Viking King by M J Porter

Author:M J Porter [Porter, M J]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2019-12-23T22:00:00+00:00

Chapter 11

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Leofric

Once more Leofric would cross the Narrow Sea on his king’s orders. A royal messenger had been sent on ahead, carrying letters from the king, addressed to Lord Edward. Still, Leofric knew that he was being sent to truly convince Edward of Harthacnut’s good intentions toward him.

Before Leofric had travelled to Sandwich, he’d taken the time to return to Lady Emma, unsure whether she’d known the king’s intentions or not.

“I see you come for my help once more,” Lady Emma had chuckled at his approach, and Leofric’s heart had sunk. Clearly, Lady Emma hadn’t been informed. Why, after all, would her son inform her that her other son was soon to return to England?

“My Lady Emma, I assume from your greeting that you’re unaware of the king’s intention to have me travel to Normandy and bring back Lord Edward.”

All joviality drained from Lady Emma’s face at the words, and Leofric was forced to leap to prevent her from falling in shock.

“My Lady,” Leofric called, hoping to recall her to her senses without seeking the aid of any others.

“It’s alright, Lord Leofric, I was simply surprised. I’m well now,” Lady Emma had stood on her two feet as steadily as she could, and yet Leofric had watched her anxiously.

She’d hiccupped with laughter.

“I’d not expected Harthacnut to understand the necessity quite so quickly. Are you to travel to Normandy?”

“Yes, the king has given me command of the expedition. Lord Ælfgar will ensure all is well in my absence.”

“So, the king both rewards and punishes you, all at the same time. He’s become adept at that, as his father was, before him.”

“Yes, he has. Tell me, what should I expect from Lord Edward?”

“Lord Leofric, I can’t answer that. My son is all but a stranger. We send letters, or rather we once did. He’s not trusted me since his brother’s death. I would caution you not to mention that you even know me.”

“I hardly think that possible. I’m sure that even in Normandy, they’re aware of events in England. Even as muddled as everything has been since your brother’s death.”

“Then, yes, you’re probably correct. I wasn’t welcome in Normandy, even when King Harald bid me leave England. Lord Edward ignored all of my entreaties for us to meet. My nephew’s son is too young to command any respect from his nobility, even without the stain of his bastardy. The king is sending you to a place that won’t welcome the interference of the English and Danish King, and moreover, is unsettled after the death of Duke Robert.”

“My nephew’s son is too young to rule, and others too keen to take what they shouldn’t. I’m not even sure that Lord Edward remains in Normandy. He may have sought the aid of his nephew, in the Vexin, or even of his sister, in Bolougne. You might be better to start searching there or even to visit Countess Godgifu’s lands in Buckinghamshire. I’m sure they’ll know more than even I do.”

Leofric had found Lady Emma’s words distressing, even if she seemed nonchalant.

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