The Warlords of Nin by Stephen Lawhead Page B

one compels you to do as I bid. Only know this: if you stay, you will be required to do your share and to work the land that is given to you. If you do not, your place will be given to another who will.”
    The man looked at the token in Theido’s hand. He reached out for it hesitantly, casting a sideways glance to the others in his band.
    â€œWe, too, are honorable, though we are men of low birth.” He snatched the tile out of Theido’s hand. “We will go to your lands at Erlott and inquire of your steward; we will see how he receives us. If he bears the goodwill of his master, you will find us busy in your fields when you return from your duties.” He bowed stiffly from the waist and turned to go. He paused and turned again. “If it is as you say, you have our thanks, my lord.”
    â€œI do not ask for thanks, but only that you will do as we have agreed. That will mean more to me than gratitude itself.”
    The man bowed again and went to where his people waited to learn the outcome of the interview just concluded. Words were exchanged quickly; there were mumbled whispers all around, and suddenly the band was on its way again, but bolder this time and changed in mood. Several of the refugees waved their thanks to Theido as they passed, and all talked excitedly together as they moved hurriedly away down the trail.
    â€œWell, you have done your fellows a fine service this night. I hope you will not have cause to regret your kindness,” said Ronsard when they had gone.
    â€œOne never regrets a kindness, my friend. But I have no doubt that I have gained as much as they in the bargain.”
    â€œHow so?”
    â€œGood land needs the plowman’s hand to bring it to life, and a husband to care for it. If I did not have men to work my fields, they would soon become barren and worthless. These men do me great service by helping me care for my lands. Rightly managed, there is more than enough for everyone.”
    â€œWell, I hope we may see your trust proved true. But why not? The realm has known nothing but peace these many years, and we are at peace still.”
    â€œI wonder,” replied Theido. “I wonder.”

    Quentin hastened along wide corridors lined with rich tapestries toward the Dragon King’s apartments. Upon rising, he had been summoned to meet with the king in his private council chambers, and had dressed in fresh garments—a new tunic and trousers of forest green and a short summer cloak of blue, edged in green and gold. The finely embroidered cloak, fastened with a brooch of gold at his shoulder, fluttered out behind him as he swept along.
    Just as he stepped up to the door that opened onto Eskevar’s apartments, the door swung inward, and Oswald, the queen’s chamberlain, emerged. “Sir, if you would but come aside with me, my lady would have a word with you.”
    Oswald smiled as he made his request, but his gray eyes insisted, so Quentin nodded his assent and followed the chamberlain.
    They withdrew to a room just across the corridor from the king’s chambers. Oswald knocked upon the door and stepped in. “Quentin is here, Your Majesty.”
    Quentin stepped into the room behind the chamberlain and saw Queen Alinea sitting on a bench in the center of the room, with her hands folded in her lap. She seemed to be staring at something that Quentin could not see: something far away. Quentin saw the lines of worry creasing her noble brow.
    When the queen saw him, she straightened, and her face was suddenly transformed by a beautiful smile. Instantly the dim chamber seemed filled with light. She rose as he came to her and held out her arms to embrace him. Quentin hugged her and brushed her pale cheek with his lips; she kissed both of his.
    â€œQuentin, you have come! Oh, I am so glad you are here. Your journey was not unpleasant, I trust? It is good to have you back. The months seem long when you are away.” She gripped