Page 111 of Boudicca

“Like Addedomaros being the best chariot driver in all the tribes,” I said sardonically.

“Exactly,” said Cadoc.

“You were there, weren’t you?” I asked my shield.

The old warrior didn’t even attempt to hide his grin. “I was indeed. Which is why the Iceni was the first tribe to accept the Trinovantes challenge.”

“Oh, so I accepted before I accepted?”

Cadoc did manage to look a little chagrined. “Would you really have stood by and let that spoiled boy spout lies?”

“No, I don’t suppose I would have. I am surprised his father didn’t step in and put an end to it, though.”

“Addedomaros wasn’t present,” explained Cadoc. “By the time Mailcun had fetched him, Leofric had accepted the challenge as well.”

“And Addedomaros couldn’t back out without looking cowardly,” I said.

“Aye,” said Maldwyn. Then he shrugged and smiled. “The tournament will be good for the army. It will give each tribe something to cheer about.”

“And all will cheer when the queen who leads the army wins,” said Cadoc firmly.

Abertha jogged up to us, her face flushed. “Comux has just accepted the challenge!”

Maldwyn and Cadoc shouted and clapped each other on their backs like youths.

“What is he wagering?” I asked.

“A barrel of Roman wine he pillaged from Verulamium,” said Abertha.

I was unable to hide my smile. “I look forward to toasting my victory with Roman wine.”

“Yes!” Abertha’s fist shot skyward.

“I prefer Wulffaed’s mulled mead, but I will make an exception,” said Cadoc, his eyes sparkling mischievously.

“When is the tournament?” I asked.

“Tomorrow,” said Cadoc. He glanced at the low gray sky. “Though I’m afraid the weather is going to be miserable.”

With a sly grin I said, “Then it is good that I am the only chief who’s young enough that my joints won’t be affected by the cold and wet.” I turned to Maldwyn. “Walk the course with me and let’s discuss horses.”

“Always a pleasure, my queen,” said Maldwyn.

“And I’ll go be sure no Trinovantes bastard sets your targets incorrectly,” said Cadoc.

“I’ll get the queen’s armor ready,” said Abertha. “Queen Boudicca, will you be using your spear or bow for the targets?”

“My spear,” I said. “It would be too awkward to drive the chariot and shoot a bow.”

“Aye,” said Maldwyn. “Good choice.”

As my shield and spear master hurried off muttering to themselves,Maldwyn said, “Perhaps seeing his father thoroughly beaten will temper Adminius and his boasting.”

Sounding much like my shield, I snorted.

***

“You’re sure I can’t talk you into changing mounts?” Maldwyn asked for the third time.