Royce grinned at the king's grumbling. "She will likely not be happy."
"Well, she's married to you now; surely you planned to move her to Montchester."
"We've never discussed it at length. She's never been to court. This I know."
"My wife will see to Lady Gillian. She's looking forward to it."
Royce wondered if Gillian would as well. While she got on well with the queen, what she would deal with at court was a very different matter. He worried about what lay ahead.
Edward turned once more to Simon. "Uncover what you can from Jervais and work with Burke to determine if he conspires against us. When the Panther returns, he will decide the best way to use what you've learned."
"Yes, Your Majesty."
Simon bowed and turned to leave, Burke on his heels. Once they were alone, Royce turned to the king.
"I worry the traitor will announce I am no longer here and they will think Lyndon is unprotected."
"If Jervais is the spy, he'll know just how protected the manor is with your men in residence."
Royce nodded, knowing to argue further would not change Edward's mind.
"You don't like my decision, Panther?"
"Nay, Sire, 'tis only that I worry for my wife. She's never been away from Lyndon."
"And still she's as fierce as any knight in either of our armies. I suspect your wife will do very well with the court." Edward chuckled. "You have a bruise already on your chin."
Royce scowled and rubbed the spot where Gillian's fist had landed. He knew well his wife's capabilities. Still, a few particular nobles came to mind and he scowled.
"Are you truly that worried for her?"
Royce said nothing. Edward laughed.
"I suspect I know what troubles you. Never fear, should any of your former... paramours pester your wife, I suspect she will reduce them to shreds."
Royce gave a curt nod, conceding the point. "Aye. I had best go tell her."
"Away with you."
Royce turned to the door, Edward's laughter echoing around him. While he wanted to see Gillian right away, he needed to speak with his captain first. He found him in the great hall, deep in conversation with Simon.
He strode over to the two men. "Simon, go about your business. Let none suspect you. Burke, I would speak with you now."
He motioned Burke to join him by the hearth. He pointed to a chair, then seated himself in the other.
"I am counting on you to keep Lyndon safe while I am gone."
"Of course, Royce. I will defend the manor with my life. But is it wise to leave the brother unattended?"
"Edward and I are reasonably sure he isn't the threat, though some doubt remains. Work with him, but if you learn anything suspicious, send me a message."
"I will. Is there anything else?"
Royce nodded. "I've already discussed this with Edward, and will do so again in Shrewsbury. But I want you to know that there is a real possibility you will be given Apshire to rebuild."
Burke said nothing for several moments, surprise widening his eyes. "Why?"
"You've served me, and the king, well these past years, despite what happened under the old king. Edward bears you no malice, and you are deserving of the title. It's merely a barony, and will need rebuilding, but you know the land better than even I do. And it will reassure me to know I have allies in this area when I am at Montchester."
