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)
“Nay,” the Dark One admitted. “I see all, but this was easy to see for I know you well, my friend. You never favored the ladies with weak minds or character. You looked for one who would challenge with equal strength, and although the mapmaker is small in size she possesses the strength of a warrior.”
Magnus smiled. “She does, and she is as determined as a warrior, though her weapon of choice is a quill, which she wields with skill.”
“So I have heard, though beware,” the Dark One warned. “There are many who would wish her talent to be theirs. These lands continue to be a mystery to many. A mapmaker would prove a powerful weapon. Then of course there is the fact that you love her.”
Magnus shook his head, stood, retrieved the pitcher of ale from the table, and refilled their tankards before returning to his seat and placing the pitcher on the ground beside him.
“She cares for you as well, it is there in her eyes.”
“She thinks I better suit her friend, though I believe she is beginning to understand Brigid has no interest in me.”
“She would step aside so that her friend could have you when she herself favors you. Friendship like that is rare.”
“Reena risked her own life for her entire village by journeying to my home.”
“I do not envy you, my friend. A woman with such a caring heart would do anything for the man she loves, even risk her own life.”
The thought startled Magnus, and he was quick to respond. “She will do as I command.”
The Dark One’s laughter sounded more amused than harsh. “You should fast make her your wife, you may then have more control that way.” He laughed harder. “Though I doubt it.”
“She listens when I command.”
“Every time?”
Magnus thought to confirm his query, when he remembered how she had been struck by one of Kilkern’s men because she had gone off on her own without his permission.
“Your hesitation is answer enough.” His laughter continued.
“You find this amusing. One day you will find a woman such as Reena for yourself, and you will laugh no more.”
His laughter subsided. “If I found a woman with the strength, character and honesty of Reena, I would never let her go. I would protect her with my last ounce of strength and gladly give my life for her. But we agree that women like Reena are rare and few. You have found an incomparable gem.”
An abrupt shuffle and movement in the shadows caused Magnus to stand.
“I remain too long. I must go.”
“You are always welcome in my home.”
A black-leather-clad hand emerged from the shadows. “Thank you, my friend.”
Magnus held firm to his hand. “If ever you need me—”
“I know where you are.” A firm handshake parted them, and Magnus knew not how the Dark One exited the room, he only knew that he disappeared. “Keep safe, my friend.”
A winter storm set in hard and fast by midday, and most sought shelter in their homes. With sufficient warmth and food, the villagers were content. Reena draped her warm wool cloak around her and hurried out of the keep to Brigid’s cottage, Horace tailing close behind.
She thought to keep her friend company and perhaps ease her worry concerning Kilkern, but when she arrived at the cottage she heard laughter and was surprised upon entering to see Brigid teaching Thomas to make bread. They were laughing because the large man looked quite odd with an apron around his wide girth and his thick fingers buried in dough.
Reena recalled Magnus’s words about looking more closely at Brigid’s own dreams and desires. Watching the two, she realized the unlikely pair worked well together and, oddly enough, complemented each other.
Thomas looked at Brigid with loving eyes, and she seemed attentive to the large man. Could they be falling in love? It was obvious they wished to be alone, though Brigid insisted she stay and have the evening meal with them. Reena declined, though Horace remained, the scent of baking bread too tempting to refuse.
Reena returned to the great hall to find it empty, and she realized most would be remaining in their cottages for the night. She felt a sense of loneliness and thought of visiting her parents or Justin. Then she realized that Justin would probably be with Maura and her parents probably were snuggled before the fire enjoying her mother’s delicious winter stew, and no doubt the children would gather round her father later and hear his tales.
Where, then, did she belong?
The question disturbed her, for she had always felt a strong sense of belonging and a connection to all in the village. But times had changed and she was no longer the little girl who sat in her father’s lap listening to exciting tales. She had actually created her own tales by living her life, and her life was her mapmaking and drawing.