Blackburn Castle (Tortured Souls Book 2) by R.C. Matthews

Author:R.C. Matthews [Matthews, R.C.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Adams Media
Published: 2017-04-09T18:00:00+00:00

Chapter Twenty-Two

Milton appeared in the doorway with Eveline, Dominick, and Hatchet in tow. The room was a flurry of curtseys, bows, and handshakes. As the formal introductions were carried out, Mrs. Duncan and Milton retreated from the parlor and closed the doors, allowing the growing party privacy. Within minutes, the group settled into standard conversation, queries about their travels, and the like.

Victor tapped his fingers against the arm of the sofa. It all seemed a horrible waste of time, this small talk. He stood and crossed the room, seeking an ally, anxious to begin their true business. Hatchet nodded as Victor approached, and with a look of relief, his friend stepped away from the conversation he’d been attending.

“Why so tense?” Hatchet asked, eyeing his stiff stance.

“I’m going insane, man. We’re finally here, and we stand about discussing travels and the weather. With my luck, Mercy’s potion will run out at three o’clock, and I’ll die knowing it rained for a week straight last month.”

Hatchet smirked. “Well, I’ve never been one for formalities. So, allow me,” he said, turning to address the group. “Perhaps we ought to discuss our true purpose for being here.” The room fell silent as all heads turned toward Hatchet. ”We have substantial ground to cover. I’m anxious to begin, as is Victor. Lady Blackburn, have you any suggestions of where we might search for the tears of Freya?”

Mother tangled her fingers in the lap of her gown and shook her head. “I wish I had a worthwhile suggestion, but I’m afraid I do not. We’ve searched for the stones from the minute we were made aware of their existence but to no avail. Is there truly hope that we’ll find them at last?”

A huff of air expelled from Father’s chest, and he paced before the hearth. He stopped and set his steady gaze on Victor. “I grew up in this castle. I know every nook . . . every hiding place . . . all of its secrets. If I cannot locate the stones, why do you believe you and your friends can?”

Before Victor had a chance to respond, Eveline spoke. “Because I’m a medium. There are many others who lived here before you, and they may be able to offer us guidance or clues as to where the stones were hidden.”

Father’s eyebrows rose. “A medium? You wish me to believe in ghosts and your ability to communicate with them? That’s preposterous!”

Mother jumped to her feet and glared at her husband. “Jasper, that is quite enough! I’m beyond my limit. I understand your frustration. I’ve failed along with you over the years. But just because we didn’t find the stones doesn’t mean they don’t exist. And if believing in ghosts and mediums is what it takes to save our son, then by God and all that is holy, we will believe. Eveline, dear, please ignore Lord Blackburn and tell us more.”

Well said, Mother. Victor offered Eveline a reassuring smile and nodded for her to continue.

“I cannot promise success,” Eveline began, “but it is certainly worth a try.

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