Chap 3
When the first rays of light crept over the horizon, chasing away the dark mantle of night, Ardeth was awake to greet the dawn, having slept poorly. He moved stiffly around the chamber, listening to the comforting, quiet sounds of Wajeeh and his family gathered around the hearth for the morning meal. The sound of a child's laughter, the deep baritone of the father's voice, accompanied by the soft soprano of the mother was a chorus of sounds that intensified the consistent ache in Ardeth's heart. And for a moment, he wished he was the one gathered with his family.
He limped into the main living area and waited silently off to the side until Wajeeh noticed his friend, then rose up to meet him, and invite him to break the fast with them.
"My thanks but I must decline," Ardeth said. "I need to return to my own village and inform Ra'id of the latest developments and the summit's conclusion."
"Of course, then I'll walk you outside," Wajeeh suggested and both men went out into the bright sunshine. In companionable silence, they walked to the stables and Ardeth knew his friend kept glancing at him, most likely noticing his haggard appearance
Once saddled, Ardeth found mounting Sabeeh proved to be as difficult as the day before and Wajeeh silently offered his help since there was no other recourse-he lacked the strength to pull up his body.
"My friend," Wajeeh said quietly. "Heed my advice and once you return to your settlement, seek out your healers? Forgive me for saying but whatever ails you is getting worse."
Ardeth painfully shifted in the saddle, leaned down and grasped his friend's hand in his own, bowing his head slightly over them. "May Allah watch over you and protect you, my friend."
~*~
Wajeeh returned the farewell and watched with a heavy heart as the commander kicked his horse into a quick trot, staying to watch until the figure disappeared from sight. He returned to the comfort of his family and home, only to have the serenity of his village shattered a few hours later when they were viciously attacked.
~*~
O'Connell stood in the doorway of the nursery and leaned against the frame, folding his arms across his chest as he watched his wife and son with a soft smile. Evy was changing the baby's nappy, softly singing while Alex gurgled and waved a tiny fist in the air.
"Sleep, baby, sleep, our cottage vale is deep; the little lamb is on the green," she sang as she dressed him in a nightshirt. "With woolly fleece so soft and clean, sleep, baby, sleep."
She scooped him up and held him against her shoulder, placing a loving hand over his soft, blonde curls as she walked towards the crib.
"There's my little man, all ready for bed." she whispered and laid him to rest.
"Sleep, baby, sleep, down where the woodbines creep; be always like the lamb so mild, a kind and sweet and gentle child." And pulled a fluffy blanket over him as she finished the song. "Sleep, baby, sleep."
She stood by the crib side, one hand resting on the railing, the other gently caressing her son's face while she watched his eyelids slowly flutter close. Rick walked up behind her, his strong arms encircling her waist and Evy immediately leaned against him, a small smile curving her lips.
"Hello Daddy," she murmured. "We just laid down for a nap."
"I see." Rick placed a kiss on her neck and felt her shiver of excitement. "How come you don't put me to bed like that?"
"That's because you're a big boy now; you can take care of yourself silly," Evy laughed. "No, that's not true." He nuzzled the side of her neck. "I need you to take care of me." And he hugged her tighter as they stood in silence for a few moments, both gazing down as their son.
"Evy, I need to talk to you," Rick said quietly.
"Yes?"
He sighed. "I got a telegram from Ardeth this morning asking for our help."
"Really?"
"Yeah, they're moving Imhotep's chest from Egypt and want to bring it here for safekeeping. They're asking me to travel to Cairo to pick it up and he wants to know if you could contact someone at the museum to store it somewhere."
"The chest here? Well, something must be going on if the Medjai to want it removed." Evy turned to face her husband, frowning in anxiety. "Do you think someone wants to raise the priest?"
"That's a possibility," Rick decided. "I think there's more to this request than Ardeth is telling us. I mean that's why he's asking for help but.."
Evy waited for him to finish and when he didn't, she gently prodded him. "But what?"
"I'm not going. I can't leave you and Alex here alone," he said in a rush. "What if something were to happen? I would never be able.."
Evy stopped him with a light touch of her fingers to his lips. "Shhhh. Nothing is going to happen; we can take care of ourselves. Rick, I think you should go. Ardeth rarely asks for help, so it must be important."
"But the doctor said you should still be resting and the thought of you alone in this house.."
"I'm fine; I feel wonderful," Evy assured him. "And besides, I won't be alone. I've got the nanny, the staff and Jonathan."
Rick rolled his eyes at the mention of his brother-in-law's name. "Yeah, like he'll be much help. He's hardly ever here and when he is, it's usually to entertain one of his many 'lady' friends."
"Be nice, darling. He's trying to change but it's hard," Evy defended him. "Responsibility and my brother haven't always seen eye to eye, but he loves Alex so much."
"Love doesn't protect."
"I disagree," she disputed and pulled away from his arms, walking over to the nursery windows overlooking the picturesque landscape. "I'm hoping it protects you, since I'm suggesting you go to Egypt."
"What?" Rick asked, uncertain if he heard correctly and walked over to join his wife. "You want me to leave?"
"Yes, I think you should. Go and help Ardeth, God knows it's been something you've wanted to do since we got engaged. He's our friend, but more importantly, we would be helping him. To protect us all against the evil power the priest would hold over all man kind," she declared. "And besides friendship, go for a more selfish reason."
"And that is?"
"Our son," she said. "Can you imagine the consequences if Imhotep were resurrected again; what kind of future would Alex have?"
Rick shook his head, not wanting to even think about that scenario.
"Just remember," Evy said and placed a tender hand against his cheek, gazing up into those blue eyes she loved so well.
"Yeah?"
"If you don't come home, I'm coming after you."
"Ah, kind of like when you thought you were going to turn into a mummy." Rick chuckled and gathered his wife into his arms. He dipped his head down and gently brushed his lips against hers in the lightest of kisses. And he couldn't help but grin when he felt her arms slowly entwine around his neck to pull him closer.
"Something like that," she murmured. "So, when do you leave?"
"Uh, as soon as possible."
"What?"
Rick sighed. "Yeah, they need in me Cairo by tomorrow afternoon so it looks like I'm going to have to take a chartered flight and leave within the hour or I won't make it." *Flying was an alternative means of transportation that wasn't a favored way of travel, but since the timing of his arrival was crucial, Rick had no choice, although he preferred to travel by ship.
"O'Connell, you already decided you were going, didn't you?" Evy asked with a sly grin.
"Um actually, yeah," he confirmed. "Maybe what I needed was to hear you say it too."
"Maybe." Evy conceded. "But please be careful, come back to us. Alex needs his father and I need my husband. While you're gone I'll contact someone at the museum for storage of the chest."
Rick touched her cheek with a tender caress. "The gods themselves won't stop me from coming home, I swear this on my heart, Evelyn."
He captured her face with both hands, his mouth descending on hers in an almost desperate kiss as his tongue swept inside her mouth. Their mouths slanted over each other's as they clung to one another, expressing in action what the heart couldn't put into words. And just as suddenly as it started, he abruptly stopped the kiss and turned away. Rick walked out of the nursery without looking back, knowing to do so would cause more harm than good, and left home within the hour on his way to the airport.
*Author's footnote: upon doing some research, I found in the mid 20's, the era in which this takes place, flying was not a favored mode of transportation but was available on some levels. Transatlantic flights actually started in 1919 with crews of two men. The idea of flying really didn't become popular until Charles Lindbergh made his historic flight in 1927. Obviously, I'm taking some liberties here with history.
And more thanks especially to Deana, whose medical knowledge is astounding, Shukran saaHib..(
~*~
The trip back to Ardeth's settlement would have normally taken only a half- day riding a horse at full gallop but with his waning strength, he could barely keep his seat and kept Sabeeh at a steady walk. Twice he almost plummeted from the saddle, fatigue and the heat of the desert a lethal combination that zapped his precious concentration. Alone as he rode over the crests of the dunes, he let his stoic mask of indifference fall away and gave voice to his pain with deep wrenching moans. To show weakness before others was not acceptable, nor did it earn respect. Strength and invincibility were just two small parts of what made up the warrior in Ardeth, to acknowledge it was akin to admitting defeat.
And Ardeth did not accept defeat easily.
Each rock, each shift of his body in the saddle in conjunction to the shift of the horse as it plodded through the rough terrain brought a new level of agony. While he could do nothing but endure it as best he could, vocalizing was a partial release and now one he didn't suppress. In the solitude of his desert world, between the bright blue sky above and the golden sands below, Ardeth was a solitary figure waging an inner war over his exhausted body to stay upright in the saddle.
When he arrived in his village by late afternoon, the settlement was bustling with activity. Warriors were quickly mounting their horses while Ra'id, his Second in command, issued terse orders to send them to the City of the Dead. Ardeth brought his horse to a stop in main square then waited until the younger warrior noticed his arrival.
"Sir, we've sent out another patrol looking for you," Ra'id stated as he rushed over to greet his superior. "You were expected hours ago."
"There was no need, as you can plainly see I've arrived safely." Ardeth could barely hide his grimace of pain as he moved his injured leg forward, preparing to dismount.
"Yes but the Elders have been waiting." and Ra'id's voice trailed off in concern as Ardeth struggled to dismount and almost collapsed. "Ardeth?"
"The Elders have been waiting?" He stubbornly waived off any assistance and tested how much weigh he could put on his leg without it trembling.
Ra'id stepped back. "Yes, since the noon meal. They need to speak to you regarding the summit and there have been some new developments."
"Then let them wait longer, for all I care." Ardeth snapped and pushed himself away from the horse.
"But they've asked me to come and escort you to the council room once you've arrived." Ra'id explained somewhat hesitantly, surprised at the rare and surly attitude displayed by his leader. "And I am to tell you of Commander Wajeeh."
"What of him?" Ardeth asked, fearing the answer.
"We received word late this morning, his village was attacked and the Commander was taken. Just like Aliyy." Ra'id said quietly. "The Elders are certain his capture is but a small part of a bigger conspiracy and they've been waiting for you and the news you bring from the summit. They've also ordered more patrols around Hamunaptra."
"Wajeeh kidnapped." Ardeth shook his head and let out a ragged sigh. At the moment, the one thing he craved was some much needed rest, but duty dictated a higher priority. Instead he gestured for the other warrior to lead the way to the building, pushing his aches to the back of his mind.
They stopped in the doorway but before they entered, Ra'id placed a restraining hand on the warrior's shoulder.
"Ardeth," he said. "It's obvious you're in no condition to meet the Elders at this moment. Perhaps you could relay the information to me and I can stand in your place?"
Ardeth looked at his fellow warrior, a young man he had known since he was a child and had watched with a certain amount of pride as the boy grew into manhood. The youth had taken the oath of the Medjai, had survived the trials of strength, agility, and intelligence and had been given his marks of honor. He wore the sacred tattoos of the warrior sect and Ardeth had been present at his induction. And he knew the younger man's worry was for his welfare but he gently rebuffed his concern.
Ardeth shook his head. "I am fit enough to stand before the Elders, my brother but I need you next to me, in your rightful place."
Slowly Ra'id nodded his acceptance and the two men stepped inside.
The Elders of the Eighth had assembled around a small table that stood at the far end of the room, all talking at once, trying to make their own voice heard above the others as they discussed the recent attacks against the Medjai. The racket coming from the old men set Ardeth's already frayed nerves on edge and he gritted his teeth as his head throbbed in response to the noise. The warriors stopped a few feet short of the table and Ardeth called out his greeting.
"As sala'amu alaikum, Elders."
The men looked up in surprise at seeing Ardeth, and for the moment, it was blissfully quiet.
"Wa alaykum as sala'am, Commander Bay," said Makeen, the chosen spokesman for the Elders. "We had feared you suffered the same fate as Aliyy and Wajeeh, praise Allah that you have arrived safely, if not somewhat tardy from your trip."
"Circumstances forced me to take a longer route from Wajeeh's settlement." Ardeth bristled at the subtle reprimand.
"Circumstances that are more important than the Elders of your tribe?" muttered Kareem.
"In your absence," spoke up another Elder. "We've received word that the American will be arriving in Cairo tomorrow at noon at the Giza port. We need you and a small group of your men to meet him there while Ra'id continues his patrols around the City of the Dead."
Makeen nodded his head. "Yes and we've instructed Commander Nabil from the Fifth to arrive here at dawn tomorrow and accompany you as well, with a small regiment of his men as a precaution. Two non-blooded warriors, from one of the other sects will be already waiting at the port with the chest and will help complete the exchange. Do you have any questions, Commander?"
Although he shook his head, Ardeth was more than surprised at O'Connell's agreement for helping the Medjai, considering his son was just a month old. For this man to leave behind his new family and help Ardeth's people certainly added a new depth to their friendship and the gratitude they would have for the American.
"Good, now we wish to hear the news from the summit. Messages between the tribes have become sporadic and unreliable lately," Makeen instructed.
For the remainder of the afternoon and into early evening, Ardeth recited as best as he could the topics discussed at the Elders meeting until finally, he almost sagged against Ra'id in exhaustion. From standing so long, his thigh pulsed as sharp spear-like tendrils of pain shot his body and he couldn't help but grab onto Ra'id's shoulder for support. His body alternated between chills and hot flashes so gruffly, he asked to be excused to attend to some personal needs.
Without waiting for the Elders to answer, he whispered his plea for needing some fresh air to the other warrior and together, the two men slowly left the building. Once outside, Ra'id helped Ardeth over to the side of the building and leaned him against the wall for support. Ardeth titled his head back against the cold stone as he dragged in droughts of air into his shivering body.
"Ardeth, what in the name of Allah is wrong?" Ra'id asked and began searching the other warrior's body for any new injuries. "Have you been hurt?"
Ardeth felt the hands but when they brushed against his sore thigh, he grabbed them in a vise-like grip, hissing at the pain even the subtlest of touches induced.
"Do not.." he whispered through clenched teeth.
"Your arrow wound," Ra'id exclaimed with sudden understanding. "It is worse since you last saw the healers, is it not?"
Ardeth stubbornly remained silent.
"Merciful Allah, its infected," Without waiting for a reply, Ra'id pulled Ardeth away from the wall and taking half of the warrior's weight onto his own body, they began walking down the road. "We're going to the healer's immediately and I pray they can do something or give something to you before this gets any worse."
"No," Ardeth moaned. "No more blood letting, no more probing..I just need to rest."
"Rest you shall have but at the..."
"No, at my home.please." Ardeth whispered. "Just get me there before I can't walk anymore."
Ra'id complied with Ardeth's wishes and soon the warrior was gently deposited onto his sleeping pallet, his weary body sinking into its softness as a heavy sigh escaped from his lips. He was undressed, the sash, weapons and bandoliers removed, his robe loosened and pulled away. He knew Ra'id could feel his hot, tacky skin as his hands brushed over it.
"You have a fever," he asked quietly, removing Ardeth's boots. "How long have you been like this?"
"It matters not, I need to be ready for tomorrow, the Elders need me at the port."
"We need you there alive not dead."
"I need to obey their instructions," Ardeth countered softly. "For is it not part of our oath as Medjai?"
"Then if I can't get you to the healers," Ra'id suddenly decided. "Then I'll get the healers to come to you."
And before Ardeth could protest, his Second had already left the room, intent on his mission of salvation for his brother warrior. With a sigh, Ardeth closed his eyes for a moment, willing his body to relax, caving into the sweeping weakness and blackness that engulfed his mind.
Whether it was minutes or hours later, Ardeth couldn't be sure since it seemed he had just closed his eyes when Ra'id was standing over him, forcing him awake. He groggily heard the other warrior instruct him to swallow and moments later, felt a bitter tasting fluid slide down his throat. Instinctively, he stopped drinking and stated to choke, spilling some of it out of his mouth.
~*~
"Try again," Ra'id patiently instructed and once more poured the concoction of eucalyptus, cloves and the rind of a pomegranate into Ardeth's mouth. Unfortunately, the brown liquid spilled and Ra'id was forced to give up trying to dispense any more and eyed the half empty cup with apprehension. The healer had been explicit with the directions; the entire dose to be administered or it wouldn't be potent enough to help quell the infection that was raging through Ardeth's body. More had spilled than what was taken and with a sigh, he placed the cup on a nearby stand. Ra'id took his dagger and continued to follow the instructions, pulling down Ardeth's pants until the thigh injury was revealed. His eyes widened at the sight of the infection, an ugly purple swelling, distended away from the skin. And with a grimace he was unable to hide, he slashed at the wound, making several shallow cuts that immediately oozed yellowish liquid. He pressed a clean linen against it repeatedly, wiping away as much of the infection as he could, then wrapped the thigh once more.
Ardeth remained unconscious during all of this and the warrior didn't know it that was a good omen or not. What he did know was that it was all he could do, and Ra'id disliked his intuition that even now, it still wasn't enough.
~*~
His body felt like it was on fire, the center of the heat radiating from his thigh and sweeping through his body, spreading out through his limbs and making them weak from the scorching heat. He twisted in bed, torso covered in sweat, hands clenching the covers as he relieved a nightmare from the past.
Hands, holding him down, unrelenting, strong, forceful..he surged against them, felt them hit his already battered body..blood..blood over his face, down his chest, the metallic smell, the taste of it..hands that pushed him down on his knees in submission...hands that held his body as it strained for freedom, to break away..get away and get to his wife...Janan.
More hands dragged her out into the open, forced her down to the ground, punishing her, abusing her..they held onto her body even as she strained for release, even as she looked into the face of death looming before her..then she looked at him, dark eyes imploring..frightened..
He pushed against those hands, cursing their power over him..a blood curdling scream and those same hand forced his head back up to watch.oh Merciful Allah, he was made watch..he couldn't look away..
hands that held the sword struck again and again..until there was nothing left to hold down.
He moaned her name over and over, his dark head rolling back and forth on the pillow, as if to escape what was replaying in his mind. He gasped and cried out, his body arching as if he felt the pain from his dream and struggled to escape. But the nightmare still continued its predetermined course.
Hands threw him to the ground..punches and kicks rained over his body but he still looked up..he had to see..see what was left of Janan..blood, so much blood...a limp hand curled upwards, towards him as if seeking help, a tiny lifeless body lay next to her..and he felt a scream well up from his throat.the ground turned dark red...ever widening pools of blood slowly seeped towards him and he jumped up to run away..no longer feeling any hands restraining him...
He turned back ...and saw her bloody hands reaching towards him...trying to grasp him..to hold him..to accuse him.
"You didn't save me, why?" The hands implored. "Why couldn't you save me and our son? Why? Why?"..he wanted to run, run away from those hands but stood immobile..and unable to stop the cry of torment that sprang up in his throat.
Ardeth bolted upright in bed, his eyes wild with fear, his throat constricting against his hoarse cry of anguish that instead, came out as low moan of agony, like the sound of a wounded animal. And one with shaking hand, he wiped his face from the wetness, sweat and salty taste of tears as he took several deep breaths to calm his still racing heart.
The dream, how long had it been since he last relived it? Since he last remembered the day Janan had died? He had thought he had come to terms with her death, accepting it, just as he had accepted his decision to live. Each day a triumph over his sorrow, until now.
He shifted on the bed and his thigh surged up with a new wave of pain, which raced through his body and stole his breath away. Reminding him that he wasn't immune to injury, just as he wasn't immune to sorrow, a man still burdened from the death of his wife. With a small, humorless laugh, Ardeth fell back onto the pillows, berating himself for thinking he had fully recovered from that sad day and turned his head towards the window.
Sleep was elusive now as it had been for the past several nights, and he stared out into the night sky, gazing into the star-studded canopy above but missing the beauty of it. Instead, he saw her as he always did - her smiling face, the softness of her hair, the gentleness in her touch.
But her eyes held a silent accusation and Ardeth remained awake, unable to shake the remnants of the dream, and watched as the dark greeted the dawn.
When the first rays of light crept over the horizon, chasing away the dark mantle of night, Ardeth was awake to greet the dawn, having slept poorly. He moved stiffly around the chamber, listening to the comforting, quiet sounds of Wajeeh and his family gathered around the hearth for the morning meal. The sound of a child's laughter, the deep baritone of the father's voice, accompanied by the soft soprano of the mother was a chorus of sounds that intensified the consistent ache in Ardeth's heart. And for a moment, he wished he was the one gathered with his family.
He limped into the main living area and waited silently off to the side until Wajeeh noticed his friend, then rose up to meet him, and invite him to break the fast with them.
"My thanks but I must decline," Ardeth said. "I need to return to my own village and inform Ra'id of the latest developments and the summit's conclusion."
"Of course, then I'll walk you outside," Wajeeh suggested and both men went out into the bright sunshine. In companionable silence, they walked to the stables and Ardeth knew his friend kept glancing at him, most likely noticing his haggard appearance
Once saddled, Ardeth found mounting Sabeeh proved to be as difficult as the day before and Wajeeh silently offered his help since there was no other recourse-he lacked the strength to pull up his body.
"My friend," Wajeeh said quietly. "Heed my advice and once you return to your settlement, seek out your healers? Forgive me for saying but whatever ails you is getting worse."
Ardeth painfully shifted in the saddle, leaned down and grasped his friend's hand in his own, bowing his head slightly over them. "May Allah watch over you and protect you, my friend."
~*~
Wajeeh returned the farewell and watched with a heavy heart as the commander kicked his horse into a quick trot, staying to watch until the figure disappeared from sight. He returned to the comfort of his family and home, only to have the serenity of his village shattered a few hours later when they were viciously attacked.
~*~
O'Connell stood in the doorway of the nursery and leaned against the frame, folding his arms across his chest as he watched his wife and son with a soft smile. Evy was changing the baby's nappy, softly singing while Alex gurgled and waved a tiny fist in the air.
"Sleep, baby, sleep, our cottage vale is deep; the little lamb is on the green," she sang as she dressed him in a nightshirt. "With woolly fleece so soft and clean, sleep, baby, sleep."
She scooped him up and held him against her shoulder, placing a loving hand over his soft, blonde curls as she walked towards the crib.
"There's my little man, all ready for bed." she whispered and laid him to rest.
"Sleep, baby, sleep, down where the woodbines creep; be always like the lamb so mild, a kind and sweet and gentle child." And pulled a fluffy blanket over him as she finished the song. "Sleep, baby, sleep."
She stood by the crib side, one hand resting on the railing, the other gently caressing her son's face while she watched his eyelids slowly flutter close. Rick walked up behind her, his strong arms encircling her waist and Evy immediately leaned against him, a small smile curving her lips.
"Hello Daddy," she murmured. "We just laid down for a nap."
"I see." Rick placed a kiss on her neck and felt her shiver of excitement. "How come you don't put me to bed like that?"
"That's because you're a big boy now; you can take care of yourself silly," Evy laughed. "No, that's not true." He nuzzled the side of her neck. "I need you to take care of me." And he hugged her tighter as they stood in silence for a few moments, both gazing down as their son.
"Evy, I need to talk to you," Rick said quietly.
"Yes?"
He sighed. "I got a telegram from Ardeth this morning asking for our help."
"Really?"
"Yeah, they're moving Imhotep's chest from Egypt and want to bring it here for safekeeping. They're asking me to travel to Cairo to pick it up and he wants to know if you could contact someone at the museum to store it somewhere."
"The chest here? Well, something must be going on if the Medjai to want it removed." Evy turned to face her husband, frowning in anxiety. "Do you think someone wants to raise the priest?"
"That's a possibility," Rick decided. "I think there's more to this request than Ardeth is telling us. I mean that's why he's asking for help but.."
Evy waited for him to finish and when he didn't, she gently prodded him. "But what?"
"I'm not going. I can't leave you and Alex here alone," he said in a rush. "What if something were to happen? I would never be able.."
Evy stopped him with a light touch of her fingers to his lips. "Shhhh. Nothing is going to happen; we can take care of ourselves. Rick, I think you should go. Ardeth rarely asks for help, so it must be important."
"But the doctor said you should still be resting and the thought of you alone in this house.."
"I'm fine; I feel wonderful," Evy assured him. "And besides, I won't be alone. I've got the nanny, the staff and Jonathan."
Rick rolled his eyes at the mention of his brother-in-law's name. "Yeah, like he'll be much help. He's hardly ever here and when he is, it's usually to entertain one of his many 'lady' friends."
"Be nice, darling. He's trying to change but it's hard," Evy defended him. "Responsibility and my brother haven't always seen eye to eye, but he loves Alex so much."
"Love doesn't protect."
"I disagree," she disputed and pulled away from his arms, walking over to the nursery windows overlooking the picturesque landscape. "I'm hoping it protects you, since I'm suggesting you go to Egypt."
"What?" Rick asked, uncertain if he heard correctly and walked over to join his wife. "You want me to leave?"
"Yes, I think you should. Go and help Ardeth, God knows it's been something you've wanted to do since we got engaged. He's our friend, but more importantly, we would be helping him. To protect us all against the evil power the priest would hold over all man kind," she declared. "And besides friendship, go for a more selfish reason."
"And that is?"
"Our son," she said. "Can you imagine the consequences if Imhotep were resurrected again; what kind of future would Alex have?"
Rick shook his head, not wanting to even think about that scenario.
"Just remember," Evy said and placed a tender hand against his cheek, gazing up into those blue eyes she loved so well.
"Yeah?"
"If you don't come home, I'm coming after you."
"Ah, kind of like when you thought you were going to turn into a mummy." Rick chuckled and gathered his wife into his arms. He dipped his head down and gently brushed his lips against hers in the lightest of kisses. And he couldn't help but grin when he felt her arms slowly entwine around his neck to pull him closer.
"Something like that," she murmured. "So, when do you leave?"
"Uh, as soon as possible."
"What?"
Rick sighed. "Yeah, they need in me Cairo by tomorrow afternoon so it looks like I'm going to have to take a chartered flight and leave within the hour or I won't make it." *Flying was an alternative means of transportation that wasn't a favored way of travel, but since the timing of his arrival was crucial, Rick had no choice, although he preferred to travel by ship.
"O'Connell, you already decided you were going, didn't you?" Evy asked with a sly grin.
"Um actually, yeah," he confirmed. "Maybe what I needed was to hear you say it too."
"Maybe." Evy conceded. "But please be careful, come back to us. Alex needs his father and I need my husband. While you're gone I'll contact someone at the museum for storage of the chest."
Rick touched her cheek with a tender caress. "The gods themselves won't stop me from coming home, I swear this on my heart, Evelyn."
He captured her face with both hands, his mouth descending on hers in an almost desperate kiss as his tongue swept inside her mouth. Their mouths slanted over each other's as they clung to one another, expressing in action what the heart couldn't put into words. And just as suddenly as it started, he abruptly stopped the kiss and turned away. Rick walked out of the nursery without looking back, knowing to do so would cause more harm than good, and left home within the hour on his way to the airport.
*Author's footnote: upon doing some research, I found in the mid 20's, the era in which this takes place, flying was not a favored mode of transportation but was available on some levels. Transatlantic flights actually started in 1919 with crews of two men. The idea of flying really didn't become popular until Charles Lindbergh made his historic flight in 1927. Obviously, I'm taking some liberties here with history.
And more thanks especially to Deana, whose medical knowledge is astounding, Shukran saaHib..(
~*~
The trip back to Ardeth's settlement would have normally taken only a half- day riding a horse at full gallop but with his waning strength, he could barely keep his seat and kept Sabeeh at a steady walk. Twice he almost plummeted from the saddle, fatigue and the heat of the desert a lethal combination that zapped his precious concentration. Alone as he rode over the crests of the dunes, he let his stoic mask of indifference fall away and gave voice to his pain with deep wrenching moans. To show weakness before others was not acceptable, nor did it earn respect. Strength and invincibility were just two small parts of what made up the warrior in Ardeth, to acknowledge it was akin to admitting defeat.
And Ardeth did not accept defeat easily.
Each rock, each shift of his body in the saddle in conjunction to the shift of the horse as it plodded through the rough terrain brought a new level of agony. While he could do nothing but endure it as best he could, vocalizing was a partial release and now one he didn't suppress. In the solitude of his desert world, between the bright blue sky above and the golden sands below, Ardeth was a solitary figure waging an inner war over his exhausted body to stay upright in the saddle.
When he arrived in his village by late afternoon, the settlement was bustling with activity. Warriors were quickly mounting their horses while Ra'id, his Second in command, issued terse orders to send them to the City of the Dead. Ardeth brought his horse to a stop in main square then waited until the younger warrior noticed his arrival.
"Sir, we've sent out another patrol looking for you," Ra'id stated as he rushed over to greet his superior. "You were expected hours ago."
"There was no need, as you can plainly see I've arrived safely." Ardeth could barely hide his grimace of pain as he moved his injured leg forward, preparing to dismount.
"Yes but the Elders have been waiting." and Ra'id's voice trailed off in concern as Ardeth struggled to dismount and almost collapsed. "Ardeth?"
"The Elders have been waiting?" He stubbornly waived off any assistance and tested how much weigh he could put on his leg without it trembling.
Ra'id stepped back. "Yes, since the noon meal. They need to speak to you regarding the summit and there have been some new developments."
"Then let them wait longer, for all I care." Ardeth snapped and pushed himself away from the horse.
"But they've asked me to come and escort you to the council room once you've arrived." Ra'id explained somewhat hesitantly, surprised at the rare and surly attitude displayed by his leader. "And I am to tell you of Commander Wajeeh."
"What of him?" Ardeth asked, fearing the answer.
"We received word late this morning, his village was attacked and the Commander was taken. Just like Aliyy." Ra'id said quietly. "The Elders are certain his capture is but a small part of a bigger conspiracy and they've been waiting for you and the news you bring from the summit. They've also ordered more patrols around Hamunaptra."
"Wajeeh kidnapped." Ardeth shook his head and let out a ragged sigh. At the moment, the one thing he craved was some much needed rest, but duty dictated a higher priority. Instead he gestured for the other warrior to lead the way to the building, pushing his aches to the back of his mind.
They stopped in the doorway but before they entered, Ra'id placed a restraining hand on the warrior's shoulder.
"Ardeth," he said. "It's obvious you're in no condition to meet the Elders at this moment. Perhaps you could relay the information to me and I can stand in your place?"
Ardeth looked at his fellow warrior, a young man he had known since he was a child and had watched with a certain amount of pride as the boy grew into manhood. The youth had taken the oath of the Medjai, had survived the trials of strength, agility, and intelligence and had been given his marks of honor. He wore the sacred tattoos of the warrior sect and Ardeth had been present at his induction. And he knew the younger man's worry was for his welfare but he gently rebuffed his concern.
Ardeth shook his head. "I am fit enough to stand before the Elders, my brother but I need you next to me, in your rightful place."
Slowly Ra'id nodded his acceptance and the two men stepped inside.
The Elders of the Eighth had assembled around a small table that stood at the far end of the room, all talking at once, trying to make their own voice heard above the others as they discussed the recent attacks against the Medjai. The racket coming from the old men set Ardeth's already frayed nerves on edge and he gritted his teeth as his head throbbed in response to the noise. The warriors stopped a few feet short of the table and Ardeth called out his greeting.
"As sala'amu alaikum, Elders."
The men looked up in surprise at seeing Ardeth, and for the moment, it was blissfully quiet.
"Wa alaykum as sala'am, Commander Bay," said Makeen, the chosen spokesman for the Elders. "We had feared you suffered the same fate as Aliyy and Wajeeh, praise Allah that you have arrived safely, if not somewhat tardy from your trip."
"Circumstances forced me to take a longer route from Wajeeh's settlement." Ardeth bristled at the subtle reprimand.
"Circumstances that are more important than the Elders of your tribe?" muttered Kareem.
"In your absence," spoke up another Elder. "We've received word that the American will be arriving in Cairo tomorrow at noon at the Giza port. We need you and a small group of your men to meet him there while Ra'id continues his patrols around the City of the Dead."
Makeen nodded his head. "Yes and we've instructed Commander Nabil from the Fifth to arrive here at dawn tomorrow and accompany you as well, with a small regiment of his men as a precaution. Two non-blooded warriors, from one of the other sects will be already waiting at the port with the chest and will help complete the exchange. Do you have any questions, Commander?"
Although he shook his head, Ardeth was more than surprised at O'Connell's agreement for helping the Medjai, considering his son was just a month old. For this man to leave behind his new family and help Ardeth's people certainly added a new depth to their friendship and the gratitude they would have for the American.
"Good, now we wish to hear the news from the summit. Messages between the tribes have become sporadic and unreliable lately," Makeen instructed.
For the remainder of the afternoon and into early evening, Ardeth recited as best as he could the topics discussed at the Elders meeting until finally, he almost sagged against Ra'id in exhaustion. From standing so long, his thigh pulsed as sharp spear-like tendrils of pain shot his body and he couldn't help but grab onto Ra'id's shoulder for support. His body alternated between chills and hot flashes so gruffly, he asked to be excused to attend to some personal needs.
Without waiting for the Elders to answer, he whispered his plea for needing some fresh air to the other warrior and together, the two men slowly left the building. Once outside, Ra'id helped Ardeth over to the side of the building and leaned him against the wall for support. Ardeth titled his head back against the cold stone as he dragged in droughts of air into his shivering body.
"Ardeth, what in the name of Allah is wrong?" Ra'id asked and began searching the other warrior's body for any new injuries. "Have you been hurt?"
Ardeth felt the hands but when they brushed against his sore thigh, he grabbed them in a vise-like grip, hissing at the pain even the subtlest of touches induced.
"Do not.." he whispered through clenched teeth.
"Your arrow wound," Ra'id exclaimed with sudden understanding. "It is worse since you last saw the healers, is it not?"
Ardeth stubbornly remained silent.
"Merciful Allah, its infected," Without waiting for a reply, Ra'id pulled Ardeth away from the wall and taking half of the warrior's weight onto his own body, they began walking down the road. "We're going to the healer's immediately and I pray they can do something or give something to you before this gets any worse."
"No," Ardeth moaned. "No more blood letting, no more probing..I just need to rest."
"Rest you shall have but at the..."
"No, at my home.please." Ardeth whispered. "Just get me there before I can't walk anymore."
Ra'id complied with Ardeth's wishes and soon the warrior was gently deposited onto his sleeping pallet, his weary body sinking into its softness as a heavy sigh escaped from his lips. He was undressed, the sash, weapons and bandoliers removed, his robe loosened and pulled away. He knew Ra'id could feel his hot, tacky skin as his hands brushed over it.
"You have a fever," he asked quietly, removing Ardeth's boots. "How long have you been like this?"
"It matters not, I need to be ready for tomorrow, the Elders need me at the port."
"We need you there alive not dead."
"I need to obey their instructions," Ardeth countered softly. "For is it not part of our oath as Medjai?"
"Then if I can't get you to the healers," Ra'id suddenly decided. "Then I'll get the healers to come to you."
And before Ardeth could protest, his Second had already left the room, intent on his mission of salvation for his brother warrior. With a sigh, Ardeth closed his eyes for a moment, willing his body to relax, caving into the sweeping weakness and blackness that engulfed his mind.
Whether it was minutes or hours later, Ardeth couldn't be sure since it seemed he had just closed his eyes when Ra'id was standing over him, forcing him awake. He groggily heard the other warrior instruct him to swallow and moments later, felt a bitter tasting fluid slide down his throat. Instinctively, he stopped drinking and stated to choke, spilling some of it out of his mouth.
~*~
"Try again," Ra'id patiently instructed and once more poured the concoction of eucalyptus, cloves and the rind of a pomegranate into Ardeth's mouth. Unfortunately, the brown liquid spilled and Ra'id was forced to give up trying to dispense any more and eyed the half empty cup with apprehension. The healer had been explicit with the directions; the entire dose to be administered or it wouldn't be potent enough to help quell the infection that was raging through Ardeth's body. More had spilled than what was taken and with a sigh, he placed the cup on a nearby stand. Ra'id took his dagger and continued to follow the instructions, pulling down Ardeth's pants until the thigh injury was revealed. His eyes widened at the sight of the infection, an ugly purple swelling, distended away from the skin. And with a grimace he was unable to hide, he slashed at the wound, making several shallow cuts that immediately oozed yellowish liquid. He pressed a clean linen against it repeatedly, wiping away as much of the infection as he could, then wrapped the thigh once more.
Ardeth remained unconscious during all of this and the warrior didn't know it that was a good omen or not. What he did know was that it was all he could do, and Ra'id disliked his intuition that even now, it still wasn't enough.
~*~
His body felt like it was on fire, the center of the heat radiating from his thigh and sweeping through his body, spreading out through his limbs and making them weak from the scorching heat. He twisted in bed, torso covered in sweat, hands clenching the covers as he relieved a nightmare from the past.
Hands, holding him down, unrelenting, strong, forceful..he surged against them, felt them hit his already battered body..blood..blood over his face, down his chest, the metallic smell, the taste of it..hands that pushed him down on his knees in submission...hands that held his body as it strained for freedom, to break away..get away and get to his wife...Janan.
More hands dragged her out into the open, forced her down to the ground, punishing her, abusing her..they held onto her body even as she strained for release, even as she looked into the face of death looming before her..then she looked at him, dark eyes imploring..frightened..
He pushed against those hands, cursing their power over him..a blood curdling scream and those same hand forced his head back up to watch.oh Merciful Allah, he was made watch..he couldn't look away..
hands that held the sword struck again and again..until there was nothing left to hold down.
He moaned her name over and over, his dark head rolling back and forth on the pillow, as if to escape what was replaying in his mind. He gasped and cried out, his body arching as if he felt the pain from his dream and struggled to escape. But the nightmare still continued its predetermined course.
Hands threw him to the ground..punches and kicks rained over his body but he still looked up..he had to see..see what was left of Janan..blood, so much blood...a limp hand curled upwards, towards him as if seeking help, a tiny lifeless body lay next to her..and he felt a scream well up from his throat.the ground turned dark red...ever widening pools of blood slowly seeped towards him and he jumped up to run away..no longer feeling any hands restraining him...
He turned back ...and saw her bloody hands reaching towards him...trying to grasp him..to hold him..to accuse him.
"You didn't save me, why?" The hands implored. "Why couldn't you save me and our son? Why? Why?"..he wanted to run, run away from those hands but stood immobile..and unable to stop the cry of torment that sprang up in his throat.
Ardeth bolted upright in bed, his eyes wild with fear, his throat constricting against his hoarse cry of anguish that instead, came out as low moan of agony, like the sound of a wounded animal. And one with shaking hand, he wiped his face from the wetness, sweat and salty taste of tears as he took several deep breaths to calm his still racing heart.
The dream, how long had it been since he last relived it? Since he last remembered the day Janan had died? He had thought he had come to terms with her death, accepting it, just as he had accepted his decision to live. Each day a triumph over his sorrow, until now.
He shifted on the bed and his thigh surged up with a new wave of pain, which raced through his body and stole his breath away. Reminding him that he wasn't immune to injury, just as he wasn't immune to sorrow, a man still burdened from the death of his wife. With a small, humorless laugh, Ardeth fell back onto the pillows, berating himself for thinking he had fully recovered from that sad day and turned his head towards the window.
Sleep was elusive now as it had been for the past several nights, and he stared out into the night sky, gazing into the star-studded canopy above but missing the beauty of it. Instead, he saw her as he always did - her smiling face, the softness of her hair, the gentleness in her touch.
But her eyes held a silent accusation and Ardeth remained awake, unable to shake the remnants of the dream, and watched as the dark greeted the dawn.