Savage Conquest

by Janelle Taylor

  Reis and Miranda were strolling around, loosening stiff muscles, when they were suddenly surrounded by ten painted braves. Reis did not have time to draw his weapon, fortunately. It required three men to hold Reis under control as he fought to save Miranda. A fourth brave was standing before Reis with his lance pointing directly at Reis's heart, yet, Reis showed no fear of him or death, gaining the brave's respect.

  Miranda was seized and imprisoned between two strong males and lost her hat during her brief struggle. When the leader spoke, Miranda recognized his voice. In Oglala, she shouted, "Bloody Arrow, it's me, Tamaha. We're heading to speak with Grandfather and Crazy Horse."

  Her cousin whirled and glared at her. He asked why she was here and who the white dog was with her. She explained Reis's identity and asked her cousin to take them to camp. A quiver of alarm raced over her, for she read contempt and reluctance in Bloody Arrow. Yet there were others around to witness his actions, to control them and his hatred.

  Reis stayed quiet and alert. He assumed Miranda knew this brave and was reasoning with him. Although taken by surprise that she could speak Sioux, Reis waited until she could explain. The leader appeared to recognize her and to listen to her words. He wondered if it was Blazing Star, then hastily concluded it could not be.

  Suddenly Bloody Arrow nodded and agreed to take them to the Oglala camp. Everyone was ordered to mount up and follow him. Miranda hastily explained the circumstances to Reis, her eyes hinting at more news to come later. Riding in the midst of the group, they were escorted to the entrance of Crazy Horse's teepee.

  The noted chief observed this curious sight as Bloody Arrow informed him of Miranda's words and actions. The imposing chief looked at her and asked why she had brought a white man into their camp. Miranda asked if he would speak with Reis alone, as his words were important and private. She gave her word of honor Reis could be trusted. When the stoic leader did not respond, she actually pleaded, saying Reis was from the white chief far away.

  "If he speaks false or his words are not important to the ears of Crazy Horse and the council, you may kill me where I stand. For the lives of all we love, hear him," she urged.

  Crazy Horse agreed to see Reis, in the company of Sitting Bull. The three men went into his teepee and the flap was sealed. Bloody Arrow was furious when she refused to reveal the meaning of Reis's visit. Miranda apologized but held silent. She headed to see her grandfather while the critical meeting took place. Bloody Arrow followed her, to see what she would tell Sun Cloud. When she asked about Blazing Star, Bloody Arrow lied to her, claiming he was off chasing a wife. Her startled reaction confirmed his suspicions.

  "So it is true you seek the eye of Blazing Star. It is foolish, Tamaha. He loves honor and battle, not a woman. He takes a wife to give him his teepee and a son. He would not stain the blood and skin of his child by mating with a girl with white blood. Seek your kind, Tamaha; the blood of your mother's dishonor and shame runs within you. Do not come again," he warned coldly. "What does the white man want?"

  "I don't know. But if I did, I wouldn't tell you. Don't you think I know you would have killed both of us if you'd been alone today? Why do you hate me, Bloody Arrow?" she asked bluntly.

  "Your eyes are clouded with lust for Blazing Star, Tamaha. He joined with Black Buffalo Woman of the Cheyenne. He lies upon her mat this moon. His neck carries the joining necklace to match hers. The white man can do nothing to win Blazing Star for you," he baited her.

  "I didn't come here to capture Blazing Star's heart or eyes. Stay away from me; your heart is cold and evil," she murmured softly, to avoid being overheard. Her heart was aching at his news. Could it be true? Or was it a cruel and malicious joke? Dare she ask her grandfather and risk having her very soul lacerated? If it were not true, why would her cousin speak a lie so easy to unmask? Blazing Star had made no promises to her, no commitments, no vows of love and loyalty. He had done all he could to prevent any contact between them. Perhaps that hurt the most; he had not lied or tricked her. She had surrendered willingly, eagerly, wantonly, helplessly.. .

  Sun Cloud was ecstatic to see her. He hugged her and kissed her cheek. He scolded her for leaving him without a good-by, but understood her generous motive. She told him that Amanda and her husband had arrived at Fort Sully. She told him Reis had come to parlay with the chiefs and he would learn of the meaning in council later. After promising to visit again if possible, she asked about Blazing Star. It was silly to be a coward; it was silly to allow hazy words or a simple misunderstanding to come between them.

  Her grandfather suspected her reason for inquiring. His heart soared with happiness at the thought of his father's bloodline joining and strengthening in Blazing Star and Miranda. But he could not interfere. It must be the will of the Great Spirit. It warmed his aging heart to recall how both looked at each other and how each asked about the other, as it had been with his beloved Singing Wind before the white dogs attacked their village and wantonly slaughtered her and many others. He had lived with sadness, bitterness, and hatred for many winters, but this fresh and gentle creature enlivened him once more. She was the essence of life and joy.

  He smiled and stated innocently, "He visits the camp of our brothers, the Cheyenne. He brings a surprise to my teepee," he added mischievously, thinking of the horse which was to be a gift for her from her grandfather, a swift and agile pinto.

  Miranda misconstrued his words and excitement, assuming he did not know of her love for Blazing Star. When her smile faded, her eyes teared, and she trembled, he asked if she were ill or distressed. She forced a -smile and told him she was simply fatigued.

  Sun Cloud was still alert enough to notice the sarcastic and mocking sneer which flickered over Bloody Arrow's face when Miranda glanced at him. The old man did not realize he had aided Bloody Arrow's spite, but he sensed a chilling aura which he did not like. As Miranda was encased in pensive silence, Sun Cloud furtively observed the way Bloody Arrow watched her.

  Sun Cloud knew his days were short. He wondered if his granddaughter might choose to remain with his people. She knew a great deal about them, but there was more to learn. Did he have the days to teach her? Would she be accepted? Would she be safe and happy here? If only the bluecoats would leave them in peace.

  The unexpected appearance of the beautiful descendent of Gray Eagle and Sun Cloud had sparked great interest and mixed feelings amongst his people, a blend of rejection and acceptance, affection and dislike. The rumors of jealousy in the wife of Crazy Horse had not avoided his keen ears. How sad for such lies to be born, to be allowed to grow. What would happen to his granddaughter of ter his death, if anything happened to Blazing Star? She would be alone, and jealousy and envy were powerful destroyers.

  She was such an uncommon creature, half woman and half vixen. She was as eager for adventure as any brave. She possessed such energy, such daring, such courage. Here, she could be as free and wild as the winds. If only they were not warring winds.

  As all three came to attention at the sound of drumming, the call went forth, "Ominiciye kte lo," summoning the leaders to council. Sun Cloud and Bloody Arrow reached for their prayer pipes to leave.

  Miranda tensed but did not ask questions. But her heart lurched and beat wildly as Bloody Arrow returned briefly to say, "Pray to your Great Spirit, Tamaha, if they vote to slay the white dog and hold you captive for your offense. If you have helped our enemy, no man can save you, even Sun Cloud. I will vote for your punishment."

  Tremors raced over her body, as her malevolent cousin laughed satanically. She mastered her rampant emotions and stated clearly and evenly, "I will pray, Bloody Arrow, but for you. I will ask the Great Spirit to burn the hatred and evil from your body. I will pray He sears away your hatred for me, for there is no reason for it. I will pray for Him to open your eyes to the truth, to honor."

  Miranda paced the confines of the teepee until she thought she would scream from anxiety. To pass the time, she removed her soiled riding clothes and donned he
r Indian dress. The meeting went on for hours while each man had his say in a matter which was unknown to her. Never had she prayed so intensely or swiftly in her life. No matter how Blazing Star felt about her, she wished he were here. He was so intelligent, so influential. His'words and power might be needed.

  When she felt as if she could not breathe from the tension which was attacking her chest, she left the teepee to stroll along the stream bank. She walked back and forth until she made a path upon the lush grass. She halted and leaned against a towering tree, the evening breeze playing softly through its leaves and small branches. She inhaled deeply, then sighed. She closed her eyes and murmured, "Please let everything be all right."

  "What could be wrong, Tamaha?" a stirring voice questioned.

  Her eyes flew open and she stared into the arresting face of Blazing Star. A smile captured her features and brightened them. Joyful tears of relief threatened to spill forth. She was about to fling herself into his arms when she recalled Bloody Arrow's words. She clasped her raised hands and lowered them, the beaming smile vanishing before his baffled eyes. She moistened her suddenly dry lips and pulled her tormented gaze from his, trying vainly to mask her warring emotions. "I didn't know you were home," she murmured, turning slightly to lean against the tree as if needing its support while avoiding his piercing gaze. "I was waiting for Reis to finish his meeting so we could leave," she informed him to explain her unwanted. presence.

  "The meeting is over. He waits for you in Sun Cloud's teepee," he responded, unintentionally giving her the impression he was telling her it was time to go. He witnessed a shadow of anguish and turmoil which dulled her somber eyes. When her chin and lower lip quivered, she caught it between her teeth. He wondered at her strange behavior.

  Without looking at him again, she straightened and tried to move past him toward camp. To think of him with another woman seared her heart. She was afraid she would burst into racking sobs at any moment. When he imprisoned her left arm and refused to allow her to leave, she shuddered at the contact. "Please let me go, Blazing Star," she beseeched him in a choked voice, shivering as if cold.

  He studied her lowered head and behavior. "Do you hate me so that you cannot face me? You can share no words with me?" he asked worriedly, dreading the reason for her strange conduct.

  Stunned by his words, she looked up into his solemn expression. "I don't hate you; I could never hate you," she vowed sadly. "I didn't want you to think I had broken my promise to you by returning here."

  Still he did not relax or free her. "I have been in council; I know why you are here. But why do you wish to run from me? Why are your eyes so full of pain? I do not understand, Tamaha. Did the moon which passed between us change your feelings for me?"

  She stared at him in disbelief. Was he being cruel without meaning to be? Did he not understand how the news of his marriage would affect her? Did he not know how much she loved and wanted him? Did he not realize she could not accept the Indian custom of. having more than one woman or wife? Did he not realize she could never share him with anyone! "I have not changed, Blazing Star; you have," she responded mysteriously. "If my feelings have changed, they have grown stronger, just as you warned me. Please don't torment me."

  His bewilderment increased. "Why does it torment you to be with me? Why do you draw away in such coldness?" he probed tensely.

  Tears wet her lashes, then slipped down her cheeks. "Because you belong to another. Because you think I am unworthy of your love and teepee. Because I can never forget you or what we shared. I must go," she stated frantically, yanking on her arm.

  His grip tightened, then he encircled her body with his powerful embrace. She struggled wildly for freedom from this agonizing embrace, He would not let her go. When she accepted her helpless and vulnerable position, she rested her forehead upon his chest and cried. He found this action stunning. "I belong to no other woman, Tamaha. What woman is more precious than you? If it could be, I would take you to my heart and mat this very moon. You fill my thoughts each sun and my dreams each moon. Why do you speak this way?"

  Miranda lifted her head and stared at him. "I know the white customs differ from yours, Blazing Star, but you can't have me and her, too. How can you take a wife, then speak such words to me? It's wrong for us to be together now that you're married. I can't. And I hate myself for wanting you so much."

  Blazing Star shook his head, trying to clear his steadily rising confusion. "I have taken no wife, Tamaha. Explain your words."

  Shocked and baffled herself, she asked warily, "You didn't marry Black Buffalo Woman in the Cheyenne camp?"

  Blazing Star threw back his head and laughed in amusement. When she punched him in the stomach and demanded he stop his laughter, he did. Grinning broadly, he grasped her chin and kissed her nose. "I have taken no wife, Tamaha, nor any woman to my mat since knowing you. Black Buffalo Woman has enough winters to be my grandmother. I can think of no woman when my people are at war, when my life is in danger each sun and moon. Your jealousy pleases me, but your head mixed another's words," he jested playfully.

  Miranda realized what Bloody Arrow had done. Her eyes narrowed and frosted; she grit her teeth as she planned her revenge.

  Observing her anger, he demanded sternly, "Explain the fires of revenge which flame within your eyes, Tamaha."

  "I didn't understand about you and her. I was told clearly that you married her," she -stated, then revealed the source.

  "Bloody Arrow wishes to hurt us, Tamaha. I will watch him closely. Has he been cruel to you another time" he probed oddly.

  Miranda related their capture this afternoon and all other events involving her and her cousin. "Do not turn your back to him," he warned after she finished. "I will settle this matter later. Reveal no sadness or anger when we return to the teepee. Let him believe his words never harmed you or played in your mind. You must trust me, Tamaha. Do not believe such lies. I could take no woman while you fill my senses. When the moon of peace comes, then we will talk of our love and desires." He wisely did not add, if I still live.

  She hugged him and spread kisses over his chest.

  "Then I shall pray with all my might for the moon of peace to come quickly, my love," she whispered against his thudding heart. "Can I stay and visit?"

  "No, Tamaha, it is too dangerous," he blatantly refused.

  "But I've missed you so much," she protested urgently, snuggling provocatively against his hard and taut frame.

  His voice was strained as he confessed, "As I miss you. We must remain apart until a final truce," he asserted unflinchingly, stubbornly, protectively. "Do not beg, for my mind is as stone."

  They were standing so close that she noticed his hunger for her. She smiled enticingly and murmured, "But your body is not."

  He glanced at her and shook his head roguishly. "Your tongue speaks too quickly and freely, Tamaha," he jested seductively. "I can control all, except my desire for you. Return to the teepee while I cool this fire you have started." He knew he should send her away immediately. He knew he should not touch or kiss her. He knew he should not be saying such encouraging words to her. But her nearness dazed his senses and inflamed his body.

  Her senses were also spinning wildly at his nearness. Their foreheads were touching; his breath warmed her flushed face as he spoke. Their gazes were locked and their needs exposed. He shuddered with loosely leashed control; she trembled with unbridled passion. "You must go, Tamaha; they wait for you." He tried one last time to deny what they both wanted and needed.

  "I can't," she murmured simply, those words saying much. "I feel no shame or modesty with you, Blazing Star. Our time is too short and precious for such feelings. Is there no place we can ... be alone?" she asked boldly, revealingly.

  "Do you know what you say, Tamaha?" he asked huskily, his manhood throbbing with painful craving.

  She needed to prove to him how much he loved and desired her. She needed to show him they belonged together. She needed to break, down all barrier
s between them, all forces against them. He was on the verge of giving in to his emotions, and she needed to assist that blissful defeat. Once he accepted his love and need for her, then he would keep her with him.

  There was so much love and desire emblazoned in her eyes when she smiled and murmured, "Yes, I want you. I love you."

  Those words rang warnings in his mind, warnings he refused to hear or follow. "What if they come looking for us?" he argued weakly.

  She grinned. "I know you can go and come in secret. If you wish to hide us, you will find a way," she replied trustingly.

  He debated once more, "There is little time before they seek us. Passion should not run as swiftly as the river after a rain. Such moments should not be rushed."

  "Are you saying a treat eaten quickly is not as filling or enjoyable as one eaten slowly?" she teased brazenly, sensuously.

  For an answer, he scooped her up in his sturdy arms and headed into the forest. She suppressed her giggles by sealing her lips to his shoulder. When he felt he had put a sufficient distance between them and the camp, he lowered her feet to the grassy earth. The only sounds present were from the birds, a gentle wind, and their erratic breathing. "You are sure?" he asked one final time.

  She nodded as she smiled happily. His fingers shook as they unlaced the ties at her throat and removed her dress. His smoldering gaze slipped from her passion-glazed eyes down her throat to heat her breasts with its flames. His hands upon her shoulders eased down her arms with snaillike leisure, halting at her wrists and capturing them gently as he leaned forward to tantalize those firm points with his tongue. She moaned and swayed at the intensity of that pleasure.

  He caught the ties of her breechclout and untangled them, to allow the triangular garment to drift to her ankles. He straightened, then leaned away to gain a full view of her. She was so beautiful. His hands cupped her breasts, his thumbs caressing the hardened peaks. When she fused her lips to his mouth, his hands traveled down her sides and encircled her body, grasping her buttocks and drawing her naked body against his shuddering one.