Nirvana Effect

76



Nockwe had left the city once he’d ascertained that Edward was safe.

Edward found him at the village, sitting against the ancient rock that marked the center of Onge civilization.

Nockwe did not react to Edward’s approach. It was as though Nockwe were expecting him.

“This rock,” said Nockwe. “My great-great-grandparents lived and died not a thousand paces from this rock.”

Edward followed Nockwe’s gaze. He was watching the ruins of his village.

“Your health?” asked Nockwe.

“Returned,” said Edward. “And yours?”

“I have a sickness that can’t be cured.”

The grounds of the village still smelled of ash.

“I am sorry for your loss. Callista told me.”

Nockwe studied Edward’s face and then nodded, accepting his condolences. Nockwe didn’t look sad. He looked as though he were smoldering.

“Do you know how I became chieftain over all Onge?” asked Nockwe.

“You challenged three men back to back, and you survived.”

Nockwe shook his head. “Ten years ago, when Bri’ley’na was only fifteen, she had agreed to be my wife. Our chieftain, though, would not give his blessings. His son wanted her for himself. So Bri’ley’na petitioned the chieftain directly, telling him that she would not allow herself to be married to anyone but me. He finally consented. His son grew so angry, however, that two days before the ceremony he tried to rape my Bri. She escaped because I discovered them and intervened. When I charged the son with the crime, the chieftain wouldn’t hear it.”

“So then you challenged him?” asked Edward.

“No, then his son challenged me. And then his brother intervened. And then their father intervened. And after I killed my chieftain, I had to kill each son or else they would kill me.”

Nockwe stood up and leaned against his rock. He sighed. It was the closest to grief Edward had ever seen him. Finally, Nockwe locked eyes with Edward. “The only day of my life worse than the day I became chieftain was the day I lost my Bri.”

Edward felt he had to say something. He didn’t know what to say, but he had to say something. “Your Bri’ley’na was brave,” said Edward. “I owe her a debt.”

Nockwe nodded. “So do I. I intend to pay it. Now tell me, Edward, do you come to reminisce, or is there business on your mind?”

May as well be direct. “I’m chasing Mahanta,” said Edward. “I thought you might want to join me. I would be grateful if you would join me.”

Nockwe considered it momentarily. It seemed he’d already considered it. He nodded. “I will join you.” He sat back down against his rock.

“We’ll get him, Nockwe,” said Edward, looking out at the ashes of Nockwe’s home.

“But we won’t get my people,” said Nockwe.

“We’ll save who we can.”

“My sons, my daughters…and they are all my sons, my daughters. Do you understand, Edward?” asked Nockwe.

“Yes, I understand.”

“When my path crosses with Mahanta, I will have only one agenda. You must know this, and expect nothing else.”

“I know, Nockwe. I know,” said Edward.

Nockwe nodded, satisfied, and went back to his watching.