Blue Blossom Adventures

At this moment in time, the world was perfect. The Arch Maids had kept their charges in line, the first harvest was going smoothly and was actually ahead of schedule. It was one of those blessed moments that Mistress Maevin Maer could actually relax.

At the moment, she was strolling through the section of hallways that was open to the inner courtyard and thus open to nature. The cool breeze swept through her skirts and she made sure to walk at a more casual pace than normal.

It had been four months since her new master had arrived, a human of all people. When the High Baron Hesh Avernell had informed her of it, she had been skeptical. No one had anything good to say about humans and if she was candid with herself, Maevin had been sure she was going to be on her back with her legs open before the day was over.

That didn't happen. Henry Patton was someone completely different than the specter that people whispered in the halls. When he had gotten of the transport shuttle, he looked so timid that if she had raised her voice, he probably have run screaming back to the shuttle.

Her new master was so skittish. His eyes roamed everywhere except to herself and her maids. Any time his eyes landed anywhere else, a blush would cover his face but he grew. Over the months she had watched him change from the timid guy to someone who actually had leadership potential. He was still naive but that was something Maevin could account for. Her High Baron said that she needed to make sure Henry Patton succeeded.

Maevin stopped and leaned on the stone banister that divided the hallway from the garden on the other side. The leaves of the plants and petals of the flowers were still glistening from the morning rain that gently fell in the wee hours of the morning. The rainy season was coming up so it was expected. The glass ceiling would be closed before that hit. The Mistress of the estate watched the plants sway just content in the quiet and serenity of it all.

“MISTRESS!”

And there it went. Straightening, she put on her social mask and assumed her role. Running full tilt towards her was a young woman in her usual clothing of a pale pink tvekel blouse and skirt, her black hair done up in three braids that bounced around as she ran. She was newer but Maevin recognized Ikusa, the Estate Maid of the seventh Order.

“Maid Ikusa. What is it?”

Ikusa skidded to a stop in from of the imperious mistress, placed one hand atop of the other at hip level in front of her and bowed hastily trying to show the expected respect.

“It is the master!”

“What of him?” Maevin said, her eyes narrowing. Was he in trouble? Had he been ambushed by some part of their culture she hadn't yet taught him?

“He's with Arch Maid Burdak in the kitchens!”

“This is the master's estate. He may go wherever he pleases,” Maevin responded coldly and not happy for being disturbed over something so obvious.”

“No, mistress! He's with the Arch Maid and he's cooking!“

Maevin frowned. Lord Henry was cooking? The Mistress understood why the girl was freaking out over this. Xaltean lords did not cook for themselves unless they wanted to and if they did, it would have been in a private kitchen, not the galley for the rest of the estate. It was inappropriate but that was about it. Maevin's concern now was propriety and making sure that Henry was respected as he should be.

Swiftly leading the way with Ikusa trailing behind, they made their way through the estate and soon burst into the kitchen. The sight that was before Maevin was a mixture of surprise, horror, and predictable. Burdak was standing by one of the long marble counters where they prepped food. He had his arms crossed watching the three maids that were there with him. In the center of the attention was Lord Henry. He was mid passing a plate to Maid Utena who was reaching out for it. There appeared to be some sort of food on it. It was triangular and appeared to be covered in melted cheese. Nizzie had already taken a bit with a string of cheese between her mouth and the breaded item while the third maid had been examine the item on the counter. They all were looking at her.

Henry was surprised while Maevin was certain Burdak was smirking. For Utena, the skullery maid, and Nizzie, the color had drained from their faces and there eyes were extremely wide. They all knew that it was extremely disrespectful to eat in front of the Lord of the estate without proper protocol and procedure. The fact that these three were planning to stuff their faces with food outside their schedule and in front of their master infuriated Maevin.

“Oh...uh...Maevin,” Henry started, that easy smile coming to his face. “I didn't expect you. Would you like a slice?”

“The Terrans call it a pizza,” Burdak explained as Maevin approached, her eyes narrowed at the Arch Maid. “It is a baked bread with a spiced sauce made from a fruit called a tomato. Items of one's choice is added and then covered with a layer of cheese.”

“I asked Burdak to order the ingredients. I couldn't find anything close to an Earth tomato in our stores.”

“And you chose to bake it here in the galley instead of your private kitchen?” Maevin asked keeping her tone even and polite. As much as she wanted to lecture, she was his to command.

“Burdak mentioned it but I couldn't show you all,” Henry beamed. “I wanted to make this and share as a token of my gratitude for everything you and the maids have done. I wanted to show how it was made so that we can get it into tomorrow's lunch cycle.”

Maevin stood there caught between her wanting to beat some sense in the foolish maids but also appreciate the beaming face. Her heart mellowed a bit realizing that he was just being himself.

“My master, you are very very kind to treat the maids with so much attention,” she started. Henry's face changed slightly and he nodded more to himself.

“It's a social mistake, isn't it?” he said and Maevin let a small smile grace her face to disarm any of his nervousness.

“Please explain to our lord, Maid Nizzie,” Maevin said turning her icy blue eyes to the maid. Nizzie swallowed looking terrified. The Mistress knew that everyone here knew better.

“It is considered inappropriate for those of our station to eat with the lord of the estate without proper protocol being followed. Appropriate dress, correct scene for such a meal, and with the permission of the Mistress.”

“Ah,” Henry said with a sigh setting down the knife he had been using to cut the pizza. “I didn't know that.”

“Burdak should have mentioned it to you,” Maevin responded eyeing the arch maid.

“I felt it was more important for our master to express his excitement over presenting his people's food over protocol. It is three maids whome have proven themselves to be able to keep things to themselves.”

“Is that what you thought?” Maevin asked letting the accusatory tone in her voice.

“I felt that denying Lord Henry would have disappointed him. Something I believe would have been much more inappropriate than a few maids enjoying a meal.”

The Mistress of Blue Blossom's mouth became a firm line. Burdak was not a bonded servant so there was little she could do in the traditional sense. He came with an impressive record and always seemed to be able to phrase things that disarmed her.

“I respect the situation, Maevin,” Henry said with a smile. He looked about. “Please allow the maids to finish their meals.”

The three maids perked up at that but Henry continued.

“And after that, you can have their bottoms switched no more than three times,” he finished. “That way the discipline is met and the order is kept.”

Maevin let the smile come to her face. He was figuring it out. The human was starting to find a balance in enforcing the expectations of the house while still being him.

The three maids on the other hand did not seem pleased.

“But master—–” Nizzie started to whine. Maevin immediately took a step forward to grab the girl by the hair and pull her back. The fact that she was about to complain in front of her Lord caused the anger to burn inside. Henry was quicker though and lifted his hand for silence.

“Nizzie. Do you wish more than three?”

The girl shook her head quickly causing the two yellow pigtails to bounce and immediately went back to eating sullenly.

“Do you wish to have a piece?” Henry asked.

Ikusa, to her credit, folded her hands and bowed. “I shall wait till tomorrow's lunch period, my lord. I wish to be able to sit down.”

Nizzie let out a half strangled sob between bites. Utena's eyes were cast down and so was the other maid but they gingerly took the food to eat.

“You're a mistress, you can have a piece, right?” Henry asked.

“Yes,” Maevin said with a nod. “But I prefer to wait, if it will not offend you, My master.” The mistress was not going to eat in front of him!

“No offense taken,” Henry said cutting himself a slice and moving it to his plate. “I've been looking forward to this.”

Maevin stepped away and turned towards the door. In the shadow, like a good apprentice, stood Siv. She had heard about what was going on and had kept her distance to listen. As the Mistress exited, Siv spoke softly so not to disturb Henry's happiness.

“I'll have the maids dealt with as soon as they're done and Lord Henry will release them,” Siv said with certainty.

“Not to hard,” Maevin said with a sigh. “Lord Henry would not want it and if he sees any welts, he'll stress.”

“Yes, Mistress.”

With that, Maevin glanced at the digital time piece on her delicate wrist and sighed. She had to prepare for the evening briefs about events on the planet.

There went her quiet time.

© 2018 – 2024 by Jonathan Snyder

For Henry, the only time that he felt like he was able to comprehend and make good decisions for Blue Blossom Estate was tending to the temple and the manicured lawn about the estate. There was something soothing with walking around the inner courtyard and lawn and in the neatly kept woods that made him at peace.

Especially today, the summer heat had not fully hit per Mistress Maevin Maer’s advisement, and she felt it would be a good few days to make sure everything was the way he liked it. The sun was bright but there was enough clouds to make it easy to see. The heat wafted around him but it was cooled quickly when the breeze picked up. Red Truffets sung in the cheers that mixed with the swishing of the leaves and the Xaltean voices around him.

Now, he was supervising the cleaning and maintenance of the estate temple to the Goddess Ala with about a dozen maids of both genders. Henry was leaning on a rake watching everyone work since the last two times he tried to drag a fallen branch from the storm two days ago or try to wash the marble steps, a maid came chattering at him to admonish him that a lord should not stoop so low as to clean. The maids that he worked with the most had grown to understand him and were a lot more informal...especially when the Mistress wasn’t around. Henry had seen the softer side of the dark haired beauty who ruled the estate. He had seen her smile. In front of any of the other staff, she was cold and when there was impropriety or disrespect, she was ruthless. There were quite a few times that he walked in on Maevin chewing out Arch Maid Abiva or Arch Maid Nish who stood there and took the admonishment with a stoic presence. Henry was amazed. They took the tongue lashing but were also bold enough to push back for their maids when needed, even when it sparked a deeper hury in their mistress’ eyes. Those two defended their people and the human could see why they were in their positions. They spoke to power with confidence.

Henry Patton shook himself out of his thoughts when he heard him being called. He focused to see a very beautiful woman bouncing towards him waving her arm to get his attention.

Oh, god, Henry thought realizing it was Minda. Minda was a new addition to the estate after the releasing ceremony where bonded maids who had reached the end of their contracts were released from the house. With this woman, it was extremely difficult to keep one’s eyes above her collar bone. She was bubbly more than any Xaltean he met and was also prancing from one chore to the next. Her thick, red hair bounced about but the problem was that her hair was not the only thing that bounced.

Minda detested wearing her top and so when she moved, all eyes were drawn to a pair of breasts that were so captivating, Henry had even seen Xalteans stop to watch this masterpiece of beauty. And that masterpiece was coming right for him.

“Yes, Minda?” Henry asked desperately trying to keep eye contact.

“I spoke with Nizzie and she said I needed to come back, she was almost finished with clearing the brush from the trail to the lake.”

Nizzie, the blond haired maid with pigtails was slacking off again but at the moment, Henry could not think about anything more than not leering. His heartbeat in his chest as she stepped a bit closer since Minda wanted to whisper conspiratorially.

“I think she’s got some wine hidden around there.”

They...she was so close.

“Minda.”

Minda’s face went pale; she quickly stepped back and folded her hands in front of her bowing her head. Sweeping up beside him, in her blue skirt and top was his second in command.

“Mistress.”

“Do not enter your master’s space so freely,” Maevin said, her voice like ice. “Especially in your state of dress. You are aware of our master’s heritage, and you will not insult him by flaunting yourself in front of him. Cover them or I shall have them whipped.”

Henry remained silent knowing full well that if he opened his mouth, he would undermine her authority.

“See if Utena needs any help with polishing the marble,” Henry said gently giving the girl a way out.

The woman gave him a quick bow and retreated in almost a run towards the temple. Henry looked at Maevin and she was pinching the bridge of her nose.

“You okay?” Henry asked.

“Minda is...a bit much,” Maevin sighed looking over to him. “I have spent all this time trying to get you to adjust to our culture and then she shows up and even distracts our own people.”

Maevin sighed again as she watched Minda begin rocking on her heels while talking to a maid, oblivious that the dark-haired maid was not looking at her face but appeared to be hypnotized. “I find myself a bit jealous at times.”

“You shouldn’t!” Henry said quickly trying to keep his mistress from being hard on herself. “Your breasts are wonderful too!”

And that was when he choked. What did he just say? He did not just say that to the woman beside him. Maevin’s face was shocked for a moment and then a big smile crossed her face; the woman’s eyes sparkled mischievously.

“My master,” she said. “That is the first time you have complimented my body. I’m breathless.”

“I...uh...I didn’t mean to say...what I mean to say that you are very beautiful and perfect the way you are and—-”

“—-you think my breasts are wonderful.”

Henry groaned, his face exploding in color. It was his turn to pinch the bridge of his nose and wince.

“Anything else you’d like to tell me?” Maevin pressed with mirth in her voice.

“Your legs are really nice too,” Henry muttered.

Maevin giggled. The first time to hear it outside the privacy of his office. She turned to see Tox, their chief of security walking down the path from the estate.

“I shall not press you about what else you enjoy about me.”

“Thanks.”

“For now.”

Oh, this was going to be a rough few days.

“What is it?” Maevin asked, her official tone coming back. The dark skinned man bowed to both of them before speaking. His eyes roamed around checking everything like the security guard he was.

“Lord Henry has a guest.”

“There is no one on the list for today,” Maevin said, her voice becoming harder. “Who thinks they can just walk in without his or my approval?”

“They are Terran and they carry a Writ of Service from House Ukesa,” Tox responded. “I do not have the authority to refuse her.”

Maevin’s face was more puzzled than furious. “Please make her comfortable in the lounge. Tell her the Lord of the Estate will be with her momentarily.”

Tox bowed again from the waist, turned to leave and stopped. His eyes were out near the temple and a big grin crossed his face. Maevin and Henry looked out and saw that Minda was now trying to jump up and grab a branch from one of the tiles of the temple.

“Amazing view today,” Tox commented.

“Yes. We know,” Maevin responded flatly.

---

As they walked back down the path, Henry was full of questions while Maevin was reading the information logged on the visitor.

“How Ukesa? That’s not on the registry of the Gray Council,” Henry started and Maevin nodded.

“House Ukesa is our religious caste. They practice and teach our religion, and they are responsible for making sure all temples and holy sites are taken care of. The House has a charter put in place over a thousand years ago by the imperial family and they have a right on any planet in the empire, regardless of house. It just needs to have holy site on it.”

“And this write of service?”

“House Ukesa can issue what is called a writ of service, usually to acolytes who are not yet members of the house or faithful members of opposing houses that want to visit a site under control of a hostile house. This is the first time I have heard of a Terran receiving one.” She waved the tablet in confusion. “I do not know what a Voltary is.”

Henry felt a jolt of anxiety at that word. The young man never went into detail about his upbringing but he knew what that was.

“I do.”

Maevin looked at him as they made a corner. “Is it an Earth Alliance thing?”

“Earth Alliance? Why do you say that?”

“Your Terran Confederacy, the paperwork that our master High Baron Avernell gave to me stated you were a citizen of the Earth Alliance, are you not?”

The Terran Confederacy was made up of four sovereign governments that were bound together by the Treaty of the Stars. It appeared that Avernell had either not known, or he fudged the fact for his ease in transition.

“No. I am a citizen of the Holy Innocentia.”

Maevin startled at that. He had never seen her that caught off guard.

“You’re...Innocentia.”

“Yes.”

“And the Voltary?”

“Female clergy of Celestianity.”

Maevin was silent. He had never seen the look on her face before. There was a mixture of surprise and trepidation.

“Maevin…”

She remained silent as they climbed up the steps to the large patio to head to the sliding glass door.

“Maevin!”

Henry gently grabbed her arm and stopped her. He gulped as she looked down at his hand around her forearm and back up to him, her eyes unreadable.

“We...we have offended you.”

“No!” Henry said vehemently. “You nor anyone here has offended me. You all have been wonderful to me and I would never think badly of you.”

“You are Innocentia. We did not take into consideration your beliefs and committed the highest of disrespect. Your people are the absolute opposite of us and do not like us.”

Henry felt like he was losing her. She was withdrawing into the shell from when they first met, the sheen of civility that he had only begun to crack. He had to do something to stop this. He knew that the Xalteans had an extreme distrust and issue with the Innocentia as they were polar opposite. He did not want to lose his friend now. The young Terran grasped at the first thing he did.

“Mistress Maer,” Henry said trying to sound official. “Are you doubting my word?”

She blinked at him, confusion filling her face. He turned her to face him fully. “You are my mistress of my estate, and you will act like it and not shut me out because of your preconceived opinions.”

“Lord Henry—”

“Or do I need to take you to my office to be disciplined for your behavior towards me.”

That woke her up. The trance that Maevin had been in broke. She blinked and the warmth came back to her voice.

“Did you just threaten to discipline me?” Maevin asked, her eyes sparkling again.

“I...uh...yes, I did,” He responded trying to maintain the authority he had. It just evaporated in front of her.

“I see. I assume you wish to bend me over your knee?” She said, her grin growing bigger. “I believe my legs are not the only thing you admire. You don’t have to come up with such a pretense if you wish me to show you.”

“Maevin!” Henry said blushing, giving up his air of authority. Henry let her go. “Please. I need you to keep me going. I can’t do this without you.”

That smile was genuine.

---

Tox met them in the grand hallway and informed them that the Voltary had insisted on waiting in Henry’s office which Tox made it clear he did not feel comfortable to argue with. Maevin smoothed her dress a few times before Henry stopped her.

“You’re fine,” he said with a smile.

“I wish to give your people a good impression,” Maevin added. “I do not want to make your return in the future to be difficult.”

Henry took a moment to pause, smooth down his clothes again and then push the door open trying to look as business like as he could. He only took three steps in before he froze, his blue eyes locking on a pair just like his. The woman sat there on the couch, hands folded in her lap. She wore the official garments of her position, the black skirt the fell all the way to the floor but slits on both sides so that her legs could move freely. Those legs were covered with gray leggings. The material was form fitting up her waist and a simple white segment covered her chest where the aquamarine necklace bearing the symbol of the Holy Innocentia lay catching the light from the sun. Her brown hair flowed down her back followed by the black habit trimmed in white.

“Divine Priestess, your light illuminates my path.” Henry said switching to English not realizing he had been holding a decent conversation with Maevin in Xaltean.

“Gentle soul. You honor me with your words,” she intoned standing and allowing the folds of her skirt to cascade to the floor.

Henry had repeated these lines enough in church and when encountering the clergy of Celestianity. His nation was quite religious being classified as a theocracy so it was quite common to have belief mixed in every day life.

“I am glad to see that you are well, Henry, “ her quiet voice said demure but he could see the confidence in her eyes.

“Thank you, Voltary,” Henry said with a slight bow. Maevin, once entering the room, had gone the opposite way near Siv’s desk and waited out of the way.

“Please, Henry, don’t treat me like this.” She said with a soft laugh.

“I wasn’t expecting you, Modesty,” the young man responded. “You know what mother would say if I forgot my manners.”

“My master,” Maevin spoke up in lightly accented English. “Do you wish me to prepare tea for your honored guest?”

“Yes, Maevin, please,” Henry said giving his Mistress a comforting smile. Rarely has he seen her unsure of herself. “You know my preference and please prepare a simple tea with no sweetener.”

Henry turned back to his guest. “Unless you have made your golden bands?”

“I have but still prefer no sweeteners,” the woman responded, the gentle smile not leaving her face.

“As my master wishes,” The mistress said with a bow.

As soon as she left, Henry noticed the drop in her shoulders as she relaxed.

“She’s beautiful.”

“Modesty,” Henry started but she waved her hand.

“I’m not here to offer penance, Henry, unless you ask. I wanted to see how you were hanging among these…people.”

Henry heard hesitation in her voice, and he felt the rile of anger he felt the last time someone insulted his people.

“They are good people who have worked hard and I am lucky to have earned their trust.”

There was talking outside his patio window as three maids, one man and two women walked by discussing a harvesting technique they wanted to try. All three were topless with two have their tvekel skirts wrapped around their waist while the other girl was completely naked.

“You appear to have quite an interesting view,” Modesty said flatly watching them go.

The door opened and Maevin came in followed by Abiva, her short black hair and intensely curious eyes. The Arch Maid set the tea tray down, bowed with hands folded in front of her ad exited while Meavin expertly set out the cups and poured it over the dry leaves in side. The rich bouquet filled the room.

“Don’t start with me,” Henry said with a sigh. “Mom has already been giving me a hard time.”

The only sign that Maevin had startled was the slight tremor in her hand as she poured the tea. Modesty smiled up at the Mistress. “Henry, would you introduce me?”

“Oh. Yeah,” Henry said realizing he hadn’t done that. He turned to Maevin. “Voltary, this is my Mistress, Maevin Maer of Blue Blossom Estate.”

“It is nice to meet you, “the priestess responded.

“Maevin, this is Modesty Patton. My twin sister.”

“Sister?” Maevin said with surprise barely hidden in her voice.

“That is correct,” Modesty continued. “May I have some time with my brother?”

The Mistress of the estate looked towards her master who nodded to her with a smile to make sure she knew everything was okay. When they were alone, the official façade of her position vanished and Modesty leaned back with her teacup and slowly swirled it.

“Have you truly been well, Henry?” she asked without looking up. Henry also leaned back and folded his arms across his chest trying to keep his calm. The young man had suspected something like this.

“I am fine. Mom and dad should have told you that. You don’t need to worry about me.”

“She has told me as much though she is very concerned about the temptation that you face every day. You know how she feels about it.”

“What do you mean?” Henry asked, taking a sip though he was confident of what it was.

“Take heed, for temptation cometh as a serpent in silk, slithering with whispers sweet and beguiling. It allureth thine heart with honeyed words, and weaveth snares unseen to ensnare the unwary. Therefore, be vigilant, and guard thy spirit with the armor of wisdom, lest thou be taken unawares and led astray from the path of righteousness,” Modesty responded.

Canticle of Wisdom chapter one verse twelve of the book of Harmonium, the holy book of his people. Henry knew a lot of those by heart thanks to the strict religious education he grew up with. He was not going to be outdone by his sister though.

“Judge not, I beseech thee, those who walk a path unlike thine own, for thou knowest not the burdens they bear, nor the trials they have endured. Seek first to understand with a heart full of grace and a spirit of humility, that ye may find wisdom in the differences and discern the common light that dwelleth in all. For in the eyes of the divine, every soul hath its worth, and understanding is the seed of harmony,” Henry responded.

The smile that crossed his sister’s face was a mix of impressed and cunning.

“Encouragements 10:10. You remember.”

“Dad drilled that one in my head enough times.”

“Then how about. And it is decreed, that one soul shall cleave unto another in sacred union, and thus shall they be bound, one to one, in the sight of the divine. Keep thyself pure and unblemished before this covenant, for such is the way ordained by the Creator. Let not thy heart be swayed nor thy body be defiled, but honor the sacred bond that bringeth forth harmony and blesseth the union of souls.’ Do you remember that one?”

“Concord 12:1. Mom’s favorite.” Henry leaned forward to make eye contact with his sister. “Stop beating around the bush, Modesty.”

“I am concerned for your purity and resolve in returning and marrying Bethany Müller. Our father and Shepherd Khan worked hard for this betrothal. The Müller family is very high ranked among the families being the descendent of an original founding family.”

“I’m not having sex with the women here,” Henry shot back, the anger slipping in his voice. “And I’m tired of everyone thinking I don’t have any self-control.”

“Do you?”

Whatever happiness he had for seeing his sister evaporated as her usual behavior crashed into his emotions. Modesty Patton had always been extremely religious even among his own family and though he knew she did not mean it as an accusation, he took it as that. Henry also did not need to be reminded that a rich girl among his people had taken an interest in a farmer boy. He felt himself lucky for that.

“I don’t appreciate the accusation, Voltary,” Henry warned. A swell of pride filling him. At this moment, in front of his sister, he could feel how much he had grown under the tutelage of his Mistress. He had always felt inferior around Modesty for how much people adored her knowledge and piety. “Furthermore, I do not need you or anyone else trying to tell me what I need to do. I am an adult; I am a recognized lord of an estate under House Avernell and I command an entire sector for her grace the Empress of Xaltea. Don’t you dare suggest I cannot control myself.”

How much he had changed was obvious on the face of his sister who was unable to show her surprise from how much he had changed. She blinked multiple times before trying to speak again.

“Henry, I wasn’t trying to demean you. I just wanted to advise you, so you don’t get lost among these people.”

“I am managing quite well on my own. I appreciate the concern but it’s not needed.”

There was a tone of dismissal in his voice that Modesty had picked up on. She set down her tea and gave him a smile though he could see something in her eyes. A concern that he hadn’t seen before.

“Then I shall take my leave. I must return to my convent before the White Roses. I am glad to see you again, Henry.”

The two stood and they walked to the door. He opened it and found across the room Maevin and two maids were waiting. They expertly came forward.

“I’m going to go with my sister to the port to see her off.” Henry said. “Can you prepare a vehicle to take us to Bellentine?”

“Yes, my master!” one maid said with a quick bow and hurried off.

“Let me grab my compu-pad,” Henry said stepping away. He hurried to his desk and made his way back. It was the murmur on the other side of the half-opened door that made him slow.

“I know what you’re trying to do,” Modesty’s voice said accusatory.

“You’ll need to clarify, Voltary,” Maevin’s voice came back cool though he knew her long enough to know she was attempting to maintain her temper.

“Trying to seduce him and get him to slip from the hallowed path.”

“A bold accusation.”

“I’ve been here long enough to see that this building is staffed with ninety percent women all in different states of undress. My brother is a good kid and doesn’t need you all try to seduce him. He has a fiancé at home.”

“Be careful with your assumption,” Maevin warned. Henry could feel the charge in the air and wanted to jump in and break them up but something kept him rooted at the other side of the door eavesdropping. “Henry Patton is an honorable man who has never taken advantage of any companionship that was freely offered and rejected by him. He has the loyalty of this estate and the admiration of the cities under our jurisdiction. You fail to give him the credit of strength that he has earned.”

Henry blushed at this.

“Furthermore, do not think I am a stupid woman. You pretend to be here to check in on your brother but I know that you are here on the behest of the Shepherds Council.” “What are you saying?” Modesty demanded but there was a tremor of unease in her voice.

“No voltary like you could ever convince House Ukesa to give a foreigner a Writ of Service unless she was backed by her organization. I have friends among our priest class. I can easily verify that you are here under diplomatic protections.”

The Shepherds had sent someone to check up on him? The ramifications of something like that hit hard. In a way, he could understand. He was not only the first human to be in charge of an estate, but he was also of the Innocentia so his actions would reflect on them.

“Fine,” Modesty huffed. “He is still my brother though. I will check on him when I see fit.”

“But the next time you come, I expect you to follow proper political channels, or I will inform our Master High Baron Hesh Avernell that you and your Innocentia caused a diplomatic incident. I sincerely believe that the Terran Confederacy wouldn't want to put our government’s tenuous relationship at risk.”

There was silence. No retort, no smart remark. In a few sentences, Maevin had cut her down to size. His mistress was terrifying.

“Ready?” Henry said coming through the door after putting a smile on his face. He did not know want to give away that he had been listening.

Modesty did not respond but refused to make eye contact. Maevin gave him her official nod and motioned down the hall.

“The vehicle will be waiting.”

---

When the shuttle bearing his sister lifted off and climbed into the sky towards the waiting ship above, Henry turned to Maevin.

“I apologize for my sister. My people are very religious as you know.”

“I actually should be the one apologizing,” Maevin responded. They made their way through the space port back to their vehicle.

“Why?”

“I know you were listening to our conversation,” Maevin said matter-a-fact. “I should have never spoken to your family in such a tone.”

“You made a good point. I didn’t even see the political angle on this. Still learning.”

“Still,” The mistress of Blue Blossoms said climbing up into the vehicle followed by Henry. They both sat across each other as the hatch was sealed. “I have a temper and my words were inappropriate.”

Maevin leaned forward, the smile that she reserved just for him when they were alone. “I may need to be disciplined for my actions. Would you like to do it now?”

Henry flushed.

© 2018 – 2024 by Jonathan Snyder

“No, no,” Yil laughed as the two other maids in the room tittered in amusement. Even Siv, who was at her desk in the corner, had a smile grace her pretty face briefly as she worked. Henry Patton had just attempted to pronounce a phrase that they were working on in Xaltean and the girls present could not hold in their laughter.

Yil was a beautiful woman with straw blond hair who had become his secret heshut…though he still did not quite understand the meaning of that word and now he was too scared to ask.

“What…what did I do?” Henry asked nervously though he knew they did not mean anything by it. The two girls in the room outside of Yil and Siv did not speak English so whatever he had done got them to break decorum and giggle. “The phrase for ‘You are a proud woman, and I will follow’ is smekihan ki vae atagugen mi ki. The word for woman, kihan, should have the emotional prefix sme not khe. You said khekihan.”

“And that’s different?” Henry asked.

Yil tried her best to keep her face straight and calm, but the mirth just kept bubbling over. “What you said was, ‘You are a slutty woman, and I’ll follow you to bed.’”.

Henry pinched the bridge of his nose. Of course he said that.

“The correct emotional prefix is important,” Yil lectured gently. “I know the introduction of emotional prefixes on top of tense prefixes we learned but we use them quite often in oratory. Something a Lord of your stature should know if you plan to speak without a translator. The sme is the emotion of pride. Khe is the emotion of lewdness.”

“But…doesn’t khekihanma mean mistress?” Henry asked confused. “I don’t want to be calling Maevin a slut if that’s the meaning of the word.”

“Khekinanma is mistress but in a sexual sense. A khekihanma within the estate system is usually the woman put in charge of the concubines or khekihanxa. The word you are looking for is xikihanma to refer to our mistress of Blue Blossom.”

“But…xi is a second person pronoun,” Henry said confused.

“Xi is also a preposition for hard.”

“But…how…”

“Context and repetition,” Yil said with a gentle pat on his hand. “Aetaaekume ki shinda kit.”

Henry knew that phrase. She had said he would understand one day and then his title of Lord of the Green.

“You used aeta tense for far future instead of ata for near future,” Henry teased. “You think I’m that hopeless?”

Yil giggled again but did not answer.

Out of the corner of his eye, Henry saw Siv gently brush the earring clipped to her ear moving her long hair and it gently pulsed. He knew that those were the communication devices that a lot of the higher-ranking servants wore to keep in contact with each other and the Mistress. They were also designed to be unobtrusive. The left arm gauntlet he wore had one built into the rich leather.

What got Henry’s attention was the emotion that crossed her face. It had gone to shock and then fear. Siv stood and immediately moved towards the door. “Everyone out. Now.” She ordered. The tone in her voice hard but trembling. None of the servants disobeyed her. They immediately grabbed their items and fled the room.

“Siv, what’s going on?” Henry said standing, eyes wide with concern.

“My worst nightmare,” she responded though he was confident that was not to him. The woman’s eyes darted around as if she was thinking or looking for something and then her jaw became firm.

“My lord. We have a visitor. One that I cannot stop from seeing you,” she said quickly turning on him and a bow of her head.

“Your mistress while Maevin is at Quasel City with Dark Cliff Estate,” The young man said trying to understand what was going on.

“I don’t have time to explain,” the woman responded with sorrow in her voice. “I accept any punishment for leaving you unprepared.”

“Siv…” he started but the ornate wood door opened majestically, and a figure strode in. Henry’s eyes grew wide at the woman who walked in confidently. The terran man was used to the state of undress that many Xalteans exhibited but this was different. The woman had on a red robe that wrapped around her and barely clung to her body, a long loin cloth wrapped around her waist and reaching the ground. Only one breast was covered while the other was presented for all to see. The dark blue ink of a swirling tattoo starting at her nipple and then spread out like a branch much like the tattoos he had seen some of his own servants wearing. Henry had seen nudity but with the darker eyeliner and red lips, she bore a strong sexuality that he had not encountered.

“My lord!” she said in the silkiest Xaltean voice he had heard. She was speaking English which added to the exoticism of her presence. “Thank you so much for taking the time to see me.”

“You’re…welcome?” Henry said glancing over to Siv. His interim Mistress had folded her hands in front of her and had lowered her head taking on a submissive pose.

“I am Sovereigness Niskili Baesha. Your servant did not announce me?”

There was something friendly but accusatory in her voice. Henry’s eyes narrowed as he heard the tone of disdain. Nobody insulted his people. “Your arrival was unplanned,” he said trying to sound official. He motioned to the sofa chair in front of his desk as he sat down. “You’ll have to forgive me for not being ready.”

Those violet eyes bore into him, studying his reaction as she made herself comfortable.

“Siv, would you please call for tea?” he asked, trying to remember everything Maevin had taught him and the few conversations with the specialists on the subject. He had dived headfirst into learning proper protocol after what had happened at the tekiasetel. “Could you also please ask Maela to come?”

“Your Emissary maid is not needed,” Niskili cut him off with a wave. “I am not surprised that Maevin has not briefed you on who I am and the order I represent. As a Terran, she had assumed she was protecting your sensibilities.”

“My sensibilities?”

“Of course,” she said with a smile that felt predatory. “There are facets of our culture that she still hides from you. I have requested a meeting with you, my lord, for a few months now. Your Mistress has refused.”

“Then you know she’s not here and Siv stands in her place?” Henry asked realizing how things had been set up.

“Siv is your mistress at the moment?” the woman said with a brief raising of eyebrow as she glanced over to the woman. “How…amusing.”

Niskili settled back into the chair more; crossing her leg wide enough that Henry knew she wasn’t wearing anything underneath. He refused to allow her to get the better of him. The young Terran felt that somehow his estate was on trial. “I would not be the Sovereigness if I did not keep tabs on things like this, especially when it is someone so unique as you that I wanted to meet.”

Maevin had been keeping this person from him? What was he getting into? Henry glanced towards Siv who met his eyes and the panic was still there.

“Allow me to explain,” Niskili said. “I am from the Scarlet Order of House Aldinav.” Scarlet Order. That was not something the Lord of the Blue Blossom Estate had heard before. Based on her expression, he was confident she knew that.

“I do not recognize your order. I apologize.” Was that official and polite enough? “It is not a problem. In short, I am in charge of the training and the assignment of concubines and heshut to those I deem worthy within the empire, of course, paying deference to any command of our Empress and House Vaesh.”

Concubines. That was a word he knew. Everything came into focus. The aura, the look, the eyes. Henry knew sex was not a taboo subject among the Xalteans but he should have realized that there would be organizations like hers.

“Prostitutes.”

“That is a synonym, not my favorite, but yes. We provide more than just sexual services though. My concubines and courtesans are trained in quite a few arts that are prized across the Empire. You should have encountered my courtesans at your tekiasetel? We were asked to provide the Hour of Candles for House Nevakev.”

Oh. That. The smile on her face broadened a bit more. “But you avoided that, didn’t you?”

“I feel that you already know the answer,” Henry grumbled.

She leaned forward just slightly with a grin that he could only think as being predatory. “But of course. I was hoping to lure you with one of my beauties, but you appear to be more…reserved than I anticipated for a human.”

“It sounds like you have been using stereotypes for my people. Something I have been guilty of myself,” Henry offered diplomatically.

“Siv, go get us some tea like a good girl? Let the adults talk.” Niskili said abruptly towards the quiet girl who had grown pale.

There was something in the tone, an emotion that made his heart grow cold and anger well up inside him. He did not know how, but Henry knew that this woman was insulting his friend.

“Sovereigness,” Henry said forcing his voice to become hard as steel. “While in my estate, you will respect my servants for the position and titles they hold. Am I clear?”

“Lord Henry,” Niskili started with a smile that felt dangerous. “I did not mean any sort of—”

“Am I clear, Sovereigness? Or will I need my Chief of Security to escort you to your shuttle?”

Siv blanched at that and Niskili seemed genuinely surprised at his words. She leaned back and lowered her head with deference. “I understand, my lord.” Henry let out the breath he was holding and turned to Siv. “Mistress Siv. If you would be so kind as to see if Burdak has any maids to spare for some tea?”

“Ye…yes, my master,” She choked out. She looked between the two rapidly. Henry knew she didn’t want to abandon him.

“It’s quite alright,” Henry said with a smile. “I do not want to take up too much of her grace’s time.”

“Of…of course, my master.”

Siv hurried away and the door closed shut behind them.

Whatever politeness Niskili was showing melted away as she steepled her hands in front of her face and that dangerous smile came back.

“What?” Henry asked.

“It has been quite a long time since anyone was brave enough to chastise me, especially in front of the servants. I may have severely underestimated you.” Henry slowly stood as he adjusted a few things on his desk and then folded his hands. He was not going to be caught behind his desk if she tried to attack him. “Those who work here mean a great deal to me,” Henry responded. “I would have said that to anyone who insulted my people.”

“Including the Empress?”

Henry hesitated for a moment and then nodded firmly. “Even to her. Though I would have worded it differently.”

The Sovereigness of the Scarlet Order burst out laughing, a smoky sound that filled the room.

“Oh, you are something, Lord Henry.”

“What has brought you here?”

“Ah. To the point. Let us begin.”

***

It was about two hours of Niskili slowly explaining the history and importance of House Aldinav, including how it was an unregistered house that did not fall under any of the Gray Council. Niskili explained how high-ranking people who could not risk issues with the blood line would request concubines and how they would also be great intelligence gatherers of the social circles. Even how they were considered a sign of stature to be given someone trained by them. “Are you familiar with the Angels?” she asked as she sipped her tea.

“The elite bodyguards from House Gijol?” Henry confirmed.

“Yes. You know how they are given as presents from the Imperial Family and sworn to the lord and not to the estate?”

He nodded. “Maevin went over that with me.”

“Well, my concubines are the same way. When one is given to you, they are sworn to you and not to the estate. Their allegiance is to their master, not to the Empire.” Niskili finished.

“And that’s why you want to do this?” Henry asked holding up the thin computer pad she had given him earlier.

“Well, it’ll be good for you in one way and—”

The conversation did not go any further when the oak doors exploded open and a figure marched in. The dark cascading hair, the piercing blue eyes, and the crown immediately made Henry realized that his Mistress had returned. He had also never seen such fury and hatred in her eyes before.

“Ah. Maevin!” Niskili said standing and setting down the tea. “I did not expect you back for two more days. I’m surprised you knew to come back.”

Siv walked in behind her and Niskili made eye contact. “Oh. So that’s how you knew.”

“Don’t you dare even try to speak to me this way, Sovereigness,” Maevin spat with abject fury. “You were expressly forbidden to enter Blue Blossom Estate, and you know damn well that my word outweighs any sort of power you have! Our High Baron will hear of this.”

Niskili looked at Henry. “You will allow your Mistress to speak like this?” “Do I need to call my Chief of Security?” Henry shot back.

Niskili sighed and held up her hands in surrender. “Fine. Yes, Mistress. I directly disobeyed your orders specifically to help your master achieve more here in the Empire.”

“What did you do?” Maevin demanded.

Henry held up a pad. “She has asked me to take two concubines to the Blue Blossom Estate.”

“Two?!” Maevin said shocked. She spun back to Niskili. “What are you planning?” Niskili looked to Siv and Maevin saw the movement.

“I’ll take my leave, mistress,” the woman said before quickly fleeing the room. “They are the twin son and daughter of Duchess Sakeza of House Vanen and High Baron Makel of House Kolisai.”

Maevin immediately froze, the anger in her face fading immediately to a mixture of concern and curiosity.

“You’re joking,” Maevin responded.

“I wish I was. I was just explaining to your master that the existence of these children, though legal, poses a succession problem for Kolisai due to the son being older than the heir from his wife. You know how unstable the relationship is with Kolisai. No one knew the parentage until recently. Tavik now does.”

“How?”

“I don’t know but Kolisai has multiple trade agreements with House Irisik and we know Irisik and House Tavik are extremely close.”

Henry decided it was time to speak up. “She wants to hide them here. Since House Patton-Avernell is semi-registered, it would be difficult to come for them since all eyes are on us for this experiment.”

“And you accepted?” Maevin asked, her eyes narrowing.

“I have not.”

“But I believe he plans too.” Niskili added.

“My master,” Maevin started but he raised his hand for her to stop. He made sure to give her a kind smile to know he wasn’t angry at her.

“Sovereigness Baesha, I’ll accept the two charges—”

“Excellent.”

“I’m not finished. I’ll accept the two charges, but they were be registered to the as Estate Maids under Arch Maid Abiva.” Henry finished.

A look of surprise covered Maevin’s while Niskili’s darkened.

“Estate maids? These two are highly trained concubines who deserve the privilege and rights they earned.”

“They will be respected for their training,” Henry continued sitting down at his desk and getting out his digital seal. “But they will not be registered as concubines with my estate.”

“And why is that?” Niskili asked crossing her arms.

“For one, registering them as concubines advertises exactly where they are located and we literally have Black Forge, a House Irisik estate, seventy miles to the east of Belentine and two, I’m not letting you use my status for your own benefit.”

Niskili canted her head to the side and tried to keep the serious expression though a smirk tugged at the corner of her mouth.

“And whatever do you mean?”

“Do you think I don’t know what it would do for your reputation if you could get a human lord of an experiment house to accept two concubines? Especially with what happened at the tekiasetel. You haven’t earned my respect for such a thing.” Now it was Maevin’s turn to blanch at his words, but he stuck to it. He held out the tablet. “So, the two will be registered as maids, I will protect them until such time as they need to return to you and in the future, when I feel we have reached a good balance, I shall request your advice on a concubine. Or you can take this pad and return to your house.”

Silence reigned between the two and it finally broke with Niskili sighing and give a little laugh. She gave Maevin a pat on the arm. “Excellent job teaching him, Maevin, my dear. Masterful for such a talent like you.”

“Thank you,” Maevin responded coldly.

“I shall accept your terms,” Niskili added and she nodded at the tablet. “My signature is already there. The two are in my shuttle. If you sign, I shall have them moved immediately to your Arch Maid’s care.”

***

Everyone had left Henry alone after that and it was evening when Siv opened the door and leaned into see him.

“Siv,” Henry said with a smile looking up from the last of the paperwork he was doing.

“The mistress sent me to see if you need anything before we start your evening routine.”

“No, I’m good but can you speak with me for a minute?”

There had been something bothering him from the few remarks and attitude Niskili had. Henry had never gotten the chance to ask as the Sovereigness had left immediately afterwards.

“Of course.”

Siv came in and gently closed the door behind her.

“I wanted to ask you about the way the Sovereigness treated you. I feel like she knew you?”

The woman smiled embarrassed, her face flushing.

“If it’s none of my business…” Henry started.

“It is. It’s just a part of my life I thought was going to stay gone. Niskili knows me as I was one of her courtesans once.”

Oh. That explained a lot that Henry did not know he needed explained. How out of all the maids, she was the most comfortable being herself, wearing nothing when she wanted and even caused a few of the maids to blush with her innuendo when she thought he wasn’t listening or understood the words.

“Oh. You were? Did you retire?”

“I failed,” She admitted with a shrug though he could see it still stung. “I failed the last test, and it was pretty humiliating. High Baroness Ilesh had a few choice words for the Sovereigness. I wound up getting the Altar, a good caning, and banished from the Order.”

“Ah.”

Henry knew caning was a thin rod against the buttocks, an old punishment that was removed from the Imperial Contract code except when added as a clause to the bonding. The Altar was the highest punishment. It was meant as a humiliation above all. It consisted of the individual having their neck and arms chained to the ground with their head close and their ankles chained in such a way that they were forced to raise their lower body up and put on display. They were also unclothed. Maevin had explained that being exposed in such a vulnerable position, with their most intimate places on display to face the cold, the heat, the weather and the ridicule, was worse than anything else that could be inflicted. Maevin had told him that she would have rather been chained to the pillar and caned than go through that.

“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to drudge up old memories.”

“It’s okay,” she said with a smile. “You have been sweet to me, my master, and it has made up for the treatment I received. I appreciate you defending me when she insulted me and my position…though it scared me. She has a lot of power even if her house is not registered.”

“No one mistreats my friends,” Henry said with finality.

“I am honored to be considered in such high esteem,” Siv said with a low curtsey. “May I go and prepare your evening snack?”

Henry smiled at her switching back into her role.

“Of course, Maid Siv. Thank you.”

© 2018 – 2024 by Jonathan Snyder

Excerpt from Human Database maintained by Innocentia Colonies

Celestianity was born out of the remnants of war as much of the planet and colonies were seeking some sort of answer to the horrors they had experienced. This led to the rise of the need for spiritual guidance to persist. Rooted in the fragments of old belief systems, Celestianity weaves together principles from Christianity, Islam, and Hinduism, offering solace and purpose to the denizens of the Terran Confederacy.

In the aftermath of devastating wars that dismantled organized religions, a spiritual void engulfed the cosmos, leaving countless souls yearning for meaning and salvation. From the ashes of the past, Celestianity emerged, born out of the fragments and remnants of its predecessors. Assimilating elements from Christianity, Islam, and Hinduism, Celestianity became a beacon of light, restoring hope and purpose in a universe scarred by conflict.

At the heart of Celestianity lies the profound understanding of cause and effect—a timeless principle resonating throughout the many. Celestians recognize the interconnectedness of all actions and decisions, understanding that their choices have far-reaching consequences that shape their individual destinies and the trajectory of society. This belief serves as a moral compass, guiding Celestians to act responsibly, with mindfulness, and with reverence for the cosmic tapestry of existence.

Central to Celestianity is the unwavering conviction in the transformative power of faith. Celestians understand that faith is not merely an anchor in times of tribulation, but also a catalyst for personal growth and spiritual elevation. By embracing the teachings, principles, and rituals of Celestianity, followers believe they can attain celestial salvation and enlightenment, transcending the limitations of mortal existence. Faith becomes a potent force, illuminating the path towards cosmic harmony and unity with the divine.

As pilgrims in the cosmos, Celestians embark on sacred journeys to revered sites scattered across the vast expanse of space. The primary site being the Altar of Hope on Sanctum Lumina. These pilgrimages provide opportunities for introspection, renewal, and communion with the celestial realms. Immersed in the presence of these sacred spaces, devotees seek solace, enlightenment, and a deeper connection with the cosmic energies that permeate the universe. Accompanying these pilgrimages, prayer becomes a channel through which Celestians communicate their hopes, fears, and aspirations to the higher realms, seeking guidance, solace, and strength.

The initiation into Celestianity takes the form of baptism, a sacred rite symbolizing commitment and dedication to the core tenets of Loyalty, Purity, and Austerity. Loyalty fosters a sense of unity, encouraging Celestians to stand together in pursuit of cosmic harmony. Purity emphasizes moral rectitude and the purification of one's intentions and actions, guiding the faithful to embody righteousness. Austerity, a cornerstone of Celestianity, teaches followers to embrace simplicity and self-discipline, valuing spiritual enlightenment over material desires.

As Celestianity flourished, it embraced a conservative approach to its implementation, seeking to preserve the core principles and rituals that had withstood the test of time. This conservatism ensured the continuity of the faith and provided stability in an ever-changing universe. It served as a reminder of the wisdom contained within ancient traditions, guarding against the dilution of Celestianity's essence.

Within the territories of the Terran Confederacy, Celestianity permeated almost all aspects of society. Its influence extended to governance, cultural practices, and personal ethics, manifesting as a presence in the lives of its adherents and those in the periphery. Celestians actively engaged in public life, guided by their religious convictions to foster harmony, justice, and spiritual enlightenment among their fellow citizens. The religious institutions of Celestianity provided spaces of worship, education, and communal gatherings, serving as vital pillars of the faith.

Celestianity's emergence and evolution within the post-war era symbolize humanity's unwavering pursuit of meaning and purpose. Blending elements of Christianity, Islam, and Hinduism, it created a unique tapestry of beliefs and practices. From the ashes of the past, Celestianity rose to guide countless souls towards salvation, enlightenment, and unity with the cosmos. Its legacy endures as a celestial beacon of hope, illuminating the path for future generations in their search for transcendence and spiritual fulfillment within the vast realms of the Terran Confederacy.

© 2018 – 2024 by Jonathan Snyder