Chapter 20: Soon to be husband
Taeryn raised his mug in cheers, ale sloshing dangerously close to the rim. "To Baren the Betrothed! May your forge burn hot and your marriage bed burn hotter!"
The crude toast drew laughter from the surrounding tables, where other villagers had been following the conversation with the kind of intense interest that characterized small communities.
Jaenor and Taeryn’s laughter grew louder while Baren was blushing like a little boy.
The known faces also have joined in and gave a pat on Baren’s shoulder.
Marriage proposals were significant events in places like Taren’s Rest, where bloodlines and alliances could determine the survival of entire families through the harsh mountain winters.
Ryanna herself was considered a prize worth winning—a comely girl of perhaps twenty-two years with the kind of practical intelligence that made for good wives and strong mothers.
Her father’s merchant connections would bring prosperity to the match, while Baren’s skills as a smith would ensure the family never lacked for essential tools and implements. It was the sort of sensible arrangement that formed the backbone of mountain society.
"She’s a good lass," observed Willem from behind the bar, his wooden leg tapping approvingly against the floor. "Got her mother’s looks and her father’s head for numbers. You could do far worse, Baren."
"Aye," agreed one of the older patrons, a grizzled herder named Marcus whose sheep roamed the high pastures. "And with the strange times we’re seeing, it’s good to know some things remain constant. Young folk still fall in love, families still join together, and life still goes on despite whatever darkness may be stirring in the world."
The mention of current events cast a momentary shadow over the celebration, as conversations turned briefly to speculation about their mysterious visitors.