Chapter 49

Roxanne

He doesn't know my name and it hurts.

After the opening introduction and the extended time-out for the two dragons, Laryn returns. His and Sarn's clothing are slightly disheveled but if there was blood they cleaned it off. Laryn remains by my side for the rest of the evening. I know of Calista, Sarn's bride. Her name and that of Meagan and Acasia as well as all the past brides are spoken of with reverence. To sacrifice yourself to a dragon is the highest honor a woman in my village can achieve. Of course, everyone believes they go to their death. It doesn't matter what they say to keep the brides from living in fear of the claiming. The village sacrifices the few to save the many. I had hoped by killing the dragon, the villagers would see what they do as wrong. The brides have no true life until one of them is chosen. The tradition is horrible and must be stopped.

Meagan is old and frail. I don't question Tahr's love for her. You can see it in the attention he gives her. In on