“Some cottage high in the mountains. For travelers, Ylvin says. I had no idea it even existed.”
“It’s huge.”
It feels frozen in time. Like the mountain itself is holding its breath. Safe, that’s how it feels. Safer than any place I’ve been since Groa’s carriage.
“I know. I was quite surprised. There’s even another room like yours.”
My eyes land on the water bucket. I react instantly, stepping forward and dipping the ladle. Lifting it to my mouth, I don’t care if I spill on my thin linen robe. Where did I even get this? It’s finer and whiter than anything I’ve ever owned.
“Careful now…” says Eidunn.
I gasp. Panting after emptying the ladle.
“So good.”
Eidunn laughs at my pleasure. I grin at her, shameless.
“Where is Freyr?” I ask, hoping Ylvin’s gluttonous cat has survived.
“He ran off during the battle, but Ylvin said he always returns when he gets hungry enough.”
I snort, drinking more. Eidunn strokes my shoulder.
“Well, soon we eat. Go say hi.”
The closed door on the other side of the room beckons. It sits tight, needing a firm shove to open it. There he is, in the bed. He turns his head to me and a smile appears on his face. The warmth in his eyes is back. The monster is gone. It’s my man.
“Kilda,” whispers Ari before coughing from the effort.
“Ari!” I scream and storm forward, throwing my hands around his neck. Relief crashes over me with the force of the ocean. My chest loosens. How much tension have I been carrying?
“Ah,” he says, wincing.
“Sorry.”
“Worth the pain.” He grins.
“Will you be okay?”
“Nothing a little troll blood can’t handle, or so Elof tells me.”
“Where is he? Where is Ylvin?”
“They are out, I’m not sure for what. Elof healed fast.”
“I heard…” I falter. “I heard every bone in your body snap.”
He laughs before choking on his breath.
“Yeah, I heard.”
“It was… it was horrible.”
“Sorry you had to see it, my love. But I also heard you’re the one who brought me back. Not bad for a thrall girl.”
I slap his shoulder, forgetting that his entire body is shattered. He winces. I giggle as tears pour down my cheeks. Tears of relief.
“You just wouldn’t listen to reason,” I tease.
