Page 54 of Highland Lords of War & Thunder: The Prequel

Creagan's smile widened. “I made certain of it.”

“There is plenty of ale and wine to drink, help yourselves,” she said, pointing to a sideboard.

The three men exchanged glances before approaching the sideboard and filling tankards.

It was the first thing Eudora had seen since they'd entered the room that suggested there was something between them beyond friendship. Something old. Something she did not understand.

“You summoned us,” Legion reminded her as he remained where he was, tankard in hand. “Why?”

“Someone wants my throne,” she said without hesitation.

Torden took a swallow before saying, “Someone always wants a throne.”

“Not mine,” Eudora insisted. “The Ryburn Clan has ruled over Morra Mist for a century without any claims of illegitimacy.”

Creagan wandered closer to her. “No longer, according to rumors.”

Eudora looked sharply at him. “You've been asking questions.”

“More listening than asking,” Creagan corrected.

“So, that is why it took you so long to get here?” she accused.

“We came when we were ready,” Torden responded in a clipped tone.

Eudora's temper stirred. She had summoned legendary warriors and somehow ended up with three men who apparently believed the queen of Morra Mist should wait upon their convenience.

Legion spoke before she could respond. “Regardless of how long it took us to get here, we are obligated to carry out your command. So, have done with it and tell us what it is you want us to do.”

Eudora tempered her annoyance. The warrior was right. It was time to set them on their individual tasks.

“Rumors questioning my right to the throne began several weeks ago. At first, they were easily dismissed. They no longer are. Five villages have refused to send men for autumn training. Merchants have heard the same whispers beyond our borders. Someone is deliberately spreading doubt about my right to rule Morra Mist.”

“And you don't know who,” Legion said.

“Not a clue,” she admitted.

Creagan's gaze remained on her. “But you know more than you're telling us.”

“I have vital information known only to me that I need confirmed and managed.”

Legion's attention sharpened. “What do you mean by managed?”

Her chin lifted slightly. “You know very well what I mean. And you also know you must do as I command.”

The three warriors glared at her and for a moment, she actually feared them. But she retained her composure and continued to speak with authority.

“I have a task for each one of you, which I will speak to each one of you about privately. You will not share your tasks with each other.”

Torden's impatience vanished. “That means you don’t trust us.”

“It means I have my reasons and you do not need to know them.”

Torden looked ready to argue, but Eudora gave him no chance.

“You and Creagan will wait in the small chamber across the hall. I will speak with Legion first,” she ordered, knowing they had no choice but to obey.

Creagan glanced toward the door. “How long do you expect us to wait?”