"Do not make me pick you up and toss you to Zaron," he growled. "I do not think the first impression you make on the people should be on your bottom."
Jac's face flushed red. "You wouldn't dare," she hissed out.
"Try me."
"Enough!" The force of Ariel's one uttered word stopped their squabbling immediately.
They both turned in unison to look at her. Ariel's face held a calm facade that she probably didn't feel, but the bickering was getting them nowhere.
"I shall stay here and search for Coridan." She gazed at the trees, concern coloring her features, before glancing back.
Ares opened his mouth to protest, but Ariel held up a hand, stopping him before he could utter a syllable. "I realize I am not a warrior, but 'tis not as if I'm without means."
"I cannot allow you to make this sacrifice. You've guided our people for thousands of years. 'Tis your right to see our home planet, more so than any other." Ares spoke softly.
"I will see our Zaron...soon. But for now, you must leave this place. Make sure your mate is safe." She smiled at Jac, her eyes pleading. "Do this for me, Ares."
Ares sensed there was something the seer was not telling them. He once again went to speak, this time Jac laid her hand upon his arm, stopping him. "It's time to go. Ariel knows what she's doing." Jac smiled back at the seer.
Good luck, Ariel. I hope you find whatever it is you seek.
The seer grinned wider, an unspoken understanding passing between the two women, then Ariel bid them on their way.
Jac and Ares stepped toward the transport, their muscles trembling in anticipation. They looked over their shoulders once more at Ariel.
I'll be right behind you, after I have one more quick look around. Now go. The seer waved, then shoo'd them on.
Ares glanced down at Jac's face, her eyes met his, and he nodded, with that they stepped forward into their new life together.
Atlantean's Quest Book Three: Redemption.
Sneak Peek:.
Ariel blew out a ragged breath. She'd find Coridan and get them back here as soon as possible. She returned to the village, making her way down the narrow trail, until she reached her hut. She heard a slight rustling inside her dwelling and her heart swelled with anticipation. The seer stepped forward and threw back the hide flap, a welcoming smile painted on her face.
"How nice of you to join us, my dear," the red-haired man's voice purred.
Ariel felt the blood drain from her face. She raised her hands to defend herself, but before she could fire off an energy burst, two men stepped from the sides and subdued her. Ariel struggled to no avail, the men were too strong. Her eyes narrowed on the devil sitting at her small table.
The professor's ruddy face split into a smile. "You're not exactly who I was hoping for, but you'll do."
end.