it keeps getting stronger

Only a consort.  So they were enlightened on some levels, keeping males in their proper rung and in roles best suited to them.  Though the consort's words did not imply all males were kept as such, the existence of such a rank showed a feminine dominance that was familiar to the Amazon.  His seeming reluctance at this fact, though, was new.

"This role does not please you?  Are you not happy to serve?"  Her keen eyes studied Pantaleimon's features, and the emotions that lay plainly upon them.  In the rise consorts reveled in their ability to please their mistresses, striving for the approval and praise of the warriors and accepting their role in life gladly.  That this one did not made Manauia wonder if perhaps they treated their consorts badly... something that made her frown with disgust.  She was not fond of males, less fond than some perhaps, but all life was sacred and should be treated as such.  Just because some were worth more than others did not give cause for those with worth to badly treat those without.