End Chapter 13

     Katarina sat on the edge of the little bed gazing at the cold, naked corpse of Ambassador Gaetano, a man she had grown to admire, however, her feelings for the charming man did not matter for she had been ordered to poison him by Odessa and it was only out of Katarina's extreme loyalty to her Queen and Country that she, along with the others, fully and completely obeyed. Now this loyalty was to such an extreme destructive extent that had Queen Odessa commanded her to chop up Gaetano's body and cook up a nice stew of him, she would have done that too. For Katarina and all the rest of the Themiscyrans were so deeply indoctrinated into their ancient culture and belief systems that they would always obey, without question the orders of their leaders, both religious and military and, most especially, the Royal Command of a Themiscyran Queen.
     "Captain Katarina." Odessa, standing at the entrance to the small tent, called out to Katarina "It is time." she spoke in a calm clear voice a few hours before the sun would rise. Saying nothing in response Captain Katarina only nodded her head yes as she stood up and walked out into the cool autumn air which lifted and spread out her long red hair upon the gentle breeze coming in from off of the cold mountains. She took in a deep relaxing breath, but her mind could not be stilled, so she remained silent surveying the scene on the windswept beach.
     She watched as the many warriors went in and carried out the bodies of the dead from the little tents grouped together by the bonfires along the shore, then two of her fellow soldiers passed beside her, going in to bring out the body of Ambassador Gaetano, Katarina averted her eyes looking at the ground for she suddenly was overwhelmed with a strange feeling she had never experienced and that in a word was, SHAME. Yet she remained silent not wanting to upset Queen Odessa, whom had ordered the dead Etruscan men to be placed back on their ships in the cargo holds, where the nude corpses were covered with hay, to be soaked in highly flammable olive oil later. It seemed strange to Katarina that the task of moving fifty naked, dead men from the tents up the wooden ramp of the ship and laid in the vast cargo holds went by so quickly, for she thought it would surely take much longer than it actually did. It was at this point she came out of her daze realizing she herself was still naked standing next to the Queen, who was speaking to her but to Katarina it was difficult to hear clearly and understand, for some reason it sounded as if Odessa was very far away, or speaking underwater. "Katarina, do you understand these commands?"
     Katarina looked into the face of her Monarch but she could not answer for none of Odessa's words had registered in her brain or had any meaning "Forgive me my Queen, I..," she rubbed her temples then said "Please, I am here with you now."
     So she received her next orders, for Odessa selected Katarina to finish the sacrifice with her; which was a very high honor in their society. So it was the two boarded each ship bare breasted and bearing  torches as a group of ten warriors, dressed in white tunics, boarded each ship with them, they were bearing large jars of the sacred green oil which they would use to destroy the trusting Etruscan men, whom thought the Themiscyran's were their friends. When the time came the heavy wooden ramp was slipped up and back on board then, a short while later, just before the sun arose, that dreadful day, the tide surged up and back out to the sea again, lifting the massive wooden vessels from off the beach. Now the women had been instructed to soak the sturdy canvass sails tied to the masts, along with the human pile of flesh and hay. As the ships drew farther away from the shore, Odessa commanded the sails to be hoisted up; which required great force and brute strength as the north wind filled the great white sails, the ships both gaining speed, Odessa, her torch held high above her head, gave the signal with a loud cry, then each woman began diving over board splashing down in the dark cold waters about 300 yards off the coastline. Katarina knew it was time to go below deck with the heap of the bodies of the dead, she was supposed to count to 100, then set their sacrifice ablaze. Katarina opened up her blue eyes wide gazing at those good men, whose naked skin was glistening by the flickering light of the orange and yellow flames of her torch, as she searched over those faces she could see, there beneath the mass of tangled arms and legs of those once fine, living, breathing human beings so unceremoniously thrown together, stacked up like firewood. Then, there in the stillness, Katarina spied the face of Gaetano underneath the torso of one of his fallen comrades, their among the bodies of the dead, and in the long black shadows which danced over that dreadful sight, Katarina thought, for just a moment, she saw Ambassador Gaetano open up his dark eyes, but it was just her imagination, nothing more. So then the battle hardened warrior gave up the prayers of her heart and mind to the will of the Fates as she waited, counting off the numbers in her head from one to one hundred.
     Then, over on the sister ship, Queen Odessa was below decks with the victims of her sacrifice as well, yet there was one man she had specially prepared for this astonishing gift of dead men to the sea, and that was Prince Thane, whom Odessa had treated with utmost respect.., even in death. For she had, herself, dressed him back up in his regal robes of purple and gold, and had him placed sitting upright in one of the ships heavy oak chairs, to serve as his throne, where upon his head she placed his magnificent, finely crafted golden crown of grape vines and leaves, the finest crown Odessa had ever seen. So there she stood lifting up her arms offering  her prayers to Zeus, Hades and Poseidon, beseeching them to accept her gift of human flesh, asking for their blessings and protection on this vital mission,  and she prayed for a safe journey home. Queen Odessa's prayers were veiled in hushed whispers so only the gods, and the ghosts of the damned could hear her. Holding her torch she stood as still as a statue, gazing down at the ashen face of the would-be-king. Then Odessa opened her mouth and spoke to the dead man "Goodbye. Sweet Prince. I thank you.., for you have made for my fathers a noble and beautiful sacrifice and with your royal blood, they shall be appeased ." slowly Odessa turned as she climbed carefully back up the slippery wooden steps. Without looking back she touched the flames to the trail of oil on the deck then, in a bright flash with a loud whoosh, the oil ignited in a roar as loud as a thousand lions, licking up in yellow flames which fled below deck setting the cargo hold, and the corpses within, ablaze, thick black smoke billowing up in a hot choking blast of wind. Odessa looked to her right and she saw Katarina doing the same on the other vessel, quickly the two ran toward the sails setting the main masts on fire, as they made their way, running swiftly, to the prow of the ships the Queen, and her Captain, lit up the oil-soaked front sails, which fueled the raging flames. With this destructive task over, and the fires quickly spreading, they both in unison jumped from the vessels with the smell of burning wood and roasting flesh permeating the air. The sudden shock of the cold water was like a slap in the face as they struggled against the waves to swim back to shore, where all the other 198 warrior women watched and waited for their Queen, and Captain. both to return.
     So it was the crowd on the beach stared out at the spectacular display of fire, smoke and light, as the red flames stabbed the sky, just as dawn was breaking and the souls of the dead staggered to their eternal rest. Soon the twenty women at last made it back to land collapsing, frozen, exhausted and shivering and they feared for Odessa and Katarina's return, for the current was strong, however, Odessa was clever, and a fine swimmer, and knew to swim parallel to the shore. Yet, even so, they were still about half a mile out in the deepest waters as the sun arose over the vast expanse of the Aegean. Finally, after constant struggling in the waves their arms, legs and lungs cramped and tired, Odessa and Katarina made it out of the foaming waters not far off from where they had made camp. Now when they came up behind the crowd, who were still gazing out at the fiery ships, Queen Odessa and Captain Katarina said nothing just watching the light and smoke far off on the horizon as they both admired the work of their hands, each hoping their prayers traveled to the god's chaotic realm. So it came to pass, the murderous Themiscyran's witnessed the two, once mighty ships, ablaze in an inferno of fire and smoke, slowly disappearing beneath the waves along with the blood, bones and ashes of their victims as a golden sun rose up over the dappled waters bringing forth a new day.
     "Now our sacrifice has been made!" Queen Odessa shouted, startling all the women who turned to see her standing by the bonfires her hair a long wet mass, resembling kelp hanging off her shoulders, and she looked like a naked maiden from the sea, a glorious, mysterious creature of the deep. "I have returned to you a daughter of Poseidon!" the women all delighted by her powerful presence "I have come to tell you all.., we have made my father very happy! For with the slaughter of these fine, worthy men.., Poseidon is greatly pleased!" here a victorious cheer of elation issued forth from the determined group of warriors. "I tell you this, my brave, blood thirsty ladies! Our mission is just beginning.., there is still work to be done, this shall not be easy, but we are fit for the killing! So by the light of Apollo and Helios, let us all gather together and discuss our plan of attack once again, so it is clear as crystal in our hearts and minds!"
     

More Chapter 13

    Now Odessa and her warrior women set themselves to the task of providing one last delicious meal and one last divine night of festive drinking and dancing for the benefit of their foreign guests, at the same time the Themiscyrans set their minds upon human sacrifice. However, it should be noted, at this time in the ancient world, as now, human sacrifice was forbidden by all religions, for this was considered a mortal sin against the natural order of the world and the spiritual realm. Those who chose to practice this dark and deadly rite were castigated as barbaric and profane. The only creatures to be given up as a blood-offering were animals, for those millions of people in the various religious groups were indoctrinated to believe this was seen to be the highest form of worship, a common tradition of men. This, they believed, was to help mankind re-establish the connection between the world of the gods and the world of human beings. They believed that such animal sacrifices proved to turn the fruits of their labors into a gift to the deities, whose natural realm was chaotic and wild. Therefore, men took to killing off pure, perfect animals of all forms, all without blemish or sickness upon their altars, or in sacred forests; which served as a threshold space, a portal to the domain of disorder, an otherworldly plane of existence which permitted the passage of the sacred into human consciousness by means of the loving, and transgressive, gift of sacrificial blood.
     Yet, to offer up the blood of human beings, sacred living creatures WAS NOT RIGHT! However the Warrior Women of Themiscyra did not care what the world thought of them, for they had established their own religion centuries ago. Their civilization had, for over 700 years, sent thousands upon thousands of men to an untimely, sacrificial death. They, these barbaric women, all had done so gladly and willingly with the violence of their hands, serving up the carcasses of slaughtered men as tokens of love and esteem to their pantheon of gods and goddesses they faithfully worshiped from birth to death. In Themiscyra the women fought under a code of laws the first one being Take No Prisoners/ Show No Mercy. So, naturally a good way to dispose of your enemy was to make the ultimate human sacrifice to show their gods and goddesses, along with the Fates, extreme Unity, Loyalty, Respect and Honor as well as Faith.
     So it was, Queen Odessa ordered her ladies to prepare a sumptuous meal of roasted vegetables and grilled fish, taken from the mouth of the Eurotas river on the shore of the Laconian Gulf which was located between Mt. Taygetos and Mt. Parnon. The Etruscans were treated with great dignity and shown the sweetest friendship by Odessa, Katarina and all of the Themiscyrans, who knew this would be the ill-fated men's last night on Earth before they were offered up to Death's dark door. So the women, as ordered, availed themselves in various capacities before each man was brought, one by one, into a warm and soft bed, the bed of their killers, whom took their sweet time enjoying the pleasure of their naked flesh with passionate kisses and vigorous sex. This was the last act these men would perform before Prince Thane, Ambassador Gaetano and the other 48 men were given a sweet cup of freshly brewed, hot tea on that cool autumn evening under a harvest moon there in the small encampment on the quiet beach.
     Now Queen Odessa and Captain Katarina, had grown quite fond of their Etruscan lovers and they did thoroughly enjoy their company, but when the time came to deceive them, to the full force of Death and Dread, it did hurt their hearts, ever so slightly. Yet, even though they were blood-thirsty, vicious, clever killers, as all the world knew, that did not mean that the Themiscyrans took the task of killing lightly. For that would be most untrue.
     With a deep breath and a deceptive smile Queen Odessa served up a poisoned cup of tea made from toxic oleander leaves, sweetened with chamomile and lavender honey. "Here..," she paused giving Prince Thane one last gentle and loving kiss as he lie naked in her little bed exhausted by sex."There you are my dearest Prince, this will calm your beating heart and bring you dreams that are sweet."
     Here the doomed man took the small cup and drank in the deadly potion then he turned to her and said "Odessa, my Queen, my dreams are always sweet.., when they are of you." and with that  he settled back down again, resting his head in the beautiful Queen of Themiscyra's warm lap as she gently stroked his soft black locks of hair, never ever knowing those thirteen words he just spoke.., would be his last. After a few moments passed away in stillness Odessa curled up next to the slowly dying Prince as he fell into a deep abiding, peaceful and eternal rest then, as he grew ever colder in her arms, Odessa sighed with relief as she knew, at long last, Prince Thane, Heir to the Royal Throne of Etruria, had finally stopped breathing.

Chapter 13 continues

     So it came to pass a few days later, back in Sparta, Queen Thera awoke from a fitful dream that morning her belly churning, feeling as sick as dog that has just been poisoned. King Vyakles was roused from his peaceful sleep by the sounds of his dear wife vomiting up the contents of her stomach out of the window. "Thera..," Vyakles rolled over facing her "You must let me call the physician Caderios, or at least inform Jessa of your sickness. For I worry you have an ailment and I have grown very concerned over the state of your health, 'lo these many days." he said lovingly in a voice that was sweet and kind.
     "Oh Vyakles..," Thera paused wiping her mouth "There is nothing wrong with me." she replied looking into his dark, caring eyes as she went over to a little table where one of her attendants had placed a cool jug of goats milk mixed with ginger. Thera paused taking a long sip of the white liquid as it soothed her burning throat and aching belly "You must know.., my beloved.., I believe your fruitful seed has sprouted in my fertile womb."
     Here the King of Sparta's eyes widened, as his mouth dropped open, then in a flash he leapt up out of his marital bed, then with a proud and satisfied look upon his face Vyakles embraced is wife tightly giving her a cherished kiss upon the cheek declaring "Oh happy day! The gods and goddesses have smiled upon us once again!" the expectant father exclaimed "We must send out word of our joy throughout the kingdom at once!"
     "No!" Thera responded defiantly "No my love.., let us wait to make sure and see if my blood cycle comes again before we confirm the life growing inside me. For it could prove to be bad luck and we should not tempt the Fates, lest they join forces and conspire against us." Thera said as she rested her head upon his strong shoulders.
     "Agreed, my dearest Thera, we shall wait a little while longer and keep this our blessed and sacred secret." the ecstatic couple held each other in love and comfort thinking of their future together. However, little did they know, the Fates had already hatched their terrible plot against the King and Queen of Sparta, for 40 miles, to the south, Odessa and her sea-weary raiding party, along with the oh so helpful and trusting Etruscans, were busy with the task of setting up their temporary encampment on the shores of the Peloponnese at the mouth of the river Eurotas.
     "Come Prince Thane!" Odessa called out to him as he paced about the deck of his ship up on the beach "Let us prepare a feast in your honor, and join with me in one more night of celebration.., as a token of my affection and appreciation to you, and your hospitable crew, as a reward for transporting us here safely and swiftly upon your fine sailing vessels across the magnificent blue Aegean." she smiled with a sparkle in her eyes "I promise we shall have a memorable time." so the foreign prince came down from his massive ship never ever knowing what murderous plans Queen Odessa had in her evil mind for himself, and his men.

Chapter 13 begins

     Four days later two hours before Odessa's departure, just before dawn was breaking, she called her warriors, all 200 of them, to council in the Great Hall of her Royal Palace. They found their Queen sitting upon the Royal Throne of Themiscyra dressed for battle, her sharpened sword at her side, wearing the golden crown of stars, with her councilors of War by her side as she spoke. "The gates are mine to open.., as the gates are mine close, many there be that hate us, and to those we are opposed. I summon you all here, to join together with me, for many their be that hate us, and to them we are opposed." Odessa stilled her mind and steeled her soul telling them "For as the tide stands against us this day.., I tell you this..," Queen Odessa took in a deep breath "That bastard! King Sunder of Thrace has placed our Nation under dire consequences through threat of war.., and my former lover, King Phillip of Macedon, father to my son, will provide us with no assistance in battle and has denied our nation all, and any, trading or breeding treaties, unless we provide a ruler with Royal Blood.., the Blood of Ethera, the Lineage of Aella. Yet I am your ruler, and sovereign monarch, purified by bloodshed in battle, scarred by war, but the men of this region will not respect my right, by Thera's own annunciation, to rule.., and they use this as an excuse to bombard our country with slings and arrows ere the Worlds War Trumpet blows, but I am first in battle.., against those whom we are so opposed. Now I summoned you all to council.., in the din of this troubled year.., for the sake of a sign you all shall see and my words of truth that you shall hear." Odessa looked out at the women dressed for leisurely pursuits all looking shocked by this unexpected news. "My warriors, Themiscyra's finest! I call upon you to bring forth that special skill you have for covert killing. For it seems the only way we can attain peace, with these foreign kings, is to have a monarch to rule over us with Royal Blood, so if they want an official, legitimate Queen sitting upon this Throne.., then we shall give them Royal Blood. We must take Queen Thera, and Princess Sparta, as our captives and return them here.., back home to Themiscyra where they belong."
      "Thera, nor her traitorous ladies, they will NEVER comply! They would all rather see us die." Katarina spoke up as everyone watched and waited for Odessa to reply.
      "Then we shall have her daughter, for all we need is the Lineage of Aella, the Ancient Royal Blood, it does not concern me whose body it flows through. So I tell you this.., you must all be prepared to kill off Thera, and her treacherous women, if need be. As long as Princess Sparta is taken alive, and returned UNHARMED, to this palace, then our mission shall be accomplished. She will be coronated as Queen Sparta and I will serve as her Regent's Council." Odessa said in a loud clear voice her pulse racing, eyes sharp and focused like hawk. No one spoke, nor did any of them question her, for they were loyal, obedient fighters who made their life's career in killing, striking in the dead of night on countless raiding campaigns. So these vicious killers remained silent standing still as stones in a garden waiting for their orders. "Now we shall go by sea, with the ships Prince Thane has provided to me. We shall make camp three miles outside of the city of Helos, on the southern coast, then we will make our way north following the river to the city; which we will attack in the dark of night, 100 will be under the command of Katarina, you shall lie in wait outside of Sparta, serving as the rear guard, as I, and the rest of my warriors, make our way out of the burning town." Odessa paused as she searched the many faces for any sign of doubt or fear, finding none whatsoever she roared "Remember our credo, my most dedicated ladies! Kill NO children! Slaughter all the rest!" here a cheer rose up from the blood thirsty killer's, who honestly had grown quite restless and bored, having not been required to make war, or go on murderous raids, or rampages, in such a very long time. So it was many held a special hatred in their heart for Thera and all those who followed her along that traitors path to freedom.
     "When are we to leave, my Queen!?" came up a shout from the back of the crowded hall.
     "Within the hour!" she informed them, then a murmur arose from the room and many looked confused. "Fear not, for I have already ordered your armaments, weapons and horses to be taken aboard the ships and safely placed in the cargo holds."
     "Are we not to make offerings upon the altar of Artemis, as a sacrifice for her help and protection in our time of battle?" Katarina asked concerned they would offend their sacred goddess of war.
     "We shall give up our offerings to our fathers Zeus, Poseidon and Hades." Odessa said with a serious look upon her face then she lifted up her eyes saying "Love and Death shall cease their strife. It shall be the bodies of the Etruscans which shall burn with their ships and they will serve as our great sacrifice of human life to the King of Olympus, Zeus, the King of the Sea, Poseidon and the King of the Underworld, Hades. For after we are safely ashore in Greece  we will have a shocking surprise in store for those stupid men, who were so easily deceived. For no one must know of our presence in the Peloponnese, to keep our secret safe, we must destroy these foreigners, we can not let them get away, so we, in order to show great honor to our fathers.., we will sacrifice those foolish men to the gods and leave their remains to feed the creatures of the deep."

End Chapter 12

     Now an hour or so later, Katarina crept into the silent bedchamber of the Queen, going back behind the curtain on her hands and knees, coming closer to Odessa who rested naked upon the bed with the sleeping foreign prince beside her "My Queen." Katarina said in a whisper as not to awaken Thane.

     Odessa felt a light tap on her shoulder as she rolled over to see Katarina smiling down at her with a glowing radiance to her face with bright blue eyes shining like two brilliant stars "Why Captain.., you look like the cat who just got the cream." Odessa laughed lowly so as not to rouse her naked lover.

     Katarina grinned from ear to ear, her body in a deep state of relaxation, her mind focused and clear, feeling as if she could conquer the world, with no fear, or any cares, or worries, for the time being. " Why yes, my Queen, Ambassador Gaetano was just the man for the job." she giggled softly "Please forgive my intrusion.., but the feast is about to begin, shall we tarry upon you?"

     "No, no.., you all go ahead.., eat drink and be merry, for I have a little more in store for the good Prince Thane." Odessa said with a wink of her eye. "Go, leave me to my naked peace and tranquility."

     With that Katarina came closer to the Queen placing a benevolent kiss upon her cheek then, standing to her feet, with a deep bow at the waist she retreated out of the quiet, cool chamber and Odessa could smell the aroma of succulent  roasting beef turning over the spits above the fires, drifting in on the ocean breeze. Here she turned back to the sleeping prince who had tired himself upon Odessa, who had spent years riding in the saddle and her stamina was that of a wild beast. As Thane lie on his stomach his bare ass and back exposed to her, Odessa sat up on him using her hands to deeply massage his shoulders as she straddled him lightly he awoke. "Ah.., that feels so good, your hands are so strong, your touch so gentle." he complemented her as Odessa squeezed out any tensions he had from the tense muscles of his back and neck. "I wish I could stay with you, like this, forever."

     "Ah, my sweet prince! Forever is such a very long time..," Odessa sighed delighted by the words of his mouth. "And I must admit.., I completely agree, I would so much enjoy your company.., for all eternity." Here Odessa spoke with a sudden sad tone in her voice as she said the following "Alas my love.., it is not meant to be.., for tomorrow I must say goodbye and take my leave."

     "Tomorrow?" Prince Thane asked startled with a little shock as he rolled over having the Queen sitting upon his hips staring into her eyes. "But we were meant to stay longer! Four more days. What has suddenly changed Queen Odessa.., that you would send me away?"

       "I have agreed to a training exercise with 200 of my warriors with the Army of the King and Queen of Sparta." Odessa lied straight to his face.

      "What sort of training exercise will your forces be engaged?" Thane wished to know for this was most unusual in deed.

      "I will be utilizing my Cavalry to teach the Spartan men how to fight on horseback.., you see their soldiers do not ride in battle, they mainly rely on their warrior infantry as their war machine." she explained.

      "So Thera, and Vyakles, have authorized this military training?" he asked questioning her further.

      "Yes, Queen Thera, and I, have come to an accord, but we shall see.., so this is the matter which requires me to leave so quickly. For my troops must go by land across the rivers and mountains it will take at least seven or eight days, and I will be leading my warriors to Sparta and I, as Queen of all Themiscyra, must not be late, for our Peace Treaty might be at stake."

     Prince Thane gazed up into her lying eyes, but he, being a trusting man, did not know, nor understand, the deceit of her mind. So the Etruscan Prince said in full faith and trust upon Odessa's honor as a ruling monarch "Why go by land, my dearest Odessa..," he said touching her bare breast softly "when I, with my great ships and able crew, can take you by sea, and get you to Sparta much more quickly?"

     "You would order your men to perform such great a task.., just for me?"

     "Of course, it would be my sacred honor, and royal privilege to escort you and your Cavalry to Greece, and then we can still spend our time together as we have already agreed." Prince Thane offered his help to her, never ever knowing it would be to his complete detriment and utter demise.

     "Well then Prince Thane, in that case.., let me show you my appreciation for your generous offer." with that Odessa slowly smiled moving her naked body down as she took him in her warm, wet mouth and the Queen was satisfied. For she was completely secure in the knowledge that her clever plan of deception had worked so her vengeful plot could begin it's destructive progress at last.

Chapter 12 continues

          "Now dearest Thane..," Odessa said as she sat down curling up next to her Prince on the long cushioned couch "we must select one of your finest men for my loyal Katarina." the Queen paused "And, although she appears before you now looking quite the delicate and beautiful creature in her silken gown and long flowing auburn curls with bright blue eyes, and supple skin, do not be fooled for I can assure you when my Captain is attired in her battle armaments, suited up in her armor, Katarina is one of my fiercest and deadliest warriors.., so be sure to choose accordingly.., an Etruscan befitting her status."
     "Why yes! I have just the man in mind to suit your wants and needs." Prince Thane replied leaping to his feet clapping his hands together as he went outside ordering one of his body guards "Go and locate Gaetano, bring him to me at once." going back inside to sit alone with Queen Odessa and Katarina he grinned from ear to ear saying "Yes, you shall be pleased.., indeed."
    "Well then, tell us of him!" Katarina inquired with salacious thoughts filling her mind with desire, for it had been such a long time since she enjoyed a man sexually.
     "Well..," the Prince began as he sat back and relaxed with Odessa resting her head in his lap "He is a former victorious Warrior in my Army, and now serves our country as one of my highest ranking Ambassadors. He is well versed in history, music, poetry and the art of war.., but what is more he is as handsome and strong as he is charming." here a tall, dark-eyed, rugged looking man with broad shoulders and a clean-shaven head entered the Royal tent and bowed.
     "May I present to you.., for your approval.., Ambassador Gaetano." Thane said proudly.
     "Ah yes, Ambassador.., we meet again." Odessa smiled sitting up nodding, for they had met days earlier when Odessa first came out to greet them, then she said. "This stunning, blue-eyed, lovely creature is Katarina, Captain of the Elite Guard.., newly returned from a successful political mission in Sparta." Katarina gave a sly and sultry look to the attractive Ambassador, who looked like just her type of mate. "Katarina is here seeking a little comfort and company, perhaps you might be ready, willing and able to accommodate my good lady?"
     "It shall be my utmost pleasure." Gaetano said kissing the back of Katarina's hand "And.., if you are willing, I am quite sure our meeting will prove to be most pleasurable for you as well."
     "We shall see." Katarina said a joyful light emanating from her face.
     "Now then," Odessa said standing to her feet "You two remain here so you can become better acquainted, while I retire to my bedchamber with Prince Thane.., for he and I have much.., to discuss." Queen Odessa said as she gave a wink of her eye.
     So it was Odessa led her lover to the back of the large tent behind the heavy curtains so each couple might have a little privacy. Katarina took this opportunity to pour out a cup of wine for herself and the wickedly handsome Ambassador as the newly introduced pair sat together early that evening. "So tell me Gaetano.., you have retired from War and become a Politician?" Katarina asked trying to understand his mind a little better before she devoured his body with her lustful passion.
     "My Nation has been so successful during wartime that we have now established Peace Treaties and Trade Agreements with most every nation from Galatia to Phoenicia to Babylon.., for every King, and his people, clamor for our wine, art, jewelry, writers, musicians, philosophers and teachers. Our borders have long since been secured and we fear no foreign invaders. My skills are better served through diplomacy..," here a far away look filled his eyes as he sighed telling Katarina "however.., sometimes I do truly miss the thrilling sense of horror that killing brings in times of War." he explained as he turned his attention back to the gorgeous woman before him. "But enough about me.., tell me Captain Katarina, newly returned from Greece, tell me how did you find our Spartan cousins?"
     "They are all Barbarians!" Katarina said displeased by her recollections of that certain society. "Their entire civilization is sustained by slave labor, they mercilessly beat their sons, this is how they train them for war, they take foreign brides and subjugate their women and daughters, they drink too much wine, and are as lascivious as they are superstitious. No.., those men, and their ideal's DO NOT suit my tastes, whatsoever!" Katarina spoke on the verge of a diatribe. Gaetano listened as she continued "What is more they allow their soldiers to fornicate with prostitutes as some sort of reward for time served in battle. The whole nation of Sparta disturbs me."
     "I see." the ambassador replied.
     "What is worse than all of this!" Katarina paused taking a quick sip of the sweet red wine "Those wretched men have raised up generations of their children filling their minds with the such propaganda and scandalous lies about my people.., I could not even begin to describe!"
     "Ah yes..," Gaetano sighed placing a hand on her knee "We have heard the rumors."
     "Oh really?" Katarina asked shocked "Such as..?"
     "We have heard many ludicrous tales.., they call you the one-breasted beasts of Themiscyra.., Amazons, they claim you singe off the right breast of every female  so you might draw a bow better in battle; which I have seen by the bare-chested women running around the beach that this of course is NOT true." the Ambassador smiled casting his eyes over Katarna in her nearly see-through gown, her pink nipples erect under the thin silken garment "They say you take the strongest men in battle as captives, to use as sex slaves and that you amputate their arms and legs, so they can never runaway. Ah.., what else.., oh and that you kill your sons and eat them alive, and they have also said you are lesbians; which the sense that makes is none."
     "All lies!" Katarina shouted with furious anger welling up in her eyes.
     "You should calm your mind, my dearest Katarina, for those tall tales of fiction are nothing compared to the rumors they have spread about my countrymen!"
     "Hmm..," Katarina scoffed "Do tell." she said leaning back and listening intently as she sipped more wine.
     "Oh.., the say that all our women are whores, to such a high degree that none of the children of Etruria knows exactly whom their father's are. They say we prostitute our daughters and rape our sons and that we fornicate with animals." Gaetano laughed "You know the usual propaganda put out by an envious nation, who tell such twisted tales of fiction out of their own petty, insecure jealousies." here he paused leaning over and saying "But we too, in my country, do not have very nice things to say about those Greeks!" this statement served to help the two share in a laugh together; which helped to stimulate the couple to feel a bit more comfortable together as the mutual hatred they shared together for the Spartans proved to be quite titillating . "Though, my sweet, sexy Katarina.., this is enough talk of such a disturbing nature." Gaetano said in a soothing voice as he moved a little bit closer, his arm placed gently around Katarina's shoulder, where he noticed a thin white scar running down the length of her right arm, an old reminder of a flesh wound from war.
     "Yes, enough talk.., for we do not have much time to spend together.., and I am left wanting greatly of your touch." Katarina said in a warm whisper her lips inches from his wet mouth, which he opened up slowly to her with a deep kiss, his tongue slippery and moist, as she reclined back pulling the tall handsome foreigner on top of her body as she spread her legs open an eager  invitation for Gaetano to come into her in the stillness and solitude as the sun went down that day.

Chapter 12 begins

         Just for a moment Katarina stood there in silence, it was not that she was shocked by what her Queen had disclosed to her, rather she was picturing in her mind the 200 band of assassins creeping into the bedchambers of the Spartans, in the dark of night, slitting the throats of the sleeping men and women, their thick, warm blood pouring out in scarlet streams of a deathly crimson. The fearless band killing as commanded by their vengeful Queen.
     "Katarina..," Odessa said staring over at the silent woman whom was lost, deep in thought "You appear to be.., astonished, my child."
     "No..," Katarina snapped out of her deeply disturbing visions "I was born to SERVE! You were born to LEAD! It is not my right to question the word of my Queen." Katarina smiled the blood lust rising up in her heart and mind "For YOUR enemy.., is MY enemy! I would gladly commit any viscous acts of violence, by mine own hands, and follow you into the mouth of Hell.., for all Eternity" Katarina said standing their proudly smiling like fiend.
     "Oh Katarina..," Odessa smiled embracing her close to her chest "Such Unity, Loyalty, Respect and Honor dwells within you.., your fore-mothers would be so proud.., as proud as I am to have you there with me when the bloodletting begins." Odessa, releasing her hold of Katarina, smiled with such delight then she added "But come.., we have our guests to enjoy and.., entertain! We shall talk on the morrow, when all the details of my plan of attack shall be revealed. So let us leave any thoughts of death and destruction here.., in this cold and quiet cave, and let us away to partake in the wondrous pleasure of men. Oh and what men, for they are just as strong and handsome as any Spartan, but these Etruscan warriors are far more intelligent and intriguing." Odessa said as she took Katarina by the hand as the two walked back along the shore the cold water from the cove splashing up between their toes.
     Now as the sun approached the western horizon, sending rippled mirrored reflections of golden light in streaks of silver over the sparkling waters, Monarch and Captain walked back to the Royal tent together as they observed those men and women, formerly at the little party, were now out swimming naked, frolicking in the gentle waves of the chilly Black Sea. "Very good my ladies!" Odessa shouted out to them "Enjoy this night as if it were your last!" smiles and kisses blown were issued back to the Queen, who felt a certain ease in her body, mind and soul. For, though she had so much hatred, pain, anguish and rage built up against Thera, and her traitorous ladies, she knew that soon there would come a great outpouring and release of all she held inside a cage of bitterness and animosity. There would be so much bloodshed, and fury, the likes of which the World would speak of, in fear, for a thousand years. As for Odessa she prayed to the gods and goddesses it would prove to be a great, glorious day of infamy. So tonight, with her blood lust leashed up in her heart, for the time being, Odessa would drink to get drunk, smoke up the hashish and bring Prince Thane to bare, over and over again, in her bed. For, with the news from Sparta, Queen Odessa would need the Etruscan Prince, more to the point, his SHIPS, to get her, her horses and troops swiftly to Sparta, sooner rather than later, for her defiant act of revenge. "Come in Katarina, we shall have Prince Thane select a mate worthy of you, for you too must let loose all your tensions in the deep relaxation of vigorous sex, for I tell you this, there is nothing more gratifying or satisfying!." Queen Odessa said with a wide grin, the spark of desire burning brightly in her eyes as she, along with her devoted Captain Katarina, went back inside to the delight of Prince Thane who stood and kissed Odessa passionately upon seeing her.
     

End Chapter 11

     Odessa and Katarina walked along the shore as the cold waves crashed hard against the sand. Katarina waited a moment as she watched the salt scented breeze lifting and spreading Odessa's long golden hair over her strong shoulders. "My Queen, thank you for coming out here with me, the fresh air will do us good." Katarina spoke brushing a strand of her own tresses out of her eyes. "I see you are enjoying the Prince's company, I pray the gods and goddesses will favor your union so that your relations may prove.., fruitful."
     "Ah..," Odessa let out a sigh of great delight "The pleasure my lover brings me is like the stars of the heavens.., endless and breathtaking." Odessa smiled with such satisfaction it made it more difficult for Katarina to give her the bad news and wipe that pretty smile from off her face.
     "Your Nation shall be greatly pleased, for you deserve the delight of happiness, by what ever means." here Katarina put her arm around Odessa and gave her a sweet soft kiss on the cheek. "I ask you to please remember this happiness you hold inside your heart, for I must impart terrible news of great tragedy." Katarina spoke plainly with a look in her eyes as serious as the grave.
     "Pray tell, Katarina.., all is NOT well?" Odessa asked in a grievous tone as though she had been deceived. "Is this regarding our Peace Treaty?"
     "Come," Katarina beckoned the Queen motioning to a small secluded cave to the left as they walked along the cove. "Let us away to the silence of the shade, away from ears to overhear my news." so the two went together to the darkness and solitude of the quiet cave. Odessa now had a pale look of dread sweeping away the golden peace of her face as the light of happiness began to fade.
     "Tell me Katarina, now, tell me all of it, NOW!" Odessa shouted a sourness filling her stomach like a bitter poison.
     "In regards to Lacuna and Lucia Vega..," Katarina paused as her eyes adjusted to the dimly lit space as the sun went down that day.
     "What of them?" Odessa said her voice as tense as wire.
     "They have refused to return to serve you.., for they have pledged their allegiance to Thera instead. Both women have also become impregnated by their lovers. But more tragic than this.., Lucia Vega plans to marry General La Quint, and Lacuna and Admiral Vasha plan to wed soon.., all of this treachery to our Nation sanctioned by the King and Queen of Sparta." now Katarina waited on baited breath for Odessa to react in anger, perhaps lashing out at her with disdainful words, or a slap, a kick or a punch in the face, for returning home without her two best friends. However, Katarina was astonished when Odessa only laughed and shook her head.
     "I knew they would not return." Odessa said still shaking her head as the fire of rage began to glow in her angry eyes.
     "How could you know?" Katarina asked incredulously.
     "Oh Katarina..," she sighed disgusted "I have known Lacuna and Lucia Vega all of my life.., and I know, and have always known, the love they hold in their hearts for Thera has always been greater than any love, or loyalty, they could ever have for me." here Odessa became sad, as the truth of the matter finally had come to pass.
     "Then why, my Queen? Why did you make us go?" Katarina went down on her knees on the verge of tears, holding Odessa's hands in hers. "Then why did you send me to Sparta with them? This makes no sense to me at all!" Katarina began weeping seeing Odessa, her trusted Queen, had sent her on a mission knowing she would fail.
     "Arise Captain Katarina! Dry your eyes and calm your mind." Odessa smiled down at her squeezing her hands tightly "For you serve me well.., but.., you do not know me as well as you think." Odessa laughed with the light of gladness coming over her face "For this is all part of my plan."
     Katarina stood to her feet wiped the tears of disappointment off her cheeks as she stared up at the Queen, in whom, by the way she looked and spoke just now, Katarina thought she saw a tiny spark of lunacy. "Plan.., whatever do you mean?"
     "Now those two, along with the traitor Thera, have all betrayed me.., publicly! Now the Fates have provided for me this perfect opportunity to strike at the heart of Thera!" Odessa said in a hiss, like a viper, then with vengeance burning in her eyes like fire she told her "You, and I, shall assemble a troop of 200 of our finest assassins. We shall go into Sparta, like a thief in the night, and take back what is ours by right."