Awakening in Hampshire

An Awakening in Hampshire: A Prequel - 1

Corinne Toman looked at her team. There was the brute, Doran Crumby, with his sword, shield, and helmet, and the smooth Lothar Mindy, his attire in subtle shades of green to blend into forest and field. Lothar's bow and quiver were on his back and the hilt of knives showed in his belt and boots.

Corinne was a Stone Priestess. She wore the garb of her order, a long purple and yellow robe, trimmed in fur. The robe was close fitting, emphasizing her medium, melon sized breasts. There was a leather belt around her trim waist. A belt knife and pack were attached. The robe flowed past her hips and was loose around her legs.

Corinne was the leader of the group. As an agent of the Rhyon Guild, the group that controlled the worldwide portal gem market. Corinne and her team would explore the areas around new portal openings. It was time to go to work.

Doran insisted on being in his armor. Thankfully, Corinne was able to talk him out of the plate armor into chain. It had been more than two years since they had encountered armed resistance. Doran was ready, regardless.

Lothar was useful for his hunting skill, both with bow and snare. His knowledge of edible plants also meant they could go with less provisions since they could live off the land.

Their horses and pack mules carried what provisions and equipment they would need for the planned two-week excursion. Since this was a new portal, no one knew where it opened. Was it a mountainous region or in the desert? Was it on a plain in a temperate area or deep in the arctic regions? They planned for any eventuality, so both warm clothing and water were priorities.

Corinne requisitioned thirty portal stones for this excursion, as well as ten stone cases. If they found people close to the portal, some could come back with them. She also had four testing stones so she could test for new priestesses.

The group was ready. Corinne gave both Doran and Lothar a stone. She also placed stones into the cases of the horses and mules. Doran and Lothar held the leads to the pack mules while Corinne activated the stone. To Doran, every trip he made through the portal felt like his insides were being sucked out through his feet. The light swirled, became dark, and then swirled again as they arrived at the new portal. It took a few minutes to calm the horses and mules after they landed.

Corinne looked around this new land. They landed in some low hills. To the north were larger hills, not like the mountains of Europa, but might be considered mountains here. They looked formidable. They were in a forest clearing full of color. There were evergreens, with their pungent, pine scent, as well as hardwoods​ like oak and maple. The leaves were turning so there was the green of the pines and the yellows and reds of the hardwoods. When they left Europa, fall was almost over and the cold of winter was setting in. It surprised Corinne that it was so warm on this side of the portal. All three of them were beginning to sweat.

The horses and mules had calmed. Doran and Lothar made a quick reconnaissance of the area. Finding no threat, Doran led the small group from the portal. They could hear the sound of running water toward the northeast. If there was a town or civilization here, along the water would make sense. Corinne took readings and made note​ of landmarks so they could find the Portal again. They headed toward the sound of water.

Lothar's sharp eyes caught sight of several different animals, both predator and prey. "I'll be able to catch dinner tonight," Lothario said. "It seems humans don't get up this way often."

A few hours ride to the northeast revealed the what they sought. It was a fast moving river, full of boulders and whitewater, flowing out of the hills above them. They dismounted​ and allowed the horses and mules to water themselves and graze along the riverbank.

"I'm going upstream a little ways to bathe and cool down. Watch the animals," Corinne said and turned to walk up beyond a bend in the river.

"This will be a good place to stop for the night," said Lothar. "I know there is plenty of daylight, but portal travel takes its toll on the animals. I'll set some snares."

Doran pulled fishing equipment from one of the mules. Corinne shook her head as she saw Doran. "That man does love to fish," she thought. As she passed out of sight of the men, Corrine removed her belt and then her robe. Underneath, she had worn a divided skirt that was almost like a pair of breeches and a light blouse that was now soaked with sweat. She found a place with a calm pool, pulled the blouse over her head and the skirt she slid down her hips. She slipped into the icy waters. Her skin went all goosey and her nipples puckered. The water was colder than she thought, the current stronger, even in this calm area of the river. To her overheated body, it felt wonderful. Somewhere in the distance, Corinne could hear a waterfall. She could also hear the birds chattering all around her.

As her body got used to the cold water, she relaxed and closed her eyes. Portal travel always made her anxious, especially the unexplored journeys. She remembered her fellow Priestess Renee and her team. They had made an initial Portal jump last year. It had opened near the drop-off of a cliff. One of her protectors fell and was lost. Corinne couldn't imagine losing Doran or Lothar. She understood why it took the animals time to calm down, it took her awhile too.

Portals allowed travel over a vast space in the blink of an eye. It wasn't normal. It made a large world much, much smaller. Corinne was always curious to see what wonders they would find in a new country, wherever that country was.

Cooled off and clean, Corinne climbed on a flat rock and enjoyed the feeling of the warm sun on her bare skin. In Europa, it was already cold. Higher elevations like this had already seen its first snow of the year. Wherever they were, it must be south of home. She closed her eyes and quickly fell asleep.

After what seemed like only a few minutes, Corinne sat up shrieking and dripping from the cold water that had been splashed on her. Lothar had discovered her bathing spot and chosen to wake her in such a shocking way. Lothar was in the water, at the foot of her rock, only his torso showed. Corrine realized she was naked and covered her breasts with an arm. "What are you doing here?" she screamed.

"It's been a few hours and we were getting worried. I figured I'd better check on you. You better be careful, you're going to get your bits sunburned," Lothar said. "That would be a shame too. They are nice looking bits."

"Well, I'm awake now. Go on back so I can get dressed. I'll be there in a few moments. "

"It might be best if I stay in the water. I'll turn around while you go by and dress, but I don't want to cause you any more embarrassment."

Corinne spied Lothar's clothing on the bank. "Turn around then." As Lothar turned his back, Corinne chuckled to herself at his predicament. She climbed down off the rock and headed to shore. She put on just her robe and carried the blouse and skirt in her arms. She had a lightweight robe in her saddlebags. "You can turn around now," Corrine stated as she tightened her belt. "I would think the cold water would help your condition," she said, laughing as she walked downstream.

Doran was still fishing. "Have you caught us dinner?"

"And breakfast," Doran smirked, displaying a string of trout. "Did Lothar find you? He was worried."

"He found me. He'll be back soon. I ended up napping on a rock." Corinne found her saddlebags and pulled out the lighter, shorter robe. She pulled on the divided skirt, looked to see if anyone could see her, then took off the heavy robe and replaced it with the lighter one. Without the blouse, it showed more of her chest. It's not like the men hadn't seen her before.

The evening passed uneventfully. Corinne offered to take the first watch. Other than seeing eyes glowing in the distance, nothing came close. The other watches passed as uneventfully as hers.

The next morning, they ate the leftover fish from the day before. Lothar checked his snares and returned with three rabbits. They would make a good lunch and dinner.

After the rabbits were cleaned, they started downstream. The land was beautiful. The forest was a mix of colors, greens, reds, yellows, and browns, as fall approached. The land went steadily downhill with small rises along the way. Forest changed to meadow, then back to forest. Around midday, they noticed a haze of smoke in the distance.

"Civilization ahead?" Corinne asked.

"It has the signs, my lady," said Doran.

Lothar started a cook fire as Doran hobbled, fed, and watered the animals. "What type of people should we expect?" asked Corinne.

"I expect a fairly small village or town. Mostly farmers, I would guess, since there is not much sign of them. If it was a large town, we would see wood harvesting this close. I did notice a drop off in animal population, but not a severe one," said Lothar.

"So we shouldn't expect an armed presence? Will there be some sort of local nobility or Lord?" asked Corinne.

"In Europa there would be. Here, I don't know," said Lothar as he put the rabbits on spits and placed them on the fire to cook. "We should be prepared for a Lord or at least a mayor or town official."

"So, don't go in too fierce, friend Doran. If they are farmers, we don't want to scare them," ordered Corinne.

"As my lady commands," said Doran. "I will still lead us into whatever town or city we find. You are my charge to protect, and protect you I will."

"I know," Corinne said giggling. "You have protected me in the past, and I know you will in the future. You are a faithful companion to me, even when I go all formal language on you."

"And me?" asked Lothar. "You find me a faithful companion as well?"

"I find you a pain in my arse most often," Corinne said laughing, taking a skewer of rabbit from Lothar. "You are useful at times, though."

"Don't let her tease you, little brother," Doran said. "She knows we need you."

"She's just mad because I saw her naked and splashed water on her when I woke her up. I know she loves me," teased Lothar.

Corinne blushed and said, "Let's finish up and see what this town is about."

They quenched the fire and loaded up again. About 30 minutes later, they came to signs of civilization. Trees had been cleared and fences were seen in the distance with houses further on. They paralleled the fence line until they reached a small road that led into town.

The road passed between two large farms. The farmland turned to more wooded areas with homes which then led into the city proper. It looked to be a fairly prosperous village. However, they were surprised by the dress, or lack of it, by the citizens. The men were often dressed in nothing more than a loincloth. The women were in a the thin, flowing wrap, sometimes fully covered, but more often than not, topless. Many of the young girls and boys ran around completely naked.

The village had all the necessities and a market close to the center of town. The villagers were shy around them. Their clothing marked them as outsiders, and the sword at Doran's hip made the men wary and the boys envious.

Corinne tried to speak to the villagers, but there was a language problem. They'd run into similar issues in other locations. One of the merchants, Ben Goldsmith, came to their rescue. He was the town jeweler and had traveled widely, including to Europa. He was able to pick out enough words to understand who they were.

Ben led them to the town square. They saw four sets of restraining pillars or tables in the square. Ben called them stocks. He stated, "Tomorrow, you can see how they are used. The Pillory is the primary punishment tool in the village."

Two men were waiting for them. Word spread quickly of their arrival. The men were dressed in light wool breeches and shirts, one of them wearing a symbol of office. The older of the two greeted them in their language. He was Judge Jerry Williams and had spent some of his youth in Europa. The other gentleman was the Mayor, Benjamin Major.

"Welcome to Hampshire, Stone Priestess, Protectors. May you find your visit with us enlightening and productive. We are honored by your presence," Judge Williams pronounced.

"May I ask where we are, exactly?" Corinne asked. "I assume the city is Hampshire, but what country are we in?"

The Judge blinked in astonishment and said, "How can you not know? You are on the Isle of Sedgwick, in the Western Sea, off the continent of Eustrecha. Did you arrive by ship in Carrington?"

"We traveled by Portal Stone from Europa to a place less than a day's ride in the hills. We know not where Carrington is. We are scouting for the Rhyon Guild. Whenever a new portal opens, we look to see were it goes and inform the people it is here."

"A Portal! I always thought they were a fantasy. It's in our hills? What does that mean?" the Judge asked.

"New markets for your products, an influx of people. Some have seen a new town form at the Portal site. It depends on the satisfaction of your people and the uniqueness​ of your wares," Corinne said.

"Our primary unique product is wool and wool products. There are a lot of sheep farms here. Our wool is prized throughout Sedgwick. I am concerned that some may see an open world and flee. Hampshire is a quiet village. There is not a lot of excitement or opportunity here," the Judge stated with concern.

"I noticed there didn't seem to be a lot of modesty in the way the citizens dress. Is that normal here?" Corinne asked.

The Judge smiled and answered. "It is. We are overdressed, but that comes with the office. If I'm here working, you might find me naked. The weather here is warm to hot year round. Clothes add to the heat. They collect sweat, begin to smell, have to be washed. Wearing as few clothes as possible minimizes all of those. We still sweat, but the wind and sun dry it. We have the river that anyone can use to wash. If everyone is already mostly naked, you don't have to hide anything."

"My wife, Judy, is normally here. In our society, the women own the businesses. They are passed to the eldest daughter. The men work alongside them. I became Judge by marrying Judy, the eldest daughter of the previous Judge. Benjamin is the Mayor, but that is an elected office. His wife owns a farm that they work as well."

"Many of the marriages here are nontraditional," the Judge continued. "Multiple wives, husband's, or both are common. Sex is normal here, it's not a hidden act. It is something to be celebrated and is often performed in the view of others. As with clothing, it is just normal. I hope you aren't shocked by these revelations. I remember my time in Europa and things were very different there."

Corinne answered, "One of the concepts we learn is that every culture is different. We're also taught to blend in. During our stay, we will need to acquiesce to the local customs. I saw some ladies in a light, flowing wrap of some sort. Where might I purchase something like that?"

"Mr. Rahibii's shop sells them. It is called a sarong. He has brought them in by ship from somewhere in Eustrecha. I suppose now they can come in via the Portal," the Judge mused.

"Is there a place we can stay for a few days?" Corinne asked. "We need as much information as we can get. We need to see maps. Eustrecha is south of Europa. I understand now why it is so warm here. If the women back home dressed as yours do, they would be arrested. You mentioned the untraditional marriages with multiple husband's and wives, does that mean sexual contact between men and women is encouraged?"

"You mean men with men and women with women?" Corinne nodded in answer to the Judge's question. "While not encouraged​, it's not forbidden either. In our view, sex is sex. It's about giving and receiving pleasure. As long as everyone agrees, does anything else matter?"

"What about children?" Corinne asked.

The Judge looked pensive and replied. "Children are a different matter. What I just said applies after the age of majority. The age of majority is sixteen. An adult, or anyone past the age of majority, cannot engage in sexual activity with those not having reached that age. Now, if children play with other children, we don't​ prohibit that. Anyone caught violating our children is subject to serving at the Pillory."

That struck a chord with Lothar. "We saw this Pillory as we rode in. Can you explain it?"

The Judge smiled. "The Pillory is our form of punishment. We have confinement cells for the accused, but once convicted, they must serve at the Pillory for a period of hours to days depending on the severity of the crime. The Pillory is public, sexual service. Anything sexual can be performed on the person serving. For women, some serve with all three of their orifices, others, just the two primary orifices, depending on their age and the severity of the crime."

"So, it's basically a public​ gang rape," said a shocked Corinne.

The Judge shook his head. "No. It's not rape at all. Those serving agree to it. The alternative is the prison in Carrington. Most never return from there. The Pillory option is much better and resolves it in hours instead of years."

"I could never..." began Corinne.

"You're right," interrupted the Judge. "You couldn't. Remember you grew up in a repressed society. Everything sexual was done behind closed doors. Showing skin of any kind was a transgression. We have a different world view. Our society is different. It's more open, more accepting. Even with that, there is still a stigma about male on male sex. Some men will get into some minor trouble so they are 'forced' into having sex with other men. There is no guilt that way."

"What about disease? Unrestrained sex like that has to be a breeding ground for all kinds of diseases," Corinne opined.

"We have some protection. This form of punishment was set up when we had a Stone Priestess in residence. Something she did has allowed our village to miss many of the diseases of the surrounding areas. You will hear more about her at dinner."

"Forgive me," said Corinne. "You are correct. I was raised in that kind of setting. This is strange to me. I must remember that strange doesn't mean wrong. It's just different. I must resist judging you because of how I was taught. I need to be open enough to examine what I believe and the reasons for them."

"That's a good way to think about it, Priestess. We would like to hold a feast in your honor. We'll have some of our leading citizens join in the festivities. How long do you plan to stay with us?"

"At least a week or so. How far is it to Carrington? Is it a bigger city?"

"It's about a two day ride south. It is larger. It is a port town and the center of what government we have here. At this distance, we are mostly independent. We have our own laws and ways. For example, they think our way of dress is obscene, much like you do. " Corinne colored at that comment. "That doesn't stop them from ogling our women any time they come through. I appreciate that you are going to attempt to dress like us while you are here. That is very different from most outsiders."

"I'll be self-conscious at first, maybe even the whole time. I'll get over it though, if these two lechers let me," she said, looking at Lothar and Doran, smiling.

"I'm sure there will be others we can look at," said Lothar. "Besides, I saw you this morning. I wasn't that impressed."

"So that's why you couldn't get out of the water? You weren't impressed? It's me who probably wouldn't have been impressed if you did. I've seen you piss."

"All right you two, quit your barking. Sometimes you act like children," said Doran. "It will be interesting for all of us to be like the people who live here. You might as well both admit it."

"I'm sorry," replied Corinne, "you're right, Doran. I'm just on edge about being on display as it were. Dressed as we are, we're actually the one's on display." Corinne untied her belt, removed it and handed it to Lothar. She then removed her robe, gave it to Lothar as well and stood there topless. "Where is this sarong seller?"

Lothar and Doran stared at Corinne. She had never been this open. She looked beautiful and sexy in just her divided skirts and boots. Corinne felt self-conscious. Her nipples puckered and she flushed from her head to her chest.

"I'll show you," said the Judge. "You have Europan ducats for coins?"

"We do," said Corinne. "We also have some letters of rights if we need more funds."

"We should go see Trevor and Sophie Banks first. They own our bank and can change your ducats into pounds."

"You use the same as Britannia?" Corinne asked.

"We do. The original settlers of Sedgwick came from Britannia. The money is one custom we still hold."

"I actually have some Britannic money as well, so I won't need to go see the bankers for now. We'd still like to meet them," said Corrine.

Judge Williams led them out of the office and onto the Pillory. "We'll have two people serving here tomorrow. You are welcome to use either of them. There will be a man serving for assault, and a young lady serving for theft." The Judge helped Corinne and the men learn some of the differences in their language as he led them to Rahibii's shop.

Solomon Rahibii greeted them. His wife Mina helped Corinne pick out five sarongs. Two full size and three minis. Mina gave Corinne a quick lesson on different​ ways to tie them, to cover or expose. "You have beautiful breasts and nothing to be ashamed of. You could leave them bare," Mina said.

Corinne blushed again. "Thank you. I think walking over here topless was enough for now. Them moving around under this thin fabric will take some getting used to. Maybe tomorrow."

While Corinne was shopping for sarongs, Judge Williams took the men to the Victoria Weaver's wool shop. Doran and Lothar picked out a couple of loincloths and some local made breeches and shirts. They both wore loincloths back to Rahibii's shop.

Corinne was shocked as the two men entered in nothing but a loincloth, shocked and a little titillated. They​ looked at Corinne and approved of how she looked in her brightly colored sarong. Judge Williams then led them to the Inman's inn. Corinne definitely noticed the difference in clothing as she rode her horse. The way she was seated had nothing between her tender flesh and the saddle. When she dismounted, she was embarrassed to see a small wet spot where she had been sitting.

The Judge told them that someone from the Drover's stable would look after their horses. They took their saddlebags and checked into the inn. Liza and George Inman were happy to rent them three rooms. They left with a promise from Judge Williams that he and his wife would join them for dinner, at the inn, along with some of the leading citizens.

Corinne asked Liza how she and the men should dress for dinner. Liza replied, "You are just fine. Some of the ladies might come sans tops, but the men will be in breeches and shirts."

"Thank you, Liza. As outsiders, we don't want to offend," said Corinne as she and the men went up the stairs.

Corinne's room was comfortable and there was water for washing. She did so and then met the men to explore the town. The normal shops were in place, butcher, barrel maker, Tanner, candlemaker, furniture, and there was a small market with stalls selling fresh produce and a meat pie vendor along with a baker. They all purchased a small cake and a meat pie and they noticed they had attracted a following. Some young girls and boys were watching, all of them without clothes.

Seeing that much nakedness was still a shock for Corinne. However, she could see the logic behind the lack of clothes. It was warm here, even this late in the year. No one enjoyed washing clothes. She noticed a lack of overly perfumed people. It was a more natural, human smell instead of an overpowering floral stench. She also realized they didn't throw their night soil in the streets. Each structure had a privy. The chamberpots were emptied into the privy, rather than the street. That left a much more pleasant smell to the town as a whole.

Corinne turned to their followers, and sat down on the side of the road. She motioned the children to her. She tried to communicate with them and was able to get some basic information about the town. She thought the goddess must be helping her learn the language. Corinne sent Doran to buy some cakes for the children.

One of the girls she had seen at the inn. Her name was Becca and was the Inman's daughter. She was the oldest of the group. One of the girls was the daughter of the grocer, another of the Solicitor. One of the boys was the son of the stable master and another the son of the miller. None of them looked twice at their nakedness. It was normal for them. The arrival of Corinne's group was the most excitement Hampshire had seen in a while. The children are their cakes, then ran off giggling to each other.

Lothar helped Corinne up off the ground. A sarong doesn't​ do much to preserve modesty and Lothar inadvertently got a view between Corinne's legs. As much as he teased her, he was very attracted to her. Finding her sunning on the rock this morning, and now seeing her in the sarong, didn't help. Lothar's loincloth lifted as his member grew. Corinne noticed and flushed pleasantly.

Doran was oblivious to the interplay of his companions. More traffic appeared on the streets as evening approached. Shop owners and workers headed home. Doran and Lothar were both entranced by the amount of flesh on display. Loincloths may not have been the best choice for them to wear that afternoon. Corinne noticed the substantial swelling at both Doran and Lothar's crotches.

"Come on, men. We better get back before you embarrass yourselves," Corinne said with a twinkle in her eye. She was glad they walked instead of riding horses. She'd have left more than a small wet spot now. There was something about this town seemed to awaken things that had been dormant for a long time.

As they entered the inn, Liza stopped Corinne. "Dinner will be ready in about 30 minutes. I expect the guests to begin arriving soon. Is there anything you need?"

"I don't think so, Liza. I just need to wash and change my sarong. I'll make sure the men are ready and we'll be down."

"If you need help tieing it, I can either send someone up or come myself. I can help you look like you've been wearing sarongs for years," Liza said.

"If you don't​ mind, I'd like that, especially since we'll be meeting so many of the town's leaders. I want to look my best."

"You would look great any way you came," Liza said. "You have a figure most women would love to have."

"Thank you, Liza," Corinne said, blushing. "It's not something​ I hear often at home."

"You should hear it more often. I'll give you a few minutes to clean up and then come help you," Liza said and then shooed Corinne up the stairs.

Corinne stopped by the men's rooms. Doran was still in his loincloth. She let him know they were expected downstairs soon. Lothar was already naked and cleaning up, holding a small piece of toweling in front of him as Corinne informed him of the time for them to be ready. Corinne couldn't help but wonder what the towel was hiding, then wondered why she thought that. She went to her own room, untied the sarong, and leaned heavily against the door. "I've got to get ahold of myself," Corinne thought as she absently fondled her nipple. She shook herself and walked over to the washstand. She washed the sweat from under her arms and her breasts. She ran her fingers gets her legs, shivered and marveled at how wet she was. She washed the wetness and sweat from between her legs and then heard a knock at the door.

Corinne held the full length sarong in front of her. Since she was expecting Liza, she said, "Come in." Instead of Liza, it was Lothar, dressed in his new breeches and shirt. He looked sexy and handsome.

"I just wanted to let you know I'll be downstairs to meet our guests. I'm sorry to embarrass you by coming in like this," Lothar said.

Corinne dropped her hands. "You might as well see. It seems like this place drops everyone's inhibitions. Go ahead and look."

Lothar drank in the sight of her naked curves. As much as he teased her earlier, she was beautiful. The sun this morning had turned her skin pink. Her breasts​ were full with a dark pink nipple. The hair between her legs was as blonde as the hair on her head. Corinne's tight slit plainly showed through the hair. "Um, I'll be downstairs," Lothar said, his face flushed.

As Lothar started to close the door, Liza came in. Corinne still hadn't covered herself, and noted the tension in the air. "Everything okay, Priestess?"

Corinne flushed down to her nipples. "I don't​ know what's come over me. I've never done anything like that before."

"Welcome to Hampshire, where inhibitions flee. I know we're different, but you'll get used to us. I was right. You are beautiful. Now, how much do you want to show tonight?" Liza asked.

"What do you think, Liza? Should I be modest or bold?" Liza arranged the sarong so that Corinne's left breast was bare and her right breast covered.

"How about this, Priestess?" Liza asked, turning Corinne to the small mirror.

"Why does showing myself like this make me feel powerful? Shouldn't it make me self-conscious? This does look elegant, even though I'm exposed."

"Yes ma'am. Elegant is the perfect word," Liza agreed as she tied the sarong. "I see your nipple is hard. It is exciting, isn't it?"

"It is," admitted Corinne. "I've been excited all day. I don't​ understand it."

"Part of it is the freedom here. You come from a place where expression is limited, even repressed. Even though I don't think you've seen any sexual acts today, you have probably seen more bare skin than you have in years. Your men aren't sure where to look, whether they can look. No one minds the looking, fixating, that's a problem, but noticing, looking, reacting is fine. If you visit the Pillory tomorrow, you will see something completely foreign to you. You will be fine, though. Your necklace sets off your look nicely. You will be the hit of the dinner."

"Are you joining us, Liza?"

"Just to serve. Someone has to bring the food in. My son, Jacob, and I will be serving your dinner tonight."

"I thank you for your kindness and advice. I hope I will not be the only one showing skin tonight."

"If you are, it won't be for long. That's the marvelous thing about sarongs. The are so versatile. You can be completely modest or extremely daring. It's all in the way you tie it."

"I can't imagine being much more daring than this," Corinne said, looking at​ her bare boob, her nipple standing up.

"I could tie it so that while your standing still, you're covered, but when you move, everything shows."

"I don't think I'm quite ready for that," Corinne said, laughing.

"Well, let's get you downstairs. I'm sure your young man is dying to see how you decided to dress."

Corinne bristled, even as a feeling of desire tightened her loins. "He's not my young man."

"Not yet maybe, but the night is still young," Liza said, laughing as she led Corinne down the stairs.

Corinne was very self-conscious of her bouncing, bare breast as she descended the steps. She unconsciously crossed her arms to cover herself. "Put your hands by your sides," Liza said. "Walk in there like you are a queen."

Corinne did as Liza suggested. She stood tall, pushed her shoulders back, and entered the room. Conversation stopped as she walked in. A quick glance showed she was not the only one with bare breasts. She sighed in relief. There were six couples in attendance, but one was a threesome. Judge Williams introduced his wife Judy. She was one of the ladies with a bare chest. She wore a mini sarong on the bottom and had large breasts with hard, brown nipples. She gave each of them a hug. It had been a long time since Corinne had felt a bare breast against her own bare breast.

The Mayor's wife, Veronica was there. She was in a more modest full length sarong. Of the four couples they had not met, the first introduced were the Fieldstone's, Grady and Zoe. Grady was the miller. Zoe, his wife was also bare chested. Her medium sized breasts were topped with brown nipples. Instead of a sarong, she wore a wool skirt on the bottom.

So!icitor Dan Simmons and his wife Tillie were next. Tillie's sarong was tied similar to Corinne's with her perky right breast showing. Trevor and Sophie Banks were next. Trevor was the town banker. Sophie wore a skirt and stylish blouse.

The final couple was the threesome. They were the Steerman's, one of the leading farm families. Jaim, the husband, introduced his wives, Belinda, wearing a full sarong, and Mae wearing a mini, her large breasts swaying as she moved. Hugs were exchanged, but when she reached Mae, the hug was different. Mae was a Stone Priestess! She was a weak one, but a Priestess indeed. "Please don't say anything. Can we talk later?" Mae asked. "Very few people know here."

"Of course. I'm excited to meet you. We definitely need to talk."

They were called to the table for dinner. The three guests were spaced throughout the town members. After a dinner of mutton, Judge Williams asked Corinne to explain to the others about the Portal. Corinne explained what and where it was and what kind of opportunities it offered. She also explained that there were people on the other side of the Portal waiting to come through and open shop. The window of opportunity was there, but it was small.

Mayor Major and Solicitor Simmons said they would have maps for her to look at tomorrow if she wanted to come by the Mayor's office. Trevor said she could come by the bank and exchange her ducats for pounds. Judy offered to ride with them to see the Steerman's farm and some of the other farmers. Grady let them know that their other husband and wife ran the stable and their mounts were well taken care of.

As the evening wore down, Corinne let Doran and Lothar know to meet in he room. Mae cornered Corinne and said they would talk tomorrow afternoon at their house. "It's been a long time since I was able to talk to another sister."

"I look forward to talking to you as well. I'm surprised to find a sister this far from civilization. I'd love to hear your story."

"I'll tell you. There is actually quite a history here. I'm hoping we may have two in the generation growing up now."

"That would be amazing since we are dwindling in numbers. Is one of these new ones your daughter?"

"Yes. She's not even ten get. You met Zoe, her mother was a Priestess, but it missed her. She's hopeful her daughter inherited powers."

"It does often skip a generation. I suppose I need to settle down and have children at some point."

"I saw how that young man looked at you tonight. Is there something going on there?" Mae inquired.

"If you had asked me yesterday, I would​ have said 'Never.' But now? It scares me to think of it. It's been so long since I've let go. I let him see me naked before dinner. I had taken my sarong off to wash. I thought it was Liza coming to help me tie it."

"You look beautiful, Corinne. She did a great job."

"Thank you, Mae. He knocked on the door. I held the sarong in front of me and told him to come in, thinking it was Liza. When I saw it was Lothar, I just dropped my hands and let him see me. I've never done anything​ like that before."

"How did it make you feel?"

"Beautiful, empowered. I was taking the steps, not following his. I could tell he liked what he saw. What's odd to me is I liked showing. I've never been that way before. I've always covered everything. Now, it's like I don't even notice my boob hanging out."

Mae cupped Corinne's breast and Corinne gasped as Mae caressed he nipple. "And a beautiful boob it is. I hope you don't mind me taking the liberty. You know I have a wife and our pod is open."

Corinne's head was spinning. "What does that mean?"

"We are polyamorous. That means multiple loves. I have both a husband and a wife, and I make love to both of them, often together, sometimes separate. That is our pod. You met the Fieldstone's tonight. They have a pod of three men and two women. We're open which means we can take other lovers as well. For example, if you wanted to have sex with me, we could."

Corinne felt her belly tighten. "I've never, I mean, it's not done where I come from. I wouldn't know how or what to do." Corinne felt Mae's hand move inside the doors of her sarong. She felt the hand first caress her bottom, the move to the front. She tried to push the hand away.

"Don't deny yourself, Corinne. We both serve the goddess. You know she encourages us to enjoy the pleasures our body can give us," Mae said as her hand slid between Corinne's legs. Corinne opened her legs wider and let out a small moan as Mae touched her sensitive inner parts. "You're very wet, Corinne," Mae said rubbing her fingers through Corinne's lower lips.

"I've been that way all day," Corinne moaned. "I left a wet spot on my saddle earlier." Mae pulled her finger​s out of Corinne and licked them.

"You taste delicious. Will you let me taste you directly tomorrow?" Mae asked.

"I've never," Corinne started as Mae took Corinne's hand and moved it between her own legs and into her wet slit. Corinne moaned as Mae pulled Corinne's wet fingers out and pushed them​ into Corinne's mouth.

"Now you've tasted another woman. We'll have more fun tomorrow."

Stunned, Corinne could only nod. Mae gave her a kiss and pushed her tongue into Corinne's mouth. Corinne moaned and melted into Mae's arms. As they broke the kiss, Corinne locked eyes with Lothar who looked on with both hunger and shock on his face. Corinne flushed red from the top of her head to her breasts.

"I'll see you tomorrow, Corinne," Mae said. "Go take care of your man." Mae turned, linked arms with her husband and wife, and left the dining area.

Corinne stood there stunned until Liza came to her and asked, "Are you okay?"

Corinne shook herself. "I think so. I've never felt out of my element like this before." Seeing that Doran and Lothar had gone upstairs, she continued, "I better go upstairs and talk to the men about tomorrow."

"Yes, go talk to them," Liza said smiling. "I'm sure at least one of them needs more than talk."

"I know, I know. I just don't​ know if I should. I mean, what would Doran say or do?"

"I wouldn't worry about Doran. His eyes didn't linger much on the women. They were elsewhere."

"You mean, the men?" Liza nodded. "I had no idea."

"Watch at the Pillory tomorrow. I bet he'll show some of his true nature then. He's not been in a place that is safe for his desires. Now, he is. He can explore which side of men he likes best. Mae's husband can be very forceful. I'm sure he will have the opportunity to explore tomorrow."

"That must be where Mae gets it", Corinne thought. She then verbalized, "That would be interesting to see. I guess everything is changing. Well, I better go face them. Thank you for everything, Liza."

Corinne headed up the stairs. Doran and Lothar were waiting outside her room. They had both changed into their loincloths, claiming it was too hot to remain in those clothes. Corinne's knees were weak seeing them, especially Lothar.

Corinne opened the door and led them into the room. "Did we learn anything at dinner?"

Doran answered first. "Not much more than we already knew. I learned how their poly pods work from the Fieldstones. Theirs is interesting. They have two primary couples who share between them, plus a third man they call a secondary. He's as comfortable being with the men as he is the women." Corinne noticed Doran's loincloth rise as he talked.

"What do you think of that, Doran?" Corinne asked.

"It's so foreign to how we live and have been taught. It's interesting, though, on both counts. I don't understand how a woman can watch a man she loves with another man. I can't think of any women at home like that," Doran said, a sad look in his eyes.

"Lothar, what about you? Any interesting facts?"

"I did notice that one breast looked far superior to the others on display." Corinne blushed and crossed her arms across her chest. "I was with the Solicitor and Mayor. They gave me some of the history of the town. They explained more about the matriarchal business nature. It makes it difficult for anyone other than a first daughter to be successful. They also explained that while the women owned the businesses, the man owned the bedroom. Women can and​ do say 'No' at times, but the men choose the time, place, others involved, what acts are performed, and so on. They both said the trade off was very worth it. I also noticed the topless women seemed freer, less uptight, than the dressed women. I thought that was interesting."

"So the plan tomorrow is, in the morning, see the Solicitor, the Mayor, and the Judge to look at maps of Sedgwick. In the afternoon, we'll go to the Steerman's farm to see Jaim, Belinda, and Mae. They want us to see this Pillory in action either before or after we look at the maps. Does that sound like a plan?"

"Yes, that works for us," said Lothar. "Good night, Corinne." Lothar and Doran let the room. Corinne was almost disappointed that she was alone. She untied her sarong, folded it, and laid it on a chair. She noticed it was wet where she had sat on it.

At home, she would wear a shift to bed, but with the heat, and the circumstances of the area, she decided to stay naked. As she lie back on the bed, her hands began caressing her breasts and nipples. She began to relax as her hands moved down her body.

Corinne was startled by a knock at the door. Before she thought about her nakedness, she called out, "Come in." Both Lothar and Doran walked in and drank in the sight of her on the bed. Corinne realized her state of undress, and tried to cover herself.

Lothar dropped his loincloth and got on the bed with her. "You might as well quit trying to cover yourself. You know you hoped we would come back, or at least one of us. Doran and I talked. We want to immerse ourselves in the culture here. I'll be the primary man, and Doran the secondary. As the primary, I'm in charge in the bedroom. That fair? So, move your arms and quit hiding your body."

Corinne blushed but moved her arms as Doran removed his loincloth. Both Lothar and Doran had erect members. Surprisingly, Lothar's was bigger than Doran's. Lothar leaned over and kissed Corinne. "You are amazingly beautiful. I've wanted this for a long time, but you've never shown any signs of interest. I loved seeing you on display tonight. The one breast was perfect. Now that I see them both, you are stunning." Lothar's hand began to caress her left breast amd teased the nipple. Corinne was still stunned by this turn of events. "Doran wants to try some things that are forbidden at home. Are you ready for a new experience Corinne?" Corinne nodded, breathlessly. "Here's what we're going to try. Corinne, I want you to climb up and put your beautiful, fragrant slit on my mouth. I'll lick you while Doran tries to suck my cock. You can watch him and give him pointers. Do you think you can do that?"

"After you kiss me some more, yes, I can," Corinne said, moving to give Lothar a deep, soulful kiss. She reached down and stroked his hard member. Corinne broke the kiss and called Doran over. She put Doran's hand on Lothar's cock and began kissing him again. Breaking the kiss, she turned to Doran, "Is this why you never had a long relationship, Doran? You prefer men over women?"

Doran blushed but kept stroking Lothar's cock. "I like women just fine, but I have always been attracted to men. If there is a man at the Pillory tomorrow, I may try him. I've heard that Jaim, well, he enjoys a man's behind. I may try that too. You won't tell?"

"Of course not. We have been a team for a long time. Are you both ready to cross that barrier?"

"Corinne, I know I've been a pain in your arse, but it's only because I've come to realize that I love you," Lothar said. "I've been wanting this for a long time. I just didn't know how to make it happen. This gives us the opportunity. I'm willing to commit to you if that's what you want."

"What? Lothar, what are you saying?" Corinne demanded.

"I'm saying I've wasted too much time being afraid to do what we're doing now. We could have done this years ago, but I never took the chance. Corinne, Priestess, I want to be your husband. I want you to be my wife. What these people have developed, relationship wise, makes sense to me. I want to have babies with you, to raise a new generation with you. If Doran wants to join us as a secondary, like the Fieldstone's, he would be welcome in our bed. The only bedmate I care about is you, Corinne. Others can come and go, but you are my constant."

Corinne sat up, looking at the two men in her bed. "You mean that, don't you, Lothar? My goddess, how could I have been so blind? My frustrations with you have real!y been frustrations with myself. Yes, I will be your wife, and yes, Doran can be our secondary, if he wants. He is welcome to join us and be committed to us. I also like the freedom they have here. Others may join us or we can be with any as long as we end up in each other's arms each night. I want babies, your babies, and I want to raise them with you. Where will we live? That's something we can answer later."

Corinne didn't notice the glowing Stone around her neck. "Corinne, look at your necklace," Lothar said.

"The goddess approves. I wonder if she's saying, 'About time' to us", Corinne said, tears of joy running down her cheeks.

Lothar kissed Corinne and wiped the tears away. They embraced and turned to Doran who had tears of his own flowing down his face. "You will really allow me to stay with you, even knowing my perverted desires? I have committed myself to your protection for years. Yes, I'm willing to commit my body and myself to the both of you for however long you want to use me. I want to help raise your babies. Even if I find a woman or a man to want me, I would want them to be a part of us. There's always been an us. I never want there not to be an us. The us may grow and change, but the three of us will always be us." Lothar drew Doran into the embrace with him and Corinne. Kisses were exchanged, not just pecks, but deep, emotional, sexually charged kisses. As Corinne watched Lothar and Doran kiss, her nipples tightened even more and she got wetter. She would welcome these men in her body and she was so ready​ for it.

Corinne knew the Guild would not be happy. Maybe they would allow her to run the Guild operations here on Sedgwick where their relationship would be allowed. That was a worry for about day. This night would bring the consummation of their new relationship. They could combine rooms for the rest of their stay.

Lothar lie back on her bed and Corinne climbed over him. Doran got between Lothar's legs and closely examined the object of his desire. He had never been this close to a cock before. He loved the look and feel, the manly smells. He stuck his tongue out and licked from the stem to tip. Doran moaned as he broke the taboo he was taught. He then engulfed Lothar's cock and took​ it deep in his mouth. Both Doran and Lothar moaned.

While Doran was exploring Lothar's member, Lothar was exploring Corinne's sex. Lothar was well experienced with the female pleasure center. However, not this female. He held Corinne up off his face so he could drink her with his eyes before he drank her with his lips and tongue. He gazed on her delicate flesh as it opened before his eyes​. She had a prominent clit on the top leading to two delicate inner lips that were contained within her outer lips. It was a deep pink and the moisture was very evident. Lothar stuck his tongue out and licked from her hole to her clit. He enjoyed hearing Corinne moan as his tongue made contact. He enjoyed her taste even more.

Lothar pulled Corinne more firmly onto his mouth and started licking. He allowed her to move her pussy where she wanted his tongue. As Doran sucked Lothar's cock, Lothar continued to lick Corinne's pussy.

Corinne was in heaven with pleasure. As she soaked in the pleasure from Lothar's tongue, she soaked his face with her juices. She watched as Doran sucked Lothar's cock. Occasionally, he would go too deep and gag. When's he gagged, a spike of pleasure radiated through her body. She couldn't take it any longer. She had to have her lover's member in her mouth. She bent down and told Doran, "Lick and suck on his balls. You can even lick lower if you want."

As Doran vacated the cock to lick further down, Corinne took it in her hand. It looked beautiful to her eyes. It was long and thick and felt so hard, yet soft, in her hand. There was a pearl of liquid escaping the slit at the head, she licked it off, getting the first taste of Lothar's essence. She savored it as she took the member into her mouth. She took it deep, swallowing as the gag reflex hit, trying to take it all. She wanted all of him in her mouth. She didn't make it the first time, or the second, but on the third, it popped into her throat and her lips met his hair.

Corinne heard, and felt, Lothar's moan as his cock disappeared into her throat. It was then that Doran's tongue moved down and swiped across Lothar's asshole. Lothar squirmed and opened himself wider. With the attention on both his cock and ass, it didn't take long until Lothar was ready to cum. Corinne felt the throbs and knew her mouth was about to be filled. She shortened her sucking and added her hand to the base, stroking, as her mouth went up and down his cock. Lothar stiffened and cried out into Corinne's pussy as he filled her mouth with his cum. She held the cum in her mouth and pulled Doran up by the hair for a kiss and shared Lothar's cum with him. Corinne got a taste of the earthy bitterness from Doran's tongue. Doran loved sharing Lothar's essence with Corinne.

Lothar's member quickly shrank in size as Corinne rolled off him. He quickly got his breath back and kissed Corinne deeply, tasting the residue in her mouth. He then turned to Doran and pulled him onto the bed and gave him a kiss as Lothar took Doran's hard, leaking cock into his hand. Corinne watched as Lothar bent his head down and took Doran into his mouth. A week ago, this would have been a death sentence, but not here, not today. As she watched her men together, her fingers began working in her wet pussy.

It didn't take long for Doran to fill Lothar's mouth with cum. It was Lothar's turn to share, and he did with Corinne as Doran moved between her legs and pushed her fingers aside as first one, then two of Doran's fat fingers pushed inside her. She started moaning more as she kissed Lothar. Lothar began to pinch and flick Corinne's hard nipples. Corinne convulsed hard and came into Doran's mouth. It was one of the strongest orgasms Corinne could remember. She started climbing to another one as Doran's​ fingers were removed, but replaced by Lothar's renewed cock. Corinne moaned in pleasure as Lothar's cock filled her pussy. Lothar began pumping slowly, which started a slow climb up the mountain of Corinne's next orgasm.

Lothar felt Doran playing with his balls and ass. He then felt Doran's tongue try to get back to his asshole. "Do you want to try us both, Corinne?" Lothar asked. She nodded. Lothar told Doran to move for a minute and grabbed Corinne around the waist. He rolled to his back with Corinne on top. Corinne sat up and Lothar was able to see her magnificent breasts above him before pulling her down. That left Corinne's ass accessible to Doran who started with his tongue from where Lothar disappeared to her tight picked. Doran had to wonder if it had ever been breeches. It looked pristine. Doran cleaned it with his tongue, savoring the earthy, bitter flavor. He then slid a finger inside.

"Have you ever had anyone back here, Corinne?" Doran asked. Corinne shook her head, no. As Lothar continued to fuck her pussy, she felt the stone at her neck grow warm and she began feeling what Lothar was feeling. Lothar moaned in amazement as he felt what Corinne was feeling, even the finger pushing into her ass. Doran felt it all as well, since he was in contact with both of them.

Doran knelt behind the two of them and said, "Lothar, pull out a minute and let me get my cock wet in her pussy." Lothar pulled out and Corinne felt Doran's cock enter her and stroke a couple of times while he spot on her asshole. Doran pulled out and helped Lothar back in, then pressed the head of his cock to Corinne's virgin hole.

Corinne felt the pressure in her ass and then the pain flared as Doran's cock forced its way into virgin territory. As the pain and pleasure intensified, Corinne climaxed again. She shook with the two cocks in her, her moans louder and louder. As she came down from that orgasm and started climbing to another, the pain in her ass turned to straight pleasure. They all felt it and it made them climax together. Corinne had her third orgasm while Lothar filled her pussy and Doran filled her ass. None of them had felt anything like it before. It was like the goddess had blessed their coming together.

As the three of them came down from their climaxes, the cum dripped out of Corinne's holes. Doran moved to lick both his cum and Lothar's from Corinne's open holes. Corinne pulled Lothar up and cleaned his cock of their combined juices before kissing him and thanking him for a wonderful experience.

After Doran finished cleaning Corinne, he got up to clean his cock. Corinne stopped him and pulled him to her. "Corinne, honey, it's dirty. You don't have to do this," Doran said as Corinne took his cock into her mouth. It was slimy and dirty, but it had given her so much pleasure. Once it was clean, they all reclined on the bed. They were sweaty, but didn't want to stop touching each other.

Corinne was in the middle with Lothar and Doran each using one of her breasts as a pillow. "What in the world was that?" Lothar asked.

"I've heard other Priestesses talk about a power surge when they have sex with their soulmates. I've heard of different effects, many similar to what we felt. I guess that seals it," said Corinne.

"Because we're soulmates?" Lothar asked. "How come we never knew till now?"

"I think we did know. We just ignored it till we got to a place that made us face it. I mean, how many women have you taken on our trips to different areas? Doran, I don't think that was the first time you've taken a woman in the ass. How many women have you taken that way, wishing when was a man? How many nights was I frustrated because your two had gone out whoring, leaving me behind with only my fingers for company? All this because we were too scared to confront our true feelings. We wasted a lot of time, and a lot of orgasms. That ends now."

"Are you going to try a woman, Corinne?" asked Lothar.

"Are you okay if I do?" Lothar nodded. "I think Mae already has that planned for tomorrow. I think Jaim will be taking Doran, Lothar, you and Belinda can be together while Mae and I play. I've heard stories about odd things happening when Priestesses make love together. It's one of the reasons they banned same sex activity. I'm curious to see what happens."

"So, we can't stay here. Do you have a plan moving forward?" asked Doran. "I'd have a death sentence on my head for the things I've done and plan on doing. Now that I've started, I don't want to stop."

Corinne answered, "I think they'll allow us to be the Guild representatives in Sedgwick and run the Portal Stone Shop. I don't think the Portal will be as open as here, but we will be safe to be who we are. The Guild won't let me run the shop topless, but I could wear a sarong."

"I've got nothing keeping me in Europa. A warm winter sounds great," said Lothar. "As long as we're together, you and me, Corinne, but also Doran. He's part of us as well. They call them pods, with a wife and two husbands. If you are both willing to commit to that, I am."

Tears closed down Doran's face. "It's hard for me to believe that you want me to be a part of this. I love you both and will be honored to be your, Grady called it a secondary, I think. Lothar, do you want to be first in my ass then? I was going to let Jaim be first tomorrow."

Lothar responded, "I'm glad you want to join us. Where would we be without our protector? Jaim can be first, as long as you both know your ass, and the rest of you, belongs to us. After these two cums, I'm not sure I'm ready for a third right now anyway."

"You better be later, one of you. I'm going to want at least one more cock in me before morning," Corinne said laughing. "For now, we can just enjoy being together." Lothar and Doran both took a nipple into their mouths and Corinne sighed and put her hands on her men's heads. She closed her eyes and was soon asleep.

Sometime during the night, they ended up spooning with Lothar behind her and Doran in front. Corinne woke up and felt Lothar's cock pressing into her. She spread her legs and let Lothar slide in. Lothar woke up as he felt his cock surrounded by a warm wetness and began thrusting in and out of Corinne. The movement of the bed woke Doran and Corinne motioned for him to bring his cock to her mouth. Corinne enjoyed being filled at both ends. None of them were in a hurry and enjoyed pleasuring each other. Corinne came first, followed by Doran, then Lothar filled Corinne's pussy. Doran quickly moved down to lick Lothar, then Corinne clean. The three then fell back asleep.

They awoke in the morning to Liza knocking on the door. "You might as well come in Liza. I'm sure you heard it all last night." Liza walked in the room and none of them tried to hide their nudity.

"Yes," said Liza, "we did hear and we're happy for you three. Do I need to move you out of the other two rooms? We do have one with a larger bed, in case you bring a friend or two back with you."

"I hope we didn't disturb you or cause too many questions from your children."

"It's nothing. Growing up in Hampshire, the children see it all. I expect Becca will be watching at the Pillory today, her fingers in her little pussy. Jacob just had his name day, so officially, he's an adult. Doran, you and he may have some similar interests."

"You wouldn't mind him being with me?" Doran asked.

"He has some boys he is friends with. They take good care of him. I'm concerned about one of the men in town. I don't think he's treated Jacob very well," Liza said.

Doran looked to Corinne and Lothar, "You'd be okay if I...?" Lothar noticed Doran was very hard thinking about Jacob.

Corinne laughed, "All you have to do is think about a cock and you get hard, Doran. Of course it's okay. We'll all be with others while we're here and even after. Enjoy yourself."

Liza said, "Anyway, breakfast is ready. Would you like Jacob to bring it in here? I think he would enjoy that."

"If you think it will be okay, Liza, that would be great," said Corinne. Doran got harder at the thought.

"Liza, will, um, will Jacob be needed back right away? Or could he stay up here with us for awhile?" asked Doran.

"Stay with us or with you, Doran?" Corinne asked, laughing.

"We'll all be together," protested Doran, blushing.

"He won't be needed for awhile," Liza said. "Have fun."

To be continued....