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It was not a merry trip. Hostilities were renewed as soon as Alinor was mounted, but they were no fault of hers. Having enlivened Simon's mood, she was willing to forget the whole thing. She had wanted to go to Court and here they were on their way. She had not really expected the Queen to allow her to live in her own house, at least not just at first, anyway. Her furniture could be sent for after she arrived in London. She even agreed that it was better for Sir Andre to remain to oversee the lands, especially those held by castellans. In fact, she was grateful to Simon for settling the matter so summarily. She did not know how she would have told Sir Andre that she did not need him without hurting his feelings. |
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"The castle in London must be enormous," Alinor began civilly and with lively interest. "How will I find my way?" |
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"There are maidservants who will direct you," Simon replied coldly. |
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"Oh yes, for such things as the Great Halls or the garderobe or the Queen's chambers, but how will I summon my men-at-arms if I want to send a message to Sir Andre, for example, or my grooms if I want to hunt or ride out?" |
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"What men-at-arms? What grooms?" Simon asked. |
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Alinor blinked. "The ones who ride with us, who have ridden with us since we started." |
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"You ordered them to come?" Simon roared. "Well, I will send them back. You will have no need for such servants while in the Queen's care." |
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