A Midwinter Murder by Paul J Bennett

Author:Paul J Bennett [Bennett, Paul J]
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9781989315828

Part VI

The Women

A SOFT knock on the door announced the arrival of Marlena Falkenberg.

"Enter," said Cyric, sitting in a chair, his eyes closed as he worked through ideas in his mind. The door opened, and Marlena entered, her footsteps almost imperceptible.

"Ah, Marlena," he said, "please come and have a seat. There are a few things I'd like to go over with you."

She moved closer, selecting a comfortable chair, then daintily sat down.

"You wanted to see me?" she enquired.

He looked at her carefully, noting her hair, which now lay around her shoulders. She had chosen a rather severe dress this day, similar in style to yesterday's, with a high neck and long sleeves, no doubt to conceal her bruises.

"I'd like to ask you a few questions," Cyric began. "Would that be all right?"

"Of course," she replied.

"I take it you are a deeply religious person?" Cyric said. "I only make mention because you wear the waves of Saint Agnes."

"She is my patron Saint," explained Marlena. "Not unusual amongst women, I'm led to believe."

"Not unusual at all," agreed Cyric. "I have a deep respect for the Holy Sisters. I've worked with them on several occasions."

"You have?" she said in surprise.

"Oh yes," said Cyric. "The Brothers of Saint Mathew often work quite closely with the Sisters of Saint Agnes, in a professional capacity, I mean."

"I didn't know that," she replied.

He stared at her for a moment, unsure of how to broach the subject. He finally settled on an obtuse approach. "How familiar are you with the teachings of Saint Agnes?"

"I have devoted myself to reading them all," Marlena confessed. "Why?"

"Saint Agnes tells us that women have to be strong of spirit," said Cyric. "Do you know what that means?"

"We must be able to take what is dealt unto us without complaint," she replied.

"Is that what you believe?" he said. "You poor child, I'm afraid you've misinterpreted the words of Agnes."

"How would you know?" she accused.

"I have read her teachings extensively, along with all the other Saints, of course. I'm afraid it's one of my vices, my endless quest for knowledge."

"Then what did she mean?" asked Marlena.

"Having a strong spirit means being able to speak out when an unjust action is taken. Are you familiar with the history of Agnes?"

"She was one of the founders of the Church," said Marlena.

"Indeed she was," agreed Cyric. "When famine struck the Holy City of Herani, she stood up to the High Lord, forcing him to release the contents of the Royal Granaries. She wouldn't have done that if she didn't have a will to better the lives of others."

"How does this relate to me?" she asked.

"You were treated horribly by your father," said Cyric.

Her eyes revealed her panic.

"Don't worry," said Cyric, "I shall tell no others without your consent."

"How did you know?" she asked.

"Last night, as I sought out my room, I heard you praying," he answered. "I didn't mean to pry, but your door was open, and I saw the bruises."

She looked down in shame, "My father is.

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