The Vow (The Lady Quill Chronicles, 2#)

By D.D. Chant

Dear Reader,

My next story begins with Velrek, where Lord Rafe and Lady Adele's arrival was cause for much celebration and rejoicing.
However Finan of Gournay, Rafe's foster brother and the captain of Valreks army, could not help a lingering feeling of worry.
Were Rafe and Adele truly safe from Lord Kyule's hate?
Adding to Finan's problems was the unsettling presence of Rafe's sister, Lady Esme. Used to keeping his distance from the woman of Valrek, Finan found that he could no longer escape as before.
As danger and treachery enveloped Valrek, Finan and Esme found themselves drawn together to fight the shadowy assailant that threatened the lives of those they loved.
What secrets would they unearth in their search for the enemy that taunted them?
Would they find that their stories were more closely linked than either of them ever knew?
Allow me please to answer these questions...

Lady Quill

• Language: English
• Publisher: D.D. Chant
• Release date: Jul 29, 2014
• ISBN: 9781311201645

D.D. Chant

Hiya everyone, my name is Dee Dee, I’m twenty five and I live in a beautiful part of England, Devon. Broken City is actually my second novel. My first, as my Aunt so delicately put it, was crazy, but in my defence I was only sixteen at the time. On the plus side I learnt a lot (or so I hope) and two years later Broken City was finished. Since then I have written another book ‘The Promise’, which is set in Saxon England and is a romance, it is the beginning of a series. I am currently writing my third book, which is set in the distant future and is also the start of a series. I’m about half way through and very excited about it! I really hope you enjoy reading my books as much as I enjoy writing them.

Book preview

Prologue

Dear Reader,

Allow me please to explain to you how this, my second story, comes about.

The Kingdoms of Mercia and Wessex had always been adversaries, for many years waging a political battle with neither side achieving an advantage. This changed, for Wessex was betrayed by one of its own, a certain Lord Kyule. This lord fled to Mercia after his deceit was discovered and became King Aethelbald’s subject. However the threat that he posed was by no means diminished, for he left behind a web of intrigue that held many in its toil.

He also left enemies behind.

Three Houses of Wessex united together and vowed to fight the evil Lord Kyule sought to wreak. They were the Houses of Valrek, Drogand and Gradock. They were joined in their oath by a House of Mercia, the House of Targhe.

Yet this tale belongs to one man over any other; allow me please to tell you Finan’s story.

Lady Quill.

Chapter One

They would soon be home.

They might not be returning victorious, but neither were they defeated. Finan raised a hand to wipe his face free of the raindrops that had gathered to drip from his chin. Lord Kyule had escaped, but he had not succeeded in his plot to do Rafe harm. In a few months more Rafe would marry Adele, and both of their futures would be assured.

Finan was only thankful that in having shown his hand, Lord Kyule had made it impossible to continue living in Wessex. He felt easier knowing that there was at least distance between Rafe and Kyule’s malicious hate.

He tried to shake off the feeling that Lord Kyule was not finished, that he would still attempt to cause trouble. Leofric had pointed out that with Rand’s return to Mercia, Lord Kyule would be well watched. But still Finan felt misgiving as a heavy knot in his stomach.

Rand had offered to challenge Kyule on his return, but Rafe had forbidden him vigorously. He had demanded a promise from Rand that he would make no move to force a quarrel. One look at Rafe had convinced Finan that he had been thinking of Evoric. Rafe had sworn after Evoric’s death that he would never again lose a friend to a grudge, be it another mans or his own.

Finan shook his head.

Rafe still felt so much horror over Evoric’s death. Finan felt the bitterness, the helplessness of being unable to do aught but watch. Yet sometimes he thought that the feeling Rafe had was different. Evoric might have been Finan’s blood brother, but he had not had to endure watching as the life had left his body.

Rafe had.

Finan took an unsteady breath; thank God he had been spared that at least.

The rain continued to fall and Finan heard Rafe laugh. The sound brought a quiet smile to his lips. He doubted Rafe’s mood would have been half so merry, had Lady Adele not been seated before him on Charger.

Finan, Adele has been telling me that I should not curse the rain. Rafe drew his horse alongside his friends mount.

Really, my lady?

Adele sheltered beneath Rafe’s cloak, smiling softly and content to let Rafe tease her.

But wait until you hear reason why, continued Rafe.

Finan waited while Adele stuck her tongue out at her beloved.

If the rain does not fall, it cannot water the flowers that feed the bees, who produce the honey for your mead, she repeated.

Finan smiled again and Rafe laughed so hard that Lady Adele was obliged to cling to the horse for fear of slipping off.

She has a point, Master Rafe.

Not in winter! Still, I have the strangest feeling that I shall never be able to curse the rain with quite so much vehemence in the future.

As Finan watched, Rafe settled Adele comfortably in his arms again and grinned down at her. He had never expected to see his friend so happy with his bride. He knew only too well that anything to do with Adele had served only as an unpleasant reminder of Evoric’s loss. He had seen Rafe shrink from her name and the memories it had evoked. Finan doubted that anyone had truly understood the anguish Rafe’s betrothal had brought to him.

Yet that had been before. A strange bond had grown between Adele and Rafe since their meeting. Finan did not claim to understand it, nor was he sure that he approved. It was, however, a relief to see Rafe happy once more.

Finan shifted uneasily on his horse. His wound, though healing, still brought him discomfort and despite the fact that they were traveling slowly, every jolt of his mount brought him pain.

Finan? Rafe’s voice was anxious as he watched his friend press his hand to his wounded side.

They had stayed at Merrodon a week after Lord Kyule’s escape. Rafe had been torn between the desire to take Adele back to Valrek where he knew she would be safe, and the fear that moving Finan might hinder the speed with which he recovered.

Finan had practically begged him to leave, but Rafe could not bring himself to do so. He had spent the days hovering over Adele like a hen with one chick. Leofric, Daegmund and Anlaf had teased him mercilessly over such fretfulness, but Rafe had been undeterred.

Now Leofric was gone, traveling to King Ine with the news of Lord Kyule’s betrayal. Rand had left for Mercia, taking his bride, as Eda now was, with him. He had been reluctant to go, suggesting that Rafe might yet have need of him. Rafe had firmly told him to take his wife home.

Finan understood why.

They all knew that lord Kyule was not above striking at Rand’s mother and sister if he thought it would serve his cause. Finan frowned. Rafe was right; this was not over, it never would be while Lord Kyule still breathed. His hate was too deep, unreasonable, and Finan felt as though his shadow followed them still.

He watched as Adele and Rafe conversed easily together, trying to calm the unsettled feeling in his stomach.

Why did he feel that there was something he was overlooking?

He shook himself free of the uneasy notion. He would never let anything hurt Rafe or Adele, he would not allow Lord Kyule take them from him as Evoric had been.

He was only glad that they were so close to Valrek and allowed himself a small sigh of relief. The riding was irritating his wound more with each passing second and he would be glad of the respite arriving home would bring.

T’was a long journey.

Finan was surprised to find Lord Brogan at his side.

It was indeed, my lord.

I for one will be pleased to see Valrek. Lord Brogan shifted a little on his horse. I am far too old for this. All I have been able to think of these last days, is how pleasant it will be to suffer Ebba’s fussing on our return.

Finan chuckled at this confession.

Not that you intend to let her know you are enjoying her ministrations?

Of course not! Lord Brogan grinned. Being coaxed into letting her have her way is at least half of the fun!

For a second both men relapsed into silence.

How is your wound, Finan?

Well enough, my lord.

Your bravery is, of course, very impressive. However a wise man does not hinder his own recovery by denying the need for assistance.

And by that you mean that I am to allow Lady Adele to tend to my wound, until she deems me to be well enough to do without her assistance.

Lord Brogan’s hand settled on his shoulder.

You must forgive the foolish nervousness of this old man. You are far too precious to me to run the risk of losing you.

Finan felt an awkward tightness in his throat and nodded abruptly. Lord Brogan patted his back in approval.

You are a good boy, Finan. Lord Brogan stretched slightly in the saddle. This rain does not agree with my old bones. I have a suspicion that this is the last adventure I will share with you boys. From now on I will have to be satisfied with hearing of your exploits.

I am sure that no matter how old we are, we will always seek out your wisdom and guidance.

Lord Brogan chuckled.

You need not attempt to comfort me, Finan. I am well pleased with the men my sons have become. I am at peace for I know that, whatever might befall you, the bonds of brotherhood that you share will keep you safe. Lord Brogan’s eyes lifted to meet Finan’s. Never forsake those bonds. Not for any man or woman – not even for a kingdom.

Finan was perplexed by the sudden seriousness of Lord Brogan’s tone.

Lord Brogan?

The serious light in the older man’s eyes disappeared and he smiled again.

Look! I can see Valrek.

They had cleared the trees and were on a rise, all of Valrek lay before them, stretched out for inspection. The village itself stood on a hill, surrounded by a wooden wall that was itself ringed with a network of fearsome wooden spikes, angled dangerously in defence. The fields surrounding the hill were well kept, though at present fallow, the grass limp and bruised by frost and thaw. The river curved through the peaceful landscape, its waters the same leaden grey of the sky.

Rafe pulled Adele closer to him, tilting her head to the side and leaning his cheek against hers.

What do you think of your new home, my lady?

I think that my lord’s description fell far short of the reality.

Is that a good or a bad thing?

My lord may decide for himself.

Rafe grinned.

How do you like the defences? Finan and I designed them.

He watched as Adele wrinkled her brow as if in profound thought.

They are terrifying; I would never think to raise an army against you. However they are also very ugly.

War is ugly, not that you need fear attack. Valrek has not been laid siege to since my grandfather’s time. Rafe smiled and kissed her forehead. So you see that the fearsomeness of our defences has a purpose.

I can believe it; I shall feel very safe behind that wall.

Adele cuddled closer and Rafe felt a shiver run through her small frame. In all the troubles they had faced, not once had Adele shown fear or anxiety. Now Rafe wondered if he had been blind to her unease. Had she felt vulnerable after all? He cursed sharply and turned her to face him. Adele clutched at his arms as her balance shifted and lifted wide blue eyes to his.

You have no need to be fearful of anyone or anything, Adele. I would never let anyone hurt you, I swear it!

Her lips softened in to a smile and her cold, slim fingers twined with his. She shook her head.

I never was fearful for myself, Finn, but so very afraid for you.

For me? Why would you be worried for me?

Adele smiled, lifting her hand to touch his cheek.

Because you do not have sense enough to worry for yourself! Only think; I have you to see that no harm befalls me, but who will protect you?

Rafe looked rather revolted.

Why do you suppose I have trained every day since my fourth year? I have no need of someone to protect me, I am well able to protect myself.

Adele remained silent, but Rafe perceived that his words had not comforted her. He struggled awkwardly for something more to say, until he felt a tear fall on his hand.

Do not cry, Adele! Truly I cannot see what I have said to upset you!

Daegmund says that Lord Kyule hates you with so much fire that he will not rest until he has killed you.

Rafe felt a considerable amount of irritation toward the absent Lord Gradock, flood through his veins. Had that unfortunate man been present, Rafe would have had no compunction in drawing blood.

I shall break his meddling neck.

I beg your pardon, Finn? I did not hear you.

Rafe unclenched his jaw and forced a smile.

Daegmund is nothing more than a worrying old woman.

Adele frowned at this assessment, but forbore to point out that prudence was not a characteristic that coloured the Gradocks’ vivid personalities.

All will be well, as you will soon see. With Rand watching Kyule in Mercia, and Leofric attending to King Ine and seeing that the court remains peaceful, there will be no opportunity for hostilities.

Adele nodded in recognition of the wisdom behind his words, yet could not quite put the fear of retribution behind her. She knew, perhaps better than anyone, how one man’s hate could lead to terrible destruction.

Chapter Two

Valrek was vast. Adele had been used to the confines of the fort, only ever glimpsing the small village that surrounded it from a distance. Valrek’s wall sheltered more round huts than she could count, wisps of smoke escaping through their thatched roofs. The huts in turn surrounded a group of large wooden buildings that stood proud on the hill. There were three in all, two slightly smaller than the third, main hall. They were simple structures, slightly longer than they were wide, with sloping thatched roofs.

Adele was taken aback by the scale of the buildings before her, and could only hope that no one could see how nervous she was. Mistress Ardith had told her that the House of Valrek was an old and wealthy one, but she had been unable to give Adele a true picture of the riches she would see.

The sheer amount of people awed her. Was it possible that all of the people curiously emerging from their round houses to cheer the procession of new arrivals, were slaves?

It was not a question that she would be so vulgar as to ask. She inspected the people closely, they were warmly dressed, well fed and Adele could see that a number of the women held healthy infants in their arms. Mistress Ardith had once told her that the best way to tell a man’s worth, was to see the condition of those he ruled.

Adele had never supposed that Rafe would be an unkind master, but it was pleasant to see how well looked after his people were.

You are quiet.

Rafe’s voice was pitched low, a whisper against her ear.

I am unused to so many people, they seem very pleased to see you.

Of course they are; they know there will be feasting tonight in celebration of our safe return.

They will all be invited?

My mother firmly believes that if we expect our people to toil alongside us through the hard times, then they should be rewarded with a share in our celebrations too. Wait until the day of our wedding; the Valreks are known for our extravagant revelry. My parents’ nuptials have long been legendary!

Why?

My father was an only son, just as I am. His father sired three other children, all girls, but none of them survived their first year. Rafe paused difficultly. My grandmother was not… strong. My father’s marriage was cause for great happiness and festivity. It secured the future of our family and my grandfather wanted all those who had predicted an end to our line, to see that we were still as strong as ever.

What was your grandfather like, Rafe?

I am shamed to say that I remember very little of him. I had yet to reach my fifth year when he died. He was a giant of a man, with a flowing white beard and snowy eyebrows. Rafe smiled mischievously. Mostly I remember the lengths to which he indulged me, nothing was too much for me, I was given only the best. My mother was driven to distraction trying to make sure I was not entirely spoiled.

And did she succeed?

Apparently not. It is very difficult to remain unspoilt when you have no experience of anything but the best in life. However I do remain sensible of my own good fortune.

Then I believe I will be able to overlook the fault.

Whatever Rafe might have said in reply, Adele was never to know. She had purposefully timed her inflammatory retort to coincide with their arrival before the largest of the great halls.

To Adele’s bewildered gaze, there seemed to be a great many people gathered to meet them. She felt her stomach tense in nervous excitement. Even among so many she was easily able to identify Rafe’s mother and sisters.

They were richly adorned, their brightly coloured and embroidered clothes ornamented with golden broaches and colourful beads. They looked very fine, regal and statuesque. For a moment Adele wished very much for the comfort of Mistress Ardith’s presence.

Some of her worry eased however, when she saw that, as curious as everyone had been over her arrival, on seeing that Lord Brogan was present, she was forgotten. Lord Brogan eased himself from his mount with Finan’s aid and Adele watched the excitement and pleasure on the faces of his wife and daughters.

You never sent word that you were returning, Brogan! exclaimed Ebba of Valrek, casting herself in to her husband’s arms. Lord Brogan enfolded his wife in a robust embrace before setting a kiss to each of his daughters’ foreheads.

It seemed unnecessary; surely you did not think I would be absent when Rafe brought his bride home to Valrek?

With a smile Lord Brogan shifted his wife to one side, his arm still encircling her waist, and nodded for Rafe to present Adele. Rafe pulled her to stand before him, his hands resting lightly on her slight shoulders.

Mother, I would like you to meet Adele.

‘tis a pleasure to meet you, Lady Ebba. Adele curtsied respectfully and Ebba of Valrek stepped forwards, both hands outstretched.

It is a delight to welcome you to your new home, my child. Come; you must be tired and hungry. Ebba’s gaze flickered to where Rafe stood, still smiling cheerfully, a question in her expression. I would also say cold, but my son seems to be doing an excellent job of keeping you warm.

A general murmur of amusement rippled around the crowd gathered, and Adele felt a blush heat her cheeks.

My duty as a husband, I believe, Mother. Grinned Rafe, seeming to be completely unaware of the appreciative onlookers surrounding them.

Adele heartily wished that the ground would open up and afford her shelter from their indulgent and curious eyes. As it was, she was forced to content herself with gazing sightlessly at the floor. Despite her embarrassment, Adele could not help feeling a glowing sense of pride. Rafe was pleased with her, and he did not care who saw the affection he had for her.

Lady Ebba led them into the great hall. It was warm within and the smell of wood smoke permeated the air, tickling her nose.

Come, my dear, you must sit by the fire, I will have some food set before you at once. As she spoke she turned and nodded to one of the simply dressed women standing against one wall.

Thank you, Lady Valrek.

Such formality is not necessary, my dear. I have always counted you as a daughter, so please view me as your mother. That is what I have always been to you, from the moment you were given to Rafe. Lady Ebba smiled and patted her hand encouragingly.

Thank you, Lady Ebba.

How pleasant my name sounds upon your lips, child.

Adele smiled slowly in response.

I had wondered.

Ebba of Valrek lifted one eyebrow in question.

What had you wondered?

Forgive me, my lady, I spoke a passing thought aloud.

Lady Ebba’s eyes lit up mischievously.

Then I am even more curious, but I will not press you to speak of it.

Adele shook her head and sat in the chair Lady Ebba directed her to.

T’was only that I could find no great resemblance between my Lord Rafe and his father, now I see that he is very much like you.

Lady Ebba laughed and Adele’s eyes widened in alarm.

I did not mean to say…

Lady Ebba reached out and patted Adele’s hand again.

Do not worry so, my child. I know precisely what you meant. Rafe does indeed take after my family, both in looks and temperament. I have always thought it a rather amusing thing that Brogan’s son should be of so different a character.

Adele couldn’t help liking the woman before her. She had been so nervous at first, but Rafe’s mother was full of fun and kindness, much like Rafe himself. She was a willowy woman, graceful and poised. Her features were arresting, but although she gave the impression of beauty, her face had too much character to be classically so. Her luxuriant black hair, braded into a thick plait and held coiled at her neck by two gold pins, was her greatest beauty.

Lady Ebba reached out and drew one of her daughters forward.

This is my eldest daughter, Esme.

Lady Esme flashed her a very familiar grin, but Adele forbore to comment on the girl’s obvious resemblance to Rafe. Lady Esme was much smaller than her mother and sister, hardly a half a head taller than Adele herself. The features that made Rafe so handsome were softened in his sister. Adele noticed that she was a much sturdier build than the other women in her family. She was small, but something about her made Adele hesitate to use the epithet dainty.

Esme was very pretty, but it was obvious that she lacked any kind of vanity. Her long black hair fell in two braids to her waist and the brown overdress she wore was without ornamentation. Unlike her mother and sister the broaches at her shoulders that clasped her overdress together were plain, though still made from gold.

She wore a wide leather belt around her waist that carried no less than three daggers and two plainly woven pouches. Matching leather cuffs covered the soft cream sleeves of her under dress all the way to her elbows.

Although every inch the lady of the house, even Adele could see that she did not fit the pattern set by her mother and sister.

‘tis a pleasure to meet you, Lady Adele, I hope you will be happy here.

Adele smiled, large blue eyes filling with friendly warmth.

Please call me Adele, will you permit me to call you Esme?

The girl grinned and perched on the arm of her mother’s chair.

What else would you call me? You will soon find that ‘lady’ suits me most ill.

I hope your journey here was pleasant? The rich, low tones came from Rafe’s youngest sister, Aisly, where she rested elegantly before the fire. We had expected you sooner.

Adele smiled vacantly and turned to Rafe, a question in her eyes. He moved forward, settling his hand on Adele’s shoulder

The story of our delay will please you greatly, Aisly. ‘tis a tale that even you would have trouble concocting.

Aisly’s face lit up, interest sparkling in her eyes.

You will tell us of your adventure, Rafe?

If you would care to hear it, you must prepare yourself for the most exciting of stories. I will tell you tonight at the feast.

Aisly laughed, settling back into her seat.

You intrigue me, Brother, I shall look forward to your tale.

An older woman entered the room with a tray of steaming bowls and settled them on the table.

Finally! I thought I would not last.

Rafe pulled the old woman into his arms and squeezed her tightly.

Hildegard, you can have no idea how I have missed you!

She laughed and tried to push him back.

Away with you, Master Rafe, you care nothing for me, only for my cooking.

This is Hildegard, Adele; she makes the best stew in all of Wessex.

The woman’s face broke into a jolly smile, giving her an extra chin.

Put me down this instant, Master Rafe, what will your lady think of such a display?

Adele smiled softly, inhaling the savoury aroma of the thick meaty stew, her stomach growled. She hadn’t eaten since they’d broken camp and it was only now that she realised how hungry she was.

Rafe pulled out her chair, helping her to sit down and Adele picked up the spoon resting on the table beside her bowl. The rich, meaty flavour danced across her tongue and she sighed. Rafe was right, it was the most delicious thing she had ever tasted.

If you intend to praise anyone, Master Rafe, it should be Lady Esme. T’was she who brought down the boar.

Adele choked on the stew and fell in to a fit of coughing. She had never heard of a woman hunting before. In fact, Mistress Ardith had told her that no proper lady would engage in such a masculine activity.

Rafe thumped her on the back, a little too roughly, and placed his cup before her. She drank thirstily until she realised that the goblet held mead. Wrinkling her nose she pushed it away, shaking her head and pulling a face.

What? Rafe looked from the face of his betrothed, to the mead and grinned. You have the weakest stomach of anyone I have ever met, Adele! Your dislike of wine I can understand, but mead?

‘tis the devils brew.

Mistress Ardith?

Adele smiled and nodded her head.

I cannot like the taste, Rafe, that is all.

Rafe shook his head and placed the spoon she had dropped back in her hand.

Eh, but she’s a pretty little thing, Master Rafe. Hildegard sighed gustily. I remember when I was just wed…

Finan groaned and Hildegard’s eyes sprung open, narrowing in on him irritably.

What ails you, lad? she queried, planting her fists on her plump hips. You would do well to find yourself a sweet tempered maid of your own. ‘tis a wonder you have not dried up and withered.

Adele was surprised to see Finan’s usually stern features break in to a slight smile as the old woman berated him. She was struck by just how beautiful his smile was, innocent and sweet. Some of her surprise must have shown on her face, because Rafe leaned forward and settled his hand over hers.

Hildegard has known us since we were boys, ‘tis more times than I can count that she has chased us from the kitchens.

Mercy me! exclaimed the old woman, clasping a hand to her over abundant bosom. They were little demons, my lady, forever storming the gates of my larder and sending poor Master Leofric on the most hazardous of forays!

Adele turned reproachful eyes on her lord.

You sent Leofric? But I thought he was some years younger than you?

A commander always uses the most appropriate soldier to complete a given task. Leofric was much indulged by the women when he was a boy, they thought him sweet and innocent, led astray by his older brothers.

He was never punished when caught, my lady, the rest of us were, interjected Finan.

Adele’s unnervingly placid gaze remained fixed on Rafe for a few moments longer.

What is it?

I was merely taking note of the fact that you will not hesitate to use my weaknesses against me.

No soldier would, sweetheart.

No indeed, but it occurs to me that my plan of campaign must suffer some alterations if I do not wish to be horribly defeated.

Rafe grinned.

Would you care for the advice of a seasoned warrior?

Why? Do you suppose Finan would offer me council?

Ebba of Valrek broke into the conversation at this point, reminding Adele that they were not alone.

A plan of campaign? Seasoned warrior? She turned to her husband. My lord, why do they speak as though marriage were war?

Lord Brogan shook his head, a smile in his eyes.

I confess that I little understand it myself, my dear. As neither has drawn any weapon we must suppose it to be some sort of jest.

Lady Ebba shook her head in hopeless bewilderment and changed the subject.

Adele must no doubt be tired from her travels, I have readied a chamber for her use.

Thank you, my lady. Adele smiled. It will be pleasant to discover the comfort a bed holds once more.

Poor child! The journey must have been quite horrible.

Adele’s smile softened and she lowered her eyes once more to the bowl before her. The calm amusement in her manner was not lost on Ebba and she found her curiosity to be fast overflowing the bounds of politeness.

She wasn’t quite sure what to make of this strange, childlike woman before her. Adele of Berron seemed so young, much more so than her years would suggest. Lady Ebba could see that she would have to be taken in hand. She only wished that it had been possible to have had some say in Adele’s education and upbringing before this. However it had been impractical.

The threat to Adele of Berron had been too strong, only by making sure she remained hidden had it been possible to keep her alive. Ensuring her whereabouts continued a secret had meant that no member of the Valrek household had been able to visit her. The only communication with her had been through King Ine himself. Even Lord Brogan had no idea who had eventually received the task of delivering the letters that Rafe had sent over the years.

However, Lady Adele’s apparent youthfulness was not the most perplexing thing she had noticed. Lady Ebba’s eyes again drifted to where Rafe and Adele sat. She watched as her son broke off a piece of bread and handed it to his betrothed. There was something sweet in the gesture, an eagerness to please.

He had changed. The anxiousness in his eyes that had kept her awake for so many nights was no longer present. In its place there was a warm cheerfulness that she had thought never to see again. It was as though somehow he had found once again the innocence torn away by Evoric’s death.

Lord Brogan took in the bewilderment in his wife’s expression and gently took her hand in his.

What worries you, my dear?

Lady Ebba paused trying to sort her confused thoughts in to some semblance of coherence.

I am not concerned, merely perplexed. Her voice lowered so that only her husband could hear the next words she spoke. ‘tis only that they seem very… close.

And that makes you frown? I would have thought you would rather have been happy.

It isn’t that, indeed I am happy to see that Rafe seems so well pleased with her. She turned to Lord Brogan, confusion swirling in her soft brown eyes. I just do not understand it. When he left here it was as though he were going to meet his executioner. I do not see how he can be so contented now.

Lord Brogan smiled enigmatically.

Lady Adele seems to have a placating affect on his spirit, does she not?

Ebba narrowed her eyes a little.

What do you know that you are not telling me? Rid yourself of that innocent expression, my lord, you do not deceive me! Your smile is full of secrets and I would know them, if it please you.

And if it does not please me?

I would know them anyway.

Lord Brogan laughed.

See to you duties, Ebba, the child needs her rest. If you have not divined the reason for Rafe’s contentment by the time you have left Adele to sleep, then I will indeed tell you the truth that you are so blind to.

‘tis a promise, Brogan, I will not allow you to wriggle out of it.

Lady Ebba raised her eyebrows and moved to Adele’s side.

Have you finished, my child?

Adele nodded and rose from her chair, casting Rafe an uncertain glance. To Lady Ebba’s confusion, Rafe winked at his betrothed and flapped his hand, gesturing that she should leave with his