Read Online Valley of Silence by Nora Roberts - Free Book Online Page B

night as if behind a mist. Those that killed you have been punished, one by my own hand. It was all I could do for you. All I can do is fight, and lead my people to fight. Some of them to their death. I wear the sword and the crown of Geall. I will not diminish it.”
    She sat awhile, with just the sound of the breeze through the tall grass and the shifting lights of the sun.
    When she rose, turned toward the castle, she saw the goddess Morrigan standing at the stone wall.
    The god wore blue today, soft and pale and trimmed in deeper tones. The fire of her hair was unbound to lay flaming over her shoulders.
    Her hands empty of flowers, her heart heavy, Moira walked through the grass to meet her.
    â€œMy lady.”
    â€œMajesty.”
    Puzzled by Morrigan’s bow, Moira clasped her hands together to keep them still. “Do gods acknowledge queens?”
    â€œOf course. We made this place and deemed those of your blood would rule and serve it. We’re pleased with you. Daughter.” Laying her hands lightly on Moira’s shoulders, she kissed both her cheeks. “Our blessings on you.”
    â€œI would rather you bless my people, and keep them safe.”
    â€œThat is for you. The sword is out of its scabbard. Even when it was forged, it was known that one day it would sing in battle. That, too, is for you.”
    â€œShe’s already spilled Geallian blood.”
    Morrigan’s eyes were as deep and calm as a lake. “My child, the blood Lilith has spilled would make an ocean.”
    â€œAnd my parents are only drops in that sea?”
    â€œEvery drop is precious, and every drop serves a purpose. Do you lift the sword only for your own blood?”
    â€œNo.” Shifting, Moira gestured. “There’s another stone here, standing for a friend. I lift the sword for him and his world, and for all the worlds. We’re all a part of each other.”
    â€œKnowing this is important. Knowledge is a great gift, and the thirst to seek it even greater. Use what you know, and she will never defeat you. Head and heart, Moira. You are not made to give greater weight to one than the other. Your sword will flame, I promise you, and your crown will shine. But what you hold inside your head and your heart is the true power.”
    â€œIt seems they’re full of fear.”
    â€œThere’s no courage without fear. Trust and know. And keep your sword at your side. It’s your death she wants most.”
    â€œMine? Why?”
    â€œShe doesn’t know. Knowledge is your power.”
    â€œMy lady,” Moira began, but the god was gone.
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    T he feast required yet another gown and another hour of being fussed over. With so much on her hands, she’d left the matter of wardrobe to her aunt, and was pleased to find the gown beautiful and the watery blue color flattering. She enjoyed pretty gowns and taking a bit of time to look her best.
    But it seemed she was being laced into a new one every time she turned around, and subjected to the chirping and buzzing of her women half the day.
    She could admit she missed the freedom of the jeans and roomy shirts she’d worn in Ireland. Beginning the next day, however it shocked the women, she would dress as best suited a warrior preparing for battle.
    But for tonight, she’d wear the velvets and silks and jewels.
    â€œCeara, how are your children?”
    â€œWell, my lady, and thank you.” Standing behind Moira, Ceara continued to work Moira’s thick hair into silky braids.
    â€œYour duties and your training keep you from them more than I would wish.”
    Their eyes met in the mirror. Moira knew Ceara to be a sensible woman, the most centered, in her opinion, of the three that waited on her.
    â€œMy mother tends them, and is happy to do so. The time I take now is well spent. I’d rather lose these hours with them than see them harmed.”
    â€œGlenna tells me you’re very fierce in