Dangerous Magic by Sullivan Clarke Read Free Book Online

disappointments were part of the territory, and part of the sacrifice he was willing to make for his job, which was in a constant state of refinement. No, the best thing to do when dealing with suspected witches, especially beautiful, young suspected witches was to start with the beatings first and then employ the rack.
    He looked out again at the blazing autumn foliage and wished the ride would be over soon. And then, as if God himself had heard his heart's desire buildings came into view - small cottages at first, sparse and Spartan no doubt. Pig pens stood beside the poorer folks' abodes. The wealthier ones had a milk cow tethered nearby. The wealther still a horse or two. Soon the cottages became closer together and then just over the hill appeared more buildings lining the tree-lined path. At he center of the village stood the church, the cross casting an upside-down distorted "T" across the steep, shingled roof.
    The carriage stopped in front of the church, next door to which stood a simple but comfortable looking parsonage. Rev. Fordham heard the driver scramble down to open his door just as Reverend Pratt and his wife emerged from the cottage to hasten in his direction. He stepped out of the carriage as they approached and drew himself up to his full 6'2" height. The couple stopped in their tracks for a moment, gawking. He was used to that. An imposing man, Rev. Fordham towered over most everyone in the villages he was called to. His severe black suit and long black traveling cloak only served to make him seem more intimidating. . He knew he looked frightening to some people, but also knew they'd be more comfortable once he reminded them that only the guilty had anything to fear.
    "Reverend Fordham?" The short, squat Rev. Pratt stepped forward and extended his hand. "Well, of course you're Rev. Fordham. Welcome! Welcome! We're so glad to have you here."
    He stepped aside. "This is my wife, Greta."
    Greta Pratt dropped into a sharp curtsy that set both of her chins to wiggling. "So pleased to meet you."
    "Likewise," came the deep-voiced reply. "I only wish I were here on better circumstances. The shepherd's flock is under increasing attack from the dark forces, more often those cloaked in kindness and beauty. I have received your letter of a fortnight ago and as you know believe an investigation into this matter is warranted." He stopped and looked both at the couple, his eyes lingering on Reverend Pratt's wife. "I trust you honored my request and spoke of this to no one. I know how tempting it is to gossip."
    "No, I've said nothing to my parishioners," Reverend Pratt said.
    "Nor have I," said Mrs. Pratt. It was an honest statement, and she did not elaborate on how difficult it had been to keep the news of the investigation to herself. The Reverend Maximilain Fordham coming here - to her village - to investigate witchcraft! It would have been the juiciest gossip of the day. But now, looking at this stern, black-robed man she was glad she had resisted.
    "Good," he said quietly. "Very good. We do not want the young woman to be forewarned, for if she is indeed a witch she would use the knowledge to create enchantments to bolster her resolve and resist the questioner. It is always best to get to witches before they can call upon Old Nick to help them."
    "Indeed," said Rev. Pratt. "But, of course, we don't yet know if she is a witch. These are just suspicions, and Lark Willoughby is well-liked in the village."
    "Tell me, Rev. Pratt." Rev. Fordham's dark eyes bored into the smaller man's watery blue ones. "Is this young healer among your flock? Does she attend services?"
    Rev. Pratt shook his head with a sigh of regret. "No. She does not."
    "Then might I suggest you ruminate on your shortcomings as a preacher of the gospel?"
    Beside her husband, Greta Pratt gasped in outrage, but both kept silent as the visitor continued.
    "This young woman should have already been made to account for her avoidance of the house of God. Those