aulic pressure--quite
uncomfortable, I've been assured. This dose is oral, so he'll be that
way for about twelve hours." She picked up a syringe, cleared it of
air. "And this is algetin, a pain-enhancer that's most effective on
swollen tissue such as an erection. It's a combination I think
particularly appropriate for a rapist."

"An intriguing combination," Keith said. Moments later, when the
prisoner's erection firmed and grew moist, she saw curiosity. "Is that
wetness normal, or is it a drug effect?" he asked.

"Neither, Lieutenant; it's a side effect of the satyr plague."

"I see." Keith paused, cocking his head. "You said he can't bring
himself to climax, Excellency, and this does seem effective--but what
would happen if he did? Would it be a temporary relief, or would the
algetin make it as much an agony as it usually is a pleasure?"

Cortin stared at him in astonishment. That was the sort of question
she'd expect from an Inquisitor-Trainee, not an Imperial Marine! After
several seconds, she said thoughtfully, "We're cautioned against it in
training, since it's presumed orgasm would bring relief; if anyone had
experimented and found otherwise, it should've been reported in the
professional literature. Since I've never read about such an
experiment, I doubt it's ever been tried--but now that you suggest it,
the idea seems plausible. If you'd like to try, Lieutenant, be my
guest."

"No," Medart said firmly. "He can observe, since this is within your
law; taking part would go against a number of the laws that govern the
Imperial military." He turned to the Sandeman. "What's wrong,
Lieutenant? You're not acting like any warrior I've ever
met--including yourself, a couple of days ago."

"I feel fine, sir--I'm just not embarrassed by his display, the way I'd
have expected, and I . . . admire Colonel Cortin's work, which I
wouldn't have expected at all."

"Just how strong is this admiration, Lieutenant?"

Keith looked from Ranger to Inquisitor and back, his expression
answering Medart's question before he spoke. "Strongly enough that if
I thought there was any chance of acceptance, I would offer her my
fealty."

Cortin looked at him thoughtfully, then smiled. "If that means what I
believe it does, Lieutenant, you'd be in no danger of refusal."

Keith returned the smile, then acted on her promise and knelt.
"Colonel Joan Cortin, I wish you as my chosen lady, if that should be
your will. I