Knights Of Dark Renown Read Online Free PDF Page B

of a great cat. He took Dianu in his arms and kissed her cheek, then he turned to Manannan; his smile was warm and friendly, the eyes open and honest.
    ‘Thank you, sir. Your courage does you credit.’
    ‘As does your timing,’ responded Manannan, holding out his hand.
    ‘I wish it had been better - these loyal men would still be alive. I am Lord Errin of Laene,’ he said.
    ‘You have grown since last I saw you. Were you not page to the Duke of Mactha?’
    ‘Indeed I was - the year he won the Silver Lance. I am sorry but I do not recall you, sir.’
    ‘My name is Manannan. I was clad somewhat differently then and sported no beard. Now, if you will excuse me, I must be on my way.’
    ‘Surely not?’ said Dianu. ‘You cannot ride alone in this forest. That robber was Groundsel and even now he will be watching us. You would be in great danger.’
    ‘As will he, my lady, if he crosses my path again! But do not fear for me. I have no wealth and Kuan rides far - and very fast.’
    ‘You are welcome to stay with us, sir Knight,’ put in Errin. ‘My estates are less than half a day away. Shelter for the night, and a good meal?’
    ‘Thank you, but no. There is a man I must find.’ Manannan bowed to the women and walked to his horse.
    Dianu watched as he rode away. ‘A strange man,’ she said. ‘He could not have defeated them all - and yet he was prepared to take them on.’
    ‘I do not remember him,’ mused Errin. ‘Perhaps he was a sentry, or a soldier on duty.’
    ‘He would have been more than that,’ Sheera said. ‘He walks like a prince.’
    ‘Well, he must - I fear — remain a mystery,’ said Errin. ‘Come, let us get out of this cursed forest before Groundsel returns with more cut-throats.’
    For a week Ruad stayed in his cabin workshop -melting his ingots, creating gold and silver wire, delicate leaves and curious rings. On the eighth night he awoke from a light sleep to hear the sound of horses galloping on the trail. He swung from his bed, stretched, pulled a cloak about his shoulders and moved through the cabin and out into the yard beyond.
    Six riders had pulled up before the dwelling.
    ‘Whom do you seek?’ asked Ruad, straining to recognize the men.
    ‘Who says we seek anyone?’ asked a rider, leaning forward across his saddle.
    ‘It’s late for hunting,’ offered Ruad, ‘and I’m tired, so state your business.’
    ‘He’s here,’ hissed the rider. ‘Where else would he be? I’ll search the cabin.’ He swung down from the saddle and marched across the yard. Ruad stepped aside, but as the man drew abreast of him his left hand flashed out to circle the rider’s throat and lift him from his feet.
    ‘I didn’t hear you ask permission,’ said Ruad softly. The man’s feet lashed out weakly and his fingers scrabbled against Ruad’s iron grip.
    ‘Let him go!’ ordered another man, heeling his horse forward. Just then the moon broke clear of the clouds and by its light Ruad recognized the speaker.
    ‘I would not have expected an educated man to be riding with dross such as this, Lord Errin,’ said Ruad, flinging his victim aside. The man fell to the ground, gasping for breath.
    ‘I am sorry to disturb you, Craftsman, but a slave escaped today after the auction and he is said to frequent your company. We thought he might be here.’
    ‘Does this slave have a name, Lord Errin?’
    ‘I believe he is called Lug - an ugly name for such an attractive boy.’
    ‘Did you buy him?’
    ‘Yes; he was to be a present for the Duke. Unfortunately, now he will not be suitable. It will be necessary to brand his head and perhaps hamstring him.’
    ‘Harsh treatment indeed,’ said Ruad, ‘but warranted. Please search my cabin and then allow me to return to my bed.’
    ‘I would hardly doubt your word, Craftsman. If you assure me he is not here, we will leave you in peace.’
    ‘Be assured, Lord Errin, I have not seen the boy since last Tiernsday. Now, good night to you.’ Ruad