Viking Shadow by Griff Hosker

Author:Griff Hosker [Hosker, Griff]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Sword books Ltd.
Published: 2018-03-08T23:00:00+00:00

Chapter 12

The next morning, we saw evidence of the unrest. There was a riot at the Forum of Constantine. As that was the closest forum to the Great Palace it was disturbing. The Imperial guards seemed reluctant to intervene and contain it. David ben Samuel said, “Jarl, I must go to the palace. I should be safe enough but would you be able to bring some of your men here? We may need them. I know that you cannot help because…”

“I am a warrior. I am almost healed. If my men are needed then I will lead them. How many would you wish?”

“How many can you spare?”

“I can bring thirty-six men.”

“Then I beg you to do so.”

Aiden asked, “But it was just a riot. They are not uncommon, are they?”

“No but it is the coincidence of being so close to the Palace and none of the guards intervening.”

“And will you be safe?”

“I have four guards here in my home. They are discreet. I will take them with me.”

While he summoned his men, we headed for the harbour. I noticed that the streets seemed quieter. It felt like the sea just before a storm. It was too still. It was the brooding stillness which did not bode well. As the three of us headed for the quay I said, “Well Germund, you have had your answer, you are, to all intents and purposes, a free man.”

He nodded, “Freedom Jarl, is often an illusion. You are free but you serve your people. My freedom means that I cannot be bought or sold. But I am part of you and your world. You have taken me away from a world without hope. I will follow you. Until you tire of me I shall be your lame servant.”

I laughed, “I have sparred with you. Karl One Leg, one of my men, still fights and defends my walls. We will get you a sword and helmet when we reach the ship.”

The men had fashioned an awning over the deck and the quay so that they could lie in its shade. It was convenient for I would be able to speak with them all. I waved Erik over. “If you and Arne would have the ship’s boys stop anyone listening to us then I would like to speak with the men.”

He nodded, “The riot?”

“And other things. What have you heard?”

Joseph told us that there is a great deal of unrest. The Emperor is but a child. Many people want Bardas to rule. He is a strong man. They think that he would rule with an iron hand.” It all began to make sense.

They gathered around and I could feel their anticipation. Since my experience I now felt like I knew what people might say and even do. This was not the time to speak of it but when I reached my home I would speak with Kara about it. I had much to ask. I would have asked Aiden but he seemed distracted. “We will be going home soon.

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