Spoils of War - Closed thread for myself and BadForm

[DeliciousMaiden]

”You girl! Stop!!”

Serena picked up her skirts and ran along the hallway and dived through the kitchen.
All around her there were screams; the screams of those she had worked with for the 3 years since she had come to the castle. Her auburn hair had been torn from its pins and was now streaming down her back as she wrenched open the door to the cellar and picked her way carefully down the stairs.
Above her the sounds were now muffled.
Serena crouched in the darkness and wrapped her arms about herself trying to quell her terror.

This attack should have come as no surprise.
For days the castle had held itself in readiness.
Everyday there had been rumours that the rebellion was getting closer.
Life had been getting tenser and tenser for weeks … and tempers were getting frayed:
Only yesterday, cook had lost her temper with Serena, blaming her for not preparing all the vegetables as instructed.
Dismayed, Serena had defended herself insisting she had completed all the tasks asked of her.
The cook had railed against the young girl, calling her lazy, disobedient and a slattern.
Tears had brimmed over at the injustice of the words until the woman had finally repented.
Perhaps, she acknowledged, the order had not been given to Serena as she had thought and therefore her attack on the girl had not been necessary.

”Hush girl … calm yerself … there’ll be real occasion for weeping soon enough…”

Had been the cook’s ominous reassurance as she comforted the distraught girl.

And those times had come sooner than either of them had imagined.
The castle was breeched and enemy soldiers were everywhere … pillaging … looting … and – much to Serena’s horror – attacking the women.

”Go .. girl … save yourself …”

The groom had urged her.
Those words were the last he ever spoke, his breath cut short by a sword thrust into his chest.
And so ... Serena had ran!

At the tender age of 19 and as yet unknown to any man, Serena had more reason than most to fear the undisciplined raid upon the place she now considered her home.
All around her she had seen killing and violence.
If only she could hide until order was restored... perhaps then ...

”Ahh…”

The sharp gasp was drawn from her as the cellar door opened letting a pool of light illuminate the dimness.
A soldier stepped onto the top step, a brazier held aloft, pouring a warm pool of light upon the auburn flecks in Serena’s wild mane.
All she could do was look up helplessly.

“Stand girl. Come forward to me.”

The order was barked out.
Serena stood slowly, but did not move.
Instead she hugged the wall and managed to conceal part of her body by pressing against he kegs of ale.
The man’s eyes narrowed. His eyes raked over her young form.
He himself was not very old, in his mid-twenties Serena calculated as she watched him wide eyed.

”Such impertinence … “

His tone was dangerously soft and casually amused.
He fitted his torch into a wall bracket and began to walk with slow deliberation down the stairs, his hands at his belt.

”But t’will be a treat to instruct such a feisty wench her place.”

Serena shook her head, shrinking back as she watched him approach.
Her eyes darted around the room, but there was nowhere to flee to.
Her refuge had now become her cell.

Suddenly, without warning, he flung out his hand and curled his fingers about her upper arm, the fingers rough as they bit into her flesh.
With a cry, he hauled her towards him and threw her on the floor, where she lay face down winded by the impact.
He towered above her, chuckling.

”Time to learn some manners girl …”

She looked upwards, eyeing him helplessly, but before she could utter a word, his hand had lashed out giving her a stinging slap across the face.
Her head reeled and her cheek blazed, the raised mark showing clearly on her naturally pale skin.

Serena gasped, raising a hand to press against her discoloured flesh in a vain attempt to soothe the sting.
He laughed finding her surprise amusing.

”That is nothing compared to what I’ll do with you … if you don’t please me … “

He warned as he laced his fingers through her hair and wrenched her bowed head to face him once more.

”Please … no … “

Serena begged softly, as he hauled her towards him and covered her mouth with his.

 

[BadForm]

Sergeant Samuel Harbone

Sergeant Harbone spat. Already he had had to haul three of his soldiers back into line, and they were so close to taking the final prize: the castle. That was the trouble. His men had been fighting for a long time - some since the start of the civil war two years ago - and now they had the hunger to reap their rewards. Such impatience was stupid, though. He had seen people do this in the past and suddenly a trained army had been turned on their heels by a ragtag militia. Well, not this time.

His flintlock erupted as he stood in the courtyard, staring about him. "Pull together, you damn ratborn mongrels! Plunder will be yours within the hour, but I'll kill the next man I see abandoning his duty!" His voice was loud, booming around the castle like the 12-bore cannons that had wrecked the walls. Any who had chosen not to hear would suffer for it.

Sergeant Harbone ran inside the castle. Having served in the palace guard six years ago, he knew its corridors well. Three levels up, down the west wing; that was where the King's Chamber lay and he would be there when it was taken. As he sped through one hallway though, he was forced to halt. Down below him, he heard Corporal Mabien cry out a muffled command to a woman. Sergeant Harbone cursed as he changed direction; of all his men, Mabien was the one he least expected to abandon his duty.

Down in a cellar, Mabien was trying to force a woman to accept his lustful embrace and she was struggling. From here, Harbone couldn't see her properly but she seemed just the sort that the General would like among his concubines, and that meant she had to be untouched. Apart from that, Mabien was meant to be leading the attack on the King's Chamber up ahead.

"Put her down!" Harbone barked, grabbing Mabien by the shoulder.

Mabien swung around swiftly, his sabre lashing through the air to slice into Sergeant Harbone's tunic. Sergeant Harbone felt the blade cut deep into his side and winced in pain. Almost instantly, he heard Mabien's sword clatter to the ground, and the man reached for him.

"Sergeant!" he gasped. "Oh sweet Virgin's blood! What have I don?"

Sergeant Harbone slapped the man's hand aside, ignoring the blood that soaked his jerkin a deeper red than it had been. Mabien had been the best of the men under his charge and Mabien's attack might have been based on thinking he was one of the Royals, but to abandon his attack to some base rutting was disgusting.

"You are relieved of your duty, Corporal. Get this woman outside with the others quickly and stand guard by them I might not have you executed."

Mabien seemed uncertain for a minute, split between obeying orders and helping his injured Sergeant.

"Get out of here now!" snapped Harbone. "Or I will kill you on the spot!"

With that he turned away from the man and back to the other soldier's who stood further up the hallway.

"You, you, you," he said, pointing to three of them. "Get the chamber open now. It's time we took the King down."

Three solid boots slammed into the door, smashing it open and sending the guard behind it to the floor. Sergeant Harbone reloaded as the Corporal walked past him, dragging the woman with him. Once he was ready, Sergeant Harbone followed the group into the room and took in the combat beyond. The King and Queen were cowering in a corner. Two of their guards lay dead, as did one of his own men. Two others were duelling with the other rebels. Assessing the situation quickly, Sergeant Harbone realised Tomas was in the most danger and blasted a chunk of the bodyguard's head away with his flintlock. That distracted the other long enough for Derek to slaughter him, leaving the King and Queen defenceless.

"Time to go see the General, you harlot's bastard!" cursed Sergeant Harbone, indicating the doorway with his sword.

In the mid distance he could hear the beating of the drums announcing that the general's party were approaching.


OOC: Hope this is ok, DM - lemme know if you need any changes.

 

[BadForm]

Sergeant Samual Harbone

<deleted dual post>

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Serena

Serena struggled as his mouth captured hers, trying to fight the tongue he was trying to force into her mouth.
His free hand moved to maul her breast causing her to cry out and give that questing tongue entrance.
Defiantly, desperately, she fought him, her arms flailing as she beat uselessly against his solid torso.

"Put her down!"

Serena fell to the floor as she was released abruptly.
She looked up at the man who had entered, unseen by either her or her attacker.
She eyed the man ominously.
Was he going to save her, or was it merely that he thought he would enjoy her first?
Either way, the soldier who had cornered her was not going to give up his prize as quickly.
Serena gasped, her cry acting partly as a warning as her attacker pulled out his weapon and attacked the newcomer.
She watched as the flesh was cut, opening up a nasty gash then blinked at the younger man’s frightened cry.

"Sergeant! Oh sweet Virgin's blood! What have I done?"

So … this man was his superior … obviously he had not recognised the voice in the dimness of the cellar.

"You are relieved of your duty, Corporal.”

The Sergeant’s voice was hard and cold.

”Get this woman outside with the others quickly and stand guard by them I might not have you executed."

Serena rose unsteadily to her feet, her eyes on the man who had taken charge.
She felt the Sergeant hold her arm firmly, but knowing her virtue would be safe, did not struggle this time.
After all, what would be the use?

"Get out of here now! Or I will kill you on the spot!"

Serena flinched as the angry bark filled the room.
She allowed herself to be hauled up the stairway and let the man escort her to stand in the courtyard.
Her eyes were wide, seeing the overwhelming number of enemy soldiers who had laid siege to the palace.
Finally she stood with a group of women … ladies in waiting mainly … certainly no one from the kitchens … no one she knew.
She glanced around, but could see no familiar faces and although she stood one of their number, one of the captured, she felt alone, friendless.
Suddenly the court was a hive of activity:
Drums beat, feet marched, an entourage approached.
The party entered the courtyard, a group led by an intimidatingly impressive man. She watched him dismount and saw the Sergeant who had saved her enter the courtyard and cross over to make his report.

”General. They are taken. The palace is ours.”

He reported with economy of words.
That was it. All was lost. It was over.
She had realised that before, of course, but the strength of the enemy made it obvious that there was now no possibility now of any counter attack to free the palace.
Whatever her future, it would be at the hands of these men … these soliders, many of which had been behaving like beasts … all but one …
Her eyes flew to her rescuer.
She noticed that he had dismissed his injury out of turn and yet she was sure it was more than a mere scratch.
She watched him carefully as words began to be exchanged, wondering what was to become of her now…

 

[BadForm]

Sergeant Samual Harbone

"To your knees, cur!" Sergeant Harbone commanded, kicking the king in the back of the leg. "The General is approaching."

The last of the Royal line fell with a cry of pain, joining his wife in the filth of the courtyard. Sergeant Harbone knew just how shameful it would be to one so arrogant to be made to kneel when around him those who had been his servants remained standing - shackled in many cases, but still standing. At least the King knew better than to argue with an armed soldier.

Within moments the General's cavalcade had arrived in the courtyard, his most loyal guards surrounding him as his white stallion trotted to a halt. Sergeant Harbone looked up at him, flinching slightly at the pain in his side, but trying to ignore it in order to maintain his composure in front of his leader.

"General, they are taken. The palace is ours," Sergeant Harbone reported with a salute and a barely suppressed smile.

The general dismounted and returned the salute. "Excellent work, Sergeant. Or should I say Captain..."

Sergeant Harbone blinked in surprise.

"Yes, I think a promotion is in order for one so brave and wise as your self. I will see to it that the ceremony is arranged for this coming Saturday - indeed that will be perfect timing celebrating the Battle of Antonville... our first success against the Royal curse. I believe you were in that army, were you not?"

"Yes, sir," replied Sergeant Harbone, proudly remembering the achievement. "I was a corporal then, Sir."

"Well, no more. It was you who secured the palace for the people, not your captain. It is time you were honored. Now..." The General's eyes strayed to the side where the more attractive women were lined up together. "I see you have already had your men make selections for my concubines."

The general made his way down the line, eyeing each one appreciatively. His footsteps halted before Serena for a moment and he smiled softly before moving on. Finally, he returned to stand before Sergeant Harbone and slapped him on the shoulder drawing a gasp from him.

"Good choices, Sergeant..." Said the general before he noticed the man's pain. "What is wrong? You have been injured."

"Flesh wound, sir," said Sergeant Harbone, forcing his voice to remain calm despite the slight dizziness he was feeling. "Took a sword while leading the men in the King's Chamber."

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Serena

Serena stood silent and pale as the Sergeant and the General spoke.
Her eyes flitted across to where the King had been forced to kneel.
She did not hold out much hope for his life after these barbarians had taken over.
Looking back she listened to the exchange between the two men.

"Excellent work, Sergeant. Or should I say Captain...
Yes, I think a promotion is in order for one so brave and wise as your self.
I will see to it that the ceremony is arranged for this coming Saturday - indeed that will be perfect timing celebrating the Battle of Antonville... our first success against the Royal curse. I believe you were in that army, were you not?"

Serena tried to suppress a grudging admiration for the man who had saved her from his underling’s attack.
He was strong, sinuous and fearless it seemed.
And yet he had acted honourably and wisely in the past if the General’s words were any indication.

"Yes, sir, I was a corporal then, Sir."

A man who had bettered himself by hard work and dedication. There was little Serena could fault in that.
She in her own way had been dedicated to her duties and had managed to please those who instructed her, but no more …
She was surrounded by ladies, royalty, hardened soldiers.
Even discounting the enemy there was not a famililar face in the crowd and she feared that all had been slain.

She glanced back seeing that the conversation had moved on.

"I see you have already had your men make selections for my concubines."

Her eyes widened as realisation hit.
She was not destined to be taken by an ordinary solider, it was the General who was destined to rob her of her virginity!
As the General walked down the line, surveying his “harem”, one by one the girls around her dropped their gaze, shrank back, or began to weep.
Serena too was revolted by the idea that she was to be “given” to this man as a commodity.
In war it seemed that women were mere chattles to be laid claim to just as any other object in the kingdom!

And so it was that when the General drew level to Serena, it was too late to withdraw her gaze.
Instead, she met his eye, openly curious before belatedly lowering her eyes beneath the intensity of his examination.
Her cheeks flamed, partly in anger as much as humiliation.
She half raised her head watching him under hooded lashes as he returned to his Sergeant, clearly approving of the “selection” made.

"Good choices, Sergeant..."

The jovial slap on the back brought a gasp of pain from the Sergeant.

"What is wrong? You have been injured?"

Serena noted with sudden anxiety that the sleeve was now soaked with blood.
It was drying, congealing beneath no doubt, but she doubted very much if the wound had been cleaned.

"Flesh wound, sir. Took a sword while leading the men in the King's Chamber."

Her mouth fell open at the lie.
The General nodded and turned back to the line of beauties. Beside him the Sergeant’s eyes seemed to seek hers out, flashing her a warning look. She was to keep silent, it seemed.
She bit her lip and made no comment.
It was his arm, his choice after all.

”Well … the walls need securing … defenses setting up … not that there are any left to rebel, but a show of strength … a few public floggings and hangings … that should be all that’s needed to calm down any of these common folk who still hold their fallen Monarch in esteem…”

Behind him the Sergeant agreed with a brusque, ”Yes Sir …

Serena’s eyes watched, sure she saw him sway.
A clear indication that infection could already have taken hold.

”See to it Ser … “

Unable to stay silent any longer, she broke rank and stepped forward, leaving a row of shocked faces behind her.

”General … this man is hurt …”

Suddenly all eyes were on her.
Beside her the Corporal who had attacked her grabbed hold of her arm.
Serena turned and met his eyes, eyes that held an unspoken threat.
But right now it was the Sergeant who concerned her most, not her attacker.
Over her head the General smiled at his Sergeant and shook his head at the Corporal ordering him silently to withdraw his hold on her.

”Yes … he is injured … as you have heard girl … even a fool would now be aware of that … “

He answered, only partly amused by her bold outspokenness.

Serena swallowed nervously.
All eyes were upon her.
Drawing attention to herself like this was perhaps the most foolhardy thing she had ever done … but now she had started …

”Sir … I … mean no disrespect … “

She started picking her words carefully.

”It is merely that … if you value this man as a solider as much as your conversation would indicate … I implore you to have the wound tended … “

She saw his surprise and knew she was walking a knife edge.

”It is no mere flesh wound … and if not cleansed at least before the flesh begins to knit once more, this man is sure to be infected … “

He scowled. His patience running out.

”You dare to question me, girl?
What knowledge have you of these things child?
Do you know how many men I have fought against in battle?
How many injuries I have seen and tended?
And yet you dare to …. “

Serena flinched as he strode up to her, his angry words breathed into her face.

”I know of herbs and healing Sir … “

She told him with a tremor in her voice.

”And sure I am that your knowledge is the greater, yet … “

She took a breath and dared to meet his eye as he awaited her words, a hot anger boiling beneath the surface.

”Even the most skilled medic can only treat a wound he is aware of, Sir.
The good Sergeant, no doubt has reasons of loyalty and bravery, which prevent him from seeking attention for his injuries before he feels he has fully done his duty.”

Around them all was silent.
Behind the General the Sergeant had neither moved, nor spoken.

”I merely beg of you to assess the wound and make your own judgement Sir ...”

 

[BadForm]

Sergeant Samuel Harbone

The general began dispensing orders to secure the castle, to ensure that any Royalists would find the defenses at least as sturdy as the rebels had. Sergeant Harbone nodded his acceptance but before he could move from the spot, Serena broke rank.

"General … this man is hurt …” She gasped, struggling against the corporal's grip.

”Yes … he is injured … as you have heard girl … even a fool would now be aware of that … “ said the General.

”Sir … I … mean no disrespect … " she replied.

As the argument raged back and forth Sergeant Harbone cringed imperceptibly. It was all he could do to keep looking forwards at his General and avoid gazing at the woman who dared so much to help him. Only training that went back further than his memory stopped him from speaking out of turn.

”I merely beg of you to assess the wound and make your own judgement Sir ...” Serena said finally.

The General turned his eyes back to look at his Sergeant with annoyance and curiosity fighting for prominence in his mind. "Is this true, Sergeant?" he asked. "Are you seriously injured."

"Sir," responded Sergeant Harbone, being careful to avoid either a negative or positive statement.

"Damn it, Man," snapped the General. "Let me see, now!"

Reluctantly Sergeant Harbone unfastened his cuff and rolled up his sleeve, wincing as the increased pressure squeezed a gush of blood from his forearm. As the fabric was rolled upwards, a long gash was revealed in his flesh, reaching almost from his wrist to his elbow. It flowed readily with blood and now, as he could no longer hide the wound, Sergeant Harbone's staunch defences against his nausea and dizziness also lapsed. He gasped, swaying more obviously than before, and tried desperately to force himself upright.

"Virgin's blood, man," snapped the General. "What in the name of all that's holy drove you to keep a wound like that a secret? You are no use to me dead, Sergeant!" He turned back to Serena. "You say you have herbal skills? Get my man inside now and heal him, but be warned, wench - you shall suffer the same fate he does!"

"Sir," Sergeant Harbone gasped, feeling his knees start to buckle. "The walls... the defences..."

"Great Goddess, Sergeant, I can have Corporal Mabien handle that!"

"No!" gasped the Sergeant. "Not Mabien.... Culmore... Dennie... you know what needs to be..."

He didn't hear their responses to his change in the General's orders.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Serena

Serena held her breath. Her eyes pleaded with the General to do as she had asked.
She was well aware he might strike her, rape her, kill her there and then for speaking out against him, but she could not stand by and see the Sergeant lose the use of his arm or worse …

"Is this true, Sergeant? Are you seriously injured."

Serena watched in frustration. Even now the man would not admit to the gravity of the wound!

"Damn it, Man! Let me see, now!"

Serena let out a breath she had been unaware she was holding.
Whatever the extent of the injury, she knew that the Sergeant would receive the care he deserved.
She watched as the Sergeant drew back his sleeve, her eyes widening in consternation as she saw how long and how deep the cut was.
The blood began to pour once more and though disturbing was a good way to cleanse the open wound.
But had infection already set it? She watched in concern as she saw the Sergeant swoon.

"Virgin's blood, man. What in the name of all that's holy drove you to keep a wound like that a secret? You are no use to me dead, Sergeant!"

Again the anger, motivated by concern, Serena hoped.
She had done her duty and was relieved to have been successful and managed not to suffer at the hands of her enemies for her boldness.

"You say you have herbal skills?

She snapped to attention realising the General had turned back to her.

”Get my man inside now and heal him, but be warned, wench - you shall suffer the same fate he dies!"

Serena paled in shock. She was no expert with such deep wounds and she was sure that the infection would not have taken hold yet, but to be made responsible for this man’s welfare.

”But … Sir …”

She protested weakly, but already the General had turned away, appointing men to secure the defenses. She looked up dazed as her erstwhile attacker … Corporal Mabien, by name it seemed, took her arm and drew her towards the injured Sergeant.

”You’d best have been telling the truth, girl or you’ll have sealed your own death … perhaps then you’ll wish your precious virtue had not been saved in such a manner…”

He sneered in her ear, sure that the Sergeant was out of earshot and too dazed to note his whispered threat.
Serena jerked her arm away from the man and strode across to the Sergeant, winding her arm about his waist she drew him towards her and began to guide him indoors.
His frame was bulky, muscular as she had noted. He towered over her and leaned heavily on her shoulder, even while he protested that he could work unaided. Serena smiled and responded softly.

”So I see Sir … steadily now … “

She glanced across seeing the Corporal watching, his eyes raking over her slight frame, almost admiring her quiet strength, yet focusing on her more … obvious … charms.

”I’ll leave Sergeant Harbone in your most capable hands mi’lady ..”

He mocked and gave an ironic bow.
He was perceptive, dangerously so.
He must realise she was no lady and as such worthy of the same fate as that of her co-workers.
But Serena had more important things to think about now.
She guided her charge into an ante-chamber, a small room running off the main hall.
Helping him down on the chaise-longue, Serena moved to his boots, removing them and easing him to lay back upon the cushioned upholstery.

”Relax Sir … I will be but a minute…”

Casting a worried glance at her patient as he lay, pale now, eyes closed, Serena sprinted to the kitchens and collected her sack of herbs and the utensils she would need.
Despite her fears, her movements went unimpeded.
All had seen her speak out before the General, but all wished Sergeant Harbone well.
Serena despaired, however, needing to clean the wound and dress it.

”May I be of service, Ma’am…?”

A young man, the same age as her offered as she stood her arms piled high.
She eyed him uncertainly looking into his blue eyes and striking blonde hair.

”I’ve served under Sergeant Harbone since this war began. If I can help…?”

Serena smiled and began …

”If you could organise a bowl of warm water and a bowl of boiling water … “

The soldier nodded and moved away immediately.
With a relieved sigh, Serena lifted her collection and picked her way back to the chamber.

”Dear God! Haven’t you done enough?”

Letting her bundle down to the floor, Serena flew forward and taking a firm hold of his good harm, eased Sergeant Harbone back on the bed.

”You may wish to die, Sergeant, but your life is in my hands … and mine in yours … like it or not, I am set to heal you …”

Her mouth curved in a smile as he looked up as if recognising her for the first time, but sure that he did not fully grasp the words.

”Now … lay back … I must tend to you … “

With surprising meekness, he allowed himself to be eased back.
Quickly she seized the knife and began to cut his jacket free, slicing the sleeve to expose the injury then gently shrugging of the remains of the garment.
She ignored his protests about ruining his uniform, a smile playing on her lips.
She took the sleeve and tore it open up to the shoulder turning as the young Corporal entered.

”Warm water Ma’am … boiling on the way … “

Serena thanked him and gestured where the bowl might be set just before her.

”Might we have a blanket or something to keep this man warm, Corporal?”

She enquired softly.

”Before the boiling water…?”

She looked up seeing his worried expression, no doubt not being used to seeing this solider submitting to anyone’s ministrations.

”Of course … right away …”

Serena smiled her thanks, but already she had taken up her cloth and was dipping it in the warm water and carefully washing away the blood, her attention focused fully on his arm.

”Soo … you have young Whittacker at your beck and call too?”

Serena looked up in surprise and flushed as she saw his eyes trained on her.

”You command respect Sir. He merely wished you to be healed.
What he does he does out of loyalty to you, not to please me …”

She told him mildy, ignoring the self-conscious flush that suffused her cheeks at his sudden close scrutiny.
Again she dipped the cloth in the now scarlet water.
She eyed the wound. It looked clean.
Loss of blood had made him weak, but it would keep the wound free from infection.
With a final rinse, she laid her cloth aside and eased the bowl away.
She turned, her hands moving to ease off his shirt.
She met his watchful eyes and halted.

”If … if you could help me remove your shirt, Sir…”

She asked softly, suddenly very aware that she was partially undressing this man.
And such a man, she realised!
One did not have to remove his breeches to be aware of his masculinity!
It would be so much easier if he were unconscious or out of his senses, but now he was fully aware of her presence, of her actions … Serena found it much more difficult to maintain her composure.

 

[BadForm]

Sergeant Samual Harbone

Sergeant Harbone was fading in and out of consciousness as Serena led him into the room. He tried to protest that he could walk alone, that it was unseemly for the men to see him carried by a woman, but she coaxed him gently onwards and reassured him she was doing what was best. There was no way to fight that gentling voice, not while he still had such a weak hold on reality. He didn’t even feel the chaise-longue as she laid him on it, his mind was captured by the gods of delirium.

Before him, a huge serpent slithered through a field of long grasses. Unaware of the danger, the Virgin Goddess stood, plucking cherries from a low-hung tree, tasting their sweetness between her red lips. The savage snake reared up by her, snapping and biting at her thighs. Only when it attacked the most sensitive of her flesh did the Goddess seem to notice and her reaction shocked Sergeant Harbone. Rather than fleeing, she opened her thighs wide until the great beast was swallowed inside her skirts.

“Save yourself, Goddess,” Sergeant Harbone cried, but the vision faded.

”Dear God! Haven’t you done enough?” Serena eased him back onto the chaise-longue, as she chided him like a mother would a child. ”You may wish to die, Sergeant, but your life is in my hands … and mine in yours … like it or not, I am set to heal you … Now … lay back … I must tend to you … “

Again, that softly commanding voice claimed his sundered will and Sergeant Harbone found himself lying down again without eve realizing he had done so. She reached for a knife and began to cut away at the ragged sleeve still covering his damaged arm. He tried to protest, but she ignored him and continued her work. A moment later, one of the younger corporals, Whittaker, Sergeant Harbone reminded himself, entered carrying a pale of water. Serena thanked him and sent him out on more errands.

”Soo … you have young Whittacker at your beck and call too?” Sergeant Harbone said, smiling at his unlikely nurse.

”You command respect Sir. He merely wished you to be healed.
What he does he does out of loyalty to you, not to please me …” The woman flushed as she spoke. ”If … if you could help me remove your shirt, Sir…”

It took a moment for Sergeant Harbone to respond, his weakened mind was too enchanted by this innocent doe to pay attention to her words at first. And doe she was, sweet, soft, unknowing, timid. She kept her eyes down from his most of the time, which seemed more than a statement of her station. Her flushed face was red as the Virgin’s blood, a thought that seemed more accurate than blasphemous to him right then. Slowly, in response to her guidance, he unfastened his shirt and helped her remove his shirt and tunic.

Her eyes widened slightly as his body was revealed to her. Her fingers reached to touch the delicate black hairs on his chest that matched the thick mane of his hair and beard. Sergeant Harbone responded with a deepened breath, and forced himself to remain calm. He reached his undamaged hand up to caress the woman’s hair and cup her face, raising her eyes to look into his. Such care lay behind that fearful gaze that he could barely resist holding her close in a promise of protection. Yet that could never be. She had been chosen for the General’s court and even promoted, he would be a mere Captain.

“Why?” he asked, his eyes crinkling with stirring feelings of compassion. “You worked under the Royal scum. You could have let me die for what happened to your home here, and none would have blamed you had you not spoken up. Yet you saved me. Why?”

He held her cheek steadily in her hand, letting his thumb caress her temple as he waited for her to respond.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Serena

Serena waited patiently until the Sergeant eased himself partially upright and then moved her fingers deftly easing the tunic away from his body and then moving to help him out of his shirt. Her fingers gently brushed across his skin as she peeled the fine material away from him and revealed his muscular torso to her concerned gaze. A few old battle scars showed on his tawny flesh, but other than that his masculine body was free of blemishes.

Dropping the soiled and torn garments, Serena swallowed willing her cheeks not to flush as hotly and placed a hand on his chest, easing him downwards, urging him to relax. So fixed upon her task was she that she jumped when she Sergeant’s free hand stroke her hair. She kept her eyes determinedly averted and moved her fingers to the injured arm again to best examine the wound now it was free of old blood. Yet he would not suffer her to flee his own curious gaze. Serena caught her breath as his strong hand cupped her hot cheek and lifted her head making it impossible not to raise her eyes to his. She almost felt her body tremble in reaction to those deeply intense eyes. Fear she told herself. Fear caused by being in the presence of such a powerful man. Fear due to the weight of responsibility on her shoulders, for it was she who was charged with his health.
And yet as his eyes searched hers, she felt there was something … more … something she could not make sense of or begin to explain to herself.

“Why?”

Serena blinked at the one word, not understanding what he asked.

“You worked under the Royal scum. You could have let me die for what happened to your home here, and none would have blamed you had you not spoken up. Yet you saved me. Why?”

Serena gave a hesitant smile and shrugged, yet he would not let her evade the question. His hand was still upon her cheek. She felt a heat run through her body as his thumb moved in a surprisingly tender gesture of affection.

”I’m a healer … it’s what I do …”

She began, hesitantly. It was as simple as that, almost.

”I’ve worked here scarce three years, Sir. People have been good to me … fair and I am loyal to those who treat me right … I cannot pretend to know or understand the rights and wrongs and reasons of what has happened … all I know is that my home has been taken … many have been killed … but that is the fault of more than one man … more than one side … ”

Without realising, her hands had come to rest upon his injured arm.
She kept her fingers there, one hand lying upon his hand toying with his thumb unconsciously as she answered nervously.

”I hate to see pain … suffering …
In wars all people lose … so many people … hurt … killed … and nothing I can do about it … “

She looked at him earnestly. How could he understand her feelings?
And yet he had asked … and so she was telling him.

”How could I stand by when you were hurt … when that injury could lead to your death even … infection in the bloodstream can be a deadly condition, Sir.”

She told him gravely as if she feared he would deny the gravity of his injury.

”Life is precious … to everyone … regardless of rank or worth.
Yet … anyone can see you are a fine soldier and a respected man.
If your earlier act of kindness had not demonstrated that, then the words of your General were more than proof of your worth…
I could not stand by and see such a life … wasted … ”

She flushed deeply at her words and tore her gaze away from his finally.

”Now … if you will be still Sir, as soon as the boiling water comes, I will sterilise the wound, apply a hot compress and make you a tisane of some herbs ‘gainst the infection and the pain. They will make you drowsy, but after 24 hours, your head should be cleared and well on the way to recovery… “

She smiled up at him then her fingers having returned to probe gently around his wound.

”’Tis long and deep enough, Sir, but I am sure it will heal quickly … if given the right care…”

She warned him gently, emboldened enough to give him a teasing smile, before picking up her bag and beginning to pick out some herbs in preparation for her treatment

 

[BadForm]

Sergeant Samuel Harbone

He listened as she spoke. Her dedication to her arts was as incredible as his naivety about the political reality of the lands. She had been treated well by the Royals. At least, she had been treated as well as she expected she could be. But how could she be so unaware of just what the Royals had done to the rest of their people, the ones they did not directly rely on at their castles? Did she have no family?

”I hate to see pain … suffering …
In wars all people lose … so many people … hurt … killed … and nothing I can do about it … “

Ah, so true, he thought. But how to explain to one so innocent that sometimes there was more bloodshed, more suffering, without the war. Sometimes, the only way to stop people starving to death was to kill the ones responsible. There was no way she could understand that, so Sergeant Harbone did not tell her.

Her words washed over him as she ministered to his wound. The more she worked, the more he felt a compassionate sense of protection towards her. It wasn’t that he owed her his life; that would reduce his feelings to a debt to be repayed. It was simply that to allow something so sweet to be harmed would go against everything that he believed in.

As he listened to her lilting voice, the corporal arrived with boiling water and Sergeant Harbone knew he would soon be rendered unconscious. Serena moved to begin her preparations he reached out and grabbed her arm to stop her moving.

She turned to look at him, apparently afraid at his sudden move.

“Sweet child,” he said, his wrinkled face relaxing into a soothing countenance. “What is your name?”

“Serena,” she said.

Sergeant Harbone pointed towards his ragged tunic. “Reach into the pocket, Serena. You will find a golden locket. I want you to take it and wear it around your neck.”

She shook her head nervously and made to object.

“Serena!” Sergeant Harbone said, stilling her. “Please do not make me order you. This is important.

“Serena, understand. That locket is known in my regiment as a marker I give to those I choose to protect. It promises repercussions to anyone who dares to assault its wearer. Even my general respects me enough to leave the discipline of someone under my protection to me.”

She looked more afraid than understanding and Sergeant Harbone sighed.

“Serena, very few of my men would hurt you. Corporal Mabien, however, is angry. He is angry that I prevented him from taking his pleasure in you. He is angry that I countermanded the General’s instructions that he should take care of the preparations. He is angry that he knows there are further repercussions to come for his desertion of his duty. And, Serena, he knows that you stepped forward to save me. He is not stupid enough to risk punishment for attacking someone marked as under my protection… but without that…”

Sergeant Harbone sighed.

”Serena, please… For me.”

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Serena

”Corporal Whittacker … how kind .. “

She took the blanket from the young man and smiled her thanks as she lay it aside, keeping it clean and dry.

”The water is here Ma’am…”

She smiled her thanks and pretended not to notice his admiring glance as she eased the bowl of soiled water towards him and accepted his help in positioning the fresh steaming water.

”If you need anything else Ma’am …”

She shook her head.

”This will be fine, Corporal. Thank you for your help.”

She met his eyes then with an expression of heartfelt gratitude, then reached for her bag and took out a clean cloth and a cup working deftly whilst the water retained its heat and leaving the young man to make his exit unobserved.
Carefully, Serena placed a selection of herbs into the cup and decanted some of the water, letting the leaves defuse to make the healing tissane.
Taking the cloth she dipped it into the water and flinched at the heat as it soaked into the cloth.

”This must be as hot as is possible, Sergeant … to sterilise the wound … “

She explained before finally lifting the cloth and pressing it to his open flesh.
She heard the gasp and without thinking moved her free hand to his face, stroking soothingly.

”’Tis done, Sir … there will be no infection … “

Removing the cloth, she rinsed it out and tore it into strips, making herself busy in spreading an ointment upon the makeshift pad before pressing it to his wound.
Once positioned she would begin to wind around the strips using them to tie it secure.
As her hand positioned the compress against the wound, Serena jumped as the Sergeant’s hand shot out and captured hers.
She looked at him suddenly frightened.
Was he angry? Had she hurt him?

“Sweet child. What is your name?”

Her face relaxed into a smile as she wound around the first strip.

“Serena,”

She responded simply.
But still he would not let her continue her ministrations.

Sergeant Harbone pointed towards his ragged tunic.

“Reach into the pocket, Serena.”

Her eyes followed his gesture and saw he meant a pocket in the tunic he had helped her remove.
She reached towards it, her hand stilling in midair as she heard his next words.

”You will find a golden locket. I want you to take it and wear it around your neck.”

Her eyes flew to his face as she shook her head and then bent it to continue to bind his arm.
She did not require payment. She did not want gifts.
What she did, she did out of duty, humanity.
Had he not understood that.

“Serena!”

She flinched at the command in his voice, her hands halting, her eyes flying to his once more.

“Please do not make me order you. This is important.”

She hesitated, something in the tone of her voice making her glance at the tunic again wondering why it was so important that she wear it.

“Serena, understand. That locket is known in my regiment as a marker I give to those I choose to protect.
It promises repercussions to anyone who dares to assault its wearer.
Even my general respects me enough to leave the discipline of someone under my protection to me.”

Serena did not understand why she would need protection.
Did he mean the General would harm her?
But she was intended for him … she did not want to be a concubine …
She was not sure what her … duties … would be but …
Surely no harm would come to her because of it …
Or did he mean that the General would allow the Sergeant to punish any who tried to hurt her?
She heard the Sergeant sigh and tried to quell her rising panic.

“Serena, very few of my men would hurt you. Corporal Mabien, however, is angry.”

Serena flinched at his name, remembering his ominous words after she had been charged with the Sergeant’s care.

”He is angry that I prevented him from taking his pleasure in you. “

Serena nodded, blushing hotly.

”He is angry that I countermanded the General’s instructions that he should take care of the preparations.
He is angry that he knows there are further repercussions to come for his desertion of his duty. “

She felt his hand squeeze her arm as he spoke earnestly.

”And, Serena, he knows that you stepped forward to save me.
He is not stupid enough to risk punishment for attacking someone marked as under my protection… but without that…”

She met his eyes.
Without that … ?
Corporal Mabien would attack her?
The message in his words was clear.
But why the Corporal would not respect her as one of the General’s concubines, but would respect the Sergeant's mark of protection she did not understand.

”Serena, please… For me.”

Serena’s mind raced.

”I didn’t save you so that you’d feel obliged to protect me.
I expected no reward.”

She stated as she finished securing the compress and handed the Sergeant the tisane.
He took it, his eyes holding hers.

”Serena..”

She had not looked for his protection, yet it seemed she needed it.
She knew he was right
What was the alternative?
She was scared and the offer had been freely made.

Imperceptibly she nodded and reached over to pick up the tunic.

Timidly, she dipped her hand into the pocket and withdrew the locket.
She turned back to the Sergeant, holding the locket reverently, the gold chain draping across her fingers.

”He hates me, doesn’t he?”

The question was more a statement.

”I never intended to make an enemy …”

Her voice was wistful.
She sighed and reached up to attach the chain around her neck, making sure it was firmly secured, then turned to show him.

”I will wear it … until you are recovered … “

She reassured him with a smile and reached to take the drained cup from him.

”That will help you sleep and help your body fight any infection that might have entered your body before the wound was cleaned.”

She laid her hands gently upon him and helped him to ease back into a more comfortable position.
Taking up the blanket and wrapped it about him, securing it carefully to ensure he was kept warm.
Quietly she began to tidy away her herbs, the bowl, the cup.
She looked up and saw him watching her.

”Sshhh … you need to sleep … “

She reached up and stroked his forehead, her voice soft and reassuring.

”I won’t go far … I’ll be here when you awake … “

She told him as she saw his eyes begin to close.
On impulse she dropped a kiss on his cheek and turned to finish clearing her equipment and looking around for a way of making a makeshift “bed” for herself.
She fully intended to watch over him whilst he slept.
After all he was her responsibility and it would keep her out of trouble!
She fingered the locket lightly.
The threat he spoke of worried her, but she was touched that he had insisted that she accept his protection.
He was a good man.
She was just relieved that she had been able to help him.
As to what was in her future … she determinedly blanked her mind to that.
Perhaps if she were obedient and caused no trouble … perhaps …
She sighed trying not to compare the General to this man now sleeping beside her.

 

[BadForm]

Sergeant Samuel Harbone

Sergeant Harbone stood in the court of King Phillen, listening to His Majesty's tirade. The words were lost in a haze of confusion as new realities dawned over the lands. Every citizen was taxed two bushels of serpents and half a pig, the poor were also forced to live in old boots. Sergeant Harbone tried desperately to arrange toy soldiers on the floor before the angry king, lining them up into straight lines like a child.

Suddenly the castle walls erupted in fire which cascaded down on top of him. He raised his hand to protect himself and his arm was engulfed in flame. He screamed, shaking his burning arm furiously, attempting to extinguish the flames. Beside him, the general, a ratty man with a forked tongue, began squeaking an order to repair the castle.

And then a woman was beside him, glowing golden like a statue of a goddess seen in lanternlight.

"Serena!" Sergeant Harbone screamed, sitting upright.

How long had he been asleep? He had no idea, but it was dark and silent around him. The air was chill with night time. It had been hours at least.

"Serena?" he said again, noting the silence. "Are you there?"

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

oops - double post!

Apologies all x

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Serena

”Ma’am … Ma’am! … Please … wake up .. Ma’am…”

Serena blinked her eyes open and found herself staring into the concerned face of the young Corporal.
She tensed in sudden panic.

”Corporal Whittaker! … The Sergeant … “

She started from her sleep, but felt the young man’s hand hold her arm gently and smile.

”No Ma’am … the Sergeant … he’s sleeping .. it is… that is … the General commands your presence … he is waiting in the council chamber.”

Serena stood uncertainly and smoothed her skirts.
She looked down at the tumble of cushions that had been a makeshift bed.
She walked over to where her patient slept soundly.

”Please Ma’am! We must hurry.
The General … he does not like to be kept waiting.”

Serena turned with a smile for the young man.

”Must I attend him. I do not like to leave the Captain like this … I promised him … “

The Corporal shook his head.

”I can stay by him if you wish, but … your presence is commanded Ma’am.”

Serena nodded and moved towards the door.

”I will escort you there first, however.”

Serena turned to object, but common sense kicked in.
The Sergeant looked as if he would sleep for an age yet and remembering his earlier warning, she fingered the locket about her neck and nodded her consent.

It was ironic she thought as she allowed herself to be directed through corridors she had more knowledge of than the young man who preceded her.
She was the one who belonged here. All around her she saw nothing, but strangers.
She hesitated on the threshold, suddenly nervous.
This was a room she had never entered during her years there.
She had no business here.
As if sensing her reluctance, the young Corporal knocked and took her arm gently but firmly and drew her into the great room.
Although eyes turned towards her, the General was seated at the far end of the table, his concentration taken by a swathe of papers.
Slowly they walked forward approaching the table, yet reluctant to disturb the man’s preoccupation.

Serena gasped softly as a hand seized her arm.
The touch much rougher than that of the young Corporal.


”Sir .. take your hands off me … I … “

The urgent whisper froze on her lips as she looked up into the cruel eyes of Corporal Mabien.
He made no move to unhand her, rather he seemed amused by her soft protest.
Fortunately her exclamation had carried to none but Corporal Whittacker.
It was he who intervened.

”Corporal Mabien, the General awaits the young lady’s presence.
And … although it is not my place to advise you Sir, have a care, for she wears Harbone’s seal…”

Serena glanced at the young man and then down at the locket as realisation dawned.
So … he had noticed … she had not thought …

”Come Serena …”

The invitation prompted Serena to take the young man’s arm gratefully and move, with eagerness this time towards the General’s table.

Mabien watched their progress.

So … Harbone had claimed to be keeping her for the General’s bed … when all the time …

The thought made his anger all the hotter.

Well .. no matter … Harbone would surely die … or if he did not …

Plans began to form in his mind.
He cursed the little slut.
Why she had every man eating out of her hand!
Well … his turn would come soon enough … but if he could be the first to … enjoy her …
He would soon break that damned “touch me not” attitude … and enjoy doing so!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

”You wished to see me General…?”

Conscious that her patient had been alone all this time, Serena stepped forward drawing the General’s attention without being invited to speak.
The General raised his head, his eyes narrowing.

”Yes … some time ago …”

He spoke pointedly, his stare was unwavering.
Serena willed herself not to look away.

”What of Captain Harbone? Will he live?”

The enquiry was wrapped out.
Serena clasped her hands together fighting for composure.

”I have cleansed the wound and applied a compress.
I have ensured no infection will enter the body.
He sleeps at present, Sir.
He will recover fully if given full rest for the first week.
After that Sergeant Harbone will be ready to resume his duties.”

The General made no comment, but merely waved a hand in dismissal.
Serena nodded in acknowledgement and turned to go.

”Wait!”

Serena froze and turned back towards the General who now stood and strode towards her.
Without a word, his hand moved to her locket, examining it and closing his hand around it.
Serena tensed, fearing he would wrench it from the chain.

”Did you steal this girl?”

Colour flew to her cheeks.

”No Sir!!!”

Her indignant reply echoed the room.

”Then … how did you come by it … do you … realise the significance of what you wear girl?”

Serena glanced down and nodded silently.

”Well …?”

She took a deep breath.

”Sergeant Harbone insisted I wore it. He felt … felt I needed his … protection …
He was … agitated … so I promised to wear it until he regained his senses … “

Serena eyed the General nervously.

”His sense … aye … he has lost them it seems …”

He released the locket and turned from her.

”Then … we will respect his wishes.
Harbone is a good man and will have his reasons.
Go girl. Tend to your patient.”

He dismissed her with a wave of her hand.
Although she managed to walk sedately away from that central table and past where Mabien had accosted her, once across the threshold to the Chamber, she took to her heels and ran back to the antechamber, to the security of her nursing duties.
Strange that she should feel herself secure in the room of an unconscious man ….

Only … he was no longer unconscious …

"Serena? Are you there?"

Serena moved swiftly across the room.
She noted his widely fearful eyes and pressed her palm to his forehead.
No fever, she realised in relief.
It was a nightmare and not delirium.

”I’m here … shhh … you’re safe … and you will soon be well … “

She eased him to lay down and reached for a cloth readied in a bowl of cool clean water. She rang it out and pressed it to his head. Although she had not heat to temper, the touch was soothing in itself.

”Calm youself … ‘twas but a nightmare … the palace is secure and the General informed of your condition … now … rest … the worst is past …”

She slipped a hand into his and smiled down at him, imagining him still half asleep.
She stroked his brow and pressed a kiss against his temple.
He dosed still she was sure.
After the blaring lights of the corridors and main chamber, she was now unused to the dimness afforded by the few lamps of the sick room.
He had the advantage of her, watching every gesture, every expression whilst she assumed him to be sleeping soon and was unaware of his intense scrutiny.
Her free hand went to the locket, playing with it, her mind wandering as she held her patient’s hand.

Would it be enough to keep Mabien at a distance?
Why had the General reacted in that way to the fact Harbone had given her the locket?
Had she fully understood the significance of wearing it as he had requested?

Worry … fear … bemusement … anxiety … all those emotions played across her face as Serena sat beside her patient, assuming that her musings went unobserved.

 

[BadForm]

Sergeant Samuel Harbone

Sergeant Harbone watched as she sat in the lamplight and toyed with the locket. He had told her the main reason that he had given her it, but had held back on some of what it meant. Certainly, when it came to a man in his charge or a prisoner of war, it meant he was protecting the person. It meant that for a woman too. Except...

Except he had only given it to one woman before. Josephine, the huntress from the Forest Ardent, whose people had tried to stand against the King's army several years ago. She was a wild and beautiful woman, a proud and fiery amazon who had won is heart as readily as she had won the King's lust. At the time, Harbone had been a respected guard for the King and he had given her the locket as a symbol of his luck.

The story was that the King had tried to take Josephine to his bed despite the locket and if it had not been for the two other men protecting him, he would have died at Harbone's hands for his choice. Only Harbone knew the entire truth of the story, but he had left the King's employ shortly afterwards and joined the growing rebellion.

Serena played with the locket, its gold patina shone against her face, sparking her beauty. She seemed lost in thought as was he. What was it he saw in her? Of course, it was true that she had saved his life and he owed her something for that - he owed her his life. It was a logical return to offer her the protection of his locket, but when he allowed himself to be honest for a second, Sergeant Harbone knew it was more than that.

He wanted her.
No, that wasn't it. At least, he told himself, not sexually. He wanted to protect the child, to ensure she was ok. He wanted to make sure that she would prosper under the new regime. And he wanted to keep her away from the General's Harem.

It didn't make sense. Perhaps it was just loss of blood.

"You will stare the shine off it if you are not careful." He said, breaking the silence.

 

[DeliciousMaiden]

Serena

Serena bit back a sigh and toyed with the fine gold locket that lay upon her chest.
Her fingers traced its outline.
What would become of her now the revolutionaries had taken over the palace?
For the first time she paused to consider her own fate.
The General … she had not done herself any favours, she realised speaking so boldly before him and as for Mabien …
She smiled remembering Whittacker’s kindness … and then thought of their reaction to the appearance of the locket about her neck.
She would return it to the Sergeant as soon as he was well enough to accept it … but meanwhile …

"You will stare the shine off it if you are not careful."

Serena started at the unexpected sound of his voice.
Her head snapped around as she eyed him with concern.

”You’re awake …”

She commented needlessly and placed a cool hand upon his brow reassuring herself that he was indeed free of fever.
Now she had grown used to the dimness of the chamber, Serena could see the intensity of his gaze and dropped her eyes in a suddenly self conscious gesture.

”How are you feeling? I have fresh water … sip it slowly though … we do not want you becoming nauseous…”

Taking refuge in activity, Serena took the cup and poured cool water from a covered jug half filling the earthenware cup at his side.

”Let me help you, Sir …”

She wound an arm about him and eased him until he was upright enough to drink from the cup. She watched as he stubbornly pulled himself straight, not brushing off her assistance, but ensuring that he was in control once more. A smile at his stubbornness dimpled at the corners of her mouth, but she struggled to retain a sober expression. Their eyes met across the cup and she dropped her eyes hastily. She willed the heat not to rise in her cheeks, after all she was sat beside this man, a man who was naked down to the waist and who, despite his injury was still the epitome of masculine virility.

”There … are you refreshed …?”

Her voice was soft, almost husky in the dark and isolated room.

”Can I do anything else to make you comfortable…?”

Her eyes rose slowly and met his, locking as his gaze held hers.

 

[BadForm]

Sergeant Samuel Harbone

He accepted the water proferred greedily, trying to make up for the loss of fluids from his damaged arm. He leaned against her, ensuring she knew he was in control yet accepting her support. Or was it her warmth? As he wondered that, he caught her watchful gaze and saw her flush then look away. He had embarrassed her, and shamed himself. Gently, Sergeant Harbone eased away from her arm and continued drinking.


”There … are you refreshed …?” she said as he finished sipping the water.

There was a timbre to the voice that seemed to speak of earthy passions shielded by innocence. Sergeant Harbone found his breath responding to the modulation of her voice and struggled not to show his feelings.

”Can I do anything else to make you comfortable…?” She asked, raising her eyes once more to look into his. Her gaze was steadier now, as though she had readied herself for his own ardent stare.

"Anything?" Sergeant Harbone asked, and instantly cursed his battle-bred passions. "Yes, Serena... you could fetch me a shirt. I am assuming that at least one of my men is nearby, borrow his. Tell him... tell him the Sergeant does not wish to embarrass his nurse. They will understand, at least, they will obey."

With a nod, and unspoken thoughts, Serena left him once more alone.

Sergeant Harbone watched her retreat into the corridor and sighed. This was bad business. The general would be eager to have his new wives join his harem, and that would include Serena. There was nothing Sergeant Harbone wished for less than to see Serena do so, but what could he do to stop it? Besides, the general had earned the right to choose his women, and that was something Sergeant Harbone would never deny. Even little Serena.

She came back quickly with a shirt, fresh from a hangar rather than taken from a soldier. He thanked her and slipped it over his shoulders, fastening its buttons as best he could over his barrel chest. He wasn't even aware of how she watched him as he worked, until he looked up.

"Come join me, Serena," he said, patting the bed beside him. "Come sit with me a while, I would hear your tale."