Laid out in a geometric grid, the castle garden provided a
well at the center for irrigation. Heavy wooden planks held the soil in beds,
most containing medicinal and culinary herbs and vegetables edged by lavender
and white violets. Strawberry plants filled one bed and a large section
dedicated to roses lay to the side. Though not yet in bloom, the roses’ shiny
new leaves glistened in the sunlight. At the center of the rose garden grew a
bench of living plants.
“’Tis a turf bench of chamomile. ’Twill flower soon,”
Elspeth said with pride.
“I’ve never seen anything like it. Must be beautiful when in
bloom.” Laurie followed Elspeth as they meandered through the garden.
“Most of the seedlings are collected from local fields and
woods then planted here. Other plants are brought to me by friends and
travelers who visit the castle.”
“What you’ve created here is amazing.”
“Thank you. My love for the garden came from my mother.”
Elspeth’s voice saddened. “We spent hours together tending the plants. Since
she is gone, I nurture the garden in her memory.”
“What happened to your mother?”
“My father and mother are missing—presumed dead by many—they
disappeared three years ago while traveling across our land. After that,
Patrick became chief of our clan.”
~Dawn Marie
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