There was no question that she could trust her great-grandmother. So, slowly, Bria drew the pendant free.
The moment Wynn saw it, all color drained from her face and the question came sharp and immediate. “Where did you get that?”
“You know what it is?”
Her gaze remained fixed on the pendant. “Where?”
Bria intended to get answers first. “Tell me what you know about it.”
Wynn remained silent for several moments. When she finally spoke, her voice was little more than a whisper. “It belonged to the Morvane Clan.”
Bria nor Kaelan exchanged a quick glance. Neither recognized the name.
Wynn slowly took a seat on a bench at the table as though old memories had suddenly become heavy.
“The Morvane, a clan in Driochmor,” Wynn explained, her gaze never leaving the pendant. “They possess powerful magic.” A troubled look crossed her face. “And they believe there should be no limits placed upon it.”
Silence settled over the cottage.
“The council forbade certain practices,” Wynn continued. “The Morvane ignored those warnings.”
“What sort of practices?” Kaelan asked.
Wynn finally looked up. “The kind that eventually lead good people down dark paths.”
Bria felt a chill sweep over her and her fingers tightened around the pendant.
Wynn noticed. “Where did you get it?”
Bria detailed how she and Kaelan came by the pendant.
Wynn’s eyes softened as she asked, “And what are you not telling me, granddaughter?”
“Only what I fear if you knew could cause you more problems,” Bria said, not wanting to put that burden on her great-grandmother.
Kaelan admired his wife for being wise enough to realize that and not hesitating to protect her great-grandmother.
“I am not sure if I should think you foolish or courageous, but I trust you and leave it at that. Just be careful, for the Morvane are known to keep what is theirs and with a piece missingfrom that pendant someone is bound to claim it.” Wynn looked to Kaelan. “You will need the beast to protect her against the Morvane.”
“You know?” Kaelan asked, not surprised she did.
“Aye, I know the Northland. I visited there when I was young. There is much beauty there and isolation as well. I would love for you to take Bria there, but I sense she has no intention of leaving Scotara just yet.” She smiled, her voice taking on a commanding tone. “I trust you will take her there when necessary.”
“Aye, I intend to,” Kaelan said without hesitation.
“Then I can sleep peacefully,” Wynn said content.
“Do I get a say in this?” Bria asked, looking from one to the other.
“Nay,” Kaelan and Wynn said in unison.
“Bria!”
The screech had them all cringing.
Wynn shook her head. “I have never met such an?—”
“Annoying and pain in the butt fairy,” Kaelan finished as he went to the door.
