In his hand he held a thin firm rod. It reminded me of a riding crop the way it got flatter and wider at the end. I shuddered and passed a hand over my breast. That thing was going to sting Like crazy.

“Not there," Christof said, “we all enjoyed that Last time. Those are only for us. We will put the marks here,“ he finished brushing his fingers over my bottom.

We walked downstairs and over to the posts. The men tied me naked with only my metal bands for protection. My hands were stretched up and separated. Unlike Last time my legs were tied together at the ankles. Before they left me, Bane whispered in my ear. He told me he didn't want anyone to see me get excited, so they Let my thighs shield my sex. I had to bite my tongue to keep the scathing retort inside.

I stayed still and kept my eyes closed. Damien had told me he had to go tell the General what was happening. While they were gone I was to stand quietly and not look around.

I started when I heard Damien's voice beside me. He announced my crimes to the yard. I peeked between my Lashes and saw there were quite a few families gathering. The numbers seemed to be growing as Damien's proclamation rang out.

Damien told the assembled this was how things were done in the red mountains. He said it would be very effective. A murmur went through the crowd; it sounded Like disbelief.

The first hit snapped across my buttocks and stung like crazy. I wanted to move away, but my bound ankles stopped me. I was going to stand still and take this.

“A repentant slave would thank it‘s owner for each mark," Damien Pronounced. "I would also recommend having the slave count, if it is able. The lesson is reinforced as the slave does this."

“One, thank you, Master Damien," I said quickly.

The stinging blows continued in a slow measured stream. He started on my right and after sixteen; he moved to my Left. Damien covered my butt, upper legs, and lower back. It burned and ached, but I had to concentrate on counting and thanking him.

Tears mixed with sweat and ran down the front of my body. This hurt more than last time, but it was still a strangely sensual experience. My bound form hummed in synchrony with the blows and it was all for Damien.

Without peeking I knew what he Looked like, powerful and focused. He would plan each mark and then make it with precision. My flesh was his canvas and it would look exactly as he planned once he finished.

The rain of blows ceased at thirty two.

"Will you speak in the village again?" Damien asked.

The tenor of his voice was different and I almost opened my eyes. He sounded aroused.

“No, Master Damien."

My arms were released and Damien picked me up. I cringed as the fabric of his shirts rubbed against the places he'd lashed me. From the feel of it my ass was glowing red from his attention.

He jumped from the platform and I threw my arms around him as I tried to contain the yelp. I hated the feeling of falling. It was worse with my eyes closed.

“Do I make you feel safe, Ciara?" he asked pointedly as he carried me.

“Yes, Master Damien," I answered pressing akissto his salty neck.

“Open your eyes," he commanded.

It was creepy how quiet the men could be. The other families surrounded us on every side and I jerked my head down.