Arden by: dnrock(dnrock@rock.com)
65: A Trial
Trials in Parga usually have two parts. The first part is the finding of facts and presenting of evidence. The second part is the defense. I called on Captain Damao to tell the court how it was that we princes came to this place and why. He did, explaining in great detail all that had happened, even producing Iason's map. Inquisitor, I said, do you have any questions for Captain Damao? He ask a few questions for clarification. I asked the accused if they had any questions but they did not. One of the students signaled and asked me if the map was evidence? I said yes and suggested the student ask the inquisitor to enter it as such. The student was shy but managed to get the questions asked. Iason was most understanding and made a big show of taking the map to Kastor and asking him to record it and place an evidence number on it.
I could see from the corner of my eye the mayor and Father smiling. Next, the Farmer came and told what happened to his olive tree and after we arrived. Next, the landlord came to told what happened. Iason then called two of the Marines forward. They had a piece of the olive tree's stump and an ax. They explained how the ax was found in the belongings of the accused and produce a citizen to confirm that they found that ax as they said they did.
Then they produced another farmer who claimed to have cut the piece of stump from the chopped tree with his saw. He showed the saw. Iason showed the marks on the wood were the same as that of this very saw.
One of the accused protested but after having several citizens compare the two, it was agreed this wood came from the stump in question and were cut off with this very saw. Iason next showed the ax had several distinctive defects on its blade and those defects were seen clearly on the chopped part of the stump. He then established that the five were companions and worked in consort. Several more witnesses were called to confirm that. All that was recorded as evidence.
No mention yet had been made of the old farmer, also sitting with the accused. I asked the accused if they had anything they wished to tell us about this business, such as why they would have chopped down such an old and productive tree. They had noting to say.
Iason then called a number of witnesses including the farmer who owned the tree. He was most willing to tell us the nature of the threats made and amount of protection money demanded to protect his orchard. He told us that he refused and the next day the tree was chopped down.
One of the students asked him why he did not contact the Sheriff as soon as the threat was made. The old man said he was afraid for his families safety, as they had made it clear what would happen if he did so.
So it went. Many more also spoke, some reluctantly; Iason made it clear that these six were now impotent. He also made it clear he would have the truth, all of the truth, in these matters. It turned out that most of them had paid bribes to the five. They were ashamed of this but it was done.
Iason now went after the five. He called the one who appeared to be the leader. He did not want to talk or cooperate. I reminded him that the inquisitor had the power to compel him to give evidence and if that evidence was self incriminating, so be it. He still refused so Iason asked for a brief recess in the proceedings. He went to Uncle. I do not know what he asked but he came back with a smile. He was on stage again and I knew it. Soon everyone would know it.
Iason told a brief story about this stone mason, who was recalcitrant and was beating his 15 year old son. His friend, Sir Kleitos had a good way of getting that mason's attention and cooperation. He had the man's bonds released. "Sir Kleitos would you please get this prisoner's attention so he will truthfully answer our questions?"
"With pleasure Inquisitor." Kleitos is about a head shorter then the man who was also several years his senior. Kleitos pointed to an open space in the plaza saying to the man "Go to it and be prepared for a beating like you have never had in your life." The marines formed a loose circle and they entered it. Kleitos faced him just out of reach and asked him again if he wished to cooperate with the inquisitor. The man lunged at Kleitos and in doing so was hit squarely in the face by Kleitos' foot. Down he went. He got up again and was stuck down again. Like before, Kleitos said nothing, every time the man went to get up Kleitos stuck him down.
While all this was going on Miltiades told the others that it was his father, that was the stone mason and reminded them, if they wished to avoid the same treatment, it would be a good idea to cooperate with the Inquisitor.
After about the tenth time of being downed the man did not try and rise. Kleitos did not approach any closer but asked again. "Are you prepared to answer the inquisitor's questions?" He said yes. Kleitos walked away and the marines helped the prisoner up. Gave him water and cleaned up his face and returned him to he court.
I declared the court back in section. "Now did you do those things you have been accused of?"
"Some of them, yes, but not all."
"Please tell us which you admit to and which you contest."
He admitted to the olive tree and several others but two he said were the work of others. "Who are these others?"
He identified the other four. "What role did the old farmer play?" He was reluctant to answer but as soon as Kleitos rose from his seat, found his tongue and spilled all. Several more questions were asked of the four and they answered them. They obviously did not want the same treatment their leader had received. The old man was another situation. He would not talk. He would not confirm or deny.
The young students wanted me to set Kleitos on him but I refused. I explained that he is old and Kleitos young. It would be an unfair match. Right now all here are against him. If we were to physically attack the old, even if guilty, they would turn against us. Remember justice must not only be done, it must be seen to be done. I think I have a better way.
This court finds you all guilty as charged. The heart of justice in Parga are the three pillars of: acceptance, atonement and restoration. You five, I named them, have accepted what you have done and understand it was wrong. Do you seek forgiveness of your transgressions? "Yes we do."
Restoration is only partly possible but atonement can be made. I sentence you to three years in Prince Lysandros' Service Core. Prince Lysandros do you accept these men in your service? He came running forward with Herakleides, his guardian, right behind. "Yes Judge Arden, if Lieutenant Herakleides and Sir. Kleitos think it a good idea."
They both nodded. It is so ordered then. You will receive half pay for this period of time, the other half will be given as compensation for the damaged olive tree until it has been recovered. You are now released into the care of Sir Kleitos and Sir Miltiades.
As for you old man, I am not satisfied that justice can be fully served here today. I believe this will be a process that lasts for some time yet. You will be taken to the new prison for a period of one month. That should allow you time to think on your situation. At the end of that time you will come before my court again. I do not wish to be punitive. True justice is restorative. A number of claims have been made and since they were not contested the court assumes they are accurate. The mayor will see to it, that those moneys are repaid over time. Do you wish to contest any of those claims? He did not. Your farm will be operated in trust until restitution has been achieved. Mayor be sure that the repayments are made fairly and that this farmer's family does not suffer by them. The repayments should come from surplus to their needs.
Does anyone have anything else to say on these matters? One citizen asked if the farmer should not receive some help in his olive grove. I thanked him for his concern. I could see the farmer was not interested, so I responded. I have some personal knowledge of olive groves and olive culture. I will meet with the farmer in the morning and render any assistance he may require.
This trial is completed. I thanked the students for their able assistance saying, justice has been done and you, the citizens of Ambelonia, have been a part of it. Go in peace.
We put everything away, while Father and Uncle were busy kissing babies and talking to the citizens. I saw my boys playing games with the local children. My three assistants helped us and sat with us drinking lemon water and eating sweets. They were full of questions, it seemed about everything. One asked me how I know so much about olives. At first they did not believe I grew up on a farm in Koalhurst.
I think it was when we all went swimming, Uncle and Father included, that cemented our new friendships. The female pages and guardians went with the girls and we all went with the boys. The youngest was about six. I don't think he could swim but Lysandros was with him and he sure could by the end. The three terrors were almost always surrounded by young boys and I could see several would be coming to the castle with us. Panther seemed to have that in hand, along with his prodigious penis. Between him, Odo and Lyuben all telling prince stories, I was sure many new requites would result. I hoped not to many. I didn't think we need all that many.
The marines had pitched tents for us and themselves behind the inn. We princes were moved out of the inn and our fathers took over our rooms. Well they are old men now and we are young. I like living in tents anyway. I was sure we would wake in the morning with more than one strange bed partner and that was exactly what happened.
We found ourselves with three new female page, and 13 boys between the ages of 12 and 16. The school teacher assured me all but one were bright and willing students. The one he thought was dull, seemed to attach himself to Miltiades. If he accepted him, who am I to question it.
Nikias and Zephyros came to me and Pegasus. Brother would you hold his lead, I need to fetch the boys who will ride with us. I took the lead and began talking with my guardians when the most beautiful boy of 14, tall, flowing long blond hair, long legs and wide shoulders appeared behind Nikias. He was being dragged forward to be more accurate. "Prince Arden, this is Hyginos," Nikias said. "Umar, Akakios and I have selected him to ride with you." I presented my hand and he kissed my ring. I smiled and winked at him, bending over kissing his cheek I whispered, pay no head to what I am about to say. Hyginos smiled and turned bright red.
If you have picked him why not ride on Zephyros, why with me? Perhaps Akakios should ride with me and Hyginos on his pony?
"Mentor, why is it you are always so difficult?" Because my beloved Nikias, when you and my foster sons all agree that I should do something, it is most often what you three desire. Did any one bother to even ask Hyginos what he desired? Now the boy was even redder. He is as easily embarrassed, as I am.
"We asked him dad," Umar voice came from behind me. "Grandpa thought it was a good idea," Akakios added. I threw up my hands and smiled. Then I guess we need mount up and start your new life adventure Hyginos.
Once riding, Hyginos became more talkative. I learned how he came to be here with me. He is the mayor's youngest son and it was Prince Karyakos that suggested he come to the palace. It was Nikias that organized the remainder of the little play. "Prince, Nikias advised that I direct your left hand to my manhood. In so doing flames of love would ignite and burn so brightly that my heart would become yours for ever."
He did just that and I was most pleasantly surprised to find a long hard slightly up turned erection. Just my touch seemed sufficient to cause him to swoon against my chest. Nikias was correct.
Those are not Nikias' words you understand. They come from one of Odo's love poems. He is a very prolific writer of them. That does not make it any less true. I kissed his neck and cheek. The boy was in love and I think myself as well. He seemed to relish my touch anyplace on his body, his legs, chest and shoulders, arms, neck and most certainly under his kilt. I counted four ejaculations by the time we reached the castle, each successive more intense. The taste of his seed on my fingers just made my own desire all the stronger.
We cared for our horses and went directly to the baths. Hyginos, once naked was the most beautiful of boys. I could see he would make a very fine runner as his legs were long and strong. His skin is so soft and sensitive to my touch. His young member was long, solid and slightly turned up. His most amazing feature is his buttocks. They are small and round. Each cheek is distinct. The cleft between is open and when he flexes his muscles each cheek become a hard ball. The boy's mouth is wide and bow shaped with thick lips that are as red as ripe cherries. We embraced and kissed most passionately my fingers sliding along the inviting cleft. I thought he would faint as they encountered his anus which he seemed to have full control over, as he is able to relax his muscles to allow easy entry.
All of us were engaged with a new boy including Ikaros, Dysme and their beloved's. Iason had the youngest looking of the group and he provide to be that, just 12. Iason told me it is Dios that encouraged him to leave home for the city and assigned him to himself. It would appear that all of our young charges have learned the way of the princes and well I must admit.
Once clean we all assembled in our apartments, naked as is our custom, so everyone could be properly introduced. Karyakos suggested that all the new boys spend the next two weeks in our company before being assigned to any specific duties or programs. Their belongings had been delivered to our apartment, something Ikaros would need find space for but not immediately. Proper clothing was soon found for everyone.
Nikias disappeared and returned with a medallion on the leather strip. He handed it to me. This is my symbol Hyginos, as long as you wear it all know that you are under my protection and in the service of the Crown Prince and Consort. It also tells all the men, hands off the nicest little butt in Parga, without Prince Arden's permission. I thought he would swoon as I tied it around his neck.
"Now that you ware Arden's symbol, as Umar, Akakios and I do, we share him as foster father, mentor and lover. That means we are now brothers. Brother share between," Nikias pulled the lad close and kissed him passionately. A kiss that Hyginos quickly returned in kind.
That is when I heard the beautiful voices of Umar and Akakios. They were not addressing me but Karyakos. "Beloved grandfather please make daddy let us stay here with the others tonight."
"Do you think Arden will have room enough in his bed?"
"That's all right we will stay in Lysandros' room, we are not old enough for sex." Umar responded.
Father came close to me and placing his arm around my shoulders which is just a little of a stretch for him said, "Arden son, you don't mind if Umar and Akakios stay with Lysandros tonight."
What could I say of course I didn't mind, Euthalia might. I was about to send them in that direction, as they at the very least should report to her, they had returned. Akakios' eye spotted the medallion and immediately ceased Hyginos' hand. "Come with us new brother, you need to meet our foster mother and the babies." They began pulling him away and I indicated Nikias to go with them.
"Besides his obvious physical charms have you learned what hidden talent lay in him?" No, not yet. From the smile on your face I take it you have.
"His father and his teacher told me his aptitude for numbers is very great. The teacher also said his favorite position was on his stomach with his legs spread wide. I think Nikias is as much taken by him as he is with you. Don't be surprised if those two become lovers."
Yes, I think this is a distinct possibility. Should I try and foster that. "No son, provide the opportunity and nothing more. For the next few days give him your complete attention. After that invite Nikias to your bed and keep him in the middle. They both love you. If love between them, greater than our brotherhood, is to grow, it will on its' own and in its' own time.
I take it from those words that Hyginos was the boy lover of the school teacher. It makes sense as he is obviously experienced. I think like many of the others he has a preference for males. I am sure he too will do his duty to keep the women producing babies but his heart will be with the men.
I can see that for myself, I would have some great conflict were it not for our custom. I truly love my Iason but I am also most happy with Euthalia. She is much more than the mother of my children. In that she is not alone, as about six others can claim the same title. I truly enjoy her company and not just in bed. Iason has the same problem but his is greater. He has not only a personal liking for Sophia but a legal and moral obligation to her. For both of their parts, Sophia and Euthalia seem to accept our love and loyalty to each other. I do not sense any jealousy of either of me or him.
This has been a long day for all. Our evening meal was quickly taken and all returned to sort out our sleeping arrangements. Dios and Nikias quickly abandoned Iason, our new boys and myself. Dios was most instant that Spiros be properly courted by his new mentor. He wanted Iason to be as loving and gentle as possible, Spiros being new to this. Spiros for his part said nothing but willingly engaged my beloved's penis licking it as with the relish children reserve for hard honey sticks. Iason for his was making sure this prepubescent boy was receiving all the pleasure a boy can.
Hy is experienced in man/boy sex at least in the receiving part. He greatly desires my kisses as I his. He told me he had little experience in fucking and great experience in being fucked. It is obvious he greatly enjoys receiving as most of us do. I think he will also enjoy giving once he has been encouraged to do so. I think it will be great pleasure for me in this instruction.
From our interactions during our ride and bath it was clear that he took great pleasure from my kisses and touches. Now in our bed he pressed his body against me, letting a maximum of our skin surfaces to contact.
My hands were mostly engaged in exploration of his round, pert buttocks. This was obviously very stimulating to him as he ejaculated when my fingers engaged the entrance to his love hole. He moved just enough to retrieve some ejaculate on his fingers and fed it to my lips.
Hy moved onto his stomach and spread his legs wide pulling, his knees up some, exposing his anus to my erection, which by this time was throbbing with anticipation. Like Damao, he is a master of this and once engaged he held my cock tight and working only is internal muscles, began fucking himself.
I think this a technique I must learn to master. At first he seemed just a bit disappointed that I did not last longer but I noticed he had ejaculated a second time. I did not feel bad about the shortness of the interaction. Hy scooped up the fluid and fed it to me. I recovered some and fed it to him. The flames of lust burned brightly between us and it will be a great pleasure in turning those flames into a fire.
I do not know what it is about this boy that drives my lust so. Like my beloved Iason, his very presence is comforting. His touch or kisses sending shivers through my body.
We woke entangled, our long legs and arms entwined. I turned him around and we began giving oral pleasure to each other. Soon after I felt my beloved's fingers and then his penis in my anus. I was in a state of absolute ecstasy. Once satiated I become aware of my surroundings. More correctly, the happenings in my surroundings. The actions and sound of pleasure filled the room. Somehow Iason had been able to fuck me and at the same time give pleasure to Spiros, who was in the midst of his own ecstasy of pleasure.
I think this name is appropriate (TN: short for Spyridon from the Latin spiritus, or spirit.) He does seem to have one, at least it speaks to me. I see much of Dios in him. Mostly I sense a desire for adventure.