The Power of the Nile
written by Atlantis
( 2003
Who's large and in charge? That'd be me! Just kidding. Lookie here everyone, I updated. Aren't you proud of me? It took a little more than a month, but I cranked it out. Time is still eluding me for the most part, but I deal.
Many, many thanks to the three people who reviewed my last chapter: Kawaii Kokkei Tsuita no Neko, Caro, and Tara-hime who's been kind from the beginning of both of my Yu-Gi-Oh! stories. I think that's about it for opening author's notes, so, on with the show!
Disclaimer: How many times do I actually have to do this? You know I don't own the show, and I know I don't own the show. End of discussion.
Rating: PG-13
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A final word: Be strong with the Lord's mighty power. Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies and tricks of the Devil. For we are not fighting agsint people made of flesh and blood, but against the evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against those mighty powers of darkness who rule this world, and against wicked spirits in the heavenly realms.
Ephesians 6:10-12
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PART 3
A warm wind blew across the sands of the desert and through the city, whirling up to a lone balcony that looked out over the expanse of the kingdom. Téatani sighed as the airy hands of the wind shifted through her bangs and over her skin, ruffling the bottom of her long robes as well. Something was in the air and she felt excitement and fear course through her veins, mingling together to create an intense anticipation in her blood. The magic inside of her sang out, calling to a hidden source, pulling her towards the unknown and the danger that awaited her. The dark of night hung like a black blanket over the city, decorated with the shining lights of the stars from up above and the flickering torches and lamps of houses below.
Before her, the deep, rippling waters of the Nile looked like ink in the light of the moon, the silver orb's reflection wavering over the surface with the current. The reeds of the great river whistled with the soft breeze, swaying and casting eerie shadows over the waters surface as the intoxicating scent of the lotus and spice drifted around her. Both so strong and yet distinct in their differences: one entirely masculine and powerful and the other a softer, caressing smell, but just as strong with its irrestibility. But though they were so different, they fit together so well when mixed. A perfect match. Shaking her head from her strange ponderings, she turned her head to glance at the sands.
So foreboding and treacherous, full of trickery and illusions. Many men and women had died, simply from underestimating the power of the ever- changing desert. It was never the same, transforming into a new world with every storm and gust of wind. The expanse was incredible, uncomparable to any other natural place on earth. Some said that the oceans were a similar force to reckon with, only there was an abundance of water rather than the stifling hot and dry climate of the dunes, but Téatani knew not of that world. Only the sand. Now, with the night covering it's secrets, the sand looked like a different realm... a realm of emptiness. Certainly not safer, but perhaps not so threatening. It might be the fact that so much was hidden at night that worries of evil lurking in corners or creatures slithering across the sand left the mind, to be replaced by the strange calm that rested over the desert at night and the warm wind that blew.
That strange feeling of excitement trickled into her again and she turned away from the edge of the balcony and went back inside her room, too anxious to stare into the night anymore. As she pulled the gauzy curtains behind her, she noticed that her pets were not waiting for her. Turning to inspect her bed, she realized with some puzzlement that they weren't anywhere to be seen. They had not leapt upon her to give her sloppy kisses or stick their hands beneath her hands for attention... they simply weren't there. Nearly worried, since the two large dogs never left her presence, she searched for them by stretching out with her powers, closing her eyes to seek deeper into all possible realms. To her surprise and further confusion, she found them residing with the rest of her creatures rather than in the physical realm.
Biting her lip, Téatani mulled over why they might have left as she slipped onto her bed, sinking into the soft mattress and silk sheets. She dropped her head down on one of her many down pillows (gifts from the Greek emperor) and stared up at the top of her canopy bed, not bothering to draw the blue translucent drapes that hung around her bed. While she thought about why her pets had left, a tremor passed through her body and she sat up quickly, feeling tingly and as if she had just been... pleasured. Her body felt delicious and nearly whole for a mere second and then it faded just as quickly as it had come, leaving her with an empty feeling that surpassed anything she had felt before. Suddenly, she realized why they had left.
"They can feel it too. The air is trying to tell us of something. An event or person who is going to change everything as we know it. But can I trust that this thing that's coming is good? It may be a warning," Téatani whispered to herself quietly, pulling the sheets around her body, enjoying the feel against her skin. Some of the materials from the Greeks were just so amazing, no wonder she enjoyed wearing her warrior garb more than anything else. It provided comfort, was durable, and was beautiful, all at the same time. Indulging for a moment in a guilty thought, she wondered dreamily what it would be like to love a man beneath her sheets. The softness of the material moving across their bodies as they moved together in a dance of the heavens... Blushing furiously, Téatani released her hold on her sheets and let them fall back to her sides. Her eyes moved back towards the direction of the balcony, peering through the curtains that parted with the faint breeze to gaze at the stars.
The quiet of the night seeped into her, invading the darkness and giving it a cool flavor that refreshed. If nothing else, the sky gave her knowledge of peace. Stars winked at her through the moving curtains, luring her for a midnight ride among them, to walk with them and sing their beautiful song if only for a short while. Wetting her lips, she rose to her knees, ready to answer their beckoning when a loud banging filled her ears.
Turning with wide eyes, she listened again as the pounding reverberated throughout her room, coming from her unflinching gold doors. Hastily she got up and approached, cautious once she reached the massive doorway.
"Princess! Princess, the Great Raven flies at your door!" the keen wail of a serving girl cried. Her features hardening, Téatani lost all of her previous passive feelings and gentle thoughts with the mention of the dark bird. Strength knotted in her arms with her anger at anything that would dare come at a time like this as she pulled the doors open until they slammed against the walls of her room.
"What does Death want with me?" Téatani demanded darkly of the crying girl in front of her. The dark-haired girl dropped to the floor, kowtowing as she saw the princess's foul mood and gasped for breath through her tears. Softening immediately as she saw what effect she was having on the young girl, Téatani cursed herself and dropped to her knees, wrapping her arms around Cinaya gently. The girl threw herself into the warm arms, showing how truly worried she was over her mistress.
"Your... your servant has returned with grave news P-Princess," Cinaya stuttered. Her warm tears fell onto Téatani's arms and into the material over her chest and she felt a wave of compassion roll over her before standing slowly, still holding the girl in her arms.
"Worry not for me, little one," Téatani said quietly, getting the girl to look up at her. "All will work out in the end. Now, take me to my servant. I must know of this news at once," she added firmly, yet gently. Seeing the princess so strong boosted Cinaya's spirits and with a somewhat timid boldness, she led Téatani to the throne room. There, Téatani's eyes were met with the sight of a dead horse and a man on the threshold, gasping at the steps that led up to her father's empty throne. Rushing to his side, she immediately ordered for water and pulled his head to her lap, quietly telling him to simply breathe and not strain himself in communicating the news. His eyes closed to rest for a few moments while bowls of water and strips of cloth were brought. Téatani dipped one into the cool liquid and spread it across his face and neck, cooling him and soothing him with the soft words of a worried ruler.
The throne room was silent for many long hours into the night as the horse was removed before the stench of death pervaded the entire palace and the once dying man slowly regained life through the caring and gentle ministrations of a silent princess and several servants. When he had been fed and clothed in clean linens, washed and resting in his bed, only then did Téatani question him about the urgent news. He smiled gratefully at his princess and coughed, then reached out to take her hand. She took the proffered hand and squeezed, concern shining in her blue eyes as she wondered what could have possibly been so important that one of her most loyal servants would risk his life in coming back to tell her news he had gathered in a scant few hours.
"Princess, you are..." he coughed again, "in such danger as you have never known. An army is at this very moment gathering in the Upper Kingdom to seek you out." Téatani gasped and leaned forward, her breathing now coming to her with difficulty.
"But why?" she asked, pleaded, confused as to why the Upper Kingdom in particular would seek her out with an army after so many years of peace.
"You are rumored to be a witch, according to an informant who saw you as you destroyed the would-be assassin," Jerara whispered, eyes looking angered though his weak body seemed otherwise.
"And what of the Peace?" Téatani asked of him. "Where did you hear of this? Could there be some mistake?" her voice rose with the slight fear that had bloomed in her with his words. Jerara squeezed her hand and looked at her, waiting for her silence.
"Princess, all of these years, there has been no peace. I thought you were aware of that," he said, amazed when the princess shook her head, puzzled. "Since the war where your father won the Lower Kingdom, we have been somewhat despised by those of the Upper Kingdom because we live in the fertile region of the Delta and have direct access to the Mediterranean Sea where we can trade freely with the Greek empire. The Upper Kingdom however must remain by the great Nile because otherwise, there would be no life without the precious waters. Sand and desert surrounds them everywhere except by the treasured lands by the river. And since your birth, tensions have slowly risen because you are thought to be weak since you are a woman, while your people have stood by your side and refuted those beliefs. This rumor is just enough for the Upper Kingdom to feel it can interfere with our dealings and perhaps take advantage of the chance and seize our kingdom.
"As for how I know this, just as I entered the gates of the Capital, I saw men rushing about quickly and women talking in hushed tones at their doorways, children at their sides. The further into the city I got, the crazier it became. I finally dismounted and struggled to lead my horse through the crowds. When I could no longer hold back my curiosity, I made my way over to a street vendor who looked somewhat hesitant about the goings-on, whatever they were. So as to appeal to him, I purchased a small trinket and asked him what was happening that the whole Capital was astir. He informed me that the prince had been given permission to seek out a witch who lived in the Lower Kingdom who had murdered one of the Pharaoh's personal guard. I was aghast and felt nearly faint. The vendor continued in a shaky voice, informing me that at that very moment, the Prince was gathering together a small army and would leave at dawn. I asked him why he seemed so unsure and he in turn asked me if I resided in the Upper Kingdom. When I told him that I did not, he replied that he knew of you and that you were no witch, but that you could be the only candidate for the rumors.
"He bade me to fly to you as fast as the desert winds would carry me and tell you to prepare yourself for an unprovoked attack. Needing no more persuasion, I urged my horse through the crowds once again and took off in the desert night, though I feared the evil shadows on every dune. I did not stop riding, could not stop riding, for the love I feel for you is greater than the love I have for my own life. My horse went faster than I ever believed and just as I burst through the doors of the palace, the faithful animal's heart gave out and I fell, seeing only black before my eyes and death swimming in my body. Only the necessity of giving you this news kept me alive. You are my princess, and to you and your father alone do my loyalties lie. Meeting Anubis would be a sweet encounter if it would only spare you a mere hour more of life." The old man's eyes were filled with tears and Téatani bent to embrace him, holding him as she would hold a grandfather.
"You shall not die for my sake, dear friend," she said softly into his shoulder as he shook with emotion. Pulling back, she looked at all in the room gathered around her and smiled faintly. "None of you shall. If this prince is looking for me, then I shall meet him half way and if he desires a battle, he shall certainly have one!" Téatani shouted. Standing, she gave one last grateful glance to Jerara and left the room, sprinting through the palace halls until she reached her own room and changed into her Grecian clothes of battle. Moving out onto her balcony for the last time that night, she moved to the rail and looked out over her lands, memorizing the small intimate details of her home. Once again, something inside of her sang out, perhaps at the thought of an adventure... or was there something else?
Shaking her head, she pulled her hood over the top of her head, making sure that her cloak was pulled securely around her shoulders before staring out into the night one last time before turning, her cloak fluttering behind her in the wind.
***
Seto-ra sat up immediately, having dozed in his seat beside his father's throne. His army was ready to begin at dawn and had enough supplies to last them weeks if necessary, though the Lower Kingdom could be reached in two or three days at an easy march; less than one if going at a suicide pace. Feeling secure that his army was prepared, he had gone back to the throne room to try and get a few short hours of sleep, knowing that if he went to his room, he would surely sleep longer than he intended.
The hypnotizing lull of sleep had him firmly in it's grasp when the dream began. First, he felt a soft caress against his arms that traveled up around his shoulders and neck, making his skin tingle. A warm voice whispered against his ear and his arms enclosed around an obviously female body, feeling as he never had before. Desire flared within him as the voice spoke again, as invisible hands moved in his hair and pulled his head down. Soft lips stroked his own just barely before pulling away and murmuring against his own, "Don't destroy what you need. What you want. Become one again. Learn the secrets of your own heart and soul and sight shall be restored once more. Free me." Seto-ra heard the words and had listened, but he craved for another touch of those lips, and of more. But suddenly, the woman was gone and he was left alone in the dark, his eyes not finding purchase on anything, not even seeing his own hands as he held them up to his face.
As black as it had been, some of it began to fade away slowly, first to where he could barely see the outline of his body, then to a dark navy blue. Faintly, the light of stars began to peek through in his dream and a breeze brushed over his skin. He could now see the Nile, the life-giving waters flowing unendingly and lending movement to the plants on the shoreline. The edges of his vision were blurred so that he could only see ahead, his sight only extending as far as the circle in front of him allowed. He moved his head and saw a palace, white and solid in the light of the moon, a work of marble and stone that was undescribable, rivaling his own in magnificence. But through the extraordinary appearance of the entire structure, a single balcony caught his eye and there, a shadowed figure seemed to peer out at him through the dark of the night. All that he could see was a white cloak, completely covering the person's body, but as he looked up, he was entranced, held in place. A pair of blue eyes, blazing in the night. He stopped breathing. He was not alone at that moment, not empty anymore but filled completely with whatever he was missing. Something inside of him cried out, pain lancing through his body at the desire to go to the hooded figure but his muscles would allow him no such movement. Anger and a deep sadness, two potent emotions, mixed within the blue gaze of the person on the balcony and reached him as he watched the figure turn and disappear into the darkness.
Now, as he was awake, all that he could see were those blue eyes. Eyes that were nearly identical to his own, though his were far darker, watched him even though his dream had ended. This search for a witch had just become a mission to find his missing half, and he would stop at no length until he had achieved his goal.
"My shadow is a dragon. Yes, with those eyes and that spirit, it could be none other. Strength radiated out and into me from that apparition and only the spirit of a dragon could affect me so," he said to himself as he stood. Yawning and stretching, feeling fully awake and energized, Seto- ra watched as the sun crawled across the horizon and shone across the kingdom, drowning it in golds, oranges, and reds that could be found nowhere else in the world. His general came into the throne room, saluting stiffly as he stood before his commander and Seto-ra nodded at him, prompting the general to leave. Quickly, Seto-ra pulled on his royal armor that had been laid out beforehand next to his throne and shoved a sword into the sheath at his side. It would be a lie to say he didn't want to use it. It had been a few days since he had been able to take down any evil and the slight blood lust that had grown within him was screaming to be released. Those were ugly thoughts and Seto-ra pushed them aside ruthlessly. He refused to be pulled into that whirlpool, because drowning in that violence would only begin the torture that would engulf him soon afterwards.
The sharp blaring of a trumpet sounded at the palace gates and the young prince looked out once more, reveling in the feeling of a new day and a journey across the sands of the land of his birth before leaving the throne room to join his army. His steps were light and quick as he made his way through the palace and into the courtyard where nearly one hundred soldiers and officers stood waiting for him. Some stood in chariots while others were on foot, holding spears, and still others were seated upon camels and horses. All were awaiting the magnificent display of their prince's power when he called upon his most-feared creature to ride into battle on, and were not disappointed.
Breathing in a deep breath, Seto-ra let his body relax and his arms raise slightly from his sides as he called, wind swirling around him as his creature answered. There was no sound, only a large gust of wind that nearly knocked him to his knees as it always did. He turned to behold the dragon, a mass of dark blue scales and shining white eyes that could stare into any creature or person alive and cause death. It was easily the height of the palace and half as wide when it's wings were spread... and it was his creature and protector. Seto-ra was silent a moment before calling on the creature to change, closing his eyes as it metamorphosized. When he reopened his dark blue eyes, he was pleased.
"In honor of the shadow I shall soon meet," he said, eyes glimmering darkly at the sight in front of him. "My blue-eyes-white-dragon," he murmured as he climbed onto the creatures back. The two lifted up into the air with a single beat of the mighty beast's wings and the soldiers below them emptied the courtyard through the gates, a long procession of warriors. Above them, in the already warm morning air, Seto-ra thanked the dragon for changing, knowing that it could only honor his shadow, his other half, by having the same eyes. The dragon released what could be called a slight purr at pleasing it's master as it soared on the current, circling around many times so as not to outdistance the minuscule army. Seto-ra stroked the now white scales of the beast and warmed with the heat inside the animal and leaned forward on his elbows. Before long, he was asleep.
***
"There will be a storm," Téatani whispered as she looked at the sky and over across the endless sands. Her creatures all crowded around her as she sat atop a pegasus, deciding not to fly at the moment and let the horse rest itself. Baki and Memnoh were on either side of her and falcons flew in the air with Phoenix as she soared overhead on her own warm wind current, her eyes never leaving the horizon. Though in all reality she was a one- woman army, she was by no means alone. Her creatures more than made up for man power that she could have received from an army armed with spears, swords, and bows and arrows. Her animals looked to her.
"Are you sure?" Phoenix asked from above, looking down on her mistress carefully. The smaller falcons circled around Téatani's head, trying to comfort her with their presence.
"I am sure of it. The sky already grows dark and the wind is picking up while the sands grow restless. My spirit feels unsettled and storms seem to call out to me, the earth trying to communicate and warn me of what lies ahead," she said softly. Patting the neck of her pegasus and then reaching out to lovingly rub the top of Baki and Memnoh's heads, she sighed. "A battle may take place today, but it may not be between men."
***
Only a few short hours later, the desert let loose its fury. The sun disappeared behind the wall of sand that covered the light and rearranged the land with the aid of the angry winds. Just moments before, Seto-ra had been woken by his dragon's mental prodding, in time only to see the cloud of sand sweep over them. The army beneath them was lost, screaming and confused in the sands that crept into their mouths and noses, not allowing them to breathe. A few were buried instantly by the dunes that swept over them like waves, never to be seen or their bones discovered again. Horses bolted in fear at the sand that bit at their sides and tossed off their riders while others continued blindly into the storm, unable to break away from the chariots they were harnessed into. Hours dragged by and the storm did not cease.
***
When Téatani realized that the storm was only moments away, she got off of the pegasus and commanded both he, the falcons, and phoenix to go. The dogs refused to leave her side and for that she was grateful, but the flying creatures would have no chance when the winds attacked them from all sides. They wished her worried luck and disappeared just as the sands covered everything from sight, Téatani's only reassurance being her strong grip on the dogs at her sides and their attempt to shield her from the desert's assault.
***
The dragon landed, not knowing where, collapsing from battling the raging winds too long, exhausted. Seto-ra tumbled off the creature's back and landed at it's side, not nearly strong enough to withstand the power of the sands. Though he kept his eyes shut, he did not sleep and kept aware in case the sand began creeping up around him in an attempt to bury him. Hours went by and he grew increasingly thirsty, his throat parched and tongue dry. It was dark now, that much he could tell. Miraculously, as if they had simply decided to cease, the winds died down and the sand settled gently on them, sprinkling both Seto-ra and his dragon with fine dust. The dark of the night was clear around him, the large white moon shining above him with the stars gathered around it like an audience.
He looked before him and was shocked to find an unscathed oasis right before him, lush green all around with immense palms and a large pool of water the came from a waterfall that gurgled happily as it gushed. Not caring whether it was a mirage or not, Seto-ra dashed forward in his faith and jumped into the pool. He was stunned to find it real and dunked himself in the cool water, finding that it was deep enough to where it reached his neck when he stood at the bottom and drinking deeply before laying on the surface, his gratitude sent to the heavens for such a gift. He watched as his dragon approached as well and proceeded to drink more than he ever could in a lifetime. A light splashing from up above caught his attention and he stood, curious at what was above him at the top of the waterfall.
Making his way out of the pool, Seto-ra crept along the edge of the water and then up the stones to where the precious liquid emptied itself into the barren desert to feed the healthy oasis. Creeping behind a large bush that was set behind a palm, he looked out through the branches cautiously, and promptly found his breath catching in his throat. The shadow of his dream knelt on the other side of the small river that flowed forth from the mouth of the spring just a few yards away, taking hands cupped and full of water to two creatures that laid in the shadows of the greenery. Comforting sounds came from the shadow, almost worried in their tone, but Seto-ra but could yet determine if the shadow was male or female.
Standing and walking to the small river once again, his shadow stared out, as if searching for answers among the quiet vegetation and Seto-ra choked as he felt them lock with his own. The blue that clashed with his own was so pleasantly violent that he almost lost his footing. But the eyes that stared at him from under the hood turned away, obviously not having seen him, and small hands raised hands full of water to a hidden mouth.
*It must be a woman!* the young prince concluded excitedly. The delicate form of the hands was a tell-tale sign if nothing else, and the shadow was not nearly large enough to be a man anyway. He stilled when he heard the shadow sigh and waited, crouched like a tiger and biding his time until he made his appearance. His dragon was seeking him out, Seto-ra could hear that massive beast sniffing and lumbering through the thick undergrowth. *Soon! I must show myself soon or she shall be frightened!* he thought desperately. As if on cue, his shadow stood, looking in the direction of the noise his dragon was making, and pulled off her hood. Seto- ra lost his footing in the amazement of what he saw and stumbled, falling into a bush behind him.
"By all of the gods," he breathed. "This is no Egyptian as I thought, for none other than a Grecian goddess stands before me in the moonlight!" The young vision before him turned her head in his direction, now torn between two noises that she was unsure of. Her soft, creamy skin glowed under the luminescence of the moon and her hair moved around her face with a gentle breeze, her white cloak swaying as well. Large, red painted lips tempted Seto-ra from his sanctuary while the light blush intrigued him and the intense blue eyes held him prisoner. She looked again in the direction where his dragon was and stepped back, forcing Seto-ra to show himself before the dragon did. He did not want her to disappear as she had in his dream!
Standing on his own two feet, Seto-ra approached until he was on the border of the shadows, where he knew she would sense him. She found him after an uneasy scanning of the area around her and gasped. He held out a hand to her.
"Do not be afraid. I mean you no harm," he said soothingly as he stepped out. Téatani felt weak in the knees at the sight of him. He was man who easily topped six feet by at least two or three inches, tanned even in the moonlight, broad-shouldered, large arms, narrow waist... But his eyes were blue. She miss-stepped and almost fell, nearly fainting at the beautiful color, but suddenly found herself in unfamiliar arms, held protectively against a warm and (she blushed) hardened chest. The blue in their eyes collided once more when she looked up to him, both of them drowning in the completeness they felt. His head began to descend, thick black eyelashes sweeping over his dark gaze with an obvious intent that Téatani would not argue against. Her eyes closed without a second thought and her arms reached up to touch his shoulders, the feel of his warm breath against her lips too incredible to fight.
His lips met hers in the briefest kiss, brushing lightly against each other in a tease like in Seto-ra's dream. He refused to let her escape from his arms this time. However, a sound from behind them had Téatani jerking her eyes open and pushing him away harshly, reaching instinctively for the sword at her side and holding it at the ready. The sight of a white dragon with uncanny blue eyes was enough to wake anyone out of a daze, no matter how divine the man who was going to kiss her was.
Seto-ra, for his part, was completely stunned. The young vision before him had pulled out that sword nearly quicker than any he had ever seen before and from her stance, he was sure that she knew how to use it in one way or another. He watched as her eyes narrowed, calculating everything around her and the dragon's size as she held her ground.
"It shall not harm you," Seto-ra said quietly as he tried to intercede. It was clear to him that the dragon meant no harm. It had stopped just a few yards away at the edge of the waterfall and seemed to be studying her intently, not even moving to blink. He stepped back when she whirled on him with the sword.
"You know this creature?" she questioned him forcefully. "Of course. It is my own, my protector!" he roared back at her, somewhat annoyed at her outburst. She smirked at him and he moved towards his dragon.
"Well, if you get to bring yours, then I do too," she said softly, suddenly planting the sword firmly in the ground and raising her hands above her head in a call to the heavens. Wind swirled around her, grasping at her hair and letting go as it called to another realm. Heat surrounded her and she slowly lowered her arms to her sides, opening her eyes languidly and then replacing her sword back in its sheath. Seto-ra stepped back yet again until his back was against the warm stomach of the dragon, stunned at what he saw. An immense falcon, nearly the size of his dragon, hovered above the stranger's form, a furnace of gold and red fire with ruby eyes that were darker than blood. A phoenix.
He was stunned, to say the very least. No single person that he had ever heard of controlled powers even remotely similar to his own, let alone creatures thought to be myths. In one moment he was wondering about the odds and the next he had his own weapon at the ready, a growl low in his throat and dark blue eyes afire. So this was the witch that had killed his father's guard!
"You will pay for what you've done! Did you think you could get away with it witch?" he screamed, charging for her without waiting for a response. Hearing the accusation, Téatani felt her body freeze to the spot. She hadn't wanted to believe the rumor, for surely no one truly believed her to be a vessel of the black arts. Her knees were going to give way, she could feel it, and she was powerless to stop the rampage of the man in front of her who seemed intent to run her through just moments after he had kissed her. The tight feel of talons around her arms and the loss of ground beneath her forced her to look up. Phoenix was just above the raging warrior, having scooped her mistress out of harm's way in the last instance. As if the realization of almost losing her life unleashed a floodgate, the overwhelming events of the day and her exhaustion seemed to drop on her all at once and she lost consciousness while in the clutches of the large falcon. Téatani was unaware that a seething prince beneath her had been stopped by his own dragon and that all of her creatures, and those she had never seen before, appeared and surrounded the oasis, assembling themselves for a union that hadn't taken place in more than seventeen years.
***
End Part 3. Whew, that's the first time I've ever ended with a semi- cliffhanger. This chappy ended up being a whole bunch longer than the others... I just couldn't stop myself. I have no idea if the next chapter will be this long, but I think it'll be about this long from here on out since I'm getting into the meat of the story now.
Who liked the interaction between our two heroes, hm? I did and I intend to add in a lot more romance and um, ahem... *pulls at collar* kisses. If you've read any of my other stuff, you'll have somewhat of an idea of what's fast approaching in the love department. That's enough hints, must stop.
Riddles of the Heart, for those of you who care, is taking second priority to this fic, but I AM STILL working on it. I feel so incredibly bad that I've been neglecting it, but with the small amount of time I've got, I need to focus on stories which are ready to be written at a moment's notice and right now, that just happens to be this fic. Have no fear, I intend to have the next chapter for 'Riddles' out within a week or two. I wish I had my old beta-reader back! *cries loudly*
Keep those reviews coming. I enjoy blushing at your kind comments and they let me know that people like what I'm writing. It also gives me some insight on what things I should clear up or emphasize in a certain area. Also, if you'd like notices about when I update, either email me and give me your email addy or simply leave it in the review. Thanks.
Atlantis *^_^*
godscartungrrl@netscape.net
Who's large and in charge? That'd be me! Just kidding. Lookie here everyone, I updated. Aren't you proud of me? It took a little more than a month, but I cranked it out. Time is still eluding me for the most part, but I deal.
Many, many thanks to the three people who reviewed my last chapter: Kawaii Kokkei Tsuita no Neko, Caro, and Tara-hime who's been kind from the beginning of both of my Yu-Gi-Oh! stories. I think that's about it for opening author's notes, so, on with the show!
Disclaimer: How many times do I actually have to do this? You know I don't own the show, and I know I don't own the show. End of discussion.
Rating: PG-13
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A final word: Be strong with the Lord's mighty power. Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies and tricks of the Devil. For we are not fighting agsint people made of flesh and blood, but against the evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against those mighty powers of darkness who rule this world, and against wicked spirits in the heavenly realms.
Ephesians 6:10-12
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PART 3
A warm wind blew across the sands of the desert and through the city, whirling up to a lone balcony that looked out over the expanse of the kingdom. Téatani sighed as the airy hands of the wind shifted through her bangs and over her skin, ruffling the bottom of her long robes as well. Something was in the air and she felt excitement and fear course through her veins, mingling together to create an intense anticipation in her blood. The magic inside of her sang out, calling to a hidden source, pulling her towards the unknown and the danger that awaited her. The dark of night hung like a black blanket over the city, decorated with the shining lights of the stars from up above and the flickering torches and lamps of houses below.
Before her, the deep, rippling waters of the Nile looked like ink in the light of the moon, the silver orb's reflection wavering over the surface with the current. The reeds of the great river whistled with the soft breeze, swaying and casting eerie shadows over the waters surface as the intoxicating scent of the lotus and spice drifted around her. Both so strong and yet distinct in their differences: one entirely masculine and powerful and the other a softer, caressing smell, but just as strong with its irrestibility. But though they were so different, they fit together so well when mixed. A perfect match. Shaking her head from her strange ponderings, she turned her head to glance at the sands.
So foreboding and treacherous, full of trickery and illusions. Many men and women had died, simply from underestimating the power of the ever- changing desert. It was never the same, transforming into a new world with every storm and gust of wind. The expanse was incredible, uncomparable to any other natural place on earth. Some said that the oceans were a similar force to reckon with, only there was an abundance of water rather than the stifling hot and dry climate of the dunes, but Téatani knew not of that world. Only the sand. Now, with the night covering it's secrets, the sand looked like a different realm... a realm of emptiness. Certainly not safer, but perhaps not so threatening. It might be the fact that so much was hidden at night that worries of evil lurking in corners or creatures slithering across the sand left the mind, to be replaced by the strange calm that rested over the desert at night and the warm wind that blew.
That strange feeling of excitement trickled into her again and she turned away from the edge of the balcony and went back inside her room, too anxious to stare into the night anymore. As she pulled the gauzy curtains behind her, she noticed that her pets were not waiting for her. Turning to inspect her bed, she realized with some puzzlement that they weren't anywhere to be seen. They had not leapt upon her to give her sloppy kisses or stick their hands beneath her hands for attention... they simply weren't there. Nearly worried, since the two large dogs never left her presence, she searched for them by stretching out with her powers, closing her eyes to seek deeper into all possible realms. To her surprise and further confusion, she found them residing with the rest of her creatures rather than in the physical realm.
Biting her lip, Téatani mulled over why they might have left as she slipped onto her bed, sinking into the soft mattress and silk sheets. She dropped her head down on one of her many down pillows (gifts from the Greek emperor) and stared up at the top of her canopy bed, not bothering to draw the blue translucent drapes that hung around her bed. While she thought about why her pets had left, a tremor passed through her body and she sat up quickly, feeling tingly and as if she had just been... pleasured. Her body felt delicious and nearly whole for a mere second and then it faded just as quickly as it had come, leaving her with an empty feeling that surpassed anything she had felt before. Suddenly, she realized why they had left.
"They can feel it too. The air is trying to tell us of something. An event or person who is going to change everything as we know it. But can I trust that this thing that's coming is good? It may be a warning," Téatani whispered to herself quietly, pulling the sheets around her body, enjoying the feel against her skin. Some of the materials from the Greeks were just so amazing, no wonder she enjoyed wearing her warrior garb more than anything else. It provided comfort, was durable, and was beautiful, all at the same time. Indulging for a moment in a guilty thought, she wondered dreamily what it would be like to love a man beneath her sheets. The softness of the material moving across their bodies as they moved together in a dance of the heavens... Blushing furiously, Téatani released her hold on her sheets and let them fall back to her sides. Her eyes moved back towards the direction of the balcony, peering through the curtains that parted with the faint breeze to gaze at the stars.
The quiet of the night seeped into her, invading the darkness and giving it a cool flavor that refreshed. If nothing else, the sky gave her knowledge of peace. Stars winked at her through the moving curtains, luring her for a midnight ride among them, to walk with them and sing their beautiful song if only for a short while. Wetting her lips, she rose to her knees, ready to answer their beckoning when a loud banging filled her ears.
Turning with wide eyes, she listened again as the pounding reverberated throughout her room, coming from her unflinching gold doors. Hastily she got up and approached, cautious once she reached the massive doorway.
"Princess! Princess, the Great Raven flies at your door!" the keen wail of a serving girl cried. Her features hardening, Téatani lost all of her previous passive feelings and gentle thoughts with the mention of the dark bird. Strength knotted in her arms with her anger at anything that would dare come at a time like this as she pulled the doors open until they slammed against the walls of her room.
"What does Death want with me?" Téatani demanded darkly of the crying girl in front of her. The dark-haired girl dropped to the floor, kowtowing as she saw the princess's foul mood and gasped for breath through her tears. Softening immediately as she saw what effect she was having on the young girl, Téatani cursed herself and dropped to her knees, wrapping her arms around Cinaya gently. The girl threw herself into the warm arms, showing how truly worried she was over her mistress.
"Your... your servant has returned with grave news P-Princess," Cinaya stuttered. Her warm tears fell onto Téatani's arms and into the material over her chest and she felt a wave of compassion roll over her before standing slowly, still holding the girl in her arms.
"Worry not for me, little one," Téatani said quietly, getting the girl to look up at her. "All will work out in the end. Now, take me to my servant. I must know of this news at once," she added firmly, yet gently. Seeing the princess so strong boosted Cinaya's spirits and with a somewhat timid boldness, she led Téatani to the throne room. There, Téatani's eyes were met with the sight of a dead horse and a man on the threshold, gasping at the steps that led up to her father's empty throne. Rushing to his side, she immediately ordered for water and pulled his head to her lap, quietly telling him to simply breathe and not strain himself in communicating the news. His eyes closed to rest for a few moments while bowls of water and strips of cloth were brought. Téatani dipped one into the cool liquid and spread it across his face and neck, cooling him and soothing him with the soft words of a worried ruler.
The throne room was silent for many long hours into the night as the horse was removed before the stench of death pervaded the entire palace and the once dying man slowly regained life through the caring and gentle ministrations of a silent princess and several servants. When he had been fed and clothed in clean linens, washed and resting in his bed, only then did Téatani question him about the urgent news. He smiled gratefully at his princess and coughed, then reached out to take her hand. She took the proffered hand and squeezed, concern shining in her blue eyes as she wondered what could have possibly been so important that one of her most loyal servants would risk his life in coming back to tell her news he had gathered in a scant few hours.
"Princess, you are..." he coughed again, "in such danger as you have never known. An army is at this very moment gathering in the Upper Kingdom to seek you out." Téatani gasped and leaned forward, her breathing now coming to her with difficulty.
"But why?" she asked, pleaded, confused as to why the Upper Kingdom in particular would seek her out with an army after so many years of peace.
"You are rumored to be a witch, according to an informant who saw you as you destroyed the would-be assassin," Jerara whispered, eyes looking angered though his weak body seemed otherwise.
"And what of the Peace?" Téatani asked of him. "Where did you hear of this? Could there be some mistake?" her voice rose with the slight fear that had bloomed in her with his words. Jerara squeezed her hand and looked at her, waiting for her silence.
"Princess, all of these years, there has been no peace. I thought you were aware of that," he said, amazed when the princess shook her head, puzzled. "Since the war where your father won the Lower Kingdom, we have been somewhat despised by those of the Upper Kingdom because we live in the fertile region of the Delta and have direct access to the Mediterranean Sea where we can trade freely with the Greek empire. The Upper Kingdom however must remain by the great Nile because otherwise, there would be no life without the precious waters. Sand and desert surrounds them everywhere except by the treasured lands by the river. And since your birth, tensions have slowly risen because you are thought to be weak since you are a woman, while your people have stood by your side and refuted those beliefs. This rumor is just enough for the Upper Kingdom to feel it can interfere with our dealings and perhaps take advantage of the chance and seize our kingdom.
"As for how I know this, just as I entered the gates of the Capital, I saw men rushing about quickly and women talking in hushed tones at their doorways, children at their sides. The further into the city I got, the crazier it became. I finally dismounted and struggled to lead my horse through the crowds. When I could no longer hold back my curiosity, I made my way over to a street vendor who looked somewhat hesitant about the goings-on, whatever they were. So as to appeal to him, I purchased a small trinket and asked him what was happening that the whole Capital was astir. He informed me that the prince had been given permission to seek out a witch who lived in the Lower Kingdom who had murdered one of the Pharaoh's personal guard. I was aghast and felt nearly faint. The vendor continued in a shaky voice, informing me that at that very moment, the Prince was gathering together a small army and would leave at dawn. I asked him why he seemed so unsure and he in turn asked me if I resided in the Upper Kingdom. When I told him that I did not, he replied that he knew of you and that you were no witch, but that you could be the only candidate for the rumors.
"He bade me to fly to you as fast as the desert winds would carry me and tell you to prepare yourself for an unprovoked attack. Needing no more persuasion, I urged my horse through the crowds once again and took off in the desert night, though I feared the evil shadows on every dune. I did not stop riding, could not stop riding, for the love I feel for you is greater than the love I have for my own life. My horse went faster than I ever believed and just as I burst through the doors of the palace, the faithful animal's heart gave out and I fell, seeing only black before my eyes and death swimming in my body. Only the necessity of giving you this news kept me alive. You are my princess, and to you and your father alone do my loyalties lie. Meeting Anubis would be a sweet encounter if it would only spare you a mere hour more of life." The old man's eyes were filled with tears and Téatani bent to embrace him, holding him as she would hold a grandfather.
"You shall not die for my sake, dear friend," she said softly into his shoulder as he shook with emotion. Pulling back, she looked at all in the room gathered around her and smiled faintly. "None of you shall. If this prince is looking for me, then I shall meet him half way and if he desires a battle, he shall certainly have one!" Téatani shouted. Standing, she gave one last grateful glance to Jerara and left the room, sprinting through the palace halls until she reached her own room and changed into her Grecian clothes of battle. Moving out onto her balcony for the last time that night, she moved to the rail and looked out over her lands, memorizing the small intimate details of her home. Once again, something inside of her sang out, perhaps at the thought of an adventure... or was there something else?
Shaking her head, she pulled her hood over the top of her head, making sure that her cloak was pulled securely around her shoulders before staring out into the night one last time before turning, her cloak fluttering behind her in the wind.
***
Seto-ra sat up immediately, having dozed in his seat beside his father's throne. His army was ready to begin at dawn and had enough supplies to last them weeks if necessary, though the Lower Kingdom could be reached in two or three days at an easy march; less than one if going at a suicide pace. Feeling secure that his army was prepared, he had gone back to the throne room to try and get a few short hours of sleep, knowing that if he went to his room, he would surely sleep longer than he intended.
The hypnotizing lull of sleep had him firmly in it's grasp when the dream began. First, he felt a soft caress against his arms that traveled up around his shoulders and neck, making his skin tingle. A warm voice whispered against his ear and his arms enclosed around an obviously female body, feeling as he never had before. Desire flared within him as the voice spoke again, as invisible hands moved in his hair and pulled his head down. Soft lips stroked his own just barely before pulling away and murmuring against his own, "Don't destroy what you need. What you want. Become one again. Learn the secrets of your own heart and soul and sight shall be restored once more. Free me." Seto-ra heard the words and had listened, but he craved for another touch of those lips, and of more. But suddenly, the woman was gone and he was left alone in the dark, his eyes not finding purchase on anything, not even seeing his own hands as he held them up to his face.
As black as it had been, some of it began to fade away slowly, first to where he could barely see the outline of his body, then to a dark navy blue. Faintly, the light of stars began to peek through in his dream and a breeze brushed over his skin. He could now see the Nile, the life-giving waters flowing unendingly and lending movement to the plants on the shoreline. The edges of his vision were blurred so that he could only see ahead, his sight only extending as far as the circle in front of him allowed. He moved his head and saw a palace, white and solid in the light of the moon, a work of marble and stone that was undescribable, rivaling his own in magnificence. But through the extraordinary appearance of the entire structure, a single balcony caught his eye and there, a shadowed figure seemed to peer out at him through the dark of the night. All that he could see was a white cloak, completely covering the person's body, but as he looked up, he was entranced, held in place. A pair of blue eyes, blazing in the night. He stopped breathing. He was not alone at that moment, not empty anymore but filled completely with whatever he was missing. Something inside of him cried out, pain lancing through his body at the desire to go to the hooded figure but his muscles would allow him no such movement. Anger and a deep sadness, two potent emotions, mixed within the blue gaze of the person on the balcony and reached him as he watched the figure turn and disappear into the darkness.
Now, as he was awake, all that he could see were those blue eyes. Eyes that were nearly identical to his own, though his were far darker, watched him even though his dream had ended. This search for a witch had just become a mission to find his missing half, and he would stop at no length until he had achieved his goal.
"My shadow is a dragon. Yes, with those eyes and that spirit, it could be none other. Strength radiated out and into me from that apparition and only the spirit of a dragon could affect me so," he said to himself as he stood. Yawning and stretching, feeling fully awake and energized, Seto- ra watched as the sun crawled across the horizon and shone across the kingdom, drowning it in golds, oranges, and reds that could be found nowhere else in the world. His general came into the throne room, saluting stiffly as he stood before his commander and Seto-ra nodded at him, prompting the general to leave. Quickly, Seto-ra pulled on his royal armor that had been laid out beforehand next to his throne and shoved a sword into the sheath at his side. It would be a lie to say he didn't want to use it. It had been a few days since he had been able to take down any evil and the slight blood lust that had grown within him was screaming to be released. Those were ugly thoughts and Seto-ra pushed them aside ruthlessly. He refused to be pulled into that whirlpool, because drowning in that violence would only begin the torture that would engulf him soon afterwards.
The sharp blaring of a trumpet sounded at the palace gates and the young prince looked out once more, reveling in the feeling of a new day and a journey across the sands of the land of his birth before leaving the throne room to join his army. His steps were light and quick as he made his way through the palace and into the courtyard where nearly one hundred soldiers and officers stood waiting for him. Some stood in chariots while others were on foot, holding spears, and still others were seated upon camels and horses. All were awaiting the magnificent display of their prince's power when he called upon his most-feared creature to ride into battle on, and were not disappointed.
Breathing in a deep breath, Seto-ra let his body relax and his arms raise slightly from his sides as he called, wind swirling around him as his creature answered. There was no sound, only a large gust of wind that nearly knocked him to his knees as it always did. He turned to behold the dragon, a mass of dark blue scales and shining white eyes that could stare into any creature or person alive and cause death. It was easily the height of the palace and half as wide when it's wings were spread... and it was his creature and protector. Seto-ra was silent a moment before calling on the creature to change, closing his eyes as it metamorphosized. When he reopened his dark blue eyes, he was pleased.
"In honor of the shadow I shall soon meet," he said, eyes glimmering darkly at the sight in front of him. "My blue-eyes-white-dragon," he murmured as he climbed onto the creatures back. The two lifted up into the air with a single beat of the mighty beast's wings and the soldiers below them emptied the courtyard through the gates, a long procession of warriors. Above them, in the already warm morning air, Seto-ra thanked the dragon for changing, knowing that it could only honor his shadow, his other half, by having the same eyes. The dragon released what could be called a slight purr at pleasing it's master as it soared on the current, circling around many times so as not to outdistance the minuscule army. Seto-ra stroked the now white scales of the beast and warmed with the heat inside the animal and leaned forward on his elbows. Before long, he was asleep.
***
"There will be a storm," Téatani whispered as she looked at the sky and over across the endless sands. Her creatures all crowded around her as she sat atop a pegasus, deciding not to fly at the moment and let the horse rest itself. Baki and Memnoh were on either side of her and falcons flew in the air with Phoenix as she soared overhead on her own warm wind current, her eyes never leaving the horizon. Though in all reality she was a one- woman army, she was by no means alone. Her creatures more than made up for man power that she could have received from an army armed with spears, swords, and bows and arrows. Her animals looked to her.
"Are you sure?" Phoenix asked from above, looking down on her mistress carefully. The smaller falcons circled around Téatani's head, trying to comfort her with their presence.
"I am sure of it. The sky already grows dark and the wind is picking up while the sands grow restless. My spirit feels unsettled and storms seem to call out to me, the earth trying to communicate and warn me of what lies ahead," she said softly. Patting the neck of her pegasus and then reaching out to lovingly rub the top of Baki and Memnoh's heads, she sighed. "A battle may take place today, but it may not be between men."
***
Only a few short hours later, the desert let loose its fury. The sun disappeared behind the wall of sand that covered the light and rearranged the land with the aid of the angry winds. Just moments before, Seto-ra had been woken by his dragon's mental prodding, in time only to see the cloud of sand sweep over them. The army beneath them was lost, screaming and confused in the sands that crept into their mouths and noses, not allowing them to breathe. A few were buried instantly by the dunes that swept over them like waves, never to be seen or their bones discovered again. Horses bolted in fear at the sand that bit at their sides and tossed off their riders while others continued blindly into the storm, unable to break away from the chariots they were harnessed into. Hours dragged by and the storm did not cease.
***
When Téatani realized that the storm was only moments away, she got off of the pegasus and commanded both he, the falcons, and phoenix to go. The dogs refused to leave her side and for that she was grateful, but the flying creatures would have no chance when the winds attacked them from all sides. They wished her worried luck and disappeared just as the sands covered everything from sight, Téatani's only reassurance being her strong grip on the dogs at her sides and their attempt to shield her from the desert's assault.
***
The dragon landed, not knowing where, collapsing from battling the raging winds too long, exhausted. Seto-ra tumbled off the creature's back and landed at it's side, not nearly strong enough to withstand the power of the sands. Though he kept his eyes shut, he did not sleep and kept aware in case the sand began creeping up around him in an attempt to bury him. Hours went by and he grew increasingly thirsty, his throat parched and tongue dry. It was dark now, that much he could tell. Miraculously, as if they had simply decided to cease, the winds died down and the sand settled gently on them, sprinkling both Seto-ra and his dragon with fine dust. The dark of the night was clear around him, the large white moon shining above him with the stars gathered around it like an audience.
He looked before him and was shocked to find an unscathed oasis right before him, lush green all around with immense palms and a large pool of water the came from a waterfall that gurgled happily as it gushed. Not caring whether it was a mirage or not, Seto-ra dashed forward in his faith and jumped into the pool. He was stunned to find it real and dunked himself in the cool water, finding that it was deep enough to where it reached his neck when he stood at the bottom and drinking deeply before laying on the surface, his gratitude sent to the heavens for such a gift. He watched as his dragon approached as well and proceeded to drink more than he ever could in a lifetime. A light splashing from up above caught his attention and he stood, curious at what was above him at the top of the waterfall.
Making his way out of the pool, Seto-ra crept along the edge of the water and then up the stones to where the precious liquid emptied itself into the barren desert to feed the healthy oasis. Creeping behind a large bush that was set behind a palm, he looked out through the branches cautiously, and promptly found his breath catching in his throat. The shadow of his dream knelt on the other side of the small river that flowed forth from the mouth of the spring just a few yards away, taking hands cupped and full of water to two creatures that laid in the shadows of the greenery. Comforting sounds came from the shadow, almost worried in their tone, but Seto-ra but could yet determine if the shadow was male or female.
Standing and walking to the small river once again, his shadow stared out, as if searching for answers among the quiet vegetation and Seto-ra choked as he felt them lock with his own. The blue that clashed with his own was so pleasantly violent that he almost lost his footing. But the eyes that stared at him from under the hood turned away, obviously not having seen him, and small hands raised hands full of water to a hidden mouth.
*It must be a woman!* the young prince concluded excitedly. The delicate form of the hands was a tell-tale sign if nothing else, and the shadow was not nearly large enough to be a man anyway. He stilled when he heard the shadow sigh and waited, crouched like a tiger and biding his time until he made his appearance. His dragon was seeking him out, Seto-ra could hear that massive beast sniffing and lumbering through the thick undergrowth. *Soon! I must show myself soon or she shall be frightened!* he thought desperately. As if on cue, his shadow stood, looking in the direction of the noise his dragon was making, and pulled off her hood. Seto- ra lost his footing in the amazement of what he saw and stumbled, falling into a bush behind him.
"By all of the gods," he breathed. "This is no Egyptian as I thought, for none other than a Grecian goddess stands before me in the moonlight!" The young vision before him turned her head in his direction, now torn between two noises that she was unsure of. Her soft, creamy skin glowed under the luminescence of the moon and her hair moved around her face with a gentle breeze, her white cloak swaying as well. Large, red painted lips tempted Seto-ra from his sanctuary while the light blush intrigued him and the intense blue eyes held him prisoner. She looked again in the direction where his dragon was and stepped back, forcing Seto-ra to show himself before the dragon did. He did not want her to disappear as she had in his dream!
Standing on his own two feet, Seto-ra approached until he was on the border of the shadows, where he knew she would sense him. She found him after an uneasy scanning of the area around her and gasped. He held out a hand to her.
"Do not be afraid. I mean you no harm," he said soothingly as he stepped out. Téatani felt weak in the knees at the sight of him. He was man who easily topped six feet by at least two or three inches, tanned even in the moonlight, broad-shouldered, large arms, narrow waist... But his eyes were blue. She miss-stepped and almost fell, nearly fainting at the beautiful color, but suddenly found herself in unfamiliar arms, held protectively against a warm and (she blushed) hardened chest. The blue in their eyes collided once more when she looked up to him, both of them drowning in the completeness they felt. His head began to descend, thick black eyelashes sweeping over his dark gaze with an obvious intent that Téatani would not argue against. Her eyes closed without a second thought and her arms reached up to touch his shoulders, the feel of his warm breath against her lips too incredible to fight.
His lips met hers in the briefest kiss, brushing lightly against each other in a tease like in Seto-ra's dream. He refused to let her escape from his arms this time. However, a sound from behind them had Téatani jerking her eyes open and pushing him away harshly, reaching instinctively for the sword at her side and holding it at the ready. The sight of a white dragon with uncanny blue eyes was enough to wake anyone out of a daze, no matter how divine the man who was going to kiss her was.
Seto-ra, for his part, was completely stunned. The young vision before him had pulled out that sword nearly quicker than any he had ever seen before and from her stance, he was sure that she knew how to use it in one way or another. He watched as her eyes narrowed, calculating everything around her and the dragon's size as she held her ground.
"It shall not harm you," Seto-ra said quietly as he tried to intercede. It was clear to him that the dragon meant no harm. It had stopped just a few yards away at the edge of the waterfall and seemed to be studying her intently, not even moving to blink. He stepped back when she whirled on him with the sword.
"You know this creature?" she questioned him forcefully. "Of course. It is my own, my protector!" he roared back at her, somewhat annoyed at her outburst. She smirked at him and he moved towards his dragon.
"Well, if you get to bring yours, then I do too," she said softly, suddenly planting the sword firmly in the ground and raising her hands above her head in a call to the heavens. Wind swirled around her, grasping at her hair and letting go as it called to another realm. Heat surrounded her and she slowly lowered her arms to her sides, opening her eyes languidly and then replacing her sword back in its sheath. Seto-ra stepped back yet again until his back was against the warm stomach of the dragon, stunned at what he saw. An immense falcon, nearly the size of his dragon, hovered above the stranger's form, a furnace of gold and red fire with ruby eyes that were darker than blood. A phoenix.
He was stunned, to say the very least. No single person that he had ever heard of controlled powers even remotely similar to his own, let alone creatures thought to be myths. In one moment he was wondering about the odds and the next he had his own weapon at the ready, a growl low in his throat and dark blue eyes afire. So this was the witch that had killed his father's guard!
"You will pay for what you've done! Did you think you could get away with it witch?" he screamed, charging for her without waiting for a response. Hearing the accusation, Téatani felt her body freeze to the spot. She hadn't wanted to believe the rumor, for surely no one truly believed her to be a vessel of the black arts. Her knees were going to give way, she could feel it, and she was powerless to stop the rampage of the man in front of her who seemed intent to run her through just moments after he had kissed her. The tight feel of talons around her arms and the loss of ground beneath her forced her to look up. Phoenix was just above the raging warrior, having scooped her mistress out of harm's way in the last instance. As if the realization of almost losing her life unleashed a floodgate, the overwhelming events of the day and her exhaustion seemed to drop on her all at once and she lost consciousness while in the clutches of the large falcon. Téatani was unaware that a seething prince beneath her had been stopped by his own dragon and that all of her creatures, and those she had never seen before, appeared and surrounded the oasis, assembling themselves for a union that hadn't taken place in more than seventeen years.
***
End Part 3. Whew, that's the first time I've ever ended with a semi- cliffhanger. This chappy ended up being a whole bunch longer than the others... I just couldn't stop myself. I have no idea if the next chapter will be this long, but I think it'll be about this long from here on out since I'm getting into the meat of the story now.
Who liked the interaction between our two heroes, hm? I did and I intend to add in a lot more romance and um, ahem... *pulls at collar* kisses. If you've read any of my other stuff, you'll have somewhat of an idea of what's fast approaching in the love department. That's enough hints, must stop.
Riddles of the Heart, for those of you who care, is taking second priority to this fic, but I AM STILL working on it. I feel so incredibly bad that I've been neglecting it, but with the small amount of time I've got, I need to focus on stories which are ready to be written at a moment's notice and right now, that just happens to be this fic. Have no fear, I intend to have the next chapter for 'Riddles' out within a week or two. I wish I had my old beta-reader back! *cries loudly*
Keep those reviews coming. I enjoy blushing at your kind comments and they let me know that people like what I'm writing. It also gives me some insight on what things I should clear up or emphasize in a certain area. Also, if you'd like notices about when I update, either email me and give me your email addy or simply leave it in the review. Thanks.
Atlantis *^_^*
godscartungrrl@netscape.net
