Odesse looks up at Valex and says, "Yes, my king, I want us to mate tonight." Valex, still unable to believe his ears, shifts his gaze downward, sadness clouding his eyes. "My love," he replies, "you are aware of the circumstances I face. I can't let you die."
Odesse smiles and pivots on her knees to face him. The sudden shift of her weight sends a broad, rhythmic wave surging over the marble lip. She gently touches his face and continues, "My king, I am aware of what will happen, which is why we have to mate tonight. That's how to break the curse." Valex looks at her, puzzled. "I do not quite understand you."
She tucks her legs beneath her as she settles into a low kneel against the marble. Breathing out, she says, "My king, the Moon Spirit informed me that in order to break your curse, we will have to mate. During the act, I may lose consciousness and go into a trance."
