“Leaving those who rule without tenants to work their lands, less men to defend property and the possibility that some other lord or landowner will grow strong with those people who migrate elsewhere,” the Dark One finished.
“Knowledge is a powerful weapon,” Magnus said, “which is why those who rule keep the populace ignorant of the world.”
“How very sad,” Reena said. “Knowledge, even a little, could ease much heartache.”
Magnus raised his glass. “To three who are feared.”
Reena smiled and raised her glass high, adding her own sentiments. “And to three who shed light on the darkness.”
The Dark One added his opinion. “Even when it takes darkness to bring light to the world.”
For a moment Reena detected gentleness in his voice, and she found her fear of the shadowy figure dissipating and turning to curiosity. Who was this man who seemed friend, not foe, to Magnus?
Magnus confirmed the friendship when he turned to her. “Reena, I need time to speak with my friend alone.”
Reena placed her tankard on the table. “Of course, and besides, I have much work to do.”
“I will see you later,” Magnus said.
She nodded, and as she passed the Dark One, she said, “Good day.”
A hooded head bobbed briefly in response.
“Reena.” Magnus stopped her as her hand touched the door. “Tell no one of his presence.”
“As you wish.” She slipped out the door, closing it quietly behind her.
“What are you doing here?” Magnus asked, taking a seat by the fireplace.
The Dark One retreated to the chair in the shadowed corner of the room and slipped his hood off his head. His face could not be seen, and Magnus made no effort to look upon him.
“My skills have been requested by someone, and I am on my way to meet with him, but I was detoured by a request from the earl of Culberry, who appears heartbroken that the woman he loves is being detained by the Legend. He wishes for me to return her to him.”
Magnus laughed. “The fool believes he can lie to the Dark One? He is more of an idiot than I first thought.”
“Can I assist you in this matter?”
Magnus shook his head. “It is not necessary. Thomas watches over the woman Kilkern speaks of. She is but a piece of bait to him in his foolish trap.”
“I can take the woman to a safe place until this matter is settled if you wish.”
“Brigid would not go. This is her home and she is happy here and safe. Kilkern plays his game thinking he backs me into a corner, when it is I who maneuvers him into place.”
“My offer remains.”
“I appreciate your friendship.” Magnus leaned forward toward the shadows. “When do you come out of the darkness, my friend?”
Silence followed for several seconds, and a much softer voice spoke. “When the pain in my heart is no more.”
“Women and love.” Magnus shook his head. “Suffering for sure.”
Both men laughed.
“You pick a good woman to love,” the Dark One said.
Magnus looked to the shadowy figure in surprise. “Is there nothing that escapes you?”
“Nay,” the Dark One admitted. “I see all, but this was easy to see for I know you well, my friend. You never favored the ladies with weak minds or character. You looked for one who would challenge with equal strength, and although the mapmaker is small in size she possesses the strength of a warrior.”
Magnus smiled. “She does, and she is as determined as a warrior, though her weapon of choice is a quill, which she wields with skill.”
“So I have heard, though beware,” the Dark One warned. “There are many who would wish her talent to be theirs. These lands continue to be a mystery to many. A mapmaker would prove a powerful weapon. Then of course there is the fact that you love her.”
Magnus shook his head, stood, retrieved the pitcher of ale from the table, and refilled their tankards before returning to his seat and placing the pitcher on the ground beside him.
“She cares for you as well, it is there in her eyes.”
“She thinks I better suit her friend, though I believe she is beginning to understand Brigid has no interest in me.”
“She would step aside so that her friend could have you when she herself favors you. Friendship like that is rare.”
“Reena risked her own life for her entire village by journeying to my home.”
“I do not envy you, my friend. A woman with such a caring heart would do anything for the man she loves, even risk her own life.”
The thought startled Magnus, and he was quick to respond. “She will do as I command.”
The Dark One’s laughter sounded more amused than harsh. “You should fast make her your wife, you may then have more control that way.” He laughed harder. “Though I doubt it.”
“She listens when I command.”