The mystic rose (cc-3) by Stephen Lawhead

Author:Stephen Lawhead [Lawhead, Stephen]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: adv_history

CHAPTER TWENTY-SIX

'I am Carlo de la Coruna, magistrate and governor of this fine and prosperous town,' said the man. He made a flourish in the air with his hand, removed his fine red cap and bowed deeply. 'On behalf of the worthy citizens of Palencia, I welcome you and your excellent company, and may I wish you a most enjoyable stay.'

The knight took one look at the chubby, round-shouldered fellow in his peculiar hat, and decided that he was an absurdity likely to cause problems if not strenuously avoided. 'Good day to you, magistrate,' he replied stiffly. 'As you can see, we are in need of food and lodging. I will thank you to arrange it.'

The magistrate puffed out his cheeks. 'Well…' he began to protest, but thought better of it, and said, 'Of course, my lord, if that is what you wish. It will be my pleasure.' Turning, he summoned his deputy to his side. 'Grieco! Where are you? Come here, Grieco. I want you to take word to Master Hernando at the inn. Tell him I am sending very important guests to stay with him. Tell him -' Breaking off, he turned once more to the newcomers and said, 'If you please, my lord, may I know who I have the pleasure of welcoming?'

'I am Renaud de Bracineaux, Master and Grand Commander of the Knights Templar of Jerusalem,' he replied. 'And this,' he indicated the fair-haired, thin-faced man on horseback beside him, 'is my companion Baron Felix d'Anjou. Also with us is Bertrano, Archbishop of Santiago de Compostela; unfortunately, friend Bertrano is indisposed and cannot speak to you now. I want rooms for three. The rest of my men will lodge at the monastery.' Turning his arid gaze to the soggy, windblown street, he shivered in the autumn chill. 'You do have a monastery in this…' he hesitated, 'this place, do you not? And an inn?'

'But of course, my lord,' answered Governor Carlo proudly. 'We have a very fine monastery. It has long been renowned for -'

'Good,' said de Bracineaux decisively. 'You can show us where to find it.' He called Gislebert to attend them. 'The magistrate will lead you to the monastery. Lodge the men and then come to us at the inn.'

Turning back to Carlo, the Templar said, 'Come now, governor, my men have ridden far today and are in want of a hot meal and beds. Be quick about it, and you will find it worth your while.'

Governor Carlo stared in astonished indignation. Who did these men think they were to order him about so? Even the king was more gracious to his subjects than these arrogant saddle-polishers. Well, if they wanted him to lead them to the monastery he would do it. But it would be the last service he would perform for them. After that, they would pay for what they received. Moreover, as they imagined themselves emperors of vast domain, they would pay royally. The thought suffused his face with a glow of magisterial satisfaction.

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