Fire and Ice by Christer J. E

Author:Christer, J. E. [Christer, J. E.]
Language: eng
Format: epub, mobi
Publisher: FeedARead.com
Published: 2013-04-28T21:00:00+00:00

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The opportunity to put Thorvald’s plan into action was put on hold and Ulfric said nothing of it to Juliana. There was much to do before the winter set in and the leaves were beginning to turn by the time the harvest was gathered in. The farmers brought their tithe to Ulfric’s store which meant they would all be fed during the colder months, but those who couldn’t give a tenth brought their reasons and excuses to the Moot Hall where Ulfric with Erik’s help, passed judgement on those who were genuine. In these cases they were given leave to provide labour at the Hall instead, but for those who Erik knew from past experience were trying to cheat Ulfric, their farms were searched and their stores measured, any excess was taken to the Hall. Anyone found trying to cheat their new lord was threatened with being turned off their land if they tried such tricks again. Their names were entered in a book and tallies of all produce taken.

The castle at Lincoln was taking shape and parts of it were already being used for a garrison for William’s northern army. It would take some years to complete but at least it meant a permanent Norman presence in the prosperous town. The plans for the cathedral had been finalised and the digging of the foundations would begin the following spring.

Work in the barley fields of Bertone was quieter now that the harvest was in and their thanks to God underway at the church. Father Matthew was busy with his parishioners and gave little thought to Giselle and her troublemaking, but he was concerned for Juliana and her mother. Hilde had not improved in health and Sara had returned to her own cottage for a rest, leaving Juliana and the servants to carry on her work. Juliana looked tired and out of sorts with dark shadows under her eyes accentuated by her paler than usual complexion so he sought her out after the harvest festival. Ulfric was away in Lincoln again leaving Thorvald alone once more to take care of the Hall and its occupants. The priest saw Juliana edging her way to the door with the rest of the congregation and drew her to one side as she passed him.

“Are you feeling unwell, Juliana, my child?” he asked gently, looking into her green eyes for the spark which they normally held.

“Not really unwell, Father, just tired, I think,” she smiled to assuage his concern.

“How is your mother?”

“Just the same,” she answered tearfully. “I don’t think she will live through this winter.” Juliana finally gave way to her tears and Father Matthew led her to the baptistry and pulled out a bench for her to sit down.

“Hush, child. I think you’re wrong. Your mother is very strong and as long as she has peace of mind she will pull through.”

“But, Father, she doesn’t get peace of mind because she is haunted by Giselle’s treatment of her. Even though she can’t speak,

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