Lif sat in a chair in his dining room and stared out the old windows and into infinity. He sneered into his wine glass and rubbed a finger across the lacquered tabletop. The gray dust resettled upon it with supernatural quickness. He thought about wiping the table himself, but the fancy passed and he chose to leave it dirty.
There were no servants. Lif and his counterpart did not feel such responsibilities should be relegated to others, and besides, this place was their sanctum; neither wanted it invaded.
There was a soft click and, as if summoned by his thoughts, Lifthrasir opened the doors. Lif stood, but Lifthrasir eased him back into his chair with a touch to the shoulder. He lifted a hand to receive her gentle grasp and breathed her in. Her scent was intoxicating.
“My world’s sun,” he breathed.
“My heart,” she replied.
He looked up into her eyes; the gray forever was so much more acceptable reflected in them.
“What news?” he said.
She smiled. “The sons of Mim begin their work. The earth churns as we speak. I am confident we shall uncover it soon.”
“And the girl?” He covered her soft hands in his, kissing each finger.
She frowned and sat beside him. She took up his wine glass, sipping the sour contents. “I believe it is time we utilize the rusalka.”
Lif lowered his head in thought. “It would mean trading one for the other, but if you feel it is the only way, the girl is more important.”
“We cannot wait for an obliging emere. The wheels are in motion and Caravan grows wise. Besides,” She withdrew her hand and patted Lif’s cheek. “We need only make the bargain, dear heart. By the time it comes due, the consequences will be unimportant.”
He beamed. “Right as always, cherished. Does this mean we move to reclaim the fire as well?”
The lady Lifthrasir yawned, covering her rose lips. “Not yet. All of the pieces are not yet in play. There are still roles to be filled before we commit to igniting the fire.”
Lif stood. “Retire, my soul. You look fatigued. Allow me to ease your stresses.” He reached out a hand and she accepted it.
Lif and Lifthrasir embraced. Their passions burned as strongly as they had since the first day.
She rested her head upon his chest. “Soon, my love.”
“Soon.” He caressed her raven hair.
0 comments:
Post a Comment