The Wolf and the Snake (English version)

Chapter 10

The large building is cold inside; one of the Templars takes care of my injured hands. Returning to the courtyard, I give Reyn some sad glances.

Did I make such a grave mistake?

I disobeyed my father many times, and he always laughed about it. But, of course, he scolded me a little.

Alas, my husband's perfect face hardly reflects clemency. 

Reyn shows great annoyance instead. 

Or a terrifying rage he tries to contain in front of the Templars?

They're warrior monks but also godly men, so they're compassionate.

As for me, I'm the wolf's wife.

Besides, this idiot, Aurel, is staring at me with worry.

What is he afraid of? Is he scared my husband will devour me?

I don't give a damn.

If Reyn is a wolf, then I will be a snake.

Well, no!

However, one of these monstrous beasts had been embroidered on an infant swaddle.

A long time ago!

Reyn moves towards the horses, and I follow him limping.

I walk as fast as I can.

Damn! He's already in the saddle.

In front of the mounts, I pitifully try to get up on the bay mare. But all my efforts are a waste of time.

"She will never make it."

Aurel's voice!

Can't this idiot mind his business?

Second attempt! The poor beast rears up nervously, and I'm exhausted.

Then, two powerful arms lift me easily off the ground. Reyn approached with his steed to grab me by the waist. 

I find myself on the mount, pressed up against him.

And the horse gallops away.

Reyn says nothing.

I feel the metallic coldness of his armor, his sword hilt against my back. I wish to tell him how much I regret my desire to fly away. I love freedom and can't help it. The only cage keeping me close to Reyn is made of his arms.

We cross the drawbridge to return to the castle. 

I'm so tired.

No matter what happens, I won't resist.

The Snake will not rise against the Wolf, for a terrible battle, without victor or vanquished.

He put me on our bed.

So he doesn't intend to lock me up in his dungeon.

He always has this habit of throwing on the ground his combat equipment. He's also getting rid of my pretty new gown.

I hope he didn't damage it.

A smile spreads across my face, maybe like a pretty butterfly. I know we will make love passionately.

But suddenly, my heart goes cold!

Reyn holds an unusual item between his fingers.

A long stick?

Hell and damnation!

It's a whip.

My goodness! Does he want to hit me with that thing?