The girls expression brightened as Erik came into view. One of the prettier girls in town, with red hair and large green eyes, Gwen had attempted to catch Eriks eye on more than one occasion. She called his name as she firmly pushed Roos hands away. A few of the other youngsters of the town greeted the blacksmiths helper, and Roo said, Finished at the inn?
Erik shook his head. Just a break. Ill have to head back in a few minutes. Thought Id get some air. Gets very smoky in there, and the noise
Gwen was about to speak when something in Roos expression caused both her and Erik to turn. Coming into the light of the torches set around the fountain were two figures, dressed in fine clothing, swords swinging at their sides.
Gwen came to her feet and attempted an awkward curtsy. Others followed, but Erik stood silently, and Roo sat open-mouthed.
Stefan and Manfred von Darkmoor looked around the gathered boys and girls, roughly the same age as themselves, but their demeanor and finery set them apart as clearly as if they had been swans moving among geese and ducks in a pond. They had obviously been drinking from the way they moved, with the careful control of one who is masking intoxication.
As Stefans gaze settled on Erik, his expression darkened, but Manfred put a restraining hand upon his arm. Whispering something in Stefans ear, the younger brother maintained a tight grip. Stefan at last nodded once, his eyes heavy-lidded, and forced a cold smile to his lips. Ignoring Erik and Roo, he bowed slightly toward Gwen and said, Miss, it seems my father and the town burghers are intent on discussing issues of wine and grapes beyond my understanding and patience. Perhaps you might care to acquaint us with some more interesting diversions?
Gwen blushed and then threw Erik a glance. He frowned at her and slightly shook his head no. As if challenging his right to advise her, she jumped lightly down from the low wall around the fountain and said, Sir, I would be delighted. She called another girl who was sitting nearby. Katherine, join us!
Gwen took Stefans extended arm like a lady of the court, and Katherine awkwardly followed her example with Manfred. They strolled away from the fountain, Gwen exaggerating the sway of her hips as they vanished into the darkness.
After a moment, Erik said, Wed better follow.
Roo came to stand directly in front of his friend. Looking for a fight?
No, but those two wont take no for an answer and the girls
Roo put his hand firmly on Eriks chest, as if to prevent his moving forward. know what theyre getting into with noble sons, he finished. Gwens no baby. And Stefan wont be the first to get her to pull up her skirts. And youre about the only boy in town who hasnt bedded Katherine. Looking over his shoulder to where the four had vanished into the night, he added, Though I thought the girls had better taste than that.
Roo lowered his voice so that only Erik could hear, and his tone took on a harshness that his friend recognized. Roo used it only when he was deadly serious about a topic. Erik, the day may come when you will have to face your swine of a brother. And when it does, you will probably have to kill him. Eriks brow furrowed at Roos tone and words. But not tonight. And not over Gwen. Now, dont you have to get back to the inn?
Erik nodded, gently removing Roos hand from his chest. He stood motionless for a second, trying to digest what his friend had just said. Then, shaking his head, he turned and walked back toward the inn.