Page 52 - full

The Journals of Raymond Brooks 51
As I worked, my mind began to wonder at the puzzle that was
Ingrid. I remember this day in vivid clarity, for it was the first of

mysteries I tried to solve. It set my mind thinking.
‘I know that Ivar is a nobleman, or was a nobleman yet makes
no mention of it while he works as a common smith. There
may be many reasons for that, from loss of status to simple
humbleness. He often discusses honor and proper conduct, so
it is safe to assume his loss of status is not due to shameful acts
on his part. Why he does not live with his wife and daughter is
a mystery.
‘I had assumed Ingrid was a bastard child, which would explain

her obnoxious behavior and why Ivar would not live with her
and her mother. Yet Ivar perhaps has no wife at all. So why not
live with his daughter and her mother? It’s a mystery I cannot
answer. Having no-one else in the world, it’s quite clear why
Ingrid would come here, and Ivar, being of a generous nature
would take her in, despite a loss of status in Drentwych. One
piece of the puzzle, though, doesn’t make sense. There was a

man in dirty armor and clothes, who sometimes watches the
house. While he speaks not a word and always departs when
he is noticed, his first appearance coincided with Ingrid’s first
appearance, so it is safe to assume both are related’. These
were my thoughts as I wrestled with the puzzle.
I decided to address the man when next I saw him, now that
Ivar wasn’t around to scold me for doing so. I closed shop as
usual, waiting for the opportunity to solve the enigma.
After I closed the shop Ingrid said she was going to wash in

the river, and requested that I guard her. I nodded my consent
and followed her when she was ready. I was silent, proud, and
stern as I accompanied her, feeling quite pleased with myself
for acting in a chivalric manner. As she washed I did not peek