Chapter 12

Panter sat perched on the third floor balcony railing looking out over the grounds toward the town. A full moon had passed since Tera had gotten hurt. Panter flinched; the memory of the emptiness that had opened beneath her feet when Tera had died was almost too much to bear. Shaking it off she returned her attention to the sight lying out before her. Tera stood below talking to some of the people that assisted with her duties and one other woman Panter hadn't seen before. Panter mused on that fact for a moment, most if not all people with as serious an injury as she had sustained would still be healing. It seemed that one of the side benefits to being healed was she now recuperated at an amazing rate. In two handfuls of days she was back on her feet. The healers were still in shock over it. Only Panter herself healed faster. A wound like Tera's would have taken about four days to fully mend. That was far better then thinking what the alternatives could have been, almost had been. She frowned, the only real problem that surfaced from that incident was when Akil returned with the news that all was being put back to order except one thing. Doran's body was missing. No trace of it could be found; he had just disappeared. Panter scowled not without help he didn't she thought to herself. It was a worry that took up permanent residence in the back of her mind.

Tugging her right gauntlet into a more comfortable position, Panter`s movements stilled as she considered it's recent addition. The blank metal plate had been changed. It now boasted an engraving that matched the one on her left wrist. Crossed swords pommels down with a crown resting in the opening between its blades now adorned it. When things finally got sorted out after regaining Tera's Regency. It was discovered that the original leader of the Regent's military had been disposed of and a mercenary leader put in his place. Panter had to admit Doran had set up a pretty good system but hadn't taken into account how many people had remained loyal to Tera. Tracing the etching with a finger, Panter thought back about how she had ended up with it.

They had gathered in the planning chamber that was attached to the main room where all regent business was conducted. After everyone had taken a seat, Akil ran through the list of positions that remained empty after the final cleanup was completed. Many slots were quickly filled but one seemed to be harder to fill then others. The position of Arms Master. The leader of the whole military forces. There had been few people left with enough experience needed to fill the position. Akil and Narna had politely turned down the offer preferring instead to accept the openings of Captains in Tera's Personal guard. After much bickering and discussion Alesia had come up with a suggestion.

Turning to Tera she posed a question. " You need someone that is trustworthy in this job, correct?"

Tera had nodded. "Yes, I need someone that I know will always give me the truth no matter what that is, good or bad. That I have absolute trust in."

Alesia made a sound of agreement " And who of all people do you have that kind of trust in?"

At that point Panter knew what Alesia was up to. She mentally threw up her hands but no one watching her would have known what she had been thinking. She had focused her awareness' back on the conversation that was going on.

Tera smiled " Panter of course"

Alesia made an over to you gesture. " Then may I present to you the ideal person for Arms Master."

A roar of voices rose as everyone tried to speak at once.



An inner source prompted her to pay attention. Directing her sight back to where Tera was standing she met her gaze. Teeth flashed in the sunlight then a hand rose beckoning her. Panter watched the people turn to stare up at her, to far away to clearly see whom Tera was signaling to. Panter grinned then stood. She considered her choices then shrugged deciding to take the shortest route. Over the railing. She heard one of the women with Tera scream but still was able to hear Tera's laugh at her stunt. She landed in a deep crouch her legs absorbing the shock of the impact. Straightening, she brushed off her tunic then sauntered over to Tera.

Panter smiled cordially to the group then directed her attention to her mate. " You wanted me amare?" she bent placing a soft kiss on her lips. She breathed in Tera's scent with pleasure. She could smell her own scent entwined with Tera's own. Her animal instincts reveled in it. But it would never be admitted to anyone. It smacked of ownership. Something she knew Tera wouldn't handle real well.


Tera flushed faintly. " Yes, show off " she paused to gather her scattered thinking, " I know you've been busy, but I wanted you to meet the priestess that is going to do our handfasting" Tera could still not believe it was truly going to happen. Panter had asked as soon as she had awakened from her healing sleep. It had taken a moment for her sleep-fogged brain to puzzle out the question. But seeing disappointment on Panter's face at her lack of answer jolted her brain into motion. At her enthusiastic yes Panter had pulled her into a hug. Very gently of course.

Panter turned to face the tall dark-haired woman at the front of the small group. She must have been the one that screamed. Panter laughed silently her eyes were still big in shock. Panter nodded to her. " I am honored by your presence"


The woman smiled faintly then inclined her head. " I thank you for your invitation" her rigid posture indicated a woman that immersed herself in decorum.

Tera moved closer sliding her arm around Panters waist. Panter's arm automatically encircled Tera's shoulders. " I know you normally would rather wait till you had gotten to know us a little and meditated to seek approval of the gods but this is an unusual circumstance and that will not be needed." Tera informed the priestess flatly. Any marriage into the royal house had to be accepted by the gods. At least one. Tera wasn't sure when this practice started but it ended up being a hindrance at times.

The priestess seemed at a loss for words. Then found her voice "What might this occurrence be?" Her tone of voice made her doubt clear.

Panter stepped in. "I think a change of venue is order, don't you think Tera?" Out in the open was not the place for such a delicate conversation.

Tera closed her mouth on her reaction to being doubted. " Yes, that seems to be the way to help resolve this issue" She gestured to the small group " Please, follow me" She led them into the main room set aside for any meetings dealing with the regency and all its decisions therein. A long oak table surrounded by ten massive chairs dominated the room.

Tera seated herself comfortably on the long tabletop. She chewed delicately on her lower lip as she pondered the situation. How to prove the point without exposing Panter's dual nature was going to be. …Sticky. She sighed. Bluntly it was going to be hard as Hades. She exchanged a quick look with Panter. She could feel the stress that was strumming in Panter's body by the knots taking residence in the pit of her own stomach. This connection with her love was trying at times like this but definitely worth it.

The priestess seated herself in a nearby chair, folded her hands together and gazed at Tera patiently awaiting answers.

Panter watched the woman's face. She seemed to be on the level. A true intermediary for the goddess and her worshipers. She was still searching for a way to prove her case when the priestess's eyes rolled back into her head as she went suddenly limp in her seat. Tera's minister of accounts jumped up grabbing hold of her before she could slide off the chair onto the floor. She supported her weight till Panter took over. Panter had just picked up the priestess to take her to the healers when she opened her eyes staring right into Panters golden eyes with an expression of total awe.

" She said you were the child of her Heart…. of her blood" she whispered stunned by what had just happened. She flushed as she became aware of how Panter was standing there casually holding her in her arms. " I'm fine now, you may let me down"

Panter quirked a slight grin as she set her back onto her feet. " As you wish"

Tera brow furrowed " What was it you just said?" She hesitated for a second " What is your name, thinking of you as just the priestess is getting old fast"


The Priestess was taken aback a bit then smiled " It's Aniase" She turned to face them more directly, aware of the others in the room listening eagerly. "Portia Theron has claimed you as a child of her blood" Her face shone with delight. " Never in my knowledge has this ever happened before"


" Who claimed me?" Aniase's smile faded at the blank look on Panter's face.

" Portia Theron" At her shrug Aniase tried again. " Mistress of animals, Lady of wild things" she continued naming the goddess's lesser names.

Tera spoke up " Is she also known as Mistress of wild beasts?" At Aniase's nod of confirmation Tera turned to Panter. " She has sway over nature and animals does that remind you of someone?" She hid her smile at Panter sudden realization of what was being told her.

" Your speaking of Natures Mater are you not?"

Aniase was puzzled " Natures Mater what does that mean?"

Panter puzzled over the translation for a second. "Um… it means roughly Natures Mother…I think. That is how the goddess is known from where I am from"

Aniase nodded. "Yes, that would most likely be the same goddess."
She returned her attention to them. " As you have said this is a different circumstance then most." She bowed deeply to them both " I would be honored to do your joining ceremony"

Panter broke in before they could get involved with the planning.
"Tera, I must leave this in your hands. There are many things in town that I have to oversee." She had to hide a smile at the pout of disappointment that briefly appeared on Tera's face.

"Your going to make sure things are ready at Raven's Claw for tomorrow?" They had decided to hold the ceremony there instead of at the manor. It was because of the people that Tera had regained her position. To have it at the manor smacked of lording your position. That was something Tera would never do.

" Yes, that among others" Panter bent intent on making the kiss brief but Tera had other ideas. She took control of the kiss pulling Panter into a short but intense exchange. She finally let Panter go when the silence in the room became deafening. A quick look had everyone immediately absorbed in the grain pattern of the tabletop.

Tera laughed quietly. " Go love, I'll see you later. But remember, my mother and sister should arrive later today." After Tera awoke from her healing a missive had been sent to them telling of what had happened and included the news of the upcoming joining. Knowing that it would take some time for their return Tera had continued with her own planning of the event.

Panter smiled, nodded to the others in the room then took her leave. She ducked out the door heading for the stables to retrieve Donum.



Panter handed off her reins to the stable boy. She entered Raven's Claw intent on finding Alesia. She had given her a list of things she had need of for the handfasting. They had arranged to meet here. Blinking to adjust her sight after the sunlight from outside she found Alesia sitting at the bar chatting up a woman. Looks like Zeva was able to get more help like she had wanted she mused. The last two days of festival had grown even larger as it was combined with the celebration of Tera regaining her regency. Not that she or any of her people had seen much of it, there had been to much cleanup needing to be done to secure Tera's standing.

In a good mood Panter decided to play a little. She quietly walked up behind Alesia shaking her head and holding a finger to her lips when the other woman glanced up at the flash of movement. Stopping, Panter folded her arms being careful to arrange her features into a mask of anger.

"Alesia, What do you think your doing. Isn't there things you need to take care of?" She barked. Panter almost lost it when Alesia shot straight up from her seat, almost falling when she tried turning in the same motion. Alesia grabbed the bar barely catching herself before she impacted the floor. She scrambled to her feet then stood frozen in an alert stance in front of Panter.

" Arms Master, all tasks are completed."

Panter couldn't hold back her laughter any longer. She laughed so hard she almost pulled a muscle in her chest. The bewildered expression on Alesia's face slowly grew to one of enlightenment as she figured out what Panter did.

" You ass, how could you do that to me?" Alesia had to laugh it was funny. Of course, it would have been funnier if it had happened to someone else. Not her.

Panter held up her hand as she tried to regain control of herself. After a few minutes she cleared her throat. " Sorry, but I couldn't resist it" Panter said in an apologetic tone. " You said that you got all the things we need?'

Alesia decided to let this one go. " Yes, everything's being set up in the courtyard like you asked."

Panter smiled " Good, did you check with the jeweler about the ring?"

"Yes, I have it here." Reaching into her belt purse she with drew an object laying it in Panters outstretched hand. " It really turned out well"

The ring glimmered in the light. It was gold, spanning about an inch wide. A jeweler had been found willing to do unusual custom work. A Eighth inch channel had been made around the circumference of the ring in the middle expanding to the diameter of the top. It created a circle interlocking a circle. Symbolizing lasting unity. Inlayed into the channels was a rare mineral of brown, amber and gold tones. It gave the illusion of looking into an eye of an animal. Tera had seen the mineral once before and had remarked on it as something that she had wished she had purchased when the chance had been present. Unknown to her that mineral was easily obtained from Panters homeland and she in a strange coincidence had brought some with her when she left. Panter hoped that Tera would find the ring acceptable.

"It turned out better then I had hoped" Panter tucked it into her own Money purse for safekeeping. " How are the plans coming along?"

"Everything is almost in readiness, come take a look"

Panter followed Alesia. They had just gotten around the bars countertop when the front door slammed open. A young guardsman stood panting for breath in the opening as he glanced around the inn. As his eye caught Panters form he straightened up then approached her. Halting, then standing in a rigid stance he spoke.

" Arms Master, I have been sent by the Regent to inform you that the guests you have been waiting for have arrived. She also requests that if possible you return at your earliest convenience". He finished recounting his message then waited for any return reply.

Panter's breathing stopped for the barest moment, then resumed. She was in no way ready to meet Tera's mother. But it seemed that no other choice had been offered so there was little she could do about it. She returned her attention to the man in front of her.

"Please tell the Regent I am returning immediately"

The guardsman nodded, made a short bow then slipped out the door.

Turning to Alesia, Panter apologized. "I'm sorry, I need to get back as you heard. Thank you for helping us with all this. It means a lot."

Alesia rested a hand on Panters shoulder. " No problem, don't worry everything will be ready for tomorrow." She smiled. "It's my pleasure to help, I'm honored you would entrust this to me". Alesia started a little when Panter reached out and drew her into a brief hug. Alesia was aware of the strength in the body that was so close to hers. Then that fled her mind as the warmth of embrace enfolded her. It ended to soon but Alesia saw the smile that graced Panter's face as they separated.

" You are much more to me Alesia then a friend, you are family" She husked in a low voice. Clearing her throat of the emotion that was trying to block it, Panter was pleased at the look of wonder that came over Alesia features.

" Family, you think of me as that?' Alesia asked in awe. She knew she had felt that way but was unaware Panter had felt the same. A warm feeling took up residence in her heart. Too have a family was something Alesia knew precious little of but had always wanted.

"Indeed I do, now I must go meet the rest of our new family. It should be an interesting meeting" Panter said wryly. She gave Alesia's shoulder a brief clasp then exited the inn heading for Donum and then to her amare.

* * *

Aretina watched fondly as both her daughters embraced on the manors front steps. Her family had been torn apart by this business with the regency. She sighed wearily. But she did understand the reasoning behind the upheaval. Doran had wrested control away from Tera in an unfortunate takeover when she had been absent. Aretina knew if she herself had been here she could have briefly stepped into the role to hold it for her daughter. A little known law allowed the spouse of the departed regent the power to take over the position if wished. Aretina knew herself well enough to know that was a position she did not want fulltime. But, she knew that Tera would do well in it.

The pounding of hoof beats made Aretina look toward the front gates. Someone on horse back was drawing near at a quick clip. As they got nearer, Aretina's eyes widened slightly in surprise. A tall dark skinned woman on a Black horse with a white blaze marking its forehead came to a sliding halt before the grouping. She had never seen someone who was so dark before. When the woman dismounted, tossing her reins to an approaching stable boy it became clear that she was unusual in both height and skin color. She stifled a laugh at the look on the woman's face as her older daughter ran up and leapt into her arms. She was caught and held easily. Hmmm, Aretina pondered she's very strong too. She had a feeling she would be meeting a unique individual.


She stayed back until they had finished with their greeting. Then stepped forward to introduce herself.

"Since my oldest child is so busy with other things, let me introduce myself. I'm Aretina and you are?"


Panter quickly set Tera back onto her feet then dusted her hands off. " I am Panter of the Vestran." She extended her arm in greeting. Adapting with little hesitation when Aretina grasped her hand instead of her forearm. Panter tended to forget that many people did not greet each other in that way. Just one more thing to get use to.

" Vestran, that name seems familiar to me somehow" Aretina tapped a fingertip on her lower lip as she pondered where she had heard it before.

" Father had some small dealings with them just before he died" informed Medan. She remembered the proposed agreement crossing her desk. Something about minerals or was it jewels. She shrugged. She'd figure it out later.

" Ah, yes it was some sort of dealings about rocks or something" she waved a hand about. " Never mind that now" Aretina pushed a blond lock behind her ear. " So Tera tell me how the both of you came to be together and no skipping of details," She pointed at her daughter to reinforce her words. " I know you, you like to smooth things over"


"Well" Tera started to say but was fortunately interrupted by an attendant informing them that dinner would be ready in a candle mark.

Aretina frowned at the intrusion. " I suppose we best clean up before then" She beckoned them to follow. " Let us get presentable. I know I desperately need to bathe after the long journey to arrive back home"
A pointed look was directed at Panter and Tera. " We'll get back to our discussion after dinner". Aretina left with Medan following closely behind.

Tera met Panters gaze. "I'm sorry, I didn't realize mother would be like this." She sighed. " But you must admit suddenly dumping our joining on her is bound to raise some questions she will want answers to"

Panter pressed a kiss to Tera's lips then drew back. " I know, It was just sudden that's all" A frown bent her lips. " Do you think we should let your mother and sister know of the special circumstances?" An arched eyebrow accompanied the inquiry.

Tera considered a moment then shook her head " Not now, but we will have to tell them sooner or later" She tugged at Panters hand. " Come on I don't know about you but I'm starving"

Panter groaned. " When aren't you?" she said under her breath.

A sharp smack to her shoulder made her yelp. " I heard that, Oh large one" Tera shouted with laughter as she chased Panter through the doorway and toward their chambers.

Soldiers and attendants shook their heads smiling as they passed. It was good to hear life ringing through the halls again. It had been silent for far too long.


* * *


After checking on the next day's arrangements one last time, Panter pushed open the door leading into the study. A clink drew her attention to one of the tall windows running along the length of the room. Tera was perched on the bench seat extending from one of the windows. The sound had come from her nails tapping the goblet that resided in one hand. The closing of the door alerted Tera of her presence.

"Is everything in readiness for tomorrow?" Tera inquired.

Panter crossed over snagging the goblet from Tera's hand, sipping briefly. She swirled the wine as she considered the question. Mentally scanning the list in her head, Panter nodded. "I believe so"

Tera nibbled her lip then cast a sidelong glance to Panter. Smiling ironically, Tera posed a query. Are you sure you want to get into this after tomorrow morning things will get a lot more complicated, last chance to change your mind.

Setting the goblet aside, Panter pulled Tera up into her arms pressing a kiss to her forehead. "I think I can handle it there's nothing that could make me leave" Eyes filling with tears lifted to connect with hers. Tera slid a hand behind Panters neck to draw her into a kiss that rapidly grew impassioned.


* * *

Medan accompanied her mother to the study to meet with her sister. She had been remembering when she had seen Panter the first time at the village before leaving to return to her mother. She had a sense then that something like this would occur. Medan nodded absently as Aretina waxed on about the joining enthusiastically. She had a feeling now that Tera was joining shortly her mother would be turning unwanted attention to her own state of affairs. Or lack of them.

Entering the room they found Panter and Tera in a heated embrace. Both had gotten about halfway to the pair when the sound of Aretina's words broke threw alerting Panter that they were no longer alone. She spun around to confront them as she shoved Tera behind her in a reflex movement.

Stepping back hastily, Medan halted in mid step as it dawned on her something about Panter was different. Her mother's exclamation of surprise reinforced it. Panter's eyes had changed. It should have freaked her out she knew but some how it just seemed …. Normal. For Panter anyway. Medan sank onto a nearby seat to watch what would unfold.
She noticed Panters shoulders slump as her eyes slid closed. Medan nodded approvingly as Panter's spine suddenly straightened and she met Aretina's look square on. That's right Panter, Fight for what you want.

Tera slid in front of her mate. She casually leaned back against Panter's chest. "Mother, I think there's some things you should be aware of" she said in an offhand manner interrupting Aretina's flow of words. " Maybe we should all sit down" Tera waited while everyone sat then claimed her spot by Panter curling up close by her side. She interrupted her mother offhandedly.

" How much do you know about the Gods and what they represent?"

Aretina was taken aback by the question for a second. " Quite a bit I think why do you ask?" She directed a look at her younger daughter who just shrugged also a little bemused by the question.

" Have you wondered which god accepted our match to be joined?" Tera knew full well that she did, surprised by how her mother hadn't asked yet.

"Well yes I have. So who was it?"

" Do you know of the Goddess Portia Theron?"

"Portia Theron…let me think," Aretina brightened as the information she wanted came to mind." She's the nature Goddess isn't she, Mistress of wild beasts or some such thing?" Aretina paused as a considering gaze focused on Panter.

"Let me start at the beginning it might make more sense that way." Tera shifted closer to her love. An arm tightened briefly in encouragement. "We had been scouting the area for a few days when…"

The night passed rapidly as the story unfolded. Halting periodically for questions along with sips from her goblet for a dry mouth.


* * *

The day dawned clear and bright. The household was in an uproar of excitement. A morning joining threw Aretina into a tizzy but Tera and Panter had insisted both wanting to throw an afternoon feast. Opening the Raven's Claw to the public. A large number of Pigs had been butchered and pit cooked for the reception. They had commissioned surrounding bakery's to produce a large variety of pastries and sweets. Volunteers had shown up willing to help with food preparations but declined payment for their services preferring to offer it as a kind of gift instead. The people had been swept up in the elation of the celebration. They were happy to see their kind leader back and happy.

Two candle marks before midday everyone gathered in the courtyard dressed in their best to witness the joining. The gates leading into the area had been thrown wide so the rest of the populace could see. A large circle had been maintained around the group at the insistence of Akil and Panter.
Akil for security, Panter knowing that the pressure of so many people around her could send her into a frenzy.

A small alter had been erected in front of the giant oak. A green embroidered cloth with hand stitched motifs of plants and animals around the boarders had been draped over its surface. Two candles rested on the top representing the presence of the Gods and Goddess's. Positioned on the west corner was the wedding chalice. The gold of its surface shone bright in the morning sun. In its east corner rested six cords. North held two rings. Finally in the south resided a large white candle. Resting by the candle lay two thin headbands, one in silver, the other gold.

Dressed in flowing robes of the same green as the alter cloth Aniase stood before it waiting for the couple to approach. The crowd quieted as Tera appeared escorted by her mother and sister. She was clothed in drapes of white and hints of similar green. The dress left her upper arms bare, fitting snuggly down her torso before flowing freely around her calves. A pair of soft boots dyed green covered her feet. Her hair shone with blond highlights where the coloring was wearing off. She cut a beautiful figure as she came to a halt in front of the priestess. Tera turned to watch her partner's approach.

Faint gasps arose as Panter stepped from the inn's doorway. Alesia stepped in front of her leading the way to the alter. She wore a tunic and breeches of soft white leather with matching boots. The color of it against her skin tone was dramatic. A belt enclosed her waist holding her gold handled dagger. Gold armbands wrapped around her biceps. She had decided to leave off wearing her gauntlets preferring to have her lower arms bare instead. Panters gaze remained on Tera as she went toward her.
Stopping beside her Panter reached out to hold Tera's hands in hers. They
turned toward Aniase as one.

Aniase looked out on the people. "These women joined in love have found a common desire to make their bond a matter of record so all would know and witness lending them their support. Each person who witnesses this union creates a part of the structure that strengthens the bonds of love these two share. In token that this joining is not casual I ask that some family member speak for you"

Aretina stepped forward." I, speaking as Tera's mother, declare that Panter shall henceforth be welcomed into our community of family and friends. May our love strengthen the bond that exists between them"

Aniase smiled. " I accept your pledge. Who speaks for the woman Panter?"

Alesia stepped forward having been asked to speak for Panter. Before she could say a word another voice rose.

" I speak as my chosen's family," Gasps of startlement came from behind the crowd around the gated entrance. Swiftly they pressed back to the sides creating a path for the approaching woman. There was no doubt the woman was a Goddess. The faint light surrounding her in an aura of power let no one make such a mistake. If not for that the company that paced her steps clued everyone in. A large black wolf was on her right. A jaguar strolled by her left. She was dressed in deep blue and green robes, etchings of vines and snakes started at her temples on both sides and flowed down her face ending at the bottom of each cheek. She came to a stop by the alter regarding Panter and Tera with a loving gaze. Her green eyes moved from them when Aniase dropped to one knee followed by everyone else.

" Please rise, this is not my day, it is my chosen's. I knew her family couldn't speak for her so I decided as she is a child of my blood, I shall" A murmur rose faintly at that pronouncement but faded as the Goddess's gaze swept the crowd. " Make no mistake, I claim her. As such, that claim also extends to her beloved" She turned to Aniase." If you would permit me, I would like to finish the joining ceremony"

Aniase bowed low " I am most honored" She stepped aside allowing her to take her place before the couple.

The goddess looked out to the people gathered. "All began in love, all seek to return to love. Love is the law, the teacher of wisdom and patience, and the great reveler of mysteries. With full awareness know that within this circle you declare your intent not only to friends and family but also to a higher power" She smiled as she made a short gesture to herself. "Do you both still seek to enter this union?"

Panter and Tera spoke as one " Yes, we still seek to enter"

The goddess continued. " In the past it was believed that the soul shared characteristics with all things Devine. It was assigned virtues with the cardinal directions. East, South, North, West. Gifts of the East, communication of heart, mind and body, fresh each day with the rising of the sun. Gifts of the south, Warmth of hearth and home. Heat of the hearts passion the light to dispel all darkness. Gifts of the West, The deepness of the lake, excitement of the river, cleansing of the rain, the encompassing passion of the sea. Gifts of the North, a firm foundation on which to build. The fertility of the fields to enrich your lives. A stable home to which to return" She paused." These gifts emphasize things that will allow you to build a happy union but they are only tools. Tools, which you must use together in order to create what you both seek. I bid you look into each others eyes."

" Panter, will you cause her Pain?"

Panter nodded. " I may"

" Is that your Intent?"

"No"

"Tera, will you cause her pain?"

"I may"

"Is that your intent?"

" No"

The Goddess looked at them both " Will you share your pain and seek to ease it?"

"Yes" They both answered firmly grasping each other's hand tightly.

"And so the binding is made. Please raise your joined hands."
The first cord was gently wrapped around their hands.

" Will you share your laughter?"

"We will"

"Will you look for the brightness and positive in each other?"

"We will"

"So the binding is made" Another cord joined the first.

She turned to Panter. " Will you burden her?"

"I may"

"Is that your intent?"

"No"

She turned back to Tera. "Will you burden Her?"

" I may"

" Is that your intent?"

"No"

"Will you share so your love will grow?"

"Yes"

"So the binding is made" A third cord enwrapped their hands.

"Will you dream together to create new reality's and hope?"

"Yes, We will"

"So the binding is made" A fourth cord joined the others.

"Will you take the heat of anger and use it to temper the strength of your bond?"

"We will"

"So the binding is made. A fifth cord was added.

"Do you honor each other?"

"Yes"

"Will you ever seek to break such honor?"

"We shall never do so" was spoken firmly by both.

"So the binding is made" The Goddess tied all the cords together." The knots of this binding are not made by these cords but by your own vows. Either of you may drop the cords, for you hold in your own hands the making of or breaking of this union." She removed the cords still tied together and laid them on the altar.

She reached over picking up the rings." You have chosen to accompany your vows with tangible representations. This will represent the power your heart has in your life." She then spoke aloud for all to hear. "This bond I draw between you: that though you are parted in mind or in body, there will be a call in the core of you, one to the other, that nothing and no one else will answer to"

Tera gasped upon seeing her ring. Panter smiled then lifting her hand pressed a kiss upon it. Panter glanced admiringly at her own ring. A wide silver band with Tera's emblem rested on her own finger.

The goddess reached over picking up the chalice. "By drinking from this chalice you show the strength of your dedication"

Panter and Tera drank deeply then handed the chalice back to the Goddess. She returned it to the altar then picked up the headbands.

"This band represents another calling that your love has in her life. As Regent she is bound to her people as you are now bound to each other."
Portia Theron set the gold band around Tera's head then turned to Panter. " As her mate you also are bound to her and her people" She placed the silver band around Panters head. " You may now kiss your beloved"

Panter and Tera kissed then glanced back to the goddess.

The Goddess paused " If you would allow me I would like to also symbolize my acceptance of your bond and also mark you both as chosen by me"

Panter met Tera's glance. A slight nod answered her questioning gaze. "We would be honored" A start was the only thing that revealed her surprised as the Goddess pressed a kiss to her forehead. She did the same to Tera then came back to Panter. A gentle finger traced around her right eye. A feeling of warmth followed her finger's path. The slight widening of Tera's gaze caused a slight prickle of concern. The indrawn breath of the people nearby reinforced the feeling.

Panter put her hand to her face as the goddess moved over to Tera repeating the same action. She couldn't feel anything different. She watched fascinated as she saw what had happened. The same pattern decorating Portia Theron's face was replicated on Tera's face in dark ink but only on the one side. Finished The Goddess stepped back. " Blessing's on your union my chosen, if you ever need me I will be near." The animals gathered close then they all faded from sight.

Silence reined till Tera's mother wiped tears from her cheeks. " My baby's married" she choked out. The crowd erupted in cheering as flowers where thrown over the blushing couple. Panter pulled Tera close tracing the tattoo by her eye. When Tera reached up to hers she muttered. " So what does it look like?"

Tera laughed, " Like the goddess's except since black wouldn't show against your skin it's white instead."

Panter head jerked back. "White!" She shook her head. " Guess I can't do anything about it now huh?"

"Nope, Things will defiantly get interesting now." Tera leaned into Panters chest. "Not that its not already," She said giving Panter a heated look. She was reward by Panters eyes changing briefly in response.

"Behave" Panter growled. The resonance rumbled deep in her throat and chest.

Tera opened her mouth for a rejoinder when they were both swept up in the celebration. A lingering look between the two promised that after the reception would be more then interesting too.



* * *

About that same time a figure embarked on a journey with revenge the only thoughts prominent in their head. The rage would keep them warm on the long journey that loomed ahead.




* * *

Panter and Tera's story continues in: Panter's Pride- Hunted