÕs wife called to him from just inside the cave.

SheÕd been keeping a close watch on Cass as sheÕd attended her child. The man walked back to his family, ShellÕy at his side.

ÒThe occupation is over,Ó he reported to his wife. ÒThese girls are here to help.Ó

ÒIs it true?Ó the woman wondered with subdued joy. ÒCan any of what IÕve just heard possibly be true? Is it over? Really—finally over? Is there to be no more pain, no more sorrow? Is the abuse, the cruelty, the suffering finally to be over?Ó

The man sighed quietly to himself, then looked away.

ÒWell,Ó he muttered, Òsome of it, at any rate.Ó

ÒA transport will pick you up in the morning,Ó ShellÕy told the couple. ÒYouÕll be housed in Emerald City until arrangements can be made to take you to your home province.Ó

ÒThere we are!Ó Cassandra happily announced to the girl.

SheÕd applied a poultice over the childÕs infected wound, and given her something to relieve her pain.

ÒThank you,Ó said the girl to Cass as she watched the pretty blonde woman stow the things that had made her feel better.

Cass stopped what she was doing, and barely stopped her tears as she looked on the girl.

ÒWe have some food,Ó the woman offered the Protectors. ÒIt isnÕt much, but youÕre welcome to it.Ó

ShellÕy, and Cassandra, shared a look of beautifully pained significance. No; it hadnÕt gotten boring, and yes; it was worthwhile. Very worthwhile.

 

* * *

James KimÕVallara had hardly begun entering the access code to his quarters when he felt his wifeÕs arms encircle him from behind. He felt the firm contours of her body as she pulled herself into him. He heard her sigh, then felt the merest brush of her lips against the back of his shoulder.

ÒOh, damn!Ó he muttered, hastily pressing the ÔcancelÕ button on the wall mounted security pad by his door.

ÒIs something wrong?Ó Bidu asked him.

James turned to gather his woman under his loving arm.

ÒYou made me forget where I was,Ó he told her.

She smiled up at him.

ÒSorry,Ó she whispered.

He looked on her.

ÒIÕm not,Ó he said.

Their lips met, and they spoke the silent words that only lovers share. Long, lingering moments of quiet interplay transpired between them, and they told of how they felt for one another.

Skietra, IÕve missed you!Ó James whispered at their parting.

Bidu smiled up at him.

ÒIf you can ever get your door open,Ó she said, Òyou wonÕt have to miss me anymore.Ó

James eyed the security pad by his door. He felt oddly intimidated by the device.

ÒHmm,Ó he grumbled.

He regarded his wife.

ÒBest two out of three?Ó he offered.

Bidu considered her husbandÕs proposal briefly, then made her decision.

ÒIÕll give you—one—more chance to get it right,Ó she decreed. ÒFailing that, IÕll rape you right here in the hall.Ó

His eyebrows raised at the same time as his posture rose.

ÒI thought you Novo Recifeans werenÕt into public displays of affection, let alone—Ò

He was stopped from speaking any further when his breath was cut short from BiduÕs strong hand tightly gripping the underside of his crotch.

ÒOpen that door before I make you an Operatic soprano,Ó she instructed him in a low tone that carried threat.

In an instant, the door stood wide.

ÒThe food was wonderful,Ó Bidu commented of their evening once they were both safely inside JamesÕ apartment, Òbut the speakers gave me indigestion.Ó

She turned to her husband.

ÒAre all Binkleyan official dinners that boring?Ó she asked.

ÒMm, not always,Ó said Kim Vallara.

The couple eyed one another.

ÒSometimes theyÕre even worse,Ó he added.

Pained by the thought, Bidu closed her eyes, sighed, then turned away.

The couple attended to their separate business for a time, then Bidu made a point of presenting herself to her husband. She was having such pretty difficulty managing the fasteners along the front of her top.

ÒWould you undo me?Ó she asked him, hoping that she sounded sufficiently helpless.

James looked on her. For the life of him, heÕd never seen such beauty.

There was a flash from his eyes, which targeted the topmost button, reducing it to a trail of melted plastic.

Bidu looked down at her ruined button, and sighed. She was about to chastise him, but his heat had warmed her in a way she liked. She considered that sheÕd never much cared for the outfit she had on anyway, and, besides, she wanted more.

The look she gave James was all he needed. One by one, the remaining buttons fell away as drops, and smoking vapor. Once the final button had been dispatched, Bidu turned, and struggled prettily with the zipper on her skirt.

ÒIÕm having trouble,Ó she pleaded, Òwould you . . . ?Ó

How could he fail to assist such a beautiful woman in such dire need? JamesÕ eyes traced along the length of the zipper, his heat vision scrupulously destroying every link. When that was done, he went beyond the call of duty, and took out the entire seam of the skirt the zipper was connected to.

Bidu caught the material just in time before it fell away from her. A panty elasticed hip, and one of her long, powerful thighs showed through. She turned to her gallant gentleman, and held the skirt demurely to herself, watching him . . . daring him.

It took but a momentÕs concentration from James, and the entire skirt burst into flame. Bidu removed it from herself lest her ruined top be further ruined. She held the skirt up to him so he could see it - and so he could not see her - and let it slowly burn away in her hands. When there was nothing but the beltline left, she dropped her hands to her sides.

James lost his breath to behold the twin pillars of his womanÕs body in all their naked glory. Still in her heels, BiduÕs legs looked immensely powerful yet undeniably feminine. He couldnÕt resist - he could not hold back. He would have her—more of her!

BiduÕs hand reached her crotch a nanosecond ahead of her husbandÕs heat beams—effectively blocking him, and thwarting his intent. The beams played on the back of her hand—she so wanted to remove it! -- but

ÒYou intend to make me suffer, donÕt you?Ó James told her as his eyes went out.

Abruptly, Bidu snapped the beltline of her skirt against the side of her leg like it was a whip. A resounding ÔSNAP!Õ resulted, and then James saw the fingers of her cupping hand slowly disappear between her thighs.

A low, cruel laugh issued from her, her fingers expertly caressing her.

ÒWatching me masturbate would make you suffer?Ó she asked.

With a roar, James unleashed the full fury of his heat vision on her. Instantly, BiduÕs form was rendered in a blaze of red, then white, bits of charred fabric exploding from her outline. Without let-up James blasted her with every erg he had for long, long moments. The heat he poured into her was so intense that the flame resistant furnishings in the room had begun to blacken, and the paint on the walls had started to crack, and peal before he released her. When he released her . . . he released her . . . and then he was afraid.

ÒBidu!Ó he cried. ÒSkietra, IÕm sorry!Ó

He hastened to the glowing white form, his own clothing being quickly reduced to smoke, and ash. He wrapped his arms around the glow of white. He was so afraid.

ÒBidu!Ó

At length, his woman laughed - happily - girlishly, and she took him into her glowing arms, sharing his heat with him.

ÒYouÕre all right?Ó James wondered anxiously.

ÒOf course I am, James,Ó she assured. ÒDo you really think that you could hurt me?Ó

She kissed him, stroked him. He held her - carefully.

ÒWell, I . . . Ò

He really wasnÕt sure.

Bidu just laughed at his hesitation.

ÒOh, I do so love to make you lose it!Ó she sighed.

ÒWhat!?Ó he demanded.

Her glow was fading, yet his was not.

ÒYou ready to lose it some more?Ó she asked him squarely.

ÒYou!Ó James gasped. ÒYou minx, you!Ó

The sound of his disciplining hand against her rear could be heard for a mile around.

ÒOoo,Ó Bidu cooed, wriggling her pelvis against his, Ònow thatÕs a gesture of affection I could warm up to.Ó

ÒYou know I donÕt like being fooled like that,Ó James scolded her.

ÒWhich is exactly why I fool you like that,Ó Bidu replied.

She pressed her superheated body against him, urging him to respond.

ÒIt makes you so aggressive,Ó she breathed into his ear, moving her body as she knew he liked, Òand firm.Ó

He couldnÕt be angry, nor could he resist.

ÒYou are a minx!Õ he softly swore into her hair, ÒAnd I do so love you!Ó

He held her as only he could. They exchanged silent vows of affirmation. The groan of metal under tremendous stress was heard.

ÒWe havenÕt melted that jock strap yet?Ó Bidu wondered, parting from him just enough.

ÒIt is Vendorian,Ó James noted.

ÒStill,Ó said Bidu, ÒIÕm disappointed in us.Ó

ÒWhat about you?Ó he asked. ÒWhatÕs this stuff on your breasts?Ó

Both of them noted the heavy, grey, fibrous residue that clung to each of her breasts.

ÒMm, oh that?Ó she mumbled. ÒItÕs high tempered insulation.Ó

ÒInsulation?Ó James wondered. ÒWhy?Ó

They separated, but both of them knew it would not be for long. Bidu had regained her natural coloring, but still had a beautiful glow. Her crotch was coated with residue as well.

ÒItÕs one of the disadvantages of enhancement IÕve found,Ó she explained. ÒI uh . . . get, uh . . . warm - quite easily now.Ó

The Velorian man frowned.

ÒThe sun on ErinÕdor isnÕt that warm,Ó he recalled.

The look she gave him immediately made him feel like the clueless dolt he was being.

ÒOh . . . ,Ó he then sought to correct himself, Ònot—that—kind of warm.Ó

ÒNo,Ó his loving wife assured him with care, tracing a fingernail along her tummy, Ònot . . . that kind.Ó

ÒYou knew enhancement would make you, uhm . . . warm,Ó said James.

ÒYes,Ó Bidu acknowledged, Òbut not . . . that warm.Ó

The Velorian manÕs eyebrows rose.

ÒReally?Ó

ÒYes,Ó she affirmed. ÒIt wasnÕt so bad at first, but itÕs gotten progressively more . . . intense - over the years.Ó

ÒI guess some things do improve with age,Ó James ventured.

The woman smiled at him, and purred.

ÒRecently, I found that I was damaging my clothing at awkward moments,Ó she went on to explain, Òso I special ordered some underwear that would, uh . . . contain me.Ó

Her fingers had come to toy with the insulation over her groin.

ÒReally?Ó

Another groan of metal was heard.

ÒUmhm.Ó

Her fingers struggled prettily.

ÒMay I help you with that?Ó James offered gallantly.

Her look implored him.

ÒWould you, please.Ó

Once freed of her impediments, Bidu was able to express her warmth, and James partook of her.

ÒWe havenÕt burst that jock strap yet?Ó she wondered irritably.

ÒWell, it is Ven- Ò

She expressed her warmth more fully. Within moments, the metal finally surrendered to a far superior force.

ÒThere now,Ó Bidu murmured in the flush of triumph, Òthat wasnÕt so hard now, was it?Ó

James smiled on her.

ÒYou have no idea how hard.Ó

Bidu smiled at him.

ÒReally?Ó

ÒUmhm.Ó

Her smile widened. Bidu thrilled to suspect that he knew something that she did not.

ÒAre you keeping something from me?Ó she asked.

ÒNot for long,Ó he told her.

He invited her to kiss. She welcomed him. They pulled their bodies together, and vented their months of loneliness on each other. James lowered himself to attend a breast. Bidu gasped with delight at the first, hesitant brush of his lips on her. Her nipple responded eagerly to the experienced swirl, and lash, of his tongue—its proud jut inviting him to play rougher, bite harder, suck deeper. Bidu held his head against her breast, her strong nails lightly raking the skin at the base of his skull. She arched her back, urging him to take more - give more.

James came up to her, and their mouths attacked one another with a ferocity that mightÕve threatened their teeth. Their bodies so ached for one another—their passion burning at an altogether new intensity! Pleasure theyÕd never known coursed through them in waves. Bidu felt him rising between her thighs. She would open herself - just for him! Her experienced hand sought him . . . to guide him . . . sought him!

What the fuck?

And found more than she remembered.

A lot more.

Bidu broke off their kiss as her hand explored JamesÕ growing might. He was enormous . . . huge. HeÕd always been the largest man sheÕd ever known, but now he was even larger somehow. Much larger. Her hand could scarcely encircle half his girth. She marveled at how thick, and solid he was - and still becoming.

ÒWhereÕd you get this?Ó she wondered of him as though it were an accusation.

ÒI had one of the Protectors take me to the sun in preparation for your arrival,Ó James related.

Bidu took this in.

ÒYou can stop growing any time, yÕknow,Ó she told him.

ÒJust as soon as you stop inspiring me,Ó James replied.

Her hand could barely grip him—her strong fingers completely failing to even dimple the surface beneath the drum-taut skin. She lowered her eyes . . . beheld him.

ÒIncredible,Ó escaped her as an awestruck murmur.

ÒMmmm . . . ,Ó James coyly hedged, pleased with his wifeÕs reaction to . . . him, ÒitÕs not really - ÔinÕ yet, so itÕs still just merely - ÔcredibleÕ.Ó

Her eyebrows rose as she regarded him.

ÒYouÕre not coming anywhereÕs near me with that thing,Ó she teased. ÒI mean, I may be enhanced, but this is ridiculous.Ó

Her eyes lowered again . . .

ÒThe lords!Ó she softly declared. ÒYou are gorgeous!Ó

Bidu tried to recover her breath, and calm her racing heart. Of its own, her hand clutched, and caressed his massive heat - her emotions veering wildly between all too human dread, and bold, Velorian daring.

ÒBidu,Ó her loving husband urged her, Òlook at me.Ó

ÒI am!Ó she answered.

ÒLook into my eyes.Ó

She showed her face to him.

ÒDonÕt be afraid,Ó he sought to reassure her.

ÒWith a club like that, thatÕs easy for you to say!Ó

James laughed, but not at her expense. Thoughts sheÕd never before dared to dream of were rushing through BiduÕs mind. Crazy thoughts—insane thoughts! She knew they were impossible, and yet they were so delicious! She released her hold on him so she could get a grip.

ÒBidu, you have to believe,Ó James told her.

ÒOh, I believe alright,Ó she replied.

She physically removed herself from him.

ÒI believe I am not going to get skewered like a shish-kabob!Ó

He approached her.

ÒBidu!Ó

ÒDonÕt touch me!Ó

ÒIÕm practically two feet away—Ò

ÒYouÕre still touching—get that thing away from—Ò

Bidu made to thrust his rigid monstrosity aside, but she was at the point were even so casual a touch brought about an existential watershed of sharply focused meaning to her life.

ÒAh!Ó she cried. ÒAs I live I want you!Ó

She fell to her knees to ravenously lick, and bite, and suck. All that she desired was to show that she could please this man - this man of men - her man! She wanted to throw herself on him - die in the effort - go down in the history of saints as having tried!

ÒBidu . . . please,Ó James fervently begged his frenzied wife, ÒyouÕre going to make me . . . Ò

ÒCum in my face, James,Ó Bidu told him in the throes of her fevered ministrations. ÒDrown me—kill me! I donÕt care . . . I just . . . anything!Ó

Cum he did, and she fell on his cock, eagerly swallowing every drop, yet he remained as hard as Vendorian steel.

James sought to slow her down, but the woman was completely beyond reason—beyond hope! Bidu stood up, and bodily threw him onto the bed, then she leapt on him like a tigress.

She was everywhere on him at once. He could barely endure the thrill of her astounding body moving on his—the way she moved—how she moved! Her pelvis worked along his length, his hardness pressed against her burning pussy! There was no way to appease her—she was mad with lust. Near the end of his wits, James did the only thing that was left to do. He took the sex-crazed beast that sheÕd become by the hips, and forcefully impaled her on his tip.

Bidu howled from the sudden shock of his invasion. Never, ever had he felt so BIG in her! In an instant she felt herself being stretched and stretched and stretched. . . to the limit . . . beyond! . . . her searing passion . . . reduced to whimpering sighs.

ÒBidu....Ó James said to her, high up on his perch as she was. ÒÓAre you all right?Ó

Bidu emitted a plaintive moan that seemed to have no end. Slowly, then, she raised her face to him. Of its own, her hair parted to reveal stars in her eyes. Her hands tentatively explored their union as her senses returned. She lost her breath all over again when she felt the girth of his mass protruding from her.

ÒOh . . . my . . . lords . . . !Ó was all that she could say—whispered in a tone of muted shock.

ÒI missed you so much, I wanted to be all that I could be for you.Ó

Bidu looked deep into his loving eyes.

"It's just the tip."

"Just stop when you've had enough..."

The words struck Bidu like a slap in the face. ÒStopÓ when sheÕd had Òenough?Ó Just who did he think she was, anyway? Was she not a woman? An enhanced woman? Was she not desirable enough to compel everything that a man was capable of? And was she not capable of delivering on the promises her enhancement perfected body made? Was she not—

ÒIÕll let you know when IÕve had Ôe-noughÕ,Ó she told him right back.

And so she set to work. Bidu put all of her weight on him in her first determined effort to take him in. James watched in amazement as his s length and girth began to disappear into her.

Bidu put her full concentration to her task. It was a milestone when her knees touched the bed, but she still had so far to go! She hooked her heels into the sides of the bed, and bore down on him for all she was worth. She grunted, and spewed, gripping his shaft with her claws to pull him in. She labored, and sweated, straining every enhanced muscle in her body to accommodate him.

BiduÕs vaginal tract changed course as all the tissues involved relaxed. James watched wide-eyed as his one, and only mate, once more, began to sink on him. Both of them marveled at the sight as more and more of him entered her. And the feel of what was happening—physical, and emotional. They joined hands, and shared sensations neither of them had ever felt.

They were almost there—just a little more. Their pubic joins touched at just the moment James could feel the beating of his loverÕs heart.

They were together as theyÕd never been. Bidu settled herself on him with a comfort that she knew was right.

Their hands clutched tighter. Bidu pressed against his hands, offering James the opportunity to play wrestle with her. She felt him, every bit of him.

ÒIs that all you got?Ó she asked.

James guffawed so hard at this that he kiegled her body against his with a very loud smack. This was okay with Bidu—it let her pin his hands to the bed while she used the leverage to rake her diamond hard nipples against his chest.

ÒI was going to ask if you were all right,Ó said James, noting how she looked at him, and how she felt against him. ÒBut I guess I donÕt need to.Ó

Bidu stilled her movement. She looked at him.

ÒOh yes,Ó she told him, Òyou do need to.Ó

She squirmed her pelvis—flexed her tummy . . . just for him.

ÒYou seem fine to me,Ó he told her back.

Their entangled fingers toyed with one another.

ÒDo I?Ó she asked.

Their union was not enough.

ÒIÕm going to die if I canÕt hold you,Ó he said.

ÒThen that makes two of us,Ó she said, setting him free, Òbecause IÕm going to die if you donÕt hold me.Ó

For a long time, they simply lay together enjoying one anotherÕs company for the first time in so many months. They quietly thrilled at the lazy petting, and nuzzling they indulged in. Occasionally, one would threaten aggression, but it was only for show just so they could melt all over again at the otherÕs gentle touch, and kiss. They were resting for the moment both of them knew would come.

ÒCan all Velorian men do that?Ó Bidu wondered.

ÒDo what?Ó James wondered back.

ÒTurn themselves into giant redwoods,Ó Bidu clarified, stroking his length along her tummy.

ÒMmm - some....Ó

Then his look became different as he took her hands in his, and held her close.

ÒBut they can achieve union only with the one who I also truly special,Ó he assured her. ÒVelorian women were created to mate with Gods, you know. ÒThey were made to be very.... accommodating. And your enhancements have made you - on God, Bidu!Ó

Bidu took in the sum of his intention, and it made her feel very special indeed.

ÒYou wanna fuck?Ó she suggested.

ÒI thought we were,Ó James responded.

Their fingers toyed.

ÒWell,Ó she said, still suggesting, ÒI mean . . . yÕknow . . . Ò

She felt him stir inside her.

ÒIÕll take that as a yes,Ó she offered.

Their hands clutched tighter.

ÒYouÕd better,Ó he told her.

Bidu adjusted her position on him. Throughout her enhanced depth, James filled her with comfort, and with challenge. They felt him leave her as she pressed herself up on her knees. High up on her knees, as high as she could get, there was still enough of him inside her to tax a normal human female. They fixed their gaze on one another, their grip on one another tightened even more and Bidu began to lower.

The sensation of his gradual reentry was altogether different—so intense! -- for both of them! They shuddered, and writhed—Bidu struggling to control her descent as James steadily rose in her. The sensation from a single stoke had both of them suffering with anticipation, and fighting hard against imminent release. Their final joining was a mutual triumph of restraint that left them dizzy, and breathless. Upon recovering, Bidu smiled on him, and then she expelled a mournful laugh.

ÒItÕs going to take forever to ride this log,Ó she observed.

From where he lay, James smiled in a relaxed, and knowing way as he caressed her hip.

ÒThis is me,Ó she realized in breathless amazement of her own capability. ÒItÕs mine.Ó

She was becoming excited. James could tell. He gently took her hands in his.

ÒEasy, Bi,Ó he urged her. ÒLetÕs go slow.Ó

With practice, Bidu discovered this newest aspect of her enhancement. She learned quickly that she could fasten on JamesÕ engorgement anywhere along her depth—ascending, or descending. She also found that she could make her cervix flutter—and make James beg to her delight. They played, and kissed for a time, then rested for a time.

ÒSo, what do you think?Ó James wondered of this woman of all women.

Bidu looked on him, then kissed him slow, and full, and deep. When they parted, she was feeling so powerful!

ÒI think school is over.Ó

The Velorian male smiled with a private knowing.

ÒAs you wish,Ó he said.

Like a bolt of lightning, James plunged into her! Bidu gasped from shock. She tried to stop him—catch him—stop him, but he was moving so fast! He throbbed, and pulsated in her at dazzling speed, stripping away all of her sense of control. He wanted her limp, and mindless—helpless against his power! He was going to drag a kicking, screaming orgasm from her that would blow her brains out. He was going to show her just what Velorian sex was all about. He was a monster, unstoppable, a juggernaut of pure Velorian erotic will! -- and then he couldnÕt move any more.

What the fuck?

James looked to see Bidu calmly glaring down at him from the imposing height of her beautifully erect posture. She was wringing wet as she sat on him with her hands lightly perched on her iliacs. Her breasts seemed to float on cushions of air.

To his surprise, she wasnÕt appearing mindless.

ÒYou bastard!Ó she spat.

And so began his end. Bidu summoned every megaton of her enhancement power to wreck her vengeance on him. She compelled her sheath on him, gaining in experience, and control with every undulation she imposed. If sex was what he wanted, then thatÕs exactly what he was going to get! She was going to show him just who he was fucking with. SheÕd blow his marbles like theyÕd never been blown! SheÕd have him on life-support before she was through with him. She would make him scream for mercy, and then scream for more! SheÕd -

What the fuck?

She looked down on James. He was rancid with the sweat of effort. The sheets were wet beneath him. Greedily, she breathed in the odor of his vapors. She could see him—his steely resolve beyond his placid features.

He moved in her again. Against her will he moved! Her man . . . was doing this . . . to her. Her gorgeous, glorious man!

It seemed like hours before they finally came down - hours spent, by turns, fucking like the demigods they were, or lying together quietly, savoring their contact; an outside observer would have thought they were doing nothing when in fact they were doing everything.

But at long last it was time for other things.

ÒBidu,Ó he said. ÒWe have to talk about important matters. Very important matters. Matters that go beyond BinkleyÕs World. Matters that affect the course of the war, the fate of Velor itself.Ó

 

* * *

It was a thing unheard of—a phenomenon so unique unto itself, and so profound in meaning that its advent took by storm. It affected all, and spared none. It defied every limit there was to logic, reason and common sense. There was nothing to compare it to anywhere in the catalogue of recorded fact. It was far beyond the reach of fiction. So singular, and extraordinary was it that all who came to hear of it were struck numb with shock. Most simply refused to accept it. Many openly wept.

It happened in the marketplace of BinkleyÕs WorldÕs vast, open-air mall. Women gasped. Men fainted. Mothers hastened to cover the impressionable eyes of young children. None who bore witness to it could believe what they were seeing: Velorian Protectors shopping for—of all things - clothes.

And yet, there they were. Gloriously nude, blonde Protectors deliberately covering their heavenly bodies.

ÒHave they no shame!Ó one woman exclaimed in disgust.

By then, all of the Protectors of BinkleyÕs World had read what had come to be known as, ÒThe CanÕdy Article,Ó that expounded on the topic of a womanÕs concealing her most alluring attribute to attract a manÕs attention. The article had deeply affected all of them, because, for a race of women accustomed to a sexual diet of Ôwhenever—wherever—with whomeverÕ, they were now placed in the hitherto unknown position of competing with each other for the attention of one man. A single messenger was being sent to serve them all, and they were more than fifty.

ÒItÕs a scandal!Ó one mortally offended man cried out as he saw a Protector covering herself. ÒA scandal, I say!Ó

None of the lonely Protectors wanted to be second in line for their messengerÕs sorely needed attention, let alone fiftieth. So they began to look for ways to stand out among their equally gorgeous, Velorian sisters, and so they began to look for ways of concealing their most alluring attribute, so they could attract the attention of the one man to be given to them.

ÒIs there no justice!Ó a shocked observer lamented upon seeing a ProtectorÕs body concealed.

Several of the Protectors tried to hide their identities by wearing dark glasses as they shopped for clothes. They fooled no one, though, because they were still blonde, perfect and otherwise nude.

Seeing Protectors trying on clothes, sturdy men would go completely limp. More than once a distraught man would rush up to a concealed Protector to scream in her face: ÒFor GodÕs sake woman, uncover yourself!Ó

And more than once, an underexposed Protector would turn red in the face, burst into tears, then quickly fly off in haste.

Discretion forbids a complete telling of this - one of the saddest of all chapters in Velorian lore, though there is a document that chronicles the daunting challenge these exceptional Protectors faced. As it would be repetitive to relate all their separate stories, the author will limit himself to the perils of CharÕlene.

Upon her successful passage through Attribute Concealment Training, Char set out to discover her most alluring attribute, and then find ways of concealing that attribute.

To begin her quest, CharÕlene thought it best to seek the counsel of her Velorian compatriots as to what her most alluring attribute was. Who better to judge Velorian beauty after all, she figured, than another Velorian? She took to approaching the Velorian civilians—one on one—so that she might ask them: ÒWhat—is my most alluring attribute?Ó

All the Velorians she encountered, however, when confronted by CharÕs maternity engine perfected body, could do no less than fall to fervent worship of her with their hands, their mouths, their . . .

Well, nice as they were to compliment her with their attention, and nice as the attention was, CharÕlene knew that she was on a mission, and that she had to stay focused.

ÒThatÕs not. . . answering my . . . question,Ó she sighed through the combined heat of passionately shared kisses.

Not getting the information she required from her fellow Velorians, CharÕlene decided to try asking the Aureans. The Betas merely turned away from her in disdain. The Primes werenÕt much more helpful.

ÒThereÕs nothing the least bit alluring about you, you Velorian shit!Ó they generally declared.

ÒOkay fine,Ó CharÕlene granted, Òbut is there one thing about me thatÕs—like, yÕknow—uglier than the rest?Ó

ÒYouÕre all shit!Ó

In quick succession, sheÕd gone from one extreme to the other, so Char decided to see if she could find a ÒmiddleÓ course to her sojourn. She asked the average Binkleyan man on the street.

ÒExcuse me, sir, could I ask you a question?Ó she asked an average looking Binkleyan man on a street. ÒIt wonÕt take a minute.Ó

The average Binkleyan man on the street, at once, gave the gorgeous, naked, blonde Protector whoÕd presented her gorgeous, naked, blonde self before him his undivided, if slightly stupefied, attention.

ÒIÕm trying to locate my most alluring attribute,Ó CharÕlene duly informed the man, Òso, what IÕd like to know is; what part of my body gives you the strongest, and most immediate erection—I mean, reaction?Ó

ÒUhhh . . . Ò

ÒOkay, wul - maybe I should be more specific. IÕm looking for a certain part of my body. One that . . . yÕknow like - stands out.Ó

Ò . . . uhhh . . . Ò

ÒCan you choose one feature of my body that is more alluring than the rest?Ó

Ò . . . uhhh . . . Ò

ÒAny part at all.Ó

Ò . . . uhhh . . . Ò

ÒOkay, wul . . . what if I covered myself . . . like this. Would it make you want me more?Ó

Ò . . . uhhh . . . Ò

ÒOkay, wul - letÕs try uncovered, and covered. Maybe thatÕll help you decide. Now, would you want sex with me more if I was like this . . . or like this?Ó

Ò . . . uhhh . . . Ò

ÒLike this . . . or like this?Ó

Ò . . . uhhh . . . Ò

ÒThatÕs not answering my question.Ó

It only took so many average men for Char to discover that their reaction to her was quickly establishing an average.

ÒWhat is it with you men?Ó she impatiently fumed at one. ÒIÕm trying to find out something important here—I mean, itÕs not like itÕs any great big state secret, or anything like that, but itÕs pretty doggone important to me . . . yÕknow - personally, and all you do is stand there with a glazed stare, drooling.Ó

At that point, she noted the manÕs glazed stare.

ÒHel-looo!Ó she hailed, snapping her fingers before the manÕs eyes several times to get his attention.

The gesture succeeded in wresting the manÕs attention from her, and directing his attention to her.

ÒWhat does it take to get a straight response from you?Ó CharÕlene wished to know.

The man looked down to regard himself, then looked back up to CharÕlene.

ÒHow much straighter do you want it?Ó he asked.

At length, after having straightened out a number of average Binkleyan men on the street—and coming away none the wiser for it—CharÕlene resorted to going to BinkleyÕs WorldÕs crowded marketplace to search for attribute concealments.

ÒHi,Ó Char greeted an old merchant who was attending his stand.

ÒAh, good day to you, Madame Protector,Ó the merchant greeted her back.

ÒAnd a good day to you, sir,Ó CharÕlene replied most amiably, and most hopefully, then it occurred to her to wonder, Òhow could you tell that IÕm a Protector?Ó

ÒI think itÕs rather obvious, maÕam,Ó the merchant replied.

ÒWul,Ó CharÕlene wondered further, ÒIÕm not wearing my uniform.Ó

The old merchant merely smiled.

ÒOh, yeah,Ó Char then realized, Ò IÕm not wearing . . . yeah, right . . . okay.Ó

ÒAnd what can I do for you this fine day, maÕam?Ó the merchant inquired of the Protector.

ÒWell,Ó CharÕlene began, ÒIÕm in the market for an article of concealment.Ó

The merchant blinked.

ÒÕConcealmentÕ,Ó he reiterated in the manner of a prompt.

ÒSomething that . . . conceals,Ó CharÕlene attempted to explain, ÒyÕknow like - covers up.Ó

ÒÕCovers . . . upÕ,Ó the merchant reiterated.

ÒYes,Ó said CharÕlene, Òsomething that covers a part of me - like . . . conceals.Ó

ÒConceals . . . Ò

ÒA part of me . . . Ò

ÒLike covers . . . Ò

ÒMy body . . . Ò

ÒYou mean clothes - Ò

ÒThatÕs it!Ó

ÒClothes!Ó

ÒYes!Ó

ÒYou want clothes!Ó

ÒYes! Yes!Ó

ÒAh!Ó cried the merchant, happy for their shared epiphany, ÒI must confess, maÕam, you did have me confused there for a moment! It is, after all, so unusual for a Velorian - and a Protector, no less - to be interested in clothes.Ó

ÒYeah,Ó CharÕlene agreed, smiling her brightest, ÒI know itÕs kinda out of the ordinary.Ó

Recovered from their moment of enlightenment, the merchant then frowned to wonder.

ÒWell,Ó he said, Ònow I am genuinely confused.Ó

CharÕlene frowned.

ÒIs something wrong?Ó

ÒWhy would a Velorian Protector be interested in clothes?Ó

ÒWul, this is for a special occasion,Ó said Char, thinking of the messenger who was about to arrive, ÒI mean, a—really special occasion.Ó

ÒOh, I see,Ó said the merchant, Òand you would like to look - special for this occasion.Ó

CharÕlene smiled at their affinity.

ÒYes,Ó she affirmed.

ÒSo, you are looking for a item of adornment.Ó

ÒConcealment actually.Ó

ÒOh, but there are items which can do both.Ó

ÒReally?Ó

ÒMost assuredly, maÕam.Ó

ÒGee . . . Ò

ÒAnd they can serve to make a woman - such as yourself - most alluring.Ó

The word ÔalluringÕ had a special place for Char.

ÒWhich brings me to the point of my business,Ó she said.

ÒYes?Ó the merchant inquired.

ÒI would like to . . . clothe, did you say?Ó

ÒYes.Ó

ÒI would like to clothe my most alluring attribute.Ó

ÒIndeed.Ó

ÒYes.Ó

ÒAnd what is your most alluring attribute?Ó

CharÕlene frowned.

ÒI donÕt know.Ó

The old manÕs eyes widened at this. CharÕlene looked at him from beneath her lowered brow - sadly . . . hopefully.

ÒCan you help me?Ó she hesitantly asked in a small voice.

The merchantÕs eyes glazed over for a moment, then he shook himself awake again.

ÒI can certainly try,Ó he offered.

CharÕlene beamed. She presented herself to him in offering.

ÒCan you,Ó she asked him carefully, Òpick out,Ó it was, indeed, important, Òmy most alluring attribute?Ó

The merchant frowned as he scrupulously studied CharÕleneÕs immaculately perfect, feminine form. He made a show of supporting an elbow in the crook of an arm, then supporting his heavily stubbled chin in the grasp of his upraised hand.

ÒHmmm . . . ,Ó he exhaled thoughtfully.

CharÕlene bit her lip nervously.

ÒWell . . . ,Ó the merchant intoned thoughtfully.

CharÕleneÕs eyes widened expectantly. The old manÕs eyes crinkled as he smiled wryly, and he wagged an accusing finger at the Protector.

ÒAhhh,Ó he said, his gravely voice full of elfin mischief, ÒyouÕve been to our sun, havenÕt you . . . Ò

Abashed, CharÕlene was at a sudden loss for what to do with her hands. She looked down at the ground, and lightly traced a toe in the dirt.

ÒYeah . . . ,Ó she shyly admitted.

ÒWell, your breasts are—outstanding, to say the very least.Ó

ÒUmhm . . . ,Ó Char agreed demurely.

ÒTheir remarkable fullness, size, and shape - their placement high up near your collar bones—the way your taut, prominent nipples look up toward the sky as they do.Ó

ÒUmhm . . . ,Ó CharÕlene agreed - though somewhat less demurely.

ÒThey are,Ó the merchant went on to say, Òsome of the most gorgeous breasts IÕve ever seen.Ó

CharÕleneÕs glowering countenance locked on to him.

ÒWhaÕdÕya mean, ÔsomeÕ?Ó she aggressively wished to know.

ÒYou have most alluring tits,Ó the merchant hastily corrected himself.

Alluring . . .

ÒThen I should clothe them,Ó CharÕlene chattered anxiously, ÒI mean cover them—uh, conceal them.Ó

ÒWell now,Ó the merchant hedged, ÒI wouldnÕt go so far as to say that, Madame Protector.Ó

CharÕlene frowned.

ÒThen what are you saying?Ó she asked.

ÒLet us first take into consideration your other attributes before making a final decision,Ó the merchant clarified.

That made sense to CharÕlene.

ÒOkay,Ó she agreed amiably, resting her hands on her hips.

ÒUhm . . . .Ó the merchant struggled briefly, then, ÒIÕm sorry. Where were we?Ó

CharÕlene righted her carriage, and squared her broad, feminine shoulders.

ÒMy breasts,Ó she prompted with confidence.

ÒAh, yes,Ó said the merchant, remembering, Òbut weÕve covered those.Ó

CharÕlene frowned.

ÒNo, we havenÕt,Ó she said.

The merchant frowned.

ÒYes, we have,Ó he said.

CharÕleneÕs frown persisted.

ÒDo you see my breasts covered?Ó she asked.

ÒNo,Ó the merchant said, smiling, ÒI meant to say that we have covered them in the assessment of your attributes.Ó

ÒOh,Ó said CharÕlene, smiling, Òsorry.Ó

The merchant, once again, adopted his thoughtful pose as he scrutinized CharÕleneÕs nude, Supremis body.

ÒYour . . . center,Ó his gravely voice intoned at length.

ÒYou mean my belly button?Ó CharÕlene inquired.

ÒNo, I meant,Ó the merchant clarified, Òyour . . . intimate - center.Ó

ÒOh, you mean my pussy.Ó

ÒYes.Ó

The merchant paused to clear his throat.

ÒItÕs most alluring, to be sure,Ó he surmised.

CharÕleneÕs cheeks burned red as she lightly stroked herself.

ÒYeah . . . ,Ó her soft voice intoned shyly, ÒitÕs . . . where I live . . . Ò

ÒAnd certainly the place countless men have called home.Ó

ÒWhat?Ó

ÒI meant to say, would like to call home.Ó

ÒWell, if you mean every guy wants to fuck me, then, yeah, I guess you could say that.Ó

ÒI would, indeed.Ó

ÒShould I clothe it?Ó

ÒWhat?Ó

ÒMy pussy.Ó

ÒOh, I wouldnÕt go so far as to say that - Ò

ÒUntil . . . weÕve finished with the . . . assessment.Ó

ÒQuite.Ó

And so, the assessment proceeded with painstaking care as the old Binkleyan merchant strove to select CharÕleneÕs most alluring attribute. His aged, experienced eyes surveyed—critically—the sum of her, taking in to the visual full her tummy, her legs, her buttocks, her back, her shoulders, her arms, her hands and her feet. At length, alas, he could not decide.

ÒYour body,Ó he concluded, Òis, by far, more than enough to make any man drool.Ó

ÒTell me about it,Ó CharÕlene groused, chafing at the unsatisfactory results of her recent experience.

ÒExcept,Ó the merchant then said.

ÒYes?Ó CharÕlene asked expectantly.

ÒYour face!Ó

ÒMy face?Ó

ÒYes!Ó the merchant stated. ÒIÕd completely overlooked your face!Ó

ÒHowever could that have happened?Ó CharÕlene genuinely wondered.

ÒIÕm not sure myself,Ó said the merchant, Òbut, now that I look at it, your face is, very definitely, your most alluring attribute.Ó

ÒThen we have to cover it,Ó Char stated with finality.

ÒImpossible!Ó the merchant ejaculated. ÒItÕs unheard of for a woman to clothe her face.Ó

ÒThen all the more reason,Ó CharÕlene reasoned. ÒSince itÕs never done, then I would be the only Protector to clothe her face, and it would make me stand out, wouldnÕt it?Ó

ÒTo be sure,Ó the merchant readily agreed, Òin a crowd.Ó

ÒThen we have to clothe it,Ó Char concluded fervently. ÒWe simply must!Ó

ÒBut there is no clothing for a womanÕs face,Ó the old merchant maintained.

CharÕlene became frantic.

ÒThereÕs got to be something!Ó she insisted. ÒThere must be a way!Ó

She was upon the man, her strong hands clutching his shirt.

ÒPlease!Ó

It took a good moment for the frightened Binkleyan to realize that the super powered femme whoÕd suddenly confronted him so physically had no intention of harming him. She was desperate actually, and begging for his assistance. His business oriented mind searched for a way to help the poor woman—and to get her to release him.

ÒThere . . . ,Ó he uttered softly, considering their close proximity, Òmight be a way.Ó

CharÕleneÕs hands opened. Her touch became exceedingly gentle.

ÒYes?Ó she asked, her eyes, her being - her very life fastened on him.

The merchant tactfully side stepped away from between the Protector, and the display against which sheÕd had him pinned. His mind set upon an idea as he shuffled toward the rear of his booth.

ÒI think I might have just the item youÕre looking for,Ó he said.

Brimming with hope, the blonde goddess rose into the air, and floated after him. His back was to her as he rummaged through a stock of less than optimal goods, carelessly tossing items aside that were unrelated to his search. CharÕlene was confident that he was getting what she wanted - needed. She had such faith in him. She knew that he would help her! Save her! Make all things better so she would live happily ever after!

ÒAh,Ó she heard him say, Òhere we are.Ó

The merchant finished rummaging, and turned slowly back to CharÕlene. She saw that he was holding something. It was an object, brown in color, flat and rectangular in shape. Not only had she never seen such an item, she had no context in her experience by which to glean even the merest concept of its purpose. She observed the almost reverential way by which the old man cradled the object in his two hands as though it were of exceeding delicacy, and presenting it to her as though it were of inestimable value.

ÒWhat is it?Ó CharÕlene asked, her eyes wide with wonder.

ÒThis, Madame Protector,Ó the old merchant announced in a manner of regal formality, Òis a brown paper bag.Ó

Both of CharÕleneÕs yellow eyebrows pricked. She recalled the term, having heard it spoken in OonÕahÕs office some days before. She recalled the occasion: ÔHe said I couldnÕt fuck my way out of a paper bag!Õ CarÕol had related tearfully.

ÒDo you know what this is for?Ó the merchant inquired of CharÕlene.

CharÕs attention snapped back to the here, and now. She frowned, and shifted her shoulders as she studied the bag.

ÒOf course I do,Ó she stated, though she wondered, How would you fuck your way out of that? ÒYou, uh,Ó she then went on, Ò . . . you make love out of it.Ó

Both of the merchantÕs bushy eyebrows pricked.

ÒMmm,Ó his gravely voice intoned.

ÒQuickly,Ó CharÕlene added with an air of knowledgeable authority.

ÒIndeed,Ó the merchant commented, though he wondered, How would you fuck your way out of this? He then reasoned, Ah well, IÕm not Velorian . . . thank goodness.

ÒThat is,Ó the old merchant conceded with a certain hesitation, Òbut one of this itemÕs many useful functions.Ó

Being unexpectedly informed that a paper bag had a purpose - several purposes perhaps - that were, apparently, unrelated to sex relegated CharÕlene to a uncomfortable state of mental confusion.

ÒReally?Ó she conceded with a certain hesitation.

ÒFor sure,Ó the merchant went on to elaborate. ÒFor instance; it can change shape.Ó

CharÕleneÕs eyes widened of their own without her wanting.

ÒReally?Ó

The old Binkleyan merchantÕs eyes began to gleam. He smiled.

ÒYou should, maybe, stand back for this,Ó he solicitously advised.

The Velorian Protector planted her hands firmly on her hips as she squared her beautiful, solid shoulders.

Her chin lifted.

ÒA paper bag canÕt hurt me,Ó she announced. I hope, she thought.

ÒAs you wish, Madame Protector,Ó the merchant deferred, though with a conspicuous note of warning to his tone.

The old Binkleyan took a step back from CharÕlene. He pulled the cuffs of his sleeves up his forearms, then took a moment to work his shoulders loose. Suddenly, without warning, with the bag in hand, there was an abrupt wave of his arm, and a sharp flick of his wrist. There was a loud snap. Something changed in the air. CharÕlene physically darted back as her hands flew to her mouth and she cried out in surprise. The merchant stood before her, the brown paper bag in hand.

CharÕlene stared, wide-eyed, at the sight. In vein did she try to hide the fact that she was slightly breathless from the shock. The paper bag had, altogether, changed its shape. It had suddenly grown in volume to possess two expanded sides.

ÒHow did you do that?Ó she whispered tremulously through her upraised fingers.

The old manÕs eyes sparkled.

ÒBy virtue of this itemÕs . . . magical - properties,Ó he informed her.

CharÕlene lowered her hands as she frowned.

ÒThere is no such thing as ÔmagicÕ as you say,Ó she asserted, though, unspoken, she considered that, ÔThe technology of a significantly advanced civilization would seem like magic to a less developed cultureÕ.

She wondered briefly on the people who might have made this paper bag . . . and their technology.

I wouldnÕt want to meet them in a dark galaxy.

ÒYou seem to be well versed as to the functions of this item, sir,Ó CharÕlene said to the merchant a bit grandly - not wanting to seem unsophisticated, Òbut please tell me; how might it conceal my most alluring attribute?Ó

The old BinkleyanÕs bushy eyebrows rose.

ÒI will show you, maÕam,Ó he assured.

The merchant put the bag aside, then, with a ruled stick, went about taking measurements of CharÕleneÕs face, and head. After that, he took up a set of sheers, and, using the measurements that heÕd noted as a guide, proceeded to cut two openings in one surface of the bag. CharÕlene watched every nuance of the manÕs activity with rapt attention - loath to miss a single detail. Indeed, she wanted to know every secret of this mysterious bag as it might afford her preferential status with the ProtectorÕs ÔcommunalÕ messenger.

After the merchant had cut an arc into the edge of the paper bagÕs two sides, he put the sheers away, then led CharÕlene to a mirror, and had her face it.

ÒYou might want to close your eyes for this, maÕam,Ó he advised.

Her proud breasts high, her nipples thrust to the wind, CharÕlene, again, bravely deferred the old manÕs warning.

ÒA paper bag canÕt hurt me,Ó she quietly declared to him with the unstinting confidence that was the hallmark of the Velorian ProtectorÕs renown, but, as she turned her stern visage to the mirror once more, CharÕlene silently prayed, Skietra, be with me!

The man ceremoniously raised the bag over CharÕleneÕs head, then began to slowly lower it. It was as though he was in the solemn act of crowning a monarch. CharÕlene watched the bottom edge of the bag as it first concealed the hair on the top of her head, then her forehead.

ItÕs working! she thought ecstatically. ItÕs concealing me - my most . . . alluring . . . attribute!

Then her eyes.

Okay, I think this is a little too much concealment, she considered, I mean, how am I supposed to see?

Patiently, CharÕlene watched the inside of the bag pass along her sight-line. Suddenly she saw the two holes the merchant had cut in the front of the bag. When she felt the bag come to settle on her shoulders, the holes were directly in front of her, and she could see again.

Wow! How about that!

ÒI think, as you can plainly see, madame,Ó she heard the man say to her, Òthe bag clearly adorns - even as it conceals.Ó

And right he was - so right he was! CharÕlene could see that the bag completely concealed her face, giving her naked beauty an unmistakable aura of irresistible mystery.

ÒLook!Õ the voice of a man cried out. ÒOver there!Ó

ÒWhere?Ó a womanÕs voice replied.

ÒThere!Ó said the man. ÒIn old ShysterÕs stand!Ó

ÒOh, my goodness!Ó said another voice.

ÒFor heavens!Ó said another.

CharÕlene wondered what the commotion was about.

ÒWhat a sight!Ó

ÒHave you ever!Ó

ÒNot in all my days!Ó

ÒWho is she?Ó

ÒWho?Ó

ÒYes, who indeed?Ó

ÒWho is that . . . really gorgeous Velorian with the brown paper bag over her head?Ó

CharÕlene turned to face the front of the old manÕs stand. She saw that a sizable crowd had gathered. All of them were looking at her.

ÒYou see, madame Protector,Ó said the old man quietly at her elbow, Òalready you have attracted much attention.Ó

And all IÕve done is to conceal my most alluring attribute! thought CharÕlene.

She was nearly breathless with excitement.

ÒWho is that Velorian in the paper bag?Ó one in the crowd expressed for the crowd.

ÒYes!Ó exclaimed another. ÒWho on BinkleyÕs World is she?Ó

ÒGawd, what tits!Ó exclaimed a third.

CharÕlene couldnÕt bear the suspense any longer. She removed the bag from her head, and beamed the crowd her very best, brightest, most glorious, devastating and groin wrenchingly captivating smile.

The crowd stared at her.

CharÕlene was expecting all of them, men and women alike, to fall worshiping at her feet.

The crowd continued staring at her.

She hoped the interior of the old manÕs stand could accommodate them all.

The crowd still continued to stare at her.

Any minute now.

ÒOh,Ó someone in the crowd then expressed for the crowd in a manner of no account, ÒitÕs just CharÕlene.Ó

Just . . . , she thought.

As a body, everyone in the crowd relaxed.

. . . CharÕ . . .

And they began to disperse.

IÕve lost my mysterious allure, CharÕlene thought, watching after the people as they departed to go about their business, that this . . . bag . . . at once bestowed on me.

The impact of such meaning struck deep, leaving the Velorian Protector feeling slightly dazed.

ÒMagical,Ó the old manÕs gravely voice intoned - he was still at her elbow, Òproperties . . . Ò

At once, CharÕlene made up her mind. There was no denying the evidence. She was filled with resolve. She would not be swayed!

She looked at the merchant, clutching the bag to her heart.

ÒHow much?Ó

ÒHm, well, Madame Protector,Ó the old merchant hedged, ÒI have to say that, in all my many years in the trading business, this is the only brown paper bag IÕve come across. It is a very rare item. So rare, in fact, that thereÕs scarcely any market for it. None at all, in fact.Ó

ÒThen I guess it must be really expensive, huh?Ó CharÕlene surmised.

ÒMmmmmm - eeeaaaahhhh . . . Ò

ÒOr perhaps itÕs worth nothing at all,Ó she further surmised through narrowed eyes, Òsince, as you say, there is no market for it.Ó

ÒThatÕs purely due to the matter of scarcity, maÕam,Ó the merchant hastened to clarify. ÒYou saw for yourself how well the bag works,Ó he reminded her. ÒMark my words,Ó he proclaimed grandly, his enthusiasm intensifying, Òyour wearing this adornment could start a fashion - a craze - a MANIA . . . and you, Madame Protector—Ò

ÒThe nameÕs ÔCharÕleneÕ.Ó

ÒCharmed. You, maÕam, would be the first!Ó

 

 

Chapter 6