“Look,” she said, finally. “I’m the one taking the biggest risk. You’ll be outside the House, with plenty of time to leave if anything goes wrong.” “If you’re caught—” “You think I’d turn on you?” Onalli asked. “After all they’ve done to Xochitl, you think I’d help them?” Atcoatl’s face was dark. “You know what they’re doing, inside the House.” She didn’t—but she could imagine it, all too well. Which was why she needed to pull Xochitl out. Her friend hadn’t deserved this; any of this. “I’m Jaguar Knight,” she said, softly. “And I give you my word that I’d rather end my own life than let them worm anything out of me.” Atcoatl looked at her. “You’re sincere, but what you believe doesn’t change anything.” “Doesn’t it? I believe the Revered Speaker’s rule is unlawful. I believe the Jaguar House had no right to betray its own dissidents, or interrogate them. Isn’t that what we all believe in?”
What do You think about Nebula Awards Showcase 2012?
