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Marked Effect (AFF Edition)	By : unrealuniverse Category: +M through R > Mass Effect Views: 22185 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: Mass Effect characters, species, locations and the universal setting are owned by Bioware and not myself. Any other brand names mentioned are property of their respective owners. This work is and always will be free for anyone to read.

Chapter List
- 49
- 50
- 51
Chapter 50 - Marking Boundaries
Sunday 19th February 2017
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"I have no idea how sleeping in a chair can make anyone quite as happy as you are this morning Kate. You seem like a five year old on her birthday."
"Sorry Fosanta but I just had a great nights sleep and I just felt entirely comfortable when I woke up."
"Before the other two get up I have a proposal. You are more than welcome to say no but would you be willing to wear one of the remote vibrators Amistathya gave us today. I will leave it on random so it will be off and on all day but I will make sure that you are satisfied this evening."
"I thought you said you were not going to force me Fosanta?" Kate looking a little accusingly to Fosanta, her breakfast just about covering the smile.
"I said you could say no and it would be a shame not to at least try them." Kate thinks for a moment.
"Only if you promise to wear one next Saturday as if I remember correctly it is not bioamp testing."
"Ok I agree and you are right in that it is not a testing day. I guess Adastra and Seliha got back late last night given they are not awake yet."
"I would not know as I slept very well." The two of them sit having their breakfast for a further fifteen minutes before two Asari that look a little worse for wear walk in.
"You two are up late. How was your evening out?"
"Good." Fosanta sighing at Seliha's answer as it was clear they were a little hung-over.
"I guess you were having a few drinks and had a good night?"
"Nine Kate." Adastra being rather precise in her answer. "Taking Seliha to a nightclub is an experience to say the least. I do however have to admit the dancer Seliha had found was rather enticing."
"I have a question. Why are you looking at good looking individuals when you are bondmates?"
"It was not just looking Kate. Both the dancer and Seliha were encouraging me and you know it does not take much to do so."
"Do you ever worry about showing anyone your markings when you are intoxicated Adastra?"
"No Kate. We know what we are doing even if we look a little lost. Walking in a straight line is easy after getting used to neural instability from melding. Speaking, concentrating on difficult problems and biotic ability are however affected by varying amounts."
"I guess you still get hangovers as well."
"Unfortunately so. Elasa can be a mean mistress the following morning, especially if it is mixed with other drinks."
"I think every Asari at one time or another has had experience of that Adastra." Fosanta's Omni-tool beeps and she looks to see who it is.
Fosanta,
I have a spare day but no one to share it with. I am curious as to whether everyone there would like some extra company. Hope you are all well and I hope to hear back shortly.
Whesiva
"I am not sure what the plans are today other than going to Eternity with Sam and Amistathya."
"I could not stomach drinking again too early Fosanta. Perhaps meeting up with Sam just after lunch would be best."
"In that case my message was from Whesiva wondering if we would like her to join us today. Does anyone object to that idea?"
"No as we could ask her what she would like to do for the event. I would tell Sam to expect her to show up though Fosanta."
"I will Kate but since you have finished your breakfast you have something to do that we agreed on." Kate gives a resigned nod and leaves the kitchen.
"I am intrigued by you keeping what you agreed ambiguous."
"I would rather not tell everyone what happens between us Seliha. I do not ask specifics about what you two get up to in private."
"I think Seliha takes some comfort from knowing what is happening Fosanta. I am sure she would be willing to give you a little privacy in this case though." Adastra looks to Seliha who reluctantly nods. Fosanta seems happier at that resolution and begins typing messages on her Omni-tool.
-----
"Did you have a fun day yesterday you two?" Silana seemingly rather awake this Sunday morning as she walks over to the kitchen table with a smile.
"It was fairly good although all of us seemingly needed the practice as I am sure I was never that bad even when I was first at the Academy."
"I have a feeling it was related to the higher gravity on Illium but I cannot say for certain Lianta. What did you three do while we were away?"
"We went to Sentix to see the passenger transport being built Hymara. We also had a short discussion with Olissa about a few things as well."
"How did you find her Silana as she has had two rather contrasting personalities this week?"
"She seemed much friendlier Lianta but I am still going to be a little cautious for a while yet." The three of them hear a beep from upstairs before Sam walks down the stairs, one eye on his Omni-tool the other where he was going. Amistathya seemed much spritelier this morning than usual. "Did you sleep particularly well Athya?"
"I did but that is not the reason I am happy Silana." The three of them seemed to be expecting Amistathya to give the reason but a smile was the only thing forthcoming.
"It seems everyone is appearing after lunch including Whesiva as well. Eternity is not the biggest place ever so sixteen of us turning up could end in some interesting seating arrangements."
"It is good of you to keep us informed of what is to happen Sam but I think everyone is much more interested in why Amistathya is particularly happy this morning."
"I felt since we had signed contracts with Sentix that it was safe for us to end the contract between us Hymara. She assured me not much will change but I get the feeling the definition of not much, has, or will be stretched."
"So I am your only servant now Sam?"
"Yes Silana. I am open to negotiation with you as well after Sentix have completed the integration but not before. I hope you can see why."
"I do Sam."
"I guess you two had fun at the shooting range."
"We were fairly useless Sam. Hymara thinks it could be the slightly higher gravity on Illium that was putting us all off."
"It is better to be too low and still hit something than too high and miss entirely." Lianta nods in agreement. "Silana, Ami suggested before we go to Eternity which I guess also means before everyone else arrives." Sam looks to Amistathya who nods. "Are you happy enough with that?"
"As long as I can request that none be put on my face, neck or hands then I am ok with that plan."
"I am curious as we seem to be left out a little here."
"I thought we may as well use the markers that came with the ritual since we have them Lianta. I guess they are designed for Asari skin though which could make working out colours fun."
"I just hope you are all sensible and do not go silly and mark everything."
"I have a couple of nice ideas for Ami and Silana Lianta and they will be able to be covered. What I may end up having I have no idea."
"I am not giving you any clues Sam. I will leave to design the harnesses first." Amistathya gets up and goes to the room with the consoles in.
"Well I best clear up the table before starting." Silana helps Sam as Hymara and Lianta after putting their breakfast items away take a seat in front of the video screen.
-----
"Silana, would you care to take a seat for the moment?" Sam gestures to his bed with his free hand, his other holding the box of markers. Sam makes his way over and empties the markers out on the bed. "So, we have blue, black, white, green, purple and brown. This is going to take some working out for Ami's design as none of those colours other than the white are particularly bright."
"Could I ask what you are intending to do Sam?"
"For you or Ami?"
"Myself Sam as I am a little worried I may not like what you are to draw on me."
"On my home planet we have some jelly like aquatic animals. I do not have too much of an idea about the Hanar but I guess that would be about the closest that you know of. They have a hemispherical body with tentacles. I thought a few of those would be nice. Actually..." Sam picks up the box and the brown marker. "I hope this works on this." Sam draws a quick sketch of a jellyfish noting that the markers while they have fairly thick nibs have a bit of a point in the middle so it is possible to do fairly fine work with them. He turns the box around to Silana.
"I am not sure I like it in orange but I quite like the image."
"It would not be orange on you. I was thinking of only using white and blue or perhaps purple as they are generally quite transparent. I therefore have two questions, first is that design ok with you? The second is would you rather I only mark on skin that I can see now or would you be happy to remove your underwear and let me mark anything?"
"I am not in much of a position to stop you but I would rather you did not mark my azure."
"I will not Silana, trust me." She nods before removing her underwear and placing it on the other side of the bed. "I think lying down would be the easiest for me and the most comfortable for you." She does so with Sam pulling a run-away marker from under her. Sam finds the white marker and pulls the lid off before beginning to draw.
-----
"Hello Whesiva, come in."
"I hope you are well Kate."
"I am. Fosanta did not say why you wanted to spend a day with us."
"I have not got that many individuals that I know on Illium and I was a little bored. Hello you three."
"It is good you could come. I guess you would be ok to go to Sam's new apartment after lunch and then on to Eternity?"
"That sounds fine to me Adastra. How is Sam after his move?"
"I guess given you are asking that, that you did not read the news yesterday?"
"I did not. Should I have done Fosanta?"
"I will leave it for Sam to explain but we should say he and Amistathya have completed a ritual."
"That is good news. He did seem particularly taken by Athya even on the trip back from the Citadel."
"I am sure Sam has plenty to talk about. I think he said something about you helping out with the event if I remember correctly?"
"I did Kate. Is there something happening that I should know about?"
"We have decided it is essentially going to be a concert with music that you may not expect from various artists. So it should certainly be something different."
"That sounds good. Do you have any interested individuals?"
"We have four who you will probably know as they are particularly popular. They have also agreed to the basic idea of trying something new just for the event. We also have several others we are still waiting back from."
"Well four solid acts is certainly a good start Fosanta, especially so considering you have not been planning this long."
"We still have plenty to plan."
"Whesiva, our current plan is to go to Thessia in three weeks time for a week. This is to sort out promotional material and to make some of the videos for the event. The University of Serrice Media department have offered to help us with that."
"I guess this is you asking if I can make it?" Adastra nods. "I cannot see why not. Do I have to make any transport or accommodation plans?" Adastra looks to Fosanta.
"I am sure if you do not mind a nine hour trip in a shuttle you can come with either myself or Adastra. For accommodation anything convenient to the University and Vetiras broadcasting in Serrice would be aptly appropriate. I am guessing there could be a day trip to Armali at some point but we can easily take a shuttle from Serrice to Armali space port."
"When are you thinking of going and arriving back?"
"I think we may all have different plans for that. I would ask Sam if he knows but it is likely to be for a week so possibly coming back on the Saturday or the Sunday."
"I will do that Kate."
"I think we best get something to eat before going to Sam's apartment." Everyone seems to nod in agreement to that and they all move to the kitchen.
-----
Amistathya walks into the bedroom to see Silana laying on her front and Sam straddled over her drawing something. "If I did not know it was you Silana I would be curious as to what Sam was doing about now."
"I have my clothes on Ami. I guess you would like me to go and have a look at the design you have made?"
"I was tempted to just send it but you did ask nicely. What are the pens like to use Sam?"
"They are good but writing on people is difficult as the skin flexes and it is not exactly flat either. I think I have spent longer trying to work out how to make things look fairly in perspective than I have drawing." Sam talking as he draws the last few tentacles on one of the smaller jellyfish. Sam moves off Silana. "You can go and have a look at yourself Silana while I look at this design if you wish."
"Well it is certainly different to what I would have done. I admit however your skin colour does lend itself to an aquatic image Silana."
"I am guessing you like it then?"
"I do Silana, although quite what it will look like when you have your underwear on I do not know."
-----
Sam and Amistathya appear back in the bedroom a few minutes later after Sam had approved the design to see a cheery Silana sat on the side of the bed. "I guess from the smile you quite like it?"
"I do Sam. It is a bit strange to see my body marked but I like what you have drawn. When you drew the one on the box I was worried I may not like it. I do like the big one with the purple stripes which has the tentacles just reaching down and around the top of my right leg."
"I am glad to hear you like it as the pens say it begins to fade after six to seven days and should be mostly gone in ten." Silana nods. "You or me next Ami?"
"I will go next." Silana moves off the bed giving Amistathya some personal space to get undressed and to lie down on the bed.
"Silana, I will tell you what to do with this in a minute." Sam finding the black marker in the six he has in his hands and passes it to Silana who carefully looks at it. "This is going to be interesting as to whether I can work out what will mix to what colour. We will see how it goes, are you comfortable Ami."
"I am as comfortable as I am going to be Sam."
"I know you may always be unduly nervous Ami but Silana is a nice individual." Amistathya closes her eyes and nods. "Silana, could you draw a continuous line around Ami's body that follows the edge of the markings from her legs. I would then like you to just fairly roughly add some black to the blue in-between the markings. Just around the hips, you do not need to go all the way down the legs as that would be silly. Do not put any black on any markings."
"I think I get what you mean Sam."
"I will give you some guidance as we go along." She nods before shuffling to Amistathya's left hand side to begin drawing while Sam tries to find a comfortable position where he can still draw and not impede Silana.
-----
"I still cannot quite understand why Sam had to move to be honest." Whesiva looking to Kate who was sat closest to her.
"I believe having the house with the job was the fastest way to get us to sign up to work at Armali Whesiva. I guess having the new species working at your company does wonders for the corporate image."
"I never thought of it that way Kate. I can see why Armali would offer the house with the job in that case though."
"The amount Armali must have spent getting Sam this apartment would not have been worth it Whesiva. Anyway we will be there in a minute." Fosanta announcing from the pilots seat. Adastra seemed happy not having to fly through Nos Astra's traffic at a weekend for once.
-----
Hymara gets up off the sofa to open the door. "I will have to get Sam for you but do make yourselves comfortable." She goes upstairs as everyone else walks into the apartment and takes seats where they can.
"Oh. That is a wonderful view of Nos Astra." Whesiva walking to the window as she talks to get a better look.
"I am rather envious of what Sam has managed to get out of all of this to be honest Whesiva. I am sure Sam will want to tell you everything himself though so I will leave it to him."
"I do think he has deserved it after what has happened these last two weeks however Adastra."
"You would probably be in a better position to judge than myself Lianta."
-----
"I am just informing you that everyone is here." Sam walks over and unlocks the door.
"We will be down in a minute Hymara." She nods to Sam before making her way back to the others. Sam looks in the room to see Amistathya just finishing putting her clothes on. "Do you want to stop at the bathroom before seeing everyone else Ami?"
"That would be good as it is difficult for me to see." The three of them head into the bathroom with Amistathya heading towards the mirror. After a second or two a smile appears on her face. "It is quite nice and vibrant without being too over the top. I also like how you have turned where my markings are into two hills. My right with trees on, the left with tiny people."
"I can say mixing the colours for the fireworks was difficult, I think they look nice though."
"As do I Sam. I guess we should go downstairs to meet everyone and get some food before decorating you." Sam nods and leads the two of them out of the bathroom and down the stairs.
"Hello everyone. I am a bit behind this morning so I hope you do not mind if we eat and talk?"
"Of course not Sam." Kate giving Sam the go ahead as everyone else seems more interested in Amistathya and Silana than listening to him.
"I guess you and Fosanta did as was suggested then Kate?" She nods getting a little laugh from Sam.
"I hope you two are planning to cover those before we go to Eternity."
"Yasmari, Ami will be covered so that is a given and I am sure whilst Silana likes her design that she will do likewise." Yasmari nods to Sam. "I bet this is quite a shock to you Whesiva?"
"I do not quite understand how you three can be quite so indifferent about this to be honest."
"I have had some really difficult weeks lately Whesiva. I therefore feel having a bit of a laugh and some fun is well deserved. Also why should a few markings suddenly make a difference?"
"They make no difference Sam. I am sure Seliha will agree with me when I say I quite like Silana's design." Silana gives a nod of gratitude to Adastra. "I guess working around Athya's markings was a bit tricky?"
"Silana did that bit not me although trying to think of something which worked was a little difficult."
"So you have marked Athya before Sam? I have heard you undertook a ritual."
"It was not packaged correctly so we had a thousand credit fine to pay which was why we were in the news. That will probably be why most individuals know about it. I never want to undertake it again though as it was rather unpleasant and I do not think Hymara or Lianta liked looking at us licking each others noses. I guess you can probably work out what it was by now Whesiva. I also need to make it clear that I have never marked Ami in any way previously."
"So the light blue markings are natural Athya?" She nods with some enthusiasm. "Well that I certainly did not expect. I can see then why a few more markings would not be seen as an issue for you. I am not quite sure what to say now as I thought yourself Adastra were unique in having natural markings on your body."
"I have markings as well."
"I did not think it was that common given there are three of you in here alone."
"We have been told there will only be about ten individual Asari with natural bodily markings Whesiva. I tried to comprehend how likely it would be when Seliha told us that she had them as well. I thought two marked Asari in one place would be so improbable it would be almost impossible. Then Sam brings back Amistathya and I had to ask her if they were real as the chances are one in... Well I have more chance of dying in the next two minutes."
"So there is nearly a third of the galaxy's population of marked Asari in this room Fosanta?" She looks to Adastra who nods.
"Actually I was bored a few nights ago as I had to keep having naps. I therefore worked out that there could be two Asari younger than Ami and possibly three older than Seliha. That would give eight individuals if the random probability stayed about the same, which I have some doubts over. It could be though that there are others in-between Ami and Seliha which would change the average quite a bit. Either way you are going to have no less than ten percent and no more than about forty percent."
"You must have been really bored Sam."
"I was Kate. Is there anything that definitely needs discussing now as Ami would quite like to draw on me?"
"I am a little curious as to how you met Silana Sam."
"She asked to meet with me." Whesiva does not look convinced. "I am really serious about this as I was about the urine drinking. She was originally a servant at Sentix and since they wished to offer a job they wanted to see how well I kept my eye on Ami. They therefore did the same as you did with Kate Fosanta and gave her to me. I was a little shocked when we went to Sentix to negotiate contracts that Olissa offered Silana to me."
"So you have two servants now Sam?"
"No Whesiva. As of last night Ami and I mutually agreed to end our contract so she is just my bondmate now."
"I feel happy for you Athya."
"Sam never really treated me as a servant anyway Kate, you know that. I would have been happy to continue but Sam knows I was becoming a little restless."
"You cannot be much older than your late hundreds Athya. Some Asari cannot settle enough to begin having a family until they are over five hundred."
"I have not had a traditional upbringing Whesiva. I feel stable enough to have a family if individuals around me can cope with some small childish actions at times. I also appreciate you taking a not inconsiderable amount off my age as I am two hundred and sixteen."
"I was just wishing to see if you had thought about this carefully Athya. I will let you to leave for a few minutes as I am sure someone will tell me what has been happening." Sam nods to Whesiva before looking to Amistathya who has a broad smile on her face.
"Silana you may as well join in as well." Sam leads the two of them up the stairs with Amistathya almost pushing him up the stairs given her enthusiasm.
"They really undertook the poison ritual?"
"Yes Whesiva. When I found out neither myself, Hymara nor Silana could quite believe someone would offer them it. What is most strange is the fact it seems like it came from Thessia where production and export is forbidden."
"So no one has any idea who offered it?"
"Sam had an idea but I can see he is not confident in that assumption so I will not say who." Whesiva nods to Lianta.
"Anyway he has got a rather good contract with Sentix that includes a private passenger transport Whesiva."
"Do you know what size Adastra?"
"Five metre diameter and yes it is a circular profile which confused me at first. I think Sam said thirty five in length and it is to have two plasma thrusters."
"I bet that would be rather nice to fly."
"It depends how well balanced it is as I have seen some brilliant ships on specification but were rather annoying to fly."
-----
Sam dumps his clothing in a pile on the floor before jumping on the bed and landing on one of the pens. "That was not exactly the best idea ever." Sam pulls the blue marker out from underneath him. "Now that is never a good sign." Sam looking to Amistathya who had a smile on her face.
"Silana, you may leave if you wish to but if you are happy too I would appreciate a little help." Silana takes a seat at the bottom of the bed. Amistathya decides to sit on Sam's stomach before picking up one of the markers. "I am undecided what to do."
"Something simple and nice would be appreciated Ami."
"What do you think Silana?"
"Sam was rather kind in telling me exactly what he was to do. It would be mean to not reciprocate that." Amistathya seems to think for a moment.
"If I said I am intending to mark your face Sam what do you think would be fair compensation?"
"It would depend entirely on what it was, what colours you used and how much of a problem this would be to everyone else. If it was a very simple design that is not too intrusive in say light brown then I would need much less convincing than if it was degrading or insulting text written in multi-colours."
"I am not going to say what I am to do Sam but if I make an offer, and you agree, then you must be willing to accept whatever markings I wish to make."
"I am waiting to hear what you will offer."
"Silana, do you promise not to tell anyone what I am about to say." She nods. "I think I know for definite who gave us the ritual. The only reason I know is from the package I received on Wednesday and from these markers."
"What was in that package as at the time I could not think to well and then with Olissa and Sentix things I had forgotten to ask?"
"It was as the datapad stated, my personal belongings from Atansys Chemical Research. I however noticed an extra box which was sealed. I only opened it this morning while you were up here marking Silana. We have been offered a day of explanation and enjoyment on the seventeenth to celebrate the ember."
"I am not sure what is meant by day of explanation and enjoyment but if you feel you wish to agree to it then that is entirely up to you Ami."
"I will explain in more detail later. In the box was a couple of interesting additions which I will bring out for us to play with tonight if you allow me to mark your face. I will also only use one colour."
"Only if you promise to explain everything properly this evening as I have a few questions and I can see you are not that comfortable with Silana knowing." Amistathya gets up from sitting on Sam and instead takes a seat on the edge of the bed.
"I do apologise Silana but I am not even comfortable with Sam knowing as much as he does really. I will be happier when I have seen that you can keep secrets."
"Olissa asked me when she first came around last week if you were a trustworthy individual. I said yes but I thought it would be necessary to say that you only seemed to really trust Sam. This would have made them think a little harder about taking you as a servant Athya. I did say I thought I knew why that was the case but I never said anything more." Sam sits up.
"I guess this was after what happened between Ami and I the bath?"
"Yes. I am not sure what else I should say as it would be a little embarrassing if I was wrong."
"I am sure you would be correct but I would like to know."
"I was wondering if it was physical abuse to begin with Athya but you only seem uncomfortable when you are exposed, so sexual abuse would be the most likely." Amistathya closes her eyes as she drops her head. "I did not mean to upset you Athya, I deeply apologise for that." Sam puts his arm around her.
"Would you like me to say?" She nods. "Silana, both your first and second assumptions were correct and occurred at about the same time. The first was blatantly obvious when I first met her on Thessia but I think she is getting a little more comfortable with Asari who she can see I tentatively trust. Are you ok to get ready for Eternity Ami as there are a lot of people down stairs?" Amistathya takes a breath before nodding with a slight smile.
"I would guess there is not enough time for you to mark Sam as well Silana. I apologise for taking that time up and I thank you for seemingly looking out for me this last week, especially when you did not need to do so."
"That is what friends should do Athya. I will go downstairs to give everyone drinks and someone to talk to while you finish up here. I promise not to say anything about what happened as it is rather privileged information."
"We should not be too long Silana." She nods to Sam before leaving the room. "Would you rather I was sat up or lying down?"
"Lying down Sam. If you could kindly stay very still I will do my best to make them symmetrical and even." Sam nods before doing as Amistathya asked.
-----
"I guess I should expect the worst given the time it is taking."
"They seemed to have things they needed to talk about so they have only just started Hymara. I came to offer drinks and someone to answer any questions if anyone has any."
"What did they need to talk about Silana as surely it could have waited?"
"It probably could have done but I had a question and Athya seemed willing to want to answer it. That is what took most of the time. I may as well do it this way, if you would like a drink if you could raise your hand it would be appreciated." Silana notes all thirteen do which makes life easier. "So everyone then."
"I apologise for prying Silana but Athya makes no sense. She seems shy and quiet and yet seems happy to wear clothes that reveal everything. Is that what she is really like?"
"Even I do not quite know what she is really like Whesiva so unfortunately I cannot really answer that question. Before anyone wishes to ask what my question was, it was about a theory I had and Athya was willing to say if it was true or not. I am not going to state specifics as it seemed to hurt her more than I expected it would."
"Is she still ok though?" Fosanta thinking Selayla is getting ever closer to admitting she has a soft spot for Amistathya.
"She seemed a little less lively but was not in tears. Sam is with her which always seems to make her happier so she should be fine."
"You would not know what days Sam wishes to go to Thessia to sort things for the event would you?"
"Other than it being in about three weeks for at least the Monday to Friday of that week I honestly have no idea Kate. I guess if our transport is finished by then, then I would probably be flying it there as I have heard Sam gets quite irritable on long flights."
"You do not need to tell me Silana. The fact he seemed perfectly happy to make Whesiva uncomfortable by making a comment about him drinking urine because he was bored was a little worrying."
"That is still the strangest comment I have ever heard."
"Was he just making it up because he was bored Lianta?"
"He actually did so but not because he was bored Silana."
"He also drank a little one evening when Athya decided to play a joke on him. That was a strange evening as well. I bet you are thinking we are all a little crazy Whesiva."
"I was a little sure of that when Fosanta tricked you into being Sam's servant Kate. All I have heard this afternoon is more interesting evidence to prove that being strange is more normal than being normal. Either that or I have already caught some weird disease from being on Illium." Whesiva gets a few laughs from that joke as Silana begins to bring over the drinks.
"If the two of them are much longer then perhaps leaving and meeting them there would be a good idea."
"I am sure we could find somewhere in Nos Astra to eat before we went to Eternity if you are worried about food Seliha."
"I am sure Seliha has a permanent reservation at a restaurant Fosanta so I can never see getting hold of food as being a problem for her."
"You seemed to get the same treatment I did Adastra."
"I am not going to ask what treatment Seliha. I deeply apologise for any problems which may ensue for the next ten or so days."
"I thought I asked you to make markings where you could cover them Sam?"
"Ami sees that as a challenge it seems as the only places she has marked are where I cannot cover Hymara." Sam lifts his t-shirt up. "See no markings."
"I know Kalawa may not be impressed with me saying this but while the black markings make your face are a little dark they seem to have been quite carefully done."
"Selayla, do you want to swap for the evening; an evening break from being with those two would be nice."
"I will Lianta."
"I guess you did not have any better colours than black then Sam?"
"Black, white, red, orange, yellow and blue Kate. They did seem to mix ok with the white but I tried mixing brown but only managed a purply brown which was rather horrid."
"I guess you probably would have suggested blue on me?" Kate looking to Fosanta as Sam gets a glass of water.
"I would as it contrasts with your hair and matches your eyes but I expect Fosanta was about to say the same." Amistathya talking as she walked down the stairs with a smile trying to be careful not to miss a step and look like a fool. Her new blue dress made stairs a little more inconvenient than usual.
"Ami, Lianta and Selayla have swapped for the evening. Not sure if Hymara is to leave as well."
"You need someone who has experience being with you Sam. Just please try to keep yourself to yourself." Sam nods.
"I do like the dress Amistathya. How many do you have as they cannot be all that cheap to make?"
"I have three like this and one other Whesiva. These are the most complicated design but the cheapest to make as there is no zip."
"I was half expecting your black one Athya."
"No Silana. That one I am not sure how comfortable I would be wearing. Also this blue one is nice and different." She nods before heading up the stairs to get dressed.
"Sam, I need to ask when you were thinking of going to Thessia."
"I was thinking leaving Saturday morning possibly and coming back Saturday evening or Sunday. I know Olissa asked us not to take over a week off but one day more can be classed as a rounding error. What I am most worried about is getting to Eternity and not getting a seat."
"If we leave very soon then I am sure we would be ok." Sam nods to Seliha as Silana comes back down the stairs.
"I think we are all ready now, I guess we are following you in the skycar since there is only room for twelve plus a pilot in the shuttles."
"It would be wise Sam." He nods to Fosanta as the sixteen of them leave the apartment.
-----
"I guess you agreed because Athya has promised you something in return Sam?"
"I am curious as to why you ask that Selayla?"
"The fact that the line between your finger and your hand is perfectly smooth which it most definitely would not have been if you were not actively co-operating."
"Ok, I did co-operate hopefully in return for answers to some questions I have." The skycar lands and Hymara looks around from the front.
"Sam. This is going to be tomorrow's big news and I cannot see a way around it. Please do not provide the media with anything else they could use."
"Can I still use my discretion while speaking to individuals though?"
"Yes but try not to back yourself into a corner." Sam looks a little confused but nods to Hymara as the roof opens. The five of them quickly meet up with the other eleven and begin walking to Eternity.
"Are you ok Kate?"
"I would say yes but you would not believe me Yasmari. I am fine honestly though so there is no need to worry." Sam overhearing the conversation decides to say nothing nor make a reaction but can only think that Kate should have shut up after the first sentence. Yasmari nods. She seemed as unconvinced as Sam did as the whole group approaches a larger than expected amount of media.
"I really hope this was not from me slipping up yesterday and saying we might be coming here today."
"It probably is but I guess you have not had the media problem yet Fosanta. You will probably not particularly like it for a while but I suppose that is what you get for being a bondmate with a rare species."
"That is a little mean Lianta."
"Sorry Kalawa but I dislike having to deal with media at times." The group move past with Amistathya deciding to give Sam a kiss as they do so causing the journalists to almost pop with excitement. Hymara looks around with a disapproving face. Sam shrugs with a smile in response as they walk into Eternity.
"I cannot believe you just did that."
"Can this at least wait until we find seats?" Sam wondering why people dislike that small table near the bar so much. "Usual table for us. You are welcome to join us if you wish Whesiva." She nods as the other ten take the two round tables towards the back. Sam had barely had time to take a seat, with Amistathya on his knee before Hymara decides to vent.
"I do apologise but you two are insane. What has happened today makes no sense, usually it has been obvious it was Sam making the decisions but now it is you Amistathya."
"I understand it is frustrating for you Hymara but that was not my fault although it should keep my face off the agenda as I was not facing them."
"I suppose that is one upside, although quite a few people in here seem more interested in you two than their drinks though."
"You always... cause quite a stir." Gemhaya's voice dropping off. Hymara just shrugs with a little disapproving shake of her head.
"When we come here, I understand that. It probably brings in the customers as well." Gemayha nods. "I would like to mention they are not permanent and the fact that I believe your job is to serve drinks and not ogle customers."
"Matriarch Aethyta would not like me saying that I do both but seeing something that is considered a little private is a bit of a surprise."
"I will have the usual and I am sure Ami will as well." Sam moving the conversation on as he can feel it being steered. He looks up gets a smile and a nod from the sky blue one. "I am not sure about Silana."
"I hope you do not mind if I had honey mead with ice. I know it waters it down but I like it really cold. I have not had the chance to have it for a good number of years so this will be a nice change."
"I am sure we can do that for you, and I guess honey mead with no ice for you two?" Hymara and Selayla nod and Gemayha looks to Whesiva.
"The same for me as well please." Gemayha nods to Whesvia before taking the handful of steps to the bar. "Even I feel a little awkward and I am not even you Sam."
"I have had that look pretty much wherever I have been Whesiva. I really am surprised I have not had individuals practically falling over themselves to talk to me while I have been out here though. Perhaps today they are put off by Hymara's exasperated look." Sam at least gets a little laugh from everyone even if Hymara's is mostly in despair. "Sorry Hymara but that was an easy target for a joke.
"Perhaps Lianta and myself should sit down and talk to you three properly. While Thermay Republic would really like us to keep it to a purely professional role, I feel that is not helping either of us in this case."
"You are more than welcome to have a talk Hymara, one evening next week would be nice."
"Tuesday Sam as there are some good programs released on a Monday." Sam laughs as he nods. Gemayha brings the tray over and places the drinks.
"Matriarch Aethyta seems to wish to have a quick talk later Sam."
"I will be here." She nods before moving to the next table.
"So you and Lianta are from Thermay?"
"Yes, I guess everyone else except Imphaya and Aumarva are from Serrice. I am not quite sure how we ended up in the roles we have but I guess that is for the republic governments to sort out."
"I just always thought that Thermay had an agreement with Armali for commando training."
"Thermay do not train any individuals, instead they take commandos who trained at Armali but have since retired for peacekeeping roles."
"You and Lianta are retied?"
"I am four hundred and forty in three years Sam and Lianta is only two years younger. We were both regularly tasked with this kind of work so when the option to go back to Thermay was offered, we both took the opportunity. It is fairly common to be given the option to continue in an active role or move to a peacekeeping one at four hundred due to the body getting a little slower." Sam nods.
-------
"If we were to go to the citadel Lianta, how much of a problem do you think we would have?"
"As long as you say nothing to them and do not answer their questions then you should not be too bad Fosanta. They will always be there though because of Kate."
"I guess you find Sam annoying?" Kate sighing a little at the difficulty of trying to keep the sporadic torment hidden.
"He and Amistathya are quite hard work at times Kate."
"I can easily understand that given what Sam looks like today." Gemayha overhearing the conversation.
"I do not think it is his fault Gemayha but it does give you some idea of the kind of antics they get up to." Gemayha nods.
"What can I get you all this evening?"
"I am guessing that we all honey mead addicts." Fosanta looking around and getting nods from everyone. "I am correct it seems." Gemayha nods before leaving. "I may as well give everyone some warning that myself and Kate are planning to go to the Citadel for some time together in a couple of weeks."
"I always like going there Fosanta. There is something about it feeling like you are on a planet but you are not that makes it seems special."
"I just thought it was somewhere a bit different to be honest Swathana. It also has some nice places to stay and is not too out of the way."
"I would recommend Sanves if you need somewhere to go but it takes about thirty five hours to get there unless you can find someone with a fast shuttle."
"We can always go there another time Kalawa." She nods to Fosanta.
-----
Hymara hears a small bang from around the corner so leans out to see Adastra and Seliha rather over-passionately kissing, having knocked over a chair. "What have they been adding to the water lately?"
"I guess given your question that Adastra and Seliha are up to something?" Hymara sighs.
"Yes Sam. I am a little confused that Imphaya and Aumarva have not said anything." Sam opens his Omni-tool and sends a quick message to Kate.
"I am not that surprised Hymara but I will not say why here. I think leaving now would be an idea while everyone is more interested in what they are doing. You are free to stay or move to one of the others tables if you wish Whesiva."
"I will stay a while longer Sam. It has been good seeing you all today."
"I think we will need to meet up sometime before going to Thessia. I am sure something can be arranged." Whesiva nods.
-----
Everyone at Kate's table has a good view of what is happening. "I was not expecting that to happen." The table and most of Eternity watching Seliha pin Adastra to the table.
"I am just thankful they will not be getting undressed Kalawa as that would have got everyone in Nos Astra to appear." Fosanta gets cut off a little by Kate's Omni-tool beeping.
Kate,
I am going to make an exit shortly while this is happening. I hope you all have a good evening.
Sam
"Are you sure that will not happen Fosanta?"
"I am hoping not as well Yasmari but if they are anything like Sam and Amistathya that may mean it could happen. I sort of wish I was with Sam now as it looks like they are leaving." Whesiva walks over as Sam seems to be having a talk at the bar.
"I hope you do not mind if I join you?"
"Take a seat Whesiva. They are nearly the best ones in here to watch what is happening."
"I would rather converse than watch two overly driven individuals be affectionate to each other to be fair Fosanta."
"If this place was empty I would have no problem doing the same about now." Kate goes a little red at all the slightly shocked expressions from around the table but given the slightly darkened room it is not that obvious.
"Are you sure you are ok Kate as you have been acting very strange?"
"I really do not want to say here Yasmari. I just hate a couple of individuals in the nicest possibly way at the moment." Yasmari looks at Fosanta a bit confused.
"I do not know why Yasmari. Although if Adastra and Seliha keep fighting over who is on top they are going to end up on the floor." Yasmari seems sold on the lie and topic change given she turns back around to watch.
-----
"I will get Aethyta for you." Gemayha goes into the back while various fund requests get processed. Gemayha walks out with Aethyta behind.
"I believe you wished to speak to me Aethyta. I have seen an opportunity to leave here which would be of benefit for me so unfortunately I cannot stay long."
"No problem babe. I just wished to see if what Gemayha said was true."
"What is wrong with everyone and markings?"
"I would ask your friend Sam. See you all soon."
"You should do Aethyta." She nods and the five of them make a quiet exit, Sam looking around and smiling as they walk past Seliha and Adastra's table. Imphaya and Aumarva having moved off to one side to give them space. "I guess we have already got past the journalists as I think most of them followed us in to Eternity."
"I saw that as well Sam." The five of them walk out of the door to a Salarian slumped down in the corner, looking a little intoxicated. They walk past without paying him too much attention and go back to the skycar.
-----
"Are you going to tell Sam Amistathya or should I as it is clear he has no idea."
"I feel I should Hymara as it was me who made them."
"I will say tomorrow morning if you have not said though as Sam needs to know before going to Sentix and wondering why people are acting strange." Amistathya nods.
-----
"Well that was more extreme than the dining room table." Seliha helping Adastra up from the table.
"It is a real pity we had nothing to play with and we both have markings." Imphaya and Aumarva move back.
"I am a little glad about that Seliha as neither of us really wanted to stop you but there is a point where we would have had to have done so." Seliha looks a little angered to Imphaya.
"Seliha, they are only doing their job and helping us with the journalists. Please do not be angry towards them as they kept out of our way and did not disturb us."
"The fact I now know if I wished to strip they would try to stop me annoys me."
"Seliha, neither Imphaya nor myself would try to stop you from doing so if you wished. We would only advise you not to do so unless you were sure that you would be fine with any consequences of doing so."
"That sounds better."
"You are seemingly much happier to listen to reason now Seliha."
"You are helping me understand that it is important to be able to make compromises and agreements when necessary Adastra. I could always try to be less controlling as I am feeling a little more comfortable now."
"People really do not mind if you are cold and a little sharp towards them if you are still reasonable Seliha. Do what you feel is right."
"Perhaps being friendlier in surroundings like this would be better for everyone Imphaya. I do apologise for any problems which may occur but Adastra makes me go a little crazy at times."
"That is nice to hear from you Seliha. I have a funny feeling everyone else will be thinking we are a little too desperate to show everyone."
"I am sure most people will have forgotten in a month Adastra. I would quite like something to eat shortly as I feel a little hungry now."
"I am sure the others would be interested in leaving as well." Seliha nods to Imphaya.
-----
"Kate you really need to get that frustration out of your system. Yes I know what is happening and sometimes I wish Adastra had not made me swap." Seliha giving her a warm smile.
"I was to get a nice reward if I could keep it a secret from everyone."
"I do apologise Kate. I would have offered to compensate you but I know it would be wasted."
"You have done much better than I expected Kate. I will give you this one as I can imagine how difficult it is." Fosanta locks the flight controls and turns off the random activation of the vibrator. "Seliha can I ask why you seem friendlier than usual."
"I think people were getting frustrated at my other for having stronger feelings. My other therefore decided to offer me the chance to interact with friends while keeping herself for other times."
"You make it sound like you are two people Seliha?" Whesvia not quite sure how to interpret that given the confused look on her face.
"I do have duality syndrome Whesiva which can present that way. If you are pleasant to my other then she is accepting back. I find this difficult to say but annoying her can cause some problems. Well she nearly dislocated Sam's arms for one."
"I feel scared to be in this shuttle now."
"You should not be scared Whesiva as she has tried hard lately to be less aggressive towards others. Seliha in both her personalities is a rather caring individual but she just has two ways of showing it."
"I apologise for scaring you Whesiva, it even scares me as I for a long time did not even know what my other was capable of doing, thought about situations and certain things I could not remember doing. I do apologise again for hurting you that morning Kate I really did not mean to as I really cannot remember."
"I know you meant to and I know why you did so. I guess everything has turned out well as Athya is happy since she is no longer Sam's servant. What I do not understand is why she still folds her arms behind her?"
"I have no idea Kate but they have some very confusing agreements between the three of them. I guess some are not dependant upon having a contract in place." Lianta trying to suggest a reason to Kate.
"We will be there in a minute so we can drop you off Lianta and pick up Selayla. We will not stay as we would like to eat."
"I understand Fosanta as I am a little hungry. I will send Selayla down to you when I get up there."
-----
"I see you are back Lianta. We have made food for you." Sam looking to the absconder with a smile.
"I appreciate that. Selayla everyone is waiting for you in the shuttle before going back to the house."
"Selayla, I would like you to tell everyone that I hope to meet them possibly next Saturday."
"I will Sam. I hope you all have a pleasant week." The five of them nod and Selayla leaves.
"Lianta, Hymara suggested we should all have a talk together on Tuesday evening if that is ok."
"What about?" Sam looks to Hymara.
"I feel I am finding myself annoyed at Sam and Amistathya just because I do not know the reasons behind their decisions. I thought we could have a talk and try to understand how everything works rather than standing back and just letting everything happen."
"It is worth a try at least."
"I think that is what Hymara thought Lianta. Ami, would you be happy to be helped out of your dress and then answer some questions."
"Tomorrow night for the things I received then Sam. I was a little excited about tonight but I can see that you need answers."
"I appreciate that."
-----
"There is something nice about you being friendlier Seliha; it adds something to the house that I feel has been missing since Sam left."
"I appreciate the complement Fosanta but I feel it is still not quite the same."
"It lightens the atmosphere a lot though Seliha. It is always nice to see Adastra with a warming smile as well."
"I tend to be like that after I have done something I perhaps should not have done Kate. As I am sure you remember from your red shower gel."
"You do not need to remind me Adastra."
"Adastra, could I suggest we have a talk to Sam and Athya on our own at some time."
"I would really like that Seliha as having everyone in the apartment it is quite a small space and it is not easy to ask the questions to wish to ask. I will send Sam a message tomorrow."
"I think we will just help you tidy everything away and try to settle down for an early night as it is again work tomorrow."
-----
Amistathya and Sam decide to forgo getting dressed in the bathroom only to get undressed in the bedroom. Sam makes sure no one is coming up the stairs before gesturing Amistathya to come out. She does so and quickly covers the few metres of corridor to the door of the bedroom. Sam takes his time and locks the door after he has entered. "I have a number of questions as I have said that I am keen to have answered Ami."
"I will answer what you wish to know Sam as you have been quite confused it seems today."
"The first I would like clearing up is why did Aethyta say I should ask you?"
"I know you had no clue about this so I will happily let you mark me later if you wish to Sam but I will explain first. I had quite a fascination with a large amount of texts that my mother had when I was much younger and a lot of them were on Asari tribes and their varying rituals. A lot of them were for making the structure of the tribe simpler. New individuals or groups to a tribe would be marked with usually a black dye paint after their introduction into the tribe. This would tell others at a glance what kind of individual they were, if they are allowed to meld and where in the tribe they fit along with some personality traits if they were allowed to meld. It would be up to the individual to maintain the marks if they were becoming faint or were washed off."
"All that from a few marks?"
"No Sam. Yours are incomplete given some of the traditional marks are not all that valid for you. The others however say that you like both physical and mental interaction with others, you have a chosen bondmate and not to try to meld with you."
"Ok I am happy enough with that. I guess it was where I fit in the tribe that is the incomplete bit?"
"Yes as that was traditionally added on either the legs or arms as bands of black. Three bands on the legs would be valid for Silana but I could not think of a combination which would be good enough for you."
"Can I ask what three bands on the legs mean?"
"It depends how they are grouped Sam. Three around the lower leg meant they did not offer the role and any punishment was valid but they were not to be rewarded for their efforts. Three around the upper leg are for individuals who will offer themselves in various ways to various people. The exact definition varied amongst tribes but to keep them separate from domestic workers I consider the definition to be that they can request compensation for use of them in any way but not in return for a specific job that they perform."
"What about the arms?"
"Domestic workers had one around their lower leg, one around their upper and one near their wrists. The only other one that was common amongst most tribes was for the huntresses who had one on their upper leg and two on their upper arm."
"Interesting. I guess individuals could work their way up through the tribe?"
"The only ones that could not were the bottom slaves. It was also difficult for most to progress further than a standard tribal member as becoming a huntress required a natural ability as most tribes did not teach their warriors. They mostly worked to hunt for food rather than battle other tribes for land. We were and still are a species of clusters all working together and there has never been a major war."
"It is a real pity your mother is still not around as I bet she would have been good to talk to."
"Possibly."
"I'm sorry Ami but it is quite interesting to listen to all of this." Sam gives sky blue a hug. "I guess since the marks on the legs are two extremes then you can mix them for various levels in-between?" Amistathya nods. "Well two points, three on the upper leg would be valid for both of us and I guess two on the top one on the bottom would be suitable for Silana."
"I did not think you would like being marked as a slave, sorry tribal servant, Sam. That is why I did not put them on you. While legally Silana should be one on the top two on the bottom I think by the way you treat her you would be correct."
"I have three questions then Ami. First is, was this done over markings or only on blue skin? The second is, is there a particular pattern or position for them and finally, would you be willing to have three bands around your upper legs if I had the same?"
"Fingers or hands are marked for physical interaction. Markings within the eye area mean you have a chosen individual. Markings where I have them on my face mean mental interaction. The neck is an indicator not to meld. No markings on the face with marks on the neck mean the individual dislikes melding or is not permitted to meld but the tribe. If marks are on both then it means it is either disliked by the individual's bondmate if they meld with others or it would be dangerous for others to do so. The lips, or the nose, or both, are marked as a warning to others not to physically touch. The pattern can be anything as long as it is unique to the individual and I would wish to have two bands on my upper leg and one near my ankle if you are happy with having three on your upper leg Sam."
"Can I ask why you want to offer more Ami?"
"I told you yesterday Sam when you ended our contract. I am not going to say any longer as it is becoming clearer you are not interested in doing so."
"If this is about me taking advantage of you I just need a good situation to do so to begin with. I need to gain a bit of confidence that you are comfortable with it. I will keep my eye open over the next few days for a good situation to do so." Ami puts her arms around Sam. "I have a couple more questions and then we can go drawing. What did the message mean by celebrate ember and who was it who sent the ritual? Oh and what were the extra things that came?"
"I said exactly what was written on the pad but ember is how I know who. My mother before I came to Illium told me that I should bide my time and wait patiently for things to come to me such as an ember waits for more fuel to relight the fire. I also now recognise the area of Armali from the address on the markers. It is not far from where I visited her and her new bondmate when I last went back."
"Hold on so it is your mother's bondmate who has sent these items?"
"How she managed to get them past port security I do not know but it is very likely that my guess is correct."
"So she left you on your own and has not tired to contact you until now? I wonder why the sudden change."
"I am thinking the same thing but it may be that she knows that I am no longer at Atansys. She must have spoken to someone though as you usually do not give a ritual to another without being sure that they are very likely to accept."
"I am going to guess that after the news of us being on the Citadel and the journalists camping at the hotel door I guess they saw Talima and Sha'ira go in. She may have inferred correctly that they were visiting us and had a talk to them."
"That would make sense. Also Sha'ira could be sending you messages on her behalf hence why you think it is a different individual writing them." Sam smiles.
"You could well be right Ami although what confuses me the most is why she is going to such lengths to keep herself anonymous if she wishes to talk. I think leaving to go to Thessia early Saturday morning and see if we could talk somewhere that evening would be best. How that could be arranged I do not know?"
"I will sort that out Sam as I think I have a way of arranging something. Do you have any other questions?"
"Only that you still have not said what you got in the package Ami. I did let you draw on me where I did not want you to in return for answers."
"It will be fun and messy but that is all I wish to say as I really want to keep the surprise until tomorrow."
"I like the sound of messy for a change." Sam gets off the bed and walks over to the corner of the room to pull out the black marker. "I will try to be as careful as I can to miss all your markings Ami."
"I am not too bothered about my hands and legs Sam but if you can on my face I would appreciate it." Sam nods as Amistathya pushes a pillow under her shoulders to allow her to lie back face up and her folds not hurt her neck.
"I guess I should mark everything or would you rather individuals were not warned not to touch you?"
"I would rather you warned people Sam as it will save a lot of explaining. I believe those markers are non-toxic so could you colour my lips instead of my nose please." Sam nods with a smile as he begins colouring in. "Would you let me mark Silana the same way before bed as I think it would be better if they all faded at about the same time."
"Yes and please inform her that I agreed to it but you must ask her whether she prefers physical or mental interaction or both."
"I will as it would be a little embarrassing for her if I got it wrong. I best stay quiet now otherwise you will mark something you should not." Sam laughs before continuing to mark her face.
-----
"You seem much keener this evening than you did yesterday when I nearly had to drag you to sit with me."
"As I said this morning I slept well Fosanta which I was surprised about given you seem to have set the time for wanting a daughter."
"You seem to soften up so much when you relax and have physical contact Kate. As I said I think you would really like a daughter to hold and you seem rather reluctant to jump into the galactic community with any enthusiasm."
"So you are giving me a push instead like you did this morning."
"Think of it more as gentle encouragement Kate. I have your best interests in mind as I really do not want to leave me for someone else. I know if you were single and it was widely known you would have half of Thessia clambering to get to you."
"You make me sound like some truly important alluring and beautiful individual. I really am not anything other than average."
"You are so much more than you see yourself as at the moment Kate. The problem is I do not think you want to find out as you certainly are attractive." Fosanta carefully and softly strokes the back of Kate's neck. "I think you would appreciate a longer shower and me cuddling up to you in bed over a meld. What do you think?"
"I know melding is good but I would like that idea better Fosanta, especially after you driving me insane with that vibrator."
"Sorry Kate. I will make it up to you in the shower as you are just as soft as Sam is for physical interaction."
"I am intrigued as to how you know that Fosanta?"
"He had black fingers Kate if you were paying attention this afternoon. That is an old tribal mark for the individual enjoying physical interaction."
"I guess the ones on his face are the same. What do those ones mean?"
"He has a bondmate and it is dangerous to meld with him. Amistathya seems to be really throwing Sam in to the fire; do excuse me if I got that analogy wrong for you."
"It was right, just a little strange hearing it in Asari. I am just hoping you are not to do the same to me."
"All I will provide is a little encouragement Kate as I just want you to settle in and be happy. Please do try your best and you should feel a greater confidence in yourself as a result." Kate nods and smiles as she lightly touches Fosanta's left breast under the duvet. "I think you want a shower Kate as you seem keen."
"To be honest I would not mind sitting here. Can I wash you in the shower?"
"You should not even have to ask Kate. If you would like something and it will not hurt me then do so. It could make a pleasant surprise for me which would be something exciting." Kate gets up from the chair and pulls the duvet off Fosanta.
"I think going to the shower before we get cold would be a good idea." Fosanta smiles as she gets up and puts her arm around Kate before they go downstairs to their bathroom.
-----
Amistathya walks into Silana's room to see her looking at something on her Omni-tool. "I apologise for interrupting your evening Silana."
"That is not a problem Athya but I am a little worried given the fact you have a marker and you have markings like Sam."
"Sam has asked me to ask you three questions. The first is how long are you thinking of staying with us at least in a semi-servant role as Sam was thinking of offering to teach you English?"
"I had not really thought about it. Could I ask to think about my answer to that question as it is a difficult one for me to answer?"
"Yes as Sam did not specifically ask me to ask that question but he did mention it to me. The second is can I trust you not to hurt or touch me inappropriately Silana and the final question is do you prefer mental or physical interaction with others or both?"
"Please do not mark me on my face and hands Athya." Amistathya leaves the room for a few moments and comes back with Sam.
"I am curious as to why I have been dragged in here."
"Can I ask why you have three marks on your legs Sam?"
"I am offering to do much of what Ami wishes given suitable compensation Silana. I would however like to know why Ami asked me to come in here."
"I would rather I was not marked on my face and hands Sam."
"She begged that I should not Sam hence why I brought you in here."
"I am sure you can work out what has happened and you do not need to apologise in this case Silana. All I wish to do is talk. My first question though is why are so reluctant to not be marked?"
"It is bad memories from a previous owner who did so Sam."
"Was it bad enough to get you on the dangerous list or just remarkably unpleasant treatment?"
"It was just unpleasant over a long period Sam. I guess looking back it was not that bad but at the time it was as it just felt relentless." Sam takes a seat on the bed.
"I apologise for bringing it up but I need to know. I need truthful answers to the next few questions. I stated this morning that I would discuss your contract with you after the Sentix move is complete. The question I have is how long would you honestly offer to stay with us?"
"I cannot answer that question Sam as I have never made that decision."
"Can I ask if you are comfortable being here Silana? I only ask as I wish to work out whether you would be happier finding somewhere else to be." Silana looks a little scared of saying anything.
"Sam will not hurt you for anything that you will say Silana. Adastra also trusted Sam enough to remember her markings so anything you do say will be safe. Just be honest." Silana turns to Sam who nods in agreement.
"I am happy to be here and you have got me a very well paid job Sam. I have nearly always taken contracts which allow me to keep myself to myself or blend in amongst many others."
"It is ok if you have not had much personal contact with others before Silana." She seems to go a little shy at Sam's guess which he assumes is his answer. "I was as bad a couple of months ago Silana and I am still a little uncomfortable with anyone besides Ami to be perfectly honest. I have one question then, do you want to get over the fear and know us better?"
"I think so Sam."
"Can Silana join in tomorrow evening Ami?" Amistathya gives Sam an enthusiastic nod after a moments pause. "Ok. You have a choice Silana. The first is you are marked and you join us tomorrow evening. The second is your second rule is applicable everywhere for a fortnight."
"I apologise Sam. I sometimes forget quite how much you take my interests into consideration before making decisions. I would rather the first choice as working in yellow underwear would be rather unpleasant. Athya I am not exactly sure about which interaction I prefer as I have tended to be the one giving the interaction not receiving it."
"Well that can soon be fixed, just relax Silana." Sam shuffles behind Silana before beginning to gently run his fingers down her neck. After a minute or so he gets up and walks to the door. "I hope you can both sort out everything between you and I hope you sleep well Silana." She nods to Sam with a warm smile before he leaves.
"Do you have a better idea now Silana? I really do not want to get the markings wrong but unfortunately melding with me will get you on the dangerous list."
"Is it wrong of me to say that I think that I much prefer physical interaction? I did a small contract when I was much younger where I melded with a lot of individuals but never touched them. It just seemed a little hollow for me unlike just now where I felt this relaxing excitement."
"I am going to let you decide if you wish me to mark your face or not Silana as the only person who really knows what you like is you."
"To stay with tradition by only marking what the individual wants then I would not Athya."
"I understand and I apologise if I am a little nervous."
"I will not hurt you Athya at least not intentionally." She nods in response before kneeling on the bed in front of Silana and begins to draw on her hands.
-----
"I guess you have finished then." Sam watches Athya lock the bedroom door from where he is lying.
"I have Sam. She complained a little about having the same markings as I have on her legs as she knows I am not in a contract. I explained why you thought it was the best designation for her and she seemed happier after that."
"I cannot imagine what years of being a servant does to your self confidence but she really needs to improve on it a little. What markings did you give her anyway?"
"A spiral down each finger which end at a point in the centre of her hand and the bands on her legs. She said that she feels a little apathetic towards melding but does not dislike it so she has no markings on her face or neck." Amistathya gets into bed and shuffles across to Sam.
"Did you have a look at your markings?"
"I did and I am very impressed by the fact that you have added to my existing markings on both my hands and face but in such a delicate way. I really wish I could have them made permanent as they balance out the sky blue perfectly but it would cause me too many problems."
"Is this the same problem as you get with your markings normally?"
"It is Sam, but I can wear gloves to cover my hands. I would be unable to cover my face."
"You have coped with having natural markings all your life Ami. If you really like the markings I have put on you and you can get them added with a softened edge to match your others then I will fully support your decision to have them if you wish. Everyone else can be forgotten as you are still going to get the same abuse whether you get them or not."
"While you are right I do not know. I also wonder how Olissa will take us turning up like this tomorrow?"
"I will give her a message to meet her tomorrow morning but I cannot see her being able to say much. I am going to leave the decision to you Ami as it is your body and it will be you who will have to live with the decision long after I have gone."
"Please do not remind me that you do not live long Sam." Sam gets his right arm between Amistathya and the bed before dragging her a little closer for a hug.
"I apologise but it is a true fact of reality unfortunately. I think we best get some sleep given it will be work tomorrow." Amistathya moves back a little before putting her head down on Sam's pillow.
"I will decide in the near future as to what I wish to do depending upon the reaction I get."
"That sounds sensible. Sleep though." She smiles and nods before closing her eyes with Sam quickly doing the same.
-----
"I have to say that these last two evenings have been remarkably enjoyable. Just us, no distractions and nothing between us. It makes a change from the get into bed and quick hug routine."
"I am very relieved to hear that Kate. I was worried yesterday but I now feel likewise that it has been a good opportunity to sit, talk and appreciate each other in a relaxing environment."
"I could do with getting to sleep now though as unfortunately it is work tomorrow."
"Only two weeks until our break on the Citadel Kate. Do not worry about anything for that as I will sort it all out." Kate gives Fosanta a short kiss.
"Thank you, I appreciate that Fosanta as I would struggle to know where to start."
"It is not a problem Kate. Do sleep well."
"If this is anything like last night I will." Fosanta smiles to Kate before turning off the light.
-------
Notes.
A super long chapter and perhaps a little verbose but I guess that is what happens at a weekend. Next chapter will be Sam and Amistathya's first day at Sentix and should be posted not on Saturday 3rd of November but Sunday the 4th as I am busy that evening watching fireworks.
Before anyone wonders if there was some kind of deliberate intent to have the chapter containing Amistathya's firework markings the week before bonfire night there was not. I wrote this chapter several months ago and had no idea at all when it was to be posted. It may however have been a subconscious decision but I am not to blame for that.
I hope in any case you all enjoy the chapter and there should be another fun one next week. A rating or a review if you can spare an odd moment would be appreciated.
Replies to reviews can be found at the following link, http://www2.adult-fanfiction.org/forum/index.php/topic/35940-unrealuniverses-review-reply-thread
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Marked Effect (AFF Edition)