The Demon's Possession

by Kiersten Fay

  Obviously, she had a strong spirit. A strength deep within her that maybe even she didn't know existed. Someone had tried very hard to stamp it out of her, and failed miserably.

  And Sebastian wanted more.

  For a long while, as she held her challenging gaze, he wrestled with his urge to rip away the flimsy fabric and replace it with his hands. He had imagined how soft and warm she would be, and when the scent of her desire hit him, he knew she would be wet for him.

  His tongue craved a taste of her, wanting to lick her between her silky thighs until she came again and again. Then he would replace his tongue with his shaft and take her slow until they were both panting and sweating in ecstasy.

  He shook himself and tried to clear his mind.

  This was the reason he was supposed to stay away from her. And that's exactly what he would do. Right after he dealt with her little challenge.

  Chapter 8

  Analia entered Marik's galley, ready to start another day full of repetitive questions and uncomfortable stares. She started by putting away the clean dishes that were left overnight to dry.

  Today, as she acclimated to the people on the ship, she became the one asking the questions. Analia was curious about everything and everyone, and inquired about as many details she could think of, eating up the knowledge as quickly as possible. And every time she received an answer, it just spurred another line of questioning.

  One of the many things she discovered was that most of the crew members originated on planets. Many different kinds of planets. And most of them left home, choosing a life in space. Why did they leave? Why come to space? Why a merchant ship? Why this merchant ship? She wanted to know everything.

  When she asked people to describe their homes, she was surprised at the differences in animal and plant life. Each planet was unique in its own habitat. Analia was enthralled. It made her wonder what kind of animals had lived on her own home planet.

  One person, his name was Kwal, told her he had come from a planet made up almost entirely of water, while another man claimed there was nearly no water at all on his home world.

  Someone told her a thrilling story of how he had once escaped a barveka plant, a plant that grew long tendrils, with a sticky substance that oozed from the ends for grabbing and holding nearby prey, and pulled whatever was caught into one of its many stomach chambers.

  The man had carried no tools with him, yet had escaped by biting away the thick tendril that had snagged him. He admitted he couldn't taste right for a year after that. Analia was awed by the story, and shuddered at the idea of being prey to a plant.

  A man sitting close by heard the story and offered a similar tale of survival. A giant man-eating bird from his home planet had scooped him up from a field and deposited him in its huge nest to be food for its young. The man had to fight his way past the sharp squawking beaks to climb over the edge of the nest. With the crying babies above him, he climbed down from a very great height, worrying the whole time that the mother would return for him. He's despised birds of any size ever since.

  Not too shortly after that, the eavesdropping crowd broke into a clamor of their own tales of survival and mishap, growing rowdy with excitement, each one trying to top the last with their fantastical stories.

  Analia thought it was no wonder they all chose to come to space and leave their homes behind. The stories vacillated between horrific and fanciful. Analia couldn't get enough.

  Though different in nature, there were many similarities between each planet she learned about. Suns warmed the atmospheres. Moons in orbit affected everything from ocean tides to animal behavior, and even the moods of the local inhabitants. Some claimed to have more than fifteen moons.

  What a sight that would be.

  All this talk gave Analia a spark of remembrance from her own planet: blue skies, two maybe three moons, a couple of vine like plants on a white marble balcony spilling over the edge. The memory became fuzzy.

  She continued listening, enthralled by each story offered to her. She soaked up every description, wishing she could visit every planet in turn. In a way, she supposed she was searching. Searching for her own planet, or a planet she could call her own one day. She wasn't sure how far Sebastian was willing to travel to find a place to leave her. She feared he might just unload her with the cargo when they reached their destination.

  Perhaps she should speak with him about it…once he calmed down about the couch incident, that is. Maybe there was a database of planets she could search through, to find something close by, so he wouldn't have to travel too far out of his way. That would be ideal.

  What kind of planet would suit her? A place that was calm and warm. She dreamed of sun on her skin and vegetation that didn't try to eat you. Small, non-threatening flying creatures would be good too.

  As the breakfast crowd thinned, she took the time to clean and dry the dishes, and wipe down the counters for the lunch hour. Methodically, she scoured the counters till they shined.

  Marik often remained quiet while working the stoves. She suspected he liked it that way and normally tried not to bother him with conversation. But her curiosity got the better of her.

  “Marik?”

  He grunted in answer and didn't look up from the sizzling pan.

  “How did you come to be here?”

  Moments ticked by, and she thought he wouldn't answer.

  “I didn't escape like you,” he finally offered. “Not that I didn't try. Many, many times. I was always caught, but that didn't stop me from trying, even though the repercussions grew worse with each attempt.” He paused, brows drawn at some memory Analia couldn't imagine. “No, in the end, I had to be saved, by none other than Sebastian himself. He purchased me at an auction and immediately offered me my freedom. I didn't trust him at first when he offered me a position here on Marada. I almost refused, but Sonya actually convinced me to come aboard. She reminded me of my sister…” he trailed off. Anya sensed in him a deep-seated pain, and didn't want to push him for more, but he continued. “My sister was taken…along with me…but we were separated, she's still out there…somewhere.”

  That meant she could still be a slave. “I'm sorry.” Analia didn't know what else to say.

  “I remember what Sonya had said that day, to convince me. She said, 'Don't worry. Marik. If Bastian ever acts like he owns you, I'll kick his ass, and we'll take over the ship.' Sebastian had laughed and said she would probably succeed. 'You're damn right I would,' she had said.” Analia laughed at that, and Marik gave her a melancholic smile. “They're good people, you're in good hands.”

  “I hope you’re right.”

  “You could probably stay, if you play your cards right. From what I've seen, half the crew is in love with you already.”

  Analia shook her head. It sounded nice—really nice in fact—but Darius was a threat to everyone, not just her. She would be responsible if her actions led to anyone here getting hurt, or, more likely, killed. “I really should leave the ship as soon as the wards come down,” she said, averting her eyes.

  “Will someone be searching for you?” Marik guessed.

  Her gaze snapped to his, but before she could formulate an answer, she heard a small crowd of people enter the salon. Eager for escape, she turned to tend to them, was almost out the door when Marik caught her by the arm. She gasped. She hadn't even heard him move. His features were harsh and her heart began to pound, as a lump of fear gripped it.

  “If someone is after you, we can protect you.”

  No, they couldn't, but she wouldn't tell him that. She only gave Marik a tight nod, full of emotion from the unexpected offer. “I'll think about it,” she lied.

  * * *

  ——

  * * *

  Marik let go of Analia. She disappeared into the salon, clearly afraid. Someone, her owner perhaps, might come for her. They'd never take her, of course. Sebastian would rain down destruction on any who threatened his ship, or anyone on it. Even if he was protecting
an escaped slave who had snuck aboard. Even if there wasn't something strange going on with him, where Anya was concerned.

  Marik had heard about the brawl between Cale and Sebastian, had sensed something was up when Sebastian left that morning. Cale had done a good job at providing a release for Sebastian's rage. Had Sebastian gone to the Edge because Anya hadn't told him of her past? Or was it something more? Marik couldn't put his finger on it, but there was an inkling of a suspicion that nettled at the back of his mind, though it was easily dismissed.

  Sebastian never let any woman close.

  None of them did. Marik supposed it was because they were all deeply scarred in some way or another. Many of Marik's scars were displayed on the outside, as well as in.

  Anya entered the galley, repeating the orders she'd just taken, still not meeting Marik's eyes. She busied herself with cleaning and didn't say another word. When he finished plating the orders, she quietly carried them to their destination.

  If someone was searching for her, Sebastian should know about it. Though Marik had faith in the strength of Marada, it wouldn't be good to be caught off guard. The next time he saw Sebastian, Marik would relay his suspicions.

  No matter what was happening between him and Anya, Sebastian would never let her go back to being a slave. Marik knew this for certain.

  * * *

  ——

  * * *

  At the end of the day, Analia finished helping Marik close down the galley, and headed directly for her room. Sonya hadn't shown up tonight to escort her. She was probably working in her pub. Anya briefly considered stopping by for a minute or two, but she was tired from the long day and hadn't slept well the night before.

  On her way, she passed the nursery, the scent of the plants and the energy pulled at her, caressed her senses and almost lured her in, but she passed by, thinking of Sebastian's warning.

  Analia noted how tired she was, her body wasn't used to the constant physical exertion of working in the salon. Maybe she should try to sleep in the bed tonight, like Sebastian wanted. She didn't want any more morning arguments. Plus, the ship was beginning to feel more comfortable. Safe even. There was a chance she wouldn't be plagued with the usual nightmares. Nightmares that felt so real she would wake up in a sweat, disoriented, and fighting off the phantoms of whichever horror clutched at her. Since she'd been on Marada, she hadn't experienced any nightmares, thus far.

  Entering her room, Analia walked a few steps before stopping abruptly at the sight before her. She sucked in a harsh breath. “Son of a bitch!” She'd heard that phrase used when people were pissed, and now seemed like the perfect moment for it.

  The couch was gone!

  A few light dents in the carpet held its place. She stomped her foot and cursed again. “Overbearing stubborn…” She growled. Actually growled.

  She stormed out of the room, disgusted with looking at the blank space. She was tempted to find Sebastian and tell him just what she thought of his little stunt, but she decided instead to go to the pub, seeking a female perspective. On the way, she marveled briefly at the notion that she could actually seek a female’s perspective.

  For a long while, Analia wandered the halls in a huff, circling and searching for something familiar to point her in the right direction. She should have made it to the pub by now. She feared she'd taken a wrong turn. Negotiating corner after corner, Analia finally admitted to herself that she was lost.

  “You look lost,” a familiar voice spoke from behind her, causing her to jump. It was Xandar wearing an expensive looking, tan colored shirt and a pair of black trousers. He glanced sideways at her before giving her a slow smile, not the obtrusive smile from before.

  “I believe I am. I'm looking for the pub.”

  His eyes lit up. “That's where I'm headed now, I'll walk with you.” He turned around. “Follow me. You're going the wrong way.”

  Analia flushed and hurried after him, catching up to walk by his side. He smelled faintly of soap, mingled with some fragrance she couldn't name. His blond hair was parted to the side, and fell around his face, following the line of his jaw. Anya figured most females would think him handsome.

  They walked in silence for a moment before she asked, “Why are you going to the pub so late?”

  “I work the evening shift and just got off, so this isn't late for me. Besides this is when the pub really comes alive. I was going there to look for a beautiful woman to keep me company, but it seems I already found one.”

  Anya felt her cheeks go red.

  “Why are you going so late?”

  “I need to speak with Sonya.”

  “So this isn't a pleasure cruise? You should stay and keep me company, so I don't get lonely.”

  “You don't seem like the type of guy who gets lonely.”

  “Is that a compliment or an insult?”

  Analia only shrugged.

  “Is your opinion of me already set then? You should get to know me before you make judgments. Come on, stay for a drink and let me change your mind about me.”

  “Maybe,” she offered, not intending to stay long.

  When they entered the pub, Xandar followed her to where Sonya stood behind the bar. Music beat in her ear, but it wasn't so bad as to drown out nearby conversation.

  Lining the bar were seven tall chairs, two of which were unoccupied. Xandar rushed to pull one out for her. That was nice of him. Then he took the chair next to hers. Shoot. She was hoping to speak privately with Sonya.

  As if summoned, Sonya glided toward them. Tiny black horns poked out of midnight colored hair, which was braided neatly down the sides of her face. She wore a tight black corset with purple strings tied up the center and a short purple, red, and black plaid skirt. Similarly colored striped stockings rose to her upper thighs. And her shoes were, of course, black high heeled boots. As she walked, her tail swished back and forth from underneath her skirt. Analia envied her confidence.

  “Anya!” Sonya squealed, throwing her arms in the air. “You came to see me.”

  Analia had to smile at her enthusiasm. She was really beginning to like the demon female. “Hi, Sonya.”

  “And Xandar.” Sonya looked him up and down, raising an eyebrow. “What are you doing with my little Anya?”

  The corners of his mouth twitched. “Anya?” Xandar tested the name that seemed to be catching on with everyone on the ship. “Anya was lost, and would have wandered the entire ship if I hadn't found her. We'd like to order a couple of drinks, on my tab.”

  Drinks?

  “Of course. What can I get you?” Sonya replied.

  Xandar looked at Analia. “Do you know what you would like, Anya?”

  “I…” She shrugged and looked to Sonya for help. “What kind of drinks do you serve? Sebastian said people drink alcohol here, to relax.” She'd said the word alcohol as if she'd never used it before, which she hadn't. “What do you suggest?”

  Both Sonya and Xandar gaped at her as if she had sprouted three heads.

  “You've never had alcohol?” Xandar asked.

  Analia shook her head. “Why is everyone shocked by that?”

  Sonya shrugged and answered. “I've never met an alcohol virgin before.” She gave her a sly smile. “We're going to start you off really, really light.” Sonya busied herself with mixing a pink colored drink and placed it in front of Analia. She also filled a tiny glass from the same mix, lifted it in the air, and drank it down in one gulp, slamming the small glass back onto the bar.

  Strange.

  Sonya watched her expectantly, waiting for her to taste the liquid. Analia brought the slim glass to her lips and sipped it gingerly. Even Xandar watched with unusual interest.

  After gathering the flavor, Analia nodded her approval. “It's sweet,” she said.

  Then Xandar ordered something called Demon's Special Blend. Again, Sonya grabbed a variety of bottles, mixed them in a glass, and handed it to Xandar. His drink was a multicolored concoction, blue at the bottom, purple in t
he middle, and red at the top. Sonya lit a match by striking it against a rough part of her outfit and inflamed the top of the drink. After a moment, Xandar blew out the fire and sucked down the liquid in one large gulp. Now it was Anya's turn to gape.

  The expression on her face made Xandar laugh. “You should just sip your drink. Alcohol can affect you in different ways, and since you've never had it before, you should be careful.”

  She tilted her head at him. “How can it affect you?”

  “Well, it depends on the species, and even then it depends on the individual. Some become relaxed, happy, giddy, lusty, or giggly. Then there's the opposite emotions. Like sad, depressed, angry, or violent.”

  Sonya chimed in. “For most, it gives a relaxed euphoric feeling, but the same thing happens to everyone when they drink too much.”

  “And what's that?”

  “If you drink too much, you can become very ill.”

  Anya took another sip, a little more wary than before. Then something caught the corner of her eye, and her attention was drawn to the door.

  Sebastian had just entered.

  * * *

  Sebastian scented her before he saw her. Calic was with him and already had his hand clamped on Sebastian's shoulder in warning.

  Anya was sitting next to Xandar. Sebastian had nothing against the guy, but seeing him next to Anya, talking and leaning close, had him seeing red. As he recalled, Xandar usually respected the rule no sex among crew members, but not always. Then again, Anya wasn't really part of the crew. Damn.

  Cale pulled him to a table farthest away from the bar. As Sebastian sat, he wondered if Anya had been to her room yet. A fiendish grin spread across his lips. He knew that tonight she would be forced to take the bed, seeing as there was no longer anywhere else to sleep.