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'Poor Blind Tiger can not see... Poor Blind tiger cant catch me...' - Sandra Common Thief.

Wiping away her tears, Annah pushed open the door to her room. Situated in the palace’s north spire, the desert sun kept room warm, even in the waning summer months. The sun light was beginning to wane, and while the stone walls maintained their heat, Annah still shivered. Placing her back to the door, she slid the lock, isolating herself from the harsh words of those around her.
They didn’t know she was had been there, so few of those who lived in the place did. “A ghost, I’m a ghost in my own home.” Annah whispered to herself and rubbed her arms.

Why was it so cold? Reaching out with her senses, she quickly detected the source. The south facing window had been left open. With a shake of her head, she crossed the room. One of her hand maidens must have gotten carless, perhaps Mena, she always seemed to forget something.

Half way across the room, she froze. Something on the edge of her senses causing her skin to prickle-a forgan smell lingered in the room. A cold shiver ran down her spine, she was not alone. “Who’s there?”

No reply. Cautiously, Annah took a step back, trying to quiet her breathing to hear the intruder. From the corner, by the open window, a curtain ruffled. The fabric moving even though there was no wind. Sweat began to form on her palms as she backed slowly to the door. It was still seven strides to the away, and at least another twelve to the window. Painfully aware of the locked door, Annah spun and ran.

Behind her the curtains exploded, and the sound of racing feet across the thick rugs signaled the intruders approach. The thick wooden door came racing up to greet her quicker than she had intended, hands slamming into its frame she fumbled to find the lock. “Guards! G-”

A blade at her throat silenced her mid cry. “You’d better hope nobody heard that.” An angry voice growled behind her. Shaking under her captor’s blade, she regretted dismissing her guards when she had arrived.

“Please, don’t hurt me-take what you want, just don’t hurt me.”

Her captor snorted, as a rough hand grabbed her shoulder and spun her around. For a second, the blade vanishing from her throat and Annah was tempted to scream. “Don’t even think about it.” The blade materialized at her throat again, its wicked edge pressing into her skin.

“What do you want?” Annah swallowed, almost opening her skin on the blade.

Ignoring her question the intruder grumbled, “You couldn’t have just waited a few more minutes.” The words thick with a foreign accent.

“I-I do not understand.”

“Of course you don’t!” Her captor snapped, “You royal hens seldom do…” The words trailed off. Even through tear rimmed eyes, Annah knew the intruder was looking at her, seeing her for the first time. For a moment the world seemed to stand still.

A heavy pounding on the door broke the enchantment. “Princess Annah. Are you all right? May I enter?” The voice of a guardsman she did not know boomed through the door. Had they come back despite her command? Despite the situation, she smiled. She was about to cry out, when the intruders blade pushed deeper.

“If you scream, I will gut you-guards or not.”

“Princess Annah?” The guard beat on the door again.

“I-I’m fine.” She shuddered at first, before composing herself. “I thought I told you I was not to be disturbed.”

“A thousand pardons, my lady. I thought I heard you cry and came immediately.” The voice slightly muffled through the thick wooden door.

“I’m find. Your services will not be needed this night. Now go, I command it.”

“As you command princess.”

As the clomp of heavy boots retreated, so did the last traces of hope. Closing her eyes, tears began to flow down her cheeks. “There, are you satisfied?” The pressure at her throat lessened and slowly vanished. Raising her hands, Annah massaged her neck. “Thank you.”

Her captor blew out a long breath, before rising and wandering off. “Just stay there and I’ll finish up here.”

Despite her fear, Annah was intrigued. Rising she moved to the side, seeking to distance herself from the intruder. “You’re not from around here, are you?”

On the other side of the room, the intruder, busy shaking out a sack, began ransacking her belongings. “What gave it away, the clothes?”

“Your smell.”

Talking helped, Annah could feel her heart beginning to slow, though her hands were still shaking. She could hear the intruder upend the jewelry box from her dressing stand. The contents within jingled as they were removed. “Please-at least leave the box, it was a gift from my mother.” The intruder grunted, but tossed the box back onto the stand.

“Wait, mother? Princess…” Something shifted in her captor’s voice that made Annah’s skin crawl. From across the room, the intruder dropped the goods laden sack.

“Stay back!” The fear that had left her momentarily, returned in full force. Pushing herself away from the wall she removed herself from the trapping corner her night stand created. The room fell quiet, she could not hear the footsteps of the intruder over the beating of the thudding in her chest.

“Got’cha!”

Annah’s heart almost exploded as a rough hand clamped over her mouth muffling her scream. Another wrapped around her waist, pinning her arms. After several attempted screams, Annah regained enough composure to realize the futility of the situation. Sinking back, she let her captor pull her back against their chest. Leather and fine bands of cold metal pressed against her open back.

“Excitable little thing, aren’t you?” She didn’t need to see her captor’s face to know they were smiling. “Just remember what I told you before, scream and…” The thief drew a single finger over her neck. Heavy hands spun her around. Annah looked away, embarrassed by her tears she closed her eyes.

“None of that.” Her captor growled, “Now, look at me.”

Annah refused, more than anything now she wanted to look anywhere else.

“Hey, I said: Look at me.” The intruder crushed her to their chest, freeing an arm to grasp her chin and forcefully raising her head. Scrunching her face, Annah kept her eyes closed. “Look, do I have to threaten you before you do anything? Now look at me. Please.”

It was voice, something shifted in it, that it away. Slowly, Annah cracked her eyes and looked at her captor. The grip on her back lessened, “So it is true.” Her captor murmured. “The princess with moons for eyes...”

Embarrassed, Annah looked away, her mother had always told her they made her special, that she would be able to see what everyone could not. “Please, just take what you want and go.”

“Anything I want?” A hint of playfulness crept into her captor’s voice, making her shake again.

“Anything, just please go.”

Without warning, the intruder synched their arm around her waist, pulling her closer. “What-” Soft lips pressed against her own. Panicking, Annah tried to pull back, her captor’s free hand seized the back of her head, pulling her forwards into a passionate embrace.

A tumble of emotions swam through her causing her body to shake. Fear gnawed at her insides, and her heart felt like it would explode again, this time was different thought. Her shaking slowly abided, and a flush crept into her cheeks. Then it was over. Breaking the kiss, her captor released her.

Breathing deeply, Annah staggered back, her pulse racing in her neck. “You-you shouldn’t have done that!”

She could tell her captor was smiling as they spoke. “You said, take whatever I wanted.”

More embarrassed than ever, Annah tried to form cohesive sentences, and failed. The intruder laughed as they walked across the room and collected their sack, and Annah felt herself redden further. Returning, the intruder slipped a finger under her chin. “Be grateful that I just wanted a kiss. Next time, I may desire something more.”

There it was, that same playful tone, which set her nerves on edge. Stepping back, she distanced herself, placing her hands before her as a shield. Ignoring her discomfort, her captor closed the distance. Annah retreated until her back hit the wall. “Stay back!”

“Am I truly that terrifying?”

She could feel the intruder’s breath, smell a tangy spice on their lips that hovered inches from hers.

“Please.”

Snorting, her captor withdrew. “Cowered.”

The word caused something to flare within her. Cowered. Cowered? She was, Annah Vien Darenitii, the ghost of the palace!

“Cowered?” She screamed, shoving her hands forwards she connected with her surprised victim.

“I’m not the one crawling through windows!” She shoved again. “I’m not the one who has to steal from those who can’t fight back!” She could imagine the shock on her assailants face, and was surprised by the strength of her own voice as she made to shove again.

Throwing her body into a final shove meant to topple her opponent she lunged forwards, only to connect with thin air. Her balance going, Annah stumbled forwards and fell.

“…Born with moons for eyes, and lives in the dark…” Her captor’s voice trailed off to her right.

The wave of anger that had been fueling her assault came crashing down, leaving her stranded in grief and helplessness. Pounding her fist against the carpet she cried; first her father, then the servants, now even this intruder toyed with her for their own amusement.

“I didn’t ask to be born like this!” She wailed not caring who heard her, as she let her head sink to the floor.

A hand lighted on her shoulder, and she shook it off violently, only to have it return again, this time she did not protest. Somehow, the touch was welcoming, comforting even.

“I’m sorry for your…loss…” The intruder’s hand slipped under her chin, drawing her up. “If it is any consolation, I didn’t choose to be a thief.”

“…What?” Annah murmured, more confused now than ever.

“You’re a clever little tiger, why don’t you come to Defrin’s Ally, market district, and I’ll explain it to you…if you can find me.” The playful voice was back, she could see the intruder smiling. “Until then.”

A sharp tug at the back of her neck was all the warning Annah got as the gold chain holding her locket snapped. “No. Wait-No! Please!” She could feel the intruder’s foot falls though the rugs.

“Remember, Defrin’s Ally.” The thief called back playfully, as they mounted the sill. “Don’t keep me waiting too long, Moony.”

“No-Theif! Theif! Guards-Help!” Annah screamed.

Deep down she knew it was too late, the thief was gone.

…

“Please describe the thief.” The captain of the city’s watch spoke, “Was he tall, thin? What color where his eyes? Did he have any scars, or identifiers?”

Annah shifted uncomfortably in her chair. “The thief, um…he…I-I didn’t get a clear look …at him…”

Standing behind her, she could feel her father’s penetrating gaze lock on her. Swallowing, she tried to remember what he had told her. “Um…that is-he, uh…” Her tongue had turned to lead in her mouth. Hard hands grasped her shoulders.

“What my daughter is trying to say, is that she only caught a glimpse of the thief and can provide you with no further description.” Her father spoke curtly.

“Yes, I understand, but even a glimpse would help in this case. What was he wearing?”

The pressure of her father’s hands redoubled, Annah closed her eyes, and bit her lip trying not to open her mouth. “What difference does it make what clothes this thief wore?”

“Perhaps, that is a subject best discussed behind closed doors.” From the constable’s voice, Annah knew that he meant away from her.

Her father hesiteated, but relinquished his grip. “Of course. Annah, remain here.”

“Yes, father.” She spoke dutifully, she never seemed to call him by his name anymore. Not sense her mother had died. Closing her eyes, she pushed the memory away.

Rather than leave the room, her father guided the captain to the far end of the room. Stretching her senses, she listened. “…The rebellion in Kaireth is beginning to slip out of hand. Recently there have been reported incidents of rebels fleeing over the channel into Darenitii.”

Her father scoffed, “Don’t be absurd, Kaireth rebels this far in the city-they would have to be either brave, or suicidal.”

Brave, Annah thought back to the thief; brave and strangely charismatic, in a playful sense. Her father had pumped the whole story out of her before the captain of the guards arrived. All save for a few details she dared keep from him. Annah found herself blushing, thinking about the encounter; she had never been kissed by anyone before, not on the lips anyway. Not even her mother had done that. It had been terrifying, yet, strangely exhilarating at the same time.

“-Annah!” Her father’s voice broke through her shell of thoughts.

“Yes father?” She could tell he was upset; he hated to tell her anything twice.

“The constable was just leaving, show him to the door, and return to your chamber. I shall be up shortly.”

Swallowing, Annah could read under the words. Don’t let him suspect what you are, and you are in serious trouble. Putting on a polite face, she extended her arm, and waited for the caption to tuck it into this own. She knew the house, the rugs were her guides, the walls, her touch stones. It was all a carefully crafted act that her father had beat into her.

Only outside the study did she dare speak, “Tell me, what news is there that spooks the brave defender of the city watch?”

Even through the metal braces she could feel the captain straiten. “A trifling matter at best,” He spoke with new found basso, “An unorganized rabble of street scum from a neighboring kingdom.”

Putting on her best smile, she looked up at him. “We are fortunate then to have such a brave knight, to watch over use in these troubled times.” Annah didn’t need eyes to tell the captain was flushing. She had long ago learned that he fancied her.

Ideally she reached out and ran a hand against the wall, touching a table as she went. Five more steps and she would be at the palace’s inner keep. A boundary her father disliked her crossing unescorted. At the archway, she released his arm, “Captain.”

“My lady.” Bowing he departed.

Posture straight, head held high, she retreated into the palace and steeled herself for her father’s wrath.

…

The words had been harsh, but at least he never laid a hand on her. For that she was grateful. He had become jaded following Marie’s death, but not cruel, not yet anyways.

Laying in her bed, Annah touched the vacant spot where her mother’s locket had hung; stolen by a thief, a very strange thief. Following her father’s rebuke, her every thought had been on the intruder, that and Defrin’s Ally. She could still hear the thief’s voice ringing in her ears: Don’t keep me waiting too long, Moony.

Her face reddened at the name, Moony, how boyish it sounded. The name was familiar too, she had heard it before somewhere, very long ago. Closing her eye’s she dug deep, trying to place the memory. It had been a hot day, and the sun was reaching its peak, feet shuffling on the sand, accompanied by the cry of children playing, and the smells, there were so many smells. Then the memory faded, swallowed up in a wave of others.

Had it been the market? It was the smells she remembered most there, rare spices, fruits, and the flow of bodies from around the world.

Drawing in a deep breath, the smell of lavender wafted through the room, and with it a hint of cinnamon. Smiling, Annah knew it was Liens who slept on the floor mat beside her bed. She had not spoken when she came in, only rolled out her bed roll and bedded down. It was reassuring to have another person in the room, though saddening at the same time.

Liens, had changed over the years, Annah could still recall the playful youth she had been at their first meeting. They had stayed up throughout the night playing, giggling, and swapping stories of what they had seen, well, in Liens case anyway. Rolling onto her side, Annah looked down at her, and wondered if she still slept sprawled like a beached octopus.

Distantly, a pang of longing gnawed at her. To crawl out of her feather bed, and nestle into the crook of Liens arm, feel her warm skin, listen to her breathing, even if it was only for a single night. Liens would never let her though, not after the time her father had found them together.

Despite Annah’s pleas he had Liens beaten, and made it clear to the rest of her handmaidens that if they should touch her in such a way again, they would lose a hand. From then on none of her servants stayed with her, no more nights of laughter, braiding each other’s hair, or whispering secrets.

One night she had even dared to sneak down to the servant’s quarters, pressing herself against the door she could hear their quiet voices giggling. Eva, the oldest one, had apparently stolen a jug of wine and was daring others to try it. Listening for as long as she dared, she pushed the door open.

Murmured cursed and gasps of surprise filled the room, only to be replaced with stunned silence.

Smiling nervously, she stepped forwards. “Can I have a sip?”

The room remained polarized. Even without eyes, Annah could see the terror on their faces.

“Annah…You should not be here.” Lien whispered, her voice scared.

“We’ll all get in trouble.” Another croaked.

“I don’t want to lose my hand!”

“You have got to get out of here! Now.”

“Go! Before you get us all beaten, or worse!”

“Get out! Get out!”

Annah took a step back, her face convulsing. Scrunching her eyes closed, she tried to hold back the tears as she retreated; almost making it to the door.

Shivering, Annah turned away, unable to bear looking at Lien. The old feelings remained, wanting to touch her, run her fingers through her long hair, press her body against her in the cold nights. Unbidden, tears began to flow.

Above all else, though she wanted Lien to touch her, run her hand over her body just once more. But Lien would never do that, not now. Time had slowly build a distance between them, along with all her other handmaidens. They served, but there was no connection, no contact left.

The thief had touched her though.

Rough hands pressing to their waist, pulling her chin up to face them. It had been the most anyone had touched her in years. The thief had even kissed her. Running her fingers over her lips, she could still feel the shadow touch, of the intruder’s lips, and flushed.

Embarrassed by such thoughts, she twisted again, cocooning herself in her blankets. They were just taking what they wanted, she reminded herself, including her mother’s locket. A thief, nothing more.

“I’m coming for you.” Annah murmured as she let herself and drift off.

…

The day was hot as the midday sun beat down on the city’s market, it was hotter still in the trellis Annah sat within. Curtains drawn the thin fabric moved with the occasional breeze. Seria fidgeted across from her, as the litter moved deeper into the market. She was the one of the newest additions to Annah’s hand maidens and was still trying to acclimate to the role.

Another reason Annah liked her, she had yet to hear the rumors perpetuated by servants about how she was to be handled. Smiling, Annah remembered how skittish Seria was when she called for her to help dress.

“It-it is not proper…” Seria had stammered, when Annah had stripped herself before her.

Despite her discomfort though, she had helped her affix her dress. A long flowing skirt, that was composed of sunset ribbons that coiled up from her waist was affixed with a golden disk in the shape of the sun. With Seria’s help she had secured three gold bands, one just above her elbow, and two others one her wrist to balance out the broach. To complete the ensemble Annah had selected a finely woven circlet of gold and red glass to keep her wavy hair free from her face.

She had smiled when Seria commented how beautiful she looked, though she would not let Annah hug her. Apparently some rumors spread faster than others. Now alone in the litter, Seria seemed more nervous than before. Did she suspect?

Leaning forwards, Annah grouped until she found Seria’s hands, they were shaking slightly. “Seri, are you all right?”

Seria jerked her hands back. “Princess, please. It-I I should not have seen you as such. I-if your father were to know…”

So that was what happened, she and only been apart from Seria for a few hours, but it had been enough. “What did they tell you?”

“Princess?”

“Who told you? Was it a servants? One of my handmaidens? My father?”

“I should not-it would be improper.”

Drawing in a breath, Annah felt the body tight ribbons constrict against her chest. She had lost her, it was bound to happen sooner or later, she had just wished that it would have been later. Knowing there was no point in pushing the issue, Annah sank back into the pillows.

For a while they traveled in silence, Annah took the opportunity to familiarize herself with the world around her. There were so many different smells and sounds, it was enough to overload her senses. Sweet spices, and rare fruits, salted fish, and a thousand other smells. They were getting close now, near the heat of the market. Soon it would be time to put her plan into action.

Straining her senses she could hear the masses pressing in around the litter. Good, she would need a crowed. From ahead, the sound of splashing water announced the heat of the market. Annah had been there before, but that was when her mother was still alive. She could still remember the cold water, and how much fun she had playing in it in her youth.

That had been a long time ago, her father had made it clear that she was forbidden to leave the litter, lest someone discover her disfigurement. Slowly the sway of the litter ground to a halt, and sank to the ground. She had guessed that her escorts would not let her go further than the edge of the main square, it would have to do though.

“Tell me, what do you see?” She addressed Seria at length, and waited until she was certain Seria was looking out of the litter before draping one ring laden hand out of the box. Flexing her fingers, she could feel the sun on her hand and knew the jewels would be sparkling in the light; an easy target for someone daring enough.

It didn’t take long before a sharp tug on her finger signaled the bait had been taken. Screaming, Annah jerked her hand back. “Thief! Guards! Stop them!”

In the wave noise around her, the patter of small feet scurrying, followed by the heavy clomp of leather boots told her all she needed to know. Pressing her hand to her chest, she quickened her breath, letting her face redden.

“Seria… Seria, water. Please.”

“Keleesh, I-there was none brought-I…”

“…Fountain…” Annah whispered, letting herself fall back, as she rolled her gray eyes into her head. It was a great effort to not smile as she listened to Seria frantically try to decide what to do, poor girl. She was relieved when the curtains ruffled indicating Seria had made a run for the fountain.

Bolting up, Annah slipped out the opposite side of the litter and ran. Hands before her, she moved into the densely packed crowed. Moving like an eel, she slid between shops, letting her senses guide her through an unfamiliar world.

Blindly groping her way through the crowed she sampled each fabric around her and quickly found what she was looking for. “Sir, excuse me.” She tugged at a worn clock.

“And what do you want?” The man growled, turning to face her, his tone softened. “Oh, beg pardon my lady.”

“Your clock.” Annah flipped a gold piece at him, not waiting for formal introductions. The man fumbled its, apparently at a loss, but didn’t ask any questions as he undid the clasp and handed the clock over.

“My, thanks.”

With a twist she secured the clock around her, and pulled up the thread bare hood. The fabric was itchy, and had a strange smell to it, but it would suffice to denture the attention she was rapidly drawing herself. From behind her, she could hear the panicked voice of Seria.

“Keleesh? Keleesh!”

A pang of guild ran though her at leaving Seria in such a predicament, her father would not be please. To go back now though would mean giving up on any chance of recovering her mother’s locket. Steeling herself, Annah pushed deeper into the crowed.

Several well spent coins later, Annah found herself at what she hoped was Defrin’s ally. The first few people she had asked were unwilling to divulge such information. Others warned her against it, and a few seemed to be suspicious of the identity she had created in the short time she had run from the litter.

Stepping into the ally, she could feel the change around her as clear as night from day. The ally was much smaller, and the uneven cobble stones proved easy to trip on. Slowing her pace, Annah ran her hand across the rough brick walls, she had not gone more than a few paces when she felt eyes upon her.

“I know your there.” She spoke loudly, voice carrying down the alleyway.

C.S Notes: This is a commission piece done almost two years ago if memory serves, I can not remember the artists name sadly, as it was done at a comic convention. Even after ripping apart my old note collections I can find no reference to the creature.

What I can tell you: Before Amenii and Nera became the star lesbian couple, there was Anna and Sandra. This piece was written long ago back when I was in my prime phase of writing and worked on it just as much as my art. The entire piece here was based on the two verses of the song at the top, which I composed myself. This was sung by Sandra as Anna groped around blindly trying to catch her and retrieve her stolen item.

This was probably one of my first lesbian undertakings. Yes, there was a time before when I did not do lesbian art. Believe it or not that is probably one of the newer phases of my art carrier. I got into lesbianism shortly after finding a book called Good Moon Rising, it was a short read for a young audience, but it was moving. So, I began to write. My deepest regret is how much I forget, and how much still goes unrecorded. So, here is a peek into some of my first work, enjoy.

Description
'Poor Blind Tiger can not see... Poor Blind tiger cant catch me...' - Sandra Common Thief.

Wiping away her tears, Annah pushed open the door to her room. Situated in the palace’s north spire, the desert sun kept room warm, even in the waning summer months. The sun light was beginning to wane, and while the stone walls maintained their heat, Annah still shivered. Placing her back to the door, she slid the lock, isolating herself from the harsh words of those around her.
They didn’t know she was had been there, so few of those who lived in the place did. “A ghost, I’m a ghost in my own home.” Annah whispered to herself and rubbed her arms.

Why was it so cold? Reaching out with her senses, she quickly detected the source. The south facing window had been left open. With a shake of her head, she crossed the room. One of her hand maidens must have gotten carless, perhaps Mena, she always seemed to forget something.

Half way across the room, she froze. Something on the edge of her senses causing her skin to prickle-a forgan smell lingered in the room. A cold shiver ran down her spine, she was not alone. “Who’s there?”

No reply. Cautiously, Annah took a step back, trying to quiet her breathing to hear the intruder. From the corner, by the open window, a curtain ruffled. The fabric moving even though there was no wind. Sweat began to form on her palms as she backed slowly to the door. It was still seven strides to the away, and at least another twelve to the window. Painfully aware of the locked door, Annah spun and ran.

Behind her the curtains exploded, and the sound of racing feet across the thick rugs signaled the intruders approach. The thick wooden door came racing up to greet her quicker than she had intended, hands slamming into its frame she fumbled to find the lock. “Guards! G-”

A blade at her throat silenced her mid cry. “You’d better hope nobody heard that.” An angry voice growled behind her. Shaking under her captor’s blade, she regretted dismissing her guards when she had arrived.

“Please, don’t hurt me-take what you want, just don’t hurt me.”

Her captor snorted, as a rough hand grabbed her shoulder and spun her around. For a second, the blade vanishing from her throat and Annah was tempted to scream. “Don’t even think about it.” The blade materialized at her throat again, its wicked edge pressing into her skin.

“What do you want?” Annah swallowed, almost opening her skin on the blade.

Ignoring her question the intruder grumbled, “You couldn’t have just waited a few more minutes.” The words thick with a foreign accent.

“I-I do not understand.”

“Of course you don’t!” Her captor snapped, “You royal hens seldom do…” The words trailed off. Even through tear rimmed eyes, Annah knew the intruder was looking at her, seeing her for the first time. For a moment the world seemed to stand still.

A heavy pounding on the door broke the enchantment. “Princess Annah. Are you all right? May I enter?” The voice of a guardsman she did not know boomed through the door. Had they come back despite her command? Despite the situation, she smiled. She was about to cry out, when the intruders blade pushed deeper.

“If you scream, I will gut you-guards or not.”

“Princess Annah?” The guard beat on the door again.

“I-I’m fine.” She shuddered at first, before composing herself. “I thought I told you I was not to be disturbed.”

“A thousand pardons, my lady. I thought I heard you cry and came immediately.” The voice slightly muffled through the thick wooden door.

“I’m find. Your services will not be needed this night. Now go, I command it.”

“As you command princess.”

As the clomp of heavy boots retreated, so did the last traces of hope. Closing her eyes, tears began to flow down her cheeks. “There, are you satisfied?” The pressure at her throat lessened and slowly vanished. Raising her hands, Annah massaged her neck. “Thank you.”

Her captor blew out a long breath, before rising and wandering off. “Just stay there and I’ll finish up here.”

Despite her fear, Annah was intrigued. Rising she moved to the side, seeking to distance herself from the intruder. “You’re not from around here, are you?”

On the other side of the room, the intruder, busy shaking out a sack, began ransacking her belongings. “What gave it away, the clothes?”

“Your smell.”

Talking helped, Annah could feel her heart beginning to slow, though her hands were still shaking. She could hear the intruder upend the jewelry box from her dressing stand. The contents within jingled as they were removed. “Please-at least leave the box, it was a gift from my mother.” The intruder grunted, but tossed the box back onto the stand.

“Wait, mother? Princess…” Something shifted in her captor’s voice that made Annah’s skin crawl. From across the room, the intruder dropped the goods laden sack.

“Stay back!” The fear that had left her momentarily, returned in full force. Pushing herself away from the wall she removed herself from the trapping corner her night stand created. The room fell quiet, she could not hear the footsteps of the intruder over the beating of the thudding in her chest.

“Got’cha!”

Annah’s heart almost exploded as a rough hand clamped over her mouth muffling her scream. Another wrapped around her waist, pinning her arms. After several attempted screams, Annah regained enough composure to realize the futility of the situation. Sinking back, she let her captor pull her back against their chest. Leather and fine bands of cold metal pressed against her open back.

“Excitable little thing, aren’t you?” She didn’t need to see her captor’s face to know they were smiling. “Just remember what I told you before, scream and…” The thief drew a single finger over her neck. Heavy hands spun her around. Annah looked away, embarrassed by her tears she closed her eyes.

“None of that.” Her captor growled, “Now, look at me.”

Annah refused, more than anything now she wanted to look anywhere else.

“Hey, I said: Look at me.” The intruder crushed her to their chest, freeing an arm to grasp her chin and forcefully raising her head. Scrunching her face, Annah kept her eyes closed. “Look, do I have to threaten you before you do anything? Now look at me. Please.”

It was voice, something shifted in it, that it away. Slowly, Annah cracked her eyes and looked at her captor. The grip on her back lessened, “So it is true.” Her captor murmured. “The princess with moons for eyes...”

Embarrassed, Annah looked away, her mother had always told her they made her special, that she would be able to see what everyone could not. “Please, just take what you want and go.”

“Anything I want?” A hint of playfulness crept into her captor’s voice, making her shake again.

“Anything, just please go.”

Without warning, the intruder synched their arm around her waist, pulling her closer. “What-” Soft lips pressed against her own. Panicking, Annah tried to pull back, her captor’s free hand seized the back of her head, pulling her forwards into a passionate embrace.

A tumble of emotions swam through her causing her body to shake. Fear gnawed at her insides, and her heart felt like it would explode again, this time was different thought. Her shaking slowly abided, and a flush crept into her cheeks. Then it was over. Breaking the kiss, her captor released her.

Breathing deeply, Annah staggered back, her pulse racing in her neck. “You-you shouldn’t have done that!”

She could tell her captor was smiling as they spoke. “You said, take whatever I wanted.”

More embarrassed than ever, Annah tried to form cohesive sentences, and failed. The intruder laughed as they walked across the room and collected their sack, and Annah felt herself redden further. Returning, the intruder slipped a finger under her chin. “Be grateful that I just wanted a kiss. Next time, I may desire something more.”

There it was, that same playful tone, which set her nerves on edge. Stepping back, she distanced herself, placing her hands before her as a shield. Ignoring her discomfort, her captor closed the distance. Annah retreated until her back hit the wall. “Stay back!”

“Am I truly that terrifying?”

She could feel the intruder’s breath, smell a tangy spice on their lips that hovered inches from hers.

“Please.”

Snorting, her captor withdrew. “Cowered.”

The word caused something to flare within her. Cowered. Cowered? She was, Annah Vien Darenitii, the ghost of the palace!

“Cowered?” She screamed, shoving her hands forwards she connected with her surprised victim.

“I’m not the one crawling through windows!” She shoved again. “I’m not the one who has to steal from those who can’t fight back!” She could imagine the shock on her assailants face, and was surprised by the strength of her own voice as she made to shove again.

Throwing her body into a final shove meant to topple her opponent she lunged forwards, only to connect with thin air. Her balance going, Annah stumbled forwards and fell.

“…Born with moons for eyes, and lives in the dark…” Her captor’s voice trailed off to her right.

The wave of anger that had been fueling her assault came crashing down, leaving her stranded in grief and helplessness. Pounding her fist against the carpet she cried; first her father, then the servants, now even this intruder toyed with her for their own amusement.

“I didn’t ask to be born like this!” She wailed not caring who heard her, as she let her head sink to the floor.

A hand lighted on her shoulder, and she shook it off violently, only to have it return again, this time she did not protest. Somehow, the touch was welcoming, comforting even.

“I’m sorry for your…loss…” The intruder’s hand slipped under her chin, drawing her up. “If it is any consolation, I didn’t choose to be a thief.”

“…What?” Annah murmured, more confused now than ever.

“You’re a clever little tiger, why don’t you come to Defrin’s Ally, market district, and I’ll explain it to you…if you can find me.” The playful voice was back, she could see the intruder smiling. “Until then.”

A sharp tug at the back of her neck was all the warning Annah got as the gold chain holding her locket snapped. “No. Wait-No! Please!” She could feel the intruder’s foot falls though the rugs.

“Remember, Defrin’s Ally.” The thief called back playfully, as they mounted the sill. “Don’t keep me waiting too long, Moony.”

“No-Theif! Theif! Guards-Help!” Annah screamed.

Deep down she knew it was too late, the thief was gone.

…

“Please describe the thief.” The captain of the city’s watch spoke, “Was he tall, thin? What color where his eyes? Did he have any scars, or identifiers?”

Annah shifted uncomfortably in her chair. “The thief, um…he…I-I didn’t get a clear look …at him…”

Standing behind her, she could feel her father’s penetrating gaze lock on her. Swallowing, she tried to remember what he had told her. “Um…that is-he, uh…” Her tongue had turned to lead in her mouth. Hard hands grasped her shoulders.

“What my daughter is trying to say, is that she only caught a glimpse of the thief and can provide you with no further description.” Her father spoke curtly.

“Yes, I understand, but even a glimpse would help in this case. What was he wearing?”

The pressure of her father’s hands redoubled, Annah closed her eyes, and bit her lip trying not to open her mouth. “What difference does it make what clothes this thief wore?”

“Perhaps, that is a subject best discussed behind closed doors.” From the constable’s voice, Annah knew that he meant away from her.

Her father hesiteated, but relinquished his grip. “Of course. Annah, remain here.”

“Yes, father.” She spoke dutifully, she never seemed to call him by his name anymore. Not sense her mother had died. Closing her eyes, she pushed the memory away.

Rather than leave the room, her father guided the captain to the far end of the room. Stretching her senses, she listened. “…The rebellion in Kaireth is beginning to slip out of hand. Recently there have been reported incidents of rebels fleeing over the channel into Darenitii.”

Her father scoffed, “Don’t be absurd, Kaireth rebels this far in the city-they would have to be either brave, or suicidal.”

Brave, Annah thought back to the thief; brave and strangely charismatic, in a playful sense. Her father had pumped the whole story out of her before the captain of the guards arrived. All save for a few details she dared keep from him. Annah found herself blushing, thinking about the encounter; she had never been kissed by anyone before, not on the lips anyway. Not even her mother had done that. It had been terrifying, yet, strangely exhilarating at the same time.

“-Annah!” Her father’s voice broke through her shell of thoughts.

“Yes father?” She could tell he was upset; he hated to tell her anything twice.

“The constable was just leaving, show him to the door, and return to your chamber. I shall be up shortly.”

Swallowing, Annah could read under the words. Don’t let him suspect what you are, and you are in serious trouble. Putting on a polite face, she extended her arm, and waited for the caption to tuck it into this own. She knew the house, the rugs were her guides, the walls, her touch stones. It was all a carefully crafted act that her father had beat into her.

Only outside the study did she dare speak, “Tell me, what news is there that spooks the brave defender of the city watch?”

Even through the metal braces she could feel the captain straiten. “A trifling matter at best,” He spoke with new found basso, “An unorganized rabble of street scum from a neighboring kingdom.”

Putting on her best smile, she looked up at him. “We are fortunate then to have such a brave knight, to watch over use in these troubled times.” Annah didn’t need eyes to tell the captain was flushing. She had long ago learned that he fancied her.

Ideally she reached out and ran a hand against the wall, touching a table as she went. Five more steps and she would be at the palace’s inner keep. A boundary her father disliked her crossing unescorted. At the archway, she released his arm, “Captain.”

“My lady.” Bowing he departed.

Posture straight, head held high, she retreated into the palace and steeled herself for her father’s wrath.

…

The words had been harsh, but at least he never laid a hand on her. For that she was grateful. He had become jaded following Marie’s death, but not cruel, not yet anyways.

Laying in her bed, Annah touched the vacant spot where her mother’s locket had hung; stolen by a thief, a very strange thief. Following her father’s rebuke, her every thought had been on the intruder, that and Defrin’s Ally. She could still hear the thief’s voice ringing in her ears: Don’t keep me waiting too long, Moony.

Her face reddened at the name, Moony, how boyish it sounded. The name was familiar too, she had heard it before somewhere, very long ago. Closing her eye’s she dug deep, trying to place the memory. It had been a hot day, and the sun was reaching its peak, feet shuffling on the sand, accompanied by the cry of children playing, and the smells, there were so many smells. Then the memory faded, swallowed up in a wave of others.

Had it been the market? It was the smells she remembered most there, rare spices, fruits, and the flow of bodies from around the world.

Drawing in a deep breath, the smell of lavender wafted through the room, and with it a hint of cinnamon. Smiling, Annah knew it was Liens who slept on the floor mat beside her bed. She had not spoken when she came in, only rolled out her bed roll and bedded down. It was reassuring to have another person in the room, though saddening at the same time.

Liens, had changed over the years, Annah could still recall the playful youth she had been at their first meeting. They had stayed up throughout the night playing, giggling, and swapping stories of what they had seen, well, in Liens case anyway. Rolling onto her side, Annah looked down at her, and wondered if she still slept sprawled like a beached octopus.

Distantly, a pang of longing gnawed at her. To crawl out of her feather bed, and nestle into the crook of Liens arm, feel her warm skin, listen to her breathing, even if it was only for a single night. Liens would never let her though, not after the time her father had found them together.

Despite Annah’s pleas he had Liens beaten, and made it clear to the rest of her handmaidens that if they should touch her in such a way again, they would lose a hand. From then on none of her servants stayed with her, no more nights of laughter, braiding each other’s hair, or whispering secrets.

One night she had even dared to sneak down to the servant’s quarters, pressing herself against the door she could hear their quiet voices giggling. Eva, the oldest one, had apparently stolen a jug of wine and was daring others to try it. Listening for as long as she dared, she pushed the door open.

Murmured cursed and gasps of surprise filled the room, only to be replaced with stunned silence.

Smiling nervously, she stepped forwards. “Can I have a sip?”

The room remained polarized. Even without eyes, Annah could see the terror on their faces.

“Annah…You should not be here.” Lien whispered, her voice scared.

“We’ll all get in trouble.” Another croaked.

“I don’t want to lose my hand!”

“You have got to get out of here! Now.”

“Go! Before you get us all beaten, or worse!”

“Get out! Get out!”

Annah took a step back, her face convulsing. Scrunching her eyes closed, she tried to hold back the tears as she retreated; almost making it to the door.

Shivering, Annah turned away, unable to bear looking at Lien. The old feelings remained, wanting to touch her, run her fingers through her long hair, press her body against her in the cold nights. Unbidden, tears began to flow.

Above all else, though she wanted Lien to touch her, run her hand over her body just once more. But Lien would never do that, not now. Time had slowly build a distance between them, along with all her other handmaidens. They served, but there was no connection, no contact left.

The thief had touched her though.

Rough hands pressing to their waist, pulling her chin up to face them. It had been the most anyone had touched her in years. The thief had even kissed her. Running her fingers over her lips, she could still feel the shadow touch, of the intruder’s lips, and flushed.

Embarrassed by such thoughts, she twisted again, cocooning herself in her blankets. They were just taking what they wanted, she reminded herself, including her mother’s locket. A thief, nothing more.

“I’m coming for you.” Annah murmured as she let herself and drift off.

…

The day was hot as the midday sun beat down on the city’s market, it was hotter still in the trellis Annah sat within. Curtains drawn the thin fabric moved with the occasional breeze. Seria fidgeted across from her, as the litter moved deeper into the market. She was the one of the newest additions to Annah’s hand maidens and was still trying to acclimate to the role.

Another reason Annah liked her, she had yet to hear the rumors perpetuated by servants about how she was to be handled. Smiling, Annah remembered how skittish Seria was when she called for her to help dress.

“It-it is not proper…” Seria had stammered, when Annah had stripped herself before her.

Despite her discomfort though, she had helped her affix her dress. A long flowing skirt, that was composed of sunset ribbons that coiled up from her waist was affixed with a golden disk in the shape of the sun. With Seria’s help she had secured three gold bands, one just above her elbow, and two others one her wrist to balance out the broach. To complete the ensemble Annah had selected a finely woven circlet of gold and red glass to keep her wavy hair free from her face.

She had smiled when Seria commented how beautiful she looked, though she would not let Annah hug her. Apparently some rumors spread faster than others. Now alone in the litter, Seria seemed more nervous than before. Did she suspect?

Leaning forwards, Annah grouped until she found Seria’s hands, they were shaking slightly. “Seri, are you all right?”

Seria jerked her hands back. “Princess, please. It-I I should not have seen you as such. I-if your father were to know…”

So that was what happened, she and only been apart from Seria for a few hours, but it had been enough. “What did they tell you?”

“Princess?”

“Who told you? Was it a servants? One of my handmaidens? My father?”

“I should not-it would be improper.”

Drawing in a breath, Annah felt the body tight ribbons constrict against her chest. She had lost her, it was bound to happen sooner or later, she had just wished that it would have been later. Knowing there was no point in pushing the issue, Annah sank back into the pillows.

For a while they traveled in silence, Annah took the opportunity to familiarize herself with the world around her. There were so many different smells and sounds, it was enough to overload her senses. Sweet spices, and rare fruits, salted fish, and a thousand other smells. They were getting close now, near the heat of the market. Soon it would be time to put her plan into action.

Straining her senses she could hear the masses pressing in around the litter. Good, she would need a crowed. From ahead, the sound of splashing water announced the heat of the market. Annah had been there before, but that was when her mother was still alive. She could still remember the cold water, and how much fun she had playing in it in her youth.

That had been a long time ago, her father had made it clear that she was forbidden to leave the litter, lest someone discover her disfigurement. Slowly the sway of the litter ground to a halt, and sank to the ground. She had guessed that her escorts would not let her go further than the edge of the main square, it would have to do though.

“Tell me, what do you see?” She addressed Seria at length, and waited until she was certain Seria was looking out of the litter before draping one ring laden hand out of the box. Flexing her fingers, she could feel the sun on her hand and knew the jewels would be sparkling in the light; an easy target for someone daring enough.

It didn’t take long before a sharp tug on her finger signaled the bait had been taken. Screaming, Annah jerked her hand back. “Thief! Guards! Stop them!”

In the wave noise around her, the patter of small feet scurrying, followed by the heavy clomp of leather boots told her all she needed to know. Pressing her hand to her chest, she quickened her breath, letting her face redden.

“Seria… Seria, water. Please.”

“Keleesh, I-there was none brought-I…”

“…Fountain…” Annah whispered, letting herself fall back, as she rolled her gray eyes into her head. It was a great effort to not smile as she listened to Seria frantically try to decide what to do, poor girl. She was relieved when the curtains ruffled indicating Seria had made a run for the fountain.

Bolting up, Annah slipped out the opposite side of the litter and ran. Hands before her, she moved into the densely packed crowed. Moving like an eel, she slid between shops, letting her senses guide her through an unfamiliar world.

Blindly groping her way through the crowed she sampled each fabric around her and quickly found what she was looking for. “Sir, excuse me.” She tugged at a worn clock.

“And what do you want?” The man growled, turning to face her, his tone softened. “Oh, beg pardon my lady.”

“Your clock.” Annah flipped a gold piece at him, not waiting for formal introductions. The man fumbled its, apparently at a loss, but didn’t ask any questions as he undid the clasp and handed the clock over.

“My, thanks.”

With a twist she secured the clock around her, and pulled up the thread bare hood. The fabric was itchy, and had a strange smell to it, but it would suffice to denture the attention she was rapidly drawing herself. From behind her, she could hear the panicked voice of Seria.

“Keleesh? Keleesh!”

A pang of guild ran though her at leaving Seria in such a predicament, her father would not be please. To go back now though would mean giving up on any chance of recovering her mother’s locket. Steeling herself, Annah pushed deeper into the crowed.

Several well spent coins later, Annah found herself at what she hoped was Defrin’s ally. The first few people she had asked were unwilling to divulge such information. Others warned her against it, and a few seemed to be suspicious of the identity she had created in the short time she had run from the litter.

Stepping into the ally, she could feel the change around her as clear as night from day. The ally was much smaller, and the uneven cobble stones proved easy to trip on. Slowing her pace, Annah ran her hand across the rough brick walls, she had not gone more than a few paces when she felt eyes upon her.

“I know your there.” She spoke loudly, voice carrying down the alleyway.

C.S Notes: This is a commission piece done almost two years ago if memory serves, I can not remember the artists name sadly, as it was done at a comic convention. Even after ripping apart my old note collections I can find no reference to the creature.

What I can tell you: Before Amenii and Nera became the star lesbian couple, there was Anna and Sandra. This piece was written long ago back when I was in my prime phase of writing and worked on it just as much as my art. The entire piece here was based on the two verses of the song at the top, which I composed myself. This was sung by Sandra as Anna groped around blindly trying to catch her and retrieve her stolen item.

This was probably one of my first lesbian undertakings. Yes, there was a time before when I did not do lesbian art. Believe it or not that is probably one of the newer phases of my art carrier. I got into lesbianism shortly after finding a book called Good Moon Rising, it was a short read for a young audience, but it was moving. So, I began to write. My deepest regret is how much I forget, and how much still goes unrecorded. So, here is a peek into some of my first work, enjoy.