A Feast of Souls: Araneae Nation, Book 2

by Hailey Edwards

  “Nerys.” I turned to her. “You said you used Cleit’s herbs to treat these patients?”

  She answered slowly. “I did.”

  “I assume at least some of those had antibiotic properties?”

  “Yes.” Her response came surer now. “When his supplies failed, I began reading scrolls he kept in his room. I tried treatments listed, from honey to goldenseal. Nothing worked until now.”

  Hmm. Perhaps the answer wasn’t so simple after all. “These people volunteered?”

  Crystin spoke over Nerys. “They did. All of us did.”

  Then perhaps a few more would too. “How many more are housed in this tower?”

  “There are two more rooms, both smaller than this one.” She indicated an arched door. “One room, through there, has three females. The other room connects into that one. It has two more.”

  “Do you think the people in those rooms would agree to an experiment?” I wasn’t sure then if I hoped she would say yes or no. “One can be the control room, the other given dayflower oil.”

  Nerys blinked. “I—I don’t see why they wouldn’t.”

  I hated knowing I would prey on their desperation. “Do they know what you’ve done here?”

  “No.” She shook her head. “I had thought—if it worked on Crystin—I might try, but I didn’t want to get their hopes up until we knew whether or not taking dayflower oil made a difference.”

  “Good.” I faced Vaughn. “I’ll need Isolde’s permission before we begin.”

  His face was set in troubled lines. “I’m confused as to what you think this will accomplish.”

  I lowered my voice. “Henri said dayflower oil has antibiotic properties.”

  “That pompous little scrollworm was picking at you?” He growled. “You can’t believe—”

  I pressed a finger to his lips. “Henri is—a good male, an honorable male. I think the death of his parents… He doesn’t know what to believe in. More than ever, he requires proof of the divine, but it’s not my place to supply it. So yes, he dented my pride. And yes, our friendship will suffer for his claims, but his work is valid.” My gesture encompassed the room. “I can’t deny the facts. These were sick people. They have been ravaged by sickness. Yet they are all fever free now.”

  Vaughn grunted. “He’ll gloat if he’s the one who finds the cure.”

  I promised him, “I only care that a cure is found.”

  “You’re handling this well.” He examined me as if searching for cracks in my facade.

  “Henri’s success takes nothing away from mine.” I shrugged. “His application for dayflower oil doesn’t invalidate mine.” I confided another factor in my consideration. “Beltania was spared the brunt of the plague. We thought at the time it was our good fortune. Or that prayer had staved off the worst of the epidemic. But what if neither was the case? If dayflowers are the key, then it makes sense that the outbreak died along with the herds. Our varanus graze in the flower fields.”

  Vaughn rubbed his jaw. “So they would have some of the same natural immunity you do.”

  “It stands to reason they would, yes.” For the first time since hearing of the yellow death, its name didn’t inspire a sense of utter hopelessness. “We lost less than a quarter of our herds. There were Araneaean casualties. We lost several handlers who had remained in the barn to monitor the animals. Chinedu’s attempts to discover whether or not the plague is being purposefully spread throughout the southlands have failed. That reason makes the most sense, though I can’t imagine what they thought to gain from the Salticidae. Whoever is behind the other deaths, the males, is a coward for preying on the weakened clans. Cowards spook easily and make mistakes from fear.”

  “You’re right.” Vaughn shook a hand through his hair. “There’s something more to this than a simple illness.” He offered a tight smile. “Until we uncover the cause, we search for the cure.”

  “Yes.” I surveyed the room one last time. “For now, it’s best if we treat the symptoms.”

  “You’re excited.” Vaughn frowned. “I can tell by the glint in your eye.”

  “Do you think so little of me that you believe I’d be disappointed at pinpointing a cure?”

  “You’re more progressive than Old Father.” He sounded thoughtful. “You would embrace a cure regardless of implications it is herbology and not faith responsible. I admire that, and you.”

  “Dearest Vaughn, I’ve been called far worse things in my life than a herbologist.” I allowed a sly smile to curve my lips. “Besides the small fact Nerys said all the other antibiotics have failed.”

  “And why does that amuse you, dearest Mana?” He stepped into me, finger tracing my jaw.

  “Because…” My thoughts fogged as his finger slipped in my mouth. I staggered backward with my heart racing. His black eyes burned hotly, and my body reacted. My neck throbbed in reminder of his bite. More heat pooled lower, the ache between my legs intensified. Vaughn’s nostrils flared.

  He scented my desire.

  Mortification made me squeeze my thighs together, but a knowing grin tilted his mouth.

  I pretended indifference. “There is one very telling difference between dayflower oil and the other alternatives.” When Vaughn stared, waiting, I tried not to sound smug. “Salticidae lands are blessed annually by Old Father. The dayflower fields are blessed daily while they’re tended.” Surprise sparked in his expression. “All distillations and clippings, every step of every process, is overseen by a walker, usually by me, and the blessings of the two gods are requested over each.”

  “The missing ingredient,” he mused. “An herbal cure would be safer for you to administer.” He sounded pleased by the idea, and it warmed me that my welfare was a concern of his.

  “One walker can’t heal more than three or four patients. When they’re this ill, even less than that can be tended without serious risk to the walker.” While I could call in others to help—there were currently four Salticidae trained in the spirit arts—two were on missions. “No one I can call for help would reach us in time. Our missionaries are scattered across the north and southlands.”

  He tapped his sword hilt, this time out of habit. “So this experiment is our best hope.”

  “I think so.” I patted the supply roll. “I should have enough here for our needs.”

  He eyed the roll with doubt. “And if it works?”

  “Then I’ll have to think of something. My supplies are with Sakwa. Lleu can fetch those. It’s enough for initial treatments.” I stopped before Nerys. “Access your records. I want to know how many died and their timeframe of death. Perform a new headcount. I need to know if there are any missing patients.” That earned an odd look from Vaughn. “Compile a list of patients, put in order of need.” She opened her mouth. “If this test works, I’ll speak to Isolde on your behalf.”

  “We’ll leave you to your work, Nerys.” Vaughn grasped my elbow. “But know this—if you attempt to run, your cousin will pay for your crimes.” His gaze lowered. “A crippled child’s a burden too great for you to bear alone. Use your head. Do what Mana asks of you and you might survive your foolishness.” He led me toward the door. “Our maven doesn’t often gift others with second chances. Remember that. Remember Mana put her honor on the line to spare your hide.”

  Nerys bobbed her head. “I will do as you ask.”

  For her sake, I hoped she would.

  Convincing Isolde that our experiment had merit left me with a sore throat and a headache. I had argued for concessions she should have been grateful to make for the sake of her people. She argued tooth and nail until fury made me slam her door behind me, but I had permission to begin.

  Gods knew the rest of my requests could wait until I recovered my strength…and my voice.

  I sensed Vaughn’s gaze and lifted my chin. “Your mother is a very frustrating female.”

  “I heard that.” The wood at my back muffled her words, and I was grateful for it.

  Vaughn shack
led my wrists and drew me down the hall and out of her hearing. “Let’s walk.” He avoided the heavy door leading into the city and cut the first corner to give us privacy. “How do you feel?” He cupped my cheeks, his thumbs stroking the tender skin beneath my eyes. “You aren’t sleeping well if at all. Your eyes are barely able to focus on me now. Are you sure you’re not ill?” His mouth thinned. “I shouldn’t have brought you here. I should have listened to Sikya.”

  I laughed at that. “Those are words I never thought I’d hear pass your lips.”

  “She has your best interests at heart.” He frowned. “I wanted you here. I brought you—”

  “I wanted to come, to help you if I could.” His warmth and strength, his nearness, soothed and aroused me. I indulged myself, shutting my eyes a moment. “Old Father endorsed the trip.”

  Warm lips pressed to mine. I was too tired to raise my lids. I put my hands on his chest.

  He cleared his throat and took my cue, giving me space. “We should begin.”

  Gentle tendrils of sleep and desire clouded my mind. “Hmm?”

  Hands on my shoulders, he shook me. “We should begin before Mother changes her mind.”

  That popped my eyes open. “She would out of spite.”

  “My mother?” He placed a hand over his heart. “Have a spiteful bone in her body?”

  I rolled my eyes at him. “I’m sure she has several.”

  He let me get several steps ahead before jogging to catch up with me. Our footsteps echoed down the deserted way. The towers were filled, but the halls were empty. “Have you seen Cleit?”

  “Not since he greeted us that first day.” He trailed fingers down the wall as we walked, and I imagined him doing the same thing when he was a child. “It’s one thing to watch your clansmen die while none are strong enough to oppose you. The coward, he must have gone into hiding.”

  “I wondered when I didn’t see him last night.” He wasn’t the only one missing since then. “I wondered if you heard from Murdoch today. He promised me he would listen out for the canis.”

  “I remember.” Vaughn’s stride hitched. “If he came here, I didn’t hear or see him.”

  “Oh.” Brynmor must be evading him. “I’m sure he’ll report once he’s found something.”

  He grumbled, “Of that I have no doubt.”

  “Jealousy doesn’t suit you.” The words flew from my mouth before I thought to stop them.

  He chuckled. “You have no idea.”

  My double take had him smiling. I had expected denial or joking dismissal. He was serious.

  “You won’t hurt him, will you?” I knew Vaughn’s anger had teeth.

  His eyes slanted my way. “Would it pain you if I did?”

  “Would it pain me to know an honorable male had suffered on my behalf? Yes. It would.”

  “I said I owe him, and I honor my word.” He sounded chagrined. “He’s safe from me.”

  Upon hearing his qualifier, I added my own. “I’ll ask that he’s safe from your guards as well.”

  “You wound me, Mana.” But his steps lightened. “Do you truly think me so devious?”

  “I’ve met your mother, remember?”

  Throaty chuckles raised chills along my arms. “How could I forget?” Another laugh, a softer one. “You handle her well, and that’s a rare talent. You’re firm with her, but not cruel. You have inexhaustible patience to endure her blustering as well as you do. Even I was strained with her.”

  “She has a good heart.” She must for Kowatsi to remain by her side. “I understand her life in Cathis shaped who she became. She is a strong, dedicated leader for her clan. I can respect that.”

  “Still, she is my mother, and I thank you for showing her the courtesy she often lacks.”

  I felt I should say, “You aren’t responsible for her. You know that, don’t you?”

  “Aren’t I?” His expression shuttered.

  I paused in the entry to the north tower. “She made her choices.”

  His hand brushed my hip as he sought the doorknob. “And so did I.”

  With a twist of his wrist, we entered the room and bumped right into Nerys.

  “Oh, you’re back.” She brushed hairs from her forehead. “I have the notes you requested.”

  “Good. Skim the list ordered by greatest need.” Rolling my shoulders loosened taut muscles. “Tell me which room houses the neediest victims. There are two rooms, correct?” I searched my supplies and withdrew a nub of bluish chalk. “We’ll mark both doors so we keep them straight.”

  “This was the critical ward.” Nerys pointed. “The room linked to this one is now direr.”

  A few swipes of chalk and a neat symbol labeled the room. Mindful of the resting patients, I asked Nerys to teach me the longer route. I reached the second room and marked it with none the wiser. Good. Though it pained me to lie to them, the results of this experiment must be untainted.

  “You’re doing the right thing.” A gentle hand squeezed my forearm. “They’ll understand.”

  My smile was tired. “I hope for their sake they live to find fault with me.”

  “Have faith, Walker.” With a wink, Nerys turned.

  I exhaled and followed, gathering my supplies and offering up one last prayer.

  The second room was given dayflower oil. I didn’t need to read their auras to see their lives were fading. I bet if I had slid into the in-between, I would have glimpsed pulsing yellow masses.

  In the third room, I kept my tone clinical and my explanations short. Yes, this will help you. Though I didn’t explain how or why, and neither female asked. I’ll visit on my rounds and check your health. Assuming either lived long enough for me to attend them. Guilt weighted every step from that room. When I reached the hall, I leaned against the cool stone wall for support. It was for the best. I had to know if we’d found a cure. I cared less why the oil worked, only that it did.

  Wood creaked. A door opened, then shut. Footsteps echoed. A strong arm circled my waist.

  All was a blur. The shining link between me and Vaughn was the brightest glint in the dark.

  “Nerys said there was no marked improvement until morning.” His strength was a comfort.

  “True.” The door to the first room receded from sight. “Perhaps I should…”

  “Get some sleep.” He half-dragged me around the bend. “You’re no use to anyone like this.”

  Behind us, heavy doors cracked against sturdier walls. Curses rang down the hall, and then a howl pierced our ears. Footsteps thundered our way on the trail of scrabbling claws and barking.

  I spun as the canis whirled past, a black blur. On his heels, Murdoch ran, cheeks red and his hair mussed. Scratches covered his hands, and blood stained his shirt. He slid to a stop before us.

  “Murdoch.” I greeted him. “I see you found the canis.”

  “Mana.” He panted as he bowed. “The beast gave a good chase. He’s definitely wilder than I had thought. Vicious creature. I can see now why our late paladin favored the species as he did.”

  Beside me, Vaughn stiffened. “They’re part of our clan’s history, part of my family history.”

  “They honor you, then.” Murdoch gave Vaughn a lesser bow. “You’re just as vicious.”

  I stifled laughter as Vaughn absorbed the compliment.

  After straightening, Murdoch scanned the halls. “Sure is quiet here. Where’s Cleit?”

  “We don’t know.” I saw no point in alarming him with the suspected reasons why that was.

  “The door was cracked. Anyone could have wandered inside the tower.” Murdoch looked to Vaughn. “If you’d like, I can handle his position. Someone must guard the sick.”

  “Thank you, but that’s unnecessary.” Vaughn angled his body behind and to my left. “I’ll do the job for now. Since our maven’s health has improved, I could use a task to occupy my time.”

  Murdoch bent low with a tight grin. “If you change your mind, you know where to find me.”

&
nbsp; “I’m grateful you returned the canis.” I smiled. “He is wild, but I’ve grown fond of him.”

  “Where did the bastard get to?” He straightened. “Don’t want him running loose.”

  “That’s true.” I doubted he’d cause trouble, but still. “I won’t have him startling patients.”

  Murdoch’s nostrils widened, his eyes rounding. “That smell.”

  I didn’t need to turn to see where we were, near the west garden entrance. Walking the block had become habit, a way of winding down between confrontations. Even though the garden was disturbing, it put my goals into perspective. But Murdoch wouldn’t know of the garden’s secrets.

  “The dead are in the garden.” Vaughn sounded matter-of-fact. “It’s warm enough the bodies are ripening. Once the worst has passed, we’ll perform the proper burial rites as we discussed.”

  As I crept closer to Murdoch, I planned my strategy. Distract and detain seemed wisest.

  A dubious light entered his eyes. “Do you mind if I see them? Pay my respects?”

  Vaughn placed me behind him. “I don’t think that’s wise.”

  “Don’t see the harm.” His brow creased. “Unless you think I won’t like what I find?”

  “No one could like the contents of that garden.” I shivered at the thought. “Trust me.”

  “Mana’s right.” Vaughn stepped closer to him. “There’s nothing you need to see there.”

  “I’ve been a guard long enough to tell when I’m being given the runaround.” He sounded as if our attempt to do so had insulted him. “This is a dangerous time for an heir to lose his allies.”

  “Allies who threaten me risk severance of another kind.” Vaughn grasped his sword hilt. He was calm, so sure of his skill that the threat of unsheathing his weapon made most males cringe.

  Murdoch didn’t cringe. “Heirs who keep secrets make enemies.” He stood his ground. “Show me, Mana. Let me see for myself what’s been happening behind the tower’s walls. As the male responsible for keeping the city safe, her walls guarded, I deserve to see what my efforts have wrought. Show me. Now.”