Forging Day (Crucible of Change Book 1) by Noelle Alladania Meade Read Free Book Online Page B

the frustration of the other helpers. “Our new guest is settled in. We put her in your tent. Hope you don’t mind. So far no one from Derek’s group has noticed. They’re too busy fighting with the Trolls over the steel drum and cowbell concert.” He looked a bit concerned. “Derek is not going to take this well, once he figures things out. Don’t go anywhere alone tonight. I don’t think he’s stupid enough to try something in front of the group, but with some people you never know. I certainly wouldn’t put some kind of ‘accident’ past him if no one was there to witness.”
    “Thanks, Berto, but that’s not exactly reassuring.” I leaned against him, closing my eyes for a minute and just drew on his quiet strength.
    “It wasn’t meant to be. It’s meant to be a warning. Don’t be too cocky this time.”
    “Her story is so awful. Am I being gullible? Colby was a bastard, and I’m the only one that didn’t see it. What if she’s just playing me for a free ride to Denver?”
    “Yeah, you can be too trusting, but in this case I’d go with your gut. Her eyes don’t lie, and I was watching while she was getting settled. Whatever else she is or isn’t saying, no one fakes those kinds of scars, and they certainly don’t put cigarette burns on their own backs.” He gave me a pat on the shoulder. “Just be careful. I think she’s had a tough life, and she does need our help, but girls that survive like she has tend to be tougher than they look. She may be the damsel in distress now, but there might just be a bit of dragon lurking in the shadows. You never know.”
    After one more quick hug, he stood up and made sure his lute was at just the right jaunty angle. “Alas, Archer Olivia. A herald’s work is never done. I serve at the pleasure of Her Majesty.” He stopped then, and tossed me a small insulated bag. “Ah, yes. I nearly forgot. The Lady Kat sends you lunch, and sweet kisses.” He wickedly blew me a kiss over his shoulder as he strolled away.
    I took my lunch break while the queen had her more official opening court. Apparently, because the turnout had been so much higher on Fridays the last two years, they’d actually planned a few events for today. Berto, still serving as herald, made the announcements.
    “Queen Gwendolin welcomes you to the Sylvan Faire, where Humans, Fairies and people of like mind gather in a spirit of companionship and celebration. The archery tournament begins today. Those interested should gather at the appointed place upon conclusion of court. At the request of our kin from up north, this year shall also include what is loosely called a sheep-stealing contest. Your ‘sheep’ may be any creature of your devising that will fit into a cube of one foot to a side. Larger or smaller creatures are not permitted. All beings will post a sheep keeper sign at the entry to their camp to indicate participation in the festivities. For those that wish, Korembi and Razaini will be running a creature workshop at their encampment, site seventeen, after lunch. All are welcome.”
    There was much excitement at this announcement, though some of the old timers looked decidedly unhappy. “No good comes of such things,” said Oaken, one of the druids that regularly attended. “It starts in good fun, but hard feelings soon follow.” He shook his head, but didn’t add anything else. Aspen, the youngest of the druids, had been starting to look excited before Oaken spoke up. Now she looked a little downcast. I guessed she wouldn’t be joining the sheep-stealing festivities.
    Berto, meanwhile, continued with his announcements. “If you attended morning court, you are aware that there is a stone soup tonight at the pavilion. Bring your own dining gear and beverage of choice, and something to share in the spirit of community. You should plan to assemble at the hour of five.”
    “Which means we’ll be lucky to eat by six,” grumbled a young man in leather armor and carrying an