Targets of Treachery : A gripping, action-packed historical epic (Lord Edward's Archer series Book 4) by Griff Hosker

Author:Griff Hosker [Hosker, Griff]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Lume Books
Published: 2021-08-25T16:00:00+00:00

Chapter 11

We had the prisoners tethered to one another and, with Tom leading, Martin followed up with a spear taken from a dead man at arms to encourage them. It was just ten miles to our camp, where we would stop on the way to Chester, but we did not relent, and our horses kept such a steady speed that there was little likelihood of the prisoners being able to escape.

Stephen said, “Captain, do not be so hard on Matthew. His men are good, and he leads them well.” I turned and stared at him as though he was a fool. “The trouble is, Captain, that your men all meet your high standards but not everyone has those standards. I have fought with other lords and captains. You have the drive and wish to be the best but, I confess, I know not why. We both know that lords will discard you when you are old, wounded or too expensive. You need not jump every time that King Edward snaps a command.” I gave him one of my harsh stares. He smiled. “The trouble is, Captain, that I know your heart and you are a good man. I know I can say what I say for that reason. You might shout at me and censure me, but you will hear my words and you will reflect on them.” He leaned over. “You do not have to try too hard; I listen at table and in the camp. All the lords, and that includes King Edward, value you, more than you can know. You could be paid more coin and receive more honours if you but asked for them!”

I heard his words and, I suppose, I knew that he was right. What was it deep within me that made me do what I did? “I need no more than I have, and I am content!”

He nodded. “Perhaps that is why men do what they do for you. They know your heart and cannot help but follow you.” He laughed. “Listen to me! I came to you as the man who would slay Prince Llywelyn, and now, I am as much your man as John of Nottingham!”

We rode in silence. I found myself riding a little faster until I realised that I could hear the panting of the Welsh captives and I slowed. What had made me what I was? I knew I had changed but thought that was down to Mary and Hamo; they had nothing to do with my warrior life.

We crossed the bridge at Chester, and I was recognised by the sentries, who smiled at the eight panting prisoners. We headed into the city and the castle. We left the prisoners with the sergeant of the guard and while Stephen, Tom and Martin went to find an alehouse and food, I sought the earl. He was eating but it was just with his senior men. He waved the steward to fetch a seat and then food.

“How goes it?”

I told him of the Welsh patrols and how we had dealt with them.

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