The Inheritance Trilogy

by N.K. Jemisin

“Do you want to go in?” Nahadoth asked. “No, of course not. I’m fine out here.” “They dance to honor Itempas.” I looked at him, confused. “Why should I care about that?” His smile made me feel warm inside. “Have you turned from the faith of your ancestors so completely?” “My ancestors worshipped you.” “And Enefa, and Itempas, and our children. The Darre were one of the few races who honored us all.” I sighed. “It’s been a long time since those days. Too much has changed.” “You have changed.” I could say nothing to that; it was true. On impulse, I stepped away from him and took his hands, pulling him into dancing position. “To the gods,” I said. “All of them.” It was so gratifying to surprise him. “I have never danced to honor myself.” “Well, there you are.” I shrugged, and waited for the start of a new chorus before pulling him to step with me. “A first time for everything.” Nahadoth looked amused, but he moved easily in time with me despite the complicated steps. Every noble child learned such dances, but I had never really liked them. Amn dances reminded me of the Amn themselves—cold, rigid, more concerned with appearance than enjoyment. Yet here, on a dark balcony under a moonless sky, partnered by a god, I found myself smiling as we wheeled back and forth. It was easy to remember the steps with him exerting gentle guiding pressure against my hands and back. Easy to appreciate the grace of the timing with a partner who glided like the wind. I closed my eyes, leaning int...