Total pages in book: 108
Estimated words: 99206 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 496(@200wpm)___ 397(@250wpm)___ 331(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 99206 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 496(@200wpm)___ 397(@250wpm)___ 331(@300wpm)
A thought struck her silent. Lands passed to heirs; how, then, had the Legend become the new lord of Dunhurnal?
“Did you travel to Dunhurnal land alone when you mapped the area?”
“Aye, I did. It takes time to map the land and the buildings, and none in the village could spare the time to accompany me, but it was necessary for the village to know the land. We needed a place to hunt for food once Lord Kilkern forbade us to hunt on his property.” She paused, a frown on her face. “If the land had been mapped, my father might not have broken his leg.”
“You blame yourself for your father’s injury?” he asked.
“I know it may seem foolish, but I feel my skills in mapmaking can help in many ways, thus preventing unfortunate and sometimes dangerous results. That is why I detail my maps so precisely; you never know what might be helpful.” A yawn rushed up and out before Reena could stop it, and her shoulders slumped slightly, fatigue fast catching up with her.
“You have done far too much, on far too little sleep.”
He sounded annoyed, which frustrated her, since she was well aware that he thought her too skinny and weak and she did not wish him to think so. “I am strong and can do what is necessary.”
“I did not question your strength.” His tone softened.
Another yawn attacked her, and she realized that she would not be able to continue the journey without some sleep. It would be nightfall before they reached Dunhurnal land.
Reena was about to admit her fatigue and seek the comfort of her parents’ wagon when she was suddenly plucked off her horse and deposited in front of the Legend.
One of his men took charge of her mare, directing the animal away from them.
“Lean back and rest,” he said with a sense of command, his face near to hers and his breath a warm, faint breeze on her cool cheek.
She was startled by his unexpected action. What would everyone think? But then he had told her once that he did not care what others thought of him. He had just proved it. She was so tired that she succumbed to his order, and she realized as she rested back against him that her hand remained firm on his arm, which was wrapped around her waist.
She thought to say something but could think of no words, especially since she felt comforted by the strength of him. Her eyes drifted closed, though she fought to keep them open; why, she did not know. He had ordered her to rest, but sleep? She needed to remain alert, needed to finish the conversation with him about Dunhurnal land, needed to discuss Brigid with him.
The last thought startled her, but sleep was close to claiming her, and she could do nothing more but think of how she must look, wrapped in the Legend’s arms, to those around them.
Brigid woke Reena the next morning, and she sat up with a start.
She looked around, sniffed the scent of fresh roasted meat, and saw that everyone was enjoying a substantial morning meal.
“I thought you would be hungry being you slept through supper,” Brigid said and handed her a slice of black bread with cheese and meat piled on it.
Reena took it, her stomach eager for sustenance.
Brigid nibbled on a piece of cheese.
After a bite or two Reena had to ask the obvious. “The last I remember was riding with Magnus on his horse. How did I get here?” Here was a soft bed of blankets beside a comforting fire that kept the chilled air at bay.
“It was a sight for sure,” Brigid said excitedly. “First the Legend ordered that a fire be built and bedding spread for you, then he handed you to Thomas—a dear man with a huge heart—to hold while he dismounted. He then took you from Thomas, carried you to this bedding, which I prepared with haste, and lowered you ever so slowly and carefully, as though he thought you would break or perhaps he did not want to let you go. Then he covered you with a blanket and commanded that no one disturb you.”
Speechless, Reena stared at Brigid.
“There are whispers—”
Reena would not allow her friend to finish. “Nonsense. The Legend but looks after his people, and besides, he has expressed interest in you.”
“Me?” Brigid placed a hand to her chest. “Why ever would he be interested in me?”
“You are beautiful, for one thing. And he is handsome beyond belief. You two would make a splendid couple, and I let him know this.”
Brigid nodded, understanding her friend. “We shall see who interests him.”
“I have no interest in him and he has none in me,” Reena said with a defensive edge.
“We shall see.” Brigid smiled, though it faded slowly. “I am glad the Legend moves us to his land. I left much behind in the village, including painful memories.”