FOREVER KNIGHTS: #7 King of Assassins
That's a Slap

When Mardichi was sure Sebastian wasn’t listening he leaned toward the valkyrie who dodged from reach when he shifted. Eying him warily.

Get back here. I’m not making a move on you.

“Here, Lass. I need ta whisper ta ye.”

Lips turning down she eased closer to him. Tilting an ear carefully.

“How badly wounded was he?”

Her blue eyes rounded, and she reared back as though he’d slapped her.

Perhaps I shouldn’t have asked.

She composed herself instantly except her eyes which were narrowed suspiciously. “How badly hurt do you suppose he was?”

Should I answer that?

She has been tending me. Fairly certain it was the wrong choice he elected to answer her.

“Pretty badly I suppose. They were fair enjoyin’ takin’ bites from ‘is thighs an’ arms las’ me looked.”

“Oh, his arms were they?”

Yea. Shouldn’t have answered.

“Yea.”

She nodded calmly.

But she’s simmering.

I can spot a simmering woman.

“Excuse me,” She lowered her head in farewell as she gripped her lavender skirt and rose. “I’ll be back to check on you later.” She reassured.

Mardichi watched her remorsefully. Flinching when she slammed the door albeit too hard.

“Sebastian.” She called sweetly.

Don’t fall for it brother. He thought about sending the telepathic warning but thought it best to refrain from interfering just now. He sunk deeper into the bedcovers.

“Yes, Els?”

Too late.

He sounds so excited to hear her calling for him. Mardichi instantly felt a vicious pang of guilt. It’s a trap.

“I was just-” Her voice sounded so demure.

There was a rustle of fine cloth and Bast yelped.

She grabbed his arm. Mardichi was certain. The faint whiff of blood confirmed his suspicion.

“What is that?” Her tone changed.

“I hurt myself a little.”

“A little?” She was fair waspish now.

Poor lad.

Sebastian yelped again.

Other arm. Mardichi grimaced, sliding further down the bedding.

“I didn’t intend to get hurt, Els.” He explained. Nearly whining.

“You swore you’d take some care.”

“I have been.”

He yelped again.

Good God. She’s merciless! What was that?

Was it his genitals? Mardichi worried fearfully after the extended silence. The smell of blood grew stronger.

What’s she doing to him. Mardichi eased toward the edge of the bed in-case he needed to get up to save his brethren. Is she going to kill him?

“Would you like me to continue?” She hissed. “Or is it just that leg?”

Oh, his thigh. Thank the bloody Heavens. Poor man. Mardichi slumped backward. I’d have been little help just now.

“No. It’s both.” Sebastian grunted weakly.

Bleeding through his clothing, no doubt. Flee man! Have you no sense?

“How’d you replace out? Did he tell on me?”

Yes.

“No.” Her stern voice surprised Mardichi.

She’s lying for me? Good woman!

“I didn’t believe you when you put on that long-sleeved shirt. Your story on it being a chill morning didn’t hold water.” She said derisively. “I know full well you hardly feel it.”

You tried that story?

Pitiful.

I am surprised she bought it.

“I didn’t want you to worry!” Bast defended.

There was a resounding smack.

Oh, now that sound I know. I’ve heard it in me ears many a eve.

That, that’s a slap.