His tongue flicked and circled, sometimes slowly, sometimes swiftly. His finger slipped within her body. Together it worked with his tongue to bring her to the point of torturously sweet rapture. She cried out his name and arched her hips upward as the spasms rocked her body. Bright Arrow increased his endeavors to give her supreme pleasure. As soon as she settled down, he climbed out of the water and hovered over her. Then he captured her lips and entered her slippery haven.
His self-control was sorely tested. He was surprised when she rapidly responded to him, as if insatiable. He thrust gingerly until she arched and matched his pattern. Bright Arrow didn’t have to labor hard or long. He sensed her urgency and increased his pace.
His mouth went from nipple to nipple as he drove into her body and retreated rhythmically. Another explosion of rapture assailed Rebecca. She clung to her love tightly and fiercely. Bright Arrow cast aside caution and control. Together they scaled the heights and power of the heavens. Ever so slowly they drifted back to reality, remained entwined until they grew chilled.
“Does your captor please you?” he asked casually. Merriment and joy radiated from his twinkling eyes. “Was that not a good lesson and good practice?” he jested, grinning beguilingly at her.
“However shall you hunt for us and protect our lives when I force you to remain inside your tepee for more such lessons and practice?” she ventured seductively.
“I shall feast on your body and passion. And what better place to die than in your arms and body?” he smilingly retorted.
“You sorely tempt me to take on this critical mission. How soon will you have a tepee of your own?” she asked, playfully reminding him of their imminent lack of privacy. A walk in the forest to share passion would be impossible when the ground was covered by snow.
“At this moment, my parents and friends build a tepee for Bright Arrow and his wife. It is their gift to us for all we have done for them and our brothers. Does that please you, my greedy heart?” he murmured tenderly. His finger rubbed back and forth over her lips.
“Very much,” she replied, cuddling up to him.
They washed off, gathered their belongings, and returned to the fire. For three more days, they talked, laughed, shared, and loved. When travel was possible, Bright Arrow told her they must head for his camp. Aside from his concern that someone might search for them, he wanted to make her his wife as quickly as possible. Only then could he be certain that she would share his life-circle, that nothing would come between them to vanquish this dream come true. He wouldn’t be satisfied or convinced until she belonged to him.
For some inexplicable reason, dread and tension chewed at him every time he thought about or mentioned returning to camp. There was no reason for his tribe or the council to take back its vote and acceptance of her. She loved him, and he loved her. Both agreed to this marriage and a life together. His family desired her return to his side. Windrider loved another, and was joined to her. The Crow and Pawnee were far away at their winter grounds. His enemies were dead or defeated. He had avenged his father and brother. He had proven his warrior rank and prowess. His family was safe. His beloved was in his possession. The weather was clearing steadily. So why was he haunted by an uneasy feeling? he anxiously wondered. Why was he reluctant to leave this secure and happy place? What could possibly go wrong now?
Heyab iyayo, wakansica woniya, his mind commanded, ordering the evil spirits to cease disrupting his peace of mind.
Chapter Twenty-Four
As Rebecca rode nestled against her love, she inquired with curiosity, “Why did your people change their minds about me? After what Cloud Chaser told me, I didn’t think they would ever allow us to be together.”
Bright Arrow stiffened in renewed anger against that treacherous man. If Cloud Chaser hadn’t vanished, he would call him to a challenge. Evidently the malicious Sioux warrior had met with death or capture. Bright Arrow couldn’t grieve over his loss, but he knew that if Cloud Chaser ever returned to camp, he would slay him with his bare hands!
He leashed his fury, explaining “He lied to you and Windrider. He never told my people you wished to speak with them. The council did not meet that day. They did not talk of you or vote against you as he claimed. Cloud Chaser told no one of your visit or my approaching return. He has fled in fear of my vengeance. If he returns, I will punish him for his lies, which cut your heart deeply.” He didn’t add that he knew such lies had almost driven her into the arms and tepee of Windrider. It was best to forget that difficult and painful episode. Bright Arrow didn’t know about his friend’s original plot against Rebecca, and he never would.
He blamed their mutual attraction on vulnerability, on intense needs, on loneliness, on desperation, on his own foolish behavior. He knew there was nothing to explain or forgive. Rebecca and Windrider were friends, nothing more. Bright Arrow knew this fact without a doubt.
This was their second day on the trail. The day before had passed in light conversation or serene silence. This day, they spoke more seriously. Now Rebecca leaned away to stare at him in disbelief. “It was all lies? A vicious trick? Why?” She wanted an explanation. Bright Arrow gave her the only one he could imagine—jealousy and hatred of him. She frowned. “Is he the only one who hates me and resents my return?”
“It was me he hated and resented,” he gently corrected. He avoided answering her question, praying she had no foe in his camp.
“Why must people be so cruel and evil?” she mused aloud. “Why must they intrude in others’ lives? Why must they feed on the suffering of others? It’s wrong! It’s mean and wicked!” she stated angrily. She couldn’t help but imagine what Cloud Chaser’s mischief had almost done to her life. She had unwisely trusted two men—one white and one Indian. One had almost stolen her love, and the other had almost taken her life. She would not be so trusting and gullible in the future. Yet she despised the idea of suspecting each person of harboring evil intentions. In the past, she had been a good judge of character. This last year, with all its pain and troubles, had blunted her instincts and keen wits. Surely her problems and suffering had ceased…
Bright Arrow knew Rebecca wasn’t asking questions to which she expected answers from him. She was right; it was hard to understand or explain such treachery and evil. People made mistakes; they might follow a wrong trail; they could be duped or snared or tempted by wicked forces. But misleading or tormenting a friend or tribe member was unspeakable evil. It could not be accepted or forgiven; it could not go unpunished.
That night, they camped beneath a heavy overhang of spruce branches. After a satisfying meal they snuggled together to stay warm. As the moon sprinkled her light upon them through the boughs, they made love passionately and freely. Afterward, their bodies remained entwined as they slept.
Shortly after midday, the Oglala camp came into view. Bright Arrow reined in Tasia. He searched Rebecca’s face for any sign of anxiety or indecision. She smiled knowingly. “I’m fine, my love. This time I enter your camp as your bride, not as your white captive. One day, everyone will forget the troubles of these past years. We must show our courage, and love, and determination.”
He grinned and hugged her. “Yes, my heart, you are ready to confront my people and win their affection and respect. We will be happy, Rebecca Kenny,” he stated confidently.
“Han,” she playfully responded in Sioux.
“Waste cedake, “ he murmured, speaking his love for her.
“Oihanke wanil?” she teased, caressing his strong jawline.
“Yes, always, forever, Cante Peta,” he stressed, tenderly calling her the fire in his heart.
“My heart, my life, my body,” she murmured seductively, then added, “Lena oyas’in cic’u kte,” vowing she had given all these things to him.
He kissed her thoroughly. When their lips parted, their gazes remained joined. He clutched her to his body and rode into his camp.
They were greeted by many friends, his family, and curious tribe members. Shalee hu
rriedly stepped forward. As her green gaze slipped over Rebecca, she smiled in relief and affection. “Welcome home,” she declared joyfully, then embraced the younger woman.
Over Shalee’s shoulder, Rebecca’s eyes met those of Chief Gray Eagle. He smiled warmly and greeted her, “It is good to have you back at my son’s side. You will be called my daughter. It is as it should be.”
Rebecca’s eyes misted. It’s true, she thought joyfully. They are going to accept me.
Shalee informed her, “I have made you a joining dress. The tepee is finished. We will have a feast and share your happiness.”
“Where are my children?” she inquired eagerly.
‘They sleep. They are lovely girls, Rebecca. My son and his family will know peace here. Come, you must rest and eat,” she invited.
The group entered the tepee of the legendary Gray Eagle and Princess Shalee, the beautiful woman who had once been enslaved by this still handsome and valiant man. Rebecca noted that the years had been good to them, for neither seemed to have aged appreciably, and the looks of affection that passed between them hinted at a love still strong. They all sat on small mats and leaned against backrests, careful not to disturb the sleeping children. The small girls were accustomed to sleeping during noisy periods, and they did not awaken. Wanting to savor this long-awaited reunion, Rebecca left them in peaceful slumber.
She could no longer deny this reality, for the proof surrounded her. Yet she couldn’t help but wish she could turn back the clock a few years, to prevent their suffering and to have another chance to save her child’s life. She resolved to let go of such feelings and thoughts, for she knew she would have to give her best, her all, to this new chance for them.
The joining ceremony was planned for the next night. Shalee offered to keep the children that night and the next, giving the couple time alone after their reunion and wedding. Bright Arrow readily agreed, so eagerly and instantly that Rebecca blushed shyly. But when he playfully cuffed her chin and visually devoured her, she couldn’t suppress the desire that danced in her tawny eyes.
Shalee and Gray Eagle exchanged knowing smiles. It was good to see such powerful and passionate love between their son and his chosen woman. If it hadn’t been real or potent, it wouldn’t have lasted so long and endured so many trials. It was good to have them home where they belonged.
Gray Eagle reached out to take Shalee’s hand. He squeezed it meaningfully. What did it matter that he was fifty-three winters old and his love was forty-eight? When the right moment presented itself, their passion could burn as brightly and fiercely as Rebecca and Bright Arrow’s. He warmed just knowing what beauty and sensuality lay beneath her chamois dress. In two nights, they would be alone again, if Bright Arrow would return their favor by keeping Sun Cloud. With that heady thought, his passions were kindled to a cautious and smoldering level. He would feed them and allow them to burst into roaring flames in three days… As if reading his thoughts, Shalee smiled and nodded.
The next day passed in busy preparation for the joining ceremony and feast. The girls did not understand the meaning of the Indian wedding; they only realized that their parents were involved in something exciting and special. Windrider and Bonnie arrived as welcome guests. Each member of the tribe offered something for the joining, or the feast, or their new tepee. It was a joyous time for everyone, especially for the second generation of lovers and their family.
The crisp December evening seemed perfect for the occasion. The sky was clear. The moon was full. Millions of stars glittered across the indigo heavens. The brisk wind had ceased, and the winter air was far from unpleasant. It was a beautiful night for a wedding.
Flaming Star, Gray Eagle, Windrider, and White Arrow were helping Bright Arrow to prepare himself. Gray Eagle had insisted that his son wear his long robe of multicolored feathers, his most richly decorated buckskins, and his deftly quilled moccasins. His ebony hair had grown long enough for braids that brushed his shoulders, but to give the appearance of greater length, they attached feathers, tufts, and beaded thongs to the edges. At last, the bridegroom was fully attired. He presented a handsome and stirring image.
Bright Arrow’s tension was obvious to the other men. They laughed and joked with him. They talked of olden days and past adventures and future times as they waited for the signal from the ceremonial chief.
Mind-Who-Roams, the medicine chief and visionary, entered the tepee. He informed Bright Arrow that he and his wife would be very happy, that the Great Spirit would guide and protect this special union. He embraced the younger warrior. Then, in turn, each man embraced him and offered last words of advice or congratulations. He accepted all with gratitude and happiness.
In another tepee, Rebecca was donning a beautiful wiyan heyake, a dress of the softest and whitest elkskin. She wore matching beaded, knee-length moccasins. The bodice of the dress was exquisitely decorated with beads of red, white, blue, and green. It was heavily fringed on the arms, yoke, and hem. She was given a tuft adorned with beads and feathers, which she placed in her fiery chestnut hair. She was radiant.
Little Feet, Tashina, and Sun Cloud were with Wandering Doe, wife to White Arrow and mother to Flaming Star. She had had a hard time controlling the children, so eager were they for the activities to begin. When all was ready, she took them to observe the dancing and singing, which was taking place near the center of camp. They were soon caught up in the excitement of the celebration. The girls were enjoying their new life in the Oglala camp. They liked having grandparents and friends.
When the drumming began, Shalee looked at Rebecca and told her it was time to join the others. Rebecca hugged Shalee and Bonnie, then thanked them for their assistance and friendship. Joyfully, the three women left the tepee and walked toward the large campfire. Rebecca saw that Bright Arrow and the other men were waiting for them, and she noted that the children were standing nearby. The kettle drum ceased for a time. It seemed a perfect moment.
Suddenly a wild scream rent the still air, startling everyone. Kajihah burst from the tepee behind the three women. Her frenzied yell had caused all three to whirl around and face her, and they were horrified by the sight that greeted them. Two knives were raised high over the crazed woman’s shoulders, and the sharp blades glistened ominously in the firelight as she prepared to release the deadly weapons. There was little, if any, time to react. Panic and confusion engulfed the crowd surrounding the four women. Almost in the flicker of an eye, both blades were deeply buried within feminine flesh. It was over as rapidly as it had begun. Registering disbelief and shock, all eyes locked onto the grisly sight.
Standing Rock swayed back and forth on his knees and openly wept. He stared at the bright red liquid on his hands, his own child’s blood. Yet he had been forced to seize her hands and drive the blades into her body. He could not have allowed her to murder two innocent women. Until tonight, he had denied the warnings and indications of her madness and wickedness. He had been unable to ignore the horrible glow in her eyes as she had sharpened the two hunting knives, all the while murmuring the names of the two white women and cursing them. She had been crazed by her hatred and jealousy. Now it was over; Kajihah was dead.
Standing Rock lifted the bloody, lifeless body and vanished into the darkness. The three women remained frozen in place. Gray Eagle nodded to the eight men surrounding the kettle drum. They began to beat out the joining song. Others obeyed the chiefs silent command; they began to sing and to smile. Gray Eagle strode to his wife Shalee, drew her close, and escorted her to her place beside him. His jet eyes caressed his emerald-eyed love of twenty-eight-and-a-half years.
The final seed of fury had been destroyed. Bright Arrow’s adoring eyes never left Rebecca Kenny’s glowing face as he sought her hand and led her to the ceremonial chief. She gripped his hand tightly, smiling nervously into his tender gaze. No one had to wonder if they loved each other; it was apparent to all.
Windrider walked over to Bonnie and slipped his arm around her waist. Their
eyes met, blackish brown melting into sky blue. He knew beyond all doubt that she was the answer to his quest. They exchanged smiles and expressions of love, certain they would share a bright and happy future.
Flaming Star grinned. He nudged his father, who had been Gray Eagle’s friend since childhood. He wistfully ventured, “I pray I will find a woman as beautiful as Rebecca and Shalee. I would be happy with a love only half as powerful and unconquerable as theirs.”
White Arrow nodded his agreement as he slipped his arm around Wandering Doe’s waist. He grasped his son’s arm and squeezed it lovingly, proudly. He had witnessed the births, the pains, the joys, the defeats, and the triumphs of two loves between white women and Sioux warriors. At last there would be only happiness, peace, and serenity for Gray Eagle and Shalee and for Bright Arrow and Rebecca. Watching the four tonight, White Arrow had no doubts about their futures.
The joining ceremony began. It was a lengthy and exhilarating rite. Joining necklaces were blessed and exchanged. The couple vowed their love and commitment to each other. When it was over, Bright Arrow pulled Rebecca into his powerful arms beneath the flowing robe of feathers, and their eyes fused. It was an embrace much like the one Gray Eagle and Alisha Williams had shared many years ago. Then Bright Arrow’s lips covered Rebecca’s, sealing their love and vows for all time.
Princess Shalee snuggled against her husband’s side. She was consumed by ecstasy as she and Gray Eagle exchanged intoxicating smiles. Suddenly, Sun Cloud wriggled between his parents’ bodies. They looked down at their young son, attempting to envision the destiny and love awaiting him. But that’s another story….
A NOTE FROM THE AUTHOR
I do hope you enjoyed this sixth book in the SAVAGE ECSTASY series. I am grateful that you and other readers have made these characters and stories so popular. I am also grateful to ZEBRA BOOKS for continuing this saga for nine books. When it is time for major characters to “pass away,” it will occur between books. I have worked with these characters for so long that they are like my family, and I hate to part with them. Please write and let me know which of the books is your favorite, and why. I would also like to know which characters, major or secondary, you find most appealing. Write to me at: Janelle Taylor Enterprises, 4366 Deerwood Lane; Suite 6E; Evans, Georgia, 30809. As quickly as possible, I will answer your letter. If you have missed one of the books in the series and cannot find it at your local bookstore, you can obtain it from ZEBRA BOOKS, at the address listed near the front. For a “Janelle Taylor Newsletter,” send a self-addressed stamped envelope to the address above. Thanks for your support and interest. Until SAVAGE ECSTASY saga #7…
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