Rook by Lace Francis

Author:Lace, Francis
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Francis Lace Publications
Published: 2023-10-14T00:00:00+00:00

“Come on, lad. Mistress wants you in the meeting.”

“Me! Really?” I replied, suddenly feeling sick.

“Let’s not keep her waiting.”

I jumped up from my seat and followed Evan and Gerard. Passing through the main hall, we entered a small chamber behind the dais. The Enchantress was seated at the head of a long table set in the middle of the room.

“Good afternoon gentlemen, take a seat.”

Shaking slightly, I held back until Gerard and Evan had chosen their seats then took the one next to Gerard.

“Thank you for joining us, Rook.” She gave me a small smile before turning to the others. “We need to discuss the crop issue.”

“Yes, Mistress,” Evan said. “Our concern is for the outer villages. If our crops are failing then who knows how those furthest from the castle are faring.”

“Of course,” she replied, her face full of concern. “What do you suggest?”

“I think we need to send out a request for a report from each of the major towns so we can get a clearer picture of the state of the land. I can write the announcement today and be on the road to Tride at first light.”

“You do that. Thank you, Evan. And what of our own crops?”

“Mistress,” Gerard cut in. “I had thought to ride out to the outer fields to make an assessment of our crop. We can decide from there whether we should cut early.”

“You mean to save what we can,” she replied. “At least we would have something stored. Yes, please do that Gerard.”

“Of course, Mistress. I will help Evan on his way in the morning then head out myself.”

“Rook, how goes the work in the West paddock?” The Enchantress asked.

“Well, Mistress. The land is now cleared. Another month to prepare the topsoil and it will be ready for planting.”

“Such fast progress. What would be your suggested crop to plant?”

“Given the time of year, I’d suggest an early crop of winter barley. We would have straw for the animals and the pearls for the pantry.”

“A sound suggestion. Thank you, Rook. Please see to it.” She beamed at me.

“Of course, Mistress.”

As simple as that, she is leaving it to me.

Gods, I wish Father would have been so accommodating back home.

“We have our plan then,” she said. “Thank you all.”

Allowing Gerard and Evan to rise before me, then taking my time to get up from my seat, I made my way to the Enchantress’ side.

“I wanted to thank you, Mistress, for the privilege of sitting in on this council meeting. I want to do all I can to assist you.”

“Your knowledge and insight are greatly appreciated here, Rook. I welcome your input.”

“I was considering how we might help those who are working the land and struggling at the moment.”

My nerves had me talking at what felt like twice my normal speed but I was so eager to impress her.

“Sometimes all that is needed is the smallest change in how the land is managed to make a huge difference.”

I just couldn’t seem to stop talking.

“Like

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