Chapter XXI

Donoma walked out onto the prairie in the direction of the horses, laughing out loud when Dapples ran to her and butted her gently in the chest to encourage her to scratch the mare behind the ears.  Obediently Donoma lifted her hands and rubbed Dapples' ears and neck.  The mare pushed more firmly against her chest, forcing Donoma to grab onto the pony to keep from falling ass over teakettle.  "Dapples!"

The horse whinnied in perceived laughter and Donoma shook her head.  Then a snort was heard from the far side of the plain and Donoma looked up to find the big black was shaking his head at her.  She planted her fists on her hips and glared at him.

"Whose side are you on?"

The black trotted majestically across the prairie and Donoma watched entranced, inevitably reminded of Koko in the smoothness and grace of the movement.  He butted her in the chest with much less force than Dapples used and she reached up and hugged his neck.

"Oh, Black – what am I doing?"  Sensing her distress, Dapples moved up and nuzzled her back.  "Should I not still be angry?  After holding on to it for so long, is it right that I give it up so easily?"  She closed her eyes and leaned against Black's neck.

"Are you that afraid to be happy, Donoma Chepi?  Do you need that anger to be part of your life?"  Donoma scrunched up her eyes, then sighed when a hand landed between her shoulder blades.  Then she turned to see Rae'l standing behind her, crossing her arms over her chest.  "Donoma...." chiding.

She sighed again.  "Rae'l...."

"Donoma...."  She paused.  "We can do this all afternoon, but I do not think we will make much progress that way.  Tell me why you are so scared of happiness."

"I am not scared of happiness, Rae'l... at least I do not think I am.  I have not been truly happy in so long that I am not quite certain how to react.  But it seems wrong to release my anger so easily.  Rae'l... I was so angry at Koko – furious even – for such a long time.  To simply let it go because she finally took me into her heart and spoke to me honestly... is that the right thing to do?"

"Do you believe that you will never have cause to feel anger towards my nahtona again if you give this anger up, Donoma?  Do you think things will change completely?"  Rachel shook her head and sighed.  "Donoma, even before you found the anger that you have held to your bosom for the last five cycles, you had plenty of reason to become exasperated with her and she with you.  It is a normal human condition to feel anger, but it is also a passing one.  What does holding on to it garner you?"

Donoma turned her eyes to the prairie, so that all Rachel could see was her profile.  "Safety, perhaps," she whispered after a long moment.  "It is what I know now."

Rachel stepped up behind her and placed a comforting hand on her shoulder.  "Donoma – trust Koko to give you that safety now.  She has gone five long, lonely cycles without the safety of knowing you were in her corner watching her back.  She knows what it is to do without the reassurance of a safety net.  Trust that she loves you enough to never let you understand that."  Rachel came around to stand in front of her and cupped Donoma's face in her hands.  "Donoma... Nahtona e nutta... my daughter loves you – more than knowledge or wealth or warrior skills; she loves you more than life itself.  All you have to do is let go of your anger and accept that."

"That simple?"

Rachel smiled into Donoma's trusting green eyes and brushed a kissed across her forehead.  "That simple."  She chuckled.  "We always make it harder than it needs to be – it seems to be human nature."

"Sometimes I wonder at the Great Spirit's wisdom in making us quite so human." This time Rachel laughed outright and Donoma couldn't keep the smile from crossing her face.

"Be happy, Donoma Chepi.  You and Koko Kanti both deserve so much."

"Thank you, Rae'l.  I will think about what you have said."

"And you will then do as I say," Rachel commanded sternly but with a twinkle in her blue eyes.  "Seriously Donoma – all Honiahaka and I want for the two of you is for you to find the happiness you have always known with one another and let the love flourish from there.  And it will if you let it."

"I will... urk," unexpectedly gasping for breath as the sound of the shot and the burning pain that accompanied it reached her senses. She looked down and watched with a bemused expression for a moment as blood blossomed on her dress, then crumpled to the ground.

"Take the horses, Sergeant," the blonde lieutenant commanded.  "I have waited a long time to own this stallion."  The sergeant nodded and slid from his own mount, only to find himself under the hooves of an angry warhorse.  He screamed and the lieutenant placed his hand on the butt of his pistol.  He had no time to draw it, however, before he was bucked from the back of his mount and wound up crushed under the hooves of his own horse as he shied away from the teeth of the Appaloosa. 

The five remaining men – four privates and a corporal - left in the scouting party looked at one another in confused alarm, backing away slowly as the big stallion approached them snorting and huffing while the dappled horse remained guarding the woman they'd shot.

"I don't care what the lieutenant said – them two horses ain't worth dyin' for."

"I thought there was s'posed to be a whole herd of 'em."

"Well, I ain't seen nothin' that looks like no herd and we ain't found no Injun tribes neither.  I think somebody done lied 'bout something and I ain't getting into trouble fer this."

"What about the woman?" the youngest of them asked.  He hadn't understood the need to shoot her to begin with.  It wasn't like the army had need of these two horses.  And given the lieutenant's words this was personal for him.

The corporal shook his head.  "Nothing we can do for her... or for them," motioning to the now still, mangled bodies of the two dead soldiers.  "Leave her be – them we gotta take back to the Cap.  He can dispose of 'em."

"We won’t get into trouble?"

"Not like we would for goin' back without 'em or desertin'.  Drag 'em away from the woman first, then load 'em up on the backs of their mounts.  We got a long ride aheada us and they're gonna start stinkin' before we get back iff'n we don't move."

The men did as the corporal commanded and the horses allowed it as though sensing the immediate danger to them was passed.  In very short order, they were loaded up and moving back the way they came.  As soon as they were gone, Black galloped towards the dell.

************

Despite all her good intentions Koko had fallen asleep almost the moment her head had hit the furs.  Now she was having the oddest dream – all colors and shapes but no sound until suddenly there was a loud pop.  Still in the throes of her dream reality, she didn't even try to make sense of the sound or figure out what it might mean in the real world.  It was only when she felt the very real heat of warm breath on her neck that she blinked open her eyes, then started back when she met the liquid brown eyes of her horse instead of the warm green she was expecting.

"Black?" raising a hand to make sure her vision was accurate and she was awake.  Though not what she had been dreaming, this was such an unheard of event in her reality that Koko wanted to be sure her dreaming had not merely shifted gears.  But the prickly hair of Black's muzzle convinced her she was awake, and Koko rolled up slowly until she was sitting.  "What are you doing in here, Boy?" her mind still trying to shake the cobwebs from her thought processes.

Black nipped at her and backed out of the tent, then stepped forward and nipped again before leaving completely.  A little angry and more than a little annoyed, Koko slowly climbed to her feet and followed him outside, glaring at him when she realized how little time had passed since she'd laid down to rest.

"What is it, Boy?  Why are you here instead of out on the Plain with Donoma?  Does she not have a tre...?"  A cold chill skittered across Koko's skin and down her backbone as she understood exactly what Black was trying to tell her.  Before she could give the command, the stallion knelt and took her weight easily, standing as soon as she had a secure seat and racing back across the prairie.  Koko only hoped they were not too late.

************

Black went right to where Dapples stood guarding Donoma's fallen body.  Koko leaped for the ground before the stallion could stop, wincing at the jolt of pain the impact sent through her body, but putting it aside as she knelt at Donoma's side.  A quick check assured Koko of Donoma's continued life, but she could only imagine the damage that had been done from the amount of blood that was spilled.  She lifted her head and screamed, releasing the anger and frustration she felt then she lifted Donoma into her arms.

Black knelt at her whistle and stood when she kneed him; Dapples followed them back to the encampment.  Koko dismounted as quickly as she could when they reached Donoma's dwelling, then the horses moved to the outer perimeter to watch.

Her guts were quaking but her hands were steady as she cut the blood-soaked material away from Donoma's body, stripping her and throwing the ruined cloth to one side to deal with later.  The bullet appeared to have gone straight through and even now the blood loss was down to a trickle.  Koko looked around, then remembered she had moved her saddlebags back to her home and with a groan rose and went to retrieve them.

She dumped them carelessly beside her and pawed through things until she found what she wanted.  Not her first choice, but at least the whiskey would clean the wound and help stop the bleeding completely.  That plus the alum powder she had left meant Donoma had a chance of survival if she hadn't already bled out too much.

Carefully Koko emptied the bottle, doing her best to coat both sides of the injury.  Then she took the powder and sprinkled it inside the hole, continuing until her supply was gone.  That done she found the water skin and cleaned the excess blood from Donoma's body, sparing the barest thought for how beautiful her Ka’eskone had grown up.  When she was finished, Koko moved Donoma to the furs and covered her, then made to clean up the mess and leave.  Her body had other ideas and she crumpled, landing beside Donoma on the furs.

She grunted, her injured side taking the brunt of the fall as she tried to fall away from Donoma.  Without thinking about it Koko rolled over and slid closer to Donoma, then cradled the smaller body in her strong embrace.  Despite her pain or maybe because of it, Koko fell into the sweet oblivion of sleep.

************

It was dark when Koko woke up with a start, wondering what had brought her back to consciousness.  Then Donoma moaned and she realized that Donoma was starting to wake up.  Koko eased up onto an elbow and started a light massage over Donoma's torso to help her relax a little.  After several long moments Donoma's eyes blinked open, and though Koko couldn't see them she felt the change in her breathing and awareness.

"Hello, Ka’eskone.  How do you feel?"

"Like Dapples danced on my stomach."  A gasp as she breathed too deeply.  "What happened?"

"You were shot," Koko informed her grimly.

"What?  By who... and why?"

"I do not know, Donoma.  I was hoping you might have seen something.  Black came and got me and you were alone by the time I reached you."

"Remind me to thank Black later."  Donoma paused and breathed for a few minutes and Koko was content to let her, reassured by the steady movement of her chest.  Finally, "Warrior, I hate to ask this, but we have to eat and I am not certain I can sit up long enough to prepare anything.  Do you think you could...?"

Koko smiled in the darkness, then chuckled to show Donoma the mirth she could not see otherwise.  "I am not an accomplished cook like yourself, Ka’eskone, but I did manage to learn a few things while I was away.  I could probably prepare a broth we could consume."

Donoma nodded.  "That would be perfect.  I do not think I actually have the strength to chew at the moment.  Do you think we could get some light in here as well?"

"I will start a fire.  I do not want you to catch a chill or a fever.  In fact if you like, I will cook in here as well.  I do not think I am up to maintaining two at the moment and I would rather be where I can keep an eye on you.  I certainly never expected to be in a position to need to do so like this."

"Neither did I, Warrior, but I am glad you are here to do so."  She yawned then winced.  "As for the other, please.  I do not care for the smell of the medicine you used."

"Well, whiskey is not my first choice," Koko admitted, "but it did what I needed it to do.  At least I did not get it on the furs; we would have had to have thrown them out.  You rest," feeling Donoma's breathing start to slow and deepen.  "I will wake you to eat when it is ready."

All she got in response was a mumbled agreement, but it was enough.

************

Koko shook Donoma gently once the soup was warm.  It took a few moments for Donoma to come out of her deep sleep, and she blinked rapidly to clear the sleep from her eyes. Donoma made the mistake of trying to adjust on her own and hissed at the pain that shot through her body with the movement.  Koko placed a gentle hand on her shoulder.

"I realize we are neither one at our best, Donoma, but we have to help each other.  The kind of injury you have will be slow to heal and you will find it interferes with every move you want to make."

"Guess this means we will not be going anywhere tomorrow."

"Good guess," Koko smiled. "Though at least we do not have a schedule to keep.  We will go when we go and get there when we get there.  In the meantime you need to eat and so do I.  Then we can rest again and see how things look in the morning."

Donoma nodded and waited for Koko to ease down into a sitting position.  Then she scooted slowly up the warrior's body, taking care not to bump along the wounded side.  Finally they were set so that they could eat together and bit-by-bit they drained their bowls.

Koko had thought ahead and removed the larger pot from the fire and placed it close enough to reach for seconds that she finished and Donoma made an effort at.  When they were done she slipped out from beneath Donoma and placed the pot to one side of the fire for reheating later.

"I am going to check on the horses, then I will get my furs and bring them in here.  I would be more comfortable not leaving you alone tonight."

"I would be more comfortable not being alone tonight," Donoma admitted softly.

"The horses have not gone far so I will be right back."

Donoma nodded her head in agreement and closed her eyes.  She had never felt pain like this before and was anxious to slip into a meditative state of sleep that would allow her to work through it until she could tuck it away out of her conscious mind.

Koko went to the far side of the dell's perimeter and hugged the necks of both horses.  "Thank you Dapples for watching over Donoma and protecting her.  And thank you, Black for coming to get me so quickly.  You probably saved her life with your actions."

She held on for a long time, recognizing in that moment that she could have very easily lost Donoma.  The realization made her shake, and the horses stepped closed to her, understanding her distress.  After a bit Koko came back to herself and hugged both horses again before straightening and stepping away.

"Thank you both," she said sincerely, then turned and headed back to the camp.  She and Donoma both had some recovery to do, and the sooner they started the sooner they would be able to head away from this place and towards the relative safety of Koko's home.  Sooner or later, the warrior in her would need to find who did this to Donoma, but for now, it was enough just to be together and know they were all right.

Donoma's breathing was deep and even when Koko stepped through the doorway of her home.  She debated for the space of about half a second before carefully placing her furs right beside Donoma's. The warrior part of her knew it was less than honorable, but the human part of her couldn't deny herself the comfort of being close enough to reach out and touch the woman she loved.

Koko eased into a sitting position, suddenly feeling all the stupid and rash things she had done during the day but not finding it in her to regret one of them.  She pulled another fur up over Donoma's body and tucked her in, then sighed and lay back on her own.  She lay completely still for a long moment, relishing the feeling of relaxation that washed over her making her feel lethargic and sleepy.  Koko let her eyes close and she released a deep breath.

Today had been a day she could truly have lived without the good parts if it meant skipping the bad as well.  It occurred to her as she pulled a fur up to cover herself that she had been intending to woo Donoma tonight – to approach her seriously as a suitor.  Ah, she thought with a wry smile on her face, the best laid plans....

She rolled carefully onto her side, facing Donoma's profile in the fire lit space and just staring at her for a bit.  Koko reached over a hand and took Donoma's limp one in hers, grinning when Donoma returned the squeeze with just the barest amount of pressure.

Then again, she thought as her eyes closed again as the warmth of the blanket seeped through her body and caused sleep to be an acceptable alternative to staying awake.  We are together at the end of the day.  Can't ask for more than that.

Then she let the sleep take over and surrendered herself to its healing properties.  With a little luck, tomorrow would be a better day.


Chapter XXII

Donoma blinked her eyes open slowly, wincing at the amount of pain present in her body.  She closed her eyes again and took a slow breath, struggling to relax and willing the pain to the back of her mind.  It took a long time, but she was finally able to put it out of the realm of conscious thought and although it was still there it became at least tolerable. 

She lay still, finding it was easier to maintain the block if her eyes stayed closed and there was no movement to disturb her thoughts.  Donoma felt fingers tighten their grip on her hand and she couldn't stop the smile as they loosened to gently trace a pattern on the skin immediately surrounding them.  That even more than her meditation was taking her thoughts off of her injury.

Without warning Koko buried her face in Donoma's neck, breathing in her scent before kissing the self-same spot.  Donoma forced her eyes open again and turned to find blue eyes in very close proximity to her own.  She pulled her head back just enough to keep her eyes from crossing and smiled, watching in delight as Koko's face reflected the expression.

"Good morning, warrior mine."

The smile went from happy to outright dazzling with her greeting and Koko leaned down to kiss her lips tenderly.  "Yes it is, Ka’eskone.  It is a very good morning.  How do you feel?"

"Worse than I did yesterday," Donoma replied truthfully.  She eased a hand up to cup Koko's face, allowing her thumb to trace the sharp planes and hollows it could reach.  Koko smiled and Donoma let her fingers track the curves of her lips.  "But somehow it does not seem to bother me as much lying here in your arms.  Maybe I could just stay here until I am healed."

"Maybe you could just stay here."

Donoma smiled.  "As tempting as that sounds, I need to go out."

Koko returned the smile.  "So do I," she confided.  "Let me get up and then I will help you up.  And then we can see about getting something to eat."

Donoma chuckled, then stopped with a gasp.  "Ouch..." she wheezed.  "We are quite a pair."

"Yes – the question is a pair of what?"

Koko eased to her knees, then helped Donoma into a sitting position.  Once she was sure they were both stable, she rose to her feet, wincing at the amount of residual soreness she still felt throughout her body.  Taking a deep breath, she offered a hand to Donoma, knowing that the location of her injury would preclude using more than one hand to aid her in getting up.

It was a slow, painful process for both of them, and they were both wincing and gasping by the time Donoma was standing upright.  Koko wrapped a fur around Donoma's nudity to protect her modesty – respecting that she was an unattached female in the presence of a warrior.  Once she was satisfied she had done the best she could, they leaned into one another for support and slowly made their way out into the brightly lit day, shutting their eyes in reflex for a long moment before blinking rapidly to adjust to the change from the duskiness of indoors.

Then they moved to relieve themselves – another challenge in and of itself – before Koko helped Donoma over to where the horses still stood sentinel over the encampment.  Then she moved off to restart the fire and collect water for their use while Donoma talked to the horses.

Koko watched for a moment, charmed by the way the animals responded to her Ka’eskone.  Then she turned and headed out to accomplish the chores she had set for herself.  Now more than ever she wanted the safety the four sturdy walls could provide her with.

Donoma one-arm hugged first Dapples, then Black, murmuring her thanks and gratitude into alert, twitching ears.  She scratched them both gently and kissed the ends of their noses, then slowly made her way back towards the fire pit area that lay between her home and Koko's.  She felt weak and exhausted and fell into a light doze, only to be awakened when Koko dropped the chips she had collected and knelt beside her.

"Are you all right, Ka’eskone?" she asked lovingly.  "Aside from the obvious, I mean."

"I am just tired, Warrior... drained.  I will be fine with a bit more rest."  She looked into the haggard blue eyes that stared at her.  "As will you.  This is not helping your recovery."

"As you said, Donoma... I will be fine.  I will get the fire started, then I will start the soup... what?" she asked when Donoma shook her head.

"If you will start the fire, I will prepare the soup.  You need the rest as much as I do, Koko Kanti, and that is all I can do at the moment."

Koko nodded, easily reading the determination in the green eyes facing her.  "Very well, Ka’eskone.  I collected water already.  I thought you might want to clean up a little.  I am not sure I got all the blood off when I did it."

Donoma took a deep breath.  "I am not sure I can manage," she said honestly.  "But I will try."

Koko rested a hand on Donoma's arm.  "I will help you, Ka’eskone.  I did not want to make you uncomfortable by suggesting it."

"Koko, I think we can agree we are dealing with far less than normal circumstances here.  I think the elders would understand if we have to bend convention and tradition a bit to accommodate the special needs we are both functioning with at the moment."

"In other words...."

"In other words, I do not think that seeing one another naked or helping each other bathe is an untoward situation given the circumstances we find ourselves in.  You have made your intentions clear and when the time comes, my answer will most definitely be in your favor."  Donoma watched the relief flow across Koko's body though nothing changed in her expression except for a twinkling that started in the back of her blue eyes.  She tilted her head slightly.  "You doubted so much?"

"Not your love, Donoma Chepi...."  She paused and took a deep breath.  "Only your forgiveness.  I understand your anger – I have felt it myself.  I am not certain I could have been so merciful to me had the circumstances been reversed."

"Could you have been that merciful to me?"

"Of course," Koko replied without hesitation.  "Donoma...."

"Warrior, if the situation was reversed, you would be forgiving me, not yourself.  Though I do not agree with what you did, I understand why.  And even though I still get angry when I let myself brood about... things... Rae'l was right.  I do not need to hang on to the anger any longer.  I have held it close to my heart for five full cycles to protect myself from everything – especially people and emotions that could hurt me.  There was no room for anything else as long as I held onto my anger."

Donoma closed her eyes and breathed, trying to dredge up the strength to finish.  Koko wrapped a tentative arm around her but didn't speak, sensing Donoma wasn't done speaking.  She had cultivated her patience for years under her father's tutelage and the intervening years had only served to hone it to a fine art.  So Koko sat patiently waiting and lending her own waning strength to the woman in her arms.  Finally her patience was rewarded when Donoma opened her eyes and smiled.

"Thank you, warrior mine.  I am sorry...."

"Do not apologize, Ka’eskone.  I have nowhere else I would rather be, and we are not running a race."

"Rae'l was right about something else as well," waiting until Koko cocked an eyebrow in a familiar questioning gesture.  Donoma grinned and traced the brow with her thumb before answering.  "She said I no longer needed to protect myself... that you would do it for me if I would allow it."

"That is very true, Ka’eskone.  Even if you did not return the love I feel for you, I would still never allow anything to hurt you that it was in my power to stop.  I gave you my word to protect you, Donoma Chepi, and I will do so as long as you allow it."

"In that case," Donoma said with a tired grin, "build the fire, Warrior, so I can prepare us something to eat.  Then we can get some rest.  Cleaning up will wait until we have both had some rest."

Koko nodded wearily.  "I concur, Ka’eskone.  I feel like I have been fighting all day."  Then she shifted her weight to move closer to the fire pit and began laying the chips.  Donoma closed her eyes, thankful for the respite.  After several minutes the noises stopped and the crackle of flames could be heard.  Donoma opened her eyes when she felt Koko lean against her and trace her face with a delicate hand. 

Their eyes met and Donoma turned her head to kiss the calloused fingers.  "Let me put the soup on and then we can rest while it heats."  She noticed that Koko had already hung the large pot full of water over the heat and had a smaller one sitting beside it and looked back at smiling blue eyes.  "Thank you, Koko."

"I know you said cleaning up could wait, but I thought you might appreciate the chance to get rid of the itch."

Donoma shifted uncomfortably, dumping a selection of the supplies Koko had set beside her at some point into the heating water.  "How did you know?"

Koko's smile broadened.  "I have been where you are, Ka’eskone, on more than one occasion.  There is nothing pleasant about it.  But sometimes the itch from the dirt and old blood and healing can be more irritating than the original injury itself."  She leaned forward and swiped the smaller pot from its place beside the fire.  "Here," she offered.  "You can do the front, and then I will clean your back."

Donoma accepted the cloth from Koko's hands, then dunked it into the warm water... and realized she wasn't able to squeeze it out.  She looked over her shoulder at Koko, and Koko stared back dumbly for a moment before realizing the problem with the situation.  She shrugged sheepishly.  "Sorry, Ka’eskone.  I forgot about that."  She took the cloth and squeezed out the excess water then passed it back to Donoma.

When Donoma was done with the front, which Koko had been able to mostly clean before, she dropped the cloth back into the water and let the fur slip down to her waist.  Koko winced when she looked at the damage, then gently wiped away the grime that still coated Donoma's back.  Even as gentle as she was, she could feel Donoma flinch.  Koko bit her lip and finished as quickly and carefully as she could, feeling Donoma's sigh of relief as her own when she pulled the fur back over her shoulders.

They leaned against one another waiting for the soup to boil, both falling into a light doze in the process.  The bubbling and hissing brought Koko's eyes open and she grimaced a bit before smiling at how quickly she and Donoma had resumed their comfort level.  She gently shook Donoma awake.

"Wha...?  Oh... sorry Koko – I...."

"Shh, Ka’eskone.  We need the rest.  We will eat, then we can rest some more.  It will take a little time, but we will get through this."

"I know, but a healer usually makes the worst patient."  Donoma blew out an impatient breath.  "I wish I could have seen this coming."

"As do I, Donoma – I would have spared you this pain if I could have."

"I know, Warrior.  I have always wondered why the Great Spirit chooses to make some things known and keep other things hidden.  And how things are chosen.  This is something I think I would have chosen to reveal."  She grit her teeth and shifted, accepting the bowl that Koko passed to her.

"Those are good questions, Ka’eskone.  Perhaps you will get the chance to ask them of the Great Spirit one day.  But in the interim, I am going to find out who did this to you and why.  And then I will exact payment for their indiscretion."

"You do not...."

"I do, Ka’eskone.  If not for the promise I made to you, then simply because it is who I am.  It is what I do, Donoma.  I find the guilty and I bring them to justice... one way or another.  I cannot do less for you than I would do for strangers, Nutta.  Please do not ask me to."

Donoma shifted again, hissing but continuing her movement until she could look directly into Koko's eyes.  "I would not ask you to be less than you are, Koko Kanti.  I trust you to know what is best... especially when it comes to dealing with things in the white man's world.  Just make sure you take care of yourself in the process, warrior mine.  It is pointless otherwise."

"I understand, Ka’eskone."

They finished the remainder of their meal in silence, then Koko helped Donoma to her feet.  They shuffled back to Donoma's tent and Koko eased Donoma back down onto the furs and turned to go... only to find her ankle clasped in Donoma's hand.

"Donoma?"

"You need rest as well, Koko."

"I know, Ka’eskone," Koko replied with a smile.  "I will be right back.  I want to retrieve the soup for later and extinguish the fire so we will not be spotted from the smoke."  Donoma released her grip and true to her word, Koko was back swiftly, placing the still boiling soup in the cold fire pit and settling into her own furs beside Donoma. 

It didn't take long and they were soon tangled together as much as they could comfortably manage, sound asleep.

************

The next few days passed much the same, except for an inordinate amount of rain.  They slept a good deal of the time, waking to eat and relieve themselves as nature required and spending time in conversation, healing on the inside as well as their physical bodies. 

After almost a week of recovery time, they were both feeling much more normal and were happy to wake to clear skies.

"It is nice to feel the warmth of sunshine again," Donoma commented as they stepped out into it again.

"It is indeed, Ka’eskone.  Go and enjoy your bath; I will cleanse your dwelling.  Then I will see if I can find something fresh for our dinner.  I cannot speak for you, but I would not be adverse to a change in our diet."

"Neither would I, warrior mine.  Are you sure you can manage the cleansing alone?"

"I am sure, Donoma."

"Then I will go get clean myself.  I believe I have lost my sense of smell in self-defense.  I would hate to scare off the opportunity for something fresh to eat with my scent."

Koko chuckled.  "I happen to like your scent, but you're right.  It would probably scare off any game I could find.  Besides, you will feel better."

"I will indeed," Donoma agreed.  "And so will you."

"I know; I will go when you have returned.  By then I should have completed my other tasks.  However, I will accompany you to the creek and you need only call for me if you need my help and I will come."

"I will be fine, Warrior, but I would welcome your company."

When they were both clean and well-fed on the prairie chicken Koko had gotten for their dinner, Donoma laughed at Koko's antics and groaning after she finished up the last of the bird.

"That was wonderful, Donoma, but how could you allow me to eat so much??  I am so full."

"Allow you, Warrior?  When did I start allowing you to do anything??  I have only ever been your advisor."

"You should have advised me more carefully then."  Koko paused and looked down at the ground before catching Donoma's eyes and holding them.  "Or perhaps instead of simply my advisor, I should offer you a position of significantly more power."

"Such as?" her eyes steady but her lips and voice trembling.  Koko placed a kiss on Donoma's hand, then rose from her place and disappeared into her own tent.  Donoma watched her go, shaking with nervous excitement – fairly certain what was coming next.

It didn't take long but it seemed like forever before Koko emerged from her home dressed in the leathers Rachel and Donoma had stitched for her with such loving care.  Donoma caught her breath at the figure she cut in the full light of day.  Koko focused on Donoma's expression, relishing the honest emotion playing over her features.

Koko strode to where Donoma waited, and mindful of both their injuries, gently but forcefully pulled her to her feet.  "Join with me, Donoma," she commanded firmly.  "Be my chosen mate."

************

The captain sat brooding in his office.  His brother had been right - no damn woman needed a horse as fine as the black stallion Reb Stone rode, and Leroy hadn't deserved to die for trying to give the horse a more worthy master.  He certainly hadn't deserved the horrible end he had gotten.  George Washburn shook his head.  He didn't care what the colonel said – someone was going to pay for his brother's death. 

Killing Reb Stone would be a good place to start.


Chapter XXIII

"Neho'e, I do not feel right about this," Honaw complained to Takoda again.  They had been following their new course for several days and with each step that took them further from Donoma and Koko, Honaw felt the heaviness settle deeper into his chest.  Now sitting beside the small fire Takoda had built inside his dwelling to stave off the chill that accompanied the rain, he reiterated his position.  Takoda sighed and faced his eldest son.  Honaw more than his brothers was sometimes gifted with the same insight that Takoda himself knew.  So the shaman couldn't refute his worries on the grounds that he knew best; they both understood how fallible they could be.

"What troubles you, Honaw?  What have you seen?"

Honaw shook his dark head.  "It was not a vision, Neho'e.  It is more a feeling – a heaviness in my chest that I cannot seem to shake.  I think... I believe Donoma Chepi and Koko Kanti may be in trouble."

"You do not think this feeling extends from the difficulties already between them?"

"No, Neho'e.  Despite Donoma's anger, she wants to forgive Koko.  In her heart she knows she must to be whole again.  It may take her some time to admit that to herself or to allow it to happen, but I do not think it will.  She has been miserable alone for far too long.  Why would she allow it to continue when the chance for happiness was within her grasp?"

Takoda cut his eyes at his son.  "You do not know much about women, do you?" he asked wryly.  "They can be the most vindictive creatures capable of holding onto a grudge for years."

"I understand that, Neho'e," Honaw countered seriously.  "But I know Donoma's heart – I know how she feels about Koko,” he said with a certainty Takoda could not doubt.  “She may fight and struggle with it briefly, but in the end she will have to let it go for her own sake to say nothing of Koko's."

"So if this heaviness is not because of what has happened between them, where is it coming from?"

“I do not know, Neho’e.  I only know that I have not been able to shake the feeling of unease from my mind since we left them.  I am no longer certain that was the right thing to do given the circumstances.”

“You do not believe Koko Kanti is capable of protecting your sister?  You do not trust in the vision I was given by the Great Spirit?”

“I know that Koko Kanti is still recovering from a critical wounding despite the vigor with which she destroyed the white men that pursued her. Is it not possible that some should have remained to protect them until we were sure she was healed? And if that was not serious enough, we have deviated from our chosen path.  If they required help from us, they would not find us.”

“Honaw, I appreciate your concern, but you cannot possibly think that a warrior of Koko Kanti’s caliber could not find the trail left by an entire tribe no matter how careful we are to hide it.”

“What of Donoma, Neho’e?  Could she find us if she was the one required to search for us?  You know as I do that we are not all gifted with the same visions or the same strength of sight.”

Takoda blew out a deep breath.  Honaw made some very valid points in his argument and Takoda couldn’t disagree with his concern.  He also could not deny the fact that he had been given the vision that led them away from their chosen path.  The carnage he had witnessed had been disturbing especially since that was all the vision he had received.  Takoda met his son’s eyes squarely.

“What would you like to do, Honaw?”

“I would like to take a small contingent of warriors to ensure their safety... at least until I am convinced that Koko Kanti is able to do so on her own.”

“You do realize that if you go charging back in there regardless of your intentions and whether or not they have resolved their differences, you run a very serious risk of being thrashed by not only Koko Kanti, but by Donoma as well?  Or that they may no longer be where we left them?”

“I do, Neho’e.  But I also feel this is something that needs to be done.”

“You feel so strongly then?”

“Yes, Neho’e.  I realize now I should have spoken sooner, but at first I thought it was because of all the tension surrounding them.  I do not think that is the case any longer.”

Takoda nodded his head.  “Very well.  I will speak to Odahingum.  Surely we can remain in this vicinity long enough for you and a small band of scouts to check on them and return.  If not we will figure something else out.”

“Thank you, Neho’e.  I appreciate your faith in my sight.”

Takoda didn’t reply with words, but Honaw felt the warmth of his gaze and smiled.  Then Takoda wrapped up against the blowing rain and went in search of Odahingum.  Honaw did the same before kissing his mother goodbye and heading back to his own home to wait.

************

Colonel Jonathon Ignatius Spencer stood at the window of his office looking out unseeing at the town stretched out beyond the walls of the large fort.  Something was brewing – he could feel it, and he didn’t like the way it felt.  Unfortunately he was an officer in the United States Army and he functioned under facts and orders not feelings and instinct.  However, he had learned to have a strong respect for his gut; for now he would keep a cautious eye out.

A knock at his door brought him out of his musings and he returned to the heavy chair behind the big desk before calling out, “Enter.”

Sergeant Jake Clemmons, his aide, opened the door and snapped to attention briefly before relaxing into a more at ease position.  “Sir,” he announced softly in the low drawl he had.  “The Marshal from town is askin’ to speak to you.  He said it’s a matter of some urgency.”

Spencer crinkled his forehead at the wording Clemmons used.  Most of the men in his regiment were not well educated and tended to speak plainly.  Obviously the sergeant was quoting the Marshal’s words. “Then by all means, Sergeant,” Spencer commanded.  “Show him in.”

Clemmons nodded and stepped from the office, only to return a moment later with a large man dressed roughly in black denim and a course linen shirt with a badge pinned to the left breast.  He extended a hand to the colonel and Clemmons closed the door as he went back to his desk.

“Spence... thanks for seeing me.”

“You’re always welcome here, Murph.  It’d be nice if it was for something other than trouble though.”

Stephen Murphy nodded his dark head.  “That’s the damn truth though I’m not entirely sure it’s trouble... yet.”

Spencer leaned forward on his desk.  “What’s happened?”

“Reb Stone seems to have disappeared.  Not unusual I know, except she was running after Hobbs and his gang when she left outta here.  I’m getting a little concerned.”

Spencer nodded his head.  “I can see where you would be.  What do you propose we do about it?”

“Well, I was hoping you might be willing to keep an eye on things in town for a couple days while I ride out towards her place.  It’s possible she went there for whatever reason, especially if she was hurt.  You know how she feels about showing weakness.”

“Yeah, I do.”  The colonel sat back thoughtfully.  “I don’t see why not.  There’s nothing pressing going on here at the moment.  The men could use a new challenge.”  He looked up to see the Marshal gazing back at him thoughtfully.  “I had a squad that asked to go out looking for horses the other day.”  He shook his head.  "We don't really need anymore here, but the cavalry can always use them.  Would have been a good exercise for the men."

“They didn’t find any?”

“Oh no.  Apparently they found some....”

“But...?”

“But something’s not right about the whole situation.  My best wrangler and a lieutenant were crushed by them... or rather, they were trampled by their own horses when they got spooked or something.  The corporal wasn't particularly forthcoming with that information.  Said they were split up in an effort to cover as much ground as they could and intimated they weren't close enough to see what happened... that by the time he and the others reached them, it was too late.  The rest corroborate his story."

"That makes sense, Spence – isn't that how it's normally done?"

"Yes, but that's not what bothers me.  Murph, these horses are trained not to spook.  They have to be to be warhorses.  So what could have spooked them badly enough that they were not only thrown off but trampled to death as well?  One of my captains, the lieutenant's older brother in fact, is convinced there is foul play."

Murphy sat up straighter in his chair.  "Does he have a reason to think such a thing?"

Spencer shook his head.  "None.  He just doesn't want it to be Leroy's fault so he's making noise that Reb Stone is behind the attack."

The Marshal burst into laughter.  "You've gotta be kidding me, Jon.  You know as well as I do that Reb Stone avoids anything to do with the army as much as possible."  He noted the grave expression on the colonel's face.  "You're serious???  He's really trying to blame her for his brother's death???"

"He'd like to, Murph.  I've told him to drop it, but the Washburn brothers have always been hotheads... especially where Reb Stone is concerned.  Think she needs to learn her place."

"Evidently they were not here five years ago when she showed the town just exactly what her place was.  Jon, there's a reason she is the most feared bounty hunter in these parts."

"Preaching to the choir, Marshal.  I've come to respect Reb Stone.  She's done nothing but good since she showed up out of nowhere and as far as I can tell, the only one's complaining about her being a woman are those stupid enough to try and take advantage of her because of it.  I'll keep an eye on Washburn; you go see if you can find Stone.  Aside from knowing she is all right, it would be nice to know what happened to Hobbs and his gang."

Murphy rose from the chair and slapped his hat back on his head.  "I'll do what I can and let you know what I find out.  Shouldn't be gone but a day or two unless something is wrong at her place."

"Stop by here on your way out so I know when you're leaving."

"And on my way back in so you can hear if I find out anything.  Thanks, Spence."  Murphy gave him a little salute before exiting the office.  Spencer turned back to the window to contemplate this new complication.

************

"I do not know about this, Takoda.  You were so sure we needed to leave the winter encampment and change our path to reach the summer camp.  I am not certain I can justify turning around again to...."

"No, Odahingum... no.  Not the entire tribe – just a small scouting party."

Odahingum shook his head.  "Still, Takoda.  I do not know.  Did your vision not indicate that we needed to leave them alone to resolve their differences?"

"No, my friend.  My vision indicated we needed to move from our normal path to avoid the slaughter of our People.  It was my belief as a father that Koko and Donoma needed to resolve their problems on their own; we were only making the situation more difficult for both of them.  Odahingum, it was past time that we left the winter encampment."

"So why is there a need for a scouting party to return?  Surely Koko Kanti is even stronger now than she was when we left them alone."

Takoda sighed.  "I know this is frustrating, Odahingum.  I do not understand it myself.  Why would the Great Spirit not share something so important with me?  But I cannot discount Honaw's intuition.  Though his gift is not as developed as mine nor as strong as Donoma's, he does have some ability.  Not sight so much as sense, but it is there.  Would it be so difficult to allow him to go check on Donoma if it would give him some peace about them?  I have never known him to ask if he did not feel there was sufficient reason to do so."

"Very well, Takoda," Odahingum sighed.  "Honaw can go.  But he will go by himself.  We cannot afford to separate the tribe while we are on this altered path to go on what could amount to a wild goose chase.  I refuse to put everyone in danger like that and sending the warriors...."  Odahingum shook his head.  "I do not want to seem heartless, Takoda, but I have to be honest.  These kids... all of them... are beginning to drive me crazy."

"I understand, Odahingum.  I think it will be enough for Honaw that he is allowed to go.  Thank you for allowing him to set his mind at ease.  I will admit I would feel better knowing how they are now that Honaw has stirred things up a bit.  Do you think that makes me crazy?"

"No, my friend... I think it makes you a good parent."  The chief blew out a breath.  "I will ask Keezheekoni to go with Honaw.  I am sure he will ask to go if I do not."

"Thank you, Odahingum.  It makes me feel better."

Odahingum put an arm around Takoda's shoulders and leaned in to speak softly though there was no one else in the dwelling to hear.  "I would deny this if you told anyone, Takoda, but it makes me feel better too."

Takoda laughed.  "I will let Honaw know.  I am sure they will start out as soon as they can begin.  Are we going to stay put until they return?"

"No... but we will move slowly.  Ensure they are aware of our planned path so that they will be able to find us upon their return."  Takoda nodded and rose from his place beside Odahingum.

"It will be as you say, Odahingum."  Then he headed back into the rain to give Honaw the news.

************

Honaw exchanged sodden glances with Keezheekoni.  They could have waited until the rain stopped, but the urgency Honaw felt prevented that.  When he had heard of Honaw's request, Keez had insisted that they head out as soon as possible regardless of the rain.  The sooner they reached their destination, the sooner they would be able to return to their homes and families.  A little bad weather was not going to deter them.

"Do you think they will be in the glade where we left them, Honaw?"

Honaw exchanged glances with Keez before smirking just a little bit.  "Think about this a minute, my friend.  Donoma has Koko Kanti at her beck and call for the first time in five cycles.  And she has five cycles worth of anger and frustration to get out in regards to Koko Kanti.  Do you seriously think that there is any way Donoma is going to allow them to go anywhere for the next full season??  It will take them that long for Donoma Chepi to release all that pent-up aggression.  Why do you think Takoda insisted they have their dwellings?"

"So you really have not had a vision then?"

"I do not have visions, Keez; I can only sense things.  And I really do sense that something is not right.  It is... it is hard to describe... like a heaviness in the pit of my stomach that seems to center around them.  It does not happen often thankfully and usually only about a battle or a place that is unsafe."

"So why them?  And why now?"

"I do not know, my friend.  Perhaps because of all the controversy surrounding them; perhaps because I understand Donoma almost as well as she knows herself.  But I will feel better once I have had the opportunity to see how they are for myself."

"Well then, let us get there.  I am certain the remainder of the tribe is waiting for our return.  They are as anxious to know what is happening as we are."  He wiped the rain from his eyes and chuckled.  "We should have simply stayed with them until things were settled; it would have saved us all a lot of grief."

Honaw laughed in sympathy.  "I do not think Donoma would have tolerated the supervision."

Keez paused in thought.  "I think you are right, Honaw.  I believe I would have made an effort to get away from that much interested interference."

"As I recall, you tried.  You were just not as successful as Donoma."

Keez snickered.  "I am not as scary as Donoma."

"Keezheekoni, no one is as scary as Donoma Chepi on the warpath.  I almost feel sorry for Koko Kanti."  Their sniggering and chuckles followed them, and despite the rain they felt better about the trip they were making and their reason for undertaking it.  With any luck they would find that Honaw's gnawing gut had been the result of bad food – that things had returned to normal for Koko and Donoma and they would be able to report the same to the tribe when they reunited with them.  And if they were really lucky, the sun would start shining sooner rather than later.  Otherwise it was going to be a long, uncomfortable ride.

Of course what they found when they reached the dell more than made up for the misery they had suffered on their ride.  They were going to have some news to share.


Chapter XXIV

They were met by Black and Dapples, and it was clear from the horses' aggressive behavior that something had happened.  Honaw and Keezheekoni let the horses reacquaint themselves with the horses of the tribe before they dismounted and then allowed Black and Dapples to satisfy themselves that they were friends.  Only then did the make a move towards the dell on foot.

They reached the edge of the small glade and looked down... then exchanged glances and slapped their hands over their mouths to keep from cheering.  Koko stood proudly in her fine war regalia holding Donoma firmly in her grasp.  At that moment Donoma pulled away from her and Koko circled.  The two men watched what to them was a silent tableau, knowing they would need to share all the details with the entire tribe upon their return.

Mindful of their still healing bodies, Donoma pulled away from Koko's grip and turned her back.  Koko circled her carefully then stepped up behind her, threading her arms around Donoma's waist and holding her in place.  "Join with me, Donoma," she commanded firmly once again.  "Be my chosen mate."  Her voice was low and growly and sent shivers up Donoma's spine, causing Koko to smile in satisfaction.

"Tell me why, Warrior.  What makes you a worthy mate for me?"  Donoma asked the question with the intensity it required, but Koko heard the breathiness in her voice.

"I am a strong warrior, Ka’eskone – a stalwart defender and protector.  I have proven my prowess on the battlefield in defense of my People.  I am a skilled hunter and a good provider.  Never has my family done without food and shelter."

"That makes you a good prospect for anyone, Koko Kanti.  What makes you a worthy mate for me?"

Koko turned Donoma in her arms, refusing to allow Donoma a chance to escape.  Donoma brought up her hands, trying to keep a sliver of space between them only to find them crushed against Koko's soft chest.  Her breath caught in her throat and she raised her eyes to meet Koko's intense blue ones.

"Nayeli, Nutta," Koko answered softly.  "Because I love you, Beloved," she reiterated in English, "with all my heart and I have for my entire life.  No one will love or care for you as completely as I do.  Join with me, Ka’eskone.  Be my chosen mate, and I will love you and care for you and protect you for as long as we are together."

"How long are you willing to commit to me, Koko Kanti?  How long will you stay by my side?"

"For as long as you will allow me to do so, Donoma Chepi, but my commitment to you is forever."

Finally Donoma allowed her hands to slide up Koko's chest, locking them behind the dark head and urging her down to Donoma's lips.  A hairsbreadth apart, Donoma licked her lips, gazing at Koko's mouth for a long moment before dragging her eyes back to burning blue.  "That is a very long time, warrior mine."

Koko let her eyes drop to Donoma's lips, reaching out with one hand to trace them reverently.  She pulled her eyes back to shining green.  "It is only the beginning, Ka’eskone."  Then she leaned down and captured Donoma's lips, plundering her mouth with a passion and intensity that left them both breathless when they separated for air.  "Join with me, Beloved," Koko asked for a third and final time.  "Be my chosen mate."

For answer Donoma pulled Koko's mouth back to hers, possessing it with the same intensity as Koko had shown her mere moments before.  Then she backed up slightly, allowing her hands to scratch lightly down Koko's neck and torso and smiling at the shiver that followed her touch.

"Come, my mate," reaching for Koko's hand and urging her towards her home.  "It is time."

Koko cursed her injury, wishing she could scoop Donoma and carry her into what would soon be their home.  Instead she dropped to her knees and leaned her forehead on Donoma's belly.  Donoma let her fingers tangle into Koko's loose hair once more and held her in place.

"Nayeli, my warrior.  Until time is no more, I will love you.  Now come...."  Koko rose from her knees and took Donoma's proffered hands, following her into the tent.

************

Once they were sure Koko and Donoma were too preoccupied to detect their presence any longer, Honaw and Keez removed their hands from their mouths, but barely breathed as they watched the courtship dance commence.  When Donoma and Koko disappeared into the confines of their home, the two men backed away from the edge of the ledge they were reclined on before rising and moving back to the Plain.

"Well, it seems as though your vision was incorrect, Honaw."

"Perhaps, Keezheekoni, but I would feel better if I could talk to them.  They were still very careful with one another.  Not that I think they are uncomfortable with each other," he pressed on before Keez could protest, "but something has happened beyond Koko Kanti's injuries.  Even Donoma was slow and careful in her movements."

Keezheekoni nodded slowly.  "Perhaps you are right, hestatanemo.  We have a bit of time before we should begin our return to the People.  Besides, when they hear of the bonding they will forgive us for our tardiness.  Come," he said.  "We may as well be comfortable in our wait."  And the two began to gather chips enough to provide a fire for what would be their temporary home until they were able to talk to Koko and Donoma.

************

Stephen Murphy rode out of the town as the sun rose, hoping to reach Reb Stone's home before the sun reached the horizon.  He had never actually been to her home, but he had a good idea where to go and one of the scouts had given him directions after a fashion.  So he knew there would be a bit of searching involved; he only hoped it would be easy to find.

There was no path to follow and no real landmarks; he had to rely on his sense of direction and navigational skill to guide him for the first little while.  As midday approached, he reached the stream and the lone cottonwood that grew beside it and knew he was close.  He took a break, giving his horse a chance to rest and taking the time to walk around a bit.  He ate then remounted, anxious to complete his journey and get some answers to his questions.

It didn't take as long as he feared it would and he was soon pulling up in front of her homestead.  It was neat and tidy and so quiet he knew she was not there.  Still he approached with caution.  Though she knew who he was and had no quarrel with him, the Marshal knew Reb did not tolerate unexpected visitors well.  She had made that clear when she still lived in the town, and there was a reason she guarded her privacy so fiercely.

Still he had an obligation to find her for his own peace of mind as well as her safety.  So he dismounted and walked slowly towards the front of the tiny cabin built from river rock.  Murphy knocked several times and when they continued to go unheeded, he lifted the latch and pushed open the door.  It was immediately apparent that no one was home, nor had they been for some time.  There was no fire in the fireplace and the air was slightly musty as though the door had not been opened for a while.  He looked around inquisitively, not touching anything, but trying to satisfy his curiosity about the woman he respected and outlaws feared.

There was nothing personal out in the open; nothing that told him any more about Reb Stone than he already knew.  After looking around once more he took his leave, careful to close the door and leave the latch out like he had found it.

Murphy went back to his horse, trying to figure out his next move.  It was clear that she had gone chasing after the Hobbs gang, but she hadn't returned since.  That meant trouble.  The question was what kind?  Either she had been ambushed or killed by them or she had been injured and forced to hole up somewhere to heal.  Either way Stephen Murphy had no way to find her.

He clambered aboard his horse and headed away from her homestead.  On the other hand he reasoned, Spence might be willing to send a scouting party to find her if only to learn the outcome of her run-in with Hobbs.  Although given the resentment some of the soldiers seemed to feel towards her, it might not be the wisest course of action the Marshal could pursue. It would bear thinking about and he would have plenty of time to ponder it on his way back into town.

************

Donoma turned to Koko once they were inside her dwelling – what would soon become their home.  She watched as Koko released the ties to shut the outside world out and allow them the privacy all mated couples were entitled to.  A little odd, considering they were the only ones for miles, but it was tradition and it helped bolster her belief in the pledge they had just made to one another – made it seem more than just a fevered dream.  Then Koko stepped close enough that their bodies were just touching and Donoma knew that no dream had ever felt so real... so right.

Koko lifted her hands to Donoma’s face, allowing her fingertips to follow the planes and hollows so prominent in her features.  Her touch was light and compelling and Donoma closed her eyes under the onslaught of intense emotion it created within her being.  She felt as though Koko was worshipping her and forced her eyes open to find it was the truth.

She raised her own hands to Koko’s face to return the favor, closing her eyes to enhance the sensory feeling.  Donoma followed the same path that Koko chose – across her forehead; over smooth eyebrows; down the sharply raised high cheekbones; around the nose; tickling full lips into a smile until they reached the firm jaw.

Donoma felt Koko move closer still and held her breath – nervous and excited at the same time.  “Donoma,” Koko requested quietly, though there was no one to overhear them in this moment.  “Beloved, look at me.”

It took a long few seconds for Donoma’s brain to catch up with her hearing; when it did, she blinked her eyes open slowly, gazing at Koko with an expression full of love and desire and seeing the same reflected back to her.

Koko’s hands moved from her jaw, down the front of her dress to stop at her waist.  Then she shifted until her hands were gently cupping Donoma’s ass and bringing them into such close contact along their length that there was no room for air between them.

Koko bent her head, gratified when Donoma’s hands slid into her hair of their own accord, tangling in the thick locks and pulling her head down with tender ferocity.  Then their lips met again and time ceased to have meaning.

When they finally separated the barest bit to reclaim their breaths, they leaned their foreheads together.  “I never thought that this would be real,” Koko confessed.  “I dreamed of it, but I never believed it would actually happen.”

“I never allowed myself to dream,” Donoma replied. “Not of this... I could not.  It would have only served to remind me of the impossibility I would never attain.”  She looked at the ground and bit her lip before returning her eyes to drown in the blue that stared back at her with complete devotion.  “I believe I am going to like my reality much better than I ever enjoyed my dreams.”

Her smile was matched by the one Koko sported and she urged their lips together again.  This time however, her hands slid from Koko’s dark hair to the ties that held her shirt closed in the front of her body.  She gently loosened them, fumbling slightly in her excitement but knowing instinctively what she needed to accomplish in order to feel the smoothness of Koko’s skin against her own in something other than the capacity of a healer.

Donoma didn’t even realize Koko was returning the favor wholeheartedly until cool air hit her bare skin and raised goosebumps along her exposed flesh.  She tugged at Koko’s shirt, lifting it until she could no longer reach and allowing Koko to finish its removal.  Then they stood and gazed at one another – finally allowed to look with the eyes of a lover.

“So beautiful,” Koko murmured, letting her eyes roam over Donoma’s body.  Donoma wasn’t content to look; her hands began to wander of their own volition – tracing the womanly curves she had not been able to appreciate as a mate til now.

She paid close attention, noting the places that caused Koko to catch her breath and those that caused her hands to roam or to clench.  She leaned down to kiss the still healing belly wound, glad for Koko’s amazing recuperative powers.  When she reached the ties of the trousers, Donoma undid them and pushed them down the long length of leg with a fascination akin to reverence.  Koko watched her, feeling humbled by the myriad of emotion she found in Donoma’s gaze when their eyes met.

Donoma opened her mouth to speak, but found her breath caught in her throat.  At a loss she reached for Koko’s body, wrapping herself around the strong body she craved and merging them into a single being.  Koko closed her eyes at the contact, relishing the explosive sensation of skin on skin.  Then she surrendered once more to Donoma’s urging, and they met in a hot, open-mouthed kiss, tongues plunging and invading as they explored tastes and textures.

Mindful of her limitations, Koko eased Donoma down onto the furs she had prepared earlier with just this moment in mind.  No longer were they two divided stacks of furs creating two distinct beds.  Now they were a single entity covered with a new blanket, waiting to be christened as their joining bed.

They separated briefly in deference to their still healing bodies and collapsed gently onto the smooth surface.  Donoma ran her hands over the soft blanket, recognizing it with surprise and looking up into Koko’s eyes.

“Where did you...?”

Koko shrugged and looked down at the blanket.  “It was in the box of your things.  I found it when I was searching for some bandages after you were injured.  It was right on top.  I thought it was a sign,” peeking at Donoma through long lashes.  “I remembered it.”

“I am certain you did, Warrior,” Donoma replied with a small smile, stroking the blanket once more.  “How many nights did you sit beside me at the fire while Rae’l and Nahko’e and I worked on it?  I never thought we would be able to use it as a joining blanket.”

“Nor did I, Ka’eskone,” shifting her hands from the blanket back to the silkiness of Donoma’s skin.  “I am glad you saved it,” letting her hands trail up Donoma’s body from her waist to the full round breasts and relishing the widening of darkened, green eyes and the flaring of Donoma’s nostrils when her thumbs teased rigid nipples.

Donoma closed her eyes as the first sensation rippled through her body, but couldn’t resist the desire to return the same pleasure to Koko.  She opened her eyes, meeting the burning intensity in Koko’s and reaching out to caress the expanse of bare skin within reach.

Koko closed her eyes, enhancing the sensation for a long moment before nudging Donoma farther back, reclining them completely on the bed.  They sighed simultaneously when they were fully stretched out along their lengths, absorbing the sensation of completion and desire that shivered through them. Then they turned their attention to loving one another, claiming one another in the most intimate and precious of ways.

************

"How long do you thing it will take them, hestatanemo?" Keez asked as the sun touched the western horizon.  I do not recall any of our tribe taking so long to join with their mate."

Honaw snickered inwardly, though his expression remained carefully neutral on the outside.  "I do not think they are taking so long before joining with one another, Keez.  I would be willing to wager that they are still joining with each other."  He paused.  "Do you remember the attention to detail Koko was famous for as a warrior?"  Keezheekoni nodded.  "Why would you think that she would be any less focused on something that means everything to her?"

Keezheekoni nodded before his eyes widened perceptibly.  "You do not think...?"

"I am not going to go any closer to find out, hestatanemo.  I value my life."

"Honaw, that is not natural.  Not even the strongest among us could last...."

"Not even the strongest among us could defeat Koko Kanti, Keezheekoni.  Do you really think there can be a comparison?"

Keezheekoni thought about Honaw's words for a long moment before standing and wiping his hands on his trousers.  "I will go hunting... see what I can find for our dinner."  He pointed in the direction opposite of the dell where Koko and Donoma were still comfortably ensconced.  "I will go that way.  I have no desire to find out if there could be a comparison.  I promised Calyle I would return from this without any more bruises."

Honaw burst into laughter, then quickly slapped a hand over his mouth.  "She is already tired of repairing the damage that happens when Koko Kanti is around?"

"I think she grew accustomed to not having to do so.  Besides, I do not believe Koko would let me survive if I interrupted her coupling with Donoma Chepi."

Honaw snickered again.  "I think you would have more to worry about from Donoma Chepi."

Keez's eyes widened comically.  "I will be over there... very far away over there," scooting off away from their tiny camp to the sound of Honaw's laughter.  Honaw watched him go before rising and heading out after him, knowing someone needed to collect more chips if they were going to have a fire.  Besides, he didn't want to be around just in case Koko and Donoma had heard them.  He valued his life as well.

************

Koko and Donoma lay curled up together, gently stroking all the bare skin within reach, which was considerable considering their nakedness.  An unexpected sound of laughter stilled their movement and they exchanged glances. 

"What was that?"

Koko tilted her head slightly.  "Honaw... and probably Keezheekoni.  They have been here for a while – since before we pledged to one another."

"You knew they were there?"

"I was listening, Ka’eskone; I heard their approach.  I saw no reason to deny them the opportunity to share in our joy.  They will provide witness to the People."

"You are very clever, warrior mine."

"And I am definitely yours, Nutta."

"As I am yours, Nutta." 

Koko smiled and shifted until she was leaning over Donoma.  Donoma smiled and twined her hands around Koko's neck.  "They can wait," she declared and lowered herself to meet Donoma's lips.  Honaw and Keezheekoni would be waiting a while.


Chapter XXV

The sun was just peeking over the horizon when Koko stepped from the home she now shared with Donoma.  At some point they would need to make some decisions, not the least of which was what to do with her own dwelling now that she and Donoma were joined to one another.  But that was not her concern at the moment.  Right now her focus was on finding and waking Honaw and Keezheekoni.

It wasn't hard – they hadn't tried to hide their trail from her.  She walked right up to them, smiling evilly and then grabbed them by the shoulder as she let out a loud war cry.  Both men jumped to their feet, wide-awake and looking for the danger that clearly stalked them.  All they found was Koko sitting on the ground laughing hard enough that she was biting her lip at the pain it was causing her.  It didn't slow her laughter though and a second glance at the two of them glaring at her caused another wave to peal from her mouth.

Honaw planted his hands on his hips.  "That was not nice, Koko Kanti."

"Of course it was not, Honaw, but it was very funny.  You should have seen the expression on your face."

Keez snickered.  "She is right, Honaw – it was quite funny."

"Oh... and like you were not?"

Keezheekoni laughed.  "I am sure I was.  Admit it, Honaw, Koko got us and very well.  We should have known better than to sleep so close to her encampment.  She taught us better."

Honaw smiled reluctantly and he shifted his eyes in Koko's direction, glaring as much as he could manage before breaking into unwilling chuckles.  "Yes, she did," he agreed.  "Congratulations, by the way.  We saw your joining ceremony with Donoma.  Can I tell you we all believe it is about time things came right between you – how happy it makes us to know you are finally joined?"

Koko smiled.  "Not nearly as happy as it makes me and Donoma."  She slowly climbed to her feet.  "Come... Donoma has started the fire and I promised to bring you both and some fish back for our morning meal.  And I still need to go catch the fish."

"Can we help?" Honaw asked as they cleaned up the small area they had slept in, tamping out the fire and spreading the ashes. 

"If you would like to collect a few more chips for the fire, I am certain Donoma would be most appreciative.  Then we can have breakfast and you can tell us why you are checking up on us."

The two warriors nodded their heads in agreement, having expected as much.  They tossed their blankets over the horses that stood nearby and went out onto the Plain to gather the chips for Donoma.  Koko headed down to the stream, determined to beat the boys back to camp.

Donoma, meanwhile, had started the fire in the outside pit and placed water on to boil for tea.  She couldn't stop the smile that seemed to be plastered to her face as her mind wandered over and over the events of the previous day.  Against all odds... despite her own doubts about trusting herself, she was happy.  And even better – she was joined to Koko Kanti.  Never in her wildest imaginings had she believed that Koko would love her like she did.  For the first time in forever Donoma knew completion.

Arms wrapped around her from behind and Donoma smiled as she recognized the touch... then scrunched up her nose at the fish smell that accompanied it.  "You were successful in your hunt, I smell," Donoma joked as she turned in Koko's arms.  "Where is your bounty, great fisherman?"

Koko released her hold on Donoma and turned to pick up the package that she had dropped to embrace Donoma.  "Your morning meal, Ka’eskone.  Honaw and Keezheekoni are collecting chips – they will be here shortly.  I will go wash up as I do not wish to offend."

"That is probably a good idea, Warrior.  Otherwise you might scare the rest away from the camp."

"Even you?"

"Oh no, Warrior... you are not that lucky."

"Oh, I do not know about that, Ka’eskone.  I think I am the luckiest person alive."  The sound of gagging interrupted what was headed for a passionate embrace.  Koko looked up to glare in the direction of Keezheekoni.  Honaw just shook his head and continued on into the camp, dropping the chips he was carrying onto the small pile by the fire.  Keez burst into laughter and trotted along behind him, placing his chips on the pile and backing out of Koko's reach.

Koko, however, was not about to let him get away so easily and took one giant stride towards him; Keez took a huge step back.  Forward, back – forward, back... until they were at the water's edge. Then forgetting her injury Koko lunged for Keez, taking him into the creek with her.

He squealed like a girl, howling at the coldness of the water he was suddenly immersed in.  Honaw and Donoma exchanged glances before bursting into laughter.  Keez turned to Koko, a wicked twinkle in his eye until he realized from her expression that she was in a bit of pain.  He extended a hand down to her and helped her to stand, then together they exited the stream.

Donoma was the first to notice the look in Koko's eyes and moved to her side.  "Are you all right, warrior mine?"

"Yes, Ka’eskone," Koko said wryly.  "I should have been more careful." 

"I should have known better," Keezheekoni said in disgust as he stripped off his wet shirt.  "You think one day I would learn."

The other three looked at one another before they all turned to him.  "No," they chimed at once, chuckling.  He just shook his head before joining their laughter.  Then he removed his trousers, leaving him clad only in his breechcloth.

Koko continued on into their dwelling to change her own clothes, returning mere minutes later in her joining leathers.  She tossed Keez a fur to wrap around himself to keep from getting a chill as the breeze was still quite cool this early in the morning.  Donoma had the fish nearly ready to eat and soon they were sitting around the fire enjoying the morning repast.

When their hunger had been satisfied, Koko turned her attention to Honaw.  "So why are you here, Honaw?  I thought the People were following the herd."

"Actually we have moved away from the herd for the moment.  Takoda saw a great darkness befall the tribe if we remained true to the path of the buffalo.  We will rejoin our brothers when Neho'e sees it is safe."

"That does not answer my original question though – why are you here?"

"Honaw had a bad feeling," Keez responded after a moment.  "Did something happen to you once the People left the area?"

"We had a bit of trouble, but things are better now," Donoma answered.  She turned to Honaw.  "Thank you for looking out for us, hestatanemo.  It is nice to know you are looking out for us even reluctantly."  She opened her arms and Honaw wrapped her up in his strong embrace.

"I am never reluctant to look after you, Ka’eskone, but I do not care for the gnawing in my gut when things are not right with you.  What happened?"  He looked at Koko.  "Was it the tension between you two or something more?"

"Something more," Koko confirmed, "though I do not as yet know what.  We will be going into town for a bit when we leave this place.  I have business there and it is possible that the white lawman there may have some news about whatever the something more is."

"So you do not know."

"No, and at the moment I do not even have suspicions."

Honaw and Keezheekoni regarded the two women for a long minute before turning their gazes to one another.  They nodded satisfactorily and then turned back to Koko and Donoma.  "Very well," Honaw decided at last.  "Do you have any idea how long you will be gone from us this time?  It would be nice to be able to tell the elders when to expect you to be with us again."  Koko shook her head, accepting his silent rebuke with a nod.  Donoma, however, glared at him until he had to look away from her.

"Donoma," Koko chided softly, but Donoma stopped her protest with a violent shake of her head.

"No, Beloved," addressing Koko in English, surprising everyone before reverting back to her native tongue.  "As long as we are together...."

"No, Ka’eskone – just because we are together now does not mean they stop caring for you... for us.  They are well within their right to ask."

Donoma glared at the two men again who sat looking abashed under her obvious ire.  "I do not have to like it," she finally relented, "But I do understand."

"So...?"

"I cannot say for certain, hestatanemo.  It will depend on a goodly number of things."

"But you do plan to return to the People?"

"We will try."

Honaw nodded his acceptance of her answer.  "Fair enough," he conceded.  "That will be the response I give the elders when they ask.  And you know they will when I share with them the fact of your private joining."  He turned to Donoma.  "You know Nahko'e will be disappointed she missed it."

"You know that will not stop her from hosting the wildest celebration she can manage when we return."

Keez laughed.  "I do not think it will keep her from starting the party as soon as we return with the news.  As long as the People have been waiting for this...." trailing off when he saw Honaw vehemently shaking his head, then noting the looks of consternation both Donoma and Koko were giving him.  "I mean...." verbally backtracking and looking at Honaw for help.

"You mean what exactly?" Donoma asked with a frown marring her features.  Koko just sat back and waited for the fallout, exchanging glances with Honaw who crossed his arms over his chest to watch.

"I mean," Keez stammered, looking around and realizing he was on his own.  "Well...."

"Yes?" arching a dark blonde eyebrow in his direction.

"Oh come on, Donoma," he finally said with a bit of exasperation in his voice.  "It did not take a seer of even Honaw's admittedly limited ability to know that you and Koko belong together... you always did.  From the time she came to us – from the time you brought her and Rae'l into the tribe - you were always a part of one another.  And when she left, you changed.  Everyone who watched it happen was waiting for the day Koko returned to you."

Donoma blinked, staring at Keezheekoni for a long moment before shifting her attention to Honaw first and then landing on Koko.  "Everyone knew?" she whispered.

Honaw shrugged, then realized she couldn't see his reaction with her attention focused on Koko.  "Everyone knew," he agreed softly.  "At least anyone who took the time to look."

"Everyone knew?" Donoma whispered again, her eyes never leaving Koko's.

"Everyone except for you and me apparently," Koko replied wryly.  "But it does not matter, Ka’eskone.  We know now and that is all that is important."

"Look at it this way, Ka’eskone," Honaw said with a smile.  "You will not surprise anyone when they hear the news of your joining.  You just have to accept the fact that Nahko'e is going to have the biggest party the People have ever seen.  It might even rival the sun festival."

Donoma's eyes grew wide in startlement and she looked at Koko with alarm.  "Perhaps we should forget going back to the People until we are gray and stooped with age.  I am not sure I am up to that much celebration."

Honaw and Keezheekoni joined Koko's laughter and she wrapped Donoma up in a tight hug when she reluctantly smiled.  "Not to worry, Donoma.  If Nahko'e starts the celebration when Keez and I arrive, I imagine it will be winding down a bit by the time you and Koko return."

"I can only hope."  This time they all dissolved into sniggers.

************

Stephen Murphy had decided to take advantage of the fact that Spencer was handling the law duties in the small town near the fort for another day or so.  If Reb was not at her home, then it was entirely possible that she was still on the trail looking for Hobbs and his gang or any other number of outlaws whose wanted posters still hung on the walls of his office.  He would certainly ask for a scouting party if he returned without finding her, but maybe he could at least give them an idea of where to start looking.

What bothered him was her rather complete disappearance without a word.  Stone was nothing if not a professional and it worried him more than he cared to admit that she had not returned within a reasonable amount of time.  He could almost set his pocket watch by her even when she was out chasing criminals.  She went; she conquered; she came back for her spoils.  And since she had not returned to claim her bounty Murphy decided to do a little investigating on his own.

He headed away from the cottonwood, confident that she had headed west into the Plains.  Most outlaws went that way as there was very little to stop them once they were beyond the fort and town.  He rode that way until the sun touched the horizon, not seeing any sign of either Hobbs' gang or Reb Stone.  He wondered if there was any sense in what he was doing.  Surely Stone had proven her skill – why had he chosen this moment to doubt her ability to take care of herself? 

Murphy shook his head.  The truth was it was less doubt than concern.  More times than he could count Reb had watched his back, and he wanted her to know he would do the same for her.  The difference was he had no idea where to start.

He set up a temporary campsite, picketing his horse nearby and starting a small fire to ward off the chill in the air.  Tomorrow he would head back into town and see if maybe she had returned on her own.  With the accusations that were starting to fly around the army, he needed to find her soon if only to dispel the rumors that were being spread against her.

The Marshal turned his thoughts back to what the colonel had said.  Why would the army want to blame a bounty hunter for the accidental deaths of two of its own?  It didn't make any sense; Reb Stone had done the army a number of favors by the outlaws she had removed from their sphere. 

Murphy could understand resentment within the ranks over the fact that she was a woman.  It had galled him too at first to know that she could operate so successfully outside the norm – not only as a woman, but also as one who basically functioned beyond the laws he was sworn to uphold.  But that did not excuse the unreasonable need to hold Stone responsible for something that was not in line with her character.  If nothing else, it drew attention to those who stood accusing.

What were they trying to hide?

************

Donoma and Koko walked Honaw and Keezheekoni back up the small incline to their horses.  They had shared conversation and lunch while waiting for Keez's leathers to dry and once they had, the warriors were ready to leave.

"You do not need to rush off, hestatanemo.  You are welcome to share our campsite for another day."

"I do not think so, Ka’eskone.  You are a newly joined couple and it is for the best that the two of you have a little time alone."  He didn't say anything more, but the twinkle in his eyes caused Donoma to blush.

"Besides," Keezheekoni added as he mounted his horse.  "Explaining the chafing to Calyle is going to be bad enough.  I promised her I would not get hurt while I was out here with Honaw."

"Then the two of you stay safe going back to the People.  There is someone or something out here targeting something though whether it is us or the horses or the land or something else all together, I cannot say for certain.  Not very informative or helpful I am aware, but it is all we know at the moment.  If I find out anything, I will ensure that someone lets the tribe know."

Honaw knelt and drew in the fire pit ashes.  "This is the normal route we take following the herd to the summer encampment."  He drew a second line in the dirt.  "This is the path Takoda currently has us on.  It will still lead to the summer camp, but it will take us longer to arrive and will keep us away from the buffalo for a majority of the journey."

Koko nodded her head.  "Look for Hassun - the scout you met on your visit into town.  He is the one I will send to the People with news."  Honaw's eyes grew round in disbelief and Koko smirked.  "I knew as soon as I returned to town, Honaw.  It was exceedingly brave of you to come looking for me, hestatanemo, but you would not have found me regardless of your bravery or your intentions.  I was not ready to talk to anyone... not even you."

"Were you there hiding from me?"

"No, Honaw... I really was gone.  But I would have stayed away as long as you remained in the town.  I was made aware of your presence before I returned."

He nodded.  "I will look for Hassun if we do not see you first."  He stepped forward and took Donoma into his arms.  "Be safe, Ka’eskone... and be happy."  She leaned forward and kissed his cheek, then he mounted his horse.  "Watch over one another and return to us soon."

The two warriors saluted Koko and she bowed her acceptance of the gesture.  Then they turned their horses back in the direction they had come.  She and Donoma watched them out of sight; then they headed back down into the dell.

"Shall we head out tomorrow?"

"We can leave when you are ready, Nutta.  You lead and I will follow."

"I would prefer that you walk by my side, Ka’eskone."

For answer, Donoma clasped Koko's hand and together they walked side by side into their home.


Chapter XXVI

It took them a while to be ready to leave the following morning.  They had both homes to pack up; Koko figured they would store one at her home and the other would return to the People when they turned their footsteps in that direction.  But for now, they were responsible for both of them and it took a while to disassemble them and load them onto Dapples back.  The remainder of their supplies was loaded onto Black’s back, and soon they were walking side by side towards Koko’s home in the white man’s world.

“How long will it take, Warrior?  How long before we arrive at your home?”

“Well, I have never walked the distance before, Ka’eskone, but I believe it will take four of five days if we move at a steady pace.  And from there it is half a day’s ride by horseback into town if and when you feel comfortable enough to venture there.”

Donoma clasped the hand that swung free closest to her own.  “I am looking forward to seeing your home, Koko Kanti.  I am not as certain about the town, but I am willing to give it a try as long as you are standing right beside me.”

“It is the only place I want to be, Ka’eskone.”  Silence ruled for a long time after that.

The next three days were spent traveling slowly across the Plains, sharing conversation and silences in equally comfortable measure.  Bit by bit they were relearning each other and every day they found reasons to fall a little more in love with each other.

They were making good time but on the morning of the fourth day, Koko frowned and stopped walking, wondering if her eyes were deceiving her.  There was no reason for Stephen Murphy to be out this far, but it certainly looked like his mare picketed in the grass.  Donoma slipped her hand into Koko's and Koko smiled down at her.

"What is it, Warrior?"

"I am not certain, Ka’eskone.  The horse ahead is familiar.  It appears to be the mare that belongs to the town Marshal, but there is no reason for him to be out this far unless he is chasing an outlaw or looking for someone."

"Well, let us go and find out, Koko.  We will not learn anything by standing here."

Koko wrapped an arm around Donoma's shoulders and laughed out loud.  "You are a very wise woman, Donoma Chepi.  It should not take long and then we can head to the homestead.  We are only a half day's ride away so we should be there by dusk if we continue walking at the pace we have been."

"I told you, Warrior... as long as we are together it does not matter where we are.  Now let us go determine if this is your law friend.  I would like to meet him."

************

Stephen Murphy blinked his eyes open slowly, noting the sun was completely above the horizon although it was still early.  He hadn't expected to sleep so deeply or so long out in the rough.  He knew better.  He sighed and scrubbed his hands over his face, scratching his neck and stretching.  He stirred up the coals of his fire and threw in a couple chips to catch.  Then his horse whinnied and he looked up to find two figures leading two horses heading his way.  Murphy squinted, trying to make out the identity of the humans.

If he didn't know any better, he'd have sworn the one leading the big black was Reb Stone except he knew Stone traveled alone and she never walked when she could ride Black.  Yet the longer he stared, the more sure he became until they were actually close enough for him to know.  Murphy stood to his feet and watched them approach, wondering who the blonde woman was of whom Stone was obviously so possessive.  Then they stopped in front of him and he extended his hand to Koko.

"Damn good to see you, Stone!" Then he blushed and looked at Donoma as he removed his hat.  "Beg pardon, ma'am.  I didn't mean to offend.  It's just I have been hunting for Reb here and I'm really glad she found me.  Name's Murphy... Marshal Stephen Murphy."

Koko's eyebrow rose.  She'd never know the lawman to be so effusive in his speech.  "Murph, this is my Nutta, my mate... Donoma Chepi."

"Wha... who... your wife?  Can you do that?  I mean...." motioning between them.  "You're both women."  A beat.  "No offense meant, ma'am," to Donoma when he saw the fire burning in her eyes.  "That's just not the way things are done around here."

"Happy not to be from here then," Donoma answered in angry, stilted English.  Thanks to Rachel's tutoring, she understood everything that was being said; with a little practice she would be speaking as fluently as she read and understood.  But for now she was still new enough for it to sound unnatural though there was no mistaking the anger in her voice or expression.

"I'm sorry, ma'am.  If Reb has chosen you to be her mate, then you must be pretty special."  He held out his hand to her and Donoma looked at it and then turned to Koko before accepting it, finding her hand swallowed by his much larger one.  "It's very nice to meet you, Mrs. Stone.  Just be careful; there's a lot that won't be so accepting."

"Not need acceptance... have Koko Kanti," Donoma replied, tucking herself into Koko's embrace.  Koko held her tightly for a long moment, then kissed the top of her head.

"So why were you looking for me, Stephen?"

Koko's question brought his attention back from the contemplation he had fallen into regarding the relationship and obvious love and commitment between the two women in front of him.  He gestured them to a spot around the fire.  He took a seat opposite them and cleared his throat.

"I'm sorry I can't offer you a bit of hospitality.  This was only an overnight trip and I left the coffeepot at the jail."  He sighed and turned to Koko.  "Reb, the army is grumbling.  Not all of them, but the Washburn brothers are throwing around some accusations.  Actually Reuben Washburn is the one running off at the mouth.  Swears it's your fault his brother Leroy is dead."

Koko sat up a little straighter though she did not release her hold on Donoma, and focused her intensity on Murphy.  "Excuse me?  Whaddya mean, Leroy is dead??  And why am I being blamed?  I haven't been anywhere near the fort or the soldiers there in almost a month."

"Where were you, Reb?"

Koko glared at Murphy for a long moment.  "Do you think I killed Leroy, Stephen?"

"No," he replied without hesitation.  "I think they are trying to hide some wrongdoing on their part though I don't know for sure what it is yet.  I've got some ideas; I just need to do some investigating.  I was asking because I was concerned.  I was coming out here looking for ya when I heard about the accusations."

"Then why was it only an overnight trip?"

"'Cause after I heard what Spence had to say, I figured I better see what the hell was going on.  I went out to your place to see if you were there, hoping I could kill two birds with one stone as it were.  I decided to come out here a piece thinking maybe I could pick up your trail."

Koko snickered.  "Did you find anything?"

Murphy almost growled and he did glare.  "You know I didn't, but I had to try.  Damn good thing I did too.  I woulda missed ya if I'd headed back to town and then... well, I’m pretty sure things woulda gotten pretty ugly before I could let ya know what was going on."

"So what is going on, Murph?  I still don't understand."

So the Marshal told her everything the colonel had shared with her, wondering at the narrowing of the blue eyes.  When he was done with his recitation, he waited for her reaction.  It wasn't long in coming but it was not what he expected.  She looked at Donoma and spoke to her in their native tongue.

"I think I know now what happened to you, Ka’eskone."  Then she looked at Murphy, fire burning in her eyes though her expression remained stoic.  "This is personal, Stephen.  I'll take care of this."

"I can't let ya do that, Reb.  This is a matter for the law and the army.  Your involvement will only complicate things."

"Then consider them complicated, Murph, because those sons of bitches nearly killed Donoma!"

"Wait... what?  How do you know?  Are you sure?"

And finally Koko answered his original question.  Telling him where she had been for the past month starting with her leaving town to follow Hobbs and ending with their coming upon him earlier.  Donoma sat quietly listening to the telling, understanding for the first time just what Koko had gone through before she had arrived at the winter encampment.

"Okay now wait just a dadburn minute," Murphy said, holding up his hands for quiet.  "You mean to tell me that you think Washburn shot your wife?  Why?  How could he possibly know she was your wife?"

Donoma shook her head slowly, garnering the attention of both Koko and Murphy.  Koko caught her eyes and gently cupped her chin.  "What is it, Ka’eskone?"

"Not know... wanted Black."

"Donoma?"

"Mrs. Stone?"

Donoma held Koko's eyes for another minute before clasping her hand and turning to look at Murphy.  "Fell when shot but heard."

"Heard what, Beloved?"

Donoma closed her eyes and concentrated.  "'Take horses.  Waited long time to own stallion.'  Black moved away... was loud screaming from men."  She turned back to Koko.  "I do not remember anything else, warrior mine.  Everything went dark for me then."

Murphy looked at Koko for the translation, nodding when she repeated Donoma's words in English.  "Well, that certainly puts a different spin on things."  He looked at Donoma.  "Do you remember anything else?"

"No – memory not clear of that day."

"Murph, this is the first significant thing she's remembered since she woke up.  She may continue to recall bits of things or she may not.  Don't pressure her."

"That wasn't my intention, Reb.  But the more she remembers the stronger a case I can present to Spence.  You know he's gonna want more than that especially from someone he don't even know.  I'm gonna have to do some investigating; see what I can find out and what I can prove."

"I told you I'm gonna take care of it, Murph."

"Reb, I can't let ya do that... not with all the accusations that are flying around the fort.  Most everybody knows it's nothin' but a lot of hot air by some disgruntled soldiers who resent the hell outta you.  But that also means we need to do things by the book.  We can't just make wild accusations against them without proof."  He sighed when Koko glared at him.  "Reb, you have more to be concerned with now than just revenge.  You have responsibilities."

"I won't be left out of the loop on this one, Murph.  I know I have Donoma to take care of, but you can't just ask me to step aside while someone besmirches my name and reputation."

"I know, Reb.  I wouldn't ask you to."

"Thanks, Stephen.  I'll stay out of your way at least for now."  She paused and looked at Donoma.  "Actually that won't be hard for a while.  Donoma and I will be staying at my... our home here until she's ready to venture into town.  So someone, preferably you, will need to come out to the homestead if there is any news."

Murphy arched an eyebrow.  "That easy?"

Koko met his gaze then turned to Donoma and held her eyes.  "That easy.  As long as you're willing to keep me in the loop, I'm happy to stay out of it for now."

"Understood, Reb.  Mrs. Stone?" he asked, extending his hand and clasping hers gently when Donoma turned her attention to him.  "I just wanted to offer you my congratulations.  I'll look forward to greeting you again when you're ready to come into town."

The Marshal stood from his place by the fire and Koko rose as well.  She held her hand out and he accepted it, gripping it firmly.  "Take care, Reb.  I'll be out again soon."

"We'll look forward to it, Murph.  We'll even treat you to some of Donoma's cooking.  You'll love it."

"Judging from the pounds she has managed to make stick to your lanky frame, I'd have to agree with you," Murphy said with a chortle.  "I'll look forward to it."

He scattered the fire even as Donoma and Koko headed back towards their horses.  With a wave they headed towards the homestead and a moment later, he was taking the most direct path back towards the town.  He had work to do.

************

"He was nice," Donoma said when they were some distance from Murphy's campsite.  "I am glad to have met him."

"Even with the rocky start, Ka’eskone?  I think he expected his hair to catch on fire your glare was so fierce."

"Even with.  He was kind after he realized the truth of who we are.  But why did he call me Mrs. Stone?  My name is Donoma Chepi."

Koko sighed.  She'd wondered if she would be able to escape this particular question.  "Yes it is, Ka’eskone.  But remember in the white man's world I am known as Reb Stone.  I took my mother's family name to help me fit in here.  And in the white man's world a man's wife is referred to by his last name with a Mrs. in front of it to show that she belongs to him."

"Although I most certainly belong to you, Warrior, you are in no way a man nor could you ever be mistaken for one.  I am not sure I understand why he would do that."

"From Stephen it is a sign of respect.  In the white man's world, men, especially unmarried ones, refer to a married... joined woman by the title of Mrs. and to an unmarried one by Miss.  I do not understand all the whys and reasons they do so, but it seems to be some sort of rule or code that they follow.  I can tell them to call you by Donoma, Ka’eskone."

Donoma stayed silent for a while pondering that and Koko let her be.  She more than most understood the changes Donoma was in for if and when she chose to enter the white man's world; there was no need to rush into a decision.  Finally....  "What does that make you, Koko?"  At Koko Kanti's puzzled look, Donoma smoothed the furrows from her forehead and smiled, then continued speaking.  "If by being mated with you I am now Mrs. Stone, what does that make you?  Are you Mrs. Stone as well?  I have no family name to offer you."

Koko literally stopped in her tracks, paused in thought.  After a moment she shrugged and looked into Donoma's earnest face.  "I honestly do not know, Ka’eskone.  I have never been in this situation before.  Everyone in town and the fort already know me as Reb Stone and most of them call me by Stone.  They have since I became a bounty hunter.  To them I am an anomaly.  That is... I am different from anything that exists in their world.  They know nothing of Koko Kanti or my heritage.  I figured there was no need to introduce more confusion than I had already brought."

"So how will they look at me?"

"They will see many things, Donoma.  Some will see a beautiful young woman.  Others will see a stranger or someone not worth their time and attention because of where you come from.  Some will look at you as a curiosity because you are different and others will find a friend.  That is how it was for me."

"And us, Koko Kanti?  If what your Marshal friend said is true, they will not understand us."

"They do not have to understand, Ka’eskone.  We do not owe them anything."

"But if we decide to stay here...."

"Donoma, if we decide to stay here, we will find some friends among those here.  I did.  But we do not need to worry about that right now; for now it will just be you and me."

Donoma smiled, a grin so huge that Koko couldn't help but return the expression.  "I for one am very happy about that particular circumstance."

"You do not miss your family then?"

"I miss them, yes.  They will always be my family.  But you are my home, Warrior.  And as long as I have you I will always have my family around me.  That is enough for me."

Koko pulled them to a stop and answered Donoma's words with a passionate embrace.  When they were both breathless she took Donoma's hand and together they continued on the path towards their homestead.


Chapter XXVII

Stephen Murphy rode into town slowly, nothing in his demeanor giving away the turmoil going through his mind.  He rode around to the back of the jail, dismounting and walking the animal into the small enclosure that sheltered her from the sun and bad weather.  He hopped off and removed the saddle, currycombing the sweat and dirt from her coat, then setting her up with feed and water.  Only after he was done did he head into his office.

He washed his face, trying to remove the grit from his eyes.  A knock on the door made him turn around in surprise – most folks didn't knock before they came into his office; it was the jail after all.  Before he could call out, the door opened and Col. John Spencer crossed the threshold.

"Am I interrupting?"

Murphy wiped the water from his face and motioned Spencer in.  John closed the door behind him and took a seat in front of the desk, waiting for Stephen to start the fire in the tiny stove and put on the coffee.  When he was done, he dropped into the chair behind his desk.

"Goddamn but I'm tired."

"Rough ride?"

"Rough night's sleep.  I've gotten soft staying here; used to a bed and my coffeepot." 

Spencer laughed.  "I know the feeling, my friend.  I'm pretty sure I'm not going to be happy when it comes my time to head back out into the field."

Murphy's eyebrow went into his still wet hairline.  "You expecting that to happen soon?"  He leaned back in his chair and crossed his arms over his chest.

Spencer shook his head.  "Not really – most officers of my rank or higher have wives and families who aren't that keen to move out into the wilderness.  I'd be more likely to retire here, especially if I can ever coax Miss Molly into marrying me."

Murphy laughed.  "She's still telling you no?  You must not be asking right, Spence, 'cause anyone with half an eye can see she's gone on you."

"I think the thought of being an Army wife scares her."

"Well, maybe she can talk to Stone's new bride.  That should make being an Army wife look like a piece of cake."

"Come again, please?  Stone can't have a bride; she's a woman."

The front legs of the Marshal's chair hit the floor and he folded his hands on the desk.  "Then you can be the one to explain it to them.  I'm not gonna argue with either of them about it."

"I take it this means you found her... them?"

"Yep, although actually they found me."  Murphy got up and walked to the stove, pouring himself a cup of coffee and then a second for Spencer at the other man's affirmative.  "They were coming in from the prairie, Spence.  Stone didn't even know Washburn was dead though I do have some interesting information about that."

"Oh?" accepting the cup Stephen offered him.  "Such as?"

"Whose idea was it for them to go looking for horses?  I know you said you sent them, but whose idea was it originally?"

The colonel leaned back in his chair and sipped his coffee.  "It came up in a staff meeting," he reflected.  "I think it was Leroy now that you mention it, but I didn't have any objection.  Like I told you before, we were going to use them for the cavalry."

"Well it appears that Leroy Washburn might've had other motives."

"What makes you say that, Murph?  And better yet, can you prove it?"

And Murphy told him exactly what had transpired from the time he had left, including his entire conversation with Koko and Donoma.  When he finished, he sat back and looked at Spencer, watching the emotions flit across his expressive face as the thoughts turned the cogs of his mind.

"And you believe them, Murph?  You believe both of them?"

Murphy nodded.  "Yeah, Spence... I do.  You didn't see them... hear them.  They weren't lying, John.  Whatever happened out there to Leroy Washburn, it had nothing to do with Reb Stone."

"So we have a case of 'he said, she said'," Spencer said thoughtfully, pinching his lips between his fingers.  "Frankly I'd be inclined to believe Stone's word even without the corroboration of this so-called wife.  Washburn isn't the kind of officer I prefer to have in my unit, but I wasn't given my pick when I got this assignment.  And without proof...."

"Well without proof, you can't charge Stone with anything anymore than you can Washburn."

"No, but it also means there's no real way to put the rumors down either.  It might stir up bad feelings among those who already have issues with Stone... especially if she comes riding into town with some Indian woman claiming to be married to her."

Murphy shook his head.  The colonel's attitude was going to cause problems if he didn't keep his thoughts to himself.  "Spence, let me give you a piece of advice.  Don't mock their connection to one another whatever they choose to call it."

Spencer snorted.  "C'mon Murph... you can't tell me you agree with that shit."

Murphy shook his head.  "Not my call to make, Spence.  But you trust me when I tell you that whatever there is between them, it's real.  I wouldn't malign it or discount it in front of the two of them.  You think Stone could kick your ass?  You haven't seen what Donoma Chepi's reaction would be.  She liked to have burned the hair offa my head with the look she gave me."

Spencer regarded the Marshal for a long moment.  Then he rose from his seat and went to the door.  "I'll give it some serious thought, Murph.  And in the meantime I'll try to see if I can get any more information about the two deaths from the men who returned with their bodies.  But I think it's going to end up being some sort of wild goose chase."

"Probably.  I'll do what I can on this end and I'll keep in touch with Stone.  Hopefully we can get to the bottom of this before she and her mate venture into town."

"With any luck it'll be a while before they do.  I'm not sure what sort of reception they'll get." 

And with that Spencer walked out the door of the jail and headed back to the fort.

************

"You are sure about this, Honaw?"

"We witnessed it with our own eyes, Nahko'e.  We saw the courtship dance, the mating kiss and their move into Donoma Chepi's home together.  And if that does not qualify as enough, we spoke to them of their commitment to one another.  Finally Donoma has accepted the truth of them in her heart and mind.  They are joined."

Litonya danced for joy for a very long moment, drawing attention to herself and bringing many of the tribe closer to learn her news.  Many suspected since they were all aware of where and why Honaw and Keeheekoni had traveled away from the tribe alone.  However, they had all waited a long time to hear this particular bit of gossip and no one wanted to spoil Litonya's moment.

After a long moment, Litonya raised her hand and called the People to her fire.  Swiftly they gathered closer, anxious to hear what she had to say.

"My friends," she greeted them.  "It gives me much joy in my heart and happiness in my feet to share the news that my daughter Donoma Chepi has mated with her chosen warrior Koko Kanti."  A loud whoop went up from many of the voices surrounding her though there were a few dissenters.

"How can we know this, Litonya?  Who bears witness to this union?"

"I do," Honaw spoke up firmly doing his best not to growl.

"As do I," Keezheekoni replied.  "Even though it is not at all necessary that there be witnesses for a joining among us to be recognized, Honaw and I saw the entire mating ritual.  And if that was not enough," glaring around at the few who dared questioned not only Koko and Donoma, but also his and Honaw's honor, "we spoke to them about it.  They are mated."

"So it is written," Odahingum stated without hesitation.

"So shall it be," Takoda answered.

"We must celebrate," Litonya exclaimed when the men finished their posturing.  "We must celebrate and offer our thanks to the Great Spirit."

Takoda laughed though he couldn't keep the grin from forming on his face.  "You are simply looking for a reason to have a good party," he accused and Litonya didn't deny his words.  "But I think you are right, Nutta.  We should commemorate this event.  We have lived under a cloud for so long because of the unresolved tension between Donoma and Koko.  It will be good to celebrate a return to the peace we knew before the rift."  He turned to Honaw.  "When do you expect them to return?"

"I do not, Neho'e... at least not for a while.  Koko Kanti has unfinished business in the white man's world, and she could not say how long it might take her to complete it.  She did say they would return at some point for your blessing and the blessing of the elders, but that may not be for some time."

"I think we can celebrate without them," Litonya declared, "and then we will celebrate again when they return to us."  Odahingum laughed with enthusiasm.

"I agree.  We can rejoice at their good fortune and ours now and then celebrate their joining together with them later."  He turned to Keezheekoni.  "Do they know how to find us?  Do they know we have left the path of our buffalo brothers?"

"They are aware, Neho'e," Keez said with a respectful nod.  "We ensured they knew what was going on with the People before we took our leave of them."

"Then it is settled," the chieftain announced.  "We will have a party now and a celebration later."

At this proclamation another cry arose even from those who still questioned the validity of the joining.  A party was a party and any excuse for one was reason enough... especially after the dark cloud they had traveled under lately.  It would be good to enjoy themselves again.

************

"It is very big, Warrior," Donoma said as they approached the tiny cabin she called home in her life as Reb Stone.  "What is it made of?"

"Mud," Koko replied succinctly.  "And river rocks."

"It is very pretty," Donoma commented after a moment.  "I like it."

Koko looked down at her indulgently.  "Would you like to see the inside?"  Donoma nodded and Koko took Dapples' reins from her hand and looped them loosely with Black's around the hitching post.  She tugged gently and led Donoma onto the small covered porch, dropping her hand to open the door.  Then Koko pulled Donoma into her arms.

"If we were a traditional couple in this world, one of us would carry the other across the threshold to mark the beginning of our new life together in our new home.  However, although I appreciate the sentiment, we are not a traditional couple in any sense of the word as far as the white man is concerned and I have no desire to anger my healer by straining myself."

"You are a very wise woman," Donoma started before narrowing her eyes in Koko's direction.  "Wait a minute, Koko Kanti – are you saying I am too heavy for a strong warrior?  Or you are too weak for a lightweight such as myself?"

Without warning Koko scooped Donoma into her arms, hiding the wince the effort cost her as it pulled at still healing flesh.  Not to be deterred, however, she captured Donoma's lips in a passionate embrace, kissing her ardently as she stepped across the threshold and into the cabin.

The lip lock went on heatedly for some minutes before they were forced to pull away slightly to accommodate their lack of air.  Donoma kept her eyes closed and leaned her forehead into Koko's, smiling softly.

"I take back what I said, warrior mine."

"Which part, Ka’eskone?" Koko asked with a chuckling tone.

"You are not weak."

"Am I still wise?"

"Yes, but not as much as I am," Donoma admitted smugly.  "You see, I have you for a mate.  You cannot possibly compete with such wisdom."  Koko pulled her head back to comment and Donoma's eyes opened in surprise, widening more when she looked around.  "Oh... my...." she breathed.  "When did we move inside?  You really...?  And here I thought Mother Earth was simply stretching her legs when I felt movement.  You um... you can put me down now."

"I happen to like where you are," Koko confessed though she loosened her hold on Donoma and let her slide down til her feet touched the floor once more.  "However, we will come back to the remainder of our discussion later.  First I need to unload the horses and get them settled and you need to acquaint yourself with our home."

"I will help you unload things, Warrior.  Then we can come back inside and you can help me get acquainted with our home.  Despite your impressive display of strength, I have no desire for you to overexert yourself by caring for everything on your own.  We are mates, Koko Kanti; let me help you."

Koko smiled.  Here was the child she remembered whose memory she'd cherished, grown up.  She nodded her head and took Donoma's hand, allowing her mind to travel back to another place and time as they walked back out the door together... side by side.

************

Even at the age of seven Donoma had been small – not only short but petite... dainty.  It was one reason Takoda was so protective of her; she simply wasn't as big as the other children her age.  She wasn't as big as some who were younger than she was.  But she had a fierce determination to do anything and everything Koko did even when she really shouldn't.

So it wasn't all that surprising to Koko that Donoma insisted she was old enough to begin training as a warrior.  Litonya was horrified – Koko Kanti was an anomaly; an accepted anomaly, but an anomaly nonetheless.  Most women of the People never fought; never even held a weapon; never learned to defend themselves.  She couldn't imagine someone like Donoma trying to learn.  Not only because of her gender and her size, but also because of her gift – surely she knew better.

Takoda, on the other hand, knew Donoma would not be convinced that she was unable to do anything her beloved best friend could.  This was a lesson that needed to be learned by hard experience.  So he gave his consent for her to begin her training but only allowing Koko to be her teacher.  He knew not only would she take it seriously and try to teach Donoma, but she would also be better equipped to let Donoma down gently when she was unable to keep up.  He hadn't figured on Koko's desire to see Donoma happy or Donoma's resolution to make Koko proud of her.

The first day had been grueling for them both.  Koko had shown Donoma what a real warrior went through on a daily basis during their training period.  Several times Donoma wanted to cry in frustration or pain, but she bit her lips and continued to try and follow the instructions that Koko gave her.  When the day was over Koko invited Donoma to her fire.  They sat down together side by side; Koko folded her hands together and looked seriously at Donoma.

"Ka’eskone, why are you doing this?  Why are you so determined to become a warrior?  That is not your path, Donoma... you know this."

"We are best friends, Koko.  I want to be able to help you... to protect you the way you protect me, and I cannot do that if I am not a warrior.  It is my place to help you."

Koko took both of Donoma's small hands in hers.  "Donoma Chepi," she said tenderly.  "You have done more for me as a seer than I have done for you or the tribe as a warrior.  Do not discount your strengths, my friend.  You are a formidable opponent in your own way.  However," she continued before Donoma could protest, "I am willing to teach you to defend yourself if you would like to learn.  It is not the same as being a warrior, but it will give me a measure of comfort."

"How so?"

Koko's eyes widened.  She should have known better than to confess so much so easily.  "It will make you strong without forcing you to become a warrior."

"I would like that.  I would like to be strong like you."

Koko smiled, and so began Donoma's training in self-defense.

************

Donoma caught the smile and faraway expression on Koko's face and squeezed the hand she held to get Koko's attention.  Koko came back to the present with a start and allowed Donoma to pull them to a stop, her eyebrow arched in question.

"What are you smiling at?"  This got Donoma a full-out Koko Kanti grin.

"Your words earlier reminded me of a certain precocious seven-year-old who was determined to help me by becoming a warrior."

Donoma smiled wryly.  "Do you know how close I was to quitting after that first day?  I hurt so badly.  I was so happy when you offered to teach me differently."  She paused in thought.  "Would you have taught me to be a warrior if I had insisted?"

"For as long as you would have been willing to train, Ka’eskone.  But I knew then even as you did that being a warrior was never a part of your destiny."

"No, but I remember how proud I was to learn the defensive techniques you taught me."

"I remember," Koko answered fondly and they both let their memories journey back to that time and place.


Chapter XXVIII

It was early, before the sun peeked over the horizon, when Koko called softly for Donoma.  Takoda blinked sleepily in the darkness, wondering why he had thought that this was such a good idea.  Surely Koko could have waited until a more decent hour to begin Donoma's training.  Then he remembered that she had not been excused from her regular chores and duties and figured she was trying to fit it in without disrupting her normal routine.

Donoma stumbled around quietly, trying to slip into her moccasins without disturbing the rest of her family.  She finally made it outside and Honaw sat halfway up and looked at Takoda through partially opened eyelids.  "Why is Donoma Chepi wandering outside in the dark with Koko Kanti?  It isn't even close to daylight yet."

"Koko Kanti is going to teach your sister to be a warrior."

That made Honaw sit all the way up and open his eyes to look at Takoda fully.  "Excuse me?  Neho'e, I know I misunderstood you.  Donoma is a seven-year-old girl – a seven-year=old girl gifted with sight by the Great Spirit.  She has no business training to become a warrior."

Takoda sat up and then rose fully, motioning to Honaw to follow him outside.  He stirred up the banked fire and added a few chips, waiting until the blaze caught.  With a flick of his wrist he pulled his blanket more fully around him and took a seat; Honaw did the same.

"She wants to learn, Honaw.  She must learn that not all are cut out to become warriors.  And Donoma being who she is, she will not learn unless she tries for herself."

Honaw's brows rose, but he did not smile.  "You expect Koko Kanti to keep her from becoming such?  Neho'e, I cannot believe Koko would be so unfair to her advisor."

Takoda shook his head.  "I expect Koko Kanti to be honest with Donoma.  If she is honest... if she is fair... Donoma will soon realize that she is not meant to be a warrior.  Her gifts lie elsewhere.  Koko knows this.  She will do what is best for Donoma."

"You trust her."  Takoda nodded.  "But you do not trust us... why?"

"It is not a matter of trust, Honaw.  It is a matter of responsibility."  Takoda sighed when Honaw frowned.  "Donoma is not like the rest of us – not simply because she was not born of our blood or because she has such a strong gift of sight, but because there is something different about her soul.  It is old, Honaw; it has seen many things and borne many burdens.  The rest of the People sense this even if they cannot understand what sets her apart from them.  It is why the other children hesitate to include her and why the adults shy away.  It has made her sensitive and the fact that she is small for her age only compounds that."

"That still does not explain why you allow Koko to teach her things we are not allowed to.  I know she is a better warrior, Neho'e, but Donoma is ours.  Shouldn't the responsibility for instructing her be ours as well?"

"Not in this case, Honaw.  When Donoma found Koko Kanti and Rae'l, it was because one old soul called out to another.  They took responsibility for one another from the beginning.  Donoma would never accept training from you or any of her other hestatanemos; as much as she loves each of you, the bond she shares with Koko Kanti is what compels her to this path.  She will soon come to understand it is not a wise choice for her."

"You believe so strongly, Neho'e... have you seen?"

Takoda shook his head.  "Only what I can see to be truth between them with my own eyes.  The Great Spirit has shown me nothing else regarding them.  However, if it would make you feel better to observe them, I will grant you permission to do so...."  He held up his hand to keep Honaw from answering before he could finish.  "With the understanding that you are not allowed to interfere.  You have to trust that Koko Kanti will do what is best for Donoma."

Honaw nodded gravely.  Despite his misgivings about allowing Donoma the opportunity to train as a warrior, he trusted Koko Kanti completely.  It was just hard to accept such a dramatic change in Takoda's attitude concerning Donoma's safety that he was having a difficult time wrapping his mind around the changes.

"I will not interfere, Neho'e.  I will simply watch and report to you what I learn."

"No Honaw... there is no reason to report anything to me.  I told you – I trust Koko to do what is best for Donoma just as I would.  Just as I would trust you and your hestatanemos had the obligation and responsibility fallen to you.  Now go... the sun will be up soon and Koko will have started Donoma's training without you."

Honaw nodded and rose from his place then headed out towards the prairie where he suspected Koko would start Donoma's training.  Takoda watched him go, shaking his head.  He couldn't blame Honaw for his questions; he only hoped Koko would be as understanding.

Honaw found Koko and Donoma about where he had expected.  He knew if Koko was going to train Donoma even if it was only to show her that being a warrior was not her path, she would take it seriously enough to train her as she would any other warrior candidate.  And since the People moved very slowly with the grazing buffalo, the spot didn't change that often or that fast.

So he took a seat close enough to watch but too far away to be a distraction; then he waited... curious as to how Koko would accomplish what Takoda expected of her.  He believed Koko had Donoma's best interests at heart, but sometimes it was a difficult line to walk.  Koko was stretching to adulthood while Donoma remained a child.

Koko was adjusting the straps on the small knapsack, making sure it fit correctly.  Then she rose and looked at Donoma, crooking an eyebrow at her in question and receiving an affirmative nod.  She smiled briefly, and they took off at a gentle lope with Honaw following at a safe distance behind them.

Koko led Donoma out onto the plain where the buffalo were milling in the pre-dawn darkness.  Honaw frowned.  Warriors didn't gather chips; it wasn't part of their responsibility to the tribe.  Then he cocked his ears and forced himself to focus until he could just make out Koko's words.

"It is the job of the Nahko'es and the Nahtonas to collect chips for the fire.  But I am going to teach you as my Neho'e taught me – and he taught me that it is the responsibility of the warrior to protect and defend.  And if in doing so we are able to ease the burden of those who feed and clothe us by their efforts on our behalf, then it will be to our credit when our time comes to face the Great Spirit for our reward."  Donoma's eyes were wide and round as she listened to Koko speak of the warrior's ways, knowing by the earnestness in both eyes and voice that Koko spoke the truth to her.  She nodded and waited for the knowledge Honiahaka had imparted to his daughter that she was willing to share.

"So to that end, this morning we are going to fill your pack with chips.  It will serve as your weight as you run and train today.  Then tonight we will give them to the women of the tribe to use for their fires.  We will do this every day until your warrior training is complete.  It will help you build strength and endurance and it will also keep you a contributing member of our society.  My Neho'e felt very strongly about that."

Donoma's nose crinkled adorably in distaste and Koko had to bite her lips to keep from smiling.  Picking up chips was her least favorite chore and she had secretly hoped that warrior training would get her out of that particular job.  However, Koko would not lead her astray; she had promised to teach her and Donoma knew Koko would teach as she had been taught until such time as Donoma was a warrior in good standing or she decided to quit the training.  So Donoma sighed deeply and began slowly picking up chips until she realized that Koko expected her to run.  Then the race was on.

She filled the pack up quickly, then they were headed out across the plain at a run.  Koko deliberately went slower than normal to allow Donoma to keep up, but fast enough that she had to push herself to do so.  They traveled in a wide circle, jumping and rolling along the ground at odd intervals.  Donoma wondered what any of it had to do with becoming a warrior, but Koko was so good at it there was obviously a point in learning.  So she bit her lips to keep back the tears that wanted to fall and pressed on, intent on keeping up with her best friend and now teacher.

They ran all morning and Honaw was impressed by Donoma's determination and Koko Kanti's fairness.  Everything she had done so far was exactly as she had done with him and Keez and the rest of the warrior trainees of his age group.  There was no quarter given for the fact that Donoma was much younger or smaller or that she was Koko's best friend as well as her warrior advisor.  Honaw knew that was because Koko knew all too well that those things didn't matter on the battlefield.  Therefore they had no place in training.  Either you learned or you died.

When the sun reached its midday zenith, Koko brought them to a halt and Donoma fell to the ground unmoving.  Koko knelt beside her, speaking so softly Honaw couldn't make out the words, but it was clear from the look on her face and the look on Donoma's that Koko was concerned with Donoma's well-being.  Donoma was equally unwavering in her single-mindedness to continue whatever course Koko had set out for them.  With a nod of acceptance, Koko rose from her place and began giving Donoma instructions on her next task... in this case, that of building a fire for the two of them to share.

"Eventually you will learn to hunt and trap and fish as all warriors must to provide for their needs and the needs of their family, but today we will share the meal that my Nahko'e prepared for us."  Koko opened her own pack and removed the food that Rachel had given her that morning – meat pies and trail bars.  Donoma accepted the food, but she merely looked at it for the longest time.  So long that Koko raised an eyebrow at her questioningly and reached to take the sustenance away.  Donoma shook her head and clutched the food to her.

"Donoma?"

"I will eat, Koko Kanti.  I just need to rest for a few moments."

"Rest quickly, Donoma Chepi.  We still have much to do today."

Donoma sighed heavily, but started eating, knowing if the afternoon went like the morning had, she would need every bit of strength to endure to the end.

Koko allowed Donoma to rest a little longer than she normally would, not taking any pleasure from the pain Donoma was suffering but knowing it was the only way for the child to realize that being a warrior was not her path.  But far sooner than Donoma wanted, Koko was putting out the fire she had so painstakingly built and standing to her feet.

Donoma rose slowly, the heavy pack making it difficult with its added weight and distorted balance.  Finally she was standing and she looked at Koko expectantly.  Koko smiled gently.

"One of the first things a warrior needs to learn is how to listen," she instructed softly.  "Not only to my words but also to the world around them."  She blew out a breath.  "However, I do not think that should be our primary concern with your training at the moment... not when Takoda is still training you to focus your gift inwardly.  You must master your gift of sight before we can turn your attention to the world outside your mind."

"But Koko...."  Donoma stopped speaking as soon as Koko held up her hand and looked at her.

"There are still many part of warrior training you can work on in the meantime.  Today we are going to work on balance."  Koko knelt and opened up her pack, removing two smooth, heavy stones from within.  "Hold out your hands, palms up," she commanded softly and Donoma did as she was told, accepting a stone into each hand.  "Now stand perfectly still, wavering neither left nor right, forward or back."

Donoma's eyes widened.  Surely Koko had to be kidding.  This wasn't part of warrior training, was it?  Donoma had expected warrior training to be about fighting and technique and defending herself – not about picking up chips and running and holding heavy rocks.

She felt herself falling to one side and shifted her foot to keep herself from falling.  Immediately Koko was in her face... not in a hateful way but drawing Donoma's attention to herself.  "Donoma Chepi... look at me," waiting for the green eyes to lock on hers.  "You must focus, Donoma.  You have to be able to maintain your balance in all types of situations without thinking about it.  But to ingrain that behavior, you must first train your body to do so.  That is what this exercise is about... focusing your mind so that your body learns to do instinctively."

"This is hard, Koko Kanti," Donoma stated plaintively.

"Yes, Donoma... it is.  It is also necessary.  This is how my Neho'e taught me and how I have trained those I have instructed.  I know no other way to teach you."

Donoma nodded slowly.  "I will try, Koko Kanti.  I will do my best."

"That is all I ask, Donoma.  It will not come easily or quickly.  But it will come."

Honaw watched in silence as Donoma endeavored to remain completely still and balanced.  It was so difficult, he remembered, thinking back to the time when he had been the one training.  Koko had been a little less indulgent with those already in warrior training.  They should have had balance and endurance, but she had found them lacking.  Not only the trainees but also the instructors.  She had embarrassed the lot of them who challenged her as Honaw recalled.

So he sat and observed, noting that even though Koko seemed to be in a state of meditation, she was hyper-aware of Donoma's every movement.  For hours Donoma stood and Koko knelt in front of her.  Only when the sun was stretching towards the horizon did she rise and remove the rocks from Donoma's hands.  Donoma's arms dropped to her sides and her chin went to her chest, but otherwise she didn't move.  Koko placed the stones in her pack and she motioned to Donoma to move.  Unlike the morning, Koko did not force Donoma to move at a run.  Instead they walked briskly back towards the camp, Donoma tripping and stumbling to keep up.

When they reached the camp, Donoma went directly into the home she shared with Takoda and Litonya and Koko continued on to her own.  After several minutes, Honaw followed Donoma's steps while Takoda crossed from Odahingum's tent where he had been sitting with the chieftain.

"May I?" waiting for Koko to invite him to sit before doing so.  She motioned to the seat beside her and Takoda took the place she offered.  Koko looked at him and cocked an eyebrow, waiting expectantly.  "How did it go?"

"Honaw did not speak to you?" knowing he hadn't but interested in hearing why he'd had Honaw keeping an eye on them.

"You know he did not, Koko Kanti.  There was no opportunity for us to do so even if I had wanted to do so.  He went of his own accord, Koko Kanti.  He could not understand why I would allow you to teach Donoma Chepi the way of the warrior when I have been adamant about protecting her."

"He did not trust me?"

"He did not trust *me*.  There is a difference.  I did notice that Donoma looked as though she wanted to cry."

"She did well, Takoda.  I pushed her – not hard, but I did push.  She never cried and she never quit."

"Do you think she will take to it then?"

"No, Takoda; she wants to do this for me... not for her.  I am going to talk to her after the evening meal and give her another option.  I am going to offer to teach her some defensive arts.  Personally I would feel better if she could defend herself and it will help her body to become stronger.  I think she would take to it much better than the hard-core training that the warriors go through.  But I will not force her, Takoda; it will be her choice."

"I understand, Koko.  Thank you for looking out for her."

Koko smiled.  "She is my best friend, Takoda... my warrior advisor.  It is my privilege to do so for as long as she will allow it."

************

"Did you really tell my Neho'e that?" Donoma asked as they slowly unloaded the horses.  The saddlebags were placed on one side and the rest was stacked neatly on the other to be put away in the small lean-to that was attached to the cabin.  They released the horses to run in the meadow behind the small house and started picking up the things to put them away.

"Yes," Koko finally responded.  "I did."

"I am glad I did not know that before we talked; I was already angry enough at you.  That would have simply made it worse."

"Because I lied?"

"Because you took my choice away when you left.  But we have talked about that, and you did give me the choice you told Neho'e you would.  I am so glad you did.  I liked learning the things you taught me; it made me feel strong and capable."

"You were always strong and capable, Ka’eskone.  I simply helped you focus."  They put away their loads and returned to pick up more.  "Tell me... do you still do the exercises I taught you?"

Donoma smiled.  "Up until your unexpected return to my life, I did them every day.  It was a way to keep you close even when I was alone.  No one bothered me when I was engaged in practice.  But for some reason I have been a little preoccupied since your arrival."

Koko grinned.  "I cannot imagine what could have possibly caused you to lose focus like that.  But perhaps we could work on it together again."

"I would like that, Koko.  It is something I was always happy to share with you."

"So tomorrow morning then or would you prefer tonight instead?"

"Tomorrow morning – it is the most peaceful way to start the day.  Besides you promised me a tour when we are done here and if you want to know the truth, I would like to spend tonight just... connecting."

"I would disagree on that point, Ka’eskone... the most peaceful way to start the day, I mean.  I would never disagree about connecting with you, Beloved.  There is nothing more precious to me than that."

"Then let us finish putting things away, Nutta.  I want my tour and some quiet time with you.  Tomorrow is soon enough to begin our exercises again."

Koko smiled at Donoma's words and hefted the last of their belongings into her arms.  "Take the saddlebags inside, Ka’eskone.  I will return as soon as I have stored these.  Then you will have your tour."

Donoma returned her look and headed inside.  Life had certainly taken an interesting and unexpected turn and she was looking forward to exploring it with Koko.


Chapter XXIX

“This bed is very decadent, Warrior," Donoma commented when they were curled up together later that evening.  Koko had been as good as her word and she had taken Donoma around the small meadow and down along the small creek that ran behind the cabin.  Donoma took great delight in watching Black and Dapples chase up and down the wide prairie.  She idly wondered what determined the boundary they seemed to respect, but it was only a passing thought.  Mostly she was simply enamored of the beauty surrounding her – surrounding her being quite literal in her case.

Donoma leaned back into the strong body wrapped around hers as they watched the sunset.  Only when the sun dropped below the horizon did they head back indoors, leaving the horses to play.  It was then that Donoma sat down upon the featherbed for the first time, a look of shocked pleasure crossing her face.  Koko just grinned at her, sitting down and pulling Donoma into her arms before laying them down together in the middle of the bed.

"You did not try the bed when you came in earlier, Ka’eskone?"

"I was waiting for you, Warrior.  You promised me a tour; I expected that to include the bed."  Koko laughed and Donoma smiled at the joy that spread throughout her at the sound.  "Instead I emptied out the saddlebags and put things away.  I probably did not put things away where they belong, but for the time being they are put away."

"You did not need to do that, Donoma."

"I know," came the reply.  "But it gave me a chance to look around a little, Koko.  You are very skilled, my warrior.  You have created a lovely home here... very pleasant."

"I have had time to make it comfortable – to learn how to create the things I needed to be so."

"You have been happy here then?"

"I have been... content... here."  Koko sighed.  "I expected this to be my home until I died, Donoma.  I never thought I would ever go back to the People... not for any reason.  When I was not out hunting bounties I was here, and you know I was never one to sit quietly."

"Unless you were listening."

"Unless I was listening," Koko agreed.  "But I could not sit and listen all the time. So I had plenty of time to build this place and to make it a comfortable place to be.  I discovered I am not fond of unexpected storms if I have nowhere to escape to.  Denim does not dry well and it chafes."

"Do you like it here?"  No accusation, just curiosity.

"I like parts of it," Koko said honestly.  "The peace, the privacy, the featherbed," she added with a sly grin.  Donoma chuckled.  "I would have remained content, Donoma, but I never would have been happy."

Donoma listened to the words and the tone and snuggled further down into Koko's embrace.  "I could be happy here, Koko.  The bed is very comfortable and I like the cabin.  But I will be happy anywhere we are together."

"As will I, Beloved." A beat.  "What would you like to do tomorrow?"

Donoma shrugged.  "I do not know, Koko Kanti.  I have never been away from the People like this before.  I have never had to think about it... never had to choose.  What do you usually do?"

Koko squeezed Donoma gently.  "It depends," she answered truthfully.  "Some days I would go into town for supplies or to check in with Stephen or just for a break from my own company.  Most days though, I would stay here.  There are always things to do, especially with the garden patch at this time of the year and throughout the summer."  Donoma nodded, remembering the small bit of cleared land.  "And there are always repairs and upgrades to work on.  My next project was actually to make a workable tub for that space over there," pointing to indicate the area of the cabin she meant.

"Why would you want a tub, Koko?"

"For bathing in, Ka’eskone... to get clean."

"But why do you need one, Warrior?  You have a perfectly nice stream right outside your door... literally."

"Ah, Donoma... one day you will have to let me introduce you to the pleasures of a hot bath."  Donoma's brows furrowed and she sat up to look at Koko Kanti.

"Why one day, Koko?  Why not now?"

Koko chuckled.  "Well, mostly because I have not built the tub yet and the only other place to get a hot bath nearby at the moment is at Miss Kitty's place in town."

Donoma scowled.  "Who is Miss Kitty and why does she have the only place to get a hot bath?"

"I promise I will introduce you if and when we ever go into town.  She owns the local saloon and brothel and she already knows all about you.  She's the one that looked after me when I first came to town – gave me a place to sleep and taught me who and what to look out for.  She has spent many nights listening to me talk about you."

"And why does she have a tub?  Are they not common for the white man?"

"No... they are considered a luxury.  It seems that more folks back east have them; you know, where the big cities and the wealthy are.  White men that travel out west though, they tend to have little room or regard for items that are deemed luxuries.  So Miss Kitty is quite proud of the fact that she has one; besides, it brings in quite a bit of business for her."

Donoma cocked a questioning eyebrow at Koko.  Koko smiled and smoothed it out.

"She runs a brothel, Ka’eskone," she reiterated, then realized Donoma had no frame of reference for the term.  "She keeps a house where women are available for mating for a price."  There was a look of horror in Donoma's eyes.  "I know, Nutta, but it is the way of the white man here.  But," Koko continued, "Miss Kitty has a bathtub that she also rents out for a small fee and after I have been on the trail for days, it is a nice treat."

Donoma chewed her lip thoughtfully.  "Then perhaps we need to make a trip into town.  I believe I would like to meet Miss Kitty and see this bathtub."

"Are you sure, Ka’eskone?  I do not want you to be uncomfortable and people will stare.  Not because you are of the People or because you are a woman, but because you are new and different.  They will watch you to see if you can function in their society."

"Are you trying to talk me out of this, Warrior?  I thought you wanted me to go into town."

"I do, Nutta, but I want you to go on your own terms... not because you feel compelled to do so."

"Will you be with me, Koko Kanti?"

"I will not leave your side, Ka’eskone."

"Then I have nothing to worry about."

Koko smiled.  It had been a long time since someone other than herself had shown such unwavering faith in her and she found she liked the way it made her feel.  The fact that is was Donoma simply made it sweeter.  "We can go into town whenever you want, Donoma.  I told you that decision would be left completely up to you."

"Then let us go into town tomorrow, Koko Kanti.  I believe it would be better to go sooner than to wait."

"And why is that, Ka’eskone?"

"Several reasons actually.  One is because I cannot let this fear rule me; another is there will be little time for people to start talking.  And we both know they will – it is the nature of things.  But mostly because I could not find anything to make dinner with that did not come out of the saddlebags."

Koko laughed at the seriousness with which Donoma delivered her reasons.  Donoma sat up and crossed her arms over her chest.  Koko sat up behind her and embraced her, holding on when Donoma tried to shrug out of her grasp.  "I am not laughing at you, Nutta... I am laughing at me."  Donoma turned and cocked a disbelieving eye in Koko direction.  Koko leaned forward and kissed her nose.  "Your reasons are well thought out and practical, and I agree with them completely.  I just had not realized that I had neglected to show you the storage room."

"The storage room," Donoma repeated with a frown.  "Is that not where we placed all the things we removed from the horses?"

Koko shook her head.  "No, Ka’eskone.  That is technically the storage shed."  She unwrapped herself from Donoma and stood, then offered her hand to help Donoma stand as well.  They took the few steps required to get to the tiny area Koko had built as her kitchen, and she bent and tugged on a groove in the floor Donoma hadn't noticed before.  When Koko pulled hard enough the floor moved and revealed a cellar.

Donoma peered down and then looked back at Koko.  "That is very clever, Warrior, but is it not terribly inconvenient for you?"

"It could be if I did not have small containers up here that I refilled from the larger ones I keep down there.  This is so I do not have to go into town for supplies except once or twice a year."

"Can we go down there?"  For answer Koko lifted the lantern from the wall and took Donoma's hand, leading her down into the cool darkness.

Donoma marveled at the cool, dark space – lined with shelves and containing large casks in the middle.  Donoma did have to wonder how Koko had managed to lug them down the stairs safely, then took the time to look around.  She found the casks contained dry staples – sugar, flour, salt and cornmeal.  Another cask held a brine that Koko explained was salt pork and two smaller casks held hardtack and pickles.  The brine made Donoma sneeze and wary of trying either the pork or the pickles.

On the ceiling against one wall hung a variety of smoke cured meats and two walls held a huge assortment of glass jars.  Moving closer, Donoma could see that many stood empty, waiting to be filled while the rest held food products of some kind, though she couldn't readily identify them from where she was standing.  There were also two large bins that contained some wrinkled potatoes and green-topped onions.

"This is amazing, Koko Kanti.  Where did all the bounty come from?  How did you manage...?"

"I have learned to do many new things since coming to the white man's world to live, Ka’eskone.  It was the only way to survive – they do not live as the People do."

Donoma looked around again.  "I can see that," she acknowledged, looking around once more before turning to head back up the stairs.  Koko followed her, snagging the lamp and closing the trap door when they were both clear.  "The People would not know what to do with such bounty or such indulgence," motioning to the bed.

Koko smiled.  "I think they would adjust if they had to, Ka’eskone, just as I did.  But I would not change the old ways; they have served the People well for many generations.  I would not want them to be like the white man.  Too many white men remind me of my Neho'e's tribe – disregarding the welfare of those they perceive to be weaker or less than they are and abusing the Mother that provides us with life and sustenance."

"Then why do you stay, Warrior?"

"Because in some twisted way, Ka’eskone, I fit in here and I have a purpose."

"You had a purpose with the People, Koko Kanti."

"But until just recently I thought that purpose was lost, Donoma Chepi.  And it was good to know I made a difference in the white man's world.  The name of Reb Stone is feared throughout the territory by those who would break the law."

Donoma shook her head.  "I cannot believe I had never heard that name before."

"That is because the People have stayed off the path of destruction the white man has carved for himself across the west.  I fear that will not always be the case.  There is much greed here.  They covet our horses and our land... land that we have respected for ages.  That greed is behind the attack that was perpetuated against you."

"Will that cause problems for us if we go into town, Koko?"

"No, Ka’eskone.  I told Stephen I would allow him to handle things for now; I will not go back on my word unless Washburn is stupid enough to try to start something with me.  But I imagine Murph will be surprised to see us so soon."

"Probably, given my hesitation this morning, but I think it is best to get it over with.  Besides I am somewhat anxious to meet this 'Miss Kitty' and discover the apparent joys of a hot bath."  She yawned widely and tugged on the hand that Koko still held within her grasp.  "However, first I would like to sleep on this soft bed."

Koko grinned and drew Donoma down to the bed, seating her and then kneeling in front of her to remove the soft hide boots she wore.  Then she stood and began disrobing, nostrils flaring at the look of desire that burned from Donoma's eyes.  She had a feeling sleep might be coming for them later rather than sooner tonight.

************

Reuben Washburn sat at his desk rereading the telegram he had received from his father. 

Cast the first Stone. STOP.  (it read)  Vengeance is ours.  STOP.  Time for payment.  STOP.

Washburn scrubbed a hand over his chin, the buzzing sound a loud rasp in the otherwise quiet room.  Telling his father about the death of his younger brother hadn't been pleasant, and from his response, Mordecai Washburn hadn't taken the news well.

Reuben moved his hand to his eyes, trying to rub away the headache he could feel forming behind them.  Although he absolutely wanted revenge against Reb Stone for any number of things, he was not ready to make her pay for his brother's death yet.  For one thing he had no way of knowing where she was.  The last he had heard was that she was chasing Hobbs' gang and the men that had returned from the first expedition hadn't seen her when they'd stumbled across the big black stallion.  Worse, he had no way to collect the horses Leroy had been after... not the black or any of the horses they'd actually been sent to recover.  The colonel had put a moratorium on rounding up any more animals until they could determine what had happened to Leroy.  He wasn't convinced of Stone's guilt.

The problem was that men who had been part of Leroy's scouting party were unwilling to disobey the colonel's order.  It had been different going out under orders and culling the best of the herd for selling before the army got their hands on them.  It was something altogether different to directly disobey an order.  Most of the men appreciated the security being part of the army gave them.  Now Reuben had no other recourse for finding either Stone or the wild horses ranging the prairie than to turn to some of the same outlaws he was supposed to protect the masses from.

Not that that particularly bothered him really except as it affected his bottom line.  Mercenaries and outlaws tended to want a larger cut of the profit than soldiers he could order to do his bidding.  However, at this juncture, he really didn't have much other choice.  His father would just have to understand... or not, as the case may be... that his profit margin was fixing to drop significantly.

His other problem... finding Stone... that was more a matter of patience on his part.  If she was still alive, and he had no reason to believe otherwise at this juncture, he merely needed to wait until she made her next trip into town.  Then he could make his move to exact revenge.  If she had been killed by Hobbs' gang, word would reach him sooner or later and though not as satisfying as destroying her himself, it would serve its purpose.

The sad thing, Reuben reflected as he sat back in his chair, was that Reb Stone would have been a fabulous ally had she been amenable to his suggestion that she join them, and Leroy would probably still be alive.  Of course Leroy would have had difficulties working with Stone; he made no bones about his hatred for 'the abomination' as he had been wont to refer to her.  But Reuben could have kept him in line even with Leroy's fierce covetousness of the black stallion.  They'd have found a way to work around it even if it had meant threatening Leroy with telling Mordecai.  That would have been effective, Reuben had to admit.  He wasn't afraid of much, but his father did tend to scare the shit out of people... even him.

For that reason Reuben wasn't looking forward to relaying the news to his father about the current state of affairs, but better that than having Mordecai deciding he needed to investigate the situation personally.  Not only would that go a long way towards exposing their activities, but it was likely to throw everything into chaos.  Mordecai just had that effect on things he grew impatient with.

So he got up from his seat and went to the window, letting his mind wander as he tried to decide the best way to respond to his father's telegram.  The bell announcing the evening meal rang and he turned back to the water bowl to wash up.  Spencer required both officers and men to wash before meals while they were in the fort.  Reuben had to grudgingly admit that it did make sense; even he had noticed the men tended to be sick less under this rule.

He wiped his hands on the towel kept beside the bowl for that purpose, then snatched up his hat and headed out the door.  He had a little time to consider his answer to his father.  Right now he needed to focus on his duties.  There was no reason to draw any more attention to himself at the present.  Leroy's death had done more than enough in that regard.

Perhaps that is what he would tell Mordecai – that Leroy's death meant things had to go slowly for just a little while.  Even Mordecai would understand the undue attention Reuben was under and not want him to do anything that would draw any more unwarranted scrutiny.  That would naturally upset the entire operation, and no one wanted that.

With a sigh, Reuben entered the mess hall.  He'd get it all figured out eventually – he just needed eventually to come sooner rather than later.  Then without any further ado, Reuben sat down at the officers' table and waited for the rest of the company to join him.


Chapter XXX

It was an odd noise that drew Donoma from the depths of sleep.  She blinked open green eyes, causing the body beneath her to shift and tighten the embrace she was being held in.  Donoma blinked again, this time eliciting a chuckle from deep within Koko's chest.  Lips brushed over the top of her head.

"It is just the rain, Ka’eskone," the low voice burred.  "Go back to sleep."

Donoma shifted her head on Koko's shoulder, allowing her to listen to the strange sound of rain falling on wooden shingles.  Her hands started drifting in random patterns over Koko's skin and Koko reciprocated by running her hands up and down Donoma's arms.

They basked in their shared warmth and the tingles their touches caused in one another, slipping into a comfortable place where only the two of them existed.  Eventually however, Donoma broke the silence.

"I guess this means we will wait to make our trip into town."

Koko smiled, and though Donoma could not see it she did hear it in her voice.  "I believe you are correct, Ka’eskone.  Somehow I cannot garner much enthusiasm for being out in the cold rain when I can stay in this soft, warm bed with you."

"Never let it be said you are not a woman without priorities, warrior mine.  Perhaps this is a sign from the Great Spirit that we should slow down and enjoy life together for a bit."

"And perhaps it is simply rain, Donoma, though I will never turn down any opportunity to enjoy life with you.  I feel like we have so much time to make up for."  A beat.  "Do you remember the last time I held you in my arms like this?"

Donoma nodded her head against Koko's torso, her hair tickling the warrior and making her squirm.  "Oh yes... it was right before you left.  We had gone out to find some silence....

************

Despite the warmth of the day, the nights tended towards chilly, but made the sky clearer and brighter as the stars emerged from their daylight hiding place.  Donoma and Koko had gone out into the vast prairie in the late afternoon, determined to find a bit of peace.  The tribe had been celebrating some victory or other, but all Koko wanted was to bask in Donoma's presence in the quiet of a wide-open sky.

When they were far enough away, Koko flopped down onto the ground and tucked her hands under her head.  Donoma laid her head on Koko's belly and together they stared up the cloud filled sky searching for patterns in them.  This was almost as fun as star chasing and Koko planned to stay out long enough to do that activity as well.

The sun went down, creating beautiful, colorful patterns on the western horizon even as the eastern sky darkened with night.  Slowly the stars began to peek and pop out and Donoma shifted her position to curl up in the warmth of Koko's strong arms.

"How is it you always manage to be so warm, Koko?" she asked shivering.  "It is not even remotely warm out here now and yet you are toasty almost to the point of being hot."

"It must be the company I keep, Ka’eskone.  The Great Spirit has determined my sole purpose in life is to keep you warm – therein lies my skill as your protector.  Hey!" jumping when Donoma poked her in the ribs.  "What did you do that for?"

Donoma rolled her eyes and smirked.  "Like you do not know, Koko Kanti.  This particular skill may be exclusively for me, but it is certainly not the only one you possess.  Ask any of the warriors who have sat under your tutelage or whom you have led into battle.  I am fairly confident they would be happy to inform you of any other number of skills of which you are in possession."

"Yes, but what are the skills of war worth when you so obviously do not require them as you do the warmth with which I regularly supply you?  I believe the Great Spirit is showing me a new path," laughing this time when Donoma poked her.

"I believe you need to turn your attention to the stars, Warrior and see if perhaps there is a message there.  Although," Donoma continued with a smirk, "after the cloud chasing we did this afternoon, I fear for your eyesight.  You have <ahem> interesting vision."

Koko poked out her lip so far, Donoma had to bite her own to keep from laughing out loud.  Honestly... any farther and it would get stepped on.  "You do not like what I see in the clouds?"

"I do not *see* what you see in the clouds, Warrior, anymore than I see what you see in the stars."  Donoma leaned up on her elbows and brushed the unruly hair back out of Koko's eyes.  Then she cupped her face in one hand and rubbed her thumb against Koko's bottom lip until it retreated and she felt Koko shudder against her.  "That is why I find them interesting."

Koko looked at her disbelievingly at the glib explanation, but Donoma's expression showed only sincerity.  She tightened her hold on Donoma's body, forcing her to lie down once more, then she kissed the blonde head that tucked itself under her chin.  Donoma angled herself so she could hear Koko's heartbeat beneath her ear, never realizing when the strong steady beat lulled her into sleep.

***********

"That was only a few days before you left," Donoma said softly.  "I remember the feeling of completion and warmth and protectiveness that I felt that night; it is still one of my favorite memories."  She paused.  "I look back now and wonder how I could have missed what was so clear in your eyes and expression; what was so obvious in my own heart and mind despite my blindness to it.  You never let anyone take liberties with you the way I did."

Despite Donoma's serious demeanor Koko Kanti chuckled, causing Donoma to lean up until she could meet twinkling blue eyes.  Koko struggled to bring her mirth under control and looked at Donoma seriously though she couldn't quite hide the mischief that lurked in the back of her gaze.  Donoma arched an eyebrow in question and Koko nearly lost it again; only superior warrior stoicism allowed her to keep a straight face.

"Ka’eskone... no one but you would dare take liberties with me, especially of that sort.  They all like living too much.  You, however, are the exception to that rule.  With you they are not liberties – it is your place... where you belong; therefore they are simply your due."

Donoma didn't answer verbally – Koko had robbed her of thought; of speech; of her very breath.  Instead she leaned down and brushed Koko's lips, barely touching and causing Koko to follow her as she pulled away, seeking a deeper touch.

Donoma pulled back, teasing Koko, confident she would pursue.  Not only did Koko pursue, but Donoma suddenly found herself at the bottom of a very warm, wonderful pile of focused warrior passion.  It was a while before thought or speech or breathing were part of her processes again.

************

"I did not tell the truth," Donoma said some time later.  "That is the most peaceful way to start the day," stretching luxuriously against all the bare skin she was tucked into and giving Koko a satisfied smile.  She shifted until she was turned on her side, tracing the smooth skin beneath her fingers with the gentlest of touches, edging carefully around still tender skin.  "I could stay here with you...."

A rumbling between them short-circuited Donoma's words and caused a chuckle to ripple through both of them.  They caught each other's eyes and Donoma slid from her place at Koko's side, allowing Koko to get up with her.  They slipped into the bare minimum of clothing they could manage to ward off the chill, and Koko made her way to the small stove to light it while Donoma started gathering supplies to put together a meal for them.

She decided she really liked the cellar pantry despite the chilly darkness.  She wondered if Koko would teach her how to keep things in the empty glass jars once the garden was producing.  Donoma thought planting in the white man's world would have to be similar to what the People did – the only difference being that the People left it to grow on its own while they followed the herd and the white man tended to remain in one place to care for it.

The stove was lit and Koko was doing the same to the fireplace when Donoma emerged from the cellar.  She shivered and moved closer to the stove, greedily glad for the warmth it provided.  After a moment she felt the warmth of Koko's body against her and sighed in contentment.

"It is funny," she commented as she relished their closeness.  "If I was outdoors with the People in this weather, I would not notice the cold dampness unless the fire was put out."

"That is one reason you felt it so much," Koko agreed.  "Neither fire was lit and I have noticed the larger the space, the cooler the air when it is wet like this, no matter the thickness of the walls."  She leered in Donoma's direction.  "That is one reason it was so difficult to get out of bed this morning."

"Will it always be like this for us, do you suppose?"

Koko shook her head thoughtfully after a few minutes of silent consideration.  "No, Ka’eskone... I do not think it will.  Our relationship has been evolving since we first met.  It was always becoming more, better, different.  I can see no reason why that would change now."

Donoma turned to face Koko.  "I think I like that, Warrior.  Now, let me prepare us something to eat, then you and I need to do our exercises together."

Koko patted Donoma on the bottom and snatched up the pail closest to the door.  This was going to be a whole new experience for both of them.

************

Their meal was incredibly successful, especially when one stopped to consider that never before had Donoma attempted to cook on a stove or the enclosed fire that came with it.  Koko was thrilled, comforted in a way she never expected to be in this place.  Donoma was a little more frustrated, but knew that with time she could find the best way to make flatbread in that confounded stove.

At the moment however, the two women were engaged in the defensive routine Koko had taught Donoma when she was seven.  Koko was a little rusty, having very little opportunity to indulge in this sort of practice and being predisposed to reaching for her guns at this point in her life.  They had saved her life many times in the five years she had been away from the People, and she didn't regret her efficiency with them.  But she had missed this more than she'd allowed herself to realize... especially with Donoma.

Koko stood back at first, watching the beauty of the dance as Donoma made her way through the movements Koko had so painstakingly taught her years before.  After the first circuit Donoma stood back as well, pinning Koko in place with her gaze.

"Are you going to simply watch me, Warrior, or do you plan to participate in this little exercise at some point?"

"I was enjoying the image in front of me if you must know," Koko replied drolly.

"Uh huh... and it has nothing to do with the fact that you haven't done this in years."

A dark brow spiked into an equally dark hairline.  "Are you saying I no longer remember how to defend myself against a lightweight like you?  You think the ingrained habits of a lifetime simply disappear if they are not utilized properly every day?"

"I seem to recall getting a similar lecture many times during my training, Warrior.  Something along the lines of needing to train every day to keep from losing my skills.  Are you telling me that it is not true now?" stalking closer to Koko.  Blue eyes widened comically.  Donoma had never been so aggressive and there was something surprisingly appealing about it.  Then Donoma was completely in Koko's space and poking a finger into her chest.  "Tell me, Koko – were you lying to me then?"

"No, of course not, Ka’eskone," holding up her hands in surrender.

Donoma grinned.  "Defend yourself then, Warrior," and she moved swiftly into a defensive position.  Koko blinked then grinned ferally. 

"Prepare yourself, Ka’eskone.  I may not have done this in years, but it is still a very real part of who I was and who I am."

"Put your arrows where your bows are, Warrior."  Then there were no more words as they started the dance between them once more.

When they were done, Koko was smiling broadly.  "You have done well, Ka’eskone.  You have far surpassed the skill you had achieved training with me.  Did you practice with your hestatanemos while I was gone?"

Donoma shook her head.  "No, Koko Kanti.  When you left I continued to work on my own.  I could not allow anyone to take part in this or anything else we shared.  At first I was too hurt and then I was too angry.  Honaw kept watch; there was never a day I was without protection.  But he watched from a distance; it was all I would allow."

Koko nodded.  She was well acquainted with Donoma's stubborn streak.  She bit her lip pensively and took a deep breath.  "Did you... did you ever consider leaving the People – coming to find me?"

Donoma stared into blue eyes for a long moment.  "Not as a realistic path that I could follow, no.  You must remember, Koko, that at first I believed you were only going to be gone for a few days and at that point, Neho'e would not have allowed me to go regardless of the circumstances.  By the time I was old enough to choose the path best suited to me, I was too angry to look for you."  She paused a moment and straightened, crossing over to the half filled pail and scooped out a bit of still cool water.  She swallowed carefully then met Koko's eyes again.  "In some ways I wish I had; in others, I am glad I did not."

Koko cocked her head.  "How do you mean, Ka’eskone?"  Her voice and expression were neither accusing nor judgmental.  There was more curiosity than anything else.

"I wish I had in that we would not have lost so much time between us.  I am glad I did not as I am not confident things would have worked out so well if I had forced the issue then.  You would have been angry as well."

"That is very true, Donoma.  I would have been defensive... moreso than I have been now."

"It would be nice though if the Great Spirit would be a little more exact when he shares visions," Donoma added ruefully.  "It would make things a little less complicated and perhaps somewhat easier to figure out the interpretation of them."

Koko laughed heartily at Donoma's pronouncement.  "Oh Beloved," she gasped in English.  "I do not think the Great Spirit or the gods of the white man have any desire or intention to make things less complicated for the creatures that call themselves human beings.  There is no entertainment for them in making life less difficult for us."

"You believe that is why we are here, Koko Kanti?  To entertain those who watch over us and provide for us?"

Koko took Donoma's hand and led her to the small sitting area in front of the fireplace.  "I believe," she said as they settled together comfortably in a corner of the tiny couch, "that the Great Spirit offers guidance to those that seek it and that our Mother Earth provides for us as long as we do our part in providing for ourselves."  She shrugged and shook her head.  "I cannot say about the gods of the white man; there appear to be many."

"Do they not believe in the Great Spirit and Mother Earth then?"

"Not that I have been able to discover," Koko replied.  "There is a man in town known as Reverend Hawkins – he is considered the shaman of the One God.  Nice enough man although some of his beliefs... well, it is no wonder there are so many other gods they look to for whatever reason."

"Such as?" Donoma asked, cocking her head to one side.

Koko shrugged.  "Hard to know for sure – for some it is money or drink or the pleasure of women as they can afford them.  For others it is what they can claim... what they can own for themselves.  Then there are a few who believe in only themselves or do not believe in anything at all – they are the ones struggling to get by."  She shook her dark head.  "I still do not understand much of their ideas."

Donoma blinked slowly as she pondered Koko's words.  "I can understand your difficulty, Warrior.  I cannot comprehend that way of thinking."

"Good," Koko stated firmly.  "I never want you to become like the white man is, Donoma.  So many of them are cold and careless and unfeeling.  I love your warmth and caring and passion even when the passion is anger.  I hope you never learn to understand."

Donoma curled into Koko's arms and laid her head on her shoulder.  She smiled when Koko tightened her embrace and leaned her cheek against her blonde head.  The next little while passed peacefully until Koko determined it was her turn to cook for Donoma. 

It was a most interesting afternoon.

************

The next few days passed in very similar fashion.  The rain continued – sometimes heavily... sometimes barely misting.  But Donoma and Koko fell into a comfortable routine, appreciating their time alone together in a different way than they had out on the prairie.  Donoma didn't take time to analyze it; it was enough to simply enjoy.

Donoma was thrilled to find that Koko had added to her mother's somewhat meager collection of books and they spent evenings snuggled together reading new material and savoring old.

When the rain stopped the ground was more than saturated and Donoma realized it would be even longer before they were able to take that trip into town.  She found that didn't bother her.  Despite her enthusiasm for it before she'd realized that it would happen in good time.  And for the time being, she was more than content with transitioning into the white man's world with only Koko for company.

With the return of the sun Koko decided it was time to air out and clean the cabin and Donoma agreed with her.  Soon they were cleaning floors and walls and clothes and bedding, opening the windows and doors to allow the air to filter through.  It was slow going, but they took pleasure in doing the task together and they took their time enjoying the fresh air and sunshine.  Finally though, their home was sparklingly clean and fresh as were they and their clothing.

That evening, almost two weeks since they had run into Stephen Murphy, they curled up together again in the middle of their large, fresh bed.  Too tired to do anything more than cuddle, they were almost asleep when Koko mumbled softly, "Do you want to try to go into town in the morning?"

Donoma nodded her head, and they settled down to sleep.  Tomorrow would come soon enough.

Part 4