Page 90 of Vows of Sacrifice

“You know what that means, Paivrin, don’t you?”

These were the last words he spoke before setting off in the direction of the house. The jade dragon didn’t respond. What was the meaning of this? Why were they trying so hard to keep me in the dark?

I turned to Kynnen. He looked at me for a moment before answering:

“Let the ordeal of Dovah begin . . . again,” he said mournfully as the other brother released my husband.

With an evil smile on his lips, Dovah drew his huge sword.

“I’m going to kill him.”

“No,” objected Paivrin, shaking his head.

“Bad idea,” agreed Kynnen.

My husband let out a roar that would scare away a whole flock of birds that lived in Gulan’s tall trees. They flew off at once, chirping.

“I’ve just remembered that he’s always had feelings for MY wife!” he shouted angrily.

My head jerked back. What?! Kynnen gave me a worried look. Apparently, this was information that should not have been brought to my attention. His reaction and that of Paivrin confirmed this hypothesis.

“You’re really such a fool!” snapped the youngest Patriarch. “Tylbis had a wife of his own and he loved her deeply. Stop that.”

Paivrin, for his part, opted for a momentary silence.

“It wasn’t with him that I . . .” I began, feeling nauseous.

I brought a hand to my throat, as if this simple gesture could calm my unease.

“No!” they all cried out in unison.

My relief was so visible that Kynnen responded with a sympathetic smile.

“If Tylbis stays here, Ashana and I will leave. Starting tonight.”

“Don’t be so stubborn!” said Paivrin, annoyed.

But Dovah would hear none of it. We went home to prepare for our hasty departure. With a bit of luck, we’d reach Tarnton before nightfall . . .

Just as I was about to mount my mare, a voice sounded behind my back.

“You haven’t changed much, really.”

It was Tylbis. I was already uncomfortable with him, but now I was even less so. I glanced around to see if Dovah was around. Tylbis gave a cold smile, but what lit up his eyes looked like sadness.

“He’s with my brothers. Paivrin entrusted him with several books, plants, and potions to help you develop your magic. I’m sorry to be the cause of your departure,” he then added.

I remained as mute as a carp. I didn’t know him. I didn’t remember him. And more than anything, the fact that one of Dovah’s brothers harboured ambiguous feelings towards me, especially knowing what had happened in the past, made me want to run like hell and far, far away. Already, the thought of having betrayed my husband in this way made my stomach churn, so I sincerely preferred to avoid any compromising situation. Tylbis seemed to read my mind, for he laughed softly. It was a bitter sound devoid of any form of joy.

“You’re wondering if it’s true?” he asked, patting my horse’s neck.

I glanced at him warily, but still preferred to remain silent.

“I heard it, yes. It’s hard not to hear Dovah when he’s bellowing, especially in that way. His voice always carries.”

He was silent for a moment.

“Have a safe trip. Be careful,” he said in a neutral tone by way of goodbye.

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