But my vision showed him beside me, which means that I unfortunately still have a need for him. How do I convince him to join me on my journey?
I turn, glancing over my shoulder at Marcello who has paused in pulling back on his armor. He is fiddling with a small carved wolf on the mantel. I recognize the handiwork even if I don’t recognize the item, my father was an exceptional wood carver.
Marcello glances at me over his shoulder. “This is exquisite. You know, I don’t think our peoples are so different. All my life I was told that those of the north are savages, heathens, brutes.” He tilts his head as he takes me in. “And yet I come here, and I find carvings and art, houses and families, and people just living their lives. Differently than what I’m used to in Imperialis for sure, but…” he shakes his head with a chuckle as he puts the figure down. “I’m sure you don’t want to hear me wax on poetically.”
I lean back, against the table, crossing my ankles. “Why did you marry me?”
He looks up, his eyebrows rising in surprise. “Why did I…? Well, it seemed the right thing to do. You were dying and I was able to change that.”
“But we were enemies. You were my captive. I’d tried tokillyou. I did nothing to earn your pity.” I know that I wouldn’t have done the same for him, so why did he do it for me?
He shrugs slightly. “You had people who loved you, who were willing to torture me to save you. I decided you couldn’t be that bad of a person if you inspired such love and loyalty in those around you. And that you didn’t deserve to die simply because we were born enemies.”
“You’re oddly magnanimous.”
He beams. “Thank you.”
“You shouldn’t be. Such sentiments will get you killed here in Nelgata.”
His smile slides slightly, but he nods. “I’m not sure I can actually die, but I will take that into consideration. So, what’s next? It looks like you’re preparing for a journey.”
I look down at the table where I have the food gathered. I sigh. “I need to go on a journey. I’m…” I bite on my tongue as the words become clogged in my throat. I do not want to admit a weakness to him, but then he has already seen me at my weakest last night. “I’m not fully cured of the curse. I’m still dying just at a much slower rate.”
Marcello stiffens, his eyes going wide. “What? But how… I thought the wedding…”
“The ritual only forestalled my fate. To change it, I intend to raise a god from the dead and restore the natural order of things. If I were to do that, there would be no such thing as curses.”
He looks down, his eyes moving as if he is reading a tablet. Perhaps he is thinking of his immortality, something he only just learned he had. I wonder what I would do if I learned I was immortal, and if I’d be ready to part with such a thing. Finally, he asks. “And you’re certain that raising this god will save you?”
“I saw it in a vision last night.”
He looks like he wants to ask more about the visions, but eventually just settles on a nod. “Then I suppose we need to find a god… to raise from the dead.” He doesn’t look like he can believe the words coming out of his mouth but still he musters a shaky smile. “Can’t have you dying after everything I did to keep you alive.”
“You’re just coming along then?” I demand, pushing from the table. I don’t know why I would argue, according to my vision he needs to be there to make certain that it comes true. “You are free to go, return to your life. Do you not have a family waiting for you?”
“I have a father, but my relationship with him is… well, let’s just say it’s about as warm as yours with your mother.” He reaches up and rubs at the back of his neck. “I also have an aunt and uncle, a whole host of younger cousins, but they are back at Imperialis.” He meets my gaze. “I suppose technically you’re my closest family.”
“Please don’t allow that tie to dictate your actions,” I reply as I move back, wrinkling my nose.
“With all due respect, Laduga, if you think I’m just going to stand by and allow a curse to claim your life then you don’t really know much about me.” He folds his arms. “So, when do we leave?”
Chapter Seventeen
The Necromancer
Anhourlaterandwe are ready to head out. I worry that I’ve forgotten something, anything. I have traveled before, but never more than a few days away from my village.
Even with my dragons it is not safe to do otherwise. With other clans, wild animals, and the constant threat of an Imperial raid, it is wise to remain near those who will have your back. Not to mention that the elements are usually harsh and unforgiving without a proper shelter.
Fortunately, we are nearing the few weeks of spring where the snow will lessen—unless it doesn’t. The weather is not always predictable and tame.
Just like most things found here in Nelgata.
I went back and forth on it, but eventually decided to leave a note for the Werma. Perhaps she will not worry so much, she probably saw me leaving before I even decided to do it, but at least now she can pass it on to anyone from my village who may care enough to ask.
Marcello insisted on carrying the satchels that I packed full of dried provisions, waterskins, and extra blankets. As I step outside, I’m particularly struck by how bright the sun is. It always surprises me when it comes out from spending weeks on end behind a bank of clouds, just how bright and warm the world can be.
Marcello inhales deeply, turning his face up to the sun before he turns to me. “Will your dragons be all right with me?”
