Sisters of The Bruce 1292-1314 (Abridged Version )

Sisters of The Bruce Chapter 10.4

                                                                                                     IV

Norway

Bergen

November 1300

My dear Kirsty,

I long for something more hopeful from you next time. My news may surprise you! I have arranged Inga's betrothal, albeit with King Haakon's sanction. Not long ago, the Earl of Orkney came seeking a bride of royal birth. His first wife had died after the birth of their son. Forgive me, dear sister, a wicked part of me is flushed with pride at being able to choose my daughter's husband. I am well-pleased, for Jon Magnusson is a thoughtful man of some elegance and wit.

Master Weland was most helpful with the processes for such an important betrothal. As a secular administrator, he did much of the negotiation concerning the contract and dowry. When Inga is of an age to marry, we shall travel to Orkney for the wedding at the great cathedral in Kirkwall.

Yester eve, news came of a Scottish ship with William Wallace on board. We rushed out to stand on the harbour wall. In the distance, a tall man - burly, bearded, with a shaggy head of black hair, stood amongst notables on the traders' wharf. Before long, the group boarded their galley which headed out over choppy waters. How I longed to be on that vessel. With only sea birds for company, I gazed for an age at the sea and sky, my cloak wrapped tight against the breeze.

Later, a visitor knocked on my door. Weland bristled with excitement. Unable to relax and sit by the hearth, he paced about. His sparse hair stood on end and his eyes shone beneath spiky brows. I could not recall seeing him so animated.

To avoid being captured, the vessel had sailed via Orkney to Norway. Only by a whisker, did they evade capture. Now, safe passage was sought through these northern waters. For a time, Bergen seemed to fade and we were both back home in the thick of intrigue and conflict. Pray God, the delegation arrives safely in Paris.

Another snippet of news regards my good sister; her babe arrived sooner than anticipated. I have to say it was a great relief to hear the bairn's exhausted cry. Had it been a boy, I am unsure how I might have felt. Bishop Narve performed the baptism in the cathedral. Celebrations went on for days. Meanwhile, my hands and arms still bear the bruises from Effie's iron grip.

Your loving sister

Isa