‘And I will come. I’ve told you that. But not yet. I’m sorry, but this other matter is of pressing importance. It’s not something I can set aside. Cara, the world will not come to an end because you waited a few more days.’

Cara muttered something and went out, slamming the door behind her. And it came to me that when she confronted Master Tóla with the truth, the world she knew would indeed come to an end. One way or another, her life would be changed forever.

Anger filled me. I was furious that the world was so unfair; disgusted with myself for dismissing Cara’s concerns; enraged by my own need to have Grim back home, as if I were some drooping creature who could not take so much as one step on her own. ‘A pox on it all!’ I snarled, casting around for something to hurl at the wall, something that would make a lot of noise. My cup. The iron poker. The hedgehog Grim had carved for me. I stilled; drew a shaky breath. Heard Grim’s voice in my mind, clear as clear. Curse and shout all you want, don’t mind me. Only, not your house, is it? Be better not to make a mess.

I picked up the hedgehog, held it on my palm, looked it in the eye. It gazed beadily back at me. I reminded myself that Grim would be getting a message from Ségán, possibly today. He might be home by supper time. If I could tell Cara to wait several days before undertaking the most important task of her whole life, I could surely control my temper until then. ‘Right,’ I muttered. ‘Take your own advice. Keep busy. Occupy yourself. Wash your face, go to the privy, have breakfast. Talk to Master Oisin if he’s still here. Ask for an escort. Go over to Dreamer’s Wood and get things ready for Emer. Try to summon Conmael. So what if you can’t stop thinking about Mathuin? Just keep on putting one foot in front of the other. Or you really will become that pathetic weakling who can’t pull herself together and act on her own. Some wise woman you’ll be then.’

Chapter Thirty-eight: Grim

38

~Grim~