Wolves of the Pacific

by greenpeach20

In 1902, Renesmee Cullen grew tired of the tedious life of moving around with her family and decided to make the journey west as a mail order bride. Yet a chance encounter with a reddish brown wolf would change her life forever.

155. Chapter 155

Chapter 155

Salem was woken up bright and early the next morning and he was exhausted but given the reason for his tiredness, he didn't mind in the least. Yvonne was still in her room and Emma Leigh was braiding her hair. She suggested doing something a little different with Yvonne's hair – she'd looked to be in an especially good mood that morning and a good mood deserved a fun hairstyle. Emma Leigh took the next hour and a half to braid Yvonne's hair starting towards the front of her head and going along the hair line to the left of her head, then working that braid around the nap of her neck then back up just a little so that towards the center back of her head was a large bun that was braided to look like a flower. As with the last time she'd done something different with Yvonne's hair, there were enough bobby pins to make sure nothing moved and, just to add a special touch, Emma Leigh put a little decorative pin in the center of the floral braided bun both to secure the section but also to act as the center of the flower.

"You know what would look absolutely stunning on you?" Emma Leigh asked as she was working on Yvonne's hair.

"What?"

"If we gave your hair an ombre effect. It's where the top of your head is your natural dark color and then the hair gradually gets lighter," Emma Leigh smiled. "I can picture the ends of your hair being completely blonde and the effect that would have on your braids." Emma Leigh sighed to herself as she pictured how it would look while Yvonne just smiled, not really able to picture what she was describing. Once Emma Leigh was done, Yvonne touched her hair and smiled.

"I love how it feels," Yvonne said.

"I'm glad you like it," Emma Leigh said. Since her hair was done, Owota came to guide her to his office so they could get some work done. By then, the pack had already retreated outside for training with the Cullens and the flock and when Owota and Yvonne were beginning their work, he noticed the wolf tooth necklace.

"Who gave that to you?" Owota asked.

"I'm sorry?" Yvonne asked.

"That necklace," Owota said and Yvonne's hand came up to touch it.

"Oh," she said and trailed her hand over the ornament gently and with great affection. "Salem gave it to me as a gift. He wore this tooth and I think he decided to give it to me since I'd expressed such a liking for it. That was not my intent to make him part with it, but it was such a kind gesture."

"A kind gesture?" Owota asked skeptically. Yvonne did not answer him and when he looked at her more closely, he saw the barest hint of a red spot peaking past her dress. It was hard to see having been placed in a spot intended to remain hidden, but Owota noticed it all the same. "I expect you to be honest with me. What is going on between you and Salem?"

Yvonne was initially stunned by his question but did eventually say, "We are in love."

"Alright," Owota said, remaining calm, "And what exactly are you thinking will come of this?"

"Salem wants to marry me," Yvonne answered, but she didn't express the sentiment with the joy one might expect. "I want to marry him too."

"And how would that ever work, Yvonne?"

"I have resigned myself to the reality it likely won't," Yvonne answered and the sadness in her voice made Owota not only grow calmer but feel a sadness on her behalf. "He said he would live her if it means we can be together, but I've expressly told him I will not let him throw his life away like that. I know he still has hope things will work out, but I don't think so. Yesterday when he gave me this necklace, I wanted just a moment where we could pretend it could work."

"I see," Owota said.

He watched Yvonne briefly and found himself also wishing that things could go as they normally would. Salem could present his case of being worthy of Yvonne, help Myta with tasks and chores to win the bride's mother's favor and when Owota was satisfied that Salem had proven himself good enough he could give his blessing and the two could marry. He'd spent well over a century experiencing the bitter loneliness that came with being unwed. He'd not thought himself so until Myta had come of an acceptable age and he's found himself in love. His greatest fear had been Yvonne would never find someone that could love her. Now, here she was in love with a man that was of promising qualities and the outlook was rather bleak. He reached out to take Yvonne's free had and held it supportively.

"You love him?" Owota finally asked. Yvonne's eyes began to tear up and she nodded. "Perhaps when this is all over, Salem and I will talk. If he really wants to marry you, he must come through me."

"I won't let him throw his life away for me, father. I will deny his proposal if I have to," Yvonne said without an ounce of conviction. It broke Owota's heart to see his daughter lamenting so.

Barka was among the group that day when Jasper was guiding them through effective combat against new cold ones. Nesia and Owen were standing together through training paying attention to Jasper's instructions. He'd seen the two of them together from time to time but thought nothing of it. That is until he started noticing Bayaq showing Cidelle a great deal of affection; heard Takara complain about it no less. Then he noticed Taraq was spending a great deal of time with Uilette. Blu Jae was spending a great deal of time with Desarae and Salem was rather openly expressing affection towards Yvonne. He'd already known his son Oscar was fooling around with Travis; he'd grown tolerant of his son's bizarre preferences though given Travis was of the Quileutes, Barka was none too fond of him. All that made Barka take a much more critical look at Nesia and Owen's interactions. And the closer he watched them, the more obvious the growing affection between them became. He was not pleased about it in the least.

"Oscar!" Barka yelled when training had been completed for the day, "My home; now," he ordered. Barka was already walking to his home.

"What's wrong?" Travis asked Oscar.

"Hell if I know," Oscar said. "Save some food for me. I'll make this quick."

"Alright," Travis said. Oscar planted a kiss to Travis's lips really quick before he followed after Barka. Once they'd made it to Barka's house, there was enough light still in the sky that poked through the windows that they could see one another clearly.

"What did you want to discuss?" Oscar asked once they were alone.

"I've noticed a number of our people are becoming rather friendly with the Quileute. I dare say they've become romantically involved."

"There are some that have grown fond of our new allies; that's true. I see nothing wrong with strengthening our bond with the Quileutes in this manner."

"Of course you don't," Barka said flippantly. "Am I correct in assuming that Owen has fallen prey to this epidemic of infatuation?" Barka noticed Oscar become slightly unnerved by the question and with that, he had his answer. "I knew it," Barka said irritably.

"Don't be angry with him; you're overreacting," Oscar answered.

"I'm overreacting? And I suppose you think that once the Quileutes leave, everything will return to normal?"

"Father, I see nothing wrong with Owen fooling around with a woman that's visiting," Oscar argued. "Fooling around isn't likely to amount to anything. As to the Quileutes themselves, I think you're underestimating the value of keeping them as allies."

"I think you're overestimating their value," Barka said. "These are the people that banished our ancestors."

"Since when do you care about that?" Oscar asked. "Their chief banished our people and it was following a failed coup. As far as I'm concerned, it's in the past and a moot point. What matters now is that we encourage a lasting friendship with them. It'll be to our benefit."

"How do you figure? Will they be able to mobilize and defend us in a time of need in an instant?"

"They certainly did this time," Oscar said.

"I said 'in an instant', Oscar. It took them three days to get their men here after you'd made your request and they didn't even bring their entire pack! An insult, frankly."

"An insult?! Father, they brought their best pack members! The ones that were left behind were the younger members that are not as well trained. They had the decency to bring the best and strongest to our aid!"

"And they only have 30 of these 'best and strongest'?"

"Christ almighty, father; now you're just nitpicking," Oscar said. "Did you bring me here just to complain about Owen's love life and the Quileutes or was there something important you wanted to discuss?" Rather suddenly. Barka swung his hand and backhanded Oscar right across the face. Even now, Barka could hit Oscar with enough force that it made Oscar take a step back.

"Don't back talk me, boy," Barka said in a voice that was eerily calm. "This 'fooling around' as you put it is the end. The Quileutes are not to fraternize with our people anymore and the moment that army is dealt with, they're to leave. Are we clear?"

"You're being completely unreasonable," Oscar argued but all it got was another backhanded strike to his face. He could even taste blood in his mouth now. Barka then walked past Oscar to the entryway of his home, ordered a man to him that was passing by and instructed that person to bring Owen and Oliver to him immediately. "Father-"

"If you will not relay my expectation, I'm left to do it myself," Barka interrupted. The man came to the village center to look for Owen and Oliver and, knowing the situation, Edward retrieved them and warned Barka was extremely angry.

"Oscar tried to diminish what's going on, but Barka knows about you and Nesia," Edward explained to Owen once he'd grabbed him. "However his ire is being directed to everyone at this point."

"We'll take care of it," Oliver said before Owen could say anything.

"What's going on?" Travis asked as Owen and Oliver were walking past.

"We'll take care of it," Oliver said again and continued with Owen following behind him. When they finally got there, Oscar had some blood that seeped from his mouth despite his trying to brush it away and it took Oliver by surprise. "Father, what's the matter?"

"Many things," Barka said. "I don't care how insignificant it is or is not; the Quileutes are to no longer be romantically involved with our people. That includes you," Barka pointed at Owen and at Oscar. "When the cold army is dealt with, the Quileutes are to leave our land without hesitation."

"Are you insane?!" Owen yelled but Oliver stepped forward.

"Father, please be reasonable. You can't force everyone not to form a bond with these people. They're here to help us –"

"They're here to take over," Barka interrupted. "If Jacob thinks he has any power here, he's wrong. And I won't have any of you encouraging this by involving yourselves with their ranks. If I have to take drastic action, so be it."

"What do you mean?" Oliver asked.

"I've rid myself of inconveniences before; I can do it again. Surely, Oscar, I don't need to remind you," Barka said and Oscar went stiff.

"You stay the fuck away from Travis," Oscar growled.

"Father, if you harm a member of the pack, they'll fight back!" Oliver said, trying to reason with Barka. "The cold army will be the least of our worries then!"

"You think we can't stand up to them?"

"That's not the point you fucking monster!" Owen screamed. By now, the whole tribe and the pack had overheard the screaming and had come closer. Edward had already informed Jacob and he was at the head of the group, ready to take action.

"If a monster is what you want, boy, then a monster is what you'll get," Barka said. "I haven't seen your mother in quite a long time. Perhaps I should pay her a visit."

"Leave my mother out of this!" Owen screamed. "She isn't involved in this at all!"

"She is now," Barka answered back then looked at Oscar again. "I suggest the lot of you fall in line. You are not chief here, Oscar. And for as weak as you are, you never will be."

What followed was pure chaos. Owen, having had enough, came forward and grabbed a hold of Barka by the neck and jumped on top of him proceeding to choke the man. Barka barely reacted. If anything, he seemed as though he were enjoying it. Oliver and Oscar came forward and then Jacob, realizing what was going on, rushed inside with his sons in tow in an attempt to resolve an explosive situation. Oscar grabbed a hold of Owen and pulled him off Barka but not without a fight. Once Barka was back on his feet, Oscar finally released Owen but after he did, Barka took a swing at Owen causing him to fly back into Oscar's arms. Owen was about to fight back, but Oscar kept holding him back.

"Why is it, Oscar, that the bastard among you is the only one with the strength to fight me?"Barka asked condescendingly.

"Fuck you!" Owen screamed and tried charging at him again.

"What's going on here?" Jacob demanded despite already knowing. If Barka was going to start making demands, he'd do so to Jacob's face. The remainder of the pack and flock stayed outside, but hearing what was going on, Nesia and Travis were both at the front of the group, Edward the only one keeping them outside.

"It's become clear to me that there are members of your pack that have seen fit to fool around with members of my tribe. It ends now. And once this army is defeated, you'll all to leave without hesitation."

"What members of my pack are you accusing of 'fooling around' exactly?"

"The two that look the same, the one that plays music, one of your little brats is taking advantage of our priestess and two whores in your group are involved with my sons," Barka said.

"You will watch how you refer to my pack," Jacob growled back.

"You will remember your place here," Barka spat back. "You were brought here not by my approval but by my son that thought we needed your help. You saw fit to banish us all those years ago; do not think you can make amends now and do not think I will put up with your dogs humping everything that moves."

"Your son 'thought' he needed our help?" Jacob challenged. "I see. Well, Barka, my apologies that my pack has imposed itself on you. Seeing as we're no longer needed, we will remove ourselves this very instant. I trust you will be able to stand up to this army yourselves."

"Jacob, please!" Oliver spoke up. "There's no need for that; father is only upset with some unexpected developments between members of our tribe and of your pack. These things can't be helped; we know that."

"There is no bluff for you to call, Jacob," Barka said, speaking over Oliver. "Any usefulness you held has been served. We know how to fight and defeat these things now. We don't need your assistance."

"And what about the plan that the majority of the army will stand down just from seeing the Quileutes at our side? What of that?!" Owen yelled.

"We just have to fight them," Barka said. "Or have you been too busy with the bitch in heat to gain anything useful from our guests?" Jacob's long stride brought him before Barka within seconds at which point he punched Barka square in the nose. Barka fell backwards against the wall from the force of Jacob's punch and was covering it to catch the blood that oozed from his nose.

"Don't you ever speak of my granddaughter so disrespectfully again," Jacob said. It was his turn to be eerily calm. "We will stay and help if only for the sake of your citizens. No need for them to die because of you. Don't worry; the moment everything's over, we'll leave. No need to worry about fostering an alliance between our tribes. I can think of nothing better than never having to be in your presence again." Jacob turned and left without another word. Having overheard the whole thing, Nesia went right to Jacob as he was walking out.

"Grandpa, what about-"

"Nesia," Jacob interrupted. He looked among his back singling out all his grandsons and Embry's two sons seeing as they were the ones this all concerned, "Whatever needs to happen regarding your imprints is your responsibility. They are welcome to come with when we leave, but those arrangements and what they entail are up to you. The moment those vampires are dealt with, we leave. Period." He looked right at Taraq. "I suggest you figure out how you're going to sort this all out."

"Grandpa," Salem spoke up and came forward. Jacob remembered then that, for Salem at least, the solution was not so simple. Sadly, he didn't have an answer for him. "I can't leave Yvonne."

"I know," Jacob sighed. "I suggest speaking with Owota." With that, Jacob walked away to return to the pyre where they'd previously been enjoying dinner. The tension was thick especially inside Barka's home. Barka recovered from the punch eventually and ordered everyone to leave. When Owen stepped out, he walked right past Nesia making a bee line for his home. She started following after him while Travis went right to Oscar noticing the blood on his lip.

"What happened?" Travis asked.

"Same thing that always happens," Oscar said and looked at Travis. He brought a hand around to the back of Travis's neck. It wasn't intended to be harsh but the grip was tighter than Oscar thought. Regardless, Travis said nothing. "Don't leave my side. Got it?"

"Got it," Travis answered. Oscar's grip finally softened and traveled down Travis's back so they could walk back to the bonfire for dinner. Meanwhile, Owen was going to his house with Nesia following and when he came in, his mother was there working on something. The smile she gave her son faded when she saw him.

"Ahiga? What happened?"

"Mom, I'm sorry but I need to be alone," Ahiga said in a frightening voice. Haseya stood up and nodded.

"Alright, Ahiga," Haseya said. She walked around to the door just as Nesia approached. "Come with me, Nesia," Haseya said.

"I want to talk to Ahiga," Nesia began but Haseya guided Nesia away.

"I know that look in his eye. You need to leave him alone," Haseya insisted and just like that, they heard things breaking inside coupled with muted shouts of rage and pain. This time, Nesia didn't let Haseya hold her back and she ran inside. When Nesia went inside, Ahiga was standing near the wall holding the bleeding hand that he'd just broken from punching the wall. Nesia went to him cautiously and tried to touch his shoulder, but he looked right at her with a mean look and it made her take a step back. But then he softened and all she could see in his eyes was pain.

"I hate him," Ahiga finally said. Nesia didn't answer and approached him again. But Ahiga stepped away until he reached some wood that had splintered when he'd destroyed what little furniture he'd had in the room. "I hate him," Ahiga said again and continued with greater intensity. "I hate him. I hate him! I hate him!" Ahiga slammed the wood against the wall and was about to punch the wall again with the hand he'd already broken when Nesia grabbed his arm and came around. She was about to speak but Ahiga continued, "You don't understand! He knows about us; about everyone. He'd rather see us all dead! He can't love, he can't feel anything! He can't even love us! His own sons! He can't even love his sons. He can't even love me," Ahiga started wavering and just like that, he was on his knees and Nesia followed him, taking him in her arms. Ahiga still wasn't feeling the pain in his hand, the adrenaline from his rage still circulating through his body. Haseya stepped back inside but kept a distance since Nesia was able to somehow comfort her son. A few minutes later, Edward stepped inside with Yvonne at his side.

"What's going on?" Haseya asked.

"I was told Owen broke his hand; I'm here to treat him," Yvonne answered and followed the sound of Ahiga's cries against Nesia's shoulder.

Nesia snapped her fingers a foot or so away from herself and Ahiga so Yvonne could follow the sound and once she was there, Yvonne kneeled down and Nesia offered Ahiga's hand to her having seen Taha Aki's tooth. Doing as Edward had said she could, Yvonne brought Ahiga's broken hand to the tooth and pressed the tooth into his skin. She felt the warmth it emitted as well as the sound of a beating heart, though it was all lost on Ahiga. At this point, he wasn't paying attention whatsoever. It took a few minutes, but soon his hand was no longer broken though the blood lingered from the open wounds. Yvonne squeezed Ahiga's hand to make sure the bone was sound and once she knew, she released him.

"Thank you," Nesia said to Yvonne. Her only answer was a nod before she stood back up. Edward snapped his fingers so Yvonne could follow the sound and once she'd approached, Edward guided her back, leaving Nesia with Ahiga and Haseya.

Nesia did not bring up the plan or their relationship with Ahiga. Now wasn't the time; he wasn't thinking straight and she wouldn't force him to. They could talk in the morning or the following not, during training the next day; she didn't care. It just wouldn't be now. Given their circumstances, Bayaq wasted no time. He went right to Takara and begged to speak with him. Having seen the display with his own eyes, he agreed and the two of them went to his home to talk.

"Takara," Bayaq started as soon as they were alone, "This isn't how I wanted to do things, but I can't just leave after this is all over without Cidelle. I love her and I want to marry her. Tell me what I need to do so you know I'm sincere. I can make a bracelet immediately. I can help Genevieve with some chores, I can go to the city for anything you need: name it and I'll do it."

"Cidelle barely knows you. You barely know her. How do I know this isn't stemming from misguided infatuation?"

"It's not; I swear to you it's not," Bayaq insisted.

"Even if it's not, if you take Cidelle with you, I will never see her again. After this is all over, Chief Barka isn't likely to let any of our children come home to see us. I promise you he will consider them good as traitors. If his sons could not defuse the decision now, they aren't like to ever do so especially after your chief punching him as I'm hearing."

"We'll figure something out," Bayaq said. "I'm sure Oscar can find a work around. I can bring Cidelle to Phoenix, Oscar can bring you and Genevieve to the city – Barka can hardly have an issue with Oscar taking his daughter and son by marriage on an outing right? Then we can all visit. We can make this work."

"If what you're suggesting Oscar can do can indeed be done, then I would greatly prefer a proper courting time between you and my daughter," Takara argued. Bayaq was about to speak, but Takara spoke over him. "I have no doubt you think yourself in love with my daughter and I realize our chief's decree has caused concern. I can understand that. I understand your chief specifically instructed you to sort things out. We will speak with Oscar over the proposed arrangement you suggested, I will speak with Genevieve and if all is agreed, you and Cidelle can continue seeing one another in a proper courtship until I have determined that you indeed deserve my daughter. Are we agreed?"

Bayaq didn't want to agree. He was terrified that what Takara was suggesting wouldn't be possible, although that would then stand to reason his previous suggestion also wouldn't work. Regardless, Bayaq was more concerned with him and Cidelle being together with nothing to stand between them. Of course, that was shaping up to not be possible. Not until Takara gave his blessing and Bayaq couldn't pretend the man's concerns or demands were unreasonable. He had to remind himself that Takara wasn't acting as a cold hearted monster, he was acting as a father that had seen his daughter burned before in the most unforgivable way and would not stand for it happening again.

"Yes, Takara," Bayaq finally answered. "I will do anything that will prove I love her and will be a good husband."

"Thank you," Takara said. A brief silence passed before he extended his hand to Bayaq which, though it stunned him, he accepted. "If you are truly worthy of her, we will make this all work. Just understand that I love Cidelle and want what's best for her."

"I know," Bayaq answered.

Blu Jae did not face nearly as much opposition. He'd gone to Desarae's father, granted having barely said two words to the man before, expressing his feelings for Desarae and requesting the privilege to marry her and asked what he could do to prove himself. Desarae's father, to Blu Jae's simultaneous shock and great relief, was intensely displeased with what happened with their chief and, given his threats and knowing full well what the man was capable of and would do if provoked, agreed to the union without argument. He only demanded that, should he permit the marriage, that Blu Jae be a good husband to his daughter. He would find a way to send someone to check on Desarae periodically and if he found out Desarae was not being treated to his expectations, there would be consequences. Blu Jae expressed his gratitude and promised he'd take very good care of Desarae and would love her. After speaking with the man, Blu Jae went to Desarae and brought her somewhere private.

"I spoke with your father," Blu Jae said once they were alone, "He said he would allow us to get married."

"You asked to marry me?" Desarae asked, stunned. She and Blu Jae had discussed marriage and they'd expressed their love to one another, but she'd not imagined her father would agree to their union so readily.

"Yes, and he said he approved; assuming you'll have me. I don't have a bracelet now, but-"Blu Jae was interrupted when Desarae jumped into his arms to hug him.

"Yes! Yes, I'll marry you!" Desarae said and Blu Jae hugged her back. In the moment, he wasn't worried about anything except Desarae and getting her out of the tribe. Introducing her to his parents, getting her a bracelet, their wedding plans; all of it could wait until she was with him in Washington.

Taraq was at a loss of what to do. He couldn't go to Takara with his plea. Uilette was already married. He wasn't even sure if there was even an argument to be had. He'd looked right at her after Jacob had walked away from all of them and while she'd looked his way, she'd not done so long. He was at a loss of what to do. He'd lost his appetite and instead went for a walk to clear his head. He ended up at the spot where Uilette usually liked to go and just sat there staring out into the desert. He knew Bayaq was already talking to Takara about Cidelle and the intense jealousy he felt was overwhelming. He'd never felt so irrationally angry with Bayaq before and knowing he was being irrational did nothing to reign him in. Uilette found out from Hawk more or less what happened, though he'd only overheard what was said. When he told her, she said she would go for a walk and left it at that. She wanted to be alone. She had already known that once everything was over, they'd be leaving but now it was a swiftly approaching. She'd heard Bayaq ask to speak with her father and she knew full well what it was regarding. She would be losing her sister soon. Cidelle would accept Bayaq's proposal in a heartbeat and when she did, Bayaq would take her with him. He'd take Taraq with him too. She started crying but did her best to stop herself.

She wasn't upset because Taraq was leaving she told herself. She was upset because the one thing she wanted was being taken right out from under her. All these years of nothing and she finally had hope, but if Taraq left, that hope would leave with him. As the thought crossed her mind, she felt sick to her stomach. Yet whether it was because she was losing the baby she desperately wanted or a man that loved her she wouldn't explore. As she walked, she saw Taraq in her usual spot. She started rubbing the tears from her eyes and cheeks. She'd received her usual ointments and supplements from Owota and Yvonne and had already taken as directed. According to them, she was fertile and would be for three more moons. It was now or never she told herself. Once she had a hold of herself, she walked over to Taraq and he looked at her when she approached. He realized immediately her eyes were red and puffy.

"Uilette? What's wrong?" Taraq asked and stood to meet her.

"I'm alright," she insisted. "I heard Chief Barka had a few choice words with your chief."

"Yeah," Taraq answered. "Jacob's furious about it. I guess Barka called Nesia a bitch in heat. Punched the bastard square in the face. Serves him right. He's lucky my brothers and I weren't in the room. He'd get a few more punches to the face for talking about my niece that way. I'm sure dad would have had a few choice words for him too."

"I saw her go after Owen. I think she's more concerned about him than what Barka said, "Uilette said.

"Probably," Taraq said. "Are you sure you're alright?"

"I'm just a little shook up by the whole thing. I only know what I overheard and what Hawk told me. I heard Blu Jae is already speaking with Hawk's father about marrying Desarae."

"Will he object?"

"I don't know. If Hawk's reaction is to be believed, he'd rather she be removed from the tribe than deal with this," Uilette answered. Taraq was silent and looked out at the desert again. It was like he couldn't bear to look at her. Uilette came around so she could make him face her again. "I speak for everyone when I say you're not unwelcome here. We are grateful that you're here and know you'll be able to help us."

"That's the only reason we're staying," Taraq said. "I'm sorry everything is happening the way it is."

"You have nothing to apologize for," Uilette said. Then she took him by surprise and wrapped her arms around him in a hug. He reciprocated and held her tighter than perhaps was appropriate but he couldn't help himself. "I know that you will help us through this. I'm just sorry our chief can't see it."

"So long as you know we're here to help," Taraq mumbled. He was quiet again for a moment before finally saying, "I love you, Uilette. I can't help it. What hurt the most what Jacob telling us that we leave the moment things are resolved and there being nothing I could do. I can't leave without at least telling you how I feel." Taraq's declaration hit her harder than she thought it could. It made her begin to cry and she pressed her face into his shoulder. "I'm so sorry. I never meant to hurt you. I won't ask anything of you. I have no business doing so. I just wanted to tell you. Please forgive me."

"There's nothing to forgive," Uilette said and lifted her head to look at him.

Taraq wasn't entirely sure what came over him, but when their eyes met, he pressed his lips to hers in a fevered kiss. Uilette didn't fight him. She didn't want to nor would she. She wasn't thinking about anything anymore except him. She pulled away from him strictly to guide him with her so they were behind the wall of the home they were situated near. No one was home. Everyone was at the village center having dinner. They were alone; no one to bother them. When she had them situated where she wanted, Uilette brought her lips to Taraq's again and wrapped her arms around his neck. He pressed her against the wall returning her kiss and meeting her passion with his own. He wasn't thinking any more than Uilette, only concerned with what he was feeling in that moment and how badly he wanted her.

There was very little foreplay, but it was hardly needed. Uilette was ready for him the moment he'd pressed her to the wall and Taraq was just as ready. He planted kisses to her neck as he was lifting her dress and Uilette tugged at Taraq's jeans until he was freed to her touch. She stroked him only a moment before he'd lifted her leg around his hip and slipped inside her. She bit into his shoulder so she wouldn't be too loud and clutched onto him not wanting to let him go while Taraq was clutching her thigh as he adjusted to her. He'd never experienced his mind going blank like this and for a moment he couldn't do anything. However once he'd regained enough sense, he started moving and Uilette whimpered into his skin with each thrust. She'd forgotten what it felt like to enjoy intimacy. She'd forgotten the sensation of wanting someone inside her and loving that person so much. It hadn't lasted very long but it was no less an experience. Uilette felt a build begin and when she whimpered his name, Taraq reached between them to touch her and almost as soon as he'd done so, she came undone and bit his shoulder again so she wouldn't scream, but it felt so good. Shortly after she'd reached her end, so did Taraq and he gripped onto her like a vice and pressed her into the wall so she nearly couldn't breathe, but she didn't care. She felt fulfilled for the first time in years. When Taraq was spent, his touch gentled and he started kissing her cheek.

"Come back with me, Uilette," Taraq pleaded. "Forget the lot of them; come back with me."

She almost said yes. In that moment, she almost said yes, but she stopped herself. She almost told him she was sorry, but she stopped herself again. How would he react if he knew she'd used him? How would he react if she told him she'd wanted a child and wanted to save her marriage? She couldn't bare how he'd react. He'd look at her with anger and hatred. Not the way he was looking at her now. She wanted to savor this moment; this loving embrace and how he was making her feel. She wanted to remember this forever.

"I can't," she finally said. "Please, Taraq. Just hold me. Just for the moment, hold me."

"Uilette," he pleaded but otherwise didn't speak and held her like she'd asked of him. "I love you." She started crying into his shoulder again and Taraq started kissing her neck to comfort her.

Salem was at a loss of what to do but for completely different reasons. He literally couldn't take Yvonne with him. He couldn't plead his case to Owota, he couldn't take her like a romantic hero and, with Barka's outburst, and he couldn't stay either. Even if he had all the time in the world to plan or make a decision, there was nothing he could do. He contemplated perhaps taking her and asking Anatoli to bring her back, but how did he even know that would work? Anatoli couldn't bring back their father because his spirit wouldn't come back. How did he know the power these spirits had over her wouldn't do the exact same thing? Hell, how did he know the spirits wouldn't poses her and force her to come back? There were so many scenarios running through his head that he was too scared to risk it. Yet leaving her was unacceptable. When everyone returned to Owota's home to get some sleep. Salem couldn't sleep.

When it was the middle of the night, Salem walked out of the house and went to the oasis. The waters were so calm. It was deceptive. He sat down before the water and put his fingers in. Nothing happened except the natural ripple of the water. He considered perhaps speaking to the water but if what Yvonne had told him was any indicator and based on what he'd seen, these spirits could not be reasoned with. What if he pleaded to them and they either killed her out of spite or demanded something else? What if the spirits demanded their first born as compensation? The fact that something so ridiculous was even a reasonable concern was boggling his mind. He heard the sound of a bird and realized it was Blu. The bird landed on the top of the cactus that rested in the center of the oasis but quickly flew away after Salem heard something spring from the plant. Blu flew away from the cactus but stayed continued to circle the oasis. He reached up to take a hold of his necklace but then remembered it wasn't there. At this point he wasn't even sure if Taha Aki's tooth would help or how it even could.

There was a sudden splash in the water that startled Salem and he stood, stepping away from the oasis. The water rippled from whatever had apparently fallen into the water. He heard Blu and it sounded like the bird was intensely frustrated. Salem approached the oasis again and kneeled down before the water. He began to reach for the water and he thought his hand felt strangely cold when he started getting closer. It was unnaturally cold and Salem had to take his hand away.

"What the fuck are you?" Salem asked to himself.

Still nothing happened. The water was not disrupted, there was no movement, no sound, nothing. He was starting to feel crazy. He got a little closer to the water staring into it. There was another sudden splash where he was staring but he stayed firmly put this time. There had been nothing that had fallen into the water that would cause a splash and he heard Blu's frustrated song play again. He kept staring and thought he saw an image begin to form in the water that was obstructed by the ripples. Yet the image was immediately unnatural to him. It was foggy looking and he thought he saw a brighter blue than what was produced by the water naturally. Before he could fully make out what he was staring at, water began to approach him suddenly and Salem backed away. That water fell again and when he finally heard something, it was that haunting laugh that had come from Yvonne the other day.

This time Salem didn't linger and he stepped away from the oasis to return to Owota's home. When he came back, everyone was still asleep as was Yvonne. But he heard something from Owota's medicine room. Salem approached cautiously and went through the narrow hallway until he was in the room. Owota was there and looked like he was staring at some of his materials. He wasn't doing anything, though. He was just sitting there staring seemingly at nothing. When Salem stepped in, Owota looked at him and did not seem terribly surprised.

"I was wondering where you'd gone off to," Owota said.

"I just went for a walk. I needed to clear my head. I don't think it worked," Salem said. "I'll leave you alone."

"No, linger a moment," Owota said and directed Salem to sit near him. Salem did as requested and sat at the table with Owota. "That necklace you gave my daughter: it's very well done."

"Thank you," Salem answered.

"You realize a proposal is to come with a bracelet and after the father has given his blessing, yes?" Owota asked and took Salem off guard.

"Um," he started and then finally said, "It wasn't a proposal, Owota. It was a gift. I wanted her to have my ancestor's tooth. You made clear there was to be no discussion, so I did not overstep and offer proposal. Instead I offered what I could."

"Yet you spirited my daughter away in the middle of the night and had your way with her, "Owota said matter-of-factly. Yet Salem couldn't even figure out if the man was mad. "So where did you go tonight? I notice you did not take Yvonne with you."

"I needed to be alone to think," Salem said. "I went to the oasis. I'm not even sure what happened. At first there was nothing, then I heard splashing and saw this image in the water that tried to grab me. Or I think that's what it did. I don't even know."

"Interesting," Owota said. He did not seem to Salem to be surprised. It baffled Salem that Owota and Yvonne could show so little fear over whatever was going on. But then, they'd been dealing with it for years. Over 100 years in Owota's case.

"The other night, I had a dream that my father came to me," Salem said. "He'd told me that whatever is infesting the oasis is not a deity."

"If not our guardian spirits, then what are they?"

"I don't know," Salem said. "Father didn't know either. He'd told me to give Yvonne our ancestor's tooth and said that everything would be alright. I was so hopeful, but now I'm not so sure."

"I see," Owota said. The man became thoughtful for a moment contemplating what Salem was saying. He had heard tales of departed loved ones returning as guardian spirits for those they had left behind. If Salem was telling the truth, perhaps his guardian spirit was right and if it was, there may be some merit to this young man that loved his daughter. "I am ready to have a discussion."

"I'm sorry?"

"I said I'm ready for this discussion you wish to have," Owota repeated. "Yvonne loves you, but she will not permit you to throw your life away for her. And as it stands, Barka will not tolerate you visiting."

"Yes, I know," Salem said solemnly.

"Well…If you want to be with my daughter, you had best figure out what to do," Owota said. Salem stared at the man waiting for him to continue, but he never did.

"What do you suggest I do? If Barka has his way, I can't stay and I can't take Yvonne with me," Salem argued, growing frustrated with Owota.

"When I begged for my daughter's life, I never wanted for her to be condemned to a life of servitude," Owota said. "You say that you have a guardian trickster on your side? Then put that guardian to work. If you can free my daughter, you have my blessing to marry her." Salem stared at Owota wondering if he was being serious but his face stayed very serious. "What's wrong?"

"I'm just a little surprised by your proposition," Salem mumbled.

"You wanted to have this discussion; now we've had it. Free my daughter and she's yours. Fail and there will be no union. Seems rather cut and dry to me."

"So you believe what you're asking is possible?" Salem asked with a glint of hopefulness. If Owota believed it was possible, then maybe it wasn't so hopeless as Salem had thought.

"If you want to marry my daughter, you will make it possible," Owota said firmly. Once again, Salem wasn't sure if Owota was being condescending or if he was really confiding in him. "Think of it this way," Owota continued after the silence persisted for too long, "because of me, my daughter is a slave to this infestation that your guardian is saying resides in the oasis. If you're right that it is evil tricksters, if you can win my daughter's freedom, I will be forever indebted to you."

"You don't have to be indebted to me, Owota. I just want Yvonne to be happy and well, "Salem said.

Owota finally smiled at Salem, "That's the best argument you've given me." Owota patted Salem's shoulder and stood up. "My 'proposition' as you worded it stands. If you can free Yvonne, you have my blessing. I'm glad we could talk."

Salem stayed in the medicine room while Owota walked out to return to his and Myta's room. Salem eventually returned out to the living area and took his usual spot by Yvonne's room. He thought about his talk with Owota and what he was suggesting. Regardless, he still felt at a loss. So far, all he had was a tooth he'd given her and a dream in which his father promised Yvonne would be protected. Given what was on the line, Salem wasn't very confident that was enough. He contemplated going to her but he decided not to. This wasn't the time to wake her. As it was, he was supposed to be sleeping too.

That night after the confrontation, Oscar was extremely quiet. Travis didn't press him and instead just stayed seated at his side. Oliver had gone to Jacob right away in the hope that perhaps he could rectify the situation. Jacob was understandably furious over the situation and Oliver couldn't blame the man. When he sat down beside Jacob, the man didn't do more than glance at him acknowledging his presence.

"I think we should talk," Oliver began. "I'm extremely sorry about what happened. I know you told father that you're happy to take all talk of an alliance off the table, but I do not agree."

"You don't, do you?" Jacob answered.

"No, I don't. Frankly, it would be to our mutual benefit that we remain friends. I'm not talking about just strengthening our ranks and supplementing our army. I'm referring to trade. Even education."

"While I agree, unfortunately your father does not," Jacob said. "From what I've gathered thus far of your father, he's not one to work well with others," Jacob said.

"I know and again, I'm sorry. But even father needs to understand the benefit that would come from what we could learn from you. We're stuck in the middle of the desert with hardly any trade. We largely produce our own crops which keeps our people alive, but Oscar needs to obtain a number of materials for us. Materials that he can't keep providing off his hard work alone and little trinkets here and there only worth a dime to a middle-aged house wife. We need productivity. We need modernization. Father has us stuck in the past and we need to move forward."

"Wise words," Jacob said.

"I need to give father time," Oliver said, "but once he's cooled down, I will run the possibility by him again of us remaining allies."

"Forgive me, Oliver, but I will not ally myself with Barka," Jacob said. "Frankly, if the man can't show respect to his own sons, what hope do I have? I realize this is his tribe and you are his people. You're all therefore his responsibility. However regardless of where I'm standing be it my own or another man's tribe, I expect a to be treated as I am: a chief. If anyone should understand that, it should be Barka. If he cannot treat me as his equal, then there can be no friendship."

"Then ally yourself with me and my brothers," Oliver pleaded. Jacob stayed silent while he stared at Oliver. Since he wasn't getting an answer, Oliver's shoulders slumped.

"Don't slump like that," Jacob suddenly said. "A chief shouldn't show defeat, especially when asking for friendship."

"I am not chief," Oliver said.

"Perhaps, but you've been more of a leader than anyone I've met thus far," Jacob said. Oliver was rather touched by the statement and it left him speechless. His own father had never given even Oscar such praise. To hear it from a stranger was earth shattering. "I admire what you're trying to do, Oliver. Frankly, were you my own son, I'd be extremely proud of you for taking the initiative. He was wrong to say what he said to your brother. A chief is not made on the blood of loved ones and the backs of inferiors. Not a good one anyway. A good chief is made on trust and the perpetuation of his people's welfare." Oliver stayed quiet again. "It pains me to refuse, Oliver. It really does but if my direct equal in all this is Barka, I will not continue to tolerate being so disrespected."

"I know," Oliver said. "It pains me too. Thank you for your kind words."

"I just hope someday you can be the chief this tribe deserves," Jacob said. Oliver nodded and stood to return to his home, now having a lot to think about. After they'd finished eating, Oscar walked back to Wisteria's home and Travis followed after him without a word. Wisteria hadn't returned to the house yet so the two of them were alone when they went up to the room Oscar used.

"Do you want to talk about it?" Travis finally asked.

"Not really," Oscar said, "but then we probably should."

"Do you think Barka will calm down by the time that army is dealt with?"

"No," Barka said bluntly. "If anything, it'll only get worse. At this point, the best thing to do is stay out of his way and you guys leave as soon as possible. As to an alliance…I know Oliver wants to maintain one; I agree. But if he thinks we'd be able to keep that up under father's nose, then he's a little too optimistic."

"You don't think Barka would demand you to return to the tribe after all this do you?"

"If he does, I'll remind him that my place in Phoenix is what allows us what few luxuries we can have," Oscar said. "That'll shut him up real quick."

"You'd know best," Travis said. "I need to ask; when you grabbed me and said not to leave your side.."

"Father threatened me," Oscar said. "Or he threatened to hurt you."

"I can fight back if I need to," Travis said.

"That's not really the point," Oscar said and approached Travis so they were standing before one another. "When he took Zakra from me, it was one of the most painful moments of my life. I'll never be able to undo what happened and I still miss him every day. If father did that to you, I don't know if I could handle it this time. Looking back on it, you helped me through one of the worst time of my life. I was just too blind and stubborn."

"You weren't ready," Travis defended. "After what Barka did, I can't blame you. I just wish I could have done more."

"You already did a hell of a lot," Oscar said. "I won't let father do anything to you. If I lose you, it'll be because I fucked up and not because of father."

"You won't lose me, Oscar," Travis said reassuringly and Oscar smiled.

"You're too good for me, you know that?" Oscar said and came a little closer. "Don't worry about me having to stay here. Even if father demands it, I'll give him reasons the answer will be no. After his outburst today, I need to be in Phoenix in order for us to continue seeing each other."

"I admit that was something I wanted to talk to you about," Travis said. In the time they'd reconnected, they'd avoided the topic rather adamantly. It felt the same as when they'd served in the army: avoiding the topic and only enjoying their time together because realistically that's all Travis would get. That wasn't the case anymore. At least he hoped it wasn't. "What are we going to do?" Travis finally asked.

"About us you mean?"

"Yes," Travis said. "I don't know about you, but I don't think I can stand another 25 years apart."

Oscar smiled a little and came closer, "Don't worry; neither can I. I need to stay in Arizona. There's no getting around that. Would you be willing to come to Phoenix? Live with me?"

"In a heartbeat," Travis agreed. "Would we need to worry about Barka?"

"I see no reason to relay to father that you're living with me," Oscar said.

"Can I make a condition?"

"What condition would that be?" Oscar asked with an amused smile.

"We're moving to a different apartment," Travis said and Oscar laughed a little. "I'm serious, Oscar. That apartment's a bit of a shithole."

"You know, Richard used to say the same thing," Oscar said. "It's cheap. I need cheap. Most of what I make acts as support for the tribe."

"Well, I'll take some of that weight off," Travis said. "I can find work here no problem. We can even save up for a house."

"Let's not get too far ahead of ourselves," Oscar said. "A house is a big investment. One I can't really afford."

"I say we still save up for it," Travis said. "It doesn't have to be anything crazy; just a single family home."

"And should we have a backyard for the kids too?" Oscar said jokingly.

"Very funny," Travis said. "For the record, I'd love to have kids."

"You carry it and we'll talk," Oscar said, continuing to joke and this time Travis laughed a little.

"Hey, if Carlisle or Kyle could help us figure out what to do, I'd love kids," Travis said.

"Okay," Oscar said, holding up his hands, "Now we're going a little crazy. I was just joking."

"I know you were," Travis said, "I'm just saying I'd love to be serious."

"Alright," Oscar said with a sigh and wrapped his arms around Travis, "One thing at a time. Let's figure out our living situation and be together a few years. I have no obligation to produce a child. I've done that already."

"I know, but it was under duress from what I could tell. And you didn't get to be as much a part of Genevieve's life as you could have been. You complain about as much."

"The circumstances surrounding Wisteria and Genevieve weren't ideal; you're right. There are plenty of things I wish I could have done differently and would do over if given the chance. That doesn't necessarily mean I want to start over again with all new kids. Especially if they're other people's kids. I don't want other people's kids."

"You wouldn't want to adopt?"

"Not really, no," Oscar said and rested his forehead against Travis. "I'm afraid I don't have a heart that big. I didn't think I had a big enough heart to be a father to the child I have. Still don't know how I managed it."

"I could think of a few ways," Travis encouraged. "We don't have to do anything now. I agree; we should probably give ourselves time to settle down. Kids are just one of those things that you have with the person you want to spend your life with."

"Travis, I think we should get to know each other first before we talk about that. You haven't even bought me a ring."

Travis punched Oscar's side and the man started laughing, "Don't be an asshole."

"It's what I do best. What can I say?" Oscar smiled and gave Travis a kiss. "Thank you for making me feel better. I don't know how you do it, but I appreciate it."

"I'm always happy to help," Travis said and kissed Oscar back. "We'll get through this."

"I know," Oscar said and kissed Travis again. "You're the best thing to ever happen to me, you know that? I'm sorry it took me so long to realize it myself."

"I'd said you were worth waiting for," Travis said, "and I'd meant it."

"Something I'm extremely grateful for," Oscar said. "We'll get everything ironed out."

"I know," Travis said. "I love you, Oscar."

"I love you too," Oscar whispered back.

Oscar initiated another kiss between them that lasted several minutes. Their tongues dueled and before he knew it, Travis was being pressed against the wall. Oscar pulled away long enough to bring a small curtain up to close off the door and once it was up, Oscar came back and started kissing Travis again. Since reuniting, it was like a honeymoon period. It were as though they were making up for all the years they'd been apart and now that they were going to actually be together, for Travis it was that much better. The two of them reached down between one another to touch each other's erections. Oscar was the one to end their kiss so as to go down on his knees before Travis.

Every time Travis saw Oscar on his knees, it always excited him. It made him think of the first time they'd ever been together in the utility room on base in England when Oscar had gone down on him first. Despite everything, he still looked back fondly on their time together during the war but this was demonstrably better. Oscar undid Travis's jeans and wasted no time taking Travis's erection into his mouth. Oscar wasn't a gentle man; never had been. So when he pleasured Travis, it was always with his hand at the base while his mouth went up and down. Feeling the back of Oscar's throat was always his favorite part. Oscar would use his teeth precariously over the head which always made Travis shiver, then Oscar would stroke Travis's erection right before taking it in his mouth again. After a few minutes, Oscar gave Travis's erection one last long lick before getting back to his feet and taking a hold of Travis by the arms.

"Clothes off," Oscar ordered and the guided Travis in the direction of the blankets on the floor. After being released, Travis undressed as Oscar asked and he did the same. He got down on his knees joining Travis on the bed and grabbed the jar of the balm he used. "On your hands and knees," Oscar continued. Travis did as he was told and got on his hands and knees.

Oscar took a moment to make sure he was thoroughly lubricated with the balm and rubbed that balm around the entrance of Travis's ass. Travis waited patiently until he finally felt Oscar press against him. He gently pushed his hips forward until he was fully in. The two of them were still for a moment until Oscar took over and began to thrust. They both groaned from the movement and Oscar pulled Travis up against his chest to hold him close while he continued to move. When Oscar had Travis against his chest, he wrapped his hand around Travis's neck loose enough that he could still breathe but tight enough that there was that pressure. Travis had his hands on Oscar's forearm but did not try to pull his hand away.

Oscar kept themselves that way for a few minutes until eventually dropping Travis back onto his hands and grabbing a hold of him so he could thrust with more speed and pressure. It was all getting them both closer and closer to their release; Travis especially. Travis warned Oscar he was getting close and when he did, Oscar pulled out, tossed Travis around so he was on his back, slipped back in and returned to his previous speed. Since Oscar was preoccupied, Travis reached down to stroke himself until the culmination of it all brought him to his release and Oscar soon followed. After a string of profanities while they rode out their orgasms, Oscar pulled out and laid down next to Travis.

"I'm a mess," Travis said through heavy breathing.

"Good," Oscar answered and Travis punched his shoulder with a laugh. When he could finally move again, Travis grabbed some clean rags, got them wet and cleaned himself up tossing Oscar a clean rag so he could do the same. Then Travis rejoined Oscar in bed so the two of them could get some much needed sleep.

The following morning, there was still a horrible awkwardness in the air. Barka had joined the group for training but no one dared say a word to the man and Jacob refused to acknowledge the man's existence. Oliver and Oscar noticed Owen had not joined the group for training. Neither did Nesia for that matter. They'd tried to avoid the topic until Barka demanded to know where Owen was and then sent Oscar to check on him. At Owen's house, he'd fallen asleep with Nesia holding him and Haseya slept in a collection of blankets nearby. Owen did not calm down until he was finally asleep and Nesia woke up with him still in her arms. She wasn't about to wake him after last night and Haseya agreed. She was in the kitchen getting some food ready when she heard someone approaching and fled to the bedroom.

"Owen?" Oliver called just before entering the home. Nesia moved from under Owen and went to the living area to meet Oliver. "How is he?" Oliver asked.

"He's still asleep," Nesia answered. "Barka really upset him last night and it took a bit to calm him down. I think he should be left alone right now."

"Father's demanding him," Oliver said.

"I don't care," Nesia said. "The man's done enough damage; he can back off."

Oliver smiled weakly but remained serious, "I appreciate you looking out for him. But if I don't bring Owen back with me, it'll just get worse."

Nesia took a deep breath and said, "Let me talk to him," before returning to the bedroom. Oliver noticed Haseya in the room but said nothing. Nesia gently rubbed Owen's shoulder trying to wake him and when he finally did, he was not happy about it. "Ahiga?"

"What?" he answered shortly.

"Oliver's here. I guess Barka is asking for you," Nesia said.

"Tell him to fuck off," Ahiga said. "Him and father."

"Don't be that way, Ahiga," Oliver said as he stepped into the room and kneeled down beside the blankets. Nesia stayed close and rubbed Ahiga's arm. "How are you feeling?"

"Like shit; how else would I feel?" Ahiga snapped back under his breath.

"Last night got out of hand," Oliver agreed. "We just need to move past it. Father's demanding you be present for training and you know he won't take 'no' for an answer."

"He'll need to learn to take no for an answer," Ahiga said.

"Nesia?" Oliver said, "Can you take Haseya home? I need to speak with Ahiga privately. Besides, she needs to be out of here and out of father's line of fire just in case."

"Alright," Nesia said and relayed to Haseya she'd take her home. Haseya clearly didn't want to leave but eventually agreed and went to Ahiga, gave him a kiss on the head and then followed after Nesia to return to the slums. Once they were alone, Oliver laid down next to Ahiga hoping to make everything more comfortable.

"I'm not going," Ahiga said. "I don't know if I can face father right now. I don't want to."

"I know," Oliver said.

"The only reason he wants me there is to assert his dominance, piece of shit," Ahiga said.

"Maybe," Oliver said.

"Certainly," Ahiga argued. "You really don't need to put yourself in the middle like this."

"Someone has to act as a buffer," Oliver said. "Especially with you and father. You didn't inherit his coldness but you certainly inherited his temper."

"That temper nearly freed us," Ahiga said bitterly. "Why did you stop me?"

"You would have regretted it later if I didn't," Oliver said.

"How do you figure?"

"The moment you told Haseya what happened, even if you lied to her you would know what happened and you would regret that you'd done what she told you not to," Oliver pointed out and finally Ahiga agreed.

"God damn it," Ahiga said. "Why don't you or Oscar do it? It should be the two of you. You're the ones that have a claim to the chiefdom."

"We can never bring ourselves to do it. I guess we had the same realization as Haseya: if we kill him and take the chiefdom by force, we're no better than the tyrant."

"Bullshit," Ahiga muttered.

"Maybe it's because despite everything he's still our father," Oliver said. "My whole childhood, I wanted his approval. It was always reserved for Oscar: the strong one. The elder. Oscar who embodied everything father wanted in a son. When I told father about Oscar's lover, I'd thought it would mean I would be the favorite. Maybe father would finally look at me the way he did Oscar: pride."

"Lot of good that did you," Ahiga said.

"Yes, I learned the hard way I was wrong," Oliver said. "And I'll never be able to undo the consequences of my actions. Father had fostered a horrible relationship between me and Oscar and what I did only made that worse."

"You get along now."

"All thanks to you," Oliver said and smiled gently at Ahiga. "You made it possible for us to reconcile. You helped me realize that aspiring to please father and be the son he wanted was pointless. My energy was better spent being a brother that you needed. Same went for Oscar. Although even after all that, I still wish deep down that father could be proud of me."

"I don't think he's capable," Ahiga said.

"You might be right," Oliver said. "Still: he's my father. I can't bring myself to kill him. Neither can Oscar."

"I hate him," Ahiga said.

"I know," Oliver said. "I know it's the last thing you want to do, but let's go to training. I doubt father wants more than your presence regardless of the reason. Besides, you'll be fighting this army too. I want you prepared."

"Fine," Ahiga finally said and lifted himself up with Oliver following him. "After this is over, I'm leaving."

"Pardon?"

"I don't care what he says. When this is over, I'm leaving and I'm taking mom with me."

"I see," Oliver said and then patted Ahiga's shoulder. "Jacob and his tribe will take you in. Of that I'm certain. They'll help you find your way. Maybe when the time is right, you and Nesia can marry."

"Not now," Ahiga said. "When the time is right, yes, but not now. I'm not worth anything to her now."

"Why do you say that?"

"I can't exactly take care of myself and my mother at the moment," Ahiga said. "If I'm going to ask to marry her, I'm going to be a man that deserves her."

Oliver smiled, "That's good." Oliver started walking out. "I'll wait for you outside while you get changed."

"Sure," Ahiga said.

"And Ahiga?" Oliver said and got Ahiga to look at him. "I'm proud of you."

Oliver walked outside to wait for Ahiga while he needed to take a moment to compose himself after what Oliver said. He'd needed that more than anything. Nesia eventually returned and joined Oliver and Ahiga, or Owen since they were rejoining the group for training, to the center of the village where Jasper was having everyone play fight to prepare. Owen would not look in Barka's direction and as far as Oliver was able to tell, Barka was content to ignore Owen as well. Those among the pack most effected from the night before had a hard time focusing despite their efforts. Taraq couldn't stop thinking about Uilette and what happened last night. He was ready to get on his knees and beg her to choose him. Leave everything behind and choose him, but she wouldn't do it. He didn't believe for a minute she still loved Hawk. She loved him; Taraq knew it. But then reality always sank in. Barka was already being a tyrant. What would it mean if he found out a member of his tribe was having an affair with a member of the pack behind her husband's back. He doubted Barka gave two shits about his flock member's marriage, but the man certainly wasn't above a convenient excuse. Bayaq was worried about how things would work with Cidelle. Granted, unlike his brother, Cidelle was very willing to leave with him, but Takara would not allow it for reasons that, whether Bayaq liked it or not, were completely reasonable.

Of them, Blu Jae was the only one that seemed to have a clear path for him and Desarae but even then he was worried there might be some fall out if Barka found out. Again, it wasn't so much the man actually cared so much as it was the principle of the matter. Ahiga had not told Nesia he had every intention of leaving but planned to tell her that night but the same factor arose: Barka. For Salem however, he wasn't concerned with Barka. He quite literally had a much bigger obstacle in his way. Having Owota's blessing wouldn't do Salem a damn thing if he couldn't safely take Yvonne with him back to Washington. He'd only have Owota's blessing if he could figure out how to save Yvonne from whatever infested the oasis. How in the fuck was he going to do that Salem asked himself over and over again. He kept looking at Yvonne who was at the oasis with Owota occupied with whatever task needed to be done that day. All the while, Alice was keeping a figurative eye out for Miguel and what he was planning. She couldn't believe the man was so indecisive. She wondered if perhaps it was intended but Edward argued, based entirely on his time in the man's presence having read his mind, that was highly unlikely. The man didn't know about their gifts to make such a call anyway. All they could do is wait for him to decide for sure what he wanted to do.

When nightfall came, Barka was among the tribe for dinner. He didn't make a point to make his presence known, but then he didn't really need to. Jacob couldn't pretend he didn't understand the power the man had. He was a haunting individual with the coldest eyes he'd ever seen. There was nothing in the man's eyes; just emptiness that sent a shiver up Jacob's spine. Given the man was known for having murdered his whole family and openly displayed he'd turn on anyone, even his own sons, it was no wonder no one in the tribe ever stood up to the man or questioned him. Jacob had never been among a tribe so visibly ruled by fear and he hoped to never experience it again. On Jacob's orders in the hopes to maintain some semblance of calm, the pack members with imprints did not converse with them. Nesia argued but Jacob was insistent. Ahiga was able to tell Nesia to still come to his home that night so they could talk making sure it was when Barka wasn't paying attention. Ahiga left the group early so he could return home and Nesia joined him later that night when everyone was already going to bed. She followed to Owota's house first and when she had the chance, she ran to Ahiga's house. When she arrived, Ahiga and Haseya were deep in conversation.

"Good, you're here," Ahiga said when Nesia stepped in. "Mom, can Nesia and I have a moment? I'll walk you home."

"You're sure this will all be alright?"

"It'll be fine. Trust me," Ahiga insisted. "I'll be right back. I'm going to take mom home."

"You don't have to," Nesia said.

"No, we need to talk privately. I already told mom what I needed to anyway," Ahiga said. Nesia complied and waited for Ahiga while he walked Haseya back home. She wished him good luck and Nesia was right where he'd left her when he returned.

"So what did you want to talk about?" Nesia asked.

"It's about what happens after we've fought," Ahiga said and approached Nesia so he was sitting beside her. "I've pretty much hit my final straw. I'm not staying here; I've already told Oliver. I'll tell Oscar when I get a chance. Originally I'd thought I could move in with Oscar for a while and go from there, but I'm thinking that might not be an option."

"You and Haseya are welcome to live with me," Nesia quickly offered.

"I can't in good conscience impose on you like that," Ahiga said.

"It's not imposing if I'm offering," Nesia said. "If you really want to find another place after you've gotten on your feet, that's alright, but my door is always open."

"Nesia," Ahiga said and took her hand in his, "You don't deserve for me to leech off you. That's how I'd feel."

"If you find work, I'll make you contribute," Nesia persisted. "I'll charge you rent, you can help pay for groceries, help pay for repairs if they're needed; it's not leeching if you're pulling your weight."

"With what money?"

"From a job," Nesia said. "We'll keep up with your reading lessons. I'll have you proficient in no time. You already know how to drive, so you'll just need to take a driving test that I can help you prepare for and you can get your own car. We'll make this work, Ahiga. I'm happy to help you in any way I can." Ahiga was quiet, so Nesia said, "At least think it over?"

"Alright," Ahiga finally said and smiled lovingly at her. "I'll think it over."

"Thank you," Nesia replied. "I have a guest room so if you want your own room, it's yours."

"I won't make you do that," Ahiga said. "I'd rather mom got the room."

"There's always room in my bed for you," Nesia said. Ahiga chuckled a little and brought her hand to his lips to give it a kiss.

"I'll talk to your grandpa next there's a chance," Ahiga said. "I'm sure he'll know what to do."

"He will," Nesia said. "My grandma's family will be able to help you from the side of documentation."

"Documentation?"

"Social Security Card, Driver's license, Birth Certificate; all that legal stuff. We'll even make sure you have a High School Diploma from our Tribal School. Whatever's necessary."

"Oh, yeah," Ahiga sighed, "So basically everything I need to be a functioning member of society?"

"Pretty much," Nesia said. "We'll worry about that once we get you and Haseya to Washington. We can even obtain all that documentation for Haseya."

"I'll ask her about it," Ahiga said, "Although I don't want her being put out. This is all my idea after all."

"I'm sure she agrees it's a great idea," Nesia said. "I guess I should ask what we're going to do about Barka. You'd said before part of the reason you weren't eager to leave was because of him."

"He can do what he wants," Ahiga said, letting go of Nesia's hand. "He can rant and rave and kick up a fuss all he wants. I've had it; I'm not staying. If he wants to come after me, that's his business. Hell, son of a bitch wouldn't even be the one to come after me. He'd just make Oscar or Oliver do it."

"And I doubt they'd put much effort in making you come back," Nesia said.

"Oliver might put up some fight, but only because he's stuck in the middle. The man has drastically more patience than I do," Ahiga said.

"A remarkable accomplishment all things considered," Nesia said. Then she moved closer and took his hand back into hers. "Everything will work out. I'll make sure of it."

"I know," Ahiga said. "And thank you for this. I promise I'll get myself standing on my own two feet as fast as I can."

"It's alright, take all the time you need," Nesia reassured. With a smile, Ahiga pulled Nesia closer until she was sitting on his lap while he hugged her.

"Don't enable me," Ahiga said. "Tell me to find work or else."

"Find work or else," Nesia repeated and made Ahiga laugh.

"That's better," Ahiga said.

"It's a bit of an empty threat on my part."

"Well, it's not on mine," Ahiga said. "I want to be with you, but I can't make promises. I refuse to be a deadbeat."

"We can still be together, Ahiga," Nesia said. "I love you no matter what."

"I love you too," Ahiga said, "but I think you want to get married right away. I'm not ready for that."

"I know," Nesia said. "I won't ask you to marry me. All I want is to be with you. There's no rule that says we can't spend time together because we aren't married."

"Indeed there isn't," Ahiga perked back up and started trailing his hand over Nesia's knee.

"Although," Nesia said, deciding to have a little fun, "there is a rule against a teacher being with her student."

"Pardon?" Ahiga asked, not realizing she was teasing.

"A teacher shouldn't be in an intimate relationship with their student. It's considered an abuse of power," Nesia continued. "And it's considered a conflict of interest. If I'm going to continue being your teacher, no one can know we're together."

Finally realizing she was being playful, Ahiga smirked mischievously. "I'm sorry Miss Dauer. Maybe we should stop. I would hate for someone to find out and we get in trouble."

"We won't get in trouble so long as we keep this our little secret," Nesia smiled and kissed him. "But don't think I'll go easy on you. I still expect you to work hard."

"Oh, come on, Miss Dauer," Ahiga said as he started trailing his hand up her leg aiming between her legs, "surely you can go a little easy on me. I'll make it worth your while."

"Don't try to bribe me, Ahiga. It won't work," Nesia said as she pushed his hand away and got out of his lap. Ahiga watched her with a confused stare while she moved to sit a few feet away from him. "I'll tell you what; I'll give you a spelling test. Don't worry, it'll be words we've gone over already. For every word you spell right, I will remove an article of clothing. And if you spell each word correctly without any help, I'll give you extra credit."

"What's the extra credit?" Ahiga asked.

"Something I think you'll appreciate very much," Nesia smiled. "How about we start with you reciting the alphabet."

"Um….A..B…C..D-E-F-G….H-I-J…..K?" Nesia nodded, encouraging him to continue, "L-M-N-O-P…Q-R…..S?" Nesia nodded. "Alright," he nodded his head and then took a moment to think and get back to where he'd left off. "T-U-V….W…X-and…no, X-Y-Z?"

"Very good. Now recite it without stopping," Nesia said.

Although he still went slowly, he answered, "A-B-C-D-E-F-G-H-I-J-K-L-M-N-O-P-Q-R-S-T-U-V-W-X-Y-Z."

"Perfect," Nesia smiled and reached behind to pull off her sandals. "You're off to a very good start. Now spell your name."

"A-H-I-G-A," he answered.

"Correct," Nesia replied and pulled off her tank top so she was in her bra. "Now spell my name."

"N-E-S-I-A," he answered confidently.

"Correct," she said and then got on her feet so she could undo her jeans and pull them off so she was just in her bra and panties. By now, Ahiga was salivating. "Don't let yourself get too distracted Ahiga. You've got two more questions and if you get them both right first try, you get extra credit."

"Yes, Miss Dauer," Ahiga answered in a far off mumble.

"Now spell Bird."

"B….I-R-D," he said.

"Very good," Nesia smiled and removed her bra, tossing it to one side. "Now this is going to be a tricky one. Are you ready?" Ahiga's only answer was a gentle nod. "Spell Flock." This time, Ahiga needed to take a moment to think. It was one of those words they'd gone over that always threw him off because it wasn't necessarily spelled the way it sounded.

"F-L….Eh," he was about to say A, caught his mistake and then stopped himself, "O….." he was desperate not to get the answer wrong and racked his brain to remember, "C-K?"

"Perfect," Nesia smiled and got her panties off so that she was naked. "Seeing as you got each spelling correct, you're entitled to your extra credit. How about a bonus question?"

"Will I lose my extra credit reward if I get the bonus question wrong?" Ahiga asked.

"No," Nesia smiled, "Luckily for you, I am a very lenient teacher when I know my student did his best. Although, if you answer the bonus question correctly, I'll give you one more extra credit prize."

"What would that be?"

"That'll be up to you," Nesia answered with a seductive tone to her voice. All that paired with Nesia's nudity had Ahiga's pulse racing and fully aroused. He was tempted to say 'to hell with the bonus question' and take what he'd already get, but he couldn't help feeling curious.

"Okay," he finally said.

"What are my two cats' names?" Nesia asked.

"What?"

"My cats: what are their names," Nesia repeated. Ahiga instantly regretted agreeing to a bonus question. He couldn't remember the names of her damn cats! He thought back trying to remember what she'd told him. He knew she'd told him their names, but it was hardly information he'd thought he'd need. He rubbed his temple and tapped his head trying to think and Nesia giggled. "Think, think, think – think, think, think."

"Don't make fun of me," Ahiga said.

"The way you're thinking just made me think of Winnie the Pooh is all," Nesia said.

"What?"

"Never mind," she said with a gentle laugh. "Would you like a hint?"

"Will accepting that hint exempt me from this reward you're promising?"

"No," Nesia promised.

"Okay. Give me a hint," Ahiga said.

"The mommy cat's name begins with a P and ends with a y while her kitten's name begins with a T and ends with an A," Nesia said.

"God damn it," Ahiga mumbled and kept racking his brain.

"Don't swear, Ahiga. Or I'll have to write you up and send you to the principal's office," Nesia teased. Ahiga gave her a mean look but kept thinking.

He wasn't sure if he was right, but he eventually said, "Um…..Pity and…..Tina?"

"Pippy and Tina," Nesia corrected. "You had it half right."

"Do I at least get half credit?" Ahiga asked.

"I'll tell you what," Nesia said and crawled over to him so she was sitting on her knees before him. "I'll ask you one more question then I'll give you full credit."

Ahiga sighed a little, "What's the question?"

"Do you love me?" Nesia asked. Ahiga almost laughed a little. Why couldn't the bonus question have been this easy?

"Yes, I love you," Ahiga answered.

Nesia's smile became soft and amorous, "I love you too." Nesia finally closed the distance between them and gave him a kiss while her hands started trailing down his body. Her hands landed on his erection covered by his jeans and she started kissing across his jaw to his neck.

"So what is my extra credit?"

"Well, your first bit of extra credit I'm about to do right now. Your next piece of extra credit, like I'd mentioned, is up to you. If there's anything different you want to do together, any fantasy you'd like to live out: we'll do it."

"I might have to think about that. Am I allowed to save my reward for later?"

"Yes," Nesia smiled against his neck.

"Thank you," Ahiga said and brought both his hands to her ass so he could start squeezing her. Her hands stayed between them rubbing his erection. "Let's move to my room," Ahiga suggested.

"Alright," she said and before she could stand, Ahiga wrapped Nesia's arms around his neck, grabbed a hold of her ass again and stood up carrying Nesia with him. He started kissing her while he walked them to his room and when he reached his blankets, Ahiga got down to his knees so he could place Nesia down to cover her with his body. Then Nesia started to gently push against him and took her lips away. "Get on your back for me?"

Ahiga nodded and followed her direction getting on his back and waited eagerly to see what she'd do. He stared at her taking in the look of her skin with the moon poking through the window to touch it, her long black hair that framed her face, her dark eyes that were staring at him lovingly; it all made him so desperate for her. He made himself wait patiently, though. Nesia pulled Ahiga's shirt off him and tossed it to the side so his chest was bare and started a trail of kisses from his neck down his chest and over his stomach. The muscles in his stomach contracted from the feel of her lips – a strange combination of the touch tickling him and causing great pleasure. Nesia had one hand rubbing up and down his erection, his jeans still acting as a barrier between them.

"Now, I should warn you," Nesia said as her kisses went further and further down, "I've never done this before. I've heard it's something that men really like but I've never actually done it to anyone. So if you don't like what I'm doing, let me know okay?"

"I'll tell you right now: I draw the line at anything going up my ass," Ahiga said and Nesia started laughing.

"That wasn't what I was planning to do, but I'll keep that in mind," Nesia said.

"Okay, good," Ahiga said and ran his fingers through her hair.

Nesia returned to kissing his midriff until she finally got to the top of his jeans and used her teeth to pull the button from the hoop then bit onto the clasp of the zipper to pull it down. Once undone, Nesia pulled his erection free and took a moment to stroke it. He was already rock hard and when she took a hold of him, he became that much harder. Ahiga gathered her hair so it was behind her head ensuring he had a full view of what she was about to do. The anticipation alone was killing him as she planted kisses to his lower stomach and his hip all while she was stroking his erection. She eventually nuzzled it against her face lifting her head excruciatingly slowly while she darted out her tongue just enough to tease him. She was driving him insane. Then at long last her lips met the head of his erection and she took him in her mouth starting a very slow and gentle rhythm. Ahiga groaned and his head fall back but he kept his hands in her hair.

"Holy shit, Nesia," Ahiga groaned.

He felt Nesia smile around him but she didn't stop what she was doing. She went down as far as she could until he could feel the back of her throat. Then she coupled that with her muscles contracting as though she were swallowing which caused her mouth to suck tightly. Ahiga shivered and clutched her hair tighter as his senses went out the window. He heard Nesia release a light whimper from him tightening his hold on her hair but she didn't make him let go. Instead she kept going, returning to the movement she'd started with: going up and down on his erection and sucking on the head in particular when she got to it. He finally lifted his head up enough so he could watch her and at one point their eyes met while she was pleasuring him and it made knots form in his stomach.

"Do you mind if I take control?" Ahiga asked.

"Did I do something wrong?" Nesia asked after removing her mouth.

"No, not at all," Ahiga said as he lifted himself up so he was on his knees never letting go of her hair. "I just want to take over for a bit."

"Okay," Nesia said.

Ahiga guided Nesia so she was holding herself upright on her hands and knees. He pulled Nesia up by her hair so he could give her a passionate kiss before guiding her back down to her hands and slipping back inside her mouth. He reminded himself this particular act was new to her and kept from getting too rough. He'd save that for later. For now, he rocked his hips gently so that if he went deep, she had time to adjust. She brought one hand up by trailing it over his thigh and cupping his balls in her hand. He sped up for a moment when she did that but he got a hold of himself and slowed down. His free hand he used to touch her body. He grabbed a hold of her breast pinching her nipples and then rubbed his hand over her back going to her ass that he squeezed. Then he trailed his fingers over the apex of her ass, trailing down between the cheeks until he was touching the wet heat of her core. He began to thrust harder again and this time it took him a moment to slow down but Nesia took him without complaint. Instead she moaned and tightened the suction of her mouth around him so that the feel was even tighter. It was bringing him close to the edge so with what little sense he had left, he pulled his erection out of her mouth and sat back on his heels. He wanted a moment to calm down so Ahiga guided her further onto the blankets and onto her back then came around her so he was between her legs.

"Is it true that students give their teachers apples as thanks for their hard work?"

"It's a stereotype," Nesia finally managed to answer. "Not one of my students have ever given me an apple. They've given me hugs, though. I'll be honest: I prefer to get a hug. When a little kid gives you a hug, it's from the heart."

"Okay, good, 'cause I don't have an apple to give you," Ahiga said and started rubbing her entrance with his fingers. "As to what I can give you, I hope it's better than a hug." He slipped two fingers inside her and started rolling his tongue around her clitoris. She released a high pitched whimper and grabbed a hold of his head so she could touch his hair.

"I don't know, Ahiga," Nesia eventually moaned, "Getting a hug of appreciation is a really special thing." Ahiga curled his fingers so he was touching the rounded elevation so he was pressing her g-spot and sucked on her clitoris to cause a sharp jolt of pleasure that made Nesia cry out.

"How's that for a hug of appreciation?" Ahiga asked and continued doing what his fingers started and rolling his tongue over the sensitive bundle of nerves. Nesia managed a light, breathy laugh that was quickly replaced with moans as Ahiga continued touching her.

From there, Nesia kept one hand in Ahiga's hair while her other hand came back up to touch her breast. She felt so dizzy and like she was floating on air. When she was coming closer to her release, she started to moan Ahiga's name and roll her hips along to the movements of his fingers to bring herself closer.

"Tell me when you're close, Nesia," Ahiga said and continued what he was doing. Within minutes, Nesia warned Ahiga that she was close and when she did, Ahiga stopped abruptly pulling his fingers out of her and climbing up so he was on top of her.

"Ahiga," Nesia whimpered when he'd removed his mouth and fingers.

Once he was on top of her and slipped inside her, any prior complaints fled and all she felt was pleasure. He stayed still for several seconds wanting to savor the feeling before he finally started to move again. Nesia's arms fell back to rest above her head while Ahiga thrust his hips forward in a slow and steady rhythm to start. Then he balanced himself on his knees so he could grab a hold of Nesia by her midriff to increase his speed and force. Nesia grabbed a hold of his forearms while he held onto her and she moaned his name as he made love to her. It wasn't long before he was bringing her closer to her release and Ahiga wasn't far behind. He started going faster and helped Nesia along by freeing up one hand to rub her clitoris. With that extra sensation, Nesia moaned a little louder clutching his forearms together nearly breaking the skin with her nails. When she climaxed at last, Ahiga moved that much faster both to lengthen how long her orgasm lasted but also to achieve his own release.

"Nesia," Ahiga said as he was nearly on the brink, "press your breasts together."

Doing as he asked, Nesia lifted her hands to her breasts and pressed them together and kept them that way until she felt Ahiga start to shake then pull out of her suddenly so his release fell on her belly and chest. Ahiga continued to hover over her a moment while he and Nesia recovered and eventually he laid down on top of her not concerned with the mess. Nesia hugged him and kept her legs up so she was cradling him. The two of them kissed tenderly for a moment before Ahiga rested his head on Nesia's shoulder.

"I love you," Ahiga whispered to her already starting to fall asleep.

"I love you too," Nesia whispered back while she held him close.

As she'd been doing, Alice kept her mind open for what Miguel was planning to do. In the wee hours of the morning, Miguel finally made a definitive decision that the army would attack the Tistilal in the dead of night. The logic being that what he already assumed was an ill-equipped tribe would be sitting ducks if they attacked when everyone was asleep. Edward wasted no time waking Jacob and letting him know who woke the pack and let them know they needed to sleep through the day so they would be prepared to fight. Jacob then went to Oliver's house to inform him so he could then inform the flock. Oliver went to Oscar first to wake him and Travis to relay the news then went to Owen's home to notify him and Nesia. He saved informing Barka for first thing in the morning. When morning came, he went to Barka's home waiting until he'd risen for the day and was downstairs.

"What is it?" Barka asked when he came downstairs seeing Oliver.

"We have received news that the leader of the Cold Army has decided on a course of action. They attack tonight hoping to take us by surprise."

"And everyone's prepared?"

"Yes," Oliver said. "Between the flock, the pack, the cold ones on our side and the surprise that our allies are still here, I'm confident we will be victorious."

"The flock knows they will be fighting tonight?"

"Yes, I've informed everyone," Oliver answered.

"And where are your brothers?"

"Getting their rest," Oliver replied. "We will need to do the same. I am just coming to let you know what's going on."

"And Jacob saw fit to go to you rather than the chief and leader of the flock?" Barka asked.

"Father, I implore you: just drop it," Oliver said and turned to leave. "Come nightfall, we'll all meet in the village center so we're ready for the army once they arrive. I'm planning to send a few birds ahead so we can trap them."

"And the Quileutes are prepared to leave following our victory you are so confident about?"

"Father, the least we can do is allow them sleep and some food before they leave," Oliver argued.

"When I said they're to leave the moment we've won, I mean the 'moment' we've won," Barka argued back. "Now get out. If we fight tonight, then today we sleep."

"I will not force who are effectively our saviors out of our village, father. I will not allow the flock to do so either."

"And you think you have command over the flock? Last I saw, I was still breathing."

"Not from lack of effort," Oliver blurted out without thinking.

"Effort from the least worthy of the three of you," Barka bit back. Oliver didn't have a retort. Barka's words hurt whether Oliver wanted them to or not. "Get out."

Oliver didn't answer him as he left the house feeling his blood boiling. This wasn't the time to argue with Barka over the matter anyway. When he returned home, his wife and their younger children were already wide awake and she was feeding them breakfast. He kept their interaction brief so he wouldn't take out his frustration on them and did his best to go to sleep. Everyone did their best to sleep, but they were on edge for a multitude of reasons. Myta kindly ensured all the doorways and windows in the home were covered so as to ensure there was as little light as was possible to help everyone get some sleep and made sure there was food ready come the evening so they would be prepared. Since they would be needed, Owota and Yvonne slept through the day as well.

Yvonne went back to sleep rather quickly, but it seemed as though the moment she'd fallen asleep, she opened her eyes. The shock, however, was that when she opened her eyes, the blackness was gone and she was staring at something she'd not seen for years: the blue sky. She gasped and sat up feeling her heart race at the shock. Had she fallen asleep outside? No…she'd been in her bed. She remembered. Yet she was outside by the oasis. She looked around to see more that she'd not seen in so many years. She'd forgotten what the village looked like with the sun beating down. It was even warm. There was no one around, though. She stood up and turned in circles but it was as if the village were abandoned. Then, across the oasis was a man that she could swear had not been there last she'd looked in that direction. She stayed put where she was, uncertain of what to do. The man across the oasis then turned so he was looking at here and waved for her to come over. Slowly, Yvonne came around the oasis to the man but once she was near, something about the man was extremely comforting. His smile was pleasant and full of life. Something about the man struck her as familiar but she couldn't begin to imagine what it was.

"Yvonne," the man said with a kind smile.

"Salem?"

"No," he answered, "His father. Jae."

"I…..he said you were dead."

"Sadly, yes," he answered. When he said that, she finally realized she must be dreaming.

"I'm sorry. He sounds so much like you; I had though-"

"There's nothing to apologize for," Jae answered. "Salem made quite an impressive chain for Taha Aki's tooth." Yvonne looked down at her chest, seeing the necklace Salem had given her for the first time. She'd loved it because he'd given it to her but also for how it felt when she touched it. It could have been visually ugly and it would have meant nothing. She loved it all the same. But it truly was a beautiful piece.

"This is the first time I've seen it for myself," Yvonne said and then looked around for a moment. "There are so many things I'm seeing again for the first time in years. I'd lived in darkness for so long."

"Sadly, once you wake, it will return to that," Salem lamented. "The army will be here come midnight. There will be a shift in power that will change the course of your tribe's future forever. However, it will not change your fate. You must change that yourself."

"My fate? What do you mean?"

"Your oasis is infested with cruel creatures. I have tried to expel them, but it's beyond my power. It will require all our power. You're the only one that can connect us all to the oasis."

"I don't understand. I cannot expel the spirits of the oasis. They are the ones that gave us the oasis. If we expel them, we remove the oasis and it will doom us to thirst."

"The creatures occupying the oasis are not the guardian that spared your people all those centuries ago. That guardian can be summoned to return, but first we must expel the creatures."

"How?" Yvonne finally asked after a moment of silence.

"When you hear my voice calling to you, enter the waters of the oasis and approach the cactus at the center. When you have reached the cactus, submerge yourself into the waters so that all the guardians attached to our ancestor's tooth can expel the creatures in the oasis. Once they are gone, their curse will lift."

"Their curse?"

"Yes," Jae said. "We cannot lift the curse put upon the Thunderbirds. That was a curse bestowed upon by an ancestor. We can, however, return the oasis to its proper place as the safe haven of your tribe."

"But….."

"Please, Yvonne, do not fear. We will keep you safe. You have my word." Yvonne stared at Jae for a moment with a sense of uncertainty. She took a hold of the tooth and when she did, she felt a warmth emit from it that surprised her. "Keep our ancestor's tooth around your neck and all will be well."

The sound of a strange bird came and grabbed Yvonne's attention. Atop the cactus at the center of the oasis was a large pitch black bird and in the distance was an enormous white wolf and a beautiful woman standing beside that wolf. She thought she saw the woman smiling at her. She looked back to Jae, but he wasn't there. She looked around to find him but she only heard the soft song of a tiny bird that approached her. She lifted her hands from surprise and a tiny blue bird landed in her hand. When he did, she realized who this little bird was and she smiled. She looked around again and lifted one hand up to the tooth around her neck. The little blue bird danced in her hand singing a little song before flying away. Then the blackness returned and when she woke from the dream, there was nothing to see. She felt the tooth however and smiled to herself.

Everyone that would be fighting was awake by sundown and had some food. Yvonne and Owota were on standby and kindle was prepared for a pyre that would be lit the moment the army was close. A group of men were assigned to fly ahead so that when the time came they could fly down to surround what would be left of the army following their realization that the flock wasn't alone.

"When will they be here?" Barka asked when it was an hour after sundown and there was nothing.

"They will be here closer to midnight," Alice answered. "Miguel is expecting the village to be asleep."

"His scout didn't tell him we were here?" Jacob asked just for confirmation.

"No, they've not told him," Alice said. "Miguel thinks we're long gone."

"Good," Jacob said. "We'll take advantage of the shock and make quick work of them."

"Everyone remember what I taught you," Jasper said to the whole group and Jacob translated for those that didn't know English or didn't speak it well, "any newborns in the group will be faster than their older counterparts and they'll be more reckless. Take advantage of that behavior. Emma Leigh, stay close to Anatoli and make sure no one can get to him. Anatoli, if you see anyone fall, bring them back as quickly as you can and we'll cover you."

"Got it," Anatoli nodded.

"Я буду рядом с тобой," (YA budu ryadom s toboy / I will stay close to you) Boris said.

"Спасибо," (Spasibo / Thank you) Anatoli answered.

When that army was finally approaching, Edward let them know and they got into position ready to reveal themselves upon command. A good chunk of the flock were already in the sky but were staying above the clouds so they would not be noticed. What was left remained on the Pedestal and once that group shifted for the attack, the flock that was in the sky would descend for their own assault as would the group that had flown ahead to ambush the army from behind. The pack, of course, were on the ground and would act as the flock's signal to attack. When they could see the army in the distance, they were initially coming at top speed but there was a moment when Miguel and his army realized there was still a smell of the pack and the Cullens.

"Now!" Edward yelled and Jacob and the pack shifted running to the army with the Cullens at their side.

The flock on the Pedestal shifted and flew towards the army, the flock up in the clouds descended towards the center and the flock that had gone ahead swooped up behind the army effectively locking them into a circle. Imelda, Heraldo and those that had been with them during the scouting trip turned the moment they saw the pack avoiding the flock that was approaching from behind. Fortunately, they were recognized and permitted to run away. Those among the army that were caught unaware stopped in their tracks when they saw the pack and promptly turned around leaving Miguel with only a third of his original army staying to fight despite him yelling at them in Spanish.

The pyre was lit and went up in a burst of flames. Despite only a 3rd of his army remaining, Miguel ordered everyone forward but they were immediately overpowered. Emma Leigh stayed close to Anatoli and if anyone was in need of help, they approached with Emma Leigh screaming into the ear of the attacker and Anatoli healing whoever was hurt. Miguel watched as his remaining army was quite literally torn apart before his very eyes seeing gifts in action that he'd not known he was up against. Shifting in strategy, he avoided those he determined to be minor members of the group and tried to find the leader. That turned out to be extremely hard to determine in the heat of the battle.

Remembering him as the leader and noticing he looked clearly amiss, Barka flew down to attack Miguel grabbing a hold of him ready to toss him into the fire. Since Barka had not first incapacitated Miguel, he was able to force himself loose of Barka's grip and grab a hold of Barka's leg which he broke. The snap caused Barka to release a falcon screech and to drop Miguel. However Barka ignored the pain so he could plummet towards Miguel. Miguel was able to grab hold of Barka and managed to break his wing causing them both to land forcefully on the ground. Barka returned to his human form, his arm and leg broken and unable to move due to the pain. Miguel approached and was about to deliver a finishing blow when Jacob attacked Miguel getting him away from Barka.

What remained of Miguel's army came to his aid and attacked Jacob, but they were once again overpowered. Barka tried to crawl away, but one of the vampires caught up and attacked only for Oscar to fly down, catch that person and remove their head with his beak before dropping that vampire into the fire. Afterwards, Oscar flew back around, shifted back and ran to Barka to assess the damage.

"Father, get your good arm on my shoulder; I'll get you out of here," Oscar said and helped Barka with the pack and flock covering them from what remained. But one of Miguel's last remaining army members came after them.

Everything happened so quickly. Emma Leigh was dashing towards the vampire and even grabbed a hold of his head to begin screaming, but it wasn't in time to stop the vampire's forward momentum. Barka realized the vampire was heading towards him and using the weight of his body to pull Oscar between them. Oscar let go of Barka in surprise and the vampire's fingers hit Oscar's shoulder going through his skin and piercing his heart. He heard a wolf's howl that he realizing must be Travis and it added to the pain he felt in his chest. Emma Leigh's scream persisted until the vampire's head cracked and he was finally incapacitated. Oscar fell to the ground, blood pooling from his wound and Travis shifted back yelling his name and came to him, turning him over.

"Oscar! Stay with me Oscar!" Travis cried and Anatoli came forward. Someone else got that vampire and all those that had remained to the fire to burn. They were victorious. Once at his side, Anatoli brought his hand to the wounded area to help. "You bastard," Travis said, directing his attention to Barka. "You bastard!" Travis managed to land one punch on Barka's face before Oliver grabbed a hold of him to stop him.

"You'll be alright, Oscar," Anatoli reassured and with the sound of a heartbeat emitting from his hand, the wound began to heal. Oscar coughed up blood that had already collected, but no more spilled out and when he was healed, he was able to breathe normally.

"Oscar!" Travis yelled and got out of Oliver's grip so he could go back to his side. Oscar didn't say anything. He was still recovering from the shock of what had just happened, and yet he wasn't even surprised.

"Oscar!" Owen yelled having finally come to the ground and shifted back. By then, Oscar was healed.

"I'm fine, kid," Oscar finally said when Owen was there.

"Help me get him home," Travis said to Owen and the two of them helped Oscar back to his feet to get him back.

"Jacob, help me get father to Owota?" Oliver asked and Jacob shifted back to normal and came forward to help.

When Owota noticed Barka was injured, he came forward instructing Jacob and Oliver to get Barka home and he would retrieve the necessary medicine. Kyle was close behind but Salem went right to Yvonne to make sure she'd remained unscathed from the onslaught. They'd managed to ensure the army never made it to the village grounds so Yvonne was safe.

"You were not hurt?" Yvonne asked and started running her hands over Salem's body to check for injury.

"I'm fine," Salem said. "We won. It's over. You won't have to worry anymore." Yvonne smiled and fell into Salem's arms when he hugged her.

Oliver and Jacob managed to get Barka back home and onto his blankets, a long trail of blood following behind them. Knowing he'd lose too much blood if he didn't act fast, Kyle retrieved anything he could use as compresses and brought them to Barka but when he tried to work, Barka forced Kyle away with his good leg and arm ordering Kyle to stay away from him.

"Father, stop! Let him help you!" Oliver pleaded.

"Stop fighting! You're losing too much blood!" Kyle yelled.

"I want all of you gone," Barka demanded but the pain he was experiencing weakened his voice and he couldn't speak with the force he wanted to.

"We saved your tribe and my son is trying to save your life!" Jacob yelled.

"Everyone be quiet!" Owota rushed in with his medicines and began assessing the injuries.

"I said I want you gone!" Barka managed to yell at Jacob and Kyle.

"Please," Oliver finally bended, "leave us."

"Alright," Jacob sand and took Kyle by the arm to follow him despite his arguments that he should stay and help. When they were finally alone, Owota continued his examination of Barka's injured arm and leg. By then, Barka was beginning to weaken from the loss of blood despite the compresses that Owota had taken over in applying.

"What can you do?" Oliver asked.

"We need to focus on stopping the bleeding first," Owota said and did just that. He ordered Oliver to heat the iron that Owota had brought with him in a fire and once that iron was orange, Owota applied the hot iron to the bleeding areas to seal the wounds. Barka screamed from the burn and when Owota moved Barka's arm and leg to get wrappings on the burned skin. "He will be bedbound until the bone finally heals," Owota said once he'd completed the treatment.

"How long will that take?" Oliver asked.

"At least into winter," Owota said and handed over a pain medicine. "Barka, you will need to take that medicine to treat the pain. Oliver, notify me the moment he runs out and I will mix more. For now, he needs to rest."

"Thank you, Owota," Oliver answered. When Owota stepped outside, the whole flock was there just as when he'd entered to hear any news of their chief. He informed of the development and, seeing Owen among the group, suggested that he go inside to see his father.

"Why the fuck would I do that?" Owen asked bitterly. He'd been high in the sky when it happened, but he'd seen with his own eyes Barka pulling Oscar between him and the vampire, effectively sacrificing his own son.

"Because he's your father," Owota answered.

"Ahiga," Owen turned when he heard Oscar say his real name. He still had blood all over his body, but he was walking as if the injury had never happened with Travis following close behind him. "Let's go inside."

This time, Owen did not argue and followed Oscar into the house to see Barka while all others remained outside. Owota ordered everyone to go home: the battle was won and the needed rest. He escorted the pack back to his home and told them not to concern themselves with leaving just yet. So long as they stayed out of his way, they would not need to concern themselves with Barka. Oscar and Owen went up to Barka's room where Oliver already was sitting at their father's side. Oscar made sure Barka could see him. He wasn't sure what he was hoping for or expecting. Perhaps guilt or regret at what he'd done, but there was nothing.

"Owota got the bleeding to stop," Oliver said. "Now the bone needs to heal. Father will be bedridden for a long time."

"Serves you right," Owen muttered bitterly.

"Watch your tongue, boy," Barka ordered. When Owen was about to say something, Oscar held up his hand silently telling Owen to keep quiet.

"Can the two of you give father and me a moment?" Oscar asked and without question, Oliver and Owen left and retreated downstairs. When they were alone, Oscar stared at his father for several moments still waiting for the man to show even a shred of remorse. It never happened. "I saved your life."

"So it would seem."

"I saved you from certain death!" Oscar yelled. "Then you put me in the line of attack! You made a shield of me!" Barka didn't speak though Oscar could tell it wasn't due to shame or remorse. Again, the man simply appeared annoyed. There continued to be silence and Oscar eventually approached making sure to go to Barka's side that was injured. "You nearly killed me."

"What does it matter now? You lived."

Oscar couldn't think of what to say at first. He just stared at his father for a moment. "Why?"

"What do you mean 'why'?" Again, Oscar was at a loss for a moment. He realized he already knew the answer to his question.

"You're a monster," Oscar said.

"You're babbling nonsense, boy," Barka said.

"It's not nonsense!" Oscar yelled. He remembered, so long ago when he was a boy, looking up to his father. His father's coldness and cruelty, he'd been taught, was what made his father strong, what had won him his chiefdom. He'd looked up to his father as this powerful figure. Now? All he saw was a monster. Someone that had abused his power for so long and that cared only for himself. "Was there ever a moment even in its smallest measurement that you loved me? Or Oliver or Owen?"

Finally, there was a hint of surprise on Barka's face, but it didn't last. When he finally answered, he said, "How can one love their life's greatest disappointment?" Those words felt like a knife to Oscar's chest; the same as the vampire's fingers stabbing their way into his back. "You could have been great, Oscar. The boy I'd raised was my image: he had the potential to be a great leader. I knew I'd have to watch you closely and keep one eye open. Then you became weak. I do not know how, but you're a shadow of the heir I had hoped for." Oscar was quiet again. He actually felt his eyes start to burn, but he wouldn't let Barka see how he'd effected him. It would accomplish nothing anyway.

Oscar looked at his father and when he did, a hatred filled his soul. Without a word, Oscar leaned forward and put his hands around Barka's neck and began to squeeze. Barka made a brief attempt to fight, but he was in no condition to fight back. Oscar kept squeezing even when his father's face was starting to turn blue. The whole time, Oscar stared into his father's eyes and, towards the end, Barka even smiled a little. Oscar recognized the look in the man's eyes instantly. He remembered it well as his father's look of pride.

"Perhaps," he forced through Oscar choking him, "you are not so weak as you let on."

Oscar didn't answer. He just kept squeezing. Seeing Barka look proud of him just made him angrier and made him tighten his grip. It took far too long. There was some fight from Bark due to the lack of oxygen getting into his lungs, but eventually, he lost consciousness but Oscar didn't stop. He waited until his father went completely limp. Then he released his grip and checked his father's neck for a pulse. There was none. Only then did Oscar truly realize what he'd just done. He'd murdered his own father. He fall back and stared at the body in shock. After a long period of silence, Oliver and Owen came upstairs to investigate. Initially they did not see anything amiss but when they got closer and noticed Barka wasn't breathing, Oliver fell to his knees and then looked at Oscar.

"Oscar…" Oliver uttered.

"He's gone," Oscar said. He started to shake a little and Owen came to Oscar's side. "I…..I killed him."

An eerie silence persisted. Oscar had done it: their father was dead. In truth, it had been exactly what their father had always hoped for. For his eldest son to take up his legacy just as he'd done. Perhaps there should have been joy at the fall of a tyrant, but there was only numbness. They realized they couldn't even mourn. Their father was dead but none even shed a tear.

"I asked if there was ever a time when he loved us. He said it was impossible to love a disappointment. I couldn't take it anymore," Oscar said.

"Just breathe, Oscar. It's over," Owen said, remarkably calm given the situation.

Oliver kept staring at their father's body. It was like looking at a fallen colossus. He realized he had no idea what to do. Did they tell the tribe? If they did, would the tribe rejoice or would they simply see one dictatorship being replaced with another? Should they claim their father died of his injuries? Would they even believe it given Owota had left the home less than a half hour ago announcing Barka was no longer in immediate danger.

"Should I get Anatoli?" Oliver finally asked.

"No," Owen said. "He's finally gone. We've killed the tyrant."

"And now what? We simply replace him?" Oliver asked.

"Oscar can take his place as chief," Owen said.

"No," Oscar said and shook his head. "No. I will not be chief."

"But Oscar, you're-"

"No," Oscar repeated, interrupting Owen.

And so they remained in their father's room for several hours doing nothing. They needed to recover from the shock, Oscar especially. When the sun finally rose, they'd managed to regain their composure to some extent. They began to hear the first of the morning commotion from the people of the tribe. They couldn't avoid it forever. They needed to relay the news.

"Oscar," Oliver began, "We need to tell the tribe."

"I know," Oscar said.

He stood up as did Oliver and Owen. Oscar took a deep breath and finally walked away from their father's body with his brothers following. Edward had not told anyone what happened so the pack and flock thought Barka was still recovering. When Oscar, Oliver and Owen stepped out of their father's house, the tribe did not acknowledge them except in passing. They did, however, pay attention when Oscar released a falcon's call to gain everyone's attention. That call brought all those of the flock to attention and they came forward. The pack approached as well and their citizens listened as well. It took Oscar a moment to finally speak after he'd finally gotten the tribe's attention, but he forced the words to form.

"My people!" he yelled, "I come before you with a heavy heart. Our father and Chief Barka has succumb to his injuries in the night and is dead!" The surprise that followed was evident. No one was sure how to respond. Oscar waited for everyone to quiet down before continuing. "A funeral will be held for our fallen Chief immediately. You're all to come before the funeral pyre to honor your fallen chief. When his ashes have been taken to the afterlife, we shall instate our new chief."

Once Oscar finished his brief speech, Owota came forward to attend to Barka's body. He had thought Barka stabilized when he left and when he saw Barka's body and saw the bruises that had formed on the man's neck, Owota realized what really happened.

"You finally did it," Owota said to Oscar after seeing Barka's body.

"It was not intended," Oscar said.

"It doesn't matter now. You will be made chief following his ashes flying," Owota said. "I know in those last moments he was proud of you."

"Proud of me for taking his life," Oscar said bitterly.

"He wanted his son to be his equal," Owota said. "Please do not be like your father. For the tribe's sake, do not be like your father."

"I will not," Oscar mumbled.

They helped Owota carry Barka's body to the appropriate place. Barka's sons remained while Owota retrieved the appropriate perfumes to apply to a fallen chief. The village surrounded the site looking on as the funeral progressed. Jacob ordered the pack to show their respects, feelings towards the man be damned, to Barka as they would show to Jacob had he fallen in battle and they all kept their heads bowed. Even the slaves had been rounded up to show their respects though none truly mourned. If anything, they only feared what the future held. Owota said the appropriate chants, adorned Barka's body and finally lit the fire to burn his body. Once the fire was lit, the tribe was to stay among the pyre as it burned. It was several hours of watching the fire persist. As his body went up in flames, Oscar finally had a moment of weakness in which he felt sorrow for his father. When the body had burned completely the wind did eventually take the ashes away and the flame eventually dissipated. When it did, Owota said one last chant and then approached Oscar.

"Stand," Owota instructed and Oscar did as he was ordered. He guided Oscar to look upon the tribe so everyone could see him. "With the loss of Chief Barka comes a new era in which his son will take up his mantle. Oscar, your people look upon you as their protector and as their ruler." Owota spread the same perfume over Oscar's head that had been used on Barka to officially appoint Oscar as chief. "Look upon your people as their new chief." Owota stepped aside and everyone bowed before him. Jacob ordered the pack to bow respectfully and Oscar stared upon everyone knowing he did not want this.

"My people!" Oscar began and everyone looked up to him. "It is not me that you will look upon as your new chief." There was a moment of surprise especially from Oliver and Owen who looked at one another wondering what Oscar was doing. "Step forward, Oliver," Oscar said. Oliver stared wide eyed at Oscar but did as he said and came forward. "This is happening because I did what father wanted all along. But the cycle needs to end. So it ends with me. You will take up the mantle as chief."

"Oscar…..I…"

"You are more suited for the role than I could ever be," Oscar said. "Please say you'll accept." He hesitated a moment but eventually nodded his head. Oscar smiled and directed Oliver to look upon the tribe. "Look upon Oliver and rejoice! Look to him as protector and as our leader!"

Everyone bowed before Oliver but stared up curious to see his reaction. Oliver looked at Oscar again still unsure, but Oscar smiled, took Oliver's hand and lifted it in the air in an act of triumph. What followed was the tribe lifting their heads and cheering. Owen smiled and stood on Oliver's other side, taking his other hand and lifting it in the air which bolstered the cheers. Although he'd been shocked, Oliver felt the overwhelming support directed towards him and he determined he would be everything their father had not been. The celebration continued as the members of the flock shifted to their Falcon form and began to cry in their calls and flap their wings in a fantastical display.

"To Chief Oliver!" Owen yelled and got the crowd going. The birds continued their display and there was a renewed hope for what was to come.

Yvonne could only listen as they ceremony had proceeded but smiled at the joy in the people's voices. She applauded along with all others in the group to embrace Oliver as their new chief knowing he would be the beginning of a prosperous time. She'd not initially noticed it, but the tooth at her chest became warm and started to beat. When she noticed, she took a hold of it feeling alarmed. Then she heard someone call her name. She recognized the voice immediately and felt a strange chill take over her. She turned her head in the direction she heard the voice coming from and remembered her dream. She trembled, realizing she was scared. The voice continued to call her name but she couldn't hear if anyone else was acknowledging the voice.

She finally stood and turned to follow the voice. She continued shaking and held the tooth for any sense of protection. She heard the sound of water and slowed when she felt that familiar ground all while the people continued their celebration. She could swear she felt someone touch her arm but she couldn't sense anyone near her. The same voice that had called her name now told her to enter the water. She hesitated but the voice reassured her that she would be safe. She clutched the tooth so tight that it pierced her skin. She didn't notice it, however. The sense of fear was too great. She lifted one foot and dipped her toes into the water but immediately took them away. The last she had submerged herself into this oasis, it had been for the sacrificial ceremony. She remembered it so well.

"Yvonne," the voice continued, "We will keep you safe. Step into the oasis."

She hesitated again but finally took a deep breath before lifting her foot again to step forward into the water. Owota was distracted by the celebration but when he finally looked towards the crowd looking for Yvonne and Myta, he realized Yvonne had stepped into the oasis and panic took over.

"Yvonne!" Owota screamed and tried to force his way through the crowd.

Salem turned to see Yvonne already walking into the oasis and felt the same panic. He had no idea what she was doing and why and made the same efforts to get through the crowd to go to her. Everyone watched, unsure what was going on and when the pack was looking, Jacob was the first to notice the image of a large ghostly white wolf circling the oasis and they heard the caw of a raven. He couldn't believe his eyes and neither could the pack. Yvonne didn't hear her father or Salem calling out to her as she walked through the oasis. She only did as she'd been instructed. She continued until she had reached the cactus at the center. She could hear the creatures of the oasis trying to reach for her but something prevented them from getting her and she clutched the tooth tighter. When she'd reached the cactus, she suddenly felt as though someone was with her, but she couldn't see it. From land, they saw a blue bird and crow circling around the cactus with the ghostly wolf in the distance. Salem had noticed and when he did, he'd stopped in his tracks and stopped Owota and Myta too. He didn't know what was happening, but he recognized the blue bird immediately.

The presence that Yvonne felt now wrapped around her shoulder and she heard the voice whisper to her to fall back into the water. Her heart raced, but she did as the voice said and fell backwards into the water while Owota and Myta screamed her name. This time Salem came forward when she saw her fall into the water but as soon as she was submerged, there was a pressure that Salem had to fight against and the water around his splashed violently. Everyone watched with horror at the sight before them and stepped back when they heard horrible screams coming from the water that couldn't possibly be human. Salem fought past the onslaught trying to get to Yvonne but then it seemed to stop. The water became calm and the sound of a falcon filled their ears as it approached the cactus. It was the desert falcon that their stories told had been their savior. And just like that, Yvonne resurfaced gasping for air as she emerged. Salem continued trying to get to her as she recovered from the disorientation and got the water off her face. When she finally could, she opened her eyes and it was like in her dream. She looked upon the village she had not seen in years. She finally heard the splashing of someone approaching her and turned to look at who it was.

Salem stopped when she turned from sheer surprise. Her blue eyes were gone as was the blank stare that he'd come to know. Instead, her eyes were black and she was alert, clearly staring right at him. She wasn't really sure how. Perhaps it was that he looked so much like the man from her dream, maybe it was the draw she felt to him and the deep connection she could already feel, but when she saw the man before her, she knew it was Salem and she smiled at him. Salem smiled back still in shock but relieved all at once and stood still as Yvonne fought her way through the water to get to him. When she could, she jumped into his arms and Salem caught her. Everyone that saw what happened couldn't believe their eyes, but Owota especially was at a loss.

"He really did it," Owota mumbled.

"What happened?" Myta asked Owota.

"She's free," Owota said. "Our daughter's finally free."