Of Gods & Valkyries: Book Three

You Remember

"Make it a rule of life never to regret and never to look back. Regret is an appalling waste of energy; you can't build on it; it's only good for wallowing in." 
― Katherine Mansfield

– T A Y A H –

"I want to take you out for dinner–and your esteemed friend of course." Lara added, with a quick look at the demi-god that was eyeing her dress slowly from top to bottom. 

Was she quite mad?

The last I had seen of her was behind a slammed door–from a growingly temperamental immortal. I hadn't even got out a full excuse for what I and my companions were involved in. At the time it was stolen king's gold. Now it was controlling the bestowed power of the gods–a reincarnation of the Ares himself.

"I do not think that is wise..." I ventured, hearing a snort behind me.

Lara ignored her and seemed intent on me. From my newly armoured form to the gleaming relics on my body. It made me more than uncomfortable knowing Kára was analysing every inch of her right back.

"Nonsense! You have returned in what seems like many winters. I can have the estate prepared tonight."

"The estate?" I asked in no small shock. "Who exactly did you..."

Her expression turned blank at the mention of it and she became busy ruffling the mane of her horse's head. Her long silks flowed alongside her legs that were swept onto one side of the saddle–a lady's riding position–not that of the woman I had met before. So, it was clearly a Lord of some sort.

"I really would like to have you for dinner, Tayah. For the sake of old friendship." She said, with a bit more pleading nature in her tone. I could practically hear the increased heart rate from here so I knew my immortal did too. The use of my name was given with emphasis. 

I sighed and glanced at her guard who stood dutifully upon their horses or dismounted and scanning the streets.

"I will join you for an ale–" Her face broke into a triumphant grin, "–if you leave your king's legion behind and visit a tavern not an estate." I deadpanned.

Her laughter was easy and her amber eyes were enjoying the sight of me a bit too much. I resisted the urge to tell her of my undying love for the immortal just metres away there and then and be done with it–but I sensed a desperation in her that I had never caught before.

A constant flickering glance towards the guards meant to protect her instead of the surrounding streets. The way she fidgeted with her saddle horn too frequently. It would be such a hassle to kill her husband before I had the chance to visit my old home and uncover Kára's long lost identity. But when was this realm ever linear?

"Let us find a cask of wine once more and make for the hills!" She giggled, waving her guard into formation. They did as she asked.

But I did notice the smile disappear from the demi-god's face now. The amused game becoming less amusing by the second... I threw her a quick look and a quiet rumble of thunder sounded distantly. Lara clicked her tongue and glanced at the skies.

"Always bringing the worst of the weather with you, Ashrive." She chided with a small smile.

I nodded awkwardly and made sure to edge closer to the woman causing it.

"Head to the tavern off the main plaza–the one–"

"I know the one, Lion! I shall see you at sun down." She turned in her saddle and clicked her horse forward. Her guards took formation around her–one without a horse now.