Page 20 of Highland Lords of War & Thunder: The Prequel

Silence returned.

Torden remained where he was, staring into the darkness.

It had been years since he heard those words.

His gaze moved to his house, then the forge, and finally toward the stable where Sorcha slept.

His peace.

Torden released a slow breath.

And now he wondered what the summons would demand of him.

Chapter Seven

Legion

The last of daylight was fading when Legion came upon the castle. It was smaller than most he had encountered during his travels, built atop a low rise with a squat stone tower at its center and a wall enclosing the buildings around it. The gate remained open, though two, armed guards stepped forward as he approached.

Legion stopped before them. “I seek a meal and a place to rest for the night.”

One guard looked him over, his attention settling briefly on Legion's sword. “You a warrior?”

“I've fought.”

The man's gaze returned to Legion's face. “Chieftain Shamus might have use for you.”

“I didn't come looking for work.”

“You want a bed beneath his roof, then you'll speak with him.”

Legion considered continuing on. He'd slept beneath trees and open skies more nights than he could count. One more would make little difference. But he'd been traveling since shortly after dawn with little to eat.

“Take me to him.”

The guard led him through the busy bailey and into the castle. Rather than taking him directly to the Great Hall, he brought Legion to a small chamber where an older man sat behind a table studying several pieces of parchment.

The guard went to the chieftain and leaned down to whisper in his ear. The chieftain looked up, his gaze lingering on Legion.

The guard stepped aside but waited not far from the chieftain.

“You've the look of a man who's seen his share of fighting,” the chieftain said.

“I have.”

More than his share but he would not admit that to the chieftain or to anyone.

Something in the answer appeared to interest the chieftain.

“I've a problem with one of my warriors.”

Legion shrugged. “Then deal with him.”

The chieftain leaned back in his chair. “I've tried.”

Legion waited, though it was easy to know what the chieftain was thinking.

“He's a good fighter. Strong. Fearless when there's a blade coming at him. I'd rather not lose him…”