A novella ~ "Privateer's Desire: Stealing Romance"

[cascadiabound]

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Just then, in the distance, I became aware of horse hoofs – thundering toward the camp. I can feel it rumbling through my very body. GALLOPING HORSES(<<<click this link)

In no time at all, they are upon the camp and gun shots are ringing out, the men are running and yelling, it is chaotic and terrifying. More so, because, tied to this stake, I am unable to run away or seek cover.

There is no doubt in my mind it is you and your men, come to rescue me once again, but never have I been in the middle of a shoot-out, a melee of fighters and horses. BATTLE SOUNDS(<<<click this link)

The Sheikh’s men fall from their wounds – crying out and bleeding, I fear I might be crushed as someone falls from a mortal wound…I decide I can no longer lie still – the fear of being found alert and awake is overruled by my fear of the battle.

My tether is short, but I am able to kneel on the ground next to the stake, squirming around to hoping to see where you might be. And then – in the dust – an enormous white stallion – a most beautiful steed, rising up on its hind legs comes into my vision! It is you! My love! Sabre drawn high above your head, knife in hand, even as the horse wheels in battle.

​

I see you make your mark, and then turn – as your eye catches a glimpse of me – kneeling, trying to pull away from the stake, my garment torn, but still beautiful – so sheer in the early morning light – as you look down at me, the morning rays surely reveal my curves through the thin fabric. My dark hair tangled and mussed, wreathes my face.

And then, a moment later, the Officer grasps me around my waist. Pulling me and along with the stake my wrists were bound to roughly from the ground. He growls something menacing in my ear, as his other hand comes around my throat.

He is so much bigger than I am, my feet are dangling in the air in his grasp… with his hand at my throat, and the hard lump on my head from the last time he hit me, I think better than to kick out at him. My feet are bare anyway – they would do little damage to his leather clad shins.

Once again, I find myself the prize caught between two men. Helpless in the grasp of the Sheik’s Officer – I have no idea what he will do to keep me for himself or prevent you from affecting my rescue.

I can smell his fear though and feel his pounding heart. As I look around, all of his men are dead, mortally wounded or have fled. And you – regal on your mount, with a half dozen men on either side, begin to secure the camp.

Clutching me hard in his grasp, his arm so tight around my waist I can hardly breathe, the Officer slowly backs towards the river-side building. Panicking…all I can do is try to keep you in my sight as I realize I am the final bargaining chip in this fight.

Silently I beg, praying to God…please, please, just let me live through this so I may once again find my way into my love’s arms. If I have ever done anything deserving of God’s favor, I beg you grant me this. I know somehow, someway, you will rescue me from this evil man.

Hamad's Felucca​

 

[Hornblende]

I'm loving the novella - very exciting! Are you sure those were galloping hooves, though?

 

[Susurration]

Fantastic descriptive writing, music, and pictures. This is now reaching a crescendo and surely it's time to use Hamad to negotiate .

 

[Mrtenant]

I'm loving the novella - very exciting! Are you sure those were galloping hooves, though?

Goodness, glad you are here! Pounding coconuts IS tiring. Perhaps we need a better use for them.

Fantastic descriptive writing, music, and pictures. This is now reaching a crescendo and surely it's time to use Hamad to negotiate .

Hamad is closer than might otw appear, my friend! For now though? The Captain keeps his promises. Thank you for your continued attention.

For all others staying dialled in? As always, thank you kindly, from both of us, Cascadia and MrT. T-shirts will be coming soon, just in time for the holidays. Love you guys.

 

[Mrtenant]

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Leaping from the stallion and landing a good six feet away in a crouch, I throw the knife with surety at the villain's thigh. It sinks in and, as he screeches in pain, he throws you aside clutching at his leg where the knife has seated itself deep in his flesh.

Clearly, the man has never been to battle. Looking up in fear and pain, just in time to see my heavy fist coming toward him – crashing into his jaw with a loud smack and launching him backwards…causes him to fall into an unconscious heap beyond.

Making sure of my antagonist, upon further inspection, it appears his neck is broken. The man is certainly dead. The battle at the campsite is over.

Looking to you, cast aside in the melee, I rush to your side as you lay crumpled and motionless on the ground. Dropping to my knees, I gently roll you towards me. You are unconscious.

I look you over for injuries. Your thin gauzy outfit is ripped to shreds and while it was revealing before, now it neither covers nor hides any of your charms. The swell of your breasts, your enticing curves, all are revealed.

And yet my concern is only for you to return to consciousness. You have a few scrapes and a cut here and there, a slight swelling on your head. Your breathing, thank goodness, is steady.

Drawing a knife, I quickly cut the bindings from your wrists. I hold your form tenderly in my lap and slowly brush the stray hairs away from your lovely face.

Holding my hand out, I yell out to no one in particular, “Water!”

One of my men hands me a canteen, and they all gather close behind, concerned for their Captain and his sweetheart.

My forehead creases with care. My heart literally feels like it is pounding through my chest. I sprinkle a few drops of water between your lips.

Tearing a strip of cloth from my shirt, I wet it and slowly dab it against your face and neck, cleaning a smudge of dirt here and there.

I want to kiss you so much, yet my concern for you holds me back, at least until I know you are well.

And then, unable to keep myself from your lips, impulsively, I dip my head deciding to kiss you, regardless.

Lightly touching my lips to yours, I pray for your awakening. I then gently hold you against my chest, nearly cradling you with my arms encircling your unconscious form. My worry increases.

“Dearest. Wake up. It's finally over. I am here,” I whisper urgently to you.

 

[cascadiabound]

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My head is in a fog as I slowly come to awareness. The comfort of being in someone’s arms. And then – your voice…

“Dearest. Wake up…. I am here.”

It is with effort that I drag my brain out of some dark dimness as I reach for you… climbing my way towards your voice as I struggle to open my eyes.

My vision is bleary. And though you were the last thing I saw – truly a sight to behold – on the back of your white stallion charging into camp almost like a man gone mad – now, as I manage to open my eyes – the sun is so bright your face is obscured in shadow…but I would know your voice anywhere!

I shift in your arms and, involuntarily, I moan slightly, the ache in my body and inability to take a breath causing me to panic…my fingers clutch at you… gripping your arms.

“Captain! My love? Is it really you? I cannot breath…please… is there more water?”

I am a muddle of excitement and terror and relief. My abdomen feels half crushed from the Officer’s grip, and every part of my body feels sore and achy. I begin to hyperventilate as I try to sit up a bit, clutching at you, trying to see your face more clearly – to be sure my eyes do not deceive me.

“Shhhhhh - my love shhhhh. Yes, yes, it is I. Be calm. You are safe. Breathe. Hold on to me. I know I have promised this before – but this is the last time. Never will I let you go.”

I dissolve into heaving sobs. My head buried in your chest. Your warmth, your scent, all that I want. All that I need. Slowly, my breathing calms, and a canteen of water is proffered.

I drink deeply. Water splashing over my lips and down my chin. Handing the canteen back to one of the many men who seem to be hovering around us now, I tip my head to your worried face. My soft lips meeting yours – a kiss I do not want to ever end.

The young woman whom I had watched all morning now appears behind you with a simple shift. Even as you hold me in your arms, she brings the garment and covers me with it, providing me with a bit of modesty from the eyes of all of your men. I see you glance at her with gratitude, though you are barely able to stop and take your eyes from me.

“Are you okay – are you injured? Hurt? Please tell me – has anyone harmed you? Taken advantage of you in any way? I will kill them ten times over if they have!” I shake my head no. Continuing to kiss you. Clinging to you.

"Sweetheart. I need you to talk to me. Tell me. Are you okay?”

I nod. “Yes, oh yes. I am fine. A bit sore. And I have a headache. But now you are here with me, all is well. I have not felt better in many months. “

 

[Mrtenant]

As your eyes flutter open, you see me and it registers, that finally it is over, and you begin to sob quietly in the late morning.

The birds sing all around and the Nile ever musically streams by. I hold you tenderly against my chest and after some minutes bring the canteen of water to your lips, letting you drink as much of the cool clear liquid as you wish.

As my lips press against yours in relief, tenderness, love and desire, the men behind me cheer with emotion.CHEERS!(<<<click this link)
Their journey, a success, their mission complete, their beloved Captain reunited with his woman after many trials and battles. The quest seems done. And they too have a sense of being part of something special.

After receiving your shift from the serving woman, she gestures, with a smile and with tears visibly welling up in her eyes, to come with her. I see where she indicates and I nod in agreement.

Commanding the men, I order, "Clear the area of the dead, bind up your scratches, and finish loading the Felucca. We have a journey yet to embark upon, and I want to be ready to go within an hour. Hamad's tribe will be upon us if we do not clear out!”

They immediately set to their tasks with cheerful energy and the song of sailors the world over, sailors with adventure and good cheer in their hearts.

I slowly hoist you up and take care to check your steadiness. You seem well enough. Putting my arm around your waist, we follow the servant woman to the bathhouse.

You look at me with curiosity, wondering why we do not board the fine ship docked nearby. I see your glance, and smile.

“Darling, let’s get cleaned up and refreshed. We'll be aboard ship for a few days. You will soon feel wonderful. Come,” I beseech you softly.

The nearby bathhouse serves the Sheikh and his dignitaries when they are docked here. It had been unused since the Sheikh’s last arrival several weeks past. The building is quite luxurious featuring many glazed tiles with complex mosaics and frescoes along the walls and floors.

There are two pools within and a number of benches along the wall, with potted plants arranged tastefully here and there. Close by there are two long tables, stacked with clean white sheets, ready for use.

A supply area of several shelves fills one wall and these are laden with various jars and bottles of undetermined contents, soaps and oils most likely. Several privacy screens lean against the walls, partially folded up, a rich brown wooden color designed to match the window screens.

 

[Mrtenant]

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Entering the bathhouse, the serving woman directs you to a separate area, but I hold you close. I raise an eyebrow and the woman nods and leads us together to the dressing area.

Two slightly younger women, are dressed alike in a sort of sheet wrapped around their waist. They help us both out of our clothes.

We each wince as you, with your stiffness of limbs and minor scrapes and scratches and my own wounds and stiffness, aching from the day’s events, are revealed. While I note your womanly charms, I keep such thoughts at bay until our safety is assured.

They lead us into the heated waters of the Nile in a deep pool, large enough to easily hold six people. The older woman commands the two servant girls to wash us while she attends to our clothing.

​

The two women scrub us thoroughly in turn until our skin glows fresh and clean. We keep close to each other, touching shoulders, waist, and thighs.

I hold your palm out and kiss it lightly as they wash your arm. You sit in my lap as your back is scrubbed. The bath nears conclusion and our winces have begun to turn into smiles.

I whisper to one of the serving women to attend to your personal needs as required. She gets out of the bath and seeks to make ready the body and hair oils. The other servant girl, I send to fetch us a bit of food as we are both in need of nourishment.

 

[Tallcajun]

Again, finally reconnected.
Hopefully some much needed R&R.
Let's hope these two get some quality time together.

Very nice work, CB and MrT.

 

[cascadiabound]

Again, finally reconnected.
Hopefully some much needed R&R.
Let's hope these two get some quality time together.

Very nice work, CB and MrT.

Reconnected indeed!
Thank you for following our story TC and for wishing our star crossed lovers well.

And to all of our readers...we know the holidays are a busy time, but we are hopeful that our little tale continues to give you a small respite from the other demands in your life.

Cascadia

 

[cascadiabound]

The bathhouse is even more luxurious than the one in the port city. When the serving woman first tries to separate me from you to prepare me for the bath – I look up at you in terror. I cling to your arm.

I know this is likely not customary, but I cannot, no, I will not be parted from your side again. In the changing area, stripping next to you – I feel strangely unashamed of my nakedness with you.

I glance at you – your strong back and legs, tanned from work and being at sea, I grimace as I see evidence of the recent battles, and I look in wonder at the many well healed scars – noting the one on your shoulder from the bullet you took from my fiancé.

The bath servants lead us to the pools and I sink gratefully into the steaming hot water. My body aches. I can hardly believe it has only been three days since the Spanish slaver brought me into Cairo's port and into this strange land.

The women use sea sponges to scrub me. I reach for your thigh under the water needing to be in contact with you. Needing your touch. Your fingers intertwine with mine.

I lean back, closing my eyes as I relax into the expert ministrations of the women. They wash my hair not once, but three times. Conditioning it with oil and then carefully combing it out with a wide tooth comb while it is still wet.

I continue to remain in the soaking tub, our thighs touching now. Your hand rubbing my knee and upper leg lightly. Occasionally lifting my hand out of the water to kiss and nibble my rapidly pruning skin.

They bring us soft towels and wrap us up and dry us off. Again – there is hardly a moment when we are not touching somehow. And when I lose contact with you, my hand flutters up, reaching for you – seeking reassurance you have not left me. That you are, in fact, still by my side.

They bring us grapes and figs, bread and goat’s milk cheese and wine. I nibble on the food. I cannot believe how good it tastes. As I eat a bit more, I realize just how hungry I am and how long it has been since I have really eaten anything.

Once we are dry, the women uses oils and lotions on our skins – making sure our wounds are well attended to. The lump on my head is still large and sore, but the skin is not broken. My head still aches – but I know this is temporary.

One of them inspects my nails – hands and feet – cleans them and uses a file to smooth them. They pamper me in every way, finally dressing me in a beautiful floor length silk gown – from whence this came – I have no idea.

Suddenly – I break from my reverie of pampering and turn to you with alarm and concern–

“My love – the other slave girl – the blonde girl Hamad whipped so terribly– what has happened to her? We must go back and rescue her!”

 

[Susurration]

Great to read that they finally have time to rest and recuperate just a little at least. The pictures and writing describe the luxurious nature of the baths very well. The thought of another rescue is very intriguing though, as is that of what's going to happen to Hamad.

 

[Mrtenant]

Great to read that they finally have time to rest and recuperate just a little at least. The pictures and writing describe the luxurious nature of the baths very well. The thought of another rescue is very intriguing though, as is that of what's going to happen to Hamad.

Hang in there my friend, more to come, including the fate of the vile Hamad!

 

[Mrtenant]

Our closeness throughout the bath I cherish greatly. I want you close. You have been through an ordeal for which you were not prepared.

Remorse creeps in for allowing this to happen in the first place. I sweep it from my mind as I wish only thoughts for your care and recovery.

The beauty of your naked body as you are cleaned is not lost on me. Supple, clean, feminine curves, beautiful hair, your lovely face, all inflame me for desire of you. And yet I hold back.

Your touch, so close, so intimate, your hand on my thigh, makes it difficult to suppress my desire. I am certain you can feel it with our closeness. The feel of your skin as against mine, is precious, divine even.

As we are massaged and pampered, the bath servants notice and look inquiringly to me. I shake my head “no” to them. My desire for you will be shared with no one, but you. And only when the time is right.

It is difficult to separate my concern for your well-being from my passion for you. But for you, I manage it. Lost in reverie you speak of the slave that had been whipped.

“My love? Worry not. All has been attended to. We have arrangements to meet up with the rest of the crew and Sheikh Alafdahl in Cairo. His physicians care for her even as we speak.

"I could see her wounds were grievous when I broke her free from her chains. She will heal, hopefully with minimal scarring. We will see her and the others in a few days.” I reply with a smile of reassurance.

“In the meantime, I’m sure Sheik Hamad will not mind us borrowing his Felucca for the return journey. The horses are spent and his messengers have raised the tribe."

"They will be after us. They will not expect us to take the Felucca.”

“My dear? We are going on a cruise,” I add with a smile of pleasure.

​

“The gown, and the bath and everything else has done wonders for you. You seem refreshed and much calmer. Come, we will leave shortly,” I reach for your hand with this last sentence as we depart the bathhouse and the excellent servants. I leave each of them with a handful of coins.

 

[Susurration]

I perceive a romantic cruise on the horizon. Let's hope that there are no interruptions this time .

 

[Hornblende]

I perceive a romantic cruise on the horizon. Let's hope that there are no interruptions this time .

I sense there may be more. It's the most extended coitus interruptus I've yet read.

 

[Susurration]

I have a feeling that you could very well be right .

 

[Mrtenant]

I perceive a romantic cruise on the horizon. Let's hope that there are no interruptions this time .

A romantic cruise on the Nile? What could be better?

I sense there may be more. It's the most extended coitus interruptus I've yet read.

Laughing. That's one way to look at it!

Hope you all are having a most excellent weekend.

 

[Mrtenant]

Emerging from the bathhouse together, the men close by stop in wonderment. We are a fine couple. You in your gown of dark blue silk and groomed like a princess.

I wear a clean white billowy v-necked shirt. Clean dark brown leather breeches tucked into polished black leather calf length boots. My bandolier of pistols slung over one shoulder and my sword at my waist.

Antoine approaches with news of progress about our departure preparations. We are ready to go. With a command to board the Felucca, the men scurry aboard, as you and I stride, your arm through mine, aboard the luxury Nile river boat.

With final commands, Antoine takes us out to mid river and our cruise begins as the sunset approaches. We stand near the rails together gazing at the beauty of the Nile and the surrounding countryside.

Thoughtfully, I turn to you, “My love, I think we should christen this ship with a new name – it does not seem propitious to sail it under the name Hamad gave it.”

You look up at me, a look of worry crossing your face as I utter Hamad’s name.

“I would be most grateful if you would choose a new name for this beautiful craft. I think it only fitting,” I continue.

You bite your lip as you stare out over the Egyptian countryside, considering my request. It is a habit, I find most endearing.

“Darling, it is such a big responsibility. I do not know. Do you not wish to name her yourself?” you reply.

I shake my head no, and bend to kiss you deeply. Your humbleness in this is adorable. Most women I have met would jump at the chance to name a ship.

Breaking from our kiss, I slide my hand over your rump and squeeze.

“Sweetheart, it must be you who names her.” I softly urge you.

You lean into me slightly and smile. You have utterly captivated my heart. I sigh deeply, thinking of spending time with you alone.

A moment later I can see you thinking hard, your fingers gripping and releasing the rail as you stare once again into the distance. I hold my tongue, fascinated, as I watch your thought processes play across your features.

Shyly, you turn from the rail, meeting my eye, “How about, ‘The Lysandra’? If I recall she was an Egyptian princess – and it is such a pretty name.”

I grin immediately.

“Yes! It is perfect. I love it. I will let my man know, and have it so lettered as soon as possible. I hereby declare this ship will henceforth be known as ‘The Lysandra’. Thank you, my love, you have named her excellently.”

After a time, I tell the Steward, we will be in the cabin resting and to not disturb us unless we are attacked.

The cabin is luxurious beyond belief. It occurs to me I will perhaps want to outfit the Constantine in a similar fashion. Decorating the suite, there are many rich and colorful paintings and arras of horses (Hamad is a horse breeder after all, no surprise there) and of scantily clad beautiful lounging women.

Therein is also settee with several small tables all gold chased upon the woodwork. A bit ostentatious for my taste to be honest.

There are fine handwoven wool carpets everywhere. A middle eastern screen towards the back separates the bed chamber wherein a large bed made up with luxury sheets and blankets awaits us.

I usher you within and together we stare in wonder. The smallest details of plants and statuary fill the place out making it very comfortable.

There are large chests stacked in every corner no doubt filled with clothes, jewels, and other trappings for men and women, dishware and silver, fine food and drink.

Guiding you to the settee, I urge you to sit and join you instantly. There is never a moment now that we are not holding each other close. We settle in together with relief, in each others warmth and with small sighs of contentment.

Removing my boots and your shoes, it occurs to me, at long last, the courtship begun so long ago, can finally begin again. I look at you and our gaze locks.

With a smile, I reach to caress your cheek and kiss you, lightly at first, as if there is nothing else in the world that exists, just you and me and this one kiss with the rays of the setting sun streaming through the window.

Releasing you from a kiss that in my heart, I wish would never end, my arms reach 'round to embrace you, holding you close to me on the settee as we settle our bodies comfortably entwined. In this manner, it does not take long for us to drift off in a semi slumber together.

 

[Susurration]

An idyllic scene . I wonder whether they might find something of interest which sends them off on a quest on Hamad's ship? Only time will tell.

 

[Tallcajun]

(Caj opens a bottle of Syrah and sits back to catch up)

 

[cascadiabound]

An idyllic scene . I wonder whether they might find something of interest which sends them off on a quest on Hamad's ship? Only time will tell.

Indeed only time will tell what trouble these two will find next ~
appreciate your continuing interest Sus.

​

(Caj opens a bottle of Syrah and sits back to catch up)

*Pours TC another glass of Syrah.* Are you comfy on the couch my dear?

Mr T and I hope you will all enjoy following a bit of a Nile Cruise ~ as long as it may last.

Cascadia

 

[cascadiabound]

Leaving the bathhouse, I feel like a princess. Pampered and adored. Protected and safe.

Something about the hot water and the ministrations of the serving women has soothed the worry and fears of all of the events of the past days from my mind.

While it was hard to miss the bruises and scrapes on my body from the rough treatment I had endured at the hands of Hamad’s men, somehow, with you by my side, your eyes bright with concern and love for me, I feel no pain.

With your arm protectively around my waist you guide me towards the dock. I glance up at you, your handsome face slightly sun and wind burned.

I think of all the miles you have travelled and weeks you have spent searching for me, just as you promised you would. I am filled with joy and gratitude for your love. I bask in your care and attention to me. The stares of your men barely register on my consciousness as we proceed up the gang way to the felucca.

The river boat is astoundingly beautiful. The craftsmanship impeccable in every detail. Such a stark contrast from the Tristan.

And the Nile, as we stand together at the rail, looking out over the Egyptian countryside, is breathtaking.

Your words in the bathhouse echo in my ears,

“My dear, we are going on a cruise.”

I sigh in pleasure as I think of it. And the fact you have already made so many arrangements… the Slavic girl being attended to, and who knows what else you have thought of?

Your request to have me rename this beautiful ship startled me. I was so proud you wanted me to do so and upon confirming you were serious, I set my mind to run through the myriad of possibilities, discarding one after another.

I finally recall a bit of mythology I had read several years ago…”The Lysandra?” It pleased me no end you liked my suggestion immediately.

I lean into your torso. Inhaling deeply your clean male scent. I look up at you… realizing once again I have completely gotten lost in my own thoughts.

Did he say something? I think, Did he tell the Steward we should not be disturbed?

The idea of being alone with you, finally, after all this time…makes my heart race… with joy and anticipation. And other things I am unable to name.

Having been lost in my own thoughts as you guide me, hand always at my waist or lightly on my hip, we arrive at the doorway of our cabin.

I gasp in astonishment as I struggle to take it all in. An enormous bed can be seen just behind a privacy screen. In wonderment I struggle to comprehend how I could possibly deserve all this.

 

[Susurration]

Wonderful lavish photos and wonderfully described romance. Some of the imagery has a hint of Death on the Nile by Agatha Christie about it, but I doubt Poirot is suddenly going to appear .

 

[cascadiabound]

Wonderful lavish photos and wonderfully described romance. Some of the imagery has a hint of Death on the Nile by Agatha Christie about it, but I doubt Poirot is suddenly going to appear .

Hercule Poirot did you say?
You never know who might show up in our little tale, Sus!!!