Chapter 15: The Lotus Quest

Q'Wasim and G'Ruvu arrived at the edge of the jungle. As the elder had predicted, there were two men waiting for them along with Priyansi and a sleuth of priestesses.

The High Priestess came forward, riding on her stone tiger. She was once again wearing her ceremonial red and gold sari with a headpiece that looked like the sun and a smile as serene as the moon.

The reincarnated goddess spoke in a clear and carrying voice. "Q'Wasim, Champion of the Kamal Tribe, I am in need of a new Crimson Tiger. Will you aid me in my search?"

Q'Wasim responded with the lines the elder had taught him days ago. "I will, High Priestess. As D'Vati has D'Shar, you will have me."

"D'Shar is a valuable ally," she responded. "Let him decide if you are worthy."

"As you wish. I am yours to command," he replied.

She nodded.

That ritual was complete. Now, they all entered the jungle, save G'Ruvu who just watched as they disappeared.

Tejul of the Kamal Tribe and a man of the Saanp Tribe led the way. The other priestesses trailed behind with Q'Wasim and Priyansi walking side by side in the middle. It was to be a long trek.

Q'Wasim kept glancing at Priyansi. He'd never been this close to her while she was in her divine splendor and yet, it was not close enough. The High Priestess and her tiger moved silently through the jungle at a steady pace that belied the rough terrain. It was almost as if they were both less real and more real than all of their surroundings. Their presence was both unspeakably beautiful and deeply unsettling.

Q'Wasim yearned to speak and reach out to the woman he loved, but G'Ruvu had been very adamant. There would be no touching or talking unless the High Priestess gave Q'Wasim leave to do so. He was nothing until she deemed otherwise.

After an age, Priyansi, at last, returned his gaze. Before Q'Wasim could recover from being the subject of his goddess's full attention, the High Priestess began another ritual conversation. "You are from the Kamal Tribe," she said.

"Yes," he managed, "the lotus is the symbol of my people, a gift from D'Vati."

She nodded. "Then you should know the story of this ritual."

"I know what you wish me to," Q'Wasim said deferentially. "I am a mere servant of D'Vati, servant to you." Q'Wasim let his eyes say more than the words he spoke.

Priyansi's eyes widened ever so slightly in response, before she said smoothly, "Every true servant of mine must know this story. Listen well to the Legend of the Crimson Tiger for it is a tale you will soon join."


A/N: See, I did it.