Chalice of Blood Read Online Free PDF

being committed to spreading the Faith but in spreading the concept of truth and justice under the law and obedience to it. With me, the law comes first and Faith comes second. That is why I have decided to withdraw from the religious and pursue my duties as a Brehon.’

    Her brother smiled. ‘In the expectation that I shall nominate you as my Chief Brehon when the Council meet next week?’
    Fidelma flushed indignantly. ‘I shall not try to persuade you to do so. You know what work I have done, so I shall let my reputation be my advocate.’
    ‘And what did Eadulf say to this?’
    ‘As I have said, he wanted me to give it up and go to the community of the Blessed Rúan with him. I told him that if that was all he cared about, then he should go on his own. He should respect my wishes.’
    ‘And what of Eadulf’s wishes? Should those not be respected?’
    ‘That is not the same thing.’
    ‘Not the same?’ Colgú queried sadly.
    ‘Law is the only thing that has really interested me since I reached the amsir togú , the age of choice. That is why I persuaded our foster-parents to allow me to attend the school of Brehon Morann. Perhaps if I had not listened to our cousin, Abbot Laisran …’
    ‘If, Fidelma? Then what?’ Her brother smiled. ‘You are the last person to start playing the “if” game. Have you not said before that with an “if” you could put Tara and the High King’s palace in a bottle?’
    Fidelma did not respond to her brother’s humour and moved her hand in a gesture of dismissal.
    ‘It does not alter the facts. I want to devote myself to the pursuit of legal matters. It has been my ambition since a child, what I was trained to do and what I have proved myself adept at. I shall leave the religious with or without Abbot Ségdae’s blessing.’
    ‘And with or without your husband’s approval?’
    Fidelma gazed at her brother, the fire blazing in her eyes.
    ‘If that is the way it must be, then so be it,’ she said firmly.
    There was a silence and then Colgú stirred reluctantly and
rose, turning towards the fire in the hearth. For a moment or two he stood staring down into the flames, one hand on the stone mantel. Then he looked at her over his shoulder.
    ‘Very well. I must tell you that I have discussed the matter with Abbot Ségdae. You are too good an advocate to be allowed to waste your talents. But that does not mean that I am certain to support you in your bid to become Chief Brehon. I will remain neutral and it will be up to the Council of Brehons to make the final decision.’
    Fidelma was unable to resist a broad smile.
    ‘I will take the chance that they make the right decision,’ she replied.
    Colgú frowned sternly. ‘Their decision is their decision. Meanwhile, there is something more important to think about.’
    Fidelma was already turning for the door but paused now and looked expectantly back at her brother.
    ‘There is a condition that Abbot Ségdae and I have agreed should be put to you.’
    ‘A condition?’ Fidelma returned from the door with suspicion on her features.
    ‘You are well acquainted with the abbey of Lios Mór.’ It was more of a statement than a question, for Colgú knew the answer.
    ‘Of course. I have sat in judgement in the abbey on minor matters when Brother Cathal was in charge in Abbot Iarnla’s absence.’
    ‘But you know old Abbot Iarnla?’
    ‘I do, but not well. I have only met him briefly.’
    ‘This morning Abbot Ségdae and I received a messenger from him asking for assistance.’
    Fidelma raised an eyebrow. ‘What type of assistance?’ she asked.
    ‘Some years ago you may recall that you advised on accusations that were being made against Brother Cathal and Brother Donnchad of Lios Mór.’

    ‘Indeed. The Prince of the Déisi, Maolochtair, had begun to see conspiracy in every quarter. But he was old, though none would dare declare him feeble of mind. He accused Cathal and his brother of conspiracy to overthrow him.