I blinked several times. “Italy? How can we get a ship to Italy that arrives in 1580? I don’t know how to time travel to a certain place and time.”
“We can’t,” Roman said, sitting up. “Not now, anyway. We’re here for the duration or at least until the blizzard passes.”
My shoulders sagged. “Obstacles, obstacles, always another obstacle.”
“Yes, but at least it’s something,” Marcellious said, expressionless. “It’s more than you had before I arrived.”
“True,” I said, nodding. “Thank you for telling us.”
“You’re welcome.” He turned to leave, lifting the door flap and peering out at the blue-gray skies. “Snow’s here. See?”
He stood aside.
Fat white flakes drifted from the cloud.
“Here we go,” I said. “Stay warm, Marcellious.”
“You, too. Let me know if you need anything,” he said, before tromping away.
By nightfall, snow blew all around us in the howling wind. Roman and I huddled in our teepee, emerging only when necessary and quickly returning to the warmth.
The blizzard raged for two days until we were completely socked in. We couldn’t even open our door flap without snow tumbling inside. Our waking hours were spent digging our way out of our lodges or re-fueling with jerky or stews cooked over the fire.
Roman and I snuggled under the furs at night and made love or curled around one another like puppies.
At least we saw no signs of Kiowa or Balthazar.
Two weeks after the heavy snowfalls, a relentless rain poured from the sky, washing away the icy blanket which covered the land.
I rejoiced in the rain since it meant we could move among the encampment and visit with others.
My joy was short-lived when Grey Feather called us to his teepee.
Grey Feather sat with Earth Bear, Marcellious, and several of his strongest warriors when we entered his dwelling. His prayer pipe rested in his lap, and a fragrant smoke scented the air, indicating the group had been in council.
“Come. Sit,” Grey Feather said gruffly.
Roman and I sat together, facing Grey Feather.
“A scout has advised us that the Kiowa are nearby. He has secured their location. We are through being chased like prey.” He sliced his weathered hand through the air.
Several of the men, their faces stony, nodded.
“Before dawn tomorrow, we shall find them and ambush them. We shall put an end to their tyranny!” Grey Feather lifted his fist into the air.
His warriors did the same, shouting words of assent.
Roman had lifted his fist as well.
I reeled back in horror. “Roman! You can’t possibly fight.”
Roman frowned as he looked at me. “What do you mean I can’t possibly fight? My brother and I must go. We’re gladiators—we can handle anything the Kiowa throw our way. You know how skilled we both are at battle.”
I shook my head. “The tribe has enough men to go and fight. You don’t need to go. I don’t have a good feeling about this.”
“What’s going on, Little Moon? Why are you against this?” Grey Feather said, glaring at me.
“I just don’t want anything to happen to Roman. To any of you…” I swept my arm toward each man, hoping I was not acting like a hysterical woman. The pregnancy hormones had their way with me, taking me on a roller coaster of daily mood swings.
