Lord Edward's Archer (Lord Edward's Archer series Book 1) by Griff Hosker

Author:Griff Hosker
Language: eng
Format: mobi
Tags: FFFF, Historical, Fiction
ISBN: 9781911445661
Publisher: Lume Books
Published: 2020-03-05T20:09:39+00:00

Chapter 9

We headed up the Roman Road which led to the north. My guess had been accurate. Both John of Nottingham and Robin of Barnsley had served in outlaw bands. They had both been very young, and, like me, their time with them had been brief. The prince had only sent money for the journey. He had not sent coin to hire archers. I thought that a bad idea. I had brought some of my own coins with me. It would be a good investment. We travelled light, with just one spare sumpter. Any men we hired would have to walk back to Windsor, where we were mustering the army which would march to Wales.

“Where is the best place to begin, John of Nottingham? The forest?”

He laughed. “From what you told us of your time in Delamere forest, Captain, that would be the worst place to start. There is a tavern built into the stone upon which Nottingham castle sits. They brew fine ale there.”

“We have a month! The less time we spend drinking, the better.”

“You misunderstand me, Captain. It is an alehouse which is frequented by those who know the outlaws. Outlaws cannot exist for long without help. They are outlaws, but they are also men, and that is how we will find them. I know not who they are now, but the alehouse will be a good place to begin.”

As we now wore the livery of Prince Edward, we did not look like ruffians. It meant that we were not closely questioned as we rode through the towns which had walls and gates. Our bows and swords did not attract attention. However, they were the only benefits. Prices for food and ale were higher, as traders thought we could afford it. The feed and stables cost us more too. England is an expensive country.

When we reached Leicester we were in de Montfort land. Simon de Montfort was Earl of Leicester. We were within half a day’s ride of Nottingham. We found an inn with a stable and were enjoying a meal when we were approached. I did not recognise the livery. It was a rampant white lion on a red background. I learned later that it was the sign of Simon De Montfort. The oak-like arms of the man and his broad chest told me that he was an archer. He wore a wrist-guard which confirmed it. He had a jug of ale with him.

“May I offer you lads a drink? I too am an archer; Wilfred of Melton.”

I nodded. “I have never yet refused ale. I am Gerald War Bow.”

He smiled as he topped up our beakers. “I have heard of you. I am Hugh of Bolsover. I am captain of the earl’s archers. You serve Lord Edward?”

“Prince Edward.”

“My mistake. I forgot he was in England. The Earl of Leicester is also in England. I would make you an offer. Serve my lord and I will double whatever the prince is paying you.”

“You know not what we are paid.

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