Lady Gwyneth's Hope (Ladies of Ardena Book 4) Read online

  Lady Gwyneth’s

  Hope

  Ladies of Ardena

  Book Four

  RACHEL SKATVOLD

  LADY GWYNETH’S HOPE

  Copyright © 2020 Rachel Skatvold

  ISBN: 9781711844008

  All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without written permission of the publisher. Published by Rachel Skatvold.

  Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, King James Version. Public Domain.

  This book is a work of fiction. Names, places, characters and incidents are either products of the author’s imagination or used fictitiously. Any similarity to actual people, organizations or events is coincidental.

  Edited by: Lisa M. Prysock

  Proofread by: Joy Davidson

  Author Photo: Jennifer Davidson

  Cover Design: Erin Dameron-Hill

  For more information on Rachel Skatvold, please visit her website: www.rachelskatvold.com

  Dedication

  For Kaydence

  When writing about Lady Gwyneth, I couldn’t help thinking about you and the beautiful, intelligent and kind young lady you are becoming. Always keep your love of reading!

  Acknowledgements

  As always, there are so many people involved in putting a book together and I would like to take a moment to thank them.

  First of all, thank you to God for placing this story in my heart. The characters in this story have taught me so much about redemption.

  Second, thank you for those who helped with the publication process. I so appreciate the amazing job done by my editor, Lisa M. Prysock, my proofreader and mom, Joy Davidson and Erin Dameron-Hill for the lovely cover art. Also, thanks to my sister, Jenny Davidson for taking my author photo and my uncle, David Webster for your knowledge about genealogy and Ireland.

  A big thanks to some special ladies in my reader’s group: Susan, Sharon, Linda, Dorothy, Natalya, Merrie, Katie, Patti, Sara. Sarah P., Halita, Sarah T., Michelle, Arletta, Debbie, Denise, Rory, Teri and Carol for participating in my character naming contest. The names you chose are amazing and I loved using them in the story!

  Last but not least, thank you to my husband, John, my kids, my extended family and church family for all your love and support. Also, I’d like to give a shout out to my beta readers, reviewers and loyal readers waiting patiently for the next book to come out. You all are such an encouragement and I appreciate you.

  Blessings!

  Author’s Note

  Dear Readers,

  Thank you for reading the fourth book in the Ladies of Ardena Series! You are about to embark on an incredible journey with Lady Gwenyth, Princess of Daireann, filled with adventure, danger, love and faith. However, before you embark on this journey, there are a few things I would like to share with you to make your reading experience more enjoyable.

  I have wanted to write a historical novel set in a place similar to Ireland for a while because of my Irish heritage, so I was excited when this story idea materialized. Ardena is not a real place—only a figment of my imagination—but has been inspired by Irish and Scottish culture and history.

  To make the story more authentic, there are Irish and Scottish words used for character names, and places throughout the story. If you would like to check pronunciations and meanings for these words, I have included them in the back of the book. There is also a map of Ardena and a family lineage page to discover the connections between the different kingdoms in Ardena and how the characters are related. It will grow as the series progresses.

  Thank you for reading, Lady Gwyneth’s Hope and I hope you enjoy! Blessings.

  Rachel

  “Thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in thy word. Depart from me, ye evildoers: for I will keep the commandments of my God. Uphold me according unto thy word, that I may live: and let me not be ashamed of my hope.” ~ Psalms 119:114-116

  CHAPTER ONE

  Sisters

  Kingdom of Daireann, Ardena

  Spring, 1191 AD

  The fresh spring air revived Princess Gwyneth’s senses as she gazed over the ramparts of Beatha Fortress. The winter had been long and unforgiving, but it was over now. As the morning sun highlighted the wildflowers blooming through the patches of melting snow in Beatha Valley, she saw the evidence of new life. A new beginning.

  Her eyes drifted to the village, which had been rebuilt and expanded since King Malcolm’s attack. Four years had passed by under her mother’s wise tutelage. Soon she would take over as the Regent of Daireann—after choosing a worthy suiter. She was of age—had been for two years—yet she held back. Why? Deep down, Gwyn knew the answer, but her heart wasn’t ready to admit it.

  “There you are, Gwyn. I’ve been searching for ages. Your mother sent me to fetch you after you neglected to come down for breakfast.”

  Gwyn turned and smiled at Isla as she came up beside her and leaned against the stone barrier. “I’m sorry. I simply couldn’t resist the spring weather this morning. Isn’t it lovely?”

  Her friend smiled while gazing over the ramparts, her eyes fixed on the distant horizon. “Aye, the spring comes so early here. I’ll wager Kiely remains buried under a thick blanket of snow.”

  “Have you heard from your brother lately?”

  Isla nodded. “Aye. He seems to be happy in his new marriage to Fiona and Kiely is flourishing under their rule.”

  Gwyn released a happy sigh. “I’m glad. There is no greater news than peace in the kingdoms. I’m sure you’re excited to meet a new sister and niece in a month. I’ve heard from Airell how kind Queen Fiona is…not to mention her sweet little one, Clare.”

  Isla agreed but her smile faded. “I should be excited, but deep down I’m dreading it. Is that terrible of me?”

  Concern filled Gwyn’s heart, noting her friend’s quivering chin. “You do not wish to return home?”

  Isla shrugged. “I’ve always known someday I would return. ‘Tis my duty, especially now that Leland is the king. He’ll need me now more than ever and I do miss our home.”

  “So, what is holding you back?”

  Isla turned to face her again with tears clouding her eyes. “Too many memories of life there with my mother, I suppose. Home is going to seem empty without her.”

  Gwyn pulled Isla into a hug. “‘Tis going to be all right. I felt the same when my father and brother passed. Everything in the castle reminded me of them, but with time, I came to treasure the memories. They sacrificed to defend their kingdom and family. I know they would have wanted me to be happy and live life to the fullest. I’m sure your mother wanted the same for you.”

  Her friend nodded and managed a smile. “Aye, you’re right. She would want me to be happy. I wish you could come with me, Gwyn.”

  She squeezed her friend tighter. “Me too, but over these years you’ve become my sister. That kind of bond can never be broken. Kiely isn’t so far away from Daireann. We’ll visit each other often. Would you like that?”

  “Aye, very much.”

  After Isla calmed, they headed down from the ramparts to her mother’s study. Isla waited outside the door while Gwyn entered, finding her mother, Queen Nora sitting behind her desk. She sighed in relief and placed her quill back in the holder. “There you are. After Isla neglected to return, I thought of sending some guards to search.”

  Gwyn cringed. “I apologize, Mother. The spring air was so nice outside, I lost track of time.”

  “Oh, ‘tis quite all right.” She approached and grasped her shoulders. “I have wonde
rful news that couldn’t wait. Airell is coming for a visit. She’s already on her way and will arrive in a fortnight.”

  Gwyn’s heart leapt for joy. “A fortnight? That leaves so little time to plan! We’ll have to have a ball and a feast. Oh, we have so many details to plan.”

  Her mother grinned. “I was hoping you would say that. This is going to be a joyous event indeed. I also took the liberty of inviting a few potential suitors. This will give you a chance to meet them.”

  Her gaze dropped to the ground, the joy fading from her heart. “I suppose I can delay no longer.”

  Her mother stepped forward and pulled her into a hug. “I’m not saying you have to choose right away. I met your father in a similar way, but the roles were reversed. He met several potential matches when it was time for him to marry, but the moment we met, we both knew it was meant to be. He was the love of my life.”

  Gwyneth sniffled against her shoulder. “Oh, Mother…you deserve to find happiness again, too.”

  Her mother sighed and pushed back, holding her at arm’s length. “I don’t believe I shall ever wed again, but this isn’t about my happiness. This is about yours. Enjoy yourself during the ball and meet the suitors. See if you could picture any of them as your husband. You may be blessed enough to find true love, as I did long ago.”

  Airell held her infant daughter close as the carriage came over the last hill, bringing Beatha Fortress into view. “There it is, sweet Ealga. The land of my birth. You and your brothers are going to love it as much as I do.”

  They traveled through Beatha Valley, past the village where the people came out cheering and throwing flower petals in celebration of her return. With the birth of her children and the unrest in South Rhona and then Brannagh, it had been a few years since she’d been able to visit. Her husband, Tiernay, had to remain in their kingdom and she missed him already. However, it felt wonderful to be back in the land of her birth.

  When they came through the front gates and into the courtyard, her mother, Gwyn and Isla were already there to greet them.

  Airell handed Ealga to the nurse and rushed into her mother’s embrace first. Then Gwyn and Isla joined in. “Oh, I’ve missed you all so much. Gwyn, you’ve only grown more lovely in my absence and Isla, you’re a turning into a beautiful young lady! How old are you now?”

  Isla produced a bright smile. “Almost fifteen, Your Majesty.”

  “I can hardly believe it. It seems like only yesterday you and Slade were those little children I took into my charge. I’m so happy to see you healthy and happy.”

  “How is Slade?”

  Airell motioned behind her. “I’ll let him tell you himself.” She couldn’t help smiling as the tall young squire dismounted his horse and shared a joyful reunion with Isla. She let them have a private moment and turned to her mother. “Would you like to meet your grandchildren?”

  Queen Nora nodded, wiping happy tears. “Aye, very much.”

  Airell motioned for the nurse to step forward with the children. She handed the baby to her mother and then took the twins’ hands, easing them forward to meet her side of the family. Ealga seemed content to be held by her grandmother. Arlan and Bradan were shy at first, but soon they loosened up too, offering hugs and begging Gwyn and Isla to play with them. The wonderful reunion was everything she’d prayed for and more.

  CHAPTER TWO

  Past and Present

  The great hall was so crowded the next evening, Gwyneth could hardly turn around without bumping into someone. Their joy over Queen Airell’s return was contagious. Since her father and older brother’s death, a cloud of gloom had fallen over the kingdom, but with her elder sister’s arrival, it had lifted.

  Gwyn sat next to Isla at the high table and grinned. “I’ve never seen you wear that gown before. Is it new?”

  Isla’s face glowed. “My brother had it sent over from Kiely. It was my mother’s, but the seamstress altered it to fit. He thought I might like to wear it upon my return home, but I couldn’t wait to try it on.”

  Gwyn squeezed her hand. “I’m glad you did. The gold color looks very becoming on you and I’m sure your mother would be proud of you.”

  Her friend nodded, wiping a stray tear. “Aye, ‘tis a good way to remember her as well.”

  After the feast, several noblemen asked Gwyn and Isla to dance and they both accepted. Most of them were much older than her, but Gwyn didn’t mind. She took the opportunity to become acquainted with the lords around her kingdom, so she would be prepared to work with them after becoming regent.

  After several minutes, Gwyn tired of dancing and went to the table for some refreshment. Then she looked around for Isla. Her friend was hard to spot through the crowd at first, but she eventually saw her near the edge of the room dancing with the young squire who’d arrived with Airell the day before—the one her friend seemed enamored with.

  A smile curved on Gwyn’s lips, seeing Isla’s face flushed and happy. It brought back memories too—memories of another feast and dance years ago. It was the night the young and handsome king of Órlaith declined her invitation to dance, but had humored her with a game of dice. No matter how hard she tried, she couldn’t forget his sea green eyes—so intense—yet so sad over the loss of his family and kingdom. She’d heard rumors he survived the Battle of Brannagh and hoped wherever Tristan was he’d found some peace.

  Gwyn stepped out on the terrace for some fresh air and gazed at the full moon, memories of King Tristan permeating her thoughts. Did he ever think of her? She guessed not. He had too much to think of besides the naïve young princess who’d given him one of her engraved wooden dice to remind him of God’s purpose. It was most likely long gone—lost at sea or discarded by now along with any memory he had of their meeting. However, something inside wouldn’t let the hope go—the hope perhaps one day he would return.

  “Pardon the intrusion, Your Majesty…”

  Gwyn startled at the man’s voice behind her and turned. Craning her neck, she met the tall nobleman’s dark eyes in the torchlight. “‘Tis no intrusion, Milord. Please, go on.”

  He gave her a half smile. “Have I arrived too late to dance with you tonight, Lady Gwyneth? If you are too weary, I understand.”

  Gwyn struggled to catch her breath, taking in the handsome dark-haired man before her. “I apologize, Milord. I am weary, but not from the dancing…rather all the attention.”

  He chuckled softly. “One would think you’d relish the devotion of your people. ‘Tis the privilege of royalty, aye?” When she raised an eyebrow, he continued with an amused smirk, his voice devoid of the previous sarcasm. “I don’t blame you, Milady. I’m used to my small home on the isles and not particularly fond of crowds either. Perhaps a stroll around the courtyard would be a welcome remedy for us both?”

  Gwyn sighed and grinned back at him, taking his preferred arm. “I accept.” As they began their stroll under the stars, some of the guards gave her concerned glances, but she nodded to put them at ease. The mysterious young lord had captured her attention in an instant. As they turned a corner, she craned her neck to look up at him. “So, you said your home is on the isles?”

  “Aye, forgive me for neglecting to introduce myself. I’m Lord Carney, the Duke of the Blathnaid Isles.”

  Her eyes widened, recognizing his name as one of her potential suitors. “‘Tis a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Milord. I know of your family. My father spoke highly of yours. How is he these days?”

  Lord Carney looked down. “I’m afraid he passed recently.”

  “I’m sorry.”

  “‘Tis all right. You couldn’t have known. We are quite isolated on the isles and have preferred it that way…until now.”

  “Do you plan on closer relations with the mainland now that you’ve inherited your father’s role as duke?”

  “Aye. ‘Tis what I am hoping for, Milady. Our isles are small. Most of the people make their livelihood by fishing, net-making and such, but I’d like to see better f
utures for those young people who wish to rise above.”

  Gwyn nodded. “My father used to dream of the same. He believed everyone should have the opportunity to read and write.”

  When they reached a bend in the path near the rosebushes—her father’s favorite place to pray and think—Lord Carney stopped and turned toward her. “Your father was an honorable king. ‘Tis a shame his reign ended prematurely.”

  She looked over the edge of the wall with Beatha Valley bathed in the moonlight. “Aye, but his legacy lives on in this kingdom and the hearts of his people.”

  “And in his daughter,” Lord Carney added.

  Gwyneth’s eyes clouded over as bittersweet memories flooded her thoughts. “Thank you. I hope to honor his memory during my time as regent.”

  He lifted her chin with his index finger. “You will. I know we’ve only just met, but I can already recognize the signs of a wise ruler.”

  Her heart pounded while meeting his gaze. She recalled her mother speaking of the way she met her father. They’d known they were meant to be together right away. Could it be happening to her, too? His face angled toward hers and their lips almost met before she pulled back.

  He backed up and braced his hand on the wall. “Forgive me, Your Majesty. I am not usually this forward.”

  “‘Tis fine, Milord. I cannot deny there is an attraction between us. However, this is not something to be rushed into. I have much to consider.”

  “I agree. ‘Tis why I would like to court you. I’ll request permission from your mother if it sounds acceptable to you.”

  She nodded and peeked up at him, grateful the darkness of night masked her blushing cheeks. “Will you be staying here long?”