The Conquest Read Free Page A

knowing full well the question would be asked, replied, “He aggravated an old hunting wound on the eve before our departure. The healer insisted he stay behind. Knowing you were expecting him, and not wanting to delay the wedding, I was sent in his stead.” Whispers among the ranks said the “wound” came by way of a dagger and a disagreement over a game of chess. De Cion’s temper was legendary but had grown more explosive in recent weeks. Many wondered, including their liege, if perhaps his upcoming marriage had been part of the cause. Everyone at Braemere Castle knew de Cion loved his leman, a woman who had been devoted to him for the eleven years since his wife had died in childbirth.
    However, the woman had been a commoner and could do nothing to bolster his aspirations or career. She had not taken the news of his upcoming wedding lightly. Renaud de Wulf, their liege and Adelstan’s brother-in-law, had suggested Malgor send the woman away, back to her family near London, so that he could start fresh with his new bride and new fief. Castle Almeron was nowhere near as impressive as Braemere, but still brought with it a title and riches, and the opportunity to start a new life with a young bride.
    “Ah, a hunting wound,” MacKay said, giving away nothing of his thoughts as they continued into the large bailey, where a crowd watched from a distance. “He must trust ye immensely to send ye in his place.”
    Adelstan nodded. “Actually, it was my liege, Lord de Wulf, who sent me in de Cion’s stead. I assure you, Laird MacKay, your daughter is in capable hands. I will let no harm come to her.”
    The chieftain stopped and turned to Adelstan, his eyes searching his so intently as to be uncomfortable. A moment later his lips curved slightly. “Ye are a man of your word, Sir Adelstan. My Rhiannon can be a handful, and at times is a bit outspoken and strong-willed for her own good. I hope ye have patience, because ye may need it.”
    Adelstan was instantly reminded of his sister, Aleysia, who shared similar traits. “Aye, I am a patient man.” He noted Lady Rhiannon was not present and wondered at the reason. Did this strong-willed young woman have reservations against marrying de Cion? Mayhap she had heard of the newly titled baron’s age and resisted the idea of marrying a much older man.
    The Scot stroked his beard. “I think ye and my daughter shall get on very well, Sir Adelstan.”
    “I am sure we will,” Adelstan assured him.
    “There should be ample room for your men in the armory.” MacKay pointed toward a large wooden building across the bailey. “A guest chamber has been made up in the tower, and ye are welcome to make use of it.”
    “While I appreciate the offer of a private bedchamber, I assure you it is not necessary. I am content to sleep wherever my men are stationed.”
    “Ye are here in Lord Malgor’s stead, and therefore ye will be treated as he would be treated.” His tone let Adelstan know he would accept no refusal.
    Adelstan nodded in acquiescence. “Very well. Thank you, Laird MacKay.”
    “Good, now that is settled, let us get on with the feasting. I am certain ye are all hungry from your long journey. Let us dine and enjoy the entertainment we have in store for this evening.”
    After he’d lived on dried meat, fruit, and cheese for the past week, Adelstan’s stomach rumbled at the thought of filling his belly.
    They approached the great hall, where armed guards stood at attention. With intense fanfare they opened the double doors, and a room full of men, women, and children, all dressed in their best, came to their feet.
    Applause broke out over the assemblage, growing with intensity as they made their way to the high dais.
    How disappointed they would be when they learned he was not Lord Malgor.
    “Impressive,” Jorden, his next in command, said under his breath, bending his head back to look at the high timbered ceilings overhead.
    Adelstan followed his officer’s gaze.