Chapter 6

Audie came later that day, and was very shy, Silas could see why, as she had big ears and a large, hooked nose as well as big flat feet. She had been teased forever. Silas fought down any thought of commenting and instead just hugged her and said “I am told we will be husband and wife, Audie, I hope to be able to be all you wish from a man”. She looked up in tears “and I that I am all you wish in a woman”. She was very nervous, but Silas slept with her that night and late in the morning they set out for Sylvana’s cottage.

It was a long day of walking and Silas could tell it was hurting Audie after a while. He slowed the pace and did all he could think of to ease her discomfort. They arrived at Sylvana’s much later than Silas had planned, but she was ready and thankfully her husband was not there to make any unkind comments. They left in the morning with a good breakfast and a lovely lunch. Silas knew he could have been home before lunch, but he walked slowly and did not push Audie. They made it to his cottage in the late afternoon, and Silas introduced his new wife to his home. They cooked supper together and had a good night’s sleep in each other’s arms. In the morning they did chores together as well, as Audie learned where things were. Silas soon learned that she was a very accomplished wise woman for 18 and she also had midwife skills and simple magic skills. She was able to add quite a bit to what Silas knew and he added some to what she knew. over the days that followed.

The day following their return, Silas made his rounds to see if anyone needed his assistance. Generally things were going well, with only minor issues like children with sniffles. He was close to calling it a morning and heading home when the boy came and said the countess wished to see him. Silas turned and followed the young man into the manor. The countess awaited him in the front parlor. She was obviously pregnant now and grinned largely when he came in. She dismissed the boy with thanks and asked Silas how his trip had been. He told her of learning much about caring for and healing pigs as well as bringing a wife home. The countess looked up at that “Is she beautiful, Silas?” Silas smiled, “not to look at, but to be with, yes, very much so.” The countess cocked her head “that is a most interesting answer.” “Well many men look for a woman’s physical attributes only, and forget that they will fade in time. Audie will grow more beautiful, as her heart is good and full of kindness. She is a consummate wise woman, and a midwife as well as a wonderful partner in this life” Silas replied. The countess smiled “I should have known you would see more than just a lady’s curves and bumps. I wish you great happiness.” Silas bowed “My thanks, My Lady.” The countess wiped her eye and nodded. They both knew it could not be.