DownFallen (Realms of the Infinite, #3) by R. J. Larson

Author:R. J. Larson
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: Fantasy, Biblical, Old Testament, Inspirational, Prophets, Kings
Publisher: Gram-Co-Ink
Published: 2015-05-27T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter 18

The fragrance of baking cakes permeated the long, narrow archery courtyard, and Matteo’s stomach growled its longing for a taste of that aroma—toasted grain mingled with sweet fruit. Lessons hadn’t even begun and he was already distracted. Footsteps sounded from the keep and Anji clattered down the steps, with Lord Aristo following and carrying a broad box. To the approaching Aristo, Matteo growled a feigned complaint. “My lord, why have you ordered the army’s supplies to smell like actual food? Aren’t rations supposed to be sawdust? I want to try some of those cakes!”

“So do I,” Anji chimed in, her dark eyes sparkling as she rested her hands over her unborn baby, who was finally becoming large enough to be noticed. “But I have an excuse, cousin. You’ve none except your own appetite. Unless Dalia’s with child and you’re taking on her cravings.”

Might his Dalia be with child? Matteo glanced at the far end of the courtyard where Dalia sat at an opened camp table, meticulously penning a tiny courier bird note for Tragobre—her answer to her parents’ triumphant courier note, informing them of Tragobre’s liberation and Gueronn’s death. Dalia looked up at Matteo then, as if she sensed his glance, and her beautiful face lit with delight. She called to him, “My lord, how can I possibly concentrate when you’re staring so?”

Matteo laughed at her. “I’ve much to stare at! Darzeq’s queen is a wonder to be adored forever. However, if you can’t concentrate, my love, then come learn this new bow my lord-father feared.”

In truth, Dalia must learn this new weapon. Anji must learn. And Ekiael must also, as soon as he dragged himself away from his studies. Darzeq’s royal family would add to its self-protective arsenal. Never must another massacre take them by surprise.

Dalia beamed at his invitation and immediately wiped her writing stylus, then covered the ink vial. “At your command, Sire—and gladly!”

If she was already with child... Matteo’s heart constricted at the thought, half-fear, half hope, all overwhelming. Infinite, bless You and thank You for granting me Dalia as my wife! You are the Mighty One, the One-Who-Sees! You saw my grief and offered me consolation....

He smiled at her, and then toward Ekiael, who hurried down into the archery yard. “I apologize, but the Infinite’s Word must never be neglected—particularly not by one of His priests, particularly as we approach the Season of Joy.”

Matteo nodded. “I agree—though I’m shamed by your studiousness. I need to be more attentive and not allow life’s cares to interfere.” The Season of Joy marked the end of the year, and the beginning of the next, with the Five Observances scattered through the year’s first five weeks: Gratitude, Repentance, Purification, Atonement, and Rejoicing.

Would he be able to observe all five without losing himself to grief over his family?

Resisting the pain of memories, he held out one hand for Dalia, who hurried toward them, asking Aristo, “My lord, is this a difficult weapon?”

Aristo bowed and smiled, clearly delighted with Darzeq’s new queen.

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