Shards of Ankh

Chapter Twenty-Five

It took awhile, but eventually the God calmed himself. Now the pair sat on Thea's bed, shoulder by shoulder, nothing but silence between them. Aqen's bare chest was partially flushed, and his deep eyes stared intently at his clasped hands.

"I'm sorry," he said finally, jumping briefly at the sound of his own voice.

Thea tilted her head to the side. "For?"

Aqen's face turned deeper red. "My behavior was very--unbecoming. If I'm being honest, it was embarrassing."

Thea smiled, though it was more of a grimace, and she placed her own lithe hand on stop of his. He looked at her, lips partially parting in surprise.

"You lost someone you loved; there's nothing to be ashamed of, Aqen."

Aqen looked back at the pile of hands on his lap. "What are you going to do, Thea? I need an answer."

"I'm not sure," she replied honestly.

"But you must. Now is the time."

Thea turned her body to him, now desperately clasping his hands within her own. "Please Aqen, give me more time. Let me--let me solve this mystery. Let me save Ankh's life. Then after that happens, I'll have a better idea of what I want."

"You said so yourself," Aqen said, and Thea caught the slight twinge of sadness beneath the words. "You have feelings for Ankh."

"I do," Thea said, removing her hands and getting to her feet. "Do I love him? No--not right now. But could I?"

Thea looked down at the God, and he met the gaze expectantly.

"I don't know if I'll fall in love. The possibility is there."

That made Aqen pleased, and he smiled.

"But..."

The God's smile fell.

"You're talking about me leaving my entire life behind for one man."

Slowly, Aqen nodded. He then nodded more vigorously, and got to his own feet. Gently, he took her by both shoulders. "I understand. We will do it your way, and see what happens."

Thea sighed in relief and shut her eyes. "Thank you, Aqen."

~

Thea opened her eyes. She was on her back. The heavy scent of cinnamon and rose filled her nostrils immediately. It was so strong and so unexpected, she nearly choked.

"Thea!"

She focused her eyes as someone took her hand. It was Ankh. He held her hand in both his, looking on the verge of tears. None fell though as he smiled down at her.

"You're awake! Bless the Gods and Goddesses!"

"Yes," Thea replied, sitting up. "Thank the Gods, indeed." She brought her hand to her forehead. "What happened?"

"Though it was a mere graze, you were still poisoned. Your fever has broken though, and the fact that you are awake is promising."

"Ankh--I--"

"No," he said, releasing her hand. "Wait, please. I shall go fetch the medic--"

"But Ankh, there's something I need to tell you--"

"I will be right back, Thea," he replied with a chuckle, heading to the door.

"But--"

Ankh didn't make it out of the door. Just then a guard with a spear walked in. He put his left fist across his chest to his right shoulder, and bowed deeply. "I am sorry to interrupt, my King. Lapis is awake. We assumed you would want to be informed immediately."