But more important, the way it ends in this open fashion invites speculation as to what kind of Home might have grown around Grenna and Arn.
He began to leave the beach. Grenna looked wildly after him. Then, hands still tied behind her back, she ran to him.
Master, she said.
He looked at her. I am an outlaw, said he. I have little use for a slave.
She stood there, bewildered. I find you beautiful, said Arn. I desire you.
I do not understand, she stammered.
He turned her about. With his sleen knife he cut the knotted loop of coffle leather from her throat. With his knife he cut the binding fiber from her wrists. He then held her from behind, by the arms, and kissed her, gently, on the right side of her throat.
Still held, she whispered, not looking at him, Am I not to submit to you?
He released her arms. No, he said. I free you.
She turned to face him. she stood on the beach. She rubbed her wrists. She seemed startled.
I have little time, said Arn, I am an outlaw. I must hunt. He turned away.
I am Grenna, she cried suddenly. I was second to Hura. I, too, am an outlaw. I, too, know the forests. I, too, must hunt.
Arn turned and faced her. Do you find me pleasing? he asked.
I do, said she, Arn.
On my head, said Arn, I wear the degradation strip.
Let me, too, so shave my head, said she.
He smiled. I must hunt, he said.
She smiled at him. I must hunt, too, she said.
Arn extended her his hand. Come, he said, let us hunt together.
Arn and Grenna, followed by his men, entered the forest, and disappeared.
Message Thread | This response ↓
« Back to index