“You must learn to eat some of our dishes. I only find them tolerable with a lot of sour cream or horseradish.” He wrinkled his nose distastefully as he looked at the stew in front of him.
“Good thing I like both. Wow, this smells strong,” Courtney said, sniffing the horseradish. Her eyes watered as she took a mouthful. “Shit! This is strong”
“Here, drink…” Marcas handed her a tea cup. Courtney gulped down a mouthful and then made a gagging sound.
“That is horrid! What is it?”
“Valerian tea. Good to help sleep. No? Water for you.”
Courtney quickly gulped the glass of cool, fresh water, not noticing that Marcas was watching her carefully. She wiped her eyes as she fanned her mouth.
“Sorry I’m such a wimp. I’ve never had horseradish be so hot. And that tea is terrible. No more of that.”
“Eat some bread, Courtney. You will sleep well tonight,” he promised, looking anxiously at his watch as he felt the dizziness of the rending begin. He had miscalculated the time.
“I’m not planning on sleeping for the… rest… of this trip. Marcas?” Courtney held her face as the cabin began to spin. Through blurry eyes, she fought to focus as one Marcas separated into two. “The tea? You didn’t drug the tea. Please… no… say you didn’t. I trusted you…”
She slumped in her chair and Marcas slowly stood to lay her with a pillow and a small blanket. “No, my dearest one. Not the tea. The water. I couldn’t have you be awake to see us yet. I am sorry.”
“Well, I’m not,” his other half said. “She’s refusing our advances. She will not be won by your sweet romance.”
“Your outburst frightened her. You cannot present yourself like that to her.”
“She defied my command!”
“Like it or not, we have to work together if she is to fall in love with us,” Marcas said firmly, hands on his hips as he frowned upon his glowering other half. “She responds to both sides. Sebastian is right. She needs us to work together or we will never win her heart. We cannot chase her; she will flee. She must pursue us.”
“I hate it when you are right,” the other half snarled, slapping the chair. “She is so beautiful. She will feel perfect under my body, and squeal with delight as I fill her with my seed.”
“Yes, and she will cry tears of joy as I make love to every inch of her flesh. But now is not the time. We will have her, but it must be together. As one.”
“She will enjoy that, I am certain.” Marcas grinned, imagining Courtney supplications as his two halves filled her completely. He pointed to his groin. “Enough of that. You are not permitted to enjoy her yet. But I promise you, we will.”
The other Marcas chuckled, ignoring his own restless twitching of his eager cock. They had found a common need, Courtney. Now they could come together to win her love and acceptance.
Chapter Six
Courtney fought against the drugged stupor that held her mind and body captive. She felt anger at Marcas’ betrayal of her trust, yet was aware of the possessive way he held her through the rest of the trip. He seemed to be two people, fighting over which would have her in her helpless moment.
“You kept her all day, I wish to have her this night as you did the last. I will not lay with her,” Marcas said, eyeing her limp form.
“Very well,” the other part of him conceded. “I will watch over Sebastian while you rest. We still have many more hours of travel. If she starts to waken, you must dose her again.”
“I will. I promise to… care for her,” the other, impulsive Marcas forced out the words that were foreign to his tongue. This part of him was about his own selfish, self-centered wants and needs. To relinquish this portion of himself for another was a difficult undertaking, yet he was willing to try. He made a promise and even his less pleasant side was a man of honor.
The prudent side of Marcas watched as Courtney was gently gathered into the arms of his other half. He watched uncomfortably as the other slid his hand with familiarity over her body, remaining gentle and non-aggressive. An unexpected twinge of jealousy arose as she responded to the other’s touch, curling against the lean, strong body as though she belonged there. A tiny moan escaped her lips as her breast was gently caressed under her shirt.
“She enjoys my touch very much,” Marcas announced with a hint of satisfaction as he saw the twitch of the other ones jaw. “I did not know you felt jealousy.”
“Nor did I. Sebastian was correct. She is forcing us to see how alike we are despite our differences. I am finding it problematic to hate you, even though you are touching the treasure in a way I long to.”
The other side frowned, his hand gently creeping to cup Courtney’s sleeping backside. “This is also the first time I am finding delight in restraint. Does that mean we have hope to break this curse?”
“Sebastian has faith in that, therefore, we must trust him. She will be very angry with us when she wakes. How should it be handled? I fear her trust will be lost.”
“I don’t know. We will be joined again when she awakens, da?”
Marcas nodded, sitting across from Sebastian and observing the old man’s breathing. It appeared easier, less labored and deeper. Bowing his head, he offered a silent prayer for the monk’s life to be spared suffering. In his heart, he also prayed for a miracle.
Barely able to open her eyes, Courtney felt herself being carried into the crisp night air and placed gently upon the seat of a warm vehicle. A blanket was tucked neatly around her and she heard the distinct rumbling of two sets of voices as the small party made its way towards the tiny village of Sighisoara. The rising sun cast warm orange rays upon the town, bathing the medieval structures in an inviting light. Courtney slowly sat up, feeling as though she had stepped back in time as she tried to focus on the imposing old world buildings and roads lined with as many horse buggies as there were modern cars.
“Good morning. Welcome home.” Marcas smiled as he glanced at her in the rear view mirror.
“We’re here? I feel so… fuzzy in the head. I can’t believe you drugged me, Marcas. Why the hell would you do such a terrible thing?!”
“Please, let me taste your anger later. Right now, I wish you to enjoy my home. She is beautiful, yes?”
The view caught Courtney’s attention, distracting her from her fury. “This is… magnificent. I always thought this gothic stuff would be creepy and dark. There is so much color and, is that a river? Those mountains are so intimidating! They make me feel so small.”
“That is why I am called to be an ambassador. My work is to dispel the rumors and fears brought by imagination and bring about the truth of my country. I wish to show the world Romania’s true beauty and her many wonders.”
“Are those castles? Oh my God… this is amazing!” Courtney leaned forward, absorbing the scenery as they drove by. Like an eager child, she excitedly pointed out the clock tower, the historic sites, the tiny cobble stone pathways and the green hills with the mountain background. Courtney held her breath as they traveled up the narrow road and through dense thickets of primeval trees, and bounced in her seat as the family home came into her view.
Kalnovky Manor was designed to resemble a small German castle, with high, pointed turrets, elaborate wood work, and crisp, white washed stone. Pebbled paths and hand-laid stone stairs led the way to the main structure, bordered by lush, neatly manicured grounds, and speckled with myriads of orchids.
“How in the world do you grow orchids here? Marcas, this is breathtaking.”
“Romania is home to many species of orchids as well as other natural wonders. One day, I will take you to see all… the waterfalls… the blood forest… the hidden glens where we shall make love under the stars…”
“Marcas, let’s get this clear. First, I am not on this trip to be a sex toy. Second, I remind you that I am really pissed at you. How dare you drug me? You had no idea what it could have done to me!”
“I researched carefully. I wished you to sleep well so that
you would enjoy your first day home,” he said quietly, parking the car next to the entryway of the manor. “I apologize, but I knew no other means of getting you to rest.”
“We will talk about this later,” Courtney snapped, pointing her finger at him. “In the meantime, you are on my shit list.”
“Do not use that language in front of Sebastian. He is…”
“Yes, yes, a man of God. He is also a sneaky little butthead. He knew what you were up to, didn’t he?”
“Da, and he agreed it was needed to get you to relax.”
“It was my idea, little angel. Please, do not be angry with the boy,” Sebastian said softly, yawning as he woke. “This trip can be hard for someone who has not experienced it and we both wished you to see our home in the light of the morning sun. Like the unwrapping of a gift. Forgive us, please?”
“Well…” Courtney wrinkled her nose, finding it impossible to be angry with the tiny old man who held her hand so gently. “You both owe me.”
“Whatever you wish, we shall pay.” Sebastian grinned. He inhaled deeply. “Ahh, the scent of home awakens my heart. Please, allow me to sit under the trees and enjoy the morning light.”
Marcas quickly procured a wheelchair that he had ordered ahead of time and lifted his friend into the seat. He wheeled the chair to a cove under some sloping trees that face the deep, wide valley below, including the winding river below the village.
“Courtney, you stay with him. I will make arrangements with the staff for breakfast. Ahh, no arguments.”
“You aren’t always going to get the last word, Baron Kalnovky. You should consider yourself fortunate that I’m still groggy.”
“That I do. Your anger sends fear to travel my spine.”
“Yeah, right,” Courtney scoffed, knowing he was, once again, teasing her. She sat next to Sebastian on a small wooden swing, closing her eyes as she listened to the rustling of the wind through the tree tops. “There is something magical in this place, Sebastian. I swear you look healthier.”
“I feel stronger and more alive. My Order believes that Romania fills her children with her power through the love of God. This is a land of mystery and miracles. I have a strong favor to ask of you.”
“Certainly, whatever I can do.”
“I wish you to allow Marcas to take you to see the pastures and the town tomorrow.”
“He will not permit you being left alone.”
“I will have the maids available to me if help is needed. I wish you to picnic in the high fields and enjoy the beauty there. It was a favorite place he had as a boy and I know that he would love to share it with you. Do not be afraid of your feelings or your desires, child. I can see the struggle on your beautiful face.”
“Sebastian, are you suggesting I should let him make love to me? For a man of God, you sure don’t seem to have any problems with the carnal sins,” Courtney scolded lightly, feeling her body tense with the thought of Marcas’ hands upon her.
“I did not suggest that!” Sebastian chuckled, winking at her. “That was your conclusion, my dear, which implies it is your desire. No, I only wish that you learn to allow yourself permission to enjoy the gifts around you. Besides,” he shrugged, “it is only a sin if not ordained by God. What you and Marcas have is predestined. You already know this, as does he. Please, just allow yourself to feel and toss away your fears.”
“You are unbelievable,” Courtney chuckled. “I never thought I would meet a horny monk. No, Sebastian. I’m not ready to give up my control just yet, especial with a man whom I barely know. I mean, we are nothing more than mere strangers and not even close to being friends. I will not allow my body to dictate the direction of my life. No way. I made that mistake once.”
“See how you struggle? Your fear is your weakness, angel. As long as you hold to your fear so deeply, you will never be free of it. This is no mistake. You will see. Now, enjoy the singing of the wind. If you listen carefully, you will hear the songs of the First Church.”
Courtney leaned back, closing her eyes again. With her mind quieted, she could hear the sweet sound of voices traveling the distance over the valley as the monks reverently lifted the psalms in their morning worship. Tension and worries were washed from her in that moment and she felt the reassuring calm of true peace. Romania was calling to her and, like Marcas’ touch, she was finding it impossible to resist.
* * *
Marcas walked outside and paused to gaze about him. It was the first time in over five years that he could enjoy the warm sunlight without the stabbing pain in his eyes. He was grateful of the gift Courtney had given him and was determined to show her how much. The question was, how? Hmm, he would have to consider this.
He approached Sebastian quietly, noticing the healthy pink glow in the man’s face as he dozed in the fresh, clean mountain air. Courtney sat next to him, holding his hand and appearing more relaxed than he had yet seen her. Good, he pondered, she was feeling the peace of their home. It would make her transition easier.
“Come inside. I will take you to your room and show you around my home,” Marcas said, gently rousing Sebastian as he pushed the wheelchair into the manor. Courtney rubbed her eyes, slowly standing and following him through the tall, heavy dark wood doors. She paused to look around, surprised by the bright and airy décor that showcased the darker, heavy antique furnishings and paintings. It was a mesh of past and present, tastefully done to provide comfort and a sense of home. Courtney could not help touching the rich, dark wood of an ornate armoire.
“This is beautiful. Are all these antiques? They are spectacular.”
“They are. Most are from my family. Many are hand carved. Much love went into them and I hold each dear as a part of my past. Others I have collected during my journeys. You like our home?”
“Very much. I guess I was expecting something out of a Frankenstein movie, but I was wrong. It is a very happy and cheerful place.”
“I thank you.” Marcas touched his heart with a small bow. He winked, taking her hand after settling Sebastian on the couch. “You will like your room. I will show you the dungeon later. That might also be to your liking.”
“Very funny.” Courtney did not pull her hand away as he led her up the staircase and to the second floor. He led her down a wide hallway to a door at the very end. Turning the knob, he stepped aside and gently pressed his hand into the small of her back to guide her inside.
Courtney stared at the suite, her eyes slowly taking in the carefully arranged style and warm, inviting furnishings. Everything was oversized, in polished dark woods and classic tapestries. In the center was a king-sized poster bed, complete with canopy and piled high with pillows. She frowned, approaching it.
“This looks like the bed from the other house.”
“It is. I had all our furnishings shipped express. I wished to give you a sense of familiarity as you entered this new place.”
“How did you manage to get this stuff here before us?” Courtney was astounded.
“I have my ways of getting what I want,” he stated, backing her against a wall and placing his hands on either side of her head. “And right now, I want to kiss you.”
“Oh, you do?” Courtney looked up at him, feeling her heart rate increase.
“I do. May I kiss you?”
Courtney slowly nodded, lifting her chin to meet his lips against hers. She sighed as he began to consume her mouth with his, savoring his scent and the delicious sweetness of his breath. She wrapped her arms tightly around his neck, pulling his head closer to hers as she crushed herself boldly against him. Marcas lifted her roughly, pressing his tongue between her lips as he laid her on the high bed. Without thinking, she began to unbutton his shirt, kissing his neck. He grabbed her hand gently.
“No, not yet. We must know each other better.”
“Are you kidding? After everything you’ve done to me, you…beast.” Courtney growled, biting into his neck with a sharp nip.
“A biter, hmmm? You will have yo
ur chance, my precious one. But first, I must know your secret desires and win your complete trust. You must be able to accept me for what I am.”
“If you’re talking about your sadistic tendencies, I think I can adapt to some of those,” Courtney whispered, nibbling the soft tissue of his throat, her hunger for him aroused by his refusal to comply.
Marcas flipped her onto her back and held her wrists over her head as he straddled her hips, allowing her to feel the growing strength of his manhood. “You must adapt to all of them. To ask for them; to yearn for them.” He growled into her throat, nipping her chin with his straight, white teeth.
“It must be the drugs… I have no control over my thoughts right now. I’m sorry.” Courtney stopped struggling to release her wrists from his strong hold.
“Why are you sorry? I wish to see your passion set free. But I also wish it to be without fear.”
“I’m not afraid of you,” Courtney said boldly, still pinned beneath him, wet with desire.
“Not of me, little Courtney, of yourself. Now, I’ll let you go and show you the rest of your room, yes?”
“You are a big tease, Marcas Kalnovky. Let me up.”
With a chuckle, Marcas released her and stepped off the bed as she slowly rose. She slapped his arm as she adjusted her ponytail. She watched his graceful motions as he showed her the spiral staircase that led up to the turret that held a 360 degree view of the country side, the tiled bathtub that housed a waterfall faucet, and the small sitting room complete with an intimate fireplace and reading lamps. Courtney shook her head, unable to shake the image of him making love to her in every space he pointed out.
She took a deep breath. “Marcas? Sebastian thought it would be good for you to show me the countryside tomorrow. He will be fine with someone helping him for a few hours. Do you think that we might be able to sightsee a bit? Please?” she asked timidly, wondering what had overcome her. Maybe it was her surroundings… but she felt at home in this strange place. And unusually subdued.
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