Page 32 of Starfall

“Yes. The seasons get together to end the year and start it over. We don’t know how long it’s been going on, but here we are.”

“What happened to the avatar before you?”

“Autumn? He needed to pass the season on to someone so that he could die. He had loved, had children, and been loved in return, but they were all gone. He wanted to join his love.”

“That is so sad and sweet.”

“I am grateful for it. It let me stand and heal, and if not for it, I wouldn’t have met you.”

She nodded. “True. I would have missed all the growling and bitching.”

He chuckled. “It was so much fun, and you never backed down or even flinched.”

“I will defend fried food unto death.”

“And I look forward to battling you again and again.” He paused and said, “Emery, may I kiss you?”

She paused. “Even knowing about the teeth and venom and stuff?”

“Even knowing that. I am not afraid of ending up bound to you.” He turned to face her and took her hands.

“It’s your funeral... eventually.”

He smiled. “I will take that as a yes.” He leaned in, and his lips were so close she could feel the heat when she heard the word that terrified her.

“Ogre!”

Chapter Six

Emery jerked away fromRowen and whirled to face the attacker. Three warlocks were facing her, and one had the white eyes of a seer. “Nosey fucker.”

Rowen asked, “What are you doing, Penrose?”

“That woman is an ogre. I can see it.”

His companion stated loudly, “Ogres are not allowed in township limits.”

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