CHAPTER 6
‘Take Howell back to the castle.’ With an imperious finger, Guinevere summoned several knights to do her bidding. She turned to the king. ‘Arthur, will you allow me to take Howell to the Sacred Grove tonight, so that we may observe the ancient rites for his funeral?’
‘No, Guinevere.’ With a frown, King Arthur rose from his knees and turned to the queen. ‘This is a Christian court now. Howell will have a mass and prayers said for his soul, and a decent burial in the churchyard as soon as all may be made ready.’
Callie was close enough to hear the queen’s sharp intake of breath; close enough to observe the flush of anger that reddened her cheeks.
‘Arthur, listen to me. In death we also need to celebrate life. Beltaine has now passed, but tonight the Mother Goddess will show her
