Sentinals Awaken: Book One of the Sentinals Series by Helen Garraway

Author:Helen Garraway [Garraway, Helen]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Jerven Publishing
Published: 2020-10-10T16:00:00+00:00

Chapter 20

Stoneford Keep, Stoneford Watch

Night had descended by the time they reached Stoneford and clattered into the keep’s courtyard. Lord Jason met them as they dismounted. Stable boys dashed to take the reins and lead the horses away. He noted their strained faces and sent them off to freshen up with instructions to meet him in the hall as soon as they could.

Jerrol gazed longingly at the bed but stripped off his filthy clothes and washed in the warm water waiting for him. His side was twinging a warning as he carefully dressed in the clean clothes, leaving the bandages untouched. He stamped into his still muddy boots as his clothes shimmered into his uniform of Lady’s green. He grinned. The Lady was stubborn.

“Jerrol? Are you back then? It would be nice to know you’re alright!” Zin’talia’s peevish voice intruded on his thoughts, and he veered out towards the stables to reassure her that he was fine. Hugging her silky neck, he breathed in her musky scent, as she did the same, huffing in disapproval. “That’s the last time I let anyone else ride me. I’m supposed to be with you.”

“I didn’t mean to leave you,” he said as he leaned into her warmth. “Jason is waiting for me. I’ll come back later.” He reluctantly pushed himself away and headed into the hall.

“You’d better.” Her voice followed him.

Jason was seated at a table loaded with food for three hungry men. Jerrol was still the first to arrive, even with his detour, and he carefully sat opposite him.

“Are you alright?” Jason watched his stiff movements in concern.

“We got jumped last night – was it last night? I’m losing track! All this strenuous activity today hasn’t helped it.” Jerrol reached for the bread and cheese. He was suddenly starving. “How is our patient?” he asked around a mouthful of food.

“Tyrone is keeping her quiet. She came around about an hour ago, but he won’t let her talk yet. Hannah is sitting with her. She knows about Lord Hugh; she saw him fall after all.” He pursed his lips. “Bryce managing alright?”

“Having the time of his life. I think he might have a few words when he returns. He wasn’t too happy with the politics of his situation. I think Birlerion can explain more. He was there when Lord Aaron arrived.”

Jason winced. “I can imagine. What a mess!”

“What’s worse is that our ambushers originated from Deepwater, and I overheard the young lord and his men discussing the ambush. They were in on it. Deliberately attacking a neighbouring Lord Holder while he was still under their hospitality. Not that anyone is going to believe a disgraced ranger against the word of the Lord Holder, but still, the rot goes deep.” Jerrol took another bite and chewed slowly as Jennery and Birlerion entered the room and joined them. “Two key holds without a Guardian. Aaron didn’t take up the mantle, and the word is Simeon won’t either.”

Jason’s face blanched. “That is not good news; if there is no Guardian the land will fail.

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