As she approached the bluff, Mallory realised that on its crest stood a nude woman, hands on her hips. Curiosity drew her towards the figure. She climbed the slope and when she reached the top, she saw that the woman was posing for a group of women, sitting cross-legged with drawing boards.
The women were dressed, not formally, but in a fairly uniform style of muted colours and fitted classical garments, as if part of an event. To the side of this group, on a chair, sat a striking woman who was evidently their central figure, as glances from the women regularly went to her.
She was tall, Black, voluptuous, with long lustrous hair that spilled in waves. She wore a dark corset, boots and remarkably, a cloak. Her jewellery was ornate and profuse, and adorned her throat, her ears, her arms and her wrists. Her every movement came with a jangle. She exuded magnificence.
Her dark eyes settled on Mallory. Welcome, pretty, she said. Come, sit by me. Without hesitation, Mallory moved past the model, through the group, and sat at the woman's feet. It felt more like a summoning than an invitation, and Mallory was pleased to comply. She looked up.
What is your name, pretty? Mallory introduced herself. That's lovely, the woman said. She reached out and stroked Mallory's hair. Mallory was surprised, and surprised herself by welcoming the touch. The woman's eyes held her fast. She felt herself being given away. You can call me Suprema.
Suprema looked up at the nude model. Isn't she beautiful? Mallory said she was. Suprema ran a lazy finger up and down the curve of Mallory's breast. I'm an admirer and a collector of female beauty. Have you ever posed, pretty? Mallory shook her head. Perhaps you will for me.
It's getting cold, girls, Suprema said abruptly. Poor Cally is all gooseflesh, and her nipples are like pebbles. Let's go inside. As the wind picked up, the women started to pack up their things, and the model found a robe. Suprema took Mallory's hand. I hope you have nowhere to be, she said.
With Suprema and Mallory at their head, the women crossed the land until they came to a building that seemed out of place and time. It was a stately, almost gothic structure, all crumbling brickwork, arches and enormous doors. Once inside, the group dispersed, all having or sharing rooms.