Nuworld: Claiming Tara Read Online Free Page A

An unclaimed woman such as
you will be plenty liked in Gothman.”
Reena stopped laughing and asked what she needed to
know. “So, Tara of the Blood Circle Clan and daughter of
the leader of all Runners, I would think you’ve come here
with your head full of stories of Gothman. I know a Runner
doesn’t enter new land without a plan. So let’s hear it.”
“I—”
“You’re an excellent warrior,” Reena continued on. “You
got past the men protecting Gothman’s borders. But if you
display your skills you’ll be put in jail. Gothman women
don’t fight. You’re young and unclaimed. I daresay you’ll be
raped until you’re claimed. Although as pretty as you are, I
bet you’re claimed the first day you’re in Gothman.”
“I’ve been attacked before. Don’t worry about me. No one
is going to rape me. I promise. I know how to handle
myself.” Tara gestured with her fork. “Possibly you have
some clothing I could borrow. If I could mingle among the
Gothman, I’d learn so much.”
“I’m sure your skills are outstanding, but ten men
against one woman aren’t good odds…even if that woman
is a Runner.”
“I thought—” Tara began.
Reena shook her head but already saw the inevitable
happening. Why Patha hadn’t put a stop to this, Reena had
no clue. She might not be able to change Tara’s mind, but
she would protect her the best she could. “I might be able
to find some clothes that will fit you. You’re small, like me.”
“Would you be willing—” Tara’s rush of words were cut
off once more.
“I daresay in my youth I had much of your beauty. We
can’t hide yours. The more you change to fit in to our
culture, the more trouble you’ll bring on yourself.”
“I would never cause trouble.” Tara’s expression
brightened. “I will dress plain. I won’t bring trouble to you,
or to me. All I want is to walk the streets of Gothman.
There are many great stories about your people, Reena. I
want to witness for myself a culture so different from mine.
Will you help me?”
Reena’s warnings had been ignored. She also saw if she
didn’t agree, Tara would find another way into Gothman.
Reena didn’t like it. But if she helped Tara at least she
would know where she was. “Yes, I will help you,” Reena
relented. Patha had sent Tara to her. There was no way she
would let Tara out of her home without knowing her better
first. “I’ve known a Runner or two in my day. You want to
know about us, and if I don’t help you I’m sure you’ll resort
to another plan,. You’ll stay the night here. I’m sure Lord
Darius’ men will be keeping an eye on the woods for a
Runner through the rest of the night.”
    Tara watched the old lady get up from her rocking chair
and open a door leading to a bedroom. Tara didn’t move,
but listened as the woman continued to talk to her about
Gothman. From what Patha had told her about these
people, Tara wondered why Reena didn’t have a man
around. Gothman women didn’t have a say over who
claimed them.
    “I’m sure I’v
e an extra nightgown for you. We need to get
you out of those Runner clothes immediately. I’ve many
visitors and to be certain we’ll have to come up with a story
to explain your presence. The women around here use me
for a midwife and the Gothman like to reproduce. I stay
quite busy.” Reena retreated down a hall and into a dark
room, her voice trailing off as she moved.
    “Let’s see.” She returned a minute later holding up a
long paisley nightgown with white ruffles around the collar.
“This is modest enough, and I think it might fit. I’m
thinking I’ll have to wash some clothes for you to wear
during the day. Not to worry, I’ll provide you with a decent
wardrobe. Go change into this. We’ll figure out the rest in
the morning.”
    Tara took the nightgown to the bathroom and slowly
disrobed. She felt as if she were shedding her Runner
heritage as she changed. Along with her clothes she was
leaving behind the ways of the