Lifetime of Celebration
By Jeannette Hetfield
I can't believe I almost forgot to thank Eirian! What's wrong with me? Well, thank you so much Eirian for the wonderful visual you provided for the creation of the Medjai village. And thanks for listening to the gazillion questions I asked over the last two months. You're a sweetheart! Kiss Rashid for me…or why don't I just do it myself?
Chapter 11
The rocks concealing the ancient village loomed closer and closer. They appeared to Jensa like fingertips brushing the sky. She suddenly felt very intimidated as the party of riders came upon the massive rocks. The size of these thousand year old formations went hand in hand with the Medjai. It was only fitting these mighty people chose a mighty place to live.
How could she possibly live up to everything Ardeth was so certain she would? She was only a twenty-one year girl, still very much a child in many ways and was now growing up faster than she ever thought she would. How could she be the kind of wife he needed? As the chosen bride of the Medjai chieftain, her role would be one of leadership as well. She was not a leader!
She was a coward and believed that with all her heart. She had not said anything to Ardeth, but as he told her of what to expect after becoming his wife, she was afraid. Very few outsiders were welcomed with open arms among the tribes of the desert. Just because Ardeth loved her did not mean his people would. The radical villager, Dammar, would definitely not welcome her and she hoped her interaction with him was minimal.
The riders slowed the pace of their Arabians as they came closer to the rocks. Kerri had ridden up beside her some time ago. Jensa reached over and gave her friend's hand a squeeze.
Jensa said quietly, "Are you as nervous as I am?"
"Probably not, but yes, I am nervous."
As they rounded the curve of the rock's foot, a warm hand reached over and closed around Jensa's. With this contact, she felt all of her fears melt away and felt as if he was passing on some of his strength to her. All it had taken was a simple touch and surprisingly, it caused her mild annoyance. She could never have such a powerful presence. Just one touch and she melted. How did he do that?
She glanced over at him and saw a slight frown to his face, a frown that had formed from the no doubt annoyed look on her face.
"Are you all right?" he asked quietly.
"Yes, I'm just a little nervous I think."
The frown changed to a small and understanding smile. His thumb brushed across her wrist and she shuddered involuntarily. She saw a grin playing about the corners of his mouth and he let go of her hand, his fingers sliding across the skin of her hand and giving her another bout of the shudders.
"Do you like it?" he asked eagerly, looking at the rocks.
"Like it? Ardeth, it's magnificent!"
Their arrival was immediately noticed and she saw several of the warrior guards run into the village to alert others. As they rode through, everyone stopped in the middle of their tasks to watch the desert warriors come home. They all cheered when Ardeth placed his hand over his heart and raised it to the sky in their traditional greeting.
Children ran up to the warriors, chattering excitedly, but they paid the most attention to Ardeth. Jensa noticed how he spoke to each and every one of them. No one was left out. One little girl bounced up and down alongside the horse as it trotted. Jensa could clearly see she was smitten with Ardeth. She couldn't have been more than seven years old. Ardeth leaned down, scooped her up in his arm and placed her on the saddle in front of him. She smiled smugly at the other children who had not been given such special treatment.
Jensa had no doubt Ardeth gave every child in the village a ride on Ahmar. She smiled warmly at the sight of the girl sitting with him on the tall Arabian steed and formed a clear picture in her mind of their own daughter riding with him. Ardeth suddenly turned his head and looked her directly in the eye as if he could sense her watching him. He glanced down at the girl and then back at Jensa. He seemed to be thinking the exact thoughts she had been. Jensa blushed at the intensity in his eyes and the fire in his gaze burned right through her.
"Oh," she murmured to herself and abruptly shifted her attention back to the growing crowds around them. She thought she heard an amused chuckle come from Ardeth.
Jensa gazed in awe at the village before her. She was not sure what she had been expecting, but it certainly wasn't anything like she had ever seen before. She looked to the very center of this amazing village, but this was more than a village. Ardeth always described it as such, but it was incredibly large.
It was rather like a valley. Ardeth had not been kidding when he spoke of rebuilding the old village and giving his people new, more solid homes. There were still tents, but the majority of the homes were sturdy structures. They were not made of stone or brick, but as she thought of her studies of ancient Egypt, she recognized they were being built like the homes of the olden days, stretched canvas covered with wattle, daub and painted white.
A group of children had stolen paint and were chasing each other through the homes, splashing each other. People laughed at their game. Jensa smiled and laughed at them too, hoping that someday, she would be scolding her own children for stealing the paint, but all the while, smiling at the happiness they felt in their home. The very fact that these children here could find such simple pleasure in splashing each other with paint warmed Jensa towards these people. Maybe they wouldn't be so unwelcome to her after all. The children continued running around and getting underfoot of the men constructing the homes. The women rushed over and shooed them away with laughter.
There were stables, chicken coops, goats and falcons flying through the air. They swooped down and landed on the outstretched arms of the people who were training them to be messengers.
Still more people were busy at the water's edge. She noticed they were putting food concealed in containers into the water. It struck her as odd at first and then she realized they were doing this to keep the food preserved. It was impressed to see how well these people were able to live out in the barren desert.
A wonderful smell wafted up to her nose and she turned her head around to where she detected the scent. Other villagers were smoking meat and her stomach growled quietly. She inhaled deeply and starting wondering when the time for dinner would come around.
She looked further to a large open area formed like a circle. Two warriors stood in the center facing each other in full Medjai attire. One of them was small in stature and the other was quite large. Scimitars were drawn and the larger man voiced commands to the smaller man. They sounded like instructions. Their fighting began, but it was slow and each time the large man barked a command, the fighting became faster and faster. It happened so quickly, in the blink of an eye. The small man had disarmed his attacker and now held two scimitars in his hands. The large man looked only faintly surprised and when he pulled his veil down, a smile was upon his mouth. He clapped the small man hard on the back and congratulated him on a job well done. The small man too, removed his veil and she saw he was nothing more than a boy in the early stages of training. He relinquished the curved sword and walked away with his own smile. Another boy stepped up and soon another fight began. She realized this was their training area.
Her attention drifted to the center of the village and she saw an oasis. The village must have been built around the large water supply. People lounged around the oasis taking advantage of the shade. Women bustled to and fro carrying bundles of clothing to the water and talked excitedly back and forth, occasionally glancing back at the group of riders. They were probably catching up on village gossip which was more than likely about herself…the chosen bride of their chieftain.
What looked like a commons area was situated next to the oasis. It had many long tables and benches with a large fire pit sitting in the middle. Thousands of people were walking around and she looked to the very edges of the village and the people were so far away that they looked like ants.
This place was a whole other world living in the one in which they already existed.
They stopped in front of a large tent. It was larger than the tent homes. Jensa deduced that it was a meeting place of some sort. Everyone followed Ardeth's lead as he dismounted. He said in Arabic to the other Medjai to tend to the horses and to Jensa: "Stay here. I must speak with the elders. I should not be very long." He gave her hand a reassuring squeeze and entered the tent between the flaps.
No sooner had Ardeth disappeared within the confines of the tent than the village children gathered around. They reached out, touching her hair, skin and clothes, seemingly very fascinated with her creamy complexion, describing it as rabab. Their hands tugged at her clothes, remarking how funny it was to see a woman in man's attire. Her hair was the object of their attention more than anything. She could feel their fingers running through it.
"Marhaba, Ismi Jensa. Fursa sa'iida," she introduced herself.
The children were pleasantly surprised at hearing her speak their language and give them a simple greeting. Then they fired a barrage of questions at her. Everyone was talking at the same time so she wasn't able to single a question out. She did her best to answer what she could. About ten minutes had passed and they still asked questions. Just then, Ardeth exited the tent. He laughed when he saw the children about to trample her. They spread apart when they saw him heading in their direction.
"The elders wish to speak with you."
"By myself?" she asked in alarm.
He nodded. "It is quite unorthodox for a woman to be allowed into the meeting tent, but he wishes to speak with you."
"Who?" She wondered who in the world out here wanted to speak directly to her.
"Alim. He holds the most sway in decisions that are made. I told them everything."
"Do they object?"
He grimaced. "Some do."
"That does not bode well for me."
"Only some object. The rest are overjoyed that I will not die childless."
Jensa grimaced this time. They were only thinking of her as a tool. Her only purpose to them was to conceive the next Medjai chieftain.
"And it does not matter," he continued. "We will be married."
"They understand now why you never married…because you already were?"
"Yes, they have been after me for years to take a wife."
"Well, thanks for waiting for me."
He smiled. "For you and only you would I wait. Come."
He took her hand and led her towards the tent. Hushed whispers quickly floated to her ears. Holding hands in public clearly meant a serious relationship between a man and a woman. Ardeth held the tent flap aside allowing Jensa to enter ahead of him. She swallowed hard, stood up straight and held her head high. Jensa prepared herself for an argument just in case they refused, but Ardeth had said they were already married. Just the same, however, she wouldn't give up without a fight.
A large multicolored rug was draped across the sand. Big and little pillows were thrown on top of the rug. A group of men stood conversing together. They wore the Medjai robes, but no weapons. Each elder face and hands were heavily tattooed. Candles on tall wrought iron stands were positioned in each corner of the tent, giving the atmosphere a kind of eerie glow, especially with the infamous black robes and somewhat tense atmosphere.
Jensa remained in her spot almost too intimidated to move. Ardeth pressed his hand on the small of her back and lightly pushed her forward then took his place beside her.
"May I present Jensa James, my wife."
Despite Jensa's apprehension, her nerves calmed hearing Ardeth introduce her as his wife. Ten pairs of eyes swept over her making Jensa feel like a side of beef at the market. They were sizing her up and she felt like hiding behind Ardeth. The elders appeared to be glad of her arrival. Some smiled at her except for one man whose expression was only what Jensa would describe as hostile. Quickly, she averted her eyes from his gaze and looked at the other elders. She smiled small and hoped whatever came was good.
Ardeth gave her arm a reassuring squeeze and stood his ground next to her. She thought he was going to leave her alone with the elders. Suddenly, she was very glad he was beside her, apparently having changed his mind. One of them stepped forward with a pleasant smile. The others elders followed his lead and stood a foot behind him. Jensa could see that the men's ages ranged from fifty to ninety. After many long years in the desert, they bore wrinkles around their eyes and mouth.
"Ardeth, you may leave if you wish," the elder closest to them said.
"I wish to stay," he informed them.
"Very well." The elder turned his attention to Jensa. "I am Alim," he said in English. "Forgive me. Still learning language." The English was quite broken this time. The flames threw golden shadows across his skin as he observed every movement and mannerism she made.
"If you would prefer," she responded politely in Arabic, "We could speak in your language."
The elders glanced at each other in surprise. Alim nodded. "Thank you, perhaps now that you will be here with us, you can help those of us who are not quite as fluent."
"I'd be happy to," she said sincerely. She glanced sideways at Ardeth and thought she saw his chest swelling.
He closed his hands together and the rest of the group circled around the lovers. Jensa shifted her weight to the other foot nervously. Alim seemed to sense her apprehensive state and said, "You are nervous, child."
"Well…yes," she admitted somewhat embarrassed. She felt the warmth rushing to her face and ears.
"There is no reason for you to be. This is not an inquisition."
The other men stood quietly, awaiting him to finish speaking. She felt some of the tension in her shoulders relax. Alim was, so far, being very kind. "I am sure you understand that we were surprised to learn Ardeth is married." He cast a sly glance at the warrior. "For many years, I have told him to marry and present the tribe with an heir. He did not verbally refuse to marry, but his manner implied as much. He also informed us that you were not aware of our customs concerning marriage. Were you shocked to learn you have been married for many years, Jensa?"
"I was surprised," she confirmed.
"You were not bothered by it?" One of the elders to her right said.
"No," she said truthfully. "Yes, I was surprised, but pleasantly."
"For a long time, I wondered about the far away look in Ardeth's eyes," continued Alim, speaking frankly about his chieftain. "I knew he was thinking of someone very special to be so distracted."
Jensa glanced at Ardeth out of the corner of her eye. He looked somewhat irritated at the old man.
"The last few years have been difficult for him," he went on saying as if Ardeth were not there. "He has always been a quiet and reserved man, but more so in the time you were apart. One day his temper would be out of control and the next, he would be dreadfully melancholy. When he spoke to us a few moments ago about you, I noticed a change immediately in his eyes. Do you love him?"
Jensa looked at Ardeth and smiled happily. "More than I thought was possible." The tender look he gave her nearly reduced her to tears.
They appeared to be quite pleased with her answer, but the hostile man was still, well…hostile. He spoke up.
"Why should we approve his decision to marry a foreigner?" a cold voice said.
"Fahd," began an elder in reproach.
"Let him speak," Alim commanded. "We all have opinions and should express them in turn."
Fahd continued. "Outsiders are not welcome here and you have no right to marry Ardeth. He should marry someone from the village. My experience with Westerners leads me to believe that you are no different from them. They use lies and treachery to get what they want. They steal valuable artifacts from the country and smuggle them back to their country for profit. Hamunaptra is plundered constantly and treasure is taken. Treasure that does not belong to them. You will lie and betray us with your Western ways."
Alim's acquiescence to let Fahd speak ended. "That is enough, Fahd," he said sternly.
Ardeth took a step forward towards Fahd. "You will never speak to Jensa in a disrespectful manner again or you will regret it. You disrespect her, you disrespect me," he threatened menacingly.
Jensa shifted her gaze downward, feeling very uncomfortable. Things were not going as well as she hoped they would. She hated for them to be fighting about her. Ardeth must have sensed her feelings because he reached behind him and snuck his hand inside of hers, giving it a painful, but reassuring squeeze.
Fahd flinched from his nerves receiving the jarring threat Ardeth had thrown at him. He stiffened his jaw and also took a step forward. "I am determined to have a say in this matter. I am one of the elders after all. I meant no disrespect to you, Ardeth. I merely feel compelled to warn you of the dangers in a union with a foreigner." He gestured angrily towards Jensa and with a look of disgust, continued. "What would all of the twelve tribes think? I will tell you. They will think you have abandoned the old ways. They will think your mind is becoming numb to the new ways of a world that belongs to the Westerners. By building these blasphemous solid homes, you tell your people that the old ways were wrong and that you do not care."
Jensa's hand was still crushed in Ardeth's grip of steel. She could feel the electrical currents of anger coursing from his system into her hand. Suddenly, she felt angry herself. This Fahd person had obviously been stewing in his anger for some time about the scrapping of the old traditions their ancestors followed. With talk of Ardeth's marriage to her, a foreigner, he could no longer keep his angry views to himself.
* * *
Ardeth fought to keep his temper in check. Fahd was a strict follower of the old ways and always managed to bring up the "blasphemy" as he called it, into any conversation he had with the chieftain. It was bad enough that the old man questioned Ardeth's intentions, but he had just deliberately insulted his wife. That was unforgivable. If Ardeth so wished, Fahd would be publicly executed for his comments.
Why wait?
He told himself he might as well dispense with the old man now. There was no need to wait for the public. One hand still enclosed Jensa's and the other slid to the hilt of his scimitar.
Ardeth moved towards Fahd with a look of pure loathing and hatred. Suddenly, he stopped when he felt a small tug on his hand. He looked down into the green eyes that always managed to tug his heart strings and he returned the gentle caresses of her small hand with his larger one. She conveyed her silent message to him with a pleading expression.
* * *
Jensa watched as Ardeth struggled to control his temper. He seemed to be thinking very hard about what to do. The look on his face reminded her of the same look she had seen not too long ago. It was when that man back in Cairo, she had already forgotten his name, had touched her. She had witnessed the wrath storming in Ardeth's eyes and knew that he was going to kill that man. He wore the same look now and she knew he would kill Fahd for the things he said to her. She couldn't let that happen as much as she thought he deserved it. Besides, she didn't want to be the cause of anymore civil unrest that was already occurring.
She tightened her already aching hand on Ardeth's and pulled him back. Unconsciously, she began stroking the skin of his knuckles with her thumb. He halted in his steps. With a mere touch, she knew she had quelled the anger, but only to a degree. He had been ready to snap Fahd in two, but her gentle caress calmed his heated spirit.
* * *
Alim glanced at Hisham, the elder to his left. Both watched with raised eyebrows of surprise. Jensa had managed to single-handedly douse the fire of anger in Ardeth. His temper was feared by many of the villagers and they dared not approach him when it ignited into an inferno. They just let it take its course and avoided him.
There were few who could handle Ardeth in such a way. His mother was the only other person Alim knew of, but even she could not always control her son's rage. It seemed that they had found another such person in Jensa. She did not appear to be afraid of him, as most women were afraid of the repercussions if they interfered with their husband's business.
Glancing back and forth between the warrior and his woman, Alim knew that the marriage would take place at all costs. Protests from the villagers would be ignored. The old man's mouth twitched at the corners trying to form a pleased smile. At last, the Medjai would have an heir to lead them. Besides, he had taken a liking to Jensa the moment he saw her. She was beautiful, intelligent, spoke their language and was very much in love with his leader.
She had returned after many years and she was the woman he had been waiting for. Things could not have turned out more perfectly for Ardeth.
* * *
"I have not abandoned the old ways. I still wish for the tribes to follow them when they are needed, but have you not noticed what year or what century we live in, Fahd? It is 1922. The world is evolving, as we must. Times change, as we must. The time of the Pharaohs has come and gone. We no longer live in the past. In the future, new ways can be an advantage to us.
"As for Jensa, she is the exact opposite of all the things you said. She loves me and respects the beliefs I have. She is also eager to become one of the Medjai. We will marry with or without your approval. I would prefer to have it, but if I do not, so be it. It is not I nor Jensa that causes the dissension."
As if to further put a stamp on his decision, he shocked everyone including her, ripped her veil off and publicly displayed his affection with defiance. He grabbed her roughly and kissed her soundly on the lips while pulling her roughly into his arms. Jensa's knees wavered and would have given out on if not for the embrace in which he crushed her body.
She was only vaguely aware of a snort of disgust and felt the light breeze of someone storming out. Fahd must have left. Good riddance.
Several seconds later the kiss ended, much to Jensa's disappointment. It could have gone on all night if she had had anything to say about it, but they were not alone. She licked her moist lips still tingling from his assault. The shocked eyes of the elders brought both of them back down to earth. She saw Ardeth staring insolently at them, daring them to question him again.
"You are your father's son," Alim said proudly.
"Thank you," Ardeth said breathlessly.
Alim looked at her again and she blushed under his gaze, having been the one who brought out the rebellious qualities in the leader.
"Ardeth has not been the same since you were gone. Your joining of the tribe will be a joyous day long remembered." Jensa could not suppress a smile. "There will be no delays. Preparations for your wedding will be made immediately. It should take no more than three or four days to prepare the ceremony—"
"I wish for the preparations to be ready by tomorrow," Ardeth informed them.
"My Lord," spoke up Hisham, "It takes longer than one day to—"
"Everything will be ready by tomorrow. No more delays," Ardeth interrupted with a growl.
"Well then." Alim assumed the air of one making peace of an already tense situation. "You will be married tomorrow before the sun sets."
She glanced up happily at Ardeth and he smiled down at her, putting an arm about her waist.
"Even though you are already married by our customs, we will, of course, have the formal ceremony." Alim approached Ardeth and took him firmly by the shoulders. "It is about time. We were all getting a little worried. I am happy for you, nephew."
"Thank you, Uncle Alim."
"Uncle?" asked Jensa. "You didn't tell me he was your uncle."
"You did not tell her?" Ardeth said to Alim.
"No, I felt it better she did not know my identity. I had to see for myself whether or not she was worthy of my nephew and not, as you Americans say, butter me up because she knew who I was."
Jensa figured she should be insulted since he had thought she might be "unworthy" of Ardeth, but was instead amused at the old man's clever mind. She smirked.
"You are not insulted?" He raised an eyebrow.
"Not in the least. So I take it that I am worthy?"
"Worthy you are, my dear. Your heart is pure in your love for him, and it is plain to see he loves you as well, obviously from the display we just witnessed. You've chosen wisely, nephew. She is a good woman and very beautiful, I might add. May Allah bless you with a large family and long life together."
Ardeth's uncle gestured for the other elders to follow him and left the two of them alone. Ardeth watched her with a small smile on his face and pulled her close. She saw the depth of his feelings in the look he gave her.
"Finally…" he whispered.
"Couldn't wait three or four days?" she grinned.
"I have waited five years for a union with you and by Allah, I am tired of waiting! I want you to be my wife now!"
She laughed and put her arms around his neck and pulled him down to kiss him. He responded back gently at first, but tightened his arms around her and pulled her hard against him. Her feet were no longer on the floor, but dangling. Breathing heavily, he broke off the kiss and set her back down, enveloped her in his arms and rested his chin on her head.
"If I do not stop now, I will not be able to hold back, hayati." His breath tickled her ear. "Ahebak, Jensa," he whispered.
"Ahebik, Ardeth." She traced one of his tattooed cheeks. "I like your uncle. He's a very smart man."
"That he is."
"Runs in the family."
Ardeth chuckled. "You have won him over. See how well you are doing and in such a short time? Those children out there adored you and now my uncle adores you as well. There was nothing for you to worry about."
"Have you already forgotten about Fahd?"
He frowned and narrowed his eyes. "I would have killed him."
"I know that, but that might have caused a few more problems that you don't need."
"Maybe. I would not have missed him."
"But other people probably would have. He isn't by any chance related to Dammar is he?"
"As a matter of fact, Fahd is Dammar's grandfather. The same grandfather who raised him after his parents died."
"Wonderful. That is no doubt a happy family."
"Enough talk of them. I would much rather discuss more pleasant matters. You are not still nervous are you?"
"I feel a smidge less tense," she said, gesturing with her thumb and index fingers an inch apart.
"That is not much, but it is a start." His hand slid down from her shoulder to her hand. "Do you want to meet my mother and sister?"
"Right now?"
"Yes, now," he laughed.
"Sure."
* * *
Dammar waited patiently inside his tent for his grandfather's return. One of their messenger falcons had returned to the village with quite an important message. The rumor was that their brave leader had found a bride. But Dammar had not yet heard. He sat cross-legged on his goat skins, idly twisting the tassels of his sash with his hand. One elbow rested on his knee with a hand holding his head.
If Ardeth were to be married then there would be more his of kind running about the village within a year. Dammar's stomach turned at the thought of another child of the Bay blood being born into the village. That was all they needed. He snorted with disgust and spat out a curse at Ardeth. He was not worthy to be their chieftain, nor had his father been.
All of these changes began in the time of Ardeth's father. The old ways of their people were being cast aside. Ardeth had continued in his father's footsteps and now his children would continue once Ardeth was gone. No matter. Any child of his could be easily dealt with. First, he would kill his brave chieftain and the rest of the family would follow.
An evil sneer crept onto the warrior's face as he pictured the death of Ardeth Bay. But should he torture him first and then kill him? Or should he torture Ardeth's loved ones before him? Dammar frowned in thought. It would not be easy to kill Ardeth, even Dammar had reluctantly admitted that fact to himself, so perhaps hurting those he loved would be enough to destroy him. To lose all that he cared about would destroy his spirit, therefore, he would not have anything left to fight and Dammar could then kill him and humbly accept the position of Medjai chieftain.
A rough shake brought Dammar out of his daydreaming. Fahd was kneeling before him and hand was upon his shoulder, shaking him. Dammar blinked a few times and swatted his hand off.
"Do not touch me, old man."
"Would you rather I had shoved a sword through your belly to get your attention?" Fahd glared at him with cold, black eyes in a face with wrinkles frozen into a frown from all his years of sour expressions.
Dammar glared back and ignored the comment. "Is it true, grandfather? Did Ardeth bring home a bride who will issue his filthy heir?"
"He did and he continues to corrupt our people in doing so."
"Really?" Dammar raised his eyebrows in curiosity. "Is she from another tribe? Or is she a foreigner?" He chuckled, as his last question was meant as a joke, but Fahd's lips formed a thin line and drained of all color.
All laughter left his eyes and he took the old man by the arms roughly. "Answer my question!"
"She is…" Fahd seemed to turn a sickly green, as if saying these words would cause him to vomit. "American."
In the blink of an eye, Dammar was on his feet. Fahd slowly rose to his and stood a head shorter than the glaring Medjai warrior.
"He is marrying this…Westerner and is willing to risk contaminating our pure blood with her foreign genes? He is mad!" Dammar raged.
"Keep your voice down, boy," Fahd warned.
"Do not call me boy, old man. I could kill you faster than your old bones creaking with arthritis would realize."
He saw the old man flinch and the passing of fear in his eyes, but it lasted only a moment. He seemed to find his courage again and spoke, but kept his tone civil.
"Dammar, keep your voice down. We do not need supporters of Ardeth running to him with rumors of our uprising."
He laughed. "What uprising? We have none but a handful who are willing to mount an uprising, much less say anything negative about their chieftain. There are not yet enough of us to take over the village or the other eleven tribes."
"Do not doubt my resolve nor that of those who follow us. They truly believe Ardeth has led the First Tribe astray and once we have enough people on our side, we will challenge his leadership."
Dammar snorted. "Challenge? Who said anything about challenging Ardeth? I will not challenge him."
"Of course, I have forgotten. You are too afraid to challenge him alone for you know he could snap your neck like a newborn."
He growled and moved to punish the old man, but Fahd held up his hand to ward him off.
"Kill me, Dammar and you risk losing a valuable asset."
"I fail to see your reasoning behind this. I would be doing myself and the Tribe a favor."
"Perhaps," he said with an amused grin, "But you need me now more than you ever have. I am an elder and I can be your eyes and ears. I am all that is left of the old ways. Alim may have the final say in our decisions, but the others of the council do not always see eye to eye with him. I can speak with them, get them to see how Alim and Ardeth are corrupting the Medjai. You, in turn, speak with your fellow warriors, those that you have heard question Ardeth before. They will be easily won over. As our support grows, the easier our task will be in taking the First Tribe. Once this village is secure, rumor of our victory will spread to the other Medjai. We will crush the Bay family."
"Correction, Fahd, we will kill the Bay family. I want every relative that carries Bay blood in their veins dead, be it a second or third cousin. I want that line wiped from the Tribe once and for all."
"And you shall take his place as the rightful leader of the Medjai. That will be a proud moment for me, grandson."
"Yes, I see the tears of joy in your eyes, old man," smirked Dammar. "Now, tell me what was talked of during the meeting."
Fahd explained in detail of all that had occurred once Jensa was brought before the elders. Dammar was appalled that a woman be allowed in a meeting with the elders. It was bad enough that she was American, but now Ardeth was breaking the rules of the Tribe and making special allowances for his woman.
"And they listened to not one word of your argument," Dammar said.
"No, they did not. The others are all blind."
"Where is she? I would like to see this so-called woman that has swept the chieftain off his feet."
Fahd crept over to the tent flaps and pulled one side back an inch, peered into the crowds of excited people and pointed. "There."
Dammar stepped forward and Fahd moved aside for him to see. She was wearing an abayya, but the veil was not pulled across her face. His eyes swept over her and he could not help but admire her curves. To his credit, Ardeth had picked a beautiful woman.
He frowned as he suddenly thought that she looked familiar. He had seen her somewhere before. But how was that possible? Dammar stared harder and she suddenly met his gaze. He was unable to tear his eyes away from and he saw the startled expression on her face and the unmistakable shudder of her body.
The look of discomfort and the sudden shudder…he felt that he had seen that before too. But his memory seemed to place her higher up than he. Had she been sitting on a horse? Or had she been standing a few steps up from the ground? Perhaps it had been a balcony…
"That's it!" he whispered softly.
Now he remembered her. She was the woman from Cairo. He and other warriors were walking in the crowded souk. She was standing on her balcony at the hotel, looking around at everything. He had thought she was another tourist. How wrong he had been! It had only been a few days ago when he first saw her, but at the time, he had had no idea just whose woman he had been watching. She had also smiled at him, albeit a trifle nervously, however, she was not smiling now.
He also remembered the thoughts that had been running through his mind. She was very beautiful indeed and his imagination wandered further than it had the first time he saw her. What was it he had thought? His eyes narrowed slightly as he struggled to regain the memory. Oh yes, fun. He knew he could make quite a sport of pursuing her whether she was willing or not. He intended to carry out those plans.
He was not aware that his mouth had formed an evil grin and he stared in disappointment as she reattached her veil quickly. Moving completely from his line of sight, she stepped in front of Ardeth, whose back was to him, and her small figure was hidden from his eyes.
The situation had definitely become much more interesting.
* * *
Jensa stepped from the tent flaps out into the sun. She started to pull her veil back up, but stopped when she felt a prickly sensation on the back of her neck.
Someone was watching her.
Her eyes swept the crowds around them and her gaze fell on someone partially hidden within a tent. A pair of the darkest eyes she had ever seen were steadily fixed on her. Their darkness was not from natural coloring. She sensed something in them. His gaze did not falter. A powerful shudder crawled up her spine and traveled down to her fingers before coming to a stop at the tips of her toes.
Her breath caught in her throat and she stared back, unable to look away from him. For some reason, he looked vaguely familiar, but she could not place him, and she did not want to. His frightening look was enough to turn her blood cold. He leered at her and she felt a sudden desire to hide.
Quickly she pulled up her veil and moved one step to the right. The man disappeared from her view as she was standing directly in front of Ardeth. More than anything she wanted to throw her arms around Ardeth's middle, but restrained herself. She could not do that in front of everyone else and she did not want to alarm him.
She contented herself with looking at him instead. He had been speaking to Alim, who bowed his head in respect and left. Ardeth turned back to her and all was forgotten. She thought no more of the evil man lurking in the shadows of the tent. All she saw was the love in Ardeth's eyes and the gentle smile he bestowed upon her.
"Are you well?" he asked with a slight frown around his eyes.
"I am now."
He looked a little confused, but satisfied with her answer.
Jensa suddenly felt more nervous about meeting her new relatives than she did about the elders. She ran her fingers through her hair to try to unravel the tangles and ran her hands over her dusty clothes to smooth the wrinkles. She wished she had time for a bath, as she wanted to make the best impression on his family as possible. Instead, she was hot, sweaty and dirty from such a long trip.
Oh well.
Ardeth stopped short before leading her towards his home. "There is one other thing I forgot to tell you about." He pulled her back into the meeting tent.
Jensa folded her arms. "Do I want to know?"
He shook his head. "But you must."
"Okay then, fire away."
"You must not tell anyone that we are married."
Ardeth's face was deadly serious. At first, she considered that he might be joking, but his steely gaze suggested otherwise. Jensa stiffened at the look in his eyes. She had seen that threatening expression on his face more times than she could count. Ardeth Bay, the leader of the Medjai looked down at her more than Ardeth Bay, her husband did.
She chose her words carefully. "By whom do you mean anyone? My parents and brother know, as well as Kerri."
"It is all right for those you mentioned to know. They are your family, as is Kerri, but you must refrain from telling anyone else and you should tell your family to do the same."
"Why?"
Ardeth did not hesitate. "The Medjai have many enemies, especially their leader. They might use you, or worse, to get to me." He removed her veil and took her face in his hands. "I could not bear anything happening to you because of me. It is imperative for you to say nothing. Our community is secret. The less you are known to be involved with us in public, the better. I know how you are feeling now. You want to shout from every rooftop that we are together. So do I, but we must share this sacred secret and not speak of it in the city. If you go to Cairo to visit your family, the Medjai will not be far behind. You will have your own personal bodyguards."
"The leader's wife should have no less?"
"No less," he confirmed. "I know this is all very overwhelming for you."
"I understand completely. I won't tell a soul. Our lives together and our future family may depend on it."
The serious moment dissolved and he smiled, brushing his lips gently against hers. He replaced her veil, took her hand and led her back outside.
Some of the villagers watched her curiously as she and Ardeth made their way to his home. Outsiders were not favored upon by too many natives of Egypt, as the elder called Fahd had so kindly reminded her of earlier. The Medjai's warm greetings must also be a part of saying good-bye to the old ways and welcoming new ones.
Jensa suddenly remembered her parents and Kerri. She had completely forgotten all about them. Glancing over her shoulder, she spotted the three of them standing by the meeting tent. They were talking with Alim.
Ardeth paused before another of the homes with the stretched canvas painted white that, compared to many of the other homes, was very large.
"This is my home and yours too very soon."
He pushed aside the goat skin door covering and Jensa stepped across the threshold. He took off his turban and placed it onto a low-to-the-ground table by a window. Jensa looked to the window and noticed it had a goat skin drape hanging over it as well.
With a quick run of his fingers through his hair, Ardeth said, "I will find my mother and sister. Make yourself at home." He gave her a quick kiss and left her standing in the doorway.
Jensa took off her jacket and abayya and laid them down next to his turban on the table sitting underneath the window just to her right. She pulled the drape back and watched as Ardeth disappeared into the throng of villagers to look for his mother and sister.
The room before her greeted her warmly.
Late afternoon sunlight streamed through the small parting of the drape from the window and Jensa could picture herself and Ardeth sitting there having a cozy little breakfast with the sun shining on them. Two large floor pillows were situated on either side of the table for seats and Jensa thought she would probably prefer sharing one pillow with Ardeth. She figured she'd have to become very good at sitting cross-legged.
There were a few other items around the room including, an open hearth for cooking, a wash basin with a pitcher of water next to it, a wooden chest and a large black trunk that immediately drew her curiosity, but before she looked in it, she pushed open the lid of the wooden chest and found loaves of bread, cheeses and different kinds of dried fruit. There was also a set of tin cups and plates and an abundance of candles with a little glass bowl full of matches.
The soft padding of her feet was swallowed by the earth-packed floor covered with thick rugs. She walked over to a large goat skin drape strung across the room and pushed it aside. It separated the bed from the rest of the room. There too, was a goat skin covered window by the bed. She kneeled down next to the bed and examined it. The mattress was made of cushions and soft goat skins and a large quilt was wrapped around the mattress to keep it all together. The bedclothes were soft blankets and an ornately designed, colorful quilt. Jensa reached out her hand and traced her fingers along the intricate patterns. A few other pillows and a blanket were thrown on top of the bed haphazardly. Performing her first wifely duty, Jensa grabbed the pillows and fixed them in a neat and orderly fashion.
With one last look at the bed, she imagined cold desert nights snuggled up next to her husband under the soft skins and her entire body warmed at the thought.
A wooden chest sat in the corner and she opened it. It was empty except for a several other sets of black robes. Her eyes rested on something black with silver threading. She pulled it out and stood up. It was a long, flowing cloak and the silver threading was the most beautiful embroidery work she had ever seen.
She threw it around her shoulders and saw that it swallowed her whole. The hem spread out like a pool around her feet. Jensa ran her fingers over the material. Ardeth's scent drifted up to her nose. She brought the cloak up to her face and inhaled deeply, detecting the desert, horses and what smelled like exotic spices. She couldn't remember the names, but she did recognize vanilla, the smell that was forever ingrained in her mind. She guessed her clothes would call the cabinet home soon and she took off the cloak and put it back into the chest.
She pushed the goat skin draping back into place and her gaze again rested on the large black trunk. Before she knew it, she was kneeling in front of it and had unsnapped the clasps. Jensa suddenly realized she was snooping, but this would be her home too and she did need to know where everything was at. Curiosity got the better of her and she lifted the trunk lid. Her eyes widened.
Guns, ammunition and knives of every kind were situated very carefully inside. There were handguns, rifles, box after box of ammo, scimitars, large daggers, small daggers and there was even a Thompson machine gun in the corner. A black pouch drew her attention. She had to pick it up with two hands because it was rather heavy. Jensa slid the pouch off to reveal two more sheathed scimitars, but these were no ordinary scimitars.
The hilts were gold with inlaid jewels of every kind ranging from sapphires to emeralds, rubies and diamonds. Jensa unsheathed one of them and it left a ring in the air that conveyed to her its powerful message. The blade sparkled with the afternoon rays of the sun sneaking their way into the room. It had no scratches or dents so it most likely had never been used in combat. These scimitars were probably worn only for special occasions. Jensa thought perhaps Ardeth might wear them in the wedding ceremony. After sheathing the scimitar, she noticed on the leather scabbard an inscription in Arabic. It spelled the Bay family name. Carefully, Jensa put the scimitars back in the pouch and laid them back into their resting place.
She smiled and said, "My husband's toy chest."
She was about to close the lid when something caught her eye. Underneath the pouch protecting the jeweled scimitars, was an opening on the canvas material that lined the inside of the trunk. It looked like it had been a manmade opening as the material was ripped. Jensa carefully moved the jeweled scimitars aside and stuck two of her fingers into the opening. Frowning in confusion, she pulled out a tattered looking piece of paper. It was folded and brown around the edges with little rips in the corners, suggesting that the paper had been folded and unfolded many times. Jensa gingerly unfolded it and gasped in recognition. Her mind went back to the first few weeks she had known Ardeth. She was telling him about the snow in New York and proceeded to make a paper snowflake for him.
"I can't believe he still has it!" she cried softly, clutching it to her breast.
Of course, Jensa's heart melted. The serious-minded Medjai warrior had kept something a little nine year old girl had given him, like it was a precious gift. She had completely forgotten all about the paper snowflake. Obviously he hadn't. She folded it back up and put it back carefully so as not to make Ardeth think she had found it. She was quite sure he had not meant for her to know he had kept it all these years. As she shut the lid, she felt a pang of sadness. If only she could show him a real snowflake!
Right then and there, she made the decision for both of them. He would see the snow he had always wondered about. One of these days, she would take him with her to New York.
At the sound of voices, she jumped and immediately thought of her dirty appearance. She knew just by how grubby she felt that she must look it too. She ran her hands over her hair to smooth it down and brushed some more dust from her arms and legs. She even ran her hands over her face to take care of any smudges that might have appeared.
Jensa placed her hands behind her back and assumed a demure expression. Two women entered the room followed by Ardeth. His mother and sister approached Jensa and both of them hugged her warmly. They pulled down their veils and Jensa smiled when she saw the strong family resemblance. All three of them had the same curly raven locks, smooth olive skin and mahogany eyes.
"Jen, this is my mother Basmah and sister Zaina. And this is my wife, Jensa."
Basmah was a slightly plump woman around her early fifties. Jensa noted mentally that the name Basmah meant "smile". It certainly seemed like this woman had much to smile about. Her mouth didn't seem to be content any other way. There were a few strands of silver in her silky hair, but her manner was youthful.
She spoke to Jensa in perfect English. "This is the beautiful woman we have been hearing so much about for many years."
"Ume," Ardeth chided under his breath.
"Well, I must admit, ibn, you always managed to bring her name up in our conversations even before she left Egypt. From the way she looks at you, I would believe she did the same."
Jensa timidly bit her bottom lip and her ears began their usual burning sensation.
"Mother, you are embarrassing them," said Zaina. She also spoke flawless English. Her brown, almond shaped eyes shone brightly. "Jensa, I am so happy we have finally gotten to meet you." Zaina linked her arm through Jensa's. "You must be tired and hungry after such a long trip. When you are ready we will give you a bath, fresh clothes and a hot meal."
"Thank you both. I couldn't have asked for a kinder welcome."
"You do not have thank us, Jensa," said his mother. "From my son's sudden change in behavior, I can tell you are already having a wonderful effect on him." Basmah kissed her on both cheeks. "You and your parents may stay with me tonight." She took her daughter by the arm. "Come, Zaina. Let us give them some time to each other." Her new family left with pleased looks on their faces. Before the door closed, Basmah said:
"Once you are married, I hope to soon be chasing my grandchildren all over the village," she smiled slyly.
"Mother—" Ardeth began.
Jensa blushed and laughed nervously.
"See you in a little while." She closed the door before anymore could be said from the soon-to-be-officially-married couple.
"I am sorry. She can be very forward where grandchildren are concerned."
"I'm not sorry," she said shyly. "I too, hope she has grandchildren soon." Jensa blushed deeply, but found that she was able to look Ardeth in the eye.
* * *
Ardeth was surprised to say the least. He had expected extreme embarrassment from his mother's comment, but Jensa had not batted an eyelash. She was also blushing, a trait of hers that endeared to him in more ways than one. The rose tint of her cheeks brought out the spectrum of colors in her hair and rich velvety green in her eyes.
He closed the gap between them and slid his arms around her waist. His head lowered closer and closer, drawing out the moment and he noticed a tingling in his skin as he felt her warm breath expelling from her parted lips that beckoned to him.
He knew their thoughts became one as their lips met. He pondered having and raising a family and this spurred his passion on. They plundered each other's mouths like the archaeologists plundered the sacred tombs of Egypt. He felt his need growing with each passing minute and her response told him her needs matched his own. Before he gave into his passion, he broke off the kiss. It was happening too quickly and he wanted to take his time for her sake. He didn't want to take away her innocence before they were married and they would be within just one day. The urge inside him told him there was no harm giving in since they would be wed tomorrow, but his honor told him what would be right. Besides, he knew she was tired, as was he.
"Why'd you stop?" she begged. "Did I do something wrong?"
"No, no," he said quickly. "Of course not. I did."
"You?" she asked in confusion.
"Yes. I felt myself losing control. I would rather wait until we are married. The time for losing control can come whenever it pleases once we are wed."
Jensa pouted slightly. "Well, that's very considerate of you."
"I am as anxious for this to happen as you," he said huskily. He felt his desire stalking him and pushed it back down. "One more day, my love," he said giving her a kiss and then, "My mother and Zaina love you already."
"And I them."
"This time tomorrow night, we will be officially married."
"I wish it was tomorrow already!" she cried impatiently.
"So do I, but we shall have to be patient."
"That's not one of my virtues," she said with mock shame.
"But you have so many others," he whispered in her ear. Jensa grinned and looked around them at their home. "Do you like it?"
"No…I love it," she said hugging him tightly. "I only wish…" she trailed off.
"What do you wish?"
* * *
Jensa removed her arms from his waist and slowly walked over to the window. People were still bustling about. They were trying to get as much work finished as possible. Soon, the sun would settle down for the night and the moon would be just waking up. His heavy boots followed her and an arm curved around her waist pulling her back against his chest. "Something saddens you," he said into her hair. She nodded. "You are thinking about your brother."
"Why does he have to be so horrible? Why can't he just be happy for me? He told me he would be happy if I was. Then before we left Cairo, he said he'd changed his mind."
"I honestly do not know, kalila. I wish he was here too because it pains me to see you hurting."
"Even if he's not here, at least my parents and Kerri are. I'd feel worse if they had refused to come."
Suddenly, someone knocked on the door. "My Lord, I must speak with you." Ardeth opened it to see Madir standing on the other side. "A rider is approaching."
* * *
Michael wiped the sweat from his eyes and looked up at the sky-high rocks that held the Medjai village. He had been following Jensa for a while. He had surprised himself because he had vowed never to speak to her again for marrying Ardeth Bay.
But the last time he had seen his sister had been his undoing. She had asked him to come and when he refused, the look on her face was none like he had ever seen. Despite all the fighting, the horrible things he said about Ardeth and the awful way he treated her, she still wanted him to come to the wedding.
She still loved him. And he knew he didn't deserve her love so he jumped on a horse and followed them, keeping at safe distance behind. He was going to be at her wedding because he knew how important it was to her that he stood by her side. Although he would never admit it to anyone, Ardeth had struck a nerve. The very thought of Jensa never forgiving him for not coming to her wedding, scared him and he couldn't lose his sister. She was the only person in the world who cared about him. He needed her.
He was right at the entrance to the village, but it was void of any life. This did not set well with Michael. He knew that Medjai guards must be lurking nearby, but he was unable to see them. He pulled on the reins and stopped short. Had he heard something?
A sharp Arabic command and the click of five rifles staring him in the face suddenly shot up before him. He held up his hands trying to signal that he meant no harm. He didn't know their language so he had no way to tell them who he was.
* * *
"One rider alone?"
"Yes, he must have not been too far behind us."
"One rider is no threat, but wait until he arrives and then see what he wants before you take action." Madir bowed his head and left to deal with the situation. Ardeth stepped outside and began walking the same way.
Jensa followed him and grasped his arm, "Does this sort of thing happen often?"
"Occasionally, but there is no need to be concerned. One rider is no cause for alarm."
Jensa was thoughtful. "Do any people in town know of our whereabouts?"
"Some, but the majority are Medjai or are allies of our tribe."
"Medjai are in Cairo?"
"Medjai are everywhere. You would be surprised how many warriors are spread out across the sand. Egypt is a big country that harbors many dangers. We guard many other places besides Hamunaptra. It is the greatest threat and therefore, there are more of us to guard it than the other various temples housing dangers to the world. To have so many Medjai on their guard, is a comfort." He glanced back to see the lone rider coming up over the dune entrance.
Jensa recognized him at once. Michael was on his horse riding slowly with his hands up in the air. Five of the guards had seen him coming and all had their rifles aimed at his head.
"Speak of the devil."
"You know who it is?"
"I'd know my own rotten brother anywhere."
The warriors inched closer. Ardeth signaled with his hand that all was well and they backed off immediately. Michael stopped his horse and looked around. He spurred its flanks and she knew he had spotted her.
Michael jumped down from the horse and slowly approached her. He hadn't shaven in several days and he looked like he had dirt smudged all over his face. He also looked like he hadn't been sleeping well. Jensa snuffed. Good enough for him.
* * *
Jensa was wearing an abayya and veil, but her eyes were cold as they watched him. Michael suddenly felt sick to his stomach. Her face bore the same emotionless expression as Ardeth's. My God, he thought, they aren't even married yet and she's already beginning to look like him.
He began slowly, "I know that I'm probably the last person you want to see right now, but I have come to apologize, and for your wedding of course." Michael nervously flexed his hands in and out.
Her cold expression did not change. "You really hurt me, Michael."
"I'm so sorry, Jensa. I'm a complete jerk and should never have treated you so hatefully. Do you think you could find it in your heart to forgive your stupid brother?"
Jensa's cold face faltered and he saw warmth flood back into her eyes. "I think so, but this is the last time," she kidded, giving him a hug. "You hungry?" He nodded. "Follow me. Let's get something to eat."
Michael started to follow, but Ardeth placed a hand on his shoulder. Jensa stopped and looked at them both questioningly.
"Go to my mother's home. She should have a bath and clothes ready for you. I wish to speak to Michael for a few minutes."
"All right. I'll see you later." Jensa left them, but not before looking over her shoulder at them. Michael had the feeling that she was worried about what Ardeth wanted to talk to him about.
And so was he.
* * *
"Thank you, Michael."
"Let's get one thing straight, Bay," he said angrily while shrugging Ardeth's hand off, "I did this for my sister, not for you."
"I did not expect you to do it for me. Her happiness is all that matters to me."
"And me," he agreed, "but just because we'll be related soon doesn't mean I have to like you."
"I am glad we agree on our mutual feelings. Personally, I feel you have no right to be here from the way you treated your sister. She loves you for some strange reason and I am willing to tolerate you for her sake. But know this, if you push me too far, I will not hesitate to deal with you how I see fit. If that means killing you, I can live with it."
Michael smirked and was about to leave, but turned to face him again.
"Do you really think she'll be happy in the middle of nowhere with you? Do you honestly believe she's got a domesticated wife inside of her somewhere?"
Ardeth's anger flared, but he stood his ground. Michael was trying to provoke him, but he would not be swayed. "Jensa has told me how she feels and I believe her. She would not lie to me."
Michael looked surprised. "Oh, really? She's lied to me plenty of times."
"There is quite a big difference between you and I, Michael. If she has lied to you, it was probably because you left her no choice."
"Sure, whatever you say."
"You think she is being untruthful with me?"
He shrugged. "Well, I can't be positive, but consider the kind of life she has been living the past twenty-one years. She's never been in want of anything and now she has nothing, except for you, but I don't see how you could be any consolation for what she's lost."
"She will prove you wrong."
"Yeah right. Anyway, I can see that you love Jen, even though love is not enough sometimes, and that she already looks very happy and at home. I expect her to stay that way…for now. If you ever hurt her, I'll rip those tattoos off of your face."
Ardeth watched Michael stalk off. He rolled his eyes in annoyance, but he could not deny to himself that the seeds of doubt were steadily growing into something much bigger. Could Michael be right? Jensa had never lied to him before. She said she was happy so why could he not just believe her and dismiss Michael's warnings?