Running the Gauntlet (Craven's War Book 14) by Nick S. Thomas

Author:Nick S. Thomas [Thomas, Nick S.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Swordworks
Published: 2023-10-30T16:00:00+00:00

Chapter 11

After managing such a large force and marching with a vast army, it was quite the relief to be in such small a company. Craven and Amalia rode on through the countryside, though Craven kept a keen eye on their surroundings and all of his weapons were ready and within easy reach. He knew bandits might make an attempt on such a small party, which they would never risk against the force he typically rode with.

“My country is not as dangerous as you think,” Amalia smiled as she gazed upon his suspicious face.

“Yes, for the most part that is true, until it is not. I imagine bandits have always lived among these hills and far more so since this war began.”

“I cannot blame them, for what else can men do in the face of such oppression?”

“I don’t have a problem with the ones who fight the French. It’s those others who will rob and kill anyone who crosses their path which concern me.”

“Well then, I am lucky to have a good strong man to protect me, aren’t I?”

They went on for several days in peace before reaching a small river late in the day.

“Wait here.”

Craven went forward to test the depth. He drove his horse on, but it was becoming increasingly deeper, and he could feel the animal was about to start swimming. So he quickly pulled the reins about and led them both out.

“We will camp here for the night.” He didn’t much want to risk them being soaked through just as the sun was going down.

“Keep your weapons handy,” he added to the others, as he was suspicious of every place they went. They soon got a fire started and had some supper.

“It is quite the beautiful country, isn’t it?” Matthys asked as they sat comfortably around the flames, “I think I should like to return here one day when war does not grip the land.”

“You would travel here, to what end?” Craven asked.

“To see the majestic sights and to walk it in peace in my own time and not on the orders of another.”

“Nobody ordered you to make this journey.”

“You know what I mean. To wander these lands in a time of peace would be a most joyous experience.”

“The only people who make such a journey are pilgrims and those wealthy enough to not have to work for their money.”

“Could that be you one day?” Amalia asked Craven.

“I wish it could be.”

“And why not? After all you have achieved here, why not that?”

“Yes, a Major with your reputation might find himself with great favour on your return to England,” explained Matthys.

“But I am not of noble birth,” he sighed.

“That does not matter anymore. Do you think the men who run the factories across England are of noble descent? No, they made their wealth and now reside in great palaces as if they were.”

“But I do not own nor operate a factory. I use a sword, and what money is there in that?”

“But you are also a hero,” added Amalia.

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