Lifetime of Celebration
By Jeannette Hetfield
I must thank Eirian Phillips once again, for she is a mountain of information and my story would be quite silly without her help. Ardeth sends his thanks to her…in more ways than one…*evil grin*. Rashid says he is honored to know her, but she hasn't been paying much attention to him lately. What's going on with that I wonder? Must be that pesky elf again…
Chapter 12
Ardeth sat atop Ahmar, who danced beneath him. He knew the steed was anxious to speed out of the village and run with the wind in his mane. He decided that he too, needed to feel the wind in his hair and spurred the horse forward past the dune entrance to the village.
A rare smile formed on his serious face as Ahmar's powerful muscles flexed beneath him with each monstrous stride. Air streaked across his face, as the chill of the night still remained in the early morning and the sting of the cold left a barely detectable pink tint to his olive cheeks. He leaned forward and whispered into the Arabian's ear, urging him to run to his heart's content. Ahmar seemed to understand the gentle tones of his master's voice by picking up speed and leaving a thick cloud of sand in his wake. He tightened his legs against the horse's belly and kept his upper body low against the sleek black head of the animal. The horse became an extension of him, much like the weapons strapped securely at his waist that became part of his arms when facing an enemy.
He surprised himself when a small laugh erupted in his throat. Ardeth did not remember feeling this happy. But then, he knew the reason for his happiness. Visions of a beautiful woman clouded every thought that had passed through his mind since her return. Her smile could penetrate every dark feeling inside of him and make his heart feel lighter. The scent of her soft skin was always a breath of fresh air to his senses.
He considered all of the things he had done throughout his life. He had killed more men than he remembered and buried their nameless corpses underneath the sand. He could not even recall their faces, only their fear when he brought the final blow of the scimitar across their flesh. He was not ashamed of what he did. Indeed, he felt no shame for it was his duty to protect the evil beneath the desert, but…
Did he truly deserve such a precious creature as Jensa? Wherever he traveled, darkness followed. He had finally accepted that as an inevitable truth when he was made chieftain of the Medjai at eleven years of age, but he did not truly understand the price of his duties until he took a life for the first time. He had not wanted to kill anyone. It was still his wish to never kill again, but he knew he would…again and again until his death. As the greed of men increased, so would the bloodshed, the blood of strangers and the blood of his friends and family. He had lost many friends over the years as well as members of his family. Jensa too, would make friends and lose them, just as he had. Would she be prepared for their loss? What if he were to be injured in battle? How could her sensitive heart cope? She was strong yes, but even strength could falter when a person least expected.
That was why he had been honest with her yesterday. He would not dare lure her into a false sense of security. Life in the desert was dangerous and the sooner she accepted that, the better.
Perhaps she would bring balance to his life. He was part of the darkness. She was part of the light. Did he not only moments ago, feel happiness like he had not known before? He would no longer return from battle to an empty home. She would be waiting there for him and look after him. No longer would there be silence in his home. Her soft voice and sweet laughter would shatter the quiet and he would revel in it. Sleeping alone would cease as well. He longed to share his bed with her, to wake in the morn with her arms around him, giving him her complete trust as she slept peacefully.
Years after her departure, he had lain awake in bed staring at the empty space next to him. He could have returned to the village with her. She could have been sleeping by his side all this time, but at sixteen she was too young and he sacrificed more than he thought was possible when he refused her crying pleas to let her stay with him. She begged him and he had nearly given in. He had nearly forsaken her youth and her family that she loved, all for the chance to be happy with her.
He pulled Ahmar to a stop and the horse neighed happily to be given free reign to run as he pleased. Ardeth chuckled and glanced behind him to the small speck that was his village. He turned back to watch the sun just as it was beginning to peak over the dunes. The sky was crystal clear and the wind died down to a comfortable breeze. The desert was truly beautiful at this time of day. The sun reached a certain point where it touched all the grains and no shadow fell across the sand.
Their wedding had arrived and it would be a beautiful day for celebrating.
Jensa Bay, he mused. Mrs. Jensa Bay. Mrs. Ardeth Bay. The last one was his favorite, he thought with a smile.
His mind drifted over the past five years again. It had not felt real. It was like he had been living in a fog, watching someone else live his life. Though his duties had not suffered and in fact, he had thrown himself whole-heartedly into the guarding of Hamunaptra. He had hoped his work would put Jensa out of his mind, but he had realized a long time ago that she would inextricably reside within him for his lifetime.
The contented smile faded into a frown. Jensa had suffered so much. It had been hard enough for Ardeth as he trudged through each depressing day alone, but Jensa had been living in a nightmare. The haunted look that had been in her eyes had lessened since they had been together, but it lingered, and he knew it always would. It was not an experience easily forgotten and he felt a surge of anger deep in stomach, wishing for just one second alone with Lyle Boenker.
"Good morning."
Ardeth spun around in the saddle to see Jensa coming up the dune on Asal. He felt a hint of irritation at himself. He had been so absorbed in thoughts of his bride that he had not noticed someone approaching him from behind. If they had been an enemy, he would be dead.
"Is something wrong?" she asked, stopping Asal beside Ahmar.
"It is nothing," he said with a forced smile.
"Are you sure?"
"I am."
Her eyes narrowed and he knew she did not believe him, however, she did not pursue the subject. Ardeth would not relay his irritated feelings. So she startled him. Did it matter? He would, however, keep his senses more alert next time.
He was still upset with himself, but that was no reason to be irritated with Jensa. It was his fault and his alone. The last thing she needed was an unreasonable argument on her wedding day.
* * *
Jensa stared hard at her husband-to-be. His face was blank for the most part, but he did look a little upset. The nagging fear every bride had in the back of her mind, was in Jensa's now. Was Ardeth getting cold feet? Had he changed his mind about marrying her? That's ridiculous! She screamed at herself. He loved her and wanted to be her husband just as much as she wanted to be his wife. Why then, did he look like a dark rain cloud was looming over his head?
She decided not to ask. If he really wanted her to know, he would tell her. But she did ask, "What're you thinking about?"
He looked over at her. She felt like she could almost fall off of her horse with the intensity of the love radiating on his face. She tightened her grip on the reins while her head spun. He only had to look at her and she knew the world would be right as rain. The nagging doubt fizzled instantly.
"You," he simply replied. "However, there is one thing that is wrong."
Her brow furrowed with worry. "And that is?" she asked, unaware her voice was at whisper level.
"We have not yet kissed this morning. That is something I should like to rectify immediately. Come here."
Jensa breathed a sign of relief inwardly and obeyed his command. He held out his hand, she slid hers into it, he pulled her forward in the saddle, cupped his hand around her neck before claiming her lips, staking a claim to her mouth and devouring them like they were his last meal. With a contented sigh, they ended the kiss and leaned forward touching foreheads.
"You are up early this morning," she said pulling away to allow for a better view of the face that stopped her heart every time she saw it.
"I have been up all night." He took her hand and softly massaged it.
"Ardeth, you didn't get any sleep at all?" she asked incredulously.
"There was too much on my mind for slumber. I tried to sleep, but it does not matter whether my eyes are opened or closed. I will always see you."
Jensa, looking away, blushed furiously. "Do you know what it does to me when you say things like that?"
"Yes, I do." He crooked one finger under her chin and turned her face back to him. "That is why I say them," he grinned.
She smiled and took hold of his hand, linked her fingers through his and kissed the back of his hand. With a big dreamy sigh, she said, "I love you."
"I know, habibti." He squeezed her hand tightly. "I trust you slept well?"
"Soundly. It was so cozy and warm. I even had a dream."
"Tell me your dream," he said with interest.
"It was about you." She tried to pull her hand away, but he tightened his grip and his eyes turned black.
"Me?" His grin turned devilish. "What about me?"
"Stuff," she replied evasively, trying to pull her hand away again.
"Stuff?" he repeated.
She figured that was probably the first time he had ever used the word "stuff". It sounded strange coming from his lips.
"What kind of stuff?"
"You know…stuff." Jensa refused to elaborate any further. This was good payback for all of his comments that made her insides mush and her knees knock together, however, his smoldering gaze did not make her feel very brave.
"Why don't we head back home?" she said to him, nudging Asal's flanks. He let go of her hand and she sped off ahead of him.
* * *
Ardeth itched to know and opened his mouth to demand she tell him, but he let go of her hand and she was tearing across the desert. She stopped and turned back to him with a grin on her face.
"Want to race back?"
"No," he said riding up to her.
"Where's your sense of adventure?"
"I do not have one."
"Obviously," she muttered.
"What was that?" he asked with a raised eyebrow, though he had heard her clearly.
"Nothing," she said quickly. "You're not afraid of being beaten by a girl are you?"
He would not rise to her bait. "Of course not."
"Well?" she said with a smile.
He sighed and moved Ahmar up next to Asal. "All right. I will race you back to the village and we will see who is smiling then."
Their horses moved up exactly in line.
"I'll count to three," she said. "One…two…"
Before she reached three and before he realized it, she had started ahead of him at a dead run. He stared in shock as her figure on horseback become smaller and smaller.
"Three!" he heard her shout with a laugh.
He spurred Ahmar's flanks and chased after Jensa. "We must catch her, my friend," he said in the horse's ear.
The powerful legs of the horse sped up and Ardeth gained close ground on Jensa. She was a mere few feet away. He was impressed at how fast her horse rode over the sand. Her swift stride never faltered nor missed a step.
They were neck and neck. He glanced over at her. Her hair was fanning out into the air behind her and she was wearing the happiest smile he had ever seen. She looked absolutely thrilled. Unconsciously as he watched Jensa, the speed of Ahmar slowed. It was too late when Ardeth realized this and she pulled away from him. He could not catch her now and she and Asal reached the village.
He slowed Ahmar to a stop and jumped down. She was still laughing and Asal danced in circles no doubt still feeling the rush of adrenaline. He stared up at her and felt his heart swelling. She was so beautiful. Their race left her cheeks flushed and her eyes glowing.
He approached her and tried to look upset. "You cheated."
"Oh, I did not," she defended.
"Yes, you did," he argued back. "We were supposed to go on the count of three."
"Actually, I said that I would count to three. So technically," she said, swinging one leg over the saddle, but not dismounting. "I never said the start of the race would be on three, just that I would count to three."
He narrowed his eyes and his gaze fell to her legs. In one swift motion, he grabbed her ankles and pulled her off the horse. She squealed and threw out her arms, trying to balance herself, but ended up crashing into his chest. Both of them slammed into the sand.
He started to sit up, but she pushed him back down.
"That was not funny! You scared me!"
"That was my intention," he said laughing, trying to sit up again, but she pushed him down and started tickling him.
He grabbed one of her wrists, but she managed to keep the other free from him and continued tickling. They wrestled on the sand for quite some time. Just when he thought he had her, she managed to wriggle free from his grasp. She was quick, but his strength gave him the advantage, that, and she slipped on the sand and he sat down on top of her stomach. He pinned both of her hands down and caught his breath.
"For someone so small, you are quite strong and slippery."
"Let me up," she said, struggling beneath him.
"I do not think so."
* * *
Jensa struggled as hard as she could, but he didn't budge one bit. He didn't look like he had broken a sweat. This man was unbelievable!
"Let me up," she repeated.
"No."
"Why not?" Her voice began to rise and she struggled harder, but collapsed back to the sand breathing heavily.
"Because this is your punishment for cheating."
"I hate to think what your punishment is if I do something worse than cheating."
"Ah, so you admit you cheated."
"Yeah, so? Please get off."
"No," he said flatly.
"I can't breathe."
"Whose fault is that?"
He chuckled and instead of getting off of her, he leaned down and kissed her full on the lips. Her eyes were wide open with surprise, but she shut them quickly and gave up struggling, going completely slack beneath him.
She knew they were alone, but someone could show up at any moment and she said against his mouth, "Ardeth."
He did not respond.
"Ardeth," she said again and turned her head to the side, but his lips strayed to her neck. She wanted him to stop…well, not stop. Of course she didn't want him to stop, but they could be caught. And did it really matter?
She cast all her cares to the wind and turned her face back to him, catching his lips as they moved up her face. Her arms snaked around his neck and she pulled him down closer to her. The heat from the sun was nothing compared to the heat she felt between them.
Suddenly, she heard a terrified gasp behind them and they both jumped and turned to see where it had come from.
It was Zaina. "What is wrong with the two of you?" Her face was absolutely horrified. Jensa couldn't help but smile at the shock pouring from her eyes.
"What is it, Zaina?" Ardeth asked his sister, getting off Jensa. He grabbed her hands and pulled her abruptly to her feet. He placed his arm around her shoulder, assuming a protective stance.
"The two of you should not be with or even see each other on your wedding day! It is bad luck!" Zaina disentangled Jensa from Ardeth's grasp and headed the other way. She was absolutely beside herself as she pulled Jensa away from Ardeth.
He started after them, ready to pounce on his sister. "That is a ridiculous tradition!" he growled.
Jensa laughed at his annoyance as Zaina dragged her away.
* * *
He was not ready to be separated from her. He began following them, ready to take her back and suddenly stopped. He was reminded that they would be together all night and for the rest of the week on their honeymoon. Sighing impatiently, he willed himself to calm down. It would be well worth the wait.
"Impatient, Ardeth?"
He spun around to see his good friend with a big grin on his face.
"Fadil," he greeted. "I am impatient, yes. You will soon know what it is to feel this way. I assume Kerri will soon become the newest member of our tribe."
He smiled and said, "I did not come here to talk about me."
"Oh? I was under the impression that Kerri was the reason for your recent happiness."
"Indeed she is, Ardeth. I have many plans."
"That is good to hear, my friend," Ardeth said, placing a hand on his shoulder. "It is about time."
Fadil raised his eyebrows. "I could say the same for you. It has taken you many years to find a woman."
He shook his head. "No, I already found her, but the timing was not right."
"True. She was very young at the time."
"But she was ready to stay with me. All I had to do was ask her and she would have become my wife five years ago."
Fadil looked at him in surprise. "She told you she would stay?"
Ardeth nodded. "She begged me, in fact, and I told her no." He looked away, remembering all too well the pain in Jensa's eyes when he refused her.
He told Fadil of the night he and Jensa spent together in the desert after her rescue from her family's disgruntled servant Onaba.
"Jensa did not know that one night in the tent made her my wife."
"It must have been very difficult to let her go, but I understand why you did."
"It was the most difficult thing I have ever done," he said quietly with an almost imperceptible break in his voice.
"This is not the time to reminiscence about the pain you felt, Ardeth. You will be married by sunset to the woman of your heart. You should be happy, but there is a look in your eyes that suggests otherwise." Fadil watched him shrewdly.
Ardeth glanced over at him. "I am happy. Do not doubt that, Fadil. I cannot express just how happy I am."
"But…" he prompted.
He sighed heavily, not really wanting to share his feelings, but he felt the need to talk to someone. "But…I am not sure she is happy."
Fadil's eyes widened in shock. "She looked happy to me."
"Do you think she might be trying to be happy for my sake only?"
"Her happiness is not genuine you mean?"
Ardeth nodded.
"You know her better than I do, but the woman that I have seen looks more than ready to become your wife. Where have your thoughts been?"
"In places I fear they should not be."
Fadil took Ardeth by the arm and led him back into the village. "Come and take a walk with me and tell me what is troubling you. Why do you not think Jensa is happy?"
Ardeth watched a man as he painted his small daub home and said, "Jensa comes from a wealthy family. Servants tended to their needs. She no longer has that. I am not certain if she will be able to cope with the life we live. It is domestic and simple. I also fear for her frame of mind. She is such a gentle woman and at times, needs much protection."
"And you will give her that protection when she needs it and she will be a stronger person for it. I know what you say, my friend. Things will be difficult for her at first, yes, but she will become accustomed to our way of life. I have no doubt of that. She loves you and shall make every effort to become a Medjai woman."
"Fadil, you astound me with your words of wisdom."
"I try," he laughed.
"I know it will take time and I will be with her every step of the way."
"But?"
He grinned. "You know me too well."
"Very true," he grinned back.
All laughter left him and he said seriously, "I know thoughts such as these are always present before a wedding ceremony and I hope my doubts will disappear once I have wed."
"Give it time, Ardeth."
"Time is not always something I have, Fadil," he said gravely. "My duties prevent it from being so."
* * *
Jensa laughed as Ardeth continued to mutter under his breath while Zaina pulled her away.
"Besides," his sister said, finally letting go of Jensa's hand. "We must prepare you and we need to begin. It will take nearly all day."
"All day?" Jensa repeated aghast. Zaina ushered her through a tent flap.
Inside were five other women waiting to help with the preparations.
"Surely all of you have better things to do than help me get ready?"
"No, no, Jensa. There is much to be done and we are all here to make you beautiful, however, you already are. No more protests. We must begin."
Before Jensa could say another word, the women surrounded her and immediately removed her clothing. Jensa had expected something like this would happen and although she was quite embarrassed, she knew she'd have to get used to it. So she tried to relax while they chattered away excitedly about her and the wedding.
To her delight, one woman began drawing Henna patterns on her body. She watched in fascination as the woman used delicate strokes to make the designs. The woman then wrapped her hands, explaining that the warmth would help the patterns to dry faster.
Once the Henna was done, she spent the rest of her morning and afternoon being pampered and prepared. She was massaged, given a long and warm bath and oiled until her skin held a soft warm glow.
Zaina squeezed the excess water from Jensa's hair and ran a brush through it over and over again until it was dry. The feeling of someone else brushing her hair felt wonderful and sent chills up her spine. By the time she was done, Jensa's hair shriveled up into tight curls.
The same woman who had applied the Henna stepped forward and removed the wraps from Jensa's hands. The patterns were dry. She knew that along with the custom of Henna drawings, she would do no housework for three weeks. By that time, the Henna patterns would have faded.
"You are fortunate to have such beautiful hair and so thick too. It is a little like my brother's."
"Mine will never look like his. It's not fair."
Zaina laughed. "Not really, no."
"You, however, have exquisitely beautiful hair. Earlier this morning when you came to get me, I was just thinking how attractive you are. Your hair has a beautiful blue sheen in the sunlight."
"You are very sweet," she said with a blush touching her olive cheeks.
"I'm on the far end of the sweet side, but I am honest."
"He has missed you," she said quietly.
"Ardeth?"
"Mm hmm. I worried about him a great deal, as we all did. He was very melancholy. He did not say much and when he did, I could hear the pain in his voice because I knew you were not far from his thoughts. Thank Allah you came back to him. He was being pressured into marrying another and I knew he would never willingly go through with it. No other woman could take your place in his heart."
Jensa felt like she could cry, but only allowed her eyes to tear up. She hastily blinked them back when she heard her mother's voice.
"Hello? We're not too late to help are we?" Mrs. James' voice called from outside the tent.
"No, please come in," said Zaina. "We were just about to put her dress on and then her makeup."
Mrs. James came in followed by Kerri. "Oh, good!" cried her mother. "The best part is always the dress!" The two of them had changed already and were both in beautifully ornate Medjai robes. They removed their veils to reveal two very big smiles.
Jensa chuckled at her mother's enthusiasm. "Kerri, I'm so glad you're here. It wouldn't be the same without you," she said holding out her hand to her friend.
"I wouldn't be anywhere else, " she said accepting the extended hand. "I'm so glad this is happening for you. I truly hoped you'd find Ardeth when we came back."
"They found each other," said Zaina dreamily.
"Yes, we did," said Jensa, equally as dreamy.
"Though you nearly killed each other," Kerri murmured.
Jensa looked at her sharply. Her mother didn't know about the fight at Hamunaptra between herself and Ardeth. He had almost killed her, but she recognized him in time. All's well that ends well.
"What was that, dear?" Mrs. James asked, looking at Kerri, who ignored her because of the furious glare from Jensa.
Before Mrs. James could ask again, Jensa was parked onto a chair and the ladies quickly began on her makeup. Zaina expertly lined her eyes with kohl and stood back to survey her work, making sure the lines were even.
"Jensa, your green eyes and this kohl are made for each. Against your pale skin, it really brings out the color," said her mother.
"My big brother will melt when he sees you."
"I fully intend to make him. Lord knows he's done it enough times to me."
This remark brought a consensus of agreement and laughter.
Once her makeup was finished, Zaina presented her with the wedding gown.
She said proudly, "This dress has been worn by our grandmother and our mother. Like you, they were both married to the leader of the Medjai. This is an old tradition that I am sure our great leader will not object to, especially after he sees you in it," she said, her eyes twinkling.
Dark pink, green and gold threading was embroidered on the lace from the top of the shoulder line to the bottom of the hem. They formed the design of a never-ending connection of roses. The rose lace formed the top layer and underneath, the skirt like the slip, was also made of gold silk. The rose lace on the arms was see-through.
Jensa nearly cried when she saw it. "Oh, my God! It's…it's so beautiful. No, not beautiful…breathtaking! No…no words can describe it," she stuttered unable to find the right words. "I'll be so scared to wear it. I don't want to mess it up."
"You will not," Zaina said with confidence. "It survived two generations of weddings already. This dress carries the spirit of a Medjai warrior."
"Hurry, Jensa. I'm dying to see you in it!" her mother said excitedly.
As they carefully pulled it over her head so as not to muss up her makeup, Jensa could detect a whiff of lavender in the material. This scent must be the favorite of the Medjai chieftains, past and present, she thought. The 'V' neckline tightly fitted her bosom and was only slightly low, maintaining the decent spirit of the gown.
"The dress is made for you," Kerri noticed.
"Yes, Jensa. It's a perfect fit," her mother said, touching the delicate lace of the arms.
The veil was as exquisite as the dress. It was also lace with the same rose design. The train draped down her back and onto the floor. It was connected to a string of gold beads that went across the top of her head like a crown. Another string of beads drooped down across her forehead with a ruby drop in the middle. Zaina gingerly placed it on top of Jensa's dark hair and secured it with pins.
The next items to accompany her dress were a necklace, earrings and shoes. Jensa stared in wonder at the gold jewelry. The earrings were fish hooked. Rubies and emeralds formed a rose just underneath the hook and dropped down into a large tear-shaped ornament with several smaller jeweled roses inside the tear. Tiny gold diamond shaped tassels hung from the tear. The necklace looked like a 'Y' with more jeweled roses and fit into the 'V' neckline of the dress. Two of the attendants held onto Jensa's arms while Zaina put silk slippers on her feet. The gold shoes were turned up slightly at the toe. She brought the veil up across Jensa's nose and fastened it. Zaina walked around her smoothing out all the wrinkles.
"Done!" she cried triumphantly.
Jensa picked up her skirt and twirled around in circles. "I feel like Cinderella, except I get to be with Prince Charming until way past midnight."
Kerri laughed mischievously, bringing forth a blush to Jensa's cheeks.
"You are a vision, Jen," said Mrs. James. Her eyes teared up and she fanned her face with her hand. "What am I crying for?"
In turn, they each hugged the bride.
"I will check to see if everything is ready. I am sure they are. It does not take the men as long as it does us. I will be right back." Zaina left the tent.
"Are you terribly nervous, Jensa?" asked Kerri.
"Surprisingly I'm not. I feel excitement and I do admit to a few butterflies, but we belong together. We've always known that."
Zaina returned in just a few short minutes. "They are ready. The ceremony is going to be just outside of the tent where you spoke with the elders. A path has been made for you to follow."
"Here," her mother said handing her a bouquet of flowers. "These are fellah, Arabian jasmine. I thought a little mixing of wedding traditions would be nice. A bride has to have her bouquet of flowers."
"Thank you, Mother. They're exquisite," she replied, putting the flowers to her nose and inhaling deeply.
Mrs. James stepped closer and put her lips to Jensa's ear. "Throw the bouquet to Kerri, will you?"
Jensa raised her eyebrows and saw the sparkle in her mother's eyes. "Okay, though I doubt she really needs me to. We may have another wedding to celebrate soon."
"I hope so."
"What are you two whispering about?" Kerri was suddenly beside them.
"The wedding of course," Mrs. James said, catching her daughter's eye.
Truthfully, they were talking about a wedding, but not Jensa's.
"I think they're ready, Jen." Kerri pointed to the tent flaps.
The ladies stood aside to hold the tent flaps open for her as she stepped outside. The sun was now close to setting. Candles had been lit and were placed in iron rods jutting up from the sand. Just as Zaina had said, the candles made a path for her to follow. As it was now dusk, the sand looked like it glowed and she thought that there would never be a wedding as beautiful as this.
Many of the Medjai villagers stood on either sides of the path. Children sat on their father's shoulders to get an eagle-eye view of the procession. Many of their stares were of wonder and curiosity.
She felt some apprehension and hoped that she would live up to everyone's expectations. It was time for her to have confidence in herself, but that was tough considering what would happen once she and Ardeth were married and alone. She squashed that thought down for the moment. There was no need worry until it actually happened.
Jensa was a little taken aback by the looks of a group of women standing some ways ahead. They had no warmth in their eyes. It was pure, unadulterated hate mingled with jealousy. They must have been competing for Ardeth's affections and having only heard yesterday that he was to be married, spoiled their plans. She knew how vindictive such women could be and decided that she would keep a watchful eye on them.
* * *
She watched the bride walking slowly down the pathway. It was not right. She was foreign. She knew nothing about being Medjai. The elders should have refused, but no one dared dispute Ardeth, except Fahd of course, however, not many listened to that old man anymore. She had heard from Dammar all about the meeting in the elders' tent.
Her eyes narrowed when they made contact with the bride. She hoped she was showing just how much she resented the foreigner being here. This woman had stolen what should have been hers. She should have been the woman in the traditional Medjai wedding gown and she should be the woman to bear the chieftain's children.
Well, only time would tell if she had anything to say about it.
* * *
Jensa rounded the corner of her path and met her destination, Her breath caught in her throat when she saw Ardeth. Time suddenly seemed to move in slow motion. He was wearing long white flowing robes with gold threading embroidered into the silk. The intricate patterns of gold formed ancient symbols and the jeweled set of scimitars that rested in the black trunk, hung on a leather belt at his waist. His hair was loose and glistening in the candlelight. She pushed down the desire to run her fingers through the soft waves. The several day's growth of his beard had been trimmed away, leaving his olive skin smooth and glowing in the retreating rays of the sun. His whiskers made a sharp trail along his firm jaw line. Jensa was determined to later place kisses along that trail. For a fleeting second, she didn't think her legs would hold her up anymore. Ardeth was, without a doubt in her mind, the most handsome man she had ever seen. In fact, he was beautiful and she meant that in the most masculine way possible.
Ardeth stood next to his Uncle Alim. In front of them on the sand was a large circle. Her father and brother were already waiting to her left. Her father's face looked a little sad, but he smiled just the same. Michael's expression was passive, but he winked at her.
* * *
Ardeth stared at Jensa. His eyes swept over her, transfixed by the sight of her in the traditional Medjai wedding gown. For years, he ached for her, missing her smile, her touch, her heart and just…her. He had known she would be beautiful, but he had had no idea what a dream she would be. This was no dream, however, she stood next to him as real as she had always been. Her green eyes bore into the core of his being. As his eyes swept over her again and again, he felt light-headed. Then he realized why. He had been holding his breath ever since she came into his view. Calmly, he exhaled and took a deep breath. He slowed his pounding heart and relaxed.
The crowd gathered together around them. Jensa's parents, Michael and Kerri stood behind her. Ardeth's mother and sister stood behind him.
Ardeth whispered to her, "You take my breath away, kalila." Tears glistened in her eyes. They sparkled like diamonds in the light of dusk.
Alim stood before them with the rest of the elders standing a foot or so behind him. "Join hands," he said in Arabic. Jensa handed off the bouquet of flowers to her mother. "This is the most joyous and celebrated of days for the Medjai people, when our leader finds the one whom he will spend a lifetime with. She must be pure of heart, mind and soul. Jensa carries within her these special qualities and so many more. These two are destined to lead our people together. Step forward into the circle."
With one hand entwined with Ardeth's, she picked up her skirt with the other as they entered the large circle.
Alim continued, "The circle signifies their never-ending love for each other and their never-ending duty to lead our people as one." An elder handed him a long match. Alim squatted down and touched the match to circle. The flames erupted around Jensa and Ardeth.
"The Medjai shall continue to prosper and grow stronger as our heritage lives on through Ardeth and Jensa. May Allah bless the two of you in your journey together with this flame of eternal love."
Ardeth pulled out a ring from his pocket and slipped it on Jensa's ring finger. The rims were gold and surrounded a band of silver. Diamonds spelled out Bay in Arabic across the band.
"Ardeth…" Alim gestured towards the bride. Ardeth reached up and unfastened Jensa's veil. They leaned forward and kissed. It was rather chaste and brief, but they could make up for it later. Jensa had to stand on her tip toes in the flat slippers she was wearing to reach him. He gripped her arms and helped pull her up.
"You are forever bound together as husband and wife." Their lips parted and the crowd cheered.
Ardeth leaned forward to say in her ear. "We are together now as it should always have been." He refastened her veil and took her hand.
"There is of course, the matter of signing the proper documents for the Medjai records. The record of the marriage has already been made, but you must now sign it Ardeth as well as your witness," Alim said, handing rolled up parchment to Ardeth.
Fadil stepped forward and stood behind Ardeth as he signed the record. Once he was finished, he moved aside and took Jensa's hand again.
Alim waited for Fadil to finish his signature and he looked over the record. "Everything is in order. Now, onto the celebration!" he cried. The crowd cheered again. The fire around them was doused and he led her to the feasting tables in the commons area. There were mounds and mounds of food. Ardeth and Jensa sat down next to each other.
"The celebration will continue until the early morning hours," Ardeth informed her.
"My celebrating will continue for longer than one day."
"Yes, we shall have a whole lifetime of celebration." He brought her hand up to his lips and kissed it lingeringly. The soft whiskers tickled her skin.
Plates were passed to them. On it was a small and white fluffy looking treat.
"What is this?" she asked.
"It is mallow from the trees that grow in the marshes. It was considered a delicacy to the ancient kings of Egypt and was only served to royalty."
"Oh, marshmallows. They're becoming quite popular in America."
He broke off a rather large piece and said, "Open your mouth. I must feed this to you."
Jensa eyed him suspiciously. He flashed his most brilliant smile and she looked less reluctant. But before she could shut her mouth, it was too late. He shoved the entire mallow in her mouth. Her eyes opened wide in surprise and she mumbled something he could not make out clearly. He had a good laugh while she tried to swallow the large mallow.
* * *
Of course, she had suspected it, but she didn't mind…too much. Everyone roared with laughter.
She pointed her finger at him and covered her mouth while she chewed. She tried to say it was payback time, but it came out more like, "Mmmaabbbac imme."
He laughed hard and said, "Do not talk with your mouth full."
Jensa picked up the same size of the mallow that he had. Swallowing the last bit of the large lump of food, she wiped her mouth with the back of her hand and commanded, "Open your mouth."
"Oh, no. I do not trust you," he said shaking his head.
"Your own wife?" she asked pretending to be hurt.
"No."
"I'm not going to be as mean as you were." Jensa thought, I'm going to be meaner. One hand was under the table and she crossed her fingers.
Ardeth seemed to consider her words. "All right, but if you do anything, you are in a great deal of trouble." He was trying to be stern, but laughter danced in his eyes. He opened his mouth. She tricked him good and smeared the mallow upwards to his nose and continued to smear until it was all around his mouth and chin.
She licked her fingers. "Mmm, this is very good," she replied in their language. Again, everyone roared with laughter at the spectacle. Ardeth picked up a cloth napkin from the table and wiped his face. There was a hint of pink in his cheeks. "Now I am sticky. I said I did not trust you, but I went against my instincts. I will not be as foolish the next time."
Mr. James suddenly came up behind Ardeth and gave him a friendly slap on the back. "Trust me, my newly acquired son-in-law, you'll be foolish many more times."
"How comforting," he said throwing the napkin down on the table. Jensa gave Ardeth a dirty look.
"I rest my case. Open mouth, insert foot," replied her father with a small laugh.
"I suppose I can forgive you, but just this once," Jensa said playfully.
Ardeth's eyes and mouth creased into a smile, showing his perfect teeth. "How gracious of you."
Jensa smiled with him. She loved the banter between them. It had always been playful and light-hearted. She looked forward to the many years of happiness and love that awaited them in the future.
The sudden look in his eyes sent a shiver shooting up her spine. She realized what was about to happen. Her stomach twisted into knots and she was quite certain her knees would give out were she not sitting down. The heat rose quickly to her cheeks as images floated across her mind. She saw that Ardeth noticed her blushing and he smiled. There was understanding in his eyes. He knew what her fears were, but she trusted him completely. She would be taken care of.
The fires in the night that surrounded them were no match to the fire in Ardeth's eyes. Again she blushed and this time, he held out his hand. She gazed down at the three prongs of his tattoo and admired his long fingers. He held out his hand in a sweet and gentle manner, but demanding too.
He would not take no for an answer and she would never tell him no. She couldn't deny what she was feeling, not matter how nervous she felt and slid her hand gently into his and received a sharp bolt of electricity from just the small contact. He stood and she with him. He must have felt it too for he was grinning.
"Hold on just one second," she said.
"Why?"
"You'll see." She waved the bouquet of flowers in the air. "Mother! Kerri!"
Both looked over at her and she noticed her mother's silly grin. Kerri was watching in confusion.
"Hey, Kerri! Think fast!" Jensa launched the flowers into the air and Kerri had no choice but to catch them.
Once they were safely in her grasp, her eyes widened and her face burned bright red, making an odd mixture of color with her blond hair.
"Jensa James Bay!" she cried.
Jensa laughed heartily and took Ardeth's hand, ignoring the few choice remarks she heard Kerri utter.
"That was an American tradition I suppose," he said.
"Yep. The bride must toss her bouquet into a group of unattached women. Whomever catches it, is destined to get married next."
He chuckled. "I hope Fadil learns of this tradition."
Together they walked, hand in hand, to their home. The sounds of the wedding celebration faded further and further behind them. She could feel eyes on her and she knew that many people were watching them. It was, therefore, a great relief to her once they were inside away from knowing stares.
His arm curved around her waist and pulled her close against him. She met his lips for a soft kiss and wrapped her arms around his neck, running her hands up into his silky hair. Her body began trembling and she clung tightly to him.
The kiss ended and he leaned back to look at her. His gaze was penetrating and she knew he could see right through her. He ran the back of his hand across her cheek. She closed her eyes and leaned into his touch. Her body still trembled and she could not control it.
"Jensa."
"Yes, Ardeth?" She opened her eyes to see him watching her with love and concern.
He pulled her into his arms once more, squeezing her gently and whispered in her ear, "Relax, hayati."
She nodded slowly, burying her face into his chest. She felt some of the tension in her shoulders subside.
"Come," he whispered, taking her hand and leading her to their bed. He took her by the shoulders and they sank onto the soft skins and pillows. She sat back, curling her feet up at her side. He reached forward and took the veil from her head. The clasp holding her hair back was removed, letting the long tendrils have reign around her face. The little wisps tickled her already tingling skin.
"So beautiful…" he murmured.
She smiled shyly, but did not look away.
* * *
He pulled her into his arms and cradled her head against his chest. She was nervous and he wanted to make her as comfortable as possible. He rested his cheek on the top of her head and he felt her body relax into his. A smile tugged at the corners of his mouth because he noticed her small fingers clutched around his white robes. His skin tingled from the little breeze her breath blew across his neck.
"Do you need anything, my love?" he whispered into her hair.
He felt her shake her head. "No, I've got everything I need right here," she whispered back.
He smiled again and tightened his arms around her, needing to be as close to her as possible.
"Ardeth?" Her voice was slightly muffled as her face was pressed into his robes.
"Yes?"
"We're married," she said amazed.
He looked down at her to see her looking up at him and found himself laughing at the simplicity of the statement, and yet, he could hear so many different meanings in just the two words. She was laughing too and he loved the sweet sound. She sounded like the village girls who giggled for no reason; young and carefree and beautiful. More than anything, she needed this. She needed to laugh. She needed to know he would be here from now on.
She leaned up to kiss him. "I love you."
"I know, hayati."
All laughter died as he kissed her back gently. She laid back against the pillows, her hair fanning out around her like a dark pool. He leaned down over her, brushing a strand of hair from her face. Taking his place beside her on the bed, he completed his final vow to her as her husband.
* * *
Fadil watched with curiosity as Jensa threw her flowers at Kerri. He was not sure what this represented, but he was determined to find out, so he made his way over to her, his heart filled with the anticipation of talking to her. Even beneath the veil covering her hair, the fires of the night lit up her waves like gold. She was the most exquisite creature he had ever seen.
He thought of his conversation with Ardeth earlier that morning. He did plan on asking for Kerri's hand in marriage, but he was not sure when he should do it. As he approached her, he smiled as she smelled the flowers with her eyes closed. Her fair eyelashes brushed against her pink cheeks.
Her eyes opened and she gasped in surprise when she saw him standing in front of her.
"Hello," she said quietly.
"Good evening, Kerri," he said softly. "You look…" Dare he say it? "Beautiful."
"Thank you, Fadil," she whispered.
"You are welcome." He glanced down at the flowers. "Tell me, why did your friend throw her flowers at you and with such force? Did she not like them?"
To his surprise, she laughed and shook her head.
"No, she loved the flowers, but she was being sneaky and caught me completely off guard."
His brow knitted together in confusion. "Is it part of your American culture?"
"Yes, but only at weddings. The bride has the responsibility of throwing her bouquet of flowers into a huddle of unmarried women. The girl that catches it is supposedly cosmically chosen to be the next woman to get married."
She blushed suddenly and looked away, anywhere but his eyes.
He smiled with sudden understanding. Jensa was very smart indeed. No doubt she and Ardeth had discussed his own marriage plans. He looked over his shoulder and watched them disappear into their home and he returned his gaze to Kerri. She was watching him anxiously.
Now was the time.
"Kerri," he said gently, taking her hand. "Will you stay here with me? Will you become my wife?"
"Yes?"
"Is that a question?"
"Oh, no!"
"No? Then you do no wish to…" he said disappointedly.
"No! I mean yes! I mean…" She took a deep breath. "I mean…yes, I want to become your wife."
He felt his heart swelling in his chest. "Really? You are sure?"
"Very sure."
He squeezed her hand. "Then we must speak with Alim. He has another marriage to perform soon."
* * *
Music began to fill the air. The wedding feast was still carrying on, long after the newlyweds had gone home.
Everything was perfect…almost. Unbeknownst to the celebrating crowds, two people escaped to a tent at the other end of the village against the inside curve of the rocks, far from the music and far enough away for no one to hear them. They walked in silence until the music began to fade and stepped inside a tent.
Dammar paced the sand like a caged tiger. Sameera mulled over his behavior. He informed her not too long ago that he had seen Jensa in Cairo several days ago, not knowing that she was the chieftain's woman. No matter. It would make his take over of the village that much more satisfying. She could not wait, but he had said they had no other choice.
Sameera sat against the pillows of his bed watching him. She too held the same views that Dammar did. Following this new way of life was blasphemous and against everything the Medjai stood for. She wanted to be the wife of the leader. Ever since she was a child, she had been smitten with Ardeth mostly because of the power that kind of position could wield. His being the most handsome man in the village was just an added bonus.
She had been determined for many years to marry Ardeth, but he had not given her a second look much less a first look. His heart had long been lost to Jensa. She had come to Egypt and spoiled all of her plans. Ardeth had not been the same while Jensa was gone. He had refused the women of the village vying for his attentions. Sameera had been certain he would realize what he was missing by not taking her for his wife, but stupid Jensa had come back and ruined it all!
Now, Sameera saw hope in the man angrily pacing the ground.
His goal was to lead the Medjai. That had always been his one and only goal. She watched him closely. He was a handsome man, but he could never compare to Ardeth. She had to content herself with the second best. His nose was aquiline, not unlike Ardeth's, but his black beady eyes were cold and hollow, seething with hate for his chieftain. His lips were set in a thin pale line, occasionally cursing the situation he found himself in. The blue dye of the tattoos across his flat cheekbones seemed to glow with his rage.
"I hate him," he finally said.
"Yes, I know! I know! You are the rightful leader not Ardeth Bay," she said irritated, holding out her hand and eying her fingernails.
"Do not mock me, Sameera!"
"I would not dream of it. I hate Jensa."
"I know! I know! You are the rightful leader's wife. Well, when I am the leader, you shall be my wife."
Her eyebrows rose. "You mean that?"
"With all my heart," he mocked.
"You do not have one," she said with a smirk.
"Maybe not, but we both know what it is you are after. Power, and so am I."
It did not really matter to her anymore who the leader of the Medjai was. She had already given up on winning over Ardeth. Still, if Jensa had not been there, she would have found a way to make Ardeth hers, even if she had to trick him into getting her into his bed, but there was no hope for that now. If Dammar killed him and proclaimed himself leader, then who was she to complain? All she had ever wanted was to be the leader's wife and by Allah, she was going to be, Ardeth or no Ardeth.
"We just have to kill them."
"That is easier said than done," she said.
"Right now it is. We must spread the word through the other tribes. There are not enough of us who still follow the old ways, but there will be one day and we will crush Ardeth."
"And his precious Jensa," she added.
He nodded. "And his precious Jensa." Dammar stopped pacing and pulled out a dagger from his belt. He ran the blade across his palm and clenched his fist tightly. The blood seeped through his fingers and dripped onto the sand. "I swear I will find a way to destroy Ardeth."
"You have been saying that for years," Sameera yawned tiredly. Dammar lost control of his anger and yanked her up to her feet. His bleeding hand closed around her throat. "I will get what I want." He brought his mouth down violently on hers. Then he shoved her back down onto the bed. "I do not care how long it takes or how I will accomplish it, but we shall rally together and kill Ardeth's influence and finally…him."
"And Jensa," Sameera repeated wiping the blood from her neck and smearing it on the pillows.
Dammar laughed wickedly. "You have a one track mind."
"As do you, My Lord, future leader of the Medjai."
"My Lord…I like the sound of that." Dammar tackled Sameera, ripping at her clothes and unleashing his anger.
(Author's note: If you want to know what I modeled Jensa's wedding attire after, watch Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom. The character Willie Scott wears a similar dress when they are sitting at the table in the Majarajah's palace.)