Читать книгу The Magic Ring of Brodgar онлайн

“Warren, why is there a bird on the coat of arms?” Megan asked a bit tensely.

“It's a raven, the heraldic symbol of the clan,” her cousin responded. “As I told you, the last of the Drummonds disappeared, and Castle Raven passed to the McKenzies. Everything here has been left as it was, in respect of the centuries-old friendship between the clans.”

“This bird is now going to haunt me everywhere! And has probably already become my life companion,” the girl murmured.

Once in the main hall, she immediately noted a significant difference between this and the hall of the ancestral home. This one seemed a bit gloomier and colder, with heavy bare stone walls. The furniture, made of mahogany, was upholstered in dark burgundy velvet. A huge, antique chandelier hung in the center of the ceiling. A large fireplace was built into the wall, above which was also the family crest of the former owners. Six tall, floor-to-ceiling windows, lined the façade wall. They were decorated with velvet curtains in the same hue as the upholstery, tied back with gold twisted cords and tassels. Like the neighboring castle, this one also housed many hunting trophies.

“This home isn't as modernized as Castle Mal,” said Warren.

“Well, that's not modern either,” Glenn objected, “but Castle Raven only looks old-fashioned on the ground floor. The last of the Drummonds redesigned the rooms in the style of the late nineteenth century. They're beautiful, cozy and comfortable.”

At that moment, Alaric and Duncan came into the hall.

“Oh, I see you've already become a true McKenzie,” Duncan said, carefully examining his cousin's outfit.

“Our colors suit you very well,” Alaric said approvingly.

“Thank you, I'm glad to see you both.”

In reality, Megan felt quite awkward in their presence. She very much wished for the lingering tension, left after the family meeting, to finally dissipate so they could interact without strain.

“Really?” Duncan asked with a hint of sarcasm.

Warren intervened before anyone could comment further, “How's it going, bro?” Getting ready for Witch's Night?” he cheerfully said, clapping his brother on the shoulder as a greeting. “We've already introduced our relative to the local traditions and recounted the legends of this region. She's eagerly awaiting the festival!”