Atlantean's Quest: Exodus Part 13

"He's a hard-headed, jacka.s.s kind of guy, who is too old to be playing childish games." Jac crossed her arms over her chest, suddenly aware of her nudity. "How did you get used to this get up?"

"I'm still working on it." Rachel pressed her lips together to keep from laughing again. "They're a little on the chauvinistic side, but they do grow on you, if you give them a chance."

Jac wasn't convinced. She loved Rachel, but obviously she'd been down here too long. "Are you going to come back with me when I go to New York?"

Rachel's features paled, then sadness filled her chocolate colored eyes. The air around them seemed to take a collective breath and still...waiting for her answer. Rachel glanced at the trees, then back at Jac, her voice quiet, when she started to speak.

"I've been helping these people translate some symbols that will allow them to return to their home planet."

Jac shook her head. "Oh, Rachel, come on, enough already. Tell you me you don't believe this Atlantean lost tribe c.r.a.p."

Rachel's face looked pained, but she raised her chin in defiance. "I thought it would take me months, possibly years, to translate them, which was why I initially agreed to stay, but once I got started I found the code quite simple to crack." She paused. "And I fell in love."

"That much is obvious." Jac rolled her eyes.

Rachel looked around to make sure no one listened. "I will have the transport running within a couple of days."

Jac let out a ragged breath. "Then what, back to New York?"

"Then, hopefully the baby growing in my belly will be able to show me how to operate it."

"What?" Jac could feel the color draining from her face and then she started laughing. "That's a good one. You had me going until the baby part."

Rachel said nothing, color dotting her cheeks.

"You're kidding, right?" Jac grabbed Rachel's hands. "Tell me this is all some big cosmic joke, that you haven't lost your mind."

Rachel shook her head slowly from side to side.

Jac's heart sunk to her knees, taking all hope with it. She released Rachel. Oh my G.o.d, her friend really had lost it. She truly believed the mumbo jumbo she spouted. "You're planning on going with them, aren't you?" Jac found herself asking despite her disbelief.

Rachel bit her lip and glanced away again, as though unable to face her.

"I get it. I come all the way down here to this h.e.l.l hole to rescue you, and you don't want to be rescued." A jagged laugh ripped from Jac's throat. She couldn't believe it, even though she'd suspected all along. "That's just great. What the h.e.l.l am I going to tell Brigit?"

"Try to understand, Jac." Rachel grabbed Jac's hand back and twined it with her own. "I was hoping you'd change your mind and want to come too."

"And leave my friend behind," Jac yanked her hand from Rachel's grasp. "I'm not like you Rachel. I care whether or not I hurt my friends."

Rachel gasped.

Jac knew she wasn't playing fair, but right now she didn't care. Seeing Ares injured had scared the h.e.l.l out of her, and now with Rachel standing in front of her, telling Jac she was leaving to go to another planet...well it was too much. Jac was happy with this planet, albeit it had its share of problems, but still... Their planet might not be any better. What if it was worse, a.s.suming that it wasn't complete nonsense? Was Rachel willing to take that chance? Risk her life and the life of her baby on the outside chance things would be better?

From the look on her friend's face, Jac realized the answer was a definitive yes. She stared at Rachel for what felt like hours, yet no more than a few minutes pa.s.sed. She'd changed so much in the few weeks she'd been missing that Jac hardly recognized her. And no matter how crazy Jac thought she'd become, deep down she admired Rachel for taking a stand, being strong in the face of such uncertainty.

Jac didn't know if she'd be able to follow Rachel into s.p.a.ce, not that it was even possible. It was one thing to set out on a rescue mission into a jungle, where you could get back to New York in a matter of hours, but to leave the planet was a different ball of wax.

"I'd better let you get back to Eros." Jac hemmed. "I'm sure you have some kind of Queenly duties to perform after something like this." She pointed to the crowd surrounding Ares and Coridan.

Rachel gave Jac a sad smile and reached out to squeeze her hand. "I'll talk to you later tonight, at the feast."

"What feast?"

"The one honoring Ares on his win."

Jac's brows furrowed. "I thought the contest ended tomorrow."

Rachel's eyes flashed. "It does, but we honor the victor of the second challenge."

"Oh." Jac wondered who in the h.e.l.l came up with these weird rules. Then she snorted. Probably the same d.a.m.n people that convinced Rachel her baby could open the transport. Where was that b.i.t.c.h, Ariel anyway?

"See you later."

"Yeah, later," Jac parroted.

Rachel left in search of Eros. Jac watched until her friend's small frame disappeared, swallowed up by the crowd of Atlanteans. Sadness whelmed up, threatening to spill out. Jac pivoted and had taken one step into the jungle, when someone grabbed her arm. She didn't have to turn to recognize Ares. She could feel the heat from his fingertips. The gentle slide of his thumb, brushing against her sensitive skin, the intense energy that screamed look at me without having to say a word.

Jac turned, her eyes latching onto his slightly battered face. His green gaze remained sharp, hawk like, all seeing. She glanced down at her arm, where he held her and then back up. Ares slowly released her and smiled sinfully.

"Did you see the compet.i.tion?" he asked, pride evident in his deep voice.

Jac shrugged. "Some."

He tilted his head down, nearing her ear. "And what did you think?"

"Do you really want to know?"

"Yes."

"Fine." Jac's hands flew to her hips. "I think you guys are nuts. You both could have been killed and for what, to spend time with me?"

Ares nostrils flared and his eyes narrowed, to jagged jade shards.

"I told you before. I don't want to be anyone's mate. Certainly not the mate of a testosterone laden bonehead, not smart enough to concern himself with his own safety." She threw her arms up in the air, giving up. "And was it really necessary to shoot Coridan in the family jewels?"

Ares brow lifted and he seemed to be trying to suppress a grin.

"I don't think it's funny. You've humiliated the poor guy. They're going to be talking about this for years." Jac pointed to the crowd.

"Your concern for my welfare is touching, but I did nothing the rules did not allow. Besides I aimed higher."

"I didn't accuse you of cheating, only overkill."

Ares blinked, confusion marring his handsome face. "I know not what you speak of."

"You purposely embarra.s.sed Coridan."

"He deserved it. Did you not see what he has done to me?" Ares pointed out his various bruises and cuts to Jac.

She winced when he turned, exposing a particularly nasty gash across his back. "Okay, maybe he deserved a little humbling, but you should have taken his age into consideration."

Ares stepped forward, crowding Jac with his muscled body. "He's not that much younger than me."

"That may be, but you're old enough to know better."

Jac ducked around and walked into the jungle leaving Ares staring after her. She knew he'd follow, because she headed back to his hut, at least that's where she hoped she was going. h.e.l.l, where else was there to go? The bruises on his body looked painful and would probably take weeks to heal. Jac didn't want to think about him being in pain. If she got off on that tangent she'd end up feeling sorry for him, helping, maybe even trying to nurse him back to health. Comforting wasn't her style, at least not when it came to men. Only Rachel and Brigit had ever been on the receiving end of Jac's caring and she'd made them swear never to tell a soul about it.

Jac glanced up at the sky through the leaf-covered canopy. Dark clouds were beginning to roll in and the wind had started to pick up. She took a deep breath, sweet smelling gra.s.s and the scent of distant rain a.s.sailing her. They were in for a storm, whether it would hit by this afternoon or later tonight she didn't know. The hair on Jac's arms rose as if she'd touched the electrical ball at the science center. She hurried on, wanting to be inside before the sky opened up and let loose its fury.

Ares watched Jac walk away. She'd gotten very good at doing so lately. He had to figure out a way to stop her from always running, but he wasn't sure exactly how to go about it. When she'd appeared at the edge of the woods, his heart had nearly stopped. He didn't want her anywhere near the energy challenge on the outside chance he'd suffer a fatal blow. It had taken all of his skill and concentration not to look at her after her arrival. He knew if he did, Coridan would take the compet.i.tion and almost surely win Jac.

That was one thing Ares couldn't allow, not when he'd spent years mentoring the young warrior, teaching Coridan everything he needed to know to become a skilled hunter. The man standing before Ares today was not the same one who'd looked up to him, eager to learn. He was an altogether different creature, which Ares barely recognized.

For that reason alone Ares had ignored Jac as much as he'd been able, focusing solely on the young warrior, hoping he made a mistake. Luckily for him, Coridan had been as distracted by Jac's presence as Ares had been. Because of the strikes he'd gotten in earlier, Coridan had grown over confident, careless. When Ariel flagged the signal, it was the moment Ares had been waiting for. He didn't hesitate. He simply took aim and fired. And it pained him to admit, but Jac had been right about him trying to humble Coridan. The warrior had been goading him throughout the duel and wrong or right, Ares had, had enough.

He wasn't going to sit around and let him get away with being so disrespectful. So Ares had fired, catching Coridan in the ear and backside. He doubted the young buck would be able to sit for a week. The thought of that brought a smile to Ares's face. It wasn't mature, but it was how he felt. He glanced at the villagers, who had started to disburse. Coridan stood in the same spot, glaring at him. Ares knew in time the warrior would get over this public display, but from his stern expression he knew it would take a while...a very long while.

He signaled to Eros. My friend I must speak to you.

What troubles you at this victorious moment? Eros strode across the compound toward Ares.

Before I came to the challenge, I sensed a threat.

What kind of threat? Eros's eyes narrowed.

Ares shifted uncomfortably. A human male has bypa.s.sed our safeguards and is making his way to the village.

Eros's face hardened. Do you sense him now?

Ares stilled, sending his energy out into the jungle, but the strain from the battle had drained too much. I can sense nothing at this time. I've used too much energy in defeating Coridan to be able to get an accurate reading.

Eros nodded. How close was he?

I think he was at least one to two days travel away and closing fast. The readings were strange. He might have been moving away, but that would not make sense. Had it not been for the challenge I would have sought him out immediately and we would have our answers. Ares looked away, trying to hide the shame in his eyes.

Eros reached out and clasped him on the shoulder. You have done what you needed to do to secure your mate. You could follow no other course of action. He squeezed Ares and released him. Nor would I ask you to do such a thing.

Ares tried to smile. Eros was a good friend, a brother in arms, and the only man he'd ever called family since the fall of their civilization. But he could not alleviate the guilt Ares felt for choosing love over the safety of his people, especially when they were nearing the time of departure. Rachel had put together most of the transport, only a couple of pieces were missing. When they were in place, her unborn child would be able to activate it from inside her womb using the power of the Atlantean people, allowing them to leave the confines of Earth forever.

Ares took a ragged breath and looked up into his friend's face. I fear 'tis the red-devil come to haunt us again.

We must be more vigilant in case he attempts to abduct one of our people. Eros glanced at the villagers. We cannot afford to lose any more, for we know not what awaits us on Zaron.

Ares nodded. Once the challenge is complete I could lead a few men into the jungle to seek out this wily rodent.

No. Eros glanced up at the darkening sky. We will get our people out of here and leave him with nothing to find.

I don't think he will be so easily dissuaded.

Eros arched a brow and c.o.c.ked his head. Have you forgotten about the mating ceremony? Do you no longer wish to go through the binding with Jac?

Flinching, Ares eyes widened. What nonsense do you speak? he choked out.

You talk of tracking off into the jungle, yet you do not mention the ceremony. He crossed his muscled arms over his wide chest.

Ares smiled and shook his head. You know I think of naught else, but being joined to my fierce warrior woman.

Then I suggest you work on conquering her and let the red-devil return to Hades where he belongs. Besides, I believe Jac is the more dangerous of the two. Eros waggled his eyebrows and laughed. Be well my friend.

Ares faded into the trees, following the thin trail leading to his hut. His feet fell silent upon the ground. The wind had picked up, whipping his long black hair about his face. He reached into the pouch at his side and pulled a strap to tie the mop back. The change in the weather had quieted the jungle beasts. It was as if every creature sought shelter.

His palms itched as he thought of running his hands over Jac's lithe body. Ares picked up speed despite the pain and exhaustion he felt, intent on making his thoughts a reality.

Two days journey away...

Manuel, the head tracker for Professor Rumsinger's expedition approached from the south, slogging through the rugged terrain. He'd been traveling for two days, pushing his body beyond its limits to give the professor the good news. He'd found the village. The professor would finally have his discovery and Manuel would get the riches the red-haired b.a.s.t.a.r.d had promised him. As for the villagers, he doubted they'd be alive come Sat.u.r.day.

Chapter Thirteen.

Ares was about seventy-five yards from the hut when he felt the first splatter of rain. The clouds had thickened so much it appeared as if night had swallowed the day. He moved around the now familiar trees, picking his way through the thick brush, every muscle in his body beginning to ache. Even if he was allowed, he doubted he had the energy left to send out a healing burst. He'd have to contend with the bruises and cuts for the night. Maybe the wounds would bring out the nurturer in Jac. He smiled. It was worth a try.

He'd made it twenty more feet when a burst of energy struck him from behind, knocking him to the ground. He'd barely been able to put his hands out to break his fall. He collapsed onto the thick ferns, his face resting against their cool leaves, as he struggled to gain his breath. He could smell the acrid odor of charred flesh and realized it came from his wound. Ares tried to push himself up from the ground, but couldn't seem to move, as if the blow had temporarily paralyzed his tired muscles.

I told you Ares, you would pay for the humiliation you caused me.

Ares didn't have to turn to know Coridan spoke. Pain and resentment burned in the younger man's voice, scalding his words, leaving the gaping wounds for all to hear.

What is it you want, young one? Ares tried to sound calm in Coridan's mind. He didn't want to agitate the warrior. You are making a mistake. Have I not taught you like a father guides a son?

You've taught me everything you know and now I'm going to use that knowledge to topple you. I need no other father, than the one who died those many years ago on Atlantis. And to prove it, I've come to show you that you can't get away with your arrogant behavior without repercussions.

Ares released a steady breath. And just what are you planning to do?

Coridan moved until he could peer down into Ares's face. I plan on embarra.s.sing you, like you embarra.s.sed me. When the tribe sees you tied to a stake in the middle of the river, they'll realize just how far the mighty have fallen. It will take you centuries to live it down. He laughed bitterly. The great and mighty warrior, Ares, felled by an inexperienced young one. And to make it even better, your woman will be there to witness the fall. She told me how you needed to be taken down a peg or two. Well once she sees that I've done so, she'll be grateful, perhaps grateful enough to spread her thighs for a real warrior.

Anger surged through Ares. Had Jac been part of Coridan's scheme? He didn't want to think it was so. The pain in his heart would be too great. She had always warned him that she would pay him back. Had this been what she'd been planning all along? Ares closed his eyes and struggled to rise, his feet refusing to cooperate. Coridan secured Ares's hands behind his back.

If you're wondering about your legs-don't bother. I've temporarily paralyzed your spinal cord. Coridan's voice hissed like an angry serpent in Ares's head. The young warrior heaved Ares onto his shoulder and slowly made his way through the jungle toward the river, leaving the hut fading in the gray afternoon light.