"Is everything ready, mom?" The bard and her mother were alone for the moment. Geoff had asked to speak to his Sabre compatriot privately, and Gwen had taken advantage of Randi’s absence to corner Jill. The older woman was in on both sides of this secret, and smiled happily. She hadn’t had this much fun in a long time.

"Yes, dear. Everything is set up just like you asked for. I think it’s a good idea."

"I just wanted her to get in on the courting too. She’s been so wonderful to me. Not that she hasn’t always been, but...."

"This is different."

"This is different. Making such a conscious effort to make me feel special and loved. I wanted to do something in return."

"I’m sure she’ll appreciate it, dear. And it fits in perfectly with her plans, so it’s all to the good. Now c’mon... let’s go get some coffee."

"So there’s nothing new?"

"Not really. Tiny said he’d do some checking on some new angles, but the fact is we’ve gotten complacent. No one even considered his missing being a problem until it was too late. I don’t expect them to find anything, really. The only thing that is making them even look twice at this is the fact that he was a Sabre, and he was killed with his own sword. That moved it from a random wrong time, wrong place kind of thing to what they feel is something more sinister."

"And what do you think?"

"I dunno, Geoff. The whole thing feels off to me."

"How so?" He’d had his own misgivings about the oddities surrounding Jerry’s death, but he couldn’t really put his finger on what was bothering him. Maybe Randi’s thoughts would help clear up the picture.

"It’s hard to explain. A feeling mostly. Could it be a random thing? Sure, but not likely, given the sword aspect. It could be directed at the unit, but again it’s unlikely at this point, given that it hasn’t happened before or since. That may change, of course, but for now it is a solitary incident. That leaves a personal grudge, but why? As far as anyone has been able to determine, the few people who wished him harm are already dead." She sighed. "I’m not even sure we have all the pieces yet. It just doesn’t add up for me."

He nodded. "Yeah, I can see why. Well, maybe they’ll figure it out soon," but his tone bespoke of doubt. And at that moment, his wife and daughter peeked their heads in the door, and conversation turned to other things.

"It’s good to see your dad in such high spirits," Randi commented to Gwen as they made their way back to the cottage. "I think having the wedding to focus on has really helped his recovery."

"I know it has. He told me as much. He’s determined to be standing to give me to your keeping."

The warrior stopped walking and drew the smaller woman into her arms. "I can’t tell you how happy that makes me. To know that you will be mine to love and protect and cherish."

"Works both ways, Stud," gently stroking the scar. "Always."

"Forever."

When they stepped into the cottage, Randi froze. Something was... waitaminnute... where the hell did the flowers come from? She looked at Gwen who was smiling nervously, waiting for her response. The reality hit her heart and mind at the same instant.

"These are for me?" reaching a hand out hesitantly to caress the silky petals. Her hand fell away from the flowers and she cupped Gwen’s face tenderly between her hands. Tears sat in the green eyes, but the bard refused to allow them to fall.

"Because I love you," she whispered. She leaned up, and captured the soldier’s lips with her own. "C’mon," on an uneven breath. "We have a date." She looked at Randi through wet lashes. "You gonna tell me where we’re going yet?"

"Nope. Your stuff is in the front bedroom. I’ll meet you back out here in thirty minutes."

Gwen stood staring at the closed bedroom door for a full minute before she moved to get ready for their night out.

Randi closed her eyes and groaned silently when she looked in the closet. She wasn’t sure where the impulse to buy this particular... clothing had come from, but it was too late to back out of it now. She could suffer through it for one evening.

The Sabre slowly slipped the sapphire sheath over her head trying to remember the last time she’d worn a dress. It had been years. Something for school, maybe? She shrugged. It would come to her eventually. The Marine looked into the mirror, and saw the woman looking back at her. The color made her eyes stand out in vivid relief. How long since I allowed myself to be just a woman, instead of a female Marine Sabre? Her brain started to hurt, she thought about it so hard, and she shook her head to clear the thought out.

A dab of perfume and a touch of eyeliner and lipstick, and she was ready. The warrior took a deep breath and released it, heading for the door.

Gwen stepped from the shower and opened the closet, drawing in a sharp breath when she caught sight of the emerald sheath hanging there. Oh wow! This is beautiful. She removed the dress from the closet, and took it off the hanger. She dropped the towel she was wrapped in, and slid the silk over her head. How decadent, smiling at the picture her reflection made. I could get to like this a little too much.

The bard was still smiling when she left her room, looking around in surprise when she saw the Marine was not waiting. She could count on one hand the number of times that had happened. Gwen moved to the window, looking out at the setting sun. She didn’t realize how the backlighting framed her until she heard the warrior’s gasp behind her.

"God, you’re beautiful."

The blonde turned from the glass to face... Oh. My. God. Green eyes took in the vision that stood before her, raking the warrior’s form in bold possessiveness. Gwen circled the Sabre, eyeing her up and down. Randi bore the scrutiny stoicly, consciously fighting down the blush that wanted to rise at the hunger she could see growing in the bard’s eyes.

The Marine waited, wondering. Gwen didn’t say a word, but slipped around in front of the tall woman. She reached out to Randi, sliding her hands up the blue silk-clad sides. Blue and green eyes met and locked, and Gwen moved her hands lightly up the warrior’s chest and around her neck. No verbiage was necessary, as with a gentle tug, she brought Randi lips within reach of her own.

Long moments passed before they separated. Gwen lifted a hand and stroked the scar tenderly, then she chuckled as she gently wiped their lips. "Even now, they just can’t make a lipstick that doesn’t smear during extracurricular activities." Her eyes lit up at the real smile she got from Randi. "You’re gorgeous. I love you."

"I love you too. Shall we go?"

The small hand reached for the larger. "Lead on, love."

The transport pulled to a stop in front of the performing arts theatre, and Gwen turned to Randi with wide eyes. "How did you...? I know this performance was sold out."

During one of their many conversations, they had discovered a mutual love of old musical theatre. And by coincidence, the bard had learned her favorite production was one shared by Randi. When the Sabre had gotten wind of the revival, she had gotten with Tommy, and arranged tickets. Had things not changed, had she not returned from the dead, the tickets for this performance would have been the Marine’s final birthday gift to her bard. Instead, her being alive again had been reason enough for celebration, and she’d held onto the tickets as a surprise.

Now with the chill of fall in the air, they emerged from the warmth of the transport, and moved down the red carpet toward the front doors. Randi gave a brief prayer of thanks for Jill’s foresight in including wraps with their dresses, and then they were entering the warm theatre.

"Happy birthday, Gwen," the warrior whispered into a small ear when she removed the blondes stole from her shoulders. "I know it’s late, but...."

"Having you come back to me was present enough," said with a teary smile. "But this is pretty special too. There is just something about live theatre, especially musical theatre that I find fascinating. Holo programs just aren’t the same."

"Part of it is the performer in you, love. It’s what you do everyday, and this let’s you see what others see when you tell a story." No mention was made of the fact that the bard had yet to return to story telling.

"I guess so. And part of it is the fact that I can’t sing, and to watch them tell a story to music is enthralling." She paused while they entered the box Tommy had secured for them. "Do I want to ask when you arranged all this?" She took a look at the expression on Randi’s face. "That would be a no."

"By the way," Gwen continued, changing the subject. "Did I tell you that I’ve written a couple songs by default?"

The Sabre’s head swiveled around from her observation of the room to lock onto the bard’s green orbs. A dark brow rose in mute question.

"Some of the poetry I wrote." Gwen took a shaky breath. "There was one I asked Greg to put music to... he finished it the day you... died," finished in a bare whisper. "Even though I wouldn’t get the official news for three months, I have never been able to open the disc to hear the finished product."

"Oh, Gwen," taking the bard’s face in her hands and cradling it tenderly. She kissed the closed eyelids. "Maybe one day soon, we can listen to it together."

"I’d like that." She paused as the musicians stepped into the pit and began their warm-up. "Amazing that so much noise will come together as beautiful music shortly. Reminds me of the band. I miss that sometimes."

"Me too. I wondered what happened, but we’ve been so busy, I never really found the right time to ask."

"The guys quit. When you... left, you took the heart of the group with you. I mean, they did try, but it didn’t take long for it to just peter out."

The Marine swallowed hard, but she refused to allow the tears to come. "Well, then, maybe after the wedding, and our honeymoon, we can see about getting the guys back together again."

Gwen started to answer, when the house lights dimmed. Instead, she reached over and clasped Randi’s hand in her own, smiling at the squeeze she received in return. Then she focused her attention on the stage as the music started in at a low rumbling bass, and the narrator’s voice took her off to a land far away, once upon a time.

"That is such a fabulous story, and so timeless. I love ‘Happy Ever After’ endings. Especially since I got one of my very own, and it’s just starting." Gwen looked up with smiling eyes into blue that came back from a thoughtful distance to return her smile. "Where’d you go?" she asked Randi in some concern as they stood to leave the theatre.

"Hmm? Oh, just thinking."

"Feel like sharing?"

Randi glanced at the stage, then back at the bard. "Would she have loved him anyway, if he’d remained a beast?" Her hand self-consciously covered her face.

Gwen reached a hand up, and removed the warrior’s. With the other hand, she drew Randi’s head down to her lips, and gently planted soft kisses along the scar. "Yes," she whispered confidently. "Because she loved the person he was inside. I don’t think what he looked like on the outside really came into play." She smiled up into the Marine’s eyes. "But I meant what I said to you earlier. You’re gorgeous to me, and sexy as hell, and you always will be."

Randi wrapped her arms around the bard in an engulfing embrace. "I love you, Little One. So much."

"I love you too, Stud. Now, let’s go. I’ve got a little surprise for you too." Now, suddenly, her mother’s message made sense. Dinner at 11:30 made much more sense *after* the theatre. She took the Sabre’s hand after wrapping Randi in her cloak, and led her to the waiting transport.

The restaurant was well known to them both, as it was a favorite. The maitre`d greeted them warmly, and by name and exchanged small talk with them as he led them to their preferred table. He seated them both, and signaled the wine steward over. She presented the bottle first to him, and when he nodded, she turned to Gwen. Gwen approved the selection, and when the wine was poured, the maitre`d stated, "Your first course is ready," and motioned their waiters over.

The meal was slow and sumptuous, and they spent it engaging in light-hearted banter, and lively conversation. Randi realized she was falling more in love with Gwen, and shook her head in bemusement. I didn’t think it was possible, but it’s true. Everyday, she captures a little more of my heart, a little more of my soul.

The bard caught the intense expression, and blushed. "Penny for your thoughts, love."

"I was thinking about you," the Marine stated bluntly, "and how I fall more deeply in love with you with every passing moment."

Gwen sat and stared, caught speechless once again by the open honesty of the warrior’s soul laid bare. Instead, she reached out a hand to Randi. "C’mon, love. Let’s go home."

Things didn’t go exactly as either of them had planned, though. They were both exhausted, and fell asleep in the transport on the way back to the cottage. Randi was awakened by the cessation of movement, and reached over to shake the bard awake. Gwen opened sleepy eyes, and lifted her head from the Sabre’s shoulder. "Damn. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to fall asleep."

"No worries, Little One." A chagrined expression crossed her face. "I fell asleep, too. C’mon. I hear a nice soft bed calling our names."

Gwen smiled at the picture, and followed the warrior into the cottage. They undressed one another, trading soft kisses and tender touches before falling in a tangled heap together into the bed. The bard snuggled closer into her favored spot, smiling in the darkness when Randi’s arms tightened around her reflexively. "I love you, warrior mine."

"I love you too, my bard." She yawned then smiled sleepily as she felt Gwen slip into deeper sleep. "Goodnight, love."

"I have a surprise for you." It was early morning, and the couple had spent a few minutes in exploration before Randi spoke. Gwen leaned back away from the Marine, enabling her to gaze deeply into the blue orbs that were looking back at her in adoration. She gently touched the scar before she resumed her light tracing.

"Is it a nice surprise?" with a hint of teasing.

"Well, you can tell me when we’re done," Randi answered with a smile. She rolled out of bed, and reached a hand out toward the bard. "C’mon. We’re meeting your folks in an hour."

Geoff and Jill were ready and waiting when the two women arrived at the medifac. The weapons smith was sitting in his chair neatly dressed, and Jill sat next to him as they watched the news play out on the holo grid. They discussed the various bits as they played through, and Randi was struck again by their friendship, as well as their abiding love. Gwen knocked lightly on the doorframe before calling out.

"Morning, ya’ll."

The Goldmans’ attention turned to their daughters, and they were again struck by the blindingly strong connection that bound them. It was so refreshing for them to see the two women revel in the love they shared instead of hiding from their feelings. Both sent up a silent prayer of gratitude that the friendship had survived, and the love allowed to grow to fruition.

"So," Geoff asked lightly to break the intensity of emotion that seemed to enter the room. "Where are we going today, fearless leader?" addressing Randi with a smirk.

Gwen muffled a giggle at the raised eyebrow the title invoked. It turned into an outright chuckle when the glare swung in her direction. "Watch it, bard," came the growled murmur. With a look at her in-laws, and their indulgent expression, she sighed. "C’mon. I want to show ya’ll a place that used to be a Mecca for people to gather... eons ago."

The holo experience was incredible. The three women stepped from the boat pushing Geoff slightly ahead of them, to emerge at the gate. They were ID’d and admitted into the inner sanctuary, and Randi watched as the three faces took in the amusement park with eyes shining in childish wonder.

"What is this place?" Gwen breathed, turning wondering eyes to face the Sabre.

"It used to be known as the happiest place. I found the program years ago, but it’s very difficult to find the time to devote to visiting here. It takes days. But I thought ya’ll might enjoy a look at how things once were, and what people did for fun hundreds of years ago."

"This is amazing," Jill whispered.

They walked slowly down the only street, being funneled toward the center of the park. It wasn’t too crowded, nor was it empty, for Randi had discovered that empty was no fun, and just a tad bit spooky.

"All this shopping, and we can’t take any of it with us."

The Marine debated on sharing the truth, then relented. "Actually, that’s not entirely true. If you find something you really like, you can put in an order, and it will be waiting in the last shop. Almost like you were a real tourist, in this time and place."

Gwen and Jill’s eyes sparkled in anticipation; Geoff just groaned.

The day passed pleasantly. They took things slowly, in deference to Geoff’s gradually rebuilding reserves. The group visited shops, and rode rides, marveling at the fun to be had on such antiquated attractions. They ate at a themed restaurant, and sat and people watched for a while. They found some more rides, took in two parades, and ended in the upstairs restaurant late that evening watching the fireworks.

"This has been truly spectacular, Randi. I can’t tell you how happy I am that you shared this place with us. Perhaps we can come again another time? Do this again?" Geoff was exhausted, but he couldn’t remember a better day spent with his family in years.

"Oh, you betcha," Randi answered happily. She was cheerfully sharing wisps of cotton candy with her lover, and the contact was sending tingles up her spine. "There are more parks to visit in this time and place, and I always love a trip here."

"Well, this was a lovely way to spend the day. Thank you for sharing this with us, dear."

"You’re welcome, Jill. Let’s get Geoff back to the medifac, then Gwen and I will escort you home."

"You don’t have to do that, dear. I know you need to get back home."

"We will get home when we get home, but we will see you home safely. It is much later than you realize, Jill. We really have spent the entire day here."

"Listen to her, Mama." The bard was comfortably tangled on Randi’s lap, and until she’d heard the firmness in the warrior’s voice, had been distracted from the conversation going on around her by the pleasant stroking sensation of the Sabre’s hands running up her back. "She means business when she speaks in that tone of voice."

Jill looked at the two entwined around each other. They were too cute, and she didn’t want to make them self-conscious of the picture they made. They exuded playful sensuality, which was an incongruous contrast to the seriousness of tone and words. She just shook her head, deciding not to debate the issue. "All right. I would appreciate the escort."

The Goldmans were surprised to find the day they had spent in the holo arena had actually been an entire day of real time. Geoff fell asleep on the short tip back to the medifac, and didn’t even awaken when he was transferred from the chair to his bed.

"Poor baby. This was exhausting for him." She looked at her daughter’s in wonder. "Thank you. He will get a peaceful night’s sleep, and have lots of happy memories from today." Randi and Gwen nodded, but didn’t answer, then left the room to give her privacy to say goodnight. A few minutes passed, and then a few more. The warrior looked at the bard, whose furrowed brow denoted her concern.

"Maybe I should go check on them."

"We’ll go together." Randi stood and extended a hand to the blonde. "C’mon."

Gwen took the proffered hand, and allowed the soldier to pull her up. Their footsteps echoed eerily in the silent hallway, and they came to a halt just outside the weapons smith’s room. The bard raised a hand to cover her mouth, and Randi smiled reflexively at the picture in front of them.

Jill had climbed into the bed with Geoff, and curled up into his chest. They lay asleep in one another’s arms, and the two younger women were loath to disturb them. At that precise moment, an intern came by with a blanket. "It’s not the first time," he whispered, and Gwen took the covering from his hands. Randi took one side of the blanket, and together they covered the older couple. Then they tiptoed out without a backwards glance.

"C’mon, Stud. I’m tired. Let’s go back to the cottage tonight."

"So, was it a nice surprise?" They were coiled around one another in the darkness, and Randi felt a warm lethargy stealing over her. Gwen’s breath warmed the spot above the warrior’s breast when she exhaled.

"It was a wonderful surprise. Thank you for sharing that with me... with us."

"You are most welcome, love. Everything I have, you know that."

"I know. You have no idea how treasured that makes me feel." The blonde smile into the chest beneath her cheek when she felt lips brush a kiss against the top of her head. Silence fell for a time after that, and Randi was teetering on the edge of sleep when Gwen’s voice whispered through her consciousness.

"Randi?"

"Hmm?" She kept her eyes closed.

"What happened to the happy place?"

"A lot of things. Greed, then hatred. And when the war came, well, it was quickly and easily destroyed."

"How horrible!"

"A lot of things about the era were, love. Remember, humankind didn’t really come to an acceptance and understanding of each other until we nearly destroyed ourselves completely." She sighed deeply, thinking of all the ugliness she’d had to combat as a Sabre. "And even today, there are pockets that would love to indulge in the same childish, judgmental behavior."

"Why is that, I wonder?" the bard asked aloud, but mostly to herself.

"Human nature. Upbringing." The warrior sighed. "Some folks just can’t get past the differences to see the similarities."

"That sucks."

"Yeah, it does. But it’s better now than it was then."

Gwen snuggled up closer into the Marine’s arms. "I’m glad we’re here now then." She paused. "But I had a great time today. It must have been an awesome place, once upon a time."

"Yeah, I think it was."

"I love you, Randi," on a whispered sigh that slipped into the deeper, even breathing of sleep.

"I love you too, Little One." She brushed another kiss over the top of the blonde head tucked underneath her chin. "Goodnight, love." Silence settled in the room as two sets of breathing became one in the darkness.

The following week was hectic, and it started the minute they stepped from the shuttle that returned them from the capital.

"Hey, T! What’s up?" Surprisingly, Tommy had met them at the hub. Usually, he just arranged a transport to meet them.

Gwen glared playfully at the warrior, reaching up to hug their friend. "Hi, Tommy. It’s nice of you to meet us." He returned the squeeze and patted the blonde’s back, grinning over her shoulder at the scowling Marine.

Randi just rolled her eyes at the mocking rebuke, and gave the man a quick embrace. "Now," briskly, "what’s wrong? Don’t bother," holding up a hand to forestall any excuses. "I know you well enough to know, so save us all some time and just spill it, ‘k?"

"We have a situation. Nothing horrible, but it needs your personal attention. It’s a little more than the team can deal with without your input and experience."

"I see," the warrior answered thoughtfully. "Well, let’s get to work. You can fill us in on the way, and we’ll see what we can do."

The bard was rubbing the knots of tension from Randi’s neck before the transport arrived at the Midas compound. "This just sucks, T." She rubbed a hand over her face. "All right, I’ll take care it." She turned to Gwen, and lowered her voice so only the bard could hear her. "This is gonna mean some late nights for me for a bit. Are you okay with that?"

"Make it as quick as you can. I’ll be here waiting for you."

The look in her eyes told the Sabre exactly what would be waiting for her when she was done with this project, and she smiled in anticipation. She cradled Gwen’s face tenderly, gazing into the green eyes for a long moment before lowering her head and claiming the bard’s lips for an eternal instant.

"Quick as I can. I promise."

Every night that week found the soldier coming in very late, and literally falling into bed. Twice Gwen had to pull the shoes and pants from Randi’s body and tuck her under the covers. Their weekend plans fell to the wayside; the Marine left town Friday morning, and was gone until Monday afternoon. Still, faithfully, a new flower arrived every morning for Gwen, and she smiled at the thoughts that little gesture evoked.

"You called me, Tommy?" The blonde stuck her head inside the door, and waited for the man to beckon her inside. He did so, and she crossed the threshold, closing the door at his signal.

"You have been very patient, Gwen. I know Randi has been working her ass off, and ya’ll have seen each other a sum total of ten minutes in the last ten days."

She smiled and nodded her head, dropping her eyes. "I’m glad she’s been able to get things straightened out for you, but yeah, I’ve missed her."

"I’ll tell ya what... she should be done, and have everything wrapped up by mid-morning tomorrow. How about if ya’ll take the rest of the weekend? It would give you almost four days of alone time. Now, before you say it, Ella and I are taking the boy up to see your folks this weekend, so they’ll have company. You and Randi will have the island to yourselves."

The mischief grew in Gwen’s eyes. "Oh, I’m liking this idea." She paused. "You’re sure she’ll be done by mid-morning?"

"She’ll be out of here by lunchtime, I guarantee it."

"Thanks, Tommy," crossing to the other side of the desk and giving the man a heartfelt hug.

The following morning, Randi was up and gone before Gwen was even out of bed properly. The bard smiled to herself, knowing the day would not only end their temporary separation, but also be the beginning of their physical renewal. She’d enjoyed the courtship part of their relationship, delighting in the extra care and attention Randi had paid her. She made a silent vow to keep the courtship going long after they were celebrating fifty years together. But the time had come to restore the physical intimacy as well.

It didn’t take long to clean the house. Neither of them were particularly dirty or messy individuals. Setting up took a little longer. She pulled out the jasmine scented candles and placed them strategically around the downstairs, focusing on their bedroom. The bard looked thoughtfully at the small bouquets the floral artist had just left. She hadn’t realized the large variety of flowers Randi had chosen to send her until the florist had put them into several bouquets for her. She set them casually around the room, smiling at the difference the bits of color made.

Satisfied with the setting she’d created for them, Gwen moved into the kitchen and put together some of their favorite finger foods. She slid these and a bottle of Merlot into the fridge to chill, then nodded in contentment. Then she walked to the bathroom to take a cool shower.

Refreshed, she stepped from the enclosure, wrapping the towel around her body. Then she walked to the closet, choosing an emerald silk jersey, and laying a matching sapphire one across the bed for Randi. She lit the candles, and added a dab of perfume, pausing to brush her hair nervously.

"What is up with me?" asking her reflection. "It’s not like this is our first time together." She gazed into the mirror a moment longer without finding an answer and shrugged. The she blew out a breath and opened a link on the vid phone.

It took bare seconds before Randi’s visage filled the screen, and the bard took the time to simply stare at her lover, memorizing the face she adored. When the dark brow arched in amused question, Gwen’s eyes darkened, and her voice went husky.

"Come home."

Her nape hairs were standing on end when Randi realized she was staring at a now darkened screen. She came to abruptly, and pushed away from the desk. She still had a few reports to finish, but.... She audibly closed her computer screens and shut the system down all while preparing to leave. She’d heard her siren call to her, and she was following the song home.

She had her hand on the door when Tommy chose that moment to come see her. One look at her face, and he forgot his question. He simply said, "See you Monday, Randi." She nodded, though the reality of his words would not hit her until sometime early the next morning. He went back to his office with a smile. They really were just too cute together.

The Marine never remembered getting into the transport, nor most of the trip home. It was only as she slowed to wait for the bridge to extend that she realized it was barely mid-morning, and she had left work without so much as a by your leave to anyone. Then she was across the viaduct, and pulling into the garage.

The house was dark and silent as she entered, save for the candles that scented the air. She opened her mouth to call out to Gwen when the bard stepped from the kitchen carrying two glasses of merlot. Gwen never lost the sexiness of her walk or look, though her eyes twinkled at Randi’s open-mouthed reaction to everything.

She set the goblets carefully on the small foyer table, then reached up and drew Randi’s head down until their lips were almost touching. "Welcome home, love," she whispered, before meeting the warrior’s mouth with her own. Randi reacted instantly, wrapping strong arms around the slim body, and drawing the blonde tightly into her. Gwen moaned, and tangled her hands in the dark hair that was curtaining them.

The mutual exploration went on for long minutes before they pulled away by common consent, breathless. "Does this mean...?" the Sabre began.

"C’mon," Gwen replied, slowly unbuttoning the white shirtfront. "Let’s get you into something more comfortable."

The Marine took the proffered hand and willingly followed the blonde to the bedroom, shirttails flapping. She noted the candles and flowers almost absently, as her attentions were focused on the soft touch of her soulmate. Gwen slid the cotton shirt from broad shoulders with a lingering contact of her fingers. She unhooked the bra’s front enclosure, steeling herself for patience, but unable to help the flaring of her nostrils. Randi’s scent wafted to her, and she closed her eyes to steady her resolve, wavering when trembling fingers brushed feather light across her cheek. She opened green to meet ardor darkened blue, and met the Sabre halfway in a passion filled kiss.

Finally, she drew back and swallowed hard. "C’mon," she said, picking up the silk jersey, and holding it for the warrior, "before I change my mind and take you right now."

"Like I’d be complaining over that prospect," Randi smiled. The smile grew into a full-fledged grin at the blush that traveled up the bard’s fair skin. She tilted Gwen’s face up til their eyes met, inhaling deeply at the love and passion that were reflected back at her in those vibrant emerald eyes. "I love you, Gwenievere Goldman. Always."

"And I love you, Miranda Valiant. Forever." Small hands worked the buttons holding the pants on, then gently pushed them down long legs. She marveled at the softness of the skin, coupled with the strength of the muscles she could feel flexing as Randi stepped out of the garments. Gwen nuzzled her face against the smooth belly, causing a chuckle to ripple across the surface. She smiled at the warrior, and buttoned the shirt closed. Then she led the taller woman from the bedroom.

Gwen dropped Randi’s hand for a moment to retrieve their wine, then took the Sabre’s hand again, and escorted her to the nest of pillows she had set up in front of the gentle flicker of the fireplace. She’d adjusted the heat level to minimal so they could enjoy the ambience of the open flame. Randi smiled in delighted response to the change in atmosphere Gwen had affected with a few simple touches.

"Music," the blonde called out, and sound softly started rumbling in the background. The Sabre noticed the words as so much background, but was too preoccupied to notice their significance.

The bard seated the older woman, and set down her goblet. She started to walk away when a strong hand clamped around her calf. She leaned down, only to find herself drawn in by the intense blue gaze. Then her lips were captured, and she sank down into the warrior’s warm embrace.

The world faded out, as they found themselves awash in the sensations of sound and scent and touch. Gone were all thoughts of courting and settings. Instead they fell into the love and joy they felt being together as one again, and when skin finally met skin, twin moans resonated in the room.

Randi’s gaze lingered on the body she craved, and she moved to make it her own once more, when with a look and a touch, Gwen stopped her. "Let me love you," came the whispered words from the bard’s lips. "Please."

The warrior surrendered control then, offering herself up into the Gwen’s tender loving care. The soft touches were distracting and invigorating and stimulating all at once. Randi tried to keep coherent thought, but quickly lost the battle as Gwen moved her mouth down one side of her neck. The bard’s hands traveled lightly over the warrior’s torso, starting at her shoulders and lingering on her breasts. Randi arched up to meet the stroking, and Gwen smiled in pleasure at the reaction to her touch.

She lifted her head then, meeting the glowing blue eyes with her own shining green. Words weren’t necessary, as their souls communicated, and Randi lifted the bard back up to claim her lips passionately. The two stayed locked together for long moments, til the bard pulled away to trace the path her hands had begun. It was a very long time before the tray of finger foods made its way out of the refrigerator.

They were lying on the pillows in front of the fireplace with an afghan thrown over them. Gwen had turned the heat back up in deference to the cooling temperatures, but snuggling up naked together felt pretty damned good too. Randi snagged another tiny sandwich that she graciously split with the bard, before leaning back and regarding the flames.

"I love you."

Gwen smiled in reaction to the shivers her caress caused on Randi’s still sensitive skin. She looked up in surprise when a large hand covered her own, causing it to still.

"I love you and... gods... what your, um touch... oh, is doing to me. Wait, please."

The pleading in the blue eyes caused the bard to cease her movements and look at Randi fully. "Love?"

"I want to talk to you a minute, and I can’t think when you’re driving me to distraction with your touch."

"Ooookaay," drawing the word out, wondering where this was going.

The Sabre gripped the ring that still hung from the chain around Gwen’s slim neck. She looked at the symbol for a very long moment, before lifting somber eyes to meet Gwen’s questioning ones. "Why don’t you wear this anymore? I know you keep it around your neck, but...." She looked down at her own ring still on her hand. "It’s not the same thing to me." She swallowed and took a deep breath. "Have you changed your mind?"

A small hand rose and covered the fingers that clenched around the chain. She stroked the tightened fist until it relaxed, and she clasped the larger hand in her own. "Oh no, Stud. You don’t get away from me that easily. I don’t want you just for tonight, or tomorrow. You belong to me forever. I thought I just showed you that." She reached down her free hand and traced the planes of Randi’s face. The warrior closed her eyes reflexively and absorbed the touch. "I can see you’ll need regular reassurance on that," and here she smiled impishly, "that I’ll be more than happy to provide."

Randi heard the teasing in the bard’s voice, and had to open her eyes to smile up into the green that twinkled back at her. "Oh, you will, huh?"

"Oh yeah. This is a lifetime assignment, ya know."

"No love, it’s an eternal project."

Gwen smiled a full-blown smile at the words. "That is such an awesome thought."

Seriousness returned to the conversation. "Then...?" lifting the ring so it was between them at almost eye level.

The bard looked down focusing on nothing for a long minute while she organized her thoughts. When she looked back up into Randi’s face, the Marine had to draw in a deep breath at the love, pain and just the tiniest bit of confusion she saw there.

"When I had to take this off," Gwen’s voice was low and Randi had to strain to hear it. "It hurt me so deeply, in places I hadn’t realized were filled by you." She looked up shyly at her lover. "I promised myself, right before Ben stole my life, that only you would be the one to put the Soulmates’ ring back on me again. Keeping it around my neck kept it close to my heart in the meantime." She paused, looking down again. "I thought you’d put it on me again on our wedding day. Because it’s not coming off again."

The Sabre smiled at Gwen’s firm tone and the determination apparent in those emerald eyes. She slid her hand from Gwen’s clasp, then slipped the Soulmates’ ring from her finger. Without a word, she unhooked the chain around her own neck, and dropped the ring onto it. The Marine fastened the necklace back, and looked at the blonde with shining eyes. "Fair is fair, my bard. You will put it on me once more, on our wedding day, and it will never come off again in this lifetime."

For an answer, Gwen leaned back down and captured the warrior’s lips with her own, and the world faded out again for a long while.

Afternoon shadows were creeping in the windows when Randi opened sleepy blue eyes. She smiled down at the blonde head pillowed on her chest. Then groaned silently at the crick she could feel in her back. Before she could begin to stretch it out, small hands tightened around her waist, and the bard mumbled. "You okay, love?"

"Um, yeah. I think so. Just a little, um...."

"Stiff? Sore?"

"Yeah."

Gwen blinked her eyes opened, which caused an unexpected chuckle to ripple through the body beneath her. She rose up and cast a questioning look in Randi’s direction.

"Sorry... butterfly kisses tickle."

The blonde frowned in confusion for a minute, before her brow cleared and she chuckled. "Always useful information to have." She lifted herself up, stretching her own kinks out, much to the warrior’s appreciative delight. "C’mon. I think a hot shower and a massage will solve that little problem, and then we can fix some dinner."

Randi took the proffered hand, and let Gwen pull her up from their nest. Now it was the bard’s turn to admire the Sabre’s body. Randi blushed then grinned rakishly, causing the bard to blush in turn.

"Oh, God... you have magic hands."

Gwen smiled in pleasure, continuing the firm massage. "And you’re all knots right here."

"I know," grunting painfully when the bard hit a particularly sore spot. "I fell asleep in a really weird position." The dark head turned so she could look into Gwen’s face. She smiled. "It was worth it, though."

The blonde didn’t say a word, but her eyes lit up in happiness. It was quiet for a few minutes, while the warrior relaxed under Gwen’s touch. Then a thought occurred to her, and she moved into a half-sitting position. The bard moved her hands to the broad shoulders, and leaned into her back, whispering into her ear.

"Randi?"

A pleasant tingling sensation skittered up and down her spine, and the Marine savored their renewed physical connection for a moment. Then she opened her eyes, and met the bard’s at close range. She licked the nose, and laughed when Gwen scrunched it up in reaction. Then she flipped onto her back, and pulled the startled bard into her arms and held her in a long hug.

"Umm," Gwen sighed happily as she returned the embrace fervently. "This is probably my favorite place in the whole world." Randi didn’t respond verbally, merely tightening her hold briefly.

"Gwen, what was the music that was playing earlier? It was... almost... familiar. I...."

For answer, the bard simply said, "Music," and the song that had teased at the edges of Randi’s consciousness came into focus.

The music continued but again became so much sound as Randi’s focus turned to her soulmate, whose soft sobs the Sabre felt wracking her own frame. Hot tears fell onto her skin, and she squeezed the smaller woman tightly to her in a gesture of comfort. Gwen took a shuddering breath, and raised a hand to wipe the wetness from her face, then from the broad chest beneath her head.

"Oh, love," the Marine whispered.

"I sat up one night, shortly before that fateful evening, just thinking about us. About the direction we seemed to be headed in. I remember sitting down to write out the pros and cons of just going with what felt so, so wonderful when we were together." She chuckled ruefully through the tears still in her eyes in remembrance. "Imagine my surprise when I looked down and found this finished instead. I don’t even recall writing it... still don’t, actually. But it seemed to sum up everything I was struggling with."

Gwen sat up and pulled the warrior up with her. Randi obligingly slid back against the headboard and cradled the bard against her chest. Gwen sighed in blissful contentment, simply absorbing the love that surrounded her before continuing her tale.

"Anyway, the next day I called Greg to see if he could set it to music for me. I wanted to surprise you with it. I was almost sure you would welcome the message. Of course, we were so busy those last few days, and he didn’t have time to get it done before the ceremony." She smiled sadly. "He told me at the party the night before that he would get to work on it the next week. He already had an idea of the melody line he wanted, and he expected to have it done and recorded for me fairly quickly. He was as good as his word."

The storyteller paused briefly, and Randi rubbed her back comfortingly. "You don’t have to say any more, Little One. I can feel how agonizing this is for you." The older woman reflected on the truth of that statement, but was brought up short by Gwen’s response.

"No, love. You deserve to know the whole story, and I think it will help me to get this out." The dark head nodded once, and Gwen sighed.

"When I woke up that morning," looking at Randi who understood just exactly what morning she meant, "I reached out to call Greg, to tell him not to bother." Blue eyes grew wide, and Gwen confirmed the thoughts racing behind them. "I was that sure you were gone from me forever. The emptiness...."

Now Randi’s eyes filled with tears at the agony her bard had suffered through, and she cast another prayer to Aphrodite for allowing them this second chance. "What happened?" she whispered when she realized Gwen was waiting for a response before she continued.

"He called me," she answered quietly. "He had been so inspired by us together during the ceremony and our first dance, that he wrote the music during the dancing. He had recorded it that morning." She smiled through the tears. "What could I do? I accepted it gracefully, and put it away, telling him I would share it with you at our first opportunity to hear it together. He never asked about it again."

"Well, remind me to tell him what an incredible job he did when we see him. You wrote beautiful words, my bard. Thank you for sharing them with me. Now, c’mon. I can feel your tummy rumbling, and I’m starving."

"How’s your back?" They were curled up together on the couch after dinner. Or more accurately, Gwen was curled up in Randi’s lap, and the warrior was obligingly wrapped around her.

"What back?" smiling into the blonde head tucked underneath her chin. "Oh, that... no problem." Not that I’d admit if it were killing me, if it meant I had to give this up. "Though," stretching and shifting until she could gather the almost asleep bard in her arms, "the bed would be more comfortable."

"Why is my mattress moving?" Gwen slapped at the chest that was rocking with silent chuckles. "Bad mattress."

"Here," setting the bard on the edge of the bed, and watching her fall gracefully onto her side. "Well, that wasn’t what I had in mind exactly," with another small laugh. Randi pulled one side of the coverlet down, and reached for the bard. Gwen smiled now, though she still didn’t open her eyes.

"C’mon, Stud," crawling up, and sliding under the cover, lifting the other side for the Marine to join her. "It’s bedtime for warriors and bards."

Randi slipped into place, smiling in the darkness when Gwen naturally gravitated to her place without ever opening her eyes. Life was very sweet.

Randi woke with a smile on her face, to the light stroking she’d become accustomed to. She sent a prayer of thanks to Aphrodite, and realized it was the second time in less than twenty-four hours she’d done that. The smile grew to a grin, when she recognized that she had so much to be thankful for.

"Why are you smiling like a Cheshire cat?"

"I am just counting my blessings."

Aphrodite looked down on the couple and smiled. "You are both most welcome, my friends. I hope it will be enough to see you through the times ahead."

"Have faith, sister. Their bond is strong."

"Yeah, well it’s gonna need to be."

The trio returned to observing the scrying bowl, smiling simultaneously at the picture they saw there.

Randi really wasn’t sure it was a good idea, given the time of year and all, but Gwen was so excited about it that she held her tongue and packed up the overnight duffle. "You have your jacket? It could get chilly before nightfall."

"Yep, thanks." She hugged the warrior impulsively. "This is gonna be so much fun."

Randi didn’t answer that. Instead she said, "C’mon. Let’s go get Carbon and get on the road. You up for lunch at Rosie’s?"

"You ever known me to turn her barbeque down?"

Laughing, they went out to the motorcycle, and headed to Tommy and Ella’s.

Carbon howled piteously when they pulled up, running spraddle-legged on his short legs toward them. Randi reached down and scooped the puppy into her arm, wrapping the other around her bard as they made their way toward the Steele manse. Ella stood waiting at the open door, smiling at the picture they made together.

"Good morning, you two. C’mon in."

Randall squealed with delight when he saw them, waving bits of his waffle around the room. "Wuv! Wen!"

"Hey, there boy!" She kissed the top of his head while deftly avoiding his sticky breakfast. "You being good for your mama?

"Goo’ boy," trying to talk and eat simultaneously. It wasn’t working very well.

"So," Tommy asked as he entered the room. "What are ya’ll up to today? I didn’t expect to hear from you the entire weekend, to say nothing of this early this morning." He smiled at the look of joy that passed between them. Their bond had become an almost palpable thing.

"We are going camping." The man’s brown eyes met the blue of the Marine over the blonde head.

Randi merely shrugged her shoulders and grinned sheepishly at him. What Gwen wants, Gwen gets. This was something Gwen really wanted to try and it was within her power to provide the real experience the bard craved. He just chuckled silently at the ease with which Gwen had wrapped the Sabre around her little finger. Not something he’d ever held out hope to see in this lifetime. He was damned glad it had happened for the two of them.

"Well, Gwen," Tommy said, answering her statement. "I hope ya’ll have a really nice time together out there. I did the real outdoorsy thing once, and swore I’d never camp outside a holo environment again."

"That bad?" He was giving the blonde serious second thoughts.

"Let’s just say that the experience didn’t work well for me. But you," he added, trying to rid the blue eyes of the daggers they were shooting at him. "You have an expert to guide you. I was in a bad situation, and forced to make due and get by."

"Really?" Gwen relaxed. "You’ll have to share the tale with me someday."

"Perhaps one day, but ya’ll need to be getting started, yes?"

Baleful eyes pinned him for a moment longer before the soldier relented. "Yeah, we should. I have a special place in mind."

"Ya’ll be careful, huh?"

"Yep. We’ll be home sometime tomorrow, probably." Not stating that the possibility was there for an earlier return. He understood well what she wasn’t saying. Just then, Ella stepped from the kitchen.

"Here," handing them a small bundle. "You’ll need something for supper at least. Take this to go with it."

Gwen reached out a hand and took the package. "Thanks, Ella. This is going to be so much fun." The older woman had her doubts, but didn’t express them, merely smiling encouragement and agreeing.

"Ya’ll have a good time. I expect to hear a great story after this adventure, all right?" The bard nodded in concurrence, as this was one hope she shared. Her stories hadn’t yet returned to her fully, though she was beginning to weave bits and pieces for her warrior when they were alone together. Randi never pushed, but listened to and encouraged her whenever the opportunity presented itself. Slowly, she felt the pieces beginning to come back together. Her eyes sparkled in anticipation.

The first part of the morning was spent riding across familiar paths, catching faint hints of fall fruits. The apple orchard was sweet; by contrast, the orange grove was spicy. Gwen took a deep breath, letting her lungs fill with both tantalizing aromas. They weren’t in any hurry, and stopped several times just to stretch their legs. Twice they took unexplored roads a ways, just to see where they led. All in all, it was a fun and happy morning, and they were both in a relaxed state of being when they pulled up at the barbeque stand for a bit of lunch.

Rosie’s place was very busy, and there wasn’t much time for chitchat between them. She did manage to have a brief conversation with the couple. It managed to reassure the shamaness that things were indeed back on track for them, and for that fact, she was exceedingly grateful. She observed them slyly while taking care of her other guests, glad to see the playfulness had returned to them. She sighed when the two women waved goodbye, and headed out again.

They spent the remainder of the day riding aimlessly, no destination in mind. Just enjoying the time together, and the fresh air and sunshine. As sunset approached, though, Randi turned the bike purposely toward their favorite grotto, and shortly, the two were setting up camp for the night. Several times Gwen thought she had the ground cleared sufficiently to be comfortable, but each time she managed to find another rock she missed. She was a little bruised, and more than a little frustrated when Randi suggested a walk to the nearby spring.

The fall flowers were bountiful along the water’s edge, and the bard took a few minutes just to absorb the peace and beauty that abounded in this place. It soothed her heart and soul, and promptly took her mind off the aggravations that setting up their campsite had caused. She so wanted this to be successful. The blonde knew as a Sabre, Randi had been camping many times, and she suspected it was part of the Amazon training as well. And for reasons she didn’t stop to dissimilate, it was an experience she needed to share with the warrior.

Gwen breathed in deeply, smiling in contentment when Randi walked up behind her and wrapped strong arms around her, resting her dark head on the bard’s blonde one. "It’s so peaceful here. So soothing."

"I think it is the sound of running water. There is just something about it that is comforting to the soul." The soldier paused. "For me at any rate. Always has been. Even on the worst of missions." She fell silent, and Gwen wondered where she had gone. She turned in Randi’s arms, and circled her waist.

"Hey, you all right?"

The Sabre shook her head, and focused her gaze on the green eyes looking up at her. "Um hmm. Just thinking. It happens sometimes. I can’t seem to help it." She quirked a half grin at the bard.

"Thinking, you mean?" Gwen chuckled. "Honey, with your mind, you can’t help but think. C’mon. I’m starving."

Randi didn’t have a response to the first part of the conversation, so she answered the second. "Now there’s a big surprise. Oof!" as she was backhanded in the guts. "Well, it’s true," ducking away from the second playful cuff. "Heh... you missed," stepping away from the bard, whose eyes were twinkling with mock outrage, and real mirth.

She saw Gwen’s intent to lunge a mere second before she did, and was able to dodge the small body by a hairsbreadth. She laughed out loud when the bard came after her, and the chase was on. Carbon, recognizing a game when he saw one, joined in as fast as his tiny little legs would carry him. As darkness fell, laughter rang out over the campsite.

Finally, winded, the two collapsed down on the ground in front of the small fire they’d built. The puppy dropped panting beside them. They had heat sticks for the tent, but there was something about an open flame that was comforting, and besides....

"Randi," the bard called, slapping at yet another bug. "Aren’t the bugs supposed to be gone?"

"Not necessarily. It hasn’t really been cold enough yet," swatting at her own nuisances.

"Well, that just sucks." The bard retrieved their dinner, and handed out Randi’s portion to her. The warrior sat down next to her bard, wincing as tender flesh met another protruding rock. She reached around, and pulled it from under the cushion they were seated on, throwing it nonchalantly into the outer darkness. They ate their food in silence, occasionally batting away the annoying bugs that seemed to find a way past the field that had been set up to keep them out.

"Maybe this wasn’t such a good idea." The bard’s subdued voice was suddenly loud in the quiet that had fallen over them.

Randi looked over at the defeated slouch apparent in Gwen’s body language. "C’mere," giving the blonde a tug, who with a squawk fell tumbling into the Sabre’s willing and waiting arms. The blonde brow lifted in question, but Gwen found herself mesmerized by the blue depths so close to her. The green eyes dropped to the warrior’s parted lips, then glanced back into the now partially closed eyes. She leaned forward, into Randi’s body, and caught her lips passionately. Then pulled back abruptly at the ominous rumble of approaching thunder.

The bard’s head dropped on to the Sabre’s leather covered chest. "This is not going at all how I imagined it would."

Randi smiled down into the blonde her cradled on her chest. "Well, life is like that sometimes. I can’t tell you the number of times we had snafus when we were out like this. It happens. C’mon," getting to her feet and carrying Gwen along with her. "I think I can make this be more like what you imagined."

It didn’t take long to pack up, and they just beat the rain. It chased them all the way home, and the first drops fell as they pulled underneath the front portico. Randi hesitated, then left the bike parked. "No point getting soaked. She’ll stay dry here."

Gwen smiled at the Marine’s use of the female pronoun, but said nothing as she keyed the lock. She set the hastily packed equipment near the door, waiting to see what Randi was going to do. Carbon was too tired to care. He promptly trotted to his spot in front of the fireplace, and sank into his bed. With a sniff and a sigh, he closed his eyes, and curled his tail around his nose. The bard watched in surprise as the Sabre walked to the security panel and keyed in a code. Then watched in amazement as the far side of the living room converted into a holo suite

"How? Why? But...."

"This has always been here. I just rarely use it. We’ve always had something going on together, and until last weekend with your folks, I hadn’t been on a holo journey in years. However, I think we might want to utilize this a little more often now." She grinned rakishly, and the bard smiled and blushed at the implications apparent in the warrior’s look and tone.

"For now though...." Randi keyed in a set of commands, and waited for the system to indicate its readiness. Then she held out a hand, which the bard instinctively took. "I think this is more like you imagined."

They stepped out of the beach house, and into their clearing, only this time there were no rocks, no bugs and no rain. Gwen smiled at the setting. Randi had even made it late spring, so the air was scented with the perfume of flowers, and the temperature was pleasantly warm.

"This is wonderful," Gwen complimented the Sabre. "But I would still like to do the real camping experience with you someday."

"Why?"

"I... I dunno. I just... it seems to be such a part of who you are, or who you were, and there’s a part of me that wants to share that. It feels like the thing to do... it feels right for us to be together like that."

Randi smiled at the somewhat circular logic the bard was using. "I’ll tell you what. You come lay down here beside me," indicating the sleeping bags spread by the small fire. "And we’ll do some star chasing together. We’ll see what we can do about the other later."

"I’d like that," Gwen replied shyly, and lay down within the circle of the warrior’s strong embrace. "It’s a bear."

"A bear? Where do you see a bear? It’s a ladle."

"C’mon, love. Don’t you see the ears, and the tail?" gesturing at the sky overhead. Randi smiled affectionately, and the eternal debate began anew.

The next two days passed quietly for the couple. They spent a bit of time with Carbon, teaching him the basics in obedience. Randi marveled at the way the pup took to the training and to Gwen.

"Looks like you’ve got a new admirer," the Marine gently teased. Carbon had persistently followed the bard’s footsteps to the point of tripping her up twice. The first time she managed to avoid falling by hopping lightly over the ball of fur. The second time she wasn’t quite so lucky, and she could feel herself falling hard and fast. She closed her eyes and prayed.

Without warning, she felt herself caught and held by something soft, and she kept her eyes closed as she greedily inhaled the heady scent of her soulmate. "You all right?" the low voice growled in her ear, sending shivers up and down her spine.

"I’m just perfect, thank you."

A chuckle rumbled through the surface beneath her, and she smiled sympathetically. "You wanna let me down now?" opening her eyes, and admiring the Marine’s strong profile.

"No, not really. I kinda like having you here."

"Well, I really like being here. But I don’t think he’s gonna stop barking until he gets to see for himself I’m okay." The bard fully expected Randi to set her on her feet. Instead, the Sabre knelt, and let the puppy give Gwen a thorough face washing.

"AUGH! Carbon! Stop... that tickles! Carbon! Randi!"

The warrior stood then, causing the pup to drop from his perch on Gwen’s shoulder, and the storyteller to stand. Carbon cocked his head and lolled out his tongue, looking obnoxiously pleased with himself. The soldier choked back a laugh at his comical expression. "He is just too cute."

The bard stepped closer, noticing the hitch in Randi’s breathing. "Not nearly as cute as you are."

"Oh no, my bard," her voice dropped, and she watched the goose bumps travel up the arms now wrapped around her neck. The Marine’s hands fell naturally to the small of Gwen’s back, and eliminated the remaining space between them. "I am not now, nor have I ever been CUTE."

Gwen took in the passion darkened eyes, the beautifully planed face, and the well-muscled body touching hers along its length. She sighed, and pulled Randi lips down within reach of her own. "You’re right," watching a flash of hurt pass through the blue eyes at her swift agreement until they caught the twinkle in her own. "You’re gorgeous." Then she didn’t give the warrior time to respond, as she drew the waiting lips to meet hers.

The kiss went on for long moments, the two completely lost in one another until....

"Gwen," whispered.

"Yeah?" equally quietly.

"He’s staring at us." The canine hadn’t moved, but now focused on them with a determinedly perplexed look on his furry face. It was cute, but unnerving at the same time.

The bard giggled helplessly, and dropped her head onto Randi’s chest. "We’re gonna have to teach him about privacy." She felt the Sabre’s body shake in response. "For now though...."

Gwen picked up the puppy, and placed him in his bed near the dark fireplace. "Stay," she told him seriously. He sighed, ears drooping, as he settled his head on his paws. "Now," linking her hands with the larger ones of the warrior. "Where were we?"

Randi pulled the slim body into her own, and sighed in contentment. "Right about here," ducking her head and capturing the bard’s lips expertly. Gwen wound her arms around the Marine’s neck, and Randi took that as her cue to lift the startled blonde into her arms. The storyteller wrapped her legs around the Sabre’s waist, never noticing when they passed from the living room into the bedroom. Carbon closed his eyes, and reconciled himself to waiting for a while.

Monday morning found them heading back to Midas. They’d talked to Geoff and Jill the previous afternoon, making arrangements for the Goldmans to join them the following weekend. It would be Geoff’s first trip since the accident, and they’d spent quite some time getting all the details in place.

"I’ll be glad to see your folks here."

"Me too. I have a lot to be thankful for this Blessings Day."

The warrior reached out a hand and caressed Gwen’s smooth cheek. "So do I. Have I told you today how much I love you? How much I love being with you?"

The bard’s breath caught in her throat. "Yes, but it never hurts to hear it again." She swallowed. "No one can possibly understand how incredible it feels to love you, and be loved by you."

"That goes double for me, Little One. C’mon, let me walk you to class. We’ve got work to do."

She left the storyteller outside her classroom with a brush of her lips on Gwen’s knuckles, though she really wanted to take the smaller woman into her arms and just.... And where exactly did this sudden, overwhelming desire for PDA’s come from, hmm? She shook her head to clear it, then knocked on Tommy’s door.

"Enter," he beckoned, and she took him at his word, shutting the door solidly behind her. He raised an eyebrow in question. The closed door indicated serious discussion. "What’s up? You look great... the weekend was good to you." Then he grinned as the blush crawled slowly up her face, only to have his own face turn red at her matter-of-fact response.

"No, Gwen was good to me... very, very good, in point of fact. Thank you for noticing."

He cleared his throat, hoping the heat in his face would die down before the hair fried off his head. "Ahem, yes, well... what can I do for you, short stuff?"

Her manner turned serious, and he folded his hands on top of his desk, poised to listen. "How much influence do you have with the Festival Event Planning Committee? The one that does the musical storytelling broadcast Festival morning?"

His brow crinkled. "Well, I know them all by first name. I don’t know that that constitutes influence. Why do you ask?"

"I want you to suggest that they invite Gwen to be this year’s bard." She didn’t look at him when she spoke, and her voice was pitched so low he almost didn’t hear her. In fact, he looked at her in silence for several very long seconds before his mind wrapped around the words his ears had heard her speak. Then he cleared his throat, trying to determine the best way to answer the Marine.

"Um, Randi... you are aware that Gwen hasn’t told a story in more than eighteen months? Not by choice, but because of an inability to do so."

The dark haired woman jumped from her seat, pacing around the room in agitation at his words and the immediate implication. She walked to the window, looking out at the bard’s classroom across the courtyard. "She’s started writing again, Tommy. And she’s started telling me bits of stories she’s coming up with. It’s good stuff, T. Her muse is returning. I think this would give her the push she needs to force it out. It’s there, brother. I’ve seen it... I’ve heard it. She just needs a reason and the confidence to let it live again."

"And putting her into a position where she is forced to perform publicly accomplishes this how, exactly?"

"The Festival reading is just that... a reading. She can choose to tell it, or simply read it from the scrolls. But it puts her in front of an appreciative audience, and helps build her confidence. It shows her that she still has what it takes."

"What if it doesn’t, hmm? What is she freezes? What if she fails?"

"It will, and she won’t. I will be right beside her every step of the way."

Now the man turned a shocked visage toward the window, and Randi’s back. The few times he had ever seen her step away from her fiercely guarded privacy had been on Gwen’s behalf. She was serious about this then, and as had always been the case between them, he couldn’t deny her what was in his power to provide.

"I’ll ask, Randi. But you have to understand this is a fairly late request. It is very possible that she won’t even be considered, much less invited."

"Thanks, Tommy," turning from the window to look at him squarely. He noticed the tear tracks, but didn’t say a word. He waited for her to continue speaking.

"She doesn’t know I asked you this. I’d appreciate it if this stayed between the two of us."

"You know it will, little sister."

"Thanks, T. You’re the best."

"Anytime, Randi," opening the door for her as she reached it. Then he moved back to his desk to make a few vid calls, crossing his fingers and whispering a prayer as the first signal went through.

When lunchtime came, Randi was waiting outside Gwen’s door astride Excalibur, picnic basket in hand. "Hey adorable. Can I talk you into sharing lunch with me?"

The bard held a carnation to her nose, looking up at the warrior from underneath fair lashes. "I believe I could be persuaded," she replied teasingly. "What’s involved?"

Randi grinned rakishly, ignoring the students who were loitering, and doing their damnedest not to be caught staring. "A little food, a little wine, a blanket, you, me and some quiet time alone together. Whaddya say?"

Gwen lifted her arm, waiting for the Marine to help her into the saddle. "I say," whispering into the now nearby ear, "what are we waiting for?" She licked the ear for good measure, chuckling when Randi shivered in response. "Let’s go, Stud," wrapping her hands firmly around the trim waist in front of her.

"Yah!" was all Randi said in answer. And the stallion moved out at a gallop.

"This was a wonderful idea." The bard was leaned back against Randi’s chest, looking out over the small lake that sat on Midas property. The Sabre was reclined against the backing of a low-slung chair designed for just such a purpose. She’d dug it out of her military equipment for their erstwhile camping trip, and had brought it along when this impulse overcame her. She was glad now she’d followed the whim, and smiled down happily at the blonde woman in her arms. Randi tickled Gwen’s belly, eliciting an outraged squeak from the bard, and getting her a raised eyebrow glare.

"Mm hmm, it’s beautiful out today."

"Randi, even if it hadn’t been perfect out, this still would have been a great idea. I am having the best time just being with you. One day, soon, I am going to have the words again to be able to tell you just exactly what all this, and having you here with me again means to me."

"I know you will love. I have great good faith in your gift. And when your muse starts talking again, I’m betting she’s gonna have a lot to say for a very, very long time."

Gwen didn’t answer, but snuggled deeper into the warrior’s encompassing embrace.

The next few days were spent in like manner, except for the picnic, as rain moved in and settled down with a vengeance. Evenings were spent quietly... preparing the boathouse for the Goldmans’ arrival, and making some minor modifications to the beach house. Carbon was mesmerized by the activity, and stayed under foot constantly. So they spent a portion of every afternoon playing with him so he was happy to rest in his basket when they needed to work.

By Thursday night, things were ready for the parent’s arrival the following day. The women were thankful for the three-day weekend. They were looking forward to the time spent with family.

"Whose idea was this anyway?" the bard grumbled into the pre-dawn darkness. "God is not even up at this time of day." Gwen was mostly upset because they’d barely had time to get ready to meet her folks, and she’d missed her ritual tracing that morning. She wondered if Randi missed it as well. Her question was answered before she could voice it.

"Your mother wanted to get in and have a chance to rest before Temple later this morning. It will also give us some time to cuddle when we get home." She clasped the bard’s fingers lightly, and brushed them with her lips. "I missed our time together this morning."

Gwen smiled as she returned the kiss with a smile. "Me too. One reason I’m so grumpy, I think. Of course, starting out running late didn’t help either." She smirked, then grew thoughtful. "Wonder why they didn’t just come in last night."

"Probably has something to do with Geoff’s reserves level. Starting the day here, he can rest as he goes along. But if he had therapy and renewal sessions yesterday, I’m sure he was drained by the end of the day."

"I guess you’re right. Hadn’t thought about that. Glad you had them come to the private pad, though, and got this larger transport for their stay." The bard would have said more, but just then, the transport landed, and their concern turned toward getting Geoff and Jill back to the boathouse.

Hugs went around the group. Randi was happy to see the strength returning, albeit slowly, to the weapons smith, and the lines of pain and exhaustion fading. Though she wouldn’t for the world have had this happen intentionally, she was glad to see his determination to overcome the obstacle winning out.

The four didn’t talk much, agreeing to wait until after they’d rested and been to Temple before starting conversations that once begun would take hours to complete. Instead, Gwen and Randi got the older couple settled, and went back to their own bedroom.

The bard raised a hand to the warrior’s face, tenderly following the lines and planes of the features she knew so well. She felt Randi smile in the near darkness, then gasped at the tingle that ran up her spine when the Marine kissed her palm and sucked two fingers into her mouth. Gwen leaned up on an elbow, catching the twinkle in the blue eyes in the faint light. She leaned down then, replacing her fingers with her tongue, and luxuriating as the warrior’s arms cocooned her in their embrace. The bard let her fingers begin tracing down the strong body beneath her own, and their world narrowed to the touches and scents and feelings shared between them.

They were a striking quartet as they entered the temple. The older couple entered first. Geoff sat erect in his chair, and Jill guided it smoothly with one hand. He wore a dark gray suit, complimenting the rich burgundy of her dress. Behind them followed their daughters. The Marine wore a deep brown leather overcoat, which covered chocolate leather pants, and forest green silk shirt. The cinnamon dress Gwen wore flattered her beautifully. The gold thread it was shot through with picked up highlights in her hair, and it went well with Randi’s colors nicely.

Tommy and Ella were already there, and Randall squealed when he saw them. "Best if I take him to the nursery. We won’t hear a thing otherwise." The man started to stand when Randi stopped him, holding out her arms.

"Let me have him. He’ll be good for me, won’t you boy?"

The child leaped into her waiting embrace, and looked up at her solemnly. He nodded, the wrapped his childish arms around the soldier’s neck. "Wuv Wuv." Then he settled back, content now to simply watch the activity taking place around them.

The service was brief, then broke up to allow individuals an opportunity to visit the prayer rooms privately. Ella knew without asking Randi wanted some time, and reached out her hands for her son. Randall protested loudly, but calmed again when the Marine turned The Look his way and spoke to him in a no-nonsense tone of voice. The mother in her watched the change in amazement, and made a mental note to try that approach with him in the days to come.

Randi took the storyteller’s hands in her own, and raised a brow. A nod was her only answer, and they made their way together to one of the small rooms. A particularly small room, that Randi remembered clearly rushing out of almost five months earlier, headlong into her future.

The remainder of their small group watched them disappear into the alcove, then Geoff turned to Jill. "I’m gonna go find me a room for a few minutes."

"Me too, actually. Meet you back here, sweetheart?"

"Yep. Thanks, honey." She nodded her acceptance, understanding very well what he was thanking her for.

Tommy looked at Ella and then at the Goldmans. "We’re gonna head back to the island. We’ll meet ya’ll at the beach house shortly." The older couple agreed, and moved off toward the small rooms off the main sanctuary.

Geoff found himself comfortably ensconced, and focusing on the flame that burned brightly on the small altar. He composed himself, then began his prayer.

Goddess Athena,

He sat there for long moments, his head bowed in reverence, and the tears falling from his eyes. He would have sworn he felt a soft touch on his head, but when he looked up there was nothing to be seen in the room, save for the flame that continued to burn brightly.

Jill stepped into the small room, and knelt before the altar with bowed head before standing and lighting several candles, offering a thanks to a different goddess with each one.

Thanks be to Hestia, for the hearth and home I share.

Again the woman knelt, closing her eyes in meditation and contemplation.

The priestess who ushered them into the tiny room, nodded solemnly at Randi, and closed the door for privacy as she left. Gwen looked around in a bit of surprise, wondering at the placement of a cot and table and chairs in a prayer room. The Marine answered the unspoken question in the green eyes as she glanced around the room.

"Four and a half months ago, I came to in this room, trying to figure out why I was here and how to get home to you. So close, and still so far away." Gwen looked around the room with newly appreciative eyes. The warrior seated the smaller woman on the cot, and knelt at her feet.

"I am so thankful, Gwen... for you. For the second chance we’ve been given. For the love we share, and the future we have to look forward to together." She lifted both hands, and cradled the bard’s face tenderly. "So today I give thanks to Aphrodite, Athena and Artemis for the miracle of restored life. For the opportunity of second chances. For friends who accept the possibility of miracles without asking for reasonable explanations." She paused and swallowed, closing her eyes and savoring the bard’s touch when Gwen reached out a hand to stroke her face.

"Mostly, though I am thankful for you, my love. And for the difference you have made in my life," Randi finished reverently.

"I am thankful for the fact that you are here and whole and with me. That you chose to suffer and come back to me because you knew how badly I needed you. So to the goddesses who made it possible, I offer up my most humble thanks. It has made all the difference to me, and I don’t know that I will ever be able to really show my true appreciation for the gift we have been given."

"Love one another, babe, and be happy together always. That is all the thanks we require."

The two mortal women looked up, startled, as the three immortals materialized in the small, now crowded room.

"Well, that and an invitation to the wedding." Artemis added, and Randi and Gwen grinned in response.

"The ceremony is going to be a very private affair. Close friends and family only. You would all be most welcome."

"You know, Dite," looking at the love goddess who appeared oddly pleased. "I’m glad we did this for them. It’s nice to see a plan come together with results like this."

The warrior and bard flushed in tandem, and the three goddesses laughed in delight. "We have a blessing for you both before we leave." Gwen slipped from the cot to kneel with Randi, facing her and holding both hands tightly in her own.

"May your lives always be filled with the love and joy you know today, and may you never lose sight of how rare and precious your bond is. A long and happy life together is yours if you never lose sight of that, and of each other." A shiver of premonition skittered down Randi’s spine at the vague warning, but she set it aside when Athena continued. "Blessings on both of you, and much happiness."

"Peace and joy be yours," from Artemis.

"Love one another always... often and well." A tear spilled down Aphrodite’s cheek, and the diamond fell into Randi’s lap. The Sabre looked up puzzled into the clear blue eyes. "For remembrance," was all the love goddess offered. Then she and her sisters faded out with a sparkle, and a dusting of rose petals.

Warrior and bard looked at one another confused, before Randi removed on hand from Gwen’s grasp, and moved it to the fair cheek. "I love you," she said, before capturing the soft lips for a timeless moment. "Always."

"And I love you. Forever," leaning their foreheads together. They stayed that way, sharing air until the Marine rose smoothly to her feet and reached a hand down to her lover.

"C’mon. Let’s go home. We have a wedding to finish planning and a future to start."

Gwen twitched her dress into place, and resumed her hold on the Sabre’s hand. "I’m with you, Stud. Let’s go."

The couple found the Goldmans patiently waiting, talking to a priest and a priestess. Jill covered her mouth, as though to contain her surprise, and Geoff literally glowed from excitement. The woman clergy nodded her head in confirmation, and Jill moved her hands to cover her heart.

"Wonder what’s up?" Randi whispered in the blonde’s ear.

"I dunno, but judging by the looks on Mama’s face, it must be pretty spectacular." The older woman had clasped her husband’s arm by this point, and they were looking at one another in astonished wonder. "I’m sure we’ll hear all about it in due time."

The priest and priestess nodded greetings and farewells simultaneously, and departed the company just as Randi and Gwen reached the Goldmans. The Marine looked to Geoff, bemused. "Was it something we said?"

"Nah, they knew we were waiting for you so we could leave," neatly diverting attention from their discussion.

"Oooookaaay," wondering what she was missing by the niggling at the back of her mind over the whole thing. "C’mon, then. Let’s get home. I imagine Tommy and Ella are at the house already."

"Yeah, and I’ll be glad to get there. I’m tired." Green and blue eyes swung to him in concern as they made their way to the transport. "I’m all right," answering the unease he felt pouring from them. "Just tired. I still don’t have a lot of stamina, and Blessing Day is very emotionally draining, especially when we have so many things to give thanks for. I am overjoyed to feel this way." The two younger women smiled at him in delight.

"Well, we’re glad you felt up to coming down for this weekend."

"Gwen, we wouldn’t have missed it. Not this year particularly. We talked about it at length. We have so much to be thankful for, and no place we’d rather be than here with our family." Jill spoke, and Geoff patted her hand in agreement and support.

It was quite the gathering by the time the four arrived at the beach house. Ella’s parent’s and Tommy’s father had joined them for the traditional Blessings Day feast. Gwen went into the kitchen followed by Randi, to take care of the last minute details, only to find the curly headed woman finishing things up.

"Ella," from Gwen with laughing exasperation, "don’t you ever get tired of being in the kitchen?"

"No, not at all," the woman cheerfully informed them. "Especially with so many hands to do the cleaning up." The three shared a chuckle as they brought things to the table. Then Randi seated everyone around the table. She remained standing, and waited for their attention. When all eyes were on her, she swallowed hard and lifted her glass to them.

"My friends," she said quietly. "I know this is a new tradition, with all of us coming together to spend this holiday together. But I was wondering if you would each stand and tell one thing that you are thankful for. One blessing you’ve had this year."

"I dunno, Randi," the elder Steele answered solemnly. "I doubt anyone here could narrow it down to one."

"Well try, Uncle. We’d like to eat the food before it gets cold." Everyone tittered about over the matter-of-fact statement from the Marine. Then he took up the gauntlet and stood, glass in hand.

"I am thankful to have my family again."

They went around the table slowly, each person briefly offering gratitude for a blessing received. When it came time for Gwen to speak, having been saved for last, except for the Marine, she stood slowly, her gaze focused on the tabletop. She took a breath to speak, when from her left erupted... "Wuv!"

The entire table convulsed into laughter at Randall’s impeccable timing and response. "Hey you," the bard reached over and tickled his tummy. "That was MY line." She kissed the top of his head, and he looked insufferably pleased with himself. Gwen picked up her glass, and walked to the other end of the table. She stepped up close to Randi, and linked their hands together in a tight clasp.

"He’s right though. I am most thankful for you... for us. This year has been such an extreme in experiences for me, but having you here has made it all worth it."

Randi didn’t answer immediately, but lifted their joined hands to her lips and brushed a light kiss across the bard’s knuckles, then spent a minute just looking into the verdant eyes. She swallowed hard, and spoke in a near whisper.

"I am thankful for so much... but mostly for the opportunity I was offered to come back and make things right." She swallowed again and looked down, before returning her focus to Gwen’s gaze. "And I will always be thankful that things worked out so much better than I dreamed. I love you."

More than one set of eyes was surreptitiously wiped while the small group observed the palpable bond flowing between the two. Once again, Randall was the one to dissipate the intensity of the moment. "WUV!!" His impatience was clear by the scowl that covered his face.

Randi’s laugh was a tension release, and she kissed the bard’s nose before walking her back to her chair and seating her. The Marine stopped beside the child, riffling his hair with a smile. "You hungry, boy?"

"YES!!" very emphatically.

"Well then... Let’s eat!" Cheers greeted this announcement, and the assembly began to dig in to the deliciously prepared meal. Silence reigned for a time after that, aside from the general murmurs required to get every one served.

When the eating had slowed perceptibly, Tommy looked up and cleared his throat. "Um, I have some interesting news."

All eyes swung his direction, and he flushed slightly under the intense scrutiny. "Oh?" Ella’s brows arched upwards. "Do tell." It wasn’t often her husband kept secrets, but he hadn’t given her any "interesting news" since the night he’d gotten Gwen’s note from Randi. And that kind of interesting news she could live without going through again for the rest of her natural life. However, the twinkle in his eyes when he turned to her caused her to smile, knowing whatever he had up his sleeve was a good thing.

"I got a very interesting call before I left the office yesterday." He studiously avoided looking at either bard or warrior. "It seems the Festival Committee has decided they want Gwen to do the reading this year. I told them I’d ask, but I didn’t see why not."

Gwen sucked in a breath and paled. "You didn’t," in a flat whisper.

"Sure I did. You told me two years ago that if they ever offered it to say yes."

"Things were different then, Tommy. You shouldn’t have done that." Without warning, the storyteller rose from her seat and walked out the French doors. She stood watching the waves crash against the shore, arms hugging herself tightly.

"Well, that didn’t go like I’d hoped. I’ll go talk to her." He set his napkin on the table, and made a move to rise from his seat, only to be forestalled by a hand on his shoulder.

"Let me. This is my responsibility."

The room remained silent as the warrior walked out the door. The group watched her enfold the bard in her embrace and saw Gwen relax into the hug. A sigh of relief went around, and quiet conversation ensued.

"You all right, Little One?"

"No. How could he do this to me? He of all people knows my muse has left me. I can’t get up in front of the world and tell the Festival Story."

"I told him to."

Dead silence while the bard digested Randi’s words. Not even the roar of wind and waves could penetrate the stillness that surrounded them. Gwen stepped out of the Sabre’s hold. "You? Why?"

Randi reached for Gwen, hurt when the bard stepped away from her. She dropped her arms to her sides, and willed the pain from her voice and countenance. "Because I wanted to help. Your muse is still there, Gwen. You’re writing again, and telling me bits of stories. You just need some confidence in your self and your abilities."

"And putting me on display in front of the whole world accomplishes this how? Dammit, Randi! I haven’t told a story in eighteen months. There’s nothing there!" Her head dropped, and the Marine heard the anguish in her tone. She stepped closer again, relieved when Gwen didn’t step away, but instead moved within the circle of her arms.

"Oh, it’s there, love. I’ve seen it in your eyes, and I’ve felt it in your soul. And the Festival Reading would be the perfect return. You choose whether to read or speak. The story never really changes. And I will be right there beside you every step of the way."

Green eyes looked up into soulful blue gone gray in the stormy light. "You mean that? You’d stand up there with me?"

"Absolutely. If that’s what you want... what you need... I am right there."

The bard hugged the warrior tight to her, and Randi melted into the connection between them. "I love you," Gwen whispered low, but loud enough for the taller woman’s hearing to pick them up easily. "Thank you love."

"Anytime, Little One. I love you too."