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TAXILA'S CHILDREN<br />
CHAPTER 20<br />
On the way through the darkening woods, Steve started to get nervous thoughts about how<br />
he was going to explain himself to the Thane and his lady. He knew he could never hope to<br />
keep it secret, Danyk had once said that his mind was open like that of a child. It was all there<br />
to be read by whoever was interested. It was very likely, that the news of how he had seduced<br />
the younger daughter of the Thane, was already circulating.<br />
Maia remained supremely unconcerned by his thoughts. She was displaying remarkable<br />
poise for a girl who had just lost her virginity to an alien from outer space. She giggled and<br />
Steve realised that he was transmitting loud and clear. She put her hand in his and squeezed<br />
it. It was an attempt at reassurance and he tried to tell himself that he didn't really care what<br />
her family would think.<br />
They came back to the broad river, this time, they emerged on its bank close to a well<br />
constructed crossing. He knew that earlier, he had been led to the rickety plank bridge, just to<br />
have a little fun at his expense. Perhaps, it had all been part of the softening up process. Maia<br />
was a very determined young woman and she had fulfilled her objective. As they crossed the<br />
bridge, she reached up and kissed him on the ear and then, flicked the tip of her tongue<br />
inside. He felt a surge of lust and grabbed her.<br />
"Maia, behave! What the hell am I going to say to your father?"<br />
She looked solemn.<br />
"I don't think there is much you can say that he doesn't know already - and I think you're in<br />
a lot of trouble. I hope he doesn't invoke the ancient law of the Two Eyes!"<br />
"And what might that be, or shouldn't I ask?"<br />
"The ancient law of the Two Eyes states that whatever has given the offence has to receive<br />
the punishment. I hope they don't do that to you! It would make you very boring!"<br />
She let go of his hand and raced ahead. He caught up with her as they neared the<br />
Thanehold. They went directly to the main hall. The household was already assembling for<br />
the evening meal. Steve tried to look at no one. As he sat down in his usual place, Danyk<br />
gave him a brief, sharp look which might have meant anything.<br />
They waited for the main players to take their places. For once, Lyot and the Lady Hepha<br />
entered together. Their faces were severely set, it looked like a united front in the face of an<br />
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