Page 55 of Highland Lords of War & Thunder: The Prequel

“As long as necessary.”

He looked to the sideboard. “Then we'll need refreshments.”

Before Eudora could respond, he walked to the sideboard and helped himself to the decanter of wine.

Torden apparently approved of the idea. He grabbed the pitcher of ale.

Eudora glared at them.

Creagan tucked the decanter beneath his arm. “You did say to help ourselves.”

Eudora opened her mouth, thought better of it and pointed to the door. “Go.”

Creagan grinned. “As you command, my queen.”

Torden followed him without a word, taking the pitcher and his tankard with him.

The door closed behind them.

Eudora stared at it for several moments before turning and pointing to a chair by the hearth. “Sit.”

“I prefer to stand. I've been sitting on a horse much of the past week. I'd rather stand.”

She couldn't argue with that.

Eudora remained standing as well, studying him more closely. Of the three, Legion was the one she had immediately associated with war, though she couldn't have explained exactly why. Perhaps it was the watchfulness she'd noticed earlier or the calmness that seemed so much a part of him. He didn't have Torden's impatience or Creagan's easy amusement. He simply waited.

“Which of the three are you?” she asked.

A faint smile touched his lips. “I am Legion.”

“That was not what I asked,” Eudora said, wondering if all three men were deliberately difficult. But then she could be difficult as well as outspoken when called for. “I would guess War.”

Something changed in his eyes. It was slight, but she caught it.

“War that conquers,” she said, words from the summons.

Legion said nothing.

“You are the Lord of War.”

She did not need him to confirm it. She knew she was right

“I am Legion,” he repeated.

“That is not a denial,” she said pleased.

“Nor is it an admission.”

Eudora smiled. “My grandmother warned me you three could be trying.”

That brought a more noticeable smile from him. “As could she, and I see you have her stubborn nature.”

“I know my grandmother had met with the three of you, but she never confided why. What was her reason?”

Legion's smile disappeared. “You have a task for me.”

He had deliberately not answered and that annoyed her. “You are obligated to obey me, and I will have an answer to my question.”