Page 95 of Lost

We shall see…”

My stomach clenched even though the sing-song rhythm in her voice said she was going to make a deal with me. But this was exactly what the old books had warned about. I needed to set both payments or Stevie Rae, Rephaim, and I could be in deep bullpoopie when we tried to come home.

“Let’s set the return payment now. Things will be easier that way. I mean, what if we have to come back in a big hurry?” I said.

“That is your problem not mine

Agree to my rules or stop wasting my time.”

“This isn’t good,” Aphrodite said. She’d been standing near Damien during the ritual, and Oak turned to the east and focused her gaze on my friend. “The payment shouldn’t be left undecided. That’s just asking for trouble.”

“The Prophetess speaks truth

In spite of her youth.”

Oak paused, sniffing the air like a hound.

“The scent of your blood is unique.

Pledge it, and your friends’ return shall not be so bleak.”

“Fine!”

“No!”

Aphrodite and I spoke at the same time. Oak’s gaze found mine again.

“Blood payment by a powerful Prophetess is one way

Unless in the Other World you shall wish to stay.”

“They’re not staying. I’ll pledge my blood as payment to you to bring them back.” Aphrodite spoke quickly so that I couldn’t interrupt her. “But I’m not going with them. So, how will I know when to pay you?”

“Mighty Prophetess there is nothing you need do

When payment is required I shall find you.”

“Aphrodite, I don’t like this,” I said. “Don’t make this pledge. Between Stevie Rae, Rephaim, Kevin, and me, we’ll figure out a payment Oak will accept.”

“Risk your life on that, would you?

It seems a silly thing to do.”

“Silly or not, it’s my choice.”

“Actually, no. My blood. My body. My choice,” Aphrodite insisted. “Oak, I give you my word. When it’s time for Zoey and Rephaim and Stevie Rae to return I will pay the blood price for them.”

“I accept your price tonight

A blood payment and promise, strong and bright

I seal this deal with thee and thee, thee and thee.”

Oak’s gaze trapped each of the four of us in turn as she completed the binding.

“So I have spoken—so mote it be.”

My stomach was so messed up I wanted to barf. This felt wrong—dangerously wrong. But it was done.