A Tuesday Tidbit and Taste of Our WIP

The ring pictured is one worn by our Medeival heroine, Lady Agnes Carlisle. The stone is called Rhodonite. The word rhodonite is derived from the Greek word rhodon for rosy, although there is also reference that credited a Celtic word rhod, which means wheel, as the origins of the name. Rhodonite has quite a distinct pink or rose red color, although material containing black veins is more popular than the uniform pink.

 Some of the Metaphysical properties attributed to the stone are:
 Rhodonite has been called a “stone of love” and helps one to achieve his/her greatest potential. It is said to bring emotional balance.
Rhodonite can help one have a passionate love that is also grounded, It can find your Soulmate or help mend a broken heart.
Rhodonite is a stone often used in crystal healing for healing trauma and abuse issues.
Rhodonite works beneficially on the heart chakra, opening one to unconditional love and increased service to mankind.
Rhodonite is also a calming stone, with energies used for easing anger and fear.

 Agnes is aware a some of the metaphysical properties aligned to the stone, but not all. However, most are woven into and seen throughout the story.The ring is truly a subconscious talisman for her. Below is a rough draft snippet from Song of His Soul, Agnes and Gryffen's story, where our hero first comments on the ring. Though Agnes tells him of the stone, occurrences in her life won't let her believe them, even if they are her deepest desire. You see Agnes was raised to believe life was measured by responsibility and duty...and even these, people cruelly point out she has difficulty fulfilling. How could Love actually come into her life?
*****

 Gryffen took her hand. “’Tis a lovely ring.”

 His thumb easily covered the cabochon and most of her finger. He merely looked at the ring. Yet, a warmth filled the emptiest places in her body as if it recognized his touch as something more intimate. This sensation frightened her. She removed her hand from his and welcomed back the cold emptiness she was accustomed to feeling.

“’Twas my grandmother’s, a wedding gift from my grandfather." Memories tugged at her heart, their's was a true love story. "The merchant told him it brings love and balance.” So why was her world spinning? “Brings your soulmate.” Agnes giggled at the irony.

 “You find this amusing?”

 “Nay. Just…here I am married to Gryffen, the Soulless.”

 A rough sound came from him.

 She wasn’t sure if it was amusement or annoyance. “My apologies...I.”

 “Nay.” He put a fingertip to her lips, “I’ve told you I enjoy your laugh, have I not? Besides you are to pray I find a soul.” He winked at her.

Agnes smiled. His kindness would be her ruin. She could like him if she let herself. She reminded herself soulmates were for others. She seemed destined to never have one.