Tempered Hearts (Hearts of Valentia Book 1) by Starla Huchton, S. A. Huchton Read Free Book Online Page B

more value on her mind than any of the feminine qualities she had in abundance. Despite what she says, I’m fairly certain that’s why she chose him over other men of higher station. ”
    “ Your father does come across as having more good sense than most nobles, ” he said.
    “ Well, he did eventually listen to me about the Moth’hari, so he’s not completely dense. ” When she laughed, he couldn’t help noting how light and genuine it was. It had been a long time since he heard a sound like that, untouched by the violence of war.
    “ Chemistry, is it ?” he asked. “ What intrigues you about the subject? ”
    She tilted her head to one side, looking up into the cold, gray sky. “ It’s a bit like magic, really. At least, from what little I’ve read on that subject. But rather than ancient incantations, you can create entirely new materials through the application of mathematics and experimentation. For example, did you know swords from Aerenhall are twenty-five percent stronger than swords from almost anywhere else in the kingdom? ”
    Pausing, he realized he had heard that, though he’d yet to test it for himself. “ I prefer dwarf-made weapons, but I’ve heard that said, yes. ”
    The girl was positively beaming with pride. “ I got hold of a dwarven axe and studied its composition. It took me a while to find a blacksmith willing to test my theories, but he trusted everything I told him after the first experiment. He’s been teaching those resulting methods to his apprentice, and now others come to visit to learn his technique as well. ”
    He stared at her, truly amazed. “ And you don’t mind him sharing the secret and taking credit for your discoveries? ”
    “ Of course not, ” she said with a shake of her head. “ I couldn’t have applied my findings on my own, so he’s as much responsible for the results as I am. Plus, stronger weapons would be better for the whole kingdom. ”
    “ How so? ”
    She counted off reasons on a gloved hand. “ One, stronger weapons mean fewer repairs and replacements, saving customers money which they can spend elsewhere. Two, superior weapons give a greater chance for victory against our enemies. Three, it reduces the need for fresh supplies of metal, which can be hard to come by if mines are snowed in, or trade disruptions happen. Four, I like the efficiency it provides all around, but that’s more personal than a general reason. ”
    Grinning, he couldn’t help himself. “I’d like to revise a previous statement, if you’ll let me.”
    His expression colored her cheeks, so he attempted to tone it down some.
    “What statement, Highness?”
    “I think your father is likely a very brilliant man after all.”
    Her thin, dark brows bunched together in an altogether adorable look of confusion. “Highness?”
    Stopping to turn and face her, Darius smiled, feeling lighter than he had in a very long time. “Any man who values a woman’s mind over all else, is a man I have much in common with.”
    When even her ears turned bright pink, he had to squelch his laughter. It was unexpectedly amusing to fluster her.
    “Arden, dear, are you quite all right?” Duchess Tanarien asked as she and Ingram caught up.
    “I… Yes,” she said, shaking off his comment. “Yes, I’m fine.”
    The Duchess sniffed and cast an appraising look at Darius. “Well, it’s a bit chilly to linger much longer on foot. I think it’s best we head back for tea.”
    His temporary good mood soured, realizing he’d been enjoying himself and had completely forgotten the bite of winter still in the air. “That sounds like a very good idea, Your Grace.” He held his palm out, indicating their path back to the castle. “After you.”
    It was strange that the notion of enjoying himself would make him miserable. After all, shouldn’t he want to feel better? Unexpected guilt scratched at him. How long had it been since he had a private conversation with a woman that he wasn’t keen to