The Gorgon by Kathryn le Veque

Author:Kathryn le Veque
Language: eng
Format: mobi, epub
Publisher: Dragonblade Publishing
Published: 2012-07-17T05:00:00+00:00

***

Breck had hardly taken a seat when a soft, bird-like hand touched him on the arm. Growling, he brushed the hand away and snatched a pitcher of wine from a passing serving wench, pouring himself a sloppy measure. Gulping the liquor, he sighed heavily as the fortifying warmth coursed down his tongue.

"Does the wine lend bravery as well?"

The frail voice came from behind. Breck drew in another mouthful of alcohol, turning disinterestedly toward the source. A small woman, quite old, held his gaze a moment before he turned away, back to his drink. He had no idea who the woman was and did not care.

"He left a bruise upon your cheek, young lord," the woman spoke again. "Punishment for touching his lady?"

Breck swallowed another gulp of wine, smacking his lips before deciding, strangely enough, to look to the old woman once again. His gaze raked her shriveled, tiny form.

"What do you want, woman, and be quick about it."

The woman offered a thin smile. "I want what you want. To separate Sir Bose from his lady."

Breck stared at her a moment. "Why? So you can have him all to yourself? I'd hardly consider you to be of marriageable age."

The woman's eyes glittered through the smoky haze of the hall. Even though she was tiny and feeble and harmless in appearance, Breck could sense a terrifying darkness from her. His gaze followed her as she seated herself daintily beside him.

"I do not want to marry him, my lord," she said quietly, her expression steady. "He is already married."

Breck continued to stare at her, cocking a slow eyebrow after a contemplative pause. "I understand his wife is dead."

"In body, mayhap. But not in spirit."

The red-haired knight pondered her odd answer a moment as his impatience returned."What do you want?"

The lady's weak smile transformed into a genuine gesture. "As I indicated, the same as you. You are interested in Sir Bose's lady, are you not?"

Breck licked his lips thoughtfully. "And if I am?"

"Would you do anything to obtain her?"

"Within reason."

The woman laughed softly. "I am not suggesting you fight Sir Bose for her, for certainly, you would lose. The man is unbeatable."

"I know. I have battled him several times in tournament and am well aware of his skill," taking another swallow of wine, his small green eyes took on a curious nuance. "Who are you?"

The woman's smile faded. "Who do you think I am?"

"I most certainly do not know who you are."

The aged lady stared at him, her smile relaxing until her thin lips were straight and true. "Tell me your name, Sir Knight."

"Sir Breck Kerry, Lord of Crestwood."

The old woman nodded faintly. "Sir Breck, if you desire Sir Bose's lady, then I will most assuredly help you."

Breck pushed his cup aside and sat forward. Leaning on the table, he studied the ancient, once-fine woman intently.

"Not until you tell me who you are."

"The perfect weapon by which to accomplish your desires."

"That tells me nothing. Are you involved in his household?"

"Involved, yes," the woman folded her translucent-white hands primly.

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