Varian was too keyed up to sleep after Nigel left. He decided to go to the gym and exercise. He changed into an ocean-blue T-back tank top and sweat pants. First, he wanted to check on Dr. Tristan Zarcoff’s progress. He arrived at the medical laboratory to find Tristan at the data acquisition-input system entering the results of his examinations of captive females. Tristan glanced up and smiled at Varian, the son of his past commander, a very special man like Galen Saar had been.
Not wishing to interrupt Tristan’s concentration, Varian nodded and entered the adjoining alcove. All alien females were kept sedated during this initial period of the capture process; it was easier on them and the medical staff. Varian ignored two forms sleeping on stretchers to concentrate on the lovely Earthling who was to unsuspectingly aid his mission and scheme. Varian smiled at the rangy doctor of fifty-eight who joined him.
“All finished?” Varian inquired, leaning against the wall. Varian had always admired and respected this man, with whom he shared an easy, warm rapport. Besides intelligence and loyalty, Tristan had a pleasing disposition and spotless character. Varian couldn’t imagine his own character without the good and steady influences of Nigel Sanger and Tristan Zarcoff.
“They’ve all been through the decontamination process and initial testings. I have these three exams to complete,” Tristan remarked. “I was about to return to the lab. Did you need to see me for something?”
“Just checking everything before I turn in.” When Tristan eyed his outfit, Varian shrugged and clarified, “After a little exercise and a cool shower. How long will you be? I might check back after I visit the gym.”
“An hour or so,” Tristan informed him. When he saw Varian’s gaze lingering on Jana, he concluded his friend wanted a closer look at the stunning creature now that she was within reach. He suggested, “Why not push that second stretcher into the lab for me? Then you can lock up here.” He took one stretcher and ambled out of the room with Varian close behind pushing the other.
Varian returned to seal off the laboratory to unauthorized or accidental exits and entrances. He wanted one last peek at Jana, a private study, with no one observing him, for this woman had plagued his thoughts and dreams for weeks since her discovery by his friends in May. Perhaps her intimidating magnetism was the reason he had taken Tristan’s advice to capture her last.
Varian Saar entered the room, pressing the lock switch behind him. He crossed to the alcove, pausing in the archway. Varian glanced at the examining table with an anticipatory gleam in his blue gaze which encompassed the magnificent creature who was sleeping so peacefully within his reach. Jana was almost like an enchanting illusion, a ravishing woman who was beyond the average man’s ability to create in dreams. Yet, here she was in reality. At last he crossed the distance which separated him from the stunning goddess. His tension mounted as he reached her side and his eyes explored her seeming perfection.
His gaze hungrily absorbed every detail of her features. How had she been born so beautiful and perfect? Varian caressed the satiny texture of her face, its skin firm and smooth. He absently ran his fingertips over her high cheekbones and inviting lips. Her complexion was unmarred, as slick as a crystal goblet. Her flesh was of a shade which remained honey-colored all year long, perhaps deepening in the summer. He lightly fingered her dainty chin and pleasingly shaped nose.
Varian lifted an eyelid to study those unusually colored orbs. He had never seen anyone’s eyes with this fusion of colors. Jana’s eyes were a heavy dash of forest green, a sprinkle of deep blue, and a trace of rich violet, encased in a band of dark jade. Her lashes were thick; the edges were slightly curled upward like fluffy feathers. What beauty and bewitchment was displayed there, he mused to himself.
Varian’s liquid blue gaze washed over her entire face. She was wearing little makeup; and he realized that none was necessary. Jana possessed natural beauty; an enormous amount of it. Her mouth was a natural pink where she had licked off her lipstick. How fortunate to have beauty which didn’t require cosmetics to provide looks or to hide nature’s cruel flaws. “Oh, the envy you must have inspired in females and the lust in men,” he murmured.
His hand reached out to stroke her tousled champagne tresses. It looked as if a magician had stolen color from the two moons of Zamarra and had painted her hair with the silver and gold mixture. He chuckled and warmed at the way the soft curls encircled his fingers. He was reminded of Mailiorcan silk, a sensuous and costly gold material shot with threads of expensive silver and which had the trait of clinging provocatively to the figure. Her hair was very long and wavy on the sides and back, but shorter on the crown. From the tapes he’d seen of her, he knew it could hang luxuriously in controlled curls, or it could fly wildly in the breeze. It was thick and lush, and enticed a hand to wander into it or a nose to bury itself in those fragrant tresses. Presently, Jana’s hair was spread around her head like a radiant halo. Varian couldn’t resist lifting a curl and teasing it beneath his nose. His pulse quickened.
Varian’s hand traced Jana’s throat to a softly inviting shoulder. Where did her magic cease? he wondered. Unable to stop himself, he lifted the sheet and tossed it aside. He inhaled at the sight of her stunning figure. Her bosom was ample and firm. Her slim waist drifted into a flat stomach between seductively rounded hips. Her shapely legs were little and smooth. Her ankles appeared both dainty and strong. Her body was taut and supple. How many men had she tempted beyond willpower and logic? Varian realized Jana put every lover he had known to shame. He chuckled wickedly as he imagined what Canissia Garthon’s reaction might be to such incomparable beauty. No doubt Canissia would demand that her father, supreme Council member Segall Garthon, banish Jana to the edge of space! He could imagine the reactions of hopeful buyers from across the Maffei Galaxy when they gazed upon this perfection of intoxicating loveliness and purity. He wondered who would bid the most and carry this treasure home.
Clearly Jana Greyson evinced superb breeding and refinement. Her observation tapes showed her to be fresh, warm, unspoiled, and arresting. Despite her great wealth, matchless beauty, and elite social status, Jana had the courage and selfconfidence to be herself and to pursue her dreams. Jana lived her life with a flair all her own, one which seemed to come as easily and naturally as breathing. “What an asset for your owner, a priceless treasure for some lucky male.”
The rise and fall of her bare bosom caught his attention. His gaze drifted slowly over her frame, as if he were possessively branding each inch with his mark of ownership. Even her toenails were neatly trimmed and painted a soft rose color. His study of her ignited his senses and enflamed his body with intense desire. His manhood began to stir to life. Never had it flamed to life so hotly and urgently, simply from gazing upon a female! No female had denied him or resisted him. Yet his charms and skills could have no effect on this drugged angel.
He could not prevent himself from making contact with that enticing flesh. Varian negligently trailed his fingertips back and forth across her collarbone as his cobalt eyes feasted on her face. Craving to know how her supple skin would feel against his lips, he bent forward and brushed them over one shoulder, up her throat, and to her ear. He smiled and nibbled at it when she moaned softly and shifted her body. Her instinctive responses to his actions encouraged him. His respiration quickened even more as she seemed to nuzzle her face against his.
Varian straightened, but he continued to study her. His entranced mind now began to explore her body. He imagined the daring trek his fingers would take if he allowed himself more than a fantasy, something he could not and would not do to Jana or to any drugged or helpless female. As a daring explorer with a mind of its own, his left forefinger could begin such a trek over her appealing territory by slipping down the canyon between two fleshy mounds with twin brown peaks, then playfully circling her navel, which was positioned like a tiny dry pond on a flat track of arid land. He noticed how her ribs were displayed like soft ripples across desert sands. The adventurous appendage could then tease over hip-bones which jutted upward like smooth ridges on a grass-free prairie. Reaching a flat plain, the traveler could rest boldly on her taut stomach, without daring to venture into that compelling forest nearby.
In reality, the enchanted male lifted one of her hands and pressed it against his jawline, eager to feel her touch. He closed his eyes and shifted her palm over his lips. His tongue sampled its flavor, then traveled down her arm to steal a kiss in the hollow of her throat. His lips trailed feathery kisses over her face, then lightly brushed over her velvety lips. But his hands dared not encroach upon her satiny frame.
Intoxicated by this magnetic creature, Varian’s mind returned to its fantasy. He saw his lips following the same path which his forefinger had fancifully traveled earlier. When another drowsy moan of undeniable passion passed between her lips, Varian was pressed beyond thinking clearly or wisely. His mouth captured Jana’s and parted her lips. His persistent tongue invaded her warm and tasty recess, sending thrilling shocks of joy and bliss through him and her. His hands grasped her shoulders and pulled her pliant and susceptible body into his trembling arms.
The sedative was weakening just enough to slightly arouse Jana. Her lids fluttered, then opened. Jana had never experienced such wild and wonderful sensations as he was creating within her body. She moaned in rapturous delight and total contentment, and unknowingly returned his kiss.
Careful not to tangle her hair, Varian placed a palm on either side of Jana’s head and awaited her reaction to him. Spellbound, he didn’t realize Jana was too dazed to comprehend the reality of this situation. Varian leaned forward, bringing his face within range of Jana’s partially cloudy vision. He watched an appreciative gaze slip over her face.
Jana tried to study the strikingly handsome face with molten blue eyes which hovered over her. She instinctively responded to this pinnacle of manhood with bronze skin, sable hair, rich sapphire eyes, a perfect smile, strong and compelling features, and a virile physique which was so boldly exposed in a snug and semibare outfit. He had a roguish gleam in his eyes and an enticing smile on his lips. His shoulders were broad, exuding an undeniable aura of strength. Crisp black hair peeked out around the edges of his tank top, hinting at a provocative chest. Muscles bulged in his taut arms. Her gaze helplessly and eagerly roved up and down his body as it worked its spell.
The smile which engulfed Jana enraptured her senses and claimed her heart. As if mesmerized, she dreamily watched his strong hand stroke her hair, then move over her parted lips. In her half-wakeful state, Jana made no attempt to stop Varian’s \\ attentions. Her breath was stolen as he bent forward and covered her mouth with his. A fiery explosion took place within her body, kindling and engulfing her with passion’s flames.
Jana was adrift upon a sea of stormy waves which tugged at her body, threatening to drown her beneath its obscure surface. Her head spun in the whirlpool of feverish desire and staggering pleasure. There seemed no inch of her face which didn’t glow from a kiss. When his powerful blue gaze fused with hers, she was drawn deeper and deeper into its pool of magic and mystery. Down she went into the all-consuming well of delight.
Jana’s senses reeled, but not from the sedative. This perfect male was assailing her senses, enslaving her to his will. A warming glow pulsed through her womanhood. Her arms weakly but uncontrollably encircled his neck. She clung to him and returned his kisses.
Varian was tempted to undress, climb on the stretcher with her, and boldly take possession of this creature who was driving him mad with hunger. He groaned as flames licked unmercifully at his manhood. At the last moment for retreat before yielding to his cravings, a flash of reality jolted his senses. He couldn’t believe he was trying to seduce a defenseless victim of fate, a partially drugged charl! Varian unconsciously mopped beads of perspiration from his brow and upper lip. His respiration was rapid and shallow. He could not permit his fantasy to become a reality! He covered Jana, lifted the side rails, and retreated. He dared not touch her again; her stimulating beauty was affecting his wits, will, and carnal desires! He was acting like a mindless fool, a rutting beast! Tremors of warning touched his mind and lodged there. Her feminine allure was powerful, mysterious, and magical. Beware the helpless male who fell prey to these abundant charms!
Varian observed the bewitching girl as she slowly relented to the call of narcotic slumber. He realized Jana’s senses were still too imprisoned by the sedative to be responsible for her behavior, even if she was responding to him and enjoying their actions. He admonished his loss of control. What a distraction she could become if he did not watch himself carefully during her training period. Despite Jana’s many physical qualities, Varian Saar could not envisage himself buying a mate, as he had never experienced a shortage of female companionship. More important, there was Ryker to remember.
Varian was distressed by his strong attraction to Jana, for no woman could enter his life and heart until his war with Ryker and his threat to the Universe were settled. Jana was like a deadly decoy beacon set out by the forces of evil fate to lure him into danger. If he was not careful, he could be destroyed. An obsession for this lovely alien could drive him to madness, as Shara had gone mad with her obsession for his father! Varian stepped to the stretcher and tightly grasped the protective rails. He stared down at Jana.
Varian accepted his duty to make Jana the pawn in his battle for victory over a powerful enemy, but his heartfelt emotions were already resisting that decision. But he promised himself that he would resist her. Not wishing to be discovered by anyone, Varian left. He went to the gym and exercised his body until he was positive it was too weary to be affected by Jana again tonight. To prove his self-control, he returned to the medical laboratory.
Varian arrived at a good and bad moment: Jana’s examination was over and Tristan was replacing her gown. “Be with you in a moment.”
Varian was forced to turn his back for fear his interest would become apparent. He picked up her chart to read it. “Jana Greyson; twenty-three; hair—pale and dark blond; eyes—caritrary. ” Varian frowned. Tristan hadn’t said bluish-green. The softhearted doctor had used the color of one of their galaxy’s most precious gems.
Varian read on: “Five feet eight inches; one hundred and twenty pounds; skin—golden glow; medical condition—excellent; scars—two; virgin.”
Varian was amused and slightly annoyed by the descriptions of her physical appearance, but he understood Tristan’s dilemma. Jana’s coloring lacked the correct Maffeian word to identify it. With his ebony hair and dark blue eyes, his and Jana’s only similarity was a golden tan, though his was darkest. He found himself wondering how their contrasting colorings would blend in a child. That thought troubled him, and he dismissed it.
“Kyle told me what happened during her capture. Those men’s deaths will be hard for her to accept, even if they were trying to attack her.”
Varian nodded agreement. “But he couldn’t just stun them, Tris. You know the amount of investigating and publicity her kidnapping will receive. Imagine the police finding those two thugs in the garden and questioning them. Panic would begin if sightings are made of men in shiny spacesuits and helmets at these women’s abductions. It was unfortunate, but necessary.”
Tristan gazed at Jana, then at Varian. He remarked, “She’s quite a find. You’ll have no trouble getting a buyer. A shame, she’s too special for this fate. If her life hadn’t been in peril, I wouldn’t have persuaded you to capture Jana. Such a transition and existence will be hard for her.”
Varian consoled his friend. “Don’t worry about Jana Greyson, Tris. She’s proud and intelligent and courageous. Give her time and good training. She’ll make the adjustment to being an envied charl to some lucky citizen.”
“But she’s a medical scientist, a doctor,” Tristan said. “She should be placed in one of our research centers. We could use talents like hers. Later, if necessary, she could be matched to a perfect male.”
“You’re dreaming, Tris. The Supreme Council wouldn’t allow an alien slave to run free. I doubt many Maffeians have forgotten it was an alien scientist who created that virus which nearly destroyed our female population. I can only promise to let the staff do all they can to aid her adjustment. As agreed, Jana will occupy the gold room on deck one.” Varian reminded Tristan of placing her in quarters normally reserved for an elite guest and of supplying her with a special wardrobe which had been sized for her.
Tristan said the other two women were ready for their quarters, which were shared by many captives. What Tristan didn’t tell Varian was that when he had begun Jana’s examination he had noticed her rosy cheeks and passion-swollen lips, which were not the result of her struggles with the Earthling males. “These are charts on the last five captives.” Tristan lifted them to read Varian the information. When he finished, he asked, “Any chance we’ll have to use this despicable ruse again?”
“I certainly hope not,” Varian replied instantly, scowling in disgust.
“Me, too,” Tristan declared, sneaking a revealing look at Jana. “We capture and enslave women, then expect them to calmly accept their new fates. I wonder what we would do if the tables were turned…”
“Certainly not adapt as well as most charls do. Have you implanted the microtranslators in their ear canals? I want to be certain these women understand us the moment they wake up. We don’t want them any more frightened and confused than normal.” His eyes lingered on Jana as he spoke.
“They’ll hear us loud and clear. Once they learn the truth, I’m sure most of them would rather not understand our language,” he responded.
At what would have been dawn had she not been in space, Jana began to stir in the guest quarters. Intense splotches of bronze, sapphire blue, cloud white, and rich ebony swirled and mingled and separated to paint an intoxicating image of a spellbinding creature upon the canvas in Jana’s dreamy mind. The magnificent man was perfect in form. His smile and gaze tantalized and hypnotized her. His kisses sent her senses racing wildly like a runaway stallion. His caresses ignited flames in her mind and body, smoldering and burning until they fused into one roaring blaze of uncontrollable wildfire. His body was as sleek and smooth as the legs of a racehorse. His arms and shoulders evinced great power and prowess. Passion’s hungers struck her like bolts of lightning, causing her to squirm and moan upon her bed. The fantasy became so vivid and unsettling that she was aroused from her sedated slumber.
Jana forced open her heavy lids and blinked as she yawned and stretched. Lying motionless to bring herself to full awareness, she inhaled and exhaled. Since she could never meet this provocative man whom she had conjured up in her dreams, Jana defensively pushed aside such disturbing feelings and desires. From past experiences, she doubted such a perfect and beguiling creature existed anywhere! Ready to begin a new day, she sat up.
Jana’s roving gaze took in her unfamiliar surroundings. She was in an oblong room, about thirteen by sixteen feet. Her gaze scanned the luxurious decor in harmonizing shades of gold and ivory. She could not recall where she was or how she had gotten here. Jana’s brain frantically sought its last remembrances. Who were those strange men? What did they want from her?
Should she assume from the lavish appearance of this setting that money had nothing to do with her kidnapping? She and her lawyers and guardian had always feared that something like this might happen, especially after the news coverage of her large grant to the foundation for terminally ill children. The furniture, fabrics, and accessories looked very expensive. Caution, patience, and observation were essential to survival, she cautioned herself.
Jana studied the golden cell. There was an ivory- colored étagère in one corner, filled with books and decorative art objects. Next, there was a pressurized sliding door, like one finds at a supermarket. Jana was positive it was locked, but she would check it. Positioned next to the door was a wall display with opaque windows, colored buttons, a small drawer, and a shelf. Before it was a low bar with two chairs. On the adjacent wall, another door caught her eye. There was a sofa in variegated tints of gold and cream. A raindrop swag lamp was suspended over a round, low table. She wondered why the owner of this elegant room, or its decorator, had selected a phantasmic painting to hang over the sofa. Her curious gaze continued to a square commode by the bed, which was an ivory shade like all the furniture but the bed. An octagon- shaped swag lamp was suspended over it. The bed she was lying in had sheets which were an unidentified silky golden fabric. She fingered the sensuous covers which exhibited an intricate creamy design on a gold background. Strange sensations washed over her.
Her prison walls appeared to be of a metal in an ivory hue. She touched the wall to her left and was surprised when it registered neither cold nor hot. The carpet was a deep coin gold. She glanced up at the diffused lighting panels which were very dim at this time. There appeared to be a night light over the main door. Seeing no switches, she reasoned the controls were outside this room. It was the same with the gilded lamp at her bedside. Light and dark were at the discretion of her abductor. Jana speculated it could be hours before anyone came to check on her. She allowed her bare feet to fondle the lush carpet appreciatively. She walked around the room, studying, touching, and observing her exquisite oubliette.
Varian’s timbre voice ordered First Lieutenant Martella Karsh to take over the meeting. She had been a wise selection by his grandfather to head up this facet of their mission. Martella was more than qualified to train these aliens and to handle any difficult problem which might arise on the ship or at one of the thirteen auctions. As a brilliant psychologist, she had been in charge of similar tasks on other starships, though she had vowed this was the last time she would accept this repulsive task. Varian welcomed her leadership and talents.
Martella took the floor. The stately female with graying red hair and pale green eyes knew it was unnecessary to go over each person’s duties. Varian’s staff had been well versed on their training tasks. They were making excellent progress with the women from Uranus, and she expected them to do the same with the Earthlings. Her penetrating gaze slipped around the table. Despite her sterility from the plague which had inspired this enthralling custom, sixty-year-old Martella Karsh felt no envy or hostility toward these women who were heading for her world.
The head of the psychology department supplied reports which profiled each female and alerted the staff to possible troublemakers or nonadapters. Dr. Tristan Zarcoff was to be informed of anyone who seemed headed for mental depression. The historiographer gave a concise report on Earth and Uranus, relating any historical or political event which might play a pivotal role in the women’s behaviors or personalities.
Lieutenant Kara Curri discussed her recreational and physical conditioning schedule, which was designed to improve figures, physical and emotional health, and to inspire relaxation and friendly attitudes.
Daxley Prada would use his data processing department to store all this individual information in his confidential computerized library banks. He would gather, analyze, correlate, and store all information concerning these women. A complete dossier would soon be available on every female.
Security Control Chief Kyle Dykstra would be responsible for monitoring the women’s behavior from a central control room similar to closed-circuit television, from which instructions and announcements would be given.
Martella went over the schedules she had filled out for the staff. Group assignments were made for the captives. At the beginning, the females were to be informed of the staff’s purpose and expectations. The Maffeian plight was to be explained in detail, with hopes of showing the charls they were needed and wanted. The females would discover they were to become mates to alien males whose appearances varied little, if any, from the males of their planet.
The relaxed tone of business and lively recreational schedule planned by the staff would help to dispel the captives’ apprehensions. Within a reasonable length of time, most would adapt to their new fates. The captives’ mates usually cooperated for there was no turning back. Females who were orphaned and unattached were most usually chosen, as they adjusted quicker and easier to their new lives.
The male officers played an important role in the forming of the charls’ positive attitudes. Luckily, this crew consisted of numerous attractive, charming, polished men who revealed wit, intelligence, good breeding, and sex appeal.
There were matters concerning charls which angered and distressed Martella and many other Maffeians, including Tristan Zarcoff and the recent convert Varian Saar. Ever since this procedure began fifty years ago, the original laws and practices had remained intact. An alien mate had no rights under Maffeian law. As long as she was captured outside of any treaty territory and was sold to an unwed male citizen, she was the chattel of her buyer. Since there was no marriage involved, children of such a union belonged to the father, to his family in case of his death. In cases of owner death or displeasure, the mate could be sold to another male. This situation led to abuses of human rights. These women were not animals or objects. Marriage should be required. If it failed, divorce—not another sale—should end the matter. Changes were needed; these females deserved citizenship, protection, support, and basic freedoms and rights. Martella was working on bringing her views before the Supreme Council’s eyes and vote.
Martella smiled as she realized there were many men in this very room who could make a woman’s heart flutter. Too bad their charms and good looks were overshadowed by the matchless ones of Varian Saar. She could use the aid and support of a man of Varian’s power and influence, a male surely destined to become the kadim one day. After taking part in this cruel practice during this mission, hopefully he would help her fight for the changes which were needed. If a female was good enough to sleep in a male’s bed and bear his children, she was good enough to wed!
At the same time not far from the conference room, Jana couldn’t decide what the furniture was made from for it neither felt nor appeared to be wood, or metal, or plastic. Jana went to the étagère. The books were in a foreign language and on a variety of subjects, as she could tell from the illustrations. Most of the objets d’art were statuettes of what she took to be imaginary creatures. The figurines appeared to be either brass or gold. The books were covered in aureate bindings with indecipherable lettering. Jana surmised they had been specially bound in matching covers. There was a striking model of a spaceship which was constructed with the finest details; clearly it was handmade and quite valuable. If she wasn’t mistaken, that was gold trim on the ivory-colored ship! She dared not handle it. Her perceptive mind grasped several facts. Either her abductor was foreign, or he wanted her to believe he was. The various books suggested he had diverse interests. She returned each object to its place, noting there wasn’t a speck of dust or a single stain on any item or furnishing in the room.
Jana moved to the first door. She promptly realized either it did not open by floor pressure or was locked. Since there were no buttons, knobs, or controls in sight, she was definitely sealed inside this golden room.
Jana entered the space between the eating bar and wall unit. There were recessed spaces, of which three contained units with smoky-glass doors. Two units resembled microwave ovens without controls. The top unit had one button beside it. To the left of the lower unit was a small drawer which contained numerous metal objects, the size and shape of a credit card. She wondered if the perforations on them were a computer code. Over the drawer was a narrow slit, the size of the metal cards. She was tempted to check out this conclusion, but changed her mind. It wasn’t wise to tamper with unfamiliar equipment.
The next recessed unit opened like a laundry chute and made a whoosh when she closed it; it was perhaps a garbage disposal. In the niche above it, there was a device for dispensing liquids. She surmised that the row of four buttons by the door offered various selections. The surface of those buttons revealed foreign symbols which she couldn’t read. Evidently this was some type of sophisticated, possibly experimental, food center. Only dishes and food were missing. She glanced under the bar and found nothing.
Perhaps she would be served through one of the devices. Perhaps she would be kept secluded until her captor’s demands were met. Her hope for survival and release grew as she surmised he did not want her to be able to identify him. Jana eyed the other door, then gingerly approached it. The swishing sound and instant opening of the door startled her. She hastily backed up a few steps and the door closed. When the rapid pounding of her heart slowed to normal, she summoned her courage to continue her exploration, and she stepped to the door. It instantly slid open to reveal an elaborate bathroom. She ascended two steps, then the door closed automatically behind her.
To her left, there was a lengthy vanity with two gold-colored sinks and a row of buttons beside each one. The entire wall above it was a huge mirror. In her state of intrigue and astonishment, she failed to notice her scanty attire.
A gold or brass chair sat before the vanity. The floor was tiled in an artistic pattern of gold and ivory to form flowers, and the toilet and sunken tub matched the color of the double sinks. The end wall was spanned with closets. The gold and ivory color scheme exuded a powerful aura of wealth, beauty, and serenity. This boudoir was definitely designed to soothe the mind, body, and eye.
Jana wondered if she was the first prisoner to occupy this suite. It seemed illogical for a kidnapper to be concerned with his victim’s comfort and fears. She rambled through the vanity drawers and cabinets for clues. Most of the products were from foreign markets; she could not read the wording on their packaging. Anything a female could need was there, along with her regular bath necessities. She questioned if this supply was intentional or coincidental. Jana’s eyes narrowed in suspicion and her heart began to pound forcefully. Had her captor gone to such trouble to please her or to calm her fears? Did such accuracy in selecting her choice of products mean her captor had observed her for a long time? Did he know her other likes and dislikes?
She asked herself why she kept thinking “captor” and “he,” not “they” or “captors”? Whatever instinct caused her to believe the towering man with a perfect physique was responsible for her abduction and imminent fate could not be ignored. She had sensed his raw power and authority. The other men were nothing more than friends or followers or paid assistants. These lush surroundings caused panic within Jana. A kidnapped victim wasn’t usually handled this way, was she?
Her eyes caught sight of the closets. She went to them and threw the doors open wide. She stared at the wardrobe inside. It was very elegant and extremely feminine. Someone certainly had good, and expensive, taste. She could not help but notice the fabrics were very soft. Although there were outfits for any and every occasion, she instantly realized the majority of the clothing was for lounging, sleeping, or formal wear. When all she really needed were jeans and T-shirts for a short period of captivity. This observation panicked her. Surely these garments were not meant for her, or for a lengthy stay!
She hastily checked the sizes. Everything would fit her. She checked the shoes—her size. She pulled open the drawers, which were arranged in a vertical row to her right. Once more every single item of underclothing was in her size. She cringed in rising apprehension at this discovery.
Jana opened a small drawer and revealed numerous necklaces, pierced earrings, bracelets, and rings. She gaped in disbelief. She lifted several pieces and carefully studied them. If they were fakes, they were the best replicas she had ever seen. This gem collection was worth a large fortune! Jana dropped the expensive stones as if they had suddenly singed her fingers. She closed the doors and leaned against them, breathing rapidly. This situation was becoming more and more perplexing and alarming. What did such a wealthy man want from her? Why had he gone to such expense and trouble? Did he hope to assure a compliant prisoner? What kinky game or intricate scheme was he planning for her? White slavery? Jana scolded her wild imagination. Surely this room belonged to a female who was her size. It was all coincidence. Surely this man was only interested in ransom. There was no reason to harm her. He controlled her food, air, and light supplies. Her life was in his hands. Wasn’t that enough power over her? They, she reminded herself; there were three to five men involved.
As her eyes darted frantically, they touched on the mirror and widened in horrified shock. She stared at the silky apricot nightgown she was wearing. Her face reddened, then paled, as she realized someone had placed this gown on her while she was unconscious. Had the leader done it? Had…The words “white slavery” and “kinky” thundered across her frightened mind again. Surely those hoodlums in black leather had been hired to abduct her. No doubt their incompetence had spurred their bosses into action. What secret and lewd game were these men playing?
Jana fumed in humiliation. She opened the closet doors to search for her own dress. As she pushed aside the garments in her vain search, she blushed in modesty at how provocative, romantic, and revealing many of the dresses were. Surely he—they didn’t expect her to wear those clothes and…And what, she wondered fearfully. She selected and dressed in a soft brushed knit in ice blue. How long had she been here drugged?
Jana crossed the room, eager yet reluctant to learn her fate. The door automatically opened and she reentered her golden cell. She paced, trying to reason out this alarming puzzle. In turn, she sat on the sofa, the bed, the chairs, and ended up partially reclining on the sofa. She absently fingered the soft material of the dress she had put on. She toyed with her curls. She jumped up to pace again. She fretted, How much longer will they ignore me? When will they tell me something? She hated this frightening uncertainty and torturous waiting.
“Anything else?” Martella asked. She had hopes that Varian’s high opinion of Jana would open his eyes and heart to changing the situation involving the charls.
Tristan stated, “I’m very impressed by their profiles and appearances.”
“All, or one in particular?” Nigel jested with a smile so broad his dimples were vividly displayed. Now that they were heading home and trying to do something beneficial for the captives and Earth, moods were lightening.
Tristan’s bright blue eyes twinkled with merriment and guilt. He shuffled the papers before him as he recovered his poise, relieved that Martella knew the truth, for they had become very close during this assignment.
Nigel couldn’t resist another jest. “Why, Tris, I do believe I’ve touched a tender spot. For which girl, or need I even ask?”
“Come on, Nigel, you know me better than that.”
“Sure I do,” the first officer murmured playfully. “It wouldn’t be for that medical research beauty by any chance, would it?”
A revealing sparkle lit Tristan’s piercing eyes. “I’ll admit Jana does impress me greatly—exceptional beauty and brains—a rare combination.”
Varian spoke up for the first time. “Martella has already noted and planned for this special case. Do your best with her training. Besides being the focal point at our auctions, she’s very special like Tris said.”
Varian’s apparent interest in this woman stilled any further chatter about her. He had been annoyed at having her openly and casually discussed. The mere mention of her name had sent warm tremors up his spine and reminded him of last night. But the viewing of her videotapes and pictures had been his undoing! Yet he was unaware of the heat in his voice and eyes as he had spoken of her.
The training staff found this development baffling and surprising. It registered in Tristan’s mind that Varian was more than slightly intrigued by Jana. Martella was pleased by Varian’s attitude and comments. Nigel thought he knew the reason behind them, his private scheme to defeat Ryker.
“Any more comments or questions?” Martella asked once more. She hoped the men would not spoil her plans by placing Varian on the defensive with their jokes about “an alien enchantress.” She needed to provide Varian time and privacy with Jana. When no one spoke up, she dismissed them. Without defying orders, she had to figure out a way to thwart Jana’s auction to an unworthy man. If only Varian would keep Jana, fall in love with her.
As each staff member departed to plan his schedule, Varian gathered his reports and tapes to head for the privacy of his quarters. But first, he would check out his “cargo” from the central monitors, and he intended to view one woman in particular…
Once more Jana began to roam her prison. Why didn’t someone come, at least to bring food and drink? She had been awake for hours and was hungry. Her rambling thoughts returned to the scene of her abduction. She wondered how they had pulled that vanishing trick with those two hoodlums. “A sly tactic to terrify me. Evaporate into thin air? Impossible! It was a controlled illusion.”
Jana walked past the sofa and stopped to look at the painting above it. Suddenly Jana realized she was staring at a red light in the fake pond of the picture. She lifted her head and stared at a surveillance camera mounted in the corner. A glowing light indicated it was on. Was there a hidden microphone somewhere? Now she understood why they hadn’t come to check on her! She went to see if a camera was mounted in the bathroom. No, at least they would allow her some privacy. A horrifying thought came to mind. What if this mirror was one of those two-way glasses? This new discovery was too much! It was time for some answers! At least time to learn how many captors were holding her.
She determinedly raised her chin and shoulders. She returned to the outer room and glared at the offensive camera. “I demand you tell me why I’m being held prisoner,” Jana stated angrily. “Who are you? What do you want from me? You have no right to keep me here or to spy on me!” No one responded. Fear, panic, and anger gnawed at her.
Jana spat at the camera, again, “You’ll be sorry when the police and FBI catch you! You’ll rot in prison. How much ransom are you demanding from my lawyers? Tell them I said to pay you immediately so I can get out of here.” Still no reaction.
Time moved on as Jana tried to show a brave mask of unconcern and contempt, but it kept slipping. She felt like a specimen under a microscope. Yet, strangely, she didn’t feel in mortal danger.
On and on the impasse went until Jana thought she would scream from the mounting tension. How long had she been here? What was happening at home? What was stalling her release? Had Mr. Purvis, the executor of her father’s estate, refused to pay him? If Purvis dared to do anything that foolish and dangerous for her, she would start legal action against him! Would her captors kill her, even if they received the money they demanded? Surely not, or they wouldn’t be keeping her in seclusion! But how could she possibly guess what went on in the dark minds of criminals?
Jana sat on the sofa, her back to the camera. She was silent for a time, thinking. Perhaps they were enjoying her little display of temper or jeering at her total helplessness. Perhaps they derived some thrill from watching her fear and panic, or felt some surge of power at her vulnerability. Perhaps if she tried to reason with them…She went to stand before the camera. She looked directly into the lens. She struggled to speak calmly this time. “Please, if you’re listening, tell me what you want from me. I’ll order my lawyers to pay you any amount of ransom. You can have all the money. Whatever it takes for you to release me…”
She waited. No response. “Please,” she coaxed in desperation. “At least answer me!” Still nothing. Tears gathered in those beryl-colored eyes and slowly ran down her cheeks. In a quavering voice she asked, “Why are you doing this to me? Why won’t you answer me?”
Security Chief Kyle Dykstra, who had returned to duty after the conference, sat watching the monitor and feeling remorse as he stared into her exquisite face. He was touched by her beauty and gentleness, her vulnerability and fear. He wished a thousand times he didn’t have anything to do with this despicable mission. As with most males his age, he had not given charls much thought, until this voyage.
Being confronted by the realities made its cruelties and demands strike home. Kyle envisioned his mother or his sister or his beloved Karita as a captive mate to an alien stranger. Jana Greyson inspired anguish within him. He had made Jana’s surveillance tapes and helped capture her. He was plagued by the unknown destiny she was racing toward, a fate which he was assisting. It seemed so cruel to watch her suffer, but his orders prevented him from offering solace. She was a magnificent creature. She would be an excellent mate for the right man.
Varian arrived to find Kyle staring moodily at Jana’s distraught face as she pleaded for someone to speak to her. Varian moved closer to get a better view. Kyle glanced at him and forced a wry smile.
“She just wake up?” Varian inquired as he witnessed the trembling in Jana’s body. He knew what she must be feeling, just as he knew he could not explain the truth to her about Earth’s doom or his mission.
“My relief officer said she’s been awake for hours. Sometimes those sedatives don’t last as long as expected. She was investigating her surroundings and noticed the camera. It’s natural to be frightened and to want answers in her situation,” Kyle explained.
“Did you respond?” Varian felt a rush of desire as he watched Jana.
“My orders are to observe, not communicate,” Kyle replied. “Her case is unlike the others. I wouldn’t know what to tell her.”
Jana turned away from the camera. She could sense a powerful gaze on her, that same potent gaze of the man who had prevented her escape. If he meant her no harm, he would alleviate her terror. When the tears lessened, resentment replaced her fear. She ran to the bookcase and snatched up several books. “Stop playing cruel games with me! I want to go home. I’m tired and I’m hungry. And yes, damn you, I’m scared too! How dare you kidnap me and treat me this way! The least you can do is feed me and give me some kind of explanation for this crime!” She furiously hurled the books at the camera.
Sparks flashed and a zinging sound filled her room as the books hit and deflected off some sort of invisible electrical field surrounding the camera. She gasped and moved back. One book was tossed against the lamp, shaking it. She had underestimated her perilous position and her foolish action had gained her nothing. Or so she momentarily thought…
Varian watched her look of surprise at the effect of the books on the force shield around the monitor. Despite her fears, she revealed spirit, and he was impressed with the ravishing creature.
A deep, clear voice addressed her in a commanding tone. It startled Jana. She could not judge where it came from; it was as if the walls themselves spoke to her. Kyle moved aside and curiously watched as Varian wielded his power like an artful club over the defenseless woman. He watched Jana bow to the authoritative imposing tone.
Jana glanced all around her in bewilderment. Her gaze came back to rest upon the camera as if it were the speaker. Varian studied her expression as he spoke to her from the control room. “Calm yourself, Miss Greyson; you’ll be told everything very soon. I’m sorry if you were allowed to go hungry. I’ll have that error corrected immediately. I’m not playing games with you. Relax and rest.” He couldn’t resist teasing her. “If you behave yourself and do as you’re told, I promise you won’t be harmed. Do you understand me, Miss Greyson?” he pressed in a tantalizing tone.
Jana was staring at the camera as if hypnotized by it. She nodded her head and softly answered, “I understand you. But when will you release me? Has Mr. Purvis refused to pay my ransom?” she asked in concern.
“I’m not asking any ransom for you,” he told her.
Her eyes blinked in confusion. “Then why am I here?” she asked.
“All your questions will be answered later,” Varian calmly replied.
“I don’t like being held prisoner by five men. Whose clothes and rooms are these? I want to be told the truth right now! I demand—” Rumbling, mocking laughter filled the room and silenced her.
“I’m in charge here, Jana,” his firm voice countered. “You’ll be given answers when I say the time is right, not before. You are my captive, not theirs or ours. It would be most wise to settle down and cooperate.”
“Cooperate?” she echoed. “How so?”
“By obeying my orders, which I’ll reveal later,” he replied mysteriously. Varian was warmed by her reaction of relief to his claim of ownership.
Jana frowned and sighed heavily. She could not force information from him. She had to relent. He had said she would not be harmed. Could she trust him? Cooperate? No ransom? Obey his orders? What orders?
Varian noted reluctant acquiescence, but wariness was written on her face. “Relax, Jana. You’re in strong, capable hands,” his voice informed her. Yes, he had selected the right weapon and ruse. “You’ll be quite safe and happy in your new home. Trust me, Jana; I won’t let anyone or anything hurt you.”
“Trust a kidnapper?” she scoffed, “Your words carry little comfort or credence.” But they did carry intimidation. New home?
In that same lazy drawl which hinted of amusement, he roguishly jested, “So be it.” He issued orders for Kyle to pass along to Jana, then left, grinning mischievously, pleased with her and himself.
Kyle watched his retreat and wondered at the odd scene he had just witnessed, Could it be possible that Varian was attracted to this beautiful alien? He chuckled, then scoffed at such an absurd idea.
“Wait!” Jana shrieked. “Who are you? What do you mean, my new home? Where are you taking me? Damn you! This is a mistake! You’ve abducted the wrong woman!” Silence greeted her ears. Jana vexingly realized that if she were to give a voice and laughter and enticing traits to her stunning dream man, they would match those of her captor!