Paralyzing fear and disbelief attacked Jana’s senses. Forceful pressure seemed to squeeze her chest, making it difficult to breathe. She felt as if her blood had frozen, chilling and stiffening her body. Her eyes refused to blink or close while her brain pleaded for blankness. As if she were an exquisite statuette, Jana couldn’t move or speak as she watched countless fuzzy spiders tumble into the open arena. They began to scurry about with erratic movements. They were as large as grown cats, as intimidating as lions! Jana had never seen anything like them; they were hideous and heart-stopping. Where had he gotten such creatures?
Jana watched in horrified fascination as the spiders seemed to work together to stalk their prey. As the spiders advanced on her, Sylva vainly tried to hop backward. She only succeeded in falling down, the noise and vibrations attracting the attention of her predators. The wild frenzy began.
Their spinnerets worked quickly as a viscid fluid oozed out. As the liquid instantly hardened into silken thread, skillful appendages seized it and began to spin an envelope around Sylva. It was like being buried alive in a silky white tomb.
The creatures maneuvered Sylva over and over as they continued their task. Soon, only an oblong white wrapper and brown spiders filled the arena. They seized the cocoon and begin to retreat into the stygian shadows from which they had come. Jana realized in rising alarm that they were capturing Sylva.
Kathy’s limp body sagged against Jana. Somewhere along this trial of horror she had fainted. Heather was sobbing and babbling hysterically to herself. Susan sat white-faced watching Sylva’s retreating cocoon. Stephanie glared in hatred and renewed fury toward Varian’s booth.
As Jana’s eyes scanned the other booths, she saw the panic this barbaric scene had wrought. Varian had selected his tormentor perfectly. What other dramatic episode could inflict such anguish on them? She had not believed him capable of such inhuman savageness. Her heart filled with agony at this discovery.
Jana studied his powerfully attractive features. He looked unmoved, untouched by what he had ordered and witnessed. His men did not show even a faint hint of remorse or sympathy. Torment knifed her heart. How could she have been so wrong about him, so beguiled?
Varian glanced over to find Jana’s piercing eyes on his face, staring at him as if she were seeing him for the very first time and in a most destructive light. The expression in her eyes alarmed him. The muscles in his stomach knotted as he wished he could have spared her this deception. But his expression never altered to hint of this inner turmoil. With her scientific mind and background, she would erroneously surmise Sylva’s fate.
Varian read the raw emotions revealed in her bluish- green eyes. Her gentle spirit and sense of humanity would refuse to accept such violence for any reason. He felt a pang of regret. He wanted to explain this deceitful matter to her, to hold her in his arms and comfort her, to ask her understanding of this necessary ruse…
The women were left alone to adjust to what they had witnessed. Jana’s stormy eyes left Varian’s profile. He secretly pressed a button.
“How could a man like that be so cruel?” Susan asked.
Jana’s frayed nerves and guilty conscience caused her to lose all control. “What’s the matter, Susan?” she sarcastically taunted. “Has Varian Saar lost all his charm and fascination? Don’t fret. By our next dinner, you’ll forget his ferocity in the fallout from all that charisma. No doubt you’ll soon be playing strip poker with him again.”
Jana struck out to punish her own traitorous heart. She desperately needed to eviscerate those forbidden feelings for Varian. She had also allowed herself the folly of viewing his charming image and forgetting the man behind the image he had revealed to her earlier. She must never do so again.
“And just how do you plan to treat him, Miss High and Mighty?” Susan snapped back in her own defense.
“I’ll do as ordered, for now. I don’t intend to become roommates with Sylva, but I won’t pretend to accept this barbaric situation. We must be cautious. Susan, you of all people know women can be artful pretenders. We simply playact our assigned parts until this nightmare ends. He demands obedience. He orders us to study and learn. I shall grant him that much, nothing more.” Jana didn’t suspect that Varian was listening to this conversation in his booth.
“What about the respect he also mentioned?” Susan mocked Jana’s reasoning. “He said disrespect and defiance were punishable.”
“Respect for his power and authority, yes; but for him as a man, no. If you still want him, Susan, take him,” Jana brazenly challenged. “I would rather die than have that alien warlock touch me!”
The discussion ceased as the guard entered to lead away a moody Stephanie. Martella noticed the curious light in Stephanie’s eyes as she stared at Jana, an expression of victory on her lips. Martella wondered why, but allowed it to pass for now. Martella called the women to follow her.
Ferris Laus aided a trembling, ashen-faced Kathy down the corridor. Ever since Kathy’s arrival, Ferris had been drawn to her. At this moment, he resolved to buy her as his mate. He would clear it with Varian, then send Kathy to his parents on the planet Auriga for safekeeping.
Susan left with Martella. Jana slipped her arm around Heather’s shoulder and tried to calm her down. “You have nothing to fear, Heather. Just do as he commands and you won’t be harmed,” Jana advised her.
“It was so horrible, Jana. How could he do such a wicked thing?” she cried, his golden image tarnished for her.
“1 told you what Sylva did and you saw how she behaved. Then that trouble with Stephanie. He must have thought it was necessary to keep from losing control over more women. Just be quiet and follow orders. Everything will be all right. It has to,” Jana encouraged Heather. Jana dared not look at Varian again. Yet her peripheral vision told her he had not departed. His gaze made her uneasy, for she could sense its presence.
“Nothing will ever be all right again, Jana. These are evil people. They pretended to be nice, to be our friends. I hate it here! I hate all of them! I hate Commander Saar!” Heather burst into a fresh wave of tears.
Martella came back to see why Jana and Heather had not followed. She halted in the doorway to view a touching scene. Jana was acting like the wiser sister as she tried to ease the fears of a younger sibling. Martella did not interfere. The older woman was pleased to learn her assessment of Jana was more than accurate. Martella glanced over their bowed heads at Varian’s moody expression. Suddenly she realized Varian was eavesdropping on this particular talk.
“Listen to me, Heather. You are not a disrupter like Sylva or Stephanie. You’re sweet, kind, and well behaved. The commander likes you. You have nothing to fear from him or the others. Get hold of yourself. I’ll be close by if you need any help.”
“But they’re bad people. I’m afraid of them. They can’t be trusted.”
“That’s not true, Heather. Some of them are very kind. They’re just different from us. Be yourself. Make them see you as their friend. Will you try that for me?” she gently coaxed.
“I’m not sure I can, Jana,” she answered carefully.
“Yes, you can. Chin up. Relax.” Jana smiled and hugged her.
Jana looked up to find Martella patiently waiting for them. There was a curious gleam of admiration in Martella’s eyes as she smiled warmly at Jana. Jana rose and masked her irritation at being overheard saying such lies to calm the other woman.
They joined Martella and departed. Martella jovially chatted with Heather, who began to relax. Jana watched her and smiled. For Heather and most of the others, it was over. As a gradually diminishing nightmare, Sylva’s fate would drift into the realm of illusion. But the seed would remain buried deep within each captive as a warning.
Later, Jana collapsed on her bed and threw her arms across her eyes. Why couldn’t she convince herself of those same lies she had told Heather? She had no one to comfort or encourage her, no one to give her a much needed pep talk. She had never felt so alone and afraid. Jana decided Varian Saar could make a powerful enemy or a powerful ally. She was thankful her dinner rotation wouldn’t come again for another five days. She prayed she wouldn’t see Varian till then.
As the days passed, Jana got her wish. It was Kara Curri’s wit and vivacity which lightened the tense situation. Jana was glad she met with this genial officer for an hour each day. Jana was scheduled for two hours with Martella, lunch, and two hours with Nigel. There was a rest break, then recreation or exercise of some type with Kara. Once these classes ended, her group would be transferred to the next two instructors and subjects. The speed and manner of the classes prevented much socializing among the women, perhaps for the best under the circumstances.
Today, Jana had been a captive for ten days. She eyed her daily schedule, which listed her second group dinner, along with dance lessons in the Stardust Room, whatever that was. Jana tensed at the thought of such close contact with the male crew members.
Midmorning, Martella led Jana to the library on a lower deck. She wondered why she was the only captive present. She listened attentively as an instructor expounded on their government. Martella interspliced facts about their geography. Jana was shown graphs, slides, and pictures to aid her understanding. At noon, the man left the women alone.
As they discussed history, Jana decided to press Martella who, she realized, sympathized with the captives’ plight. “What about the women who are sold to men who will abuse them?” Jana asked. “Have they no rights to happiness and safety, to honor and pride? What about their resale? Doesn’t this passing around of a mate lessen her value in the eyes of your people and in her own eyes? No matter how good or pampered these lives are, it’s still evil and wrong. You speak as an observer only, Martella. I wonder how different your opinion would be if you were in my place and I in yours.”
“You are very intelligent, Jana, and I agree with you, but it changes nothing,” she admitted. “I’m trying to encourage the Supreme Council to make needed changes in our charl laws. In fact, I hope to persuade them to abolish this practice. But such grave matters take time. I would like you to know it will be intelligent, superior charls like you, Jana, who will influence those decisions. Prove you are worthy to become a citizen, to marry your owner. Show your courage, wits, and strength. Don’t let your actions shout bitterness, hatred, disrespect. Don’t appear a threat or an enemy, Jana; appear a friend and evoke the promise of a better future for all. I will be honest with you; others don’t agree with me yet, and get angry when it’s discussed.”
Jana knew it was foolish to provoke brutal punishment or torture or death. For the moment, it was best to use her “courage, wits, and strength” to stay alive until she decided how to end this slavery. There must be a path to freedom, and she would find it! She would not allow herself to be a victim or coward, at least no longer than necessary to weather this current storm! Whatever happened, she must endure with dignity. People often faced crises beyond their control; she must not allow this one to destroy her!
After lunch, the remainder of their time together was spent informing Jana of the various laws and rules of conduct which she would be expected to practice. She was given a short break and told to wait for an escort to Nigel’s science laboratory on another deck of the ship.
After Martella left, Jana wandered around the large room. Despite technological and scientific advances, this location proved that man still loved to read books. Jana fingered several volumes, suddenly eager to begin her lessons in their language, which oddly was not listed as a requirement. Jana surmised it was because of the audiotranslators which interpreted any language it received.
A door had swished open. Jana assumed it was Nigel or her escort. Before she could step into view, Varian’s voice prevented it. Jana didn’t want to see him in private, he was too beguiling. She anxiously waited for him to leave and prayed he wouldn’t discover her presence.
“Since when did you develop an interest in medical science?” Tristan teased the scowling man at his side. He retrieved a book at the far end of the library and handed it to Varian. “This should answer all of your questions.”
“Wipe that grin off your face, Tris, or I’ll demote you for disrespect,” Varian jested. “You know what I’m seeking, so change the subject.”
Tristan changed the topic to another disturbing one. “Why don’t you tell Jana the truth about Sylva and the scarfelli? With her scientific brain, you know what she’s thinking. Have you seen her since then?”
Varian frowned, then shook his head. “You expect me to tell her it was only a simulation? That sweet Sylva is actually confined to solitary in the security brig? No way. That little ruse worked perfectly. I have those women right where I need them—full of respect and minus defiance.”
Tristan argued. “But it isn’t necessary to make Jana despise you and fear you. Tell her the truth; it’ll help her,” he urged compassionately.
“Thanks to you and Martella, she’s receiving plenty of special treatment. I would lose all power and control if these captives learned the truth, and don’t think kind-hearted Jana wouldn’t delight in telling them. You didn’t see the way she was looking at me after that spectacle. I’d never convince her Sylva is just fine unless I take her to the brig. You know what Jana and everyone else will think if I keep showing her favoritism. They’ll get the wrong idea, Tris, especially Jana. She’s already shown too much attraction to me. An infatuation for me could spoil her new life.”
“You’re wrong, Varian,” Tristan protested softly. “She can be trusted.”
“Am I? You, Martella, and Nigel all think she’s superior and unique. I’ve done as you three asked, I’ve allowed her extra attention and privileges. If I’m any more lenient, she won’t respect my authority at all. Don’t you dare tell her the truth about scarfelli, or Sylva.”
Tristan was concerned over Varian’s obstinate attitude. “If she could read our language or if she asked any of our people about those large spiders, she’d learn they don’t kill or eat people. She’d learn those scarfelli were trained for alien terror tactics. Why are you so worried? Have you ever known me to disobey orders?”
“Of course not. But there’s something about Jana Greyson which affects my crew strangely. Not a single one of you dislikes her. It wouldn’t surprise me to discover she’s an alien witch! Maybe you’d better examine her again,” Varian hinted roguishly, then winked.
“If you stop being mean, she’ll settle down,” Tristan suggested merrily.
“No, it’s best for both of us if Jana paints me an evil black,” Varian said, chuckling wickedly.
Tristan grasped his underlying meaning. “Has that black image of yours ever discouraged any woman?” Tristan challenged, winking at his friend. “Surely you’re not missing Canissia Garthon? She’s worse than her father, Supreme Councilman Segall. I surely do wish those seats weren’t for life.”
“I’ll handle Cass when I get home. As for Jana Greyson, the kindest thing I can do for her is to prevent any affection or delusions about me.”
“And what makes you think she has either?” Tristan quipped.
“Let’s just say I’m generously preventing a new problem from being born,” he remarked, his voice suddenly cold and harsh. “Let’s go. I have work to do.” The door swished twice as they departed.
When Nigel arrived, he apologized for his tardiness. Pushing aside the puzzling conversation she had overheard between Tristan and Varian, Jana followed him down a long corridor in the gigantic ship. She sat down across from Nigel to begin her science lesson. His words confounded her. In comparison to hers, his race was so advanced that it staggered the human mind. Enthralled by his fascinating talk, she didn’t notice how swiftly the time passed. Jana listened, questioned, and reasoned. She revealed none of the lack of understanding that many of the other women had displayed.
Caught up in Nigel’s lesson, Jana temporarily forgot her dire circumstances. She laughed easily and relaxed completely with him. “I feel as if I’ve mysteriously stepped into a realm of magic and fantasy. I suppose that sounds silly, doesn’t it?” She laughed in merriment.
“Where would man be without dreams and visions to encourage him, or his science fiction to disprove or discover? To cease to learn is to cease being interesting, alive, and vital. Avoid that pitfall, Jana. You’re much too rare and special to—” He halted at the astonished expression on her face. “Tell me, Jana,” he asked, to change the topic. “When are we going to finish that Laius match? You’ve sparked my interest in whether or not you can beat me.” His hazel eyes twinkled.
“Worried about your position as champion?” she teased.
“Something tells me I should be,” he answered.
“I’ll make you a deal. Teach me all your tricks and I’ll teach you mine.”
He chuckled: “Agreed. No competition yet, just training.” His eyes sparkled with intrigue. What a choice mate for some lucky male!
Jana suggested, “We’ll play our real match the day before I leave. That way, if I do win, you will remain the best on your ship.”
“You wily female. How very considerate. You think of every angle.”
“I wouldn’t wish to offend my partner and teacher, now would I?”
“Beating me would certainly do that,” Nigel jested with a heavy sigh.
“Answer a question for me, Nigel. Just how big is this starship?”
“Come in here and I’ll show you.” He walked into an adjoining office and over to the side wall. He pulled down a diagram of the Wanderlust.
“The ship is constructed in a U-shape with three decks. In this left wing, deck three contains the crew’s quarters, rec rooms, and mess halls; the second deck where we are now contains some of the lower officers’ quarters, sick bay, and the science labs; the first deck above us contains the conference room, the commander’s quarters, the upper officers’ quarters, and our rec rooms and mess hall. The gold room, which is for a high-ranking guest, is here.” He pointed to a suite not far from Varian’s!
“If it’s for guests, why does it have a camera and no locks?” she probed.
Nigel didn’t tell her there was a control button beneath the lower edge of the painting over her sofa which caused the picture to move aside to reveal a layout which contained videoaudio communications, a viewer screen comparable to television, a door release switch, and a button to open a side-wall panel to display a large window. It wouldn’t do for Jana to discover that arrangement. He told her what truths he could. “Doors work by voice communication or an electrocard. The camera was installed for this voyage. When we return to base, things will return to normal.”
“I see, the room was converted to an elegant prison for this special trek?”
Nigel smiled grimly and went back to his explanation. He pointed to each section as he spoke to her. “The circular foresection contains the bridge, navigations, and communications on deck one. On deck two we have the transporter, security control, and weaponry arsenal. On the lower deck we have the psychology-sociology lab, the history lab, data centers, and the engineering section. We have six docking bays, one located at the far end of each deck. On the first level, there is an emergency jettison pod on each side. On level two, we have a shuttlecraft in each bay. Deck three has takeoff and landing pads for spacers.” He smiled and clarified, “Spacers are swift, agile fighters. Tesla Rilke’s an expert pilot.”
He inhaled, then went on. “There’s a planetarium bubble above the apex of the bridge for observation and enjoyment. I’ll show it to you. It’s exhilarating to go up there. You feel as if you’re suspended in time and space, like standing in the door to the Universe. You’re a part of the heavens. Sometimes that feeling is awesome.”
“I’m glad to hear it affects someone else that way,” she remarked.
Nigel chuckled. “The other wing contains the environmental and life-support units, the brig and security holding rooms, the computer and data-processing departments, and geological and meteorological units on deck three. On deck two we have the library, crew’s quarters, and conference rooms. On deck one we have the monitor control room, conference and activity rooms, the botanical conservatory, and the Stardust Room.”
“It’s so huge. What are the conservatory and the Stardust Room?”
“The conservatory is a semiglass-enclosed room where we grow and store plants from all over the galaxy. It’s very beautiful and fragrant in there. The Stardust Room is for dining and dancing. Only the officers and invited guests can enter. The food and view are excellent. You’ll see for yourself.”
She smiled and nodded agreement. “What’s on the agenda for—” she began, but was interrupted by a call over the telecom.
“Lieutenant Sanger, is Miss Greyson with you?”
“Yes, Kyle. She’s right here Do you need her for something?”
“Sir, she needs to dress for dinner. It’s late. Is there a problem?”
“Just bad timing, Kyle. We got caught up in our lesson. I lost track of the time. Thanks.”
“Yes, sir,” the security chief replied and signed off.
“Seems we’ll have to finish this discussion tomorrow. I had better get you back to your room before they sound a red alert for you.”
“A red alert?” she echoed as they headed out the door.
Nigel playfully winked at her. “You know—the sound of stomping boots and clinking weapons as security men hunt you down,” he jested.
“But I’m with you,” Jana argued lightly.
“I have to follow the rules and regulations too. I’m only second in command,” Nigel remarked flippantly as he escorted her to her quarters.
“You would make a good commander,” she told him. He was so likable. They had much in common. Despite her rank, he showed respect for her. Evidently she had Nigel, Martella, and Tristan to thank for her reception and treatment. How could she regard Nigel Sanger as an enemy?
“Thanks for the vote of confidence,” Nigel said.
Jana hurried to bathe and dress. Recalling Nigel’s brief description of the Stardust Room, she selected a cream-colored gown dotted with lavender flowers and trimmed with lavender lace and silk ribbons. She secured an amethyst rosette at the hollow of her throat. Jana gathered up her hair and arranged it in leaf-curls, leaving short wispy ringlets to dangle down the nape of her neck. Lovelocks fell softly near her ears.
As she worked, Jana pondered the mystery and allure of Varian Saar. She couldn’t forget his stirring words and contact at the last dinner, nor the contradiction between the Sylva episode and the library talk. It thrilled her to know that he had not killed or injured Sylva. Varian had mentioned Alex twice and warned her to avoid his men. Was Varian married or attached to “Cass?” Was he rankled by an unbidden attraction to her? Why did Varian want her to believe he was an evil monster? There must be an illuminating clue to this dark mystery which she couldn’t yet perceive.
The signal for dinner was issued before she finished. When Kyle asked if there was a problem delaying her exit, Jana replied, “Just running late, Kyle. I’ll be ready in a flash. Just keep my door open.”
“Agreed, if you’ll save me a dance after I finish my watch,” he hinted.
“Sounds perfect to me. See you later,” she responded merrily. After all, Varian had declared that everyone on board liked and respected her!
* * *
Varian wondered if Jana was stalling their next meeting. He had avoided her for days, hoping to give her time to settle down. Maybe he should clear up her misconceptions about Susan. After the Sylva incident, he wondered how Jana would behave tonight. He concluded that a mixture of silk and sword might be best. Her corridor door opened and they nearly collided. Varian teased, “Surely it doesn’t take this long to enhance your looks. Get moving, woman. Your dance instructors are restless.”
Jana mischievously responded to his mellow mood. She snapped to attention, saluting Varian as she clicked her heels together as if she were a member of Kadim Maal Triloni’s Androas Empire troops. “Yes, sir, slave driver. I’m ready now. I was la—”
His deep blue eyes narrowed as he heard her seeming mockery. Why did she have to rebel against him? Weren’t this grisly mission and Ryker’s treachery enough trouble without being forced to whip this temptress into line? He would curse Kahala if he did not survive this ravishing creature!
Irritated, Varian snapped, “Why must you always seek to incur my wrath? Must I crush you into submission? Make an example of you as with Sylva?” His eyes engulfed her face and body. He felt perilous stirrings of desire at the mere sight of her enchanting beauty.
Jana was confused by his quicksilver mood and sudden show of temper: the dark spirits which plagued him. “I’m hurrying, Commander. Nigel and I lost track of time,” she nervously explained.
“I was referring to your blatant defiance of orders. You’re too bright and clever to pull a rash stunt like this,” he chided her.
She inquired in sincere confusion, “What have I done wrong, sir?”
“The dress, Jana,” he informed her, tugging on the ribbons.
Jana glanced at her gown and anxiously questioned, “Is it inappropriate? They said dancing in the Stardust Room. I assumed I was to—”
“Inappropriate? Surely you have enough sense to realize you’re supposed to choose one of those laid out for you. Why do you defy me?”
“Laid out?” Jana echoed as her gaze went past him to three elegant gowns which she had failed to notice. “I ran straight to the bathroom to bathe and dress, sir. I didn’t see them. Do you wish me to change?” she inquired, hoping to appease his black temper.
“As quickly as possible,” he replied. As he stepped aside, he berated himself for his too hasty and turbulent reaction. Yet, teasings of suspicion entered his mind. Had she planned to make a grand entrance at dinner, clothed in defiance? Her words in the booth echoed in his mind: “Artful pretenders, playact our assigned roles…”
Jana went to the bed. Her eyes scanned the three gowns which were so different in color and style from the rest of her wardrobe. One gown was a slinky cranberry-colored silk, another was an emerald-green satin, and the last was an enticing peacock-blue silk. “Which one?” she asked.
“Hold up each one,” he ordered, determined to test her “I’ll do as ordered” claim or to expose the extent of her reckless bravery. Jana did as he commanded. His gaze swept over her as she held up each gown in turn. “The blue, and hurry. You’re late for dinner and dancing class.” He could imagine the impression they would make entering late and together.
Jana snatched up the blue gown and rushed into the bathroom to change. The way the gown was designed, she could not fasten it. She had no choice but to ask for assistance. Varian sealed the opening after she had the gown in place. He pulled her taut body around to face him. The gown scintillated with sparks of deep blue and jade green. His gaze passed over her from tawny head to foot. The gown dipped to a low V-shape in the front, gathered snuggly at the waist, then fell softly to the floor. There was an arabesque at the abdomen in lighter, contrasting shades of blue and green.
“I can’t get this necklace off,” she added nervously. Jana’s trembly fingers struggled with the stubborn clasp, as she fretted at its refusal to cooperate.
He turned her and removed it, tossing it on the bedside table. He pulled her around and eyed her up and down. She flushed a deep rose under his scrutiny. His body unexpectedly burst into flame. There was a fine line to be walked with this enchantress; first, he needed to find it! “You’ll pass.” He intentionally bedeviled her, attempting to hide his inner turmoil.
Jana frowned at him. Her reckless spirit was piqued beyond control. “I honestly didn’t see the gowns, Commander Saar, so your anger is quite unnecessary,” she rashly admonished. “I’m not some insensate piece of property to be decorated and displayed for you and your men. I have pride and feelings. What difference does it make which gown I wear tonight?” Her multi-hued eyes flashed in rising anger.
“Careful, little moonbeam,” he warned. Damn, what an enchanting picture she made: a blend of fire and ice. She was provocative, elegant, and radiant; she was refined purity. Varian smiled satanically. “You are what I say you are,” he softly declared in a husky voice. His hand possessively stroked her warm, satiny cheek and his finger caught the lovelock near her ear. He flashed a devastatingly breathtaking smile.
Jana’s heart fluttered wildly. She trembled. She lowered her lids to conceal his strange and maddening effect and the wanton feelings which coursed through her. To alter the smoldering mood his overpowering presence ignited, she asked, “And what am I, Commander?”
He laughed with a rakish air. “Fishing for compliments, Jana?”
“You missed my point, sir.” Damn you! she fumed in exasperation. He had such a disarming way of unnerving her with his enchanting smile and magnetism. A capricious mood captured her. She smiled up at him with glowing eyes. Her fingertips brazenly traced the proud line of his jaw and strong chin. She lightly ran her forefinger over his sensual lower lip with provocative slowness, then lowered her hand to rest casually upon his muscular chest, to study his heart rate. She murmured in a silky tone, “Compliments aren’t necessary, Varian. The fact that I’m your elite prisoner is proof of your high opinion of me. Is that not so?” she challenged.
Her tone was seductive. Her eyes held a hint of mystery and promise. Jana felt his heartbeat quicken beneath her hand as he responded to her actions. She caught the sudden tautness of rigid control that held his towering frame. His eyes began to glow and darken with a smoldering light. “You don’t have to be so mean to prove your power over me. I am at your mercy.”
Varian warmed noticeably as he questioned her motives. Flirtation or retaliation? Probing her status? Testing his self-control or attraction to her? His lips curled up at one corner in an enticing grin. His appreciative gaze swept over her. He warned huskily, “Careful, little moonbeam, you’re way out of your sector playing the bewitching temptress with me.”
“Am I?” Jana boldly discounted his taunt. “You don’t find me the least bit tempting or attractive?” Her sparkling eyes dared him to respond, to deny the truth.
Varian replied, “I’m a hot-blooded man, Jana. I suggest you back off before you start something I’ll be only too happy to finish.” His sapphire eyes flamed like twin blue fires.
Jana mistakenly assumed he was teasing her. He had already made his position on mingling with charls very clear, in public and in private. She smiled up at him and sighed heavily. As she dropped her hand away, she murmured, “Too bad…I wanted to test that irresistible magic your reputation boasts of so highly. Are you really that devastating to women? I suppose a lowly charl is beneath your touch or attention. Would you still spurn me if I were a free woman? Who and what are you, Varian Saar? Besides a magical creature who drives a woman wild with uncontrollable desire.”
Without warning, Varian seized Jana in his powerful arms and covered her mouth with his. His lips were warm and persistent. Caught totally unprepared, she helplessly melted into his embrace and surrendered her eager mouth to his demanding one. At her response, his arms tightened around her and his mouth seared across hers in a sudden blaze of unrestrained passion. His tongue tasted and stimulated her. Varian kissed until she was weak and breathless, as was he.
A fiery, unknown hunger raced unbridled within her veins, for she was still a stranger to sex. Jana pressed closer to Varian. Her arms voluntarily encircled his narrow waist and she clung to him in fierce longing. He besieged all of her senses at once, totally intoxicating her. She tasted him; she heard his erratic respiration and the husky murmuring of her name. His manly fragrance assailed her nostrils. Her hands explored the muscles on his back. Her senses fused to form one indelible image.
Suddenly nothing else mattered to Jana. Logic and discretion were tossed aside as she experienced emotions which were rampant, emotions as wild and fiery as the solar winds. Varian had been transformed from her alien captor and tormentor into a man—a man she desperately wanted, a man who stirred her very soul to sing with joy and elation, a man who told her there was so much more to love and passion than she had ever dreamed possible. At last, she was ready and eager to explore ecstasy, with this man as her guide.
To him, Jana had ceased to be his prized trophy with a purity and reputation to be protected. His plot to ensnare Ryker was forgotten. He felt an intense need for her which was obsessive and irrational. He was a master artist falling for his creation. No, he was a Star Fleet Commander, a special agent on a secret mission! He was supposed to fake a relationship, not entangle their emotions! As reality called out to him, Varian forcefully quelled the fires which had threatened to engulf him. Now, he had to do the same with Jana. “Does my irresistible magic pass your strict tests, Jana love? Am I as beguiling as you were told? Does my prowess have the same effect on alien women? Is your test over, or shall I fan those probing flames a little higher?” he challenged, his words drawing emotional blood.
Varian felt her stiffen in his arms as his words registered. Jana looked up at him, her face flushed with warring emotions. She was still clasped against him, as if too numb to move and too dazed to think. He felt her tremble as her gaze roamed his mocking expression. He wished she would look away before that mask slipped off! The shame and hurt in her eyes tore at him. He tried to push these unfamiliar and annoying feelings aside, but failed. Perhaps…No, it was deadly to even consider taking Jana as his mistress, more so to do it.
“I don’t understand you or your cruel games. Why must you be so vicious to me? Do I bring out some evil streak in you?”
“Listen to me closely and carefully, Jana. Don’t be misled by your status on my cargo list or your special classes. I’m having you groomed as a superior mate for a prestigious Maffeian leader. I am not in the market for a charl, and I never will be. Nor do I need or want an alien mistress. Save your fantasies to share with your mate. Please don’t provoke me to hurt you.” He added, “I’ll be your protector, teacher, and friend…until your auction on Rigel. Then and there, we part forever. Do you understand me?”
In a quiet voice Jana stated, “If you’re quite finished with your little joke, Commander, I believe the others are waiting for us.” Tears sparkled on her lashes and her poise was strained, but pride tinged her voice.
Varian could not send Jana out like this. To alter her anguish to spirited resentment, he pressed, “You did not answer my question, Jana. Did I pass your tests? Is your feminine curiosity sated, or do you require a further investigation? You scientists do have this thing about experiments and indisputable data, don’t you? Always wanting to examine or dissect or analyze everything, even emotions.”
Her answer stunned and pleased him. “If anything, Commander Saar, you are far more disarming than I was told.” But her next statement cut sharply. “If you can extract such an uncontrollable response from a woman who loathes you as I do, a woman who truly found you desirable would stand the same chance of survival as a fly caught in a spider’s web.” She glared at him with frosty eyes as she went on, “As you well know, most women are petrified of spiders, especially a large and predacious species such as yourself or your scarfelli. Tell me, sir, do you spike my food with some powerful aphrodisiac just to supply you with amusement? Is it through magic potions or mind-controlling drugs that we charls will be mastered? Do us both a favor and stay the hell away from me! If your malicious sport is over, shall we go?” Her eyes sparkled with antagonism as she steeled herself against him.
“You took me by surprise, Jana, but I was wrong to accept your challenge and tempt you. I’m unaccustomed to dealing with such an innocent. Please don’t come on to me again. I can’t promise to resist you, but I can promise we’ll part soon.”
His words were painful and embarrassing to her. She ignored his apology. “My curiosity about your prowess has been permanently satisfied. In the future, make sure your generous lessons are verbal.”
Varian escorted a distant Jana to the Stardust Room. At the entrance, he remarked devilishly, “Chin up, moonbeam. It could have been worse. If I were truly the heartless beast you think I am, I would have finished what you unwisely began in there. My self-control amazes even me. You are a beautiful and tempting creature, Jana Greyson. In the future, I’ll have to be more cautious.”
Her eyes glared at him with open skepticism. “Depreciate the value of your investment?” she scoffed. “Not in a million years, Commander. I assumed you had spoken the truth about no mingling with your cargo. I should never have called your bluff, even if you did make me angry. Sometimes you provoke me beyond control! I suggest we both forget the entire episode. Mark it up to your expertise and my inexperience. Or it could be the strain of this contemptible situation. As you said, there are more important things to claim my attention. However, I do appreciate the value you place on my chastity. I only pray you continue to protect it so valiantly and unselfishly.”
“Rest assured I plan to do just that, little moonbeam.” Varian realized how wrong Jana was. She didn’t know how close she had come to his seducing her, and damn the consequences! If she knew her life would be in mortal danger from a devil who was kin to him, she would praise his rejection.
Jana’s gaze roamed around the room, taking in its elegance. Its decor was intended to give one the feeling of dining on an open terrace beneath the stars and moonlight. There were scenic outdoor murals on two of the side walls, while the remaining two walls were of a transparent glass. The ceiling was a retractable panel which could be moved aside to reveal the heavens. Small pinlike bulbs were mounted in such a fashion as to blend unnoticeably with the twinkling stars overhead. The remaining fixtures, furniture, and decorations were a careful harmonizing of amber, sky-blue, and forest-green. Nigel had been correct; it was indeed a romantic and tranquil setting. Soft music seemed to come from every direction at the same time. Muted laughter and quiet chatter filtered between the dreamy strains of music. The room was filled with an aura of peace and gaiety, neither of which she could feel at that moment.
“Well?” Varian prompted at her silence. “What do you think of it?” His hand made a sweeping wave over the view before her.
“Not that my opinion matters, but it’s beautiful. Are we going to sit down somewhere? I feel on display already.” The reason was simple: her blue gown and the other captives’ yellow ones. He led her to a table near the juncture of the two glassed walls and seated her.
Jana was relieved to discover the captives had been seated one to a table with several members of his crew. Besides Varian and herself, there were four others at their table—Nigel, Kara, Tristan, and Martella.
The others were perplexed by Jana’s silence. Each one wondered what had brought on this change in her, though Varian appeared to be his usual charming and entertaining self. He seemed oblivious to any problem or change in Jana. Or was it that he knew the reason behind her mood and simply chose to ignore it? Better still, was he the cause of it? Perhaps it was the same reason they were late in arriving.
Dinner was finally over. Martella asked Varian to dance, to see if the others could draw Jana out of her solemn mood. He readily accepted, eager to put some distance between him and Jana. He had pushed himself to appear calm and collected for about as long as he could stand it.
Nigel and Tristan observed the frigid glare in Jana’s eyes which glittered like chips of colored ice as she watched Varian’s retreating back.
Tristan remarked, “Jana, you look a little pale and tense.”
“I’m just tired and homesick,” she said to stifle their curiosity. “If you gentlemen will excuse me, I’ll freshen up.”
As time passed as slowly as the summer sun around Rigel, the Wanderlust’s home base, Varian began to shift restlessly. His worried gaze kept returning to Jana’s empty chair between Nigel and Tristan. He had danced with Martella, Susan, Heather, and Kathy. But what he truly wanted was the feel of Jana Greyson in his arms…
Varian felt at odds with himself. The frivolous chatter and amorous attentions of the other women were annoying and meaningless to him. He wished he could escape this dutiful game he was playing and merely enjoy that bewitching female for a few hours. He knew he could not, for many reasons. He must continue to play his satanic role—a part which he found most despicable at this moment. Too much was at stake, including her life.
Varian’s thoughts and emotions were plagued by memories of her feverish response. He could envisage her enchanting smile and sparkling eyes. Her fragrant lure had invaded his senses and recklessly he had sampled the heady promise of intoxicating passion she had offered to him. She had been within his grasp and he had chosen to repel her. But why did his rejection bring him such—such what? he wondered, unable or unwilling to explore his tumultuous dilemma.
Nigel was leaning against the transparent wall speaking to Kyle, who had just arrived. Nigel had been watching the storm clouds building in Varian’s eyes and wondered at their cause.
“Where’s Jana? I don’t see her around,” Kyle asked.
Nigel shrugged. “She went out. I hope she didn’t return to her quarters without permission. I would hate to see her get into trouble again.”
The concern in his tone alerted the sensitive Kyle. “What happened?”
“You tell me, Kyle,” Nigel parried. He could read the mild distress in Kyle’s face. “Do you know why she’s upset?” he probed.
“All I know is Varian was upset with her earlier tonight. Something to do with her dress. After he arrived in her quarters, I thought I should turn off her monitor. I’ve never seen Varian like this. I’m worried, Nigel.”
Varian walked toward them. “Nigel, I think it’s about time I go and check on our wayward Earthling. You had better come along,” he added mysteriously, as if afraid to trust himself alone with Jana.
To glean a clue to this mystery Nigel teased Varian, “Need a referee?”
“We might,” Varian replied seriously as his blue eyes frosted. “Kyle, you take over for me. Use that charm of yours to camouflage my absence.”
“Yes, sir,” came Kyle’s reply and affectionate grin.
Varian realized that Kyle must have observed what had taken place in Jana’s room. “I don’t have to remind you there are good reasons behind my actions toward Jana.”
“I know,” Kyle replied, then warned, “But you should be more careful, Varian. Others won’t understand this unusual behavior. Perhaps you should disconnect her monitor to avoid anyone else witnessing a similar scene.”
Nigel followed Varian out into the corridor. To their surprise, they saw Jana and Kara slowly approaching them laughing and talking like two old friends who had not seen each other in years. The men patiently waited.
“I was worried about you, Jana,” Varian said as the women drew near. “You’ve been missing for quite some time. Are you all right?”
Jana smiled sweetly and replied, “I’m sorry, sir. Kara and I started talking in the ladies’ room, and I lost track of time. That seems to be a bad habit of mine today.” She turned to Nigel. “I’ll forgive you for making me late tonight if you’ll be so kind as to instruct me in dancing.”
Nigel chuckled. “I must apologize for my part in your tardiness. Next time don’t be such an excellent student. At your service, my lady,” he remarked as he made a gallant bow, then offered her his arm.
Jana took it and was escorted inside. Varian turned to Kara. “I don’t know what you said or did, but thanks. It seems I was a little rough on her earlier this evening. Does she seem all right to you?” he asked.
Kara sent him a bewildered look. “Jana was upset and tense when you two arrived for dinner. It looked to me as if she only needed a little privacy and compassion. Did she do something wrong?”
“A slight misunderstanding. I hope you and Jana can become friends. Just remember to keep everyone’s private life private,” he advised.
Kara wondered if she was mistaken about the contrite tone in his voice. His eyes had glittered with jealousy and envy at Jana’s easy rapport with the first officer and her selection of Nigel as her dance partner. Perhaps Jana was getting to Varian after all…
It did not take long for Nigel to teach Jana several of his native dances. Tristan, Kyle, Nigel, and numerous other men gave her ample opportunities for practicing her new skills. With carefree abandon, she danced; she conversed; she laughed. Despite his earlier warnings, she subtly flirted. It was exhilarating and wonderful. She graciously yet gingerly accepted the much needed attention she was receiving from his crew. She hungered to feel and to display her worth as a woman and her esteem as a person. Knowing his rules for their conduct, she did not feel threatened.
As Jana concealed her gaze beneath thick lashes or behind fallen curls, she observed her effect on the starship commander. She might be green, but she could recognize bold interest! Like it or not, she did appeal to him! Perhaps he wasn’t as unreachable as he and others believed! Was he afraid a mate would demand changes in him and his carefree lifestyle? How could she learn more about his existence and his feelings? Whatever, she knew she wanted Varian Saar! She wouldn’t give up quickly or easily…
Varian had about reached his limits of patience. She was the center of attention for his men. Her silvery laughter rankled his taut nerves. Evidently she was trying to make him jealous, or perhaps gain his attention with her antics. Trouble was, she was doing a damn good job of it! Before Varian could ponder these theories further, he finished his dance with Susan. He had tuned out the redhead’s silly chatter and brazen overtures. He felt a light tap on his shoulder. He turned to find Jana next to him.
“Care to test my new skills, Commander Saar? I hear you’re a matchless dancer. Why not give me the opportunity to satisfy my curiosity about that claim?” Jana’s colorful eyes sparkled with the challenge.
At a table nearby, a traitorous officer was keenly observing Jana and Varian, surreptitiously taking more pictures. But he was beginning to worry about this repulsive and perilous betrayal, for those two looked as if they were actually falling in love! But he was trapped! The lieutenant had to save his career, his reputation, his family, and his own life. He didn’t care about Ryker Triloni’s promises of glory and riches! He didn’t want to touch that wicked bitch Canissia again! If the people blackmailing and threatening him weren’t Ryker Triloni and Canissia Garthon, he would betray them to the authorities! But what sane man would challenge the devil himself and his wicked handmaiden? As agreed, he would do this one last job for them. He just wanted out of this quicksand.