Authors Note:

As I, an extraterrestrial entity, eagerly awaited the US government's response, my mind was filled with the potential implications of my arrival. The idea of forming an alliance with a being from beyond their world might have been a daunting yet intriguing prospect for them. However, my primary intent was not to instill fear but to foster understanding and cooperation. I could only imagine the mix of uncertainty and hope that filled the discussions, with some likely advocating for caution and skepticism.

Ursula has another talk with Ketko and the confusion continues to grow. Eventually she realizes that they have both made wrong assumptions - and the reality is not what either had imagined, raising yet more questions. Then Ketko makes an unexpected request, causing her to seek out Eriana.

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

89 - Too Many Moons

Ursula attempts to find out more about Bineer Ketko but the conversation proves to be both puzzling and frustrating. A trip to the mess tent to clear her head leads to a chance meeting with Zakaros, who has a request for her to consider. This leads to an unexpected revelation.

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

88 - Cross Purposes

The remains of the dead are disposed of and the senior staff gather to consider the future of the camp. Ursula makes a suggestion concerning the two stranded galleys. The next morning, Kaldar's sore throat turns out to have an innocent explanation.

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

87 - Of Pyres and Galleys

The day of the hauker hunt had arrived, and I felt a surge of anticipation mixed with a hint of nervousness. Donning the traditional armor provided for the marriage hunt, I couldn't help but notice how snugly it fit around my hips. It was a reminder that while it wasn't typical for a woman to partake in this ritual, I was the first outsider to participate in the hunt.

Rule two: Always keep your guests entertained during gatherings.

The dance studio at Sterling Academy for Young Ladies was a realm of artistic refinement, meticulously designed to facilitate the cultivation of grace and poise among its students.

The studio boasts an expansive layout, allowing ample room for students to move freely and practice various dance forms. Mirrored walls on one side created the illusion of even greater space, reflecting the grace and precision of every movement.

My guests were murmuring as I got up from my discussion with Braccious. This is what I wanted them to start doing, questioning who I would show favor to. The wealthy always want to find themselves able to make more money and status. I just gave that to one of their rivals, and they were not included in any discussions.

Yvonne's evening descends into a carnal savagery where the hedonistic fantasies of onlookers are not just met but encouraged. She is simply a vessel for gratification for the crowd, an emblem of her solemn vow to her ever-demanding mistress. Adorned in attire that barely conceals, she is marched out before hungry eyes, every inch of her transformation a testimony to her submission. Be forewarned: this chapter treads through shadowed corridors, filled with explicit scenes and raw exchanges that may unsettle the faint of heart.

This is part 1 of my first work, a fan continuation of the unfinished Kemeia Ascending. It is entirely inspired by Armond's magical world of Argentia and its Goddess Selene.

Link to the book here Kemeia Ascends - A Fan Continuity

The crowds parted as Nick and I made our way through. The guests - who all belonged to Lenoria's highest echelon - bowed their heads in respect and admiration.

I knew that symbol of respect was probably aimed at Nick and not me but that did little to dampen the impact of the moment.

I was so nervous I ended up clinging tighter to his arm. I dared not look up at him because I feared that would only amplify all I was feeling.

Absolutely nothing could have prepared me for Isidora's Hunger Games Capitol-looking outfit. Her designer either really loved frills or really didn't like her.

There was also so much pink it was almost blinding and for some reason known only to her, she'd decided to pair it all with some shade of blue lipstick. She looked more like an art project than a person.

And this person was supposedly the stylist?