It was a large, moated manor house built of creamy yellow stone with red-tiled roofs. To reach it, they had to pass over a bridge and under a small tower into a cobbled courtyard, which was teeming with people going about their daily business. Directly opposite the entrance tower was the enormous hall, which had clearly been designed to impress visitors with its proportions and grandeur. It had more than the usual number of windows for a building of this size, indicating that Sir Gilbert was a man of means as well as power. A wealth of other buildings surrounded the courtyard quadrangle, effectively enclosing it. Outside were gardens and an orchard, as well as a series of large fishponds.
Idenhurst was not intended as a fortress. Nonetheless, there were a number of fighting men lounging about in the morning sun, polishing their weapons and sharpening swords and daggers. A group of young squires were practising swordplay in one corner under the watchful eye of a seasoned warrior. Several huge destriers were being curried to glossy perfection by the stable grooms.
‘Very nice,’ Sibell heard Sir Roger mutter sarcastically and it suddenly occurred to her to wonder what his purpose in coming here was. She fervently hoped he wasn’t an enemy of Sir Gilbert’s. That would mean he’d be sent packing instantly and she realised she didn’t want that.
She wanted him to stay.
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The Velvet Cloak of Moonlight Page 38
