"I promise."
"Come along, children. We have much to do and it's almost time for you to go to sleep."
Geira strode back to the merchant and collected her wares, then guided her children away. Before she disappeared into the crowd, she turned and gave Thora one last look.
When her family had vanished from view, Thora allowed Ari to hold her close, needing to lean on his strength. Her legs trembled so much, she feared she might fall to the ground in a heap.
"Come, we must return to our camp now."
She nodded, still stunned by the confrontation with Geira. Her thoughts tumbled chaotically over each other, but one gained supremacy over the rest.
Her father would find her. Surely he would know Geira hid something of import. He would force his wife to tell him what secret she kept.
"Ari, he's going to find us."
He shook his head, his arm about her shoulder holding her close. "Even if he learns of your presence here in Tingwalla, by then it will already be too late. We will stand before the council and he cannot stop us."
Despite the assurance, Thora's worries maintained their persistent grasp. She remained silent, praying to Odin to keep her father unknowing. A few moments later, recollection poked and her dread multiplied, over and over.
"The sacrifice! We don't have anything to offer. We were supposed to give thanks and we didn't and now look what's happened!"
"Take ease,ástin minn. You are mine. As I am yours. I will never let anyone take you away."
How she wanted to believe, to trust his vow. His words flooded her with warmth, but her father had many men. Ari, even with his companions, would be vastly outnumbered. Her greatest fear seemed to be coming to pass.
***
Ari wished he knew of a way to soothe the trembling in Thora's body. No matter what words he offered, none would console her. Her panic remained tangible, seeping from her as if she bled. When they reached their camp, she let out a cry of joy to see the wolves had heeded her orders and returned to the shelter. He released her hand and she hurried to her pets, kneeling before them and hugging them both. Ari smiled at the giggles her animals drew with their licks and cuddles.
"How did you get close enough with those two standing guard?" Karsi's question drew Ari from the distraction of watching her.
"The female had been wounded by outlaws who attacked Thora. Kati killed one, and I dispatched the other."
"Earned their trust right off, eh?"
Ari shrugged. "I suppose so. And I helped Thora treat the injured wolf. They knew I meant no harm."
Karsi slapped him on the shoulder. "The gods appear to favor you these days."
"Let's hope their goodwill holds out through tomorrow."
The amusement faded from Karsi's grizzled face. "It will. There are enough of us to bear witness to his crimes, none will doubt you didn't poison Drengr or arrange for his murder."
Ari hesitated several moments, glancing around at the other men camped with them. They laughed and drank, ignoring Ari. He motioned to Leif, then drew both men a few paces from their shelter.
"Thora was seen by her stepmother tonight. She fears her father will learn she is here and find her before we go before the council. If I must... keep watch over her if I cannot."
He didn't voice his own worry that Thora's father would indeed find them and take her away. Ari refused to consider the possibility, even though the idea refused to be completely extinguished.
"You have my word," Karsi vowed.
"Mine, too," Leif agreed.
The three grasped hands to seal their oath and Ari turned back to Thora. With her pets beside her, she seemed much calmer and he took his place beside her on the fur pallet.
"Soon, this will all be over." He covered her hands, twisting in her lap.
She met his stare evenly. "Do you truly plan to wed me?"
