As they travelled, Samo’s trepidation grew. Seal, caribou, and others. His mind fixated on the unknown. He did not think Elk Charm would follow a cruel man, at least not willingly. But if someone recognized the mark upon his face, what would they do? Would they cast him out? Samo would not blame them. Few folk wanted to shelter a runaway slave. Would Elk Charm be tarnished by her association with him? No, he told his spinning thoughts. Rome was far from here. Yet the Romans had still touched these lands. Could whatever force that had spirited him and Martius be strong enough to bring the legions too?

He remained cautious. Especially when they passed by the fires. Fire touched this land now—blue for drying meat and cooking. And pink for—

Samo was not a stranger to desire. Nor to a woman’s touch. Even the wives of citizens could lust for a gladiator. He was not the first among his fellows, but he was still skilled enough to win himself some glory. He thought he saw Elk Charm look at him, and he looked back, even as he hesitated. She was unmarried, and he would not ask her to sully herself for him. He had no name to honor her. No land. No home. How could he hope to wed her? But if she asked, he did not think he would have the strength to refuse.

No invitation came, so Samo kept his distance.

They travelled south, and the smell of salt stung his nose. The sea was close again. Samo had learned to fear it, but he knew it was a place of bounty; fish and seal made excellent food. He shouldered on, carrying what things Elk Charm would allow him to bear for her. She was looking thinner, and he felt concern. This unnatural winter was making game scarce. Once they stopped, it would take cunning to catch something big enough to feed both of them.

An unfamiliar howl sang out. Samo was startled, but relaxed upon hearing Elk Charm’s words. A friend, then. Nate was not a Roman name he knew: a promising start. Elk Charm looked at him. He nodded to her with a small smile, and walked towards the one she called Nate.

Nate was a handsome man. He was not tall, but he had the posture of someone much greater. His eyes were like Elk Charm’s, a soft bright blue, and there was a kindness there he did not often see. He wore feathers tucked in his fur too. Someday, he would have to ask what it meant. For the moment Samo could not take his eyes off him.

Then he realized he was staring, and that he was expected to speak. Samo lowered his head to stare at his paws, shoulders held low with submission. He did not yet know what would be asked of him. He had known many masters, both his own and others, but Nate had the look of one who would be kind. If, indeed, that was what he wished to be.

No—he would not be a slave again. He would not. He would serve, but he would serve by choice.

I am Samo of the Aedui, he said. With growing warmth and pride, he continued, Elk Charm is my friend. Friend. Not domina.