The Flame sways.I foresee that someday soon, you will need sanctuary. Noktemore can provide it.A pause.As for why I would extend this offer to you ... let's say I'm settling a debt of my own.
I don't question it. Margot's vision flashes through my mind. Being taken. If Cato finds me, if I lose my memories, I'll need an escape. Noktemore could be that escape.
"What do you need from me?"
When the time comes, I will need you to herald a message. You need only agree to deliver it.
My stomach twists. "What kind of message?"
I will tell you when the time comes.
"Will it harm anyone?"
Only the herald.
"Me?" The word comes out too loud. I force my voice lower. "Why would I agree to harm myself?"
The Flame roars.What have I told you about safety?It hisses the word like a curse.Nothing in existence is ever truly safe. Human, animal, land, or god.
The Flame expands, almost like a sigh.I like you, Tempest. For that, I will consider returning some of your memories. In time.
"Heralding your message won't protect them?"
That cannot be helped.
"I won't remember my brother?" My voice cracks. "My friends?"
Would you rather lose your memories for a time and regain them later? Or lose your soul for eternity?The Flame pulses.Herald my message. Accept the key to Noktemore. In time, your memories will return.
I take a shaking breath and concede with a nod. "Tell me what I need to say."
Good.The Flame settles.For that, I will grant you another kindness.
All of you are my children. That is why I claim you as mine.The Flame flickers.But the warrior is not yours. He belongs to his kingdom. He always will, unless he chooses otherwise.
A pause.
He never has.
My chest aches.
My advice: move on. Find someone worthy of you. Someone less damaged. Less afraid. Less self-righteous.Another flicker.Less weak.
My sigil burns so hot I have to clench my fists to keep from screaming.
Do not tell me you've let his rugged good looks cloud your judgment.The Flame sounds almost disappointed.Surely you see his faults.
I bite my tongue until I taste blood.
Speak, child.
"I do not want less." The words tear out of me. "He may be many things, but he is not weak. He did not ask for this curse. He has given up everything for a kingdom that will probably never acknowledge his sacrifice!"
You're probably right.The Flame seems to consider this.Though some call him a coward. Some call him evil.
My sigil blazes. "Those people can rot in the pits of Noktemore."
The Flame flares. And flares. And flares again.
