Moral Travels in the Astral (30)
December 28, 2016
In a photonic minute, Sophie found herself standing outside the entrance of a most unusual dwelling built into the side of a hill. The land was covered with deep snow and a strong wind was blowing through the surrounding trees. She saw that both she and Gabriel were dressed in furs which rejected the chilling winds rather well.
The pair stood upon rough wooden planking laid parallel with the hill face. In front of them was a double door with brass fittings. Two rows of frosty windows flanked the door allowing Sophie to see within. Sophie walked over to one of the windows and rubbed the frost off with her sleeve. The room was filled with long tables and benches upon which both men and women sat. They appeared to be Orientals. The men had shaved heads except for a long braid in the back. Everyone was dressed in furs. The tables were covered with mugs, bread, cheese, and some kind of meat.
Gabriel took Sophie’s hand saying, “Sophie, the persons inside are Djinn. They can be most unpleasant so please do not say very much. In addition, they are very sexual creatures. An old friend of mine owns this inn and we are going to visit with her. These Djinn know of me and will be respectful. For your safety, I shall tell them you are my concubine.”
Sophie, somewhat upset, replied, “I am not your concubine, I am your fiancé. Why are you saying this?”
Gabriel said, “Marriage is not popular with the Djinn, and only very high status males have concubines. Pretend that we are role playing. I need a favor so do as I ask. Anyway, you know I love and adore you, concubine or wife.” Gabriel ducked just in time.
Opening the door, the pair walked into the room allowing the wind to disturb the guests. Gabriel removed his beaver fur hat and he was immediately recognized by a few older guests. They stood up and motioned the younger guests to do so. In the back of the room stood a large brick fireplace with a hot fire burning. A rather pretty lady turned around and said in a most dignified voice, “Hail, we are honored to have you visit, Lord Gabriel. It has been a very long time since we last visited with each other. Everyone, please toast Lord Gabriel, the Immortal. Clear a table for him and his concubine.”
A table was quickly cleared and the guests returned to their conversations. The lady having spoken approached Gabriel and pulled him to her for a sensuous kiss. “Hello, darling, it has been a long time since we spent time together. I have missed you, particularly, on such winter nights. Why are you here,” asked the lady? “And who is this charming human creature? She is simply beautiful, darling. My name is Alliona and I own this establishment. Sit, let us get acquainted.”
Gabriel introduced Sophie to Alliona saying, “My dear, this is my beloved Sophie. She is from a planet far away from here and is my concubine and my student. She is doing her very best to produce and bear a wonderful girl child for me. As you know, I am fond of children.”
Alliona opened her arms and moved so to give Sophie a warm welcome hug, “It is a pleasure to meet you, my darling. Lord Gabriel and I have been intimate friends for many years. Once, I was in a very bad situation and he rescued me and helped me get this establishment. In addition, he was a good friend to my son and daughter. I do not know what would have happened without his kindnesses?”
Alliona helped Sophie remove her bulky coat so she could sit at the table. Sophie noted that she was dressed in very tight, chocolate, suede-leather pants with knee-high fur boots. Her torso was covered by a very finely woven cashmere blouse dyed brilliant red. She was aware that she hadn’t a bra underneath her blouse. Overall, she felt quite naked. She thought to herself, “I guess this is how concubines dress?”
She sat down quickly so to be less exposed. Allionia sat down next to Sophie and so Gabriel was forced to sit across from them. Before seating himself, Gabriel told Sophie in her ear, “Remember, you are playing a role. You will see why in a little bit. You are my eternal love.”
Alliona waved her hand and three large mugs came to the table filled with spiced, warm mead. Raising a mug, Alliona said, “Welcome to my establishment, dear Sophie. Let us toast your health and your future daughter.” The three lifted their mugs and drunk.
Sophie took a rather long draught of the spiced mead and then put down her mug, “Alliona, this potion is really tasty. I like it, thanks.”
Alliona replied, “I am glad you like it. But, you must eat when you drink for it is quite strong and the herbs may have an unusual effect upon you.” At that moment, a waitress brought sour bread and cheese to the table and some cold cuts of meat. Sophie was hungry and took a piece of bread and cheese.
While, the three of them ate and drunk, Sophie listened to Alliona tell her story of Gabriel, her children, and herself. Sophie found the story rather romantic and full of adventure. Both of them were laughing at their remembrances. Sophie was somewhat surprised as she did not feel jealous or angry. She was feeling very mellow and relaxed and happy to be Gabriel’s concubine. She loved him so very much. She looked over to Gabriel and he winked at her.
Gabriel looked at Alliona, “Darling, I would be pleased if you would explain to Sophie how the Djinn interact with humans so encourage indulgence in worldly pleasures rather than working on making a soul. Most humans still believe that demons are fallen angels or persons damned to hell. Foolish, eh?”
Alliona replied, “Let me think about your request for a moment, Gabriel. OK, Since Sophie is your student, I will help you. Gabriel, you have a keeper here, don’t lose her.”
TO BE CONTINUED