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guards as clearly as seeing a troop of men." |
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"The horses will make no sound," Rhiannon said. "I will be with them." |
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There was a silence. Bassett was stunned. He did not wish to remember what he had seen; it was unhealthy to think evil of Llewelyn ap Iowerth's daughter or the betrothed of the youngest son of the Roselynde clan, but if he could not allow that thought, then he must be enraged by the woman's silliness. Simon was simply considering the suggestion. It had not occurred to him to bring Rhiannon along, but now that she had suggested it, his mind was busy with the possibilities generated. |
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"How many can you keep quiet?" Simon asked. |
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Bassett turned purple and made a peculiar sound, but neither Simon nor Rhiannon paid any attention. |
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"That depends on how quiet you want them. This morning I found a drop in the ground, so it was only necessary to keep them together and I could speak to them softly. If you mean they must not snort or stamp and I must keep silence, then I need to be close enough to touch each often. Ten or perhaps twelve, I could manage. But Simon, the Welsh can go back on foot. They will even be safer that way, I think." |
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"You are right," Simon agreed. "I should have thought of that myself. "Good." He turned to Bassett. "Three of my men, myself, you, Lady Rhiannon, and four of yours to take the place of guards. That makes ten. Is there something wrong, Sir Gilbert?" |
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"With me?" Bassett exploded. "No! But I think you must have lost your mind." |
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"Why? I assure you it will take no more than three of my men and myself to dispose of the guards. Two could" |
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"Sir Simon, I am not talking about the men." Bassett's voice rose to a roar. "You cannot bring a woman along on such an enterprise." |
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"Why not?" Simon asked. "Rhiannon can control |
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