FEEDBACK: Yes Please! — HistoryWillKnowTheSeven@hotmail.com (Don't forget to tell me which story you read - Thanks)
RATING: R - for violence and sexual content. Some content may be disturbing to more sensitive readers.
UNIVERSE: Old West (The Original and Still the Best)
SERIES: History Will Know The Seven
ARCHIVE: Yes, but ask first please.
DISCLAIMER: If only wishes did come true... Reality is harsh.
John Watson and CBS own The Magnificent Seven and all of its characters.
No profit shall be received from this narrative.
I claim All Original Characters as my own.
Please, DO NOT use them without my express permission.
WRITER'S NOTES: The references to Greek Mythology used here can be found in most Encyclopedias.
It was necessary for me to learn the game of poker, although it doesn't take up a lot of the plot. I'm told I got it right.
The Native Language used here is authentic, but I did take small liberties with some of the translation. I must apologize for the appearance of the written words. The standard computer keyboard does not allow for Cheyenne punctuation.
My story has no true basis in reality, but the references made to Native American cultural beliefs have a basis in fact. The creatures of the Four Winds do exist!
This is an updated verion of the original story. I've learned a lot about writing in the past then mnths and just thought I'd make things a little easier to read. A big thanks to Elizabeth for re-posting the story.
My thanks to Antoinette for her friendship, guidance and patience. Thanks also, to Amy, for her enthusiasm and tenacity. And, thank you to Carrie and Marnie, for their eagerness to help.
For those readers who desire a little more detail, there is also an 'Adult' version of this story available on this site.
Even half drunk, Larabee knew someone was watching him. As the minutes ticked slowly by, the blond searched his memories. He couldn't conceive of anybody stupid enough to get near him when he was in this kind of mood. No one that knew him anyway...
That only left one logical conclusion... something that his gut had been warning him of for some time now... Danger lurked. Some unknown was watching and waiting... they'd surely take advantage of any chance to catch him off guard.
Chris continued to chop the firewood as he had been doing for almost an hour. Two more big pieces of wood fell into kindling as sweat beaded from the man's bare chest. His rage had waned gradually, yet it didn't seem that there would ever be enough lumber to quell all of his anger completely. Still mindful of prying eyes, he gathered some of the pieces together and carried them into his home. Forcing the door open, he kicked it closed behind him.
Several minutes later, the door swung open quickly. Larabee's gun was drawn at the ready and his adversary simply stood and stared.
Athena's hands were outstretched, well away from her pistols.
The gunslinger sneered. What the hell are you doing here? How dare ya trespass on my land? His voice was menacing as he spoke. "If you know what's good for ya, you'll get the hell out 'a here, right now," he commanded. Holstering his gun, he shoved his way past her roughly and moved back to the woodpile. Chris went back to chopping his firewood. He ignored her presence, hoping desperately to avoid any further confrontations.
More than ten minutes passed before he finally heard a horse gallop away. Maybe she ain't as stupid as I thought!
He didn't look back.
Continuing the laborious task for another half-hour, the man finally gathered the remaining wood and stacked it beside his home. He grabbed the water bucket and drank sparingly, then dumped the rest over his head.
Only slightly refreshed, he looked out at the wide-open country around him. Pursing his lips, he cussed at all the emotions that ran freely through his mind. Why did he get like this? If he didn't let people into his life, things like this wouldn't happen. First his family... he wiped his face again ...and now his fellow peacekeepers. And Tanner... Two nights ago, Larabee had sensed the tracker watching him as he piled belongings into his saddlebags. He'd felt the knowing glare as he added several bottles of whiskey to his horse's load.
Damn! Whiskey!
The gunslinger felt a familiar craving. His blood was running low on alcohol and he needed more. Turning for his shack, he marched off and slammed open the door. Intent on drowning out his memories, he waited for his eyes to adjust to the darkness within. His gaze narrowed ominously as his vision cleared. A low growl escaped his lips as he realized the woman had not left.
Athena could do little more than watch the whirlwind as he threw the bucket and stormed across the room.
With his arm across her chest, Larabee pushed her back hard against the wall and forced his body firmly against hers. He growled at her like a rabid dog. "I... told... you... tah... get... the hell... out 'a... here!"
Suppressing the sudden fear that arose deep within, she looked at him boldly, all the while trying to maintain her usual calm manner. "I cannot leave here without..."
The gunslinger heard the word 'cannot' and reacted. Nobody defies me! Grabbing the woman by the collar, he spun her around, throwing her towards the door.
Athena fought to keep her balance and then turned to face him once more. Rearranging her clothing, she looked him in the eye. On the outside, she appeared calm and collected but inside, she was terrified. Yet, ...she could not give up... "I cannot leave," she said again. Slowly, she closed the door.
Semidarkness enveloped the room...
Hearing him move closer, she took a sudden breath. "I cannot leave..."
The gunslinger was seething below the surface and the anger was quickly becoming too much for him to contain. A rage that centered on her...
All relevant details had become a blur... Chris had twisted all of the facts in his mind... A dozen days had passed since a dark stranger rode into Four Corners. She'd come in disguise, spinning yarns of unbelievable tales and the blond had watched his control slowly slip away. Fighting her, and her hold on his men, the leader had been forced away to find some clear direction in which to move. And then, when his back was turned, she'd brought more 'bad element' to his town. The consequences of which, they were all still reeling from... Larabee had thought over all the details. It was all true... Everything that had happened over the past twelve days was her fault. Everything that he blamed himself for... ultimately, it was all her fault. His rage wouldn't let him get beyond that point.
And now! ...To top it all off, THIS... this woman... was refusing to back down from him... Anybody with good sense knew when to stay away from the gunslinger. But, here she was, in HIS home, refusing to leave...
Nearly two weeks of pent-up frustration and anger drove the blond beyond his normal limits. He balled his fist to strike but... remembering, if only briefly, that she was still a woman, he backhanded her instead.
Athena jerked with the motion of his hand and was forced to step back to keep her balance. After a moment, she turned to face him again. She regained her lost step, looked at him defiantly and straightened her shoulders.
How dare you! Larabee struck her again, this time adding a little more force to his blow.
The woman completely lost her footing this time, ending up on the ground in front of the door. Tasting the blood in her mouth, she tried to regain her feet and licked at the gash that had appeared on her lip.
"Stay down!" he yelled at her. Something inside him almost begged Athena to comply. Why doesn't she understand?
She stumbled but managed to reclaimed her place in front of him. Licking her lip again, she sucked the deepening cut.
Anger pushed Chris harder. He was beyond feeling any pain or remorse... yet; something was nagging at him... He didn't want to hit her again. "Leave me alone," he pleaded.
Her eyes solicited his understanding. "I cannot..."
Larabee was a gunman. Everything he had learned over the years had kept him alive. His ears had learned to detect fear, and for the first time, Chris was hearing it in her voice. Yet, her words were his focus... not her tone. The constant repetition of her insistence told him she was determined to stay and that just made him mad. The blond growled and backhanded her again... and again she fell to the floor. "Stay down, damn you!" he cussed as she tried to stand.
After a second try, Athena managed to regain her feet. She took a deep breath and fought back her fear. Trying desperately to concentrate on her task, she stuttered the words. "I... I cannot leave here... without your assurance that you will return to your rightful place."
He'd let her finish her sentence this time but the words made his blood boil. Larabee snapped. "No!" he yelled before hitting her squarely in the jaw with a clenched first.
The strength of all his anger had been behind the blow and the woman crumpled to the floor unconscious.
In that brief moment in time, Athena had ceased to become a woman. In Larabee's eyes, she was nothing more than an enemy, who needed to be gotten rid of. Breathing heavily, he gazed upon her body like a wild beast moving in for the kill.
Fighting her way back from unconsciousness, Athena slowly became aware of her surroundings... and his presence. She was still on the floor in the same position she had landed in. It was dark outside and he hadn't lit the lantern. She could only see the flickering of the fire as it danced about. She heard the shuffling of his feet and straightened out to gauge his position. Her body ached, her face burned but her injured shoulder hurt more.
Suddenly, there was a foot in the middle of her back pushing her against the cold floor. "You ready tah leave yet?" a menacing voice cut through the air. The heel of his boot pressed her for an answer.
Through all the turmoil that plagued her thoughts, Athena forced her task to the forefront. She replied with the only answer she had. "I cannot." Her voice was shaky but she was determined to stay. "I... cannot" She forced out the words painfully, as he pushed harder.
Athena felt like she was being crushed as he leaned more weight on her back. The fire in her blood instinctively drove her to reach for her colts but her gun belt had been removed while she was unconscious.
As the woman ran different options through her mind, Larabee suddenly removed his foot from her back.
For a brief second, Athena thought she sensed his doubt.
"Stay down," he growled before moving back to the fire.
The woman heard a chair squeak and then a spoon scraping along a plate. She sucked her badly split lip, picturing him eating by the fire... Curling her shoulders to warm herself, she naturally assumed he had no intention sharing any food. Closing her eyes painfully, she tried to get more comfortable on the floor. Five minutes passed before she heard his plate hit the table and then what sounded like guzzling. It wasn't until the bottle smashed into the fireplace that she understood...
He was consuming more whiskey...
Again, Athena tried desperately tried to refocus her thoughts on the mission, rather than the man himself. She knew she needed to cleanse his soul, so that he could resume his fate, but she still hadn't been able to gather any information from his musings. Never before had she tried to guide someone without having a direction to lead them in. And, she had experienced anger before... but not like this. She felt blind and defenseless yet, she was being driven... she could not fail him. If she lost just one... she would lose them all.
Finding no other option available to her, Athena again tried to concentrate on her objective, instead of the man. She sucked back her dread and spoke calmly. "Are you that afraid of me, that you would refuse to listen?" As soon as she'd spoken the words, she realized it was a mistake.
The table no longer separated Athena from the gunslinger as he came crashing towards her. He dragged the woman to her feet. Using hair and clothing for leverage, he slammed her against the door. Growling something about liking her better when she was out cold, he dragged her to the kitchen area, shoved some sort of cloth in her mouth and tied another around her face to stop her from talking. Happy with her situation, he threw her back hard against the wall and sat back in his chair.
Visibly shaken by her treatment, Athena slowly lowered herself to the floor and stared at her captor.
His eyes were unwavering in their attention to the flames. His body unmoving, except for the slow rise and fall of his arm as he drank.
The woman watched ominously as the blond slipped further and further into the bottle he drank from. She had no clue what she was supposed to do next... Blind, defenseless... and stupid!
Hugging the corner for warmth, Athena waited an eternity before Larabee fell asleep. Drained of her determination and aching all over, she gave in to her body's demand to rest. The woman finally succumbed to the darkness. For the first time in her life, she was truly lost and afraid.
The morning sun was high on the horizon when he finally stirred and realized he'd fallen asleep in a chair. Groaning loudly, he tried to stand. His stiff body complained loudly but his head hurt even more. He grunted under his breath then rubbed his eyes and slowly opened them.
What Chris saw in front of him made him sick....
The woman he knew as Athena slept huddled in the corner by his fireplace. Her face told him she'd been beaten and her mouth was tied securely with a rag. Staring at the unbelievable sight, shadows of recollection crept slowly into his consciousness. He scowled... then his eyes widened in disbelief. Like so many horrible stories, he had heard ... Larabee realized that he had created this appalling picture. His heart sank. Oh, god! Damn it! What have I done?
Easing from his chair, the gunslinger moved cautiously towards the woman.
She immediately sat up and gazed at him defiantly.
The trained eyes of the gunslinger saw fear in hers for just a fleeting second before her bravado shone through. Clearly, she was challenging him as he moved towards her. "Easy," Chris said calmly.
She flinched away.
His gut was twisting in knots as he moved a little closer. "I just want to help," he tried to reassure her.
Trying to stand, Athena glared at him angrily. She'd been curled up in the corner for some time and her muscles were sore. Slowly, she was able to push herself up against the wall. She stared, trying to adjust her mouth around the gag.
He could see her fighting the restraint. "Let me take it off," he moved a little closer.
Athena continued to glare at the gunslinger as she tried to reach the knot in the cloth that gagged her. Yet, each attempt to raise her hands over her head was met with pain. Her shoulder protested the movement vigorously. Her head swooned uncontrollably.
Chris could see that she was having problems and offered to help again. "Let me..." he tried to move closer.
The woman backed away from him once more. She was still trying to reach the knot. But again, she was unsuccessful in her attempts. Athena felt as though she might collapse and panic welled from deep within. Desperation forced her hand. She needed help. Gazing at the man, she studied his body language. He seemed different this morning. Almost like a man... instead of the cold, angry drunk that had attacked her last night.
Larabee knew he was being dissected and he welcomed the cold hard stare. Chris felt he deserved nothing more...
For an instant, the woman thought perhaps she could sense emotion... empathy... but then it was gone.
Closing her eyes in frustration, Athena decided she would have to trust him. Glaring into his eyes, she slowly turned her back so that he could reach to the knot.
The gunslinger understood her warning all too clearly, but he did not intend to put her through anything else. He just wanted to see her on her way and get back to his own life. He moved closer, untied the knot and then backed away.
Slowly removing the rags from her mouth, Athena shook her head to clear the cloudy thoughts. Being only partially successful, she turned back to face her assailant.
For the first time, the blond could see clearly, what he had done to the young woman. Her lip was split badly and her face was swollen and bruised. Chris felt physically ill. He was ashamed of himself and he turned from her gaze.
Athena took a deep breath in an attempt to steady herself. She didn't feel right yet, that didn't explain why this man was confusing her. His thoughts were a complex jumble of conflicting information. She couldn't clear her mind to understand the change. The creature that had attacked her seemed to be gone. In its place was a man... a gentle... caring man. She had been right before... she could feel his compassion in her mind... She shook her head again. She felt disorientated... dizzy. Taking her eyes off Larabee, she looked around the room. Spotting the water bucket, she licked her lips and took a step towards it. Being gagged all night had left her parched. She needed some water... but her legs wouldn't cooperate. She stumbled against the upturned table.
Suddenly, there were arms helping her. They guided Athena safely to a chair and then poured water for her to drink. The water stung as she drank but it felt so refreshing.
Chris picked up the table and then brought some warm water from the fire. He wet a cloth and tried to give it to the woman but she pulled away when he got close again. He could see that her lip was bleeding and the bruises and abrasions on her face were turning color. He knew she needed to be cleaned up but how were they supposed to accomplish that task when she wouldn't let him near. He tried to offer the cloth again and once more, she pulled away. Forcing a smile, he tried to tell her everything was all right... but he couldn't convince her. The gunslinger stepped back and turned his face. He stood in silence. He had no idea what else to do.
Athena's mind wandered as she watched the man... I don't... understand! Incoherent, almost fleeting images, flashed through her mind. Her eyes fluttered closed as she tried to regain her bearings.
A soft voice whispered in the darkness. "I'm sorry."
Through her confusion, Athena realized that the words came from the gunslinger's mouth. She opened her eyes and stared... She understood his words but couldn't comprehend why he might speak them. She knew he was voicing his regret... but... How it possible for one man... to have two spirits? All along, she had assumed that Larabee's conscience was dark. He was comfortable that way. That's what had kept him alive. But, ...this darkness consumed the light that was so obviously here right now... a good side and a bad that constantly fought for control. Could it be that simple?
Comprehension, unlike knowledge... is sometimes only gained in the hardest of battles.
Remembering the elder's wise words, Athena was struck by her circumstances... She understood that she could have gained this insight in no other way. The harsh reality waned and a small smile appeared on her lips. She might be able to help this man after all. If his consciousness was truly divided... if she could bring out the light... then she might be able to make him listen. Her eyes softened with compassion and she slowly reached for him.
Her cry of pain ended Larabee's self-loathing. He turned quickly and his eyes came to rest on the shoulder she held. His couldn't help but notice the color of her shirt beneath her vest. Blood! Reaching out, Chris pulled her coat collar back.
Athena followed his hand with her eyes and saw the crimson stain clearly. Sudden panic took over briefly as she tried to remove her coat. She didn't succeed. The movement was too painful.
Larabee could see the pain on her face. He understood her panic and moved closer, helping her remove the coat. Guiding her with his arms, he directed her to the bed.
Somewhere in the urgency of the moment, they had trust. It was clear to them both, that her shoulder wound had been bleeding throughout the night. This much blood loss explained why she felt so light-headed.
"Sit!" he directed her. Moving back to the kitchen, the blond gathered fresh bandages and warm water.
Athena did as he instructed with little hesitation. She was still unsure of him but sensed that his concern was real. Besides, ...she didn't have much choice.
Laying the fresh bandages on the bed, Chris motioned to her clothing, "I need to take a look." He set the water on the side table as she unbuttoned the vest and managed to get it off.
The gunslinger pulled a small blanket up from the bottom of the bed and looked at the girl again. "I need to get the bandages off," he said, handing her the blanket.
Athena knew what he was asking as she watched him turn his back. She hesitated.
A soft voice whispered, "It's okay."
Her head swooned and she took another deep breath, before slowly unbuttoning her shirt. Removing it, she covered herself with the blanket.
Larabee needed to be sure of himself. He, too, took a deep reassuring breath and waited until she had stopped moving around... and then he waited a few seconds more. He couldn't remember ever treating a woman with a pistol wound before. He turned and looked at his patient. The softness of her curves distracted him for just a moment before he began his work. He tossed her soiled shirt aside and slowly removed the bloodied bandages. He cleaned away some dried blood and assessed the wound. Nathan's gonna kill me!
Chris knew that the healer had been forced to go deep for this bullet. Obviously, he'd needed to stitch her injury afterwards. Some of the sutures had torn free during the assault Larabee had inflicted. Damn!
As she watched him tend her wound, Athena sensed true concern. She became aware of his gentler side. She had not seen... nor sensed this part of the man she dubbed 'the dark one.' It was clear that her initial judgment of him had been wrong... yet there was... something else... The only way she would know would be to forgive his actions and move on. She couldn't give up. Taking a deep breath, the woman spoke softly. "Can I speak to you now?" she asked as he worked.
A fleeting twinge of anger reared itself in the blond's head but he beat it back down quickly. It was obvious that she meant to say her piece to him... no matter what the cost. Finishing up washing away the dried blood, Chris took another deep breath and nodded.
She smiled at his acceptance and relaxed a little. "You must not leave your village. You must return. History must know The Seven."
He pressed hard against her shoulder, trying to stop the bleeding. I can't go back!
She flinched from the pain but tried to ignore it. Seeing his eyes avoiding her, Athena tried again. "You must remember your kinship and return to these men,"
For the first time since she'd come to town, Chris looked long and hard into her eyes. It was like looking into a mirror and it made him uncomfortable. He was just as uneasy with the few words she had spoken. He pursed his lips and motioned her to keep pressure on her wound.
Frowning slightly, Athena took the padding from his hands and held it in place.
Getting to his feet, the blond ran his hands through his hair. "You don't understand... I can't." He moved to the kitchen and search for a distraction. He decided to warm some biscuits, remembering that she hadn't eaten anything since she'd been there. Besides keeping the woman's strength up, the task diverted his attentions away from her relentless pursuit.
Athena closed her eyes. She felt his inner struggle, although he appeared calm. She could talk to him rationally if he was thinking... instead of reacting. But, that still didn't mean he would understand her message. The woman fought back the doubt that crept into her mind. The gunslinger did not possess the language skills of her green-eyed gentleman. He didn't share the passions that drove his oldest friend. She needed to find a way to communicate with this man.
Larabee watched her for some time. She swayed a little but looked so peaceful. "Athena," he called softly.
This was the first time he had used her name and she opened her eyes slowly to look at him. A vision flashed through her mind so quickly, she couldn't tell what it was. Blinking in recognition of her surroundings, she tried to focus.
He could see her confusion again. He knew she needed rest and nourishment and he offered her a biscuit. He wanted her to relax... to trust him, yet her eyes told him something was not right. He was ashamed of the way he had treated her. No one deserved to witness this kind of rage. Chris couldn't fathom the extent of his anger. What demon possessed him, that he could do such a thing? He closed his eyes briefly before calling her again. "Athena," he whispered quietly. "I... I know it doesn't help... but I'm sorry... so sorry." Laying the other biscuits in her hand, he walked silently out of the shack.
Watching the door close, she licked her swollen lips. "I do not need your regret..." she whispered. "I am not the one who is in need of help." Athena closed her eyes and took a deep breath. "But... thank you..."
Chris walked around for an hour before sitting on his porch for another. He was angry... so very angry with himself... How could I have done this?
Yet, no matter how much he chastised and cussed... it didn't help. He still had to go inside and face Athena. Forcing his eyes shut tight, Larabee breathed deeply and made a silent covenant. He was going to listen to her... no matter what she said. Satisfied with his decision, the gunslinger picked up the saddlebags he'd found in the corral and got to his feet. He edged the door open and stepped inside.
The sight before him stopped Chris in his tracks. Setting the bags down quietly by the door, he looked solemnly at the scene. Athena lay face down across the bed, apparently asleep. The gunslinger's eyes slowly traced her long braid down her back. Her bare skin revealed, so completely, the curves that only women possess.
Larabee couldn't help but smile at her peacefulness
Suddenly aware of his thoughts, the blond retrieved a blanket from a chair and moved closer to cover her. As he did, he noticed the bandage he had left her, wasn't pressing tightly against her shoulder. The wound was still bleeding and that worried him. Chris sat down gently and took hold of the compress. He glanced briefly at the image of the red wolf on the woman's back. He prayed the creature would give her strength. Reaching out to touch her shoulder, Larabee adjusted the cloth and soaked up the blood.
Athena was startled by a touch but her head would not clear enough for her to understand what was happening.
Recognizing her confusion, he whispered, "Everything's going to be all right."
Sensing no imminent danger, she relaxed and set her head back to the bed.
Chris took a small amount of satisfaction from her trust and reached under her shoulder to press the bandage hard over her wound. With her shoulder sandwiched between his strong arms, he laid down beside her. He couldn't tell if she'd lost consciousness or simply went back to sleep but the gunslinger took comfort in her relaxation. He closed his eyes and drifted away.
Larabee was resting in his own bed with a soft, beautiful woman lying on his chest. As he lay there with his eyes closed, he played with her hair... Wait! ... What! ... It's too long! Sarah's hair isn't this long. He shook his head. Not Sarah... My beautiful wife is dead ... Mary ... it must be ... Wait! ... We've never ... and Mary doesn't wear her hair braided.
He knew he was in his home, in his bed and he remembered the woman was not Sarah or even Mary. The gunslinger's eyes opened quickly and he looked at the warm body beside him. His gaze never left Athena as she lay quietly sleeping.
The images of her battered face flashed in his heart and again as he thought about the terrible things, he had done to her last night. Chris carefully sat up. He hadn't treated her like a woman. He traced the curves of her bare back with his eyes. She's definitely a woman... Again, the gunslinger's eyes came to rest on the tattoo. Its detail was as stunning as the red wolf itself. He knew that the animal was a rare find these days. They picked the right creature to mark her with.
Cautiously, the blond got off the bed and busied himself preparing a meal. The woman needed to get her strength back. He owed her that much, at least. And besides... the quicker she got better, the quicker she could get out of his hair.
As she listened to him fixing the meal, a single tear rolled down Athena's cheek. With his dark side obscured by the light, his touch had finally shown her some of what was hidden so well within his heart. She was slowly beginning to understand why this man was, the way he was. Every time he had allowed someone close to him, something would happen. He had been driven to the breaking point and survived only because he had mastered the ability to block out the world. The woman's comprehension of how to help Chris was slowly becoming clearer. With a gentle smile on her lips, she closed her eyes and drifted back to sleep.
He sat on the bed and gently nudged her back. "Athena," he called, urging her to consciousness.
Slowly, she opened her eyes and blinked to clear the haze of an incomplete sleep. Instantly, she pulled away from the man towering above her, pulling the blanket to shield herself as she moved.
"It's all right..." he moved away quickly. "It's alright." He hadn't been prepared for her impulsive reaction and he hope it wouldn't take long for her to remember that they had made peace... at least he hoped they had...
Athena's mind cleared and she remembered the change she had witnessed. Bowing her head regretfully, she glanced back and offered him a small, reassuring smile.
Larabee nodded, still unsure. He bit his lip, forcing his regret away, and returned her gesture. "Here," he stepped closer and handed her one of his shirts. "I figured if you buttoned it around your... self," he glanced away. "Then I could still get to your shoulder." Refocusing on the woman, he continued. "Least that way you'd have your hands free to eat a little supper." He indicated the food he'd set out and then headed back over to the table to give the lady a little privacy.
Athena looked at the shirt he had given her and then at her shoulder. It was still weeping. What he was suggesting made sense and she was definitely hungry. She turned her back, lowered the blankets and replaced them with the man's shirt. Satisfied that the garment would remain in place, she buttoned it around herself and then shifted to the edge of the bed.
Chris saw her movement and relocated to assist her in standing. Thinking that she might still be a little lightheaded, he held out his arm to offer assistance and smiled.
Athena considered the gesture and then looked up at the handsome man. She couldn't help but noticed how his eyes sparkled when happiness shone from his lips. He should do it more often. Slowly, she took his arm.
Together they moved to the table to enjoy the meal Larabee had prepared.
The gunslinger watched the woman curiously as they shared the meal.
She ate cautiously but seemed to enjoy it. They did not talk. She barely even looked in his direction.
After supper, he moved a chair in front of the fire for her before offering her his arm for guidance.
Athena refused his gesture. She stood solidly on two feet and walked past him confidently. She looked thoughtfully at the chair, smiled mischievously and then pushed it aside. Carefully settling herself on the mat, she crossed her legs and settled.
The blond watched her as he cleared and cleaned dishes. She sat rigid in front of the fire. Her eyes were closed and a gentle smile graced her lips. Glancing at her from time to time, Larabee couldn't help but wonder what was going through her mind.
When he was done with his chores, Chris moved to his chair in front of the fire.
The woman opened her eyes as he sat behind her, yet she did not move. Her stare wandered as she tried to reassure herself that this man was trustworthy. His gentleness today was a good first step, but right now, she needed something to distract her... Noticing his comb on the bookshelf, she leaned over and retrieved it before starting to unbraid her hair.
The gunslinger couldn't help but notice what she was doing. He looked at his dog-eared comb suspiciously and decided it would do her no good. Assuming she owned something more suitable, he got up and collected her saddlebags from beside the door. Laying them beside her, Larabee sat back down and tried hard to concentrate on the flames, as they dance about.
Smiling at the sudden arrival of her saddlebags, Athena finished unbraiding her hair before reaching inside her bags to retrieve her brush. Starting at the ends, she made slow even strokes, as she brushed out her long strands.
Watching the fire wasn't working. Chris couldn't help but be distracted by the woman. He followed her movements for quite some time before it became evident that the repetitive, ever increasing motions were becoming too much for her shoulder.
Athena, too, knew that the brushing was developing into a chore. She tried to swap the brush to the other hand and dropped it. Reaching to retrieve it, she froze when the gunslinger laid his open hand out above her shoulder. Her surprise grew when she realized his intent. He's offering to help?
Chris didn't know why he was volunteering his assistance. Her peaceful, gentle manner was growing on him and again, he felt ashamed.
Maybe he wanted the woman to know that he could be trusted...
Maybe he wanted to make up for the suffering he had put her through... if that's possible!
Maybe he just wanted to...
Whatever the reason, Larabee did acknowledge that he was beginning to feel comfortable in her presence. He desperately wanted her to feel the same way. Perhaps she might forgive... his unforgivable actions.
Athena's eyes closed briefly as his reflections came to her. A gentle smile found her lips as she handed him the brush. Forgiveness was but a fleeting thought in her consciousness. She had a task to accomplish and her mind was busy formulating a plan.
As carefully and softly as he was able, Chris stroked through her hair. He worked the brush slowly over the long strands as though caressing them with his own, tender fingers.
Athena relaxed into his touch. His actions showed nothing but kindness and she couldn't help but wonder how he'd lost his way...
Minutes stretched by and his delicate touch remained steadfast. The gunslinger truly enjoyed this unfamiliar activity. And, as he finished and set the brush aside, his hands touched her hair to rearrange it over her back. He couldn't help but pause... Chris felt an odd satisfaction from the help he had given with this simple gesture.
Athena sensed the relaxation in his heart. She was mystified... and so very curious.
Larabee let go of her hair but somehow the couple maintained a strange connection. Allowing him to help had been good for them both. The two detached people sat quietly by the fire. They enjoyed their mutual companionship and both understood that they would be strangers no more.
The morning sun shone brightly through the little window as she awoke in his bed. She was stiff and sore all over but her shoulder hurt the most. Athena wiggled her jaw, opening and closing her mouth as she sat up slowly. She rubbed the swelling in her chin and cheek before peering around the room. She spied the gunslinger asleep in his chair.
Larabee stirred and groaned.
He looked uncomfortable and Athena felt guilty.
He'd insisted she sleep in his bed. Said her body needed the rest more than his did.
Being tired and achy, ...she hadn't argued.
Sliding off the bed, she walked to the door.
Larabee awoke with a start as his instincts kicked in. Reaching for his gun, he glanced at the portal, only to relax as he recognized Athena. His taut reflexes slackened and he offered her a gentle, reassuring smile.
Strangely unconcerned by his quick reaction, Athena returned his gesture as she moved out the door. He should definitely do that more often.
Chris sat up and felt the aches and pains of his body. Two nights in this damn chair... He cussed under his breath. Getting to his feet, he made his way to the fire, threw some biscuits in a pan to warm and started the coffee.
When Athena returned they ate and the blond tended and cleaned her shoulder. He couldn't help but smile at her progress. The fresh air seemed to be helping the healing, just as Nathan had taught him. Finishing up, he offered her another biscuit.
She declined, sipping quietly on the fresh water he had brought from the stream.
Larabee settled in at the table to eat.
Drawing a strange comfort in his easy manner, the woman's thoughts wandered. "The man you are now is not the same as before," she spoke quietly.
He sipped at his coffee and considered her words. "I'm best on my own," his reply was subdued. "I've been through too much in my life. Being here... alone," he lowered his head. "I can be myself..." Eyeing the woman again, he suddenly felt her intrusion. "Doesn't make it any easier... especially when someone comes round wanting to interfere."
Although she recognized that his remark was directed at her, Athena did not let it phase her resolve. "I have said, many times, that I am only here to help." She met his stare head on.
Chris tried to control the tone of his voice but he had to voice his reasons. "I've done just fine without any help. I don't see why I need it now."
She spoke calmly, trying not to escalate their debate. "You have decided not to return to your village... I cannot let you leave... You must return."
"Why! ...Why is it any of your business? Why do you care?" he rose to his feet, hoping the movement would quell his mounting anger. His tone was harsh, "Why is it so damn important that I go back?"
She tried to ignore the warning signs he was giving off. "Why do you wish not to?" she asked quietly.
Larabee stopped and looked at the girl. "You were there... Hell, you took a bullet because I wasn't. Buck... JD... and that damn fool Ezra."
She looked deeply into his eyes. "So your heart tells you that events would have been different, had you been in your rightful place?"
Chris considered her words before answering. It wasn't exactly how he would have put it but it was close. He merely nodded a reply.
Confident of her tactics, Athena looked Larabee in the eye and smiled. "And what will happen to your friends, now that you plan a departure?"
Ambushed!
The gunslinger looked away harshly. She'd tricked him with her poetic words. What will happen? ...What will happen to them? Larabee hadn't thought about it much... Yet, as he did, he cussed under his breath. Damn! He hadn't thought about it at all! He was still doing it... thinking about himself and no one else. Two years with these men and he hadn't thought about the consequences of his actions on them. Turning quickly, Chris looked at the woman defiantly. God, I hate her logic... Why is she here?
They stared at one another for several long seconds before a small smile grew on the blond's lips. She only here to help... he remembered her words.
Realizing he'd understood her point, Athena allowed herself to return his offered smile. Getting up from her chair, she moved to open the door. "My thoughts are better in the open," she said quietly. Beckoning him to follow, she went outside.
The gunslinger raised an eyebrow and shook his head. I don't believe this woman. If her thoughts get much better, I'm in real trouble. Grabbing a second chair, he followed and sat down beside her. He had promised himself that he would listen... and he was determined to keep this promise.
They sat on his porch all day.
There were long periods of silence between the quiet chatter. Both of them seemed to understand the need to think over one's thoughts.
Initially their conversation had been about his friendship with the other peacekeepers and how it had grown over the months that they had been together. The gunslinger had slowly accepted the presence of the six other men, although they all needed their own space, from time to time. The important thing was that they worked well as a team when things got dicey. That's what they were paid to do and they did it well. All their differences weren't important when it really counted.
Athena had again pressed him for an answer as to why he thought he was leaving. His response had been 'they don't want me around' and she had only smiled. It pissed him off that she assumed she knew them better than he did. 'They're my friends, not yours.' Looking into his green eyes, she had only grinned. 'Yes, ...they are.'
He really hated it when she twisted his words but he couldn't help but accept her reply gracefully. Everything made sense when she explained his world...
They talked more about The Seven throughout the morning and into afternoon. Then she had grown quiet and closed her eyes. For a long time she just sat and listened to the wind... almost as though she was waiting for a sign.
Larabee didn't disturb her.
A lingering shadow in the blond's mind posed a question that Athena needed answering. She hoped he would be strong enough to respond. "Can you tell me about Sarah... and your child?"
Chris wasn't prepared for her question but his anguished expression did not deter her need for an answer. This man had lost himself when he had lost his family... of this fact she was sure. Giving him time to calm his defenses, Athena waited patiently for his response.
An hour passed before the gunslinger sat back down. He looked long and hard at the woman beside him. She knew his wife's name. What else does she know? Chris recognized that he carried a terrible scar on his heart. He guessed it might be obvious to someone as incredibly sensitive as Athena appeared to be. He didn't really believe that she could read his mind but whatever her reasons were, the woman was asking... and she expected an answer.
He didn't exactly know why, but for the first time, Larabee truly accepted and trusted her presence. Taking a deep, calming breath, he began to relate his life story to the stranger beside him.
They talked past sundown and then moved back inside his home.
Chris heated up some stew and cut bread for their meal as Athena continued to talk. She seemed to understand so much and her peacefulness gave him a different prospective on the world around him.
Laying out plates and spoons, Chris served the supper. Returning with the bread, he sat down and watched as she poured some water and joined him.
They ate quietly, but thoughts raced incessantly through Athena's mind. Finally, she could hold her questions, no longer. "The dark side of your soul hides the man inside."
Larabee glanced at her and frowned. "I suppose you're right... but it keeps me alive."
Setting her spoon beside the plate, she looked at him oddly. "And... it keeps you from living."
Her remark stopped Chris in his tracks. He stared at her questioningly. All manner of emotions flowed through his heart. How can she know...?
Understanding that she'd hit a nerve, Athena took a deep breath and hid her eyes from his glare. Slowly, she finished her meal.
Watching her apprehensively, Larabee, too, returned to his meal.
No more words were spoken as they cleaned up and moved to the fire.
Athena chose to sit on the floor again and Chris watched as she assumed the same contemplative position that she had taken the night before.
Watching her relaxation somehow seemed to calm him as well. Some time passed before he finally broke the silence. "Do you want me to brush out your hair again?" His reasons for asking were selfish, as well as practical. He knew her shoulder could use the time to heal. But, as he thought about the torn stitches, her other injuries flashed in his mind. The swelling on her face would take many days to go down. The bruises would remain for a quite some time as well, of that he was sure. Chris was certain that her split lip would take the longest to heal.
Guilt plagued the gunslinger again. Offering to help was but a small token...
"I can manage."
"Please, let me..."
Athena could sense his self-loathing, yet there was something else, too. A deep desire to make amends, perhaps? She turned and smiled softly at him over her shoulder before handing him the brush.
Half an hour passed as Larabee worked the brush through the strands methodically. Finishing his task, he set the brush on the table he lowered his head. All this time he'd been thinking over her words from dinner. It keeps you from living... Chris sucked in his breath. "It's been too long..." he said woefully. "I can't change the way I am. I like to be alone. I've got used to it... I think better when I'm alone."
The woman nodded in understanding, yet looked at him doubtfully. She had sensed his conflict as he brushed her hair but she only understood part of what he meant. She'd seen him in town. He was relaxed... almost at home there, sometimes. Yes, there was a part of him that didn't want to be there on occasions, but he did his best to keep it at bay. "You must not change the essence of who you are," she whispered in the darkness. "All that you say and do... all of your actions... these are the things that make you the man you are. You must accept these things as strengths, not faults." Athena turned to face him and looked up into his green pools. "My soul is free when I am alone, yet yours feels the pain of your losses... Only your whiskey helps to lessen the ache in your heart."
Chris tensed at her declaration, yet he did not move.
His reaction had quick and decisive. The woman turned from his gaze. Thinking better of her direct approach, Athena decided her questions should stop for a while.
Silence ensued and neither party objected to the serene atmosphere that settled upon them. They sat quietly watching the fire for more than an hour but Larabee couldn't help but watch the woman as well. She twisted all his words and that irritated him to no end. Yet, there was truth in her and he was beginning to realize it. It had been so long since a woman... since anyone... had made him feel like this... "Well..." he spoke sleepily. "Suppose it's about time we turned in," he shuffled in the chair. "You'd best get yourself to bed now... if we're going to do some more talking tomorrow."
Athena took a deep breath and lowered her head. She'd thought about her next words carefully but there was not easy way to say them. She couldn't let him spend another night in his chair, yet she was hesitant to offer the space beside her on the bed. She knew he would let her sleep on the floor, yet she didn't want him to think she was offering more than a place next to her. Getting to her feet, she continued to stare at the flames. Shed dared not look into his eyes. "You must not sleep in this chair again tonight," she said softly.
He hesitated for just a moment, unsure of what she was saying. "Oh, I'll be alright, you go on now," he motioned towards the bed.
Athena took a deep breath and turned to face him. Reaching for his arm, she looked at him hesitantly. "I offer nothing more than the space beside me... It is your bed... But, if you will not use it, then nor shall I."
The silence was deafening...
Slowly, Athena walked towards the exit.
Larabee considered his options as he watched the door close. He really wasn't looking forward to another night in this damn chair but he couldn't swear he could trust himself lying next to this woman. He'd spent the last two days getting used to her and several times; he'd caught himself watching her. The way she tilted of her head as she swung her hair around, or the way she caressed her bare shoulders when she was deep in thought. Her peaceful, gentle manner was so distracting... and alluring...
Athena returned a few minutes later. As the door closed, she looked at him, awaiting his decision.
Chris took a deep thoughtful breath before conceding the point. He glanced at the floor before getting to his feet. Pursing his lips, he cautiously moved towards the bed. Pulling back the covers, he sat and took off his boots and gun belt.
Athena swallowed hard before making her way to the bed. Intent on securing control, she sat on the mattress and slid her bare feet underneath the blanket. Making herself as comfortable as possible, she purposely turned her back to the man. She did not want to look at him.
Chris watched the woman settle before he, too, tried to get comfortable in the bed. Although he'd spent more than a few nights with Maria in Purgatory, this was the first time, in three long years that he'd had a woman in his own bed. Gazing at the bare shoulders and long blond hair, the gunslinger felt a familiar urge. He started to reach out for her before stopping himself abruptly. Athena had made it clear that she offered nothing more than the bed. Closing his eyes tightly, Larabee tried to go to sleep.
Athena stirred. The haziness of sleep gradually gave way to awareness and she could see two beautiful green pools shining through the darkness... yet there was still a shadow of sorrow behind them. The woman opened her eyes slowly to look at the man who had been watching her sleep. His eyes sparkled as she returned his gaze. He was handsome, this dark stranger...No! I must not call him dark, anymore.
Athena knew better now... This man had been a victim of circumstances beyond his control. He carried guilt few men knew. It left him with a deep wound in his soul and created a dark spirit for all to perceive. Larabee had become an enigma. If he could not overcome an obstacle with his dark presence, or his gun, he simply retreated and moved on.
Then he became the leader to this group of men. Some strange fate had brought them together and eventually the blond took comfort in the circumstances that had befallen them. Yet, now he was running away again; his trust and confidence shattered once more. Somehow, Athena needed make him accept and understand. No man can control everything that goes on around him, every single moment of every single day. The blame and self-loathing needed to end.
Seeing only his despair, Athena reached out and gently caressed the soft stubble on his chin. She hadn't seen him shave since she'd arrived. But, the growing beard was nice. She liked it.
Chris watched her eyes study him and he smiled gently as she touched his face. Responding naturally, he reached out to stroke her arm.
Athena's gaze followed his hand as it traced a path to her shoulder, and then moved on to her lips. Suddenly aware of their situation, the woman bowed her head, pulling her bruises away from his gently touch. There was a time and place for such caresses but now was not it. She felt a familiar longing but Larabee had truly hurt her. Athena always believed there was a purpose for everything that happened... but she still couldn't fully understand where she stood with this man. Something deep inside told her that Chris was just as lost as she was. Yet, for all that had passed between them, the woman could not detach herself from him... she had a job to do. And, she was determined to complete her task. Pulling away from his touch was her only way to tell him to go no further.
The gunslinger understood her message too clearly. He distanced himself and sat up in the bed.
Athena closed her eyes and turned her face to the pillow. She did not want him to see the confusion or desire in her heart. She had a responsibility to these men. She needed to see to Chris and move on. Looking in the opposite direction, she searched for something to break the impasse. Noting the shadows, she spoke softly. "The sun has risen to its task... and so must we." Sliding out of bed, she straightened her clothing. She didn't look at him as she carefully stretched and left him alone in the room.
Chris forced his eyes shut and pursed his lips. He was disappointed in his actions. Mad at himself for assuming... How could she possibly trust me after what I did? He knew the woman was here to work... and nothing more. He was slowly beginning to accept her wisdom. Their conversations had made him realize a few important facts. Athena had a gentle way about her when she was 'on task'. She made everything seem so easy... Wiping the tangled thought from his head, the blond got out of bed and fixed the blankets.
They had some biscuits and coffee to start their day off again. No words were spoken even after they moved outside. Larabee walked out his taut muscles as he finished his brew. He thought over her words from last night. 'You must not change the essence of who you are. All that you say and do... all of your actions... these are the things that make you the man you are. You must accept these things as strengths, not faults.' Perhaps she wasn't here to try and change him. Maybe she just wanted him to accept himself the way he was and not lay blame for being...
"Your patience for others, has limits," she spoke as he sat down beside her. "You should not attempt to alter this... but merely extend those boundaries."
Setting his cup down, he looked at her curiously.
The woman smiled. "You have become accustomed to the ways in which you now live your life," she tried to clarify. "When the presence of others becomes too much, you step back. You must not see this as a failure. It is simply a trait of the man you have become." Athena had spoken these same words to this man's oldest friend several days ago. The cowboy had understood he could not change this man too much. "Your heart tells you when to go and when to stay... And, you are compelled to listen. You cannot fight it. No one could have stopped you from leaving your town when you did... No one could have stopped you from leaving your family when you did."
Chris looked at her harshly but his expression slowly dissipated.
Athena's face was full of reassurance as she continued quietly. "Fate has no room for condemnation and despair. You need to rid yourself of these feelings and move on."
Chris took a deep breath. "It's not that easy."
"Nothing worthy... ever is... The answer lies in acceptance." Turning her body in the chair, the woman looked at him and smiled gently. "Acceptance is the gift of absolution. You need not change who you are... or forget what has gone before... You need simply, to forgive... Accept yourself for being who you are and you will be free from your demons."
Her words were but a whisper yet, Chris understood all too clearly, there meaning. He watched as she lowered her head and he couldn't help but wonder, how one gentle creature, could understand so much.
After several long minutes Athena got to her feet and wandered over to the corral.
Larabee took a deep breath and closed his eyes. For a long while he simply sat and thought over her words... Again, he'd heard her say that he didn't have to change his ways. It sounded as though she was merely suggesting that he forgive himself for all that he could not change. His torment was his own and perhaps the demons that she spoke of were his mind's creation.
An hour passed and he found himself just watching her. He truly wondered who, or what, had sent her to him... to them all. None of The Seven were easy people to know. But, then again... neither was she. Yet, over the last few days, Larabee had learned to accept her. She mystified him... but... Gazing at the corral, Chris had to smile. Even his strong willed horse seemed to have taken a liking to her and that was highly unusual for his spirited beast. Acknowledging the peace in his heart, the gunslinger got up and moved to the corral.
Athena stood by his horse and patted it gently.
"He doesn't make friends easily," Chris huffed.
The woman lay her head on the animal's temple. "Then he is like his master." She glanced at Larabee before focusing on the ground. Something else had been nagging Athena and she just had to ask. "There is another who appeals for your companionship?" Leaving the comfort of his mount, she moved to the other side of the enclosure.
Chris stroked his horse for a few minutes before following. He knew exactly who she was speaking of but was unclear how to talk about Mary to the woman. "Yes..." he said as he leaned against the fence. "Don't reckon I quite know..."
Athena turned quickly and looked deep into his green pools. She held his gaze for an eternity before closing her eyes. She stood and listened to the wind.
The gunslinger just watched, afraid to disturb her concentration.
Finally, she came back to him. She opened her hazel eyes and smiled softly. "She too must accept what is in your heart. But, ...you must make your peace before..." Athena turned away. "I see contentment if you can find your true self."
The blond looked puzzled. "What does that mean?" he questioned.
Athena turned back to him, laid her hand on his chest and looked into his eyes. A gentle smile crept across her face. "Be true to your heart..."
Chris felt she had more to say but her confusion was evident. He frowned.
Athena had meant to add his name at the end of her sentence but she felt the one she knew was not right. Removing her hand from his chest, she narrowed her gaze. "Your name is Christopher?"
He looked at her and frowned. He couldn't believe her question. She'd been in town with them for eleven days and out here alone with him for four more. She hadn't addressed him by his name in all that time. "Yeah... Chris... Chris Larabee," he replied. "Don't suppose no-one's called me Christopher since I was little."
She looked him straight in the eye and again covered his chest with her hand. "Perhaps, this was the last time your soul spoke to you clearly." She smiled for him. "Be true to your heart, once again Christopher Larabee. Your heart and your spirit are strong. They will never lead you astray."
She started to move her hand but he held it in place and looked deep into her eyes. "Who are you?" he whispered.
All expression disappeared from her face as she returned his stare. "I am the spirit of the red wolf. I am the one who has guided you on your journey... I am The South Wind." Her hazel eyes sparkled as she removed her hand and slowly walked away.
Chris forced the air back into his lungs as he watched Athena exit the corral and walk into the meadow. He stood silently, leaning against the fence and closed his eyes.
A gentle breeze blew through two peaceful minds.
Evening came and they had dined on the porch this time. Their conversation was lighter than it had been all day. Athena wasn't entirely sure, but somehow she felt no further need for discussion. This man would run, no more. And, she sensed, too, contentment with his decision.
Chris felt as though a great weight had been lifted. Somehow, he had understood her message. Her gentle manner had soothed his soul. He felt strangely sad when she told him she would be leaving tomorrow.
Shaking the lingering thoughts from his mind, Larabee dropped a towel on the back on the chair. He gathered his things and headed outside. "The water's ready," he smiled.
Leaning against the support beam, Athena turned to face him. "Thank you," she replied, moving to the doorway. She stopped, looking inquisitively at the soap, towel and shaving blade in his hands.
The gunslinger took notice of her curiosity and grinned. "I'm headed down to the creek to do a little washing myself. I left your gun belt at the end of the bed. Latch the door. I'll be back in a bit." He smiled at her again and turned to leave but a hand on his arm stopped his departure. He looked back at her questioningly.
Raising her hand to the stubble on his face, Athena caressed it gently. She lowered her eyes and carefully reached out, taking shaving blade from his hand. Her eyes sparkled as she looked back at him coyly.
Chris frowned. A few seconds passed before he smirked suspiciously, turned and headed for the creek.
The woman watched him go. His image held her gaze, far too long, before she retreating inside. She just couldn't help it. She knew the depths of his heart and she understood their similarities too clearly. She closed her eyes, intent on driving away her thoughts. Closing the door, she latched it, as he had advised. Looking around, she was amazed at the site. Everything was laid out for her. Towels, soap, wash basins and warm water. She smiled again. He might actually pass for a gentleman!
Closing the shutters, she set about her bathing. She was expecting the East Wind to guide her to the fourth man tomorrow and she wanted to clean up before she began the journey. She had no idea how long it would take her to find the final wayward spirit she needed to heal.
He heard her unlatch the door but waited a little longer before he went inside.
Athena was on the floor by the fire drying her hair. She glanced at him as he entered, then swapped her towel for her brush and started to stroke through her locks.
He noticed her clothing immediately and Larabee couldn't help but be pleased. Having rinsed her regular clothes, she had them drying on the backs of chairs. Athena was now wearing a colorful Indian skirt and had a pretty cloth tied around her chest. Her shoulders were still bare, as Chris had requested. He had offered to bandage and wrap her wound in preparation for the journey that lay ahead. It was healing well but he thought it would travel better if it were prepared.
Swapping his towel for bandages, he sat behind her on his chair. "Are you ready for this?" he asked, holding up the clean strips of cloth.
The woman turned to look at him. She smiled softly. "A few more minutes."
The gunslinger took in her face silhouetted against the firelight. Her true beauty shone through the bruises he had inflicted on her. The swelling of her cheeks and lip had gone down but the split was still evident. Times like these he could see all too clearly, what he had done to her that first day. Other times he was able to look beyond the surface to see the beauty that this woman held within her soul.
Athena set her hand on his knee.
One look into her eyes told Chris that she had been listening to his thoughts. Her quiet piercing concentration also let him know that there was no blame...
They stared at one another for some time, before she pulled her hair back to reveal her injured shoulder.
Chris examined it again and smiled. The weeping had stopped two days ago and now the scab on it was solid. "Well," he said happily, starting to apply the bandages. "You'll have quite the scar when it's healed but at least you're alive."
A satisfied expression graced her lips.
Larabee unrolled the long strips and started by applying some of Nathan's ointment. He gently rubbed it into her shoulder before covering it with padded cloth. Next, he applied the strips. Tugging as he wrapped, Chris made sure the bandages were secure.
His actions were uncomfortable but Athena did not let him sense her burden. He was helping her and that's all she wanted him to know.
Using the smaller strips last, the blond tore the material and tied it off when he was finished wrapping. "You'll need to give it some air in a couple of days..."
Athena felt him pull away.
Larabee closed his eyes, lowering his head when he realized what he was saying. She was leaving to go after Tanner and the tracker had almost a week's head start on her. Her journey would surely be more than a couple of days.
The woman gazed at the fire and left him to his thoughts.
A deep sigh echoed off the walls of the cabin. "Are you gonna be able to find him?" he asked solemnly.
It was Athena's turn to bow her head. She honestly didn't know how to answer his question. The East Wind still had not appeared to reassure her. The only hope seemed to be that the young man had listened when she asked him not to go far.
Glancing back at the gunslinger, she forced a smile. "I must find him... for all of you... History must know The Seven."
Chris looked at her curiously. She had said this before but... "You say that like it means something... 'The Seven'."
Athena turned and rose to her knees. His shirt was still unbuttoned from his washing and she could feel his heart beating in her mind as she watched his chest rise and fall. She looked at him long and hard before shutting out his image. Slowly resting her hand on his chest, she waited a minute before she spoke. Her words were filled with emotion. "I believe your heart understands, Christopher. It does... mean something. History must know The Seven. And, seven men must see destiny as one." Opening her eyes, she looked at his handsome face again.
Larabee returned her gaze. Her words were drenched with passion and he felt his heart race as he reached out and caressed her cheek. Ever so slowly, he leaned over and kissed her.
Athena could not resist him.
Pulling back to look at the woman, the blond gazed into her beautiful hazel eyes. Seeing no objection to his actions, he kissed her again.
The woman reached her hands around his body and pulled him closer. They shared another passionate embrace before stopping. They searched each other's consciousness for a clear path to follow.
A question arose in Athena's mind, yet her small suspicions dissolved as he kissed her yet again. She responded in kind and pushed the shirt from his shoulders. Caressing his muscular form, she pulled the clothing from his arms.
For Larabee, there were no more doubts... there were no more questions.
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