Sir Kendrick and the Castle of Bel Lione by Chuck Black

Author:Chuck Black [Black, Chuck]
Language: eng
Format: epub, mobi
ISBN: 978-1-60142-228-6
Publisher: Multnomah Books
Published: 2008-09-19T04:00:00+00:00

INTREPID ENDEAVOR

Kendrick stayed with Landor two full days, and although he felt there was much more to learn from him regarding Lord Ra and the Vincero Knights, he also knew that each passing moment diminished the likelihood of Duncan’s survival.

The parting with Landor stirred up a strange array of feelings in Kendrick—gratitude, for this former ally of Lord Ra had offered him hope for his fellow knight, and sadness, for he knew he would never see his new friend again. Even if Landor trusted Kendrick never to reveal his whereabouts, the risk was too great for him to remain in his cabin. Landor would once again disappear into the vastness that the kingdom of Arrethtrae offered, whether in the uninhabited regions of the land or the anonymity of the crowded cities.

The two men stood face to face at the ledge they had climbed together just two days earlier. The silence between them told Kendrick that something about his visit had changed Landor.

“Landor, I am grateful that our parting is made with both hearts beating.” Kendrick offered his arm and a slight smile.

Landor responded with a nod and returned the gesture.

“Thank you for your help,” Kendrick said. “I am indebted to you … my friend.”

Landor met Kendrick’s eyes but did not speak. The firm grip of his hand on Kendrick’s forearm was enough.

Once they parted, Kendrick’s concern for Duncan quickly overwhelmed every other concern. He hurried down the mountain and returned to the small farm where he had quartered Pilgrim, then spurred the horse in the direction of Bel Lione. As he rode, he mentally reviewed every piece of information Landor had given him. He felt within his vest a second time, checking to make sure the two maps were there—one defining the location of the secret entrance into Lord Ra’s castle, and the other showing the labyrinth of tunnels and chambers within.

Kendrick arrived at Lionsgate by evening on his second day of travel. He considered initiating the rescue at once, but reason overruled desperation. The grounds surrounding Lord Ra’s castle were extensive, and navigating north around them in the dark would be nearly impossible. He was also exhausted from his journey back to Bel Lione. He ate the meal Lady Odette and Elise had prepared, then allowed the strong arms of slumber to pull him into his bed.

Morning beckoned Kendrick from his sleep. He rose quickly and dressed in dark clothing. Over a hurried breakfast, he conveyed his intentions to Lady Odette and her children, then excused himself to the stable to make preparations. He had just secured Pilgrim’s saddle when Ancel appeared in the doorway.

“Sir Kendrick … I … I …”

Kendrick turned to face him. “Ancel, everyone makes mistakes. The question is what do you do with the situation once you know it. Some men let their mistakes destroy them, but men of character embrace their mistakes and become stronger. The choice is yours and yours alone to make, but know that I don’t condemn you. Neither does Duncan.”

Ancel’s gaze went to the ground and then back to Kendrick.

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