The Priory of the Orange Tree
Fifty-Five
by Shannon, SamanthaEad and Margret arrive in Caliburn-on-Sea aboard the *Flower of Ascalon* and journey across the snow-covered Leas toward Serinhall, the ancestral home of the Beck family. The landscape is blanketed in winter stillness, with frozen fields and no laborers in sight. Margret, warmly greeted by the locals, reflects on her potential as Countess of Goldenbirch, a title she might have held had she been the elder child. The duo passes the ruins of Goldenbirch, a pilgrimage site tied to Galian Berethnet, before reaching the imposing Serinhall, a grand prodigy house with domed rooftops and bay windows.
Upon arrival, Ead reveals her belief that Galian may have hidden Ascalon, the sacred sword of the House of Berethnet, in the province, and that the Beck family could be its keepers. Margret is skeptical but acknowledges her father, Lord Clarent Beck, would know if such a secret existed. The conversation hints at the family’s historical ties to the Saint, including a visit during Princess Sabran’s birth. The urgency of their mission is underscored by Lord Clarent’s declining health, suffering from *mind fog* after a riding accident.
The pair engage in a spirited race to Serinhall’s gatehouse, where they are greeted by servants. Margret introduces Ead as Viscountess Nurtha, a title Ead reluctantly accepts. Inside, they admire portraits of notable Beck ancestors, including Lord Rothurt Beck and Margret Ironside, highlighting the family’s noble lineage. Margret jokes about her impending marriage to Lord Morwe, noting her mother’s pride in their heritage. The opulence of Serinhall’s corridors contrasts with the simplicity of their quest.
Lady Annes Beck, the Countess of Goldenbirch, warmly welcomes Margret but regards Ead with suspicion, referencing her recent heresy accusations. Ead defends herself, asserting Queen Sabran’s support. Lady Annes, preoccupied with wedding preparations for Margret, dismisses their urgency to discuss Ascalon. The chapter ends with Margret attempting to steer the conversation back to their mission, while Lady Annes insists on hosting them for supper, delaying their search for the sword and underscoring the tension between familial obligations and their quest.
FAQs
1. What is the significance of Goldenbirch and Serinhall in this chapter, and how do they connect to the broader quest for Ascalon?
Answer:
Goldenbirch is the ruined birthplace of Galian Berethnet, a significant pilgrimage site in Virtudom, while Serinhall is the ancestral seat of the Beck family. Ead believes Galian may have hidden Ascalon in this province and entrusted its secret to local keepers like the Becks. The proximity of these locations suggests their historical importance—Goldenbirch as the origin point of the Berethnet lineage and Serinhall as a potential guardian of its legacy. Ead’s theory hinges on the idea that Galian would have confided in trusted stewards of his homeland, making the Becks key figures in uncovering the sword’s whereabouts.2. How does the author use the setting of winter in the Leas to enhance the mood and themes of this chapter?
Answer:
The winter landscape—described as snow “like cream smoothed with a knife” and fields too cold to till—creates a stark, quiet atmosphere that mirrors the secrecy and urgency of Ead and Margret’s quest. The frozen River Lissom and knee-deep snow symbolize both the preservation of ancient secrets (like Ascalon’s hiding place) and the obstacles the characters must overcome. The absence of laborers emphasizes isolation, allowing Ead to keep her hood up and remain inconspicuous. This seasonal desolation contrasts with the warmth of Serinhall’s interiors, highlighting the divide between the harsh external journey and the hidden truths within.3. Analyze the dynamic between Margret and her mother, Lady Annes Beck. What does their interaction reveal about Inysh nobility and family expectations?
Answer:
Lady Annes embodies traditional noble priorities, immediately focusing on Margret’s betrothal to Lord Morwe—discussing satin gowns, attifets, and wedding venues—despite Margret’s attempts to steer the conversation toward urgent matters. Her comment about Ead being a “fit consort” for her son underscores the nobility’s preoccupation with status and propriety. Margret’s affectionate but weary response (“Pity the man”) hints at her resistance to these conventions. The exchange reveals how Inysh aristocracy balances personal relationships with societal duties, where even a mother’s pride is filtered through the lens of political alliances and appearances.4. Why does Ead feel uncomfortable with her title of Viscountess Nurtha, and how does this reflect her character development?
Answer:
Ead’s discomfort stems from her identity as an outsider (originally from the Priory) and her disdain for the superficial trappings of Inysh nobility. The title is a forced mantle, one she accepts out of necessity rather than belonging. This moment underscores her internal conflict: she must navigate aristocratic circles to fulfill her mission, yet she resists assimilation. Her reaction contrasts with Margret’s ease in her noble role, highlighting Ead’s pragmatic adaptability while maintaining her core sense of self. It also foreshadows her eventual rejection of such titles in favor of her true allegiances.5. What clues in the chapter suggest that Lord Clarent Beck might hold key information about Ascalon’s location?
Answer:
Margret mentions her father’s expertise: “He has made it his life’s work to know all there is to know about this estate,” implying he’s a meticulous historian of Serinhall and its ties to Galian Berethnet. Additionally, the Saint visited Serinhall the year Princess Sabran was born—a detail likely recorded in family archives or oral traditions. Though Lord Clarent suffers from “mind fog,” his past knowledge positions him as a potential keeper of secrets. The Beck family’s long stewardship of the region and their portraits of historically significant figures (like Rothurt Beck) further suggest their deep entanglement with Inysh lore.
Quotes
1. “She would have made a fine Countess of Goldenbirch, had she been the elder child.”
This observation about Margret highlights the societal constraints of inheritance and gender roles in Inysh nobility, while also subtly praising Margret’s capabilities. It introduces an early theme of unfulfilled potential due to birth order.
2. “If Galian did hide Ascalon in this province, I think he would have told its keepers. It was his most valuable possession. The symbol of the House of Berethnet.”
Ead’s reasoning about the legendary sword Ascalon represents a key plot point in their quest and reveals important historical context about the Berethnet lineage. This quote shows the strategic thinking behind their investigation.
3. “A figure in one of the tragedies of Inys. Carnelian the Third fell in love with Lord Rothurt Beck, but he was already wed.”
This passing mention of historical court drama illustrates the rich backstory of the Beck family and the complex political/romantic entanglements that characterize Inysh history. It adds depth to the world-building.
4. “Clarent always thought you would marry my son, you know. I do hope there was no improper conduct between you, though perhaps you are now a fit consort for the future Earl of Goldenbirch.”
Lady Annes’ blunt comment reveals both the calculating nature of noble matchmaking and the social climbing expectations in this society. It shows how Ead’s new title changes her perceived worth in aristocratic circles.
5. “Oh, my child… I heard only this morning of your betrothal to Lord Morwe… Oh, he has found a rare splendor in you, my darling.”
This emotional outburst from Lady Annes contrasts with her later formal demeanor, showing the genuine affection she has for her daughter beneath her noble pretensions. It humanizes a character who otherwise appears quite rigid.