—LEON TROTSKY “Aye, but it is connected to your Faolchú Chridhe through the stones in the hilt,” Eirik claimed. “Our tradition says that the original sacred stone was cut into the large stone used in our ceremonies, and a series of smaller ones.” “I have never heard of such,” her father replied. Eirik shrugged, clearly unsurprised. “Originally these stones were held by different members of the family that had been entrusted with the protection and use of the Clach Gealach Gra on behalf of our people. Later, some of the smaller stones were lost while others were used in jewelry to decorate weapons that became as important as bloodlines in claiming the title of spiritual leader or king.” “You believe it was the same among the Faol?” Ciara asked, thinking it sounded right. Eirik looked down at her. “Aye.” “So, he is feeling the heat in the handle because he is also of the bloodline.” “Aye.” Eirik touched her temple as if imparting a truth directly to her.
