After a moment, Sarra decided to respond to the serious part of his question. “Nay, I think not. You see, he has no army about. It is just him. I believe we have another suitor from King Edward come to stake his claim as Lord. In truth, he probably comes not only for the castle but for the hand of the lady in charge as well.”
“Should I inform Charism there is another pest about who might need, hmm, squashing?” Sir Henry asked in a gleeful tone.
“Aye, I suppose so.” Exhaling, Sarra continued, “I had hoped for a reprieve from the suitors, but I guess it is not to be. The last one was extremely trying. Sir Henry, please inform Charism to be prepared to take action. This one looks to have more spirit than the others.”
She considered the newcomer while descending the battlements. What kind of man was confident enough to travel completely alone in this part of the country? Where were his knights and attendants? What kind of man would travel without a horse or a trunk full of fine and dandy clothing? Where was he hiding his pointed shoes?
Gnawing at her lip, Sarra began to worry. No, this one didn’t seem like the other suitors who had come to the keep. Something about him was different. Indeed, this did not portend well for her future.
Astraea Press
Where Fiction Meets Virtue
www.astraeapress.com
Love Octagon Page 18