Page 83 of Half Dead

The vodyanoy paddled toward me. “It better be really good news. You interrupted an excellent nap.”

“Where’s Raina?” I’d introduced Goran to a vila named Raina who preferred her liaisons in the form of a swan.

“She’s at home, I expect. We agreed to keep things casual.”

“I see. How do you feel about that?” It had been myimpression that Goran was lonely and appreciated the company.

“It was my idea. I’m not great with clingy women.” He shook his body, as though ruffling feathers he didn’t possess.

“I’m sorry it didn’t work out.”

“Who said it didn’t work out? She likes me all the time, and I like her sometimes. So, what’s the big news?”

“What do you know about the Zorya?”

His bulbous eyes grew rounder. “You met them?”

“No.”

“Then why do you ask about them?”

“Because they’re goddesses who may be able to help you.”

Goran absorbed the news. “You think they have the power to break my curse?”

“They’re guardians of the universe. I’d say there’s a good chance that power is in their wheelhouse, don’t you think?”

He paddled closer to me. “I’m listening.”

“There are three of them.”

“There are always three of everything. It’s basically an unwritten rule.”

“What if you were to appeal to all three, basically wish upon their stars with the same request?”

“Midnight doesn’t have a star.”

I thought of my bargain with Lucifer. “Then make her an offer she can’t refuse.”

The water spirit contemplated my suggestion. “You don’t think that’s overly simplistic?”

“What do you have to lose? Get their attention. The worst they can do is ignore you.”

“The worst they can do is smite me for bothering them.” He paused. “But I’ve reached the point where I’m willing to take that risk.”

“Are you sure? You told me you were fine to stay in this condition.”

“That’s called putting on a brave face, which would be easier if I still had a face with a satisfying reflection. The truth is, I’m miserable, Lorelei. I miss myself.” He rolled onto his back and spat a fountain of water in the air. It splashed across his chest as gravity pulled it back to the lake.

“Then make the wishes. See what happens.”

“Will you stay with me? It might be good to have a witness in case things take a dark turn.”

“I would if I could, you know that, but my presence is required elsewhere.”

Goran narrowed one bulbous eye. “What are you not telling me?”

“It’s nothing. I have to complete a series of trials for Lucifer in order to secure Kane’s freedom. I completed the first one, but the second one is…” I checked the clock on my phone. “In a couple hours.”

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