Bone of My Bone

Hugo Vladmr Spencer turned from the spectacular ocean view of his
custom terraformed world. His tall, slim figure, silhouetted against
the expanse of crystal wall that was the window of his cavernous
office. Out of habit he smoothed his impeccable silver hair, clasped
his manicured hands behind his tailored suited back, his opaline eyes
regarding the lad before him with feigned indifference. Inwardly he
thought: ah but isn't he a lovely boy, just perfect for my designs! The
lad, appeared confident, hardened from his earlier years on scores of
slum-worlds, the results of Man's continuous expansion into space.
There was a certain gentleness about him though. His lean, lithe form,
gray, almond shaped eyes, and golden curls gave him an almost elfish
appearance. His skin had the creamy, slightly beige look of a commoner.
His sort, Spencer thought, were only fit for mining the ores and
minerals that move the Galaxy's commerce. But he was lovely still.
Perfect indeed for Arniona his wife. He listened as the boy, a good
forty years younger than Spencer, rattled off his resume. Having read
the complete dossier on him, Hugo endured the formality.

"?after I left Solace Seven, I was Companion to the sister of High
Senator Evan Thomas on Phobos Station. The contract lasted two years."
The boy had mimicked Spencer's stance exactly: posture straight, chin
up, hands clasped behind his back. He had worn something similar to
what he anticipated Spencer would wear: white tunic beneath black
business quarter-length jacket, over black trousers. This, Spencer knew
was to gain rapport with his client, a way of building trust. Of course
Spencer knew differently. This boy, Jason Gelding, a good twenty-five
or thirty years to his seventy, most likely hated him. Spencer knew
this due to one simple fact.

Everyone hated Hugo Vladmr Spencer.

To his face everyone loved him for he owned the largest commercial
freight transport fleet in the galaxy. Spencer Commercial Interstellar
Fleets Inc. had grown so prevailing as to rival the political
megapowers that be. He was ruthless in business, cunning in life,
cruelest in love. Indeed Hugo Vladmr Spencer was a vampire of the soul,
a psychological sadist whose sole pleasure was siphoning the life from
those closest to him.

His first wife had been committed to the asylum on Luna Prime in Terran
orbit.
His second had abandoned him to wander about destitute, wounded and
mad. The last one committed suicide once she realized the blackness of
his apathy and cruelty.

Now it was Arniona's turn. As always, Spencer traveled to the far
reaches of the galaxy to acquire his wives. They were always the same:
beautiful, young, from poor families that treaded above poverty. He
would woo the girl as well as her family, giving them lavish but simple
gifts. The father would always end up working for Spencer CIF
Inc.
The mother would never worry about making ends meet again. Of course it
would all end should the girl refuse to marry Hugo or should they
divorce. If however, they remained married until Spencer's death did
them part, all or Spencer CIF would remain hers as an inheritance. And
by Motherworld the inheritance!

Only an elite few could afford the life of H.V. Spencer. The name
Spencer was not only the family name; it was the name of the family
planet. Custom terra forming had become in vogue three hundred years
ago, a fad for the exceedingly rich. Three hundred years prior to that,
an overcrowded earth desperately sought to transform other worlds for
habitation. Mars was first. Then others were as time went on. This
world upon which they stood, was a gift from his grandfather. It had
been custom made, well beyond the Terran solar system. It's silver
waves crashed against an azure shoreline. The blue sands offset the
white foam driven the tides of the primarily aquatic planet. The island
continent would have easily swallowed any of the continents of
Motherworld Earth. Spencer House spanned the eastern coastline of the
terrain. The office in which the two men stood was in itself
mansion-like in size. The gray light that diffused into the chamber
leeched off into the room's darkness. The echoes were
electroacoustically dampened. Spencer's voice was reserved with a tinge
of arrogance.

"My Arniona has requested a Companion whilst I'm off-world on
business." He walked over to the crypt-sized desk of stone-tree wood.
The data plate began to brighten as he continued speaking and checking
the company performance on Intergal Exchange.
"I frankly see no need for it, but as she is my wife and I wish to make
her happy I have requested you."

Jason brought his hands together in front of him in the traditional
sign of respect and bowed smoothly "It is my honor Lord Spencer. I will
do my best to live up to your expectations."
Spencer looked up at him, his smile thin and serpentine. His eyes
remained cold. "Of course you will my boy, I wouldn't have it any other
way. You must understand, though, that I have certain restrictions on
the extent of your, how shall we say? 'services'?"

Jason face remained impassive at the implications. Most companions'
services went from escorting and protection to the carnal. It was not
dependant on whether the Client was loved or not, it was strictly a
part of the service. Sex was generally expected. Third party to the
arrangement usually consented, even encouraged it.

Jason began his career as a Companion after tiring of selling himself
to the geneticists who sought his rare type of ancient bloodline. Pure
Celt, Jason's line went back to the Times of the Uprisings, when the EU
had finally broken apart and each sought to form republics among the
stars. Celtis was his birth world. The Celts rarely left their
homeworld. Having formed a new Druid religion, they remained tied to
their planet.
Jason however, escaped the life of a homebound druid. His years spent
selling DNA samples allowed him to move among more the aristocratic of
society.

"I have no intention of allowing you to touch my wife," Spencer
continued coldly
, "Although she may desire it, although you may ask you, offer more on
your premium, or try to seduce you, you will never be able to touch
her. You, my lovely child, are merely enticement. Part of a game my
wife and I love to play."

Liar! Jason thought about that last part.

"Just to ensure that you don't?" Spencer paused for effect. "I've
arranged for a companion to the Companion, a sort of watchdog, if you
will."

Jason's countenance gave only the slightest hints of alter. He relaxed
his posture, smiled politely. "As you wish Lord Spencer. I shall comply
with your clause. As for the 'companion', or shall I say guardian?,
you'll not need it. After all, this is business.

Not to me, thought Spencer, this is a supreme sport, an amusement
beyond compare.
Should he show this, what was the ancient term for it, gigolo, what the
companion looked like? Should he display its special abilities? Spencer
could hardly contain himself. he rubbed his hands together in a rare
display of excitement.

"I think I'd like you to see this." Reaching into his pocket, Spencer
produced a small remote. He aimed it off to his left into the emptiness
of his immense office. Jason looked in that direction. Some feet away
there came a slight hum. air buzzed and shimmered. A scene appeared. A
sunny meadow, somewhere onworld, a human grounds keeper tending the
neatly manicured lawn. His brown jumpsuit drenched in sweat. The well
worn sun visor removed revealing a man in his mid forties. He had
stopped working to catch his breath a moment.

"That is your chaperon for me?" Jason asked with disbelief. He was on
the verge of laughter. Hugo Vladmr Spencer chuckled a bit.
"Just watch, Mr. Gelding, just watch"

Jason observed the worker continuing to struggle with his chore of
gardening.
The man looked up at something in the distance, his face
uncomprehending at first, then with growing understanding comes growing
tension. Fear. The angle shifts to show what he's looking at. Jason's
heart quickened as the picture focused on the thing. A stone-wood tree
grew some twenty yards away. Its genetically designed trunk was low and
squat. Its naturally petrified branches reached out in all paths. The
creature sat perfectly still in one of the lowest branches. To call is
a dog was too far of a stretch. There were some canine aspects to it.
Bioengineering had created something far more formidable. It's eyes
held a malevolence that could only be devised by a human. Jason could
feel the tension building within him. he watched as the creature seemed
to pour itself down from its perch. The movement was hypnotic in its
fluidity. The gardener seemed paralyzed by its movements, the swaying
liquid gait, its eyes never leaving its quarry.

Even as it picked up speed the hapless worker appeared unable to
release himself from the creature's gaze. The creature closed the
distance quickly. Jaws elongating, teeth lengthening, gaining bulk,
gaining speed. Eyes glittering with malevolence. Great drops of saliva
from its gaping mouth. In one swift movement its feet left the ground.
Jason turned away just as the thing lunged and ripped away the man's
head from his shoulders. The green grass was splashed with the bright
red of the caretaker. The creature diving into the torso of the
carcass. A click from the remote and the scene faded into the darkness
of the chamber.

" I had it specially designed offworld particularly for this
arrangement," Spencer said with pride. It was plain to Jason that
Spencer was mad. His demeanor had the look of maniacal jubilance.

"It is called a caniguard. It can be trained to detect the slightest
hormonal changes and attack the bearer. That poor torn apart wretch was
brought in just for the demonstration. I had it custom made on
Gan-"

"Ganymede Four", Jason interrupted, "I'm familiar with their
work."
Jason struggled to maintain his composure and not betray the horror and
revulsion he felt. He managed to brush the tiny beads of sweat from his
forehead casually. "I take it that it's attuned to my body
chemistry?"

"Indeed it is my boy. So you can imagine what my pet would do if you
violated our contract in any way."
Jason nodded. He looked away from Spencer's insane eyes in the
direction of the faded images.
"Incidentally, it's here with us now, been her all along
actually?."
Jason's eyes widened at this. That, that thing here? In this very
room?!
He shuddered involuntarily. To late to turn back now, he thought,. the
bastard would probably have the thing kill him right now if he backed
out.

Spencer was indeed pleased with himself. Vlad my boy you've outdone
yourself. How delicious to watch Arniona's shock, her horror and
despair seeing her would be lover torn apart. Oh Great Mother! This
will be glorious!
He touched his wrist control and the teleport opened to move them
across the continent. A glowing circle of light. Its center filled with
the scene of a golden field with grazing beasts. It opened silently
with the slightest hint of breeze.
"Come Jason Gelding," Hugo boomed ,"it's time to meet your
mistress!"

Somewhere off in the distance, the caniguard followed them.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
* *

The terrains of Spencer World were full of forests, hills, mountains
and lakes. The sole land mass was the island continent that spanned
nearly half of the planet. Graceful ravines and valleys allowed for
ample room for the long faded Spencer household. The flora and fauna
were genetically designed and then left to develop on their own. The
rapid evolutionary process developed by the biotechs who contracted
with the terraforming companies. Arniona's favorite place was the
Pasture of the Lambs.

The rolling hills and grazing sheep-like creatures made her think of
the home that she would never see again, had not seen in the four years
she and Vladmr had married. She began calling him by his middle name.
It seemed to fit his leeching persona.

What about her Father? Would Abba recognize her? Would he know the
frail hollow eyed shell of a woman that his daughter had become?
Arniona wondered these things as she waited among the ferns of the
eastern garden.

The sun bathed her and made her simple white cotton shift luminescent.
Her black hair flowed gently with her movements. Her tan skin glistened
with perspiration from the dry warmth of Vernal season. Her dark brown
eyes, large and piercing had lost much of its fire. Each step she took
was one of melancholy. She was as trapped on this world as the very
plants around her. Worse still, should she ever leave this friendless
place, her family would lose everything. Vladmr was in total control of
their lives now, everything that her parents owned was connected to her
husband.

Or should she say Keeper? In the four years of their union, when had he
ever shone himself husband? His words always calculatingly painful. He
hardly ever touched her, save for when they made public appearances.
Afterward she was returned to this place. A doll toyed with for a
season only to be returned to its box until next time. He seemed to
thrive from his maltreatment of her. He never hit her. She would have
at least been able to see some evidence of feeling. In the face of
apathy, one can desire any feeling. Vladmr showed her none.

Arniona had come to her favorite spot in the Pasture, her ancient book
in hand. The hill rose gracefully above the grazing land. A grove of
cypress trees covered it. Here she could escape and pretend she was
home-world again, on Abrama. She came to the clearing in the grove's
center. The grazers blissfully clipping at the tops of the lawn. Their
bleats sounding more like low whistles than domestic beasts.

The gazebo was of a gold alloy. Her very own gilded cage. She sat on
the bench. Laying her head against the cool metal, she began to read.
Her voice soft and musical as she read the ancient tongue of her
people. The words of aeons long past. The book once spawned a multitude
of religions. It spoke of prophecy and principle. She turned its front
section. The part called Law and Prophets. She read aloud:

"Voyomel ha Adam;
Zot hapaham
Etsa mae atsa mai
Uvrasal mib sarie.
Lezot eekarae, Isha
Ki mae Ish luka hazot."

"An ancient tongue for so pretty a woman M'Lady."

Arniona, startled, gasped at the sudden intrusion. How did he sneak up
on her so quietly?
Of course she anticipated someone to appear sooner or later. She had
requested a Companion from Vladmr. She composed herself and stood,
facing the young intruder. She half expected her husband to send an old
fart of a person. Someone wrinkled and or obese, whose obnoxiousness
was only superceded by his smell. This one was handsome, which made her
all the more suspicious.

What was Vlad up to?
Jason had changed into a light blue tunic over black trousers. His
sandals were braided straps over his feet. The ring on his right hand
was connected to the sides of the cuff on his wrist by two silver
chains. She appraised him to be near her age. A man in his thirties
perhaps. His eyes searched hers as if questing for approval.

"You are the Companion?"
"Yes Lady Spencer."
"Where are you from?" she was being cautious.
"My home world is Celtis," his tone was formal, his posture,
familiar.

Not far from their position the caniguard sat on its haunches, unseen.
Watching with mocking eyes full of hate. It circled the gazebo, warily
keeping an eye on its quarry. As Arniona began to draw closer to Jason,
the thing stalked closer, waiting for the time to be right. It sensed
her slight trepidation, his obvious acknowledgement of her beauty.
Perhaps the attack will come now, its semi intelligent brain mused. Its
ears increased their range to pick the volume. A small device sent back
signals to H. V. Spencer.

Spencer watched with anticipation. Who would hold out the longest? It
would be a shame if the endgame came too quickly. He wanted to revel in
the suspense of when death takes hold of Jason, when abject horror
engulfs his beloved Arniona.

Slowly the thing lurked around them unnoticed. Drawing ever
closer.

But they did not touch. Not even to shake hands. Instead Jason bowed
deeply to Arniona.
"I must tell you Milady that your game with your husband is a brutal
one. Would you attempt to seduce me to my death?"

Arniona expressed genuine surprise. "Your?death? What did my husband
say to you?

He explained the clause in the contract between Gelding and Spencer.
Arniona was appalled at the notion. She looked down at the archaic
text.

"? Etsa mae atsa mai
Uvrasal mib sarie."

Jason gave a queried look. "Milady?"

Arniona sighed, "Bone of my bone flesh of my flesh, that's what the
text means. I was to complete him. I was supposed to be the last part
of his puzzle," She sighed ruefully, "Instead I've become his human
game."

The creature slinked its way to a nearby stone-wood tree. Silently
stretched its way up to the lowest branch, a serpent reaching for an
egg. Drew the rest of its body onto the branch, positioning itself on
its haunches ready to pounce.

"?and my life his disposable pawn Lady Spencer." Jason replied. His
heart went out to her. His eyes surveyed her body in the simple white
fabric, almost a gauze through which the sun revealed her comely
outline. Her breasts were well developed but not enhanced as had become
an accepted part of middle class adolescence. Her poverty actually
served to maintain her natural beauty. Her torso tapered into a narrow
waist and gracefully flared to rounded hips. Her thighs and legs
proportionately limber and dark. Her feet delicately shod with fine
durable sandals . Her oval face came to a rounded point at the chin.
Her eyes were large and beseeching. The brown irises seemed to compel
him to dive into them.

The caniguard sensed the attraction. Its teeth extended slowly. Eyes
filled with dark malice. It poured down from its perch. Sensing the
subtle changes in body temp that hinted at desire.

Spencer watched the interaction with eagerness. Fervent to see his
wife's dread at the rending of human flesh. He clenched his fists and
bared his teeth in readiness as if he were the beast.

Jason regained his emotional footing in time, mentally recalling his
feelings. He took one step back from her. "Perhaps you could tour this
place with me Lady Spencer? I've not had the pleasure of seeing all of
your ho-"
"- it's Arniona, don't call me by his name, I-I'm sick of it!"

Jason forced himself away from sympathy. "Very well then; Arniona it
is"
They walked apart from each other. A distance of two meters between
them. Arniona knew this man was special. She knew she had to protect
him. She would not be her husband's sick amusement. She would not! As
they put distance between them and the gazebo she said quietly to
herself "etsa mae atsa mai," and wept silently. Jason's watched
helplessly, unable to console the one in his care. He swore to find a
release for her.

The sun of Spencer world had begun its descent, washing the field in
orange, crimson, and purple. It turned their clothing into the colors
of blood and dust. Off behind them the grazers fed and sounded their
low whistling bleats.

In his Mansion, the office window poured sanguine light into the room.
The darkness of the immense chamber imbibed the radiance, soaking it up
into its all pervasiveness.
Spencer sighed in disappointment. It would have been a wonderful sight,
he thought. To witness the destruction. He shook his head sullen. It
was as if he'd lost a contract that was in contest. Yet not all was
lost. The more things were prolonged, the more Arniona's despair, the
sweeter the moment. What was that verse from a thousand centuries
hence? "T'is expectation makes a blessing dear."
Time would bring a sweeter instant of bloody glory. Consoled now, he
shut off the viewer and prepared to embark on off-world business,
leaving his spouse to her Companion... and their bestial
chaperone.

The caniguard's senses detected the lowered body temps, the dissipating
hormones of the lad. Its rage set to vent and nothing to release it
upon. It stalked the herd of grazers nearby. It's skin and movements
shifting with the fading light to ensure invisibility. The sheep-like
creatures, remained oblivious to the menace closing in on them. It
oozed among the grasses, low to the ground. Its teeth bared,
lengthening, wet with thick saliva. A grazer foraged at the herd's
edge. Its squarish head swaying slowly as it ate. Caniguard's eyes
narrowed as it flashed forward, a dark blur against the pastoral scene.
An explosion of milky blood sprayed the area where the grazer stood.
Parts of meat were hurled in all directions. Deep rasping roars amid
pitiful death wails scattered the other grazers. One final baleful
whistle. Then silence save for the sound of the scavenger fouls already
gathering above the carcass.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
* *

Time moved slowly upon Spencer World. The caretaker droids ensured the
upkeep of the grounds. Each meal was expertly prepared by Hugo's
automated culinary system. While the master was off seeing to business
across the galaxy, Arniona wandered the unending halls and corridors of
the Mansion. This time she was not alone. For the first time she was
truly happy as Jason kept her company. They talked of their home
worlds, they played board games and ran like children through
passageways laughing and giggling with delight. They read to one
another in the twin moonlight of the night gardens. He played music of
his home world upon a harp he'd brought with him. They danced apart
from each other, both watching the movements of the other. Arniona's
joy was stifled only at the constant awareness of the caniguard's
presence. Jason maintained control to the best of his ability. Always
mindful that somewhere lurked the beast trained to tear him asunder at
the most trivial sensation of desire. All it took was an instant when
their passions rose and the creature sensed their excitement. He knew
he had to direct his will.
The seasons passed and their closeness grew.

The creature sustained itself on the protein feed given it by the
servbots of the place. Occasionally it would hone its hunting skills by
stalking one of the 'bots or the animals that inhabited the planet.
Wherever the couple roamed they saw signs of its presence. A foot print
here, a claw mark there. It seemed to play hide and seek with them,
awaiting the moment when it would fulfill its directive. Once when they
thought they were alone in Hugo's office, Arniona drew close to Jason,
the luminosity from the glass wall bathing them in soft golden hues. He
felt his blood climb at her nearness, her scent. She spoke to him. "I
want to leave this place Jason. I want run away and to hell with the
consequences. My father would understand, so would Mother. This madness
has to end or I'll die. I know it! " He saw the desperation in her
eyes. Her breath brushed his face, so close was she. He wanted to
embrace her. Console her with kisses and heated lovemaking.

He saw the green eyes of the demon dog approaching from a distance. Two
orbs glowing with malevolence. Distant but rapidly getting
nearer.
He backed away quickly. "Some day milady it will happen," he gently
said, "Some day I swear." They turned from each other. Arniona noticed
the creature retreating back into the darkness of the enormous board
room. Despair twisted her face into a mask streaming tears. Jason could
only fume at his inability to ease her pain.

Signals were sent to Hugo wherever he was. During his moments away from
business, he'd review the transmissions, hoping to see the devastation
only to remain dissatisfied but patient. Always patient, knowing that
the duo would not suffer to remain aloof too long.

Winters on Spencer World became cold enough for snow to cover the
entire island continent. It blanketed the hills and became a white-blue
mantle over the Pasture of the Lambs. The great coast-hugging Spencer
House was laden with white powder from north to south. Its pools froze
for a would be family to skate upon. The stone-wood trees hung with
sparkling icicles that turned each grove into a wondrous place of magic
and light. Amid this glorious season the inevitable happened. They fell
in love.

The winter had them dressed in the dark tones of nature. Jason had on a
loose tunic of brown wool like fabric that flowed down above his
ankles. A gold sash ran from his left shoulder to wrap around his
waist. The soft cloth of his sandals was also brown with golden button
on the front. Arniona wore a shift of deep dark green. The tan ness of
her skin blending and enhancing her beauty. Her hair was pulled back
and tied by a silk ribbon of matching green.

They walked along a path within an immense greenhouse park that had
been developed for Spencer's grand mother. Each species of tree
imported from Earth and earthlike worlds. Various shades of green inter
locked overhead, making the artificial sunlight seem real. The distant
sound of a babbling brook enhanced the sense of being out doors.
Specially designed birds darted to and fro among the branches. The
spicy scent of exotic flowers, designed to give a sense of well being,
loosened their inhibitions.

The beast stalked the outskirts of the forest, ever watchful of its
eventual quarry.

Within this simulated rainforest, they came to the source of the water
sounds. The pathway opened to the edge of a small lake. Its far end
rose into a fountain. The water spewed and gurgled as the aqua-forms
zipped about within the pool. They had discussed many things together
politics, philosophy, and music. Always a meter of so between them. As
they walked, she brought up religion once again. Or at least she
brought up spirituality. She believed in an afterlife, drifting as an
ether, conscious of everything and yet part of everything. Jason
chuckled softly at her willingness to accept such a thing. Yet he did
know of creatures who bore ethereal characteristics. When he told her
of them her reply was. "See? Then that proves it can be done!" Arniona
fell silent for a while, then turned to Jason. " I want to show you
something," her eyes flirting and mischievous.
Jason raised an eyebrow and clasped his hands behind him. "And what
might that be Milady?" a playful smirk on his face.

"Turn around and close your eyes." Jason sighed and obeyed. He heard a
quiet shuffling and wondered if she had hidden a gift for him beneath
her clothes. He certainly didn't notice anything under that contoured
gown of hers. And he had been looking closely.
"Alright you can turn around now," she sang.
Jason laughed as he turned. "Alright yourself! What could you possibly
have to sho-"
Jason's eyes widened more in awe than in disbelief. His mouth moved
without sound.
There beside the water, the fountain bubbling behind her, Arniona
stood. Her hands were placed lightly on her hips. Her hair fell loosely
about her shoulders. Her head tilted slightly forward. Her eyes bold
and knowing. Her smile wry and seductive. Her dark green gown was
lightly folded on the ground beside her. Save for the anklets on either
leg, she was naked. Her breasts raised and lowered faintly as she
breathed. Her feet were together with the left ankle raised and the
slightly knee bent. The soft black triangle barely obscured by her left
thigh.

"Wh-, what are you doing?"
"Now it's your turn my Companion," she smiled and gestured with her
right hand at his clothes, "off with them!"

Not sure how is would turn out, Jason obeyed his mistress. Unable to
tear his gaze from her form, he undid the sash from around his waist.
This is not good he thought. He knew that he should have declined. He
knew what could happen to him if he lost control, if they came
together. If they so much as touched, the creature would be upon him,
shredding his flesh before her eyes. Looking at her nude form, he
somehow didn't care.
He unsnapped the clasp that held the tunic closed. It fell from his
body revealing his broad but wiry chest, his rippled abdomen, he was
unable to hide the obvious affect that Arniona's appearance had on him.
His rigidity made her giggle.

"Well Jason Gelding," she chimed, "seems that you belie your name. Turn
around. I want to see all of you." Jason obeyed, holding his hands out
from his body for her to take him all in. she gasped as she saw his
back. There were tiny triangular scars all over it from his shoulders
down to top of his buttocks.

"What happened to you?"

"Nothing milady," he called over his shoulder, "those are but the
reminders of how I made my living none too long ago."

"What were you doing?"
"I've sold my DNA to bio-techs across the galaxy. They paid well, I was
able to get schooling and take care of myself."
Arniona wanted to reach out and touch them, the scars were tiny but
deep. They formed a pattern as they accumulated along his back. It
saddened her to think that this comely lad had done this to himself to
survive. Before she let herself become too aroused at his nakedness,
"time for a swim", she said and dived into the lake. Jason dived in
after her, gratefully. The water's briskness chasing the tautness of
his desire. They swam apart and played. Each one throwing water at the
other and laughing. When they had tired, they laid on their backs on
shore, panting. Each lost in deep contemplation, gazing at the
artificial sky.
At the other end of the pool, the caniguard perched in an old earth
-oak, it's ever hardened gaze latched on the pair, senses attuned to
their chemistry, minding every movement of their muscles, their
ligaments. Would this be the moment?

"I love you." she said suddenly. It was more a statement of fact than a
declaration. Jason rolled over to face her. He saw the tears pouring
down her face and knew that what she said was true. He knew that his
reply was equally true. "I love you as well Arniona."

"I want to die with you Jason Gelding," she said raising herself up on
one elbow, " I want to feel your arms around me, and to be filled by
you, and then die with you. I don't care what happens any more Jason.
It's too much to bear. You're the only one who
understands me, truly knows me," she sighed "Yet I can't belong to you.
it's not fair."

Jason thought. A long while passed before either of them said anything.
Then he turned to her and smiled. "Perhaps we can be together without
our friend spoiling things." She looked him not understanding..

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
*

The sensor suits arrived in less than three days local time. Anything
ordered by the House of Spencer was always given first priority. Each
suit appeared to be merely a large, human sized black sheet of silken
cloth. They were riddled with what seemed to be diminutive metallic
nodules. The couple stood within Arniona's bed chamber for the first
time since his arrival. She remained across the room from Jason, having
placed the suits on a divan that was positioned by the small window
over looking the Pasture of the Lambs. Jason took the larger, man sized
one for himself. He gazed at her, amused by her glow of
anticipation.

"Wait until your suit begins humming. That's when you'll know I have
mine on."
Without further words he left her alone in her room. Arniona's
curiosity grew with each passing second. How would this thing solve
their dilemma? She had never heard of virtu-sex on her home world. The
planet Abrama was one of strict religious orthodoxy. She could only
guess that somehow the article of clothing might ease the burden of her
desire for her Companion. She awaited the moment when she could feel
free of her conflict.

She undid the clasp that held the silver gown she wore, letting it fall
gently to the floor, as she crossed the room the divan and stared at
the cloth. It sat, folded neatly into a square, the tiny nodules
reflecting the afternoon sunlight. What could this thing actually do
for us?, she wondered. She thought of Hugo. Is he somehow connected to
this thing? Maybe he's installed some sort of catch. Knowing him he
might've arranged for the creature to attack Jason while he's wearing
it! She shivered at the thought. To have her lover destroyed like that!
She forced the idea from her mind. "Maybe it's not a trap", she
whispered to herself, "maybe if I just touch it, hold it in my hands,
I'll know it's not."
She reached out to take it when the suit emitted a soft hum. She drew
back on instinct.
Reaching for it again, fingers trembling, she lifted the fabric and
placed it around her shoulders. Cold, was her first sensation. The
buttons seemed to warm almost immediately. The fabric seemed to become
snug about her without Arniona even pulling it close. Was it getting
tighter? Before she realized what it was doing. it seemed move of its
own accord. Around her shoulders, under her arms, down to her hands.
She watched helplessly as the suit gloved her fingers. Her entire body
was covered in black with golden rivets. A panic boiled up in her. The
suit was engulfing her! It moved up her throat. She tried to scream.
One thought in pounded her mind. Hugo! Hugo you bastard!
The cloth covered her jaw, her cheeks her forehead. She fell on the
divan, her feet spread apart. Trying to move. To clutch at the second
skin. Paralyzed. Her head lolled. The material, alive and covering her
eyes, closed tight. Deafened to her surroundings by it.
She cried out again. Jasooooon!. Suddenly she was upright, standing.
Everything aglow around her. But where was she? From behind her,
laughter. She turned. He was there!

The lights dimmed on as Jason entered his apartment. Quickly he removed
his clothing, the coolness of the chamber causing pimples to rise on
his skin.
He held the sheet before him. in a practiced move he threw it around
his shoulders. His desire already racing his heart. The fabric seemed
to have a life of its own. He waited patiently for the familiar
engulfing. It slid across his chest, closing snugly around his torso.
He felt the black skin seal around his awakened manhood, a sheath
studded with gold. Toes, fingers, everything enclosed swiftly and still
he wanted it to hasten further. So great was his need for her. The suit
reached his ears, eyes, nose. The sudden disorientation, unbalancing if
you don't expect it. He heard Arniona's scream, calling his name. He
stood behind her. He couldn't stifle his chuckle. She turned
startled.
" I am here sweet one!" she ran into his arms. The feeling was real but
odd. They didn't care though, all that mattered was their togetherness
at last.

Through than air duct in the darkness high among the rafters, the
caniguard entered his room. Lupine and sinuous, a darkness within the
dark, it poured itself down to the floor with deathly stealth. Green
iniquitous embers sought out its prey, sensing his hormonal changes,
his arousal. it watched, patiently awaiting the moment that would allow
it to fulfill its duty. Its sensors relaying all events back to Hugo's
ever active device. The caniguard's senses were heightened at the
awareness of its preys biochemical resonance.
It sprang into a run, crossing the apartment toward its mark. Silver
fangs extended for a death grip. Talons lengthened into dagger like
claws. It bore down on Jason. Suddenly it halted. Jason was
alone.

It stood still, yards away, glaring at Jason as his body twisted and
contorted, moving in a charade of sensual intimacy. His breathe fast
and hard the smell of sweat emanating from his body, baring the
particles of pheromones to the beast's internal detectors. With each
wave of passion building, the creature's frustration intensified. It
howled. A low guttural sound, almost human. Unable to attack its
intended mark, it lashed out at its surroundings. The very room itself
received the force of the caniguard's rage. Beneath its insanity, among
the hormonal signals that drove it, it became aware of something else.
A familiar something that its bestial mind could not classify.

Within the virtu-scape of their desire, they saw each other as through
a haze. The two lovers entwined for the first time. Embrace upon
embrace, kisses upon tender kisses, each feeling the sensations as if
through a spongy film. The suits accomplished the semblance. They made
the most of the simile. Arniona's passion, withheld for so long
exploded from her. At last to have him, to be with him unhindered! She
crushed him into her holding him fiercely as if he would vanish.
Jason's hunger was equally vast. The wanting had become a lingering
ache within him. Together they sought to ease and satisfy one another.
Twisting, turning, rolling together, and laughing in the "Oh!" of
pleasure.
She was brought to her release in endless spasms of warmth. She cried
for the sheer joy of it. "Jason, my lover, oh God Jason!
When it was over they slept as if in one another's arms. Oblivious to
the havoc wreaked in Jason's apartment.

Jason awoke to find himself alone in bed, the sensor suit open and
flaccid upon the sheets exposing his nude body to the cold air. Once
used it loosened and fell away from its owner. He recovered from his
stupefaction and sat up. Had he done this damage to apartment?
Sometimes the wearer of a sensor suit was known to break things. But
Never had this much harm been done to one room. Was Arniona safe? The
chairs, the drapery, everything was smashed and torn. The claw marks
told the tale. So did the presence that he realized watched him
distantly. He turned and stared across the room.
Fifty yards away, the caniguard sat glaring at him.

Slowly he moved, not daring to breath, one leg at a time off the bed.
The covers rustled at the disturbance. He stood. The watchdog remained
corpse still. Its eyes followed Jason's every move. Warily the lad
leaned over and reached for his trousers. The beast sprung forward as
if to attack. It was a feign. Instead, it turned as sped away. Off into
the darkness of the room and back to its surreptitious entrance.
Heaving a relieved sigh, Jason fell back onto the mattress. Before
long, he slept again

The dual-star system that held the planet Trajan had been a tough deal
to negotiate. Fortunately for Hugo Spencer, all it took was the right
amount of credits placed in the right hands, at the right time.Not to
mention a little physical persuasion by his hired attendants. After
sealing the agreement, Vladmr hurried back to the compound which
overlooked the great Rainbow Bridge Waterfall. Its spectacular view was
lost on Spencer. His thoughts were latched on to what could be
happening home-world.

He entered the foyer without a glance at the major domo who had been
assigned to the villa. Crossing the sand colored living room he passed
through an ornate curtain that automatically altered its structure to
become a solid door. It closed behind him, making his sleeping quarters
completely sound proof. The chamber was far smaller than what he was
accustomed to at home. Sparse as well. He spied the comlink blinking on
the low mantle. He rushed toward it, anticipating the report from his
creature. So far Jason seems to have avoided making his fatal mistake.
Vlad was becoming impatient. On his homeworld, the seasons had moved
along into winter. He should've been dead by now. Arniona should've
been reduced to a dry husk. What was going on? He activated the comlink
screen and sat down to observe. After it was over he turn off the
comlink and sighed in anger. Sensor suits! How dare they! He turned
away harshly snatching up the comlink's control pad he entered the
proper sequence. They wanted to play games did they?
I'll play one of my own.
He rang up one of his supervisors on Arniona's home planet.
The screen showed a rough looking man, barrel-chested and scarred. He
stood at attention when he realized who was addressing him.
"Azreel"
"Yes Lord Spencer?"
"I trust things are going well with my father-in-law?"
"Yes milord. He works well for an old man."
"Good," Spencer's eyes twinkled as he schemed, "I want you to arrange
something for me?"

Arniona heard the soft tone of the comlink, its soft blue light pulsing
in time. Being the first time it ever sounded for her, she had a sense
of foreboding. She touched the acknowledge button on the control
pad.

The projection sprang into mid air before her. She gasped as the image
of her husband formed, shocked that he would bother to contact her
after so long an absence. Normally he would just come home, give a
terse greeting and retire to his own apartments on the opposite side of
the Mansion. Arniona was unsurprised that the communication was
prerecorded, of course Vlad would never bother to speak to her directly
when there was business to attend to. She listened in apprehension as
he greeted her, his face inscrutable:

"Hello my love, I just wanted to know that you and your companion were
getting on well.
After all, he's such a lovely boy. I wouldn't want things not to work
out." Arniona could barely keep from a scornful snort. His hypocrisy
made her nauseous. He continued.
"There's also something else, I'm afraid," she braced herself for
anything, "It's your father. There was an accident in the mines and he
was trapped attempting to rescue one of his subordinates. We're doing
all that we can to save him but?" Spencer gave a plastic sigh of
concern, "Things are half and half at best. I'm so glad Gelding is
there to comfort you through all of this. I know you'll go at once to
him to ease your worry. Before you know it, I'm sure your father will
be free. I've got my best men working 'round the clock.
I know Mr. Gelding will do what he can while I'm away. Be Well
Dearest."

The image faded and Arniona stood there staring at the air it occupied.
The shock had struck her heart like a sledge hammer. "How could you?!"
She screamed in rage and anguish. She knew just what Vladmr had done.
He was trying to force her to touch Jason, to be with him physically.
He wanted her devastation so much as to threaten all that she loved.
What next? Her mother? Her cousins? Her entire home world? She began
shaking uncontrollably and forced herself to sit upon the divan by the
window.

The tears started slowly. Then she broke into quiet desperate sobs.
Some how she knew she had to end this, end the pain, the suffering of
living in constant torment. One day Hugo would pay. One day he would
suffer for all those that he broke. For all the lives that he ruined
and controlled. For now, there was only The Choice that remained for
Arniona. It had come to this long before Jason came into her life. Now
for his sake and for her father, she knew what she had to do.

Arniona's room was empty, but Jason knew she'd been there moments
before. Something was wrong. Why wouldn't she respond when he had
called? He crossed the great chamber, passing the furnishings that
Spencer had imported. The bed so enormous and yet so empty. The array
of chairs, sofa, divans and lounges that had never held company other
than Jason himself. The tapestries of far flung cultures accumulated in
Spencer's travels on which he never took her. He saw the blue light
pulsing softly on her dressing table. The comlink's screen queried
replay. He played the message.

When the communication ended Jason seethed with rage. His breathing
shallowed as he spoke out loud to himself. "Not this time you
sonofabitch, I won't let you destroy her. She won't be harmed ever
again!"
Jason knew there had to be a way to slay the caniguard. Although it was
designed as a killing machine, it was still flesh and blood. He was no
fighter, but war had been a part of his distant ancestry. He knew the
ancient legends of heroes from Motherworld.
But was there any trace of it left in him? Could he fend off a thing
created to kill?
It was Desire that had brought them together, it was Love that resolved
him to fight.
He would study how to defeat the monster. He would fashion a weapon to
attack and defend. And if they die, so be it. They would die together.
He smiled bitterly. "better to have loved and lost?"
But if per chance he survived? If he, a wandering courtesan who'd never
fought for even a scrap of bread, managed to kill the beast then
what?

Lord Spencer would never allow them to be together. Divorce would ruin
Arniona's family. Spencer controlled their welfare. Somehow Jason knew
that Spencer would have he and his beloved hunted across the worlds.
The sadist would revel in forcing her to witness Jason's prolonged
suffering before seeing to his death. If the unimaginable did happen,
then something equally unimaginable must happen.
Hugo Vladmr Spencer must die.

The coolness of winter snows was offset by the day's unusual warmth.
The grazing creatures securely sheltered, the Pasture of the Lambs was
still. The afternoon light made the field a golden lake through which
blades of stubborn grass needled through the snowflakes. Jason had
searched Spencer House through, seeking his Mistress. Now, as the
declining sun's prismatic rays shone through melting icicles, he found
her in the one place she loved on this world. His pulse skipped as he
took in the scene.

The gazebo, laden with snow. Was cleared within. Water trickled down
each gilded rod that curved upward to join overhead at the center.
Arniona knelt. Her white winter cloak fastened tightly about her. Her
hands clasped in impassioned prayer. Her back toward Jason, oblivious
to his sudden presence. before her hung a length of rope fashioned into
a noose.

As his foot crunched the ice beneath it she turned to him, her eyes
widened at the look of determination on his face --- and the instrument
in his hand. Odd she hadn't considered it before, fighting the
creature. Jason had sharpened one of the dining cutleries and attached
it to a wooden pole nearly a meter and a half long to form a javelin.
Its metal edge reflected the dull winter sky.

Not far behind, Jason could feel the caniguard's cruel observation. It
moved with liquid grace toward the gazebo, sensing the biorhythms of
its prey starting to increase. It crept about fifty yards from them and
raised upon its haunches. Its muscles remained tensed to pounce at a
split second's impulse.

"Are you serious?" Arniona said as she stood, her eyes showing both
concern and fear, "you can't possibly take on that-that thing!"

"It's the only way my sweet one. If I don't face it, it will kill us
anyway. It's our freedom or nothing at all. Live or die, we'll be
together. Spencer won't hurt you ever again."

Jason's resoluteness strengthened her. She had loved him for his
tenderness, for his warmth, for his beauty. But today she would love
his heroism. Her heart beat faster as she started to approach
him.

The beast sprung up. It broke into a measured trot, mounting speed as
it saw the two nearing each other?

Jason held out his hand, "That's it, come to me sweet one, I want to
hold you, skin to skin."

?fangs extending?.the low rumbling? hideous growl?pace faster?

Arniona came took Jason's hand. So strong! She thought. He drew her
near, his eyes looking deeply into hers, smiling, holding the makeshift
spear with his left hand.

?eyes green glittering ? sentient hatred?gaining bulk? claws
growing?

Her face drew close to his, seeing lines and creases never before
noticed from their safe distance, her breathe coming faster, quickening
pulse as she embraced her lover.
They kissed long and lingering, each one's eyes locked on the
other's

The caniguard bellowed a deafening roar, its claws raising great clumps
of snow and dirt as it closed in upon the pair.

Jason's heart drummed loudly in his chest as he struggled to tear
himself away from his beloved. So soft! Her breasts heaved against him
in a ways that no technology could ever simulate her scent intoxicated
him as her eyes hypnotized him. The howl of the watchdog brought him to
reality. He turned to face the creature. His spear brandished crudely
before him, he advance toward it.

"Come On!" he cried, the weapon jabbed at the bestial assassin. The
creature bounded toward Jason with fiendish intensity. Its mouth
exhibiting a row of dagger like teeth short, huffing growls shot out as
it ran at full gallop to finally meet it's victim. Jason raised the
javelin and brought it down as it drew close. Horror. The creature
stopped short and in an almost human manner slashed at the spear. Its
claws sliced through the wooden handle, sending the blade flying the
snow laden field. Its movements fluid. It crouched for a leap.
Arniona screamed "Jason!"
It left the ground, claws out, Jason instinctively covered his face. He
felt the claws dig into his shoulders, falling. The cold ground
smashing into his back, his head striking the snow. The wind squeezed
from his body. Hands flailing outward. The beast on top of him. Jason
heard himself screaming as the caniguard's jaws began to close around
the lad's throat, and stop?.

************************************************************************

Hugo Vladmr Spencer returned homeworld late in the evening. He entered
the great corridor and hastened to his office chamber to view his
latest achievement. Inside, the evening light bled crimson rays through
the immense casement wall. The room seemed to drink it into its own
unyielding darkness.

After he'd sent the message to Arniona, he prolonged the pleasure of
witnessing Gelding's demise and Arniona's despair until he could arrive
and savor it in his own realm. Ah yes, things should have moved along
quite nicely by now, he thought as he removed his business tunic. It
fabric so darkly crimson that it appeared black. He pressed his long
clever fingers together in suppressed anticipation. By now she would be
completely broken, a molten husk to be shaped to his will. He smiled at
the thought of the night's coming festivities with Arniona. What
poisonous words will he pour into her ear? But first things first.
Let's revel in the final act. He seated himself upon one of his office
high back chairs activated the remote and watched as the air shimmered
and the figures appeared in the winter scene of a few hours past. He
watched from the caniguard's vantage point

Spencer's opaline eyes narrowed with bemusement at seeing Jason's
attempt to defend himself. "A weapon?!" He chuckled out loud, "the
boy's got moxy I'll give him that!"
He watched as the caniguard closed on the couple, Arniona's being
pushed away and shielded by her would-be protector, Jason jabbing his
feeble poke-stick at the genetically enhanced beast. Hugo clapped his
hands as he witnessed the creature strike away the javelin and rear
back for the death pounce. Jason's face was a mask of horror as it
loomed ever larger through the recorded signals Spencer watched. His
excitement piqued as he saw his pet's jaws close about the Companion's
throat. Then the view blackened?and went out.

Odd, he thought. I pay far too high a premium for my amusements systems
to not work. He rose from his chair intending to summon one of the
repair droids to see to the malfunction when he noticed the silent
pulsing of the comlink's blue light. At first he wondered who dared
disturb him at Spencer world. Then?of course! Arniona. She would no
doubt be wailing at the top of her voice, cursing him for forcing her
into such a decision. A corner of his mouth turned up into a wry smile.
He never really planned for her father to be killed, but she just had
to be reminded of who was the Master here.
This would be an added treat, listening to her pain through the
speaker, watching her anguish as she spat at him. Yes this would be
rich indeed. He pressed the play button.
He turned from the projection so that he could drink in the sounds of
her torment. He closed his eyes and listened. She screamed at him

"Hugoooo you bastard!" the words turned into loud wailing cries. Or was
it laughter?
Had Arniona been driven mad so very quickly? He turned to see her
image.
She was laughing! Laughing! Hugo was stunned. His mouth dropped, his
face paled beyond what was even normal for him. projected before him
was Arniona running and dancing in the snow. Her hair wild and whipping
about as she twirled. When she seemed to stumble, it was to fall into
the arms of Jason Gelding. Dried blood still stained the tunic where
the caniguard had attacked him. There were slight teeth-marks about his
throat. He stared into the relay device, eyes hard and triumphant. He
spoke in an even, deliberate tone.
"Hello Lord Spencer. As you can see I'm not dead. I must tell you how
truly sick you are. Would you kill me? Would you kill all that she
loved to destroy her? What made you this way Spencer? It doesn't matter
really. I guess I should thank you. You see, I should've figured things
out when you mentioned where the caniguard was created.
As I told you?I'm familiar with their work. I've sold my flesh there a
thousand times to the bio-techs on Ganymede Four. They have a peculiar
practice of implanting DNA recognition in their creations. One creature
would never hurt its genetic twin? or its source. The caniguard
recognized our unique pattern in common. It became docile toward
me.
Spencer's face scowled in disbelief. Where was his beast? How could
this be happening?
He moved closer to the images as Jason spoke, Arniona gently kissing
his shoulders, his neck with their tiny wounds. Jason continued.
"It's over for you Spencer, She won't play your game anymore and
neither will I.
This relay is being sent to you by your precious caniguard's device
imbedded in it.
I thought you might like to know that we'll be getting married. She
deserves so much more than what you've given her. Strange, for all your
wealth, for all you power, you're nothing. I've learned enough in my
travels Spencer. I've learned that a woman needs a hell of a lot more
than just being a trophy. You're going to give it to her Lord Spencer
?after your death.
Spencer listened to Gelding, too shocked to think, to thunderstruck to
respond. Behind him, in the dark distance of the office, green eyes
eased down from the rafters, the beast reached forth with his forelegs,
it drew its hind legs down to the floor. Its advance in stealth.
"?if you rot in Hell it would be too good for you!" that from Arniona.
She spat at him. Spencer's rage was almost uncontainable.

He was about to switch off the transmission when he heard the snarl. He
turned.
The caniguard moved with liquid grace, it's gait hypnotic and
increasing speed. Spencer's eyes grew wider, fear replacing anger. He
backed slowly away, trying to move somewhere, anywhere that would put
distance between himself and the murderous creature baring down upon
him. He backed into something solid. The wall! How'd he wind up against
the glass wall of his office? The beast advanced quickly. Its claws
extended, sharp and catching the red of the sunset. Its eyes glaring
with malevolent burning. The images of Jason and Arniona had frozen
into the couple waving good bye.
Hugo's breath was shallow, he edged along the wall, his head shaking in
disbelief. His mouth making wordless sounds, he began whimpering.
"No...please...no? oh god!"
It pounced? claws extended? mouth revealing the growing fangs.
The acoustic dampeners muffled the screams of H.V. Spencer until the
creature ended them completely. The crimson light of approaching dusk
mingled with his blood upon the pane of the office panoramic
window.

Arniona stood in the gazebo as the first signs of spring came to
Spencer World. The grazing creatures blissfully foraging the new shoots
of grass. She held a flower in her hand, a native from the greenhouse.
The world was hers now as sole heir.
Jason Gelding arrived through the teleport portal. He smiled at his
wife and embraced her as they'd done so many times since the death of
Hugo Spencer.

She laid her head upon his breast. They both knew there would be
troubles ahead. The solicitors from a thousand companies had already
begun trying to get a piece of what Hugo had built up over the years.
But they would survive. They'd live, rich or impoverished but they'd
live. And whatever came on the horizon, they would fight together and
die together for they were one.