The Ride With You Was Worth The Fall (5/16)
Title: The Ride With You Was Worth The Fall (5/16)
Author: ortunata13
Pairing: ara/Kahlan
Rating: R (rating will differ between chapters)
Warnings: This ain't your mama's Midlands
Word Count: 3682
Disclaimer: I own nothing. Most certainly, I do not own these characters.
Summary: In this installment, Cara is all kinds of adorable and the banter between her and Kahlan serves as evidence that they've gone from being strangers to actually enjoying each others company. As in the previous chapters, they make new friends who aid them in their quest. For the first time, there is also some palpable sexual tension between them.
A/N: About one of the new characters in this chapter, all I can say is that sometimes very strange (and in this case, large) things cross my mind. The lovely statuepup, my wonderful creative consultant, tries to inject some much needed sanity but I just won't budge.
Chapters: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 part 1 | 6 part 2 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16
Chapter 5
Ganesh
The walk to the tavern is a long one but not at all unpleasant. Tall trees shade them from the sun, and a cool breeze that smells of spring and of the sea makes for an idyllic setting. On either side of them, wildflowers create speckles of colorful light that appear as if they were lovingly painted by the brush of a skillful artist. It is the type of day that suggests possibilities and makes promises of a future, of a life that no Mord’Sith, or Confessor has ever known as real.
“Cara,” Kahlan says, lightly squeezing her forearm to stop her advance. “A ladybug. On your shoulder,” she says, wide-eyed and smiling. “They are harbingers of good luck.”
Her smile grows even wider as the Mord’Sith, both hands on her hips, raises her eyebrows and purses her lips. “And you believe in such things?” Kahlan nods, causing Cara to roll her eyes and look up to the heavens for a moment. “I suppose you expect me to allow this bug to remain on my shoulder then.”
Kahlan starts walking again -- now grinning -- and says, “I do.”
“Come on, bug, the Mother Confessor has requested that I play nursemaid to insects on this quest.” And so they walk on, Kahlan smiling a few paces ahead, and Cara having a conversation with a ladybug -- while lingering behind just enough to lose herself in the hypnotic sway of Kahlan’s hips.
That’s when Kahlan decides to ask a question with which she’s been increasingly preoccupied. “After I rescue the Seeker, and you right the wrong done to your sisters, will we still see each other?”
Cara considers the question, having thought from the moment she decided to kill Darken Rahl that it would probably be a suicide mission; she’d gain access to his compound, knowing that she would not come out alive. “Yours is a search and recovery mission, Confessor. I’m going in to assassinate the heavily guarded ruler of a nation who has eluded, and even defeated, death. I will kill Darken Rahl, but I have no illusions of living to tell anyone about it.” She thinks further on the matter and says, “Besides, if I did make it out alive, what then? Everything I’ve known is gone.”
“You’re not in this alone,” Kahlan says. “I won’t leave you there to die any more than you would leave me. Losing you isn’t an option. It can’t be; we’ve both lost too much already.” Kahlan walks beside her, every now and then eying the ladybug on Cara’s shoulder. The longer it stays there, the better the odds that they will both succeed, she decides.
With the tavern barely in sight, they hasten their pace, drawn in by the aroma of exotic spices that hints at culinary delights the likes of which neither has ever experienced. As they draw nearer, faint sounds of festive music and laughter grow louder.
“Do you think there’s some sort of a festival going on?” By the enthusiasm with which she asks, Cara suspects the Mother Confessor is in the mood for a party.
“Well, if it’s the only place with food and drink, I suppose we’ll have to put up with it,” Cara says, looking over at the ladybug still on her shoulder.
Kahlan gives her a nudge with her elbow and wrinkles her nose. Surely not even Cara can be grumpy on a day as lovely as this one. “Is having fun on the long list of things Mord’Sith don’t do? Because if you feel put upon by the idea, you could wait for me outside.” She looks over at Cara with a lopsided grin, knowing full well that Cara will remain by her side.
***
“This seems to be it,” Kahlan says, as they stand before a structure that is every bit a feast of colors. Although small, the building mimics the grandeur of a temple or even a palace. The dome at its top is gold in color with symbols carved along its edges that neither of them recognizes. Two intricately carved white marble pillars -- standing in stark contrast with the mosaic tile work that covers the walls -- flank either side of the arched entrance. The images formed by the tiles are of various women dressed in bright shades of nearly every color of the rainbow, all wearing golden headpieces.
“Look at this one,” Kahlan says, pointing to the image of an eight-armed woman sitting atop a tiger.
Cara nods, taking in the details of it. “That many arms would work well in a battle.” Kahlan sighs at the comment from her ever-practical companion as they walk inside.
“Hello,” Kahlan says to the dark-haired man with a thick mustache standing behind the podium of the empty tavern. “Are we still in time for a meal?”
“Yes, yes, of course,” he says, leading them to a table. The source of the music, as it turns out, had been three little girls, each still holding a musical instrument. “My name is Rabindranath and these are my three littlest goddesses: Lakshmi, Saraswati, and Kali, the baby.” The oldest cannot be much more than six summers old and the little one, at most three.
“They are beautiful,” Kahlan says, earning herself smiles from the two oldest -- the youngest eyes the two strangers suspiciously.
“Lakshmi, lassi for our guests, please,” he tells the oldest who promptly runs into the kitchen. “Saraswati, some chapati,” he says to the middle one, who runs behind her sister. “I will bring out your meals as soon as they are ready,” he says, addressing the women. “Kali, will you keep our guests company?” The little girl nods, and walks to their table, crossing her arms in front of her. When she spots the ladybug on Cara’s shoulder, her eyes grow wide, and she edges closer to the Mord’Sith who stares back at her as if she were a baby gar.
“Cara,” Kahlan says, tipping her head and pointing toward the child with her chin. “Be nice,” she adds under her breath.
“You have pretty eyes,” the little girl says in a grave tone. “Will mine look like that when I grow up?” Cara leans in to closely examine the child’s eyes, tilting her head to take in various angles before giving her final assessment.
“No,” she replies, leaving no room for doubt.
Kahlan’s hand meets her own forehead as she watches Kali’s previously dispassionate expression instantly transform into abject misery. Noticing the changes in both of them, Cara panics, not knowing what exactly is called for in this type of crisis. Then it occurs to her that given that they are both women -- albeit one of them a short one -- she should implement a tactic that, historically, has served her well with the fairer sex. “They will be as beautiful as hers,” she says, pointing at Kahlan. “Far prettier than mine,” she adds, causing Kahlan to blush and the child to happily climb up on her lap.
Before Cara can get herself into trouble again, the two older girls walk out of the kitchen, one carrying two glasses holding a thick peach-colored beverage and the other a plate with a stack of what appears to be some sort of bread, their father following close behind with their meals. All three of them stop dead in their tracks at the sight of the little one curled up in Cara’s arms. “She likes you,” Lakshmi says, raising both her brows as if it were a rare occurrence, “she doesn’t like very many people.”
“Here you are, ladies. Enjoy.” After setting the plates down, he holds out his arms but the little one vigorously shakes her head. “Do you mind?” he asks Cara.
“Of course not,” Kahlan replies. Not having been given a choice on the matter, Cara nods politely before glaring at Kahlan, who promptly looks down at her plate.
All is forgotten, however, when Cara catches a whiff of the food. Kahlan watches intently as Cara brings a forkful to her mouth and nods in approval. “This is good,” she says, “it’s very good.” With that ringing endorsement, Kahlan promptly digs in.
“Spirits, this is the best thing I’ve ever had in my mouth,” she declares.
Cara purses her lips and with a smirk on her face, responds, “The food is undeniably delicious, but I’ve had far tastier things in my mouth.” She punctuates the statement by licking her lips -- promptly earning herself a kick on the shin courtesy of the Mother Confessor.
“The child,” Kahlan says, scowling at her. Cara rolls her eyes and keeps eating.
“Navrattan korma is a nine gem curry because of the nine types of vegetables, nuts, and dried fruits that are in it,” says Kali, rather pleased with herself.
“Thank you for that very important information,” says Kahlan to the precocious little chef.
It isn’t long before their plates are empty and their bellies full. So much so, that Cara shares her dessert with Kali. Kahlan watches as Cara spoon-feeds the little girl, carefully wiping the corners of her mouth between mouthfuls.
“Do you suppose she plans on joining us on our quest? We already have a bug, why not a toddler?” Kahlan smiles, grateful that this particular Mord’Sith has a sense of humor.
***“Ladies, is it safe to assume from the empty plates that the meal was to your satisfaction?” Having no doubt that that was the case, he smiles and awaits a response.
“Yes, everything was delicious, thank you so much,” Kahlan says. “Tell me, Rabindranath, is there somewhere nearby where we can purchase or at least hire a horse? My friend and I have a long way to travel.”
He scratches his head, trying to think of a helpful suggestion but none comes to him. “I’m sorry, my friends, but this is the off season. Other than my girls and I, no one is here. My wife, who is preparing for our fourth child, and the innkeeper left on the last coach yesterday. If you follow this road, in five days you will reach the next city where you will surely find stables.”
The look of concern on their faces is obvious, for traveling on foot for such a distance will slow their progress considerably, and leave them both exhausted. Still, Kahlan manages a polite smile. “No matter; thank you and congratulations to both you and your wife on the upcoming birth.”
“Don’t leave yet, I’ll pack you some food for the road,” he says, going back to the kitchen.
“Little one,” Cara says to the child she’s still holding in her arms, as Kahlan listens with interest, “I have a long way to travel. Do you think you can take care of my friend for me?” she asks, pointing at the ladybug.
Kali, with a steely look in her eyes, replies, “I will.” Cara carefully maneuvers her way off the chair, while still holding the child, without disturbing the insect.
“Put her in here,” says Saraswati, handing Cara a small jar into which she’s scoops some dirt from a potted plant. Kahlan then carefully removes the tiny creature from Cara’s shoulder and deposits it safely into the offered container.
“Baba, look.” The little one holds up the jar for her father’s inspection just as he returns with a neatly wrapped package. Cara puts her down and her father quickly scoops her into his arms. She kisses him on cheek and whispers something into his ear.
“I don’t know,” he replies, “we’ll have to ask your sisters.” He and the girls step into the kitchen leaving the women a bit confused. Cara shrugs and places a stack of coins on the table to pay for their meal.
Having stood there waiting for quite some time, Kahlan finally says, “They must be discussing a family matter. Maybe we should go.” Cara shoulders their packs and heads for the door. “Goodbye,” Kahlan calls out, in an effort to be polite.
The moment they step outside, rounding the corner from behind the building is the most enormous beast either of them has ever seen, carrying on its back Rabindranath and his three daughters. Cara and Kahlan stand dumbfounded, thinking that perhaps they’ve fallen prey to some sort of spell. The gray beast is easily four times the size of a horse, with an elongated appendage growing out from its head, and legs as thick as tree trunks.
“Ladies, wait,” Rabindranath calls out. He pats the beast gently on its neck, causing it to lean forward enough for him to easily hop off its back. One by one, his daughters jump into his arms and he places each of them safely on the ground. “This is Ganesh,” he says. “My daughters and I have agreed that he will transport you to Veritas. My brother works in town and will ensure Ganesh’s safe return home.”
Kahlan and Cara turn toward each other and then toward the gigantic animal in front of them. Kahlan extends one of her arms out and opens her mouth as if to speak but doesn’t exactly know what to say. “Ganesh is our family elephant. We brought him over as a baby when we moved here from our country,” Rabindranath explains. “Elephants are the most intelligent and loyal of animals. You need not be frightened.” Cara scowls at the implication that she and the Confessor fear the beast for as big as it is, she’s certain they could take it in a fair fight. Maybe.
Smiling, but looking rather pained, Kahlan asks, “Do you mind if we discuss it between ourselves for a moment?” He nods in acquiescence, walking back toward the animal with his daughters.
“What should we do?” Kahlan asks.
“I don’t know. I’ve never heard of such an animal, nor seen one before.”
“Well, we’d never seen penguins before either,” Kahlan points out.
“So you are seriously considering we ride atop that beast,” Cara says, astonished by the mere suggestion of it.
Kahlan wrings her hands and worries her lower lip for a moment. “We don’t have a choice,” she says.
“Of course we do. We both have legs, don’t we?”
“Yes, I know, but that’s not the problem.” Cara crosses her arms over her chest awaiting an explanation. With a long-suffering sigh, Kahlan finally says, “I don’t want to hurt their feelings.” Cara purses her lips, wishing once again she could acquaint Kahlan with her agiel. Without a word, she picks up their packs and heads toward the elephant.
“What do we feed it?” she asks Rabindranath, in a complete monotone.
“He will pick fruits from trees along the way,” Rabindranath replies. The three little girls are all smiles as their father gives Cara and Kahlan detailed riding instructions. While he repeatedly assures them that riding an elephant is far easier than riding a horse -- they both remain reluctant.
As they are saying their goodbyes, he adds, “He is very brave and will protect you with his life if necessary, but,” he pauses, patting the side of the animal’s belly, “he is deathly afraid of rodents. Should you encounter any, do your best to reassure him until he calms down.”
“Thank you so much for your generosity, Rabindranath. We will take very good care of him.” One by one, the little girls say goodbye to their elephant, and to the Mother Confessor and the Mord’Sith.
With that, Rabindranath gives Ganesh the signal to lean forward so that they can mount him. Both Cara and Kahlan step forward with the intention of mounting first. Noticing the sudden tension, the little girls look on in amusement.
“You rode in front on the horse,” Kahlan says.
Cara quickly replies, “It was my horse.”
“We’re on this quest together so, technically, it was our horse.” Kahlan waits for a reply but when the Mord’Sith wrinkles her nose and furrows her brow, she relents. “Fine, you go in front.”
“No, I don’t want to anymore. Besides, I can better protect you from the back,” Cara points out.
Kahlan does her best to look offended, but the hint of a smile on her face betrays her. “So you think me incapable of taking care of myself?” Cara starts to reply but the giggles coming from the three girls -- as well as their father -- shames them both enough to end their bickering.
With Ganesh already leaning forward, Kahlan takes a deep breath and gingerly climbs atop the beast, extending her hand out to help Cara do the same. “The Creator help us,” Kahlan says, “we are traveling on a cowardly creature that may get spooked by a mouse. The fall alone will kill us both.”
“Don’t call him a coward,” Cara says. “No one likes rodents.”
“Fine,” Kahlan says, “but please hold on tight. If you fall, there will be no one left to protect me,” she says, with no small amount of amusement in her tone. Cara rolls her eyes and wraps both her arms tightly around Kahlan’s waist.
While Ganesh is certainly slower than a horse, they are making far better time than they would on foot and it’s a much smoother ride. So smooth in fact, that with the way all of Cara’s weight is resting against her, Kahlan suspects the Mord’Sith may be napping. When she turns to look back at Cara over her shoulder, she nearly slides off the animal, taking Cara with her. Were it not for Cara’s strong legs gripping on to Ganesh, they would have both toppled over. “You are an impressive elephant woman, Confessor.” Kahlan doesn’t need to look back as Cara to know that one of her eyebrows is arched up and she has that petulant smirk on her face. The thought of it actually makes Kahlan smile.
As the sun starts to set, the beginning of what will soon become a storm darkens the afternoon sky. Still uneasy about their unorthodox mount, Kahlan hastens their pace in the hopes of finding shelter before the rain starts. As the wind whistles through the trees and birds take flight to make their escape, Cara spots a cave tucked away from the road that will serve as their home for the night.
Ganesh leans forward, allowing Cara to jump to the ground, motioning for Kahlan to toss down their packs. Once the Confessor is safely on the ground they look around the cave and find that, as everything else has been during this quest, it is surprisingly pleasant. Cara builds a fire while Kahlan lays out their bedrolls side by side at the far end of their shelter.
“After we have our meal, I will take watch,” Cara says.
Looking over at the entrance, Kahlan chuckles and shakes her head. “I don’t think you’ll have to,” she says, directing Cara’s attention to the massive gray beast blocking access to anything or anyone who would dare approach.
Cara walks over and strokes Ganesh’s trunk. “Good elephant.” She turns toward Kahlan and says, “I told you he isn’t a coward.” The Confessor concedes with a tilt of the head and a nod.
Just as they are finishing off the last of the food Rabindranath had so graciously packed for them, the downpour, accompanied by a cold wind, rips through the sky. Nestling close to each other for added warmth, they sit by the fire in silence. Kahlan can’t help but recall the many nights she’d spent in front of a campfire with the Seeker and the Wizard. The Wizard would certainly have enjoyed Rabindranath’s cooking, she thinks to herself, and Richard would have had his arms around her, nuzzling her hair, smiling that smile that is uniquely Richard. A twinge of guilt pricks at her chest realizing that she hadn’t missed them of late, not really, not how she should have. Truth be told, aside from that purgatorial tropical forest, this journey feels more like a holiday than a quest. She’d met Marina at the end of the world, traveled across the sea with the crew of Las Reinas del Mar, allowed herself a taste of decadence at the hands of some very beautiful women, seen penguins for the first time, and now even ridden an elephant. Each of these experiences had, in their own way, altered her worldview, changed her somehow. Then there is Cara, of course, but on this night, with the way Cara’s hair falls over her shoulders, and the flames flicker in her eyes, and her plumb lips practically beg for attention, Kahlan thinks it best not to dwell too much on her travel companion, not on a night such as this one.
Instead, she runs her hand down Cara’s back until it comes to rest on her hip, and says, “We should probably get some sleep.” Cara turns to face her, fixing her gaze on Kahlan’s in a way that makes Kahlan’s breath catch in her throat. She can’t read the Mord’Sith but she doesn’t need to because she knows what Cara is thinking -- she knows because she’s thinking it, too. Gathering up every bit of resolve she has in her, Kahlan reminds herself that this may feel like a holiday but it is, in fact, a quest, and even if it weren’t, what they are thinking could very well get someone killed.
Taking in a deep breath, she is on her feet and walking to where their bedrolls await. Cara lingers by the fire, her eyes still on Kahlan, watching as she unlaces her dress, then her boots, and finally slips on her night shift, allowing her travel dress to fall at her feet. Kahlan places a shift on Cara’s bedroll, slides under the blanket and squeezes her eyes shut. Feigning sleep, she listens as Cara slips out of her leathers and slides under the blanket -- without the shift.
Feeling heat radiate off Cara’s body, Kahlan edges closer so that their bodies are pressed together and says, “I think tomorrow I should sit behind you.”
Cara’s lips quirk into a smile. “I thought you were asleep.” Kahlan doesn’t like to lie so she remains silent.
Author: ortunata13
Pairing: ara/Kahlan
Rating: R (rating will differ between chapters)
Warnings: This ain't your mama's Midlands
Word Count: 3682
Disclaimer: I own nothing. Most certainly, I do not own these characters.
Summary: In this installment, Cara is all kinds of adorable and the banter between her and Kahlan serves as evidence that they've gone from being strangers to actually enjoying each others company. As in the previous chapters, they make new friends who aid them in their quest. For the first time, there is also some palpable sexual tension between them.
A/N: About one of the new characters in this chapter, all I can say is that sometimes very strange (and in this case, large) things cross my mind. The lovely statuepup, my wonderful creative consultant, tries to inject some much needed sanity but I just won't budge.
Chapters: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 part 1 | 6 part 2 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16
Chapter 5
Ganesh
The walk to the tavern is a long one but not at all unpleasant. Tall trees shade them from the sun, and a cool breeze that smells of spring and of the sea makes for an idyllic setting. On either side of them, wildflowers create speckles of colorful light that appear as if they were lovingly painted by the brush of a skillful artist. It is the type of day that suggests possibilities and makes promises of a future, of a life that no Mord’Sith, or Confessor has ever known as real.
“Cara,” Kahlan says, lightly squeezing her forearm to stop her advance. “A ladybug. On your shoulder,” she says, wide-eyed and smiling. “They are harbingers of good luck.”
Her smile grows even wider as the Mord’Sith, both hands on her hips, raises her eyebrows and purses her lips. “And you believe in such things?” Kahlan nods, causing Cara to roll her eyes and look up to the heavens for a moment. “I suppose you expect me to allow this bug to remain on my shoulder then.”
Kahlan starts walking again -- now grinning -- and says, “I do.”
“Come on, bug, the Mother Confessor has requested that I play nursemaid to insects on this quest.” And so they walk on, Kahlan smiling a few paces ahead, and Cara having a conversation with a ladybug -- while lingering behind just enough to lose herself in the hypnotic sway of Kahlan’s hips.
That’s when Kahlan decides to ask a question with which she’s been increasingly preoccupied. “After I rescue the Seeker, and you right the wrong done to your sisters, will we still see each other?”
Cara considers the question, having thought from the moment she decided to kill Darken Rahl that it would probably be a suicide mission; she’d gain access to his compound, knowing that she would not come out alive. “Yours is a search and recovery mission, Confessor. I’m going in to assassinate the heavily guarded ruler of a nation who has eluded, and even defeated, death. I will kill Darken Rahl, but I have no illusions of living to tell anyone about it.” She thinks further on the matter and says, “Besides, if I did make it out alive, what then? Everything I’ve known is gone.”
“You’re not in this alone,” Kahlan says. “I won’t leave you there to die any more than you would leave me. Losing you isn’t an option. It can’t be; we’ve both lost too much already.” Kahlan walks beside her, every now and then eying the ladybug on Cara’s shoulder. The longer it stays there, the better the odds that they will both succeed, she decides.
With the tavern barely in sight, they hasten their pace, drawn in by the aroma of exotic spices that hints at culinary delights the likes of which neither has ever experienced. As they draw nearer, faint sounds of festive music and laughter grow louder.
“Do you think there’s some sort of a festival going on?” By the enthusiasm with which she asks, Cara suspects the Mother Confessor is in the mood for a party.
“Well, if it’s the only place with food and drink, I suppose we’ll have to put up with it,” Cara says, looking over at the ladybug still on her shoulder.
Kahlan gives her a nudge with her elbow and wrinkles her nose. Surely not even Cara can be grumpy on a day as lovely as this one. “Is having fun on the long list of things Mord’Sith don’t do? Because if you feel put upon by the idea, you could wait for me outside.” She looks over at Cara with a lopsided grin, knowing full well that Cara will remain by her side.
***
“This seems to be it,” Kahlan says, as they stand before a structure that is every bit a feast of colors. Although small, the building mimics the grandeur of a temple or even a palace. The dome at its top is gold in color with symbols carved along its edges that neither of them recognizes. Two intricately carved white marble pillars -- standing in stark contrast with the mosaic tile work that covers the walls -- flank either side of the arched entrance. The images formed by the tiles are of various women dressed in bright shades of nearly every color of the rainbow, all wearing golden headpieces.
“Look at this one,” Kahlan says, pointing to the image of an eight-armed woman sitting atop a tiger.
Cara nods, taking in the details of it. “That many arms would work well in a battle.” Kahlan sighs at the comment from her ever-practical companion as they walk inside.
“Hello,” Kahlan says to the dark-haired man with a thick mustache standing behind the podium of the empty tavern. “Are we still in time for a meal?”
“Yes, yes, of course,” he says, leading them to a table. The source of the music, as it turns out, had been three little girls, each still holding a musical instrument. “My name is Rabindranath and these are my three littlest goddesses: Lakshmi, Saraswati, and Kali, the baby.” The oldest cannot be much more than six summers old and the little one, at most three.
“They are beautiful,” Kahlan says, earning herself smiles from the two oldest -- the youngest eyes the two strangers suspiciously.
“Lakshmi, lassi for our guests, please,” he tells the oldest who promptly runs into the kitchen. “Saraswati, some chapati,” he says to the middle one, who runs behind her sister. “I will bring out your meals as soon as they are ready,” he says, addressing the women. “Kali, will you keep our guests company?” The little girl nods, and walks to their table, crossing her arms in front of her. When she spots the ladybug on Cara’s shoulder, her eyes grow wide, and she edges closer to the Mord’Sith who stares back at her as if she were a baby gar.
“Cara,” Kahlan says, tipping her head and pointing toward the child with her chin. “Be nice,” she adds under her breath.
“You have pretty eyes,” the little girl says in a grave tone. “Will mine look like that when I grow up?” Cara leans in to closely examine the child’s eyes, tilting her head to take in various angles before giving her final assessment.
“No,” she replies, leaving no room for doubt.
Kahlan’s hand meets her own forehead as she watches Kali’s previously dispassionate expression instantly transform into abject misery. Noticing the changes in both of them, Cara panics, not knowing what exactly is called for in this type of crisis. Then it occurs to her that given that they are both women -- albeit one of them a short one -- she should implement a tactic that, historically, has served her well with the fairer sex. “They will be as beautiful as hers,” she says, pointing at Kahlan. “Far prettier than mine,” she adds, causing Kahlan to blush and the child to happily climb up on her lap.
Before Cara can get herself into trouble again, the two older girls walk out of the kitchen, one carrying two glasses holding a thick peach-colored beverage and the other a plate with a stack of what appears to be some sort of bread, their father following close behind with their meals. All three of them stop dead in their tracks at the sight of the little one curled up in Cara’s arms. “She likes you,” Lakshmi says, raising both her brows as if it were a rare occurrence, “she doesn’t like very many people.”
“Here you are, ladies. Enjoy.” After setting the plates down, he holds out his arms but the little one vigorously shakes her head. “Do you mind?” he asks Cara.
“Of course not,” Kahlan replies. Not having been given a choice on the matter, Cara nods politely before glaring at Kahlan, who promptly looks down at her plate.
All is forgotten, however, when Cara catches a whiff of the food. Kahlan watches intently as Cara brings a forkful to her mouth and nods in approval. “This is good,” she says, “it’s very good.” With that ringing endorsement, Kahlan promptly digs in.
“Spirits, this is the best thing I’ve ever had in my mouth,” she declares.
Cara purses her lips and with a smirk on her face, responds, “The food is undeniably delicious, but I’ve had far tastier things in my mouth.” She punctuates the statement by licking her lips -- promptly earning herself a kick on the shin courtesy of the Mother Confessor.
“The child,” Kahlan says, scowling at her. Cara rolls her eyes and keeps eating.
“Navrattan korma is a nine gem curry because of the nine types of vegetables, nuts, and dried fruits that are in it,” says Kali, rather pleased with herself.
“Thank you for that very important information,” says Kahlan to the precocious little chef.
It isn’t long before their plates are empty and their bellies full. So much so, that Cara shares her dessert with Kali. Kahlan watches as Cara spoon-feeds the little girl, carefully wiping the corners of her mouth between mouthfuls.
“Do you suppose she plans on joining us on our quest? We already have a bug, why not a toddler?” Kahlan smiles, grateful that this particular Mord’Sith has a sense of humor.
***“Ladies, is it safe to assume from the empty plates that the meal was to your satisfaction?” Having no doubt that that was the case, he smiles and awaits a response.
“Yes, everything was delicious, thank you so much,” Kahlan says. “Tell me, Rabindranath, is there somewhere nearby where we can purchase or at least hire a horse? My friend and I have a long way to travel.”
He scratches his head, trying to think of a helpful suggestion but none comes to him. “I’m sorry, my friends, but this is the off season. Other than my girls and I, no one is here. My wife, who is preparing for our fourth child, and the innkeeper left on the last coach yesterday. If you follow this road, in five days you will reach the next city where you will surely find stables.”
The look of concern on their faces is obvious, for traveling on foot for such a distance will slow their progress considerably, and leave them both exhausted. Still, Kahlan manages a polite smile. “No matter; thank you and congratulations to both you and your wife on the upcoming birth.”
“Don’t leave yet, I’ll pack you some food for the road,” he says, going back to the kitchen.
“Little one,” Cara says to the child she’s still holding in her arms, as Kahlan listens with interest, “I have a long way to travel. Do you think you can take care of my friend for me?” she asks, pointing at the ladybug.
Kali, with a steely look in her eyes, replies, “I will.” Cara carefully maneuvers her way off the chair, while still holding the child, without disturbing the insect.
“Put her in here,” says Saraswati, handing Cara a small jar into which she’s scoops some dirt from a potted plant. Kahlan then carefully removes the tiny creature from Cara’s shoulder and deposits it safely into the offered container.
“Baba, look.” The little one holds up the jar for her father’s inspection just as he returns with a neatly wrapped package. Cara puts her down and her father quickly scoops her into his arms. She kisses him on cheek and whispers something into his ear.
“I don’t know,” he replies, “we’ll have to ask your sisters.” He and the girls step into the kitchen leaving the women a bit confused. Cara shrugs and places a stack of coins on the table to pay for their meal.
Having stood there waiting for quite some time, Kahlan finally says, “They must be discussing a family matter. Maybe we should go.” Cara shoulders their packs and heads for the door. “Goodbye,” Kahlan calls out, in an effort to be polite.
The moment they step outside, rounding the corner from behind the building is the most enormous beast either of them has ever seen, carrying on its back Rabindranath and his three daughters. Cara and Kahlan stand dumbfounded, thinking that perhaps they’ve fallen prey to some sort of spell. The gray beast is easily four times the size of a horse, with an elongated appendage growing out from its head, and legs as thick as tree trunks.
“Ladies, wait,” Rabindranath calls out. He pats the beast gently on its neck, causing it to lean forward enough for him to easily hop off its back. One by one, his daughters jump into his arms and he places each of them safely on the ground. “This is Ganesh,” he says. “My daughters and I have agreed that he will transport you to Veritas. My brother works in town and will ensure Ganesh’s safe return home.”
Kahlan and Cara turn toward each other and then toward the gigantic animal in front of them. Kahlan extends one of her arms out and opens her mouth as if to speak but doesn’t exactly know what to say. “Ganesh is our family elephant. We brought him over as a baby when we moved here from our country,” Rabindranath explains. “Elephants are the most intelligent and loyal of animals. You need not be frightened.” Cara scowls at the implication that she and the Confessor fear the beast for as big as it is, she’s certain they could take it in a fair fight. Maybe.
Smiling, but looking rather pained, Kahlan asks, “Do you mind if we discuss it between ourselves for a moment?” He nods in acquiescence, walking back toward the animal with his daughters.
“What should we do?” Kahlan asks.
“I don’t know. I’ve never heard of such an animal, nor seen one before.”
“Well, we’d never seen penguins before either,” Kahlan points out.
“So you are seriously considering we ride atop that beast,” Cara says, astonished by the mere suggestion of it.
Kahlan wrings her hands and worries her lower lip for a moment. “We don’t have a choice,” she says.
“Of course we do. We both have legs, don’t we?”
“Yes, I know, but that’s not the problem.” Cara crosses her arms over her chest awaiting an explanation. With a long-suffering sigh, Kahlan finally says, “I don’t want to hurt their feelings.” Cara purses her lips, wishing once again she could acquaint Kahlan with her agiel. Without a word, she picks up their packs and heads toward the elephant.
“What do we feed it?” she asks Rabindranath, in a complete monotone.
“He will pick fruits from trees along the way,” Rabindranath replies. The three little girls are all smiles as their father gives Cara and Kahlan detailed riding instructions. While he repeatedly assures them that riding an elephant is far easier than riding a horse -- they both remain reluctant.
As they are saying their goodbyes, he adds, “He is very brave and will protect you with his life if necessary, but,” he pauses, patting the side of the animal’s belly, “he is deathly afraid of rodents. Should you encounter any, do your best to reassure him until he calms down.”
“Thank you so much for your generosity, Rabindranath. We will take very good care of him.” One by one, the little girls say goodbye to their elephant, and to the Mother Confessor and the Mord’Sith.
With that, Rabindranath gives Ganesh the signal to lean forward so that they can mount him. Both Cara and Kahlan step forward with the intention of mounting first. Noticing the sudden tension, the little girls look on in amusement.
“You rode in front on the horse,” Kahlan says.
Cara quickly replies, “It was my horse.”
“We’re on this quest together so, technically, it was our horse.” Kahlan waits for a reply but when the Mord’Sith wrinkles her nose and furrows her brow, she relents. “Fine, you go in front.”
“No, I don’t want to anymore. Besides, I can better protect you from the back,” Cara points out.
Kahlan does her best to look offended, but the hint of a smile on her face betrays her. “So you think me incapable of taking care of myself?” Cara starts to reply but the giggles coming from the three girls -- as well as their father -- shames them both enough to end their bickering.
With Ganesh already leaning forward, Kahlan takes a deep breath and gingerly climbs atop the beast, extending her hand out to help Cara do the same. “The Creator help us,” Kahlan says, “we are traveling on a cowardly creature that may get spooked by a mouse. The fall alone will kill us both.”
“Don’t call him a coward,” Cara says. “No one likes rodents.”
“Fine,” Kahlan says, “but please hold on tight. If you fall, there will be no one left to protect me,” she says, with no small amount of amusement in her tone. Cara rolls her eyes and wraps both her arms tightly around Kahlan’s waist.
While Ganesh is certainly slower than a horse, they are making far better time than they would on foot and it’s a much smoother ride. So smooth in fact, that with the way all of Cara’s weight is resting against her, Kahlan suspects the Mord’Sith may be napping. When she turns to look back at Cara over her shoulder, she nearly slides off the animal, taking Cara with her. Were it not for Cara’s strong legs gripping on to Ganesh, they would have both toppled over. “You are an impressive elephant woman, Confessor.” Kahlan doesn’t need to look back as Cara to know that one of her eyebrows is arched up and she has that petulant smirk on her face. The thought of it actually makes Kahlan smile.
As the sun starts to set, the beginning of what will soon become a storm darkens the afternoon sky. Still uneasy about their unorthodox mount, Kahlan hastens their pace in the hopes of finding shelter before the rain starts. As the wind whistles through the trees and birds take flight to make their escape, Cara spots a cave tucked away from the road that will serve as their home for the night.
Ganesh leans forward, allowing Cara to jump to the ground, motioning for Kahlan to toss down their packs. Once the Confessor is safely on the ground they look around the cave and find that, as everything else has been during this quest, it is surprisingly pleasant. Cara builds a fire while Kahlan lays out their bedrolls side by side at the far end of their shelter.
“After we have our meal, I will take watch,” Cara says.
Looking over at the entrance, Kahlan chuckles and shakes her head. “I don’t think you’ll have to,” she says, directing Cara’s attention to the massive gray beast blocking access to anything or anyone who would dare approach.
Cara walks over and strokes Ganesh’s trunk. “Good elephant.” She turns toward Kahlan and says, “I told you he isn’t a coward.” The Confessor concedes with a tilt of the head and a nod.
Just as they are finishing off the last of the food Rabindranath had so graciously packed for them, the downpour, accompanied by a cold wind, rips through the sky. Nestling close to each other for added warmth, they sit by the fire in silence. Kahlan can’t help but recall the many nights she’d spent in front of a campfire with the Seeker and the Wizard. The Wizard would certainly have enjoyed Rabindranath’s cooking, she thinks to herself, and Richard would have had his arms around her, nuzzling her hair, smiling that smile that is uniquely Richard. A twinge of guilt pricks at her chest realizing that she hadn’t missed them of late, not really, not how she should have. Truth be told, aside from that purgatorial tropical forest, this journey feels more like a holiday than a quest. She’d met Marina at the end of the world, traveled across the sea with the crew of Las Reinas del Mar, allowed herself a taste of decadence at the hands of some very beautiful women, seen penguins for the first time, and now even ridden an elephant. Each of these experiences had, in their own way, altered her worldview, changed her somehow. Then there is Cara, of course, but on this night, with the way Cara’s hair falls over her shoulders, and the flames flicker in her eyes, and her plumb lips practically beg for attention, Kahlan thinks it best not to dwell too much on her travel companion, not on a night such as this one.
Instead, she runs her hand down Cara’s back until it comes to rest on her hip, and says, “We should probably get some sleep.” Cara turns to face her, fixing her gaze on Kahlan’s in a way that makes Kahlan’s breath catch in her throat. She can’t read the Mord’Sith but she doesn’t need to because she knows what Cara is thinking -- she knows because she’s thinking it, too. Gathering up every bit of resolve she has in her, Kahlan reminds herself that this may feel like a holiday but it is, in fact, a quest, and even if it weren’t, what they are thinking could very well get someone killed.
Taking in a deep breath, she is on her feet and walking to where their bedrolls await. Cara lingers by the fire, her eyes still on Kahlan, watching as she unlaces her dress, then her boots, and finally slips on her night shift, allowing her travel dress to fall at her feet. Kahlan places a shift on Cara’s bedroll, slides under the blanket and squeezes her eyes shut. Feigning sleep, she listens as Cara slips out of her leathers and slides under the blanket -- without the shift.
Feeling heat radiate off Cara’s body, Kahlan edges closer so that their bodies are pressed together and says, “I think tomorrow I should sit behind you.”
Cara’s lips quirk into a smile. “I thought you were asleep.” Kahlan doesn’t like to lie so she remains silent.