|
|
|
|
|
|
"You will make me unfit to live with myself, and that is not a good way for a man to go to war." |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
They were standing a little apart from a group watching a juggler who now had seven flashing knives flying through the air. As he had added to his initial three and the crowd's attention grew more fixed, Alinor sidled closer. In Simon's opinion they were already standing too close. When he moved to step away, Alinor, who had till now been very careful of appearances in public, held him fast. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
"There is no need to be discreet any longer," she said sharply. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
"Alinor," Simon protested, "you will leave me no choice but to avoid you altogether. However much it may hurt me or you, I will do it. If it gives you joy, I might endure the torment you inflict upon me, but I will not permit you to besmirch your name in some wild attempt" |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The surprise on her face stopped him. "Have you not spoken to the Queen?" she asked. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
"You know I did. She sent for me after you told her I would confront Longchamp and together we devised what should be said. It was then she bade me take the Cross. She has some doubts of those around Lord Richard, and she desires news and also a trusty man at his back. I made all safeat least, the matter is in God's hands, not Longchamp'sby demanding that she ask to hold you as ward while I am gone. I have that signed and sealed by Richard and Longchamp." |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
"Yes, yes, but after Richard agreed. I know she sent for you again. Did you not go?" |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
"I suppose the page did not find me," Simon said awkwardly. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
"Did not find you? Where were you?" |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For a moment Simon looked distantly over Alinor's head. Then the humor of the situation hit him and he began to chuckle. "Hiding in the stable." |
|
|
|
|
|