"Rumarie, Riilan and the Odalisque"
as recalled and recorded by S'haile Selek and T'Sai T'Aitlu
and archived in the Hall of Records

(c)July 2002

~~~~~~~~
It was a long time since she had left the safety of the caves of the BlueMoon SweatShop, but her reason was sound. She missed his company.

She did not look out of place as she entered the Vulcan Embassy of Earth; just another Vulcan to the untrained eye, but to the Vulcans that resided there... she was very different. They noted the sensual fabrics her robes were made from, her relaxed manner, and the way she spoke was soft yet firm.

Her classification was 'odalisque', a pleasure servant, and she was something they thought the Reform had done away with. She was looked down upon but not to be ignored.

She moved with a grace and bearing that made others watch her. She moved to the reception desk, "I wish an audience with S'haile Selek."

The eyebrow of the receptionist went up ever so slightly, his hand moved to tap in the coding for Selek's office. He received an inquiry as to who was waiting. "Your identity."

"T'sai T'Aitlu."

The name was repeated into the pickup and the acceptance of the visitor was signalled.

The receptionist stood. "S'haile Selek's office is located on the third level, second on the right."

T'Aitlu's head bowed, "Your service honours." She crossed the large reception area and tapped the call button for the lift. She was aware of the polite stares and kept her discomfort from showing. It had been just over a year since Selek had been at the Shop and she felt it was too long.

~~~~~~~~
Selek was working on the latest submissions by the Blue Moon writers, when his duties at the Embassy permitted, when his comm unit sounded and the receptionist informed him that T'sai T'Aitlu was on her way to his office. He immediately straightened his desk and stood, letting his robes fall around his ankles, in anticipation of her arrival.

The door chime sounded, and Selek cleared his throat and said, "Enter."

The door whooshed open and there she stood. It had been over a year since he saw her last and his eyes took in her pleasing form, her black, long hair, and the fascinating colours of her robe. Her eyes smiled as she saw him, and he beckoned her in. "Please, T'sai, have a seat. It has been a long time."

She entered his spacious office and sat in the offered chair. "Indeed it has, S'haile."

"Please, I insist you call me Selek...like you did before. It would...please me." His dark eyes smouldered as he sat down across from her.

She sat in the comfortable chair, arranging the fall of her robes just so. "As you wish." She paused for a moment. "I noted that your name had not appeared on the list of visitors for Rumarie. I came to offer my personal invitation." Since Selek had left the running of the Shop to her, she had been aware of such facts. There had never been a female in charge of the SweatShop before and she had also chosen to take over the Ancient's underground residence.

"Is it that time already?" He sat back in the chair, remembering the last time they had shared the Rumarie Festival. "I would be more than pleased to attend." He folded his hands on his desktop. He resisted the urge to clear the desk of his work with a sweep of his arm and pull her onto its surface... an activity that was enjoyed frequently at the Shop. "Has Taurik and Vorik been busy with the mixing of the riilan?"

T'Aitlu smiled slightly, her eyebrow raised. "They oversaw the collecting of the ingredients, that the jars would be labelled correctly and then vacated the room." The last time a Vulcan was present when this mixture was made had caused a few unforeseen problems. "Elvira took a great deal of honour in being placed in charge of the activity. It seems there are hidden talents in that female."

Selek nodded, "Yes. Her last few stories have showed a marked improvement as well. It is a far cry from her usual manner." He sat back. "Tell me, are the phallus suckers still her favourite?"

"Oh yes." T'Aitlu reached into the folds of her sleeve and withdrew a small jar, barely the size of her palm. "A gift... or an enticement, whichever you choose it to be." She stood, "Remember, however, that this should not be opened in a room when alone." She checked the time on the wallpiece. "I must leave if I am to meet Taurik. He has been busy purchasing new items for the Shop and in honour of the Festival." She moved around the desk to stand beside Selek as he stood. She lifted her hand and caressed his face. "I will look forward to your arrival."

Selek was certain her eyes were darker than when she had arrived. He lowered his eyes. "I shall make arrangements immediately. Perhaps I can arrive a few days before the Festival."

"That would be most pleasing, Selek." She bowed. "I must take my leave. Until we are together, I wish you pleasure."

Selek bowed his head accepting her leave. He watched as she left, the door closed and he was left with her lingering scent. He sighed then picked up the small jar that had been totally sealed. He read the small strip of warning, and smiled. "At least it has warnings now."

He warred with himself whether or not he should open the jar. But then his logic finally asserted itself. 'If I open this jar, I can only share my passions with my hand,' he thought. Looking at his hand, he put the jar in the large pocket of his robe and called his secretary. "Please book me passage to the SweatShop. It is necessary that I go there now."

His secretary got back to him shortly and gave him the departure time of the next available shuttle. He thanked the young Vulcan man and told him to cancel all of his appointments for the next two weeks. If necessary, Ambassador Sarek would be able to contact him. His secretary bowed, and left the office. Selek commed Sarek and told him he was going to the Sweatshop for the Rumarie Festival.

"Excellent," Sarek said. "I plan to attend with Amanda as well. We will meet you there."

Selek broke the connection after taking his leave of his uncle, and went to his quarters to pack. As he did so, his thoughts returned to T'Aitlu. She was even more alluring than she had been a year ago.

Two hours later, he was standing, bag in hand, at the large wooden doors of the BlueMoon Sweatshop. He was eager to enter, but it had been over a year. What if no one recognized him? What if he recognized no one inside? The Terran thought of 'you can never go home again' briefly flitted across his mind, but he brushed it aside. With his controls firmly in place, he pushed the comm panel beside the door...and waited.

The chime echoed in the large library, two of the resident females moved to see who their guest would be. One was of Terran descent and the other was an Orion, both chatted about the expected guests for the Festival. Both knew that the usual attendant was busy seeing to the latest shipment of supplies.

The Terran opened the large ornately carved wooden door. She squealed with delight as she identified the person standing in the doorway. "S'haile!" She wrapped her arms around him only a moment before the Orion wrapped herself around the junior Vulcan Ambassador.

Both greeted him with kisses and whispers of promised pleasures. The Orion picked up the bag that Selek dropped. "Come, come in. I can't wait for the others to see you." She took a breath. "T'sai did not tell us you were coming."

The Terran laughed. "S'haile will be coming in very little time if I have my way." She kissed him again as she purred into his ear, "I missed you."

Selek had tried to retain some dignity as he was guided through the large library and into the corridor that led to the writer's caves. "Yes, Elvira, I have missed thee as well."

"Your old room is available..."

Selek raised an eyebrow; he had expected it to be occupied by T'sai T'Aitlu now that she was running things. "I had expected..."

"Oh no, S'haile.... T'sai lives down in the Ancient's rooms."

Before Selek could make a comment about this turn of events, he was almost swarmed with all the other familiar residences, Muses and kitasau. He almost disappeared from view with the friendly greetings. His only thought was that he did not have anything to worry about being remembered ... just staying alive!

There was a sudden and loud whistle that pierced through the giggles and chattering voices. It caused all of them to fall silent. Selek looked towards the direction of the whistle. He smiled slightly. "Vorik."

The Vulcan shook his head. "Do all of you not have better things do than to accost our guests?" He moved into the collection of admirers. He shooed them away. "Now, back to what you were doing. I am sure S'haile Selek remembers the way." He met Elvira's eyes, "Go. You will be able to spend time with him tonight. I am sure he will take the occasional meal with the rest of us."

Elvira smiled. "Yes, S'haile Vorik." She stepped towards him and planted a kiss on his cheek.

Vorik felt his face flush. "I do not know what has gotten into them lately." Vorik picked up the satchel that was dropped on the floor. "I trust your trip here was enjoyable."

"Yes, it was." Selek smoothed the few folds in the front of his robes. He had not felt that dishevelled in a long time.

Vorik led the way towards the offices and writers cave. "I gather you will be staying in your old rooms?"

"I had not planned on it; I had assumed they would be occupied."

"Logical." Vorik's demeanour began to return to the stoic Vulcan manner. "T'sai tried to reside there... but she was not comfortable. She enjoys the solitude of the underground chambers." Vorik hesitated at the doorway to the stairs allowing Selek to precede him.

"I am surprised." Selek had not noticed any great changes in the Shop, except for the look of a fresh coat of paint throughout the chambers. "Is T'sai in the Shop now or is she still out delivering personal invitations?" His eyes smiled at Vorik; both knew he was only teasing.

"She is in the writer's chambers. There was a problem with the printer and bookbinder again. We really could use a new one." Vorik placed the satchel on the foot of the bed. "I had wondered why she had this room prepared yesterday when she returned. I had thought perhaps she was placing Ambassador Sarek and T'sai Amanda in here... but I guess they will get their old room upstairs."

Selek could only image the activities that would go on above his head. "Well unpacking can wait. I would like to wander around for a bit... if that is permitted?"

Vorik bowed his head slightly. "For you S'haile, anything. I have work to return to. Taurik is busy seeing to supplies, as usual. I have not heard from Salatrel as yet... but one never knows."

Selek took a breath and said, "It is good to be here."

"It is good to have you here again." Vorik started towards the door. "Perhaps the females in here will settle down."

"I doubt it."

"As do I, S'haile."

~~~~~~~
Selek wandered around the areas he found so familiar. Several times, he could smell the aroma of sandalwood and he inhaled deeply. At the Embassy, there was no smell of sandalwood, so he was unused to it again. But here...the wonderfully heady scent was everywhere. As he took another deep breath, he felt his penis stiffen, again, an old familiar sensation that was absent a long time.

He walked to where his old office was and knocked on the door. No one bade him enter, so he turned the knob slightly. It was unlocked. His irresistible Vulcan curiosity got the better of him and he opened the door slightly, peering in. It now had a female touch to it, but was basically unchanged. The desk was still where it had always been, as were the bookshelves and chairs. He wondered if the monitor he had in his bottom drawer was still there and what it would show. But he didn't enter. Vulcan discipline would not allow that.

He closed the door softly, and went to the writer's cavern. He hoped to find T'sai T'Aitlu there, but if not, then he was certain Elvira could... help him with his ever increasing... problem. Rubbing his hand over his hardening penis, he revelled in the sensations, then strode purposefully to the main cavern.

~~~~~~
T'sai straightened and said, "Taurik, perhaps it is time to obtain a new copier."

"It will be hard to find one that accepts this weight of paper." Taurik cleaned the ink from his hands. "We are ahead of the printing to date. I will begin a search for either a new one or parts... again." He turned to head to his office and noticed the visitor. "S'haile. We are honoured." His head bowed.

T'Aitlu turned as she cleaned her hands of the grease and ink. "I had not expected you so soon."

Selek was not convinced. "Then why was my room prepared?"

T'Aitlu did not have a response. She looked to the male standing beside her. "Seqar, clean up the machine. Have the books that are finished bound. See me when it is completed." She moved towards Selek and asked, "Do you wish tea?"

"It would be a beginning," Selek stated. He followed her into the familiar office once again. He folded his hands in front of him, trying very hard not to give in to the long felt urges. He cleared his throat then sat down in the large armchair. He rested his hand on the armrest recalling the time when his and T'Aitlu's activities had caused the collapse of this chair. He smiled.

T'Aitlu placed the cup of tea on the small side table. "You remember as well?"

Selek nodded, unsure of what to say.

"This place is not quite as... active since you and Salatrel took leave." T'Aitlu pulled the ottoman over to sit in front of Selek. She missed both of her friends. She sipped on her tea then placed the cup on the table beside Selek's. "I had expected you to arrive within a few days, perhaps a week, but not this soon."

"You are displeased?" Selek asked in a teasing manner.

"No." T'Aitlu felt her face flush.

"Good." Selek shifted forward in the chair, he reached to cup her chin. "I found myself unable to concentrate on anything else after you left."

He rubbed his thumb over her lush lips, then bent to kiss them, his tongue probing into her mouth. She opened her lips to allow him access and he sat forward in his chair, pulling her toward him as his passions increased. Suddenly, he stood, pulling her to her feet. He wanted to feel her pressed against him. He wanted to caress her everywhere.

Breathless, he broke off the kiss. "Is this desirable for you, t'hy'la?" he asked.

"Oh, yes. It has been too long, beloved," she whispered. "Did you open the jar before you came?" she teased.

"No, but I can."

"I do not think it necessary," she said as she stroked his hardness through his robes. "It appears you do not need the riilan at present." She gave him a squeeze, then rubbed his penis firmly.

Selek felt the urge to thrust into her palm. He lowered his hands and undid the clasps that covered his groin, leaving the others connected. T'Aitlu snaked her hand through the opening and found to her delight that he wore his robe in the traditional fashion... no undergarments. She stroked the entire length of his shaft as he thrust gently into her hand.

While she was tending to his throbbing penis, he had undone the clasps that contained her ample breasts. Palming them, he rubbed the nipples in a circular motion, causing T'Aitlu to arch her back and moan softly. They formed rock-hard pebbles as he tweaked them gently with his thumb and finger; one in each hand. As she pumped him, he lowered his mouth and suckled her greedily. She carded her fingers through his hair with her free hand and pumped him faster with her other hand, causing him to groan into her breast.

She opened his robe with efficiency, and, placing her legs on either side of his, she straddled him. Her mouth captured his, tasting him, enjoying him.

Selek pulled her closer, opening her robe fully as she began to impale herself. He leaned back with a sigh. He began to caress her warm naked body under her robes. He kissed a short path to her breast, he marked her skin then teased at her sensitive nipples.

T'Aitlu pushed down, feeling Selek fill her completely. She watched him for a moment, caressing the side of his face with the backs of her fingers. She traced the outline of his elegantly pointed ear, her fingertips brushing along the main contact points. Selek moaned, deep in his throat and then she began to rock against his hardness.

He felt her heat envelop his jade-hard penis, her wetness spilling onto his pubic hair. "Oh, t'hy'la," he moaned. "It has been so long...too long."

She tipped her head forward, allowing her ebony hair to cover them both, shielding them. As she moved, she squeezed her vaginal muscles, milking his manhood as she rode him. She lifted up, just until the very tip of the head was still inside her, then sat back down hard. Again, and again, she repeated her movements, until Selek could stand it no more. He thrust upward as she sat, deepening his penetration. He bent forward so he could suck on her nipples. Greedily, his cock demanded more attention as she rode him hard, and his mouth hungrily sucked first one breast, then the other. His hands supported the small of her back as she finally arched her back, and thrust her breasts at his eager mouth.

His penis was harder than it had been in a long time. He ached for release, but she wouldn't allow it yet. "Please, t'hy'la. Give me release!" he begged.

She looked at him, milking him as he thrust for all he was worth and the corners of her mouth turned up very slightly. "No," was all she said, then sat back on him and squeezed.

"You have changed..." Selek tried to speak but it turned into a moan.

T'Aitlu ran her fingertips along his jaw. "A result of being TaskMaster," she whispered as she drew her hand down his neck, then down further, teasing at his nipple. Her climax would be carefully timed, she had become quite skilled at that over the years.

He moaned, deep in his throat. "No doubt." Selek drew in a deep breath with difficulty, his body was fighting for release. "T'hy'la.... now.... I beg thee...." His words dissolved into a moan.

T'Aitlu leaned forward, her fingers moved onto his face, she knew how to reach into his thoughts... and to cause his release. She closed her eyes and prepared to savour the sensation of the pumping of the hot fluid into her body.

Selek held his breath suddenly, his eyes closed; it felt as if his body exploded and then seemingly turn to liquid. He held onto the arms of the chair, his breathing laboured but it was returning to normal slowly. "Thee... have learned new skills," he sighed. He was beginning to feel a bit of normalcy creeping into his exhaustion.

T'Aitlu bowed her head slightly. "I am honoured to have pleasured thee." She ran her hand into his hair down his neck then pulled him to her for a passionate kiss. She sighed, "It has been a long time."

Selek's head rested against the back of the chair. T'Aitlu's fluids and his own semen pooled between them and on his lap. "A'Tha," he breathed. "I had forgotten..." Rousing himself, he looked deep into T'Aitlu's eyes. She was still impaled on his now-softening member. "What must we do to prepare for the Festival?" he asked. "Since you are now Master here, it is your duty."

"I am well aware of that," she assured him. "I told you what was being done. All will be ready." She lifted on him and watched as his penis slid from her body and landed on his thigh. "Do you wish something to eat, S'haile?"

"Yes, in a minute. First I must...regain my controls. And dress." His eyes twinkled at her.

"Very well," she said, as she clasped up her robe. "I will inform the others that you will be dining with us. They will be quite...excited at this and I'm certain they will show you exactly how...excited they are." Turning to a computer, she activated it and told Taurik that Selek would be joining them and to choose some suitable kitasau to join them. "I leave it up to you to select," she told him.

Breaking off the connection, she turned her attention back to her t'hy'la.

"There are matters that I must attend to. There are a number of new names on the list and I wish to know of their... pleasures to insure that the correct equipment is available in their chambers." She moved to the door of the office, then turned to face Selek again. She stared at him for a moment then reached up and kissed him. "It is pleasing that you have returned here, even if it is only for the Festival."

Selek brushed back a strand of her hair. "This visit is long overdue." He bowed his head, "Well Task...," he lifted an eyebrow, "... Mistress? I have some unpacking to see to and dinner to dress for."

T'Aitlu smiled at the title he used. "It is surprising how many do not use the variation. Most use T'sai or TaskMaster." She followed him out of the office. She stopped at the door. "Until later then, S'haile."

Selek nodded then headed off down the hall towards his chambers, thinking of the pleasures of a hot water shower then a short rest before he would dress for dinner. "I am not as young as I used to be," he mumbled then smiled to himself.

T'Aitlu watched Selek leave then turned her attention to the young Vulcan male waiting for her. His attention, however, was directed at the Deltan pair that had just walked past him. "Yes, Seqar."

Seqar's head snapped around, his face flushed. "I should be more attentive, T'sai."

"It appears to me that you were quite attentive." T'Aitlu folded her hands in front of her. "What did you wish to see me about?"

"Ah yes, I was packing the books away and I came across another box that contained a duplicate part for the broken one on the printer. I wanted to let Taurik know as well but I was not sure where he would be. He is not in the supply area." Seqar had arrived at the Shop only a few months ago; he was fitting in quite well but was at times overwhelmed over the size of the place. "I was not certain where to look," he admitted.

T'Aitlu thought a moment, then said, "I have a few duties that need my attention. I will watch for him and inform him that you wish to see him. In the meantime, bring the replacement part up, and arrange any tools he may need. He will be here shortly, I am certain."

Seqar bowed. "As you wish, T'sai."

T'Aitlu headed for the Ancient's garden. She knew that Taurik would often work in the solitude of the Terran's wisteria trees. She stepped onto the stone path and followed it to where the circle of trees stood. And there he was, leaning into the corner of the stone bench, padd in hand and numerous others surrounding him. She made sure he would hear her last step.

Taurik looked up, "Aitlu." He sighed. "There are more guests this Festival." He sat up and moved some of the padds out of the way, making room for T'Aitlu to sit down. He tapped the stone seat.

T'Aitlu sat down. "Seqar is searching for you. He has found a replacement part for the printer."

"Ahh, good." Taurik began to return the padds into the pouch he had brought them out in. He looked to the railing that surrounded the garden. "Some should be arriving soon." He put the pouch down on the bench then moved to the railing. The main door of the Shop could be seen from here. There was a small collection of people already disembarking from the specially arranged transports.

T'Aitlu joined him at the railing, and sighed. "Do you think there is room for everyone?" She shook her head as she realized that the calm she had enjoyed would be shattered for the next three weeks or longer.

Taurik noted the strange look on her face. "What is it?"

T'Aitlu lifted an eyebrow as she spotted some of 'her guests', she leaned in closer to Taurik. "The tall Vulcan, shoulder length hair. You know of him?"

Taurik searched the group for the individual; he was definitely not hard to miss. "Not by name. I will inquire. You will meet him sooner or later." He knew it was tradition that the TaskMaster would speak to all guests at some point during their stay.

T'Aitlu stepped back from the rail. "See to the printer. I will shower and change then see to the guests." She headed for the fountain and the hidden stairs to her underground chambers.

Taurik leaned against the railing, his arms crossed as he watched her disappear. He wondered what had put her in this mood.

~~~~~~~~
T'Aitlu entered the darkened chambers. She lit the closest candle and made the light from that suffice. She slipped off her robes and headed to the sonic shower.

She stepped into the unit, closed the clear door and allowed the rays to scrub her skin clean. She ran her fingers through her hair to get rid of the tangles that remained. She stretched trying to get rid of the tension that had found its way into her neck. The timer of the unit shut the cleaning waves off.

T'Aitlu stepped out, reached for the brush that was on the near-by table and began to brush her long hair. It was a way for her to be lost in thought. Lost in an activity that served but was not important to the functioning of this place. She was feeling this again, this aloneness... she had felt it once before and it had passed and she was certain this would pass too. Being around so many new beings, so many that had emotions and so many that desired had her mental shielding stretched to the limit. It was most difficult to serve the passions and ignore them within the same time frame.

Once she was satisfied her hair was done, she returned to her sleep chamber and chose another robe. She slipped that on and headed for the stairs to the shop.

She smiled to herself as she headed up the stairs. She would see to her work later, for now she would spend time with Selek. Once the festival was in full swing, there was no telling where either would be.

Selek rose from his nap, rested and aroused. He took a shower and changed into his most impressive robes, thinking of T'Aitlu as he did. The more he thought of her, the more aroused he became.

Leaving his chambers, he walked to where the dining room used to be. He hoped it was still there. As he entered the ornate room, he saw a large crowd of people, presumably here for the Festival. Scanning the crowd, he spotted Sarek and Amanda. Making his way over to them, he scooped up a glass of ale from a tray held by a kitasau. "Sarek," he said loudly.

Sarek turned when he heard his name. Spotting his nephew, his eyes softened. He nudged Amanda, who turned around and smiled openly when she saw Selek. "Selek, it is pleasing to see you," Sarek said.

"May I sit with you?" Selek asked.

"We wouldn't have it any other way," Amanda said, crossing her hands at the wrists in the Vulcan embrace. "Have you seen T'Aitlu?" she asked.

"Yes, I have. Earlier," he replied.

Suddenly the room went quiet. All eyes turned toward the door and eyebrows raised all over the room. T'Aitlu made her entrance. Her gown was exquisite, her sparse but tasteful jewellery shone brilliantly in the subdued lighting of the room. All eyes followed her as she glided to her seat at the large table. "Welcome to BlueMoon's Rumarie Festival everyone. May your Festival prove... satisfactory... to you all."

As she sat, so did they all. Selek noticed that T'Aitlu sat beside a tall Vulcan male, with shoulder-length hair. He looked familiar, but he was unsure where he had met this man. Whispering to Sarek, he asked his uncle if he knew the stranger.

Sarek said that he didn't.

Selek split his attentions between his meal, the company at the table and watching T'Aitlu. He watched as this dark stranger tried to begin a conversation with her, but he was not very successful. T'Aitlu seemed preoccupied. Selek had never known her not to pay attention to a guest before.

Part way through the meal, T'Aitlu stood and excused herself to the guests at her table. She seemed to almost be in a hurry to leave.

Selek sipped on the ale, debated, then decided to follow her. He stood as he excused himself. "I will return. I wish to speak with T'Aitlu."

Amanda nodded. "Yes, she does seem anxious to leave."

Selek slipped through the pathways between the tables to the same door that T'Aitlu disappeared through. He recognized the sound of the door leading out into the garden close just as the door to the dining room closed off the room's noise; the entertainment was just beginning. He smiled to himself as he heard Vorik begin to announce the performers as he headed towards the garden.

The night air was cool as Selek followed the path around to the farthest part of the garden. He found T'Aitlu there. As he moved closer she turned to face him. He bowed his head. "I was concerned."

She shook her head. "There was no need. I simply needed air." She pulled at the fastener in her hair allowing it to fall down her back. She shook her hair and sighed.

"You have never reacted that way before." Selek moved to her side. He wondered if it had anything to do with the mysterious stranger that was sitting with her. "No one acted... inappropriately?"

"No." T'Aitlu smiled slightly. "The room was becoming warm. I could not concentrate on the conversations." She looked to Selek then moved closer to him, saying, "You do not need to concern yourself."

"I wish to concern myself." Selek watched her as he tried to figure out what the problem was... if any.

"Could it be the person you were sitting beside?" Selek asked, concerned. "Do you know him?"

She shook her head. "No. We have never met before tonight."

"Is he here for the Festival? Perhaps he brought someone to... celebrate with him?" He looked into her dark eyes, hoping to divine the source of her troubles within their depths. "Come back and sit with me and Sarek. We can ease your troubles... and later I can release you from your apparent... tension, if you wish." His voice was low and seductive as he whispered into her ear.

"That would be nice," she cooed back.

"Then that's what we will do. The Festival doesn't start officially until tomorrow, but we can start ours tonight. I still have that jar you gave me at the Embassy," he said, eyes twinkling.

The remainder of the evening was spent at the Ambassador's table. T'Aitlu would glance over to the dark-haired stranger, still not understanding the pull he had on her interest. The conversation with T'sai Amanda had been most interesting, speaking of other worlds and their seemingly strange customs.

Selek picked up the decanter of Vulcan ale and filled T'Aitlu's glass for the second time. He smiled at her, the corners of his mouth lifted ever so slightly as he leaned towards her and said, "We can leave anytime you wish to."

T'Aitlu accepted the filled glass. "If you wish to we can leave now," she said barely above a whisper.

Selek nodded once then pushed back his chair and stood. "We will take leave of thee, Ambassador Sarek..." he looked at Amanda, "T'sai Amanda. Enjoy what remains of the evening."

Sarek bowed his head. "I am sure we will."

Amanda smiled slightly. "Enjoy yours Selek, T'Aitlu."

T'Aitlu stood, her head bowed. "I trust you will share first meal with us?"

"A delight as always, T'sai," Sarek said, accepting the invitation for them both.

Selek led the way out through the tables; he knew T'Aitlu followed him. He stopped just before they reached the door with the feeling that they were being watched. He looked to the table that the stranger was seated at. He was standing and seemed... disappointed that T'Aitlu was leaving. He seemed to be prepared to leave as well. Selek reached to T'Aitlu; her hand slid into his and they left the large dining room.

~~~~~~~
Once in the solitude of his reserved chambers, Selek slipped off his outer robes. He wore a plain suit of light steel blue. He poured a glass of ale for T'Aitlu as she made herself comfortable on the couch.

"How are things working for you?" Selek handed her the glass, sipped on his own as he sat down beside her. "Finding it difficult to adjust?"

"No not at all." She sipped on the ale then placed the glass down on the low table. "I keep expecting someone to step in and take over. As if there is a TaskMaster returning from vacation." Her eye caught the small jar sitting on the table. She noted with interest that the seal surrounding the jar had been removed. She reached for the jar, checking the level of the cream inside. "You have not used it as yet?"

"No. I have been waiting... for you to be free of your duties." Selek had finished his ale and placed the empty glass down.

T'Aitlu offered him the jar with a slight smile playing at her lips. "My time is yours, S'haile."

His hand closed around the small jar, her hand was trapped. He bowed his head slightly, "I am... honoured, TaskMistress T'Aitlu." He stood, urging her to her feet then pulled her close to him. He kissed her softly, the pressure of the kiss increasing slowly. He felt her hand run up his arm, along his shoulder and into his hair. He released his hold on the jar and her hand, his arm wrapping around her and pulling her tightly against him.

T'Aitlu's hand clenched against his neck, she moaned at the heat from his body. It had been so long since they had been together like this. Selek had been the first she had felt anything for. He was not unreachable as the Ancient One had been to her. She pulled away from the kiss, but only long enough to draw in a breath. She began her gentle assault on his mouth and moved with slow gentle kisses and gentle nips down his throat.

Selek reached to the hand clenched at the back of his neck, he moved it down then guided her to the large bed in the next room. He lifted her hand, opening it. He brushed the warmth of her palm with his lips; he heard her soft moan and brushed his lips against her palm again.

"Yes." She spoke the word softly as she closed her hand over his mouth. She leaned forward, her lips brushing his jaw close to his ear. "You still steal my breath, my S'haile."

Selek kissed her palm, then began to slip her outer robe from her shoulders. He turned and tossed it across a near-by chair. He took a moment to appreciate the Deltan silk dress she wore underneath it. The fabric seemed to brush itself over every curve that her body possessed. He held her hand, lifted it and turned her so her back was to him. He held her hand tightly as he wrapped his arm around her. He breathed in her scent. "Almonds and honey..." he murmured as his free hand brushed her hair out of the way, his lips brushing against her neck.

He was getting warm. He released his hold on her for only a moment as he slipped his jacket off and tossed it onto the chair. He wrapped his arm around her again, this time he rested his hand at her side... feeling her heart beating. He had always appreciated her dress designs... the fastenings at the shoulder made it easy to open. He loved watching the silk slip down her body and pool at her feet.

T'Aitlu leaned against him, feeling his touches, his lips on her shoulder and his breathing close to her ear. She closed her eyes and savoured his touches. She clenched her hands, and then remembered she still held the jar of riilan. She held it up and heard his low soft laughter at her ear. "Do you wish me to open it?"

"Yes..." the answer was whispered at her ear as his lips brushed against her neck. He smiled at her shiver, no doubt caused by his touch because the room was warm and comfortable. He lifted his head at her offer of the open jar, his finger reached in carefully taking a decent amount then drawing a line down the front of her body with it... ending at the dark triangle of hair.

T'Aitlu breathed in slowly, her hand reached behind her, to his face and caressed his cheek. She waited for the warmth that would spread through her from the riilan. She felt the tingling and then the slight burning sensation that would only last a moment.

She turned to face him, her hands quickly removing his shirt. She began to kiss his skin, beginning at his shoulder and working her way down to the center of his chest. She held the jar and reached in with one finger, as he did. She matched the 'mark' he had placed on her, down his body. She ran her fingers along the edge of his waistband, opened his pants, then pushed them down allowing them to pool at his feet. He stepped out of them, never breaking his contact with her.

Selek kissed her hard. He picked her up and placed her on the bed. He moved onto the bed, covering her with his body. He heard himself moan as their bodies made contact. The riilan had heightened his sense of her, his skin and hers no doubt, were hypersensitive. Now even the lightest of touches would cause them to react.

He brushed back her hair, his lips brushed against hers and he was not surprised when her arms wrapped around him and rolled him onto his back.

T'Aitlu place the small jar on the bed beside Selek. She brushed her long hair back over her shoulder. She reached into the jar and covered her fingertips with the slick cream. She touched the pulse point at his neck, a small amount on each nipple then moved down to use the rest on his already hard penis.

She leaned down, her body now covering his. She kissed him gently, brushed her lips against his then ran the tip of her tongue along his lips. She arched her back pressing herself against him as his hands ran up and down her back. If they took things slowly, their release could be very intense. She kissed his throat, licked under his chin and then kissed his mouth.

She moved off him, and his hand reached to her. "Where are you going?" He sounded concerned.

T'Aitlu smiled reassuring him. "I am not going far." She reached to the small chest that sat on the night table on one side of the bed. She opened it, and pulled out a small cloth bag.

Selek sat up and asked, "What is that?" He wondered why he had never even thought to look in the chest when he was unpacking.

"It is Rumarie. All the rooms are... supplied with various... toys." She met his dark eyes; hers were sparkling mischievously. Her hand reached onto the bag and pulled out silk ropes. She kissed him quite thoroughly. She straddled him again, teasing his skin with the ends of the silk ropes. "Have you never checked these chests?"

Selek smiled. "No, I have not." He pulled her tightly to him, his body wanting nothing more than to be sheathed with hers. "*My* room never had such a chest," he teased.

"This is *your* room..." She leaned down to whisper in his ear, "You just never checked under the bed." She caressed his shoulder then urged his arm to reach up over his head. She wrapped the silk rope around his wrist then moved from him to tie the rope to the bedpost.

"T'Aitlu...?" Selek watched her with some interest.

She kissed him again saying, "Relax. Enjoy." Her hands caressed his chest, teasing at his nipples and again urged his other hand up and over his head. She deftly fastened the second rope. She picked up the small jar of riilan, re-applying it on his skin.

Selek drew in a breath as the riilan began to take hold of him. He watched her as her selective touch moved over his body and slowly moved lower. He watched as her mouth touched his hot skin; each kiss seemed to sear him. He held his breath as her hand wrapped around his hard penis. He ached for her to stoke him, and there was a sense of relief when her hand began to move.

"Oh yes..." He breathed deeply and his body shivered. He tried to swallow as her lips touched the tip of his hardness, and it changed to a deep moan.

T'Aitlu swallowed his length, her hands caressed his body... running up as far as she could reach and as she drew her hands back, her nails gently scratched his skin sending shivers through him.

Selek's breathing was deep and fast, and he lifted his hips pushing himself into her mouth. "Weht (more)." He could feel the path the riilan had made on his skin. "Sahris (faster)." It felt hotter, almost a burning sensation wherever it had been placed. "Estalar t'yon (touches of fire)." His voice was barely heard when he spoke.

T'Aitlu lifted her head; she licked her lips and began to slowly kiss lick and nip at his thighs. She heard him moan her name, telling her that he could not wait much more. He needed release. She moved to straddle his legs; she moved up and held herself over his hardness. Slowly, she lowered herself, her head dropping back as she felt his hard penis slip into her body.

Selek moaned. He wanted to reach for her, pull her down and hold her tightly. He wanted to roll on top of her, drive himself deeper and harder into her. He couldn't move and it was frustrating and exciting at the same time.

T'Aitlu felt his frustration over the limited bond, with each meld they had shared over the years, the bond had deepened... but it had fallen just short of being mate bonded. She leaned down, lying along him still holding him deep within her. She felt his leg wrap around her leg, and she felt his body tense and somehow he rolled them over.

Selek held his breath for a moment. He hadn't counted on his arms now being held tightly with crossed ropes. He had the leverage he needed now and drove himself deeper into her. "Yes..." he moaned as T'Aitlu held him tightly, her hands and fingers digging deep into his firm cheeks.

They moved together, their rhythm increased, their bodies straining as they reached for their release.

T'Aitlu forced her hands to his face, placing her fingers for a mind sharing... "Kashkau... wuhkuh en teretuhr.(Our minds... one and together)," and then reached in to share the fires that were burning in their minds and bodies. Both cried out as their bodies shivered with their release. She closed her eyes tightly, she felt his hot fluid pump into her body. She felt her own body spasm and then pulse, seemingly to suck him dry.

T'Aitlu was breathing heavily as she slowly pulled out of his thoughts. She reached to his wrists and freed them, then held him tightly.

Selek rested his forehead on the pillow, his breathing still heavy but slowly quickly. His arms felt like rubber and were beginning to tingle. He kissed her lightly as she began to massage his arms. "Feels good."

T'Aitlu closed her eyes and wrapped her arms around him. "I miss this."

"I miss this, too," Selek said as he held onto her and rolled them onto their sides. He brushed back the hair from her face. He reached for the cover that was just within his reach pulling it over both of them. His hand brushed against the jar. He picked it up and miraculously found the cover. "Half empty?"

T'Aitlu cuddled in closer. "Just enough for later," she said softly, was feeling tired.

Selek smiled to himself. Yes, this was something he had missed being away from the Shop. He closed his eyes. "Later it is."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
They slept soundly, naked and uncovered, having kicked off the covering earlier. The warmth of the room made this comfortable. During the night, Selek woke and, realizing he was "spooned" against a beautiful woman, his penis stiffened. Gently, he started caressing her body, starting at her shoulder and working his way to her full breasts. Softly, he rubbed his large palms over her nipples, causing them to form hard buds. He heard her moan slightly, as he continued fondling her breasts gently.

T'Aitlu opened her eyes and started to turn to face him. He forbade it, holding her firmly in place. His one hand tweaked her nipples, causing her back to arch, thrusting her breasts against his hand, and the other hand caressed her flat stomach. T'Aitlu giggled softly as he played with her belly button. Then, Selek's hand traveled lower and carded the tangle of pubic hair. She reached behind her and grasped his hard shaft, her thumb rubbing over the sensitive cap. Selek moaned when she pushed the nail of her thumb into the slit, eliciting a drop of precum, which she rubbed over the spongy head.

As she stroked him, and played with his manhood, he thrust into her hand. As he thrust, his hand lowered and spread her inner lips, rubbing his fingers in her juices. Slowly, torturously, he slid two fingers into her depths, pumping them in time with his thrusting.

T'Aitlu's senses were being overloaded; her nipples were being tweaked and pinched, her femininity was being cleaved by his fingers, and she was holding his wet penis, pumping it in time with his fingers. Suddenly, he removed his fingers from her and concentrated on her clitoris, massaging it with his thumb. She jumped as he brushed her pleasure center, then did it again as he flicked it gently. "You are sensitive here, t'hy'la," he purred into her elegantly pointed ear.

"Oooh, don't stop," she groaned as he continued to flick her clitoris. Each time he did, she jumped and tightened her grip on his jade-hard member. She started to buck into his hand. His thumb continued to fondle her clit as he deftly slid a finger into her. The sensations were overwhelming! She bucked wildly on his hand, spreading her legs as wide as she could, lying on her side as she was. She pumped his cock as fast as she could, then...she shorted out! Her juices flowed from her as her muscles clenched his finger. Her entire body shuddered with her release. Once she had passed the worst of the orgasm, she gave his penis three sharp tugs and Selek spilled his hot seed over her hand and hip.

Once their breathing had returned to normal, Selek raised himself up on his elbow and gazed at the flushed woman beside him. "I apologise for my lack of control, T'sai T'Aitlu. It must be the open jar of riilan on the bedside table," he teased.

She smiled and said, "Mmm no doubt." She caressed his face, tracing his mouth with her fingertips. "It is far too early for the day to begin and I am sure Sarek and Amanda will be quite late for first meal." She indicated the jar and said, "It is time to finish it, don't you think?"

Selek hesitated for a moment, and she seemed to read his mind.

"In the chest, there is a soft cloth."

Selek reached into this chest that seemed to have unending supplies; later he promised himself, he would take inventory of its contents. He withdrew the cloth, the stasis field he had touched had kept the moist cloth from drying out. He wiped up the worst of the sticky fluids then disposed of the cloth.

He picked up the small jar and placed it on the bed, then he covered her with his body. He kissed her softly, felt her arms wrap around him and pull him tightly to her. The kiss deepened, became passionate. He was formulating a plan... a plan that would tease her but in the end... satisfy both.

He lifted his head, his eyes caught the ropes that still hung from the bedpost. He recalled the fact that she hated not being able to touch and that she had a vice for watching him pleasure himself. He smiled then reached for the jar.

Taking it in his hand, he rubbed a small amount on one nipple, then the other. Waiting a few seconds, he watched as his beloved writhed on the bed in pleasure...then he gently held one hand...and quickly secured it to the bedpost. He quickly tied the other one before she had a chance to react. Once they were secured, he tied her feet so she was spread-eagle on the bed.

"What are you doing?" she demanded.

"Who? Me? Nothing that you haven't done to me, t'hy'la."

He smiled slightly, then massaged her breasts as he straddled her hips. His soft cock rested on her belly, stroking her as he moved with his massages. T'Aitlu's eyes glazed over as her passions took over. She bucked her hips against him, but her body wanted more than air. "Please, Selek. Allow me to touch you," she begged.

"And deprive you of the sensations I plan to inflict on you? No, t'hy'la. As you told me, relax and enjoy." He tweaked her nipples, then bent down to suckle first one, then the other.

She arched her back, thrusting her breasts further into his hot mouth. He sat up and looked into her black eyes. Slowly, he picked up his firming penis, and rubbed the head with his thumb. He watched her eyes dilate as he stroked himself languorsly, savouring the feel of his hand rubbing up and down his shaft. He felt his ridges flare against his palm, sending shivers of delight coursing through him. He raised himself up onto his knees as he grabbed himself more firmly. He didn't want T'Aitlu to miss a thing. "Do you like what you see, t'hy'la?" he said, his voice raspy with desire. He pulled at his cock causing his hips to buck into his hot hand. Finally, his hand stilled and he thrust into it. T'Aitlu watched as the now-glistening head peeked out from beyond his fist, then disappeared...over and over again.

He stopped and let himself go. He straddled her hips once again, then bent and slowly trailed kisses down her chest to her belly, then lower. Smelling her natural musk, he lapped at her clit, sending currents of pleasure coursing through her body. Suddenly, he drove his tongue deep into her. Again and again, he thrust his tongue into her depths, lapping up her fluids.

She stiffened as her orgasm ripped through her, pulling at her bonds all the while. Then, she collapsed, breathing rapidly and twitching against the ropes that held her fast. "Oh A'Tha!" was all she could say.

She closed her eyes, her breathing still fast but becoming manageable. Her body was calming from her release, but she knew he would renew his attack on her senses.

Selek caressed her body, teasing her senses with more riilan as he applied it to her nipples and to the inside of her thighs. He watched as she began to react, moaning softly. He reached into the small jar and pulled out the last of the riilan with two fingers. He debated where he would use it on her... he placed a generous amount on her already sensitive nub and with the remainder he applied it to his hardening penis.

T'Aitlu licked her dry lips. She caught sight of his application of the riilan and she moaned low and soft. She began to feel the warmth of the riilan began to spread from the spots he had applied it to. She wanted to feel a touch, even her own would do... but she could not move. Her body craved any touch, she tried shifting on the bed but she was held fast between the ropes and Selek's knees. She began to feel his penis stiffening, and that brought to her a whole new craving.

She closed her eyes and tried to control, control the speed at which the riilan was working and how badly she wanted Selek. "Nash-vor bolaya tu (I need you)."

"Rai vet Sha'ashau (No doubt, my love)." Selek lifted her chin slightly with his finger, then bent to kiss her, his lips brushing along hers. He reached in with the tip of his tongue to taste the warmth of her mouth. He felt the vibration of her low moan, almost a purring sound. He drew in a deep breath, he was beginning to feel the effects of the riilan now.

Selek straightened, still straddling her body. He wrapped his hand around his hardness again and closed his eyes, grateful for the touch on his own body. He could only imagine how Aitlu was feeling. Without conscience thought, his hand began to stroke the hard length, his fingers feeling the flaring of the ridges. He heard himself moan.

T'Aitlu felt her body tensing, her breathing becoming heavy and uneven again. She felt her body arch in an attempt to satisfy some of the urge to touch something, but it was not working. Selek was just out of her reach and now he was there... stroking his penis and enjoying the sensation. She heard his low moan and swallowed her own low moan. She would not give him the satisfaction of knowing just how badly his actions were affecting her.

Selek continued the relaxed stroking, then lowered himself just enough to brush against her soft mound. It gave him added stimulation, and it teased her just enough.

Aitlu reached with her hips, she arched her back and barely brushed up against Selek's hot body. She moaned deep in her throat with frustration. She tried to pull at the restraints but they were fastened tight, as they had been with Selek when she teased him.

She tried not to watch him, but it wasn't working. She wished to see him. She loved the look on his face as he was coming close and then as he reached his release. She was about to ask him to release her, when she saw a drop of liquid appear at the tip of his hardness. She licked her lips, imagining how this tasted... knowing how close he was, and realizing how much she craved him.

A deep moan escaped her lips and a whispered, "Lerashsu (harder)." She drew in a deep breath then sighed, "Sahrissu (faster)."

Selek had been waiting for her to say something, his control was slipping as he tightened his hold and stroked himself faster than he had been.

He pulled on his stiff sex and moved up her body, just so the glistening head was by her lips. "Lick me," he commanded as his hand still moved up and down his shaft. T'Aitlu lifted her head and greedily sucked the precum off, then swirled her tongue around the cap. Selek moved so that she could lie flat and fellate him. Slowly, he began to thrust into her hot mouth, her tongue eliciting more pre-cum from the slit.

As he felt his orgasm approach, he pulled out of her mouth and squeezed the base...hard. T'Aitlu moaned when her pleasure was taken from her. "I don't want to cum too soon, beloved," he gasped. "I wish this to last forever."

Moving down her body, he tried to regain control of his passions. He centered his jade-hard penis at her opening and slowly inserted the head. He stopped there, then removed it, causing her to buck wildly. "I need you inside me!" she cried. "Do not torture me so!"

"You will have me, t'hy'la, but on my terms." He re-inserted his head, then withdrew it again. Over and over, he did this, until one time, he impaled her with his stiff shaft until his testicles were brushing against her. She cried out in ecstasy as he started pumping himself into her harder and harder, faster and faster. His pistoning cock slammed into her, the shaft rubbing against her swollen nub. She could feel his balls slapping against her with every thrust. She spread her legs as wide as the ropes would allow. Selek altered his rhythm and depth of penetration. Sometimes he would go slow and deep, other times, fast and shallow. T'Aitlu didn't care. All she cared was that she was being fucked thoroughly as the Humans would say.

Suddenly, Selek stiffened and shot his seed deep within her, mixing with her fluids. Her muscles milked his softening penis as he thrust once, then again. He collapsed onto her, then as he withdrew, rolled off to the side so as not to crush her with his dead weight. Once his breathing returned to normal, he undid her bindings.

They lay side by side on the bed, catching their breath. T'Aitlu curled up against his side, stroking his soft penis gently. "I can't," he breathed.

"I know. I only wish to touch you. That's all," she assured him.

They both fell into a deep, sated sleep.

~~~~~~~
The morning light fell across the sleeping form. He turned, the covers tangling in his legs as he did. An arm reached across the bed, but only felt air. Slowly, the man's eyes opened and he sat up, looking around him. "T'Aitlu?" he called.

There was no answer. He got up and looked around the room. Her clothing was gone as was she. Sighing, he dressed and went to the dining room to have breakfast with Sarek and Amanda...and her. He so wanted to see her again.

~~~~~~~~
Standing at the garden's railing gave him a good view of the courtyard. Guests were still arriving, the Rumarie Festival had begun the day before and he had spent the day wondering if he had made the right decision in coming here. He had heard of this place, and in the circles that he travelled, not everything should be believed. The source for the information, however, was reliable and this was why he had come. He was hoping that his fate was not to die in the blood fever... but he had not counted on meeting one that spoke to his soul.

Since arriving he had not been able to find time to be with her alone. He had tried sitting with her at meals, and she either did not show up or did not stay. He had tried to discover her schedule in order to be where she was going to be, but with her being the one that runs this place it was not easy to do. He watched the leaves in the tree above him move in the gentle breeze that had begun. Gratefully, it was a cooler breeze and it felt good against his face.

Sesev closed his eyes, his voice was soft and low, "Kwohk'a... help me find her." He spoke to the mythological garden spirit that he did not really believe in, but it seemed as if all of his beliefs were about to be tested.

"Who is it that you seek, S'haile Sesev?"

He spun around and could not believe the identity of the individual that had startled him. He bowed his head and hoped that in a very short time, he would gain some composure. "Actually, TaskMistress... it is you."

T'Aitlu bowed her head marginally, then waved him to the stone bench. "Then you have found me."

Sasev was almost speechless. "Yes, so it would seem." He drew in a calming breath. "However if we speak of it accurately... it was you that found me."

T'Aitlu drew her robes around her a little more; the breeze was becoming cool. "It will rain in an hour or so." She tilted her head asking, "Do you not wish to sit?"

Sasev was leery of being so close to her, but he saw no way to decline. He sat on the very edge of the bench, as far away as was physically possible and still remain on the bench.

"What did you wish to seek me out for?"

Sasev swallowed. He was not prepared for so much directness, then again he was certain she would not have been had she known the reason he wish to speak with her. He cleared his throat. "This is uncomfortable for me to speak of." He paused and noted that the TaskMistress seemed patient. "I came here for the Festival, but that was not the only reason." He looked down to the ground for a moment, then looked up, meeting her eyes. "I have need of a service... and I was informed that this place dealt with such matters."

"Perhaps. I must know what the service is before I can suggest anything." Her first impression of this male was that he was confident, yet he was now stumbling over every word.

"Yes, it would make it easier to know." He leaned back and stared at his own hand that rested on his thigh for a moment. He drew in a breath finding some courage. "I require one to see me through..." he breathed in quickly and glanced at T'Aitlu... still being patient. He closed his eyes. "It is my Time."

T'Aitlu began to run through the list of females that would be willing to serve. She was trying to consider one that would please him. "There is how much time until it resolves itself?"

Sasev had not heard it put quite that way before. "Approximately seven days."

"That is the outside limit?"

"Yes."

"Inside limit?" She had assumed that he had a mate or at least someone that he was attending the Festival with.

"Four days."

T'Aitlu lifted her eyebrow saying, "You are not giving one much time."

"You seem to have been avoiding me for the last few days. It has been difficult to speak with you."

"Any of the others could have helped you in selecting someone..."

Sasev sat up. "No. I don't want a selected one." He turned slightly facing her a little more. "I want you."

T'Aitlu locked eyes with him for a moment. She stood and started to walk past him, shaking her head.

Sasev stood and reached for her arm before she moved out of his reach. "TaskMistress..."

She turned to face him. "I do not function as odalisque any longer."

His hand tightened around her arm ever so slightly. "I did not mean for you to... " He closed his eyes and waited for the flush of heat to pass through his body. "I meant... I wanted..."

T'Aitlu turned facing him a little more. She watched this male fight for some clarity, and she waited. "Wanted what?"

He drew in a breath, took a step closer to her, his other hand reached to her face and ever so gently caressed her cheek with the back of his hand, "I wanted to bond with you."

T'Aitlu found herself frozen to the spot. She felt his touch on her arm and most definitely on her cheek. It had been whisper soft, barely touching her skin... but she felt it. She did not fight any of this, she could not find her wits about her to fight, nor did she find that she want to.

Sasev took a step closer, another step and he would be close enough. He studied her eyes trying to figure out if this was something that she would consider. He did not know in the least what her thoughts were. He breathed in slowly as another wave of the fever hit him. He was still able to stay standing, another day and he would find that he would have to sit through these tastes of the mating fire.

"You have not answered..."

"No. I haven't," she said softly. She could not move from the spot or even pull away from him. "I do not know... how to answer."

Sasev allowed a slight smile to play at his lips. "That in itself could be considered... positive."

"It could..." She studied this male, not even for an instant suspecting this is what he wanted. This is what was making her so uncomfortable when she was around him. He was unbonded, and being close to his time would project his emotions. Why had this not occurred to her before?

Sasev pulled her closer, wanting her to take a step towards him. Wanting her to choose... him.

T'Aitlu took a small step towards him, her hand reached out to brush the backs of her fingers along his jaw. She felt more than heard his soft moan. "I will have to consider... give this some thought."

Sasev nodded silently. He had expected nothing less. "I can wait a few more days."

"I can send thee something to ease the discomfort in the meantime." T'Aitlu had learned of many formulations that would help control the sensations associated with the blood fever. "It will not slow or speed up the process."

Sasev bowed his head. "Anything would be appreciated."

T'Aitlu ran through her schedule for the day trying to find time to spend with this male before she decided anything. "I will inform you of my decision at end-meal."

Sasev bowed his head again, and said, "I will look forward to that time." He forced himself to release his hold on her. He bowed his head again then stepped back and headed quickly to the door to the Shop and the seclusion of his room.

T'Aitlu watched him. She had not even realized that she was holding her breath until her body forced her to breathe. She reached to the back of the stone bench and sat down gingerly. What was she going to do?

~~~~~~~~~
Taurik stood and watched TaskMistress T'Aitlu. He had seen her go out into the garden, talk to this stranger that seemed to be haunting her, and then he watched as she sat down deep in thought. He knew that look; he had seen it often enough over the years.

The garden was an old one, the Ancient had planted most of it while he served his time here as TaskMaster. The old heavy doors had been modified with the addition of decorated glass--much more impressive for an entrance into a garden. There was an overhang that surrounded the garden, protecting it from the weather especially if you went out there to meditate. And right now, T'Aitlu sat on the bench under part of that overhang, which was a good place to be in the rain.

Taurik continued to watch her, wondering if he should take a cape to her or merely just leave her alone. It was obvious to him that she had been affected by the stranger's manner, but Taurik sensed no threat either from him or through T'Aitlu. He had been around her enough that he could sense the stronger emotions from her. Right now he sensed nothing but confusion.

Taurik turned at the sound behind him. He bowed his head. "S'haile."

Selek stopped for a moment, then looked out the same window Taurik had been. "Taking her out a cape would be my move." Selek, with a knowing touch on the pressure lock, opened the slim door concealed in the wall, and pulled out a cape. There were similar small concealed cabinets near each door in the Shop in case they were needed. He offered it to Taurik as he took another one out. "And one for yourself." Selek waited as Taurik swung the cape onto his shoulders then pulled the other under the cape and over his arm. "She needs one that is worthy of her, not merely someone that is interested in bonding with a Master."

Taurik raised an eyebrow. "Agreed." He looked outside again as he said, "But how to convince her of that..." Taurik headed out into the heavy rain to deliver the cape to T'Aitlu.

Selek watched them from the window. He didn't like the way T'Aitlu's conversation with the strange male had looked when he watched from his bedroom window. There was something about the stranger...something not right. He couldn't put his finger on it, but he would pay close attention to him during the Festival. "If he should hurt her..." He left the thought unfinished, and reasserted his controls.

Looking out again, he saw Taurik approach T'Aitlu. 'Now there is a solid relationship,' he thought. 'I wonder why they haven't bonded?' Shaking himself mentally, he went back to the writer's caves, hoping for some kind of distraction.

Later that evening, as he was sitting by the fireplace reading the latest from the writers and very aroused, Taurik approached him. "S'haile, a word with you, if you please."

"Of course, Taurik. What is it?" Selek asked.

Looking around him, Taurik said, "Not here. Please, come with me." Leading Selek out of the cozy room, he led him down to one of the pleasure rooms. Selek raised his eyebrow at this, but mentally shrugged.

Once at their destination, Taurik turned and faced the former Taskmaster. "I have a favour to ask of you."

Intrigued, Selek listened...and liked what he heard. Liked it a lot.

~~~~~
Taurik looked down the darkened hallway. He motioned for the cloaked figure to come out of the shadows, but to remain silent. He reached for her hand and guided her quickly down the corridor. He felt his heart racing as he considered his actions... and he was not sure of the outcome of this. He had hoped that the notes he had arranged for had done the trick. Neither should suspect anything as they had been carefully worded. He would definitely have a lot to answer for and was laying everything that he had ever known on the line. He had only two options open to him, this one... deceit and deception... and the other option, which carried the possibility of death for him. He did not want that.

The cloaked figure held onto Taurik's hand and walked closely to him. She brushed her hood back slightly, then with her free hand tugged at his robe. "S'haile Taurik, you are certain this will work?"

Taurik nodded as he looked down the corridor that crossed the one they were travelling along. "Yes. I checked with S'haile Sesev. He is quite agreeable."

She held his hand tightly. "As long as you are sure."

"Yes, I am." Taurik pulled her closer to him as they closed in on the door. He moved her to stand in front of him, facing him. "I want you to know how much I appreciate this."

"I know. I understand." She leaned forward and kissed his cheek. "I just hope he is pleased enough with me that I can stay with him."

Taurik nodded. "I am sure he will be."

She drew in a deep breath, slipped the cowl from her head and reached to open the door. She hesitated then stepped into the room... and into her future.

Taurik leaned against the wall. He breathed deeply a few times and waited for his heart to slow just a little. He would wait here for a few more minutes just to make sure everything was agreeable.

He closed his eyes and tried to calm his nerves. He had no idea why he had concocted this plan... well he did have a reason... just not a logical one. He was more than surprised he had gone through with it, and now he would have to face T'Aitlu... and there was no time like the present.

Once he was certain that everything was agreeable between Pi'lek and Sasev, he headed off to T'Aitlu's chambers. He knew the way by heart he had travelled it enough. He reached the corridor that held the tapestry-covered doorway that led down into the TaskMistress's chambers.

Briefly, he recalled the first time he had travelled down here, with T'Aitlu. He had not known about the Ancient's chambers until then, and after T'Aitlu became TaskMistress... it had not surprised him that she wished to take over these quarters. They suited her far more than the large chambers upstairs that Selek had preferred. It gave her the solitude she needed at times without being separated from her duties.

Taurik drew in a breath at the bottom of the stairs then stepped off and headed into the large library that was down here. He found T'Aitlu quietly reading. He lowered his eyes as she looked up at him and he shivered.

"Taurik? I had not expected you this evening." She put the book she was reading aside. She sat on the divan, a light blanket over her feet and a pot of hot tea on the small table beside her. "Was the choice to S'haile Sasev's satisfaction?" She had been surprised when she received the note from Sasev stating that he wished another. She had a brief moment of disappointment but it passed quickly. Apparently, it had not occurred to him that she would be remaining here... he wished a mate that would be able to travel back with him permanently.

"Yes." Taurik moved closer to her, "Matters appear to be agreeable..." he drew in a breath then dropped to his knees beside her. His head bowed low and his voice was low. "TaskMistress... Aitlu... I must ask for your forgiveness."

She frowned. "Explain?" She uncovered her feet and swung her legs to the floor. She reached forward and lifted his chin. He never acted in this manner before.

"I... interfered in matters... that I should not have. I could not allow them to proceed as planned."

T'Aitlu felt a nervous flush travel through her body. "Clarify," she demanded.

He closed his eyes for a moment then opened them to meet T'Aitlu's dark eyes searching his. "I was the one that sent you the note from Sasev. I sent one to him also with your refusal. I was the one that arranged the exchange... Pi'lek instead of you." Taurik felt the flush of heat through his body. He had not even noticed that this had started, not until he was making the arrangements for Sasev to bond with Pi'lek, and that had been days ago. "I was prepared to do this without any agreement... by anyone."

"You what?" T'Aitlu stood, interrupting him as her hand went to Taurik's arms and pulled him to his feet. She stared into his eyes, they were darker than usual and his face was flushed.

"I could not allow you to bond with him." He had finally said it. It was the first time he had actually uttered the words. He straightened his stance. "It was either this... or a challenge."

T'Aitlu stared at this male. "A challenge? What for?" She had been caught off guard with this and was not thinking within this subject line. Suddenly, it occurred to her what he meant... she sat down slowly. "A challenge. You would do this?"

Taurik nodded. "Yes, a thousand times over." He knelt at her feet again, his hand brushing her cheek gently. "It seems my TaskMistress... that it is finally my Time... and I would be honoured to bond with you."

T'Aitlu closed her eyes at his touch. This was totally unexpected... but it felt... right. She nodded. She recalled the last time they tried this; the bond did not hold. It had lasted for a few days then simply dissolved. "What if it does not hold this time?" She ran her fingertips along his face, his lips... she had been surprised and somewhat agreeable to the bond with Sasev, but Taurik... moved her, touched her soul.

Taurik smiled. "Then we remain telsu but not mate-bonded."

"You would be satisfied with this?"

"It would be the same if I took another, but I do not wish to bond with any other." Taurik remained on his knees, content to be there until he received an answer. He shivered as another wave of heat traveled through his body. He closed his eyes and quelled the rising desire to simple take her... as he felt was his right.

She watched him as his face flushed and she could feel the emotions that emanated from him suddenly stop. He had excellent control as of late, and she was not the only one to notice. He drew in a breath, controlling the reactions she had to him. Perhaps it was time to take one that would be hers. One that knew what she did here... and would understand.

T'Aitlu reached slowly to the warm face in front of her, her fingertips touched him and immediately felt the fires that were burning within him. She heard him moan and then stand to reach for her meld points. She closed her eyes and felt him reach in... using the same path he did the first time she taught him to reach into her thoughts. A gentle brushing and then he reached in deeper. She allowed his slow but steady journey, her skills were far better and she could reach into his thoughts and touch his core almost immediately.

Their hands began to caress, thoughts reached in and wrapped around the desire that burned and she moved slowly to her knees. Taurik followed her to the floor; he did not have much strength to stand at the moment.

T'Aitlu whispered and Taurik only had the ability to nod his agreement. "My mind to your mind... my thoughts to your thoughts..."

Taurik's low voice joined hers. "We are one."

He reached in and was drawn to the coolness that she offered to him. He allowed it to wash over him, quenching the fires of the plak tow. He moaned and pulled her closer to him. Seemingly with a mind of their own, his hands pulled at her clothing. He could not remember if he had ripped the fabric or if it just slipped off of her. It didn't matter, her body was bared to him. He caressed her face and then began a slow path down her body. Tender touches and gentle caresses gave way to searing kisses and bites that occasionally broke the skin.

T'Aitlu had stripped him of his clothing, her hands began their own investigation of a body she had come to know over the years... and yet this time, it seemed different, more personal. It seemed more willing to be hers, more compliant and far more hungry for her than he had been in the past. She traced his lips, caressed his cheek then leaned forward and captured his mouth.

Taurik moaned into her mouth. He pulled her closer then lifted his hand to her face and reached into her thoughts again, wrapping himself in her coolness and into her control. "Yes," he whispered. He found some sense to stand pulling her up with him and headed for her bed.

Both climbed onto the bed, awkwardly, not wanting to lose touch with the other. He knelt and moved closer to her as she knelt, facing him. He pulled her to him, her knee placed carefully between his knees. He breathed her in; his kisses began a path from her mouth to her throat, her shoulders, and her breasts. He nipped gently on her nipple then took it into his mouth, suckling on her.

T'Aitlu breathed in deeply, her hand held his head as her fingers clenched in his hair. She moaned, her body was reacting to every one of his touches and now this was bringing her even higher. "Harder," she whispered as she bent her head and kissed his head. She felt him move closer as he sucked harder. She moaned her pleasure deep in her throat. She sighed audibly when he released her... then began teasing at the other breast. Her breathing had deepened and her need for his thoughts increased. His mouth latched onto her other breast as she reached into his thoughts... sharing the sensation with him.

Taurik held his breath, it was overwhelming... he sucked harder as he shared this and then he moaned. He pushed her down onto the bed, releasing her breast and giving her only a moment to straighten her legs out. Without preamble he spread her legs with his knees and pushed into her. He moaned as he was surrounded by her warmth. It was the plak tow that guided him now. The fire that had been only embers a few hours ago was now enveloping him in an uncontrollable need for her.

T'Aitlu felt the change... felt the fires consume his reason and feed the passions that hid deep within the Vulcan male. She allowed the passion-fire to find its own path... she breathed in deeply then moaned as it crept into her thoughts setting them aflame.

There would be no sense of what was happening. No sense of time or reality until this had satiated itself. Plain and simple rutting, until the urges died with his fires. Sometimes it would take only hours to feel any of the calmness, but most of the time it took days.

All would be a blur...

~~~~~~~~~
There was a sense of movement in the room. That was the first sense of reality that he had in days. He knew that much. He moved his arm slowly out from under the pillow and turned in the direction away from her; one hand still remaining on her body to retain some physical contact with her. He cleared his throat and tried to open his eyes slowly. He was relieved it wasn't bright.

Taurik turned his head towards the noise and tried to ask who it was, but his voice didn't work too well and it came out in a croak.

"Vorik." He walked over to the night table and poured out a glass of water for his brother. "I am the only one brave enough to come in here." He smiled at his brother with his eyes. "Drink the water. She is still sleeping and you should be too."

Taurik sat up slowly. He took the offered glass from his brother and drank it down greedily. "Throat feels like I have been drinking sand." He cleared his throat again. "How long?"

"Six days." Vorik watched his brother for a moment. He was through the worst of it but by no means through it all. He should know, this was his twin brother and part of the reason neither of them had successfully bonded. "You should eat, shower and get some sleep."

Taurik nodded then leaned back against the pillows. He placed the glass on the nightstand. Taurik closed his eyes; sleep sounded like the best of Vorik's suggestions.

Vorik watched him for a minute then headed upstairs to report to S'haile Selek how they were doing. Selek had been gracious enough to remain through the rest of the Rumarie to help. The original plans were that Taurik would be available while T'Aitlu was with Sasev. Vorik shook his head and wondered how his brother had managed all that he had without being discovered.

Taurik opened his eyes in just enough time to see his brother disappear up the stairs. He sat up slowly then looked over at his bedmate. He moved down into the bed and pulled her close to him. He spooned up against her, brushing her long hair over her shoulder and out of the way. He kissed her neck then whispered in her ear that he cherished her. He settled down to sleep, and just before he felt the darkness take him... the fires moved in again.

He moaned, pulling her closer. He lifted her leg, slipping his knee between her legs. He positioned himself at her entrance and pushed in slowly. He sighed with relief when she woke and pushed back against him. One hand went to her breast, the other moved down her body to tease her folds. He kissed, then nipped at her neck and shoulder. He moaned her name as a wave of desire washed over him. His body shivered, as he thrust into her over and over again. His fingers moved into position on her face and he reached into her thoughts, awakening the fires in her.

T'Aitlu arched herself as she pressed against him. Her hand reached back to his face, and the connecting meld points. She felt the rush of fires and her body's response. She felt their release and the building of passions that followed it.

She found herself on her back just as she realized he had pulled out and then he was deep within her again. He pushed his hardness in deeper and harder than before. He would be driven until this madness left his system. Hormones had to swing around the other way and the meld was only the beginning. Repeated melds over the days of plak tow was the action that would bind them for life.

Nothing was hidden from the other, nothing could be hidden... not anymore. Secrets were shared, as well as deep forgotten pasts that were revealed and accepted. Their passions, their drives, their hidden desires, their likes and their dislikes were now all shared. No place in their thoughts had not been touched by the other. All was revealed... all was accepted.

Now each would move and react knowing of the other. Nothing was spoken, nothing needed to be spoken. All that was needed to be shared was being shared through their link, their meld... their bond... for life.

~~~~~~~~
T'Aitlu stood at the railing of the garden. Two more days of touching and melding... she had been sure that this bonding would take hold. But again, neither was left with the sense of mate-bonding. She had begun to wonder if she would ever have a sense of this... if she was capable? That is something that she would have been able to answer, yet she could not... or perhaps would not.

She needed some time alone before she returned to the controlled chaos of running the Shop. Taurik was still sleeping. She had showered and dressed then come up here for a short time. It was still early morning, and the sun was just rising above the horizon. The guests of Rumarie had left and it was quiet again.

She turned at the sound of the door opening. She tilted her head slightly. "I understand thanks are in order, S'haile Selek."

He waved them off, as she knew he would. "There is no need. It was... interesting to be called into service again."

Selek looked at his friend, waiting for her to announce her bonding. He dropped his shields and gently probed at the corners of her mind, to determine her state. He felt her snap her shields firmly in place and stare at him.

"Forgive me, t'hy'la. I meant no invasion of your privacy," he said, "but when I did not see you or Taurik for a week, I assumed... " He let his explanation trail off. He did not want to incur her wrath, or get Taurik into trouble.

"You assumed what, Selek?" she demanded. She wondered what exactly he had thought had happened.

Straightening his shoulders, he said, "Since you did not come to me during the Festival, and since I was asked to resume my duties as Taskmaster by Taurik, then I assumed that you were bonding with him. I give you my congratulations." It would pain him not to be able to hold her in his arms, but he was thankful that she was finally happy.

She spoke softly, "The bond did not hold."

Unable to hear her, Selek leaned closer and asked her to repeat what she said.

"I said, the bond did not hold." Her eyes filled with unshed tears as she admitted this. "This is not the first time, either, Selek. We tried once before."

"I see. Do you...care for him?" he asked gently. "Does he make you happy, beloved?"

"Yes," she whispered. "He does." Turning away from him, she left the room.

Selek let her go. "This cannot continue," he murmured. Going to the comm station, he accessed an outside line.

Later that day, Selek found T'Aitlu and beckoned to her from the open door. She rose gracefully from her chair and came to him. "Please come with me," he said in a no-nonsense manner. He led her down the hall to her office and told her to remain there until he came for her.

"What is this all about, Selek? I have work to do." She thought of all the work that she had ignored the past few days, not to mention over the Rumarie. Selek was not usually this mysterious about matters.

"Please indulge me, beloved. It is important," was all he said, sitting her down on the chair behind the desk.

He left the office and returned seven minutes later with Taurik in tow. Opening a portable communicator, he said, "We are ready."

Seconds later, they all felt the familiar tingling sensation of a transporter beam. When they materialized again, they saw Sarek's aide, Soran working the controls. He nodded at the junior Ambassador, and said, "He is waiting for you in his office. T'sai Amanda is also there."

"Thank you, Soran." Turning to the two confused Vulcans beside him, he said, "Follow me."

"Where are we?" Taurik asked.

"All will be made plain soon," Selek said as he strode down the hall.

Arriving at their destination, he swept past the secretary into Sarek's office. There, they found Sarek, Amanda...and Vorik.

Taurik glared at him and asked, "What are you doing here?"

Ambassador Sarek answered before Vorik could. "Never mind that. We are here for a serious purpose. Please be seated." His commanding presence filled the room and all but Selek sat.

T'Aitlu looked at the twins, but said nothing. She then turned her attention to Sarek and waited.

"It has come to my attention that you attempted to bond with Taurik, T'Aitlu, but the bond did not persist. Is this true?" Sarek asked gently.

"It is of no concern to you, with all respect, S'haile," she answered, tossing a quick glance Selek's way. He was the only one that would have known and talked to Sarek about the matter.

Sarek looked at his nephew, then to Amanda. Turning back to T'Aitlu, he said, "It is my concern when the activities at the Shop are compromised."

"They have not been compromised, S'haile. Nor will they," she shot back, her nerves frayed by recent events and the stress of resolving Taurik's pon farr.

Sarek squatted down in front of her, putting his hands on the arms of her chair. He looked deeply into her eyes, and said softly, "Yes, they have, child." Seeing her unbelieving look, he continued. "The administration of the Shop has been the responsibility of our Clan for centuries and has been managed admirably...so far. But the kitasau are only as good as the Taskmaster. And of late, the Taskmaster has been...distracted." He held up his hand to stave off her protest. "Distracted by loneliness and sadness." He watched as she bowed her head. Straightening up, he said, "When I heard that you possibly were bonding with Taurik, I was greatly pleased. I have watched you two over the past year and saw how compatible you were. Then I heard about the failed bond, and was distressed. This cannot continue, child. It is not right. The bond will be strengthened, here and now."

Both Taurik and T'Aitlu looked at him, then to each other. "How is that possible, Ambassador? The bond is not holding because of the fact Taurik is a twin," T'Aitlu exclaimed.

"Who told you that?" a deep, voice said from behind her.

T'Aitlu turned quickly in her chair and saw a figure emerge from the shadows of the corner. She hadn't even noticed him when she came in.

"Who told you that, daughter," he repeated. He was a thin, older man, well in his hundreds, standing straight and tall dressed in the orange robes of a Master of Gol. His voice was like velvet; smooth and luxurious. His hands were calloused and gnarled; yet they were as expressive as his eyes. "Whoever it was, was mistaken," he continued. "If that were so, we would be condemning a large portion of our population to death. I, myself, am a twin, and I was successfully bonded. Now it is your turn. I will assist, if this is what you wish."

"May I present Sopel, a Master at Gol," Sarek said. "I have brought him here to make sure your bond is as solid as mine."

Sopel walked so he faced T'Aitlu and Taurik. "Everyone will leave us now. We require solitude to continue," he ordered. When he heard the door swoosh close behind them, he asked, "What are your wishes, children?"

Taurik spoke first. "I wish to bond with T'Aitlu. I have cherished her for years. I asked her to bond with me and she accepted. This is not the first time our bonding has failed, Master." Taurik bowed his head, hoping T'Aitlu would not reject him now.

Sopel turned to T'Aitlu and waited for her to speak.

"I want to be happy. Is that so wrong, Master?"

"No, it is not wrong. But it is an emotion. Is your decision to bond based on emotion, or logic?"

T'Aitlu didn't know what to say to that. She wanted someone to love her. To cherish her. To accept her the way she was. And that someone was Taurik. He had stood by her through all manner of turmoil, never saying a harsh word, never judging her, and always standing by her side, ever faithful. Looking at Sopel's jet-black eyes, she whispered, "Both."

"As it should be, child. So, do you wish to bond with this male?"

"Yes," she said softly.

"Then we will make that happen." The Golic Master pulled up a chair and sat facing them, close enough so their knees touched. Placing his fingers on their meld points, he repeated the ancient chant that merged their minds into one. "~Try to bond with her, Taurik,~" he mind-spoke.

Taurik let his mind fall into hers, searching out the pathways that they created during his Time. Finding them, he felt them strengthen more than they had ever been before. Sopel guided him, strengthening the fibres of the bond as they went.

T'Aitlu's mind reached up to Taurik's, gathering his into hers. Sopel tested the bond, and shored up the weaker parts to it until it was nearly impossible to tell where one ended and the other started.

After several hours, Sopel removed his fingers from their faces and sat back heavily. "It is done. The bond did not fail because he was a twin, it failed because of your collective lack of ability. It has been too long since you've been back to Vulcan, and it shows. I am to be here for another month. If you wish, I can instruct you and develop your disciplines to an acceptable level. Do you wish this?"

"Yes, Master," they both said in unison.

"Good. And you must return home periodically or this will happen again. We will talk more of it later. I am fatigued. Please extend my regrets to the ambassadors." Sopel stood up and glided out of the room.

Taurik breathed in deeply, almost as if for the first time. "I had no idea it would feel this way." He had always 'shared' his thoughts easily with Vorik, and he had expected a bond to be the same, but it wasn't. It was far more. If he wanted to, he could feel her heartbeat, her breathing... even 'listen' to her thoughts. He moved closer to her, and reached out to brush back her hair. "We had always been told that bondings would be difficult if not impossible. Even the Masters that taught us had said so." He thought about all the time they had missed being together, but then again it would not be as precious had it been easily attained. "I had thought that this time it was because of what I did... that you really did not approve and ..."

T'Aitlu touched her fingers to his lips stopping him. "There have always been only two that shared my life... you and Selek. The others were shadows that required a service. Faceless and meaning nothing." She folded her fingers brushing the backs against his face. The bond that she had experienced in the past had seemed to dissolve into nothingness over the years. He never came to her; he had found another way to deal with his Time and it became of no consequence to her. She had always assumed that had somehow played a part in her inability to bond. She breathed in with her bondmate; it was a glorious sensation. To be one with another was as pleasurable as she had seen in other's thoughts that she had shared... especially in Selek's and Sarek's thoughts. They had always held the most disappointment in having to call on her to serve them in ways their Human mates could not.

Taurik lifted her chin. "It will be most interesting to share my life with you... and our time at the Shop." He tilted his head slightly. "I gather you do wish to remain?"

"Yes." She felt his pleasure travel through even this light touch between them. "It will be the first time the Shop will have both a Task Master and Mistress."

Taurik's thumb caressed her lips, his thoughts were of the time they could share together, privately. "It could prove quite interesting."

"No doubt." T'Aitlu's fingers moved to brush against the meld points, then smiled slightly as she felt both their bodies reacting to the other. She savoured the sensation for a few moments then found her controls. "I need to speak with Selek."

Taurik nodded. "No doubt he is waiting in his office." He took a step back from her. He had always understood their relationship and he had no qualms about it continuing. It was not a compromise to their new bond and it was something that T'Aitlu needed. "And I have a brother to talk to."

"It seems that there was much plotting all around this."

Taurik nodded. He wondered how badly they were be projecting this new bond. The pleasure of being one was something he had only experienced second hand before this. He had been walking along the corridors at the Shop when others had bonded there, and the projected sensations were somewhat interesting. "I believe Vorik is hiding out somewhere... " This was the first time Taurik had not been able to 'feel' his brother easily. He had to almost search for the connection between them. It was still there but this new bond overshadowed it.

~~~~~~~
T'Aitlu walked through the hallways to Selek's office. She hesitated then entered the reception area. The young aide stood, bowed his head and informed her that she was expected to proceed in.

T'Aitlu touched the release and the door slid open. She drew in a breath then stepped into his office. She looked around the large room and discovered him standing and staring out the window. He was not wearing his robes of office but was dressed in a simple suit and he was sipping on some wine.

Selek turned to face her; the goblet was placed on the small table next to him. He smiled ever so slightly, a mixture of emotions flitting across his face.. "T'sai, you seem... complete." He noticed a change in her, one that was a long time coming. "And none the worse for wear."

T'Aitlu bowed her head. "It is... different." She moved closer to him. "Why did you do this? Why did you go to Sarek?"

He cleared his throat softly. "I knew he knew of those that could help. I never could understand why you and he could not bond. Both of you are such strong telepaths, your skills are there... and yet it seemed almost as if one of you was reluctant." He poured out the rich dark green wine into the matching goblet, then topped his off. He offered the goblet to her. "A toast, in Terran fashion..." He was pleased when she accepted the goblet. "To your future... finally complete."

T'Aitlu bowed her head accepting the toast, sipped on her wine then offered her own. She raised her glass slightly. "To our future, one that I cherish. You are telsu... and always will be."

Selek raised an eyebrow and said, "Taurik may have other ideas..."

"Taurik understands. He always has."

Selek had his doubts, but he bowed his head accepting the toast.

"You will have to book your room for the next Rumarie. It seems we have many that wish to return already."

Selek lifted her chin, considering her for a moment. "Rumarie would not be the same without you."

"And who says it has to be?" Taurik asked as he walked into the room. He shook his head, "Nothing will change S'haile. She is kitausu, TaskMistress and then my bondmate. Just as it always has been... just as it always will be." He leaned closer to Selek. "However, I now get to warm her bed more often than before..." His eyebrow raised and then he grinned, "That is if she lets me...."

Selek smiled. Yes this would certainly work out. He raised his goblet. "To the Shop."

T'Aitlu nodded then raised her goblet touching the rim to his. "The shop."

~~~~~~~~~~~
The end??......I think not......

Comments cheerfully accepted
at the terminals of
T'sai T'Aitlu or S'haile Selek



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