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Last week we met Jorgen from Hilvard. He and his men have been tracking their enemies from Berunia. Unfortunately for the people of Islak's coastal village of Lundrskag, the baddies are faster than the good guys from Hilvard. Skipping ahead a little, we're going to meet Maja, an Islaker woman with a secret.
The lady allowed Jorgen to examine her head and answered his questions as best she could: her name was Maja; she was in a village on the coast of Islak visiting family, but lived farther inland in the town of Lenuka. And while he held up three fingers, his companion was holding two up behind his head. That made her smile a bit, and had Jorgen turning to swat away the hand of the offending wretch. “Your head will ache for a few days, and you may bear a scar, but you shall live, Maja.”
“Tell me, Jorgen Andriksson,” she began, “does my—does the jarl of this village live? Are the family safe?
“I know not, lady. My men are searching for survivors.” Jorgen hastened to tell her. Looking at the people huddled in the cave he addressed them: “The Berunians are gone from this place. ..."
More of the scene, if you'd like to read...
"...If you wish to help in the search, you may do so without fear. None of my people will harm you.”
An old woman came forward, grasped his hand, and kissed it. “Lord bless you, Jorgen Andriksson!”
The people shuffled out, nodding in deference to the injured lady who lay still by the fire. Her servant bustled about her, tucking the blanket more firmly, offering a bit of broth which was refused.
The lady fixed Jorgen with an intent stare. “What are your dealings with the Berunians?”
“You waste no time.” Jorgen almost smiled. “I seek to put an end to Morgyt’s false dealings and ambitions. He has harassed my people, my lands too long. I am sorry that I could provide the people of this village with no warning, but I looked for him to attack elsewhere.”
“Morgyt.” The woman spat out the name. “He has killed many, and knows no remorse. Any foe of Morgyt’s is an ally to me.” She declared boldly.
Jorgen’s gaze probed hers. “What has he done to you?”
Maja’s eyes dropped to her hands. “There are those I loved who have perished because of his schemes. I am an orphan and a widow, thanks to Morgyt. Of close family all that remains to me is a brother, and I know not where he is, or if he still lives.”
Comprehension apparent in his eyes, Jorgen spoke again. “You were in Lenuka when he struck.” It was no question, and yet she answered him.
“No. I was here. My family sent me to my uncle, fearing an open attack from Morgyt’s forces. I had word later of my parents’ deaths, and my husband’.” Still, she would not meet his gaze.
That's all for this week. I have posted the entire first chapter of my humor novel North Pole: Confidential on the Exclusive Excerpt page. I'd love some feedback on it if anyone has the time and the inclination.
I look forward to reading all my fellow-writer's posts this weekend. :)
Kate
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