My island in the sun Ch 08

My island in the sun Ch 08

A man finds his Greek roots and his dream island

This is part of a series. If you haven't already done so, I would suggest reading the previous chapters, so this one will make sense. Take it as read that Greek is being spoken throughout this chapter. Any characters engaged in sexual acts of any description are at least 18 years of age or older.

I have written in English, mainly due to the fact that I am not fluent in Greek, and I want to reach out to the most readers with my story.

As the dawn sun peeked through the porthole to the master cabin AJ looked down on Aella in her slumber and as much as he longed to stay in their mutual embrace he eased her arm away from his chest, as he tried to wriggle the other from the cocoon, that he had enveloped her in throughout the night.

Her brown hair shone like gold in the morning sun as it lit her face. Although Aella did not wake at these slight movements, she instinctively drew her hand that had been gently lifted from its resting place, over her face to shield her eyes from the early morning sun.

AJ needed to exercise, and he knew just what was needed. As he pulled on some trunks, he quietly left Aella to her dreams and went up on deck.

He went to the sky lounge and quickly poured a glass of orange juice, which he drank as quickly as he had poured it. Walking down to the saloon he placed the glass in the food lift and sent it back down.

Having done that, and now feeling slightly more refreshed he walked to the beach club where Titan was laying keeping watch at his station at the stern of "Aellas Choice".

To his astonishment, given that it was barely half past five, Eleni and Lykos were cheerfully chatting away, sprawled out on the sunbathing deck at the front of the Targa, and seemingly totally oblivious to AJs' presence. "Good morning you two," he proclaimed loudly and cheerfully, despite the hour.

"What in the name of caffeine are you both doing awake so early?"

The two lovebirds jumped upon hearing AJs' jovial greeting, yes, AJ had been correct, they were ensconced in their own little world.

Lykos quickly recovered his wits, and looked across to AJ, "We shared a beautiful sunset yesterday evening, so it only seemed right that I treat Eleni to an equally wonderful sunrise, to celebrate our first morning together!"

"I hope you both managed to steal a few hours' sleep," he said, voice low but edged with urgency. "Because today Lykos, we've got a mountain of preparations to conquer, as tomorrow, at first light, we're back on Gioura to sort out Victor!"

Eleni remarked, with an understated conviction that was clear to hear, "Oh, don't you worry AJ, I slept like a babe in Lykos' arms all night. I haven't had a good nights' sleep in weeks for fear of what was going to happen to us. Now, I feel totally protected and that's down to all of you on board."

"I would like to call our parents today if that's possible, as we haven't contacted them since all this started and they are probably beginning to worry about us."

AJ looked to Lykos and stated plainly and clearly, "you don't need to ask for permission, just use the satellite phone. Or just ask one of us for a phone to use."

"Once I have hold of Victor, I'll get back any of your possessions that he has. Just make a list of anything he took of Kats' and yours."

"hopefully, he still has our packs on the boat, everything should still be together then," Eleni replied, a hopeful expression lighting up her face."

Lykos gently took her hand in his, offering Eleni a reassuring smile. "We've got it all covered, you and Kat, this is your fresh start. Everything ahead is something to look forward to. The tide's turning in your favour, we will get you restitution from Victor you have my word."

"It's only going to get better from here. You can tell your family the future's looking bright, for both of you."

"Anyway, I'm going for a swim, I've neglected my exercise these last few days. By my calculations it should be seven kilometres around the island, so that should be a good workout, I'll see you in an hour or two!"

"When Aella surfaces can you let her know where I am, I left her in dreamland. She looked so peaceful, I didn't want to wake her!"

With that he dove into the water and started to cut through the water with strong forward strokes, like a knife through butter.

As the two sat there watching him glide effortlessly through the clear blue water, each stroke, smooth and graceful, the sea shimmered, welcoming the morning with calm acceptance.

Suddenly, just behind AJ a sleek grey shape broke the surface, a dolphin, which appeared to begin to mirror his movements with playful precision.

For a while, Eleni and Lykos sat transfixed, the scene painted a kind of quiet magic... man and creature in perfect rhythm, skimming through the Aegean as if choreographed by the gods. Then, within minutes, Eleni and Lykos could see nothing more than two small dots, cutting through the water with unimaginable speed, disappearing toward the horizon like ghosts slipping between worlds.

Both Lykos and Eleni turned to each other in one fluid movement, "We are alone together once more, let's enjoy the time we have before everyone else emerges and starts the day" whispered Lykos.

Titan gave out a soft bark, his way of reminding the two that they were not in fact, alone.

Titan decided he would give them a little more alone time before he felt he should be able to join in their moment, even better if it involved Lykos throwing meat around the beach club for him. That had fast become Titans' favourite moment of the morning.

Aella awoke, from a wonderful dream, once more she had been on a sun kissed Greek beach with AJ, paddling in the sea while they held hands with two children who were enjoying frolicking amongst the gentle waves lapping the shore.

She turned, only to see she was alone, she jumped up and went to the bathroom, expecting to discover AJ within. Her disappointment was fleeting as she knew he would have much on his mind as he pondered on exactly how they would deal with Victor and his associates.

With quiet resignation Aella quickly took a shower, and after drying herself with the large luxurious fluffy towel, she picked out an Olympic blue cotton sundress and a thong to match.

True to her habit, and the added bonus that AJ seemed to appreciate it, she dressed sans bra. Her mother Larissa had always told her that bras were for the over 60s, often accompanied with a chuckle.

Aella spent a moment looking through her jewellery box before choosing the Delicate gold chain with the aquamarine gemstone hanging from it that her mother had gifted her on her twelfth birthday.

Larissa had proceeded to tell her that the stone would give her courage, clarity and creativity to those who wore it. Once Aella had become the risk assessment expert for the Triumvirate, she realised how prophetic the gift had been, and couldn't help but wonder if her mother had always foreseen how things would unfold.

She always felt her mothers' presence when she wore it, and she knew she'd need that calming influence in the days to come.

Aella made her way up onto the deck to find AJ and see what he was up to; it was still early just past six forty five in the morning, so she didn't expect anyone else but AJ to be about yet. They could still have some moments together before the day began.

As she went up to the saloon she saw Lykos standing with Eleni, he was throwing chunks of meat around for Titan, who was darting like lightning around the extended deck catching the meat before it fell to the floor or went over the side into the sea.

Titan didn't intend to share his morning treats with any loggerhead sea turtles that may be lurking about.

As Aella was walking over to join Eleni and Lykos, there was a splash just off the stern. All three turned to see a dolphin leap out of the water and perform a perfect somersault just a few metres from where they stood. As it re-entered the water, AJ ascended the swim ladder, appearing as if he was Poseidon himself.

Rivulets of water ran down his muscular torso, winding their way through the spectacularly defined indentations of his Pecs and Abs. Aella felt her passion rise and her loins dampened.

"Have you kept a record of my time Lykos?" asked AJ.

"Well, you set of at 0540hrs and it's now 0650 hrs so that's an hour and ten minutes, so you obviously didn't do the full seven kilometre circuit of Pelagos!"

"Oh, I did," AJ enthused. "I had that dolphin for company all the way round, believe it or not, I found out I can speak telepathically with her as well. She told me she was sent by Poseidon to assist us in dealing with Victor."

"I have named her Kallos, which means beauty; she watched you place the listening devices on "Chesma" and has been shadowing us since. When I went for my swim, Kallos took that as her opportunity to introduce herself to me."

Eleni was looking between Lykos, AJ and Aella, not believing that she was listening to AJ talking about communicating with a dolphin, and Lykos and Aella just accepted it, like it was an everyday occurrence.

AJ continued.

"So, at that timing, I have shaved at least half an hour off how long I would normally take to complete that distance. Kallos told me Poseidon has gifted me enhanced powers when I am in the water."

Eleni couldn't keep quiet any longer. "Am I living in a parallel universe, what are you talking about, communicating with a dolphin?"

Lykos took hold of her hands, "To fully understand what is happening, you have to believe in the Greek Gods"

"AJ, give Eleni a demonstration using Titan."

AJ thought it may help Eleni accept the reality of his powers. After all he had had a few days to get his head round it.

"Eleni, whisper something to me you would like Titan to do."

Eleni thought, as she slowly walked over to AJ. He could by her expression see she had thought of something, "Get him to bring his food bowl to me!"

"Titan, AJ said as he mind linked with the massive shepherd dog, "fetch your food bowl and give it to Eleni."

Titan went to the sky lounge, to get his bowl, but didn't find it where it should be. Then he went down to the kitchen, where he found Mara preparing food for breakfast.

Titan sat and looked up at Mara, then huffed and looked at his bowl which was on the work surface across from where she was preparing things.

You want food, he huffed again and she went and took the bowl, placing it on the floor, then turned around to fetch him some meat from the section of the fridge which was where his food was kept separately from theirs.

As soon as Mara placed it on the floor he grabbed it up in his massive jaws running back up to the saloon and went straight to Eleni, sat at her feet and presented his bowl to her.

Eleni stood there stunned. "It's true; you have powers gifted by the gods."

Lykos simply stated, "I told you there was a lot more to AJ."

"I must tell Kat, where is Kat by the way?" asked Eleni, suddenly wanting her friend to know everything that she had discovered that morning.

"Kat's sharing Nikos' cabin," Aella explained. "They've got separate bunks, though. I don't think either of them is ready to take things further just yet. It seems like they're still figuring out what's happening between them, even if they don't fully understand it themselves."

Lykos pulled AJ aside. "AJ, if my calculations are correct, a swim of that length should take at least two hours. You beat that by a huge margin."

AJ nodded eyes still wide with the rush of adrenaline. "I swear I could feel Kallos infusing me with power the whole way. My stroke, my endurance, everything felt supercharged. My time really proves that!"

"Your endurance and speed, first on land, now at sea, is incredible. You're becoming a force to be reckoned with. Honestly AJ, beyond any doubt, it boosts my confidence no end for what we're going to be up against tomorrow with Victor and his cronies, along with whatever the American producer brings to the party," Lykos said, a spark of excitement in his voice.

"Right Breakfast and then we'll start planning," Aella said breaking up AJs' and Lykos' conversation.

.....................

"No!!! Boomed Aella, "I will not be left behind, I must be with you, you know that AJ."

"Look my little flower, as much as I need you with me, I will not take any risks when Victor has declared that he will have you. If you are not anywhere near Gioura that risk is removed from the equation, you must see that!"

"But I could use the helm of darkness and he wouldn't know I was there, would he?"

"We're heading into the unknown. Victor and his two goons--that makes three we can count on being there. But the American producer, we have no idea how many he'll bring. Could be two, could be ten. With Dimitri, we're four. Giorgos will cover the cave entrance, so we'll have some control there."

"But the rest...." He paused, his eyes narrowing, voice dropping to a grim edge. "That's where it gets dangerous. We'll have to adapt, deal whatever turns up. No plan, just instincts. Lykos and I... we're trained for any eventuality."

He turned, gaze steady. "That's why you're staying behind. Lykos and I will be at the landing site, waiting. Once they show up, it begins. But I won't drag you into the unknown, not when we're setting a trap. You can't be caught up in that!"

"Dimitri will be lying in wait at the same spot where we captured the Coastguards, but that may not be enough. I can't stand the thought of being too far from you if something goes wrong. If you're in danger, I need to be close... close enough to reach you, to protect you. But even I can't be in two places at once"

"So no... you'll do exactly as I say." His voice was low, with an undercurrent of resolve.

"We free the other two girls. That's the only acceptable outcome to me. Once they're safe... He leaned in, eyes hard. "Victor, and anyone who stands with him, will be dealt with."

"They'll never hurt another defenceless woman again. Not ever. Not on my watch. This is bigger than the both of us Aella, it's that simple, nothing can be allowed to jeopardise that objective!"

Aella, understood, and suddenly felt like she had behaved like a petulant child, who wasn't chosen to play on the team at school.

"Forgive me, baby. I do understand what's at stake, it sounds silly now, but I just couldn't bear the thought of being away from you."

"Now... I see it clearly. If I stayed with you, I might have jeopardized everything. The whole mission, all four girls, even you."

"But we won't be far away though! The moment you connect with me, we'll be straight there, to take the girls away to safety, to let them know it's over, and that they're finally going to be okay. Eleni and Kat will be able to reassure them of that!" asserted Aella.

Georgos said they would anchor two Kilometres, off the southern tip of Gioura, far enough away to be just another passing vessel, but close enough to move in very quickly.

"Lykos, we will need to take enough weapons to cover most eventualities, but at the same time we must make sure we can move quickly if necessary." AJ clarified.

"Oh, we'll load you up with weapons AJ, Lykos said with a grin that didn't quite reach his eyes. "And you won't lose a step."

He glanced over the gear they had already assembled ready to transfer to the Targa, his voice dropping into something harder.

"We go in combat gear, our combat vests packed with ammo. No guessing, no half-measures. And body armour?" He paused, locking eyes. "We should wear it. We can't take any chances not when we're going with something unquantifiable like this!"

"Obviously we'll all wear personal comms again, as well," added AJ.

"I think we should set up some remote stun grenades inside the cave chamber, we can hide them under the beds, explained Lykos, "That way if for some reason we don't stop them before they get that far we have a back up way of stopping them!"

"Good idea, Kostas commented, "He was a bit miffed he would not be involved on the island but took on the responsibility, along with Georgos and Nikos to remain on "Aellas Choice" and defend the vessel if things didn't go to plan, Lykos had given all three men instructions on how to operate the RPGs' he had obtained from his contacts.

AJ was sure that the Gods even had a hand in bringing Lykos to them!

AJ and Lykos went up to the Sky Lounge, alone... no distractions, this was not the time for second guesses. They weren't just formulating a plan. It was preparation for war.

They stood in silence for a moment, gazing out towards the direction of Gioura. That was where it would happen, the upcoming confrontation, the day of reckoning.

AJ and Lykos would treat it like any battle they'd faced before, methodical, relentless, with the full weight of their experience dictating their every move. No hesitation. No mercy, only the mission.

"I thought we'd go with the triangulation kill zone?"AJ asked Lykos, "Do you agree."

Lykos' voice was devoid of emotion, "Definitely AJ, we'll unleash hell on them, before they know what they've stepped into!"

AJ exhaled through his teeth. "Assuming our plan goes as we expect."

Lykos' tone was ice. "If they don't, we adapt. But either way... they suffer."

Perseus chose that moment to add his voice into the mix, AJ heard him in his mind.

"Athena has spoken; she has proclaimed that Artemis herself has cast her veil of protection over the two girls still in Victors clutches. No harm shall touch them, no blade, no bullet, and no force born of man. So long as they remain within her care, they will remain beyond the reach of this world's violence."

AJ relayed his internal conversation with Perseus to Lykos as soon as Perseus finished.

"That certainly changes the play," with visible relief, a burden lifted from Lykos' shoulders he hadn't even known he bore. A weight of uncertainty had been swept away by the voice of one of the Gods of Olympus herself.

AJ felt it too, "When gods speak, we mortals listen," for the first time since deciding on the plan of action, he let out a deep breath, "We will trust in the will of Artemis."

AJ and Lykos headed down to the beach club to rejoin everyone else. Titan was the first to spot AJ, trotting up eagerly and demanding attention. "Ok big boy," AJ chuckled giving Titan a scratch behind his ears.

"You want to go for a swim?" Titan gave a satisfied huff, AJ understood it as a definite yes.

"Does anyone feel like coming for a swim with Titan and me?"

Eleni spoke up straight away, "I'm up for it if Lykos is?"

"I'm only going if we keep it leisurely, I know AJs' idea of going for a swim, and I don't feel like being left behind," Lykos burst into laughter as he said it.

"No, just around Aellas choice, it's shallow enough a couple of hundred metres that way we could have a game of something, if we have enough players?"

In the end, Aella, Lykos, Eleni, Kat, Nikos, Mara and Giorgos all decided to join AJ. Aella hurried of quickly with Kat and Eleni to choose swimwear. Mara went down to the cabin she shared with Kostas to get her bikini.

Dimitri and Kostas said they would be able to spend the time while it was quiet going over the corporate planning for the next quarter. They would be able to present it to AJ for approval in a few days!

"Is this what I have to look forward to," moaned AJ, with the flair of an actor on stage, as he held the back of his hand against his brow.

Kostas had a smile on his face as he spoke, "Normally, Aella is in on all this too, as the third part of the Triumvirate, but you seem to be hogging her to yourself... like a limited edition bottle of Ouzo."

Dimitri burst out in laughter at what Kostas had said, when he finally caught his breath he added, with a smirk, "don't worry she'll be missing you so much tomorrow we'll bury her in spreadsheets, business and risk planning, just to stop her pining."

AJ was ready waiting with a Frisbee with Giorgos, Nikos and Lykos. "How long can it take to choose what swimsuit to put on? They've been gone nearly half an hour!"

"Ah the female mind doesn't work the same as ours AJ" teased Giorgos. "A man will open a draw and pull the first pair of trunks out he comes to. A simple thing... no thought required."

"However, I was treated to a little enlightenment from the woman in my last long term relationship. A woman has many things to consider when she chooses what to put on."

"First... does it suit her? Will it say what she wants it to say, especially if she's aiming to impress her man? Then there's the fine line... too eager, too casual, or completely off-message. She's definitely trying to hit the right notes... sexy, demure, or maybe just skip to full-on scandalous. Though, let's be honest, I doubt very much that we'll be seeing the latter option today. But you get the idea, right?"

AJ realised he had a lot to learn, when it came to women, especially when it came to Aella, he didn't want to do anything to mess things up, or upset her.

"I think I'm beginning to get the picture Giorgos, but it may take me a while longer yet," chuckled AJ.

They heard the women before they saw them, their laughter was drifting up from below, but got louder as they ascended the stairs from the cabins.

As one the four men turned and were stunned, Mara, although she was approaching forty, looked like a fifties pin up girl in neon yellow boy shorts, with a matching top that came down over the top half of her well defined Abs. But left a strip across her flat stomach exposed. All of a sudden there was an ear piercing whistle.

The group looked up to see Kostas leaning over from the Sky lounge, "you go girl, you still have what it takes my love. Looking at you, I wish I hadn't said I'd stay behind to go through things with Dimitri now, his idea of fun is colour-coding risk matrices!"

The whole group broke down laughing at that!

Next to ascend the stairs came Aella, She was wearing an Olympic blue one piece swim suit, however, it had sections that revealed the bronzed, toned perfection of her body but left everything covered where it mattered, to protect her modesty.

AJ sauntered over to Aella and took her hands in his, bending down and whispering in Aellas' ear, "I'm sure Titan won't mind if we skip swimming and stay behind."

Titan barked loudly, "Oops, I think he heard me," chortled AJ.

Kat and Eleni came up together, it seemed they needed each other for mutual support!

They both wore the same suits as Aella, but Eleni wore one in dazzling magenta, while Kats' was a vibrant lemon yellow.

Both Lykos and Nikos were struck speechless. Kat walked over to Nikos and asked, "Is it ok? You don't think it's a little too risqué, do you?"

"N.. n.. n. no, you look absolutely perfect, like an angel!"

Kat was completely absorbed by Nikos' reaction, his awkward stumble over the words, the way his cheeks coloured so easily. It was ridiculously endearing. He had that rare mix of confidence and a certain vulnerability to him, which made her heart skip a beat.

She grinned to herself... adorable.

And once they hit the water? Oh, she fully intended to close that distance... and see just how flustered she could make him.

Meanwhile, Lykos had taken Eleni in his arms, his voice low and full of wonder "You are my own Aphrodite... my princess. Never in my life have I witnessed a vision as radiant as you, standing before me now."

"I cannot see a future without you by my side; I will do everything possible, within my power, to give you a life you deserve."

"Lykos, I fully intend to spend my time earning your devotion. I am the lucky one, in finding you!"

Mara leaned into Giorgos, whispering into his ear, "Yes, definitely the AJ & Aella effect is going ahead full steam before our very eyes."

"Come on everyone, Giorgos said loudly, "are we going for a swim and a game or what?"

"We don't have time for this mutual love fest."

"Your right, Giorgos, said Lykos in resignation. "Let's get going, we can pick up where we left off later, maybe very much later."

As soon as those words left Lykos' lips, Titan leapt into the water and started paddling towards Pelagos.

The eight friends followed, diving into the refreshing, clear blue water, AJ held the Frisbee in one hand, in his left, he held Aellas hand using his legs and feet to propel them both through the water.

The others noted that AJ was still moving faster than any of them could. Kat was interested to see the phenomenon that was AJ, for herself... in person.

They spent an hour or so throwing the Frisbee round to each other, always making sure to include Titan in the game as well.

AJ gave the Frisbee one almighty throw, the flying disc travelling at least two hundred metres away from the group. As they looked towards where it had landed in the water, they saw that the Frisbee had been picked up' and it was heading back towards them.

When it got closer, AJ exclaimed, "It's Kallos, she's decided to join in the game."

Kallos came up to the group, but veered off towards Titan. She circled around him, round and round she went, going up to him, then backing off. She held the disc tightly in her mouth.

"Kallos is teasing Titan," Aella laughed. Kallos disappeared, and then all of a sudden rose up, out of the water, arching over Titans' head and landing back into the water on the other side of him.

She then went slowly towards him and offered him the Frisbee. Titan gratefully took it from her and paddled back towards AJ, with Kallos following him.

When both animals reached him he put his right arm out and touched the side of Kallos' head. He connected telepathically with her.

Kallos transferred her thoughts to AJ, "Poseidon has some of my friends, other dolphins swimming alongside the American producers' motor yacht. They communicated to me they should arrive at midday tomorrow if they maintain their current speed."

"They have seen six men on board not including the captain."

"Thank you Kallos, could you stay with us and let me know if anything changes?"

"I have been told to remain with you by Poseidon. Therefore, it is now my sacred duty to offer my service, should you need it, and you only need to ask."

"It's good to have you on the team then Kallos, Welcome to our happy band."

AJ then relayed to the others what he had found out through Kallos, explaining how Poseidon appeared to be involved as well now.

Eleni and Kat found it Incredible that what they had always thought of as Greek myth was now part of everyday events, and part of their life too!

Lykos suggested they call it a day and head back to "Aellas Choice" and they were all in agreement, having enjoyed the sea and the game, but were so ready to return to the yacht now.

Kallos swam alongside Titan as they swam back, occasionally giving the huge dog a playful nudge.

Once they were all back on board, they all went their separate ways to have a shower and rinse the saltwater off their bodies.

AJ and Aella went into the master cabin and quickly shed their swimwear. "As stunning as you looked in that one piece, I definitely prefer you like this my little flower."

Aellas nipples were hard and erect. They had been pushing out of her swimsuit all afternoon, and AJ missed the Frisbee a few times, because of the sight of her spectacular show as she threw the disc to him. She wasn't the only girl that happened to but Aella was the only one he took notice of!

"I'm stealing the shower first," Aella laughed, slipping from his muscled arms with a teasing smile. "This salt is really starting to itch as it dries, and if you touch me now, I won't be able to say no. But I want to be clean for you."

"I'm going to use the shower in one of the crew cabins then. See you in a few minutes."

AJ had finished his shower quickly and was now stretched out naked on the bed, the silk sheets cool beneath him as he waited for Aella. He smiled to himself, amused by the timeless mystery of whatever it was that took women so long in the bathroom, though, if he was honest, it was worth the wait for his little flower.

When Aella finally stepped out, the air seemed to still for a moment. Her hair, freshly dried and brushed, cascaded around her bare. She moved towards the bed with effortless grace, and AJ's breath caught slightly in his chest, because somehow, she was even more breathtaking every time he gazed upon her.

Aella knelt on the bed and moved with an inexplicable sensuality as she ran her hands up the length of his muscled calves. As she reached AJs' thighs she leant down and took his now throbbing staff in her hands.

Oh how she worshipped this glorious weapon. She gripped his organ with both hands as she lowered her head and took the tip between her lips, teasing the little hole with the tip of her tongue. Aella then opened her mouth wider and dropped her mouth to more of him.

AJ groaned, my god, Aella was fast becoming an expert at this, not that he had anything or anyone to compare it too! But the rapturous exquisite feelings that he was experiencing, were beyond anything he could have dreamed of. One of his commando buddies' had told him a couple of years ago that sex with love is the pinnacle of eroticism. He now knew what Toby had meant!

Aella was moving her hands up and down his shaft, while sucking and licking as much as she could get into her mouth. Lifting away slightly, she started circling the ridge of his purple helmet with her tongue, this began to blow AJs' mind as he started to see swirling colours inside his mind.

"Aella, My flower, I.. I.. I'm coming, Oh God I'm coming!" AJ roared.

Aella could feel his cockhead expanding in her mouth, and felt the stalk swell as his seed rose, until it spurted out filling her mouth. She swallowed as quickly as she could, and as soon as she swallowed, her mouth quickly filled once more, again and again it happened.

After what felt to Aella like minutes the pulsing subsided and she managed to swallow the remaining seed. She felt so empowered that she could achieve all this after only a few days experience. She would need to have some quiet time alone with Mara, who had more experience of these things, and see if there was more she could learn.

Aella then licked AJ clean, making sure she hadn't missed a drop. He reached for her and pulled her up into his strong arms, kissing her deeply, passionately such was his love for this wonderful woman that held his heart in her hands.

Aella looked into his deep brown eyes which shone with the gold rings around them. "Your eyes seem brighter baby." She gasped.

"Is it any wonder after something so wonderful, you have left me limp and sated. I somehow feel more energised at the same time though."

Aella cuddled into his side, as she whispered into his ear. "I feel it may be time that we go back up on deck, we don't want to have them sending a search party down for us," she chuckled.

As they left their cabin Mara and Kostas were also coming out of theirs. Aella broke out in a wide grin, all AJ said was, "I really needed that shower!"

All four burst into laughter, and followed each other up the stairs to the upper deck.

Nikos and Kat were at the stern in the beach club area, playing with Titan. They had a tennis ball that they were throwing to each other while the huge dog was spinning in circles trying to see when it was his turn to catch the ball. AJ noticed that Kallos was watching from the water, a few metres off the stern.

He and Aella walked to the back and AJ knelt down. As soon as he did so the dolphin approached him, and AJ put his hand on the side of Kallos' face.

Again her thoughts filled his mind. "Poseidon has told me that you must be on the Island at first light tomorrow to get prepared for what is to come. He has imparted, that you must not allow your enemies off the beach, as that is where his protection will be the strongest and give the girls the most protection."

AJ thanked Kallos for her help, and if possible could she thank Poseidon for him.

Perseus now spoke to AJ through their connection. "You can be sure that "Aellas Choice" can safely remain at the southern tip of Gioura, the other yachts will not be approaching from that direction."

"Artemis has also communicated through Athena that her divine presence will be on the island tomorrow although she will remain unseen."

"Did Athena say what Artemis' intentions are?" implored AJ.

"No, simply that she would be there alongside Poseiden, to provide protection and assistance for the two girls, and ensure vengeance is meted out for the wrongs delivered upon all four of them over the last weeks."

"That is indeed of some comfort Perseus. I am thankful to the gods!"

"There is no need to thank them, AJ. They act through you, for the good of all, and through you, drive back the darkness of evil that threatens to consume our lands."

As AJ stood and turned he took Aella into his arms, drawing her close, he locked his eyes with hers. He spoke softly, but with a gritty determination. "Tomorrow will see good triumph over evil. I will end Victors' immoral and sinful ways. And the ungodly abominable American will perish right alongside him."

"This is the wish of the gods themselves" he added with unmistakeable zeal.

He kissed the tip of her nose with a featherlight touch, "You must make a solemn promise to me that you will stay here on "Aellas Choice" tomorrow, until I communicate with you that you are safe to come down to the beach, once we have dealt with the situation in hand!"

"I give you my oath baby. I don't want to give you anything to worry about while you are doing what needs to be done to right these wrongs!"

Lykos came over to them with his hand clutching Elenis tightly. "Mara said she'll be doing a meze tonight, so we have about an hour to go over our plans. Shall we all convene on the flybridge?"

With everyone comfortable, AJ went over all the things he had found out about the plans of the Gods. "It seems that they will use their powers through me, so the decisions I make, will ultimately be theirs!" AJ confirmed.

"Also, Artemis has given the girls her protection through the shield of Aegis. Nothing can harm them. So we do not need to worry about stray bullets. She will also be there in presence but will remain unseen."

"We'll hit the beach at dawn to prepare, but they will not arrive till around midday. So we have time to position ourselves perfectly for our attack. The element of surprise will be ours. They won't know what's hit them; we'll keep them disorientated, and that will press home our advantage."

"We can use flash bangs on the beach then, instead of stun grenades like we would have done at the cave," suggested Lykos.

It was decided they would load up their equipment that evening ready to head down to Gioura before dawn the next morning. They would land on the beach unload all the weaponry and Nikos could pilot the Targa back to where "Aellas Choice" would be anchored.

"One last thing, if we can, I want to take Victor and the American alive. I have plans for those two!" AJ stated, rather ominously.

With that the six men, under Lykos direction went down to the beach club and loaded the Targa with all their gear for the morning.

"Now lets' enjoy the evening, but I for one will be getting an early night. I want to be fresh tomorrow." AJ said with a smile to his tone.

Mara excelled herself with a wonderful meze, there was wine on the table. However, AJ, Lykos Giorgos and Dimitri wanted to keep clear heads so they enjoyed some of Maras homemade mixed berry iced tea.

Titan enjoyed his prime T bone steak, and a couple of massive pork steaks, together with some dry food. After that AJ took him down to the beach club to do his business. Bagged up the aftermath of Titans meal, then hosed down the deck.

Titan went to the edge of one of the side extensions and barked twice. Up popped Kallos' head, then the two animals appeared to chatter away to each other.

"You stay out here then, and keep an eye out then boy!" Titan huffed his response in understanding.

Aella was descending the stairs from the Skylounge as AJ was walking back, he took her hand in his and called out good night to everyone, adding that he would at least see some of them in the morning.

The two lovebirds cuddled together whispering their love for each other as they drifted off to sleep. AJ had set an alarm on his phone for 0400 hrs just to be sure, although he was pretty sure his body clock would wake him.

It seemed that only minutes had past, when AJ opened his eyes, he looked at his phone and saw it was 0350 hrs, so he eased himself away from under Aellas arm that was draped across his chest and her head resting gently on his shoulder, and headed into the bathroom for some relief from his full bladder.

He had a quick rinse under the shower, then dried and dressed in his camouflage assault gear. His assault vest was already in the cockpit on the Targa, which was being guarded over by Titan overnight.

As AJ left the bathroom Aella was standing there waiting for him, "be careful today baby, don't take any risks!"

"I'll not be taking any risks my little flower. With the firepower we are taking to the party, and with Artemis using the Aegis to protect the two girls, we have the upper hand, although that said, I never take anything for granted."

AJ took her into his arms, holding her close as if he never wanted to let go. His lips met hers in a long, slow kiss, tender yet full of heat, a quiet promise in every lingering touch. When he finally pulled back, his voice was a low husky rumble.

"Let that hold you until tonight, AJ whispered, "I'll make up for the early night... and all the loving we missed. That's a promise, straight from my heart."

"Now, you go back to sleep my little flower. Titan will be remaining here to protect you, just on the off chance of anything happening."

"Till later then baby, I'll wait for you to let me know when we can come down when you have taken care of things."

With that, AJ eased the door open and left the cabin as quietly as he could.

As AJ arrived up in the saloon, he saw Lykos stepping of the Targa onto the beach club area, followed by Eleni.

"Good morning you two, said AJ greeting them with a whisper, "Did you sleep well?"

"I certainly did, said Eleni with a smile on her face while keeping her voice low to not let the sound travel too far. "After sleeping with Lykos, I now don't want to be away from him for a single night. I've never slept more peacefully in my life. I've found my soul mate."

"Mara has left some fruit and yoghurt and some other things out in the Skylounge for us, whispered Lykos. "She was up and at it around 0315 hrs, then went back to bed."

"I don't blame her, laughed AJ, we won't need them to come down to the Island for another six or seven hours, so there's no point them sitting around waiting.

"Why don't you go down into the master cabin with Aella, Eleni. "Catch a few more hours of sleep and keep her company. Titan will be staying here, along with Nikos and Kostas to help protect you all, should anything happen, although that's highly unlikely."

Eleni descended the stairs as Lykos and AJ went up to the Skylounge to get something for breakfast. AJ knew he needed some fresh orange juice for sure.

They had just sat down with their food when Dimitri and Giorgos came and joined them. They quickly grabbed their food, walked over and sat at the table with the other two.

"Is everyone ready, and sure of their roles," AJ asked them all. He wasn't concerned about Lykos, he was just as experienced in this type of operation as AJ was. He just needed to know that Dimitri and Giorgos were prepared for what was to come that day.

"I am not without experience in these things AJ, but I can assure you, although it's been quite a while, I'm ready for this!" Dimitri said with a determined edge to his voice.

Giorgos spoke up, "I won't pretend I've seen combat, I've only trained with Lykos. But standing with the three of you?" He smirked faintly, eyes flashing. "I'm ready to take my first blood. These malakas won't know what hit them."

"Well it's time to make a move, let's go and ruin their day!" AJ proclaimed.

As they went back to the beach club, Titan sat upright waiting with anticipation, for either orders from his master or chunks of meat from Lykos, although even to him, it seemed a bit early for it to be the latter.

AJ went up to Titan and stroked behind his ears and then gave him a good scratch on the neck. "I need to you to guard the yacht today big boy, especially Aella, but you know that don't you boy?" Titan gave a quiet, gruff bark in answer, and AJ could swear the dog smiled... maybe he just had wind.

They all boarded the Targa, where AJ found Nikos waiting for them. "I wish I was coming with you four, he said. "But you can trust me when I say I will give my all to ensure all on board "Aellas Choice" stay safe."

AJ gave Nikos a knuckle knock and clapped him on his back. "I trust you Nikos, have no fear. Now, take us down to Gioura then we'll see you this afternoon when we have finished mopping up this Victor business."

Twenty minutes or so later they motored onto the jetty at the beach, and they began unloading all of their equipment. As soon as they were unloaded, Dimitri wished his nephew well, and sent him on his way back to the motor yacht which Georgos was moving down to the southern tip of the island ready to move down to the beach, when Aella received the go ahead from AJ.

Before they went any further AJ and Lykos took a slow walk together around the area beyond the beach. They walked back 250 metres where the ground rose, sloping gently before it got steeper the further up it went.

As they surveyed the beach below, their eyes immediately locked onto the thick clusters of buckthorn bushes, dense enough for concealment, and perfectly positioned for a flanking manoeuvre. From these points, they'd have a clear triangulation on the jetty.

Lykos pointed toward the vegetation, his voice calm and focused. "If we take opposite flanks, using the buckthorn for cover, and have either Dimitri or Giorgos with each of us we will create crossfire and control the attack. That should lock down the jetty. Agreed?"

"I think we're on the same page Lykos, Straightforward and simple like all best plans," Said AJ.

"If we bury the flash bangs just under the surface of the sand at the end of the jetty, they'll walk right into the designated kill zone," AJ said his voice clipped and steady. "Once they're a few metres in, we detonate, disorient and confuse them. Then we step out; fire a burst of rounds at their feet. Message delivered."

"I'm on board with that," Lykos' replied. "Shock and awe. If we hit them hard and fast, we might not need to fire much more than a warning."

"Good," AJ nodded. "Then here's the plan: Plant the flash bangs, sweep the area, no trace, no footprints, nothing. Once the trap's set, we fall back to our positions, dig in, and wait. Eyes open, triggers ready."

Once the plan was explained to the other two and the trap was set Dimitri joined AJ and Giorgos went with Lykos, who would spend some more of the waiting time giving him pointers on how things should go and what he would need to do. Things would remain fluid, all plans change.

Dimitri started to strike up a quiet conversation with AJ while they waited. AJ stopped him, "Uncle," he began, glancing at him with calm intensity, "No offence, but I need silence before an operation like this. I find my edge in stillness. I slow my breathing, clear the noise... and run every possible outcome through my mind, every possibility. Every move, every failure, every way this could break apart, or come together."

He looked out into the early morning sun, his jaw set. "It's how I stay sharp. It's how I stay alive."

It was as he was contemplating one scenario, AJ realised they had another advantage the midday sun would brighten the sand, making the buckthorns appear darker, intensifying their cover.

AJ checked in with Lykos around 1130 hrs just to make sure things were all set on their side.

"Affirmative AJ ready and waiting."

Perseus spoke up from within AJs' mind. "The gods have forewarned that Victor is about fifteen minutes out coming in from the north, the American is another ten minutes or so behind him, although he's coming from a south easterly direction."

AJ relayed this information to the others and they went to the alert, ready for action.

Before too long AJ and Dimitri saw a yacht approaching from the north as Perseus had told them. As it came closer within a couple of hundred metres, AJ confirmed that it was the "Chesma".

The anchor was set and they could see a lot of movement on deck. Through his binoculars AJ saw one of Victors cronies bring the two girls up from below. They appeared unharmed as far as he could tell. He presumed the American wouldn't want damaged goods.

That would come later according to the Americans plans for these four girls he was buying.

He watched them usher the girls on to the tender once it had been lowered into the water from the tender crane.

That helped their plans; Victors' intention was obviously to have all four girls together on the island for the exchange. That was a critical part in AJs' planning, without that, everything could have fallen apart.

As far as Victor knew the other two were still in the cave with the coastguards. He'd send one of his cronies to get them as he couldn't see them waiting on the beach.

The tender moved away from the yacht, the three men and two girls visible on board. So far, so good. A minute later, they reached the jetty, and one man jumped out to tie off the mooring lines.

They got the girls out and stood on the jetty waiting. They were obviously waiting on the arrival of the American.

As AJ studied the men, he could see no weapons, not visibly anyway. Hopefully, that meant any arms they had with them were short range, pistols, no rifles. That was good from AJ's point of view.

Another yacht appeared from the south east, "This is the American," Perseus told AJ,

"Ready everyone the American has arrived for the party," AJ relayed to the others.

Once more AJ took up his binoculars, and he saw that three men started moving a Williams tender on the crane from the tender garage and out to the water. As they lowered it to the surface another man came down from the Sky lounge. Even from a distance AJ knew that this man must be the producer. He had that superior air about him. Conceit... AJ called it!

Three staying on the yacht AJ communicated through the comms. "That puts four coming ashore, four of us against seven, I'll take those odds!

He scanned the figures again. "Still no sign of any weapons. If they're armed, they're keeping it close."

As the Williams tender boat reached the Jetty they threw the mooring lines to Victors two cronies who quickly tied them off.

As they walked along the Jetty, AJ was amazed that he could clearly hear the conversation. The gods must be at work once more!

"Victor, where are the other two girls? You promised me four, and I need four for my next film, Virgin Apocalypse" exclaimed the American.

"Silas, there's no cause for concern, they're here, Victor replied, careful to veil the misstep. "I was just about to send one of my men to retrieve them from the place we've been keeping them, waiting for your arrival."

At that moment AJ said into his comms, "As soon they move up the beach we go as planned."

"The go will be the Flash bangs!" confirmed Lykos.

The group stepped off the jetty, and AJ felt the anticipation build as he waited for Lykos to trip the remote that would detonate the flash bangs.

Lykos waited, just two more metres, he told himself, almost willing the group to keep walking, he had in his head the exact point he would detonate.

"Go.. Go... Go," Lykos growled into the comms, thumb slamming the trigger on the remote. The blast behind the group down on the beach, split the air like a war cry from Artemis herself and they spun instinctively toward the roar as a white-hot flash lit up before them. The girls screamed. The men froze, caught between confusion and fear, unsure if hell had just opened behind them.

In the chaos, that ensued, the ringing in their ears, the flash still burning in their eyes, the two men that held the girls pulled out pistols.

Giorgos struck quickly. One breath, one shot. The man to the left of the girls dropped like a puppet with its strings cut, clean and silent from two hundred meters out.

Before the body even hit the ground, Georgos had already re-sighted. Another crack split the air. The man to the right of the girls crumpled, the echo of the shot chasing the fall.

It was now five to four, the odds were improving greatly. Without a word, AJ and Lykos rose like reapers from the earth, their rifles barking in unison. A hail of rounds ripped into the dirt at the men's feet, hot, close, and deliberate. It wasn't meant as a warning. They were sending a message.

AJ's voice tore through the chaos, unnaturally loud, as if the air itself was forced to listen. It didn't just echo; it struck like a storm breaking overhead. There was something preternatural in the way it hit, something beyond human. Almost as if the gods were speaking themselves.

"You want to live? Then get on your knees. Now!"

All but one dropped to their knees without a second's hesitation. The last man, one of Silas' took that moment to make his move. Stupidly he drew a pistol, halfway to taking aim, Giorgos didn't give him the rest of the moment. One shot. No warning. The man collapsed, lifeless before he could even level his pistol.

AJ's voice thundered out orders once more, with a steel sharp edge. "You're surrounded. Face down in the sand... hands behind your head, now!"

Even the girls dropped without thinking, their fear no different from their captors'. No one knew what was coming next..... but every instinct in their bodies, screamed not to take any chances.

The four moved in silence, steady and sharp, closing in across the sand, watching, searching for the slightest twitch or reckless defiance.

AJ connected to Aella, "Hello my little flower, you can make your way down to the beach now."

"Are you safe baby, tell me is everyone ok?"

"We just have to secure the beach and we will be ready for you, we're all fine not a scratch on any of us. Wait offshore a few hundred metres till we call in."

"Ok baby, I'll tell Georgos to get us underway, and wait to hear from you again!"

"Giorgos, help me with the girls for one moment please." AJ asked.

They helped the girls to their feet, "Do you remember me from the taverna on Skopelos a few days ago? Asked AJ, seeing the one girl's eyes flash with recognition. Please will you come with me a moment?"

The two girls followed AJ and Giorgos without question, AJ thought that they must be used to simply following Victors orders without question, and they had mentally transferred that obedience to AJ.

As they moved away from the others, AJ lowered his voice, speaking directly to them.

"We'll get you off this island soon, he said, his tone calm but firm. "You've been through enough. When you leave here, we'll make sure you have everything you need to start over... whatever that looks like for you. You choose the life you want... no one else."

This is Giorgos, he will stay with you until our yacht arrives to take you off the island. "In fact, Giorgos, why don't you get them in one of the two tenders on the jetty and move away from the Island. I'll let Aella know to look out for you!"

Giorgos asked the two girls to follow him to the jetty, so they could leave.

AJ connected with Aella through his mind once more. "Hey my little flower, Giorgos will have the two girls in a tender waiting offshore for you to arrive."

"Ok baby, we'll look out for them once we get there, we should only be a few minutes more now!"

The others quickly secured the four men that remained laying face down in the sand, and AJ walked back over to them.

Silas, the American producer started to spout off. "As soon as you take us to the authorities, you'll find that money talks and I will ruin all of you, do you hear."

Lykos stalked over to where Silas lay, his shadow following long across the sand. Without a word, he planted his boot on the back of Silas' head and drove it down, grinding his face into the fine, suffocating sand.

"Don't speak unless you're spoken to, he growled his voice low and menacing. "Nod, if you understand."

He lifted his foot just enough. Silas nodded, shaking, the sand cloying to his sweat drenched face.

AJ walked closer to both Victor and Silas, bending down so he was closer to them so only they would hear. His voice cut through the air like a blade. "What makes you think any of you will be leaving this island alive?"

He didn't shout... he didn't need to. The quiet certainty in his words carried the weight of a death sentence, that both men felt run up their spine in a cold shiver.

AJ reached out and touched the back of Silas' neck. He immediately felt Silas' aura in his mind it was blacker then he ever could have thought possible, much, much worse than when he had felt Victors, back on Skopelos.

AJ however, also knew he needed an answer to a question. "With your mind, just ask him what you need to know AJ he will not be able to defy you or lie. You will have the answers you seek!" Perseus told him.

AJ's eyes darted toward the yacht, his voice tight with concern

"Who's on board your motor yacht?" AJ asked his tone sharp.

"Just the captain and two more crew," Silas replied quickly. Although the words didn't physically leave Silas' mouth, AJ felt the truth pulse through his mind... raw, unfiltered. Beneath the answer, there was a flicker of urgency... and fear.

AJ turned and walked back over to Lykos.

"There are three crew members on Silas' yacht, including the captain, so there's no threat there."

AJ had been thinking on how to proceed, and had decided on a plan of action that would give all four girls restitution after their ordeal.

One by one, they took the four men to the other tender on the jetty and threw them on board, none too gently. "Let's get back over to Silas' motor yacht. And I'll deal with things there, before we continue with what I have planned."

Within a few minutes, they pulled alongside the stern of the yacht. Dimitris immediately recognised it as a Sanlorenzo SL120A, similar to "Aellas Choice" but slightly longer by twelve feet. They had considered this model when looking for another yacht, but in the end went with the SX112.

AJ placed his hand on the back of Silas' neck once more, and his presence slid easily into Silas' mind... like smoke through a crack.

"You will behave as though I am your closest ally, the thought echoed, smooth and inescapable. You will not resist. You will not be able to even consider crossing me."

His voice in Silas' head deepened, laced with something ancient and cold.

"You belong to me now Silas, obedient in thought word and deed. You will never dream of hurting me... or disappointing me. Not if you value what remains of yourself."

AJ had no intentions however, of Silas coming out of this alive. The darkness that had driven Silas to commit such heinous crimes would be his undoing, he was way beyond redemption. His fate was sealed, and would be shared by victor and the other two despicable beings.

AJ cut the bonds securing Silas and led him onto the beach club area, which was still set up as a tender garage.

Dimitri stayed with the three men still secured in the tender.

They climbed up to the flybridge; the three crew members stood waiting for Silas.

AJ's voice rang out, firm and commanding. "Why don't you introduce me, Silas?" AJ said, his voice cutting through the silence like a blade. Then communicating silently with Silas, "Just tell them my name is Ajax, I don't need their names... not yet."

Silas introduced AJ, Then AJ announced "We are here to complete the transfer of ownership paperwork, isn't that right Silas?"

Silas knew that was wrong but his mind would not let him contradict what AJ was telling the crew. "Certainly Ajax, I keep all my paperwork in the master cabin, let's go down and sort it out shall we."

Within minutes all the paperwork required had been filled out and he took Silas back to the tender. "Sit, do nothing and wait for me, I am just going to speak with the crew. As he reached the flybridge AJ saw "Aellas Choice" was a hundred metres or so to the south of them, and the tender was empty, so the girls must be aboard with Giorgos too.

AJ approached the captain, who had been introduced to him as Ermis, a very old Greek name.

AJ took hold of his hand to shake it, immediately delving deep into his mind. What he found told him that indeed, neither Ermis himself of the other two crew members were aware of Silas' nefarious background or the fates of the girls he would periodically bring on board. They thought he was a mainstream filmmaker, no more than that.

That eased AJs' mind, and would make his plan that much easier to carry out.

AJ reached out for Aella through their connection. "Can you ask Nikos to follow Giorgos back over here in the Targa and drop of the tender. Otherwise we are going to end up with watercraft all over the place, and not enough people to pilot them," he laughed.

"Once one of my friends brings the tender back, will you sail over to Alonissos and moor at the harbour in Steni Vala. We will be along in a few hours, at which time we can talk further, we just have to go to Victors' yacht, "Chesma" and conclude our business."

"Whatever you wish sir, we will wait for you there."

With that AJ returned to the tender, joining Dimitri and Lykos. With that, AJ returned to the tender, joining Dimitri and Lykos.

We head over to "Chesma" first. Then we can deal with this filthy scum... permanently. No loose ends. No survivors. No comebacks."

"As soon as we're aboard the "Chesma" and this trash is contained," Lykos said... his voice low and deliberate, "I'll dive for the listening devices. We don't want to leave a single trace behind."

"I'm with you on that," agreed AJ, and before they'd finished that short conversation they reached the vessel.

Dragging the despicable, depraved men aboard without an ounce of care, they double-checked their restraints to make sure nothing could go wrong.

Dimitri returned to the island to sweep the beach, loading the last of their gear back on to the tender and making sure none of Giorgos' shell casings remained, even though he'd watched him clear them with his own eyes.

While Lykos dived to retrieve his devices AJ started on his plan. He placed a hand on both of Silas' henchmen and entered their minds. Their auras' showed AJ just how completely corrupt these men were.

It confirmed what he already knew... this was the right course, and nothing would turn him from it now. He would not be swayed, the gods were with him, so he would be resolute in his decision and actions.

He had the entire package of paperwork safe in his pocket. The Yachts ownership papers, along with the banking information and passwords to access all of Silas' accounts. This wasn't about revenge. It was about restoration... restoration for the girls.

AJ planted a suggestion in all the four mens minds. And left them sitting in the Saloon.

He headed down to the cabins, where he found four backpacks in one of the crew cabins. After having a quick look inside, AJ confirmed he had found the four girls possessions.

"Aella can you have Nikos head down here to the "Chesma" in the Targa to pick us up as soon as you can?"

"Sure their just getting back from taking the tender to the other yacht, I'll get Nikos to head back right away."

AJ glanced over at the Sanlorenzo SL120A. The tender was already on the crane, being lifted into the garage, and captain Ermis was getting them underway.

Moments later, Dimitri returned from the beach, with Nikos close behind in the Targa.

"Let's get everything loaded onto the Targa, then we can head back to "Aellas Choice", then make our way back to Alonissos," AJ said. He was in a hurry to get back to Aella.

They moved quickly. In no time, the gear was stowed, and Lykos appeared with his underwater pack, gadgets neatly secured and ready for the next time they would be needed.

AJ had a quick word with Lykos and they went through the gear quickly, and retrieved some weapons and a four other items from one of the packs.

AJ headed back to the saloon while the others stayed on the Targa. Within a minute he was back and jumped onto the Targa. "Let's go, our work here is done my friends." Lykos took over piloting the Targa and a minute or two later the pulled up at the stern of "Aellas Choice" and secured a mooring line.

The rib eye RIB was in the tender garage and Titan was there waiting for AJ with Aella standing alongside the large dog as he leapt aboard Aella wrapped him in a big hug and buried her face in his chest. "I am so glad you're back, I knew you'd be alright, but couldn't help worrying." She told AJ softly.

"Well, we're back and hopefully we can find a more peaceful normal now."

Dimitri, and Nikos got off the Targa just in time, as Eleni came hurrying down from the Flybridge, and leapt aboard the Targa, and went flying into Lykos' arms.

"No time to spare now, Lets' get underway, as fast as we can!" Nikos untied the mooring line and As Georgos pulled away in "Aellas Choice" Lykos was back at the helm following in the Targa with Eleni glued to his side.

They had only been underway for a few minutes when a thunderous explosion tore through the air, sharp and sudden. The sound cracked across the water like the sky itself had split open. Instinctively, every head snapped back toward the "Chesma", eyes wide in surprise, just in time to see a plume of smoke rising, where moments ago there had been calm.

"It seems that vessel's voyage met an abrupt ending," Dimitri mused, eyes narrowing toward the smouldering silhouette sitting on the horizon.

AJ's lips curled into a quiet grin, a chuckle rising from somewhere deep.

"They've just discovered their actions have consequences." Perseus added.

"Karma can be a cruel mistress!" AJ growled.

This is the end of the chapter Eight, There may be a delay before the next chapter is published. As I am embarking on a research trip to the Sporades. (alright, I'm going on holiday)

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