Celtic Storms

Celtic Storms by Delaney Rhodes Read Free Book Online Page B

Book: Celtic Storms by Delaney Rhodes Read Free Book Online
Authors: Delaney Rhodes
haven’t any s-s-say in the matter,” retorted Patrick.
    “But of course you do Patrick. Laird MacCahan is a just and reasonable man. I’m certain he would not force you if you did not wish.”
    “It is j-ju-just as well with me. I never th-thought to marry myself. But it seems the joining means a gr-gre-great deal to my father and our clan,” replied Patrick.
    “How so?”
    “There is a considerable do-dow-dowry; and – the O’Malleys mean to con-construct a shipping port here and to pro-provide a vessel for my father.”
    “Of course. I can see your father’s motivations.” Airard rose and stood to place a hand on Patrick’s shoulder. “Tell me son, what worries you the most?”
    Patrick paused a moment in thought before responding. “I am f-f-fully trained as a blacksmith. I am ca-capable as a soldier. I can see to Br-Braeden’s rearing.”
    “But?”
    “Bbbb-but,” stammered Patrick. “I know little of w-women. I have not the ca-capa-capacity to please a w-w-wife.”

EIGHT
     
    MacCahan Castle – Great Hall
     
    “Patrick, I will be leaving for O’Malley lands shortly,” spoke Ruarc over the morning meal in the great hall. Patrick’s father nodded his approval from his seat at the high table.
    “Deasum and Carbry will accompany you and Braeden on the road back and are bringing along two wagons for your things. Aengus is staying here for the time being, to begin construction on the piers.”
    Patrick grunted his approval and continued to eat grinning as he heard the familiar sound of Braeden snoring. He had fallen asleep on the bench next to Patrick, not accustomed to rising so early. The sun had not yet broken over the horizon.
    “Patrick, can you be ready to leave in a few hours?” asked Ruarc.
    “I b-b-believe so,” replied Patrick. “I have only a few more things to gather and I w-w-wish to say goodbye to Airard.”
    “Do you think that Braeden will be able to sleep in the wagon?” Ruarc inquired as he chuckled.
    “I think Braeden is able to sl-sleep through damn near anything,” laughed Patrick as the sound of Braeden’s snoring grew even louder.
    Ruarc continued, “Riding alone, I should be able to arrive at the castle within at least three nights. I would guess your group should arrive within five to six nights at best, seeing you are bringing your belongings and you travel with Braeden.”
    Patrick set his mug down and scratched his head, nearly pulling the wisps of hair he had tied at the base of his neck from their hold
. I certainly hope it doesn’t take longer than that – and that these infernal rains will stop. If we can’t get through this mud, I’m not sure our belongings will make the trip.
    As if he understood his son’s concerns, Breacan MacCahan interjected. “Patrick, I have instructed the men to pack tools for your trip and some extra wheels in the carts so that if you meet with any thick mud or rocks, you won’t be stuck - you can continue your journey. You needn’t worry about the carts.”
    “And,” he continued, “We have fashioned the coverings over the wagons, so that the rain at least will not soak you through. Your belongings will have some measure of covering, and the food is stored in clay pots that Glenia sealed for your journey.”
    “Thank you, f-f-father,” replied Patrick. Turning to Ruarc, he inquired, “On your journey here, did it r-r-rain much?”
    “Nay, we only encountered the weather when we arrived in MacCahan territory.”
    Thanks be. I do not think I can abide anymore storms. I feel like a drowned fish as it is. An entire day without drenching rain would be a blessing.
    “Is there anything else along the jo-jou-journey we should keep watch for?” he asked Ruarc.
    “Nay, except for the Burke lands,” stated Ruarc. “But there is truly not much to worry about there either as long as you travel along the border and do it at night. They are woefully unprepared at night. Each of the other clans is aware of our quest and

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