In My Wild Dream by Sasha Lord

Author:Sasha Lord
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Penguin Publishing Group

Kassandra’s words still echoed in Cadedryn’s mind several hours later. He and Lady Corine sat at the first table next to the king and queen, and he should have been pleased with his position of respect. Instead, he kept glancing down the tables to where Kassandra sat, concerned about her forlorn face.

“You seem distracted,” Lady Corine murmured. “You should be concentrating on the king. He is ready to publicly announce your good fortune, yet you act as if you’d rather be somewhere else!”

Cadedryn dragged his gaze away from Kassandra and took a long swallow of ale. He had to keep focused on his task. Everything was coming together exactly as he wanted. Lady Corine was accepting his courtship and the king was granting him his rightful title. There was nothing else he needed.

Suddenly the king rose and lifted his hand for silence. “Today is a special day. Today we erase the past and start afresh.” He gestured toward Cadedryn.

Cadedryn’s heart began to pound as he rose slowly and faced the king.

“More than twenty years ago, our kingdom lost a good man when he chose to follow his heart and not his head. Liam Caenmore disgraced his name by shunning a respectable bride and wedding a peasant woman. Such actions are not allowed to those of highborn status. Leaders must always maintain their stoic strength and ignore their unruly passions. It was with deep regret that I was forced to strip Liam’s title as a consequence of his irresponsibility. But I am not standing here today to recount that part of the tale. I am here to announce the restitution of the Caenmore family.”

He paused, then stared directly at Cadedryn. “Cadedryn Caenmore, you have distinguished yourself in battle. You have shown yourself to be a strong and steadfast subject of the crown.”

Everyone in the hall held his or her breath. Many leaned forward in rapt anticipation.

“In addition, the Highlands require a firm hand to maintain their loyalty. Since Liam died, the people living around Aberdour Castle have reduced their tithes and have shown a lack of respect, bordering on unrest.” King Malcolm pulled forth a heavy broad-sword and touched it to Cadedryn’s shoulder. “I need a man to rule over the Aberdour lands and quell all disturbances, one who insists on appropriate respect and tithing. I need a man who demonstrates unflagging loyalty and who acts with the sole intention of contributing to the welfare of Scotland. Are you such a man?”

Cadedryn nodded. “I am, milord,” he said solemnly. The king smiled. “I hereby reinstate your familial title of earl, granting with it all the honor and responsibility it entails. Use your title wisely, knowing that I will watch you closely, for I will not tolerate any misuse of your power.” He lifted the sword from Cadedryn’s shoulder and replaced it in its scabbard. With a heavy sigh, he sat back down and motioned for Cadedryn to come forward.

“Thank you,” Cadedryn said quietly as members of the court began whispering among themselves.

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