Free Celtic Mist: The Calm Before the Storm (Battle Raven Series) by Isabelle Stewart

find out why.”
    Kedryn stood up. “Did you find your brother?”
    Eion looked wearily down at the floor. “I was not there long enough to look. We should join the others.” Eion tried to stand and wavered. “I suppose that side trip took more out of me than I thought.
    Kedryn held a forearm out for Eion and helped him up.
    Ruark walked over the door and held it open. “I will show you to your rooms. You need some rest my old friend.”
    “ That I do.” Eion said.

Chapter 13

    Paili tore off her bloodied dress ripping the pearl buttons off the back scattering them on the floor. She screeched at Lord Faolan “You killed him!”
    “ It has been eighteen years. What more would you have learned? Consider yourself privileged that I spared the monk the blood eagle and have decided to allow the Seer alive.”
    Paili bowed her head to him and curtsied. “Thank you, my Lord.”
    She tugged at her blood soaked chemise and decided not to tear it off. Paili pushed through the heavy door to their chambers and looked over her shoulder at Lord Faolan.
    “ I am going to treat myself to a nice long bath. Do not join me.”
    He watched after her as she stormed out leaving the heavy door open. Faolan held out his hand and the door slammed shut. He turned to the servant in a corner.
    “ Ask the guard to bring another.”
    As the servant walked through a panel in the wall and the metal door slid open. Faolan turned as Firnir walked in and glanced at the dead monk but did not say a word.
    “ What is it?” Faolan said annoyed by the interruption.
    “ The General wished for me to advise you that the raiding party is ready to head out.”
    “ Good.” Faolan turned and stroked his bloodstained beard as he watched as a man was dragged into the chamber. “Get him ready. I must see to a few things before the troops leave.“
    “ As you desire my lord.” Firnir gave him a low bow.
    Lord Faolan stepped over the monk and walked out glancing at the door to the bathing area. Striding to the door he was intent on going against Paili’s wishes until he heard Aalia quietly talking to her.
    “ I am so very sorry for your loss my lady.” Aalia said.
    A sob echoed through the door. “Why does the man that I love . .” Paili did not finish the rest as she started to cry.
    A fury rose in Faolan like wildfire. His hands itched to destroy something and instead of addressing the troops he decided to handle another matter.

Chapter 14

    Aodhan stuck to his word and snuck Lara off to the stables to give her a tour. She complained a bit because she wanted to change out of the dress. He pulled her away claiming they didn‘t have time. They rode through Quenith and to the forest beyond. As they were galloping along the forest line back to the castle Aodhan stopped. She reigned in next to his horse and looked to the forest where he gestured.
    “ In the hills just beyond the castle is a lake with a waterfall. I had a manor house built there as a little getaway. If we had more time I would take you there.”
    “ My getaway is my carriage house two steps away. I’m afraid the view and the size would not be as considerable as your grand getaway, my lord.” Lara said laughing.
    When they reached the palace stables Lara pulled up her skirt and as gracefully as she could slid out of the saddle. As Lara slid off, the hem of her dress caught on the saddle horn making her pitch forward. The only thing that prevented her from falling on her face was Aodhan grabbing her fingers as her arm swung up into the air. A squire hurried over and helped her to her feet. Lara looked around and saw Lady Orla standing in the doorway with a terrified look on her face and Lara burst out laughing. Aodhan gave her a stern stare with one eyebrow raised and looked over at his mother who was trying her hardest not to laugh. He belted out a laugh that made Lara laugh even harder
    “ Stop please!” Lara pleaded with tears running down her face. “My face hurts from laughing