End Chapter 9

     When they had their fill of one another Thera and Vyakles collapsed back down together in Thera's small bed. Both completely satisfied with one another, both having displayed a great skill and deep capacity for the art of lovemaking and they prided themselves on their talent for it. Now after they caught their breath resting in each other's arms Thera whispered to the king, who needed to get back to his wife in Sparta. "Stay with me for but a moment until I am asleep."
     King Vyakles gave a smile as warm as his embrace, kissing Thera on the forehead then he said "If only I could remain forever. Now when I go remember no one must know what happened between us. To do so would bring us both great shame and you the punishment of your nation. Though we must never speak of this Thera.., I will keep these thoughts of you in my heart and mind forever."
     "Yes, every word you speak is the truth." she sighed feeling as tired as a war horse that had been out on the battlefield all day. These were the last words spoken between them this night. Safe, warm and exhausted Thera was brought to sleep quickly in the arms of the king.
     Vy waited a moment longer watching her sleep, feeling her naked body pressed close to his under the soft white sheet. He carefully moved away from Thera as not to disturb her rest then, there in the warm glow of the oil lamp, the king watched her sleeping only wishing she were his bride, but alas she was not. Now Vyakles knew his true wife would have many questions for him, but he was the King of all Sparta and he would answer to no one!

Chapter 9 continues

     Now, when they had exhausted themselves of all energy and stamina, Thera and Vyakles rest together covered in sweat and the night dew, feeling as if they had just raced to Athens and back. Now after a moment in each others arms, catching their breath, the king bade Thera to come with him back to her tent so he may say goodnight. Here Thera, clever as ever, spoke to the king saying "Now, if you will forgive me, oh king! But your words were as stated 'If I take you in your bed tonight would I promise to take Vasha into me tomorrow.'
     "Yes, these are my words." Vy answered as they walked together down the path back to the encampment.
     "You will agree the forest floor is not my bed." Thera smiled like a cat who had just swallowed a canary.
     "No the forest floor is not your bed."
     "Then, according to your word, you must still take me in my bed, according to the promise." she smiled wanting another chance at his seed to take root in her womb, for Thera wanted desperately a daughter from this brave and noble king.
     King Vy laughed a little and he could appreciate her cunning desire to be with him once more. "Come let us hasten ourselves to your bed before Dawn brings forth Apollo. For the night is still with us and you and I have made an agreement."
     The two drew up an impatient energy from their great well of strength, hurrying back to the city of tents. Thera directed the king to her private tent as she remained outside for just a moment longer, this was to be sure all was quiet, save the sound of the satisfied, snoring men who lie sleeping with the women and virgins of Themiscyra. Thera knew well the sense of extreme physical satisfaction, for she herself had taken many men into herself, and, after what happened last year, she could not be more delighted to have, if only for one night, the deep passion of the king. So Thera went in closing up the slit in the tent and their she was alone with King Vyakles, who lie naked, reclining on her bed atop the crisp white linen sheets. Thera felt a chill run up and down the length of her spine and the little hairs on the back of her neck stood erect as she beheld this dark-eyed, bronze-skinned, naked angel in her presence. Thera thought of the God Heracles, King Leonidas, and Achilles had been brought to life in this perfect living man. So strong and powerful was Vyakles it was as if one of the ancient statues from the Acropolis had come to life.
     "Come to me now." King Vyakles said as he himself became erect in her presence and as Thera slipped off her dirty night gown she went over to the king sitting herself upon him as he lay back on the bed. Thera took in many deep breaths using her strong muscular thighs to move herself up and down as if she were riding in her saddle. The king was overwhelmed by her strength of body and he noted how his wife was so thin and frail this made vigorous lovemaking difficult for such a powerfully enthralled man such as he. Now here, this exquisitely fit, beautiful, foreign born woman was bringing him to an ecstasy he could only have dreamed of. While he brought himself to bare inside her Vy had sudden flashes of thoughts of Vasha with Thera, so more fuel, to feed the angry spirit of jealousy, was added to the fire which filled his heart and mind.

Chapter 9

     Vyakles greatly enjoyed drinking nectar from her lips like sweet water from a fountain, now being he was a king he would not let his passion surpass his reason so he let loose of Thera releasing her from his firm hold and he spoke saying "If I take you in your bed tonight and bring myself to bare upon you, promise me only one thing."
    Thera was confused but complied "What ever you wish. What ever it takes. I will make any promise to you which, I give my word, I shall not break." she so vowed to the king.
     "When tomorrow comes, and Admiral Vasha comes to entreat you, promise me you will take him to your bed, and establish him as your breeding partner for this season. Instead of me." he said the words bringing a vile taste to his mouth for he would much rather have Thera as his own forever, but alas that was never to be.
     "I will take an Admiral in place of a King, he will serve me well to help forget about you. As for now, you yourself have made a bargain with me. Come let us fill our end of the agreement." here she kissed him, his beard tickling her face a little as she laughed softly then she turned in a rush of anticipation as she raced along the path in the woods the king chasing close behind. Then Vyakles caught up to Thera and he fell upon her in a soft patch of lavender and clover that grew thick like a carpet under the cypress trees.
     "I am in no need of a bed to take you." Vyakles said as he lay himself upon her and Thera moved to tilt her head back as she rested up on her elbows, feeling the great weight of the kings solid wall of muscles on top of her torso, her long muscular legs open wide knees bent as the King of Sparta kissed her neck and bare breast. They spoke no words between them as the time for talking was over and in a kind gesture the king stood, untied the long cloth from his waist laying the silken crimson fabric atop the soft grasses and flowers. Then he called for Thera's hand as she stood before him in the cool, dark, shadows of the night as she removed the long white thin garment from her body. Thera and Vyakles stood pressing close to one another wrapped in each other's arms, their naked warm bodies coursing with a surge of energy, passion and determination. Thera was overwhelmed with the rush of blood to her brain and body as she kissed this strong brave king and she felt herself blessed among all the women of her nation, maybe tomorrow the damnation of her people might find her, but tonight nothing would keep her heart and mind from it's due course.
     So it was the King of Sparta took hold of this strong, beautiful, fertile woman in the night, only the trees and owls and stars as their witness. The king felt the strength of her body pressing and moving underneath him and there he found the deep warmth within her and she took in great breaths wrapping herself around him, with such a pleasure inside her, Thera thought surely her heart would burst from such writhing desire. Naked, wet, the warmth of heaven within, a dangerous desire was building in the Great King's heart for this woman and every moment longer he spent with her fed a jealous spirit within his heart. Thera knew nothing of this as they continued, like animals of the forest, in their lustful abandon, so sweetly aggressive that if anyone were to come upon them now they could not be quite sure if they were making love or trying to kill one another.

End Chapter 8

     So it came to pass as Thera and King Vyakles returned down the dark path through the forest, the scent of cypress and pine heavy in the warm night air. The king had been in great haste as he escorted Thera from his palace not bothering to put on a robe, merely going in the night the long crimson fabric fashioned as a garment loosely tied about the waist of his naked body, going barefoot as she. Now the king admonished Thera for venturing out in the night for this was wild woods and there were wolves. Thera had no fear, thinking herself quite cunning and clever, where as she had come merely to catch a glimpse of the king, and here now, as she lived and breathed, it was the Great King, himself, walking along the path as he took her hand leading her back the way she came.
     The two walked hand and hand in the dark, Artemis having long since set over the western horizon leaving nothing but darkness. Here a great many thoughts crossed Vy's mind and he stopped and looked into Thera's eyes as he spoke saying "Thera are you feeling any better now after the tea?"
     She thought for a moment feeling her elation of mood and lack of any want or care. "I feel well enough for now." she smiled a fiendish look of lustful desire crossing her face but, so dark was it there in the deep woods, the king could not see the full flush of passion in her eyes but the king was not a stupid man and so he took her hands in his.
     "My physician informs me he feels you are sick with Love."
     "I suffer from no sickness, none of heart or mind." she said softly with a sigh.
     "Is it true than Thera? You hold within your mighty heart no love for me?"
     A rush of sweet anticipation filled both, man and woman, as they stood there, face to face, eye to eye. He smelling of Bay leaves and she of the sweetest jasmine oil as she moved her face ever so close to the king their lips nearly touching and she opened her mouth, her breath of mint and honey from the strong tea, and she whispered. "I can only answer your question by saying I could live my life without you." here the king's heart saddened before she lifted his heart and thoughts of mind when she added "But I would give up everything I hold dear, to be with you, if just for one night."
     Many thoughts raced through his mind as he stood there, as Vy released her hands wrapping his strong arms around Thera, moving to kiss her passionately upon the mouth. Thera closed her eyes in the warm embrace of the king as they kissed sweetly and deeply with mouths as wet as dew. Hearts racing, bodies aching to join together as they pressed close to one another there in the night. Never understanding the consequence and repercussions this moment would have on the rest of their lives. Like all great tragedies the moment of no return was born with a spark, in the deep dark of night, in secret, in silence.

More Chapter 8

     Thera sat on a long table while the old physician Kaderios stood next to her giving her a full medical examination. First he examined her eyes, throat and tongue, then he checked the lymph nodes of her throat and under her arms. He pressed his head against her chest listening to the beat of her heart and the sound of the breath of life in her lungs. The gray haired man bade Thera to lie back on the table and bend her knees as he gave her a pelvic examination, as Thera had complained of a sharp pain on her right side. After removing two fingers from out of her the old physician diagnosed her with an inflamed right ovary due to ovulation. Kaderios thought it odd for her to come all the way to the palace for a common ailment. To this Thera only replied her own physician was far too drunk and engaged in her tent with one of the Spartan men.
     Now as she sat up and adjusted her long thin gown to cover herself, the physician Kaderios cleaned his hands in a fresh bowl of water, then he took Thera's wrist in his feeling her pulse rate. This is when King Vyakles entered into the chamber where he had a look of deep concern for his guest. "Kaderios, what is her ailment?"
     Here the good physician noticed a remarkable change in Thera, physiologically speaking, as her heart rate nearly double in the presence of the King. Indeed the pupils of her eyes began to dilate as a flush came to her face and chest, a fullness to her lips which reddened as she smiled, a light coming to her eyes. "Sire, I pray you step outside for but a moment until I have called for you." the king did as his physician requested and as he left the room he took note Thera's pulse rate and bright complexion faded back to normal. Waiting a moment longer he bade the king enter and, again, the same bright flashes of excitement and a full flush returning to her cheeks old Kaderios knew at once what to tell the king.
     "Thera, dearest Thera how are you feeling now?" Vyakles asked as he reached out taking Thera's hands in his as he looked down into her bright green eyes.
     "My body aches, but my spirit has been lifted by your presence oh King!" Thera smiled warmly as he bent down kissing her sweetly on both cheeks which felt warm to his lips.
     "Have you a fever?" he remarked.
     "No my king she has but a common ailment as her body readies itself for breeding, this is normal in very fertile women." Kaderios explained "She need only drink a strong mint tea with honey and hemp flowers and she will be made to feel well by morning." here the king smiled relieved the Royal Lady was safe and well in his care. "If I may speak with you, my king, in private." The physician Kaderios requested.
     "Excuse me sweet, dearest Thera. Wait for me here and then I myself will personally escort you back to your camp." King Vyakles gave her a smile as soft as a kiss and she was delighted for his company.
     Standing down the hall the king listened as his physician gave him a strange look opening up his mouth saying. "This woman Thera."
     "Yes, Commander Thera, Daughter of the Royal House of Themiscyra." the king added.
     "I fear there is a bit of bad news about your.., dear Thera." he said a worried look in his eyes.
     "Has she a sickness?" King Vyakles said in a whisper as tense as wire.
     "Aye.., she is, I am afraid, sick with Love."
     "Love?" he asked as if this word were of some strange foreign language.
     "I fear this Love she has in her heart, is for you." the old man said plainly, for he had helped to deliver the king into to this world and had watched him grow from a baby into a man, as close as his own father was he to the king. A look came across the king's face, a look of uncertainty and disbelief. "Now this could prove to be a good fortune to you oh king. You must put away any thoughts you have as a loyal husband, and put first the needs of Sparta. Sparta requires of you an heir, and you have yet been able to do so, lo these many years. Now with Keeva's condition you will never be able to bring forth a child, for her womb is a barren place, where your seed can find no purchase. Now here this woman, strong, broad shoulders, small waist, wide hips, as fertile as the Crescent Valley, you must put your mind to this task. For Sparta needs an heir to your throne and, as our Great King, you must think of the needs of your people and put your own thoughts and feelings to the side of your mind. Now, dearest king, I tell you all this, only to be kind."
     Vyakles said nothing as he took in a deep calming breath as he looked in the old man's dark eyes. He knew he was right. Vy knew every word he spoke was the truth, but betraying his wife was not something he felt he had the courage to do. "I shall take all your words in advisement, as for now I can not say whether I can comment on this development, but now I must escort the good lady back to her bed.

Chapter 8 continues

     Now as Thera crept up to the city she was astounded to see the buildings and dwellings of Sparta looked incredibly similar to the structures of the city of Themiscyra. All one story buildings supported by large, round columns, small elevated canals of water running through the city, having lived in Themiscyra all her life Thera was taken a back by the similarities in the cities. Thera had been gazing off down one of the streets seeing no one, as it was late, the crescent moon overhead casting pale blue light deep into the shadows. Thera felt uneasy, her heart racing, a fever to her brow, palms sweating as two night watchmen found her lurking in a row of gardenia bushes. When asked to explain her presence Thera feigned illness and asked at once to be taken to the king's physician. "I am Commander Thera, Daughter of the Royal House of Themiscyra and I demand you escort me to the king's palace at once!"
     The two guards did indeed hasten her to the royal palace where Thera was taken to a small chamber back and to the left of the great hall. Thera could not believe this stroke of luck and she took all this in as she was now breathing the very air in the house of the king. Thera was left alone momentarily whilst the king's physician was summoned from his rest. Thera sat waiting in the small room, a couch covered in fine crimson silk blankets, two large wrought iron oil lamps burning brightly, the long dark curtains pulled closed to the great hall. Now Thera took but just a moment to peak her head out and as she did she looked around the great space, darkly lit, only a few lamps burning so late in the night. The bronze thrones of the king and queen sat on a raised platform above the marble tiled floor. The room lacked any style of decoration, plain and simple, the Spartan way. Thera had been in many a kingdom's court and this was the most barest display of wealth she had seen, but now, the more she thought of it, her own court was not as finely decorated with gold and silver touches, tapestries, and such as say the courts of Thrace, Macedon, or Dardina.
     As Thera waited impatiently King Vyakles himself was next to his wife in his warm bed curled up in a deep restful sleep, but Queen Keeva slept not, and the great king turned not to hear her tears. She had many troubling years with Vyakles and the shame of not bringing forth an heir to the Spartan throne was of a deep pain to her dearest heart, this was a trouble her heart could not bear and so she had fallen into deep despair, so great, she had thought to end her own life so that Vy might find a fertile bride. So it was they lie there together on this warm Spring night in the city of Sparta. Now as the king was lost in a most pleasing dream the voice of his Page came at his chamber door.
     "King Vyakles. Your guest the Royal Daughter of the House of Themiscyra has taken ill and now awaits the physician Kaderios here in your palace."
     Not a word was spoken between the king and his queen as he sat up immediately standing to his feet his heart racing as he wrapped a long piece of silken fabric around his waist covering his nakedness. The queen watched as Vy turned to leave as he spoke to his Page saying "Thera is ill?" with great concern in his voice as the angry spirit of jealousy crept up and curled in Queen Keeva's heart like a serpent.

Chapter 8

     Vasha returned home on the path through the cypress trees to Sparta where he came upon two young Spartan soldiers boasting to one another in the night saying "Iona choose me, she is the blue eyed, copper blond you saw me with in the lake. She is an officer in the Cavalry."
      "I was selected by Lexa, Captain of the Cavalry!" the two men laughed as Vasha walked close behind going unnoticed by the two drunken men. "Ah now that Lexa, she let me suck her toes, and she tasted of honey."
     "Impossible!" Vasha spoke loudly startling them "Women do not taste like honey." Vasha balked.
     "They do when you spread honey on them!" the two men laughed as Vasha gave them a serious look.
     "You are drunk." Vasha scolded them a bit.
     "And you are sober!" the drunken officer replied then teased the Admiral further asking "Why Admiral Vasha, what say you of the good lady Thera? Are you coming from her bed this night?"
     Vasha felt a bit of jealous anger lay hold of his heart so he spoke not to the officers, only shaking his head, leaving them to their bragging and boasting as he went on ahead for he was in much need of a good nights sleep.
     As for Commander Thera she lay upon her bed with a great restlessness in her heart and mind and she could find no rest, Morpheus, the god of sleep, would not come and wrap his calming arms around her and her mind thought only of the king. She recalled all the stories he shared with her, the looks and little winks, and the sound of his laughter, the scent of bay leaves, his smile. Thera played everything over, again and again, in her mind from the time she first laid eyes upon King Vyalkes as he rode up to her on the road many, many hours ago. She remembered looking over, as she swam in the water of the mountian lake, at the handsome, dark- eyed, Greek as he watched her naked glistening skin. Thera could find no rest and so she decided to get up and leave her tent, wearing only a sheer white gossamer- thin gown, as she went out, barefoot, where she came upon the path that led through the cypress trees to Sparta. Thera was very curious to see the city, and what harm to the treaty would there be if she only went up to the city just to see how the Spartan people live. The thought of, perchance, a glimpse of the king or his queen would not be such a bad thing. So Thera went out on this peaceful warm Spring night the scent of cherry blossoms and pines heavy in the still air, Artemis peaking down on Thera as she went through the woods, faint shadows of moonbeams illuminating the way. A rush of nervous energy coursed through Thera's veins which pulsed with the thrill of this night.
    
  

End Chapter 7

     So it was,  the sun had long since set and the oil lamps were brightly burning as the huge feast was served to the eighty or so women and men gathered at the long wooden tables with benches. This seating arrangement was most beneficial to the women as they had to squeeze up close to the men, one handsome dark eyed man on either side. Here King Vyakles introduced his most trusted and bravest officer, Navarchos/Admiral Vasha in charge of the Naval Fleet, to Thera and she was well pleased by the king's recommendation for the breeding season. Thera sat there in the middle of Vy and Vasha as they sat and ate, and drank, and spoke with one another talking of common things
     Now as soon as Vasha sat down next to Thera his heart was immediately taken by this gorgeous, red- haired woman, with the brightest green eyes; which sparkled by the light of the candles on the table as they sat out in the warm night under the cherry trees, and the twinkling stars, with just a sliver of the silver moon in the shape of a bow on the eastern horizon. He glanced down at her long, tan, well- toned legs and muscular thighs; which were exposed when the folds of her white linen gown were moved and lifted a little by the wind. Her long, soft, copper colored hair blew in light wisps against his arm as Vasha sat beside her, she had a smile that could lift the heart of a nation and she smelled of jasmine flowers. Vasha did his best to catch her eye and interest through his charm and stories of the sea, but Vasha knew Thera was far too taken by his king.
     Thera thanked the king saying Vasha, by far, would be the best choice out of his men, and this was true, but as long as Thera was in the company of King Vyakles all her attention and concentration of heart and mind was solely focused on the king. So there she sat enjoying the delicious food prepared and spread before them, the king called for all the amphora's of sweet Themiscyran red wine to be opened. Many bonds would be formed tonight from this feasting and Thera knew as she watched over the long course of dinner her beautiful drunken ladies becoming more enamoured with the men, exchanging passionate glances, stealing kisses here and there. Thera by the hour became so enamoured herself with King Vyakles she had flashes of drunken thoughts of breeding with the king. Now she could, of course, like all free people choose to do what ever she would allow herself to do, but here she would never allow herself to go so far as to break the law of her nation. The men of Sparta have also sworn allegiance to their wives and would never dishonor their betrothed by taking another woman. This is when these thoughts along with the oysters and wine began to turn her stomach. Thera said nothing of this as the night drew to a close and the candles burned down soon the king would return to Sparta to the bed of his queen and Thera was left at the table with Vasha who saw Thera's reaction in mood to the king's departure. Where she once was happily laughing with an incredible lightness of being that, had she the power of flight, could have just floated away up into the sky so elated was she in mood. Yet now here, alone with Vasha, a great weight had been brought down on her mood and she even seemed to sink down on the bench. This made Vasha think of a wet bird, who has the power to fly, but the heavy weight of the water refuses to let it fly free. Vasha drank another portion of wine with this beautiful 'wet swan' and he did his best to improve her mood, but only the king himself could achieve such great a task.
     So it was, Thera seeing, and hearing, the procreation of the others, requested Vasha escort her back to her private tent, he was more than happy to do so. Now, as they bid goodnight, Vasha had been informed at dinner that these women carry with them a little golden statue; and if she gives you her tiny statue this is the sign that you have been selected for the season. Now Vasha knew, of course, Thera had no intention of giving her statue to him this night. He knew, of course, he would try again, for his king would not avail himself to the breeding season and Vasha was hereby determined to break Thera from the spell and intrigue of the king.

Chapter 7 continues

     They had all traveled on for a long while and finally the party neared the city of Sparta; which the Themiscyran women marveled at for there were no walls around the city for protection. Sparta was a strong nation of warriors their skill in battle and deadly reputation the only requirement for protection. These women lived within walls 96 feet high, surrounded with guard towers, filled with soldiers at all times. These women only ever allowed to leave in times of battle, or for breeding. Here they had finally made it to the place where they could end their long journey and rest and relax with these fine men.
     However, as stipulated in the peace treaty ratification, the women could not enter the city of Sparta. They could barely catch a glimpse of the columned buildings; which seemed the color of red from the rays of the setting sun. Apollo rolling on into night, his golden beams casting coral and amethyst colors in the low clouds on the western horizon. The fresh green wheat fields swaying in the light wind like a wave upon the ocean. Thera was none too pleased with this stipulation in the ratification. In fact, she and her women, had been welcomed in the palaces of every city they visited dining with the royalty of those nations. Yet here in Sparta the strong willed women were totally opposed to the ratification of the ancient treaty, and, not only were they filled with the angry spirit of jealousy, but they were ashamed and embarrassed for their reputation. For they had been stricken with much infertility and, for the last twenty years, the overall majority of births resulted in girls. Now all of the Peloponnese, and half of Asia, knew of the barren women of Sparta. This was a very tense and difficult situation so Thera would respect the women of Sparta, as she respected all good women, and abide by their wishes.
     King Vyakles led Thera and the large party down to a small lake; which was reflecting the snow capped peaks of the Parnon mountains, just a mile or so from Sparta, south of the city just up from the shores of the Aegean Sea. The turquoise waters of which stretching on endlessly for as far as the eye could see. Here a small encampment had been erected for the far- away visitors, a little city of tents set up under the full blossomed limbs in a cherry tree orchard. The sickly-sweet scent of the bright pink blossoms permeated the air then the group caught wind of the aroma of roasting lamb, onions and garlic and other mouthwatering scents coming from the food wagon. The king's own cook had come from the palace hours earlier preparing herb encrusted lamb, boiled shrimp and seafood stew etc... There was much excitement in the air and all in the group felt very comfortable with one another, and so, before their dinner was ready to be served, the women of Themiscyra went into each of their private tents and emerged completely naked. Having stripped off their armor and linen garments they felt dirty and sweaty from their long journey. So, in the presence of the men and King Vyakles, the naked women went out into the refreshing waters fed by the mountain streams. The King and all of his men were well pleased to see the wet, naked forms of the fit women and were further delighted to see they, in fact, did wax and remove all the hair from their entire body.
     King Vyakles eyed all the slippery, naked women swimming in the shimmering waters, and out of the 40 women gathered there together laughing and splashing in the water, the King's attention returned again and again to Thera who had a smile from the light of heaven and something stirred deep in his heart and mind for this beautiful foreign woman. Vyakles was aroused and intrigued.

Chapter 7

     Over the next few hours, as they all traveled talking with one another on this warm Spring day, King Vyakles spoke with Thera telling her how delighted he was Themiscyra agreed to the ratification of the peace treaty; which had lasted 100 years. The success of which was due to the stipulation that each city would have no interaction between them. Now Sparta needed sons for the Army and Themiscyra required daughters so their civilization could continue to exist.
     Much had happened and the king of Sparta shared a brief history of his nation, some of which Thera had knowledge of. He spoke of the Great Battle of Platea, one hundred years ago, where Sparta joined forces with Megara and amassed a massive army and defeated the Persian forces of 300,000 of which only 3,000 Persians made it out of battle alive. Vyakles told her of a great earthquake which shook the ground for five days killing 20,000 Spartans destroying most of the city. Thera was fascinated by the stories of the First Peloponnesian War when Sparta and Megara joined forces against Athens and Thrace; who took refuge in Athens from the Spartans cramming into the city causing an out break of plague. Next the city of Platea was blockaded, cut off from any aid from Athens or Thrace by the Spartan Army who starved every one in the city. The king told her of many years after the war of devastating floods and terrible earthquakes. She was informed of a fifty year peace treaty that was signed by King Pleistoanax of Sparta and General Nikios of Athens; which, eleven years later, was broken sparking the Second Peloponnesian War, which lasted, ironically, eleven years. Thera listened to the king excitedly telling of the great maritime battles; which was most of the war. He spoke of the great General Gylippes who saved the city of Syracuse from the Athenians during the naval battle at Kynossema where the General captured 4,000 Athenians and had them all executed in one day. "For the next thirty five years Sparta was the undisputed, supreme leader of all Greece. Now after the second war King Agis, who ruled at the end of the war, marched his mighty Spartan Army to the city of Eleans, who had taken arms against Sparta and sided with Athens. So out of revenge King Agis put everyone in the city to the sword and burned the walls down to the ground." King Vyakles said as he turned his head looking at his traveling companion, who was fascinated by the tale. He could see the battle- lust in Thera's bright green eyes, and here he thought Thera would be a most impressive warrior to have in his army, or perhaps a member of Sparta's Olympic team.
      Thera was so intrigued by this man and the stories he told as they traveled south towards the Aegean Sea, cool winds blowing down off the southern slopes of the pine and cypress covered Parnon mountains to the east. Thera felt so at ease, a deep abiding peace warming her heart, and here she wished to walk on forever on this road with the handsome, brave and noble king at her side regaling her with stories from his nations past.
 
 

End Chapter 6

     King Vyakles dismounted as he went over to Thera who swung her leg around to dismount but the king reached out with his massive hands wrapping them around her waist lifting her down out of the saddle he smiled up at Thera as he slowly, in a demonstration of his strength, pulled her close to his body. So close, in fact, their noses almost touched as he set her down on her feet. Thera placed her hands on his arms as she did so she felt a surge of energy course through her body and she inhaled his scent; which was of olive oil and bay leaves. A warm comfort and joy overwhelmed her as she stood face to face, eye to eye, with the great king. Here now in this moment; which seemed an eternity, Love and Death ceased their strife in her heart and mind.
     "I am Vyakles, King of all Sparta." he smiled an ease of grace and mercy in his dark eyes.
     "I am Thera, Daughter of the Royal House of Themiscyra." she replied as the king took her hands in his and kissed her on the cheek his soft, full lips warming her blushing skin. "We bring gifts from the heart of our Nation." Thera called for the cart and called for three of her ladies. "Captain Amara, Kayla, Alea, come forth and present  the gifts with which we honor King Vyakles." the three rode forth dismounting and holding the reigns of the war horses they had brought for the king. "Here now, oh great king, the finest steeds, bred for war, trained by my own hands for two years. We have included the finest crafted, hand tooled leather saddles the world has ever seen, and the hassock and braided reigns." Thera stood in front of her mount as the king eyed the magnificent creature standing there in the road. "The finest Themiscyra has to offer." she added.
     The king smiled as he commented saying "Yes, indeed, the finest Themiscyra has to offer. Note gentlemen," he said to his men gathered there. "The sheen of the hair, like silk in the sun. The long lean legs, the gentle curve of the neck, the well formed muscles, the brightness of her eyes."
     "King Vyakles," Thera interrupted to correct him. "Why these are all stallions."
     Here the king gave a warm smile and a gentle laugh and it took Thera a moment to realize he was referring to Thera and not the war horse. Thera laughed shaking her head, hands on her hips delighted with the easement of any tension or nervous feelings. Now the king took this time to introduce his men to all of the women and Thera, in turn, introduced the excited, beautiful, anxious women to each of the men and they all walked together down the road leading their horses behind them as they went and talked and laughed getting to know one another better.                                                                                                             
      Now it only took a little while for Amara to become worried. She had known Thera all her life and she always knew Thera to be a very, calm, relaxed, reserved person. Intense in presence casting a long shadow through her commanding will, but here now, with this handsome foreign Greek king, Thera talked and laughed a lightness to her voice and, indeed, a brightness to her eyes of which Amara had never seen, what is called Shakiana Glory by the Tribes Of Israel, as if God himself was shining his light outward from her very being. Now here Amara was sore afraid she was bearing witness to Love, its very self, curling up in Thera's heart like a serpent. This would not do for Thera to fill up her heart with love for this king, for he had a queen and it was against the Themiscyran code of law to breed with a man who has given himself in marriage. Amara thought this over as she walked behind her commander and the king and soon she abandoned this course of thought for she knew Thera to be the most brave and honorable, law abiding citizen she ever had the pleasure of knowing. Amara knew in her heart and mind Thera would never jeopardize her rights and privileges bestowed by her nation over a man. Yet this was no ordinary man, this was a native son of Mother Greece herself, the blood of the great kings flowed through his veins, and this was no ordinary land, this was Sparta.

Chapter 6 continues

     This moment would be etched in Thera's mind forever. The bright blue, cloudless sky, the new day sun just beginning to rise far off in the east, a cool wind blew down from the Dinaric Alps to the left on the western shores of Greece, the air sweet with apricot blossoms; which opened up their soft pink petals like eyes in the sun. A rapid pulse in her blood increasing the pace of her heart. Thera's mouth became as dry as the desert and her palms became wet as a slight perspiration came to her lip and she felt her brow fever as the forty or so armored men approached. King Vyakles sat atop a finely bred silver stallion dressed in full military regalia, the rays from Apollo shining brightly on his gold breast plate and his golden crown; which was a crown of laurel leaves, each leaf hand crafted in pure gold. King Vyakles rode towards Thera, and the group of women, at full gallop his crimson cape flowing behind him, a golden light surrounding his head like a halo. His black eyes gave a mixed look of pleasure and intrigue as he stopped next to Thera who had ridden out on the road to greet him ahead of the women. The two sat in their saddles eye to eye, alone on the road together for a moment.
     "Great King of Sparta!" Thera said speaking clearly with purpose, although she was incredibly nervous so she had to choose her words carefully as not to appear flummoxed or stupid in front of the king of Sparta. "I bring you greetings and salutations from Queen Ethera of Themiscyra." Thera said, having never met a Spartan, she looked upon the handsome King with his dark eyes ringed with green, black hair and beard, a small scar above his left eye, muscular arms and legs, massive hands, dark skin tanned by the sun, full pink lips, a deep voice and a flashing smile.
     "I bid you and your ladies welcome in my kingdom." the great king spoke as he took Thera in for a moment only knowing of Themiscyran women from tales and legends. The deep red color of her long flowing hair intrigued him, for never had he seen a woman whose hair was not black, like his. The deep emerald color of her bright eyes fascinated him, who had lived only amongst dark eyed people. Vyakles also noted her great height as she sat in the saddle, eye to eye with him both of their mighty steeds standing shoulder to shoulder, and the horses sniffed at one another sensing each were of a foreign breed. Her long lean muscular arms and legs, her thick thighs, muscles; which had developed over years in the saddle, her smooth soft skin, he noted here the women did in fact wax all the hair from their body, just as the Spartans. This part of the legend was true. The great king took Thera in with his eyes and Vyakles was well pleased.
     Now as each party came up from the north and the south in the road Thera and her ladies eyed the group of the most handsome, strong warriors they had ever beheld. The virgins all became filled with the nervous anxious energy of lust, and the Spartan men, too, looked upon these brave, beautiful, red- headed, tall, armor clad, strong women who had just walked out of their ancient myths and legends as if from a dream.

More Chapter 6

     So it was Thera and her party were welcomed into Scythia and as in all the cities the Women of Themiscyra bestowed gifts upon the King and Queen of each country on behalf of Queen Ethera. Each kingdom received a finely crafted oaken supply cart pulled by a well bred work horse and the following: 12 amphoras of sweet red wine, 20 pots of lavender honey, 1 bolt of fine woven cotton and 1 brightly colored bolt of silk, 10 goats, and from the fertile orchards of Themiscyra 12 saplings. Scythia: cherry and apricot trees, Dardinia: olive and lime trees, Macedon: orange and lemon trees, Illyria: cherry and lime trees, and in Greece: olive and orange trees, however the Spartans were to receive, also, 4 war horses from the Royal Stable as a show of respect and honor to the Spartan King Vyakles; whom Thera was greatly apprehensive about meeting for the first time.
     In Scythia Thera bade farewell to Captain Lucia Vega who would try for another daughter here in the land of the green eyed Sythian men. Thera wished the other 22 ladies who remained well, and thanked the King and his Queen for the great hospitality shown to her and her good ladies. General Nadinos escorted Thera and the remaining 189 women through the Iron Gate Gorge, between the southern tip of the Carpathian mountains and the northern tip of the Balkan mountains, to a narrow point of the Danube where an ancient stone bridge spanned the water. Thera mounted on her massive black steed led her party across to the other side where a Dardinean escort, sent by the King of Dardina, awaited. So it was as they came and went from each city the women were met by a security escort, as the king of Thrace to the south had made it clear to all the surrounding countries that he despised the women of Themiscyra, and of course this was all Thera's fault after what she had done last year in Thrace. Now were it not for many letters of apology and wagon load after wagon load of gold the king of Thrace would have, if his Queen had allowed him to, he would have amassed his troops and destroyed the walled cities of Themiscyra and burned the entire island peninsula down. But here diplomacy, and mountains of gold along with the words of his wife, quelled the kings anger against the nation of women.
     So it was the party of women traveled on and at each palace they were treated with great kindness and respect. Thera had by now traveled from Dardina to Macedon, to Illyria and when she and the other 39 women remaining left for Greece one fine, warm, Spring morning a large group of men approached on the road from the south. This was the women's security escort sent by King Vyakles of Sparta. Now as they moved closer Thera and Captain Amarra were shocked, as were all the ladies, to see that King Vyakles had not only sent the troops, but had come himself, in person, riding with his Spartan warrior men to greet the women of Themiscyra. Thera felt a strange wave of nervous tension fill her heart and mind and as the great king neared she felt a chilling sense of fear and excitement.

Chapter 6

     The band of women traveled along the old coastal road that hugged the northwestern shore of the Black Sea, whose deep blue waters were still as light warm winds drifted up smelling of salt and seaweed. After a little while they made their way up to the great river basin of the Danube. The Riverine forest was thick and lush with bright new green foliage on this placid Spring afternoon. The air was permeated by the fresh mountain breezes coming down off the Carpathian's to the north. Birch, Juniper and Spruce forests stretched on for miles around the sand and gravel beaches of the great river Danube. The forest alive with the sounds of the many birds stirring in the trees Thera saw a party of brown bears across the shore catching salmon from the water with their massive paws as a white tailed eagle flew back to it's tree top perch on one of the many islands their in the wide cold river. Thera and all the ladies loved this leg of the journey as the scenery was serene and quite pleasing. Utopas.
     Here a few hours into the long journey, around lunchtime, the group halted their progress to sit and gorge on fruit and water themselves and their animals. Now they were only a little while away from the northern border of Scythia and would reach the city by sundown. As Thera sat talking with Lucia Vega and Lacuna upon the soft green grass under the shade of an ancient Beech tree a riding party approached the ladies. This was an escort sent by the King and Queen of Scythia. All the ladies stood in a long row as the men rode closer.
     Thera was always enraptured by Scythian men, for they were all blond, tall, handsome and all carried the same magnificent trait, the most brilliant green eyes, the most piercing, sparkling green eyes of any man she had ever seen. Thera always found it difficult speaking with these green eyed men when looking at them directly in the eyes. Yet she was on a mission as an envoy of Queen Ethera, so speak to them she must.
     "I am Thera, Daughter to Our Royal House, and I thank you on behalf of our Queen." here all her ladies cheered with a warm welcome.
     The men there, twenty or so, all dismounted and stood making a deep bow to the women whom they were all more than delighted to see. On the ride up from Scythia all the men had spoken with lustful boasts and bragging and now here all eyed the ladies wanting to know desperately which of the beautiful women would come and stay for the season. "Commander Thera, you my Royal Lady need no introduction and may I say, and I feel I can speak freely for all the men of my country, when I say what an honor and distinct pleasure it is to finally meet with you." the tall green eyed stranger said as he stood close to Thera. "I am General Nadinos sent by our Great King to escort your party to the palace where a feast shall be given in your honor. We do this out of Unity, Loyalty, Respect and Honor for our Peace Accord between our two Glorious Nations."
     A cheer rose up from all as the two parties co mingled together and the women shared with the well pleased men grapes, apples, dates, cherries, apricots, wheat bread with honey and wild Turmeric goat cheese along with a small portion of wine. Thera was then able to relax and lounge about on the grass talking with the men and here in the presence of the men and women Thera felt most comfortable as the light from Apollo shone down on her face through the green leaves of the trees.

End Chapter 5

     Upon this beautiful Spring morning the sun shone down from a cloudless sky as warm winds blew in from the south across the Black Sea up from Persia. The entire city had assembled at the North Gate to bid their sisters and daughters farewell. The remaining Auxiliary Troops, nearly five thousand soldiers, stood high upon the long stone wall looking down over the women gathered there. Thera fell in ranks with the other members of the Military who awaited the Queen's word upon their steeds. The lines of wagons, loaded with supplies and Civilian women here too waited with much anticipation to finally be on their way.
     Queen Ethera stood just above the crowd on her golden Chariot, her crown all flashes of gold and silver in the bright light of the sun. Now she was old and aged but she summoned up the strength to address her dear subjects in a loud, rich, clear voice that did your heart good to hear. "My dearest, lovely ladies!" the thousands gathered there stilled their voices "Today you shall leave these sacred walls, and fulfill your destiny!" a loud cheer came up from the impassioned women. "We, who must remain, send with you our joyous prayers of Love and protection. We bid you take this joy with you wherever you go." more cheers "Apollo himself has come to watch over you and protect you this very day. You must now look out for one another so that you all shall return home safe!" the Queen paused for the loud applause "Remember, each of you, a man is like fine wine but you must be careful not to drink him in too quickly, for he is libel to go straight to your head." an uproar of laughter came from the excited crowd. "Now, is there anyone, gathered here, who does not wish to partake?" silence. "Very well then I command the gates to be open!" with this command several officers pulled the massive wrought iron gates opened which moaned under its own weight. The horses pulling the caravans and wagons slowly began to move as the 212 ladies departed from the city together. Thera was the last one out as she rode passed the Queen's Chariot under Commander Odessa's watchful gaze. The old Queen gazed upon her daughters face for what she feared, in her mighty heart, would be the last time. "My brave and noble daughter, return to me, your mother the Queen, for I command you to do so, by what ever means possible." Queen Ethera spoke a glistening of a tear in her blue eyes.
     "I shall return to you, oh Queen! As Apollo is my witness, we shall all return home to kiss your cheek. I will see to this for I am the daughter of a Queen!" Thera rose up on her mighty steed which reared up kicking it's front legs as Thera rode out through the gate and as she did the crowd gathered there cheered for the departing women and all were happy as a new breeding season had begun.

Chapter 5 continues

     "Odessa." Thera said loudly as she stood next to Odessa's bed just before dawn.
     "Thera?" Odessa asked with a yawn and a stretch. "Why are you here so early?"
     "I am the Queen's Commander and I am always awake before the troops, just as you shall be when you assume command for me today. Now get up and get dressed for we have work to tend to."
     "I have not even had breakfast." Odessa complained as she lay in her warm bed.
     "Here, I brought you an apple." Thera said as she waited for Odessa to get out of bed.
     Now in a few minutes Odessa was up as Thera, dressed in full armor, helped Odessa put her military uniform on. They indeed had much to tend to as Thera explained they must first see that all the caravans were packed with supplies, tents, linens, foods, water and wine etc... Next they went to the treasury where they took possession of the many gold pieces; which were to be tokens of respect to be given to the rulers of the lands, the women of Themiscyra would visit. The artisans of her country were renowned for their masterworks in gold and silver.The artists of the treasury had crafted many crowns for the rulers of many nations and Thera was well pleased with the small statues of snakes, horses, bulls, etc... Odessa had never been inside the treasury before and she was amazed by the massive amounts of gold and silver contained therein. Now that she would be in command during Thera's absence she would now have access to many places she was not allowed to go before.
     Next they paid a visit to the physician's where they obtained all the letters about each woman to insure each was healthy and able to travel. Thera received her examination in the presence of Odessa and the physician's gave Thera a clean bill of health, much to her relief. The two then made their way to the Palace of the Queen and received from her Majesties Ministers of Foreign Relations the letters of diplomacy, sent and sealed by her majesty to all Sovereign States. Now before Queen Ethera, her daughter, Thera, gave over the Signet ring she wore in the Queen's stead. The large, well crafted, crescent shaped silver and gold ring Thera wore on her left hand was given over to Odessa; who now realized the importance of her task and ultimate responsibility and here she wished her dearest friend Thera would not go. Queen Ethera took the ring and slipped it on to Odessa's left hand as she swore a solemn oath to the old god's of her youth. The Queen then prepared herself as she rode out upon her golden chariot, driven by Odessa her new Commander, to the North gate where she bade all her loyal servants farewell as the new breeding season approached. Thera rode out on her black horse behind Odessa and the Queen.

Chapter 5

     Thera finally returned to her own house and bed. She was a daughter in her mother's house, but she was the mistress of her own home. She found her modest house warm and inviting on the eve of her departure. Thera drank some wine and feasted on apples, dates, raisins and pomegranates left for her by one of the Queen's staff members who saw to the domestic accoutrement's of life. Her soft feather bed was dressed in crisp, white, fine cotton sheets the fabric imported up from Egypt. Fresh vases of gardenias, hyacinths and lilacs permeated the air with a sweet floral scent. Thera found, on the marble and iron table beside her bed, a few small clay jars which were painted bright blue and red. Uncorking the little jars she found a mixture of, Shea butter, lemon zest and honey, in one a rich moisturizing lotion for her skin. The second contained a mixture of beeswax and peppermint oil, this was to keep her lips soft and smooth on the long ride to Sparta.
     Happy for the presents left for her she rubbed some of the balm on her lips, the peppermint cooling her pink lips instantly. Thera lit a few oil lamps then strode out to the balcony of her home; which sat on a small hill overlooking the Queen's Castle and the Temple of Apollo. The city was quiet at this hour everyone getting a good nights rest before their long travel and release from duty. This was a time, for those who were partaking in the breeding season, to put aside their work and forget their tasks. The only duty required of the ladies during this break was to procreate. Thera thought of the other 211 women who lie in their beds at this hour dreaming of the days and nights to come with much anticipation. Here Thera gave pause in this line of thought as she gazed up at the bright stars in the dark night, the moon waning, in a giant silver crescent hanging low in the western horizon.
     Thera said a silent prayer to Artemis, her Goddess the Moon. Thera asked of her 'Watch over me and protect me oh Artemis! Keep me out of the hands of Love, and let these men have my body, but do not let my poor heart fall victim to their sweetness and words of promises and poetry and kisses on the mouth and the warm, deep embrace. I pray you guide me safely on the long, hot, nights. For I, your humble servant, only wish to serve you. May your brother Apollo light my way in the Day! May you, oh Artemis watch over me and keep me safe in the Night. For I have promised all to breed for you.' Thera stopped in her prayer as she felt as though she were being watched. Looking up she noticed a large grey owl sitting in the newly budding branches of the cherry tree next to her balcony. The old owl turned it's head towards her looking down with it's large orange eyes through the bright pink blossoms. Thera here felt a strange sensation run up and down the length of her back, her skin felt cold, even though the night air was very warm. Thera stood there frozen in the moment as the terrible sense of foreboding returned once more to her mind troubling her heart and thoughts. The fruit and wine she had devoured now turned in her stomach and she suddenly felt quite ill. Now if Thera fell ill she would not be allowed to travel and travel she must. She was ready for the campaign to Sparta to begin and she would not let anything impede her progress.
     "Goodnight wise Owl." Thera whispered to the bird as she slowly stepped back into her bedchamber and curled up, naked, in her bed for she would need a good rest for the long day to come. Morpheus came quickly wrapping his arms of deep slumber around Thera and here, deep in sleep, she dreamed a dream; in which she was on the ocean in a ship with no sails upon the quiet sea.

End Chapter 4

     Thera stood at attention as she and Queen Ethera were left alone in the, now silent, Great Hall. The oil lamps flickered a warm glowing light upon the Queen as she sat at the long table, countless papers strewn about in front of her. The good, gracious old woman stared up at Thera with a look of confusion and disappointment as she spoke. "Commander Thera. Why must you feel the need to question me in the presence of my loyal subjects?"
     "I submit my apology for your approval. It was not my intention to give offense to you Great Lady. I only wish to understand better the terms and conditions of our new alliance." Thera said realizing she had, with her impudence, shown much disrespect to the Queen of Themiscyra.
     The old blue eyed woman, aged beyond her fifty years sat behind the table pulling out the letter from Sparta and gave it to Thera so she could read for herself all the terms and conditions of the newly ratified peace treaty. "Here.., all your questions will be answered."
     Thera read as a puzzled look came upon her face. "We are to encamp, outside the city?"
     "As not to cause offense to the married ladies of Sparta, to show them our respect and honor."
     "We are forbidden from taking married men." Thera sighed not liking this certain detail of the new accord. Thera read more and she said "They do not have enough men for their army. Too many daughters and not enough sons." Thera pondered this and her heart stirred a little for the men of Sparta and less for the men of Megara.
     "An opportunity like this is a lifetime in the making." Ethera smiled her old blue eyes lighting up, deep in her heart wishing she were still young enough and able bodied to take advantage of the prospect. She was well familiar with the legends of the  fighting men of Sparta. "This will be most sufficient for you to breed with one of these strong warriors. For I tell you this dearest Thera, the men from Sparta are legendary fighters. Strong, handsome, virile, the likes of which this world has never seen. The tales of their battles will live on for centuries." the Queen smiled a sparkle in her eyes.
     Thera stood there shoulders back hands at her sides as she thought for a moment about these brave men. She said nothing then the Queen gave her a discerning look saying "At ease commander. Come sit here at the table with me." a warm, glowing smile came to the old woman's face making her golden crown beam. Here Thera took in a deep breath relaxing her body as she walked over and sat down in the empty chair next to the Queen. "Now tell me Thera are you still looking forward to your journey, even though the destination has changed?"
     Thera felt a strange numbness come over her, she had a certain sense of foreboding and the Queen noticed this.
     "Thera." she said reaching over taking the young commander's hand in hers "There is fear in my heart, and this fear in my heart is for you."
     "What fear?" Thera asked a look of doubt flashing on her face.
     "I fear I have driven you from your desire to breed." the old woman sighed shaking her head. "You assumed command in my stead ten years ago now, and I fear your heart has been hardened on the field of battle, where you can show no compassion for men." Queen Ethera paused as she let this information settle in Thera's mind. "Dearest Thera in order for you to have passion for a man, you must first have compassion for him."
     Now here Thera was quite offended by these words. "Mother..," she paused taking in a deep breath shaking her head saying "If I were allowed by our society, I would ride from city to city everyday of the breeding season, bedding as many strong, brave men as I could. Why I would even make a sport of it seeing how many men I could bed in one day! I would do anything to better my chances of bringing forth as many daughters that Artemis would allow!" Thera said with a lustful, wanting look on her face and this settled any compunction in the Queen, her mother's, heart as to Thera's commitment to the cause. "What happened in Thrace was just a miscommunication and I have written my apologies to the King! I will go to Sparta to breed in service to you, oh Queen!" here Thera stood and with a deep, respectful bow she brushed her long soft red hair off her shoulders, as she looked down at her worried mother, with her bright green eyes. She felt a pain in her heart as every time she saw her mother she looked older and smaller than the strong brave warrior she had been. Now, ten years after her leg injury, the Queen could no longer run or ride, and Thera felt more determined than ever to bring forth a daughter to make her mother smile like before. "Mother, as Artemis is my witness, I shall show you my Spartan Daughter this time next year. Fear not for me in your bravest, and noblest of hearts. You shall be proud of me yet old woman." Thera said with a laugh as she embraced her frail, old mother kissing her on the cheek as she whispered something in the Queen's ear causing her to laugh a little.
"Now I must take my leave and rest, for on the morrow I must see to the journey of myself and our dear ladies. We set off at dawn and we are all longing to be on our way.

More Chapter 4

     Now six days of rest and relaxation passed quickly and Thera enjoyed the long days of laying on the sandy shore of the lake soaking up Apollo's rays swimming in the deep blue water. All of the women returned to Themiscyra refreshed and rejuvenated. Thera was the last one out as she had to insure all the tents and supplies were packed up and ready to roll out on the caravans for the breeding parties. There would be seven groups traveling to Scythia, Macedonia, Dardania, Epirus, Thessaly, Thermopylae and Megara. Thera would be in charge of the twenty two virgins and bring them to Amara. The Queen would normally perform this function, but as she was old and war torn this was one other duty Thera must perform as the Queen's Commander.
     So it was Thera returned to Themiscyra late in the evening the sun setting at her back as she approached the gleaming city on the winding road from Colchise. Thera felt confidant and relaxed as she traveled back home. Upon entering the city she noticed her officers surrounded by their daughters, who had crafted garlands of flowers for their hair. There was here, as always, a feeling of peace and happiness in Themiscyra. Thera was radiant in jubilation as she approached the Queens Fortress in the center of the city. The virgins were gathered there in the great hall admiring the statues of the former Queens: Aella the Whirlwind, Antiope kidnapped and taken to Athens, Hippolyta Daughter of Ares, Lysipee nemis of Aphrodite, Marpesia Most Victorious in Battle, Omphale Ruler of Themiscyra and Lybia, and of course last, but not least, the long dead Penthesilea killed by Achiles at Troy.
     Now Thera knew this should not take long and she should soon be home in her bed. However when Thera was brought in with the eighteen and nineteen year old virgins Thera noticed a look of great concern on the old Queens face as she stood there in the great hall surrounded by the virgins. Thera went up to the long table the Queen sat behind her Foreign Relations Emissaries on either side the Queen. Thera greeted her Queen "Queen Ethera I have returned to your court with these good ladies seeking our your blessing and instruction before we part for Megara on the morrow."
     Here her Queen showed no sign of happiness or contentment of blessings to bestow. She merely looked at Thera with a face of solemnity as cruel as the grave and then she spoke to the women assembled there in the Great Hall of her Castle. Then she spoke saying "We have received word from Sparta." the Queen paused then said "King Vyacles has chosen to ratify our peace accord. Our ladies are now allowed to breed in Sparta."
     "That treaty is a hundred years old." Thera sighed knowing what this news could only mean.
     "Yes, all the better for new seeds for our young flowers." Queen Ethera smiled at the blushing young girls who were instantly thrilled knowing the legend of the fierce warrior men of Sparta. However Thera was not so pleased as she had heard many stories of the Spartans from General Pelopidas and Thera had a deep uneasy feeling in the pit of her stomach. "Commander Thera you are here by ordered to escort these good ladies to the city of Sparta where their king awaits."
     "What of Megara?" Thera asked of the Queen who did not answer instead she called each woman up to the long table where she greeted them each warmly and gave to them each a small golden ring that was opened on each end with two tiny orbs, one in gold, the other in silver, the symbols of the sun and the moon. "Now as is our custom when you leave the gates this ring must be on your right ring finger and when you return the ring must be on your left ring finger. This is the only way you may pass through the gates." the old Queen explained.
     Now here Thera became impatient and she questioned the queen once again. Queen Ethera did not appreciate this discourse so she summoned every one to leave the chamber as she wished to speak to her impudent Commander alone.

Chapter 4

     Now Thera had been out in the refreshing water for a great while as she came up out of the cold lake naked and shivering she noticed several of her drunken officers had dragged out their beds from the tents out beside the shore. Here she found them each sleeping soundly, naked, atop the silk and horse hair mattresses. Thera shook her head as she walked over to the last remaining fire which was just a warm glow by this time. Here she found a few officers of the phalanx and Amarra, Captain of the Archers, who all sat transfixed by Lucia Vega, Captain of the Phalanx, telling a story to the transfixed audience gathered there by the fire.
     "Then Queen Penthesilea herself rode out to fight with Achiles in full armor, the helmet obscuring her face. So as she fought bravely there at the gates of Troy that day Achiles did not realize the warrior, who raged there in combat with him for so long that day, who was so tall, strong, and brave, was in truth a woman! Now when she was taken by his sword and she fell upon the grass that day the victor Achiles removed her helmet and when he saw how beautiful Penthesilea was, he wept openly, mourning her death there before the gathered masses." Lucia said calmly.
     "Then what happened?" Amarra asked immersed in the story.
     "Then the foolish Thersites mocked Achiles. The enraged Achiles went over in a flash and removed Thersites' head in one blow of his sword." Lucia Vega now noticed Thera standing there beside the fire drying her naked wet flesh, her long red hair wrapped around her back and shoulders like seaweed.
     "And what of our Queen, what happened to her body?" one of the officers asked in a low whisper.
     "Ah, our poor Queen. The cousin of Thersites took her body, dragging her corpse by the heels from the back of his chariot. Then when he came to the nearby river Scamander he untied her body, still clothed in her armor, and he threw her down into the water." a pause came over the group.
     Realizing the group of women had not noticed her, as of yet, Thera wanted to give them a good scare so she jumped out, with a loud scream, beside the fire grabbing at them with her wet hands and dripping hair. A shriek came from the ladies followed by much laughter.
     "What fun!" Thera had a good laugh with them, then she gave her final instructions before retiring to her tent to her warm bed for a much needed, long rest. "Captain Vega, Captain Amarra stay up as long as you wish, and all officers may sleep as long as they so desire. However, no one may have breakfast until they have each swam to the other shore of the lake and back. Then we have six more days of rest and relaxation until we return to Themiscyra, as for myself, I must retire to the longing arms of Morpheus to sleep. Enjoy your time here ladies for you have all deserved this time to be thankful and happy in your life. I bid you all goodnight." Thera walked across the sandy shore up to her tent which was under the ancient trees in the olive grove there beside the temple. All was peaceful still and quiet there in the darkened space, Thera had to grope along in the dark until she came to her bed. Pulling back the thin white linen sheet she collapsed on the soft bed and curled up inhaling the light, sweet, smell of the lavender scented sheets. Now as soon as her rested on her pillow Thera fell into a deep and tranquil sleep and so it was she dreamed a dream.

End Chapter 3

     Now here Thera took her leave feeling a rush of unfocused energy as if she had just come from battle,her heart racing. Thera stood on the steps of the temple of Artemis gazing up at the full face of the moon hanging in the apex of the star filled sky. She took in a deep, cleansing breath then went out down to the shore of the lake where the party of warriors had gathered round the three raging bonfires.
     As with all victorious parties all gathered there had taken each their fill of wine, much drunkenness abounded as Thera walked down to the beach, and she too felt the need for more wine. She called out for more amphora's of the sweet, red wine to be opened. Thera knew there were many paths to relaxation in celebration and red wine was one of them. "Now my good friends we are gathered here this evening in the presence of Artemis herself. Her brother Apollo has told her the story of our victory this day and she has come to see us smile and drink the wine." a cheer came up from the ladies there and Thera spoke once more saying "Now we must enjoy this victory and prepare ourselves for the enjoyment to come, as soon we will be off to our chosen cities to be with those strong, and brave, daring young men." a louder cheer arose then Thera quieted them as she said "Now where are the virgins?" she gazed at the ladies who all sat in the sand by the fire drinking the wine. "Stand all you virgins who are coming with us!" Thera commanded and they all, twenty two,stood a far fewer number this year. "Now you will hear many stories from your fellow soldiers about men, and their ways of romance, sex and love..," Thera smiled then a look as serious as the grave came across her face there by the firelight she said the following "Now I will be the one brave enough to tell you that there is only one flaw in men." Thera paused to let her words melt out over the buds of their minds and then she said simply "They all want to rule the World. But the World is not enough for them. They also wish to rule your heart and mind." Thera paused again, for dramatic effect. "So you must enjoy the flesh of the men and the purpose they serve. For our Great Nation needs strong daughters and it is up to us to be with these strong, handsome and brave men. We must seek them out and show them what it means to be embraced in the naked arms of a Themiscyran woman!" Now a louder cheer came up from the drunken ladies who had cleansed themselves from the gore of war and gathered there on the sandy shore by the silver lake; which was lapping just behind them as Thera smiled and drank up as much wine as she could take sitting there beside the lake. All her officers enjoyed this time together telling stories of naked romps with men. Singing old battle songs. Thera was reluctant to go this season but go she must, so she prepared her heart for the men of Megara, but little did our dear Thera know the Queen had other plans. Soon Thera would be sent instead to a different land. For tonight Thera drank to her hearts content, stripping off her white linen gown and going for a moonlight swim. Out in the water Thera felt so relaxed not a trouble or worrisome thought in the world could come to her mind here. Not here in the cold blue water underneath the light of the moon. The wet embrace of the water helped to ease her heart and mind but she knew tomorrow would come too soon.
                   

More Chapter 3

     "Odessa, I will ask you a few questions and I order you to be honest and forthright in your answers." Thera said folding her arms across her chest.
     "Yes Commander." Odessa replied as she reached out for her mother's hand as she sat a little closer to her on the bench.
     "When was the last time you can recall a murder within our walls?" Thera asked a grievous look upon her face.
    "There has never been a murder in our cities." Odessa replied.
    "When was the last time you can recall a case of rape or torture?"
    "There has never been a case of rape or torture in our cities."
    "And how have we and our fore mothers achieved this peace in our house?" Thera asked of her.
    "Through Unity, Loyalty, Respect and Honor." Odessa answered in a strong, clear voice.
    "That is correct." Thera began her pacing again hands clasped in front of her as she continued speaking "Odessa, you are aware of all of our laws and statutes. What is the first law we have established?"
     "Each woman has the free will, right and freedom to leave at anytime of her choosing."
     "And the second law?" Thera asked as she paced back and forth.
     "Any woman who leaves our closed society may never return." Odessa answered correctly.
     "May never return.., and the gates shall be closed to them forever." Thera paused lost in thought of those who had parted company with Themiscyra under her command. "Now I only have two more questions that remain, and then I will leave you her to speak with your mother." Thera stopped her pacing and stood in front of Odessa once again before she spoke she waited a moment as a strong scent of the jasmine orchard's sweet blossom's permeated the air caught on a light sweet breeze. "Odessa do you love Amyntas?" Thera awaited the dreaded answer.
     "Yes." Odessa sighed then there came an insufferable silence.
     Thera felt as though she would vomit when she heard the answer and then with great concern and sadness Thera asked her final question. "My dearest friend Odessa..," Thera took in a deep breath, exhaling asking "Can you live your life, without this man?"
     Odessa looked up into the eyes of her Commander and childhood friend and as she did so she felt the grip of pain in her heart begin to melt away and then a look of deep abiding peace came over Odessa's face and she simply said "Yes."
     This was a joy to Thera's mighty heart and she smiled saying "All is well, then you shall come to Megara with me for the breeding season."
     "Commander Thera." Odessa said standing at attention.
     "Yes officer?"
     "I hereby request permission to stay behind with the auxiliary troops this season and rededicate myself to my military training. To fight off this sickness with the sword!"
     Now Thera's heartfelt joy of the past few seconds was shattered, but she was so happy Odessa had chosen to stay. And so Thera agreed "Odessa if you shall not travel with me then stay her and lead in my stead." Thera said as she extended her hand to Cheverria saying "That is of course if the Queen's Deputy of War agrees."
     "Yes Commander Thera. This is most acceptable." Odessa's mother answered as she stood towering over the two young women and for once Cheverria, the old warrior, was well pleased.

Chapter 3

     Before Thera spoke to Odessa she determined the best discourse should be that as Odessa's Commander and she her officer, so she spoke in a sharp, direct tone, for Thera well knew the sole proof of power lies in a commanding will. "Officer Odessa come now with me to the temple, the Queen's Deputy demands your presence!" Thera ordered her officer.
     Now a hush fell over the other brave warriors at the tables. Odessa was quite confused but stood placing her wine back on the table next to her empty plate and followed her Commander into the temple as the full face of Atremis the moon shone down in the pool of water in the center of the round, columned, open- roof structure. Odessa found the the Queen's Deputy sitting on one of the benches that surround the small silvery pool. "Officer Odessa reporting as ordered!" she said trying not to slur her words as she had consumed a great deal of sweet wine but she stood erect hands at her sides, at full attention.
     "Officer, I must bring forth news to you from Macedon." Thera stood looking at her friend watching the look on her face.
     "My son?" Odessa said without thinking, as the rule was when you give up your son he is and shall always be dead to you, as nothing, as if they never were. And here Odessa showed concern for her boy.
     Thera and Cheverria were shocked but not phased. "You have no son Odessa, and you know this. You gave him away, a great sacrifice for our Country." Thera paused seeing a great look of fear mixed with sadness and Thera's poor heart sank as she had seen this look before.
     "Then what news Commander?"
     "The King has taken to marriage and now has a wife, and Phillip." Thera said the name of Odessa's son as the same fearful sadness swept over Odessa's face her whole body seeming to shrink down and she appeared very small, drawn into herself as she stood before her Commander.
     "I see..," Odessa said in a low voice barely audible.
     "Now, you shall come with me this season to Megara and not Macedonia as you had been anticipating."
     "Am I not even allowed to breed amongst the other Macedonian men?" Odessa asked shocked to learn she was banned from ever returning.
     "This is King Amyntas's decision and we must respect his decree." Deputy Cheveria said as she rose and stood by her only daughter.
     Now the wine took hold of her mind and Odessa spoke without thinking saying whilst weeping. "Am I never to lie in the arms of the King? He would have given me seed for a daughter, for Artemis."
     "At attention officer!" Thera said striking Odessa hard across the cheek with the back of her hand. The Queen's Deputy said nothing simply shaking her head as she sat back down hands on her knees enraged so that she could not speak. "Odessa, at ease officer." Thera sighed "Have a seat next to your mother."
     Odessa slowly went over and sat on the marble bench there in the pale blue moonlight, her long white linen gown being lifted slightly, spread by the warm breeze. Thera stared down at Odessa who rub the red mark on her swollen cheek as she stared down at her feet unable to meet Thera's disappointed gaze. Thera stood there a moment then clasped her hands behind her back as she began to pace back and forth her bare feet on the cold marble floor. Cheverria and Odessa said nothing waiting for Thera to speak. When she stopped her pacing and stood very close in front of Odessa whom she bade look at her. "Odessa? Who am I?"
     "You are the Queen's Commander."
     "Odessa, who am I?" she asked again.
     "You are Thera?" she answered.
     "Odessa.., who, am I?" Thera waited but received no reply, so Thera answered the question for Odessa saying "I am your friend."
     Here there came a pause as Thera smiled at her close friend. Odessa felt the numb of heartache fade a bit with the warmth in Thera's eyes, for they had been through much in the world together and Odessa knew she could rely on the great well of strength Thera had contained within her heart and mind. And so Odessa told her all, confessing the deep feelings she held within her heart for a man and her abandoned son, Odessa felt ashamed and enraged at herself. Of all this Odessa was most uncertain and then Thera said as she stood there shaking her head, hands on her hips saying "Do you see what has happened to you Odessa? Do you know what is wrong with you?" Thera said raising her hands up to the sky in disgust.
     "No Thera, I do not know what is the matter with me." Odessa said as a piercing pain came to her heart and a hard lump seemed to form in her throat, so much so, she could no longer speak.
     "I have seen it before, and it never ends well." Thera looked at mother and daughter sitting there beside one another in the center of the temple "Yes, you are ill, and I am certain you are sick with love." Thera spoke with regret as she had lost many brave warriors who could not leave behind their men and sons. Seven times now she had to sear the mark of the triangle into the flesh of their right hand, and cast the lovesick out of the cities, closing the gates to the lovelorn forever.

End Chapter 2

     As the night drew on a rider came out of the east from Themiscyra, the Queen's Deputy, coming for Thera's report on the day's battle. "Alas my brave ones!" Thera said standing on her chair once again to be heard by all. "Stay here and eat and drink for now I have a duty to our Queen." Thera went over speaking to Cheverria, a tall woman about twenty years older than she, former Captain of the Phalanx. "Come Deputy Cheverria have something to eat." Thera offered for when she was not in battle she was always calm, relaxed and hospitable to her people.
     "No, I have come for your report." the green eyed, battle harden warrior replied.
     "Well.., as you can clearly see," Thera paused extending a hand out to the women gathered together there. "We won." Thera laughed a little. Then she became serious in her tone explaining the phalanx's use of the V- formation. "Then when we pulled the line back the poorly armed enemy advanced, thinking they had broken our line, as we pulled them back, then we were all around them and they could go no further. The archers and the charioteers  rode into the rear out flanking the enemy charging into the melee, we sent in two tigers and then it was pretty much over. The cavalry mainly held our flank position and saw no real combat. We will use the captured wooden shields and wicker armor for firewood. We captured eleven chariots, which need to be modified, and the twenty two horses will prove useful in the vineyards and orchards. All of our own weapons are at the armory being cleaned and sharpened. Our horses have been fed and put up in pastures. As for our soldiers, few were wounded, not one of us fell in battle, and of course the gold my raiding party brought to the treasury." Thera smiled as the red wine made her feel much more relaxed.
     "Yes an extremely large amount, even for you Commander Thera." The Queen's Deputy Cheverria nodded her head. Then a strange look came across the old warrior's face a look of deep concern.
     "What thoughts trouble you this night, is our Queen alright?" Thera's heart raced, so deep was the look of trepidation on the Queen's Deputy's face.
     "Our Queen is well.., no there is a certain matter."
     "Of what do you speak?"
     "A messenger came to the western gate on the orders of King Amyntas of Macedon." The Queen's Deputy explained in a hushed voice by the temple away from the tables of ladies.
     "Are we now forbidden to breed there as well?" Thera asked bemused rolling her eyes.
     "No you and your party may settle there for the season but the king will not welcome back my daughter."
     Thera was shocked, her close friend Odessa had established Amyntas three years before and delivered unto him a strong son. Thera knew Odessa would not find any satisfaction with this information. "Why? What offense has she committed against the king?"
     "No offense has been given, but the king has taken a wife." the old warrior shook her head.
     Thera sighed deeply as she put her hands on her hips shaking her head saying in whisper as tense as wire. "Ah, marriage.., a fate worse than death."
     "She will be very angry Thera, but we must tell her before she consumes too much wine; which will only serve to fuel her anger further."
     "Yes, every word you speak is true.., wait a moment I will bring her to you." Thera made her way over to Odessa who sat laughing trading tales of war and love. As she approached Thera realized in a few moments the happy smile on her friends face would fade and many days would pass until she would see her smile again. So Thera called Odessa over to the steps of the temple not wanting to deliver this bad news, but deliver the news she must.

Chapter 2 Continues

     Here Thera did not reply she merely continued eating the succulent, juicy lamb that was braised in garlic, rosemary and olive oil. All feasted and continued their discussions that warm spring evening in the walled cities of their home, there beside the Black Sea, all but Thera. Her mind turned over many thoughts as she sat at the head of the long middle table.
     She knew she did not want to partake in the breeding season, but partake she must. Though Thera was a skilled warrior and killed countless men who tried to take her people's lives and land, and though she had led many successful raids and brought back mountains of stolen gold for the treasury, if she could not bring forth a daughter for her society, than all her achievements were totally and utterly without meaning. Now this fact, which had plagued her now lo these many months, brought a pain to her head and an ache in her heart.
     Thera recalled her time in Thrace as Odessa sat over to her right watching Thera who was deep in thought. In her mind's eye she could see very clearly the long dark night in that bed in Thrace. He was very tall and very brave. A General in the King's army, a veteran of many glorious battles. His eyes were dark, as dark as that night. Artemis had hidden her face on that night from this sight. No candles were lit only the dark shades of grey and black. His skin was deep rich golden tanned, smooth as silk. As they each stood there naked in front of one another he had reached out and pulled her closer as he kissed her. Thera did not like this sensation so she bit him slightly causing his upper lip to bleed. Now little did she realize he took this as a signal to be rough and aggressive; which clearly was not her intention, so he fell upon her with irresistible force, wrestling with her, throwing her on the bed. Though Thera struggled he managed to slip deep inside of her and Thera did not appreciate his passionate play and so, as he brought himself to bare upon her, Thera managed to free her hands and she wrapped her strong hands around his throat and choked the life out of him as he came into her, Thera had wrapped her long muscular thighs around his torso, pinning his arms to his chest as she compressed all the air from his lungs. She could hear, and feel, as a few of his lower ribs snapped in half.
     "Commander Thera?" Odessa asked as she touched Thera on the elbow. "What thoughts are you lost in?" Odessa asked having a strong feeling she knew. For it was she herself who had been in the next room that terrible evening when she had heard the commotion. Odessa left her lover's bed and found Thera there on the floor panting like a tiger as the body of the great General Pelopidas, former leader of the Sacred Band, victor at the Battle of Leuctra, lay dead in his bed. Odessa and Thera were in a great panic as they stole away swimming over to the North Shore of the River Danube in fear for their lives. Now Odessa was caught in the thought of that night and both she and Thera shared a knowing look and spoke no further. Instead of filling their mouth's with their words, they filled their mouths with the vegetables and meat and the red wine which was sweet.

More Chapter 2

     Thera saw Odessa approaching and she called out to her then they each went together as the gates were opened for Thera and the two warriors entered their territory; however they did not return to Themiscyra, instead they headed west into the setting sun towards Colchise where the army had amassed for the cleansing ritual. As was the custom of this region the warriors were unclean and not fit to return to their home city with the blood of men on their bodies and battle fresh in their minds. All warriors would remain for seven days to cleanse the gore of war from their bodies and minds. When Thera and Odessa approached the aroma of braised lamb, roasting vegetables and baking bread made their stomachs burn with hunger.
     Before they could feast Thera and Odessa were stripped of their armor and garments so they could join the warriors in the lake where all the ladies swam in the cool water, as the sun set, rinsing the blood from their hair and skin. Even a few of the prized tigers of the fighting force joined in splashing and swimming after their trainers frolicking in the water. Laughter and feelings of elation rose up from the group as they rejoiced that not one of them was killed in battle. There was much excitement in the air as the young warriors spoke of the anticipation in their hearts as this would be many of the young warriors first involvement in the breeding season. Thera seemed distracted as Lexa and Lucia Vega began discussing the prowess of their established breeding partners.
     Three large bonfires were raging outside of the temple as the ladies came out of the water one by one drying their naked, glistening bodies by the fire. Five hundred warriors were wrapped in linens as they were seated at five long tables there under the stars where they were served endless portions of meat, vegetables, fruit and freshly baked honey wheat bread and goat cheese, along with amphora after amphora of sweet red wine. At the head of each table were the captains of their respective divisions with Thera at the head of the center table where a mix of warriors, who were her veteran class of warriors, sat and supped talking of the battle. All were encouraged to eat as much and drink as much as they desired. As the sun set the full moon arose in the east and Lacuna spoke saying "Look my sister's! Our goddess Artemis has come to gaze at her reflection in the water!" Thera stood raising her flagon of wine as she stared up at the face of the moon, twin sister to Apollo god of the sun.
     As she looked out over the sea of happy faces Thera stood on her chair saying in a loud voice "Oh Artemis you have watched over us and kept us safe in battle and tonight we come here together to salute you!" a great cheer came up from the victorious warriors. "Now my sisters fill yourselves with the nourishment of our fields and drink the blood of the grape from our vineyards, and may blessings be upon those who serve us! For without the daughters of the temple we would not be able to fight!" here another uproar came from the mouths of the drunken warriors to show respect to the women in their society who tended the fields, flocks, orchards and vineyards.
     By the light of the fires and the silver light of the moon the conversation turned, once again, to men and the art of lovemaking. Lacuna, who sat to the right of Thera, began speaking of her last campaign saying "Ah yes! He was very sweet, like traquilazoma to me.., easy going down my throat!" she laughed.
     "Of what do you speak?" Thera asked intrigued.
     "You must take your partner in your mouth and swallow his seed." Lacuna laughed taking a large gulp of wine. "There is much nourishment and, as my mother has assured me, to do so after procreation betters your chance of bringing forth a daughter."
     "An old wives tale!" Thera balked.
     "Oh, Commander and tell us how many daughters have you issued forth from your womb? For you know that I have three." Lacuna smiled her eyes sparkling in the firelight. Thera said nothing instead she sat there embarrassed. "Come now Thera. Come to Scythia with me and I will teach you how to bring your lover to his knees." Lacuna laughed along with the other women and Thera felt a blush come to her cheeks.

Begin Chapter 2

     Thera called for the massive iron gates of the city to be opened for the returning warriors who marched in together two by two. First the cavalry followed by the charioteers and the archers, followed lastly by the phalanx; whom were always first in, last out, just like Thera. She waited on her battle steed for the last rider to return, Odessa had ridden out with the boy and should be returning soon but until she did Thera waited at the gates on the bluff that overlooked the sea. The gates were hers to open as the gates were hers to close she had done so for nearly ten years in the Queen's stead, as she had grown old and ill and so she chose Thera to command and lead. Thera had enjoyed her role and the might and power she had used to reduce men to broken bones and pools of blood, but now Thera had been late in her duty to breed and provide daughters for the military. Many thoughts came to her mind as she waited. Thera wondered what was taking Odessa so long.
     Far off across the hills Odessa had reached the little road that snaked beside the sea just as dusk was approaching. Odessa bid the boy farewell but before Elgar turned to lead his team of horses away he spoke to the Themiscyran Warrior saying with the bold and proud voice of his people "When I see you again yours will be the first head I take on the field of battle."
     To this Odessa only laughed as she gazed down at the small ambitious boy then she removed her left gauntlet and giving it to him said "Here Elgar take this and wear this, so when we meet again, when you  come to kill me, I will recognize you!" The boy took the lightweight bronze armor and slipped his thin arm into it. Elgar had to push the band all the way up to his upper arm and it still was a loose fit. Odessa laughed as she watched the young, fortunate boy as he headed off down the road to his home. Then she turned her horse riding west through the forest of oaks and elms. Odessa felt excited a rush in her blood as she knew soon the troops would be given three months in which to breed. This would be Odessa's third year to partake in the campaign and thus far she had not been successful at bringing forth a daughter, her only child a boy had been given to his father to raise, as is the custom of her people. Odessa greatly enjoyed the procreation and passionate efforts in breeding and she longed for the arms of Amyntas and she looked forward with much anticipation to journey back to Macedonia to try again with the handsome, strong breeding partner she had established. Odessa urged her white horse on as she neared the walled cities of her people.
     Thera took in deep, rich breaths of the ocean air as she waited on this hot early Spring evening as the warm southern winds blew up from the deserts of Syria and Persia. Thera felt uneasy knowing the breeding season would begin soon, and after what happened last year Thera looked forward to the future with much dread. She was not certain how to proceed but she knew she would never be welcomed back in the cities of Thrace. Thera was strong, tall, beautiful and intelligent, well skilled with weapons, well crafted in the art of war, gifted with the knowledge of many languages, a sly and cunning military leader, but of all the greatness of her mind and body she knew deep in her heart loving was an art. To be passionate with a man a woman must posses a certain, deep, and needful talent and skill; which Thera believed she lacked.