Sweet Destiny
By RavenFehr
Disclaimer: I do not own Ardeth Bay I simply borrow him from time to time. No money is made from this and no infringement or offense is meant.
Rated: R for sexual content.
Comments: I haven't written an Ardeth story in quite sometime. I started and stopped on this so many times and almost deleted it. If I made some mistakes in my translations I apologize. Enjoy!
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Marissa was walking through the market with her bundles in her hands. Her mother walked ahead of her with their servant Jada. She was in a hurry as always not liking to be out on the streets of Cairo with the "Commoners" and "Desert Dwellers” Marissa just wanted to finish their errands and try to steal away to the museum but it seems less likely it was going to happen.
She was trying to get through the crowd when she tripped spilling her packages to the ground. She dropped her hands to her sides with a sigh. "Damn," she said softly. She knelt down to gather them up when she heard a voice over her.
"Khalla ana musa‘adi inta?" She looked up to see a tall man in flowing black robes looking down at her.
"Pardon," she said.
"SamaH ana," he said slipping into English, "Let me help you," he said kneeling down. She stopped as he reached for a package. She noted the markings on his face and hands. He was a Medjai.
"Thank you," she said as he gathered her things. With his free hand he took her arm helping her to her feet.
"You are most welcome," he said gently, "You really must watch your step. These roads were meant to be traveled on horseback not in such fine footwear,”
"Of course," she said softly. She looked into his brown eyes, so soft; so expressive like none she had ever seen before.
As she stood there looking into this mans eyes, the spell was broken by the shrill sound of her mother's voice, "Marissa,"
He saw the girl jump back from him as the woman approached. She had a pinched and haggard looking face, such a strong contrast to the sweet, young flower that stood before him.
"Marissa what are you doing with this…this barbarian?"
"I dropped my bundles he was only helping me," she said.
"Honestly Marissa, you know better then to associate with the likes of him. These desert dwellers are thieves and liars. Come now," she said pulling on her arm.
"Mother, I am not a child. I will come with you when I am done thanking this man," she said pulling loose, "You did raise me to have manners,"
"Marissa," she said, "How dare you speak to me this way!"
"Mother, leave us!" she said.
Her mother stood back but Marissa turned walking away from her as the man followed her. She turned to him meeting his brown eyes once more.
"Forgive her my Lord," she said softly, "She does not know who you are, so she does not know to show you the proper respect,"
"You know who I am?" he asked.
"I know you are Medjai," she said, "You are of a brave and proud people, Warriors for God, and should be treated with much more respect and reverence then my mother has shown,"
"You are a very unique woman," he said softly, "You have a strong head on your shoulders,"
"Thank you my Lord and you honor me with your time,"
“You needn’t be so formal,” he said softly, “I have a name,”
“That would not be proper,” she said blushing.
“Please,” he said, “You may always address me as Ardeth,” he said with a soft smile, “Ardeth Bay,”
“Ardeth,” she said softly.
“And you are…Marissa?” he said.
“Yes,” she said.
“A beautiful name,” he said softly, “Alas I must take my leave and return to my people, I hope our paths will cross again,”
“If Allah smiles on us my Lord,” she said softly.
“He all ready has,” he answered, “Until then,” he said with a slight bow.
She watched him disappear into the crowd his black robes swirling behind him. She had never met anyone like him and was left drowning in the wake of emotion he had so quickly stirred up. The spell was quickly broken by her mother’s voice.
“How dare you speak to me that way in front of some desert rat,” she spat.
“That was no desert rat,” she said, “That man was a Medjai Chieftain and he could have had your head for addressing him so rudely,” she said.
“If you ever disobey me that way again you will pay do you understand me? I will not be embarrassed by you or anyone else,” she said grabbing her arm, “Now get moving,”
Marissa did as he she was told and fell into line behind her mother a deep sigh on her lips. “No museum today,” she thought. That’s the way it was, Marissa was treated no differently then the servants of the house since her husband had passed. She had wed Reginald at 16 and by age 18 she was widowed. Reginald had been on an exhibition in the desert when his entire team was slaughtered without provocation.
Marissa was left in Kensington manor with her mother in law. She had never approved of her sons marriage and when he died she took full advantage of having the young girl under her thumb. Marissa was beaten and starved if she disobeyed and had no family of her own to retreat to. She was alone under the rule of her cruel mother in law with no clear way out.
Marissa had been told that it was Medjai who had killed her husband and his men but she knew it wasn’t true, it couldn’t be. The Medjai were proud and honorable men, warriors for God. They did not slaughter innocents without cause. She knew there were rogue tribes that raped and killed all who crossed their paths. Reginald had always told her that if you were respectful of the Medjai they would never let you come to harm.
Ardeth Bay was the first Medjai she had seen up close. He was a breathtaking sight, his long black hair lightly feathered around his strong face. He wore his black robes and the silver stitching glistened in the hot Egyptian sun. His brown eyes so soft and gentle as he addressed her, so tall and strong. And when he spoke her name she had felt that chill. As she walked through the gate of the manor she could only hope she would see him again.
That night as Marissa prepared for the ball her thoughts turned to him once more, her dark Prince of the desert. Jada pulled the strings on her corset causing Marissa to groan.
“I hate these things,” she groaned.
“I know Mistress, but your mother would kill me if you were to appear improperly dressed,”
“She only wants to whore me out. Hook me up with a rich husband so she can pay off her debts,” said Marissa, “And she is not my mother, I thank Allah I am not of that woman’s loins,” she said.
It was true Marissa was nothing more then bait to be set out in hopes of bring wealth to Kensington manor once more. Her mother in law has sold most everything of real value keeping only what was necessary to keep up airs. Marissa felt like a prisoner in a nightmare that would never end.
Marissa spent the better half of the evening fighting off the roving hands of perspective suitors. Tired little boys pretending to be men, none equal to man whose company she had shared that afternoon. The heat of the room was getting to her and slipped to the terrace to cool herself. The music swelled inside and she moved down the path towards the garden. The desert nights were cool as she moved down the path. Suddenly a figure in black stepped out and Marissa stepped back from him.
“Wait,” he said reaching for her. She stopped as he reached up and drew his veil from his face.
“Ardeth,” she gasped.
“I did not mean to frighten you,” he said.
“How did you get in here?” she said.
“Over the wall,” he smiled.
“Quick,” she said taking his hand. She led him off the path into the hedges and turned to him, “If my mother in law were to find you,”
“It was a chance I had to take, if only to gaze on your beauty once more however briefly,”
“Oh Ardeth,” she said softly, “You felt it to I know you did, the connection,”
“Yes zahrAh I did,” he said stepping closer to her.
“Ardeth you can not stay, she will come looking for me,” she said.
“I know ZahrAh,”
“Ardeth you said you came over the wall,”
“Yes,” he answered.
“Could you climb up there?” she said pointing to the balcony on the west side of the manor.
“Yes,” he answered looking at her.
“Then come to me tonight after the party,” she said softly, “I will leave a light burning for you when the house is asleep,”
“Marissa,” he said softly.
“Come to me Ardeth, and I will show you I am not the little girl my mother portrays me to be,” Ardeth cupped her face gently and kissed her red lips.
“I will return for you Marissa,” he said softly.
“Go,” she whispered, “Now,” He raised his veil and she watched as he disappeared into the night. Marissa made her way back to the house eager to see the party end.
Marissa went back inside and her mother hadn’t noticed she was gone. She got pulled to the dance floor once more but she could only imagine Ardeth’s arms around her as she was swept away. When the party finally ended she took her leave and made her way to her suite of rooms.
She was relieved to be out of her ball gown and into her nightclothes. She lay in bed watching the clock and finally crept from her bed. She made her way to her mother’s suite of rooms and heard nothing. She crept back to her room and lit a small candle setting out on the terrace, now she could only wait to see if he would keep his word.
She sat on her bed and waited. So she heard gentle foot falls and looked to see Ardeth as he entered her room from her balcony. She stood up as he came in and drew his veil from his face once more. She smiled as she saw his face.
“Ardeth,” she said softly, “You came,”
“One thing you must learn quickly is that I always keep my promises,”
“So I see,” she said softly, “Would you mind taking off the swords?”
“Of course,” he said, “But they are scimitars,” he answered.
“Excuse me,”
“Scimitars,” he said drawing one out, “See how the blade is curved. This is a scimitar,” he saw her take a step back,
“There’s no need to be afraid,” he said gently.
“I’m not use to weapons,” she said.
“Come here,” he said softly. She held her spot, “It is all right,” she walked over to him and he placed a hand on her shoulder moving her in front of him, “Now,” he said, “Place your hands over mine,” he said holding the scimitar in front of her.
As she stood there she could feel his body against her, his breath on her neck. She was trembling as moved the scimitar through the air her hands over his. She could fell the weight of the scimitar as he moved it. Ardeth could feel her backside against him, the perfume on her silky hair. His control was quickly slipping away, he need to taste this sweet zahrAh before him.
He nuzzled her neck moving enough of her hair to press his lips to her soft neck. Shudders passed through her as she felt the short hairs of his beard chaff her soft skin. He felt her hands trembling.
“Sahil,” he whispered softly, “I will not hurt you my sweet zahrAh,”
“Ardeth,” she whispered back, “Mmm,”
He took his scimitar and set it aside along with his other weapons. He removed his turban and veil as well before reaching for the ties of his robe. He loosened them and slipped them off leaving himself bare chested before her. She studied him the spiked tattoos on his hands repeated twice more up his arms; symbols were blazoned on his chest and stomach.
He looked at her then seeing her tremble and he stepped over to her and caressed soft cheek. He leaned in and kissed her lips before lifting her into his arms and moving to her bed with her. He laid her down on the soft bedding and settled between her legs as she cupped his face.
“Ardeth,” she whispered.
“Yes zahrAh,”
“It’s been a while since I have…been with a man,”
“I will be gentle zahrAh,” he said softly, “I promise,”
Ardeth kissed her gently, caressing her lips with his tongue coaxing them open as he deepened the kiss causing her to moan and press her body to him. She could feel his erection all ready hard against her and a shudder of anticipation went through her making her wet.
Her fingers tangled into his hair as he moved to kiss her throat. She felt his fingers working the laces of her gown pushing the material aside to expose her breasts to him. She moaned as she felt his hands on her breasts kneading her, teasing her nipples into hard peaks.
He moved in his hair trailing over her skin as his lips brushed her pink nipples. He swirled his tongue over her nipple before drawing it into his mouth and suckling her. She couldn’t contain her moans of pleasure and was grateful she was in a wing by herself. He teased one and then the other before moving her gown lower as he kissed over her flat stomach.
She lifted her hips as he gripped her gown sliding it down her legs and tossing it aside. He moved between her legs once more and her hips bucked as he parted her slick folds, exposing her sweet treasure. He was soon to find out just how sweet his zahrAh was. Her back arched as she felt his tongue on her swollen nub and she shuddered from the pleasure she was feeling as he caressed her so tenderly.
He moved lower and he felt her shaking as his tongue moved ever lower. She clutched his hair and moaned loudly as she felt his tongue thrust inside her. She couldn’t hold still as she bucked in a vein attempt to take more of him in. It felt incredible and she wanted more. As if reading her mind he pushed his fingers into her making her nearly come off the bed as she cried out. She was more then ready for him.
She watched as he moved from the bed stripping his pants off revealing his form to her. He was so lean and muscular. She saw his thick full erection standing out proudly from the thick nest of black hair. She parted her legs to him throbbing with a need only he could sooth. She reached for him as he moved between her legs and gripped his erection. He groaned as she stroked him and gripped her wrist.
“If you continue that and you’ll end this now,” he said roughly.
“Then take me Ardeth,” she said softly, “Please,”
“Aiwa zahrAh,” he said softly as he moved to push inside her.
He leveled himself against her body as he began to move against her. She moaned his name softly as his lips and mouth kissed her throat. Her hands slid over his back feeling his muscles flex with each powerful thrust. She could feel it inside her that tingle of her impending orgasm.
Her hands were cupping his ass and he felt her nails in his flesh as she cried out he body arching wildly against him. He released his seed inside her nearly collapsing on her as he climaxed. She reached up gently pushing the hair back from his face as she looked into his eyes.
“Ardeth,” she said softly.
“I am all right,” he said softly. He moved from her gently and she cuddled next to him.
“How long can you stay?” she asked softly.
“I need to leave before dawn,” he said gently, “Although I am here with your consent, it would not be proper for me to be seen leaving your bedroom,”
“I understand,” she said softly.
“However,” he said, “Sunrise is still several hours away,” he said as he pulled her close.
“Yes it is,” she said as he kissed her.
They made love several times more before Ardeth rose from her bed. She sat there clutching the sheets to her chest as he dressed, replacing his scimitars and turban. He then walked over her as she rose to her knees and looked at him. He caressed her cheek softly.
“Promise me I will see you again,” she said softly, “Give me that one promise Ardeth,”
“Aiwa Marissa,” he said softly, “I will come to you again,” He pulled her close and kissed hard pouring all his passion into one last kiss, “I will be with you again my sweet zahrAh,”
“Go,” she said softly. She followed him to the balcony and he approached the rail, and he lifted his veil to cover his face.
Even with his face covered she could see his smile in his eyes and she gasped as he leapt over the balcony. She looked over to see him appear on the ground below. He gave her one last look before disappearing into the darkness.
“Until we meet again, Ardeth Bay,” she said softly, “May Allah, continue to smile on you,”
~*~
After weeks of begging and pleading with her mother in law Marissa was finally allowed to take work outside of the estate. A few nights a week she was allowed to go to the museum to help with the books and artifacts. Since the last librarian had left to go back to
The museum was dimly lit at night, and in some areas you could barely see your hands in front of your face. She finished checking the doors and was about to head out when a hand clamped over her mouth. She tried to scream but it was no use as vice like hands gripped her small frame and then she heard it, "Sahil," came a familiar voice in her ear. She instantly relaxed in his arms. He removed his hand and let her go as she spun around.
"Ardeth you scared me half to death," she said to him
"I am sorry," he said drawing down his veil, "I only wished to see you again,"
"I've been waiting for you to come back," she said practically throwing herself into his embrace, "Praying you would come back,"
"I did not mean for us to be apart this long," he said as he held her close, "I had some...business I had to tend to,"
"You're Medjai Ardeth, I can guess your business. I do have ears you know,"
"I know," he smiled looking into her face, "I have missed you," he said cupping her face in his hands.
"I missed you too my handsome warrior," she smiled, "I'm guessing you can not stay long,"
"Not long," he said, "But long enough," he said as he drew her into his arms and kissed her lips.
She sagged against him as he held her parting her lips gently and slipping his tongue into her waiting mouth. She clutched at his strong shoulders as she felt her back against the cool stone. She moaned as she felt his strong hands slide down to her backside and cup her bottom bringing her hips against his. His mouth moved to her neck as she slipped her fingers into his long locks.
"Ardeth," she gasped softly.
He moved his hands again tugging at her blouse...opening it and pushing her undergarments aside to access her breasts. She gasped and clutched his hair cradling his head against her as he bent down and latched on to a hard nipple to suckle her.
"Yes," she moaned softly. He moved from one to the other as his strong hands moved once more dragging her skirt up her legs, caressing her thighs as he sought out her panties and tugged at them ripping the material as she moaned approvingly. He slipped his hand between her thighs feeling her wetness and her knees nearly gave as he thrust his long fingers inside her tight sheath.
"Oh Ardeth," she was panting now, "Take me please," she begged softly.
Ardeth moved and untied his robes letting them open and dropped his trousers around his ankles as he reached for her. He shoved her skirt around her waist as he grabbed her up and she cried out as she sank down onto him feeling him fill her completely. She wrapped her legs around him clinging to his shoulders and heard a low animal like growl as he began to thrust up into her.
She could do nothing but whimper and gasp as he drove himself into her hard and deep, the pleasure he was creating was too much. She clenched her sheath around his hard shaft creating more friction as he drove into her and she panted hard in his ear.
"Oh Ardeth," she gasped, "Yes," her body shattered and she arched against him as she climaxed hard. Ardeth felt the release of her sweet juices washing over him as he released his seed inside her with a deep satisfied groan. He held her to him as they both panted softly and tried to recover. He could feel her sheath quivering on him in the aftermath of their lovemaking and she buried her face in his hair as she clung to him.
"Marissa," he whispered softly.
"Yes Ardeth," she whispered back.
"I love you," he said hugging her to him. She shook in his arms as tears spilled down her cheeks.
"I love you too," she whispered.
After several moments he moved from her and they both redressed before he pulled her into his arms again.
"I will find a way for us to be together," he said, "I will find away I swear it to you,"
"I know," she said touching his face her fingers caressing the tattoo on his cheek, "Go now...before they come looking for us,"
"I love you," he said one last time before kissing her lips. He pulled his veil over his face leaving only his deep brown loving eyes visible to her.
"I love you too," she whispered, "Now go,” Ardeth turned his robes swirling behind him and slipped into the shadows. She only hoped he could find away or she would be lost to him forever.
~*~
Marissa left the museum to head home her lions still tingling from Ardeth's passionate lovemaking. She had never felt anything as exciting as Ardeth's touch and doubted she ever would in the beds of the men her mother in law was throwing at her. The thought of being touched by anyone but Ardeth made her sick inside. Suddenly a hand came over her mouth once more but this time there was a cloth and a smell. She gasped for air but felt her mind going black on her, "Ardeth," was the last thought that filled her mind.
"What do you mean they've taken her?" screamed her mother in law Helen, "Why did they take her?"
"Because Ardeth was bedding her," said Marcus Taylor. He had jumped at the opportunity to rid Ardeth Bay from the picture but now things were not going as they had planed.
"You said they would punish him," she growled, "That they would punish him for bedding a foreign woman, you said nothing about them taking her,"
"I did not know they would take her," said Marcus, "I wanted him gone so I could marry her, it was not my intension to get her kidnapped by the Medjai,"
"Well you did," she said, "What will they do to her?"
"I have no idea," said Marcus, "They might..."
"Might what?"
"Might kill her," said Marcus.
"If she dies...you die...get her back!"
Ardeth had spent the night in the desert and was now returning to his village. He knew something was wrong as he entered the village. Those who weren't staring at him in disbelief wouldn't look at him at all and it made Ardeth's stomach clench. As he approached the cluster of tents that belonged to him and his family his mother came out to greet him. Ardeth swung down and walked over to her.
"Ardeth my son," she said hugging him.
"What is wrong?" he asked her.
"The elders wish to see you my son," she said softly, "They know," she said even softer.
Ardeth didn't say a word. He kissed his mother's cheek and pulled himself up straight and strong. So they knew about Marissa, now it was time to face them. Ardeth walked the length of the village to the tent of the elders. He entered the tent to see them all gathered and waiting on him. He stood before them looking dead ahead and waited to hear what they would do to him for breaking their laws.
"Chieftain Bay," said the oldest and wisest of the tribe elders, "It was been brought to out attention you have broken a law in our land. It has been declared now for many years that associating with foreigners was not allowed. We looked the other way when you assisted the American and his English friends, you helped aid in the return of the creature to his grave...you fulfilled your duties. But to take a foreign woman into your bed when you know it is not allowed is unacceptable,"
Ardeth said nothing as he stood there, stone faced just staring ahead.
"We have come to expect more of you Ardeth...you have led your people proudly and to through it all away for the sake of carnal pleasures with an outsider is foolish… Have you anything to say for yourself?"
"Carnal pleasures did not influence my decision," said Ardeth calmly, "It was my heart,"
"Bring her in," said the elder. Two large Medjai came in with Marissa between them. Her clothes were disheveled and she cried out as she saw Ardeth standing there.
"Ardeth," she gasped softly. They threw her to the ground at her feet and she hit hard letting out a cry. She laid there sobbing as Ardeth stood over her.
"Is this your woman Bay?" asked the elder.
"Aiwa," he said not moving. He could hear her sobbing and it was all he could do not to scoop her into his arms. He knew such an act would get them both in deeper at that moment.
"Ardeth," she sobbed softly. The guards grabbed her up again making her face the elders. She was scared out of her mind.
"Get her out of here," he said, "We will deal with her after we finish with Chieftain Bay,"
They took Marissa from the tent as she sobbed softly. They took her out and along the back of the tents. They took her back tying her to a post and standing over her. She sat there for a long time before she saw Ardeth being escorted from the tent by two men. Another man came over and talked to her guards. She was then untied and pulled to her feet once more. She had no idea what they were saying as they led her through the compound and took her into a tent.
They let her go untying her hands as she sat on the pallet inside, "Stay here," said one of them, "We will be outside," he looked her over before they went back outside the tent.
Marissa collapsed on the pallet and began to sob again. She had no idea what was happening. Ardeth had barely looked at her barely spoken, he looked almost angry. They had taken him from the tent under guard and she had no idea where they were taking him and what would happen to them both. She hadn't known, all this time they were sneaking around she thought it was to hide from her mother in law. Had she known Ardeth was breaking his own laws she never would let him.
She finally cried herself to sleep completely exhausted by the experience. It was several hours later that she woke up to movement outside the tent. She sat up as two guards came in with a third man between them. They were dragging him and the literally dropped him on the floor of the tent before leaving. Marissa stayed back at first. The man was nearly naked only a loincloth covering him, and he was bleeding, sand caked to his skin. He was covered in welts he had been whipped. This couldn’t be...they wouldn't would they? She slowly moved towards him unsure if he was even alive until she heard him moan.
She carefully slid forward and gently reached for him. She pushed his dark locks from his battered face, "Ardeth," she gasped as fresh tears came, "Ardeth no," she said touching him with trembling hands.
"Marissa," came a raspy whisper.
"I'm here," she said unsure of what to do, "I'm here Ardeth, please, please don't leave me,"
She moved and pulled the blankets off the pallet and went back over to him. She spread it out and very carefully rolled him onto before dragging him further into the tent. She knelt next to him and carefully touched his face.
"Why?" she asked softly looking into his eyes now dark with pain.
"Because...I love you," he said softly.
Just then there was movement at the tent opening and Marissa cowered near Ardeth. They had all ready beaten him nearly to death was she next?
An older woman stepped into the tent with several bottles on a tray. She moved closer to Marissa and Ardeth looking down at them both, "Do not worry, I am not here to harm you. I am Mahala, Ardeth’s mother,"
"What's going on? Why are they doing this to us?" asked Marissa softly.
"Because my son broke the law by taking you to his bed," said kneeling on the other side of Ardeth, "By all rights child, you should be dead,"
"Me?" she gasped.
"Yes," she said, "The elder's had originally thought that you had tempted Ardeth into bedding you. They wouldn't entertain the notion that a man such as Ardeth would knowingly break his people's laws,"
"I didn't know," said Marissa, "Ardeth never told me,"
"I know," she said, "That is how my son is," she said looking at him.
"Well then why did they beat him instead of killing me?"
"Because Ardeth stood in front of the elders and openly declared his love for you. He endured the beating they would have given you to prove it,"
"So now what happens?"
"Now my dear, Ardeth's trial is over yours is just beginning,"
"What...what do I do?"
"His injures are serious...he could die from them. Your task is to nurse him back to complete health on your own,"
"But I don't know...."
"I have brought you all you will need," said Mahala, "This is for pain, this is to clean his wounds, this is to fight of infection, you can draw water from there," she said pointing to a well in the corner of the tent, "And heat it here over the fire. There are plenty of blankets for you to use,"
"What about food?" she asked.
"Your meals will be brought to you, when Ardeth is able to eat you only need to request a meal for him and it will be brought,"
"Ok," said Marissa looking at him.
"You really do love my son do you not?" asked Mahala.
"Yes," said Marissa softly, "He is the air I breathe," she said caressing his bruised cheek.
"Then you will do fine," she said before taking her leave.
"All right," said Marissa, "Let's get you cleaned up," she said as she moved. He was all ready on his back so she left him there. She drew some water and heated it keeping a watchful eye on Ardeth. She then gathered a bowl and several towels. She wet a cloth and gently placed it to his face carefully wiping the blood and dirt away.
"Marissa," he said softly.
"Shh my love," she said to him, "I will take care of you Ardeth, rest now,"
She carefully cleaned him, going over his neck and shoulders, cleaning his arms and hands. She cleaned his chest using the ointments on his wounds as she went. When she was done she laid fresh blankets down and rolled him to his stomach and tended to the wounds on his back, which were even deeper. She cried softly as she tended to him seeing the pain he had endured because of the love he felt for her.
The last thing she did was gathered a bowl and nestle it between her legs. She managed to get Ardeth to lay on her a bit his neck resting on her thigh his head over the bowl and very carefully washed his hair of the blood and sand that was there. She hummed softly as she did and Ardeth's eyes opened looking up at her.
"I love you," he said softly.
"I love you too," she said as she watched him close his eyes again. Once he was cleaned she took to task getting him off the hard floor and onto the pallet. It took sometime but she got him there. She carefully moved him and then lay on the pallet next to him watching him.
Marissa fell to sleep next to Ardeth. It was morning when Ardeth woke fully for the first time. He craned his head slightly to see Marissa cuddled close to him. Her face was flushed, her eyes red and puffy from crying. It broke his heart to see her so visibly upset even in sleep. He made the mistake of shifting in the bed and let out a groan causing her to wake.
"Ardeth," she said sitting up.
"Good morning love," he said with a pained smile.
"Ardeth, please don't try to move," she said touching his face, "You're still recovering, you lost a lot of blood,"
"I am aware," he groaned softly.
"Can I get you anything?" she asked softly.
"Water," he said softly.
Marissa moved carefully off the pallet and got water for him. She cradled his head gently as she put it to his lips.
"Do you need something for the pain?" she asked caressing his hair.
"Not now," he said, "It will make me sleep,"
"You do not wish to sleep?" she asked looking at him.
"Not right now," he said reaching for her hand, "I need to make you understand,"
"I do Ardeth, you're mother has explained it to me," she said softly.
"This was not how I had hoped for things to be," he said looking at her, "I had hoped to plead my case to the elders before they found out. I made an mistake, I am sorry,"
"We're together for now, that's all that matters," she said gently touching his face.
"They have not harmed you?" he asked as he closed his eyes. She could see he was in pain.
"No Ardeth I'm fine," he said gently, "Please take something for the pain and rest, please,"
He only nodded slightly and she moved to get the pain medicine for him. She put it to his lips so he could drink and then let him lay back down.
"Are you hungry?" she asked him as he closed his eyes again.
"Not now but thank you," he said softly, "I will rest now,"
"And I will be here," she said softly as he drifted off again. Marissa sat with him. She brought meals and she decided to set aside a bit of her food incase Ardeth woke and wanted something, but mostly he slept; only waking for a few minutes at a time.
It was a few days before Ardeth was able to stay awake longer. She helped him sit up a bit. He smiled at her now and she was ready to cry again.
"Marissa," he said touching her hand.
"You could have died Ardeth why would you not tell me what we were doing was wrong?"
"Because it was not wrong," said Ardeth, "How can love be wrong?"
"I can not believe you would die for me Ardeth," she said carefully cupping his face, "I love you so much,"
"I love you too," he said softly, "Now I wish to eat," he smiled. He saw her eyes, "What is wrong?"
"I...I can't go out there, you're people must hate me,"
"They do not hate you, they do not know you,"
"They know that I am the cause of all this," she said, "That is enough,"
"Marissa, they know that I have declared my love for you, they know I am serious about this, enough so to risk my life for you. By doing so I have declared you as my woman, if the question or disrespect you it as if they are doing so to me. Trust me,"
"What do I do?"
"Just step outside the tent and tell them I wish to eat and it will be brought," said Ardeth.
Marissa gathered herself and walked over to the tent flaps and stepped out. The two guards turned and looked at her. She pulled herself up straight and looked at them, "My lord wishes to eat," she said firmly.
The two men looked at each other and one left walking across the camp. Marissa went back inside and sat with Ardeth to wait.
Ardeth's mother came into the tent with a tray of food and walked over to them both. She set it down and Marissa moved to prepare food for Ardeth as his mother watched her. She offered Ardeth a plate of food and sat with him gently running her fingers through his hair as he ate, "You look better my son. She is taking fine care of you I see,"
"I never doubted for a moment," said Ardeth looking at Marissa.
"Then you should have no problems with the elders now. I'm sure they will approve your request now," she said.
"Request?" asked Marissa.
"Upon completion of our trials I requested to take you as my mate, my wife," said Ardeth, "That is your wish is it not?"
"Yes...I just thought,"
"You do wish to be my wife?" said Ardeth.
"Yes, if you are sure they will accept me,"
"They will," said Ardeth, "You must trust,"
Marissa let Ardeth eat his fill before she ate and when they were done his mother left them alone. Ardeth was starting to look much better; the bruises on his strong face were beginning to fade. She touched his cheek gently.
"I am sure it looks worse then it feels right now," he said softly.
"Is there anything more I can do for you?" she asked softly.
"A kiss from my woman would be very welcomed right now," he said softly.
"Ardeth," she said with a blush.
"You will not break me if you kiss me," he smiled.
She smiled and leaned in and kissed his lips gently as he slipped an arm around her carefully. He deepened the kiss making her sigh softly before he pulled back and looked in her eyes.
"I miss your touch," he said softly as she pressed her forehead to his gently.
"I miss yours as well my love, but you must rest and heal," she said.
"Yes, but when I am well," he smiled.
"You are a wicked man Ardeth Bay," she smiled.
~*~
The days passed and Ardeth was getting stronger everyday but still could not stand well on his own. Marissa still helped
him a lot, tending to him as needed. They were sound asleep one morning cuddled together when Marissa heard commotion outside. She went to the tent flaps and the men were gone. Ardeth's mother came across the compound to her.
"What's going on?" asked Marissa.
"The warriors left on patrol," said Mahala, "They're are foreigners coming,"
"Is there no one here besides us?" she said looking around.
"Very few," she said, "We've never had cause to worry,"
"They are coming for me," said Marissa, "I'm sure of it,"
"Then we must hide you," said Mahala.
"No, they will destroy the village looking for me," she said, "I will handle it...somehow,"
Marissa stood at the tent entrance as the men approached and one lone woman, her mother in law. She tried not to panic. There was no way she was going back with them. Her mother in law dismounted and ran to Marissa, "Marissa thank god you're all right,"
"Of course I'm all right," she said, "Why wouldn't I be, I am with the man I love and his people,"
"The man you love," she said taking her hand and pulling her away, "My god they've brainwashed you,"
"They have not let me go," said Marissa, "I'm staying here with Ardeth,"
"You are not you're coming home," she said pulling her away from the tent, "You are not staying with this desert rat,"
Just then Marissa turned to see Ardeth being dragged from the tent.
"No! Stop!" she screamed as she tried to break free of her mother, "He's hurt! Let him go!"
"Come with me you don't want to stay here," said her mother in law. Marissa broke free of her mother in law and grabbed up a dagger that had been on a nearby bench. She then grabbed her mother in law pressing it to her throat.
"Let him go or I'll slit her throat!" she growled.
"Marissa!" she gasped.
"Do it!" she commanded. The two men looked between the women, "Tell them to do it or I swear to Allah I'll slit you from ear to ear," she hissed.
"Let him go," she said weakly as the blade pressed against her throat. The men let Ardeth go as he slumped onto the sand, "Now I suggest you leave before the warriors return," said Marissa, "They will not be so kind to you coming here and manhandling their chieftain and his woman," she growled.
They moved to their horses and her mother in law joined them. As they started out of the camp Marissa went to Ardeth helping him to his feet. She put herself under his arm and helped him back inside the tent as his people looked on. She had unknowingly earned their respect and admiration for defending their leader in his weakened state.
Marissa took Ardeth back to their bed and laid him down. He let out a groan as she did, "Are you all right?" she asked as she touched him gently.
"I will be," he said as he looked at her, "You were very brave,"
"Or very stupid," she said, "My being here is going to bring trouble to you and your people, they won't want me here,"
"I think you will find the opposite will be true," he said with a soft sigh.
"You need something for the pain?"
"Yes please," he said closing his eyes. Marissa fetched the soothing pain medicine for Ardeth and he soon drifted off to sleep. A short time later Mahala came to the tent.
"Marissa," she said softly, "The elders wish to speak to you,"
"What?" she said cowering by Ardeth, "Oh no,"
"It is all right my child, I do not think it is what you fear," she smiled softly, "Come,"
Marissa looked at Ardeth and then left with his mother. She led her to the tent of the elders and led her inside. She was trembling as she stood before them.
"It has come to our attention that during the absence of the warriors your people came looking for you," said the elder,
"We have been told by those who witnessed this that you drew a weapon on the one who claims you as family in order to protect Chieftain Ardeth in his weakened state, is this true?"
"Yes," she said softly.
"And would have spilled the blood of this person to protect Ardeth?"
"Yes," she said firmly, "I would spill my own blood to save his live if that's what I had to do,"
"Very well," said the Elder, "Then it is our decision that your trial has ended. When Chieftain Bay has recovered from his injuries no objections will be made to your union. You are now considered a member of our tribe and will be protected and respected as such. You may return to your duty of tending to your Lord," he said.
"Yes, thank you," she said with a bow and left the tent. She rushed back to be at Ardeth's side when he awoke.
When Ardeth awoke later he was very pleased with her news from the elders. Ardeth very much wanted her for his bride. Over the next several days Marissa continued to help him as he slowly built up his strength. He wanted to take a walk around the compound but he wanted to bathe first. A tub was set up and Marissa filled it and helped him over,
"This will be a chore," he said as she helped him disrobe.
"That's why I am here," she said, "I can not have the Chieftain walking around the compound looking so disheveled, what would they think?"
"True," he said getting into the tub.
"You'll feel like a new man after your bathed and we groom your beard," she smiled.
"I all ready do," he sighed.
Marissa helped him wash and blushed at the fact Ardeth was getting aroused by her touch. She ran the cloth over his hard chest and he smiled at her causing her to blush deeper.
"Perhaps I should let you do this," she said chewing her lower lip.
"I think not," said Ardeth placing his hand over hers, "It's just been too long since I've enjoyed your touch,"
"And you're still healing," she said.
"I think I know my limits," he smiled wickedly.
"Perhaps this evening," she smiled, "We'll see how you do on our walk,"
"As you wish," he smiled.
"Now let me wash your hair," she said moving behind him. Marissa washed his hair running her fingers through his long locks. When she was done she rinsed it and moved to carefully trim Ardeth's beard. She smiled when she was done,
"Now there's the face I fell in love with," she said caressing his cheek.
He smiled, "I need to dry off,"
"Of course," she smiled. She helped Ardeth dry off and then helped him into his robes, "Are you sure you're up for this?"
"Yes love," he said.
She walked with Ardeth and opened the tent flaps. They stepped out and Marissa took Ardeth's arm, she was still unsure around his people. They walked around the compound arm in arm, stopping and chatting to others here and there before going back to the tent. Once inside Ardeth drew her close, "Well, we went for a walk and I am still standing," he smiled, "Do I get a reward?"
"Ardeth," she blushed, "It's the middle of the afternoon, everyone will hear us if we do that,"
"Then we shall be quiet," he smiled backing her towards the bed.
"We can try," she smiled up at him, "I've missed you so much,"
"I've missed you too," he said softly as he laid her down, "Feels like forever since I've worshiped you properly," he leaned in and kissed her lips softly.
"Ardeth," she sighed softly as his lips traveled over her jaw line to up to her ear, "Make love to me," she whispered.
"Aiwa," he answered sending a chill through her body. He trailed hot moist kisses down her neck as she gently clutched his strong shoulders, her body was all ready aching for him, the feel of his strong hands kneading and caressing her, his soft lips on her skin. She was on fire with need.
His hands moved undoing the tiny buttons on her blouse working the material open so he could access her sweet flesh. He quickly exposed her breasts before running a strong hand over each of them making her arch under his gentle touch.
He leaned over her flicking his tongue against a hard peak before taking it in his mouth. Her fingers sunk into his hair as she cradled his head there moaning softly wanting more.
He feasted hungrily on her breasts as she whimpered and moaned. She couldn't help but cry out from the pleasure he was giving her. He stripped her clothes away quickly leaving her naked beneath him. He then moved stripping his robes off before moving back to her. He caressed her legs parting them kissing her inner thigh as he worked his way towards her sweet core. She whimpered more as his beard chaffed her skin gently. She gasped as his tongue found its target making her hips buck.
She clutched his hair and moaned as his tongue stroked her swollen nub making her squirm against him. When he went lower and snaked his tongue inside her she thought she was going to shatter right then, "Ardeth please," she panted softly.
Ardeth moved up then and settled between her legs as she looked up at him. He pushed inside her before running his hands under back making her arch against him. His lips were on her breasts again, moving over sensitive skin, as he began thrusting inside her. She clutched at his shoulders as she hung on, waves of pleasure breaking over her hard.
She continued to whimper and moan as he thrust into her deep and steady. She could feel herself getting closer with each hard thrust, "Oh Ardeth...oh yes," she moaned. She clenched her sheath on him and cried out once more as she shattered under him and he let out a growl of satisfaction as he joined her pumping his seed inside her. He dropped his head between her breasts feeling her fingers in his hair as they both recovered and lay together.
"I think they may have heard us," he said softly as he moved to nuzzle her neck.
"Who cares," she laughed softly, "I love you Ardeth,"
"I love you too," he murmured against her skin.
Ardeth's recovery went along quickly after that and it wasn't long before he took Marissa as his mate. Gone now were her English trappings replaced with the traditional robes of the chieftains wife. Ardeth was proud of her adjustment to life among his people. She may have been the wife of the Chieftain but Marissa was not afraid to do her share of work around the village.
Ardeth was almost well enough to take his place among the patrols. This was something Marissa wasn't looking forward to, she knew that he could be gone for days even weeks, and the thought of being without him for that long was not pleasing to her.
~*~
It was a rather warm day; at least it was to Marissa. Granted it was always warm in the desert but this day she felt as if she was burning up. She had been helping prepare food when she got dizzy. Marissa went nowhere without her young maiden who assisted her and an ever watchful guard. When Marissa swayed suddenly both were quick to catch her. Her guard Osar carried her back to the tent and sent for Ardeth's mother.
"We need to cool her off," said Mahala to the young girl, "Osar, Ardeth is training, please fetch him quickly,” he only nodded and left the tent.
Osar mounted his horse and rode out to the training area where Ardeth was sharpening his combat skills. When he saw Osar approach he halted immediately and went to him.
"Forgive me my Lord, but your mother has asked me to fetch you," he said, "The Lady Marissa has taken ill, they wish you come at once,"
Ardeth moved swiftly mounting his horse and raced back to camp his heart pounding in his chest. When he arrived several women had gathered outside their tent but they parted quickly as he approached. He walked into the tent to see Marissa on their bed apparently asleep, his mother wiping her forehead lovingly as he approached.
"I came as quickly as I could," said Ardeth, "Osar said she was ill,” Mahala smiled at the girl and then at her son.
"No son," she said softly, "She is not ill...she is with child,"
"She..." Ardeth looked down at Marissa, "Truly?" he asked.
"Yes," she smiled, "You are going to be father,"
"She never said anything," he said.
"She probably didn't know my son," she said, "Come sit with your wife," she said moving so he could take her place.
Ardeth sat down and caressed her cheek gently. His mother slipped from the tent leaving them alone. Marissa sighed softly at his touch and her eyes fluttered open.
"Ardeth," she said gently.
"I'm here," he said caressing her cheek once more.
"Are you angry?" she asked looking into his eyes.
"No," he smiled, "How can I be angry? You're going to make me father," he beamed.
"I guess I won't be doing so much around the village will I?" she laughed.
"No you won't," he said, "You will be resting,"
"Yes my Lord," she teased.
"How soon?" he asked placing his hand on her stomach.
"You're mother said six months I believe, give or take,"
"I love you," he said softly.
"I love you too," she smiled, "Any chance I can persuade my husband to share our bed?" she smiled as she tugged his turban off his head letting his long locks loose around his face.
"Are you sure you are up for that kind of activity?" he smiled. It can be rather...strenuous,"
"So be gentle with me," she smiled.
"That I think I can do love," he smiled. He stood up and removed his weapons and boots along with his robes, leaving only his trousers as he moved onto the bed with her and drew her into his strong arms.
"My strong handsome warrior," she smiled caressing his cheek, "I love you so,"
"I love you too," he smiled as he tenderly kissed her lips, "Are you sure about his darling?"
"Yes," she said, "I wish to make love to my husband,"
Ardeth cupped her face gently caressing her cheek before letting his fingers trail the features of her face. She sighed softly her eyes fluttering under his tender touch. It amazed her how someone so strong and powerful could have such a feather light touch when he made love to her.
His thumb caressed her lips before he leaned in and kissed her lips gently letting his tongue caress their softness before he coaxed them open. She slid her arms around him her hands gliding over the hard muscles of his back as she pressed against him and moaned into his mouth as they kissed.
Ardeth kissed her deeply, slowly, savoring the moment before he moved kissing alone her jaw line to her ear. He nibbled it gently sending chills through her body as she sighed, "Ardeth,"
Ardeth nipped at her throat his fingers working the material of her gown open. His hand slipped inside cupping a breast, his thumb caressed her hardening nipple as she gasped lightly.
He moved the material aside letting his lips brush over her before letting his tongue tease the hard peak. He swirled his tongue over her before parting his lips and drawing it into his hot mouth to suckle. She gasped, clutching his hair as she ached him.
He moved between the two licking, nipping, suckling her until she was sensitive to his touch and then slowly he kissed and licked his way down...over her stomach that was beginning to round from the child she now carried. Ardeth paused and caressed her stomach before coaxing her legs apart and moving between them.
He growled softly as he moved in, he loved the taste of her sweet nectar. She gasped as she felt his tongue starting low near the crack of her ass and move slowly and teasingly up her slit. She was trembling as he finally parted her sweet petals exposing her tiny pearl and began caressing it with his tongue making her hips buck against him.
"Ardeth," she pleaded softly.
He moved up lowering his trousers and moved sinking into her. She moaned and arched as he filled her. He moved sliding his hands under her gripping her shoulders gently and she wrapped her legs around him as they locked their eyes on each other and he began to move inside her.
She could only pant and moan softly as Ardeth moved inside her, he filled her so completely so wonderfully, she was in ecstasy when she was with him. She ran her hands over his back feeling his muscles flex with each deep, slow, powerful thrust and she thought she would die if he didn't finish soon.
"Ardeth...yes," she whimpered as he increased his pace and she felt her body tensing, her sheath tightening, she was on the edge and exploded under him as she climaxed hard her nails digging into his damp flesh and Ardeth groaned as he joined her pumping his seed inside her. He hugged her close holding her to him as he rolled on his side and they both recovered.
“I love you,” he said softly as he cradled her in his arms.
“I love you too Ardeth,” she said softly.
“I have to leave in a few days,” he said softly nuzzling her hair.
“I know,” she said softly, “I don’t want you to leave,”
“I know and if it were not for my duty I would never leave your arms,” he said softly.
“How long will you be gone?” she asked as she nuzzled against him.
“I have no way of knowing,” he said as he moved to caress her cheek. They are planning on disturbing the creature again, “I must stop them, it is my duty, you know this,”
“I know,” she said twining a lock of hair around her finger, “Doesn’t mean I have to like it,”
“I will come back to you…never doubt this,” he said as he kissed her lips.
“You better,” she smiled, “I’m not having this child alone,”
“You won’t,” he smiled kissing her again.
~*~
The next morning Ardeth and his men gathered to head out. Marissa stood with his mother, as did the other women whose men were leaving. Ardeth walked over and kissed him mother who smiled at him.
“A safe and blessed journey to you my son,” she said.
“Thank you mother,” he said before moving to Marissa.
“Be safe,” she said as he drew her into his arms, “And come back to us,”
“I will ZahrAh,” he said before kissing her lips. Ardeth ran his hand over her stomach before mounting his horse and riding off into the desert with his men.
“Ardeth is a strong man, he’s shown that time and again,” said his mother, “He will return to you my dear,”
“I pray to Allah he does,” she said as he disappeared from her sight.
~*~
The days passed slowly while Ardeth was gone. Marissa spent most of her days in their tent, reading books that Ardeth had acquired for her, as well as keeping a journal of her pregnancy to share with him when he returned to the village. Osar brought her word that Ardeth had journeyed to England to see the O’Connell’s. It wasn’t very reassuring to her having him so far from home, but as of the message he was still alive.
Finally after what seemed like a lifetime they received word that Ardeth and the remaining warriors were returning to their villages. They had defeated the Army of Anubus, the Scorpion King and Imhotep were no longer a threat once more. When Ardeth and his men returned to the village he scanned the gathering crowd for his wife. He found his mother instead as he dismounted and went to her.
“Where is Marissa?” he asked his mother.
“Resting inside your tent,” she said, “It has been nearly three months since you left. Her due date is closer now, and she tires easily. Go…she will be happy to see you,”
Ardeth smiled as he headed to their tent and he tugged off his turban as he entered. Marissa was lying in their bed and smiled as he walked over and knelt next to her pulling her into his arms.
“My love,” he said before kissing her softly.
“Ardeth…I knew you’d come back,” she said as she hugged him close.
“Of course, I said that I would didn’t I?” he smiled.
“I love you Ardeth,” she said before kissing him soundly.
“I love you too my love,” he said as he held her close.
~*~
Three months later Marissa gave Ardeth a son who they named Asim, which meant defender. After Marissa had recovered from the birth of their son the couple journeyed to Cairo to visit his friends the O’Connell’s once more. Before going to the manor Ardeth and his family decided to go to the market place. Osar was at their side as they walked through the marketplace and Marissa purchased material to take back to the village for clothing.
As they prepared to leave the market Marissa laid eyes on the house that she use to call home. The gate was chained shut, the place looked abandoned. She gripped her husband’s arm.
“Ardeth…look,” she said softly.
“Aiwa,” he said placing his hand over hers.
“I’m afraid you’re former mother in law fell into a great deal of debt. When you did not return to Cairo to wed Marcus Taylor like she had planned…she lost everything,” said Osar.
“What happened to her?”
“She has been seen outside the local temple begging for handouts,” said Osar.
“I guess it’s only fitting,” said Marissa.
“This it is,” said Ardeth as Marissa made her way towards the old manner. She looked at it through the gate cradling their son in her arms.
“Still, not all the memories within these walls were so terrible,” she said giving Ardeth a sideways smile.
“Aiwa,” smiled Ardeth softly.
“Marissa,” came a rough voice and she gasped as someone clasped her arm. Osar stepped in and moved the woman back from her.
“No one lays their hands on Lady Bay,” he said gruffly. It was only then Marissa noticed it was her former mother in law Helen.
“Marissa,” she said again. Ardeth put his arm protectively around her as they faced each other.
“Helen,” said Marissa coldly.
“Please,” she said reaching out a hand to her.
“You made your choices in life Helen…and I made mine. Goodbye,” she said as she took their son and walked away.
They went to the O’Connell’s house where they sat and visited before dining. They were spending the night and Evy showed them to their room before turning in. Ardeth sat nearby watching Marissa as she nursed their son. He was indeed Ardeth’s son. He had the same dark silken locks that lay in soft curls on his head, and his father’s deep brown expressive eyes. When she finished nursing him she laid him down and Ardeth moved onto the bed with her.
“You take very good care of him,” smiled Ardeth softly.
“It’s easy, I love him very much…as I love his father,” she smiled.
“Are you all right my love? I am sure that seeing Helen after all this time…” he said as he caressed her arm.
“It meant little Ardeth,” she said softly, “The woman was never more then a thorn in my side. What she is now was brought upon her by her own actions,”
“I know you are right,” he said looking in her eyes.
“Ardeth,” she said softly, “I do believe the appropriate amount of time has passed,”
“What do you mean love?”
“I mean…” she said sliding closer, “I am healed now from birthing Asim, we may…be intimate once more,”
“Oh really?” he smiled pulling her closer.
“Yes Ardeth,” she whispered as she pressed her lips to his. He pressed her back on the soft bed parting her lips in a deep slow kiss as she moaned and pressed against him. Ardeth ran his hand up her back gently gripping her gown and drawing it down her shoulders. His mouth moved to her neck as his lips caressed her skin, the short hair of his beard chaffing her, “Aiwa,” she whispered softly.
He moved his hands tugging her gown down over her full breasts. She moaned as he gently caressed them, they were sensitive from nursing but she welcomed his touch. She was more eager then she had thought she would be, rubbing against Ardeth, clutching at him as he slowly and gently touched her body making her pant and whimper softly.
“Ardeth,” she gasped.
She was aching to feel him inside her…it had been too long since she had experienced the sweet symphony of their bodies moving together. Ardeth sensed her urgency as she undressed her and she cried out clutching his shoulders as he pushed into her. She was still tender but this is what she wanted, what she needed, she needed to feel him loving her and she wrapped her legs around him as he began thrusting into her slow and steady.
“Yes my love,” she gasped softly as he moved inside her. She clutched at his long locks…his mouth hot on her skin as he increased his pace making her moaned louder. She felt that familiar tingle growing stronger inside her. His name escaped her lips in a breathy moan before she climaxed hard and Ardeth groaned as he joined her hugging her to his body. They lay together in the aftermath of their lovemaking caressing each other gently, kissing softly as she looked in each other’s eyes.
“Are you happy my love?” he asked her.
“Of course I am Ardeth. I have you and our son…what more could I want?”
“I love you Marissa,” he said hugging her close, “More then anything,”
“I love you too Ardeth, my sweet destiny,” she smiled as she kissed him once more before settling into his arms and drifting off to sleep.
The end