Burning Embers Part 6
By: Stacy L.
COMING TO TERMS
Released from Bhuvarloka
Sometimes I feel as if I’m just
existing…in space and in time. I feel as if I’m not connected to the real
world. I feel as if I’m merely hovering, invisible to all, unheard by all, lost
to all.
Sometimes I fight and I struggle
so hard to be heard, but as always no one is there. No one hears me. No one
sees me. No one knows that I even exist. I’m floating in mid-air, not corporal,
not real, merely just drifting like a phantom, existing in a world that’s no
world at all, but a plane of existence that is invisible to the human eye.
Sometimes when people look at me
it’s as if they are looking right through
me, as if they don’t see me at all. They walk by without stopping, without
offering me a single glance. They pass as if I’m a shadow, as if I’m nothing
more than an apparition trapped in limbo, trapped between the real world and
the vastness of space.
I call out to them sometimes,
but my voice is carried away, out of earshot. I try again and my voice remains
silent to their ears. They only hear what they want to hear, what they choose to hear. The sounds of one such
as I are always ignored, for I exist as nothing more than a thick fog that
hovers and clings to the ground only to be burned and scourged away by the
fiery sun.
I exist merely to serve, merely
to please. I’m unimportant and insignificant. I’m inanimate to some, a beast to
others, an animal to most. I have limited rights and have no say in the
direction my life has taken or will take. I merely exist and that is all I do.
They don’t hear me when I speak.
They don’t hear me when I cry out. They don’t hear me when I scream as I try
desperately to cling to something substantial. They don’t know that I even
exist. Instead they look right through me and see nothing at all.
No one notices a servant, a
slave, no one so I suppose in the end I must admit that I’m nothing more than a
ghost, for very few ever actually SEE me, instead most they just walk right on
by unaware of my silent screaming…
As he worked he became lost in thought caught off guard when an elderly gentleman excused himself as he went around him. Glancing up he saw the man nod before heading off down the hall. He wondered who the man was pausing when he heard Mara loudly say, “Ah welcome. He is ready for you. You may go to him now.”
“Thank you.”
“I assure you he will serve you well.”
He is ready? He will serve you well? Shaking his head he became certain that the elderly gentleman was one of Daniel’s many clients. Would Mara really make Daniel serve a man who was so much older than he? Why?
He watched as the man gently tapped on a door before entering the room and was positive that Daniel was waiting on the other side. The knowledge both saddened and infuriated him.
He gazed at that door for several long moments before returning his focus to the task at hand tensing when he was later approached and relaxing only when Narayana softly said, “It is time to return to your cell, O’Neill.”
Nodding, he slowly arose to his feet wincing at the aching, straining muscles as he did so and quickly turned to again gaze at the closed door at the end of the hall.
Narayana noticed where O’Neill was focusing and sighed before saying, “Come we must get you back.”
Once back in the dungeons and in his cell he turned to Narayana opening his mouth to speak only to close it again.
Narayana nodded before answering the unvoiced question, “He is still serving. He will visit you when he is able.”
“So that elderly gentleman? He’s a client of Daniel’s?”
“Yes he is.”
“Isn’t he a bit…old for Daniel? I mean does he actually have to…you know do that with him?”
“No, not with this particular client, no…”
“Is he an exception to that rule or something?”
“No. No. He just prefers to watch. He doesn’t require anything of Daniel other than for him to perform for him.”
Swallowing hard as his mind dredged up a million and one things Daniel’s present client would request he perform for him he forced out, “He…does Daniel have to…you know, in front of him?”
Narayana shook his head before providing an answer, “No. No. All he requests from Daniel is that he dance for him.”
“That he dance…? Why dance? I mean…”
“O’Neill you have seen Daniel perform. He is a very talented dancer. The customer he is presently serving desires only to watch him dance.”
Shaking his head he confessed, “I don’t get it. I mean he’s
a beautiful man, desirable, hot, sexy…and all this man wants to do with him is
watch him dance?”
“I thought you would be relieved to hear this.”
“Oh I am. I am it’s just that… Doesn’t it seem, I don’t know, strange to you? I mean…”
“No, O’Neill, it does not. He has Daniel’s best interests at heart…”
“He does, does he?”
“Yes.”
“Really?”
“Yes, O’Neill, his only concern is to help Daniel in whatever way he can. He visits Daniel to see him dance and brings him gifts. He wants very much to help Daniel and that is how he does. Now if you’ll excuse me I must go check on him to see if he is finished for the evening.”
“Um sure, sure…”
He watched Narayana leave the dungeon area wondering about the mysterious elderly gentleman who apparently only visited Daniel to watch him dance. Why? Why would he choose only to request a dance? Most of Daniel’s clients wanted so much more, but this one…
Shaking his head he was caught off guard as the door to the dungeon opened again. Certain it was Narayana he opened his mouth to ask another question managing, “So this particular client of Daniel’s…” before falling completely silent as Daniel approached. Swallowing hard he offered a quick, “I’m sorry. I’m sorry, Daniel, I thought…”
“I was Narayana? Yeah, I gathered as much.”
“So…how are you?”
Daniel cocked his head to the left before eyeing Jack up. Silence fell between them for several moments before Daniel smiled and said, “You’re jealous? Jack, he’s an elderly man who likes to watch me dance, that’s all. Would you relax already?”
“Um, yeah…sure Daniel, sure, I mean…”
“What is it Jack?”
“You’re not upset? You’re not… He didn’t upset you?”
“No Jack. He didn’t. He never does. He’s the kindest client I have. I think truthfully he’s lonely and just likes my company. He gave me a gift tonight.”
“Ah yes Narayana said he does that…”
“A different gift then what he usually gives me. It’s…it was a very nice gift that I’d some day like to share with you…”
“Well why not now?”
“I can’t…it’s… For personal reasons and because I’m afraid that if he finds out about it…”
“He’ll take it from you.”
“Something like that, yeah…”
“I’m sorry. For what it’s worth I’m sorry.”
“Thanks Jack. Thank you.”
Silence fell between them for several moments before Jack interrupted it with, “So tell me about him. What’s he like?”
“Jack…”
“What?”
“He’s very nice, but he always confuses me.”
“Why?”
“Because I don’t understand it myself…”
“Understand what?”
“Why he shows up every week and only requests that I dance for him before giving me a gift and payment for My Master.”
“Narayana says he desires to help you and that’s the only way he knows how.”
“Yeah I gathered as much, but I still don’t understand why.”
Shrugging his shoulders Jack answered, “Perhaps you’re not meant to know why. Perhaps he’s like those angels…they visit you for a reason, a purpose and you never know what it is, but in the end their only desire is to help you.”
Nodding his head in agreement Daniel responded with, “Yeah perhaps you’re right.”
“So this gift he gave you…”
“It’s silly really.”
Jack softened his voice as he responded, “Not so silly to you.”
Lowering his gaze briefly he answered, “No, no, you’re right about that, Jack. It’s…very special to me. There is little I possess in this world and few things that I value highly…”
“Ah and this gift is one?”
“Yes.”
“That must be some gift…”
“He gave it to me because I…he said it was a gift between he and I, a gift that he felt I was ready for.”
“And what was this gift?”
“Not telling you yet, Jack, but the reason he gave it to me? He said it was because I had found love…in you, Jack.”
Swallowing hard, surprised at the unexpected answer all Jack could do was gape at him before smiling broadly and saying, “And so it would seem that even a slave is free to love another.”
Nearly choking in response to that statement all Daniel could manage was a soft whispered, “Yes.”
* *
The next day as he worked he noticed Daniel watching him. He’d watch him for several moments before returning his attention to helping one of the other slaves. Daniel worked proficiently pausing off and on only to gaze at him. He smiled when Daniel caught him returning the stolen glances only to frown when Daniel suddenly jerked his gaze away upon the entrance of his master and immediately returned his focus to the task at hand.
Mara uttered but two words and Daniel instantly lowered to the floor before him kneeling, his legs spread wide, hands on his thighs and his back arched slightly as his master approached. He was surprised at how quickly Daniel complied with the command stopping what he had been doing instantly as if Mara’s word was law. Shaking his head he closed his eyes as he realized that it was law to Daniel. If he had hesitated even a moment it would’ve been excuse enough for Mara to lash out at him. The simple realization saddened him greatly.
Swallowing hard he tensed when Mara ordered Daniel to heel next watching as he began to walk around the room checking the slaves’ work. Daniel remained slightly behind his left foot trailing him wherever he went. When Mara moved so did Daniel.
Once around the room Mara addressed Daniel again, “Sarameya, you may rise.”
“My Master, thank you, My Master.”
He gracefully complied with the command remaining where he had stopped awaiting his master’s next command.
Continuing to watch he could feel the tension now present in the room and felt very uneasy. The room was eerily silent, not a slave moved, the tension only breaking when Mara said, “You will attend me now.”
“My Master, yes My Master.”
He then turned to address the entire room, “I am pleased with what I have seen today. You may continue.”
The tension in the room seemed to quickly ease after that as if a collective sigh went up throughout the room before the others began to work again. Jack didn’t begin again until he heard Mara’s command to Daniel and watched as they left the room.
Glancing at Narayana he saw relief flash across his face and asked softly, “What, Narayana, what?”
“Had he not been pleased…”
“Daniel would’ve suffered, wouldn’t he?”
He watched as Narayana drew in a shaky breath before simply nodding his head in response.
Jack didn’t see Daniel for the rest of the evening and was unsure if he would be able to get away long enough to visit him. Now back in his cell he paced anxiously back and forth hoping to see Daniel shortly and certain that he wouldn’t. When the man presently occupying his thoughts entered the dungeon all Jack could manage was a breathless, “Daniel.”
Daniel approached offering a shy smile that quickly turned into a frown as he asked, “What is it, Jack? What’s wrong?”
“You came.”
“Of course I came, Jack. I always do…when I’m able.”
“When you’re… He didn’t…”
Daniel immediately downcast his eyes as he quickly answered, “No. No.”
Sensing there was much more left unspoken he gently prodded, “Daniel what is it?”
“Nothing.”
“Daniel…”
As the man focused on him Jack felt the breath rapidly escape his lungs and felt a sharp pain in the vicinity of his chest at what he saw reflected in those eyes. He swallowed hard before managing, “You were serving again, weren’t you?”
Daniel jerked his head up managing, “What…no. I mean I…” he shook his head as he quietly answered, “I always serve, Jack.”
“In the bed chamber, Daniel…”
Immediately haunted eyes were cast downward and Daniel became increasingly more fidgety. Jack said, “Ah Daniel come here.”
He reached out and Daniel jerked back answering, “No. No I can’t…no!”
It was then he saw the pain in those pristine blue eyes, the pain, the fear, the self-doubt…and Narayana’s haunting words rapidly came back to him:
Each time he is
ordered to please another for Mara, it cuts him like a knife…
Daniel is sacrificing his whole being and all you are sacrificing…is your heart.
“Shit!”
Startled eyes focused on him and Jack silently cursed his stupidity. He shook his head, at a loss for what to say until finally he managed, “Do you want to talk about it?”
“What? NO! No…”
“I’ve been told I’m a really good listener, Daniel…”
He was graced with the shyest, smallest of smiles. Encouraged he continued, “Come on pull up a chair. What have you got to lose?”
The softest response came back so soft that Jack wondered if Daniel even realized he had spoken at all. What he said pushed Jack’s determination up even more: MYSELF.
Ah Daniel why did it
take me so long to see, so long to realize?
Quieting his voice further he promised, “I won’t let that happen.”
“What?”
“I won’t let you lose yourself, Daniel.”
Daniel paled before confessing, “I fear it’s already too late for that, Jack.”
“Don’t say that, no.”
“Yes. Yes, Jack. I…I don’t know who I am anymore. Before you I…I knew what my life would be like. I knew what to expect in this life. I knew my place and now…”
“Now?”
“You’ve gone and messed it all up.”
“How Daniel?”
“By caring, by making me want more.”
“Daniel…”
“How can you care for me? You don’t even know me. I’m… Why do you care? Why, Jack? Why?”
“Daniel I…”
“Don’t… I can’t love, Jack. I’m not free to love and it’s killing me, Jack. You’re killing me.”
“So, what, you want me to stop talking to you?”
“No. No.”
“Then what?”
“I don’t know.”
“Daniel that’s not very helpful.”
“I know. Jack you, you don’t understand what it’s like for me to feel something so strongly yet be forbidden from… I’m a slave, Jack. I’m property. I’m owned. I exist to serve that’s my duty, that’s my right to please others, to always be pleasing to others. I’m not allowed to feel, Jack. I’m not allowed to care. I’m not allowed to…”
In a softer voice Jack interjected, “Love, Daniel?”
Startled by the unexpected question all he could manage was a strained, “WHAT?” that had Jack replying in an even quieter tone, “Is that what you want to say to me, Daniel? You’re not allowed to love?”
“No and yes and no…I don’t…” shaking his head he continued, “You confuse me, Jack. I don’t understand what it is you want from me. I don’t… I have, I…these feelings I don’t… I can’t comprehend them. I don’t know. I don’t understand what’s happening here. I, you make me feel…things I can’t explain…”
“Have you ever been in love, Daniel?”
“I love Narayana, and I loved my parents…”
“No that’s different.”
“How? How is it any different from…?”
“Does Mara love you?”
“I… No, I don’t…I don’t know…in his own way I suppose yes but…”
“Does Narayana love you?”
“Yes.”
“Was there anyone else in your life you cared for a bit more than others?”
“Well no not…not really. Why?”
“Just something Narayana said to me.”
“What did he say? Jack, what did Narayana say?”
“That the only love you’ve ever experienced has been parental and that you don’t know what being in love with someone actually means.”
“I…”
He fell abruptly silent uncertain as to how to respond to the comment feeling even more confused than earlier. After several moments he glanced at Jack before slowly approaching and asking, “Are you still willing to listen?”
“Always, Daniel, always.”
“No, I don’t think you are. At least not this anyway…”
“Try me.”
“Jack, do you know what goes on when I…serve?”
“Yes.”
He flushed before managing, “You…you do?”
“Yes you…please them and satisfy them. You give yourself to them.”
“No see that’s where you’re mistaken. I don’t give myself to anyone that implies I’m willing. No, I sacrifice myself. I… Yes I please them, and I don’t deny it feels good to me too. I don’t deny it’s pleasurable for me, but it’s not me they get, Jack, it’s not me.”
“I don’t…”
“I…it’s my body they use. It’s not me, never me, not completely anyway. There’s only one I’ve ever felt any desire to surrender everything to and that’s…” shaking his head he continued, “Someone.”
“Someone? Daniel…”
“Jack, don’t. Please don’t. I’m… Please.”
“Okay, Daniel, okay.”
“Thank you.”
An uncomfortable silence fell between them for several moments before Jack broke it with, “So what do you want to talk about, Daniel?”
“I don’t know.”
“Well, okay tell me about your parents. Where are they? What happened to them?”
“Jack you already know this.”
“No, I beg to differ.”
Sighing he responded, “They’re gone. They were killed for what they believed in. They… I was taken shortly after…”
“Do you remember them?”
“A little…images mainly and memories, a few memories but… I was happy with them. I…I was loved and cared for. I… They were scientists. They were… I…I had so little time with them. I…I miss them.”
“So you’ve been on your own ever since?”
“Well no. Narayana, he took me under his wing so to speak. He’s raised me ever since. I… So what about your parents Jack?”
“Well my father’s gone, my mother she’s still alive. I haven’t been home in…a long time. We had an argument, big, BIG argument. I haven’t been back since.”
“How long ago was that?”
“Oh it’s been several years now.”
“Have you spoken with her?”
“No, no. Not really.”
“Why?”
“Just never got around to it, I guess.”
“Jack.”
“What?”
“You should.”
“I should? What?”
“Talk to her. Visit her again.”
“Nah she wouldn’t want to see me again.”
“Don’t be too sure, Jack. Do you know there’s almost nothing I wouldn’t give to see either of my parents again? I…to have had a mother even just a mother… Jack, if not for Narayana I would have had no father. I would have missed out on so much. I already missed out on so much. There was a hole there, Jack, a hole in my heart that no one could fill. Then Narayana came into my life and through the years he slowly filled it up again. Jack, it’s such a precious gift to have parents, a parent. You shouldn’t just throw it away.”
“I… She’d like you I think.”
Daniel blushed lowering his gaze as he muttered, “Really?”
“Yes. I believe she would. You…there’s a gentleness about you that she would see immediately, a gentleness that would draw her.”
“Now you’re just making things up.”
“No, no I’m serious here.”
“What’s she like, your mother?”
“Before dad died she was more carefree. She enjoyed life. After he left she changed. She became cold, bitter, angry…hurtful.”
“She was grieving, Jack.”
“Yes she was, but she didn’t have to be so angry.”
“People grieve in different ways, Jack, and it takes a long time to come to terms with it. She was having a healthy reaction to loss. Anger, sadness, depression, it’s all part of the grieving process, Jack. Take it from someone who knows.”
“Yeah but you were never…”
“I was a hellion, Jack. I was angry. I was bitter. I was determined to drive everyone away. I was determined to drive my captors to wanting to kill me instead of keep me around. When My Master purchased me I was impossible to control. He was strict. He was very hard on me. He was determined to bend me to his will…eventually he succeeded, but initially… I was so full of anger that I lashed out physically… I lashed out whenever I could. Grief, it does that to people. Your mother…? She reacted like I did. She’s probably much better now. She’s probably come to terms with the loss and has since moved on. That’s what you need to do, Jack, move on. Go to her, speak with her. You may find she’s a changed person who is now very lonely having driven those she cared most about away.”
Jack lowered his head and swallowed hard before saying, “Will you come with me then? When I speak to her?”
“Jack you know I can’t…”
“Don’t be so sure. I’m getting you out of here.”
“No, you can’t and please give me the courtesy of not speaking about it again.”
“But Daniel…”
“No Jack. It hurts too much. Please, please just let it go.”
“But…oh…okay Daniel. Okay.”
“Thank you, Jack.”
As Daniel lowered his head Jack made a silent promise to himself that one way or another he would take Daniel away from all of this. He would find a way to free Daniel from his master, whether he had to steal him away or not.
Nodding his head in silent affirmation he continued to watch the man who now owned his heart determined to one day keep that vow.
* * * *
After exiting the dungeons Daniel made his way to his rooms. He was tired and determined to go straight to bed. As he approached his door, however, he halted upon hearing his name spoken, “Syama!”
Closing his eyes briefly he swallowed hard before turning to softly utter, “My Master, yes, My Master?”
“You will attend me now!”
The tone of his voice was unquestionable. He was being commanded to report to his master. Offering a slight bow he approached and followed his master to his rooms knowing with certain dread that he would now be required to attend his master for the duration of the night.
Upon entering his master’s chambers he was coldly ordered to strip and in an instant he bared himself to his master’s eyes feeling the dread in his heart lodge even deeper within. Keeping his head bowed submissively he closed his eyes trying to calm himself only to tense when the next command given was, “Kneel to the whip!”
He unconsciously gasped, startled by the order having expected to be told to serve in a more intimate fashion. As silence stretched between them Daniel could sense his master’s disappointment. It seemed to come off of him in waves permeating the air around them. He tensed further when his master’s next words were laced in barely controlled rage as he snapped, “Must a command be repeated?”
Blanching he immediately dropped to his knees aware that he had reacted much too slow to the command and would most likely suffer for his momentary lack of response. Once on his knees he quickly raised his hips placing his head on the floor before drawing his arms beneath him and crossing them over his belly. He then silently waited for the punishment to start while trying to think of ways he could soften the beating and make his master’s anger dissipate. Unable to quickly come up with a solution he closed his eyes upon hearing the soft rustling movements behind him that indicated his master was removing his belt. He then focused on trying to mentally prepare himself for the first strike surprised when his master simply stated, “You are becoming lazy, pet.”
Drawing in a calming breath he listened as his master continued, “You defy me without pause. You dare to raise your voice to me when speaking, and you dare to resist me in the bedchamber. Why?”
He remained silent and still as was expected swallowing back the reply he desired to utter and feeling his stomach muscles begin to clench forming knots in their wake. He licked his lips nervously as Mara continued, “This Jack, he is a bad influence on you. I have told you this before yet still you allow him to sway you. Therefore you are now forbidden to see him until further notice. If you refuse to comply with my command you will suffer.”
The pronouncement nearly broke his heart, but he remained silent as his master went on, “Yes, you shall not see him again. It is time that you remember your place, your status, your station in my court. You are a slave, and you serve me, only me. Do you understand? Speak.”
“Yes Master.”
Immediately after the utterance he released an audible wince expecting a blow that never came for the error he had just made and quickly corrected, “My Master, yes My Master I understand.”
“Good pet, very good. Now…”
He felt the tension within build certain his master was ready to deliver his punishment and mentally prepared for the blow soon to come. When his master only delivered another question he found himself caught off guard, “What are your duties, pet?”
Licking his lips he replied with, “To be fully pleasing, totally obedient and completely submissive to you at all times, My Master…” and ended his answer with a harsh gasp as the belt landed firmly across his exposed back shaking him to the very core with the force that was placed behind it. Drawing in a shaky breath he tried to focus all of his attention on his master’s next words releasing a choked wince as again the belt fell across his back this time uncontrolled. The lack of control in the strike scared him to death for it told him of how very close his master was to not caring, and when that occurred he always suffered immensely.
Reassuring himself he would be fine he was unprepared for the same question to be repeated again, “What are your duties, pet?”
“To be totally…”
“NO!”
The belt came down across his back a third time before his master snapped, “Give me the answer I want to hear, Syama!”
He searched his mind frantically for the possible answer his master wanted and tensed further before biting out between haggard breaths caused by another uncontrolled strike to his back, “Absolute obedience.”
Another strike drove the breath completely from him and he struggled to regain it before stumbling over his correction, “Absolute obedience, My Master, sir.”
His master’s response was to wield the belt again. This time he gritted his teeth biting back all sound, determined not to give voice to any more of his pain, for his master enjoyed hearing those sounds tumbling from his lips far too much. As the belt sought out his bare back again he feared he’d be unable to maintain silence, for he could feel the rage traveling through the belt as another uncontrolled strike landed.
Bracing himself further he tried to prepare more for the beating yet to come, for what he was presently experiencing paled considerably in comparison to what was yet to come. As if to enforce that thought the belt drove into him so viciously that had he not already been on his knees he had no doubt he would’ve been now.
He struggled to regain a semblance of focus feeling the multiple fire trails that now lanced across his back, a temporary reminder that his master was just beginning and that he was fast losing all of his self-control. He was now entering into dangerous territory certain he would soon find himself escaping it as temporary darkness stole him away.
* * * *
Narayana was heading to check on Daniel when Mara stopped him. He looked at his lord before stating, “Sarameya is not in his room, is he My Lord?”
Ignoring the question Mara simply stated, “You will retrieve him from my chambers, tend to his injuries and then return him to me.”
Bowing he responded, “Yes My Lord,” before heading to his master’s chambers to retrieve Daniel. He was afraid of what he’d find when he got there, and sensed it would be bad.
When he entered the room he felt unsettled noticing immediately that the chamber was eerily quiet, no doubt Daniel was unconscious.
As he entered further into the room he didn’t have far to search for Daniel lay in a heap against the far wall, bare save for the vicious marks that cut across his skin.
He rapidly approached the young man lowering beside him as he gently rolled him onto his back apologizing for the pain he was unable to avoid inducing. He carefully drew him into his arms before exiting the room.
The task was arduous as he carefully cleaned every mark trying to be as tender and gentle as possible. He was greatly saddened when, after cleaning all his present injuries, Daniel still had not regained consciousness. Sighing he hoisted the young man into his arms again and carried him back to his master’s chambers. Upon entering Mara said, “Place him in my bed and leave us.”
“Yes My Lord.”
He carried Daniel to the bed and gently laid him upon the mattress instinctively brushing a hand through his hair before drawing the covers up over him. He absently stroked the side of Daniel’s face again before turning to leave. As his gaze landed on Mara he noticed the system lord was carefully laying Daniel’s silks on a nearby chair taking great care in making certain they weren’t wrinkled in anyway. Shaking his head he tensed when Mara turned to gaze at his favored before focusing on him to simply say, “It was necessary.”
Biting back his anger Narayana bowed his head slightly before responding, “Of course My Lord.”
“He is being swayed. It is my duty to remind him of where his true allegiance lies.”
Nodding his head Narayana offered, “Yes My Lord,” before heading towards the door.
Mara stopped his exit with a simple, “You will inform me immediately if he should attempt to speak with the prisoner again, Narayana.”
He lifted his head, his gaze growing cold knowing that it wasn’t a request his lord was making of him but a command. Rage filled him but he only offered the soft reply of, “Yes My Lord,” again before continuing to exit the room glad he had had enough sense to remain facing away from Mara when his request was made.
* * * *
Later that night…
As consciousness returned to him Daniel became quickly aware of the pain and stiffness in his body. As he shifted he released a strangled cry of pain feeling the evidence across his body of his latest beating. As a hand brushed his back he drew in a sharp hissing breath and attempted to draw away from the touch freezing in place as his master’s icy voice filled the air around him, “Do not pull from me, Syama, or you shall taste the bite of the lash next.”
Squeezing his eyes tightly shut he forced himself to settle in place shivering as Mara’s hand continued to stroke his back and flinching each time the hand brushed across a raw lash. When Mara’s hand glided over a particularly sore lash he couldn’t stop his automatic response. He released a choked cry of pain as he shuddered again before his master. Mara chose then to exert more pressure on the injury making his cry of pain turn quickly into a half choked scream that he quickly bit off. Mara’s only response was to chuckle before leaning closer to him and harshly whisper in his ear, “Whom do you serve?”
Shuddering as more pressure was added to the extremely tender lash, he bit out “You, My Master.”
The pressure eased and he found he could breathe again, but his master wasn’t done yet choosing to ask another question that had him tasting ash in his mouth, “And whom do you belong to, Syama?”
“My Master, you, My Master…”
Mara leaned in closer making him feel even more uncomfortable before proceeding to nip at his ear. The moment his master applied his mouth to his tender ear he found himself growing hard and released a soft mewl in response. Mara then hissed, “What are you?” before blowing gently across his ear causing him to involuntarily shiver in pleasure before panting out an answer, “A slave, My Master…” and leaning into him firmly.
He felt himself beginning to melt, becoming putty in his master’s hands until Mara rubbed his back causing him to rear away as a shriek of pain filtered in. Within moments his master was drawing him possessively into his arms, pinning him in place as he ground out, “And what is your duty, slave?”
Stilling immediately, now a captive in his master’s arms Daniel responded with, “Absolute obedience…”
“Very good Syama, very good… I sense you have been forgetting such things as of late. I am not pleased therefore you will now be required to request permission from me when you should like to speak. You have been stripped of your voice. Therefore, you do not speak unless I give you permission to. Is that understood, Syama?”
Squeezing his eyes tightly shut he responded with a quiet, “My Master, yes My Master.”
“Good, yes very good… Now you will remain with me until morning. I shall require your attendance in my bed for the duration of the night.”
Swallowing hard he only nodded his head before closing his eyes as he tried to block out the present situation not wanting to think of what his master’s latest command meant for he and Jack.
I knew it would only be a matter
of time before his jealousy would take root. It’s been festering for far too
long. My Master will only tolerate so much before he reacts to it. Had he known
the day he permitted me to visit Jack whenever I desired would lead to a
connection forming between us or had he hoped Jack would remain bitter towards
me for my betrayal of him? I don’t know.
He continuously says that Jack
is a bad influence on me. He accuses Jack of swaying my allegiance, of turning
me away from my duties, of clouding my judgment and turning me away from my
true path.
I knew it would only be a matter
of time before he would forbid me from speaking with him. I only wish he would
have done so before I lost my heart to him, for it would be so much easier to
deal with.
My emotions are all in turmoil
now. It hurts to breathe knowing that I’m forbidden to see the one man who
makes me feel alive. I feel empty inside, broken and hollow. I’m so angry
inside that I have to force my mind elsewhere or risk becoming lost in it.
Shaking my head I successfully force my mind into silence, but it doesn’t last
for very long…
I sometimes look back on the
life I have lived and wonder how I made it this far. How could I survive each
new day knowing he would continue to drive my independence away? I have no
independence anymore and anytime I’ve attempted to gain even a fraction of it
he’s countered with punishment. I’ve tried to fight back, but he always wins in
the end because he’s made me dependent. I hate to admit it, but he has. I’m
slowly dying day by day as little pieces of me become lost flaking off like
shiny black chips of flint as he pounds me and molds me. He’s crafting me, honing
me into that which he desires leaving no room for free will.
I watch each day go by and I
grow sadder and angrier. My only anchor is a man who I’ve come to deeply
respect and love, a man that has been like a father to me: Narayana. Narayana
is my rock, my anchor. He’s the one who will always be there. When he goes, if
he goes, I will be lost until I find another anchor and if I find none my
meaninglessness in this life will swallow me up and I will disappear.
Mara thinks he’s smart. He thinks
he’s created a good little pet, one that never thinks or ever desires to be
something else. What Mara doesn’t know, doesn’t realize is that his good little
pet has fangs and if pushed too far will attack. The power is there, the
ability to rip his throat out, to squeeze the life out of him is all there but
I can’t destroy the one I’m dependent on. Sometimes though in the darkest
quietest hours of the night I can visualize myself reaching out and breaking
the neck of the one I serve it would be so easy just one little jerk and SNAP
his neck will be broken. I fear the consequences of such actions though, not
because I fear his guards will find retribution but because I fear that thing
within him will leave him and enter its new host. After all it likes me, has a
thing for me and knows I’m to be his new vessel should anything happen to his
poor host that’s why I’m always kept with him. If something should happen to
Mara, he will just take me and then I will never be free of him for once inside
of me he will never allow me out again for he will know upon merging and
blending that his pretty little pet is anything but docile. He would become
privy to all my secrets, including those late night thoughts of breaking the
neck of the one I call “master”.
People often question why it is
Mara has a well-educated slave. Why has he allowed his slave to learn? Why has
he allowed him to be trained by only the best?
What they don’t know, don’t
realize is that he is still carving me into that which he desires: a perfect
vessel, a perfect host for him.
Imagine the shock when they see me the former slave destroy and kill taking
supreme reign over them as he overtakes me. He would settle for nothing less
than a perfect, pretty, intelligent host, and still he will control me, only
his hold on me once the blending occurs would be permanent until death do us
part.
I shudder at that realization.
* * * * * *
Several Weeks Later…
He worked silently, diligently casting only the briefest glances his way as he went. No smile grazed his lips, no sparkle filled his eyes instead he seemed somber, sad. Shaking his head Jack vowed to give Daniel the silence he seemed to need. He chose to focus intently on the job at hand gazing up only occasionally and feeling his heart ache each time Daniel glanced at him only to abruptly turn away.
Shaking his head in frustration he quickly found that he couldn’t remain idle and decided to take matters into his own hands. He’d approach Daniel directly. Nodding his head in silent affirmation he started heading towards him only to be halted as a familiar hand clamped directly onto his shoulder. Without turning, feeling irritation begin to rise he asked, “What do you want, Narayana?”
“You to give Daniel the space that he needs…”
“Space…? He needs space? Why?”
“Because… It is difficult to explain.”
Continuing to watch Daniel, noticing how he tensed briefly upon noticing Narayana before momentary relief set in he questioned, “What’s wrong with him, Narayana? Why does he seem so upset?”
The silence was his only answer and as Daniel turned away from them Narayana’s voice filled it again, “You are correct in saying that he is upset, but the answer as to why he is behaving towards you as he now is should be easy enough for you to figure out.”
Tensing he ground out, “Mara?”
“Yes.”
“And what exactly did Mara do to cause such anxiousness in Daniel?”
“He did not do anything rather he gave Daniel a direct order…”
“To what, stay away from me?”
“Yes.”
Angry now he bit out, “Why?”
“I need not answer that question for you already know the answer.”
“The bastard…!”
Shaking his head Narayana continued, “This should not come as a surprise to you O’Neill, for you know how Mara feels about Daniel.”
“This is all about possessing him, isn’t it? He’s afraid we’re too close, so he’s forcing us apart.”
“He did mention Daniel needed reminded of where his allegiance lies.”
“That snaky bastard!”
“He has also forbid Daniel from speaking. He must first seek Mara’s permission to do so. You cannot ask him questions O’Neill, for he is not yet permitted to answer them.”
“Sounds eerily familiar, so is that why he hasn’t been visiting?”
“Yes.”
“Is he permitted to see me at all?”
“Not at this time.”
“Asshole!”
“I do not understand…”
“Mara, he’s an asshole.”
“Oh.”
They stood watching Daniel for several more moments before both went back to work. Jack swore he wouldn’t approach Daniel, for he knew the possible consequences of such an action, but he quickly found that he couldn’t remain idle. He wanted to speak with Daniel. He needed to speak with Daniel, for he missed him so much. Licking his lips he lifted his gaze again noticing how the young man immediately broke it before turning his full attention on the job at hand. Shaking his head again he started walking towards the younger man stopping only to make certain that Narayana was well away from him as he did so and yelling at himself for being far too weak to resist temptation.
As he approached Daniel he softly said the younger man’s name. Daniel’s response was to freeze in place before turning abruptly away from him offering Jack a full view of his entire backside. He took a step closer hearing the soft abrupt intake of breath as Daniel became aware of their proximity to one another. He lifted his hand wanting to touch but couldn’t make himself do so. Instead he opted for gently prodding, “Daniel? Daniel, talk to me. Please?”
Silence was his only answer as the man before him began to take an intense interest in the wall refusing to move, refusing to speak and he was certain refusing to breathe. He knew he should turn back. He shouldn’t be doing this to Daniel. It was unfair to him. It wasn’t right. He was placing Daniel in an awkward predicament that if caught could possibly get him hurt further by his overbearing master, yet he continued to push demanding, “Will you talk to me?”
Daniel felt Jack’s presence as soon as he entered the room. He could feel Jack’s eyes on him, burrowing into him, trying to understand why he was suddenly so quiet and nervous. He wanted desperately to go to him and apologize for not visiting him. He wanted desperately to run to Jack and hold him tight against him. He wanted to be able to speak again, to speak freely and to do as he wished. He wanted for so much and knew that it was a foolish desire that would never be met. Swallowing hard he squeezed his eyes tightly shut lowering his head and shaking it in response before jumping in surprise at the unexpected brisk order of his master, “Syama attend me now!”
Covering his surprise and fear he quickly turned and bowed before following his master out of the room tensing as his master coldly questioned, “Syama what was my command in regards to the prisoner? Speak.”
“My Master I’m not permitted to visit or speak with him, My Master.”
Anger laced the next words as his master continued, “What were you just doing, Syama?”
Immediately he answered, “I said nothing to him, My Master.”
“SYAMA!”
Realizing that he spoke out of turn he quickly lowered his head softly saying, “My Master, I’m sorry, My Master. I meant no disrespect.”
“So you have said before.”
His only response was to swallow hard uncertain of what would happen next. He tensed further as his master continued, “He approached you or did you approach him? Speak and be truthful, for you know I am able to tell when you lie.”
Licking his lips nervously he answered, “My Master he approached me, My Master.”
Mara nodded before further inquiring, “Does he approach you often, Syama? Speak.”
“My Master, no My Master.”
“No? Are you lying to me Syama?”
He remained silent continuing to follow his master through the palace. Silence stretched between them for several minutes before Mara commanded, “Speak.”
Feeling momentary relief wash through him upon the command being uttered he answered, “My Master, no My Master.”
“How often does he seek you out?”
Silence fell between them again for the span of several seconds before Mara granted, “Speak.”
Lowering his head further not wanting to answer the question he quietly said, “My Master at least once a day My Master.”
The tension in the air seemed to build and he held his breath unsure of how his master would react and only calming when he opted for, “So I feared. Have you asked him to leave you be, Syama? Speak.”
“My Master, no My Master.”
“And why not, Syama? Speak.”
Balling his fists at his sides he had to bite back his anger as he responded with, “My Master because I’m not permitted to speak with him, My Master.”
“Very good, pet, I am very pleased. Now come.”
He drew in a calming breath forcing his fists to open and his fingers to relax aware that he had demonstrated anger and that his master could’ve easily punished him for such an infraction. His master could have also just as easily punished him for Jack’s persistence but chose not to.
As he entered the dining room he didn’t know if he should be relieved or fearful. When he was instructed to serve his master wine he knew then that he could relax for no punishment would be forthcoming…at least not yet.
* *
Narayana had entered the room catching the last exchange between O’Neill and Daniel. Shaking his head as he observed Daniel following his master out of the room he quickly approached O’Neill again saying, “O’Neill, I need to speak with you.”
Drawing his own gaze away from that of Daniel’s back he off-handedly asked, “About what?”
Narayana felt a surge of anger thrum through him and quickly dampened it as he bit out, “You know of what.”
Hearing the tinge of anger lining those words Jack tensed before glancing briefly at Narayana. As soon as he made eye contact with the Jaffa he lowered his gaze trying to ignore the worry and fear that now consumed him having seen Daniel exit the room with his master after having attempted to speak with a man who was sentenced to silence. Drawing in a calming breath he licked his lips before managing, “I can’t do it, Narayana. I’ve tried but I just…can’t.”
Feeling his anger dissipate some Narayana softened his voice as he questioned, “Even knowing the consequences?”
Silence fell between them for a span of moments before Jack confessed, “I love him, Narayana. I love him, and I can’t, I… I need him. I need him. I… I try. I try so hard knowing… Look the last thing I want is to hurt him or cause him more pain but I…”
Narayana sighed in frustration understanding all to well how O’Neill was feeling. Shaking his head again he informed, “You share the same pain, O’Neill, but you risk his very life with your foolishness. He cannot speak with you. He cannot see you or be near you. He has been ordered, commanded to stay away from you.”
“I know that but…”
“Mara is very harsh with his commands, especially when he fears someone is a danger to his most favored. He will yield Daniel to no one. He will continue to prevent you from seeing one another and when that fails he will become more desperate, thus much more dangerous and unpredictable. Daniel will suffer as a result.”
“What can we do?”
Feeling sadness consume him all Narayana could say was simply, “There is nothing we can do, nothing.”
“Except escape…”
Fear filtered in next as Narayana snapped, “You must not speak of it again, O’Neill!”
“Why?”
As Narayana locked gazes with his he knew it was a stupid question, one he had asked before, one they had discussed before. He was treading on thin ice. There were too many ears nearby to be speaking of such things. If Mara even suspected he wanted to escape and steal Daniel away they’d both be promptly executed so he fell silent. The silence only stretched for a span of a few scant seconds before he found himself asking, “What did…? Is he all right?”
Nodding Narayana answered, “For now yes.”
“Mara didn’t…?”
“No.”
Relief filled him upon hearing that Daniel was presently okay. Had he caused Daniel to suffer further he would have felt horrible. Shaking his head he questioned, “What…? Where is he?”
“He is attending his master.”
“And…?”
Gazing intently at O’Neill he answered, “It is his supper time, O’Neill.”
“He’s in the dining room serving. Thank God.”
“I would not be so relieved just yet, O’Neill.”
Tensing he forced out, “Why not?”
Sighing heavily he responded with, “Mara is entertaining a guest. He is considering him for…”
“He wants Daniel, doesn’t he?”
Narayana lowered his gaze. Jack inhaled sharply shaking his head before opening his mouth to continue. Narayana interrupted with, “Do not blame Daniel, O’Neill. He has no choice but to serve. He does not select whom he must serve rather his master does. He has no choice but to do as commanded.”
“He’s not a whore!”
“This I know but he still must serve. His duty is to serve all, to be pleasing at…”
“At all times… I know. Damn it, I know, but that doesn’t make it right!”
“No it does not.”
“He can’t take much more of this, Narayana. You have to know that.”
Narayana held O’Neill’s intense gaze for several moments before defeat filled him as he replied with, “He is owned, O’Neill. He has no choice.”
Lowering his voice to barely a whisper he informed, “And that’s why I’m getting him the hell out of here!”
With that said O’Neill stormed off leaving Narayana to watch his rapidly retreating back silently praying that O’Neill could pull off such a miracle.
* *
I lick my lips as he watches me.
I know what he’s thinking. I know what he wants from me. It’s what they all
want from me: to take me, to conquer me, to sample me.
They say I’m beautiful, exotic,
every women’s fantasy apparently every man’s too. My Master made me that way.
Desirable, sought after, the most prized of his servants. I really had no say
in any of it, but sadly I’m actually glad for some of the restrictions and
rules he has set up for me. I’m not used as a common whore. I don’t fuck all
the time only when he desires it of me and only those he deems worthy. I
suppose being his most prized has some rewards however minor they may be.
I’d like to say I’m not a whore
but truth is I serve others in the bed chamber. While I don’t do it nightly I
do it just the same. If I’m lucky those who pay for my services desire only companionship
or entertainment in the form of music or dance. I wish they all desired only
that but many like to sample. In a way My Master’s rules regarding me have
cursed me for many desire me who will never have me. Many will never even get
the “privilege” as he says to sample some of my “finer attributes”.
It’s a game to him to toss me
out like bait, dangle me before the rich and powerful to see who will take a
bite. I’m usually ordered to dress in lengthy robes that cover me for the most
part when outside of his palace that way I exhibit an air of incorruptibility.
Covered, my many attributes are hidden and many desire to rip my robes off to
see what lies beneath. When in his home I wear hardly anything, my body here
within his walls is a work of art, always on display so that it can be
appreciated and admired by My Master whenever he gazes upon me.
His prospects are many. They all
come to dine with him unaware that while they do so he is watching them,
assessing them, observing how they act towards him, how they react to me, how
they treat me, how the speak to me. He watches everything and all to determine
whether or not they are worthy enough to sample me. The meal is the final
judgment where he will make his decision.
He has specific rules set up. Some
are surprising to me. If they treat me with little respect they are
automatically crossed off of his list. He once told me why that was of such
great importance to him. He said that if they saw me as a slave and treated me
accordingly that they might become reckless with me so they are automatically
eliminated. Those who are courteous to me, those who say thank you when I serve
them get one step closer to obtaining me. If one stares at me and pays little
attention to My Master they too are eliminated…
It’s strange really having a
master who hurts me whenever it serves his purpose yet is so strict when
selecting those who will bed me. I don’t understand it. I will never understand
it, and perhaps I’m not meant to.
* * * *
Later that Evening…
When next he saw Daniel he was trailing behind his master. He was surprised and shocked to see Mara enter the dungeons. They drew to a halt right before his cell and an order was quickly snapped. He watched quietly from his place as Daniel rose to his feet as commanded before stretching both arms high above his head and crossing them together as if presenting them for securing. As Mara began to secure him in place Jack could only watch in silence shocked that his suspicions in regards to the position were correct and only able to stare dumbfounded as Daniel so willingly offered his wrists for shackling and allowed his master to secure them together. What the hell was with him? He was so damned obedient to his master but why? Why was he so damned compliant? Why?
Shaking his head he continued to gaze upon the young man now displayed with his back towards him. He watched as his red silks were tossed around his right hip thus exposing his firm naked ass and the lower half of his brand to all who stood witness. The skin was firm, smooth, unmarred and as the belt came down across his perfect ass it left red marks in its wake. Daniel didn’t speak only submitting silently to the punishment. Once it was finished he was ordered to be stripped of all garments remaining in chains where he was secured fast exposing to all the marks of his master’s discipline. The red marks cut across perfect flesh marring his beautiful hide. In time they would fade, in time.
As he gazed upon Daniel’s naked back he noticed strongly defined muscle rippled. The man was cut. His body was molded to perfection glistening as if oil had been applied to his luscious flesh instead of sweat clinging there. As he gazed at the brand he noted that it was indeed burned into the man’s flesh but it was intricate, beautiful, a brand so perfect he wondered if it had been carefully drawn into the skin before being burned into it. It was a vulture as Daniel had said with its broad wings spread wide, its majestic head turned ever so slightly to the right. The brand was a breathtaking work of art, obviously applied to his body with great care.
He swallowed hard noticing that the only one now remaining was Narayana and Daniel prompting him to ask, “How long did that brand take to be applied?”
Narayana answered, “Several hours I am afraid. He…the master chose to secure him as it was carved into his body and then burned into the flesh. He wanted it to be perfect, to accentuate Daniel’s beauty not mar it.”
“Wow it’s…” shaking his head he swallowed hard before managing, “Several hours you say? He was kept secured for several hours?”
“Yes.”
“But…why? Why does he hurt him so much?”
“Presently you are the main cause of his suffering that is why he is secured before you so that you can bear witness to his punishment, so that you will learn, as Mara says, what Daniel truly is and thus give up any interest you may have in him.”
“So this is all for show?”
Bowing his head Narayana replied, “He is trying to make you see, make you realize that Daniel is a slave to all, that he surrenders to all, that he serves all, that he has no choice but to serve. He is indentured for life, a slave for all eternity. Mara wants very much for you to see what his servant truly is. He is very jealous of you.”
“Jealous? Of me?”
“Yes and so Daniel continues to suffer for his pleasure. The master enjoys greatly making Daniel submit to him before you so that you can bear witness to his true status in this life. He is sending you a message that Daniel will never be free. He will never be a free man and you waste your time, your affection on one who is no better than an animal.”
“That’s sadistic…”
“So you have said on numerous occasions.”
“Why would he do that? I thought his purpose for sending Daniel to me was to entrap me.”
“Yes it was. It is. He wants you to serve him as well and he wants to discourage any form of…fornication among you and his favored pet. He is willing to go to great lengths to drive a permanent wedge between the two of you. Daniel is his. He belongs to Mara and Mara will yield him to no one.”
“You mean he’s obsessed with him, don’t you?”
“No he just…”
“Wants Daniel all to himself?”
“Yes.”
“Just how long has Daniel been serving him? How long has Daniel surrendered all to him?”
“For many, many years…”
“Well then maybe it’s time that Daniel is released.”
“That is an impossible goal…”
“And why is that?”
“Because wherever Daniel goes Mara will know. He will find him again, and he will return him.”
“Then I guess it’s my duty to make sure that never happens.”
The only reaction to the statement was the slight clang of the chains securing Daniel as he shifted and Narayana’s slight bow of the head.
He gritted his teeth as he gazed upon Daniel chained up before him to prove a point. It angered and enraged him. Daniel had also been told that he wasn’t permitted to utter a sound for any reason until his master returned to free him. It was obvious to all what point Mara was trying to make, and he didn’t think he could tolerate it much more. This was the final straw and he would free Daniel if it was the last thing he ever did. Instead of discouraging as Mara had no doubt intended he had provoked him, and he was damned if he’d allow that bastard to hurt Daniel again if he could do anything about it. Shaking his head he softly said, “Daniel, I’m sorry.”
The only indicator Daniel showed that he had heard the comment was the sudden tight clenching of each hand into fists and the turning of his head to the right before propping it against the cold stone wall before him, both silent signs that to him meant so much.
Focusing on Narayana he quietly said, “I’m getting him out of here.”
Narayana’s only response was a sharp, “Do not speak of it further, and do not speak to him for he is not yet permitted to respond.”
“I understand that Narayana, more than you’ll ever know.”
Narayana sighed and briefly lowered his gaze before saying, “I need to speak with Mara. His behavior is most disturbing to me.”
Jack nodded and watched him leave before turning to gaze at Daniel angry and saddened by what he saw. Daniel shouldn’t have to suffer like this. Shaking his head again he began to think about the first time he had met him and the path their relationship took from there…
When he first arrived at Mara’s palace he was excited. He had thought that he had found the man who stole his heart. Then he was captured and told it had been a trap, and he had fallen for it. After that he felt anger, rage and hatred for the one who stole his heart. When he had seen him after his capture he was disgusted with him. Despite how he had felt, however, the man still dared to visit him and speak with him. In those first few weeks he had treated him with such disdain yet still he came: to visit him, to talk with him, to spend time with him. He would often speak of his life, of what he was, of why he did as bid. At first he would ignore him, refusing to listen to him, not wanting to hear what he had to say but as each day went by he found that became more difficult. Eventually his views on the slave who had betrayed him began to change. Eventually he had to accept that his feelings for the slave ran much deeper than he cared to admit and instead of persisting in hating him he grew to love him even more.
When he first saw Daniel serving his master he was outraged and angry. He didn’t understand why Daniel would so willingly bow to another. He demanded why Daniel would so willingly serve another. He would ask him why he didn’t fight, why he didn’t resist and why he didn’t attempt to escape. How could one so willingly surrender all to another and accept that they were no better than an inanimate object? How?
It was then that he had learned of Daniel’s consequences for failure, for escape. He had almost died the last time he had attempted to run away. He had almost been beaten to death for the infraction. Upon learning that he then understood why it was that Daniel never attempted to run again. Still he wondered why Daniel would continue to serve. Narayana would tell him that if he disobeyed he would serve punishments, but he didn’t want to believe it. He didn’t want to think of how Daniel had been disciplined in the past and thus refused to accept that he had no choice but to serve another. Daniel and Narayana spent many hours trying to explain to him exactly what he was and why he couldn’t do as he pleased. He knew that Daniel was a slave but understanding just exactly what his status was, what it meant took him a long time to learn. That understanding however was a lot easier to learn then it was to accept. It took him some time before he was able to do so.
When Mara permitted him to work in the palace during the day it was then that he was able to grasp fully what exactly Daniel’s status was. It was then that he was able to see what Daniel did, how he served, what happened if he refused. In being able to watch him he grew to understand him more and that was what helped him come to terms with what Daniel’s role was in Mara’s court. Once he understood and accepted it his next goal was to free Daniel from it.
He spent many long hours of the night planning his escape, playing different scenarios in his head until he came to one that just might work. Now all that was left was finding a way and a time to implement it and pray that it was what would successfully emancipate both he and Daniel from Mara’s control. If his plan failed, however, they would both no doubt be put to death by Mara and he was determined not to let that happen. He would soon make his move. It was now just a matter of waiting for the right circumstances to present themselves.
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