Chapter 46
Iwoke up early. Eidunn’s situation and slap had shaken me to my core, but I slept like a baby after. It’s easier when the mind is made up, when there is no doubt. I’m making a move. I have to help my friend, my sister. I’m just not sure how to do it yet.
Sigurd sits behind me as I run my fingers along the hammer. No vision, no images, no terrifying Volva calling me a slut. But it still has its dead heartbeat. Calling. I can feel its chains reaching out, seeking their target. It wants to pull something, or someone, toward it. But what? Who?
I can sense, feel an emotion. I cannot translate or read its energies. I know it yearns to be in someone’s hand. It wants its rightful owner to grab it. No question what the result will be if it completes its quest. Destruction.
“Who gave you this again?” I ask without turning.
“A queen, from the southeast. A woman who has conquered many halls and even castles. She gave me the ring as well.”
“She gave you the two together?”
“Yes, long ago, when we were both young and proud. My father aided her uncle in many battles, helping secure victory. This was an honor gift.”
I snort. Honor? A gift? More like a lingering curse. But giving both? Why?
“She is not your friend,” I say, lifting the ring warily. “Be prepared.”
Sigurd stands still as I place the ring on the hammer, covering my face.
Nothing happens. Nothing at all. The hammer keeps its frost-laced hunger.
They are both enchanted with dark intent, especially the hammer, I know that.
But their energies aren’t aligned, like they need another reagent. Something is missing.
Sigurd laughs behind me.
“Time for a break, my dear Volva.”
“My jarl, I—”
“Sigurd, in here. We end for today.”
“Very well, Sigurd.”
He steps forward to the items.
“Are you sure they are cursed? Perhaps they are just items of power? Perhaps they could be harnessed?”
“If they can be used for anything, it’s causing pain, destruction.”
“Destruction can be used to defend oneself.”
I turn to him, holding his gaze.
“Possibly. Is that why you have kept them?”
“Yes, maybe. I’m not even sure. Items of power are known to be treacherous if used wrong. So I have been wary. Kept their power a secret.”
“Very wise.”
“But I always wondered if they would come to use one day. Besides, what man throws away an honor gift?”
I nod without agreeing. Men and their honor gifts. How much blood has lust for power and glory spilled over the years?
“Sigurd… I…” I hesitate, considering bringing up Eidunn’s position to the lord of the land. He is beginning to trust me. It’s a risk to accuse any man of dishonorable behavior, especially one of the jarl’s favored warriors. I decide against it.
“Yes?” he says, raising an eyebrow as he waits.
“Nothing, my lord. Thank you for your time.”
“And again, Kilda, brilliant suggestion with the thrall party. They have been a little under the weather, but in the long run, such traditions build loyalty.”
“Thank you,” I say, bowing my head.
“Very good.” He turns. “Now go practice your enchanting, or do a ritual blessing, or whatever it is a Volva does for her folk.”
“Thank you,” I repeat.
I know what I will do. Sigurd is too risky.
I want to be on his good side, in case I find myself in any disputes going forward.
He respects me, trusts me. I will not risk my position.
But I know someone who has promised to aid me.
Just yesterday. I know who to talk to, even if I don’t want to.
Even if it makes my skin crawl, I have to.
The jarl’s son.