Page 22 of House of Serpents and Slaves
“I’m sorry,” he said simply, and somehow, the sincerity in his voice made the words sting more than they should have.
“It was a long time ago.”
“Was Septimus from the same village?”
I stiffened slightly, though I kept my voice even.
“He was.”
Marcus’s expression darkened, and I could see the soldier in him rising to the surface.
“The Talfen have caused so much destruction and anguish in our lands. One day they will pay, Livia."
I nodded, though I didn’t speak. Let him assume what he wanted. He sat back slightly, his jaw tightening.
“I’ve fought them before. Raided their camps. They’re ruthless, but their sorcerers are worse.”
I frowned, curious despite myself.
“Sorcerers?”
He nodded grimly.
“They manipulate shadows. Dark magic. I’ve seen men held by invisible hands, unable to move, while the Talfen warriors cut them down.”
A shiver ran down my spine, though I wasn’t sure if it was from his words or the memory of shadows that felt far too close to home.
“And you fought them?” I asked, my voice quieter now.
“Many times,” he said, his tone heavy. “The Empire doesn’t forgive defiance.”
I didn’t know what to say to that, so I said nothing, letting the silence stretch between us.
Finally, he broke it with a faint smile.
“You’ve been here all night, haven’t you?”
I shrugged, brushing off the question.
“You’re not the easiest patient to leave alone.”
He chuckled softly, though the sound was tinged with weariness.
“Go,” he said, gesturing toward the door. “Get some rest before you collapse, too.”
I hesitated for a moment, then nodded.
“Fine. But I’ll be back with more broth later.”
He smirked faintly.
“I’ll try to contain my excitement.”
I rolled my eyes and stepped out of the room, but my heart felt lighter than it had in days. At least for now. Once Marcus found out what I was planning to do, I didn't think he'd be quite so nice to me.
"Livia."
The voice stopped me cold.
