Hooked on Imprisoned, Turn's End (First Dance) #mfrwauthor

Wrapping up the year with a continuation of the celebration of the winter solstice with more of the Turn's End celebration from the dark fantasy, Imprisoned in Stone. To set the stage, like our New Year's Eve, Turn's End is time for reflection and celebrating new beginnings. It is also a time for parties and dances. Even in the backwoods glen of the fighting wizard, Tralin, they will celebrate. First, we saw Tralin and her apprentice, Maerva, getting ready for the Turn's End dance. Then the male residents of the vale were presented in best outfits. In response to requests made, the first dance.

Excerpt:

Taking the pot from Tralin, Colwynn set it on the table. “Now, my fair lady, if I may have the honor of the first dance?” He slid an arm around the older mage’s waist and walked her to the center of the aisle over smooth stones swept clean of its usual carpet of straw. Not even a single crunch or hint of dust accompanied their footsteps.

Maerva’s gaze followed the pair as arm in arm they glided in time to the music. Resentment that Colwynn asked Tralin and not her flickered through Maerva’s mind.  

“Shall we join them?”

Startled at the soft voice in her ear, she looked up. Gareth’s shy smile expressed a feeling his words never had. Without waiting for an answer, he slid the pan from her nerveless fingers. She didn’t resist when he took her hand and pulled her close. Ever since he arrived, the only time he touched her was to illustrate a strike point or to offer a hand to help her to rise to her feet. The globes shifted to a pair’s dance common among fishermen. On a count of three, he led her into the opening steps. “I’m the lucky one,” he whispered.

Whether it was the wine or a consequence of Gareth’s growing magical abilities, Maerva sensed a change in him. Shyness no longer overwhelmed his wry smile. He was no longer the stern instructor in weaponry or the hesitant visitor who first came to the cottage. Now, he acted more lover than friend. And with each quiet word or caress, her skin flamed. With a sigh, she leaned her head against his chest. For a period of time, nothing existed except the sound of his heartbeat... and hers.

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As a holiday present to end out the year, a special bonus of how the first dance was decided. But as far as to who among the suitors Maerva will ultimately decide, so as not to be a spoiler, you have to read Imprisoned in Stone for that.

Bonus Excerpt:
 

“Colwynn bowed to Tralin and escorted her to a seat against the wall. He poured her a glass of wine and watched Gareth and Maerva dance. Although he was sure he had kept his emotions from showing in his face, Colwynn was glad the time to switch partners was near. The strain of watching Maerva threatened his vow for a harmonious new year.

“Thank you, Col,” Tralin said. “You’ve made an old lady very happy. I know you would rather be dancing with Maerva.” Her voice lowered. “How was it decided? Coin toss or dagger drop?”

“Coin toss. I figured it was fairer. As a weaponsmith, Gareth would have too much of an advantage if we decided the issue by flipping daggers.” Frustration caused a grimace to twitch his lips before he remembered his companion and forced a lighter emotion. “I still lost.”

“I guess I never told you. Gareth is lucky with coins. The same affinity he has for the metal in weapons, also applies to money.”

““Now, you tell me,” he muttered.

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Four paths--one destiny. With the power to bind souls and control all magic in the balance.

Imprisoned in Stone--available at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Kobo and elsewhere.